THE FIRST PART of the Mirror of Princely deeds and Knighthood:  
WHEREIN IS showed THE WORTHINESS OF the Knight of the Sun, and his brother Rosicler, sons to the great Emperor Trebatio, with the strange love of the beautiful Princess Briana, & the valiant acts of other noble Princes and Knights.  
Now newly translated out of Spanish into our vulgar English tongue, by M.T.  
Imprinted at London by Thomas East.   

To the right Honourable, the Lord Thomas Haward.  
NOT being greatly forward of mine own inclination (right Honourable) but forced by the importunity of my friends to make some trial of myself in this exercise of translation. I have adventured upon a piece of work, not indeed the most profitablest, as entreating of arms, nor yet altogether fruitless, if example may serve, as being historical, but the while, either to be borne withal for the delight, or not to be refused for the strangeness: farther I mean not to make boast of my travail, for the matter was offered, not made choice of, as there appeared likewise little liberty in my first yielding. The earnestness of my friends persuaded me that it was convenient to lay forth my talon for increase, or to set my candle on a candlestick, & the consideration of my sufficiency drove me to think it better for my ease, either quite to bury my talon, thereby to avoid the breaking of thriftless debts, or rather to put my candle clean out, then that it should bewray every unswept corner in my house, but the opinion of my friend's judgement prevailed above mine own reason. So upon hope to please them, I first undertook this labour, & I have gone through withal, the rather to acquaint myself with mine old reading: whereto since the dispatch thereof, I have made, my friends privy, & upon good liking, with request thereto I have passed my grant unto them for the publication, referring for myself the order for the dedication, so as I should think best, either for the defence of my work or for some particular merit towards me. And herein I took no long leisure to find out a sufficient parsonage. For the manifold benefits received from your honourable parents, my good Lord and Lady, quickly eased me of that doubt, and presented your honour unto my view: whom by good right I ought to love and honour in especial, as being of them begotten, at whose hands I have reaped especial benefit. The which benefit if I should not so gladly profess openly, as I willingly received being offered, I might well be challenged of unkindness, but were I as able to make good my part, as I am not ignorant what may be required at my hands, I would hope not to be found ungrateful. In the mean time this my travail I commend unto your Lordship, beseeching the same so to accept thereof, as a simple testimony of that good will which I bore to your parents while they lived, then being their servant, & now do own unto their offspring after their decease for their demerits. Under your honours protection I shall less fear the assault of the envious, & of your honours good acceptation, I have some hope in the mildness of your lordships nature, not doubting but that as your Lordship hath given no small signification in this your noble youth of wisdom and courage to so many as know you, it being the only support of your ancestors line: so the same likewise will maintain your ancestors glory, and the hope of your own virtues with affability & gentleness, which was the proper commendation of your parents. The almighty increase this hope with the other virtues before named, to the good hope of your Country's peace, your Princess safety, and your own honour, with the joy of your kindred & friends, whom not a few your parents good deserving hath assured unto you, and of whose earnest prayers you shall not fail, to further your well doing. Amongst them, though last in worthiness, yet with the foremost in well wishing and desire of well deserving, your honour shall find me.  
Your honours humbly most assured, Margaret Tyler.   

M.T. To the Reader.  
THou hast beer gentle Reader, the history of Trebatio, an Emperor in Greece: 
The commendation of the story.  whether a true history of him in deed, or a feigned fable, I wots not, neither did I greatly seek after it in the translation, but by me it is done into English for thy profit & delight. The chief matter therein contained, is of exploits of wars, and the parties therein named, are especially renowned for their magnanimity & courage. The author's purpose appeareth to be this, to animate thereby, & to set on fire the lusty courages of young Gentlemen, to the advancement of their line, by ensuing such like steps. The first tongue wherein it was penned was the Spanish, in which nation by common report, the inheritance of all worldly commendation hath to this day rested. The whole discourse in respect of the end not unnecessary: for the variety & continual shift of fresh matter, very delightful: in the speeches short and sweet, wise in sentence, and wary in the provision of contrary accidents. For I take the grace thereof to be rather in the reporters device, then in the truth of this report, as I would that I could so well impart with thee that delight, which myself findeth in reading the Spanish: but seldom is the tale carried clean from another's mouth. Such delivery as I have made I hope thou wilt friendly accept, the rather for that it is a woman's work, though in a story profane, and a matter more manlike than becometh my sex. But as for the manliness of the matter, 
That a woman may write of war.  thou knowest that it is not necessary for every trumpeter or drumslare in the war to be a good fighter. 
That a woman may write of war.  They take wages only to incite others, though themselves have privy maims. and are thereby recureless. So gentle Reader if my travel in Englishing this Author, may bring thee to a liking of the virtues herein commended, and by example thereof in thy Princes & Country's quarrel to hazard thy person, & purchase good name, as for hope of well deserving myself that way, I neither bend myself thereto, nor yet fear the speech of people if I be found backward, I trust every man holds not the plough, which would the ground were tilled, and it is no sin to talk of Robin-hood, though you never shot in his bow: Or be it that the attempt were bold to intermeddle in arms, so as the ancient Amazons did, and in this story Claridiana doth, and in other stories not a few, yet to report of arms is not so odious, but that it may be borne withal, not only in you men which yourselves are fighters, but in us women, to whom the benefit in equal part appertaineth of your victories, either for that the matter is so commendable that it carrieth no discredit from the homelynesse of the speaker, or for that it is so generally known, that it fits every man to speak thereof, or for that it jumpeth with this common fear on all parts of war and invasion. The invention, disposition, trimming, and what else in this story, is wholly another man's, my part none therein but the translation, as it were only in giving entertainment to a stranger, before this time unacquainted with our country guise. Marry the worst perhaps is this, that among so many strangers as daily come over, some more ancient, 
That a woman of your years may write in this argument.  & some but new set forth, some penning matters of great weight and sadness in divinity, or other studies, the profession whereof more nearly beseemeth my years, other some discoursing of matters more easy and ordinary in common talk, wherein a Gentlewoman may honestly employ her travail. I have notwithstanding made countenance only to this gentleman, whom neither his parsonage might sufficiently commend itself unto my sex, nor his behaviour (being light & soldier like) might in good order acquaint itself with my years. So that the question now ariseth of my choice, not of my labour, wherefore I preferred this story before matter of more importance. For answer whereto gentle reader, the truth is, that as the first motion to this kind of labour came not from myself, so was this piece of work put upon me by others, and they which first counseled me to fall to work, took upon them also to be my taskemasters and overseers, lest I should be idle, and yet because the refusal was in my power, I must stand to answer for my easy yielding, & may not be unprovided of excuse, wherein if I should allege for myself, that matters of less worthiness by as aged years have been taken in hand, & that daily new devices are published, in songs, sonnets, interludes, and other discourses, and yet are borne out without reproach, only to please the humour of some men: I think I should make no good plea therein, for besides that I should find thereby so many known enemies, as known men have been authors of such idle conceits, yet would my other adversaries be never the rather quieted. For they would say, that as well the one as the other were all nought, and though peradventure I might pass unknown amongst a multitude, and not be the only gaze or odd party in my ill doing, yet because there is less merit of pardon if the fault be excused as common, I will not make that my defence which cannot help me, and doth hinder other men. But my defence is by example of the best, amongst which, many have dedicated their labours, some stories, some of war, some Physic, some Law, some as concerning government, some divine matters, unto diverse Ladies and Gentlewoman. And if men may and do bestow such of their travails upon Gentlewomen, then may we women read such of their works as they dedicate unto us, and if we may read them, why not farther wade in them to the search of a truth. And then much more why not deal by translation in such arguments, especially this kind of exercise, being a matter of more heed then of deep invention or exquisite learning, and they must needs leave this as confessed, that in their dedications, they mind not only to borrow names of worthy personages, but the testimonies also for their further credit, which neither the one may demand without ambition, nor the other grant with out overlightnesse: if women be excluded from the view of such works, as appear in their name, or if glory only be sought in our common inscriptions, it mattereth not whether the parties be men or women, whether alive or dead. But to return whatsomever the truth is, whether that women may not at all discourse in learning, for men lay in their claim to be sole possessioners of knowledge, or whether they may in some manner, that is by limitation or appointment in some kind of learning, my persuasion hath been thus, that it is all one for a woman to pen a story, as for a man to address his story to a woman. But amongst all my ill willers, some I hope are not so strait that they would enforce me necessarily either not to write or to write of divinity. 
That you may not write of d●uinitie.  Whereas neither durst I trust mine own judgement sufficiently, if matter of controversy were handled, nor yet could I find any book in the tongue, which would not breed offence to some, but I perceive some may be rather angry to see their Spanish delight turned to an English pastime: 
That you meant to make a common benefit of your pains.  they could well allow the story in Spanish, but they may not afford it so cheap, or they would have it proper to themselves. What natures such men be of, I list not greatly dispute, but my meaning hath been to make other partners of my liking, as I doubt not gentle Reader, but if it shall please thee after serious matters to sport thyself with this Spaniard, that thou shalt find in him the just reward of malice & cowardice, 
The use & profit of this Spanish translation  with the good speed of honesty and courage, being able to furnish thee with sufficient store of foreign example to both purposes. And as in such matters which have been rather devised to beguile time, then to breed matter of sad learning, be hath ever borne away the price, which could season such delights with some profitable reading: so shalt thou have this stranger an honest man when need serveth, and at other times either a good companion to drive out a weary night, or a merry lest at thy board. And thus much concerning this present story, that it is neither unseemly for a woman to deal in, neither greatly requiring a less stayed age then mine is. But of these two points gentle Reader I thought to give thee warning, 
The conclusion,  lest perhaps understanding of my name & years, thou mightest be carried into a wrong suspect of my boldness & rashness, from which I would gladly free myself by this plain excuse, and if I may deserve thy good favour by like labour, when the choice is mine own, I will have a special regard of thy liking. So I wish thee well.  
Thine to use M.T.   

¶ The first part of the Mirror of Knighthood.  

CAP. 1.  
AFter that the great Emperor Constantine, had peopled the City of Constantinople, with the race of the noble Citizens of Rome, and had re-edified the ancient buildings, founded by Pansanias King of the Parthes. Among all the Emperors which succeeded in that Empire of Greece, none seemed to have raised his own name, or to have made it so famous, as the great & mighty Emperor Trebatio. Whose worthy deeds, with the valiant acts of the Knights of his time, I will report here, according as Artemidoro the Grecian hath left them written in the great volumes of his Chronicle.  
The story saith thus: That if at any time Fortune, being always uncertain & variable, showed herself more friendly to the Greeks, than to all men beside, & if ever the Grecians were feared in all the world, it was in the time of Trebatio the son of Alicante, which man by right line descended from the noble & ancient blood of Molosso, the second son of strong Pyrrhus, and in the third descent from the great Achilles, which was slain in the wars at Troy. This Trebatio in the xxv. year of his age, reigned in Epyrus, where the said Pyrrhus and his ancestors had been Kings. He was strong and valiant in arms, and endowed with so many graces, that his fame in that time was spread over all the world, and that there was neither King nor Emperor, but he was glad to hold him for his friend. Now it happened in his time by the death of the Emperor Theodoro, the state of the Empire to be void, for that Theodoro had no son, and the Empire was to be given by election: so that the Electors not finding any whom with see good reason they might choose for Emperor as the great Trebatio, as well for his great valour, as for his descent from so noble a race. They with the willing & joint assent of all the emperials, named him unto the Empire, and brought him with great honour to Constantinople.  
Where, (if before for his great fame they had praised and honoured him) now much more they held him dear, having in some part seen & known him. Because he was of conditions very noble, pleasant, loving to all, liberal, courteous. sufferable, pitiful, and above all very desirous to entertain in his Court, valiant and worthy Knights, whom he honoured above all the Princes of the earth. So that his court flourished with Princes and Knights, as well subjects, as strangers, which much magnified his great estate, & himself held continual excerse in arms with them, as being like inclined to nothing. His virtue by the report of such as knew him, was so rare, that it was generally thought none of his predecessors to have had advantage over him, but rather he was of greater force than any one of them all. For many men were witnesses of his mighty strokes. He was called the great Trebatio, because he was 8. foot in height, & very strong timbered, so that without proof of his manhood, they might thereby make conjecture of his force. In his life, customs and conditions he was always so affable & courteous, that never might be noted in him one little fault. Wherefore his Historians say, that he was the crown of the Greeks, & the clear mirror of all the princes & knights of the world. Whence also this his Chronicle borroweth this title, especially having therein to remember the marvelous deeds of the Knight of the Sun, with Rosicleer, both sons unto Trabatio. Since whose time, all the adventures of the ancient & famous knights were clean forgotten, and since whose time, neither Ulysses, of whom Homer speaketh, neither any other songs or sonnets, ballads or interludes, were heard in Greece, only with these two Knights, they were familiarly acquainted. Of these they made great volumes, and with a thousand devices in verse they sang of their love. They made no building nor painture, without some story of them, & their memory therein declared. In such sort, that you might pass by no part of all Greece, where was not recited, sung or painted the histories & noble deeds of these Knights, as if no other thing but arms or love were fitting for them. And because that in the time to come so noble things should not be put in oblivion, some of the Grecians compiled this noble History, to the encouraging of all Nations that shall either hear or read this History.   

The King of Hungary pretending a title to the Empire, setteth himself against the Emperor Trebatio.  
Cap. 2.  
IT appeareth by an ancient Greek Chronicle, that the Emperor Helio the third predecessor in the Empire of Trebatio had two sons, the eldest of the which two, the father being deceased, was chosen Emperor, the other was married with a Princess, inheretrix of the kingdom of Hungary, whereby he became Lord & ruler of that kingdom. The first son which was elected for Emperor departed without issue. For which cause the Grecians chose another, which was the predecessor of Theodoro. This seeing the second son of Aelio, which then reigned in Hungary, and judging that with most reason the Empire was his, as grieved with the election, he assembled his power against the Grecians, thinking to be Lord over them by force. In the end, as he was not so mighty as they, so he was vanquished and slain before he might attain his purpose. Yet from that time forth, all the kings which succeeded in Hungary, pretended alway that the right of the Empire rested in them by way of inheritance, and there never failed wars & dissensions between the Hungarians and the Greeks upon this occasion. In like manner, when the great Trebatio was chosen for Emperor, then reigning in Hungary the King Tiberio, a very strong man and of great courage, beside of more might than all his ancestors. For he had in his subjection beside the Kingdom of Hungary, many other Provinces, as Holland, Zealand, Flaunders, Zweveland, Bavare, Ostrich, Almain, Alba, Denmark, Marcomandia, Persia, and other Regions, with the which he deemed himself one of the mightiest Kings in the world. This Tiberio knowing the election of the Emperor Trebatio, and being more attached with the desire of the Empire than any of his predecessors were, (as it was to be gotten by war) so he assembled by summons the greatest of estate throughout his land, and declaring unto them his will, he commanded to gather all the people they might, for to invade Greece. Besides this, to the end his power might yet be greater, he determined to marry his Daughter unto such a one, as would and could maintain his quarrel. This Maiden was called Briana, the most beautiful Princess that was to be found in all those parts, being by the only report of her excellency, sued unto by many worthy Princes, especially by Prince Edward, son of Olyverio, King of great Britain. This young Knight strong and valiant, & greatly enamoured on the Princess Briana, through the great fame of her beauty, had before dispatched his Ambassadors towards the King her father, to request her for wife. To the which her Father because he had already undertook the battle against the Emperor Trebatio, easily condescended, upon condition that the Prince should come into Hungary with 20000. chosen men of war, for to aids him in the pursuit of his claim against the Emperor.  
This when Prince Edward understood, he had so great desire to have the Princess Briana, that by and by he granted his request, and so as speedily as he might, he gathered the people that the King Tiberio required of him, and with the consent of his Father, he departed from great Britain toward Hungary, giving intelligence before unto the King Tiberio of his coming. The King knowing the succours which came unto him, appointed a day when all his Host should meet together, and finding himself of so great power, in the mean while until the prince came, he resolved to make a road into Greece, sacking all the little towns he might, before that the Emperor Trebatio should perceive it. Afterwards if the Emperor Trebatio should come to secure his subjects, then to join battle with him, at such time as the Prince should approach, which thing he put in practice diligently. For with that power which he had, he entered into Greece, foraging the country, taking little towns of no great force, burning & wasting so much as he might, to the intent, that the people of other fenced Cities strooken with fear, might abandon themselves to flight, & enféeble their forces. Howbeit King Tiberio, had not passed in Greece thirty. miles, when the Emperor Trebatio having knowledge of it, came against him with an host of knights so valiant, that at the first alarm, the Hungarian recoiled, & by the chase of his enemies, was forced to retire home into the city of Belgrado, which is in Hungary. There he fortified himself, & manned the town, unwilling as yet to go into the field, until the Prince of great Britain should arrive, by whose coming their powers being joined, he thought he might give the battle unto the Emperor Trebatio. Albeit he carried about him a maim incurable in his body, not by any stroke lent him by his enemy, but by the only conceit of the emperors virtue. For he had seen the Emperor demean himself more worthily, than any of those that came with him, & namely in a kinsman of his, a very strong Knight, whom the Emperor at one blow as it were divided in two pieces. This, as it might be, made him keep his chamber, because he himself confessed the valour of the Emperor to be above the report of men, notwithstanding he had heard sufficiently of the emperors prowess. But because these things are not mentioned, but to give beginning to this history, we run them briefly over, not rehearsing the great deeds of arms that the Emperor and his people did in besieging the City, because we have other matters more noble in hand, in comparison whereof, these things were needless. The story hereof, gins in the chapter following.   

¶ The Emperor Trebatio by the hearsay of her beauty, was surprised with the love of the Princess Briana.  
ca 3.  
Certain days the Emperor Trebatio lay at the siege of Belgrado, hoping that the King Tiberio would come out to give them battle, for that he had great desire to be avenged of the great harms which he had received in Greece, but the King would in no wise leave the town, still abiding the coming of Prince Edward & his army out of England. The Emperor marveling much at it, commanded a prisoner to be brought before him, whom he had taken in the former battle, of him he demanded the cause why the King Tiberio held himself so close with so many good knights mewed up in the city, & why he came not out to give the battle, with promise of life & liberty if he told troth, otherwise the certainty of most cruel death. The prisoner thus placed before the Emperor, what with fear of death, and hope of liberty, durst not declare other than the truth, and therefore thus made answer unto him.  

Prisoner's oration.  Know you mighty Emperor, that when the King of Hungary my master, first took upon him the entry into Greece, he would not have done it (although he hath so mighty an host as is seen) but in hope that before he should be espied & met withal, there should come to his help Prince Edward son to the king of great Britain, with 20000. knights. This number was promised upon condition that the Prince should have the King's daughter, the Princess Briana to wife, which Princess I believe is the fairest maid in all the world, & by such fame the prince is become enamoured of her, so as we hear, that he is already departed from great Britain with the number appointed, and shall take landing very soon in this country, the King Tiberio abideth his coming, and is determined to give the onset, as soon as their forces shall be united.  
This said the prisoner: but the Emperor minding to know more of the matter, demanded of him, where the Princess Briana remained, and of what age she might be. The prisoner answered him. My Lord, she is with the Queen Augusta her mother in the Monastery of the River, which is near Buda, a pleasant and delectable house, wherein none are lodged but Nuns, & the queens Gentlewomen. The Princess is of the age of 14. years, & be assured that so many as shall see her, will judge her rather a gods than a woman, so much her beauty doth excel all the gentlewomen of the world. Now so soon as the Prince shall land, he will strait ways take his journey towards the Monastery of the river, because it is so appointed by the King her father, The King himself will not be there, because he will not be absent in such a busy time from the City. When the prisoner had thus said, the Emperor Trebatio commanded him to be set free, without speaking other thing to his people, but with a sorrowful & troubled countenance, he withdrew himself into a secret chamber of his Imperial tent. Where tossing in his conceit divers & sundry fancies, he endured a wilful imprisonment with out any bail or mainprize. Thus that force, which neither by till, tourney, nor barriers, neither by spear nor sword, neither by malice of the enemy, nor pride of the mighty, might at any time be subdued, was now vanquished by the only hearsay of a Gentlewoman's commendation. Nay, the valiant heart, which he held forcible enough against all the world, failed in his own defence against a delicate damsel whom he had never seen. What force is it that may repulse this evil, sith that with such flattering closes it overthroweth so many noble hearts and strong bodies. But to return, the Emperor Trebatio so much burned in love with the Princes Briana, that already he hath forgotten the damage received in his Country, his travail out of his Country with a huge army, the consuming of his treasure for to wreak his anger on the King Tiberio, only he devised upon this, how to give remedy unto to his amorous passion. For as the fire was great which inflamed him, so was the remedy by all semblance far from him. Because that on the one part he was hindered by the enmity between him and her father, so that he durst not require her for wife, and on the other side, she was already promised to the Prince of great Britain, who had put himself on his journey for the attaining of her person, so that likewise the King could not take her from him, to give unto his enemy. These things bred such grief, unto the Emperor, as that he hoped for nothing but to die. And so turning and overturning in his thought a thousand sort of remedies, without finding any which might satisfy him, he conveyed himself into his most secret Tent, and there remained three dates, not suffering any of his people to have access unto him, or speech with him, except some squires servitors, from whom likewise he would willingly have exempted himself, but that he would not die so desperately. Those of the Camp, which saw the sudden change and alteration in the Emperor, as they knew not the cause of it, so were they much abashed and careful to know what it might be. Some imagined that the delay of the war, and the coming of Prince Edward were the occasions of his trouble, and so hoping that he should well overcome that grief shortly, they left him to his rest until he had resolved upon the pursuit of this which followeth in the next chapter.   

¶ Prince Edward entereth into Belgrado. The Emperor bethinketh himself of his remedy.  
Cap. 4.  
Four days after that the Emperor Trebatio was thus wounded with the love of the Princess Briana, Prince Edward with xx. M. entered into the city of Belgrado, where he was welcomed by the King, who had great desire to see him, for be thought not only to departed with the City, but also to add thereunto a great part of the Empire of Greece.  
So soon as this news were spread in the enemies camp, the Emperor was cast into greater melancholy; as by the shortness of time not being able to find an issue for his late devise, only this he thought, that for to assure this uncertain hope (if there might be any) he had none other way then to cut off prince Edward's enterprise, & so by shortening his life, better & more easy to compass the obtaining of the Princes. Upon this resolution he made to call into his tent. 12. knights, the most valiant & worthiest of all his host, among whom one was Alceo, father of Rodomarte, prince of Sardinia, of whom there is made great account in this history: the second was Alpineo L. of the Island Lemnos: the third was called Alfonte L. of the Island Sicily: the 4. was called Alcino king of Thrace: the fift Liberio L. of Nicroponte: the sixth Boristhines whose son was Rodopheo Prince of Rhodes: the. 7. was Dardante, Prince of Dalmatia: the. 8. Melides L. of Ithaca, where Ulysses reigned king: the. 9 Argante. L. of Pathmos: the.. 10. Arimont L. of the islands Cyclades: the .11. Artedoro prince of Candia: the. 12. & last Nicoleonte L. warden of the straits where Corinth stood. All knights of great account, young & very strong for to undertake any enterprise, all subjects unto the Emperor, and all well-beloved of him, because he was privy. unto their great virtues. Now when the Emperor saw all those knights in presence, with some shame fastness which the weight of the matter caused, he revealed to them wholly his grief, giving them to understand withal, that unless he had some help, his life were spilled. Among all the best which he had found, he reckoned specially upon one, which was that secretly they should avoid the camp & follow him. The knights having great desire to serve him, & esteeming themselves happy that he would communicate with them part of his mind, they freely offered unto him their persons, for the accomplishing of that which he should command them, & they all agreed to departed with him in such order as he had devised. Then the Emperor made to call before him the king of Boheme, which was his uncle, a very wise & expert man in arms, to whom he declared, that he had urgent occasion to be absent a while from his army, the circumstances whereof saith he, you shall further know at our return, in the mean time I commend unto you the charge of my war, & for your greater credit with the people, I deliver unto your hands the Imperial Sceptre. The king marveling at this that the Emperor did, without more demanding of him whether or whereabout he would go, accepted the charge & promised therein to employ his travail. Well, the night approaching with the hour agreed upon. the Emperor with. 12. knights, armed at all points with rich & costly armour, & with Hungarian bases, secretly left the camp, without being heard or known of their enemies, wherein they travailed all night until the day appeared, than they alighted to rest their horses, & fed upon such victuals as they had brought with them, after taking again their horses, they posted on their journey till they were in the mid way between Buda & Belgrado, which way prince Edward of force must have passed when he would go to the monastery of the river. There in a thick wood somewhat aside out of the way, they put themselves having provision & furniture of all things necessary, where they remained very close, until that Fortune friendly to the Emperor and enemy to the prince, gave the prince into the emperors hands, which shall be showed in the chap. following.   

Prince Edward riding toward the monastery of the river, was by the Emperor Trebatio encountered & slain.  
cap. 5.  
WHen prince Edward bade once set footing in Belgrado, he had great desire to see the princes, so that the third day after his coming, he would needs departed towards the monastery of the river. The king Tiberio understanding his desire (albeit he himself might not accompany him, yet) he set him on his way thither ward (only to have his aid & assistance in the battle) with. 4. aged knights in his company, being best known by the queen & the princes. These should be in the prince's retinue, & other 12. knights more which be had brought out of his country, & by these the king sent letters to the Q. & the princes Briana, the contents whereof were, that the prince might speedily be betrothed unto her, but more company would he not send, thereby to have the match kept secret till the war which he held with the Emperor were finished. For this matter was hushed no man almost being privy unto it, yet the prisoner which bewrayed it unto the Emperor, had understanding of it by means of the king's service. In this time the Queen and her daughter having intelligence of the princes coming, attended his coming in the monastery with preparation for his entertainment. Prince Edward departing from the king one night the most covertly that he might, went out of the city with his own. 12 knights, &. 4. of the kings: with these he took his way a whole night & a day with all the hast he might, to end the great desire he had to see the beautiful princes. This way albeit short, yet it seemed long unto him, as being ignorant of the sour sauce & woeful wedding which was in providing. O marriage, that slender & weak foundation of worldly things, how is it not only regarded by men, but highly reverenced? How seldom was it ever steadfast, and how many thousands hath it beguiled, I mean not the base and common people, but even kings and Emperors.  
O how many impediments be therein left to hinder us, from enjoying it: O what a common thing is it to die, and how many ever saw happy end in it? How joyful and pleasant was to Paris the desired match of Helena, and how sorrowful and lamentable was the end, not only to him, but to his parents and brethren and the greatest part of all Asia? For not only in Greece, but in all the out Islands thereabouts was bewept his bitter Bridal. With how great care and diligence do men hasten on the causes of their care, occasions of their heaviness, means of their pains, and matter for their grief, and do not content themselves with the continual affliction wherein Fortune schooleth them? But by new means they invent new mathers of danger which crosseth them at every step, they frame new causes, & as it wore, forge unto themselves sharp spurs to prick forward this woeful life, where they think to find pleasure & rest, there they find for their loss, travail, & trouble for the death which they would fly from. To escape either nipping colds, or scalding heat, this only one remedy they have, to climb up into the mountains, where yet the wind hath most force, and the sun doth soon parch: above all this, hath not the unsatiable covetousness of man broken through the sturdy waves of the sea, & cut out new passages in the mountains? But why do we complain on fortune, do we not bend her arms to fight with us, do we not maintain her weapons which peradventure lighteth on our own necks. As for example, if Paris had not made a way through the deep waves of the sea Aegean (which the Gods had placed as a peaceable bound between Europe & Asia) & if he had not sought. Greece, sith Asia was large enough to have found a fair wife in, & (so it may be) much more honest than Helen was, than the Achians had not transported themselves into Asia, to destroy Troy. And turning again to our matter, Prince Edward might have sought him a wife in his own country or more near home, of whose beauty his own eyes might have been witnesses, & not have sought her in a strange land by the only brute of a cunning tale, especially upon so hard and sore conditions as to bring his own person and people to the war. Whosoever comes to seek pleasure and delight for his youth, let him take that he finds, and think it not strange, because that unkind. Fortune hath used the like unto at her. The Prince now being on his way, two of the king's knights were dispatched before by some secret by ways very well known unto them to advertise the queen & princess of the approaching of the Prince. These two held on their way, not escried by the ambush, but so soon as the prince with his knights had entered in the thicket, they were presently discovered by the Emperor, who was already armed with his rich armour, & mounted upon a strong & light horse. The Emperor taking a great spear in his hand very sharp, & well steeled for the purpose, went alone aside out of the wood with a soft pace, to encounter with the Prince & his knights, and being come right before them, said unto them. Know you knights that this passage is forbidden, except you leave your shields & your names in them. For that a Lady whom I honour & serve hath commanded me to do it, whose love I could not otherwise obtain. The Prince Edward was by nature very stout, & by inclination given to somewhat less modesty in his talk then behoved such a Prince, howbeit for this and other faults he was a very valiant & strong knight, such a one as neither in great Britain, neither in the kingdom of Hungary, was thought to have his peer. But as he understood the demand of the knight, very wroth he answered him. By God knight, if the king Tiberio were as certain of the victory against the Emperor Trebatio, as I hope to chastise thy folly, than the Prince of England should not need to come from so far a country to give him help. Take thou quickly that part of the field as shall seem good unto thee, and with one only choice thou shalt see how dear and bitter thy love hath been unto thee.  
As the Prince had said this, and had pronounced with his own mouth, that cruel doom, not well foreseeing his own fall, he took a great spear from one of his knights and broached his horse with the spurs to meets the Emperor. (This he did, not for that his knights would not have put themselves in the adventure before him, every man claiming to be first, but for that no reason sufficed him. For his stoutness and his unmeasurable pride, made him to forget the force of his enemy, and yet his enemy stood before him so great and so big made, that he seemed to be a Giant). But this Princes adverse fortune and unhappy destinies would him to be the foremost, so that the mighty Trebatio knew it, as well by the rithes of his armour as by the talk which had passed between him and his knights, and being very glad to see him the first which he met, he said unto himself, O that my Spear were now greater and stronger, & the bead forged by Vulcan, that it might not stay in the armour of this Knight, for that according as I see him great and strong, so I fear he will escape my hands, and then my travail shall be all in vain. Thus as he said, they by and by did put both their Spears in their rests, and giving either horse his bridle, they ran together with such fury, that they made the earth to tremble, and yet the lightness of their horses was such, that it seemed the grass yielded not under their feet. The Prince hit the Emperor in the midst of the shield, and piercing farther left the head remaining in the fine and well steeled armour, whereby the staff broken in many shéevers made a great whistling in the air. But the emperors stroke was much more fell, for he leveled it with such force that it entered not only into the shield and strong armour of the Prince, but passed through unto his amorous heart all bedewed with blood a whole arms length.  
Then the Prince fell dead, executing the sentence which he had given in these words, that that love should be very dear and bitter. When his people saw him stretched upon the ground, there might no sorrow be compared unto theirs, and as raging mad they ran all together upon the Emperor, thinking to put in practise their deadly anger upon his carcase. Some with Spears and other with Swords struck him on all parts with great rage and haste, so that if his armour had not been very good, in short space they had hewed it in pieces. But that most valiant Greek no less strong than any of his ancestors, bearing his fine and sharp sword, turned himself among them in such manner, that he sheathed it in their bodies. The first whom he met he cleaved unto the eyes, the seconds arm he cut off by the elbow, & being sore wounded he overthrew the third at another blow, neither stayed he here, but in his rage, he dealt blows and wounded many, which for fear accounting him rather a Devil of hell, than a knight, put themselves to flight. Albeit they might have recovered some courage in that they were many and chosen knights, always against one knight only. But the reason was for that at this time the emperors knights showed themselves out of the wood. So that indeed by the great manhood of their Lord they found none left on live save two knights of the kings which were known by their Hungarian bases. Those the Emperor commanded to be kept carefully, for the thing before touched.  
This being done, the knights and other footmen which the Emperor had brought with him to guide his carriage took all the dead bodies upon their horses, without leaving any thing which was theirs, & altogether they carried them into the thick of the wood, from whence they before came out, there. in the thickest thereof they made a great pit, into the which they threw the Prince and the knights, save the English bases, & the king's letters which were needful for his purpose, they covered them with earth in such sort, that there was never memory of them. At the time that the Prince was entered, the Emperor being of conditions pitiful, felt so great dolour in his heart, that the tears issued abundantly from his eyes, ruing the loss of so great a Prnce slain out of his own Country in the beauty of his age, which also yielding a great sigh, which seemed to have come from the bottom of his heart, he said with a troubled and low voice in this wise.  
O unhappy and unfortunate Prince, God knoweth how sorrowful and grievous thy death is to me, and how feign I would have given remedy in some other manner, to that I most desired, and although thou wast mine enemy and come in favour of the king Tiberio to take from me my land and high estate, yet would I not have been so cruel an enemy unto thee, but the entire love of the princess Briana drove me more thereto, than mine own enmity. Now I wish that by some other means I might have been relieved, and not to have bought my life by thy loss. But as love is tyrannous, so marvel not though he want pity towards thee, which could not otherwise purchase it to himself: Pardon me therefore, O mighty and worthy Prince, and judge if thou wert alive what thou wouldst do, if by my death thou mightest find remedy of thy love. The emperors knights which heard these words, and saw the tears trickling down his manly cheeks, perceived well how much the death of the Prince disquieted him. And they said amongst themselves, that by good right the Emperor deserved the praise of the most noble and worthy Prince of the world. But having made an end, the Emperor caused to be brought before him the two knights belonging unto Tiberio. These two were very fearful of the death, seeing the things which were already done, & especially when they knew him to be the Emperor Trebatio, whom they held as their mortal enemy. Now when they came before him, the Emperor said to them. If you will do that which I command you, & keep secret that which I tell you, I will not only pardon you the death which I have given to your fellows, but also I will bring you with me into mine Empire, where you shall be very well contented. The knights better satisfied than they were, because he promised them life, before not hoping but the death, with good will they yielded themselves to do all that he would, with all, swearing into his Imperial hands their faith & obeisance. Then said the Emperor, that which I would have you do is this, I have great desire to have the Princess Briana for wife, & this may not be done, except I go in the name of Prince Edward, to ensure myself to her in the monastery of the river, for the which it is necessary that you two being known of the queen & the Princess, should go in my company, & say that I am Prince Edward. Now sirs, discover not my secret to any person, until that you be licenced thereunto by me, and in so doing, you shall do nought either against your Lord or Kingdom, sith in this bargain the Princess looseth not, and the King with all his subjects win perpetually, for that by this means, the great wars and contentions begun, shall take end.  
After that the Emperor had said these and other things, whereby the Knights understood his will, it grieved them not a whit of this talk, but they were rather joyous, weighing the benefit which the King, the kingdom, the Princess Briana, and all his should reap thereby, and especially the Princess, by obtaining to husband, the most noble and worthy Prince of all christendom, as well for his person, as for his estate, and so with good will they submitted themselves to do him pleasure, and what else he commanded them. With this, the Emperor & his Knights took the letters which were directed to the Queen & the Princess, and with more hope to achieve their inquest, they put on the English bases, which made them seem English men, then taking their way toward the Monastery of the river. In the way, the King's knights fold the Emperor, how two of their fellows were gone before to give notice unto the Princess, of Prince Edward's coming, and that therefore it were good to go well advised, for they should meet them by the way. The Emperor allowed their advice, & charged his people until they approached near them, not to disclose themselves, lest they retiring, their secrets might be laid open. Now fortune jumped so even with the Emperor, as that all things succeeded on his side, until the accomplishment of his desire, which shall be recited in the chapter following.   

¶ The Emperor Trebatio was received at the Monastery, by the Archbishop of Belgrado, and there betrothed by the name of Prince Edward.  
Cap. 6.  
THe Emperor with his Knights departed from the wood, where the unfortunate Prince was slain, and took their way towards the city of Buda, until they came within vi. miles of the Monastery, where they saw a far the two other Knights, which had returned to bring the Prince on his way. When their fellows had espied them, they told it to the Emperor, upon this, the Emperor commanded his Knights to keep together, lest they should be known, and so they kept on till they met. The other two seeing the English bases, thought him to be the Prince of England with his knights. But the emperors knights, as soon as these were within their reach, laid hold on their bridles, and with courteous words stayed them until the other two knights of the Kings had talked with them.  
These two declared unto the other that which had happened between Prince Edward and the Emperor Trebatio, and in the end, made plain the meaning of the Emperor, both praying them to keep it secret, and threatening them with death, if they did otherwise. No doubt, they wondered at that which chanced, but what the Emperor would, that they promised him, and were nothing repentant of their exchange.  
The Emperor being ascertained of their faith, went with them towards the Monestary of the river, whereunto being come, they found not in the Monastery, but the Q. the Princess, and other Gentlewomen being servitors, to attend upon them, and the Archbishop of Belgrado, which there tarried for to ensure them. This Archbishop received the Emperor at the gate, and thinking him assuredly to be the prince of England, conducted him with his knights, where the Queen and the Princes were in the company of beautiful and discreet Ladies, abiding his coming. When they had saluted each other, and that the Emperor had taken a full view of the Princess, he was greatly abashed to see her beauty, for he could not be persuaded that so great comeliness had been in Helen, although dearly bought by his ancestors, he judged it more heavenly or angelical, then human or earthly, beside, she was of a goodly stature, excelling the other Gentlewomen, in height a sp●n. The Princess when she saw the Emperor before her, she judged him to be goodliest knight that might be in the world, which his beautiful face & pleasant countenance showed especially. When thus by the eyes each of them were indifferently satisfied, the Emperor would have kissed the hand of the Queen Augusta, but she with great good will embraced him. By and by turning himself again towards the Princess, he took her by the hand, and said in effect thus much.  
The fame of your great beauty, excellent Princess, hath in such sort passed through the world, that the only report thereof, hath forced the Prince of England to leave his natural Kingdom and soil, to come and serve you in this Country, and to behold with his own eyes, that which his ears would scarcely believe. God hath made me so fortunate that I have obtained the good will of the king your father, & of the Queen your mother for to have you to wife. Only now I want the consent of your part, which the King by his letters prayeth you to give me, and I for the desire that I have to be yours, beseech you not deny it me, for with it I may account myself the happiest knight of all the world. And with these words, kissing the King's letters, he delivered it into her hands, which the Princess receiving, with a grave and sober countenance, and after taking it to the Archbishop for to read, the mean time made answer softly on this wise.  
I would to God most worthy Prince, that I were such a one as with reason might deserve some part of the pains which you have taken only to see me, or that I might in some little respect recompense the great pleasure you have done to me, & to all this kingdom, in coming to succour us with your great force and power, but sith desert doth want so much in me, I will accomplish that which the duty of obedience unto the King my father forceth me unto, for that I must subject my will unto his commandment, yet I so consider of this your offer and request, as that from this time I will dare to compare with you in like happiness.  
While these words were in speaking, the Archbishop began to read the King's letters, wherein only was contained his consent, with the desire of dispatch, that presently upon the Princes coming they should be married.  
The Archbishop, with both their consents, taking their hands, married them with all the ceremonies and words which the Church ordaineth. After this, the Emperor embraced the fair Princess, and with unspeakable gladness kissed her on the white and red cheeks, and from thence, brought her into a gorgeous chamber, where they drove forth the rest of the day, with very amorous and delectable talk, which so much the more set his love on fire, as he proceeded farther in his pleasant dalliance. Albeit ere night, the most puissant Emperor was not altogether quieted in his thought, for fear lest some one which knew the Prince might have bewrayed them, at length, being certain that none in the Monastery, had seen either the one or the other, but only the Kings four knights, & his own men, which kept the matter close enough. When the hour of supper approached, he supped with some pleasure, & so held on a great part of the night till it was time to take his rest. Then the Emperor was led to one side of the Monastery, wherein there was a rich and stately lodging, where he lengthened the night with many fancies, not having as yet reached into the very depth of his enterprise, albeit stilled a little, with that which already had happened. The beautiful Princess after leave taken of the Emperor, accompanied the Queen her Mother.  
Because, until that the war was ended between the King her Father and the Emperor, she was desirous to keep herself unknown, and so the king her father, and the Queen her mother had commanded, lest if aught should happen amiss to the Prince in those battles the Princes should have remained both a maiden and a widow: this devise little availed, as shall be manifested in the sequel.   

¶ The Emperor Trebatio driveth in his conceit, the order how to consummate the marriage, which in the end he bringeth to pass accordingly.  
Cap. 7.  
THE Emperor Trebatio remained three days in the Monastery of the river, not having opportunity to talk with the Princess alone, because she was not willing to give consent to his desire, until the war with the Emperor should be finished This inconvenience troubled his thought, and increased his melancholy, as nothing more for that the term which the King had set for his return was already expired, and being afraid least the King would send for him, whereby his fault should be discovered, without giving remedy to that which had been the original of his grief, in such wise he was tormented that he could neither sleep nor eat. And in his imagination he did nought else but gaze on the Princess, expecting time when he might allay the heat of his amorous passion.  
But whether it were Fortune, or the will of God, it fell so out, that there was begotten between them, the fruit of their desire. For one morning walking in his chamber, he espied out of a window the Princess alone in her night gown, going towards a fresh and pleasant garden butting upon his lodging, (the garden before he had not seen.) Into this garden entered none but the Princess and her Gentlewomen. As he saw so good and prosperous a time, the most joyful man that ever was, he went towards the pleaseunt garden, and finding no entry, but by the chamber of the Princess, the door whereof was shut, he took two of those spears which his knights had brought, and rearing them up against the wall with the blunt end upwards, (as he was very nimble) he lifted himself upon them lightly, and easily slid down betwixt them into the garden, without being seen of any, especially not of the Princess, who was unwitting of such a leap.  
The Princess was nigh a Fountane well set about with Rolls and jessamines, kembing and dressing of her yellow hair. Now when she saw herself thus suddenly taken by the Emperor, with a fearful start, she rose from whence she was, and gently smiling as somewhat overtaken with shamefastness, she beshrowed him in this sort. Assuredly my Lord, needs must the hurt be great which you have sustained by your leap, and great is the injury which the garden hath received by your entry, because that in it none have come, but either myself, or my Gentlewomen: for whose solace it was first plotted out. For this cause God hath showed me such favour, answered the Emperor, because I have lodged my heart in your excellent beauty, and well may the body lawfully enter, where the heart is harboured. Let not therefore my entry, good madame, seem strange unto you, sith that neither hour nor moment I may departed from you. And if this my rudeness hath procured you any pain, by the freedom which you have given me, my heart shall make excuse unto your beauty, under whose safe conduct without demand of leave, my body hath entered. The good Emperor having thus said, embraced and kissed her, and not leaving any leisure of reply, made her to sit down by him near unto the well. This place was so hedged and compassed about with odoriferous Roses, and sweet smelling jessamine, that they might not be perceived by any. And the gentle mourmure that the running water made upon the pebble stones, agreeing with the delicate lays which divers birds made upon the green boughs, increased so much the longing desire of the Emperor, that casting how to win the favour of his Lady, already his tongue failed to speak, and his hearing to receive that which she spoke. She than all trembled, as knowing his purpose, and through fear greatly desired to have shunned that place, but the Emperor caught her between his arms, and with such haste to end his suit, left her unfurnished of her answer.  
At that time as the burning beams of the Sun began with his golden rays to look through the thick jessamines, all the fortunate aspects intermeddling their forces, at that time, by the grace of the Almighty, were begotten these two noble children the Knight of the Sun, & Rosicleer, the beams of whose knightly deeds so shined through the world, as that the worthy prows of their predecessors were thereby eclipsed.  
This was the Plaudite of his passion, and the beautiful Princess now became a wife somewhat against her will, but when she saw no remedy to that which was past, she comforted herself in that he was her lawful husband, and therefore she pardoned him his boldness in trobling her. These two lovers shortened the time with good agreement, until the Emperor at his departure, took his leave of her to mount up the way he came, and to return into his lodging. The Princess remained alone in the garden, until her Gentlewomen came for her to dinner,  
After this, yet the Emperor sojourned there three days, at the end whereof, fearing the king's jealousy over his tarrying, and the event of his sending for, he took his leave of the Queen and the Princess, not without the courtesy of many tears on each part, and especially of the Princess whom he left very doleful, albeit sadder would she have been, if she had foreseen the long time of his absence. C. iiij.   

The Emperor Trebatio pursuing those which had stolen his Lady, left all his knights, & took another way.  
ca 8.  
THe Empereur Trebatio thus having departed from the monastery of the river, became very sorrowful in his heart, with the leaving of the Princess Briana, for that the fire which inflamed him after he had known her, was greater, than the affection which he bore to her before by the hearing of her beauty, & that which caused his most grief, was, that he knew not how, either to return speedily unto her, or to salve that sore which he had already chafed.  
He thought in himself, that if he made peace with the King Tiberio letting him understand of the matter, the king would not accept of it, either for the great enmity which was betwixt them, or for the bond wherein he was bound to the Prince of great Britain. And therefore it would be a thing neither reasonable, nor agreeable with his honour, in am of the Prince's pains which he had taken, to come from his country accompanied with so great a number of knights to serve him, and in regard of the death which he there received in his service, now to become a friend to his foe, & to give his daughter before espoused to the Prince, unto the deadliest foe which the Prince had, debating these and other things in his mind about the time that they had got over their heads the thick wood wherein they had been before, now to the end not to tire their horses, they lighted down, unbridled their horses, and turned them to grass. They themselves feeding on such victuals as they had brought with them, although the meat whereon the emperors stomach tired, was most of all sobs & sighs, as receiving no pleasure in the absence of the princes. Now the night assailed them, and having not in them to make resistance, they yielded their forces, every one taking his rest where it liked them best. But the Emperor somewhat a part from the rest, casting himself upon the green grass, & staying his back against a tree, he there remained more than two hours broad awake, staring at the clearness of the air, & the brightness of the stars, when his thoughts renewed, and the amorous passion, if before not clean buried, now revived a fresh by the solitariness of his conceit: at length his cares, the weariness of his way, & the sweet noise of the pleasant leaves, through the hissing of the wind, brought him to a gentle slumber, wherein he had scarcely been half an hour, but that his fancy presented to him again his Lady Briana. He dreamt that she was taken by force of two giants, the most fierce and strong that ever he had seen in all his life, and that she seeing him, cried for help: Through the grief whereof he awaked very much affrighted, and indeed this dream proved no game unto him, for by & by he heard a great noise near unto him, and listening where it might be, he beheld a fair chariot drawn with four horses, & in the top of it two great burning torches set in silver candlesticks, by the light whereof he saw a Lady in the chariot clothed with rich & princely robes, and resembling so much the Princess Briana, that he verily believed it was she. The gentlewoman leaning on her elbow, and casting down her countenance, passed on still sighing, as one enduring some great force & torment. The Emperor prying about to see who were the guides of the chariot, perceived that she was carried away by two strong and huge Giants, with great battle axes in their hands, being on foot at the fore end of the chariot. These two had so fell and cruel looks, that they would have daunted the courage of any man which should have behold them. But the Emperor assured in his thought that this was the Princess, with great anger start up, and not remembering to call any of his knights, with his sword he paced towards the Giants, where without either good even or good morrow, he lent the first whom he approached unto such a stroke, that the Giant would have mortgaged his part in the Lady to have made sufficient payment of that blow, for lifting up his battle axe to receive the blow, the sword cut it into the midst of the helm, and from thence gliding down upon his armour, hewed it into many pieces. Then the other giant hastening to smite the Emperor, laid at his head with main force: but the Emperor warded it on his shield, in which the giants battle axe stack so fast, that he might no more draw it out, until the Emperor struck him on the right arm, that he made him forego his hold. The two Giants thus being left weaponless, with much lightness, more than was likely for their bigness, leapt into the Chariot, whereby the Emperor had no time to bestow another blow on them. Then a dwarf being in the one end of the chariot, lashed forth the horses, so that they ran with such swiftness, as if they had fline. With this noise the knights awaked, and with their swords in their hands came to learn what it should be, in the end much abashed to see their Lord in such a heat, as they demanded of him what befell, he was so troubled in his heart, the Princess thus being lead away, that he made them no answer, but taking his horse, he commanded them to follow him. The Emperor spurred his horse with such fury that he made him to run as fast, as the Swallow flieth in the air. It could not be that the palfrays which drew the chariot were horses, because his horse was one of the best & most precious in the world, & this Lord having desire to overtake the Princess, made him gallop more than an indifferent pace, but the other were spirits of the air, and infernal furies I think, forced by Art Magic both to fly and run. Yet the Emperor followed the chase, without losing the sight of them, although it was all in vain. The knights which remained in the wood, being loath to be far behind their Lord, went to catch their horses, but were it that naturally they feared the Giants, or that the wicked spirits had bewitched them, they all broke out of the place, and strayed here and there, so that the knights spent more than two hours, ere they might take them. By this the Emperor was so far from his knights with the hast he made, that they knew not what way to take, and indeed it was not possible for them to get within the sight of him, albeit they had held on the beaten way, which they thought that the Emperor had taken. They road one way, and the Emperor belike posted another way, for they never met, but the Emperor pursued so long, until in the end he came to the brink of the river Danubia, there where it divideth itself into five arms, at the shore whereof there was a goodly and tall ship, as the Emperor might well see, being a bow shot behind the giants. In this they put the chariot & withal hoist their sails, and through the middle arm sailed with good speed. Thus outraged the Emperor so, that with spurring he caused his horse to fall down dead under him. Being thus left on foot, notwithstanding he despaired not, but held on to that place from whence the Chariot was taken, where he carefully looked about him to see if peradventure on the one side or on the other, he might trace out a way to follow: so loathe he was to lose the sight of it. But as all this was devised by enchantment, so likewise it happened him to see a little Ship sailing in the river with great swiftness: in the which there sat an old man with a white beard, by his countenance seeming to be a very honest man. To him the Emperor called with a loud voice, desiring him to take towards the shore. The old man which had the same thing in charge, incontinently stéered towards him, and asked what he would have. That which I would have, quoth the Emperor, is to be conveyed in thy ship, to that other ship which rideth before us. For they have in it stolen from me the thing which I love best in all the world. This pains if thou wilt take for me, I will so well content thee, as thou shall think thy travail well employed. Assuredly said the old man, I am content to do it, because your courtesy induceth me to a greater hope of your merit. Sailing this, he guided his ship so near the shore, that the Emperor leapt up into it, and being on the hatches, turning himself to the old man to give him thanks, the old man vanished away: and the Emperor never saw him after. The ship kept the same course that it began with, and the Emperor was much astonished at it, the rather for that he witted no man else aboard to rule the ship, not knowing what else to say or think of this great wonder, he then beseeched God so direct his voyage that he might yet obtain his lady: for he verily deemed her to be Briana which was in the chariot. In this order being still within sight of the former ship, & not straying from the way which he had kept, the Emperor sailed three days & three nights in the river without any lack of sufficient food. By reason of this travail and thought, the meat which he eat was no more than would suffice nature. In the fourth day by morning, the ship with the chariot was driven into the great and large Sea called Pontus Euxinus, through the which he yet sailed within the view of the other, until the forward ship arrived in a fair and delectable Island, where the Chariot took landing. Half an hour after the emperors ship rushed on the shore, with such force that the ship rend in pieces, and with the violence of the rush threw the Emperor upon the bank flatlings on his back, where after he had stretched himself, he began again to travail on foot that way which he guessed the Chariot had gone. In this way strange things befell him, as shall appear in the Chapter following.   

¶ The adventures of the Emperor in following the enchanted Chariot.  
Cap. 9  
THE Emperor being as you heard cast on land, he beheld well how the Island was as it were walled about with a fair and fresh water, the fairest that ever he had seen, then looking further into the land, he marked also how it was furnished with so many trees, and of so diverse sorts that it was very strange in respect of their unmeasurable height and greatness, underneath these the ground was beautified with sweet roses and other fragrant flowers, amongst the beds whereof there ran by channels, a very clear and crystalline water, able to delight the most wearied senses and travailed mind that might be. Besides these, to make up a full mess of disport, there was a sweet and pleasant song of Birds, which seemed to rejoice in the bright and clear morning, besides a thousand other pastimes which I let pass, too long to make a tale off. But yet of all these the noble Emperor took no care, for the thought of his Lady detained from him, but only he beat all both known and unknown ways, to find out that wherein the Chariot had gone. At length he winded one, but an unused way, which by all likelihood was the same which he would have, in that the grass seemed new pressed down. This tract the noble Emperor followed on foot, without that either the heaviness of his armour, or the length of the way, made him to rest any whit. From the morning a-full half day the Emperor had continued his journey, not meeting any person, at whom he might ask news, of that which he most desired. But afterwards leaving the thick and pleasant wood, he came into a fair green or meadow full of roses, and other sweet herbs & flowers of all colours, without any other shade in all the meadow than those trees, which served for an hedge unto it. The length of this meadow seemed three bow shot unto the midst, where was situated a good Castle, and in good proportion. It was four square, having at each corner a tower, and on every side one in the midst of the side, all of them so high as if they should haus edged with the clouds. This great castle was enclosed and shut in with a high & thick wall, the siones whereof and the towers, did shine like Crystal, or the well polished steel against the Sun beams. Round about the wall there was a deep moat, the water being so broad, as a man might scarce cast a stove from the one side to the other. Over the water there was a bridge, very large and well towered so strong according to the depth of the water, that it might have withstood a thousand men Three towers it had in all, one in the entrance, another in the middle, and the third at the furthest end each of them very high and great, and wrought with the same stone, that the great castle was builded with. The two uttermost towers of the bridge, as well the entry as that towards the castle, were gated and barred with doors & locks of fine filled stenele, being so shéene that it served for a looking glass unto the passengers. The locks were so shut, that unless they were opened on the inside, it was unpossible to undo them. The good Emperor scanned upon all this, the like whereof he had not seen in all his life, & concluding fully, that no such building might be made by man's hand, yet he marveled that of an Island so fair and delectable, there was no more noise bruited, especially standing as it seemed to him in a sea so sailable. He believed that the Princess was within, because there appeared to him no other building in all the Island, and therefore taking wide steps, he passed on towards the gate of steel, where finding it closed, he took a great hammer hanging thereby & bounsed at the gate with such force upon the sounding Steel, that the fury of the rap was heard through all the Towers, and a great part of the Island. For all this stone showed themselves to make him answer, although he had stoods more than a whole hour calling and knocking, at length with some trouble he departed from thence to coast the water, if perchance he might light upon any other way into the Castle. When he had gone a turn about, at one part of the wall he happened upon at Gentlewoman, which was in a little boat newly taking land at a postern door of iron, when the Gentlewoman had taken footing on the land, she opened the gates making show as if she would have entered leaving the vessel in the water. The Emperor strained his voice to call unto her that she should stay, but the seining as though she heard him not, made to the wicket, whereas she was to fasten the door: the Emperor cried yet louder, than she turned toward him, and as though she had but then espied him, she said unto him. What would you have fir knight? The Emperor prayed her to come nearer, for that he would only demand a certain thing of her with this she took her boat again and with a little ower rowed toward the land, where the Emperor was, when she came somewhat near the bank there staying, she said unto him. What is it that you would have sir knight, in that you have called me so loud. That which I would fair Gentlewoman answered the Emperor, is, that you would ferry me over in your boat unto the Castle, for that I have to do with one of the giants which are within. If you have to deal with them said the gentlewoman, they be no people on whom you may win honour. That is true said the Emperor, I have no desire to trouble them, if they will do that which I require them. Sith it is so said the gentlewoman, I will do your commandment, because you look like a knight worthy of this service. I give you great thanks for your courtesy answered the Emporour, & with this he entered the boat, & shoving with the rudder towards the castle, he got thither. The Gentlewoman went in leading the Emperor with her, & closing the door after her, conducting him through a little court into another privy door, which was not the common entry. She opened a wicket with ako● which she had at her girdle, and brought him farther into a garden, the most delight some that art might devise. The Emperor now took himself to be in a terrestrial Paradise, and gazing a while thereon, without remembering the occasion of his thither coming, he was so estranged from himself. Out of this garden by another door, they came into a large court of the castle, built with bright Alabaster, the excellency whereof in the imagery & workmanship cannot be declared. For in comparison of this enchanted castle, either the sumptuous building of mausolus' tomb, or the famous Pyramids of Egypt, or that maze of Daedalus making, found in Crete, may well be forgotten. And as the Emperor mused on all this, the gentlewoman knowing him to be distraught, caught him by the hand, & brought him to a pair of stairs, the steps whereof were all of jasper, by them he mounted with her into a chamber four square, of the largeness of a stones cast. In this yet she opened another door, with three steps of silver plate, out of the goldsmiths shop, through which she brought the Emperor into a more stately chamber, four square as the other was, & very rich, whereof the ceiling & roof were engraven gold & embossed with many precious stones, sending forth such a light as it was marvelous. The Emperor took no keep of the riches of the place, but of the beauty of a number of fair gentlewomen whom he saw sitting richly appareled in every part of the chamber, among these one seemed to be the principal, stalled in a seat higher than the other, & passing them all so well in beauty as rich apparel. She, as lady and mistress above them all, held in her hand a Lute, whereon she played and sung together with such an harmony, that it was no less dangerous unto the poor Emperor, than the alluring song of the Mermaids should have been unto Ulysses' company. She sang sweetly, and she with all reached her warbling notes so high & so shrill, that it much pleased the Emperor. Her fair and golden hair hung down her back, and covered both her shoulders. And you must pardon the Emperor if by this he was wholly possessed with her love, and forgot his late wife the Princess Briana. The entertainment was great, and yet this change proceeded not through she beauty of the enchantress, for his own wife was much fairer, but rather by the secret virtue of the place, which was thereto devised, according as shall be recited hereafter. By this time the Emperor had clean lost the remembrance of his wife, his Empire, Country, and what else pertained to him, only rejoicing in the love of Lindaraza, (for so this Lady was called) this he esteemed for his principal hap and good fortune. When the Emperor had stood stone still a while, this Lady rose from her seat, and laying down her Lute which she held in her hand, with her Gentlewomen waiting on her, and with a good grace she made towards the Emperor to take him by the hand, saying unto him: You are welcome most noble and worthy Emperor Trebatio, for whose coming I have long time wished. The Emperor glad of such a welcome, and making not strange of his courtesy, albeit he could not find whereby she should know his name, he answered her. Madame, my arrival cannot be but good, sith by it, I may behold the prick and price of all the beauty in the world, conspiring as it were in your excellency, & sith you receive me with such favour, I beseech you tell me who you are, least by not knowing you, I might foreslow that duty which I own unto your person. This account (replied the Lady) shall be made in better time. Now know you, that I am all yours, and there shall not be done by me or my Gentlewomen other thing, but to do you pleasure in my Palace. The Emperor was entrapped with her pleasant speech, and knew not whether he were in heaven or in the earth, and willing to kiss her hand, for the grace she showed him, she thought no scorn of a kiss on her cheek when it was proffered. Then she led him by the hand, unto the place where her own throne was, there the Emperor felt in himself a great contentment, by the touching of her white and delicate hands, imagining with himself, that he was transferred into a second heaven. Some of the Ladies helped to unarm him, and other were not idle, either playing on their haps, or singing and making such music, as well eased the minds of the enamoured: some brought rich robes to attire the Emperor withal, other, conserves and comfits very comfortable, with delicate wine in great plates and cups of gold to refresh him, as he had need, by reason of the travail he had taken on foot, although other meat liked him better, which was the sight of the fair Lindaraza and her company, and she no less enamoured with him, beheld him goodly, and with her knife in one hand, & a napkin in the other, she herself carved unto him of those pleasant conserves. I do not think that the Emperor refrained upon strangeness, but she to quicken his stomach with many a pleasant devise and other amorous persuasions made him eat a good, and very swoote were those morsels unto him. When this collation was ended, with some solemnity, the fair Lindaraza led him aside into a great bay window, opening upon the fresh and gladsome garden through which the Emperor, with the Gentlewomen had before passed. There they both beguiled the time with pleasant speech and melody which the Ladies made in a fresh arbour upon the top of two trees, the Laurel and the Cypress, the Tenor being maintained among them, only by Nightingales. I deny not, but the savour also of the sweet smelling flowers, refreshing their spirits, did increase their appetites, and gave hope of better joy to come. When it was time to sup, the tables being spread, they were served of exquisite dainties. Supper being done, the two estates fell to their wont discourses. It was now night, and yet there needed neither torch nor candle, the brightness of the stones enchased in the walls, made the chambers as light as the day, when it was time to sleep, the fair Princess Lindaraza brought the Emperor to her own lodging, richly adorned with silk and gold, wherein was a rich and stately bed, and there unclothed by her Gentlewomen both of them went to bed, and remaining thus, both of them rejoiced of their loves to their contentations. As the Emperor had thus lived wanton many days, deprived of his understanding, saving only in honouring her which was before him. In the end, the beautiful Lindaraza was great with child, and bore him a daughter of rare beauty called Lindaraza by her mother's name, from whom issued a great & noble race, which because in his place it shall be largely declared, I shall overpass now, briefly touching such occurrents as I read of in the mean time.   

¶ The emperors knights find not their Lord, and the Hungarians miss the Prince of England.  
Cap. 10.  
WHen the Emperor Trebatio was in his quest of the enchanted chariot, the story telleth that his knights might not come near him, some because they could not take their horses, and some because his horse ran so fast, for he overcame in half a days journey, the travail of eight days (as I think) for that he was carried both by his own desire, & the devils driving, otherwise it had been impossible to have endured so great pains. For this cause I say, although the Knights road so fast as they might, yet they could not come within the sight of him, nor find which way he was gone, yet with sorrow & grief, especially through the fear which they conceived by his meddeling with the Giants, they parted companies, every man taking a several way to seek the Emperor, & they agreed at the months end to meet at one place. The month came, when as yet none of them heard any news of him, although they sought him in divers parts. They all marveled, but not knowing what to say, in the end, they determined at some other time to meet, & to enter into this quest again. For this time they altogether took towards the camp, which they left before the city of Belgrado, where they abode not long, but remembering themselves of their promise, they met at the place appointed, & divided themselves accordingly. The four Hungarian knights, fearing to be descried by those which went to seek Prince Edward, the covertlyest which they might, they went toward the camp of the Emperor and there remained some time, after they followed into Greece, where they tarried till the return of the Emperor, according as shall be mentioned hereafter. Now by this time, with no less care and diligence, Prince Edward was sought by many Knights in all the kingdom, for that the King had given him no longer time to remain in the Monestary of the river than three days. There was already told xx. days when he came not. First then he sent many of his knights to know the cause of his tarrying, these returned unto the king with an answer that they neither found him in the Minster, nor could bear tidings of him by the way. Then the King dispatched other messengers to inquire after him & his knights in all the land, but they brought the like answer, yet again he sent more than 1000 well prepared for war, with authority of search through all his kingdom, that they might bring news of life or death, but all was one. Last of all, fearing least peradventure he had been taken prisoner by his enemies, he wrote unto the emperors camp to know the truth, to the end he might ransom him if so it were, but not hearing any news, he then bewailed the loss of the prince, & became very sorrowful, like as contrary wise the imperials bemoaned their Emperor. These things happened so in the neck one of another, that Tiberio's judgement failed to decide the truth, and he pitied him with no less grief then if he had been his own son, partly for his daughter's sake, who must needs be partner of her husband's misadventure, & partly for the Prince's parents, who could not without some sorrow conceive of his missing, albeit all this happened more by the misgiving of his own mind, then by any certainty he found. You have heard particularly the care of the king Tiberio, now you must consider of the diligence of the king of Boheme by the semblable. Another month had end, and the knights botaries sped them homewards to the camp of the Emperor, without any news of their Lord, which no doubt much molested the whole host, but in especial it afflicted the king of Boheme, to see them come without him. As they made declaration of the whole months' travail, it little pleased the king, only for the love he bore to the Emperor, and the want of his presence in a time so dangerous, he wept as sore for him, as if he had seen his little child give up the ghost.  
The loss of the Emperor thus published through the army, there was no one which sorrowed not inwardly, for he had the love of all his subjects. Albeit, this was bootless, yet his love beguiled him, for the king yet charged more than 2000 knights with the search of the Emperor in all places, as well by sea as by land, but it nought availed, for the Island of Lindaraza held him so sure, that he could not be found, and if he had been found, yet he was so well guarded, that the whole host had not been able to have delivered him from the enchanted castle. While these things were in doing, the king of Boheme himself set the remainder on work to assault the City, with full purpose not to leave the siege, till either he knew where the Emperor was, or had lain a half year longer, at the end whereof he would raise the siege, & so departed into Greece again. In this time, the Hungarians issued out of their City against the Grecians, & there was between them many cruel & bloody skirmishes▪ the Greeks did nobly, as you may read in their several histories. At this time, because they are not of the substance of my matter, I will not name them, only I will recount unto you the particular truth of that which followeth.   

¶ The Princess Briana, taketh great sorrow at the loss of Prince Edward.  
Cap. 11.  
GReat was the diligence, which the King of Hungary commanded his Knights to make, in seeking the Prince Edward, and as great was his grief, in not finding him, by the consideration of the towardness of the noble Knight, and the dole of his Parents, being their dear and only son. But greater must needs be and inexpressible, the mortal dalour which the Princess Briana conceived, when she once heard of the miss of Prince Edward. And as I read, at the three months end, when nothing was reported, for very anguish of heart, (besides her often sowndings) after, when the recovered out of that trance, she seemed to them nearer the death, than the Prince her husband was, as they thought: for believing that he was dead, she would neither eat, drink, nor sleep, but became weak and feeble, and wasted her days with sorrow. She laid a part all her Princely robes and precious jewels, and tired herself in course mourning weeds of a widow. She kept herself in a secret chamber, only with the comfort of her Gentlewomen, and coming not forth one step, demeaned rather the life of an Anchresse, or religious woman, then of a Princess. The Queen mother then abiding at Buda, came oftentimes to visit her, and in her company other great Ladies, but they could not remove the dullness of her melancholy.  
Ere the Princess had long led this solitary life, she felt herself quick with child, whence she took some joy, but yet fearing the disclosing of it unto her friends, whom she would not have partakers of it for all Hungary, before the solemnization of the marriage was openly performed, and being notwithstanding desirous in time to seek remedy thereunto, she concionated her secret only with one of her Gentlewomen, named Clandestria, whom she best loved, and with whom she was best acquainted, for the good counsel she often gave her. She, which was wise and discreet, kissed her ladies hands, for the honour she did unto her, in revealing such a secret, only a little withstanding her intent of concealment at the first, and persuading that it was no reason why she should not bewray her childbearing unto the king her father, and the Queen her mother, for that seeing it pleased God to give you a child by a lawful husband, it were not amiss if it were known abroad, be it son or daughter. And saith she moreover, if God give you a man child, Prince Edward thus perishing, as we know no other, this your child is lawful inheritor of great Britain in the right of his Father, the King now living, having no issue male.  
Wherefore me thinks you should do him wrong, seeing he hath lost his father, to deprive him also his lawful succession.  
The Princess answered, Persuade me not to this good Clandestria, for though the child which shall be born of me, should be Lord of the whole world, I would not tell this secret to any body, but to thee. And if it shall please God that the Prince Edward shall see us once again, it shall suffice, let him discover it when he sees time. If it fall out otherwise, my son may well bear the loss of great Britain, and it be but to accompany me in the loss of so worthy an husband. Clandestria would have entered farther in this persuasion with the Princess, but seeing it would not be, she gladly made offer of her service. Then said the Princes, What dost thou think is best to be done in this thing. The best which I can advise you, said the Gentlewoman, is that you madame govern the child so that it perish not in your womb, & when the time of your travail shall be at hand, that you feign unto your Gentlewomen a solemn Fast and prayer forty days, without to be seen or visited of your Gentlewomen or any person saving me, whom you will have to wait on you only for your necessary repast. The glass which you shall set on it, shall be this: That you will pray to GOD for Prince Edward your husband, the show will be credible enough by means of your life hitherto. This would I have you do madame, for this cause take your lodging in one part of the house joining to the wood, being very good & solitary for this purpose. If you be delivered in this time, I will convey it to a sister of mine lately married, and dwelling in the City of Buda. She bore a son about a month past, and will nurse your child carefully. This counsel liked well the Princess, because it was consonant to her desire. The Princess now expecting the time of her lying down, told her gentlewomen that she had undertaken a devotion of fast and prayer, and before she entered into this observance, she said she would a little take her rest, eating and sleeping somewhat more than she was wont, which in deed she did, to preserve that which was in her belly, albeit it was well coloured by her continual sadness. In this time the Queen her mother was brought to bed of a beautiful boy, which much gladded all the kingdom, his name was Liriamandro, a noble Prince, much advancing the honour of the Hungarians, as shall be showed you in his history. But this childing of the Queen, was very commodious for the Princess, for that when the Queen was brought to bed, she could not visit her daughter at the monastery, as she was accustomed.   

¶ The Princess Briana was delivered of two sons, Clandestria christeneth them, and causeth them to be nursed.  
Cap. 12.  
THe Princess as you have heard, lived somewhat contented after that she felt herself to be with child, but yet not so, but that her colour much abated, and impaired her beauty, & so driving on her days until the approach of her travail, she now feigned to begin her voluntary fast of forty days, which she before had signified unto them, and withdrawing herself into a chamber provided for her, she forbade the entry to all, except only Clandestria for her table, this they thought the Princess had done upon mere devotion.  
The same night after she was now professed a holy vowess, Clandestria took the ●eyes of the back Gates, belonging to her lodging, and opening a door into the wood, she passed by the fields to Buda, standing but a mile off, and entering into her sister's house, secretly declared the cause of her coming, desiring her to be as secret, because the Princess would in no wise have it manifested, she willingly promised silence, and withal departed with her towards the Monastery, ere it was long, they came before the Princes, whom they found sitting alone, not altogether void of bread, as being, unacquainted with those pangs, and heartily wishing for their coming, as without knowledge to be her own midwise. When she felt the fits of her travail, she was somewhat comforted with their coming, and Clandestria with her sister, enforced their diligence to do her service, giving themselves to prayer until it pleased God to manifest his works in this noble Princes.  
She bore two sons so strange and rare for beauty, that the Gentlewomen not a little wondered, and yet they were more moved to see the tokens which either of them brought severally from their mother's womb. For they marked well how that the first borne, had upon his left side a little face figured, shining as bright as if it had been a little Sun, and how that the other had in the midst between his breasts a white Rose, fashioned of so perfect making, that it seemed to be gathered from some arbour of Roses.  
Before they swaddled them, they laid the little boys between the Princess' arms, comforting her with that that God had given her, two so excellent children. The mother full of pain with the travail which she had sustained, as well as she could, laying them to her breasts, kissed and embraced them with such love and pity, that the tears trickled down from her fair eyes, and with a low and soft voice she said thus.  
O my sons, I beseech the Lord who hath made you so exceedingly fair, to bless you also with good hap, that you may ease your mother of that sorrow wherein she remaineth as now plunged, and that you prove such, as by your valours, you may recover that which your mother to cover her fault hath made you lose. These and other words spoke the Princess, weeping bitter tears, until the nurse took the children from her bed, to swaddle them in cloth bands, & to give them her breast. Now lest peradventure they should be heard to cry, Clandestria said to the Princess, that it were good her sister should return to her own house, where she would bring up the young Princes, as carefully as if she were daily in her presence. The Princess very loath to part with her children, bad her do notwithstanding what she would with them, so that she baptized them ere they went, for fear they should perish in the way. Let it be so madame said Clandestria, for you have said very well. The nurse than took water, and pouring it on their heads, she christened them in the name of God, with other formal words of Baptism, as she could best do. Clandestria with a very good grace, gave names to the little boys, the first she named Caualiero del Febo, for the figure that she saw in his left side near upon the heart: the younger she called Rosicler, for the Rose between his breasts. Of this the Princess took some joy, saying she had given them names as they deserved. The Nurse took leave of the Princess, and with her husband which came on the way, and which had not stayed far off, she got readily into Buda before broad light, where she fostered these noble babes as carefully as her own. Clandestria after she had shut fast the doors went up again to the Princess, whom she found discomforted for her children. The Gentlewoman pained herself to comfort her, & soberly spoke unto her in this sort.  
O madame, how unthankful are you to God for the great grace he hath bestowed on you, in giving you two sons of so excellent beauty, and that with so little peril of your person. I believe and hold for certain, that God hath not left you such sons, never to know their Father, nor made you such a Princess, never more to see your husband. The works of God are wonderful, and that which we think is set for our grief and disease, he turneth to our commodity, what know you madame, if God willing to preserve your husband, hath by some adventure brought him where he shall escape the great dangers and perils of death in which he was hourly like to incur, in the battle that the king your Father hath against Trebatio. Good madame quiet yourself God will bring him unto you at such time, when you shall be least mindful of him. And if you can so ill brook the absence of your sons, they are not hence but a mile, the her may you send me, when it pleaseth you to know of their welfare.  
Thus Clandestria discoursed with her Lady the Princess Briana still beating upon this one point that she should rest herself upon God's providence, and in the and she so assuaged her grief, that she after well endured the forty days penance. In the end, being better at ease, and feeling herself more pleasantly disposed withal as fresh as if she had never abode any childbed took her lodging among her Gentlewomen, who seeing her so well and somewhat more merry than before, were glad of that alteration, for they loved her so heartily, that they willingly would have given their lives, to have redeemed her from that discontentment wherein she lived.   

¶ The king of Boheme raised the siege, and the king of Hungary returned the Prince's knights into England.  
Cap. 13.  
MAny & hot bickerings there were between the emperors people and the king of Hungary, while the siege lasted against the city of Belgrado: but because the history hath more to entreat of other especial adventures, it remembreth not every particular which happened in the skirmish. It saith in effect, that as those of the city were many, so they were well provided of all furniture, that the Greeks might not enter into the city, albeit many of them had done marvelous deeds in arms. After one year was come & gone, the king of Boheme with all the principal of his host; thought it best to raise the siege then lying before the city, & with bag & baggage to march homeward to Constantinople, to the end to give out a new order for the finding of the Emperor. So within two days they had all charge to pack and prepare themselves for their return: the soldiers not yet forgetting the loss of their Lord, which they showed by their cheer. The king of Boheme the emperors uncle well perceiving it, and knowing how the good Emperor was wont to encourage and comfort them, he took some pain in it at that time, and being well settled in Constantinople, for the better pacifying of all tumults, the army as yet not dispersed, he took upon him the government of the Empire in his nephews name, at the humble suit of all the imperials, after he provided the best that he might for a new search of the Emperor, swearing many good knights unto this enterprise. Which likewise the king of Hungary did send certain news into England, and to have some sufficient guide to conduct the army homewards at the end of two years, all which time ●ee detained the Soldiers, upon hope to find their Captain, no news being heard of him. The King embarked them homewards to great Britain, with gifts and presents unto the king of England, and sufficient rewards plentifully bestowed upon the mainie, over and above the due payment of their wages. This the liberality of the king, profited him not a little in other matters of great importance, as you shall understand in this history▪ The knights thus shipped ready to depart, were near in number. 20000. In few days they coasted France, and entering in the narrow Seas, with a good wind they landed in great Britain, where soon their hanging countenances, gave testimony to the heavy news they brought. Which thing so sore appalled the whole Realm, that of a long time after their coming, there was not used any exercise in arms: and the queen died also, adding to this mishap a new corsie. This Queen left behind her a daughter of young years named Olivia, so renowned for her beauty, that she well wan to be loved and served of the most loyal knight of all the world. She was brought up, as being inheritrix to the state, with great care by the king her Father.   

¶ Clandestria deviseth with the Princess Briana how her sons might be brought up in her company.  
Cap, 14.  
THE Princess Briana lived no doubt better contented after her delivery of the two fair Boys, which she thought had been Prince Edwardes, and yet as I say, very religiously, as it had been in a Cloister, for the reason so often alleged. Now yet somewhat there was which impaired this contentation, which was the absence of her children. This she thought to repair again by bringing them up in her own lodging, and having broken it unto her Gentlewoman Clandestria, whom she desired to find the means for it. Clandestria after conference had with her mistress, one day said unto her, that she had well foreseen the mean. The Princess then urged her to utter it, which Clandestria delivered in this speech. Madame, that which I have thought in this matter, is like. That one day when I shall come from the City of Buda, you shall demand of me what news is there. I will answer you among other things, that a sister of mine hath two sons, borne both in one day, so excellently fair, that all the lookers on do not a little commend so goodly creatures. They are borne moreover with notable tokens, which they bring from their mother's womb. You madame hearing this, may say that you have great desire to see those strange children, and may will me to procure the bringing of them unto this monastery with their mother, and here in your company they may he brought up, for that in such children you may take some solace, whereby to forget part of that which sore annoyeth you. In this manner neither your Gentlewomen nor any other person shall understand our secret. clandestria's counsel seemed so good unto the Princess, that embracing her many times, she said unto her. My faithful and loyal Clandestria, when shall the day come wherein I shall be restored unto the first joy and estate which I was wont to hold, and in which I may reward the good service thou hast done to me? Go thy way and put in effect that which thou hast devised for mine ease. Madam said Clandestria, if my service may in any wise ass wage your grief which I so sore pity, I think it sufficiently rewarded, considering the duty wherein I stand bound unto your highness, and assuredly no less is the pleasure which I receive by the acceptation of my service, then that which you have by the fruition of it. But sith my counsel liketh you so well, I will make no tarrying: go you madame to your Gentlewomen, and I will presently to the city. Go in God's name said the Princess, and so she took her to her gentlewomen, Clandestria being in her way towards the City. When Clandestria had performed unto her sister that which the Princess had commanded, not long after she came to the monastery, at such time as the Princess was in the company of her▪ Gentlewomen. Clandestria entered into the Chamber, making her obeisance. The Princess espying her, said unto her merrely.  
Welcome my Clandestria, how is it with the Queen my mother, and the young Prince Liriamandro my brother. They are all very well madame said Clandestria, and the Queen your mother commendeth herself unto you by me. Well said the Princess but what news have they in the City, say they any thing of Prince Edward. Of the Prince surely I heard nothing, answered Clandestria, but I have news if it so please you to hear them, me thinks the strangest that you have heard. Tell us than said the Princess, if it be such as you speak off, we shall have pleasure to hear them.  
Know you then madame said Clandestria, that a Sister of mine, which is married and dwelleth in the City of Buda, hath two sons of the age of two years, both borne at one hour, in the top and pitch of all beauty, so that their matches are not to be had. They have beside marks on their bodies such as those which have seen them, cannot tell what to think of them. The first borne of them hath on his left side the form of a face vorie beautiful, and so bright that I dare liken it to the Sun, which overshaddoweth the earth, and for this cause the little boy is called Eldonzel del Febo. The other little boy hath between his breasts a Rose growing in the flesh, so fresh of hue, and so perfectly coloured, that they which see him say, he beareth the badge of his mother's bed, as if he had been borne in an arbour: for this token they name him Rosicleer, I tell you madame so excellent is their beauty that the best Painter in Hungary, need no other example to draw out the Picture of beauty. The Princess making a show of great marvel, and as it were mistrusting the report because of the strangeness, answered: Truly Clandestria you have brought us matter of some marvel, but I fear me the nearness of kin between you maketh you to speak of affection more than knowledge, I would that by sight of them you would prove unto us that which you have spoken, with this the Princess Gentlewomen, hungry after novelties, importuned Clandestria to deal herein, so that they all might enjoy the sight of those two so rare children. Clandestria turning toward her Lady said, by my faith, if my Lady the Princess be so contented, I will go to my sister, and cause her to come hither with her little ones. The Gentlewomen than besought the Princess that she would command them to be brought thither.  
The Princess telling them that she did it more at their request, then of her own good will, said to Clandestria, you were best do this, which your fellows require you, my liking you have, for I myself would gladly be a witness of so great a marvel. Clandestria took her leave of them, hasting toward the City where her sister dwelled, and declared her message for the bringing of the Princes. Her sister's husband was a very good Gentleman borne, though very poor, he & his wife made them ready to come before the Princess, with the little Princes, which by this time were of some growth, being two years old, having both goodly looks, standing as it were upon a just temperature of gravity and pleasance. When they were come to the Palace, Clandestria first entered into the lodging of the Princess, being as yet in the company of her Gentlewomen, there she lead in by the hand the fair and gracious Rosicleer. So soon as he was seen of the Gentlewomen, they believed him to be no less than an Angel of heaven, and that wherein Clandestria had before instructed them, she had nothing deceived them. The Princess not having seen her children since her first blessing of them, and now seeing the height of Rosicleer, with his beauty above her hope, she made such joy as might have well been discerned by her countenance, but her gentlewomen more attentive of the beauty wherewith God had endued the young Rosicleer, were not ware of it. Clandestria made the little boy bow his knees to the Princess, and whether it were nature, or the beauty of his Mother, or both, so soon as he beheld his mother, he left the other Gentlewomen. The mother taking the little boy in her arms, kissed him many times, shedding upon his fair cheeks great abundance of tears, for the memorne which the son gave her of his father, and for the great joy she had in having him so near unto her. Not long after there entered clandestria's sister with her husband, leading by the hand, the fairest among the most fair, Donzel del Febo. At the sight of him, the Gentlewomen repented them of their former judgement, as concerning Rosicleer, that there might not be his like in all the world, in the end, the question arising of comparison, to part the strife they agreed, that as the one moved every one to love him tenderly by his gracious behaviour, so the other by his modest gestures, made them to fear him with reverence. The difference only put in this, that the one had more Majesty, the other more mirth and delight in his countenance. The Princess having Rosicler in her arms, when she saw her other son before her upon his knees to kiss her hand, with gladness she raised him from the ground, and with Rosicleer in one arm, took him on the other, kissing him upon his cheeks, and in deed rather obeying the love she bore unto her sons, then regarding the fear she was wont to have for being discovered, albeit, to say the troth, the Princess was of the better hand, for all the good will she showed, her Gentlewomen imagined to proceed of their beauty. And yet to take all suspect away, she could very wisely moderate her passions. clandestria's sister the supposed mother of those children, and her husband, by name Armaran, kissed the Princess' hands, where she in token of good liking entertained them as her servants, from thenceforth to remain with her, as their sister Clandestria did. On this wise the Princes were nourished in their mother's presence, without that any knew the right parentage whereof they came, and they so enticed the Gentlewomen to the liking of them, that there passed not one hour, without playing and dalliance with them. This joy on the Princess part was unspeakable, I dare not say, able to countermand her foreconceived grief, but the worst was, it was not durable. For fortune ever mutable, changed her copy, and became so contrary, that the date of her ease being out, there succeeded disease & mishap, so that her death should not have been half so yerksome, as her life was dolorous. This shall you hear of, in the next chapter.   

¶ Donzel del Eebo was lost by misadventure.  
Cap. 15.  
NOw the creator of all things minded to manifest the worthy deeds of the valiant Donzel deal Febo, which as yet lay hidden in the arms of the delicate Gentlewoman his foster mother, and therefore in such sort, he ordered the celestial influences and powers of the planets, that scarcely had the young Gentleman fully reached unto three years of his age, when he was carried from the princely Graces of his unknown mother (leaving her pensive and sad) into a large and main sea, whence, being tossed with waves, and almost weather beaten, at length he escaped.  
Such an argument God left us of his prowess to come, sith in so tender age he enabled him to subdue the most raging element that is. And you which read this history, may be brought by good reason to give credit to this my report, sith you yourselves are witnesses of the evident presence of the Almighty in so certain a danger. And as the learned well know, Achilles hath his Pallas in Homer, and Aeneas his Venus in Virgil, Goddesses assistant unto men in their dangerous conflicts, Homer & Virgil meaning no other thing, than the care of God towards his, why may not we believe, that if it pleased God that this infant had the secret direction of God's mighty hand in all his enterprises. But mine Author willing to entreat somewhat of him, setteth it down thus. That in the end of a year, these two beautiful boys b●ing brought up in the Monastery of the River, with great pleasure of the Princess and her Gentlewomen, one day in the month of May, the comfort of the Sun there enforcing them to come abroad and seek their solace under green boughs. The Princess and her Gentlewomen leaving their lodging went into a large and fair orchard, exceedingly well cast, in one part of the Monastery, there they took up their seats at a wells mouth, overshaddowed with trees, that the heat of the Sun could not annoy them, and sporting with the little Rosicleer, who was somewhat more given to play then his brother Donzel del Febo, they so much delighted in Rosicler, that they took no heed. of Donzel del Febo, sitting not far off. The little one being very young, yet greatly discontent to see the small account they made of him, in a fume rose from the place where he was set, and by soft paces got from them, without being espied by the Gentlewomen, saving of his mother so called, which loved him no less than her own self. She rising from the place where she was set, followed him, and look him by the hand, laughing a good to see the choler wherein he was, and walking among the trees so long with him, that she came to a large and deep water, running through a part of the great orchard, where hard by were great store of trees, and whether the Princess, because the place was very pleasant, often resorted with her Gentlewomen to rejoice herself.  
When they were there, the little boy seeing the water, was desirous to play with it. The nurse, though otherwise willing to have contented him, yet fearing the danger of the water, went farther to find some sure place whereby to come unto the water, and taking a little boat at the bank, which the gardeiner used, in coming into the Orchard, put herself in it, and the child with her. The boy leaning his breast upon the brim of the Boat, troubled the water with his hands, and took up some to wash his face, a while after the water being calm and plain, he looked in it again, and seeing his shadow there, he began to play with it, and struck it with his hands, now because it would not give place, but did that which he did, waxing angry, he prayed his mother to give him a rod which lay upon the land to beat the babe withal. It was a good pastime for her, to see the displeasure which he had conceived against his own shadow, and leaving him thus, she leapt upon the land, to reach him the stick that he required. Being thus on land, either with the force she put to the side of the boat, in advancing herself out of the boat, or else because it was the will of God, that the little boy should then be priest to try the hazard of his constellation. So it was, that the boat being untied, it showed from the shore, the nurse not perceiving it before she turned again: then was it more than two yards from the land, and not having whereby to take hold, it bore so swiftly down the stream in a little time, and so far off, that she lost the sight of it. When she saw the danger wherein the little child was, not having power to secure it, she rend her garments, and tore her hair, and fell to the ground making such moan, that the Princess and her Gentlewomen sitting about the Well, heard it, and much abashed, rose from the place to know what the noise meant. When they saw the pitiful dealings of the nurse upon the ground, quickening their pace they gate near her, and demanding the cause of her great lamentation, they found her so sorrowful that she could not speak to them, but rather the more she was comforted by them, the more she outraged in crying, as that they judged her to be distraught. So long lasted these her cries, that the Princess disquieted, went towards her, leaving Rosicleer with one of her Gentlewomen. As the Princess came towards her, the nurse knew her, and not having the boldness to show how it fell out, in respect of the grief the Princess would take for the loss of her son, before the Princess came at her, she ran and leapt into the water, with full intent to drown herself, that which she had done, had not her clothes borne her up, and the gardeiner hearing the great out cries she made, waded in the water for her, and brought her to land all wet and bloody with the blows she gave herself in the face. This caused such pity and compassion in the Princess and all her Gentlewomen, that all astonished, they abode only to see the nurses demeanour. In the end, at the instance of the Princess, she declared how Donzel deal Febo was got from her, for the which they imparted with her grief, and especially the Princess benumbed of all her senses sunk to the ground with no more colour and breath, then if she had been quite dead. The gardeiner entering into another boat there, which she had to fish withal, pushed up the stream amain with his oar to overtake the boat in which Donzel deal Febo was carried, but all his travail was lost, for either by divine permission, or by Art Magic, made by a learned man, as shall be told you hereafter, the boat road faster than the violence of the stream might drive it, and in short time it entered into the great sea, where it followed the mighty waves more than an 100, miles in a short space, so that neither the gardeiner nor who else followed them might in any wise attain unto him or bring news of him. When the Princess was revived, and remembered the chance of Donzel del Febo, she powered out so many salt tears, from her fair eyes, that like as out of fountains or springs, water gusheth out abundantly, so from her face, streamed down floods of water, issuing with sobs and sighs as would have broke her heart in a manner, such as commonly the fall of the water maketh from the steep mountains. But for that she would not be heard of her Gentlewomen, she turned herself and went towards her lodging, where remaining alone with Clandestria, she gave a fresh onset to her former complaints, on this sort.  
O mighty and sovereign Lord, wherefore doth thy highness suffer the Princess Briana to live this long, seeing she doth roll on this life with such sorrow and care? O Lord, wherefore gavest thou me a husband in this world so valiant, seeing that so soon as I had lost the name of a maiden, thou madest me an unfortunate widow. Wherefore gavest thou me sons, with so strange tokens at their birth, if with so sudden misfortune I shall lose the one of them, why did I reach to so great estate, in which I must live with sorrow? And why gavest thou me beauty, not to enjoy it? Alas poor woman that I am, I see that each thing enforceth my pain, for Fortune the mistress of mishap, despitefully throwing down those on whom she frowns, hath turned her back on me, which desire to live without the compass of her wheel. Ah silly woman, the longer I rub out this life, the more my grief increaseth. When I seek to mollify my grief, than my care redoubleth, and one sorrow surceasing, there succeedeth another, as one billow followeth on the others neck, in the main sea. O thou Lord, which hast created me, take me out of this deceitful world, if by death only the intolerable misfortunes may take end which daily await me. These, and other words spoke the Princess Briana, much aggrieving therewith her Gentlewoman Clandestria, who a little altering the course of her answer from the platform of the others complaint, drove with the Princess unto these conclusions. First, that there was hope enough to recover her losses, the reasons which lead her there unto were these. Albeit, saith she, God's works be unsearchable, yet thus bold may we be with them, not meddling with the causes to compare the evils together, and then surely the whole course of worldly things sufficiently teach us, that GOD createth not such excellent personages but for excellent purposes, and not as in dumhe shows upon a stage, where the players only present themselves and pass away. Again, saith she, you are altogether uncertain of their death, and why not in so doubtful a case, should hope be as ready as care, or perhaps you think as soon happens the worse as the better, yet the ancient proverb is, that he which nought hopeth for, aught to despair nought, for hope and misgiving, are in the same subject. Therefore saith she, you may well hope. The second was, that she should comfort herself in the beautiful Rosicleer, who was then in her keeping, for saith she, he alone sufficeth to countervail all the harms which have chanced you. For I dare warrant, if God preserve him, that you may name yourself mother of the best knight in the world. With these and many other goodly counsels Clandestria daily laboured the Princess to give over her grief: but for all this, if God with his mighty hand had not held her up, it had gone wrong with her. For he provided her of comfort by a man very wise and well learned in Art Magic, of whom shall be made mention in this history. By him God permitted that the prison of the Emperor with other appurtenances should be discovered, foreseeing by the sigens, planets, and other natural operations, that which seemeth impossible unto us. Thus the truth is, that this wise man knowing the great sorrow and care, wherein the Princess lived, and well perceiving that unless she had more succour at his hands, than she had erst by other, because of that which befell hereafter, it should be impossible to maintain her life, determined in himself to comfort her &, so one day as she sat alone very sorrowful, weeping with great abundance of tears, near unto the well where her two sons were begotten, he appeared to her in the shape of a Nymph in the clear and crystalline water, with the hair lose, and shedding upon the greatest part of the body, and with a face so beautiful, that the princess abashed to see her, and in some fear, for that she had not seen the like before, would have fled from thence. But the Nymph called unto her, saying.  
If thou knewest noble princess who I am, & how well I know thy great thoughts & passions, thou wouldst not fly from me, but rather stay and talk with me. Now because the time affords me no leisure to tarry with thee, and to discourse at large all the loyalty I bear unto thee, and the desire I have to serve thee, in a word I pray thee take good courage unto thee, to overcome the great adversities, which may come, and ere it be long are like to come unto thee, so that thou shalt be left altogether comfortless. I give thee yet to understand, that Prince Edward is not now living, and that in the time, wherein thy despair shall be highest, thou shalt obtain thy husband again, as safe and sound as he departed from thee, and he shall acknowledge thy children, and shall joy in their virtues, that the joy which thou shalt have hereafter, shall surmount the pain wherein thou remainest at this present. Assure thyself therefore that as all shall come to pass which I have foretold thee, so were it good to keep it in memory, thereby to strengthen thy courage, the better to resist the malice of thy adversary Fortune, whose wheel, as it is round, & in continual motion, so persuade thyself when it is at the lowest, must needs turn again upwards, and restore thee thy damages. Farewell, and hope no more to speak with me, till all be accomplished which I have said. In this sort preparing the Princess to the conflict with her adversity, the fair Nymph vanished away, diving down into the depth of the well, and the Princess devising upon this saying, was as it were beside herself, not fully knowing whether she had heard those words or dreamt them. For as she understood of the one part, that Prince Edward was dead, and of the other, that she should once again see her husband, she was so confused in her thought, that she knew not what to judge, and said to herself, that peradventure she had mistaken the Nymph.  
In the end, resting upon the hope which she had made promise off, she was somewhat comforted, not doubting the accomplishment. Yet she remained in the Monastery, not willing to go out of her lodging, and clothed always in black mourning apparel, and delighting in nothing so much as in little Rosicleer. Rosicler as he increased in years, so he exceeded also in beauty, goodliness of body, & excellent qualities, that a man might well prognosticate thereby of his valiancy. But because the history shall more specially talk of him, I leave him for this time to his nurse, there to be instructed, till he shall be called forth to greater matters. Now it is time to go to the succour of Donzel del Febo his brother, who is all this time upon the river.   

¶ The pedigree of the valiant Prince Florion, and other matters as touching him.  
Cap. 16.  
BY the most ancient and true records of the Assyrians, it appeareth, that in that time when Theodoro predecessor of the great Emperor Trebatio, ruled in the Empire of Greece: there governed among the Persians the mighty Orixerges, king of Persia & soldan of Babylon, for his great power among the Pagans much renowned and feared. This man after he had lived in great prosperity, died, leaving behind him three sons, the eldest king of Persia, the second soldan of Babylon, the third Lord of the Crimson Island which is in the red Sea, whence also it taketh the name, because all the land is died with the colour. This third brother from his youth was very studious, and given above all to Astrology, and other unknown sciences. In these he became so exquisite, that scarce in his time might any he compared unto him. The greatest part of his life time, he dwelled in that Island, choosing that place as most convenient for his study. The eldest of the three brethren, being king of Persia, died about 40. years after this distribution of their inheritance, having for heir a son of his. 40. years old called Florion, a valiant and strong knight, big made, and of a goodly statute. This Florion being a young man but of a great courage, putting in his room a vizeroy for his kingdom, wandered as a knight arrant through the world to seek adventures, where he did great and noble deeds of arms. At the end of three years, after this his absence from his Country, he struck over towards the Court of the soldan of Babylon his uncle. Where he remained sometime very well welcomed, and beloved of the soldan, for he was a good Knight. The soldan had a little son and a marvelous fair daughter, whose name was called Belisea, of her Florion became enamoured, and requiring her to wife of her father, she was granted him, and the marriage celebrated between them with great solemnity of feasts and triumphs. While he was thus within doors sporting, there was worse news abroad: For a mighty Pagan called Africano, the bravest and boldest knight that ever was in all the coasts of Africa, had transported over into Asia, and by his great force in few days subdued the whole Country of Media, and two other kingdoms adjacent, belonging to two great Pagan Princes. These thus vanquished, after became tributaries, as subjects and vassals. The fame whereof was bruited far and near, that there were few kings in those parts which requested not his amity, for all accounted him the lustiest warrior in the world: and soothe it is, that in all Asia was never borne so proud and fierce a Pagan.  
But he was gainsaid by him, unto whose courtesy not only our lives and livings, but we ourselves stand thrall and subject, otherwise he had in few days made himself Lord of the greatest part of all Asia. This Pagan was a huge and mighty man, large limbed, of the bigness of a Giant, and so strong and weighty with all that the strongest horse which was, he could make to bow between his legs, any piece of armour how fine so ever it were, he would bend and wreath in his hands, as easily as if it had been framed of Wax. This man well knowing his own forces and estate, and not contented with that he had gotten, in few days determined to invade the kingdom of Persia, to bring that also to his subjection. Into it he entered, and in a little time he conquered many Cities, plaining Towns and Castles, all this while the Prince Florion being in Babylon. The Peers of his kingdom sent messengers unto him, declaring the whole state of the Country, how unable it was to make resistance, without the levying of a new army, & some foreign succours.  
Then the Prince assembled the royalest army that he might in the land of the soldan, and shipped into Persia, there to give battle unto Africano, and to punish by arms his enemies intrusion. But he reckoned without his host. For he had not road ten miles in his own kingdom, when the mighty Africano came and pitched near with his whole army, and in the first field discomfited Florion, the most part of his people being slain. The Prince Florion hasted into Babylon, for ever despairing to be revested in his signories, and Africanos power was so great, that he well knew all the soldan's power to be of little force to withstand him. The soldan received him glad of his escape, but yet sorry again for his people, and disheriting of his nephew of so noble a Kingdom.  
As they were thus sorrowful, within a few days after came into the Court the third brother Lyrgandeo, which as the story saith, inhabited the Crimson Island, at his coming they were much quieted, he bade them be at rest and not take care for the kingdom of Persia, for that there was among the Christians a child borne in the happiest and most fortunate hour that ever Knight had been borne in, the which by good adventure shoulbe be brought to those parts, and by his noble valour and virtue, should deliver the soldan and the Princess his Daughter from death, or from perpetual imprisonment, & dispossessing the wicked intruder, should place the Prince Florion in his lawful inheritance, to his own great glory and the utter confusion of his enemies. This done that Florion should enjoy his kingdom in peace and tranquillity all his life, until than he requested them to have patience, sith it is not yet saith he, when these things shall happen.  
Lyrgandeo was held for a very wise man, and they all believed his saying, for that at other times he had denined of many things which came to pass accordingly: but yet they knew not who that knight might be, so strong as to resist the force of Africano, for he was reputed the bravest and most valiant knight of the world, & they were very desirous every day to hear of his arrival in their land. Now not a month after this the wise Lyrgandeo, counseled with the Prince Florion in secret, willing him immediately at that hour to take. 20. knights of the best he had in the Court, and himself, and to embark themselves in a war ship, as it were to scour the coasts. Where sailing in the Sea Mediterraneum, Fortune should bring unto their power two little boys the most beautiful and excellent that ever he had seen, with these, saith he, you shall return to Babylon, for these are the nurses of your good hap. The Prince glad to please his uncle, chose out his knights, and took leave of the soldan, departing from Babylon, and passing through Asia the less, he came to a haven in Phrigia, where he put himself and his mates in a ship well purveyed of victuals, and lately rigged and trimmed for some such voyage. In this with a prosperous wind he sailed till at the end of twelve days mounting on the tilbacke of the ship to look if perhaps he might behold the thing, of which the wise man had told him. It was so that he kenned a far off a little bark in which the Gentleman of the Sun was driving towards them, and the waves rocking it on every side. It might be that this boat defended the burden naturally, as only following the course of the waves: But I rather believe that God which had created him with so wonderful marks, took this care and keep of him, until that Florion espying the bark coming right towards him, and the Gentleman in it so beautiful and bright as an Angel of heaven, no tongue can express the joy that now he promised himself touching the performance of that hope which Lyrgandeo gave him to repossess his kingdom. His conceit also as concerning the beauty of Donzel del Febo was, that some one of the celestial Gods had begotten him on some fair Lady here on the earth, and therefore as to a parsonage, which did participate with the deity, he bowed himself, honouring and embracing Donzel del Febo, and upon his knees thanked his Gods for that grace they did him, in delivering into his hands one with whom they themselves might joy. The beautiful young gentleman which saw him so before him embased, feared him not a whit, although the armour glistered, but with a joyful and pleasant countenance colled him and clasped his arms about his neck, as if he had known him a long time. I do not think that the desire of safety made him so to fawn upon Florion, for they with whom he was erst acquainted wore no armour. But the Prince Florion took him up in his arms, and kissed his white and roseal cheeks as tenderly as if he had been his own child, making him to eat of the most delicate meats which he had then on board. The little boy which was very hungry fed very well, and from that time forth loved the Prince Florion more than any other: as it is natural in man to prefer those of whom they receive benefits. When the Gentleman of the Sun was well satisfied, the Prince Florion entered again into his own ship and hoist sail toward Phrygia with a good wind.   

¶ Prince Florion in his way homewards findeth by adventure the young Gentleman Claveryndo, son to the king Oristeo of France, and bringeth him with the Gentleman of the Sun to Babylon.  
Cap. 17.  
THE second day after the Prince Donzel del Febo, had been thus taken into Florions Ship, they turned about towards Phrygia whence they first departed, and escried at three of the clock in the morning right against their ship another the tallest and beautifullest ship that ever they had seen, which the faster it sailed, the nearer it approached to their vessel. For the Pilot directed their course strait upon Florions ship, and in short space they joined togethrr. This ship grappeling with the other, by and by a Chieftain getting upon the hatches commanded all in the other ship to yield as prisoners. Then the strong Florion not knowing who they were, took a heavy and well steeled battle are, and getting upon the shipboard, made him ans were on this wise. What art thou knight so arrogant, which without knowing who we be, wouldst make us thy prisoners. What may you be said the knight that you can acquit yourselves from the terrible Mambriniano's which cometh in this Ship, now except you do this that I command you, all the world is not sufficient to make you a way to escape his hands. Until this day there was never borne a man which hath made like effusion of human blood in this Sea. Then feign would I see this brave knight auns were the Prince Florion, and scarcely had he spoke these words, when the devilish rover armed with a very great and heavy armour, & a battle are of fine steel in his hands, joined to the Prince speedily, and without God speed you, laid at him such a blow upon the head piece, as might have cloven his head in pieces. But the Prince was deliver and quick, and seeing the battle are descending, the air beaten before it, he stepped aside, and the blow fell upon the planks of the ship, which made a great piece thereof to fall into the water, quite shutting him from hope of a second blow. Then the bold Florion closing with him, gave him a buffet with his sword upon his great and fine helmet, that he made him bow his knees, and with the great weight of his body scarcely might this rover arise, but he turned himself with great pain to strike the Prince. There began a brave and terrible battle, either of their knights much amazed in beholding them. Now welfare thy heart thou valiant Florion, for thou much disappointedst Mambriniano of his enterprise, & made him confess that in twenty years robbing on the Sea of as many so he might find, he had never met knight which had put him in so great danger, nor fought with one of so great force. Thus they fought half an hour and no man might judge who should have the better. The great rover struck with all his force at his enemy, (but the final hour of his own life now● edging near him) so it was that the courageous Prince anoided it, and as he was already entered into the good success of his voyage, having in his power the Gentleman of the Sun, so fired all with wrath, his colour (as a man might say) bewraying his choler, he gave the rover with both his hands such a blow upon the head that he felled him to the ground, and before the rover might get on his knees, he gave him another between his helmet and his neck piece, and laid him flat upon the planks of the ship. There the wretched Mambriniano with his gluttonous desire spit out his stinking and corrupted spirit, and the noble Florion rested not here, but with a brave & stout courage entered in the ship and laid about him on both sides. The knights of the rover to revenge their Lord's death wounded him on all parts, but by & by there boarded them twenty knights of the Prince, all chosen men of war, and helped their Lord in such wise, that in short time the greatest part of their enemies were slain, and the rest seeing their fall, yielded themselves to his mercy. The battle thus ended, the Prince would see what was in the ship, for he believed that there was within great riches, according as the dealings of the rover had been. There was much treasure found, but searching every place of it, they found in a cabin a knight of an indifferent age clothed with rich garments, and by his grave countenance seeming to be of good account, and near unto him a young Gentleman of four or five years old, very beautiful and seemly arrayed in cloth of gold, and about his neck a collar of gold set with rich and precious stones. The young Gentleman was so gracious in behaviour, that if Florion had not before seen the Gentleman of the Sun, he had believed him to be the fairest and properest Gentleman that ever he had seen, and desiring to know who they were, he saluted them curteouslies, willing the knight to tell him who they were. He which had already known Florions great virtue in the battle that he had with the rover, rose with the young Gentleman from the place where he was set, and using an humble duty to him, answered. Sir knight, I am a prisoner to the rover Mambriniano, which took me and this young Gentleman at a place near a haven of the Sea, and sith God by Fortune hath been so favourable unto you that in a righteous battle you have slain him, we remain now for yours to do with us that which shall seem best unto you, and we have good hope that with a knight of so great valour, there cannot happen unto us so much evil as with him which took us prisoners. The Prince accepted well that which he said unto him, and prayed him to go on in declaring who he was, for that by lack of knowledge he might forslacke to do to them the honour that they merited. Albet now the knight wished that he might dissemble it for the danger that might ensue, yet in the end, putting his affiance in the Prince, he said unto him. Sith it liketh you sir knight to know who we be, only to please you I will tell it you, though I would gladly have suppressed our names, till Fortune somewhat more friendly unto us should have bewrayed it. But know you that this young Gentleman is called Claveryndo, and is the son of the king Oristeo, King of France, only inheritor and successor of that great kingdom, and I have to name Armineo, being brother to the king Oristeo, and uncle to this young Gentleman. The whole order of this misfortune, was in this sort. One day for to sport ourselves, in the company of many other knights, we road to a fair forest near unto the Sea, and the Knights which came with us, the most of them delighting in hunting, severed themselves for their disport, in such manner, that the young Gentleman and I, with only ten knights, were lest in a fresh and fair arbour about a well, near adjoining unto the Sea. In this time, while our knights followed their game, this great Rover Mambriniano, whether espying us, or by chance taking land for fresh water, we know not, but with more than twenty knights he beset us, and although we defended ourselves some time, in the end, this Gentleman and I were taken prisoners, and our ten knights slain & sore wounded, before the other knights which hunted in the forest might understand of it. He carried us to his ships, where it is more than a month that we have been in this manner as you have seen us, close penned up in this cage. For myself Sir, as I never hope for liberty, so I respect not my imprisonment, but for this fair young Gentleman my heart is sore wounded. I had rather suffer ten deaths, than any such misfortune should happen to him. Because that when such news shall be reported to his father, he will bear it more impatiently than his own, and that which worst is, to me only will he attribute this fault, sith, having committed his only son to my governance, I have given so ill account of him. Unto these words, the knight lent many a tear sliding down his face, which well showed the grief he bore in heart. The prince Florion in great compassion comforted him, promising liberty of return into his country when but by and by remembering the words, which the wise man his uncle had said, he called it back again, and in steed of his first promise, he turned his tale to the narration of his own mishaps, being on this wise. I thank you heartily for your courtesy, in recounting to me the whole discourse of your imprisonment, and of this young Gentleman's captivity, and I call the high Gods to witness, what pain your misfortune hath caused in me, and how ready my power shall be to remedy it when I may. For I mean to●giue you liberty of return, and with my men to conduct you homewards into France, thus much occosioned in me, by the deserts of your estate. But fortune hath been so contrary to me, that except your return be delayed, I myself shall want my necessary help, the whole state of the matter lying thus, if it so please you to hear, I am by name Florion, king of Persia, my father deceasing, which was king thereof, and so by just title, as to his only son and heir, the crown of the kingdom descended to me. This charge I sustained in mine own person a good while, but being young and lusty, and in good age to follow arms, I was desirous to wander in the world. So leaving a governor in my kingdom, I travailed through divers countries, until the end of three years, at which I took over into Babylon, where I was matched with the daughter of the soldan being mine uncle. Thither came Ambassadors from my subjects, certifying me, that the king of Media, the stoutest Pagan in all the heathen country, with main force had intruded upon my kingdom. I, for to remedy it, gathered a great host in the soldan's land, and transporting into Persia, at the first battle that I▪ had with the king of Media, the greater part of my people being slain, myself was overthrown, & with great grief, by secret by-ways recovered Babylon, where I could willingly have died for pain and anguish. But one, min● uncle, a very wise and learned man in Art Magic, recomforted me, saying: that the time should come, in which I should be restored to my kingdom with great honour, & that for this it behoved me to await on the sea, till I met with two little boys of excellent beauty, with whom I should return to Babylon, for that they should be the principal cause of my redress: & so giving credit to his word, I thus put myself in array for this adventure, where thanks be to the Gods, all hath succeeded as the wise man fore-spoke it, for within this three days I lighted upon one being alone in a little boat, having in him according to my fancy, the very pride of all beauty: & the other must needs be this young Gentleman Claverindo, the fairest beside him, that ever I knew, so as I have good hope hereby to re-enter into my kingdom. For this cause I have in charge to bring these two to Babylon, & now sir knight I beseech you to take it in good part, for he shall be as well entertained in the court of the soldan, as in the court of the king his father, & when my good fortune will that my seat shallbe established, he & you shall return into France with my ships & my people, & myself also, if it be so convenient. When the prince had there stayed, Armineo was well contented with his talk, taking him for a knight of great prowess, & although the long stay that the prince Claverindo should make in this country grieved him, yet with hope to return in the end, seeing it was not in his power to do otherwise, he subjecteth his will to the prince's command, & with courteous words rendered him thanks for the story of his adventures, & for the offer he had made them, the pith of his answer being in few words this. Be it as you have said sir, for I deny not but the Gentleman Claverindo shall gain very much by his bringing up in yours and your uncles so noble a court. With these proffers too & fro, Florion took Claverindo in his arms, & entered in his own ship, Armineo following him. When Armineo had beheld within Florions ship, the young Donzel deal Febo, you must not marvel though he blessed himself, for there was none which had had but a blush of him, within his tender years, but took him rather to be a celestial Seraphin, shen an human creature, and believed that this might not be done without some great mystery, as if the young Gentleman showing in his infancy the comeliness of stature, & other excellent qualities wherewith he was endued, besides the strange finding him alone in the rage of the tempest, did well foreshow his nobility in time to come. But when they saw him naked, and the portraiture of the Sun, with the brightness that it gave to the beholders, it was so strange, that they called to mind Phaeton's fall out of heaven, comparing this young Gentleman with Phaeton, as if he had been Phoebus' son, like as Phaeton was, although somewhat divers again in this, for that Phaeton taking his father's chariot, for his presumption was drenched in the Sea, this young Gentleman was preserved in the Sea, as betokening some greater secrecy in Nature. Armineo was best apaid to have the company of so excellent a Gentle man for the Prince Claveryndo. Now by the way, this may you learn, that although they could not tell Donzels name, yet by the tokens he had upon him, they named him the Gentleman of the Sun, somewhat in other terms in the Persian tongue, but in signification all one, with the name that his mother's Gentlewoman gave him in Hungary, being worth the marking that both Persians and Hungarians should so jump in naming him. But to make hast homewards, they took the way to Phrigia, and with a good wind ere fitéene days they landed there, and coming a shore, they sent harbingers afore hand, as well to advertise the soldan and Lyrgandeo of the Princes coming, as to purvey by the way, of lodging for the estates. The two young Gentlemen being not a little welcome unto Florions two uncles, as you may read in the next chapter.   

¶ Prince Florion with the two young Gentlemen entered into Babylon, and were there honourably received by the soldan.  
Cap. 18.  
THe Prince Florion needed not to have given intelligence to the soldan of his coming, for the wise Lyrgandeo opened all which had chanced, as well as if he had been a party in the doing of it. So when the prince was in less than an half days journey from the City, the soldan and his wise brother Lyrgandeo, issued out with a great train to receive him, and coming near, the wise Lyrgandeo espying Florion with the Gentleman of the Sun on his horse before him, in great joy road a pace, & taking him in his arms, spoke these words. O ye sovereign Gods, immortal thanks be given unto you for the high favour you have showed unto us, in bringing into our power this rare Gentleman, with whom you have imparted of your most secret graces. O that mine arms could once merit such an heavenly burden. O how well may Babylon rejoice, sith he is thither brought, whose glory shall no less glister through the earth, than the bright Sun shineth in the world. Who deserveth to have his biding among the demi-gods for his valour and mightiness. O how he shall raze out the memory of Ninus and Xerxes, & all the pride of the Assyrian monarchs. From henceforth Assiria, for being only the cradle of this Gentleman's nursery, shall be famous throughout the whole world: from henceforth men shall have so much to do, to put in writing the worthiness of this Gentleman, that all the monuments of our ancestors shall quite die; and this man only shall be our tabletalk. The wise man thus as it were ravished, and uttering his conceits in great gladness by inter-breathing, the beauty of the child sometimes amazing him, and his divinity astonishing the hearers, he kissed the young Gentleman & held him in his hands till the soldan drew near, as the soldan approached, he delivered Donzel del Febo unto him, and turned himself towards Claverindo embracing him goodly, but in more modesty of speech or less delight he said unto him: You are welcome noble and▪ sovereign Prince, I knowing how well known your name should be in the world, had great desire to see you, albeit, it shall be some grief unto your parents not to enjoy your presence, the time shall come when you shall give them greater comfort and pleasure. In the mean time, you shall not lose any thing in being brought up in the company of this Gentleman, whom you shall love so exceedingly, that his love shall often extinguish the remembrance of your parents. Armineo which was not far off, gave him great thanks in the behalf of the Prince. Then they two road together devising of many things, and many courteous words of good entertainment passing between them, until the soldan fell in talk with the young Claverindo & Armineo, to whom he showed a friendly countenance in token of great good love. These things thus done, they all held on their way to the City, and passing through towards the Palace, there they were received by Balisea Princess and wife to Florion, making semblance of great liking to Donzel del Febo, whose excellent beauty and comelinsse she well noted, and already concluded in her thought for a companion to her son, now of three years old, very large and beautiful called Brandizel. Which in deed after proved a knight so good, as few better, being strong made, somewhat higher than his father, and of more puissance. These three Gentlemen by the Princess Baliseas' devise were brought up altogether in like suits, and like exercises, and so from their youth, their friendship increased with their years, that in the end, as they themselves were at their full growth, so their friendship waxed so firm, that neither the diversity of their professions, nor the distance of their countries, might in any wise infringe it.  
These young Gentlemen thus brought up in Babylon, Armineo which in all things was very wise & well learned, taught Claverindo the liberal arts, and instructed him in the true and perfect law of God, in such manner, that although his education was among the Pagans, yet the prince was always a good Christian. The wise Lyrgandeo like wise careful of the Gentleman of the Sun, & of Brandizel read unto them diligently what was convenient, save that as he was a Pagan, so he acquainted them only with Pagansie in their religion: which error notwithstanding afterward they both renounced. This was the training up of the young Princes in the court of the soldan, as heedfully looked unto, as if it had been in their parents Courts. But as their years multiplied, so they exceeded, all others inferior in judgement, wit, discretion, goodliness of stature, activity, and all that which was requisite to such princes, but especially and above all his equals, Donzel del Febo surpassed. For attaining to the age of ten years, he seemed to be more than fifteen, both for wit and strength, courage and policy, and by the bigness of his body (being withal well featured) men gathered undoubtedly of his might.  
They made their argument thus. If he be so strongly set in his youth at ten years, what will he be at twenty. And truly although, his father the Emperor Trebatio was big of body, as the history hath already specified, being eight foot in height, yet Donzel deal Febo overeached him somewhat, and with all this maintained the prerogative of his proportion. So that I think our painters as well Grecians as Assyrians, had never the perfect knowledge to draw and finish the true proportion of man, before they had the view of this knight. His picture was sent into sundry parts, as the noblest Painture that ere was wrought. Besides this, there appeared in his face a majesty so grave and Prince like, that it struck a fear of him into mighty Princes. For all this, he was yet of behaviour affable, and somewhat familiar, that he which knew him well, albeit his mortal enemy could not but highly commend of it. What shall I say? As the Adamant stone draweth to it, the hard and sharp iron by his hidden virtue, so likewise this knight procured the love as well of foes as of friends, and of as many as knew him, and were conversant with him. And so this young Gentlemen Claveryndo and Brandizel, and other young Gentlemen, which were his play-fellows were so glad of him, that they could at no time be without him. Now, because we have more particularly to descend into this story hereafter, and to describe the manifold graces of this knight, for these matters we will let them pass at this time, and remember you of his age of twelve years, at which time, there happened that which shall appear in the chapter following.   

¶ The delivery of the soldan, by the Gentleman of the Sun.  
Cap. 19  
MAny times the soldan and the Prince Florion, with some other Knights for their recreations, road on hunting into a thick wood standing in a fair forest seated somewhat naere the Sea, and plentiful of all kind of game, especially of wild Boars and such like beasts. Now, when the young Gentlemen could sit their horses, and were able to endure some travail, they took them with them, and furnishing them with boar spears in their hands, they appointed them to the chase. Some game there was killed before them, wherein they took great pleasure: but especially the Gentleman of the Sun, which by himself wearied a wild Bear & two Boars so fierce, as might have frayed a right good Knight. His practice was always to hunt alone, to have no man's help to the encounter with any wild beast. And it was so, that one day the soldan would go to the same forest to delight himself there for certain days, taking with him the Princess Balisea his daughter, and the train of many Ladies and Gentlewomen, and the most principal Lords of his Court, because the place was gallant and delectable, and replenished with variety of game, being as I said, hard upon the cliffs of the Sea. For this cause there were reared up many pavilions there, and there was purveyed of other provision necessary for the household. He made his own tent to be pitched in a flourishing meadow next to a goodly fountain. There rested he one day solacing himself among his knights, for the first day they went not out to seek their game. The next day early in the morning, the Prince Florion, the young Gentlemen, and the most part of all the knights took their way through the forest, climbing up a steep hill, and parted themselves into diverse companies, some to raise the game, and others to be at the receipt. The soldan and the Princess with her Ladies, and only 15. knights remaining in their tents as unmindful of any danger if any should happen. The Sun being almost at the highest, and his beams more direct, the soldan with the Princess his daughter and her Gentlewomen left their tent & came to the fountain, the water being clear, and the place well shadowed with trees, there in the quiet shade to abide the coming of the Prince Florion and the young Gentlemen to dinner. In the mean time the Gentlemen sewers prepared the cupboard and the cooks made ready for dinner. The tables being spread upon the green grass, & every man attentive to his function, the officers to their charge, the knights to their game, & the soldan with the Princess & Ladies to refresh themselves in the cool air: there came in place a mighty & woeful giant, with more than twenty knights after him. The Ladies scréeched out, but there was no remedy. For the Giant with his knights took the soldan, the Princess, and most of the Gentlewomen, and conveyed them into a chariot drawn by strong horses which they brought with them for the same purpose, with the outcries of the Ladies the knights which were in the tent issued, and seeing their Lord with the Princess with her Ladies so carried away perforce (albeit this they did more for shame then through hardiness, yet) they made towards the Giant. with their swords; and began to compass him about, but they so ill yerformed their duty, that in short time themselves were either wounded, slain, taken, or put to flight, and their Lord for lack of rescewes was bound and fettered. The Giant having his pray, withal the hast he might took toward the Sea, where he had a good ship in readiness. The lamentable noise which the Ladies made was such, that it beat through the air into the skies, and yet could not penetrate so far as to Prince Florion or his knights, either that they were so eager in the pursuit of their wild Boars, that they marked it not, or that the cry of the hunters was so loud that it drowned the other. But the young Gentleman of the Sun, losing his company, and well mounted upon a light horse with a Boar spear in his hand, being also clothed in a hunter's weed of green cloth of gold, & a hat to keep down his yellow hairs, road roaming about the wood to seek some beast, upon whom he might try the steel of his boar spear, and taking this way and that way, without staying in any place, he met with a knight sore wounded by the Giant, which road piteously to call the Prince Florion and his knights for succour to the soldan & the Princes. As Donzel del Febo saw him thus arrayed, he asked what he ailed. Alas Gentleman of the Sun, said the knight, the soldan, our Lord, and the Princess, are taken prisoners by an ugly & monstrous giant, and by that hast he maketh, I guess he is already near unto the Sea: The Gentleman of the Sun much lamented such news, and with a noble and heroical courage, which by nature now enforced itself forward, he prayed the knight to guide him on the way towards the Giant. The knight thinking it an unfit match & beside his purpose to turn back with him; for he thought him too young for such an enterprise, would not stay, but road on faster. The Gentleman moved with this that the knight set so little by him, yet said nothing, but not tarrying for more company broached his horse with his spurs, that he made him spin the same way in which he had seen the knight before. The hast he made is incredible, for before the Giant had recovered the Sea, he overtook him in a plain amongst his knights, and the Chariot in the midst. The Giant was hindmost on foot, with a great battle axe of steel in his hand, so that it might have dismayed one to see his fierce and cruel demeanour. When the Gentleman of the Sun had got a sight of him, with greater force than before he spurred his horse, making way through the green meadow as fast as if he had been driven by the rage of tempest and thunder, and crying aloud. Stay, stay. The giant and his knights hearing the noise that he made and the sound of the horse feet galloping in such haste, turned their heads aside to see what it meant, and amongst the rest the soldan likewise looked behind him, and espying him to be the Gentleman of the Sun with only a Boar spear in his hand, he much pitied his case, for he thought surely Donzel should never escape death or durance. The loathsome Giant wondering at the young Gentleman coming toward him, with great fury lift up both his hands to his head, and there staying on foot as he was, made a fierce and stern countenance of disdain, till the young Gentleman approached. But the noble and valiant Donzel deal Febo, borne for the achievement of greater adventures, with a furious mood as it had been thunder drew near, and with his boar spear in his hand, being very strong, sharp, and well steeled, with all his force he showed it into the breast of the giant, that although he had a breast plate of fine steel a finger thick, yet the Spear entered, and issued out at the shoulder all begored with blood. Thus the Giant fell down dead on the ground, to the great abashment of all those which saw him, judging that Donzel del Febo had been then let down from heaven to do this feat, for in their fancies, not the thunderbolt which by the renting of the Clouds driveth the winds before it, might ever give a more sudden or more forcible blow then that which Donzel deal Febo gave the Giant, especially the knights of the giants retinue, not witting who he was, imagined that their own Gods had sent him down from the heavens for the more notable chastisement of their lords cruelty. Now some of the knights hearing a rushing a far off in the wood, and thinking it to be the soldan's people, their master thus slain, without having care of Chariot or prisoners, took them to their heels with more haste by half then good speed. For one letting the Bridle flippe, and for fear not able to guide his horse, by the stumbling of his horse had so sore a bruise, that his horse rising, he lay still on the ground tormented with the fall. And those which got to the Sea, themselves being past danger, nothing sorrowed at the death of the Giant, for they hated him, and served more by compulsion, then with good will. This trouble in the Giants men made the Gentleman of the Sun make no account of them.  
Wherefore alighting from his horse, he went towards the Chariot where the soldan was, with the Princess and Ladies, and unbound them. The Ladies when they saw him, were no less glad of the proof of arms in Donzel del Febo, then of their own delivery. But the soldan embracing him and kissing him with great love, said unto him.  
O my son, now I know assuredly that the mighty Gods highly favour you, & that only by miracle you have been brought to Babylon, as to give succours to me & to my children. Now do I firmly believe my brother Lyrgandeo, who long before prophesied of the great marvels of your valour, sith that being so young and tender and in the maidenhead of your strength, it being never before tasted upon an enemy, you have begun so well as I have known no knight in his perfection matchable. And truly this is the accomplishment of your first adventure as my brother foreseeing it told me, that you should rescue me & my daughters from death or imprisonment, and I hope as well in the immortal. Gods that the second shall be likewise finished, that is, the kingdom of Persia see long withheld by a false usurper, may by you be redelivered to the Prince Florion. My Lord answered Donzel del Febo, I have not as yet done the thing in your service neither in my life may hope to compassie which may counterpoise with my good will in this behalf, and truly the duty which I own to your good grace my Lord, to the Prince Florion, & to my Lady the Princess your daughter, daily so augmenteth, as more than that duty I cannot owe unto my father, to the discharge whereof, notwithstanding I stand bounden to your goodness, not only of courtesy, but in conscience, & so humbled himself before the soldan: but the soldan again embraced him, & they two helped the Ladies out of the chariot. The Ladies were desirous to know who the giant was, and what should be the cause why he so assailed them. Therefore the soldan & the Gentleman of the Sun made toward the knight of the Giants which was fallen to the ground, and as they took of his helmet to give him air, they fetched him out of his sound, and setting him on his feet, they demanded of him who the Giant was, and why he came to take them prisoners. The knight seeing it behoved him to say the troth, made answer shortly thus. You shall understand my Lords that this Giant was called Brandafileo, Lord of the towered Island, which is in the great Ocean, at the mouth of the red Sea. This Island is so strong and invincible, that being within, he need not fear all the world if they had bend their force against him, and being proud upon the safety of this Island, he did much wrong to the nations round about him, spoiling and robbing all Arabians, Aethiopians, Egyptians, and the Garamantes of Ind, and finally so many as he might come by in the great West seas, and so the Island of Traprobane, and by long sustenance in this trade of roving, he is become so rich of captives and treasure, that no Island is comparable with his. Now the cause wherefore he came into this your land was, for that in the time that the mighty Orixerges your father reigned in Persia, the father of the Giant called Briontes then being Lord of the towered Island; by occasion of Briontes evil life, your Father and he fell at variance, wherefore the king your Father sent out his whole navy to subdue this Island, but being not able to conquer it, he gave them notwithstanding in charge to lie in the out creeks awaiting when he came forth from the Island, & so to set upon them. One time the Giant making a road out for a like chevisance a far off from his own Island, the king your Father dogged him with his ships, and as he returned met him in the half turn, and (for all the havoc he and his made of your father's soldiers) in the end killed him. This Brandafileo his son then being a child of tender age, yet so soon as he was of years to be made knight, he greatly longed after the revenge of his father's death, & because he could not work his mischief on the king Orixerges, being then dead, at the least it would ease his stomach, if he might wreak himself on you his son, and for this cause many times he hath sent spies into your land, to be advised by them when he might have opportunity of vengeance, & learning of your coming to this forest for your disport, he hath now lain more than a month in secret expectation of so good luck as to take your person. This time he had found to his contentation, had not this Gentleman been, who now hath made sufficient pay to Brandafileo for his months hire. This is all my Lord which I can tell you as to your demand, and it is truth which I have told you, as I certainly believe, that if ever he had clean carried you from hence, you should not have escaped from death or bondage, for so he had determined. The soldan mused at that which the knight had told him, & weighing the great danger wherein he was like to have fallen, he ceased not to give thanks to his Gods, & to the gentleman of the Sun for his safety. At this time Prince Florion came with more then. 30. knights running their horses, so fast as they might, because already they had heard the news, & coming where the Giant lay dead, viewing well the wide & mortal wound, they highly commended of it, and ceuld not judge by whom he had received it, but very joyful to see the soldan & his Princess out of danger, leaping from their horses they came towards them. Then Florion excusing his long absence by the ignorance of the fact, desired to know who he was which had so gently bailed them from the Giant. The soldan answered on this sort. Ah Florion, Florion, now we know your uncle Lyrgandeos' divinations, as touching this Gentleman of the Sun, to be sooth and steadfast, for we have well approved his valour, and know that he alone being the only man which came to secure us, brought to ground the giant Brandafileo by one only blow with his boar spear, rivetting as you see his coat armour, and ridding us from so dangerous a foe, making his entrance to knighthood the strangest that ever was heard. Florion giving back, either as wondering or not crediting his uncles speech, was still urged by the soldan, who told on forward as Brandafileos' knight had confessed. Florion yet as it were half in a mammering which part to take between the Gentleman's youth and his courage, disputed rather the impossibility by means of the hugeness of the Giant, his strong armour, and the number of his knights, in the end he overcame himself, by remembrance of Lyrgandeos' report, and thanked the Gentleman on this wise. O my right noble and beloved son, I grant, that that not my force, but the mighty winds and swelling waves by the ordinance of my Gods, have given me power over you, for that by your sovereign bounty the wrong which is done to me by the tyrant shall be revenged, and I shall recover mine own kingdom. O how happy was the day and the hour fortunate in which I found you, sith my Gods have reserved you for so great benefiter towards me, and the release of mine uncle, with these and many other words Florion wept for great pleasure to think of Donzels' magnanimity. And in this time the other young Gentlemen his companions came riding from hunting, and saw the fierce Giant lie dead by the way, they inquired after the manner of his death, and hearing it to be as you have heard, the one took great pleasure in it, and the other with an honest emulation of the fact, wishing it to himself, according to the diversity of the good will they bore unto the Gentleman of the Sun. Then they came altogether to their tents, where they made but a hunter's breakfast, for ere dinner was half done, the soldan commanded the horse to return to Babylon, and so they all on horseback, the Princess and her Gentlewomen on their palfrays, and the lusty knights on their sturdy Rouncevalls took the way towards the city, laying the mighty Giant upon a horse, his head and feet trailing on the ground.  
When they were within the gates of the City, all that which had happened being published, all the Citizens and other of the court were in contrary arguments about the hugeness of the Giant and the courage of the Gentleman of the Sun, thinking it an unpossible matter to be brought about by one of so few years. But from that time forth, (although before likewise they loved him) yet now they made much more of him, and the soldan with the Princess and all the Courtiers held him in great account alway. Notwithstanding the report of men, and the high extolling of his acts to his own face, the Gentleman of the Sun kept the same tenor of life, not bearing himself any thing upon his good fortune, but rather as the winds increased, which promised him safety and honour, and as his fame was more blazed, so he struck his sails and became more lowlyer. This his humility made him much more to be loved, as the sprinkeling of water, augmenteth the flame in a Smiths forge. Claveryndo, at this time egged on by Donzels good hap, and being of riper years, sued to be made Knight. But the wise Lyrgandeo foreseeing somewhat, and to have him keep company with Donzel del Febo and Brandizel, withstood his purpose for that time. Claueryndo was but about fourteen or fifteen years of age, but he was so comely and nimble in all feats of arms, that there was not a knight in all the court which outpassed him. In this manner were these two Gentlemen brought up in the soldan's Court, with great magnificence, as if they had been in their father's courts, & above all, they were so thoroughly instructed in learning, that there were none able to come in controversy with them, all this, equal to both, notwithstanding the difference of beliefs, which shall be a like ere it be long. Claveryndo which was guided by Armineo his uncle, was a Christian: and the Gentleman of the Sun believed in the law of the Gentiles, as the wise Lyrgandeo had taught him, Lyrgandeo himself, being bred and brought up in the same error by his father, for all his great cunning, was not able to find out, the vanity of his false Gods.  
O the providence of God, how much be we bound to thee, and how ill do we acknowledge thy great goodness, in suffering us to be become Christians, when thousands wise men and mighty Monarches die in the law of the Gentiles, not all their power available to save their souls, & their learning not worth a rush for the displaying of the falsehood of that law, wherein their fathers have nuzzled them. And shall we Christians think that our knowledge can pull us out of hell, if not the wisest of the earth, I mean the learned Gentiles, could once reprove their own law, and know the only and true God. As for example, this Lyrgandeo was so wise and well learned, that not Artimedoro, nor Rogel, nor Turk, nor Saracen, nor jew, nor Christian came ever near him, and yet because he had learned that law from his cradle, and wanted the gift of God, for the true understanding of his will, he wallowed still in his error, as the Sow doth in the mire, till God having a regard of the Gentleman of the Sun, and minding to make him a true Christian, did by his means convert the wise Lyrgandeo to the knowledge of his will, and pour out his grace abundantly upon the whole kingdom of Persia, according as more largely shall be recited. But to return, the two young Gentlemen, albeit contrary in professions, yet in friendship and good will were conformable, as shall be declared in this story.   

¶ An adventure in the Court of the soldan, which befell to the young Gentleman of the Sun.  
Cap. 20.  
THe soldan & the Prince Florion, with all the knights of his court, greatly prayed their Gods, that the Gentleman of the Sun might come to his full age to be made knight, for that only they stayed their voyage into the kingdom of Persia for his cause, as willing to have him with ●hem, for the great prowess which rested in him, and 〈◊〉 thought their stay not overlong, seeing it was 〈◊〉 ●●●●●ely that which the wise Lyrgandeo prophesied of him, that he should be a valiant knight, and that without him their entrance into Persia were to small effect. For this cause, they employed their care in the advancing for●●●● of the Gentleman of the Sun. This gentleman 〈◊〉 being of the age of sixteen years, was so high & well 〈◊〉 ●●oued, that he wanted little in stature of any man. One 〈◊〉, ●●ince Florion with many other knights being a●●●● at the river to fly at a fowl, the young Gentleman staying in the Palace. The soldan with many of his knights and Gentlewomen took their pastime in one part of his great Palace, where entered in at the gates six ancient knights with white beards hanging down to the girdle-stéedes, and all armed save the head-péeces, compassing on each side a Gentlewoman fair and young, clothed all in mourning apparel, and having a crown of gold upon her head. This Lady was led, by a knight great of body, well and strongly proportioned, & armed at all points, with a rich and strong armour. This knight lifting up the visor of his helmet, showed himself to the soldan, where they perceived his face to be very foul and fearful, of colour more tawny and Sunburnt, then coal-black, his eyes flaming in his head, his nostrils wide and large, broad lipped, and his sharp fangs issuing out of his mouth, like Boars tusks, and reaching to his chin, so that there was no man living, but might have been afraid of his fierce semblance. But besides this, he was so high, that there was not any in that place, whom this knight exceeded not two spanfulls at the least, and in making of his body, he was so large and well quartered, more than the compass of two knights. Having thus entered and set himself to view, those which were present, had enough to occupy their eyes, either on the ugliness of the Giant, or the beauty of the Gentlewoman. But the Gentlewoman kneeled before the soldan, to have kissed his hands. But the soldan taking her by the hand, raised her up, doing her the honour he thought it convenient, in that she appeared to be a Lady of great birth. She with tears distilling down from her beautiful eyes, and watering her crimson cheeks, spoke unto the soldan, on this wise.  
The heavenly and immortal Gods maintain and increase thy high estate, most puissant and mighty soldan of Babylon. Know for certainty, that uncertain fortune never constant to any, hath in such manner showed her self cruel and adverse to me, that she only not sufficed with the death which my father and mother, and many of their subjects have received for my sake, she ceaseth not daily to afflict me, and to bring me to so low an ebb, that being defeated of mine own inheritance, I am yet feign to wander through the Courts of mighty Princes to find some good and pitiful knight, which bewailing my mishap, will ease me of the great travail I daily take to save my honour. For if you will suffer me to lay open my case, the whole story is thus. I am right enheretrix of the Island of Cypress, where my predecessors reigned long time with much joy, until that their good hap was hindered by my beauty. For having brought me into this world, with that beauty wherein you see me, which I would to our that beauty wherein you see me, which I would to our Gods had either perished when I first was swaddeled, or else had never been known, that none might have taken delight in it. So soon as my beauty was sounded abroad, this Knight here present, King of the Zardians, Lord of the Island of Zardia, called Raiartes, hearing of it, came to see me, & so soon as he came, he was taken with my love, and demanding me for wife, was denied it of my father. Wherefore very angry returning to his Island of Zardia, with a great army of knights, he came against my father, and at the first field killed him, and murdered all his people, and in short time became Lord of Cypress. My mother seeing my Father dead, and her land wasted, died for grief. I remained alone without company, till such time as Raiartes came to the Palace where I was. I knew to whose power I was become servant, & fearing that he would have forced me, determined by ending my life, to make myself free from his subjection, esteeming it far better to die with my Parents, then alive to bewail their deaths. And having no better leisure nor means to achieve my purpose, I leapt up to a window, the highest in all the Palace, thence to have thrown myself down, if Raiartes seeing me in his plight had not prayed me not to do it, promising if I forbear that, that to do the thing that I cmmaunded him. I resolving upon death, told him, that unless he granted me one gift, I would be mine own executioner: he, to save my life, promised it, whereby I left off from putting that in practice, which I had contrived in my thought. By this means, Raiartes had me in his power, and having the whole Island at his commandment, he carried me contrary to my will into his own country, with these aged Knights my near kinsmen, there he requested me of love, and prayed me to accept of him for husband. What should I do, he was importunate in his demanund, and I remained in his danger, so that to put by the execution of his desire, I had none other remedy but to answer him, that so soon as he had performed the promise which he made me, I would satisfy his whole intent. This hearing, he was well content, and so I told him that he should carry me for the space of a twelve month into all places, whether I would, and if in the mean time. I found a knight to defend my right by fight against him, he should grant the Battle, with condition, that if my knight vanquished him, I should be fré from his demand, and my land at quiet, otherwise, if he had the upper hand, I from thencefoorthe, to be at his commandment, and he do what ever liked him. This knight, most noble soldan, counfailing with his strength, and thinking all men's virtues infertor to his, took upon him the Quest, glad by such means to manifest his power, and so he carried me from the Island Zardia more than half a year past, in which time yet I have not found a Knight to undertake my quarrel, and yet I have been in the courts of mighty Kings and other great Lords. Now seeing the term set between us, is more than half expired, for my last refuge hither am I come to thy court to prove, if here my good fortune should be such, that I should find in it that which I have so long sued for in other Courts.  
Here she ended with sighs and sobs out of measure, thereby uttering the sorrow she had in her heart, and the grief for to love such a knight, which moved great compassion in both soldan and others of his company. But there was no knight which would answer for the Princess Radamira, that was her name, and yet there were many in the soldan's presence. Then in great pride, and with a fierce look, this terrible Raiartes spoke unto her. What knight is there in the world so foolhardy and presumptuous, Radamira, which for thy cause durst enter into lists with me, yea, be it that both right and justice were right and clear on his side? And art not thou quite devoid of reason to live undone that which I beseech thee? Besides, valueing thy beauty with my bravery, and thy pride with my puissance, I shall seem to set too low a price on myself, if I enjoy thee, and if there be any knight here, which will say the contrary, I will soon make him recant his folly. Raiartes having said thus, knit his brows, & made such a grim countenance, that all they feared him, which beheld him, and there was not a knight so hardy, as to answer any thing in the Princess Radamiras behalf, as if it had been mere sin, in a Gentlewoman strangers right, to hazard their person upon a devil rather than upon a human creature. Every man was still, to the no little grief of the soldan in that his court ●rceiued such disgrace, but the Gentleman of the Sun sitting by, and moved with compassion towards the Gentlewoman, arose on his feet, and made answer to Raiartes saying: Sir knight it is a great blasphemy to knighthood, to say, that in the whole world, there is not a knight which dare fight with thee. Thy lie is loud, and thou dost against all reason enforce this Princess to marry thee. Be thou sure that if I were a knight, I would suffer a thousand deaths, rather than such reproach should be offered to a Gentlewoman. For thy brown beauty is not fit to be her playfellowe, and saying thus, he set himself down again.  
Raiartes mad angry for these words, fourning towards him, and rolling his eyes with great rage, answered. If thou wert as strong as thou art foolish, thou weak youngling, I would make thy life and thy words end at one time. But they say commonly, that women & those which are not able to wear armour, are privileged for their speech, and may talk without controlment, and so Raiartes left him. But the courageous Gentleman not being able to hear that contumely; in his anger rose from where he sat, and coming to the soldan kneeled before him, beseeching his grace to grant this one suit, the first which in his life time he had made. The soldan little thinking what he would ask, and loving him so well, that what thing he demanded, it should have been granted willingly, said yea, and bade him say on what it was that he desired.  
The Gentleman of the Sun said, my Lord, that which I require is, that you make me knight, because it is high time that I receive it: I do not think myself so young as to put up wrong at any man's hand. Those which were present were much troubled at the request of the Gentleman of the Sun, foreseeing the end, which was to answer the bold Raiartes, and the soldan was greatly sorry to have been so rash in making promise before he had known his suit, wherefore he sat still without speaking, yea, or no, devising only how to satisfy the young Gentleman, and to quite himself of his promise. The gentleman of the Sun doubting least the soldan would linger and delay the time, very angrily said unto him. If I cannot obtain this at your hands my Lord, I swear by the high Gods, that during my life I shall not be merry, and I will go serve some other Lord which more liberally will consider of my requests. The great soldan loath to disquiet the young Gentleman of the Sun whom he saw attended upon this matter, albeit his promise grieved him much, answered him thus, saying. Assuredly Donzel del Febo, if you had demanded any other thing of me more profitable for yourself, doubt you not but you had been in possession of your desire by this time, yea, had it been the greatest part of my kingdom. But because I see you are of tender years, & that the time is not yet for you to support the burden of armour, I would wish you to refrain, and let fall your suit for this time, or if you will not otherwise be persuaded, hold you, I yield unto you, watch this night in your armour, and to morrow at day-break, I will give you the order.  
The Gentleman of the Sun took him at that word, and very joyfully kissed the soldan's hand, for his gracious favour. Then from thence by soft paces coming to Raiartes, he said unto him. Now that I have licence to parley with thee as a Knight, I will answer thee Raiartes to the words which thou hast said unto me, and so I tell thee, that if the Princess Radamira, will put her quarrel into my hands, I will defend her right, and take the battle upon me, and be it that the Princess Radamira dare not commit her right unto me, yet I say, that to be avenged on thy reproachful speeches, which thou hast blowed forth, I will fight with thee, and make thee to know, that thou art more unjust and foolish, then valiant and courteous, as knights ought to be. The Gentleman of the Sun here ended, and the grim sire Raiartes began a laughter with these words. In deed, if all folly were force, ma●●e knights were courageous and strong, for most of them are too too venturous, and if thyself wert of so great ability as thou art of forwardness, the princess Radamira should en●e her quarrel by to morrow night, but thou deceivest thyself, and albeit I am half ashamed to take the battle against a knight never before acquainted with ar●●●r, yet because thou shalt not want due correction for thy folly, I accept the battle which thou offerest, as well for the one cause, as for the other. As this talk was at the hottest between them, the Princess Radamira beheld the Gentleman of the Sun very earnestly, noting as well his years as his person, and albeit he was then beardless. Yet she thus conceived of him, that he was of noble courage, and very strong, and besides this, there appeared in his face somewhat which she judged more than manlike. And as she was wise, so her heart gave her that this young Gentleman had some divine blood in him, which she thought to have descended from some of her false Gods. So neither lightly nor wanton moving, but with great discretion and wisdom, standing in the same place, and musing what she ought to do, in the end, no other knight answering the challenge for her, not altogether out of hope, she agreed to put her quarrel into his hands by deliverate counsel, concluding, if he were murdered, herself to follow after, and so she spoke to the Giant on this wise. Raiartes, sith this Gentleman with so good will proffereth himself to maintain my right against thee, I am very well content to put my quarrel into his hands, and from this time forth I will not seek other knight. The beautiful Princess Radamira doing thus, the fierce Raiartes was sore moved to see that she made so little account of him, and so much trusted the boldness of the young Gentleman, and foaming at the mouth like a wild Boar, he was not able to speak one word for the fury and choler which boiled in him. The Gentleman of the Sun thanked her goodly for the acceptation of his pains in her name. In this manner the matter was put off till the next day, but the Gentleman of the Sun was not so glad, to have occasion offered to be made knight, as the soldan and his friends were sorrowful, to have him fall into this danger, which they imagined to be to too sure, because of the strength of Raiartes, and the youth of the Gentleman of the Sun. They thought it a desperate case for him to wage this battle, with the safeguard of his honour. Then the young Gentleman Claverindo being of more years than Donzel deal Febo was, repented that he had not answered for the Princess, both because he thought it a blemish to his honour to have excused himself from such a matter, and his age was more than Donzel deal Febos was, and so might better acquit himself against the force of Raiartes, and especially fearing the peril of his friend, he would needs have taken the battle out of his hands, but perceiving the unwillingness of the Gentleman of the Sun he would speak no more of it. At Sun set Florion came from hunting, and hearing of the battle which was appointed, he was very sad for Donzel del Febos sake, because of raiartes' force, and Donzels weakness, and so he took upon him to persuade Donzel del Febo to give over the battle, and put it upon some other in his right, if it so pleased him. But Florion and Claverindo were both beguiled in Donzel del Febo, albeit either of them were such knights, as of the one hath been rehearsed, and of the other shall be showed hereafter. Raiartes was strong, and his like scarcely among the Pagans, and it might be, it would ill have proved with them two, as a man would have sworn it, only by the tenor of raiartes' countenance, no man beholding him but with the same good will which they bear unto the Devil. And if Florion and Claverindo desired this battle, it is to be thought it sprang of their love towards Donzel del Febo, rather than of any comfort their courage gave them to win honour in the battle. But the day was spent, and things necessary for the battle were in providing. At night Lyrgandeo the wise coming from the red Island, took landing at Babylon, and meeting with the Gentleman of the Sun, he told him that many days had passed since he knew of the conflict between Raiartes and him, and therefore had brought certain armour for him, and so he commanded his Squires to untie their two packets, out of the one packet Lyrgandeo took a white armour wrought with beams of gold descending from his helmet, wherein was graven a face so fair and sheen, that it shedded out beams as the Sun, and scarcely for the brightness might a man behold it, and out of the same he took out a sword all garnished with gold, and embossed with precious stones, the pommel, scabbard, and chape being so rich and curious, that none there was which praised not the workmanship. Out of the other packet he drew out another white armour pounced with Flower de Luce's of gold, and another sword, both which he gave to Claverindo, bestowing the other upon Donzel del Febo.  
With these good armours the two Gentleman were well apaid, especially the Gentleman of the Sun, which more esteemed of this gift, then of all the signories of the earth. And so he continued the charge for the morrow battle, very confident on his own part, but to the no little dismay of his friends, chief of the Princess Balisea, which would not his destruction for all her father's lands. The Princess Radamira in the mean time not fully settled in her thought, drove out the night, neither merry nor dumpishly, but very heavily as abhorring nothing so much as the company of Raiartes. Her flesh would tremble often & quake for fear, mistrusting Donzel del Febos good fortune for the perfecting of his charge, his years being clean contrary to all good hope.   

¶ Donzel del Febo is dubbed knight, and overcometh Raiartes.  
Cap. 21.  
THe next day in the morning the Gentleman of the Sun, with his rich harness buckled about him, was brought before the soldan, & all the knights and Gentlemen in the court. When he was thus bravely armed, he showed greater & stronger than he did unarmed, & none of them which saw him would have judged him of so young years. And when he came before the soldan thus accompanied with all the principal knights and Gentlemen of the court, the Gentleman of the Sun kneeled vowne, and bumbly craned to be made knight. The soldan with tears flowing from his eyes embraced him, greatly rejoicing to see him so comely in armour, then taking the rich sword which the young Gentleman held naked in his hand, he gave him three blows on the crest of his helmet, and so sheathing it again, girded it about Donzel del Feboes' loins, and with these words blessing him. (The high Gods defend thee with their mighty hand) he had him arise knight, and then made him swear to the observance of all the orders of knighthood, which done, the young Gentleman kissed the soldan's hand, & all the hall rang of the noise. Our Gods defend the soldan.  
This was in the morning, but before dinner was clean done, and the tables taken up, the hour was near wherein they ought to perform the battle, and Raiartes richly armed, and mounted upon his horse traversed up and down before the Palace, where the Ladies which were bestowed in the windows to behold the fight were afraid, for in their seeming by the hugeness of his body and his fierce countenance he was the bravest knight in the world, & his harness covered in him the defermities of nature. The Princess Radamira in her mourning weed accompanying the Princess Balisea, was in a great bay window, and seeing Raiartes so great, strong, and well borsed, she changed her colour without hope to remove Raiartes love, and there fully appointed with herself, rather to murder herself, then to be in his power, for his filthy and ugly shape was such, that what Gentlewoman in the world could have afforded him for love?  
When the soldan and other knights took their seats as Judges of the field, the knight of the Sun departing from the Palace, was conducted by d●vers knights to his tent, and there sitting upon a lusty courfer, he pranced a while before the soldan, his borse was all covered with rich harness, in which were enchased sundry precious stones, all both horse and harness of the soldan's gift, himself being clad with his bright armour his umberere pulled down, and a mighty spear in his hand, so big as they all marveled of his good making. When Cheualiero del Febo stayed, Raiartes drew near, and with a loud voice said unto him. Thou presumptuous knight, what wouldst thou now give me not to be here alone with me? Dost thou not think it no wisdom to adventure thy body, where there is no hope of safety? Assuredly Raiartes, answered the knight of the Sun, hitherto I have not seen the thing wherefore I should repent me of my enterprise, and hitherto I have had more experience of thy vain and foolish words, then of thy great and valiant prowess. Raiartes, was fell angry at this (the foam staring through his viso) would have run upon the knight, but being awarded by the judges to the lists, while the Trumpets sounded, he groaned out thus much to himself in the cursing of his Fortune. O how doth Fortune envy my felicity in prolonging the time thus, that I cannot so soon as I would dispatch this wretched knight, saying this and somewhat else, the Trumpets stayed, and with great rage he ran towards the Knight of the Sun, but the Knight bearing his shield before him, with his Spear in his hand, met Raiartes with all his force, with the violence of this course, the ground shook under their horses, and this first journey braced their great Spears into small shéevers. Raiartes with the strong encounter of the knight of the Sun, doubled and fell over the arson of the saddle, his horse carrying him out of the press to blush without company, for never in his life time he had received the like blow. But when he recovered his seat, and saw the Knight of the Sun not stirred in his saddle, and now with his sword in his hand coming toward him, he drew out his sword which was broad and heavy, in great choler to receive him, thinking for a surety with the edge of his sword, to supply that which had failed in the point of his Spear. Both of them mad angry, Raiartes to amend that which he had marred in breaking his Spear, and the Knight of the Sun to revenge the proud words which Raiartes had spoken, their first blows were such, that their pavices were hewed a sunder, and fell to the ground, the other part they after threw from them, and gripping their swords in both their hands, they hit each other such blows upon the Helmet, that flakes of fire issued after them. By this time neither of these Knights were well pleased with the other, and they let drive so each at other, that in short space they made plain their singular manhoods, and they which saw it judged it to be the bravest battle which they had ever seen between two knights. The valiant knights with malicious eyes, sorrwing each at others welfare, because their armour was so good that no sword could enter, were much more wood, laying about them without order, and caring not where they hit, so they might see the blood spin as fast as the sparkles increased.  
It was not half an hour since the battle began, and Raiartes well feeling the courage of the knight of the Sun, in that he had gotten none advauntge over him in all the time. Now with what courage fought he think you, being besides himself for the desire of the Lady, at that time he doubted whether this were the Gentleman of the Sun, whom before he had continued, and if it were not he, yet he marveled in himself who this valiant knight might be, in the mean while the soldan and Florion with all the beholders of the battle were astonished at the great prowess and valour which the knight of the Sun showed against Raiartes. They thought truly that he would prove the best knight of the world, sith in so tender years he was of great virtue. The Princess Radamira which looked on this battle before, half against her will for fear, now viewing how well the knight had behaved himself against her enemy, with greater joy and hope she gazed on him, and often prayed her Gods to grant him the victory. But as I told you, Raiartes seeing his adversary so valiantly bear himself against him, and not being able to govern his ill will, he lift himself up in his stirops and lent the Knight of the Sun a blow with all his force, that although he could not cut his fine helmet, yet he made him bow his head to his horse neck, being blinded with the continual sparks of fire which came out of his head piece. The worthy knight of the Sun coming again to himself and sitting surer in his saddle, returned the like blow to Raiartes, so that Raiartes lost his memory, and received another blow on his bulk against the saddle bow, which made the blood gush out of his mouth and nostrils, and the knight of the Sun followed him to have unhorsed him. But Raiartes recovered, and ere the Knight of the Sun could hit him, he gave him on the left shoulder a mighty blow, that with the weight thereof he had fallen to the ground, but for the embracing of his horse neck. Again Donzel deal Febo repaid him with a plus ultra, the surplusage more than an ordinary interest, and they wounded each other, mangling themselves pitifully, and the clashing of their armour was so great, that it rang like bells in all the city.  
This was the second hour of the fight, and the match was equal, not being known who had the better hand. Raiartes not greatly pausing, but in his anger reviling his Gods, said unto himself. O immortal Gods, how little is Raiartes beholding unto you if a man is able to resist his might? Why? If the report of my valiant deeds and noble prowess made known to the heavens causeth you to malign my state, come you down and fight with me, for I had rather be vanquished by your Deities, then to be yielded to man's strength. But what can I think, either then that this Knight is one of you, for the love of Radamira, to take her right in hand, or at the least some fiend of Hell in likeness of a Knight, minded to quell me. But seeing this is the issue, that if I lose this day, I must lose Radamira also, let him win her and wear her: for be he what he may be, he shall get no honour at my hands, and so saying, he struck his adversary so sore on the breast, that he bruised his carcase, and put him in great danger. Cheualiero del Febo not a little abashed at the great force of Raiartes, this being the first battle that ever he had fought, thought in himself that if all the knights in the world were like him, he should get but small praise, and therefore to embolden his courage, he rated himself on this wise. Am I he of whom the wife Lyrgandeo hath foretold so much? Am I he without whom the Babylonians dare not set foot into Persia? Am I he for whom they have thus long time waited? Certainly if this be all which I shall be able to do, shall not all happen contrary to that which the wise man hath said? Shall not the Babylonians be mocked of their hope? Hath not one only knight much endamaged me? what shall the whole multitude of the Persians do, & the puissance of the Giants which shall come to assist them? Had it not been better for my credit not to have been borne, with so great fame as the Astrologers have foreshowed, then in so short a time so much to be troubled. O soldan of Babylon, and you others which are judges in the field, are you not ashamed of me, that in my first battle, and the first fruits of my knighthood, I am at the point to become recreant. But recreant I will never be, and so as it were blowing the coals of his anger, when he was on a light fire, he set Raiartes in such a heat, with his thick and mighty strokes, that the unlacing of his helm, and the unmailing of his armour could scarce give him breath enough. Raiartes then thought that his enemies strength increased, yet not altogether fowndered, he answered him as well as he could, that the battle seemed to be more fierce at that time then at the beginning. The hour clock hath smitten thrice, since they entered the lists, all much marveling how they were able to endure so long. The soldan said to Florion and to the wise man which sat by, certainly, if I had not seen it with my eyes, I should hardly have believed, that a knight of so young years, as this knight of the Sun is, might have had the force so to endanger a worthy knight, for you know how the hours are passed, since they began the combat, and how yet he abideth many blows, and still seems as fresh as he was when he first came forth. The wise man answered, yea, my Lord, but if you knew with whom he doth fight, you might with more reason marvel at it. For Raiartes is one of the strongest and worthiest knights that is among the Pagans, and his pride is so great, that he alone would not refuse to join with an C. knights, and would well think to have the mastery of them all, before he would be taken. Thus the bench was not idle, and the Princess Radamira very busily attended upon her knight, and watched every turn, more than half joyfully, speaking thus unto the Princess Balisea standing by. I believe for a certainty Princes Balisea, that our high Gods now at length cloyed with my mishaps, have provided this knight for me, for in respect of his beauty & great bounty, he seemeth rather heavenly then terrestrial. Yea, so I think, than answered the Princess Balisea, and that not only for your succour, but to aid me and my cause, the Gods have sent him hither, for by him I look to be queen of Persia. Do you so madame said Radamira, now I pray our Gods that he well escape this battle, to fulfil your hearts desire, and truly if he become victor, not only I shall be avenged on him for my father's death, but I will make account that I am now risen from death to life, for sooner had I purposed to kill myself, then to lie in Raiartes arms.  
But all this while the good knights plied the combat, fight courageously till they were sore wearied, every one misconstruing the event. For Raiartes seeing that the longer the battle lasted, the farther he was from the victory, with all the force he might, he struck the knight of the Sun such a blow on the helmet, that his senses were bereft him, & had he not taken hold of the saddle bow, he had kissed the ground. So the fray was renewed, but the knight of the Sun gave Raiartes another blow as strong, which bewitched his understanding, for his horse carried him about the field, tossing him on the pommel of his saddle, as if he had been dead. The knight of the Sun thinking it no glory to smite a man half dead, pursued him not, but Raiartes reviving, his face all bloody, with both his hands hit the knight of the Sun upon the head piece, that if the helm had not been the surer, it had riven him to the belly, but the stroke amazed him, and the gore blood ran out of his month and nostrils, and his horse feeling part of the great blow, carried his master from thence, the good knight lying upon the crupper of his horse, in an ecstasy, as if he had been quite dead. Raiartes hasted to have given him another blow, those which saw it, were very sad, but none were ever so woefully begun, as was the Princess Radamira, who with great grief turning herself from that sight, and fell on weeping bitterly. But Raiartes had not followed him four paces with his horse, when the good knight start up, and feeling his face wet with blood, in great fury spurred his horse, and met Raiartes with such a blow, that the fine helmet could not deny him passage, but that he clove Raiartes head in sunder. Hear the shoot of the people, and the Princess Baliseas' calling her, awaked the Princess Radamira, as it had been out of a sound fléep, and little looking for so good news: and the good Knight, (Raiartes being dead) put up his sword into the sheath, & demanded of the judges if there were aught else to do to make the Princess free. The Princess heard this gladly, and the judges answered him no, for that had sufficed, which he had done. Then with the noise of instruments, and much honour, the judges led the knight of the Sun from that place to the Palace, where, with great joy and pleasure of the soldan and Florion, he was well received, they showing as much good will to him, as if they had never enough in making of him. The Gentleman Claveryndo and Brandizel, glad of their friend's conquest, holp to unarm him. Then the Princess Balisea came, & the Princess Radamira, doing her duty to the knight of the Sun, and as not able else to requite the courtesy he had shown her, she offered to him both her lands and her person, the better to serve him. Thus they took their rest many days, & the good knight was much honoured of them all. And there was a great feast made, and divers Iustes and Turnayes there proclaimed, for the dubbing of Claverindo and other Gentlemen Knights. At this feast, the Prince Claveryndo behaved him best, so that all men judged him to be a valiant knight. And after this, the Princess Radamira minding to return, desired a safe-conduct of the soldan, who sent with her an hundred knights, and other men of war, which saw her safely landed in her country, and in full possession of the crown. For after they knew that Raiartes was dead, willingly they gave her place, and the Princess remained Lady of it, although not very free o● her thought from the knight of the Sun, whom she loved so well, that in long time she forgot him not, and it fell out so that in the end she pleasured him, wherefore he gave unto her a mighty Prince for husband, as shall be declared hereafter.   

¶ Africano king of Media and Persia, inferred war upon the soldan of Babylon.  
Cap. 22.  
THe history hath told you before, that the strong & mighty Africano transporting from afric into Asia, by his force and valiant made himself Lord & king of Media, and after entered into the kingdom of Persia, conquered it, and overthrew Florion, coming to secure his own people, after which time the Prince Florion recoiling back to Babylon, there remained very sorrowful, & without hope to recover his kingdom. Now the story returneth to the same Africano, and saith, that when he had appeased the people, and brought these two kingdoms in quiet subjection (as this is an imbecility of man's nature, ever coveting to amplify and enlarge our possessions,) so this stout and proud Pagan not content with that which he had already got by disorder and rapine, he adventured yet farther to win Babylon, with all the kingdoms of the Assyrians, bordering in those parts, reckoning himself already in possession of them, for the power of the soldan was insufficient to repulse his forces, hoping moreover to add to his dominions, all those countries lying in the coast of the middle earthsea. For this cause he assembled his power as well Medians, as other his subjects. Having this great army in a readiness, yet trusting more in his own person then in all his people, he took the way toward Babylon, minding not to stay till he came near to Babylon. This was some days after the combat which the Knight had with Raiartes. And as it fell out, it was at the same time as the soldan and the Prince Florion were devising of the order which they should take for to recover the kingdom of Persia, that the news came how the puissant Africano was on his way with a huge army toward Babylon, for which cause they were cast into double doubts, seeing that the enemy whom they purposed to find abroad, came to seek them at their own doors. Well with great care and diligence they began to prepare all things necessary for the welcoming of such a gest, by gathering his people out of all parts of the kingdom, raising the walies higher, and fortifying the Towers once builded by Semiramis, all which would little have helped the great Babylon against the power of Africano, if the puissant arm of the you●● Greek had not defended it. But thus the Assyrians were almost at their wits-end, not knowing how to repel him, for the brute of his fan●● was greatly noised. The soldan of Babylon well experimented in warfare, commanded all which could bear armour to come to Babylon, that his forces being united, he might be of greater power against his enemy's. Africano stayed not till he came to the very walls of Babylon, where he gladly beheld the City, because of the same it had to be so great and so well peopled, he highly commended of the sumptuous edifices, and high walls en●●●ng it▪ which inflamed his desire to be Lord of it. Presently 〈◊〉 made to pitch his tents in a large field, environing ye●als as far as he might, for it was impossible to compass them round about, with two of Xerxes' armies. He had in his camp 20000, knights, and 30000. horsemen, & two strong Giants beside, the one of them called Herbyon, and the other Dardario, through whose force he thought to have overcome the Assyrians. So soon as he had trenched round about his camp, and provided for the safeguard of his army, before he would enterprise any father, he sent a messenger with a letter to the soldan, containing this that followeth.  

Africanos letter.  I the great and mighty Africano king of Media and Persia, send greeting unto thee soldan of Babylon, son of Orixerges. Know, that the report of thy City of Babylon, hath procured me to cut the seas, & to arrive in this country, rather with desire to have it as mine own, then for any pleasure to offend thy person, or molest thy people, for thy father and mine during their lives were great friends, which friendship I would willingly should endure between us, if thou wilt as willingly satisfy my desire, albeit I am content in recompense thereof, to give thee the kingdom of Persia or Media, choose thee whether. Now thou knowest my whole meaning, fail not to accomplish my desire, for unless I have it with thy good will, I will force thee thereunto maugre thy ill will. Farewell.  
The messenger coming to the gates of the city, was let in, & being brought into the palace, he delivered the letter to the soldan, in the presence, of Prince Florion, and the other knights of the Court. The letter was read, and they all said, that in great pride the Pagan had so written, but because Prince Florion, & the most part of those which were there, knew the strength and power of Africano, in the battles forepassed, they would not make answer, nor speak a word, until they had heard the soldan's mind. Being in this order all hushed, the knight of the Sun rose up, & demanded licence of the soldan, to give answer to the messenger. The soldan granted it him.  
Then the Knight of the Sun advancing his voice, that it might be heard, spoke to the messenger thus. Return to thy Lord, for it is now too late to answer his letters, but in the morning my Lord shall call his counsel, & shall send thy Lord an answer by one of his knights, to whom he must give credit in this behalf. Thus the messenger dispatched from the soldan went to his Lord, who little delighted in the fore-flowing of the soldan's answer, for he less weighed the soldan's power. Therefore he determined in few days to destroy the great city, burning and wasting all, for all that, that he wished rather to have been owner of it by exchange or covenant, then by rasing and battering the walls, which were so goodly. The messenger avoiding the palace, the knight of the Sun directed his speech to the soldan in this wise. Sith your excellency well understandeth the arrogancy and high disdain of Africano, and hath given me in commission to devise the answer, I humbly beseech your grace to be content therewith, if to morrow in the morning, I alone take upon me this message, to satisfy him as shall seem best unto me, and according as his pride deserveth. When the knight had so said, the su●● which he made, grieved the soldan very much, although the great exploits which he had already done, & which were divined to be done by him, somewhat abated his grief, yet greatly preferring the valour of Africano above that which he had heard of all the Prince's Pagans, for there might none be compared to him, he put of the knight of the Sun for that time with this answer, that he would not have him to hazard himself in such danger, until he had grown to more ripe years. But if the soldan was in any perplexity for love to the knight, much more was prince Florion troubled, which had had experience of Africanos puissance, and had seen Africano in his own person, demean himself so justly in the battale between them, that he thought him to be unparagonized for mandhood, & therefore he was more than unwilling that the knight should alone deal in this matter, albeit he had well & worthily acquitted himself against Brandafileo, & the strong Raiartes, for it was not a thing conventent in his judgement that he being as yet of tender years, should prove his body upon Africano. But were it that the soldan & the Prince Florion were loath of this, as at the first it appeared, yet they thought it best to dissemble their conceits, lest the knight should take displeasure at their little account of him; & therefore in the end, after some consultation had with the wise Lyrgandeo, with a mild countenance, the soldan agreed to the knight's request, saying, That he would put into his hands, both his honour & the cause, to the end that he should ans were Africano as best should like him. The knight of the Sun would have kissed the soldan's hand, but the soldan embraced him, & there it was solemnly enacted that the next morrow, that the knight of the Sun should be the only messenger. Claverindo & the prince. Florion lay at him earnestly to bear them in his company, but be shifted them off with this, that it behoved him to be alone, for the answer which he should give to Africano.   

¶ The Knight of the Sun maketh answer to Africano, as, to his letter.  
Cap. 23.  
AT the day peep before the grey morning, the valiant & worthy knight of the Sun got him up, in the mean time while he ought to execute his charge, he armed himself with that armour which the wise Lyrgandeo had bestowed on him, & so stayed a great while until it was passed broad day, every minute in this time seeming an hour, & every hour xi. for his magnanimous stomach, always coveted to put himself in praise, where to exercise his valour, and so when it was now time, casting a fair horn about his nacke tipped with gold, and having a horse under him, the ●●st that the soldan had, (as the night before he had taken his leave of the soldan, and the other knights of the Court) so he privily put himself on his journey, without being seen of any of the Court, and making those gates of the City to be opened, which were shut to Africanos Camp, he road through, and by soft paces coming with in a bow shot of Africanos own Tent, he winded his horn●, so loud, that it was easily heard in both the enemies C●●pe, and the City of Babylon. Immediately the soldan, the Prince Florion Claveryndo, and other knights cried alarm, and issued forth of the gates in battle array to see what the good Knight of the Sun would do, and by and by the walls and high towers were full fraught, with as well nobles as commonalty. The king Africano in his Ten● bu●●ed about other matters, hearing the shrillness of the sourde, was somewhat disquiet, not thinking any knight to have had the hardiness to summon him to the battle, and desirous to know who he was, he called before him one of the two Giants which came with him na●●●● Herbyon, a strong man, and king of the Camarians, a 〈◊〉 regi●● adjoining to Media, to him he said, Take thy ●●●●e and armour and ride to● and that knight which hath ●●●ded his horn, and f●ile not for any entreaty to bring 〈◊〉 before us, here in our presence to declare his message. ●●●e grant having his charge, delayed no time, but hastily ●●●ing himself with fine steel, he took a strong spear in 〈◊〉 hand, & ●ode toward the Knight of the sun, who in the midst way abode his coming, very glad when he saw so great a Giant: come against him, as desirous to purchase honour upon his likeness. But the Giant said unto him. What art thou knight so bold and venturous, that hast in such wise disturbed our Camp, with the noise of thy horn. The Knight of the Sun replied. I am a Knight of the soldan's which come to the king Africano to make him answer to the letter by him sent unto the soldan. Now return you back and tell him, I am here to do my message, and if he will hear it, bid him come armed and well horsed, for otherwise I will not make him answer. The giant very scornfully took up a great laughter, and giving the Knight a little souse on the helmet with his gauntlet, he said unto him. Now I tell thee, that thou art the maddest Knight in the world, to challenge him to battle, at the only hearing of whose name, the greatest part of all Asia doth tremble, and if thou wert not a simple, fool thou wouldst not in such sort discover thine impotency. If thou hast any message to the King Africano from the soldan, come with me and thou shalt be brought to his presence, for he is not such a one as to come into the field against one silly Knight. The king Afrinano himself must hear my message, said the Knight of the Sun, and he must hear it armed, for otherwise I will not open it. The strong Herbyon was angry at the knights words, and thinking him to be but as other knights were, or amongst the meanest, he offered to have set the knight beside the saddle, and so to have drawn him perforce to the king, showing herein no less pride and disdain then the greedy Falcon doth in the pursuit of the simple Pigeon, to carry it to the air among the young ones. But his lot was far otherwise, for the knight perceiving his intent, turned the point of his spear, & struck him so strongly on the chest, that though his armour were good, it entered a little, and left him windless for a time. Herbyon thought himself now not well at ease, and therefore returning to himself, he never studied at the courtesy of the knight in sparing him in this trance, but taking one part of the field, and broaching his horse with the spurs, his Spear being in the rest, with deadly rage he ran against the knight of the Sun, who was nothing slow in the receipt. Their shocks were such in their meeting, that the heavy spear of the strong Herbyon broke into shivers in the fine helmet of the knight of the Sun, not diseasing him. But the knight of the Sun hit the Giant with such dexterity that he overthrew him, and the great weight of his body made the Giant wear his neck on the to side like a sidler, which was no little pain unto him. Yet he gate upon his feet, rising with much a do. Then the knight of the Sun finding him uprisen, bade him defend himself. The Giant answered that he could not, therefore do, with me what you will. The Knight of the Sun said no, but return to the king Africano thy Lord, and tell him that a Knight of the soldan's doth await him here, to make answer unto his letter, and if so be he be minded to hear it, will him in his armour to come forth, for in no other order will I utter it. The Giant answered he would do it, and not being able to sit on horseback, he was compelled to go on foot through the camp, driving in his thought the remembrance of the knights prowess, so that he was persuaded that not twenty knights Assyrians could have done him so much harm as this one knight had done. The soldan with the Prince's Florion and Claverindo were no less amazed in their contemplation to behold the event of the first welcome, and they gave great thanks to their Gods for sending them so good a Knight. Herbyon came before the king Africano his Lord, and without failing in any part, declared to him that which had chanced with the knight, and the message which was sent by him. Moreover, telling the king that he thought that knight to be the strongest knight in the world, for that with these two blows which he had given him, he had thrown him to the ground, and might have killed him.  
The king Africano not a little sorry to see the strong Herbyon so ill entreated & abashed at the force of one only Knight, would thereupon have put on his armour to have been avenged on the knight and to hear his message. But the other Giant then in presence called Dardario, and much about Herbyons' pitch, being of no less value than the first, in his choler menacing the knight, swore a great oath that he would bring the knight bound hand and foot unto the king, wherefore taking a great horse he passed through the camp, and approaching near the Knight of the Sun, he would not salute the Knight, but as his anger was thoroughly kindled, with a great spear as big almost as a Pine tree, he prepared himself for the carrier. And the worthy Greek knowing the giants errand, did the like, and spurring his horse he came unto the close. The great spear of the Giant was thought to have pierced the harness of the knight, by reason of the few shivers that it made, but it did not so, and contrariwise the knight's spear couched with great dexterity, entered through the body of the great Dardario, a great part of the staff appearing at the shoulders.  
By this means the monstrous Giant fell dead from his horse with such a groan, as the tall Cedars of Libanus make, being rend up by the root. The Babylonians rejoiced exceedingly at this: but Africano was all inflamed with choler to fee his Giant slain with one only blow, and knowing that to himself alone this base was bid, in great rage rose from the feat where he sat, without speaking a word, & entering into his tent, armed himself with sure armour, and chose him a very strong Spear, not tarrying for squire or page to help him.  
In this anger he was so terrible that none of his people durst come near him, and so with a most fierce & cruel countenance he armed himself. So soon as the Pagan had buckled on his armour, immediately there was brought him a horse, such a one as could have carried ten armed knights, as I think, of the same breadth whereof the horse of Troy was. The trappings of the horse as well gold, as the stirops and all his armour set with precious stones, that he might well seem a great Lord which was master of such armory, but this was the strangest sight, that Africano sat upon so mighty a horse, made him notwithstanding to bow & double under him. But to go forward, Africano taking the greatest Spear which might be had, road with a soft pace towards the knight of the Sun. The Knight of the Sun saw him come from amongst his people, and thought presently that he was the king Africano, as well for his rich armour, and his horse so curiously barbed, as the tallness of his parsonage which he very well noted, not to be far dissonant from the common report: so he beseeched his Gods from his heart to be favourable unto him against so strong a Giant. Africano well viewed the knight of the Sun, his stature and making, and upon these premises inferred thus much, that well might he be a man of much force, which so well showed it in his exterior countenance, and much more in his deeds and valour. But coming nearer unto the knight as his custom was little to regard the whole world, so with a proud & disdainful voice he spoke unto the knight. Thou miserable and wretched knight, thou sayst thou art a messenger and bringest a message unto me, thou hast slain the Giant Dardario & almost the strong Herbion, which two had been sufficient to have beat down the walls of Babylon, I swear unto thee by my Gods, that if all the world were given me for thy ransom, thou shouldest not escape the death. The knight of the Sun embasing his voice, mildly answered. If I have had to do with thy Giants Africano, they were occasioners of it themselves, for I came not hither to other purpose, but to make thee answer in the behalf of the soldan, and if I came only to seek thee thou▪ oughtest to have been first which should have presented himself to me, and to have heard what I would have said, and to have heard me as a messenger, and not to attempt my death as a known enemy. Now that thou art come Africano, I tell thee why I am come, hear it if thou wilt. The Gods which have preserved me from thy Giants, have reserved me to fight with thee. But listen on, etc. Here the rage of the Pagan stopped the course of his talk, and the mighty Africano smiting his hand on his thigh, for anger lift up his other hand also to have buffeted the knight, but a better mind overtook him, that be thought it reason to hear the soldan's aunswrre before he should condemn the messenger, and so▪ staying, he bade him tell on quickly, for I will well punish thy offence what so ever answer the soldan sendeth me.  
The knight of the Sun wishing the battle with all his heart, said. Then know thou Africano that thy letter being received and read in the presence of my Lord the soldan; after consultation had, my Lord sendeth thee this answer by me. Albeit before this time thou art notoriously defamed for a tyrant, in that thou hast falsely and fraudulently enchroched up many kingdoms, yet he never thought thou wouldst have enterprised the usurpation of the most sacred Assyrian Empire, an Empire consecrated to the Gods, and claimed by them as their right, and in their right, governed by my lords ancestors as Liefetenaunts to the Gods, and their Fée-farmers, and therefore though peradventure the open wrongs done unto men, the Gods do often pardon and wink at, yet seldom leave they unrevenged the injuries offered to themselves, and as it is to be thought, so manifest a contempt of their divine power, shall not escape them. Besides for the City of Babylon, he letteth thee to understand, that thyself art not ignorant that it is his, and that he hath right to it as heir to the king Orixerges his father on that part of his livelihood, and that thou hast no title nor colourable show to demand it. Wherefore if it be so that thou wilt take it against all reason from him, he telleth thee that he can no less do then defend it from thee and the whole world, for having right and justice on his side, he little feareth the invasion of man, delivering his message in this form of words, the knight of the Sun said. This is the soldan's answer, and pausing a while, he began again thus. And I Africano craved of my Lord to be the messenger, for I would thou shouldest know how dangerously thou offendest the divine Gods in entering upon the kingdom of Persia, and disinheriting the Prince Florion, the legitimate and only Lord of that kingdom. Now therefore thou shouldest well do to furrender thy claim into his hands, and content thee with the revenues already received, and the unjust detaining of his right so long time. If thou wilt do this, not for my sake, but for the high Gods, against whom thou hast heinously trespassed, thereby thou shalt parifie the Gods, and lose the name of a tyrant, so odious and so detested amongst men. If thou wilt still persever in this thy tyrannical obstinacy, I utterly defy thee to the death, and certify thee that either I will slay a tyrant, or upon a tyrant I will be slain. Whilst the knight of the Sun amplified at large upon this point. Africano albeit very angry, yet marked him from top to toe, weighing with what confidency he had discharged his charge, sometimes quietly admonishing to amend, and otherwise threatening and defying with a fierce semblance. But as he cared neither for God nor man, so he swallowed up the knight's words, reputing the knight for a fool, for he thought his name only able to afray any knight, thus he replied. Were thy hands foolish knight as good to fight, as thy tongue is fine in preaching, I would not marvel though thou hadst the hardynésse to defame Africano. But I will curtal thy copy with this currish answer. Prepare thee to the battle, and take this premise at my hand, that if I be overcome, I will leave to Florion not only the kingdom of Persia, but also all that which I myself have of possessions in Asia, and so saying Africano made against the Knight, but the Knight of the▪ Sun wisely to order his affairs, answered him saying. Stay a little Africano & hear that which I say; Thou knowest that already this day I have twice fought with two of thy giants, and am forwearied, if now I fight with thee, & thou subdue me, what honour shalt thou get thereby? Will not men say that thou tookest me at the advantage, when I was hurt before or wearied as I am? Appoint that our combat be to morrow, and that assurance: he had of this condition on either parts, and say thou the s●●●e before the principal of thy army, that if perhaps I should slay thee in this battle, the soldan should not need to have a new skirmish with thy people. The devise of the knight was fore against Africanos mind, for he would willingly have purged some part of the choler● which he brought with him boiling in his stomach, but seeing this avoidance could not be at this time made with the warranty of his honour, he granted to the conditions, and thus answered him. Let it be so as thou sayest, foolish knight, I will do thee a pleasure in delaying the time of revenge of my knights and thy foolish words, but sith I may not refrain my anger having thee before me, return hastily to the city and I will to my tent, and with this he turned the rains of his horse, and came to his pavilion where he fed upon melancholy all the day, not speaking to any one▪ The knight of the Sun deferred the battle till the next day, not for that he was weary, but to advertise the soldan of that which was agreed upon, now the rather to assure himself, returned to the City, where he was received with great idye and pleasure of all his friends, and being within the Palace, he told the soldan to what issue he had brought the matter, he was very joyful by reason of the wise Lyrgandeos' prophecies, which he hoped then to be accomplished, & partly doubtful of the success, because Prince Florion knew Africanos strength was such as few were able to resist it, he would have had him not to deal in this adventure alone, & requested him to join▪ unto him some other companions, namely Prince Florionn & Claverindo, which themselves laboured greantly, but he gave them thanks and excused himself with this, that it was so derréed, but saith he, there may be a time wherein you may imptoy your forces. For he knew the people of Africano to be to hardy, that if perchance their Lord should be slain or be in danger, they would either secure their Lord, or work his revenge upon the conqueror: therefore he willed them to be in a readiness. So these two knights gladly accepted that charge, & all that day chose out of the people, those which should the next day keep the field with them to be at hand for succours to the knight, if any treason should be compassed against him. The knight of the Sun took his rest merely till the day wherein he prospered, as you shall now hear.   

¶ A cruel battle between the knight of the Sun and Africano, with the discomfiture of Africanos host.  
Cap. 24.  
GO soon as the day appeared, the noble Greek arose from his bed, and he being now ready to arm himself, the soldan, the Prince Claverindo, Florion, and other knights his friends came into his chamber, which all helped to arm him. When he was all armed, the wise Lyrgandeo came in also with a helmet in his hands, the richest and most precious that ever was seen, and the strongest also & the best wrought that ever came on knight's head, for that the wise man had made it by observation of signs and Planets in such aspects that no Sword how good so ever, might enter into it, and he had been more than twenty years in making it, to have the true conjunction of the celestial badyes which are apt for the operation of it, besides all which, he had fetched from far countries the stuff whereof it was made, for it was no common metal. This helmet was for workmanship so exceeding, as for it only, Lyrgandeo won his spurs, and was commended above all the learnedst and wisest Magicians, for none other having not attained to the like perfection in Astronomy or Art Magic could have ever made it. Now as I said le●●●●ing into the chamber, where the Knight of the Sun, the soldan, & the rest were, and showing his helmet, be drous them all into a wonder, at the beauty and riches of the helmet, for although they knew not the hidden virtue of it, yet for the bravery of the stones, they judged it valuable to a king's delight. He bore in it a field Azour of the likeness of the Element in most quiet and peaceable manner, not troubled with wind or clouds, in the chief, there was a Sun guilded, spreading his beams all over the helmet, as it were the mantling, somewhat besides good armory I think, but well fitting for so gorgeous a peer of armour. The Sun shined so bright, that it almost dazzled the eyes of the beholders. This helmet christening him now by the name of the Knight of the Sun, as the Sun in his left side named him the Gentleman of the sun when he was first found in the Sea by Florion. The wise man came unto the knight, and took from him the helmet, which he had already laced on, and put on this other, saying.  
My Lord, you go to fight with one so strong and valiant a Knight, that neither may I report it for the strangeness, neither can you give credit unlosse you have trial. Now, though the helmet you have is very good, yet being hacked and bruised▪ with the terrible blewes of the strong Raiartes, it is not such a one as may resist the weighty strokes of Africano: but this which now I give you, make much of it, for I knowing, that this battle ought to be fought by you, in the right of my Nephew the Prince Florion, have this twenty years and more busied myself about it, and fully finished it, not past a year since. The Knight of the Sun triumphed now to be made the master of so rare an helmet, and in so needful a time, saying to Lyrgandeo in thankful wise, that he accepted better of that helmet then of the whole world, if it were given him. You do not amiss in so doing, answered the wise man, for I tell you the time will come when you shall make exchange of it unto a Knight stranger, far borne out of these countries, and I do not marvel though you shall then make merchandise of the headpiece which now you so highly regard, for at that time you shall sell the most precious thing that ever you had, for a worse thing, which shall bring you to the jeopardy of death a thousand times, and neither shall wit nor might, cunning nor courage, help you to avoid this chance. The knight of the Sun stood looking upon the wise man, as not witting to what end those words tended, and studying a long time, he thus gainsaid it.  
Of things to come, I have nought to say, but to refer such things to the providence of our Gods, but of things which are already come, thus much I say, that I know nothing in the world for which I would lose this helmet, given me in so good opportunity. But the morning, being far spent, they left off for that time, and departed all from the Palace towards the soldan's army, and setting their people in order, they passed out of the gates, with all things prepared for to keep the field. The Knight of the Sun accompanied with the soldan, and the other two Princes, Florion and Claveryndo, Armineo, and the wise Lyrgandeo, road to the place appointed, for the execution of the conditions concluded upon. The great Africano was in place before, expecting his adversary, whom when the Knight espied, he road against with only two Knights, of the most principal in the soldan's host.  
The Knight of the Sun saluted Africano courteously, but Africano being of a stubborn and discourteous nature, gave him the resalutation in this manner.  
Thou oughtest to have come earlier into the field, to the end our Battle might have been sooner dispatched, but tell me now quickly the Articles of agreement to be made. and spend no more time, lest we take another day of respite. Nay, there is no more to do, answered the Knight of the Sun, but that of thy part two of thy Knights be judges, and for my part, these two Knights, Claveryndo Prince of France, and his uncle here present, shall sit with them, before them take an oath for the performance of that, whereof thou madest me promise being alone with thee. I am well contented with this, said Africano, and now I swear the same, that if I be either slain, or yielden, the kingdom of Persia, shall be redelivered to Florion, and this I command my Knights to see avouched. So soon as he had said this, he gave back, and the Knight of the Sun did the like, the judges assiguing a place for the combat.  
Now are the two couragiousest Knights, in all the world left the one against the other, with so fierce and manly countenances, that it might have dismayed the spectators. When the sound of the Trumpet had summoned them to the Battle, the two strong Knights girding their Horses with their spurs, road the one against the other, with such violence, as if the Clowdell had rend asunder, by the out-brasting of the Thimder-ho●te! Their great spears broken upon their armour, flew in small shivers, and they road me by the other as quietly, as if no shock had been made. Africano the Pagan not acquainted, with such encounters, and always wont to unhorsed all knights▪ whom he me●, seeing the Knight prepapared for the second journey, marveled much wh● this strong warrior might be, whom before this time he had not proved; nor yet ever heard off. But lightly casting these things in his mind, as at a sudden he drew out his sword's and turned towards his evemie, which was then ready for him.  
They struck each other such heavy blows, that warding them on their shields, although they were of pure steel, yet they cleaved them in the midst, and their swords lighted on their helmets driving out great sparkles of fire before them. The great Africano gave the Knight of the Sun upon his helmet such buffets and with such force, that every man would have judged it had riven the headpiece. There the cunning of the wise Lyrgandeo well appeared, for it was not possible for iron, steel, or Adamant stone, but to have yielded to that stroke. But what think you that the Knight of the Sun did, when he thought that he had lost his hearing by it, and said to himself, that not without good cause Africano was greatly feared among the Pagans. Nay, to the no less marvel of both hosts, the Knight of the Sun let drive at Africano with such force, as it was to the no small admiration of all men, that he hewed him not in pieces. But you must learn, that when Africano passed by Sea from Africa into Asia, it was his chance to sail by Lemnos, where Vulcan's Forge was. There he heard of Vulcan's cave where his storehouse was, and entering into it, he achieved strange things, not here to be recounted, and gained Vulcan's armour, wrought with his own hands, the best in all the land. This when Africano tried oftentimes to be very good, whereof he was well pleased, from that time forth, he never fought with other hut with that. Now, albeit this headpiece was well framed from being cut, yet the knight of the suns blows were so heavy, that oftentimes Africano witted not where he was, and recovering would say unto himself. What is this? I believe the strength of the whole world conspireth with this Knight against me, and if it be not so, that he is of the offsprings of our Gods, yet am I sure that he is no man. But among all the great blows which the Knight of the Sun lent to Africano there was one at the fore-ende of the battle, upon the top of Africanos helmet, the sword not entering, but sliding down upon his shoulders, with such force that it made him lean all his body upon the horsenecke, whereof if he had not taken hold, he had fallen to the ground. Then the Pagan sure enough yet in his saddle, and his force redoubling as his anger increased, smote at the enchanted helmet, that he made the knight confess in his thought, that his helmet was his good borrow. The blow sounded throughout all the field, as if it had been a bell, and the Knight of the Sun with the weight of the blow, neither bolt upright, nor full declining, but staying upon the arson, drouped as half dead. But the blood gushing out of his nose, fetched him again quickly, ere that Africano could come within him. Now, seeing it time to defenve himself from his adversary, he stood upright in his stirrups, & with both his hands struck at Africano, so that if the workman had not been more to blame, the blow had made peace between them, but for all the workman's craft, the weight of the blow bruised the helmet, which was the cause of Africanos speedier death.  
Africano benumbed of his senses, the blood straining through the joints of the helmet, and he sitting in his saddle as half dead. The horse sore daunnted with the blow, stood still till Africano revived, and in the gathering of his strength, outbrayed thus much in his thought. O infernal furies, are you not all hired against me? Or is it credible, that either jupiter, or Saturn, or Mars, or all the Gods, may have the like force as this young man. But Africanos heart failed him not, albeit his words out-raged, for he followed the Knight of the Sun, who attended him speedily.  
Then the Prince Florion said to the soldan his uncle, We make great account of the travails of the ancient Assyrians our forefathers, and of the Grecians, with whom our countrymen joined, at the expedition of Troy: but I cannot think, that ever two so strong warriors have been, as Africano and Raiartes.  
You may boldly iussifie that, answered Lyrgandeo, for there was never until this day a battle between two knights so valiant and sharp as this is, nor yet ever two so hardy drew swords against each other, although things before done, carry a greater burden of authority then that which we ourselves can testify. But the jealousy which Claveryndo had over the Knight of the Sun was not a little to be judge of so valiant behaviour, not that he had an ill eye towards his friends good Fortune, but either wishing to himself the like trial, or desiring to adventure with his friend, although that many days ended, er● he had his fill to his contentment. Africanos people looked ever for the victory, greatly forthinking them, that any one knight should make resistance to their Lord, as having experience in themselves, which all shook for fear to see him angered. Now it was more than two hours since the battle began, and then Fortune alwayed fickle and unstable which had of a long time gone even with African o, now played her part in her kind, and as already weary of his company, turned her tale, and stroke in another way, desirous to show the great swiftness of her everturning wheel, and minding the sudden overthrow of those which too much trust in her. For Africano desperately determining to break up the fight one way or the other: once again hit the Knight of the Sun upon his Magical helmet, that he took quite his memory from the Knight, the sword and the reins falling from him. Yet the sword hanging by a long string at the pommel was not out of his reach, but the horse having the liberty of the rains, and feeling his part of the blow flang up and down the field with his master, the strong Pagan following to have unhorsed him. But how▪ dear was this blow to Africano for it cost him no less than his life, for the valiant Knight of the Sun never stained in fight, became wood mad for his hurt, and in great rage took his sword in both his hands, and repaid the borrowed blow so surely upon Africanos head, that not Vulcan's well tempered steel could forbid the passage, but that it quartered the helmet, and made the brains sprinkle on the ground. Now sound ye Trumpets, for in this wise is the great Africano brought to ground, ending his life in such sort, as is fatal to tyrants, whose death commonly is cruel and bloody. This the soldan and those of his part seeing; made such joy as cannot be told, but on the contrary side, Africanos people made great lamentation, and reckoning little upon that which their Lord in his life time had commanded, because they were greater in number than their adversaries, they joined together on heaps sine discretione, and without a guide made an assault upon the Knight and his adherents. But they not taken at unawares, received them accordingly. These were the● soldan, the Prince Florion, the Prince Claveryndo, and Armineo, with the Knight of the Sun, in whose company they were the bolder, and coming to the forward in the foremost rank, they find of the stoutest and principallest knights that Africano had. These four encountered them and unhorsed as many as they came against, and breaking through to the thickest throng, they wrought wonders, especially the Prince of France desirous to get honour in the first head of his knighthood, shoved into the midst, beheading some, and maiming other some, making as it were a lane before him to pass through, so that the wise Lyrgandeo said openly that now his outward fight did well witness the self same thing which his Art had showed him in casting the Constellation of this Knight, for he was a valiant Knight, and the slaughter he made, was nigh hand comparable with that of that of the Knight of the Sun.  
Upon the left wing Prince Florion tried his manhood, having near unto him the soldan. Where (be it that otherwise to a strong Giant as Africano was, he was inferior,) yet among the other people, he was as proud as a ravenous wolf among a flock of sheep. The soldan and the good knight Armineo did their part, but what would all this avail, unless the knight of the Sun had beaten the way before them with his sharp sword, slaying so many, as it was easy for the followers to keep the trodden path. And now at this time, the soldan's army appointed for the guard of the Knight of the Sun, came to the battle, and finding Fortune so courteous at their coming they refused not her gentleness, but following her command, made it a bloody conflict for the adversary. But yet a man may rightly say, that the Knight of the Sun delivered that day the Babylonians from death or bondage, for if he had not overcome Africano. not the high walls of the Queen Semiramis, could have kept Africano out from enjoying the City. But their Lord being slain and they left without an head, their courage was so quailed, that ere two hours passed, the greater part of them was slain likewise, and of those which remained on live, the most part fled by one and one, the Assyrians pursuing them, till the soldan commanded the retreat to be blown, fearing to be overtaken by the night. By this means, some escaped to their Country, most of them being inhabitants of Media, where also was the abode of Africanos son called Brandimardo, not being able for years to be made knight, and therefore going not out with his father to the war. These so soon as they came home crowned Brandimardo, and incensed him to the revenge of his father's death, for although he was of years young and tender, yet was he very strong and of a lusty body; being like unto his father, as well in stature as in qualities, and in deed, being continually laid at by his Father's subjects, passing into Greece, he behaved himself manfully, as shall be showed you. Well, the soldan and those which were with him as you have heard, recourned in joy and pleasure, and highly magnifying the noble Knight of the Sun, so as this discourse as an argument of great good will canvased between these knights and Princes brought them ere they were well aware before the Palace gate, where the Princess Balisea welcomed them with torch light, the first whom she embraced was the Knight of the Sun, to whom she said on this wise. Sir knight we 〈◊〉 great cause to give thanks to our Gods for your hither arrival. First you delivered my Lord the soldan and me from death, & now you have set all us free from sorrowful captivity. But madame answered the knight of the Sun, to my Lord the Prince Florion, and to these other knights, you ought to attribute this, for they are those which have destroyed Africanos host. Then the Princess turned unto Claverindo and thanked him likewise for his pains in the defence of her father's City, and so to the rest in that order which best liked her. After this they supped in the great hall, continuing there their sports till bed time, as likewise the citizens well showed their good liking of the victory by bonfires and other reveling sport. The next day they ordained that which followeth.   

¶ The knight of the Sun, the two Princes, Florion and Claverindo, with a great host enter into Persia, and there put Florion in possession of the Crown.  
Cap. 25.  
THE next day after dinner, the soldan himself entered into the counsel chamber, and other affairs being laid a part, the wise Lyrgandeo made this Oration. It is apparently known unto us all, how bountifully our high Gods have dealt with us as well touching my Lord the soldan as the Prince Florion, and the whole nation of the Assyrians, in bringing to this Court, the knight of the Sun and the Prince Claverindo: who by their notable virtues not only have kept this city from sacking, but also as we make account have left the realm of Persia naked for resistance, not one spear remaining to be tossed against us. For the attaining of either of these things we are not ignorant, how weak and unable we were, that were it not for these two young Gentlemen, not only our home bred power, but also thrice as many of foreign succours could not have hindered Africano from his purpose. Wherefore I think it convenient, that sith the Gods have granted us this victory, and that we have the wind at our backs, that we follow our good Fortune while we have her, lest by overslipping the opportunity, we to late repent our too much daintiness. My meaning is, that with such speed as may be, the Prince Florion and these Lords depart the realm into Persia, there to make claim of his right by arms, whilst every man is occupied in complaining on his own harms. For although as yet there dare no man stand against us, yet for a certainty there is a king of Media, Africanos son, which ere it be long will be our heavy neighbour, he is not yet made Knight, but his destiny foreshoweth us, that if he once come to board in Persia, we shall be no less disquieted with his company, than we were with Africano his Father. The wise Lyrgandeo made an end of his Oration, knitting up his matter with this clause (that it were not out of the way to advise themselves) notwithstanding for good reasons this was his judgement.  
They which would never contrary him in any point, took no further respite, but consenting to the effect of Lyrgandeos' Oration concerning the conquest of Persia, took this order. The Prince Florion, the Knight of the Sun, Claverindo, and Armineo his uncle, with fifteen thousand Knights, and fifty thousand footmen, within ten days should prepare themselves for this adventure, the Princess Balisea abiding with the soldan her Father, till the kingdom were well settled from tumult, and the Prince in peaceable fruition of the crown. This they dealt in effectually, for within the compass of the days limited, they left Babylon, the soldan, and the Princess, only comforted with the hope which Lyrgandeo made promise of.  
The fifteen thousand Knights with the foot men by long journeys entering into Persia, and coming near unto one of the chiefest Cities of the Kingdom, there in the plain unloaded their carriage to erect their tents there. But the Citizens having understanding of Africanos death by the fugitives in the last discomfiture of Africanos host, and thinking it not safety for themselves to rebel against their liege & natural Lord Florion, especially he having the aid of the whole flower of Babylon set their gates wide open for his army, and sent of their worthiest knights to Florions tent to invite him to his own City, and to crave pardon for their former re●●ulting, in that time when they were left destitute of man's succour, not being able of themselves to withstand the force of Africano. And also excusing themselves that they had never a guide to conduct them into the field, against so strong an enemy, having in his power the greatest part of all Asia.  
The Prince lightly excusing their fault, easily condescended unto their requests, and being glad of so good entertainment of the first, the next day road into the City, with the joyful acclamations of the whole multitude. There he resumed the Crown and Sceptre, and being in quiet seizure, the subjects of the Realm by the fame of his thither arrival, came from all parts to do him homage, so that in half a years space all the principal Cities of the kingdom submitted themselves, and there was left no more memory of the usurpers name  
The King Florion seized of his land in such a friendly manner, now took counsel how to have the Queen his wife conveyed thither, and for that it was requisite that the king himself should tarry behind, for the appeasing of all tumults if any should arise in so raw a possession, he gave the charge of fetching the Queen with all reasonable pomp, unto the knight of the Sun and the Prince Claverindo, they to take with them. 200. knights for their safety. They took it gladly, and frayted their ships with necessary provision and other furniture for war, determining to travail by sea the sooner to come unto their journeys end. When every thing was in a readiness, the knights took their leave of the king Florion and the wise Lyrgandeo. But the wise man not refraining from tears, and lovingly embracing the Knight of the Sun, burst out into these speeches in such sort, as the Sibyl's in ancient time were wont to read men's destinies. Noble and worthy Knight, you are determined to see Babylon, but you are uncertain whether ever to see it, or to return to Persia, and as little know I what shall befall. For truth it is that all the heavenly sphéeres warrant more unto you then to to any knight, what that is, it is kept from me, I cannot find the entry thereunto, wherefore I am in doubt of your hither return. But if the fates, or otherwise the course of the stars which impose a necessity to man, carry you beyond the compass of your will into a far Country, where there shall be greater need of your presence, grudge not at it, but give thanks to our Gods, for all shall redound to your honour and the magnifying of your lineage. This I tell for a surety, that you shall never do the thing in your life whereof you shall take like pleasure as in your two first adventures undertaken for two Knights strangers, whom notwithstanding you shall not know till time and place discloseth them unto you. Of you sign ago I will report nothing, for it is ordained by the Gods, that by the mouth of one of these two Knights of whom I have spoken, your whole parentage should the layds open, before which time you shall be at mortal de●●ance. For the shutting up of this speech, the remainder only is, that I make offer of my service unto you, whereof I hope if shall be needless to make a profession in words, seeing I am thereunto bounden by your manifold friendships towards my kindred. In a word Lyrgandeo shall never fail you in the thing, wherein either his wealth or wisdom may stand you in steed; and the day shall come wherein you being in the country where you were borne, and amongst your own parents, shall account them all for enemies, and yet no man shall take your part but only Lyrgandeo which for that time shall save your life, and I hope that this service shall not be the last in account, or the least in value which I will do unto you. The wise man ended, and they all which were present wondered to hear him so divine of things to come. But the knight of the Sun not understanding the tenor of this prophesy, wisely referred all things to God's providence, thanking the wise man for his great care over him.  
Now when on all parts all courtesies were performed, and that the king Florion had commended them to his Gods, they embarked themselves, and spreading their sails followed the way towards Babylon, as the chapter following shall declare.   

¶ The Knight of the Sun and the Prince Claverindo being in their way towards Babylon, were divided by a sudden adventure.  
Cap. 26.  
AS already the noble and knightly deeds of the Knight of the Sun did bud out and were likely to flourish more hereafter, so now not only the celestial influences, but the confluences of the tempestuous winds also, and the sea itself became so careful for his advancement that there failed nothing of that which might work his preferment, for so it is, that when any thing is forced by the stars as to succeed prosperously unto a man, albeit mountains of adversity impugn & assail him, yet can they never expugn his good Fortune, but in the end he recovereth his quiet rest, maugre the malice of misadventure. And so the issue declared in the Knight of the Sun. For the ninth day after that the knight of the Sun, Claveryndo, and those which were with them had sailed in the Persicke sea, the night attached them, overcast with dark clouds without any stars appearing, whereby the mariners construed the roughness of the weather on the morrow, and therefore guided towards land to cast anchor in some good harberowe till the storms ceased. Ere the dawning of the day they discovered a dock not far from the continent, in their seeming very commodious, but indeed very dangerous, as it proved. Entering the dock, they scarce had leisure to throw out their anchors, but two other ships joined with them to seek some safe road out of the tempest. These which last got to the port were very desirous to know what the other might be, and therefore an armed knight, so huge and great as if he had been a Giant, mounting on the ship board, called aloud unto them to answer him. Some of the other ship hearing him in this wise crying, leapt upon the hatches, saying. What is it sir Knight that you would have? Marry I would know answered the knight, what you are, and whether you will. One of the company being stout and of ill behaviour, and supposing this knight to be some Giant of that Country minding to set upon them, made him answer thus. Return to thy dwelling, and be not careful to know them which know not thee, otherwise assure thyself here are Knights which will chase thee hence, in such sort as it shall well grieve thee. The strange knight stomacking this rudeness, said again. Assuredly Knight thou art some villain borne or of base birth, sith in such order thou rewardest me, demanding only upon courtesy, but seeing I cannot learn it of thee with thy good will, I will compel thee thereunto with thine ill will, and saying no more, he drove at the knight so strongly that he clave both shield, helmet, and head, unto the eyes. O what a mischief doth ill speech breed unto man, and how inexcusable was it in this knight, when he redeemed this frank speech with his own life, and sold to make a payment the life of many others. Another knight seeing his fellow slain, stepped into his room and smote at the stranger, where by the clattering of their harness, the din was so great, that it raised the people on both parts by clusters. And there was a great fray betwixt them, the knight of the Sun nor Claveryndo witting of it, till the great knight had overthrown & put to death five or six of those knights which came nearest to hand.  
The Knight of the Sun seeing his knights so destroyed, especially by this great Knight, leaving the other, bend his force against him, and struck him a blow overthwart the head piece, making him to abate his courage. The great Knight answered the loan, and the battle was verys hot between them, for though the night was dark, yet they knew where to hit, as well by the flames which sprang out of their helmets, as the clashing of their armour: Claveryndo put himself amongst the thickest, and at his first Good-morrow slew ten knights, and then not finding with whom to fight, he leapt into his enemies Ship with his uncle Armineo, where he felled more then. 30. Knights, and the skirmish began a fresh, either part willing to help theirs, and the four ships grappled together, so that the fight would have been dangerous if it had lasted longer, but half an hour & a little more overpassed, the tempest which before threatened to appear now outraged, and the port not very sure, the four Ships were divided by the storm, every one withdrawing himself to seek succour. Now in the Ship wherein the knight of the Sun and the great Knight fought, there were no more Knights but they two, for all followed Claverindo into the other ships. The two knights left alone were so earnest that they took little keep either of the tempest or of their danger. The success of the battle was doubtful, sometimes inclining to the one part, sometimes to the other, neither part quailing, but gathering their strengths to them by the emulation of each other. For the knight of the Sun verily believed that except his enemy had been some such as Africano was, he could never have bid those mortal strokes: and the other Knight thought as well that no man's force could be matchable with the knights, and either of them both had better cause to thank Lyrgandeos' kindness, especially this strange knight at this time, for had not his armour kept out the edge of the other knights armant sword he could not have prolonged the battle till day light, yet at that time he was so overmatched, that if a sudden adventure had not broke up their fight, he had ended his life in that place.  
But when it was broad day, by this the battle surceased, that the strange Knight knew the devise of the Sun, upon the Knight of the suns helmet, which when he espied, letting his Sword fall, and lifting up his bevere, he cast himself at the knights feet with this speech. Oh my Lord the Knight of the Sun, pardon I pray, your friend, who by mere ignorance hath made upon your person, and who acknowledgeth in you such sovereign virtue as may not be in other, but in those to whom our Gods have imparted of their goodness. For if the day had lingered, or that the morning had not been somewhat clear, I should have received a full payment for my rashness: and saying this, he would have embraced Del Febos knees. Now the Knight of the Sun so soon as the others viso was pulled up, knew well that he was the Prince Brandizel, whom his father not willing to make Knight before his years were more, had left with the soldan in Babylon. For he was scarcely eighteen years of age, yet being in armour, he was as big as you have heard off, and taking courage upon his stature, in his Father's absence, he lay at the soldan his Grandfather to be dubbed Knight, thinking it long till he were with his father, and his great friends the Knight of the Sun and the Prince Claveryndo. So after that he had obtained his suit of his Grandfather, he demanded licence of departure of the soldan and the Princess Balisea his mother to pass into Persia, which was granted him, and two ships charged with two hundred Knights to convey him thither, where after the fourth days sailing, that chanced to him, which the History hath recounted.  
But to return, as soon as the Knight of the Sun knew his dear friend the Prince Brandizel very glad to have found him so valiant and hardy, he embraced him heartily, and so they communed of their own affairs, and the desire that each had to see others. But as they began their several stories, by interchange of speech, first one, & then another, the Mariners cried, that the ship rend in pieces. So some leapt into the water, and other threw out planks to save themselves by, and the Knight of the Sun finding the Cockboat near unto him, let it down into the water by a cable, and calling the Prince Brandizel, he leapt into it first himself. Thus much is ordinary in the course of worldly things, but that which is to come, is beyond the credit of a story, as it were an extraordinary miracle. For when the Knight of the Sun leapt into the boat, the cable rend in pieces, and with the force of the jump, and the rage of the winds together, the boat launched into the depth, that the Prince Brandizel, could not follow him, but got into a little boat, which the Governor of the ship had before taken. But by and by after these Princes had thus escaped, the ship wherein they had been, tore in pieces with the storm. Some being drowned, and other some in no little danger, as the waves began to swell, so ever prognosticating of their own deaths.  
The Knight of the Sun sailing alone in the vessel, and in such fear of destruction, was not so stout hearted, as to contemn the senseless element, but confessing the imbecility of man's power subjecteth under these weak things as fire and water, besides casualties infinite more, he commended himself unto his Gods by earnest prayer, not yet only for himself, but also for his friend Brandizel, not being able to divine of his deliverance. Sitting thus in the boat all pensive, till the winds were somewhat allayed, and the Sea waxed more calm, afterwards he looked about him, and saw that he was out of danger, with other two things which made him more to marvel. The one was the great foison and plenty of all victuals, sufficient to a man for many days, the other was the swiftness of the boat in the sea, having neither sail nor care to rule it, and musing of this in his thought, he coviectured presently, that it should be done by Lyrgandeo, and therefore as very glad of such a man's friendship in so needful a time, he gave him thanks as heartily as if he had seen him there, in this order he was upon the Sea many days, without knowing whether the wind would drive him, ●●ll that from out of the Persians Seas he came into the Ocean, and so coasting the whole Country of Asia lying upon that Sea, he was carried into Africa, which stretcheth upon the wide West Seas. In which Country the History leaveth him, till an other wind serveth, now it proceedeth with the story of his friends Brandizel and Claveryndo, who were on the Seas tossed in like manner. Claveryndo, as the story told you, boarded his enemies with fifty Knights in his company, and made great havoc of them, so that he had not left any of them alive, if the storm had not risen so greatly. For the winds were so outrageous between them, and when they could stand no longer on shiphoorde to try it out, they left not off to ask, who each other was, the one party said, we are Babylonians, and the other, we are Persians. All this happened in good time, for when they knew each other, they fell not again to quarreling, but they agreed to empty their ships, thereby to avoid the danger. So Claveryndo having now leisure to look about him, the battle being ended, and not finding the Knight of the Sun nor the Prince Brandizel, withal, remembering how he had left them twain in fight, was greatly afraid lest that the Knight of the Sun should endanger the Prince, before the one should know the other. Therefore he beseeched God like a good Christian to deliver them both, and to make them know each other, thereby to make greater account the one of the other, and it is to be thought, that this his prayer was heard, for the second day following, the storm flaked; & the ship wherein they sailed, arrived to a Port, not far from a place where they were nowly rigged. There they had not stayed an hour, but that they saw the boat in which the Prince Brandizel was. The mariners in Brandizels boat, not being perfect in the haven, would not venture to take landing there, but coasting a long they passed by the ships, to find some more safe place to land in. The Prince was escried by his men in his ships, and therefore they made signs unto the Governor to steer towards them, so the Governor understanding the fokens, guided thither. The Prince Claveryndo and his uncle Armineo, standing on the hatches ready to welcome the Prince Brandizel, between whom therewas showed tokens of great good will, and each made much of other as two faithful friends.  
But questioning about the Knight of the Sun, the Princes Brandizel declared the manner of their parting, and the danger wherein he had left him. This caused great sorrow in them, for they loved him as dearly as any father his children, or any wife her husband. And to assuage their grief, Armineo remembered unto them the words, which the wise Lyrgandeo had spoken to the Knight of the Sun at his departure. whereby they were persuaded, that his departure by such a chance, was but for the achievement of things more worthy of him alone, and for whom only they were reserved. Now, having stayed in this Haven two days to repair their ships, when they were in a readiness, they sailed towards Babylon, where they were goodly received of the soldan & of the Queen, both very joyful of the news, as touching Persia, and the King Florions peaceable possession, and again, as sorrowful for the loss of the Knight of the Sun, and the peril of death wherein Brandizel saw him last. But in short time after, there were letters received from Lyrgandeo, containing the certainty of his safety, the manner of his escape, and the affairs wherein he was employed. Which last point bred a great desire in Claveryndo and Brandizel to stray through the world, and to exercise the feats of arms, And a while after they had rested themselves in Babylon, they brought the Queen to Persia by land, for they would no more adventure the Seas, especially having the Queen as part of their burden, and the history bringeth them on their way as far as Persia, whence, it returneth towards Hungary, to matters of like importance, wherein the younger son of Trebatio had to deal, whose prowess is no less worthy my pains, than his brother's valour is worthy of your rememebraunce, for he surpassed all other Knights in loyalty and might, being equal to Donzel del Febo in all points, as hereafter you shall here.   

¶ The Princess Briana discovered to Rosicler secretly, that he was her son.  
Cap. 27.  
THE story left the Princess Briana strangely afflicted & tormented with the double loss, both of Prince Edward her husband, & Donzel deal Febo her son, which grief no doubt had quickly killed her, had not a Nymph given her comfort at the well in the orchard, as it hath been showed. But yet it somewhat eased her melancholy, that she had the fair and courteous Rosicleer, in whose only company, she was wont to beguile her mishaps, and by his means, to forget her miseries. For he was so gracious, as that he was beloved not only of his mother, but of the other Gentlewomen also, which might not one minute spare his company, as if he had been child to every one. This Rosicleer, when he attained to the age of twelve years, removed out of the Monastery to a house hard by, where his nurse Leonardo kept, whom he thought to be his father. Here he was diligently instructed in all good literature, and in the exercise of arms, both to be able to be a good counsellor in peace, and as good a warrior in battle, over and beside the knowledge of the tongues, wherein Leonardo was very curious, as having travailed for his knowledge, through the most parts of Europe and Asia, being thereunto both wise and well learned. Rosicler was of such pregnant wit, and so ripe of capacity, that he little needed the help of a teacher, & to that which his nurse read, he added by his own industry somewhat, that he became so profound in these studies, as if he had been studied in them, all his life time at Athens. But remaining thus, under the governance of his supposed Father, till he was fourteen years of age, he then was so high and big made, that few in that country were so tall, and being at this age, he was able for strength to do that, which three Knights together, were unable to do. The Princess knowing of his strength forbade him her father's Court, and would not suffer him to forego the Monestary, for she feared, lest the King hearing of his towardness, should inquire after him, and so retain him in his service. For this cause Rosicler thus kept in at this age, and thus strong, became very sad, for his so strait enclosure, as if he had professed already a vow in some cloister, and his mind ever ran upon his desire to be made Knight, to the end he might experiment the adventures of the world, and learn by proof, that which he had often heard by ●chearfull. hereunto having no hope nor help by his restraint, it abated his cheer, and increased his sadness. Leonardo his nurse marking in what plight he was, often demanded the occasion of his heaviness, but could by no means wring it out of him, and so one day talking with the Princess, he told her, that unless she found a remedy for her son, his thought would annoy him. The Princess very pensive at that which Leonardo had told, commanded Rosicleer to be brought before her presence. Rosicler coming into the presence of the Princess, kneeled down, and humbly asked what was her Grace's pleasure. The Princess bidding him stand up, spoke thus: Rosicler, thy father Leonardo telleth me, thou art never merry, now therefore open to me, the cause of this thy heaviness, and if thou wantest aught which thy father cannot supply, utter it freely, and I will provide thee of the remedy to have thee contented. Rosicler hearing the words of the Princess, kneeled down again, and said Madam, I kiss your hand, for the sovereign grace you show me, in having such compassion on my grief, and I am well assured, that if it were for any thing whereof I have need, your Ladyship would furnish me of i●, as hitherto you have done, but if I be sad or solitary for any thing which grieveth me, it is not for need of any necessary provision, for I thank your goodness, I have had it hitherto abundantly considered by your Highness, without my speaking. But it is, for that in respect of my age, the life which I now lead, is more like a Gentlewoman than a young man, which made me deinte to be dubbed Knight, and to wander abroad for to seek adventures. Now, for that I know your ladyships pleasure to be the contrary, as neither willing to departed without your licence, nor daring to utter my desire unto you, I cannot do less but be sorrowful, for I want the remedy of satisfying. When Rosicler had thus said, the Princess feeling already in him, the heroical stomach of his father Prince Edward (as she thought) and calling to mind, the continual casualties of knights arrant, burst into fears in great abundance, which occasioned great ruth in the young Rosicleer, but that he durst not demand the reason. After a while, the Princess to withdraw her son from his thought, or by some means to remi● his grief and to comfort him, stretching her arms over his neck, said unto him. O my son Rosicler, already thy valiant heart doth manifest that, which so long time for mine honesty sake I have concealed, this it is, that thou art the son of my Lord and lawful husband, the Prince Edward, begotten in wedlock, but my Parents unwitting thereunto. Thy father's likeness in other qualities thou dost well resemble, albeit his favour is clean out of my remembrance. Thou canst not be content with the life which thou now leadest void of all danger, but covetest to be made Knight, and to jeopardy thy person, in the search of adventures as thy father did. This if thou dost so that I may not behold thee every day, from that time make account of me as dead, for my great misfortunes, together, with the double loss both of thy Father and thy Brother, in that order as thou hast known, hath by thy only presence been borne out and supported, and now, deprived of this support, must I not yield my back to the burden of continual woe and misliking?  
Behold then my child, the extreme grief, wherein thou findest me, and for that as yet thou art young of years, do away this affection for a time, and hereafter when thou shalt be of more strength, and better able to undertake the enterprise of arms, I will so travail, with the King my Lord, that he shall dub thee Knight, and thou shalt have Horse and Harness at my charges, conformable to thy estate. In the mean while, rest thee here, for it may so be, that I shall in that time bear some news of the prince Edward, or of Donzel del Febo, which if it so fall out, then shall thy absence be less grievous unto me. When Rosicler heard the secret, which the Princess his mother bewrayed unto him, he was well apaid as touching his thought of being made knight, before, the baseness of his foster-father, hanging in his light, and now he reckoned the rather to undertake the highest exploits, whereto his heart drove him, and kneeling down before her, he kissed her hand, for the secrecy which she concionated with him touching his true original. His mother by the outward joy he made, supposing his former thought to be put out of conceit, was very glad, but the Princes was deceived in him. For Rosicler hearing himself to be named the son of so mighty Princes, if before he wished to be made knight, either of a wanton delight, or for some greater occasion, now he thrusted greedily after knighthood, as thinking himself bound in conscience to advance his lineage in the right of his parents, and his care increased how to steal from thence. This care he covered the best ways that he might, and stayed with his mother, comforting her in all that he could, until that the Princess went to her lodging, and he returned with Leonardo, who only heard that which the Princess had declared. But from that time forth, as I say, he canvased in his thought too & fro, the secret means of his escape, which he thought, (though perhaps at first it might wring some tears from so tender a Princess,) yet in process of time would as well dry them up, his valour making amends for his sudden departure.   

¶ Rosicler departed from the Monastery of the River, without the knowledge of the Princess, his mother.  
Cap. 28.  
LIght days after Rosicler knew himself to be the son of the Princess his Lady, he abode with Leonardo, casting how he might convey himself from thence, without the knowledge of any man. In the end one night all the household being on sleep, his lodging standing in one corner, severed from the gentlewomen's chamber, he took a sword which his nurse had given him, and out of a window looking into the garden, he daulted down, and coming to the porters lodge, he requested an horse of him, whereon sometimes before he had ridden, saying unto him that his Lady the princess had sent him on a secret message. The Porter believed him, & saddled an horse, commending Rosicleer to God, who from thence road so fast, that by the morrow he was beyond hue & cry. Before noon the princess sent for him, but he could not be found, then the Princess guessing what it might be, was so sorrowful that it little failed of her death, which assuredly she had not avoided but that there came to her remembrance then that which the Nymph had foretold her in the fountain of her loves as concerning her losses, and so with some little linger hope for the return of Fortune, banishing all delights, she shut herself up close in the Monastery, more like an observant vowess than a stately Princess, whence also she never departed, until that God had permitted her to recover her husband, as shall be told you.  
But to return unto Rosicleer, being neither sick nor well at ease, between the concert of his mother's grief, and the hope of being made knight by some adventure. He gave himself unto the quest of seeking Prince Edward and Donzel del Febo his brother, and therefore his intent was to pass into great Britain to see the king Oliverio his grandfather as he had heard, and by some good hap to be made Knight. In this journey he made to great haste, that in short space he e●●●●ed into Almain, & there travailing by the ignorance or the way, one da●e he lost himself amongst the mountains which were thick of tall wood, and other lower husk, seeming to he no way unto him, and he strayed so long not finding his way that the Sun was set ere he knew how to get out, wherefore having no other remedy, he climbed up to the top thereof to take a view of the place on each side, and he saw beneath him a deep and large valley as it were a mile from thence, environed with steep and high hills, in which there were some castles and other buildings very fair and goodly. Now that it was night, and that this was his only refuge, he made his horse easily descend the hill, at the foot whereof he espied a savage Bear, running from the Town with a child in his mouth of two years old. The child cried so pitifully that Rosicler took great compassion of it, and seeing it even at the point to be devoured, he ran his horse with great fury towards the Bear. The Bear nothing affrighted, at the noise of the horse, stood still with his pray in his mouth, and he so glared with his eyes, setting his foremost paws for his defence, that although Rosicler spurred him, his horse yet would not approach nearer. Then Rosicler alighted, and fastening his horse to a tree, with his sword drawn went toward the Bear, and the Bear seeing him to make towards him, let the young child fall upon the ground, and began to buskle himself to the fight with such a loud groan, as he might have feared a right good Knight, but Rosicleer as it were dedicated to greater purposes then to be murdered by a Bear, was nothing appalled at this, but when the Bear snapped at him to have gripped him between his arms, he gave the Bear a blow cross the rains of the back, that the Bear almost hewn in sunder fell dead to the ground. Rosicler by and by wiping his sword in the grass put it vp●n his sheath, and to the child he went which lay crying on the ground, being also in his seeming both beautiful and pleasant, and therefore likely to have been taken from some of those castles in the valley. By the time Rosicler had ridden a mile in the valley, he saw therein situate many castles and edifices so near together, as that the valley seemed to be well people, and taking his way to the nearest, he saw two young men and an old man, with battle axes in their hands, & in their armonr ride in great haste as somewhat disquieted, as they came near to Rosicleer, & saw the child whom they sought for, they were very glad, and well eyeing his good proportion and beauty said. God reward you fair Gentleman, for you have rid us of a great part of trouble which we should have suffered in seeking the child, and we pray you on your faith how you come by him. Rosicler saluting them courteously told them, that the child was carried by an ugly Bear, and that he was feign to set the child free by slaying the Bear. The men more amazed at this, gave him great thanks, and certified him that the most ancient in that company was the child's Father, and that the other two were his brethren, and that they walking on the battlements of the Castle, the child stood at the porch, from whence the Bear had carried him, and neighbours espying it had told which way the Bear ran, upon this we prepared ourselves, although we are sure that if you had not succoured him before, we should have come to late for rescewe. Rosicler then delivered the child to the Father, whom the Father kissed with so great love as if he had seen him newly raised from the dead.  
Then the ancient man making his preface with a great sigh said. Beautiful Gentleman, if you knew how plentifully God hath bestowed his blessings upon us on the one part, and how justly he hath scourged us for our offences on the other part, you would not so highly commend of the fruitfulness of the soil, as greatly bewail the misery of the inhabitants enduring such torments, as were never greater in the land of Pharaoh. What great visitation is this said Rosicleer, you make me muse on it. This plague replied the old man, is so insupportable, that divers times the indwellers have forsaken his Country, and abandoned themselves to wind and weather, to avoid the inconvenience of this place, but for that all my living lieth here, and in other places I have nothing whereby to maintain my degree, I drive out my days here in sorrow. The valley of itself is fat, delectable, and wholesome, and so large that it containeth more then. 2000 castles, and other houses, all divided as you see. But I pray God our fullness of bread be not our just undoing, as it was to the Sodomites. For we had a Prince and Lord over us in times past good and gracious, but as God hath provided for our misliving, in our time very cruel and vicious, he hath to name Argion, who according as his power by reason of his exceeding wealth which the country yieldeth is not to be contraried, so I believe of life he is the most perversed and wickdest under heaven. For among other his devilish & detestable customs which he ordinarily observeth, & besides the impoverishing of his poor tenants, racking them shamefully to enhance his treasury, and besides the daily ransoming of his neighbour's lives & goods at his pleasure for every little displeasure conceived against us. This is one the most ungodly of all, that every week he enjoineth us to find him a gentle woman for his carnal liking. This use he hath frequented this four years, so over-awing us and murdering such as make denial, that now there are none to make resistanuce, and his fact now gorwen unto an habit by our patience perforce, and his force in spirit of our patience, is nothing strange unto us, that now all of us obey his hest in being bawds unto our children, so that it would rive a man's heart asunder to hear the fair damsels curse the light into the which their parents brought them, only to fulfil the shameless lust of so tragical a tyrant. And to my share it is fallen, that having one only daughter, the fairest in all this valley, since she hath been fifteen years of age, I have every day expected her sending for. If I ought could remedy it. I would either murder my daughter or banish her my country to release her of so great an infamy: but Argion is so wicked and devilish, that this will not suffice him, but rather if he be defrauded of his bargain, we shall all die for her sake. Here the ancient man was so overtaken with grief that he might not utter a word more, his name was Balides. Rosicler angered at the heart to hear of the malice of the wretch Argion, would have given away the possibility of his livelihood to have been made knight, only to have set the land free from so intolerable slavery, and therefore he appointed with himself when he were made knight in England, to return hither, and to wage battle with Argion. And so till devising of such things, he came to the castle of Balides, where he alighted & was friendly entertained by the ancient man's wife, & the young gentlewoman their daughter named Lyuerba, both greatly praising Rosicleers good favour and feature of body, but much more his courage when they understood that he had delivered the child by killing the Bear. Rosicler seeing the Gentlewoman fair and proper, and yet very sad, for that Argion had sent her word that he shortly looked for her, was greatly moved, and the rather for that he knew not how to acquit her. Balides at his first coming in, commanded the supper to be made ready, in the mean while taking Rosicleer a side to a window opening into the valley, and questioning with him of his birth, and of the adventure which brought him thither. Rosicler answered, I am borne in Hungary, and I am to travail about my affairs into great Britain, and being on my way this morning I lost myself in the wood, which was the occasion of my hither coming. In good time came you this way said Balides, for by you I have recovered my son, and talking of such like matters, they passed the time till supper was ready.   

¶ Rosicler in Lyverbas name slayeth Argion, and removeth the jews.  
Cap. 29.  
THe supper being ready, Rosicler, with Balides, his wife and children sat at the table, but there was little discourse at the board, save that the beautiful Lyuerba felt so great grief in the remembrance of argion's message, that in am of meat, she fed on tears, and her parents helped to bear a part with their sighs, which made it a very melancholic supper unto Rosicler. And in the neck of this, ere the cloth was taken up they heard great rapping at the gate, & looking who they were, they saw more than .20. knights & other serving men, with torches in their hands at the gates. Those of the house demanded what they would, one of them answered. Tell Balides that Argion our Lord hath commanded us to bring Lyuerba by and by, for he tarrieth for her to have her company this night. O how unwelcome was this arrant unto the parents, & how pitiful unto the Gentlewoman, which sounded at the hearing of argion's name, & all the household wept bitterly. Rosicler for company moved to great pity, with the best courage that he might, to give remedy unto this outrage, devised a present shift, & bid some of the servants to tell those which were without, that they should stay a while until the Gentlewoman were in a readiness, & after that, that she should be sent unto them. Then he made the costliest apparel which Lyuerba had to be brought unto him, & clothed himself withal, making for his head a perwicke of Lyverbas hair, & binding it with a little chain of gold, so that being thus readily arrayed, he was so beautiful as no gentlewoman thereabouts might parage him for grace or favour. His host & hostess were amazed in beholding him so well bear out the credit of a gentlewomas, in his disguised habit, neither yet knowing what he meant thereby, nor yet minding to learn it of him unless he first declared it. But so soon as he was thoroughly arrayed in this wise, he softly rounded his host in the ear, saying. My friend, your mishap and the thraldom of this land hath had such force over me, that having hope in God which brought me hither, I will take upon me to be Lyuerba, & will go with these knights to the castle of Argion. When I am alone in his chamber, I will behave myself, God willing, that I will free you from this man's tyranny. Or though I be slain in the execution of this enterprise, yet it were a small damage in respect of so great a cure. But I would have you Balides, your sons, and your other acquaintance and friends to arm yourselves likewise, and lie covertly a little from the castle, where if you see that I make you any tokens by the light at a window, make account that Argion is slain, and be not afraid to come near the gates which I will set open for you, and so with little ado we will make ourselves Lords of his castle. When this is done, we will publish it abroad to the inhabitants of the valley, which being certain of Argions, death will rise to our succour. Balides looked wistly upon Rosicleer, and wondered at his courage, for he being so young, it was in his fancy for the boldest match which he had heard off, yet though it was impossible as he thought to come to their purpose, for that he saw how willingly Rosicler had made this offer, he consented to call his friends, esteeming it far better to die in such a quarrel, then to see & suffer so great a mischief. The Gentlewoman Lyuerba being made privy thereunto by her father kneeled down before Rosicleer, and shedding abundance of tears said unto him. The God which created both heaven & earth grant you fair gentleman so good hap, that both this land may be acquit from this tyranny, & I delivered from this villainy. The knights which were without hasted to have the Gentlewoman with them, & so Rosicler putting sword under his kirtle closely and surely, that it could neither be perceivied, nor fall from him, he took his leave of Balides, his wife, and his daughter. Balides wishing him well and commending him to God, accompanied him to the gates where the knights were attendant, and there poured out so many tears to the outward sight as if it had been his daughter. The people without having a glimpse of Rosicleer by the light of the Torches, took him to be fairest Gentlewoman which they had ever seen, and very glad to bring so good tidings unto their master, they set him upon a palfrey provided for the purpose, only they were aggrieved at the time which was so short that they could not sufficiently gaze on her. Their whole talk by the way ran upon this, that it were for Argion more convenient to detain her for wife, than every week to seek a new, and laughing at their own devices they came to argion's Castle, being very great, and of building the most sumptuous in the valley, as it had been a king's palace. In this they entered, and helping the feigned Lyuerba from her horse, they lead her up a pair of stairs into a chamber where Argion awaited her coming. Rosicler keeping a demure and sober countenance, drove Argion into a great amaze at his beauty, that greedily beholding him he arose from the place where he was set, and embraced him in these terms. You are welcome hither my Lyuerba, for you make me right glad to have your company, and for that your beauty is more than the rest, I will do you more honour then to others. The feigned Lyuerba countenanced out his counterfeit with grave behaviour, only fixing his eyes upon the ground, without answering a word, save that he thought upon his purpose, which he knew would be somewhat dangerous, in that Argion was strong, fowl, and fierce of look more than ever he had seen any. Argion took him by the hand, and placed him next himself, demanding first how her parents did, and from thence he fell to more amorous delights, still staring on Rosicleers beauty, which thoroughly kindled his lust, and he desired her to unclothe herself, and to come unto him, into the rich bed. This supposed Lyuerba framing a shamefast and bashful look, with a loud voice, gently answered him, that unless he commanded his servants to avoid the chamber and the doors to be fastened, she would not be seen naked in that company. Argion taking it to be an argument of great honesty, did of his clothes first, and leapt into his bed, commanding his people to go out, and shut the doors after them. They lighting a great candle set on a candlestick of silver went out, and there remained only this Lyuerba with Argion, leisurely uncloathing herself, to delay time, and that the servants should mistrust nought, by hearing a bustling in the chamber, first she put off her upper gown, then to her petticoat, and so she stayed a while, Argion calling on her to dispatch quickly, as if the greatest part of his delight had been to come, Rosicler thinking it now time to discover himself, and that the hour was already come, wherein God almighty would the wicked Argion to be chastised, cast off his long garment, and turned himself into his doublet and hose, and having his sword drawn, he came to argion's bed side, saying: Come out of thy place where thou art thou foul lecher, and come to rejoice thee of Lyverbas love, for very bitter shall this night's rest be unto thee. Argion which beheld him, rose up lightly, and taking a sword which hung at his beds head, went towards Rosicleer to have catched him in his arms, but Rosicleer with his naked sword watched him so, that he smote the neck from the shoulders, the head beating against the wall, and the body falling headless to the ground. This done, Rosicleer quietly sat down in the same place, and thus remained till the greater part of the night was spent.  
Balides now in this time had not forgotten his charge, and having talked with more than twenty of his friends as concerning their intent, he easily persuaded them to this enterprise, so having them in his company, with his sons, he lodged near to argion's Castle, only looking for a sign, which Rosicleer should make them out at a window, which when Rosicler, had for a time neglected, they suspected the unlikelihood of the fact, and had retourned-closely to their homes, if that Rosicleer had not then taking the light in his hand, opened the doors of the hall, and showed the torch out of a window. Then they knew what had happened, and went joyfully toward the Castle. Rosicler coming down, opened the gates, so that they all entered, and lighting many Torches which they brought with them, they cast themselves into several companies to search every corner, and ranging without fear throughout the Castle, when they knew that Argion was slain, & killing so many as they found, that in deed, though there were more than an hundred Knights and other servants within the Castle, yet all were slain before they could purvey of armour, or think of remedy, in such sort that in the Castle there was not one left to take argion's part. At Argion may the stout Lords and untamed tyrants, take example of their ends, and make it a benefit of his fall, for although God sometime forbear the wicked giving them space of amendment and repentance, yet when they can in no wise be reclaimed, his justice must of necessity correct them in the manner that both their bodies repay in this life their trespasses, with cruel death and perpetual dishonour, and their souls in the other world receive double disgrace and horror of conscience for their misdeeds. How many great Lords and tyrants have we read of, to have been in the world, and how few or none have we heard of unpunished, which can be no other thing, but that the divine providence hath so ordained it, some to be chastised for the misgovernment of themselves, and other some to amend by the terror of others destruction. Well, the tyrant Argion thus being slain with all his people, Balides & those which came with him for his great prowess in killing Argion, sued unto Rosicleer, to acknowledge them for his subjects, as they all would willingly obey him for their Lord. But he severally making semblance of great love to every party, made them to rise, advising them on this sort. That for their deliverance they ought to attribute it unto God with hearty thanks for it, which by his goodness had provided, that the evil lust of wicked Argion should last no longer. But for that they called him their Lord, he said he would be their friend, & nevertheless, sith they requested him thereunto, that he would not refuse their proffer, not for himself, but indeed to give order to that which should succeed, for the quiet government of the signory. This done, Balides sent for his wife and his daughter Liverba, with his household. They coming before Rosicleer, gave him thanks for this great good turn in procuring their safety, he received them with great pleasure, and they made merry all that night.  
The next day they devised for the publication of argion's death, which Balides to be made known to the most principal in the Valley. They all, very desirous of such news came to the Castle, where knowing the manner of argion's end, much praising the strength and boldness of Rosicleer, with all seeing him so well favoured and of so young years, they ceased not to give him thanks for the good which he had done, so that Rosicleer somewhat blushing at it, forbade them to speak more of it, but to attend their own affairs, for the Valley being so replenished with dwellers all of them were not sound, but for fear or favour were argion's clawbacks. These they had to do with all, and in the end subdued them.  
After, wanting a Governor, they besought Rosicleer to abide with them, and to take oaths or their alleagiaunce towards him, for sith that by him, they have been restored to their ancient Liberties, they thought him to be an able maintainer of their Franschises.  
But Rosicler made them answer, that at the suit of Lyuerba Argion was slain, and that he moved with pity upon her, had enterprised if for her sake, if therefore, he had deserved aught, he wished them in respect thereof, to make Lyuerba mistress of it, and for the establishment of her possession, to match her with the most chiefest inheritor of land and fee amongst them. This, if they did for his sake, he should account it not only a satisfaction on their parts for the pleasure he had done them, but also a bond for a further good turn, if it so lie in his power. They debating upon this matter, were all contented with it, and promised all their abilities to do his command. So among them, there was a Knight called Brandidonio, the chiefest of all the Valley, a proper and honest Gentleman, Lord of three great Castles, and beloved of all the Country for his bounty and courtesy, him they chose to marry with Liverba their Lady. Rosicler very well pleased with this Gentleman's noble disposition, concluded upon the marriage, so that in four days the Lord Brandidonio and the fair Liverba were created Lord and Lady of the valley, and in token of obedience, took the oath and assurance of their subjects, where they lived long time in quietness, their subjects as well at ease to have such Governors.  

¶ Rosicler departed from the valley of the mountains, meeteth with two Princes christened, and by adventure is carried from them again.  
ROsicleer remained four days in the valley of the mountains, for so it was called, to solemnize the marriage between Brandidonio and Lyuerba, whereat the tenants of the valley being present, and seeing his parsonage so tall and goodly, and joined with so good grace and gentle behaviour judged him a person rather celestial then mortal, & believed that God had sent him for their deliverance, from the miserable subjection wherein Arglon had holden them, so they reverenced and honoured him, as if they had seen in him some undoubted image of immortality. But Rosicler, this marriage being finished, having no more to do, made to assemble the greatest of the Country, unto whom he said, that he had vowed a voyage which might not be left off, and therefore now at his departure, he prayed them to accept well of his so short tarrying, and in his absence to do the honour diligently to Brandidonio and Lyuerba, which was due unto their liege Lord and loving Lady. They overcharged with grief, for the lack of him whom they loved as their nigh kinsman, laid to stay by gifts and other offence, but when it booted not, they swore faith and obeisance towards their Lord, and for a remembrance of their love, they forced upon Rosicler an horse which was Argions, a very tall and strong Horse, which he refused not, as being verge commodious to travail with, and then after this, took his lave of Lyuerba, her Father and Mother, and Brandidonio her Husband.  
Being ready to mount on horse-hacke, a younger brother of Lyverbas, called Telyo, throwing himself on his knees before Rosicleer, besought him to grant him his suit, which Rosicler willingly promised, bidding him say on. Telyo then said, Sir, sith you are to, trou●●le alone, and have none to serve you by the way, may it please you to show me the favour, as to retain me for your Squire, Rosicler well pleased with the good affection, which Telyo bore towards him, embraced Tielio with much love, and thus made answer. Telyo, thou art before hand with me, for I have given thee thy request, so that I may not excuse myself of my former promise, although I would advise thee rather to tarry at home in the delights of thine own nation, then to put thyself in danger in a foreign and unknown count r●y.  
Telyo gladder of this, then of a good purchase, prepared all things ready for their journey, and took his leave of his Father, Mother, and kinsfolk, who were nothing miscontent of his choice, for that the company was such, as every one could have wished his room. Rosicler and Telyo took on their way, neither speaking to other, for the thought of their so loving parting from their frieudes, which as yet stack fresh and green in their remembrance.  
And soothe it is, that within a while after Rosicleers departure, to the end the strangeness of their delivery, might be renewed by their posterity, and no age should leave to speak thereof, they founded an House of Roligion, with a fair Temple, wherein, at the one side of the high Altar, they erected a pillar of Marble, very fair and curious, bearing the true counterfeit of Rosicleer, with the History of Argion, the freing of Lyuerba, and all that consequently followeth in that story, so that long time after, this monument of restoring the inhabitants, was found by our age, in the pursuit of adventures in that country. Brandidonio and Lyuerba here ruled long time in peace and tranquillity, and from them descended all the Lords, which since have had the governance of that Valley.  
But from thence to follow Rosicleer on his way, the History saith, that with his Squire Telyo, he travailed so long through Almain, that he came to an Haven of the Sea, in a manner direct against great Britain, in Picardy, where there were two great and fair ships tarrying for the wind, to coast over into England. Rosicler hearing of this in his Inn, went out of his hostrie to the havens mouth, there to speak with the master of the ship, for to become a passenger, and coming thither, he saw many Knights and servants, by likelihood of some worship, pass too and fro, which made him think it was no merchants vessel, but yet he entered the ship, and there espying two Knights young men, richly appareled, and placed in two several feats, to whom, the either Knights in the ship, made their obeisance, courned his face to have gone out again. But the young Knights seeing Rosicler, and greatly delighted in his beauty and comeliness of parsonage, called to him, Rosicler courning towards them mand is we reverence, as unto so great estates. The Knights receiving him with as great courtesy, demanding of him gently what countryman he was, and what he sought there Rosicleer looking upon them, very sadly and soberly answered. I am come my Lords from the Valley of the mountains, and I am desirous to see great Britain, for my affairs which lie in that Country, whether as I have learned by others, your ships are prepared, I am therefore to beseech you, to do me the pleasure, as to grant me passage in your company. They well contented withal, for that he was a young Gentleman excelling in beauty all those which they had seen, told him they were willing thereunto, and that if he needed aught unto this iournes, they would minister unto his wants. Rosicler gave them many thanks, for this their courtesy: but they demanded farther how he was called, and of what lineage he came. To the first, Rosicler answered, that his name was Rosicler, and minding to cut off the rest, he desired them to spare him for the other at that time, and to content themselves with this, that he now came from the valley of the mountains, wherefore they believed, that he was naturally borne there.  
By this means, Rosicler was entertained with these Lords, and grew farther in acquaintance with them▪ that he knew the one to be Bargandel the Bohemian cousin german to the Emperor Trebatio, and eldest son to the King of Bohemia, the other to be the Prince. Liriamandro brother to the Princess Briana, both of them of his night kin.  
The Fortune which linked and conjoined these Princes in this amity, was this. The King of the great Britain, called Oliverio, considering that the loss of the Prince Edward his son, noised through his Empire for fifteen years space had so appalled the courages of his Knights, that neither feasts were made, nor turneyes proclaimed, nor any disports used with Gentlewomen in his Country, whereby to fire the hearts of young men to the deeds of arms▪ But that either all of them overcome with grief, and mourning still for his son, forsook to wear armour, or else, such as their own good natures pricked forwards to try adventures, departed out of his Realm, in other Regions to become famous, so that the Kingdom of England was very naked of able Knights to defend it, whereas before it was best known in all the world for knighthood and chivalry. The King I say, wisely casting of these things, did not now so much lament the lack of his son, as fearing the inconvenience which might ensue by the want of good Soldiers, if any enemy should arise, provided against this mischief, on this sort.  
First, taking the advise of his counsel therein, he caused to be proclaimed through every Shire and Market Town, that such Knights his subjects, as either were already departed, or now were in mind to depart the realm, and to serve in other Prince's courts, should return to their homes by a day prefixed in the schedule, upon pain of his high displeasure. This Proclamation divulged abroad by the sound of a Trumpet, as many as hoard of it, either by their friends Letters, or by the rumour spread in other Countries, resoutned speedily, so that the King in a solemn triumph, taking the muster of his special knights found himself sufficiently furnished.  
Now, the second care was, how to detain them at home, and for this he devised with his counsel to make a high feast in the City of London, with jousts and tourneys, for all knights adventurous both Englishmen and foreigners, and to ordain such prizes as might invite noble Princes thither. This thus agreed upon, the king Oliverio a year before that these feasts should begin, directed his letters to all Princes christened, and other wise as far as Turkey, certifying them that he had appointed jousts to be holden at his city of London, and prizes for the best doers, and that thither it should be free for all knights to come and try their forces. The price was a massy crown of gold all set with pearls and precious stones, valued by all men's deeming at the price of a great City. The news hereof by the king's letters spread over all Countries, enticed these two Princes likewise, being but of young years to crave to be made knights by their parents, and to travail to wards England. So having obtained their purposes, either of them prepared for his journey, and met together at one time in this haven, neither of them knowing other, nor of their intents. whereafter they had knowledge ●a●h of other, and had concionated about their enterprise, they determined to go together as friends, and had stayed three days for the wind ere Rosicleers coming, whom good fortune drove unto the same coast, there to make an assurance of perfect friendship between these three, like as she had erst done between Donzel del Febo, Brandizel, and Claveryndo. This knot between these three being the more insonable, as both it hath more hope of succour by the greater number, and represents in my fancy the figure of a triangle in Geometry, with this Posy. Every way the same. This amity by degrees increased as their acquaintance augmented, for Rosicleers conversation was so good, that they were very glad to have his company, but they lost him, ere they had thoroughly found him, and as no pleasure in this world may dure, so at the time when these two Princes most joyed in Rosicleers company, their pleasure was overturned, and their delight converted to mourning.  
For the next day the wind blowing▪ very calm, the mariners hoist up the Sails, and plied their tackelinges so merrily, that with great liking of them all they road easily, yet not so as they could attain to the Haven, in good speed, but that one evening when the moon shone bright, and the waves of the Sea were still and quiet, the two knights with Rosicleer between them, leaned over the sides of the ship, rejoicing all three at the brightness of the stars in the firmament, & at the delicate rumbling, which the wind made in the bottom of the water. This was so pleasant unto them, as that in this contemplation they spent the third part of the night, about which time they heard the cry of a Gentlewoman as it might be in some distress. Then they looked about them, and espied a little Crayer coming towards them, in which there was a wild man, for making a Giant, fierce of countenance, and all hairy of body, of manners savage and cruel, having in the one hand a knotted club with pikes at the end of iron, so heavy as a less man could not life it: and in the other hand haling a fair Gentlewoman by the hair, her face all bloody with the blows he gave her, and punches with his feet. The Giant still cried. Turn thy Boat thou false and traitorous enchantress, or I will make thy life to answer it me, in that thou hast kept me so long from it. The Gentlewoman never answered him, but continually prayed unto God for succours. This they both heard and saw easily by Moon light, for the Boat approached to their Ship, and the two other Gentlemen were much abashed to see so wild a Giant so near unto them, for they had never seen his like before. But the noble courage of Rosicleer could not be so countermanded by the Giants hugeness, as to suffer such villainy towards any Gentlewoman, and therefore setting his foot upon the side of the ship, and taking his sword in his hand, he leapt into the Gentlewoman's boat.  
Nature as it were willing to manifest her own works and to discover the secret graces, which she before had covered in his comely parsonage. For so as if he had long time experimented the danger of conflicts, boldly he took upon him this adventure. At his first coming into the boat he struck not the Giant, but with great moderation and more discretion than was needful (but that he was very circumspect, and in all things lowly) he said unto the Giant. Leave of Giant to entreat this Gentlewoman in this sort, and way well, that it is geeat shame to a man for to lay his hands upon a woman. The great giant little respecting this courtesy, left the Gentlewoman to have taken up Rosicleer, and to have thrown him into the water, but Rosicler perceiving him, put his naked sword poignant before him.  
The Giant rashly ran upon the sword that it entered a little, and therefore mad angry at his wound, he gave back, lifting up his great Bat with both his hands to drive at Rosicleer. But Rosicleer as destined to greater exploits, watching the blow, start aside, and closing with the Giant thrust his sword into his guts. Rosicler pulled out the sword hastily to have given him another blow, but the Giant fell upon the planks gasping for breath: then Rosicler stepped unto him, and with main force tumbled him over shiphoorde, where he lay drenched in the Sea.  
All this the two Princes beheld, and wondered at the great courage of Rosicleer, but not a little diseased in that they could not help him. For when he leapt into the Gentlewoman's Boat, they cried aloud to their Knights to let down their Ship boat into the water, but it could not be, before that the valiant youth had drenched the Giant in the sea, and that the Gentlewoman's boat road with such swiftness as in short time they lost the sight of it, with so much grief unto both these Princes, as they might scarce speak the one to the other.  
For when they compared together the shortness of time in which they enjoyed him, and in that short time the great prowess which he had showed before them, they could not easily ascertain themselves, whether they had dreamt of such things, or seen them waking. But if so be they were not beguiled either by a dream, or some fantastical illusion, I dare warrant they thought that in regard of that which God hath wrought by him, he could not be but of a noble estate. Well, when there was no hope of following, they haled up their boat again to keep their course towards Britain, having hope to meet him there, otherwise appointing with themselves, if they there failed to go in quest of him.  
I may forget to tell you of his Squire Telyo, but you may easily think of his pains by the love he bore his Lord, and I will leave him to your several considerations of yourselves in like cases, being far from your Country, and farther from your friends whom you have preferred before your Country, the rather to accompany these noble Gentlemen unto the coast of England, which in their way still kept on their former ditty, ever talking of Rosicler, either commending his good grace, or bewailing his departure, or blaming their own misfortunes, or extolling his strength, and ever the foot of his song was, what should the swiftness of the boat mean, and our sudden acquaintance? Unto the depth whereof because they could not reach, thereby to quiet themselves, their sorrow redoubled by misjudging the worst. In the end, the Wind was so good that it set them on land in the great Britain, not far from London, where the King was restaunt. Where as soon as they came on shore, before they presented themselves to the King, they dispatched out one of their ships with some of their knights and Telyo Rosicleers Squire to coast the same way which Rosicleer was gone, to the end if Fortune were so favourable to bring some tidings of him. Afterwards themselves with the majesty that doth belong to so great princes, took towards the great city, viewing on every side the great assembly of people, all the fields and high ways besides towns & hamlets taken up for knights, as well strangers as natural, and an infinite number of Ladies and Gentlewomen, coming only to see the turnayes. The two Princes sent two of their knights before hand to give understanding unto the king of their coming. The king glad to have the presence of so noble Princes at his high feast, with a great train of knights met them without the City, and coming towards them, embraced them with great love. The story leaveth to recount the words of courtesy which passed between them, and saith that they entered into the Palace with the king, & were lodged in one quarter thereof, himself keeping his new guests company that night, and talking with Liriamandro as concerning his daughter in law. At whom he learned the whole state of Hungary, with the appendices as touching that matter, which in some respect made him very sorrowful to hear of the continual affliction wherewith Briana tormented herself in the monastery of the river. And he was as greatly abashed to hear that in Greece they knew as little of the Emperor Trebatio, as in England he heard of the Prince Edward.  
Then Liriamandro espying the king somewhat inquisitive, proceeded farther with his talk, in declaring the adventure which had joined him and Bargandel, and how that they two met at the Haven with a Gentleman called Rosicleer, and so consequently of the battle with the Giant, the king hearing of so many virtues in Rosicleer, as Liriamandro did his uttermost to set them forth, greatly wished to have seen him. Here the story leaveth the King and these Princes to the providing of things necessary for the tilt, and goeth on with Rosicleer, whom these Princes left upon the main sea.    

¶ Certain accidents which befell Rosicleer after his departure from the two Princes.  
Cap. 31.  
ROsicleer made an end of the battle with the Giant, and the Gentlewoman so well revenged by his means, kneeled down before him to have kissed his hand, and to give him hearty thanks for his great friendship showed in working her delivery from the terrible Giant. Rosicler took her up, and demanded of her what she was, and by what adventure she was brought into the Giants hand. The Gentlewoman answered. Know my Lord, that I am named Calinda, Daughter to the wise man Artimedoro, of whom peradventure you have heard speaking before this time, inhabiting in an Island not far from hence in the midst of the sea, which may never against his will be seen of any body. This wise man my Father having sent me on a message in this boat to a friend of his, Lord of an Island not far hence, my Fortune was such, that when I returned by this Giants Island, there entering on land for fresh water, I was espied by this Giant who made to me to have taken me, but I fled towards my boat, which I could not recover so soon, but that he entered with me. But as he showed to land, my boat drove backward into the stream, & had lost the sight of his Island. The cruel Giant seeing this, and thinking that I had done it by my knowledge, would have killed me, and entreated me in such sort as you saw. Now as for the lightness of the boat sir, I believe saith the Gentlewoman, that it is guided by my Father's Art, and that we are on the way toward his Island. Whereat Gentleman I beseech you take no thought, although you have lost your company, for I doubt not but that by my father's cunning you shall be joined, & then my Father shall serve you loyally, for the mercy you have showed me.  
Rosicler much wondered both at the Gentlewoman's speech, and at the giants cruelty without good occasion, and especially at the incredible swiftness of the boat, sailing in the sea faster than a bird flieth in the air, which made him judge Artimedoro to be a very wise man, in that he had so great authority over the Sea. And therefore he rejoiced himself upon hope to see the wise man, at whom he might demand some news as touching Prince Edward his Father, and Donzel del Febo his brother. And for that he questioned with the Gentlewoman many things as concerning her Father, of whom he learned many things.  
Now as they talked of these things, the boat stood still as it had been sanded. Rosicler much abashed thereat looked on every side what it should be that stayed it, and gauged the water with a pole, but he perceived nothing, wherefore he thought the peradventure under the boat in the place there lay some Adamant stone, of the virtue whereof he had read before times that it draweth iron unto it, and stayeth the Ships which sail over it. And as he was much perplexed in his thought, not knowing how to remedy it, he saw before him a little Island, the freshest and most delectable that in his life he had seen, and the Boat already fastened to the bank. Then the Gentlewoman bade him not to fear, but to come out on land, for the Island which he saw before him was her father's Island.  
This was strange unto Rosicleer, to see the liquid Sea so soon converted to selide earth, but he made not strange to come on land at her bidding. Where by and by the wise man met them, a man by seeming very aged, his beard all white and reaching to his waist, with a little white rod in his hand, as some token either of his honour or profession. The wise man for the great pleasure he had to see Rosicleer, said unto him on this wise. Right noble and most worthy Rosicleer, you are welcome unto this my Country, for by your coming I have been more at my heart's ease, then during my life I have been, and many years past have I longed for your presence. For although I knew for a certainty that hither you should come, yet the time when I knew not, which hath hitherto been concealed from mortal men; and only made known to God himself. I knew likewise so soon as my daughter Calinda was borne, that she should be set free from cruel captivity and perpetual dishonour by you only, but the manner how, was not revealed withal, only that it should be when the providence of God directed by his will, committed the execution thereof to Fortune. Thus may we men for all our cunning neither alter the course of things appointed by destiny, nor yet find other remedy than is permitted by the foreknowledge of God. As this my Daughter could never have been saved but only in that same manner as you gave her succour. The reason was, because my knowledge could not wade so deep as to foresee every thing concluded by destinies, the self same thing being subject under the line of destiny that I should not perceive it. So my daughter went on land unto the Giants Island, which I neither foresaw to prevent, nor could have prevented if I had foreseen. Yet that which was in my power, I so ruled the boat that it came to your ship, thereby to have relief at your hands for my care: This have I told you at large the inability of our cunning against the influence of the stars, whereby you may perceive how much I am beholding unto you the rather to make bold upon my service, if in any respect either my art or my armour may do you pleasure.  
Rosicler attentively listening unto the wise man's discourse, in the end gave him great thanks for his so liberal offer, promising likewise the service of his body, for other thing had he nought, to do his command in any matter reasonable. With this the wise man took him by the hand, and lead him toward a great and beautiful palace seated upon the shore. Rosicler with a curious eye gazed on each part of the Palace, so situate in an unknown Island, and was never content, for in deed, the subtlety of the workmanship surpassed far the craft of masonry in our days. But here he abode two days with Artemidoro, served of delicate vyandes, and strange devices, able to quicken a dead man's stomach, being here better pleased with his entertainment, than he was ever otherwise.  
One day sitting at the board with Rosicleer, the wise man espying him occupied in his thought, about his journey to England, sported with him in this sort. Rosicler, I see well, this Country breedeth not such things, as may content your appetite, & I hold you excused, for your desire coveteth after Mars and martial feats, wherefore as my learning showeth me, your lust carrieth your stomach into England, there to be knighted. Truly fair sir, you have good reason thereunto, for the time is at hand, wherein your knighthood must be manifested. But for to do you honour, I myself will attend you thither, in respect, both of your friendship passed towards my daughter Calinda, and other greater matters to come, which I hope shall be accomplished. I know not in deed the time when it shall be, neither the manner how, but this I know, that by your means I shall once escape the death. Now as well for your own sake, being for the very moment of your birth, illumined with more than mortal graces, as I have already engrossed the dolorous life of the Princess Briana, so will I be also the Register of your acts, to enroll your memory in the Records of Fame, that it shall be maintaineable, against all Counterpleas, and forged Evidences. This will I do foryou, besides the perpetuity of my service in other matters. And for your Brother Donzel del Febo, he hath already found a Chronicler (meaning this by Lyrgandeo) such as his worthiness meriteth.  
Rosicler tickled at his talk, touching his brother Donzel del Febo, bowed himself thankfully, and requested him to go on, saying. Right honourable. Sir, seeing you have entered into this discourse, I pray you continue it, for I knew nought as pertaining to this my brother, save that he was lost in the Sea being very young, & I have hitherto thought that he had been dead: and sith nothing is hid from your knowledge, I pray you likewise satisfy me in the same manner, as concerning the Prince Edward my Father, that I may seek him, if there he hope of finding, on this earth.  
Most noble Prince, answered the wise man, you draw me unto a long tale, and in some point nothing pertinent to you. But know for a truth, that the Gentleman of the Sun your brother is alive, already Knighted, and for his first prizes, he hath achieved such marvelous deeds of arms, as that it staudeth you in hand to bestir your ●e●fe if you mind to be matchable, being the only man as yet unparagonized through the world. He is now in a Country, where without knowledge of his Estate, he is notwithstanding, much praised for his parsonage, the Region far distant from this our Climate, that if you put yourself on the way to seek him, your pain should be infinite, and as I can learn, peerless, for ere that you pass out of this Country, he will come to seek you here. Now, as to your demand touching the Prince Edward, whom you call your Father; I do you to wit, that he was dead before that you were begotten, and that the royal Princess your mother, now destitute of an husband, shall in time recover her lawful husband, and you shall know your Father, for the greatest and mightiest Prince christened. Furthermore, because it is forbidden me to discover of the great secrets of God, until it be his pleasure that all men shall know it, I may not answer you, but the event shall witness with my Prohecie. Now, will I make ready for your passage into Britain, for there must be showed the first flower of your manhood.  
Rosicler was greatly confused in his understanding, at the words which the wise man spoke, being yet plain and easy, and he able to make English of every word, but the cause was, for that he was unable to find out the true sense, which this divinity carried, being repugnant to his former belief. So hacking and jesting about it to make lykelihoodes of impossibilities, and examining every point by itself, yet could he never be settled, nor make good construction of it. For his Mother told him, that Prince Edward was his Father, the wise man delivered the contrary. And if his Mother knew his Father, then how could his father be dead ere he was begotten, and how could his Mother recover her lawful. Husband, being dead, and how could his Father become such a Monarch after his decease, and so forth.  
Now if he gave credit to the wise man, yet no man better knoweth the child's Father then the mother. So that for reverence of the wise man, and to reconcile his mother's words with the wise man's reed, he framed to himself for that time a new article of belief, that one thing might be, and not be. Yet time found out a better solution of this Sophism. For this time seeing it was no reason to importunate the wise man upon this matter, it contented him to know for a truth that Donzel del Febo his brother was yet alive, and he gave him hearty thanks for the courtesy he had showed him herein. But for his voyage into England he left that to his direction, sith he perceived his meaning therein. The wise man said it should be so provided for as best beseemed his honour.  
The third day after when all things were in a readiness, Artemidoro brought out of his armory a rich armour and gave it to Rosicleer. The armour was framed so cunningly, as for workmanship, cost, and secret virtue, it excelled all that I have seen. It was closely wrought, curiously engraven, enchased with precious stones, and above all, this efficacy, that it resisted the edge of all metal, this effect proceeding either from the stones, or the examination of the ascendants in the forging thereof. The colour of the armour was all white, well fitting for a new Knight. Artemidoro gave at the same time to Rosicleer, a bay Courser, strong and wight of limb, which he had bought for that purpose in the Country of Spain, where the best breed of such horses were. And after all things set in order thus for their journey, taking men with them for their necessary uses, they shipped themselves in a fair Bark, sailing with great swiftness, as the wise Artemidoro had by his skill directed it, in which journey, the history leaveth them, till their sudden approach unto the Lists, within great Britain.   

¶ The great Feasts began in Oliverio's Court.  
Cap. 32.  
IN the fresh and pleasant month of May, when the green boughs, and sweet smelling flowers renew joy and gladness in the hearts of young folk, the great City of London and wide fields thereabout, seemed not less covered with armed Knights, then if the mighty hosts of Darius and Alexander had thither assembled, for the great Feasts and Iustes were so diligently published in every Region and Country, and the prizes which the King had set, were of such valour, that there came thither from divers far and strange lands, so many Knights and Ladies, as that the number of them was infinite. Now that that especially drew young princes & men of great name thither, was this. The king Oliverio had a daughter named Olivia, the only inheretrix of his Kingdom, of the age of fourteen years, a beautiful and delicate damsel, as not her like might be found in all that quarters. For the fame of her singular beauty, thither came many noble Princes and worthy Knights, to win her liking, each of them wearing so rich and acquaint devices, that their bravery in short time exiled the long mourning, which had continued in great Britain. The mirth which they made, much delighted the King Oliverio, and it joyed him much to see his Court and Country so well stored of Knights and Princes, to whom he gave honourable entertainment and countenance of good will, as well of his own subjects as strangers, and all were well content with it, highly commending of his Court, for magnificense and courtesy. The King at this time was a widower, & therefore he sought much the honour of the Princess his daughter. But to come to our matter, amongst the Knight's strangers, the two Princes Bargandel and Lyriamandro, bore the greatest stroke: next, Don Siluerio Prince of Lusitania, a young Knight & valiant in arms, already enamoured upon the fair princes Olivia, for whom he had been a long time suitor in the Kings Palace, presuming upon his birth and livelihood, that she should be granted unto him, and as it fell out, the Princess understood some part of his desire, but she was of an haughty heart and high mind, making no more account of Don Siluerio, in respect of that demand, then of another ordinary Knight, or the refuse of other. For amongst all which were already come, she thought none merited to be a peer and match for her beauty, being (as my Author saith, such in her own conceit, as if no Prince were worthy of it.) But the truth is, that the blind Boy shooting at random, had overreached his mark, as appeared in the second shot, at the coming in of Rosicler▪ In the third place there came into this Triumph, the Prince of Ireland called Argiles, and Don Orgiles Prince of scotland, and Allamades king of Cornwall, all three vassals and subjects to the King Oliverio. The fourth room was assigned to Don Brynco. Prince of Numidia in Africa, bringing from his Country many valiant Knights richly armed, and with them Albalaxes King of Mauritania, a Pagen young and lusty. There came thither also two Giants of an admirable height and fierceness, being such a terror to the poor Commonalty inhabiting the villages near to London, that the poor man's fear made them the more insolent to commit divers riots and other trespasses, before the Feasts began. This was the several countenances of the Knights of most account, but to make short, there came beside, many other knights, both Christians and Pagans, under the Kings writ of safe-conduct, which himself gave out; that never England more flourished of Knights, nor never Nation was like to England. But now the first day of the Iustes, before they should ride to the Tilt, the King Oliverio invited all the Kings and Princes to dinner in his Pallaics, where they were feasted royally, & with great melody. After the Tables taken up, the Knights went to arm themselves, and the King conducted by the ancient Lords and Barons of his Court, took up his seat in a window over the Tiltyard, and upon a scaffold before him, reared for that purpose, he commanded the prizes to be put, which were divers: for unto the Crown before spoken of, he added a choler of like valour, and many other jewels, able for the honour of attaining them, and the worthiness thereof, to animate a dastard Knight to such an enterprise. After this, the Princess Olivia coming forth of the great Palace with an hundred Ladies and Gentlewomen, mounted upon a stately scaffold very richly hanged. Among these Ladies, there was the Princess Siluerina daughter to the King of Scotland, and Rodosylua Princess of Lusitania, sister to Don Siluerio, and many other Ladies, Daughters to the great Lords of Britain.  
But in the midst of these, the fair Princess Olivia showed not less Majesty than the fresh and fragrant rose doth among the briars and stinking nettles, which notwithstanding have their commendation for their green and lively verdure. But the scaffoldé being filled with Ladies and Gentlewomen, there came the Knights in place, most of them young and shining in thou bright armour. The first that pricked himself forward to just, was Allamades king of Cornwall, a very good and tried knight, against whom there came to encounter, and other abled knight, an Almain set upon a strong Courser. In their shock, their spears flew in shivers, and the king Allamades somewhat staggering in his saddle, unhoried the Almain. After him there came ten other knights strangers more bold than skilful in feats of arms, all which, the valiant Allrmades▪ overthrew, with great pleasure to the King and all his Court. Their the King called for his Knights, with this, Allamades to give them place, voided the lists, and there entered. Argiles Prince of Ireland, which with eight several courses broke eight spears, and overthrew eight knights.  
After him, Don Orgiles prince of Scotland came, whom when Argiles espied, not minding to disturb him, he road unto the lists end. Orgiles without being moved in his saddle cast down twelve knights, and then followed his follow▪ Argiles. By and by Don Siluerio came in with a guilt armour gorgeous to behold, and his Horse barbed with cloth of gold, cut upon silver Imagery, being a lusty and valiant Knight, and as the thoughts of the Princess Olivia emboldened his courage: so beside, the haughtiness of his stomach contemned all other Knights, in respect of himself. In his journey, he dism●unied twenty Knights, within less than half an hour, so that many thought, he would win the honour of that day. But strait way there pressed forward the two Princes, Bargandel and Lyriamandro, having in their company more than two hundred knights, with their Heralds crying before them, Bohemia, Bohemia. Hungaria, Hungaria. The two Princes road upon fair and strong Coursers, richly armed as became their Estates, their lustiness being inflamed by their loves, for since their coming to the English Court, they were esprised with love, Bargandel of the Princess Syluerina, and Lyriamandro of the Princess Rodasylua, and having obtained the good favours of their Ladies, they pained themselves to be as bold as the bravest. So finding the Tilt empty by Siluerios departing, they pranced forward till other Knights came against them. And either of them in their turns before they lefie the lists, overthrewe at the least thirty Knights a piece, so blazing their prowess by the force they showed, that the King and other beholders changed their opinion, as touching Don Siluerio. Upon this, the two Princes glad of that days travail, and vaunting themselves before their Mistresses, made room for others to do their endeavours. After these, the valiant and hardy Knights of the English Court, came in against the strangers of other countries, where the English men so behaved themselves, as that days honour was theirs.  
Now, as the King was in talk with his Lords, about the glory which his men had gotten, and every man was attentive to that which was before him, suddenly there was heard a great cry amongst the people, on the back side of the lists, no man knowing what it meant. By and by there came forth a tall Giant with a train of more than twenty Knights upon a stone horse, which groaned in a manner under his weight. The Giant commanding his Knights to stand a side, went alone to the window where the King was, there raising up his Beveare, and forcing out a terrible look, without other reverence, he spoke on this wise. King Oliverio, I am Brandagedeon, Lord of the islands Baleance, and am hither come because, of the prices which thou hast appointed for the best doers, I am well known in all the Heathen Country, for by the power which my Gods have imparted with me, there is no mortal man that may gainstand my puissance, and for that this day thou shalt have some trial of this truth, behold before the night be shut in, there shall no Knight of all these which are here keep his saddle, unless he keep himself from me. And so in great pride, as you may presume by the course of his speech, he uttered this, and pulled down his viso. Then with a great Spear in his hand, he took the one end of the pale. This his coming was nothing pleasant to the king, for since his arrival in that kingdom, he had done many outrages to the poor subjects of the land. And the king feared least the knights of his Court, should not be able to maintain their honour against him. Now this monstrous Giant had not stayed there long, but that a valiant knight a Britain called Brandaristes made a sign unto him.  
These two ran together, and in their shock Brandaristes with his horse fell to the ground: but the Giant nothing diseased, held on his way toward another Knight, by name Brandidarte, a Britain too, a brave Knight and as bold as Gawayne, but the Giant welcomed him like as the other, and thus in short time the Giant proving himself upon more than an hundred knights, of the hardiest, both strangers and English men, he made them all to descend from their horses, that the king Oliverio was much disquieted hereat, and would have bought out the giants presence if he might, for more than London is worth, even for the pity which he had upon his knights, not possibly able to withstand this Giant. The king Allamades beholding the king's countenance sad, and guessing the cause, would needs adventure the honour which he before gained, upon the vanquish of such a Giant, and taking a fresh horse with a choice Spear from the ratier he road to Brandagedeon, whom the Giant met so forcibly that Allamades lay on the ground, and Brandagedeon dressing himself in his saddle passed on. By and by Orgiles Prince of Ireland set upon the Giant, which somewhat estonished him: but nevertheless Orgiles hap for himself was in no other manner than his fellows. Then came in Don Argiles to take Orgiles part, and fiercely encountered the Giant, but to the same purpose. Now was Don Syluerio ashamed before the Princess Olivia to have tarried behind so many good knights, and therefore forcing his courage to please his Lady, upon a light courser he ran against Brandagedeon, and his fortune was so good, that he made Brandagedeon to lose one of his stirops and the rains of his bridle, but Brandagedeon quitted this with more than a tolerable usury, for he carried him beyond the crupper almost a spears length, which disgrace before his Lady Olivia made him wood angry, and willingly would he have challenged the combat, if both leisure and place had been convenient. Not long after the Prince Bargandel gathering his forces at the beholding of the Princess Syluerina, went to encounter the Giant, either of them being well heated, but diversly, as arising of diverse causes, but their strengths increased by their hearts, made their shocks so terrible, as neither part had great advantage. The Giant fell upon the crupper of his horse, and road the length of a carrier ere he might arise again. Bargandel fell to the ground, with his horse under him. This made him hang his head, and stirred up his friend Liriamandro for his succours, which caused Brandagedeon to embrace the saddle how, himself being clean lift out of the Saddle by Brandagedeon the Giant, and Liriamandro lay on the ground to complain him of his mishap before his mistress Rodasylua. After these there was none left so hardy, as to dare encounter Brandagedeon, which caused the king and other Princes to look ruefully, and the Giant to bear himself as insolently, for when there was none left, he lift up his voice in these terms. Come forth, come forth, ye knights of the great Britain, and either know what the force of Brandagedeon is, or if you dare not appear, send me the prizes presently, for to none of the world they do so rightly appertain as to me, and this saying, he galloped up and down in the place, expecting either some Knight or the prizes. The King seeing none come to answer his challenge was very angry, and would have given his best town to have had a Knight which could have quailed the Giants courage, and for very grief he turned himself from the window, till the sudden shout of the people, caused him to look out again.  
Then he espied the people flocking together towards one corner of the list, and in the midst of them an aged man with a long white beard riding softly on a Mule, and bearing the countenance of a very wise man. After him he saw a Knight well harnessed in white armour, richly beset with precious stones, so that no man in the place had the like, his Helmet had a fine plume, and his horse the like, the pommel of his Saddle of Goldsmiths carving, and the seat all imbroudered with gold and silver. Every thing belonging to the knight so brave and lusty, that none now but gazed on the stranger. After him a good distance there road a Gentlewoman an easy pace upon a palfrey, driving before her a sumptuous horse.  
The Gentlewoman coming near unto the Palace alighted, and unlacing her male, spread a fair Tent in the plain, made all of cloth of gold, with such strange devices, as neither king nor Kaiser in the world but might have vouchsafed it for himself. But that which was most commendable, was the most excellent and brave conceits with needle work, which could never have been wrought but by an exquisite Sempster, as indeed the wise Artemidoro was the workman. Now to make short work, when the pavilion was pight, Artemidoro leading Rosicler with him unto the king, spoke on this wise.  
God increase thy royal estate king of the great Britain, and advance the credit of thy whole Court. Wit you most puissant Prince, that from mine Island I am hither come with this young Gentleman, that he may be knighted by your own hands. And albeit that so great a courtesy neither he nor I have merited of your majesty, yet understand worthy king, that for his lineage he is such a one, as not without reason he may crave to be dubbed knight of so mighty a Prince as you are. And I dare warrant moreover that it shall not be ill bestowed on him, as yourself shall testify in short time, although you shall not thoroughly enter into the consideration of his valour, till that his death be published by report of his drowning, and that much blood shall be spilled to the greater praise of his prowess, to the contentation of your person, and to the profit of your royal estate, and be it my tale seem incredible, yet I beseech you to remember it well, for I will avouch the event as I have told you. Retain him therefore sir King in your Court, and believe that the time shall come wherein you would lose the best part of your kingdom to have him near you. But to the end, this Story now averred by me, may carry more authority with your worthy person. Know that this reporter is Artemidoro, of whose knowledge you have heard before. For with my skill I have done service to such great Lords as you are. Artemidoro here making a reasonable pause, began again on this wise.  
Sir king, with your majesties leave, we have here pitched a tent in the name of the Gentleman, as a challenge against all comers, after you have made him Knight, the first, which shall unhorsed him, shall enjoy his tent, the value whereof shall content him for his journey, and here staying he said. Sir King I have done. King Oliverio all this while not lending his ears idly, as to a fable in a winter's night, but weighing every point, looked upon Rosicler, and well thought that his parsonage might agree with Artimedoros' commendation, but yet as half in a doubt as touching himself, he made the wise man this answer. Assuredly Artemidoro with this demand or any other which you shall require, I am very glad that you take occasion of coming to my Court, for by the brute of your fame I have long time wished to see you: but to send for you indeed I was never minded, because as I hear, against your will no man may speak with you. And to make you answer, I am in purpose to satisfy you, as well for your own sake, as for this Gentlemans, whose behaviour seemeth to be such, as without your report, he cometh sufficiently commended unto me, I promise you here to make him knight with mine own hands, and I beseech God he prove no worse than you foreshow me, Rosicler and the wise man both bowed humbly on their horse backs.  
The king bad Rosicleer to alight, which dismounting from his horse, ascended by a pair of Stairs to a little scaffold before the King's window, where kneeling down in the sight of the whole multitude, he received the order of knighthood at the king's hands. The king demanded where the young Knight should receive the sword, and the wise man answered, that he should stay for that till he could conquer it. Then after his duty done to the king, Rosicleer returned to horse back, and with a lively grace so demeaned himself upon his horse, as that it well pleased the beholders. Now for that which followeth, you must intend that the wise man uttered his speeches to the king in the audience of the whole multitude, many knights and other compassing him about to hear his arraunt, so that few or none but were partakers of it. Amongst them was Brandagedeon, bearing himself within the lists, as proudly as the Cock of the game doth in the Cock pit, when the craven is chased. Then hearing that the tent was put for a reward to him which could unhorsed the young knight, when he saw time he cried aloud to Rosicleer, saying.  
In good sooth new knight, thou bewrayest thy folly and lack of experience, when thou sawest me stand in this place with my spear in my hand to make that challenge, which shall not be in thy power to maintain so surely, but that I will be the master of thy pavilion, & yet God's blessing on thy heart for bringing so fair a jewel, being indeed fit for me then for thee. Rosicler whose courage never tainted, answered as shortly. It shall be thine Giant if thou winnest it, and there shall no man forbid thee the possession of it if thou overthrow me. And without more words he took a great Spear from the ratter, and turning his horse head, he road softly to the place where the jousts were kept. In his way thither, Rosicler lifting up his eyes to the Scaffold of the Gentlewomen, he saws the beautiful Olivia standing directly against his face, exceeding no less the other Gentlewomen in brightness, than the Moon excelleth the stars in a frosty night. O poor Rosicleer, what a look was that which locked thee from thy rest, for with her beauty thou wast wounded at the heart, that albeit in time the skin overgrew it and the flesh healed, yet the scar remained: and never knight in the world loved more loyally than thou didst. For though the sight was short and the blow quick, yet the wound was deep and the smart cureless. O full many a bold enterprise didst thou achieve, ere thou gainedst a reasonable guerdon for thy great good will. And thou fair Princess being within the hearing of the wise man's speech, didst not spare to lend thine ears to another man's tale, and shine eyes to another man's bravery, that thy succours being far from thee, thy heart had not the power to repulse thy adversary, love being the only occasion of thy unrest. But Lord what alteration both of you felt by the interchange of your looks, which served likewise for messengers to tell your tales betwixt you.  
And yet I cannot deem but that this love so enraged his courage against Brandagedeon, as otherwise I may think he had not done so well. But coming into the place, he addressed himself towards Brandagedeon, both of them now being in a readiness. The King at this time very sorrowful to see the new Knight in his first battle to endanger himself upon a Giant, and would have talked with Artemidoro about this matter, but the wise man gave no answer, and to the end not to discover more than was behoveful, he conveyed himself out of the king's sight. So the king held still his opinion of the young knight's weakness, till the issue disproved his thought.  
For in the carrier when the two knights met in the midst of the Tiltyarde, the giants Spear burst upon Rosicleers head peace, no more moving him with the blow, then if he had stroke against a wall. But Rosicler hurling at the breast of Brandagedeon overthrew him and his horse to the ground, the horse in the fall, bruising the Giants shoulder, that his Knights were feign to carry him out of the preale, whereat all the standers by with great admiration beheld Rosicleer, every man being a Prophet as his heart gave him, that Rosicler would prove the best knight in the world, seeing that at his first encounter in tilt, having never had to do with any knight, before be had overthrown so mighty a Giant.  
The King now thought that Rosicleer had well amended the great corsie which he had taken at his knights disgrace, and the other Knights were glad to have that huge monster rid away, bolder and willinger valiantly to adventure themselves against Rosicleer then against a Giant, and their courage was the more, for the richness of the tent which had inveigled their conetous minds to venture the purchase. But as the knights entered to just with him, he overthrew them all, being more than an 100 knights, without that any man was able to sit the second journey. Then the king's knights entered, by name Brandaristes, Brandidarte, Allamedes, the Princes Argiles and Orgiles, Don Brunio Prince of Numidia, & other, all which he threw down so lightly, as that they might not turn one course more that day. Some held more tack with him as you shall hear hereafter, but by the way the king turning to his Lords, spoke on this wise.  
Truly my Lords, if I had not myself seen the valorous deeds of this Knight, I should hardly have credited another, so incredible the truth is that one should work such masteries. I would the justs were ended that I might see this knight unarmed, to know him, and honour him as is reason. True it is answered his nobles, and for his valour there is not so puissant a Prince in the world, but that he shall have cause to be glad of his service. This was a breathing time for Rosicleer, but yet I am persuaded that it was no playing time, although no enemy appeared, for he had a greater conflict within his bones, than he professed outwardly, and therefore his heart neither fully assured, nor yet in danger, gazed upon the beauty of Olivia. Whereby the fire entering closely by the veins, wasted and consumed his flesh, sooner than he felt the flame or could think of remedy: but better considering that he was within the compass of loves signory, and that his matter was to be tried at the great assize in loves dominion, he took better advisement, to alter it to an action upon the case of covenant against his mistress, the matter arising upon exchange of looks as you have heard. And for this cause he entertained Sergaunt hope to be his Lawyer, and féeyd divers others to assist him, but master Despair an old stagger had won the day of him, had not the whole Bench, and especially the chief justice Desert, stayed upon a demur, which relieved much Rosicleers courage, and made him look more freshly, upon hope to find out better evidence for recovery of his suit.  
But as Rosicler thus plied his cause at the Bar, so gentle Cupid attended upon his Mistress, faithfully serving him, and beating into her head the remembrance of his acts, and the beauty of his parsonage, that the windows of her desire being set wide open, she viewed her fill, wishing yet to see his face, thereby to comfort herself, if his visage were answerable to his virtue. Now Don Siluerio with an envious eye, minding to interrupt this medlea, provoked Rosicleer to the lists, which Rosicleer refused not. Rosicler shaked somewhat in his saddle, but yet without danger of falling, and Don Siluerio with his Courser tumbled to the ground, so evil entreated, as that he was fain to forsake the lists. The Princes Olivia remembering his former importunity, was nothing aggrieved, thinking thereby his suit to have slaked, the rather to delight in her new champion.  
By this time, the greater part of the afternoon was spent, and very few remained in that place, which durst ride a course with Rosicleer, albeit the number of Knights were more than three thousand. But last of all Bargandel and Lyriamandro willing to prove themselves upon the new Knight with great courage, which the sight of their Mistresses caused in them, rid both against Rosicler, and in their way as they two strove who should be first, Bargandel giving the spurs to his horse ran against Rosicleer, Bargandel in his race hit so strongly, that his spear flew in pieces, but Rosicler knowing Bargandel by a devise that he had, and mindful of his former courtesy, when he came near him, raised up the end of his spear, and road by without touching of Bargandel.  
Bargandel not feeling his adversary thought that he had miss his rest, and therefore taking another spear for the reencounter, he road again towards Rosicleer, but Rosicler did as he did before, whereby he clearly perceived the knight's intent to be for to spare him, and waxing mad angry he avoided the place. Presently stepped in the Prince Lyriamandro, to whom likewise Rosicler so behaved himself as unto Bargandel, albeit himself was well stirred with these shocks. Lyriamandro as mad as Bargandel, to find a friend without occasion, and not knowing his meaning, road after Bargandel, where both of them departed to disguise themselves thinking to beguile the Knight, if peradventure he had had some knowledge of them. Not long after, the Trumpets blowed the retreat, and the Iustes should have ended, when these two Knights entered with yellow plumes and guylded armour, their horse trappings all of yellow, and parting company, the one of them ran against Rosicleer, whom he met so strongly, that their spears flew in pieces, neither of them being unhorsed, whereat all the people were dismayed, for no Knight that day but was overthrown of as many as Rosicler had encountered. But these two Knights road again the second time, and as with more choler, so with fiercer stomachs they met, that Rosicler turned with his horse more than four paces backwards, having much a do to bring him forward, and the strange Knight lost his stirrups and fell to the ground with his horse over him. His companion took his room and ran twice against Rosicleer, neither of them losing their seats, but at the third encounter he fell to the ground as his fellow did, Rosicler a little diseased in his saddle, recovered lightly. The yeolowe Knights thus overthrown mounted on their horses to return the way which he had come, sore displeasant at the little harm they had done unto Rosicleer, but they beshrewed themselves for the further attempting of his acquaintance, and musing who it should be, they remembered themselves of the young Gentleman Rosicler and of his great prowess, whereto themselves were privy, thinking that perhaps it might be he, but yet because of his young years, they removed this thought again, and could not well judge who he was.  
Then the King commanded every knight to leave off, at which the noise of the instruments were heard so loud, that the whole place rang of the sound thereof. Olivia now minded to descend with the other Ladies, wherefore the Knights and other Princes flocked together to give their attendance, among whom, Rosicleer as forward as the best in good will, presented himself unto his Mistress, which pleased her not a little. Entering into the great Court of the Palace, they there alighted, where the King welcomed them, making several tokens of courtesy to every one, and coming to Rosicleer he desired him to be at his appointment for that night, for that he had great desire to see him unarmed. All the rest gladly obeyed, but Rosicleer with his bevere shut, requested his Majesty of pardon, for that it behoved him to disarm himself in his Tent, till the wise man had permitted the contrary, and so saying, he took his leave of the King, entering into his Tent, where he found the wise Artemidoro, which with two Pages abided his coming.  
When Rosicler was within, they drew the curtains so close, that Rosicler was not seen of any, and then helped to unarm him. After the tables were covered and the board was furnished of all delicacies which Artemidoro had thought on, the wise man himself being both Cook & Cater. Rosicler sitting down, gave him hearty thanks for his good provision, but in deed his stomach was full with the Princess Olivia, which had so possessed his entrails, that the dainty dishes did not a whit delight his appetite. During this time, the Princes and the Knights which supped with the King, highly ertolled Rosicleers worthiness, each of them being desirous to know him, for they all judged him to be of high parentage. Thus was this night bestowed till the day came, wherein they were to expect fresh matter of discourse and tabletalk.   

¶ An adventure which chanced in King Oliverio's Court.  
Cap. 33.  
THe next day after divine service finished, the king invited to break-feast all the Knights, and that done took his place in that order as you have heard before, looking that some strange Knight should just with the new knight. Now when the place was peopled with both gentle and ungentle, and that the Princess Olivia was placed on her scaffold, in came Rosicler, mounted upon his courser, & vaunted himself as joyously before his mistress as if he had not feared the skirmish with ten Giants, but that which liked the Princess beft, was a conceit devised in the pencil of his spear, being a burning torch, the ware dropping from it, signifying thereby the misery of lovers, with this posy underneath in Roman letters.  
Extinguo & Extinguor. After Rosicler was thus entered many strong and valiant Knights, such as had not jousted the day before, desired to try themselves upon the new Knight, especially Albalaxes King of Mauritania, who upon hope to be Lord of the rich Tent, took a great spear, and with all his force ran against Rosicleer, but Rosicler was not taken so tardy in the receipt, but that he met the valiant Pagan with such strength, as horse and man tumbled to the ground. Rosicler road on somewhat troubled with this encounter, and ere he was well set in his sadble, there ran against him another Pagan Lord of Busia, but Rosicler sinely unhorsed him, and in the same course ovetthrew four others, that there was not a knight lefie to dare him. At this time he tarried sometime awaiting for new comers in, but there was none. Only at a corner of the lists, he saw a huge Giant in white armour upon a great Courser, with a hoarse and disdainful voice, commanding the people to make him room, and not far from this Giant, a gentlewoman upon a palfrey in strange attire much different from ours, her face was all bedewed with tears as if the Giant had used violence towards her. The Giant approaching to the place where the King stood, made no reverence: but the Gentlewoman kneeled down, saying. Know most excellent Prince that the renown of this Court, hath brought me from far Countries hither, chief for one cause, which the wickedness of this Giant hath now made two, the original of them both you shall hear now under one. In the farther part of the East near unto the great Cataya, there governeth a Princess named julia, as yet but young of pears, but not young for handsomeness, héeing now as it were in the pride of all her beauty. Her Father was a right cunning Magician, instructing her so perfectly in his skill, as now therein there are few comparable. For since his death, she herself divined by her knowledge that she should be prisoner to two Giants, and should be enlarged by one Knight, which should fight with them both. For the case should stand thus, that if her Knight were vanquished she should as perpetually captivate be at their command, otherwise to be at liberty if they were yelden. Herself foreseeing this, and not finding who he might be, hath provided by her knowledge not to be beguiled: for by her Art she made this sword, which no Knight may ever unsheath, but only he which must fight with the two Giants for her lyhertie, and beside, the sword is such as without it, it were an hard adventure, but with it the Knight may boldly venture on his foes. The sword she made and kept, close till time these two Giannts by night assailing her, got the Lordship of her person, after which time by a trusty servant, she caused this sword to be conveyed unto me with this command, to travail for her sake in all Prince's Courts, and to seek out the Knight, which could & should maintain her quarrel. Three years are passed since I under took this enterprise, and within this three months landing in an Island towards the West, after a long journey to no purpose, it was my fortune to meet this Giant Candramarte, there making him partaker of my suit, he requested to prove the adventure, which I granted: but when he could not draw it out, being covetous of the sword, he denied it me again, saying. For so much as you go to the King of England's Court, there to seek some Knight, which will do his devour in your mistress behalf. No man shall attempt the adventure of the sword, but he shall first try his forces upon me, and if by him, I be vanquished or slain, let him take the sword, other wise I will with hold it from all men: with this he promised to bear me company, and I of two-evills determined to choose the less. Albeit at this instant I am in greater extremity, by reason of this Giants wrong done to me, and my mistress thraldom. This is the necessity which drove me hither, and I am humbly to beseech your Majesty, discreetly to weight my cause, and to give remedy by your subjects as you best may.  
Candramarte all this time standing by, in the end, averred her tale to be true, and farther intimated to the Knights and Princes, that seeing he could not draw out the sword, there should no man be master of it, but by the mastery of him: but saith he, I will defend it against any Knight which shall demand it. All the Knights beheld the sword with the rich hangers, as the fairest which they had seen, but the King somewhat angry at the Giants rudeness towards the Gentlewoman, said to him in this manner.  
Candramarte thou hast done ill to take this sword from the Gentlewoman, for as it seems julia made it not for thee, and thy pride is over great to suppose, that none in the world will demand it of thee. The Giant angerly looking upon the King as though his eyes would have flien out of his visage, said to the King. Demand it then thyself sir King, or set any of thy knights to ask it, and I will then make answer unto thee how rashly thou hast taken upon thee to correct me. These speeches were delivered with so high a voice by the Giant, that all the knights which were in the compass heard it, but no man spoke a word, so that the King's choler increased both against the Giant and his own subjects. And I must bear with them, for the Giant was great and tall, and as hardy as a Lion, and no man living very near matchable for so good Fortune: but yet there way within the lists both a hardy and more fortunate Knight, even the good Rosicleer, which overhearing his undiscreet talk unto the King, coming near unto the Giant, took him up in this sort.  
Candramarte, content thyself, and learn to know unto whom thou speakest, for I tell thee that King Oliverio hath such Knights in his Court as can make thee amend thy rusticity, though thou wert more untaught than thou art, and for that thou shalt not mistrust me, behold I am the last and the least of them, yet as one which desires to serve him with the most. In his name, and in behalf of the Gentlewoman, I charge thee surrender the sword unto the Gentlewoman, or if thou wilt not that, do thou take that part of the field, which shall best like thee, for in this quarrel I will either kill or be killed. With a terrible countenance Candramarte stared upon Rosicleer, as who should say, darest thou speak so boldly, and perceiving him to be but a young Knight, which he noted by his white armour, in great scorn he answered thus. I see well foolish Knight thou hast not been long acquainted with the burden of armour, for if thou wert in thy kind, and had well weighed the success of Combatons, thou wouldst shake every joint of thee to behold me. But thy ignorance makes thee leap beyond thy lash, and thrusteth thee forward to thine own decay. But seeing thou hast made choice thyself of thy deathsman, let us go to the battle, for I would not but that thou shouldest repent thee of thy foolishness. So Candramarte broached his horse with the spurs, and Rosicler did the like, which appeased the King's displeasure, that he knew not how to recompense his for wardness in doing him pleasure, albeit it may be if he loved Rosicler, that he somewhat mistrusted the event because the Giant was big and Rosicleer unexercised in arms, and that which was chiefest without a sword, but for remedy thereto, he caused a sword of his own to be fetched, wherewith he charged a Knight to deliver it to Rosicleer with this commandment. That seeing in his name he hath so well fitted Candramarte for his answer, and for that cause was to take the battle upon him, now he prayed him to wear this sword likewise for his sake, which he would warrant to be good. The Knight did his message accordingly, but Rosicler making his excuse gently, returned the sword with this answer, I humbly thank the kings Majesty for so high a present, the not receiving whereof cometh not of any refusal but by a promise which I have made, as his Majesty can testify, never to wear sword, but if I win it, and therefore I crave pardon at his majesties hands for this discourtesy, otherwise I were greatly to blame, if I thought not myself honoured by being girt in a King's weapon. The messenger delivered Rosicleers answer in the same words as Rosicler had given it out, so the King somewhat lamenting the knights wilfulness, as he thought, weaponless to wage battle with so abled a warrior, mused upon this and for the rest commended him to God. All the standers by were sorry to see the new knight so courageous as to fight with a Giant without a weapon, and especially the beautiful Princess Olivia could not but be an angered at the new knights jeopardous adventure, as if she had had no small title or claim to his person.   

¶ A dangerous battle between Candramarte and Rosicleer.  
Cap. 34.  
As they prepared themselves to the carrier, the people gathered together to see this dangerous fight between the new knight and the Giant Candramarte, and they as glad to see the issue, upon their light coursers with their Spears in their rests so violently hurled against the other, that the ground yielded under their feet, the force of their strong arms joined with the fury of their horse, in such wise that the Giant made small shievers of his great Spear, and constrained Rosicleer to take his pillow on his horse back, but the new Knight gave the Giant so mighty a blow that he made his stiroppes fall from him, and quickly closing with the Giant he drew him by force from the Saddle, and threw him to the ground, so that he somewhat bruised the giants shoulder bone, and presently would have turned again upon Candramarte to have made a dispatch of all, but that the Giant being of great courage, and enforcing himself to endure the remnant, got on his legs, and addressing his shield before him, with his Fawlchon in his hand awaited Rosicler, for so soon as Candramarte was down, Rosicleer then alighted and sent his horse to his Tent, Rosicler now being on foot made towards Candramarte. Candramarte first assailed Rosicleer with these words. What knight thinkest thou to fight with me without a Sword? What if thou hadst a better then this which I wear of the Queen Julia's making, were all the Gods able thereby to warrant thee out of my hands? No, and thou shalt déerelye repay me the pain which thou hast put me to in this fall. Rosicler coming nearer answered. Candramarte spare not to do thy uttermost, but cease thy revilings, for God which gave me might to overthrow thee, will also give me power and strength without other weapon to subdue thee, and although I bring no sword with me, yet I hope in the living God that thine shall profit me, and serve my turn. Then the Giant was in such a rage that the fury of his choler with the blustering of his breath issued through the sights of his equimas, in like sort as the smoke issueth out of a furnace. And his second assault was with his Fawlchon with both his hands fetched compasse-wise against Rosicleer, which seeing the blow coming with such force forward, lift up his shield therein to receive the stroke, but the blow was so mighty, that it hewed the shield asunder, and descending upon the head piece, made Rosicler abate his looks & bow his knees for safeguard to his fall. The Giant doubled upon him, but Rosicleer never yet daunted, and recovering his courage almost against the hare, stepped aside, that the giants blow was all in vain, & being somewhat out of charity with the first, he determined no more to receive any such counterbuffs, so that an half hour after the combat had lasted the Giant might never hit him one blow for all that he could do, For Rosicler was so deliver and quick that he lightly avoided them. Candramarte seeing that Rosicleer would not abide by it, chased him up and down, and Rosicler lead the Giant a course likewise: but so that the king and all the lookers on judged that if the battle should endure long, that the new knight might never escape the death. Rosicler assayed many times to couple with the Giant, and to pull the Fawlchon out of his hands, but Candramarte was so wily and so well advised of the words which Rosicler spoke in the beginning of their battle, that he either kept himself aloof off, or in his pursuit bore the point of his Fawichon before him: but by this means the battle continued to the no little discontentment of Rosicler. For although his armour was such that no weapon might wound him on his body, yet was he sore bruised with travail, and his bones were in a manner softened with the weariness he had felt for the length of the battle. As the one gave lightly, so the other pursued eagerly, but as I say, never fastening a right down blow, but as he might overthwart and end-long, slipping his blows, and in his pride boasting out these and such like speeches.  
O knight how costly shall the challenge of Queen Julia's Sword be unto thee, if for it thou must exchange thy life? Hadst thou not been better never to have been at this mart. But now know what valour Candramarte is oft, for not all the world are of that credit with me as to bail thee out of my hands. For the fitting of his action whereunto he would shake his heavy Fawlchon so gallantly, and roar so terribly, that every man took Candramarte, rather for a Tyrant in a Tragedy, than a jester in a Comedy. And Rosicleers friends with their pitiful looks bemoaned the poor Rosicleer, as if he had already tasted of most cruel and bitter death in his green youth.  
Amongst them the fair and beautiful Princess Olivia, although as yet altogether unacquainted with Rosicleer, was a spectator, neither careless nor curious, but as one without hope, she only wished well to Rosicleer, whose bruises were as deep set in her sides, as they were imprinted in Rosicleers flesh, and every wagging of the most huge and monstrous Candramartes weapon, stuck a salt tear from her fair eyes, so was she estranged from herself & altogether become another's man's: the new knight eyeing his mistress became so desperate that he fully resolved either to close with Candramarte and wring his weapon from him, or to die upon him. And watching the opportunity, when the Fawlchon was over the giants head, bending his body stepped within the Giant, that the Giant had no other resistance but to fell him to the ground with his elbows. This was no great misfortune to Rosicleer, for albeit he was feign to bow his knees by the thrust of the giants elbows, yet couching his body closely, his chance was so good as to fasten upon the hilts of Queen Julia's Sword, which he drew out, the scabbard remaining at the Giants side. Rosicler now being ceased of the sword stepped from Candramarte, and called upon him on this wise.  
Candramarte now thou shalt see who shall have the worst bargain of queen Julia's sword, sith on even hands we shall try this combat, & with this remembering the giants former pride, he laid at the giant so thick and so sure that in short space the blood ran from the Giant in more than ten places, for the sword was exceeding sharp, and Rosicleer as fell and venomous. Now may you think that the maiden seeing the Sword bared by the Knight, was the gladdest woman in the earth, and that the king with other Princes and knights thanked God heartily, for providing Rosicleer of a weapon, the sooner to put end to the battle. But the Giant assaulted so sore by Rosicleer and wounded so dangerously, began wholly is mistrust the prophesy of the Sword, and to despair of the victory, and as in such cases wanhope is adventurous: so his armour being rend, the habergeon unmayled, and all the rivetring out of order, for that cause the Giant would needs put the trial of the challenge upon one blow. When this blow was reached as far as the Giant might, to have descended with more violence upon Rosicleers head piece, Rosicler being more quick than he, met the blow cross ways that he cut off both the Giants arms hard by the elbows. The Giant thus maimed, yelling out a loathsome cry, reviled and railed on Rosicleer as a man distraught, and that which most increased his pain, was not the torment of his disfigured arms: but either the shame of the victory, or the envy at Rosicleer, but Rosicler making little account of him, took the Scabbard from his side and so left him. Candramarte still followed blaspheming and cursing both God and man, and when he could neither be his own executioner, nor procure another to take the pains, swore, that for sparing his death, he would devise all the mischief he might against Rosicler, and that he would practise his death also, if possibly he could invent the means. But truly if I had been in Rosicleers case, I should not have been so strange: seeing, that both it should have been the giants last request, and so little encomberaunce to wards me. But the king, Princes, and knights were so toyous of the victory against the Giant, as they bare countenance of more joy outwardly, than they had erst received, every one openly desiring to see him unarmed: but chief Bargandel and Liriamandro, being in some jealousy of the knight whom they had found a friend, ere they looked for, supposing that peradventure he was Rosicleer, of whom the sudden adventure in the Sea had bereft them. And Queen Julia's Gentlewoman seeing the combat tried, and the adventurer of the Sword achieved, concluding thereby that this was he for whom she had made so long a journey, saluted him courteously with his ambassade. Now that it is evident noble Knight, that you are the person, for whose help this sword was framed by my mistress, I am to certify that my Lady greeteth you by me, and giveth you warning that for her sake you must maintain the fight with two brave giants, jointly combatant against you only. For this she hath sent you this sword, the commendation whereof, albeit not unknown lieth in the continual proof, which she requesteth you never to forsake, for it will much further you in your enterprises. Whereto I beseech you give credit & deal effectually as she hath hope in you. But now give me the sword that I may bear it to the king and the other Princes, that they may justify the truth of my former avouch. So Rosicler delivered the sword into her hands with the sheath, which the Gentlewoman brought before the King and the knights then present, which all attempted the pulling out, but could not do it, as if the scabbard had been a piece of the same metal whereof the Sword was, and not severed by edge or tool, which made them all confess, that to the new knight it was proposed, and to him appertained the fight with the two Giants for the franchising of queen julia.  
The king redelivered the sword into the Gentlewoman's hands, and bade her yield it again to Rosicleer, which she did, & taking her leave of him received this for answer. That he recommended himself unto her good grace, heartily thanking her for so great care over him, as to provide a sword, whereof he had need, as herself can witness, and for the rest he promised not to fail her as he was true knight to God and the worlds. The Gentlewoman with this recommend galloped away as fast as her palfrey might carry her, the whilst Candramartes knights removed their Lord out of that place into his Tent, whence afterward with great grief for his sore maim they conveyed him into his Island, wherein having settled himself, as mindful of his oath, he never left from imagining of crafty means, and coining new policies to bring Rosicleer to the death.  
When Candramarte was carried into his Tent, Rosicler mounting upon his horse, took a great Spear in his hand, and stood at the lists end, thinking that some knight would come against him, but they were all so schooled with the sight of this last victory, that never a Knight showed himself. Wherefore the King commanded to sound the Trumpet to proceed unto the disposing of the rewards for their travail. An Herald demanding aloud who had done best, they all referred the prices to Rosicleer. The King would not contend with them, but (saith be) I will that my daughter have the bestowing of them where she best liketh as touching this tourney.  
She with much shamefastness which her coloured cheeks bewrayed, accepted the charge, and taking the crown with the choler in her hand, she caused the new Knight to he called before her, who burning in love towards her, no less than she was servant in liking towards him, dismounted at the first call, and between the two Princes Bargandel and Liriamandro mounted up the scaffold where the beautiful Princess was, before whom he appeared with greater fear arising of his conceit concerning his indignity, than erst attached him in the fight with Candramarte without a weapon.  
The two Princes coming before Olivia, made their humble obeisance, and Rosicler kneeled down. The Princess with a good grace bending to every one of them spoke to Rosicleer. You know new knight what charge the king my Father hath laid upon me, although far more honourable than I am able to sustain, yet by me assumed, neither to resist his will nor yet against my desire, for it is commendable of itself to be a commender of virtue, and never too much may I commend it. The charge is, that with mine own hands I should distribute these prizes according as mine own fancy leadeth me to deem of every man's travail and valiancy. The delivery of these jewels, were nothing hard nor doubtful, but the disposing more than hard, because it pertaineth to judgement in deeds arms, whereunto my sex is not sufficiently abled. Nevertheless sir knight as your pains have been greatest, thereto witnesseth this whole multitude: so your prowess in my judgement, so much assureth on your part, that without doing wrong to any of these Princes and knights, I may with good reason confer them upon you. For this, if I know to do right unto whom I ought, it is meet that you do away your Helmet, and sith your deeds discover who you are, it is no reason that you cover yourself any longer. When the Princess had thus said, Rosicleer not having power to excuse himself, unlaced his Helmet, which being put off, his face seemed so beautiful by the heat and travail of the armour, which raised a fresh red in his cheeks, that it struck them all in amaze, and none of those which saw him, considering his fairness with his age, but rather judged him an Angel of heaven, than a mortal knight.  
When the Princess Olivia saw him so fair, as already love had made a wrack in the most secret part of her heart by the view of his Knighthood, so now the same breach being made wider by the second assault in his beautiful looks, love entered with banner displayed, and finding no resistance, took possession wholly of her heart, and swore all that he found to be his true prisoners. Thus lost she her liberty, and yet with the best courage that a woman might, she framed out a countenance of great freedom in this manner.  
You needed not by your favour sir knight, to have been ashamed shamed of your face, and yet such as it is, it is far inferior to your manhood, but this is beyond the compass of my commission, now come you near and receive at my hands the glory of your worthiness, which your good fortune yieldeth you. Rosicler approaching very near, kneeled down, & the Princess put the choler about his neck, and the crown upon his head. When the Princess had so done with a little stay between, Rosicler took the crown from his own head, and as he was on his knees, said unto the Princess Most excellent Princess, for the sovereign grace you have showed me, I will remain yours hence forth to serve you loyally, as a poor recompense for so rich a benefit. And as I deo receive this chollar as the price of Knighthood in your opinion, so I beseech you to take of me this crown as a testimony of your surpassing beauty in my eye. With this he set the rich crown upon the golden hairs of the Princess Olivia, she being glad of this gift, although somewhat blushing at the words he spoke. The two Princes Bargandel and Li●iamandro standing by, and knowing him to be Rosicler whom they had lost in the main sea, when the ceremonies were finished, went to him, embracing him as goodly, as if he had been their own brother, yet courteously challenging him for his unkindness, in not making himself known unto them.  
The King Oliverio abashed at so great bounty, in a Knight of so young years, began to think more advisedly of that which the wise Artemidoro had said, from that time he esteemed more highly of the new Knight, as you shall hear after this.  
But now the noise was so great which the vials made and other instruments, that one might not hear an other speak, at which time, the fair Princess Olivia with the rich crown upon her head, and in her company the Knight Rosicler with the two Princes, descended from the scaffold, & in great pomp, went to the King's Palace, the Princess leaving them there to take her own lodging, and they all entering the chamber of presence, where the King stayed for them, and after a general welcome, by name taking Rosicleer aside, he said unto him. Sir Knight, hither you are very welcome, for I have had great desire to know you, and I would to God by your stay I might as well be acquainted with you, for by you the honour of my Court hath been well upholden. Mighty King answered Rosicleer, I am rather to be borne withal, if I desire to be your servant, sith for the same cause, and for to see your court I am come hither. The king kissed the knight upon the cheek as tenderly as if he had been his own son, saying. Rosicler, I account more of these words, then of the worth of my best City, and advise thee well of these speeches, for I am to demand them of thee, if thou wilt not otherwise perform thy promise. So Rosicler was retained for the King's Knight, and all the old courtiers, both Princes and Knights of great name, ran to embrace Rosicleer, with great pleasure unto them to have his company, except only Don Siluerio Prince of Lusitania, whom a jealous thought vexed as towards Rosicler, for that he had unhorsed him in the presence of his Lady. But after this order Rosicler remained in the English Court, where he rested himself, till this sudden adventure called him forth, as shall be told you.   

¶ A Gentlewoman came to the Court from the Princess Briana, which made him follow Brandagedeon.  
Cap. 35.  
THe story recounteth, that Rosicler abode many days in King oliverio's Court, well liked and loved of both King and nobles. In which time, Rosicler gave the King the rich Tent, which the wise Artemidoro had wrought for him, wherein the King took great delight. For although he had many other, both curious for making and costly for matter, yet had he not seen in his life any either so rich or of so cunning workmanship, so that the King's good will towards Rosicleer increased by Rosicleers presence, and in that also for his company many other great Princes and strange Knights remained with the King so long time after that these justs were ended, which beginning of friendship Rosicleer and some of these Knights grew in the end to such perfection by his gracious and familiar behaviour, that neither favour of friends, nor dread of danger might with their wills sunder them from this amity. And if Rosicler had such power over knights strangers, what had he over the Princess Olivia being surprised with his love, and having engraven his Image so deeply in her imagination, that he never departed from her thought, but evermore there renewed in her remembrance his Knightly deeds and great valour, whereby she made an evident demonstration of his lineage as if nought else had been enemy to her purpose. But this fair Princess now so languished with the torment of this amorous thought and pleasant liking of her love Rosicler, that now the conversation of her Gentlewomen was yerksome, and to be solitary did most content her, forbearing withal, both her rest in sleep, and her sustenance in feeding. In which melancholy she was so far gone, without feeling of her own disease, as that nothing might ease her highness but Rosicleers presence, which bred her greater bale in his absence, by the grief galling her most to think that seeing he was a stranger in that land, he would ere long return to his own country. One day casting herself upon her bed & tossing such like things in her fancy, she sent out many a sorrowful sigh as the forerunners of this which followeth. O love, love, how well it eased me before times to hear lovers mourn, to read their strange fits, to see figured before me the variable success of their attempts, with the fearful frights of thy subjects and captives. O how well at ease was I, when being far from the fire & out of danger, I might laugh and look on, and warm me by their flame. But now not so free nor clean devoid of thought, I rue the little pity I took upon their pain, & am therefore scorched not without desert. O love, love, by whom not the féeblest only, but the sturdiest also and stoutest, are unable to quench this fire, if it please, thee to kindle it. Alas do not the wise men seem fools, and the hardy cowards, if it be thy pleasure: and dare any man confess the truth in this passion, and are not all like sick men beguiled, call sour sweet, pain pleasure, bale bliss, grief gladness, and the losing of their late liberty, the enlarging of their new franchise, to content their fancies. And thou unfortunate Olivia, art thou Princess of great Britain, the daughter of King Oliverio, the woman sued unto by so pliant petitioners, both Princes and Knights of great courage, whom thou hast all refused. No assuredly, but thou art some base and mean Gentlewoman, if the sight of one only Knight not known unto thee, hath so dimmed thy understanding, that reason is become no more defensible. Where is thy late pride Olivia, where is thy ancient pleasure, where are thy haughty looks, where lies the charter of thy liberty, where is the estimation of thy beauty, where is the excellency of thy estate. O the miserable and ever-chaungeable state of man, like unto the herbs or flowers, which the morning's dew refresheth, the noon's heat oppresseth, and the night shade encloseth in as the grave doth our bodies: being a lively moral of our mortality. Alas Rosicler, my father thinks he hath made a great purchase by thy being here, but I would to God I might be as sure heir to this purchase, as I am otherwise certain to repent thy coming hither. And yet what some ever the event be, my love commands in me the contrary. For is it not better for me to see Rosicleer, and to acknowledge the goodness of God towards man, in enabling of him to the achievement of such wonders, whereby, and by the enjoying of his sight▪ I receive such pleasure, than never to have seen him, though I lose the hope of augmenting my state. And truly befall what may, in spite of Fortune's rancour, I will stay myself upon this choice, and will not exchange it.  
Very wise was the Princess Olivia, and as the times afforded, very well learned, but yet these speeches proceeded rather of her passion, then of advised reason or good reading. And the like combat to this of contrary thoughts Rosicler endured, entertaining in his heart the counterfeit of the Princess in secret contemplation, wherein he was diligently occupied, imagining thereof the bravery of her beauty, and the great desert in her to be best beloved. But as again to the Princess in all this subjection to love & his laws, her honesty is chief to be noted, which for all that both the remedy was above her capacity, & the pain likely to overcome her patience: yet bore out the brunts thereof in such modesty rather by sufferance then striving withal, that neither could Rosicleer ever assure himself of her liking, nor any of her servants wring it out by the manner of her disease. Rosicler was so close, which in him was the occasion of farther trouble, for coveting to be alone the better to rejoice himself, and to enter more narrowly into the search of his own ability with the likelihood of his suit, he stumbled as in a blind way upon two blocks, so placed as that if he avoided the one, he must needs hit his shin against the other: For this was one. If he reavealed not his grief or not made her privy to his estate, there was nought to prefer him before another knight. Again, the other was, if he laid open his race, his supplication would lack succour. Now how could he with candle light not hazard a fall upon the one or the other. For he was persuaded that Prince Edward, brother to the Princess Olivia was his father, wherefore the near kindred was to be concealed if he looked for help, and yet the concealment was the only debarring of his hope. In this conflict he did nothing but afflict himself, neither daring to discover his malady, nor minded to dissemble it altogether, by so much the more in worse case than the Princess was, as the infirmity of her sex did lessen her pain by yielding at the first, and the magnanimity of his courage to have the mastery, did in the end make the deeper impression in his flesh, like as in nature the hardest fight is between the hardiest, and sooner shall the cannon shot deface the high towers, then break through a rampire of wool or flax, and so the issue proved in him. But being one day with the king and the other noble Princes in the great palace to beguile his solemn conceits which overcame his night's rest, he saw entering a Gentlewoman well appareled, which when she came near beewing humbly to the king, said as followeth. God preserve your majesty, most noble King of the great Britain. The Princess Briana my mistress and wife unto the Prince Edward your son, with the remembrance of her duty, craveth to be certified by your good grace what you have heard of her Lord and husband, for she never saw him since his first arrival into Hungary. My Lady also by me greeteth the Princess Oliula your daughter, unto whom she commanded me to deliver a coffer of jewels, but coming to land on the English coast, I was set upon by a great Giant, named Brandagedeon as I hear, who taking the coffer from me bad me come to this Court, here to tell a new knight which once unhorsed him, that he would make answer to none but him as concerning the coffer, and that for him he would stay at the shore, there to make satisfaction according as he was charged, I beseech your good highness therefore to send that new Knight in your daughter's quarrel against this Giant. Rosicler having known this Gentlewoman amongst those which attended upon the Princess Briana his mother in the monastery of the river, and that she had to name Arinda, was glad to have the opportunity offered to serve the Princess Olivia and Briana, and therefore rising from where he sat, he came before the king, to whom he said. Sir seeing it is Rosicler whom this Gentlewoman seeketh, & that Brandagedeon hath sent for me, I beseech your majesty to give me licence to go in these affairs, for it is out of reason to withslacke such worthy service to two so noble Princes.  
The king loath of any occasion at all to be ministered whereby he should forsake the court, lest his return would not be over hasty, for he knew well that he was nothing addict to idleness, yet seeing his importunity both to answer the challenge, and to employ his travail, in the name of these two Princes, would not gainsay his purpose, but wished him not to go alone, for that the Giant was well manned with above. 30. knights, for this cause Bargandel & Liriamandro, & other Princes & knights offered to go in his company, but they could not prevail, for he excused himself with this, that it should redound to his disworship, if he should take more company than the Giant looked for. And by and by he craved pardon to depart to his chamber there to arm himself. The Gentlewoman Arinda well knowing him, but for that time suppressing it, while Rosicler buckled on his armour, went to deliver her message unto the Princess Olivia, unto whom she told that the coffer with jewels was intercepted by a false harratour, a Giant named Brandagedeon, and that the new knight had taken upon him to fetch them again, which when the Princess heard, although she was glad to understand aught from the Princess Briana, yet was she sorrowful when she heard that Rosicleer would leave the City and would go alone thither where the Giant abid him, for her mind gave her that she should not see Rosicleer in haste, but turning from this she demanded of the Gentlewoman many things in particular touching her Lady, so that the Gentlewoman stayed with her, till Rosicler being armed called upon her. Then the Princess saith; if there be no other remedy you may go with him, albeit tell the knight from me, that I had rather the jewels were lost, than he should put himself in so great a jeopardy. Arinda said thee would do her command, and went down to Rosicler being already on horseback with his Esquire Telyo, she likewise took her palfrey, and they three road through the City of London, much gazed after by the king and all the knights and Ladies which stood in the windows and battlements of the palace, and with great sorrow pitied him to see him go alone, persuading themselves that if Brandagedeon were slain or in danger, that his men would rescue him.   

¶ A cruel battle between Rosicleer and Brandagedeon with his knights.  
Cap. 36.  
ROsicleer being thus accompanied with Arinda, and Telyo his Squire, willed the Gentlewoman to guide him on the way to the place where Brandagedon was. Arinda knowing him well enough, said. Noble Rosicleer I dare not so do. The Giant is fierce and strong and hath with him many knights, which if he have need shall help him, and then shall I see you in peril of your life. Better were it Rosicleer that you should leave this enterprise and take the way towards Hungary, there to comfort the sorrowful Princess Briana, which since your departure from the monastery hath never been merry. Rosicler perceiving well that the Gentlewoman knew him, casting his arms about her neck, said unto her. Why how now Arinda, how is it that you know me, and I have not known myself since my coming into this land? But tell me gentle sister how the Princess Briana doth, my good Lady, for whose sorrow I am much aggrieved, albeit to remedy it there were no reason in forsaking this enterprise, which I have taken in hand to do her service therein. Besides that, I am determined not to return into Hungary, before I can hear some news of the Prince Edward, whether he be dead or alive. No saith the Gentlewoman, but let this matter alone, for it were less loss that the two Princesses should want the coffer of jewels, then that you should hazard your life in winning of it, and more acceptable service shall you do my Lady in going to visit her, then in seeking out the Giant to fight with him. The Gentlewoman with all took hold of the Bridle reins to have lead Rosicleers horse out of the way, whereat Rosicler laughing a good, answered her thus. Arinda, I should get a good report in the Court of king Oliverio, if for fear of a battle with this Giant, I should turn aside from this journey, which for the same cause I have undertaken. If I were certain of more than a thousand deaths, I would not follow thy advise herein Arinda, and so spurring his horse he kept on his way. The Gentlewoman would not importune him farther, but lead him towards the Giant, where not far of they met another Gentlewoman on foot weeping very piteously. At her Rosicleer demanded the cause of her grief, which she uttered straight ways in these words.  
O sir knight, Fortune, Fortune hath frowned on me, so that better welcome should be the death than the day light. Rosicler yet requested her to speak more plainly, and to tell wherein Fortune had wrought her such despite. I will gladly saith she, and for truth sir knight I am a Gentlewoman belonging to the Quéeene of Lusitania, which sent me with a Brother of mine a very valiant Knight hither, to bring certain jewels for the Princess Olivia, daughter to the King Oliverio, and for the Princess Rodasylua her own Daughter. Now our mishap was such, that entering the shore, we hit upon a great and devilish Giant, who examining us whether we went and what we carried in our farthel, because my brother made no answer flew him, and putting me from me palfraie, took from me my horse and my farthel, over and beside with this command, to go unto the king Oliverio and to the knights of his court, there to record my complaint against him. Thus have I my Lord satisfied your request, now God be with you, for I will on to crave some remedy.  
With this the Gentlewoman parted from them, but Rosicler calling to her said. Gentlewoman, so it is that my arrant is for the same purpose to fight with the Giant, for the like trespass by him committed against this Gentlewoman here with me. If you will return with us, we shall be very glad thereof, and by God's help I shall well qwell that giants insoleucie. What said the Gentlewoman, do you purpose alone to fight with the Giant. I indeed answered Rosicler, and have hope to revenge this Gentlewoman and your brother. God mate well give you power so to do, it it please him said the Gentlewoman, but in respect of the Giants strength it will not sink into my breast that 100 such knights as you are can chastise him. Well said Rosicleer, if you will go with me, you may at leisure when you see the event deliverate what to do. If ye will not far you well, for less shall be your hope of remedy in keeping your way as you now do. Rosicler held on, and the Gentlewoman viewing his goodly parsonage, thereby persuading herself that it were but little loss to turn back with him, determined to prove his good Fortune. And as she was not fully assured in her thought, she spoke on this wise.  
Be not displeased with me, but for the love of God fair knight have some greater regard of your own safety, not to cast yourself away for the recovery of my damage, it is no great matter for me to take some pains in going with you: but it will be some grief to return again laden with a fresh complaint of a new murder. And therefore for God sake let the Giant alone. Rosicler said, I may not, but seeing you have promised your company, get up behind my Squire, and cast your care upon God, which will prevail for your ease, as best shall like him. So they four travailed towards the place where the Giants abiding was, and coming near unto the shore, they saw him hard by the water, where he sat upon a great horse, and more than thirty knights in a Crayer not far off, as if they purposed to board a tall ship. which was on float in the Sea half a mile. Brandagedeon by and by knew Rosicleer to be the new knight, by the rich armour he bore, the self same being worn by him in the justs, wherein he was hurled to ground, for which cause preventing Rosicleers salutation, with a loud and hollow voice he cried unto him Now sir knight may I magnify my Gods for that I have thee in such a place where I may be avenged of thee at my pleasure for the despite thou hast done me, and all the world shall not ransom thee from my hands. God of heaven shall be my borrow answered Rosicleer, which also shall correct thy wickedness and tread under foot thy intolerable pride and arragancie. But to tell thee my message, I challenge thee for to make satisfaction unto these gentlewomen of the wrong thou hast done them, or to prepare thyself to maintain thy miichiefe. Brandagedeon spoke no word, but signified his meaning by his demeanour, for be turned his horse head in great rage and took a bevy spear with him, the other understanding his sign, did as much. This first journey broke their staves, and made them try the rest of the battle on foot. The Giant being clean unhorsed, & Rosicleers horse giving back, so that he rushed against the ground, but the success was divers and unequal in the riders themselves. For Rosicler keeping his saddle felt no harm in his body, & the Giant thrown violently to the earth, was well shaken with the fall.  
But the combat is not yet ended, for Brandagedeon being strong and mighty held Rosicleer very hard, as indeed it could not be otherwise, for betwixt them alone the fight continued two hours, all the mean time neither part giving over; nor making any semblance of discomfiture. In the end the knight having triple advantage over the Giant, first the Queen Julia's sword which hit sore: secondly in Artemidoros' harness which held out the force of the giants weapon: and thirdly the nimbleness of his body ready both to assail stronglies and to decline as lightly from the others blow, by which means having made a wide hole in the giants armour he wounded the Giant at his pleasure.  
The execution of this challenge to so little displeasure on Rosicleers part, made Arinda think it long till she should blaze it at home in the monasteries of the River, but her pleasure was soon overcast, for there was ministered unto her a cup of cold water in steed of better liking to allay her thirst. All this happening beyond her expectation, by that giants knights, which seeing their master at such an exigent, although in no evident appearance of his end, in great fury came to land, and at once all of them with their swords fell upon Rosicler. This was no even match, thirty Knights and a Giant to set upon one silly knight, before almost tired with two hours battle against the Giant. But what thing may resist God's ordinance? The giants knights laid on with such courages, that it revived the Giant, for they were all chosen Knights, but I doubt not but that Rosicleer bestirred himself, for so many as he met, he either maimed, wounded, flew, or threw to ground. And being overawed by number and fresh onsets, he was fain for defence to his back, to withdraw himself into the Sea, there to stand in the water and receive their blows before him.  
Now Telyo his Squire and Arinda the Hungarian seeing him forced to this extremity were very woe begon, but the Gentlewoman Lusitanian as desperate of all succours by his means, galloped from thence upon her palfrey which stood by the shore, no less complaining the danger wherein she left this good Knight, then recureless lamenting the unjust death of her brother. As she had rid some part of her way towards oliverio's court, there were two knights in her judgement very lusty and armed at all points which made all the hast they might to get near her.  
The Gentlewoman coming within the hearing of them, and minding to prevent other questions, cried unto them a far off. For the passion of God my good Lords, if all nobleness and virtue be not clean buried in you, make haste to secure a Knight the best in the world, which is now enuiroved with his enemies being about thirty knights besides a Giant. The two knights with these news posted a main, & by the same way which the Gentlewoman came, in short time got a sight of Rosicleer, which at that time stood in the water against. 11. or. 12. of them, for so many were left on live of thirty persons, those also which then lived being well nurtured by Rosicleers discipline, that they would press upon him without good warrantise.  
Now by that time that the two knights came, Rosicler had killed more than twenty, leaving a passage so well trod as they might easily trace out his foot steps. At their first breaking in among the giants knights, they burst their staves upon two of them, overthrowing them, and then drawing their swords struck so lustily that the assailants were glad to leave Rosicleer, and to defend themselves against the two knights. Rosicler having so good help at hand, although he was stirred with the continual heat of the foot battle, would needs be a party player in the last act of this Tragedy, and therefore chose out Brandagedeon to deal withal, and with his sharp sword gave him so fierce a stoccado, that the bowels trailed after the weapon, and the Giant fell down. Now being thus put in possession of his desire, he came to the two knights, uttering these or such like speeches.  
I beseech you noble knights to let me know at whose hands I have received so good maintenance, that I may the better give you thanks according to the state of your degree, and your demerits towards me. One of the knights auns were. You are not to thank us, for your own hand had wrought your escape before our coming, but nevertheless at your request we are content to discover ourselves, & straight way they unlaced their helmets, whereby Rosicler knew them, the one to be Bargendel, and the other Liriamandro, his d●re friends. Rosicler after his presupposed thanks so happily stumbling on his friends help, fell to other matters, and first asked of them for what cause they came thither, they made answer that the only fear they had least the giants knights should at once enclose him, moved them to abandon the court for his rescewes. And as this talk was interrupted by the coming of the two Gentlewomen and Telyo Rosicleers squire, to demand leave of search in the Giants beat for the coffer and farthel which had been taken from them, so after the Gentlewoman with leave obtained, departed for to search: these three knights began a deep consultation of their own affairs, and what they ought to do. Bargandel spoke first in this wise. We have this month and more leitered very idly in king oliverio's Court, without exercise of arms or armour, therefore it were not mis-beséeming us knights, if we should for a time forbear our return, to practise deeds of arms, that our good name & honour may enlarge our credit in this kingdom, and be a means of the sure settling of our memories in this land, and the rather thereto am I lead, for that I will not fear any disworship or vanquish in your company. I am content saith the new knight with this or any other thing which you shall devise. But what shall we do with these Gentlewomen. Marie saith Liriamandro, they shall return to the court with the dead body of the Giant, there to present his carcase before the Princess Olivia as a token from thee Roficleer, and in part of payment for the great dishonour which the Giant hath prosfered her in withholding her jewels. They may likewise when they be there, make all our excuses unto the king for our so sudden departure.  
By this time the Gentlewomen returned with their own carriage, and what with the length of the battle, and other accidents, the day was so far shut in, that being very dark they were constrained altogether to turn into a keepers house near at hand, where they were welcome at such warning. For he knew the three knights at the great feasts, wherefore he entertained them as honourably as he might. That night not having wherewith otherwise to busy themselves, and the opportunity of the bearers, putting them in mind of their mistresses, they gave themselves to inditing every man of several letters unto his love and Lady. Bargandel and Liriamandro delivered theirs unto the Gentlewoman of Lusitania, but the other not willing to make manifest his choice for that time, took Arinda a letter closely to carry unto the Princess Briana his good Lady, & afterwards amongst other talk he required to see the coffer of jewels which the Princess Briana sent to Olivia, as if it had been only to have seen the riches thereof, Arinda gave him the coffer, which he opened, and tossing up and down as if to see all the jewels, he secretly conveyed his letter to Olivia, under all the papers, and redelivered the coffer without being suspect.  
Well to make an end, the talk had an end, & when the rest went to their rest, Rosicler fell into his ordinary humour, driving in his thought the whole order of the delivery, and her receipt, with her manner of turning over the papers to view every jewel, this being but the first assay of the humour, but when his fancy brought him to the finding of the Letter, Lord what a fight he sustained, for the better understanding whereof, you must imagine a young scholar but lately entered into school points, over seeing of his theme, before he bring it to the review of his Shoolemaister, and believe me in far greater double hung Rosicleer of his Ladies liking, than the boy doth of his masters. For in his reading of the blotted Copy, as distinctly as if he were to guess Olivia's conjecture upon every syllable, good God into what a hard censure was the poor payer subject, as if every sentence had been then arraigned before him. For almost at every lines end, he would say. Either this was too much, either this was too little, or this is maimed, or this is too rude and unlearned. or this was not well and finely penned, or that was not plain enough, or this is faulty, or this should be amended, and to draw all into a sum, in every piece he would blame either the little wit in invention, or the lack of eloquence in the delivery of the matter, but chief his own over boldness in presuming upon so high a Princess with so rude a discourse, and yet I dare say it did him good to beguile the Princess with this Letter in the colour of a jewel, which she must receive and read through, ere she should learn the contents thereof, or know the penman. And beginning to reckon a fresh after this comfort, he stayed himself upon these two points, first, that sith he was diseased, his remedy must begin by making his grief known: second, that his conscience told him there was nothing in the letter, the truth whereof he durst not avouch as concerning either his own person, or the Princesses, and this was his nights rest as I suppose.   

¶ Rosicler and the two Princes seek adventures in the land of Britain, and the two Gentlewomen carry the giants body to oliverio's court.  
Cap. 37.  
NOT much out of the same manner was the other Knight's sleep, dreaming of their delights & other such toys, but the next day they arose and armed themselves, taking leave of their host and the Gentlewomen. But Rosicler tarried behind to conduct the women a little on their way, and to have more secret conference with Arinda about the Princess Briana, (the remorse of his conscience stinging him for stealing away so privily from the Princess,) in the course of this talk he would sometimes name the Princess his Lady, sometimes his foundress, by which name he requested Arinda to make offer of his humble service with the best excuse the might, for his long absence, in that he had already entered the quest of seeking the Prince Edward or Donzel deal Febo his brother, and in such speeches he brought them on their way, afterward, taking his leave with a friendly embrace, he posted after his company whom he overtook in short time.  
Sire days these three knights road together without happening upon any thing worthy the recital. The seventh day in their way they saw a far off a Knight very tall and big made upon a fair steed by seeming a Knight of great account. There followed him two Squires, the one bearing his lance, the other his helmet, for the heat of the day had made him veil his headpiece to put on a light hat of Taffeta, and coming near, they saw that he was of a good countenance, somewhat of colour dusky and black, but in making both manlike and of good proportion, his joints well knit, and somewhat large withal, which foreshowed great likelihood of strength and courage. This knight stranger first saluting these three Knights riding by, spoke unto them thus.  
Tell me my Lords I pray you, whether you be of King oliverio's Court or no? Bargandel answered him. Truly we are if we list, and so long as our liking lasteth: but wherefore demand you this? I will tell you said the Knight. Sooth it is, that I am a Tartarian, borne in that part of Tartary which bordereth upon Europe, and travailing to seek adventures, I was cast by tempest of the Sea, upon the Country of Zealand, where I heard, that many Knights should assemble in this Realm, at a great Feast and Iustes proclaimed by the King, with a safe conduct warranted out under his own signet, for all knights Christians and Pagans or of all Nations else besides whatsoever, thither to come and prove their valour. I am as I say, a wandering Knight, and have no other erraunt but to see such good Knights, and to try myself amongst them. Upon the report hereof, as soon as my ship was rigged, and trimmed, and that the wind served for my purpose, I entered in my ship to arrive in this land. Now, whether that the way long and dangerous by the ignorance of my Pilot shut me from my hope, or that the reporters mistook the day, or rather knew it not. Since my coming to land, I have in many places been ascertained that the Feasts are long agone ended, and that the most part of the Knights have taken shipping, and departed into their Countries, notwithstanding, leaving behind them such a good memory in the mouths of every man, as much it grieveth me to have lost my labour. For this cause last remembered, I am in purpose for one months space to ride through this land, and to deal with all knights comers, to prove whether their credit be not above their deserts: whereunto I have set this condition, that if any of them dismount me or make me yield, that then I must faithfully accomplish all that which the vanquisher shall will me. But if I unhorsed any of them, or take any of them prisoners, than the vanquished, shall commend me to the King Oliverio, and make offer of his or their lives and goods, at his courtesy as a simple token of my great good will towards him. Since this determination three days have I journeyed in this land, and I have encountered ten knights whom I have sent accordingly to King Oliverio. And my Lords, whether are you retaining to the English Court or no, for if you be, I may not break my vow, although by your semblance and riding, you show to me as the best Knights, which I have seen in my life.  
This said the Knight stranger, and the other three Knights were easily brought to the allowing of the conditions. Wherefore Bargandel which had undertaken to answer, said. Sir Knight, we thank you for the large recount you have made unto us of your hither coming, and as to your over-late arrival, and the conditions set to the Tilt, albeit I may not mislike them being so equal, yet for my part, I answer, and for these Knights, that we would not gladly deal with you upon so light occasion, for rather will we honour strange Knights then in any wise be an encumbrance unto them, but sith it is your earnest suit, & that therein we shall do you service, we will not refuse you, and by the leave of these my Lords and fellows, myself will be the foremost. But by God sir Knight, there is the Lady Syluerina in the English Court, and if I fail not of my purpose, I will make you kiss her white hands, ere you be many days elder. But Bargandel failed in deed of his purpose, for though he was a very valiant Knight, yet was he but young, and the Tartarian was both mighty and well exercised.  
After the Tartarian had buckled on his helm, and Bargandel had obtained leave of his fellows to be the first in this adventure, either of them clapped their spurs to the Horse sides, and their encountrye was such, that Bargandel broke his spear in small shivers in the shield of his enemy, causing the Tartarian to lose the reins, and to wreath somewhat in his saddle. But the Tartarian overthrew Bargandel horse and man to the ground, and with the turn to recover the reins, dressed himself in his saddle, passing forth gallantly, while Bargandel lay on the ground very angry and desirous to have had the Combat with the sword.  
Rosicler and Lyriamandro much wondered at their shocks, Lyriamandro then took the next turn, and Rosicleer because the stranger wanted a spear, sent his own staff unto him, which peradventure if he could have foreseen the event, he would not have done, for by it Liriamandro was hurled to ground, and the Tartarian almost unhorsed, his stirroppes being broke, and himself cast upon the arson of his saddle. The Tartarian Knight was much abashed at the great force of these two Knights, for he had not thought to have met two so strong Knights in all this land, and when there remained none but one Knight, and he likewise without a staff to just withal, he came to this one, and bid the base to the sword play in these terms.  
Sir Knight, sith both of us want spears to just with all, it shall be well to make up this lack with our swords, that you may revenge the shame of your companions, or else go with them for company, and all three present yourselves prisoners to the King your Lord. Whose Court notwithstanding I shall highly commend of, for the great virtue, whereof myself hath had proof sufficiently in your fellows. Assuredly sir Knight (said this odd man, which was Rosicler) were it not for the duty which I own to my companions, and for that you should ill acquit their courtesies if you should leave me scotfree to scorn at their mishaps, I would that this combat with sword should be excused, for that I am not accustomed to fight for so small a cause, but sith that both my companions challenge this at my hands, and that it is a point of cowardliness to leave the combat, and also that you will not have us to break companies, I condescend to your device with this Proviso, that if by good Fortune I overcome you, my companions shall be freed from your charge, and you shall go in their rooms to kiss the King of England's hand, as I am sure it will do you good to have acquaintance with his grace. I am well pleased herewith answered the Tartarian, and so saying, he drew out a fine sword, Rosicleer likewise drawing his.  
Thus began the brave combat in which they continued a long time, no advantage being espied on either part by the beholders, what was within them, themselves best knew. But Rosicler rather delighted then afraid at his enemies courage, devised by himself how to win that valiant Knight for friend, and to leave the combat, for upon so slender a quarrel, he thought the hazard would be too great. Marry for all that he did his best, for when he felt the strong buffets, he could not but yield the like. The Tartarian Knight burning in rage, rather to have the mastery over so valiant Knights, rather than for any ill will he bore to Rosicleer, compassed how by main force to subdue his adversary, and in this thought be struck so furiously, that with his charge and the others answer, the noise was so confused and great withal, that it was heard upon the top of hills, as the shot of Artillery. When the Tartarian Knight was so well heated as you have heard, he drove a blow with both his hands, full at Rosicleers head, which lighting upon the fine and enchanted helmet, notwithstanding deprived Rosicleer of his eye sight, and enfeebled his hearing at that time. But Rosicler could not so soon forget it, and therefore while it was fresh in his remembrance, he restored the like blow, which in the descending, miss the Tartarians crest otherwise it had put him in danger, but styding upon his shoulder, it was so heave, that it made the Tartarian stoup to his horse back. The next dangerous blow which the Tartarian gave, made Rosicler boowe unto his saddle both the sword and the reins falling from him. Bargandel and Lyriamandro standing by, fell therewith into a strange admiration of the Tartarian, in that he not only kept Rosicleer play, but put him to his trumps, and by this time, I think their desire to fight with him, was well abated, seeing they knew now how well he could handle his weapon. And Rosicler having got greater courage through the grief of his wound, kept no more his seat, but rising in his stirroppes and recovering his sword, which was fastened with a little chain unto his saddle bow, he hit the strong Tartarian so great a blow, that the blood gushed out both at his ears and nostrils, and he lay for dead upon the crupper, the horse carrying him about the field till he revived. After not without some abashment, as one come out of another world: the Tartarian when he felt the bold issuing in such measure, lift up his hand, and calling for help on his Gods, saying.  
Assist me O my Gods against this fell knight, for if I tarry more of these blows, my life shall soon be ended. And when he had so said, as purposed to make an end of the fray, he took his sword with both his hands, and with all his force following the blow, he smote Rosicleer upon the helmet, to no great harm on his body, but the weight thereof astonished him, as much as if a Tower had fallen upon him, whereat Rosicler waxed mad angry, and not remembering that which before he had premeditated, as to end the battle in quietness, he repaid the trespass, with triple damage to the Tartarian. For albeit the Tartarian might well be reckoned among the most famous Knights of elder time, being covered with a helmet so well tempered as any Prince might have, yet living in that age, and encountering such Knights, his room was but next the best. And when he saw that terrible blow over his head, he could have wished a whole Mountain between him and it.  
But there needed no such impossible means to avoid this misfortune: for it was provided by the divine Majesty of God that this noble Knight should die a Christian, and that great friendship should grow between these three Knights, and therefore God so directed Rosicleers hand, that it fell not right, but glancing down upon the shoulder, it notwithstanding turned the Tartarian from his Horse, with so great pain on his right shoulder, that he might not rise himself up again, with this fall his buckles broke, and the nailings rend, and being then half unarmed, he threw his sword from him, putting his knee to the ground, to give thanks to his imagined Gods for their delivery from so furious a blow, and then turning toward Rosicleer, he said.  
Noble and valiant Knight, the strongest and mightiest which I have ever known, or would have believed ever to have been in this Court or others, pardon me my rashness, for I have been misadvised when my will first put me forth to contend with you, only your greatness of body and comeliness, might have sufficed to teach me, that you were more valiant and stronger than I am, and sith I am now vanquished, and rather by great miracle escaped with life, from your hands, than by mine own cunning, say on what you command, for I am priest to accomplish all that, which 〈◊〉 as agreed upon before our combat, and my duty shall not be slacked in any point, but I would rather fulfil more than all that, for to gain the society of your worthy person, and your companions, for I never metie with more nobler Knights, for valour and bounteousness: and so saying, he yielded himself.  
By this speech, the fury and chollar of Rosicler was well slackte, and being glad to see the Knight so humbled before him, he answered. Good Knight I accept in good part that which you have said, and it grieveth me much to have had the battle with you, for unto a Knight stranger and valorous, I had rather be a means for procuring honour and ease, than their trouble and encumbrance. And as to the Articles of the covenant which you remember me of: believe me I would not have exacted them at your hands, and it shall be yet in your choice, whether you will fulfil them or no, and yet I fear not, but that you shall well like of your service to the King Oliverio, himself being a good knight, and a great honourer of strangers. Likewise, we three shall take it as a sign of your good liking towards us, if you make us privy to your name, that hereafter we may know you, and do unto you that honour, which so good a knight meriteth.  
Sir knight, answered the Tartarian, I have great desire to go and kiss the hand of King Oliverio, as well to know him, as to satisfy that which I own unto you, and will not fail to departed and take my way toward the King. But to your last demand, I am as I told you before, a Tartarian, and my name is Zoylo, Prince & heir of that kingdom, which I would with good will forbear for some time, if you and these Knights would vouchsafe your acquaintance and company, for I have more desire to travail in these parts then in that Country from whence I came, because there is no continual afford of Knights and fresh accidents as I find in this kingdom, and I should more highly esteem of the friendship and society of such noble and worthy knights then of any riches in the world. And now for that I have declared who I am, I shall think myself farther in your debt if you make yourselves farther known unto me.  
Rosicler and his companions, gladly heard of his birth and lineage, but much gladder of the friendship whereto he requested them, so they gave him many thanks, and told him who they were. divers speeches of great courtesy passing between them, whereby their amity was so sure confirmed, that it remained unto the death, every one labouring to be found most friendly. And this done, they appointed, that Prince Zoylo should go to the Court, only to have a sight of the King, and that Rosicleer with his companions should abide him thereabout, than they four to travail together whether Fortune would carry them. This being concluded, the Prince of Tartary took his way toward the court of king Oliverio, thinking long to find the time for his return. They took the way towards a forest, where the history leaveth them, to entreat of the Gentlewomen in the mean time, which brought the body of the great Brandagedeon unto the court of king Oliverio.   

¶ The Gentlewomen brought the body of Brandagedeon to the Court, and the Princesses received the Letters of their knights.  
Cap. 38.  
GReat was the grief which the Princess Olivia felt by the absence of Rosicleer, that neither her high estate, nor the courtly disports sufficed to make her forget her care, or help her to cover her liking, but in her lodging, she would be without ●●mpanie in the day, and in the night without sleep, ever wishing to see him again whom she loved more than herself, for her mind prophesied to her that she should not see him very quickly, and as it is natural for the patiented to communicate his grief with the Physician, judging this some ease where the principal remedy wanteth. So the fair Princess as unacquainted and to begin in such passions, not being able at the first to counsel herself otherwise, thought it best to discover her grief to one of her gentlewomen named Fidelia, the faithfullest and most secret of her household, the which many times had importuned her to know the cause of her sorrow, and one night as she was alone with her, the Princess said to her.  
Thou knowest my Fidelia how among all the Ladies & Gentlewomen which I have, I have chosen thee only for the faithful treasurer of my secrets, & I have not done nor thought the thing which I have not imparted with thee, which hath come to pass only by the loyal & good service, wherein I have always found thee pliant and diligent, with the like confidence unto that which I always have reposed in thee, I will unfold unto thee a secret, which none in the world myself except, and thyself shall learn at my hand, in the concealing whereof, unto this day I have a thousand times endured little less than death. And the matter is such, that it is unfitting for any one to be a dealer therein but myself and thyself, whom I account as myself. At a word my Fidelia, that tyrant love, which spareth neither high nor low, hath taken possession of me by the great prowess and beauty of the new Knight, and I am sure, that but my death, nothing can set me free: although I have studied all possible means of my liberty, and thereto have set the defence of my honesty and great estate to withstand this conceit, yet for all that I can do, as long as this knights race is unknown, I cannot ease myself, my former remedies serving me only against the temptation of the flesh, and not to drive out the rembraunce of his parsonage, whence my desire springeth. And truly I cannot persuade myself other, then that this knights offspring is right noble, he being of so court-like behaviour and knightly, prowess, the truth hereof being somewhat more incredible, than the lying fables of our ancient Poets. Now if he be a Prince borne, the only hope to have him for husband, my father and be being therewith pleased, may yield one some comfort, in the mean time while opportanitie serveth for the final accomplishment. Wherefore mine own Fidelia seeing that I have fully laid open the bottom of my heart, that which remaineth on thy part is, to fravile with his Squire or some other to wit of what parentage Rosicler is.  
Fidelia had listened very attentively to that which her Lady had said, and as she, was very wise, so perceiving by the drift of the speech, that neither her mistress' malady could be removed by counsel, nor that she would accept of it if it were bestowed, besides that, that her desire was lawful to match with Rosicleer, if there were no disparaged in his stock. She could not gainsay her mistress in ftat-tearmes, but made answer, that sith her grace had laid that charge upon her, she was consent to receive, as also ready to offer her sermce in any other thing for this matter which she now moved, she said, that sith her grace's purpose was so good, she should not need to remember her farther in it, for that so soon as Rosicleer should return, she would be in hand with his Squire to bolt out the truth of every thing, and yet (saith she) I cannot believe by reason of his magnanimity, but that be is descended from some noble progeny, which if it so be, I like very well that your grace is so affectioned towards him, otherwise I dare not advise you, but yet I will tell you my fancy, it were better for you to abide some pain, then to make your head of your underling. The beautiful Princess was well apaid at this counsel, so jumping with her former determination, and it greatly assuaged the malice of her passion, in that she had bewrayed it to her trusty servant. The next day the Gentle women entered into the palace, driving a horse before them loved with the giants body. At their entrance the hurly burly in the court was so great, every man running to see the wonder, that the king with all those which were with him and the Princess Olivia with her Gentlewomen ran to their windows to see what the matter was, and when they saw the Giant they knew him, and as newly abashed at Rosicleers virtues, they began to commend of him as of the best knight in the world. The Gentlewomen presently were brought before the king, which received them courteously, and they in order declared unto him and the rest that which had chanced to Rosicleer since his departure from the city.  
The king liked very well of all, save that when they told him that the knights could not reteurne presently, as minding to pursue adventures. For the King feared least by being so much inclined to knightly deeds, their good success should carry them farther off then should be for his pleasure. But the Gentlewoman departed from the king to do their message unto the Princess Olivia, whom they found in her chamber with the other two Princesses in her company. Coming before her they delivered their message with commendation from Rosicleer, and the two Princes, which had sent her that Giant so dead, as a satisfaction in some part for the detaining her jewels. The Princess pleasantly laughing at that present, caused the Gentlewoman to go on in that Story, and to make report of all occurrentes in their journey, which they did so faithfully, that the Princess in the telling was not able to colour her affection towards Rosicler. This tale ended, Arinda gave into her hands the packet, which the Princess opened, and turning over the jewels found a Letter, which she put in her bosom, taking it to be Briana's, and in like sort the Gentlewoman of Lusitania made delivery of Bargandel and Liriamandros' letters unto their Ladies, with the coffer unto Rodasilua. The two Princesses Syluerina and Rodasilua being great friends, went both together in a closet to read without interruption their lovers Letters so eloquent and so fraught with amorous speeches, which much rejoiced the young Ladies to be beloved of so good knights, and not to break off their several commendations of their knights and Lords, we will speak of the Princess Oliuia, who being left alone for the company of the the two Princesses dispatched her other gentlewomen into divers parts of the chamber, to have a more secret survey of briana's letters.  
When she had read on through that which was delivered with the packet, she took that other out of her bosom, which she had found in ransacking the packet, and opening it she saw in Capital Letters ROSICLEER subscribed, whereby she knew it to be his, and somewhat troubled she folded it up quickly again, minding to learn by what means that Letter was hid among the jewels. And therefore calling Arinda she asked if that any one had unlocked the coffer, after that her Lady had delivered it unto her. Arinda supposing that the Princess had wanted some thing, answered. No truly Madam, for I have always kept the keys, & no body ever had them at my hands but Rosicleer, which requested to see the jewels when we were in the keepers lodge, and in my presence he shut it, restoring me the keys, and not taking out aught whereof I can accuse him. The Princess smelling out Rosicleers shift, and somewhat smiling withal, to hear whereunto Arinda had construed her meaning, replied merrily thus. I asked it not gentle friend, for that I thought there wanted any thing in the coffer, for it was wholly lost when it was in Brandagedeons' power, but I asked it for that I marveled it fell out so well, when Brandagedeon was the keeper. Arinda waxing bold hereat. Nay marry saith she, with your favour noble Princess, Brandagedeon misgiving in his mind how little time he should enjoy it, took little care for the opening.  
So this question who opened it was concluded in a laughter, and little talk continued after. The Princess thinking it long till she might alone read Rosicleers letter, and therefore somewhat earlier than she was wont, she withdrew herself into her bed chamber, with only Fidelia in her company to see her in bed. When the door was fastened, she drew out Rosicleers letter, & not having power herself to read it, she gave it unto Fidelia, The tenor of the loving letter was this, which hereafter followeth.  
¶ Unto the most excellent Princess, the Princess Olivia.  
THat which is appointed by God mighty Princess, may not by man's power be altered nor perverted, as in myself I prove it, for since that mine eyes first told me of your beauty, and my judgement gave consent thereto, and that my will hath procured liking thereof in my affection, I have felt an alteration in me so incurable, that striving with it both by art and nature, I have not hitherto found my remedy: which thing good madame I trust cannot seem more unlikely to you, than it hath been to me in the feeling terrible. The clap of thunder is the greater when it meeteth with the thicket able to make more resistance, longer lasts the kinled fire in the builded Oak, then in the parched straw, and more vehement is the fight between two enemies, then when the one yieldeth. What force love hath as I could well wish your Ladyship to consider in me, or to feel in yourself, so at least I beseech you to way by others, and to believe report, how that with light assaults be beateth down the stoutest courages, and with gentle cords bindeth the biggest arms, that his force, neither the wisest nor the mightiest were able to resist, that from his subjection not julius Caesar the great Monarch of the world could free himself: that he quelled the pride of the mighty Carthaginian in the delights of Capua: and fettered Mars and jupiter, two Gods of the Gentiles in chains of iron: that he transformeth men into sundry shapes, and as it were by sudden enchantment framed the armstrong Hercules to the distaff and spindle: Aristotle to be bridled and saddled: that he climbeth the highest Towers, and stretcheth to the lowest valley: that he divideth the hard rocks, and bloweth through the easy passages: to conclude, nothing so strong and invincible, but that love can overthrow, and doth what him listeth. So that if I confessed myself yielden unto so mighty a conqueror, I should yet be blameless for my cowardice. Yet what have I not attempted? If either counsel of friends, or mine own wit, either Physics cure, or might of companie-might have warranted my quietness. So God, good madame speed my writing as I meant not to trouble you with my Letters. But the weak complain, and the dieased seek remedy, as what grief is so great or wound so wide, but it hath some redress or other provided in nature. To you therefore good madame, thus boldly have I discovered my unrest, that by your means whence only I may hope for it, I may receive comfort. And so attending your highness answer either of life or death, I humbly kiss your Princely hand.  
Thine resolved to love or not to live, poor Rosicleer.  
Rosicler penned this letter either not well in his wits, or else greatly perplexed in his thought, so hard it is to find an issue, but I believe rather that it came from heart to hand, & was so set down without farther advise. Yet in the mean time that Fidelia read the letter, the fair Princess broad awake to hear those amorous words, & feeling them in her heart with the like love wherein Rosicler wrote them. When it was ended, heaping out abundance of sighs upon the argument of the letter, she said unto Fidelia. Ah Fidelia, what force may a tender Gentlewoman as I am have to resist the tyranny of love, when so many famous & so mighty Princes could never conquer him? How may I overcome him which hath had the mastery of so many, tell me Fidelia and counsel me what I have to do in this matter, for I mistrust my own wisdom, and very field is the passionate's judgement very sure and requisite. Fidelia nothing wondering at that effect which love had wrought in the Princess her Lady, for she rather wished herself worthy of so glorious pain, answered her thus: Madam to counsel you aright, were to will you to defy love, and to abandon Rosicleers company, and yet the words of this letter leaveth in me a doubt thereof, if the matter be as true as the words importeth. Next were to desire you to have an eye unto your high estate, which yet me thinketh is not necessary, for I know you to be so wise, as that you will hazard death rather than commit a thing so prejudicial to your honour. Now there remaineth only to learn out Rosicleers lineage, that if he be such a one as may marry you without disworshippe, you may then begin the redress of both your wrongs, otherwise if he fail in that point, the first counsel will be most convenient to eschew his presence, which shall in time do away this affection, as in time all things are forgotten.  
Hear the Princess interrupting fidelia's speech, replied in this manner. Ah Fidelia, you think me not such a one but that although the love which I bear to Rosicler be such that it procureth me to will his presence, if he fail in gentry, I will rather chastise his boldness with perpetual exile out of this land, then give him comfort to the empayre of my credit, and sooner will I die an hundredth times, then bestow a countenance upon such a one. But this I judge of Rosicleer by the pure and loyal love which he meaneth towards me, that it is likely he may merit me for wife, otherwise it is to be thought that in a knight so virtuous there cannot lie hidden such impudency as to move a Lady unto her dishonour. In such like talk after the Letter read, the Princess and Fidelia passed most part of the night till Fidelia took her leave, the Princess notwithstanding still canvasing over the Letter of Rosicler, and every sweet word which he had written, and she prayed to God with all her heart, that he might prove such a one, as was not unfitting for a queens marriage.   

¶ Arinda the Gentlewoman belonging unto the Princess Briana, told the bringing up of Rosicleer unto the Princess Olivia.  
Cap. 39  
ARinda remained a long time in the Court tarrying for such things as the Princes Olivia made ready to send unto the Princess Briana, upon which occasion, as it happened one day, the Princess Olivia, Arinda, and Fidelia to be together, then Arinda not so well advised as she ought to have been, in the secret affairs of her mistress, unbridled her tongue, and declared to the Princess Olivia all the life and doings of her mistress the Princess Briana, as far as she had any knowledge, and it may be, that she added sometime more than truth. Amongst other things in this tale, she told of the little boys which had been brought up with the Princess Briana, reciting the marvelous tokens which they brought from their birth, and how that the sorrow of her Lady was somewhat comforted by them, till fortune brought one of them into a bark near a great and deep river, running into the main sea, as you have heard before, and that the other of fourteen years (the Princess unwitting of it) stolen away. After, entering farther, she told that the same Rosicleer which killed Brandagedeon, was the same which departed without leave when he was fourteen years old, whom she knew at the first sight, and had entreated to return into Hungary.  
When the Princess heard this, driving to the conclusion, she demanded where the Princess had those little boys. Madam (said Arinda) in this shall you see the works of GOD how marvelous they be, which from so base a stock can raise so worthy Imps, and you shall understand that they be sons to a Knight named Leonardo, not of the most noble, but of the meanest Knight of the City, and for that their Father hath to wife a woman, sister to a Gentlewoman of my Ladies, named Clandestria, for her long service in great favour with her Grace: for her sake, the Princess made the parents of these children, to nurse them up in the Monastery at her charges, until they were all lost, as I made mention. When the Princess had heard Arinda in this sort blazing the offspring of Rosicleer, what sorrow may be compared unto hers, for in that instant she could well have yielded to death: and why? For that the only hope of all her remedy was in the conceit of Rosicleers high estate, thereby meriting to be her mate, which when she saw to be clean contrary, she was in such a case, as if her soul had been taking his leave of her body. When Fidelia saw her colour so soon changed, as understanding from whence this effect proceeded, she rose up, and desired Arinda with the other Gentlewomen to void the chamber, for that her Lady was newly entered into her fit, which oftentimes hath taken her, and she hath no remedy so present, as to be alone. Arinda and the other Gentlewomen not mistrusting her speech conveyed themselves into another chamber. Now Fidelia being left alone with her mistress, shut the door, but Olivia sank down in a sound, whom Fidelia fetched again. Afterwards, being well recovered, and seeing herself without other witness, she sent out a deep sigh, with the company of many tears, as seldom is a stormy wind without a shower of rain: rufullye withal making her moan unto Fidelia on this wise,  
Ah my Fidelia didst thou not hear what the Gentlewoman of Hungary hath said as touching Rosicleer? If thou didst hear it, why dost thou not take part with me in my insupportable grief? Were it any marvel at all if my life should take end with her report? For sith the hope which hitherto hath maintained my rest, is now ended, I would to God my life would end withal, and rather would I die not to hear such news whereby my hope decays, then to be privy to such a truth, and live without my comfort. Oh my Fidelia, come, come, and help me now either to set forward my mishap with some desperate shift, or to lend me thy faithful counsel and advise the better to ass wage my grief, and to forget the same misfortune which now assaileth me. Alas, I see that it is not for my quietness to banish Rosicleer, and if by the excellency of my estate I am forced to chastise his overboldness, in so doing, I shall both bar him from the sight & light of his eyes, and make the stripe redound upon mine own head, for who shall receive greater smart by his absence than I shall, What a wicked world is this, wherein men of force must neglect other men's virtues, and magnify their own Nobility without desert: were it not more reason to raise this man to the top of honour, that in him his posterity may glory, then for lack of ancestors famous for like qualities, to suppress his virtue, and keep under the magnanimity of his courage? When began my Fathers and Grandfathers to be Nobles, but when with the wings of virtue they soared above the vulgar sort, and if by their means only I am advanced to be a Princess, what thank is there to me of my highness? And thou Rosicleer, if by those rare and sovereign virtues which flow and flourish in thee, thou dost mount in credit, not only above the base sort, from whom thou wast taken, but also above Princes and Lords, whereunto thou art to make thy assent. Art not thou worthy of greater renown than we and others, which climbing by virtue in like sort, never yet came to the possibility of like worthiness?  
Is not this a forgery of the world, and a plain juggling with Nobility, when we must make more account of one, which perhaps by disorder of life defaceth the honour of his race, then of one which reacheth up the ignobility of his stock, wherein consisteth nobility in the opinion of men, or in virtue in deed? and do men inherit virtue, as the child entereth upon the father's land, being lawful heir? No, here we receive nought, but what ourselves sow, and he that reapeth not, may be a lout for all his Lordship, as in time appeareth, which judgeth freely and without affection. And for me, if the eyes of my understanding were not dimmed, I should soon confess less merit in me to deserve Rosicleer, then wanteth in him to be worthy of me. I am a Princess by my Father, and my glory resteth in the reckoning up of a bead-role of Princes, some of them dead a thousand year agone, which nothing pertaineth to this present age. But he may be a Prince by his own virtue, and his Nobility ariseth not by keeping a Tally of names, but by making just proof of manhood in his defence of justice every day, in such sort likewise, that not any of mine Ancestors virtues, whereby they became noble, dare approach to be tried with his in an even Balance. And is there not many Gentlewomen in the world of as high a calling as I am? And is there any Prince or Knight of so high renown for virtue & knighthood as Rosicleer is? Have not the best Knights of both Christendom and Pagansie, joined with him either at Tilt or Tourney, and doth he not obscure them all, as when the Sun appeareth, no Stars dare come in presence? And I silly woman having not so much as the refuse in me of my predecessors virtue, am notwithstanding by the injury of the times, bond to so great folly, as that I must not think him worthy to equal me, which is much my better. But sith of force I must yield to the time, and rather die then acknowledge the contrary, sith my Fortune is such that I must live by the imagination of other men, and sith my estate may not be yoked with his baseness, have at it, I will for ever shut him from my presence for the safeguard of mine honour. But withal, seeing without his presence, I cannot find ease for this torment, I will make him amends by giving over my life, unto the enduring of everlasting sorrow. And if it be best so to do, tell me my Fidelia thy mind, for I perhaps am beguiled by my passion, neither in deed have I either judgement or séeling of aught, but of grief and sorrow. Fidelia heard the words of the Princess, and taking part with the Princess, made up this woeful lamenting with her sorrowful speech, in this sort. Alas Madam, how much better had it been, that never the Knightly deeds of Rosicler had been manifested in Britain, for then without the sight of him, you had never received this wound, which now festering in you for lack of looking too will be very hard to be cured. But the wisest say, that in such matters as are hard and difficult, a man must especially employ his travail, and that the succesie is not so unlykelye, but that labour may reach unto it, as for this grief which now distempereth you, is not so great, but that you may be soon whole, yourself being thereunto willing: For in this, neither Nature worketh, neither Fortune, nor the Stars, nor the celestial Signs, nor any supernatural Influence, as you suppose, but only the fancy and liking of man: the self same effect with that which in the sick is to desire to be whole and in the thirsty to drink. And whosoever with the consent of his own will, attempteth the breaking of these snares, which his fancy layeth to entrap him in, may scape scotfree, and help others in like necessity. Otherwise, if this love were natural to all men, as all men than should love by Nature, so should they not forbear it, either for shame or friends displeasure, and if it proceeded from Forture, or by grace inspired, whereof the cause is not known, but the event is evident, then were our liberty herein irrecuparable, and in that the principal suit was without us, it might excuse the infirmity of the patiented, whereas as both experience proveth, that love hath been removed by reason, and we daily chide their impotency, which are not able to resist the darts of Cupid. It is therefore requisite madame, that yourself put too your hand and frame your will to the obeying of that which may bring remedy, not only for the love which you presently feel, but for that which you fear will hereafter happen, by your ill brooking of his absence.  
And truly I am persuaded, that seeing you have with yourself resolved to exclude him from your company, that the best is to put it in practice faithfully and effectually, least by forbearing of this correction, he take more courage to disturb your rest, and yet am I not against that which you have confirmed with good reason, that we ought to reverence virtue rather than riches, and in my judgement that Gentlewoman which shall match with Rosicleer, may think herself happy, for his rare and marvelous deeds of arms make him to glister more gloriously than all other Princes and Knights whosoever. And in times past, when all things went not so overthwart as they now do, he was the best of lineage, whose prowess was best known, and he best esteemed which wan his estimation by his manhood. And to this purpose, behold the builder of Rome, by name Romulus, taken from his foster-father a shepherd, and in a manner edified for that erection: although there were many builders in the world both before & after, but the difference of the buildings, lieth in the excellency of the workmanship. Again, was there ever one in such credit for honesty and wisdom as Socrates, the son of a base midwife. Euripides one of the rarest men that ever were in tragical Poems, was borne of mean parentage. Demosthenes the flower of Greek eloquence, was a Cutler's son: Horatius the Poet, borne of a bond woman, which had been taken prisoner, and yet all these preferred for their virtuous qualities, before Kings and Princes. Cicero could not dissemble his progeny, and yet was he lifted unto the Consulship in Rome, & never proved other Consul so commodious for the common wealth. Serramus and Cnimatus wise men, and thoroughly exercised in their enemies land were Consuls in Rome, and delivered their Country from spoil and pillage. And if for a matter pertaining to a Kingdom, we had rather take example of Kings, let us see if mean estate hath been any let for men to aspire unto mighty Kingdoms, and by name let us take a more particular surnaye, of the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth King of Rome.  
First Tullus Hostilius had his cradle in a shepherds cottage, and his bringing up in the wide field. Then the two Tarquins were sons to a Merchant, and exiled their Country. Servius Tullius was son to a bondwoman, as his name importeth: all which notwithstanding, in their times were Kings of Rome, and if from thence we take our way to other Nations round about, what a flock of shepherds, surgeons, labouring men, founders, and such like servile occupations shall we méese, which ●●pyred to the highest place of government in their Countries. Alexander a crowned King was a Gardeiners son: Pertinax Emperor of Rome, borne of a slave which lived by thrashing of grain and felling of wood: Severus the seventh Emperor of Rome was bred and brought up amongst Surgeons, and these of the meanest sort. Agathocles King of Sicily, son to a potter: Maximianus and Maximus chief men of the Empire, the one of base birth, the other doubtful, whether a Smith or a Carpenter, and yet neither barrel better Herring. Vespasianus which was called the good Emperor, rose from lord degree, and by his virtue blotted out the infamy of his progeny. And to have more notable testimonies, who was father unto the great Caesar Augustus the ruler of the world? Virgil in a jest made him a Baker's son, but his own mind misgave him otherwise. As for a truth far worse be they, which rife to glory from the misliking of their parents, like as Hercules, Perseus, and jugurtha the King of Numidia, all begotten in adultery: and likewise mighty Alexander King of Macedon, as concerning whom his Father Philip on his death bed denied him to be his son by the report of his mother Olympia, for which cause after his Father's death, he would needs be called the son of jupiter Ammon. Constantine the Emperor was borne of a young maid before lawful espousals: and jepthah in the Scriptures, was son to a harlot. Or if you will Madam, that for like examples, we run over the histories whereunto my wit can not carry me in so sudden speech, yet I remember, that few years since there died in Spain a stout king of the Goths, called Bamba, which as I have heard, was a labouring man, and at that time when he was to be crowned King, was feign to stick his spade in the ground, to receive the sceptre, being neither less feared than his predecessors, and not reserved by me to the last place, as one of least credit among others. Remember yourself of the great king Arthur your progenitor, of whom (with your graces leave) I do not think that men of malice, doubted whose son he was. And we may boldly speak of these and other things so long agone passed, without suspect of misliked affection. But why marvel we at these things? Doth not the wise man say, that if our life were long, we should see many Kings become bondmen, and of many bondmen crowned Kings, the reason being the same as I have rebearsed, that in elder age the only Herald to pronounce a man either noble or unnoble, was his own good deeds, which advanced his good name and renown above the inferior deeds of Kings of Princes.  
But to paint out the pride of our times let us cast down our eyes to the first root, from whence we all took our beginning, shall we not find it all one for all men? Marry in the body of this tree there are many branches, some higher, and some only water boughs, from whom the top boughs keep off the comfort both of Sun and showers, yet no man I trow will be so envious as to hinder the growth of the inferior, if they be more faithful than the superior, as not always the tallest men do the best service, and the best borne for wealth or might prove not the best always for manners and worship. Witness hereto the sons of Scipio and Marcus Aurelius, of which two descended two perverse imps, far more infamous than their parents were famous. And there are infinite more likewise to improve the succession of virtue, in the succession of inheritance. And yet for all this long discourse, I cannot choose but reserve my former purpose towards you, for I am afraid that the most part will not be of my judgement. In a word therefore to make an end in that wherewith be first began, you must consider both by what means and for what causes the times are altered, and thereupon take advise according to the time. And sith that for our sins God hath given us over to a wrong judgement in matters of high estate, rather to prefer wealth then virtue, and sith you are now fallen unto that time, wherein this error generally hath overgrown the truth, and is strengthened by consent of men, I would counsel you to yield unto the time, that is to take it as you find it, and to make the best of your chance: for it were great folly for you, and no less danger to resist a multitude, and you know your friends will never be brought to esteem so highly of virtue in a base parsonage, although a precious stone can never be but precious, whether set in Lead or Copper. You must forsake him then, and that is the only remedy, for according as I have read and have heard the first remedy against a fit of love, is to exempt ourselves from the company of the beloved, and to shun and eschew the things which may bring it again to our remembrance, the next is to drive in our thoughts the things which be contrary thereunto: as to think with how many breaches of sleep, and with what continual care we desire a thing either stithy, or unlawfully coveted, or at the least wise transitory, though never so honest, with all to set before our eyes what harms, what robberies, what murders, what madness it hath caused in the world, whereof there be too many histories: but yet from all this you may well signise yourself, if you will separate from you your former conceit. And if none of these will suffice, there is another remedy behind, which is to bestow your liking upon such a one as may be matchable to your estate. For as one nail driveth out another, so men say that the new love dispossesseth the old, which remedy as I have read was put in practice by Assyrius the king of Persia. And this is my opinion, which it may be your grace would not mislike, were it not somewhat troublous, but it you have an eye to your benefit, thereby I doubt not but that you will well overcome the trouble, and I pray you speedily take some way or other, but the best I say still is the former for to allay the heat. The next is, to take away the wood, and so to forget love, is to remove from beloved, for otherwise that which you quench in a month will be kindled in an hour.  
Now the means to achieve your purpose, is by writing yourself to Rosicleer to this effect, that he abandon your presence for ever, myself will be the carrier: although I have some compassion on his pain. The princess knowing the wholesome counsel, which her Fidelia as a faithful friend had given her, answered lovingly, but yet with some conscience for her owns smart in these words.  
Those which are whole, can easily give good counsel to the sick, & every remedy seems to them east and possible, as in like sort thou Fidelia not yet attainted with love, tellest me of many remedies which not only seem convenient unto thee, but also so easy, that thou sayest it lieth i●● my hands to make myself free from the passion which tormenteth me, I tell thee truly that I know both that I am not worthy of Rosicleer: and that beside it behoveth me to banish him from my presence. This I know my Fidelia, but alas shall this be easy to me? Perhaps I may make him avoid the Court and Country by the means thou hast prescribed: but what then? I have a greater adversity within myself, which makes this match not so even as thou weenest. I know that when Rosicler shall have departed the land, that my life will well near departed my body, and I shall not easily forget mine own choice, but yet as thou willest me I will adventure to put him from his hope, though I bear part of the smart, and I had rather my body should pay for it, than the honour of the Princess Oliua should be blemished, nor never shall the force of love be able to disparaged her. In this heat she called for pen, ink, and paper, which being brought, she wrote to Rosicleer as you shall hear hereafter.  
I cannot think that for all her great stomach to maintain her honour against Rosicleers basernesse, that she could draw those cruel lines with dry eyes, but when she had made and end and closed up the Letter, as if she had got some memorable conquest, saith she. Now dare I compare with the Roman matrons, which for the preservation of their honesty sacrificed themselves unto their Gods, for what have I done else, but in a manner sacrificed myself to God, when for my honour sake I have bound and linked myself to such a continual martyrdom and perpetual imprisonment, as the absence of Rosicleer will breed in me, and never more will live as a Princess, but rather like a vowess. But hold Fidelia take it, at which word she sent out such a sigh, and wept so bitterly as if her heart had rend asunder. Fidelia promised to do the message, and after she had comforted her Lady departed speedily. I think fearing lest the Princess should reclaim her opinion.   

¶ Fidelia being on her way to carry the Letter to Rosicler, was taken by six knights, and from them delivered by Rosicler.  
Cap. 40.  
FIdelia having already taken leave of the Princess to execute the cruel sentence pronounced upon poor Rosicleer, was upon better advise called back by her Lady and made stay till the morrow. The next day coming before her Lady to give her warning of her departure, scarce might she obtain leave to go or tarry. And when she urged the necessity of her going, still the Princess would stay her with some sweet speeches. Sweet Fidelia tarry yet, yet a little longer sweet Fidelia, tarry till my life leave this careful body, it will not be long, my sorrow prognosticates of my end, if thou tarry till I have ended this my weary life go in God's name then to Rosicleer, it will be to some purpose to let him understand that though my body be dead, yet I meant mine honour should remain sure for him. Fidelia pained herself to comfort her Lady, and thinking it not best to enter any long talk, as if she had gone of some other errant, stolen away princlye from her mistress in the company of other Gentlewomen, the less to be suspected, and mounting upon her palfrey, she road through the City of London all disguised, to seek Rosicleer.  
Ere long she came to the keepers house where the three Princes had lodged, at whom she learned that they were not far from thence, so with great diligence she hasted after them, and as their knightly prowess left behind them the memory of their being there, so wheresoever she came, she still heard of them, and within eight days after that she had left the keepers lodge, she came within less than one days journey of the place where their abode was. That day passing alone through the thickest of a Forest, there came out against her six knights, which took her horse by the bridle, saying that she should go with them: which when she denied and began to plead for her delivery with words of courtesy, one of them drew out his sword and said he would stay her, unless she prepared herself to their company, but whether she would or no, they made her palfrey go by force with them toward the Forest. Then Fidelia seeing that they meant herein some dishonour to her parsonage, leapt from her palfrey, and one of the knights perceiving it, alighted to fetch her up again, but she getting from him, ran thence as fast as she might, and by her good Fortune it came to pass that when the Knight had overtaken her, and held her in his arms to put her upon her horse, that Rosicleer and the two Princes Bargandel and Lyriamandro then passed through the Forest to seek the self same Knights, and to be avenged upon all the evils, in which they had wronged that Country. These three bearing the scréeches and outcries which Fidelia made, got near the sound, to know the matter: in the end, they saw that the knights would carry a Gentlewoman ●l●aie against her will. At which (albeit Fidelia was so w●ll muffled that none of them knew her) they were all displeased, and Rosicleer more angry than the rest, said.  
Sir knights what is the cause that you force this Gentle woman to go with you against your will. One of them in great scorn said. If you will needs be of counsel with us, I will prick you the cause upon my spears point. But Fidelia cried. Ah my Lord deliver me from these false thieves which will lead me away prisoner I know not wherefore. Rosicler hearing them both, without more to do, gave one of them such a blow upon the breast with his lance, that it pierced him through, & he fell dead to the ground, the two valiant Princes ran against two, & within short time flew them, the three which remained set upon Rosicler, but he cleft one with his sword & made the other two to gallop away. The two Princes loath to let any of them escape, followed them in such sort, that they four were now entered into the thickest of the wood, Rosicler being alone with the Gentlewoman Fidelia now at liberty and only the company of Rosicleer, stood in a doubt whether after so great courtesy, she might in her mistress name declare so uncourteous a message, but remembering herself to be at another's command, unto whom she had promised her faith in this matter: the time also so fit for the accomplishment of her ladies charge, she discovered herself to Rosicleer, who presently knew her, and much abashed to see her in that plight, alighted from his horse to embrace her, and as it hath been recounted, his speech was on this manner.  
What misfortune fair Gentlewoman hath brought you from that heavenly court, wherein you were once acquainted, to seek harborowe among such uncivil hosts as these knights are. fidelia's answer was short in these terms. O noble Rosicleer, the anguish which Fidelia feels is indeed great, but yet it only ariseth through the remembrance of that message which she hath in charge unto Rosicleer, & with that she wept bitterly. Then somewhat amazed he said unto her. Tell on fair Gentlewoman, and if your sorrow be for my sake let me bear part with you, & thanked be God, I am not altogether a stranger to mishaps: yet witted he not whereabout her message was, but he being very earnest to have the message told him, she drew out the letter out of a little boar, and put it into his hand with so much pain that she could not speak a word withal Rosicler having the letter & desirous to know what was in it, opened it presently, wherein he soon espied the set determination of the Princess as touching his exile, but before he had well weighed of the contents, espying only Olivia's name in the inscription, as we say that men's minds misgives them against a mischief: so his heart throbbed, all his body tremble, and he had much ado to force himself to endure the uttermost. The Letter said as followeth.  
¶ The high and mighty Princess, the Princess Olivia, Princess of great Britain: unto the most arrogant Rosicleer sendeth perpetual disgrace for thy lewd attempt.  
Being no less injured by thy presumption then minding the punishment of thy folly, I have written unto thee. And know thou that thy letter hath come not to me in day light, nor delivered in thy name lest I might justly have refused it, but in the night time, and that closely and by strealth conveyed in my coffer that I might first be beguiled, ere I might forethink me of the deceit. The receiving whereof albeit so at unawares, hath somewhat blemished my honour, and the shame thereof if I thought possible to be rubbeth out, I would not spare for Thames water being so near my father's palace. But to make amends for my fault, and lest thou take some pride in thine impudency, I am driven now to an other inconveniency, that is to answer thee, whom otherwise I would not have vouchsafed in this respect, the courtesy of a good look. In thy letter, the first point of thy pride I find, to be in bending thy liking towards me. The second and greater, in daring to manifest it unto me. The third and especial, in forcing me by copy of words, and an old tale of loves power to give some relief to thy heaviness. Which thy intolerable pride, as it seemed rare and strange unto me, so it made me more narrowly to fist, and examining myself thoroughly and in every point, if either the lightness of my looks or my unchaste demeanour, or the lack of foresight in my speech, or the familiarity of acquaintance might give occasion to so base a Knight as to attempt a Princess. Wherein if I could have called to mind any little oversight, whereby thou mightest have courage of impeaching my honour, I would first have punished it in myself, as I am now purposed to amend it in thee. Only I remember I bestowed upon thee largely: and what then? Thou therefore as Lucifer having more graces then thy fellow Angels, wilt pull GOD out of his throne. Note that the stay of true virtue is humility, and there is no glory so clear but pride may darken it. Because I humbled myself so much as to think of thy mean virtues, wouldst thou venture this? Did my beauty cause thee to love me, and could not my estate withhold thy pen, but thou must challenge me for it? I was above thy reach, and why didst thou not fear thy overstrayning, if thou meantest to compass me? God never punisheth the desire of things allowed by nature, but thou shalt find occasion of smart by thy disordered affection. What if love be so great as thou painest thyself to prove unto me? Did not other Princes see me, from whom yet the honest regard of my greatness shielded me, which thought never entered into so abject an heart as thine is. Yet Caesar forsooth and Hannibal and Mars and jupiter, were overcome with like passions. What ever good liking I might have had to them, I tell thee I list not to hear poor Rosicleers tale. Thou wilt have me so to use clemency towards thee, as I shall thereby to be cruel to myself, otherwise thou didst my loss. Then must I have regard, and for ever cease thou to trouble me in like manner. Or if because thou lovest me, I must deal with thee accordingly, I am content, but to thy greater grief. For mark, the greater love, deserveth the greater chastisement: and greater is the fault done upon presumption, then by ignorance or infirmity, as much less sufferable is the disgrace wrought by a friend then by a foe, and the lovers unkindness is less excusable than the strangers. Thou professest thyself my friend & lover, and I protest and proclaim myself now to be wronged at thy hand. judge thyself how I can bear it. For this injury which thus spiteth me. I charge thee avoid this Court, forsake the land, and if thou meanest good to me, get thee thither from whence never news of thy name may be brought to England. This way shalt thou prove thy love, and else not, and so she leaveth thee till dooms day.  
Thy mortal enemy Olivia.  
When Rosicler had read the words of the letter, the contents thereof so galled him at the quick, that for very grief his senses forsook him, and he fell upon the ground, there remaining an whole hour without moving foot or hand, and Fidelia departed: so soon as Fidelia was gone, Telyo Rosicleers esquire came that way to seek his Lord, for he had departed from him before to fetch fresh water at a Fountain hard by. Now when Telyo approached and saw Rosicler stretched in that manner upon the ground as if he had been dead, he made the greatest dole that ever poor creature made, and alighting from his horse, he plucked off Rosicleers helmet, casting water in his face, if perhaps he might revive. In the end Rosicler yielding forth a groan, as if his heart strings had burst withal, came wholly to himself, and stretching his joinis upon the green grass, began to speak in this manner.  
O fell Fortune, and ever spiteful, why hast thou not made an end of my life, with the end of my joy, and why live I, sith that thereby my life is bereft me. Leave me alone I pray thee and my grief shall not grieve me without thy compavye, above all, welcome death, the undooer of my care, welcome my death, in what manner I care not, suffer not a Knight so unfortunate to appear amongst men, nor to receive common sepulture. Cato not to behold the conquerors face, slew himself with his sword: and Sophonisba poisoned her self to be free from bondage. Now what reason was there in them by death, to fly common and ordinary mishaps: if I maintain my life to the abiding of far greater torments, then are in death. And whence cometh this mischance unto me? from love. O Love, Love, far more outrageous, than Fire and Water, and far more dangerous to deal withal, then Chance or Fortune. Thou art strange in all thy purposes, stranger in the execution of them, and in the end thereof, strangest of all. How commonly do thy practices exceed the working of Fortune, for she never giveth pain but in pleasure, never grief but in gladness, and she never overthroweth but at the top and pitch, so that there is yet some comfort to have been high, but I which in true love towards Olivia, had never countenance of comfort nor pleasure of any height, am now so disgraced and have fallen so low as no adversity of Fortune can match it. Artemidoro told me, my k●●ited should not let our marriage. But now farewell my friends, by name Oliverio King of the great Britain, my loving Lord, Bargandel and Lytlamandro Princes inheritors, and my loving companions: and farewell Zoylo Prince of Tartary, as my last acquaintance, Fortune did but show us to each other, when we hoped of great acquaintance, and farewell all my comforts, for I will hence to some dark and cloudy Country, that not so much as the light of the Sun, may bring tidings of my smart.  
This saying, Rosicler rose up, and mounting on his Horse, road toward the Forest which leadeth unto the Sea, with full determination to leave the Country, presently, his esquire Telyo, which both saw and heard his complaint, with great grief followed him, not yet daring to speak a word, for fear of disquieting him. Rosicler in this journey made great haste, and before night got to a huge and hollow rock, about ten miles from the place where he received the letter. Thereon he cast himself turning his horse loose upon the cliffs. Now being alone, as his manner was, he renewed his complaints, with many a sicker sigh.  
In the morning when the Sun cast his beams upon the large Sea, Rosicler rose from the ground to look if he might see any ship, wherein he might put himself. When he espied none, he commanded Telyo to ride unto the next haven about two miles off, there to provide a ship, himself promised in the mean while-under that covert to abide his coming. Telyo presently did as his Lord commanded him, and made as much speed as he might, not to leave his Master comfortless: but ere Telyo had got to the town, it chanced that Rosicleer having great desire to be solitary, mounted upon his horse, and road a contrary way. In which way he saw a little ship making towards the land, and out of this ship, from underneath the hatches, there appeared a Gentlewoman very high and big of body, but of a good complexion, and strangely attired as was her Country guise. This Gentlewoman as soon as the anchors were cast, caused the cockboat to be let down, wherein she entered, and coming to land, she took her palfrey to gallop up the sands, but espying a knight alone, whom by all semblance she took to be Rosicleer, she framed a sorrowful countenance, and in great ruth saluted him, to whom he rendered the like salutations, demanding what her grief was. The Gentlewoman still counterfeiting a show of great sorrow, as not able to speak any thing, till being importuned by him with much ado she as it were forced out these speeches.  
Alas sir, tell me if you can, some news of a new Knight which hath won the prizes at the great Feasts in London. Wherefore seek you him said Rosicler, I seek him answered the Gentlewoman, for that I hear so much of his glory, as that I am persuaded, that he only is like to give remedy to my travail, Rosicleer to make hast away for fear lest his esquire should find them, opened himself unto the Gentlewoman, saying that he was the new Knight. The Gentlewoman seeming to be very glad for to have found him, kneeled down: but he lifted her up, and desired by'r to say on presently what her sorrow was, for he would willingly undertake her demand: the Gentlewoman said on this wise.  
Sir knight, not far hence there is an Island where my father dwelled, a plentiful land and ancient inheritance to our line. This land my father governed a great time in peace and ease, till that Fortune loath to preserve things in one estate, changed her copy, and that which grieveth me most, found means by me, to work the discontentment of my friends. For being young and marriagebale, and my Father's only child, it happened that I had many suitors, but to be short, my Father thinking it safest for the continuance of his line, and the peaceable government of his people which had rather have been subject to their natural Countryman, than an Alien, matched me with a lusty Knight, both best beloved for his worthiness and of greatest possessions in all that Country. Now amongst my other suitors, there was one of great livelihood, worthy for his wealth to have been preferred before all the rest, if himself had been as worthy, but this Lord was refused by me, and taking it as some part of disgrace, he kineeled his choler and wrath, against my Parents and me, and at a time convenient, which was not many night's past, and when we least imagined it, he burst in upon my parents, where he found but weak resistance, but I myself in the mean while, stealing by the shore side, recovered this little boat, wherein I was scarcely entered, when I saw a far off my Parents and my husband led away prisoners. I think they cannot justly guess whether I am gone. But after that I was in the boat, I met with many which came from the instes at London. They seeing my heavy cheer, demanded the cause, and when they understood it, they directed me to inquire after a new Knight in the land, for he alone say they, is able to undo this injury. You hear sir, both the cause of my care, and the occasion of coming into this Country to you sir, now sir knight, if my ruth may work any compassion, or that you think I have cause to complain, do your best to amend my harm, you shall do double justice in restoring the wronged, and in punishing the wicked doer. Rosicler feeling a yearning in his mind, against so unlawful a practice, if her tale were true, bad her take her boat again, for be would hazard his person in her quarrel. The Gentlewoman desiring presently no other thing, gave him many thanks, so they entered the boat, and the water being calm, they passed without any danger. But still Rosicler haunted with his ancient thoughts, now seeing himself far distant from the Princess, and without hope to return, began a fresh to consider of his exile, which thought so overcame him, that he wished his soul to depart from his body.  
But the History leaveth him on the Sea, to recount in the mean time of his Esquire, who finding a ship in the Haven, returned to his Paster, but not meeting him, he was sore abashed, and in great sorrow coasted over the Country to find him out.  
After long travail by land to no purpose, he put himself to the Sea in a ship prepared towards Almain, where after continual weariness, and not hearing any news of his Master, he turned towards his own Country in the Walley of the Mountains, where he was well welcomed by his brethren. There let us leave him, till time carry him from his Father's home, to meet with his Master. Now telleth the History, of Zoylo Prince of Tartary, which had travailed towards the Court of King Oliverio, as hath been recited. When he came to the Court, he found in the Palace hall, the Princess Olivia, with the King her Father, and divers noble Princes, devising and sporting of divers matters, and especially of Rosicleers worthiness, which not a little tickled the princess Olivia, for all that cruel sentence which she had given of him.  
The Tartarian Zoylo entering the Hall in goodly manner, to the great amaze of the Knights and Nobles which beheld him, after he had made his humble obeisance to the King, he spoke as followeth. It may be, noble and worthy King, that the greatness of my estate, forbiddeth me to be so humble, but the great virtue which I have found in the Knights of your majesties Court, hath enforced me above my wont, to do you that honour, which I would deny else, to any King or Emperor in the world: now I beseech your Majesty to accept of my service, and to receive me into the number of your Knights, for I have great desire to belong unto your Court, if it so like you.  
The King very well liking of the Majesty which the Knight bore, albeit he knew him not whence he was, of courtesy embraced him gladly, and raising him from ground, answered thus: Sir Knight, you are very welcome, for as your parsonage and good behaviour is above the credit of a mean man: so have I great opinion of your high estate: and as to your request to be entertained of my Court, I receive you willingly, and promise you therein my royal favour, for I would live no longer then to make of your likes, and I pray you sir Knight tell me who you are, lest peradventure I should fault, in not honouring you according to your calling.  
Zoylo answered, Nost puissant King, the report of your courtesy assured me your good favour before I demanded it, and now sir understand you, that I am called Zoylo, son to the King of Tartary, in that part which bordereth upon Christendom, and that I have spent many winters both an sea & land, till that Fortune cast me on the English shore, then coming out of Dutchlande. After here in your Country, minding as my usage was to try myself upon Knights errants, it chanced that I met with three of your Knights in a Forest, their names were as I learned of them, Rosicler, Bargandel, and Lyriamandro, with these I jousted, and after that I had cast down the two last at the Tilt, I fought with Rosicleer at the sword point, but in the end I was vanquished.  
Rosicler, when I was yielden, having some liking of me, desired me to come and be acquainted with your Majesty, and to kiss your royal hand in his name. All which I have done, as well for to offer my service to so mighty a Prince, as for to accomplish the charge of so valiant a Knight, neither think I it any disgrace to be vanquished by him. For besides that his bounty and courtesy meriteth to be beloved rather then envied, his valour and Knighthood promiseth the conquest over the whole world. He hath received me for a perpetual friend, and his acquaintance do I more set by, than the whole Kingdom of Tartary, my lawful inheritance. Therefore because I hope the longer to enjoy this new friendship in your service, I have been bold to crave the name of your Court, which, shall be as well welcome unto me as the title which you have unto your kingdom. The king was glad to hear some news of Rosicleer at that time, and much praised his own good Fortune to have lighted upon him, for that by him his Court had daily increased in worship, and so turning towards the Tartarian, he said on this manner. Pardon me mighty Prince, in that I have not done you that honour, which appertaineth to a kings son, but the little acquaintance I have had with you, and the ignorance of your estate, shall excuse me, henceforwardes, if I amend not, let me be without excuse. And with these same words, the King led Zoylo to the Princess, willing her to welcome the Knight stranger. Zoylo coming before the beautiful Princess Olivia, kneeled down before her to kiss her hand, which she refused, but gently kissing him, she had him welcome. Farther talk had she not, for the often naming of Rosicleer, brought to her remembrance, the wrong which she had done to him, and her heart was so great, that she had no power to speak a word, but craving pardon, she departed to her chamber: this seemed strange to her father, but because her colour was so pale, it was thought to be by reason of sickness.  
When she was within her chamber doors, she let her tears flow at liberty, which before she restrained for fear of being espied. And thinking in what manner her father's Court was honoured by Rosicler, and in what estimation he was holden among those Princes & knights, how glad they were of his friendship, and how loath her father was to lose him, she burst out into abundance of tears, and with the repentance of her former fact, she began in this sort to repent her rashness. Thou hasty and over credulous Olivia, what thing did the poor Rosicleer crane of thee, but the acceptation of his service, and that thou wouldst become his Lady? why didst thou not receive him offered, especially when so many puissant Princes and worthy Knights require to have, and are refused? why wouldst thou not be Lady over him, whom the best in the world, would be servant unto? Where was my judgement, and the eyes of my understanding that I forethought me not of these things, now do I too much repent that which I hastily willed, as touching the banishment of Rosicler. Here she stayed her speech, and in great disease of mind, shut herself in her closet. Here now wanted the faithful counsel of her servant Fidelia, for had she been at hand she might have slaked her mistress' sorrow, which in the end grew so far, as besides the loss of speech and her often sounding, she fell into a hot burning ague, which left her not of a great while, till more comfort came by means of another Letter which she read of her loves to his mother Briana. Till that time we will help the two knights Bargandel and Liriamandro out of the wood, and bring them from the search of Rosicleer, to the court of king Oliverio.   

The Prince's Bargandel and Liriamandro returning from the Forest, miss Rosicler.  
Cap. 41.  
THe great desire which lead Bargandel and Liriamandro to pursue the knights of the forest made them to follow on so long, till they joined at a great and well towered castle, standing at the one end of the said forest. There before these two knights could enter to save themselves, the two Princes had overtaken them, & getting between the castle & them, they put them to so great scathe, that the knights unable to resist, cried amain to those which were within the Castle for succour, yet or they could come they were overthrown, fore wounded, and as the Princes alighted down to make dispatch of them, ten men issued out of the Castle well armed, and coming near laid at the Princes in great rage, for they weened their Lords to have been slain: but this skirmish lasted not long between them, for the two Princes were valiant, and putting themselves in press amongst the thickest, in short time made riddance of the greater part, and those which remained besought the Princes of pardon, which being eastyle granted, the two Princes returned to the two knights which had been felled but late before. These two knights seeing in what case they were, and pitying the destruction of their people, yielded themselves to the will of the conqueror, promising that if they might enjoy their life and liberty they would amend their folly, and make satisfaction to all Gentlewomen, whereof the Princes were glad, and taking their oaths for the performance, departed in haste toward Rosicleer, as they thought, but he was not where they left him, wherefore they sought him out in all parts. This day till night they never descended from their horses, at night they took their bed under a tree until the coming of the next day, and they were very pensive, for that they knew not the cause why he absented himself, yet with some hope that the next day they should hear some news of him, they drove out that night, and on the morrow mounted up their horses again to find him out, but it was to no boot, for eight whole days they travailed through the Country and heard no news of him, in the end thinking they should meet with him at the Court, they road thither in the company of many knights, whether let them go, whilst we in the mean time bear the Gentlewoman company which had carried Olivia's Letter unto Rosicler.  
This Gentlewoman Fidelia as I tolke you, perceiving as well by the witness which his eyes gave of his outward grief, as also by the sound wherein she left him, as an argument of his inward sorrow that he needed comfort, and yet not daring to show him hope contrary to her majesties commandment, struck her palfrey, and without more stay galloped on her way towards London, whether in short time she came: but when she had entered the palace, she would not presently make her coming known unto the Princess, lest her sudden return should work some alteration, whereby the other Gentlewomen might misdeem of her errant. But when she had learned of the Gentlewomen that her Lady was sick, she well witted whence her disease sprang, and therefore wisely coming before her mistress, she yet spared to name Rosicler, till she understood how well she would take his heaviness.  
The Princess now uncertain in judgement whether to commend of fidelia's faithfulness in executing her devise, if the Letter were delivered, or to like of her good Fortune if some occasion had hindered the delivery, being now alone, stayed yet to hear either yea or nay, as touching the dispatch of her message. But Fidelia as well for her own compassion over Rosicleer, as for sorrow to see her mistress in that plight by her own conceit, uttered never a word, but burst out into weeping, whereby the princess more troubled then at the first, with a feeble voice spoke unto her.  
Tell me Fidelia what thou baste done in thy message, and doubt not but thy travail shall well please me, for although the love I bear him feareth to hear thine answer, yet shall mine honour countervail the dread, in which quarrel I will as I told thee erst venture my life rather than yield my body to any opprobry. This saying, she lent her ear unto fidelia's answer, and fastened her eyes upon fidelia's looks, as if no word should have escaped unmarked or unadvised of her. fidelia's answer was short in these terms.  
For a truth madame I had sought Rosicler no little time ere I could find him, and as it fell out I found him when myself was not without danger, as it were to participate of that cruelty towards him wherein I was partly a dealer: but that which makes ●●ms especially to repent my pains herein was, that my delivery was wrought by him: For at the same time I met him, six knights outlaws set upon me in a Forest, and had lead me captive away, there to be spoiled of my honour: but that by my outcries, Rosicleer with two other knights came thither, none of them having any knowldege of me who I was. There in my presence he killed three of them, the other flying away were followed by the two knights in Rosicleers company, by which means being alone with him, I there delivered your Letters. But I believe that he had rather have received his deaths wound, than that letter. Ere he opened it, his colour changed, and all his body shook for fear, but after he had read the superscription, his eyes were filled with tears, and never man was so woe begun as he: yet he read it out, and as I remember, with the last words he gave a great groan, and sank to the earth. Whether he ever recovered or no I wots not, for I durst not stay with him, therein to fulfil your grace's charge, which was, not to receive answer from him. This understanding the Princess, and that Fidelia had obeyed every jot of her will so well, although she would that her servant had failed in some small point of diligence in this matter, yet thinking to learn more at her hands, she demanded what thing he did when she parted from him, and what words she spoke, moreover what she thought the event would be. To all which questions Fidelia answered at once, that she left him for dead upon the ground, and to divine was not in her skill. With this the Princess waxed angry, and blamed her very sore in not abiding the time of his recovery, whereunto Fidelia excused herself by her commandment, but yet because the Princess would have it so, needs must Fidelia be thought in a great fault or crime, for not doing so.  
Now may you guess that fidelia's trustiness was like a cup of cold wait to her burning ague, the more to enrage it, or like drink to a Dropsy man, whereby his malady the rather increaseth. For in like manner as Rosicleers heaviness came by reading the letter, so hers grew by fidelia's report of his heaviness. And albeit that we hear seldom time of man or woman dead for love, yet is it natural for overmuch grief to abridge man's days as now it was not love which so much afflicted the Princess, but the injury which she had offered Rosicleer, and the grief which she conceived by the despair of ever seeing him, and his grief had almost wrought her utter bane.   

¶ Rosicleers departure is published in the Court of King Oliverio, Olivia after knowledge whose son he was, reverseth judgement passed by a countermand in another Letter, whereof Fidelia likewise is the bearer.  
Cap. 41.  
THe Prince's Bargandel and Liriamandro in the quest of Rosicler road far and near & could not understand any thing as touching him, till that having travailed over a great part of that Country they met with people strangers, which certified that themselves had seen a Knight in that sure of armour, embarking himself with a Gentlewoman, and after that a Squire sore weeping, entering into a ship to follow them, for the which news Bargandel and Liriamandro were very sorrowful, and for now they were sure that he had forsaken the kingdom, whereupon they agreed to return unto the Court, and one day as the King Oliverio, with the Prince Zoylo and other worthy Princes and knights were gone out of the City to solace themselves in the fields, these two Princes came toward the place where the king abode, which had beheld them before very heedfully, for they seemed unto him to be two comely and noble knights, and therefore he desired to have a more perfect view. But valiant Zoylo knew them by their devices upon their armour, and said to the king and to the other then in presence, that he greatly marveled why Rosicler came not with them, for saith he, when I parted from them they were all three together, when the king knew them to be the two Princes, he caused his train to stay till the two Princes came against him, those he embraced with great love and thanks for their return, demanding withal for Rosicleer. They which I dare not say knew the right cause, but conjectured some likely cause by the strangeness it wrought in him, with great grief made a narration of each particular as far as they knew, both what befell him within the Realm, and in what manner he avoided the Realm, as they had heard of others only in the company of a Gentlewoman, and they added moreover perhaps of their own heads, perhaps as I said before, upon some farther knowledge that it could not otherwise be, but that he had some great wrong offered unto him by some person within the Realm. The King excusing himself to the Princes for his own dealing towards Rosicleer, became very sad and heavy for him, as also those which were near with him, not being able to guess of his return: and indeed if they had been certain of his long absence, it would much more have been grievous unto them, so rare was the love they all bare to him. But with some little hope of Rosicleers speedy return, the King with those Princes his friends tarried some days in the Palace, till that because he was from them so long, the three Prince's Bargandel, Liriamandro, and the Lartarian Zoylo together, took upon them to seek him, in which time they adventured many strange exploits as shall be specified hereafter in this History. But in the end as the greatest part of these nobles and Princes stayed in England for the love of Rosicleer, so his presence wanting in that court diminished so fast, that in short time there was not behind remaining in the Court any Knight of great account, but the Prince Don Syluerio, unto whom the loss & absence of Rosicler bread no small contentation, as it wrought in the king Oliverio, to the contrary no lesser displeasure and disquiet, as if the loss of Prince Edward had again renewed. For there was no one in his kingdom which could and would advance his private credit and the honour of his Country by worthy prowess and by valiant deeds of arms.  
But when all the kingdom began to bewail the loss of Rosicleer, what did that fair Olivia which had abandoned him the Country, and loved him more than any one in the world, might she forget him one instant? No, but when she weighed well that for the accomplishing of her charge he had forsaken the land, her good will increased towards him, and in steed of the daily view of his parsonage, in his absence she gazed at will upon the counterfeit and portraiture which she had imprinted in her fancy. This did she the oftener because she found not in her solitary contemplation any other thing to present itself. For amorous thoughts are ever enemies to company, and being alone, as commonly she was by reason of sickness, what was there to remove this solitary thought and conversant companion from her.  
This companion she still entertained, which by use and continuance of time grew to a settled sentence, and her love waxed greater than it was before, and then increased the flame which burned more earnestly than ever before it had been. But as it chanced, tossing of these things in her remembrance, withal she remembered that Arinda had told her how that Rosicleer had written unto the Princess Briana, and as the amorous are accustomed to build themselves Castles of Hope, albeit sometime without foundation or sure ground whereon they may surely stand: so her love waxed jealous over him, and she began to cast with herself why Rosicleer should write to the Princess Briana being to her no kith nor kin to her, and so mean borne, out of which in the end she picked out this hope, that out of doubt his birth was as good as his bringing up. In this matter therefore she laboured Fidelia, secretly to steal that Letter from the Gentlewoman Arinda her bedfellow, and talking about this matter one certain time with Fidelia, among other things, she said. Oh my Fidelia, as I had the power to banish Rosicleer the land, so would I that I could banish him from my memory, how profitable had thy counsel been then unto me, but what shall I do for that remedy is no more available, since his absence wounds me more than his presence, I grant thee the fight of the beloved to some increaseth love, still offering itself to be seen, and yet to other some again the thing daily seen bringeth little delight but rather loathsomeness as contrariwise sometimes love is moved by discontinuance, and sometimes men's desire increaseth the flame, albeit the beloved appear not in presence. But this thou takest to be impossible, for thou art not touched with the like passions, and none knows the bitterness thereof but the experienced, as appeareth by thee which hast ministered a medicine not of force against my disease. But make me amends and once again venture for my sake, I remember that Arinda hath a Letter of Rosicleers to the Princess Briana, to what purpose I know not, but I would gladly see it, this steal from her and bring it me that I may read it, I cannot say what good news my mind foretells me by it, but sure I long to read it, as if there were some great secret contained therein, and quiet shall I not be till I have had it. Hereto Fidelia replied briefly that this matter should be left unto her to watch her epportunitie, and indeed when Fidelia and Arinda slept together one night, Fidelia espying Arinda fast on sleep rose as softly as she might, and taking one of the keys which Arinda had tied to her girdle, therewith she opened the casket and pulled out Rosicleers Letter, which she brought to her mistress lodging, whom she found waiting for some glad news. The Princess herself would not open the Letter but gave it to Fidelia, which unsealed it and read as followeth.  
¶ To his good Mother the high and mighty Princess Briana.  
IF my departure from your presence procureth your just displeasure, believe me madame, and my good mother, your son Rosicler cannot be well pleased therewith, foreseeing the great solitariness wherein you remained, and yet because this my journey hath so prospered with me, I am the better contented, and I beseech your grace to quiet yourself upon God's ordinance, from whom I am persuaded this motion in me proceeded. Besides the Story of mine own good Fortime, which Arinda may safely report, I have heard news as touching yourself, the redelivery of my Father, and the safety of my Brother. For since my departure I have got acquaintance with Artemidoro a great wise of man of Greece, perhaps he is not unknown unto you, of whom I have learned that your husband my Father shall ere long return unto you. That the Gentleman of the Sun my brother is alive and already Knighted, and for prowess so greatly approved, as not the Knights of elder time are thought matchable, that he and I shall know our Father to be the most valiant and worthiest Prince on the earth, that we shall have a pleasant end of our sorrowful beginnings, which God grant. As touching mine own estate I have been brought by this Artemidoro to the Court of king Oliverio, where by his own hands I have been dubbed Knight, and have received such honour as if I had been his known Nephew, and had it not been that your grace had commanded the contrary, not suffering our progeny to be known, I should for this favour have bewrayed the truth, at least to have given him some comfort, for the supposed loss of Prince Edward, but I will obey your command. And these news I thought to make you privy unto, as not being ignorant of your heaviness, which I pray God lessen to your comfort. Farther as touching these matters, Arinda may tell you of the specialties. The Almighty send you speedily your desired husband. I take my leave, kissing your royal hands.  
¶ Your obedient son. Rosicler.  
When Fidelia had ended the letter, and the Princess had well understood the secrets thereof, what tongue may express the great joy that entered into her sorrowful mind, as if she had but now recovered her lost hope, and had she not now counterpaized her ancient sorrow with this late sprung joy, her life had been in danger, for in no other thing excessive joy may do so much harm as in the hearts of true lovers. Amongst whom I can compare these two Princes, Rosicleer and the beautiful Olivia as the chiefest. This Princess now rid of some part of her fear, and as it were brought into a new world, thought to make amends by punishing herself for her cruel letter, thus saith she. Oh, how well am I worthy of the pains which I now sustain in the repentance of my former fact, not only for that which against Rosicleer I have committed, but also for the little credit I have had of his valorous parsonage. Where were mine eyes and judgement, when I did not prove his nobility by his virtue, how great was my pride, in that I would in such sort despise so worthy a Knight, and banish him, not only my presence, but this Kingdom also?  
O inconstant and frail womankind, for just cause lightly regarded among wise men, sith we are light in belief, light in judgement, and over-hastye in showing the effect of our conceit. What occasion had Rosicler given me, that I should make exchange for the great good will which I bore unto him, with so cruel a sentence, as to dispatch him from my presence? What had he in his letter, any dishonest word, any unlawful demand, or did he move me to the thing prejudicial to my great Estate. This he desired, that I should know he loved me: why should I be ashamed that my inferiors love me, and that he should like of me, was the thing I desired. Tell me Fidelia, what is thy counsel for to amend this fault, me thinks we are in worse case than before. Rosicler is already departed the Country, and if I send to call him back, he will not regard me, or will it not be thought lightness, after that I had in such earnestness refused him, as it were yesterday, this day suddenly to alter my purpose? Besides that, when he returneth into this Court, his glory may increase to my does worship, and again, if to bear out my former fact, I let the matter pass as it hath done, what shall then become of me? I know not how to live, he being banished from my presence, whom I love better than myself. But Fidelia, as thy part was in the first counsel to banish Rosicleer, so now put too thy help that Rosicler may return again, without the blemish of mine honour. Very joyful was Fidelia to hear the Letter, and being well content that her Mistress had●● kept her former conclusion in this matter, as touching the marriage of Rosicleer, if his Parentage were not so far inferior, soberly answered.  
Madame leave off your complaints, and be more glad than ever you were, sith God hath been so favourable unto you as to make Rosicleer of so high estate that he may merit you. For in good sooth I stood in doubt whether of your pains were the greater, and I knew no means how to slake them. But sith now this secret is disclosed, the remedy is in our hands, and not so difficult as you make it. For be it that you shall send unto Rosicleer, to demand pardon of him for the offence which you have committed against him, shall you think you do yourself any wrong therein in respect of your princely estate. No, for assuredly he loveth you loyally, and because he is of nigh parentage with you, you may therein beguile suspicious eyes, and after his return you may bolt it out of him, whether he love you, yea, or no, if he do, without peradventure you may acquit him, and love of all things would be rewarded. I dare warrant that your love shall detain him with us, and to this purpose madame your hand and my head which jointly committed the former fact, shall now together make the recantation, and cry Pecavi. The effect may be only to will him to resourne to your presence, and myself will be the messenger, and I promise never to refourne into this Country till such time as I find him, and have delivered your Letter to his hands. Withal saith she, this aught prsently to be put in practice, for by the grief Rosicler took at the sight of your Letter, I guess that he is either departed this life or avoided the Country. The Princess was very well content with her haste, as the thing which she most desired, and so embraced she Fidelia gladly, and spoke unto her.  
Fidelia now I know the good will which thou hast to serve me, and I confess that I have not made thee privy to my heaviness without great hope of comfort at thy hands, therefore I beseech GOD once to reward thee as I wish, but bring me pen, Ink, and paper, for I will strait way follow thy counsel herein. Fidelia brought unto her pen, ink, and paper, wherewith the Princess, wrought her reclaim, with as many sugared words, as the other letter had sharp and sour.  
This letter, the sequel will show unto you, when we come to the meeting of Fidelia and Rosicler: but before that time, the letter written after this manner, was delivered unto Fidelia, and it was agreed upon between themselves, that upon the next day she should go to seek him. This night they took their rest, the one, for the better enduring of her long travail, which she should sustain, the other, to make satisfaction for her broken sleeps. Ere broad morning Fidelia was up, and having conveyed Rosicleers letter where she found it, she went unto the Princess, to take her leave of her. When as they were departing: Oh my good Fidelia, said the Princess, do as much as thou mayst to return again speedily, for if thou stayest long, I shall live but a small while, there is nothing that may so soon shorten and cut off my days as to hope without success, and to dread the worst. I tell thee that till thy coming again, my nights will be turned to watchings, and I shall reckon the clock hourly awaiting thy presence. O God, Fidelia, when the day cometh I will look for the night, then when as the night is overpassed, I will make account of the day to come, and I will never leave casting of perils till that I shall hear thee bring some tidings of that good Knight.  
Fidelia was very sorry to think of the cares, which her Lady, was like to receive, and principally for that she should teave her alone wanting with whom to communicate her pain. Wherewith, being somewhat troubled, and also foreseeing the long time of her absence, so she departed weeping in this manner.  
Madame, it is peerless for you to charge me farther in the affairs, the pains wherein I leave you, are sufficient to hasten my journey, I would to God my Fortune were answerable to the desire which I have to serve you in this matter. But be of good courage, and hope for the coming of your Knight, or else look not for me. With these they broke off, and Fidelia went to her fellows, unto whom she told, that she would sojourn with her parents in the Country for a season: after, going to the Sea side, she entered into a ship prepared towards Almaigne, wherein the History leaveth her sailing, to recount of other things which chanced in the mean time.   

¶ Rosicler was betrayed into the Island of Candramarte that Giant, whose hands had been cut off before, by Rosicleer.  
Cap. 43.  
YOu have heard, how Rosicler departed from the great Britain, in the company of the strange Gentlewoman never hoping to return again into that land, only for the accomplishing of the exile, whereunto he was bound by his ladies appointment. Now the History saith, that the Gentlewoman with whom he was in the boat, was sent by Candramarte, whose hands Rosicler had cut off before the King Oliverio for Queen Julia's rich sword, and that she was sent under colour of a distressed Gentlewoman to bring him to her Father's Island, there to be avenged of the hurt and shame which her Father had received. This device was thought fittest, both, for that Rosicleer as a noble Knight, pitied such oppressed Gentlewomen, and that for other cause then to show himself, Rosicleer could not be brought out of England. In this Island Candramarte had two young Giants to his sons, whom for that purpose he had knighted, being in making no less than himself. Besides these, Candramarte had forty chosen Knights, all which he armed to assault Rosicleer, lest be should escape them. By this guile the Lady Gyauntesse, Daughter unto Candramarte, carried him to her Father's Island, wherein, without any farther advice, he adventured himself, for very grief of hearts which he conceived, to see himself abandoned his ladies presence. But now sire days have they been on the Sea, at the end whereof, the wind was so favourable, that they came within kenning of the Island, to his judgement very strong, and to the show very pleasurable.  
This being discovered by the Governor, the Gentlewoman said, that that was the place, wherein her Parents and Husband were taken, crying and tearing of her hair, as if the sight of the place had redoubled her sorrow. This made Rosicleer to be more earnest in her quarrel, and to think if long till he were landed, which his desire being accomplished, the Gentlewoman led him up upon the shore, where Rosicler viewed at ease the whole sight of the Island. In the first enterye upon the land, there were two strong Castles as two Bulwarks, situated upon a steep reck as it were a bow shot distance over against the other.  
Before the Castles, there was a great broad plain shadowed with great Dakes, and when they had come near unto these great Castles, the Gentlewoman pointing to the one Castle, said to Rosicleer on this manner. If that Sir Knight you will avenge my quarrel you must go to that Castle, which is on the right hand, for that is the traitor knights Castle, which hath taken my Parents and Husband as prisoners, and until your coming, I will stay here in this little boat we women are weak hearted and fearful, and above all, I would not come into his power, for than would he for a surety murder my parents and my husband, whom now perhaps he entertaineth more gently, upon hope to win me. If you will, be it so answered Rosicler, for your long gowns are not fit to fight withal, and your sex shall well answer the challenge of your cowardice, with this speech Rosicler departed, and taking his horse, mounted thereon to come to that Castle on the right hand, the Gentlewoman took her ship again, and drove from land amain. By and by Rosicler heard the winding of an horn at the one Castle, and presently he heard an answer at the other Castle, whereby suspecting that this token was given of his coming, he turned his head to see the Gentlewoman whom he had left on the shore. The Gentlewoman hovering about the bank, now sure of his escape, and straining her voice, cried. Come forth, come forth, sons of Candramarte, for here is the new Knight, which cut off our Father's arms. Now witted Rosicleer by this horn, and the Gentlewoman's outcries, that he had been betrayed, but as one careless of life, as quietly as he could, he prepared himself, which he certainly looked for, his prayer was this. Lord jesus have mercy upon me, whom thou so dearly hast bought with thy bloodshed, pardon my sins, and receive me unto thy Kingdom, as for my carcase, be it as thou hast appointed me, for death cannot betide me in a better time.  
After this, he stayed, not as dismayed, but passing farther to see in what manner this treason was compassed, he saw the gates of the one Castle set wide open, and thence issuing a huge Giant upon a mighty Courser, with more than twenty Knights well armed at his tail. At their first coming, they made a great shout, as if they had got some great victory, & the Giant amongst the rest said unto him. Thou miserable and wretched knight well shalt thou abye the shame which thou didst to my father Candramarte, when thou didst cut off his arms at London. Rosicler as desperate made answer: I doubt not but for all your threats you will give me leave to die, but ere that happen, it may be you shall be disappointed of your purpose, and with that he drew out Queen Julia's Sword, with the which he encountered the tall Giant which came against him with a great Spear. The Spear hit Rosicleer on the breast, and indeed were it not for the fineness of the armour, it had pierced him, but the metal being such as it was, the Greek made no more for the blow then if it had been hit with some delicate young knight, and before that the Giant could recover his horse rain to fetch the second course, Rosicler gave him such a blow with his Sword that he cleft him to the bowels, the great giant fell dead to the ground, the blood issuing in great abundance. Here the great brag was quailed, when he which came to avenge another's man's quarrel could not warrant his own safety.  
But truth it is, that those which unmeasurably do seek revenge, do oftentimes heap on themselves the greater mischief. And what did this tyrannous Candramarte else, which placing himself at his window to behold the battle, and to make more solace at Rosicleers harm, as if the only report had not been sufficient, now in steed of his former wrong he found a greater by the death of his sons, but yet this is the beginning only of his misery, for the valiant Knight not fearing death at all, in great choler rushed among the other Knights which likewise assailed him courageously, and had within a while with their battle axes hewn his horse in pieces.  
When he was on foot he laid about him manfully that in short space the scantling of ground in which they fought was covered with breastplates and Targets, and as their number lessened, and that he had more room, so his courage increased and he did them more scathe: but well far his enchanted armour, which had served to more purpose in defending then his sword in offending, or else his courage had tired before the end of so dangerous a fray. Now there are few alive, and those either striving for life upon the grass, or in weak case upon foot, readier to fly then to fight: but presently there came fresh succours from the other Castle. For the other son of Candramarte with more than thirty knights in great haste came against this good knight, not being idly occupied among the other Knights. The Giant for other good morrow gave the good knight so strong a blow with his battle Axe upon the head piece, that had it not been rather in the head piece to withstand the blow, then in himself to resist the Giant, Rosicler had lain brainless on the ground, but all this grieved him not, saving that the weight of the blow made him kiss the earth, whence yet he start up lightly, and minding to requite courtesy for courtesy, as he was purposed at the Giant, there stepped in a knight between them, whom Rosicler divided to the breast bone, whereat the Giant and those which beheld him were much abashed, notwithstanding this, they being many and he wearied, he might not defend himself long from them, especially from the Giant, which only watched opportunity of advantages, yet lengthened he the fight by his noble courage a long time, until for very faintness he was feign to give back and get his shoulders against a wall, from which afterward he was driven by main force, and being pursued, he withdrew himself to the Sea, ever as he warded one blow bestowing another. After he had got the Sea at his back he waxed bolder, and above all watched Candramartes son which had hurt him, most especially him he hit so sure, that the blood gushed out in three or four places.  
In the mean while Candramarte viewing the battle to no great liking blasphemed heaven and earth, and leaving the window ran to the Sea side, where the battle was continued, and with a loud voice he called on his knights, reviling them as cowards and dastards if one Knight might resist them so long, and above all to his son he spoke thus. Thou vile and dastard sheep, how like thou art to thy miserable mother, I swear by heaven and earth if thou escapest out of this battle alive, my cause and thy brother's death unrevenged, that I will starve thee in the same place where I starved thy mother.  
The Giant and his knights thus railed on, for shame and fear gave a fresh assault upon the good Knight, so that as he dispatched some, there stepped in new in their rooms: and ever the battle was as it were new to begin to poor Rosicleer, which drove him to seek farther succour in the water, and to stand up to the navel, thinking his death to be very night, he prayed to GOD with all his heart for his soul's health, as one that altogether detested his life, and determined no longer to defend himself then the water would give him leave. Then taketh he his sword with both his hands and layeth on so thick, that there are slain more than ten knights ere he leaveth, as the Sea gave witness which made the bank seem as all bedewed with blood. Now behold and see how GOD never forsaketh his, and especially those which abide his pleasure: as he did unto this Knight, and now standing equally betwixt life and death, though neither fearing the one nor hoping the other, and sure of neither, yet hath he remedy besides his hope and is comforted of his own brother, unknown to both.  
So may Fortune sometimes vex and annoy us: yet at the length she returneth back and relenteth again. But for this matter which we entreat off, we are to remember ourselves of that valiant Grecian son to the Emperor Trebatio left in the little Boat sailing through the Ocean Seas, with the which he had passed the bounds of Africa, and coasting by the Mediterraneum Seas, was driven along the Spanish shore, and from thence at length sailed by the Island of Candramarte at such time as Rosicleer now enforced himself to abide the uttermost of the skirmish, with resolute mind presently to receive the death or to be conqueror. But this boat guided by a wise man as you heard before, took landing almost against Donzel del Feboes' will, about a bird bolt● shot from Rosicleer, where he espied a cruel fight, but that which most amazed him was, that one knight (though strong timbered and valiant) yet had set himself against so many, and with their bodies had made so great a slaughter. So with a great admiration, rather amorous then jealous, he said unto himself. Who would believe that in our days there might be found a Knight furnished with such excellency of manhood. Assuredly his fame is as worthy to be spoken off, as that Greeks which had killed the famous Trojan Hector. Thanks be to the Gods which have brought me hither, for although I should lose my life, I will not leave him unsuccoured.  
Thus saying he waded in the water to come near him, and seeing the Giant to oppress him so much and without a shield, for he had lost it in battle with the first Giant he took his sword with both his hands, and let drive with all his force at the Giants head that he cleaved it unto the brain, and afterward rushed among the rest, killing many of them. When Rosicler saw with one blow the Giant strooken down and such unhoped for succours, the great wonder that he received may not be told. And as if the enterprise had been achieved or his life saved, with a fresh courage he went out of the water, and valiantly thrust himself among his enemies, where he well gave them to understand that he was desirous the battle should end. Here two brethren albeit unknown each to others, gave brotherly help in time of need. And there was never a one left, which either cried not pardon, or fled his way, the supplyauntes were pardoned. But let us think of Candramarte which now saw his other and only son slain at one blow, in what plight do you judge him to he, but the worst is good enough, whereas if she had held in his hungry desire of revenge with a long delay, or had dissimuled his choler he might have lived quietly with his sons by him, able sufficiently to defend foreign invasion, and maintain his. But now childless, knightlesse, and armless, beside at the mercy of his enemy, he was far out of charity with all the world, that cursing heaven and earth, and what was in them, he run headlong into the sea, there drowning himself among the waves, & bequeathing his soul to the devil, who long ere that expected to be his executor.  
Tell me I pray you gentle readers, how often you have seen the unmeasurable desire of revenge have a lucky end, or not rather to procure a father harm, when as that which might be pardoned or dissimuled with honour, afterward is bewailed with sorrow and grief. It is written that he that seeketh revenge, vengeance will light on him. For why the same God saith. To me vengeance belongeth, and I will reward it. O ye malicious and wicked men which with infinite travail beat your heads to ordain mischief for the least displeasure. Take this lesson for your amendment, and make Candramarte your example.  
But let us continue our history of the two brethren, the Knight of the Sun and Rosicleer, which now the battle being ended and the mis dooers pardoned, had little leisure to learn of each other who he was. Rosicler pulled off his viso and spoke to the Knight of the Sun, saying. Knight the most valiant that ever I met withal, I know not how to reward you for the great friendship you have showed to me, but tell me your name I oraie you, and I shall account myself the happiest man this day living, and while I live will I remember your valour. The knight of the Sun noting the great slaughter of knights with the mangling of armour in that place where the first battle had been fought, besides the monstrous blow wherewith the first Giant had been stain, and after viewing his parsonage, his beard but now burgeoning, he pulled off his helmet, and after the manifesting of his beautiful looks, such as passed all the knights of his time, he answered gently. Right valiant Knight, I am to thank my Gods for that they have brought me hither in so good a time as to know so valiant a knight, and to see with mine eyes the knighthood which I would scarce have credited with mine eyes: but whereas you demand of me whom I am, know you that I am called the Knight of the Sun, for the devise which I bear in my armour, and for my birth I can show you nofarther, neither know I more of my estate: but the adventure which brought me hither hath been by occasion of a storm which drove me on this shore, and this is the first land whereon I set foot since this tempest took my ship, and courtesy commanded me to lend mine aid when I saw you overmatched with number. And thus much for answer to your demand: but now again that I have told you that which you required, so I pray you tell me your name, and for what cause this cruel battle hath been fought between these Giants and you. While the Knight of the Sun spoke thus, Rosicler beheld him very sadly, and hearing him say that he was the Knight of the Sun, and that he knew no more of his estate, he thought that peradventure this same might be his brother of whom Artemidoro had told him such marvels, but leaving this suspicion till he might question of it more at large, he satisfied the knight of the Sun as to his question in short speech after this manner.  
Your friendship was great, and so I make reckoning of it, otherwise I should not have happened on so good a time to tell you my name, in which because you would learn of me, you shall understand that my name is Rosicler, and that I was of good report in the Court of king Oliverio, the king of great Britain, although my mishap causing it, I doubt me so much that my name is once mentioned amongst them, but that matter I will leave off as not pertinent, this which you require about our fight sprung upon this occasion, and so he showed the whole order both of the receiving of his avant Chevalier at the king's hands: the first days justing: the seconds days combat with Candramarte: the honour of the justs: the envy of Candramarte: & point by point the whole story as you heard before.  
Which tale Rosicler had searcely finished, when the Gentlewoman which all this while remained in the ship cried out, whereat they turning their heads, saw in what manner she outraged, saying. O spiteful Fortune do what thou canst, for the succour which I have wanted on land, I hope to find in the bottom of the Seas, and the God Neptune which hath power over the swelling waves, shall keep me from farther vengeance, wherewith she leapt into the Sea, but being clad in large garments, she could not drown presently. The knight of the Sun and Rosicleer seeing her in that estate, pitied her greatly, but she was too far off for them to wade near, so the knight of the Sun took his boat hastily to help the Gentlewoman, where otherwise then he looked for, the boat was carried by violence another way, and albeit he strove to bring it towards her, yet prevailed he nothing, for it sailed in the Sea as swiftly as sometimes the clouds rack in the air being driven by the winds, presently Rosicleer with great grief lost the sight of the boat, wherefore fetching a deep sigh, as for that his former hope was clean dashed to have found his brother, he said as followeth.  
Fortune the thing which I most detest, therein thou showest thyself most favourable unto me. This is my life which now twice thou hast restored me without my wish, but that which my heart most desired, and with which my life should find most ease, therein thou showest thyself an adversary to me, so that whatsoever good happeneth unto me, thou makest me think that it happeneth for the worst, for the longer I live, the more are my pains increased. Now by that time that he had lamented a while for this sudden loss of the strange knight, he saw the gentlewoman cast upon the sands not yet dead, whom he caused those Knights which were escaped in the battle to carry unto the Castle, and there to find some remedy for her. Thus the knights did, with whom he went to one of the Castles, where for this time we will leave him, to follow the knight of the Sun on his journey by Sea.   

¶ The Knight of the Sun was carried to the Island of Lindaraza, where he achieved many strange and fearful adventures.  
Cap. 44.  
WIth great swiftness and incredible haste the Boat whereas the Knight sailed was carried, passing in short time the deep Atlantike and West Ocean, near the uttermost Cape of the Ponent, till from thence it drove upon the Pillours of Hercules, where his mighty arm and steeled fork made place for the Ocean to enter, and water the earth. This Sea is called Mediterraneum Sea, and into this Sea the Knight of the Sun shoved his Boat, where he found well peopled Towns and greater delight than appeared in the wind and West Ocean, and he began to receive some joy of his hither arrival as if not without cause he were carried in such haste, and that some great thing was thereby hoped for: but as sorry for his sudden acquaintance with Rosicleer, he beseeched his Gods with all his heart, that they might once meet again, and at more leisure recount each to other of their adventures.  
Well on all griefs, whether for his friends Brandyzel and Claveryndo, or this unacquainted Rosicleer, or the unskilfulness of his way were extinguished, by that his learned Governor guided their Bark whether it was convenient. So still hoping for the port and Haven, wherein his little boat should ride, he sailed as I said in the middle earth Sea, where, on the left hand, he saw Spain, Portugal, and those Countries, where he could gladly have bestowed himself, but that he was not to command the stéeres-man: but in good time came he thither, as shall be recited in the History hereafter. Although by shore on the right hand he left Africa, Carthage, and Tures, and forward as he sailed, he discovered the Islands Baleares and Sardinia, with the warlike Italy, and the fertile Sicily, where the flames of Aetna hill a while stayed him. There might he see the ruinous relics of old Syracusia, and many perilious Mermaids haunting those shores, much feared by all the Mariners. Then saw he the fresh water of the river Nilus, which entereth the Sea by seven mouths. From thence on the other hand might he see Greece: wherewith he would more willingly have fed his eyes, if he had then known the right which he had thereto. But from thence he lawnched into the broad Euxino, where the wide Sea conveyed all things out of sight, that nought appeared, but clouds above, and waves beneath. Long thus he sailed, marveling when his Navigation should take end.  
After this, as it were a fair calm following a stormy tempest there appeared above the water a fair Island unto the which his boot drove, whereat he was merry and pleasant, thinking that there abode him some adventure, wherein he might try his manly prowess, and full fain he was to leave the Sea: here I say at this Island, his Bark stayed, whereby he knew that his journey was thitherward.  
Then the Knight leapt to land, upon the entry whereof, there was a bank cast of hard stone, and somewhat farther, he saw a fresh and pleasant soil, full of the-swéetest herbs that ever he had seen. There was a fence or closure made of tall high Trees, some of them with so lofty tops, that it wearied him for to look upwards. Beneath this, there was a meadow plat whereon grew many flowers and herbs of all sorts, and it was compassed with a still water, gently rolling upon the Pumice stones, the water was as clear as any Crystal.  
Among the thick trees, he might have seen the swift Heart, and the fair Unicorn, with the little Beveret, and the small Coney banking the green boughs, beside the light Squirrel climbing the tall Oak, with the feet chirping lays which the Birds made, recording so pleasantly among the tender sprays, that it would have made a man utterly forlorn to receive comfort, and he that was surprised with love or loves daries might have found a more present remedy, than the Hearts of Crete do, when they are wounded by the Hunter. This pleasure to have enjoyed, you would have thought yourself to have been transported into another world or into a celestial Paradise.  
When the Knight of the Sun had both beheld and heard all those things, he imagined presently that the Island was well stored with people, thither resorting for the desyght there to be found, but yet he marveled why their paths were no more trodden, and gazing on every part which way to take best, he took the way which was most beaten, therein he walked heaufly laden with his armour: but his desire to know the end of this adventure, and the sweet melody of the birds continually accompanying him, made him think his journey shorten.  
About a mile or more out of this meadow, he entered into a plain pasture so beset with flowers as the meadows were. In the middle of this pasture, as it were a bow shot from him he saw the farrest Castle which ever eye had seen, as well for the height and largeness, as for cost and workmanship.  
The matter was all of Jasper, which when the Sun began to cast his beams thereon, shined so bright, that it dazzled the eyes of the beholder. The form was quadrangle after an even proportion, as broad as long. In every of the corners, there were ten fair Turrets, which reached by man's seeming to the clouds. The outward wall of the Castle was hard Marble hewed but of the Island Paros. Round about the Castle there was a deep ditch, with a device, that albeit there was no Spring in it to nourish it, yet was it maintained with a fresh flow, partly by the fall of waters from the mountains, partly by the Rivers we named amongst the meadows, which at every spring cleared the channel. Upon this water there stood a Bridge with three strong Turrets, one in the beginning, the other in the midst, the other in the end towards the Castle. Through them a man cannot enter but by plain force, for the keepers open not but constrained, and they need to be right valiant, for the Porters are fell.  
The Knight of the Sun gazed upon this verge attentively, so amazed at the strangeness of the work, that he could not think it to have been builded by man's hand. And having as then no other skill of God, but the Gentiles law, he thought that peradventure this might be the house of his Gods, when they descended from heaven to sojourn amongst us. So very desirous to know the end thereof, he came unto the bridge, where he stayed a while ere he proceeded farther, for he judged that according to the great strength of the arches, the depth of the water, and the height of the wall, that no man might enter without leave asked. And as be there wanted not matter of marvel for the wonder of the castle, so marveled he that near so rare and magnificent buildings, so marveled he that near so rare and magnificent buildings, he met no person of whom he might demand to whom the fair Castle did belong. Amid these thoughts it seemed best in his fancy to call to them within, if perhaps any would answer him, and therefore coming to the gates of the first Turret which was then nearest to him, he found a Porch opened, and right before a fair stately Court, enclosed with walls of Jasper, and in the midst before him a payer of stairs of a ten or twelve degrees which led up to a fair Pillar, whereunto was fastened with a chain of gold, a fair horn and a rich brawdricke to it. The horn was tipped all with gold, and in the end were set many precious stones. The riches thereof, might have contented a right covetous eye. Underneath the horn, upon the same pillar, there were engraven letters, which the Knight of the Sun perceiving and hoping there to learn some more news he mounted up the stairs, and read as hereafter followeth.  

¶ This Castle belongeth to the beautiful Lindaraza, the gates may not be opened to any save to him which windeth the horn. But let him take heed withal, for when they are open there shall not fail him cruel and fierce porters to give him the death, if it be possible.  
When he had read the letters, and gathered by them that there were Porters to answer him, he feared not a whit for all the threats of the Writing, but with an heroical heart he untied his horn, and winded it so shrill, that all the Castle eccowed with the noise. At the sound hereof, the inner gates of steel flew open, as if they had been shaken with a tempest, and presently there appeared a fierce Giant, bearing in the one hand a bar of iron, and in the other a chain, wherein he led tied a Dragon, the most hideous that ever man looked on.  
This beast was from the breast downward, as high as avy man on horseback, and the tail thereof was ten paces in length, wherewith he swéeped the ground. Now the strong Giant coming out of the gates, let loose the Dragon, and took the bar of iron in his hands, paceing towards the Knight, which was now in descending from the Pillar. Ere the Knight could easily come to the ground, the Giant met him with a counterbuff on the shield, that he miss two or three steps in coming down. The monstrous Dragon beneath, was ready to receive him. But the Nephew of Alicante lightly esteeming all this, and rather took courage in this, that there was some thing worthy his pains behind, when the Castle was kept by such ugly Porters, and drawing out his sword, he struck at the Serpent a blow on the top of the head, but it did him no more harm, then if it had lighted upon a Smiths anfielde, but it a little benumbed his senses, and beguiled him of his fore-hoped gripe. This little harm which he had done to the Serpent, did much amaze him, and the better to save himself from the Serpent, he got under the Pillar, and then he bestowed another blow upon the Serpent's head with all his force.  
The Serpent so sore stricken, warred wood, and brayed out so loud, that all the Court rang of the noise, and fain would it have got between the Knight of the Sun, and the place under the Pillar where he stood to have reached him in his paws, but the good knight defended himself lightly from him, and laid at the Dragon still with the sword. The Giant abode still at the staters foot, to wait for the Knights tumbling on the stairs: at length he came down headlong, where the strong Giant let drive at him so great a blow with his Bar, that the bar burst, and the good Knight thought his head had been bruised: with this, as well as he might, he rose up, and driving at the Giant, he cut his legs clean from his body. The Giant falling to ground, the Serpent raising his tail, grasped at the Knight of the Sun, but I cannot tell how the Knight escaped it, and withal be took up the greatest piece of the bar of iron which the Giant had, and hasting toward the Serpent, he gave him such a blow therewith upon the head that he fell down, and before he could rise, the Knight gave him such another, that his skull as hard as flint burst into two pieces, yet for all this, the great Serpent was not throughly dead, but bounded up into the air, and swept the ground with his tail, seeming more fierce then at the beginning. The Knight of the Sun purposed to strike no more, but quickly gate up higher on the stairs to be out of danger, in the end, the Dragon stirred no more, whereby he judged that he was dead, and marveling what besides there might be found in the Castle, he hung the fair horn about his neck, and with the bar in his hands, he entered the first Lower, and from thence through the first arch of the Bridge, till he came to the second Tower, which was in the midst of the Bridge, the gates whereof were of steel, and shut as fast as the gates of the first arch were. Cheualiero del Febo winded his horn, and presently the gates were opened, and there came issuing out a Giant no less strong than the first, having in the one hand a club, and in the other a chain, wherein he led a Lion, the mightiest of limb and biggest of bone, that ever man saw. The body as big as a Bull, and every of his claws was a handful long, his eyes shined like lamps.  
This Lion the Giant untied strait, and set upon the Knight, which with no little courage, as he had a greater Nuest in hand awaited him, and at the first blow he struck him so fell upon the head, that the brains start out, and the monstruous Lion fell stark dead, without more stirring. When he had this done, he encountered the Giant, and the Giant let drive at him: But the Knight not minded at that time to assay or put his trust to the fine metal of his enchanted Helmet, start aside, that the club fell upon the Bridge: but before the Giant could rear his club, the son of Trebatio hit him so strongly beneath the knees, that his shin bones were burst withal, and the Gyannt with great clamours fell down, the Knight of the Sun leaving him sure enough for making resistance, took up his heavie-slubbe to go farther, and to see what was within.   
Thus passed he through the second Tower, till he came to the third and fast Tower of the Bridge, whereof finding the gates shut as the other, he winded his horn, and with the sheilnesse thereof, the gates burst open, making as great a noise, as if the bridge had re●it in two, presently stepped forth a huge Giant, nine foot in height, all his body covered with a tough hide, so hard and strong, that no sword could enter. At his waste he had a sword, and in his hand a chain of iron, whereto were fastened two Tigers of wonderful greatness, by the fierceness of their looks, able for to have afraid any man.  
For all this hardy Grecian was nothing appalled, for he lift up the heavy club so strong, as if the great Hercules should have come to fight with him, only with the show, it might have made him to tremble.  
Those fierce beasts, so soon as the Giant had unloosed them, opening their horrible mouths, ran with such swiftness upon him, that if seemed their feet touched not the ground. At such time as they came both upon him, he gave one of them such a blow upon the shoulder, that he burst all his bones in pieces, wherewith the Tiger fell to the ground. Then came the other, and caught hold of him in the shoulder, so gripping him, that he could not stir his arm neither one way nor other, and grasping almost all the headpiece within his sharp teeth, he thought to have crushed it in pieces, but the helmet defended the head, and the Magic armour kept off the tearing of his nails. Now the good Knight seeing neither purpose of his club, nor use of his sword, while he was thus entertained by the Tiger, throwing away his club, he struggled and wrestled so long with the Tiger, that in the end, he cast the beast upon the hard flint stones, with such a fall, that the brains flew out of the head. The wild Giant, when he saw the Tiger thus slain, with an hellish fury he went toward the Knight of the Sun, and taking his long sword, he gave him such a blow upon the top of the helmet, that there sparkled out great flakes of fire, and the Knight fell upon his hands and knees. But as soon as he could, the Knight recovering his sword, requitted him so courageously, the Giant being unarmed, that had not the strong hide stood him in steed of complete armour, the sword had entered the flesh, whereof at that time it miss. hereat the wild Giant taking up again the heavy sword, struck the Knight of the Sun upon the top of the headpiece, but he avoided the blow lightly. In such sort, that the heavy sword fell upon the grounds, and broke in pieces the hilts only remaining in his hands. Now before the Giant could raise up his sword, the knight of the Sun ran him through. When the Knight of the Sun had accomplished thus much of his purpose, he thought there had been no more to be done save now to know the secrets which abode behinds, and wherefore this strait warding was ordained. Therefore he went through all the bridge until he came to a path way which lead between the outward wall and the great castle. When he had walked this path, about a bow shot off he saw a little door, all engraven with sundry kind of portraiture, the strangeness whereof with the variety of the Story therein portrayed, might have held a good carver a long time: the Imagery was so drawn that it would have troubled the wit of Praxites to have matched it. The gates were not great, but the chief part was of steel as surely closed as the first.  
The Knight of the Sun thinking that percase they would open at the first push, rushed against them with all his force, but his labour was lost, and he prevailed no more than if he would have broken down the walls with his feet. Therefore he winded his horn, whereat the gates burst open, but no man appeared without, save that when he was about to enter he saw two Giants the one on the one side & the other armed from top to toe, with head pieces of fine steel, and their armour a finger thick in deepness, they held in their hands two battle axes raised up aloft ready to discharge their blows upon the comer in. The fierceness of their semblance was so strange that it is hard to believe that any man had the courage to enter against his will, but if it had been the dog Cerberus he could not have defended him the passage.  
This valiant knight seeing them in such sort prepared for the fight, albeit he wanted not courage to assay that fearful entry, yet he stayed in doubt how he might enter without danger, and ward the two first blows. For to receive both their blows at once was not possible without great hazard, and otherwise enter he could not, but after long pausing he came nearer, and as if he would have passed through he showed himself, whereat the Giants as if he had entered indeed let drive their blows, the whilst the knight stepped in between them, and taking the next to hand he hit the one Giant overthwart the pawnch, but his sword entered not. The Giants which at their first blows had broken their heavy clubs drew out their broad arming Swords, and laid at the knight of the Sun. The one he received on the sword, the other he avoided lightly by stepping aside. And willing to see the end of the adventure he struck one of them full upon the v●sour, wherewith he had thought to have hewed his face, but he was deceived, for it did the Giant no more harm than if he had been smitten with an hasill wand.  
The Giants now laid on load, but he disappointed them by the delivernesse of his body. And now consider what thought this good Knight was in to feel himself assailed by two fierce enemies, and not able to hurt again. Neither was it possible to master one of them by wrestling, for both the weaker of them two was too strong for him, and perhaps while he should deal with the one, the other might displease him. So that neither of these ways were convenient, without some present help the danger certain, yet in the end he began to rebuke himself, ever saying: Stick to it thou coward, and albeit as yet it seems impossible for to escape this perilous skirmish, yet stir not thy foot, either shalt thou soon overcome or soon lose the victory, but never shalt thou lose thy infamy, if thou die flying, many times such hard adventures have been occasion of greater glory, and if any body but myself achieve it, I shall not like myself as long as I live.  
So gazing about to seek advantages he marked the wicket standing open somewhat beneath the porch, where through he might well pass by little bowing himself, but neither of the Giants, might except they fell on all four, for they were higher than he by the breast downward, when he saw this door he bethought himself how to be out from the danger of blows which fell into his brain at a time of need. Thus it was as the giants were desirous to hit him, he ever stooped under, & watching one of them, as he was lifting up his arms, before the blow could descend, he ran and closed with him, and taking him by the girdle carried him by strong hand, and with all his force ran against the wicket, that the Giant not being able to pass through burst both head and shoulders against the wall, the giant there died in his armour.  
This done the strong Knight passed farther, and letting the body fall, with as much speed as he might he ran to meet with the other Giant, which then approached with his sword in both his hands to have smitten him. But these Giants little acquainted with feats of arms, and the knight of the Sun by the dexterity of his body defended himself lightly from them and obtained victory.  
For when the Giant had let his sword fall out of his hands, he embraced the Giant with both his hands, and turning himself twice about, at the third time he let him fall, that through the weight of his body his gall burst in his body, and he died presently. This marvelous combat being ended, the good Knight was now weary, and therefore took his ease upon a seat of stone which was in the Porch, there to occupy himself, he beheld the strong buildings of the Castle. After roaming about to find some other way to departed thence, he found at one end another gate all of iron, and the gates shut as all the first, whereby he saw that he had yet farther trial to abide.  
And therefore he rested himself where he sat, after which done he arose, and passing through the first wall to the second he found the Gates shut, and therefore he winded his horn, presently the steel gates opened, and there came out thereof a flame of fire accompanied with great smoke, as if it had been some place of hell, until the smoke vanished away he could see nothing. After he saw before the gate a beast in form like a Crocodile, but some what more hideous, as it were a misshapen monster, purposed by nature to show the loathsomeness of deformity. Out of his mouth he sent great flakes of fire, in the fangs there sat a tusk without the mouth about half a yard very sharp and cutting.  
The good knight abashed now to see so many fierce keepers in that Castle, as if it had been nothing but a lodge of warders, (as he supposed) to keep in durance the sons of Titan which once rebelled against jupiter. The which tale he had often heard in the Gentiles law, and yet the travail of conquering grieved him not alike to the long looking for of the end, but not minding to debate the matter at this time, he took his sword in his hand, assailing the entry, but the ugly beast cast out such a flash of fire that the Knight of the Sun little liked of it. And not being able to endure it, he gave back till the heat should slake.  
This may a man say, that it troubled the Knight more than all that had passed, one cause was for the extremity of heat, another for that he saw no way to come near the beast, for before he might approach it, the beast would be all on a light fire, but remembering himself of the club which he had left in the first entry, and thinking that it should be the best weapon he might have, be ran to fetch it, and returning speedily he found the monster as you heard before spitting out his fire. The Knight of the Sun with his long reach in his hand gave the beast upon the forehead such a blow that the head rend in two, and the terrible beast fell to ground, beating his feet against the ground so hard, that it seemed the Castle shook with all, and the smoke which it sent forth, as at the quenching of a great fire, so blinded the Knight of the Sun till it was stark dead that he might not enter: from thence after he came to a fair Court, the sumptuous building whereof amazed him much, that in comparison the golden statues which Nero the Emperor of Rome erected, might not more delight him: no, nor yet the wonders of the world, the stately Pyramids of Egypt, wherein only their kings are buried, and wherein they wasted the most part of their substance might like delight them. In beholding the strangeness of these buildings, I cannot tell precisely his thought for every circumstance, but if his thought were as my thought, or if the report be true which first came from him, surely there was matter enough to gaze upon, but what think you he noted especially? Nothing but a marble stone, but as it fell out to some good purpose.  
In the Marble stone were engraven the valiant acts of all knights alive or dead, in such order of time as they lived. First the ancienter, than the later, till he came to the nearest, very few or none omitted. A rare piece of work, and must needs have been done by other cunning than story or carving, for the one the pains were infinite, for the other no man's reading stretcheth so far as to know every Story. But herein he took great pleasure, and from the last to the first he ran them over, he stayed at his own picture, whereunto joined next above was Trebatio, and the next beneath was Rosicler. These three pictures were fresher in his fancy then the others, as if they had been new made. Remembering by the picture of Rosicler the countenance of that Knight whom be had found in the Island of Candramarte, he yielding forth a great sigh, and blessing the picture from the bottom of his heart, he spoke these words unto like purpose.  
Thou art a right good Knight, and worthily placed among the most famons Knights of the world, for I believe not that among so many as are here painted there is one so valiant as thou art. For albeit commonly we make much of our elders virtues, it is but as commonly many things show fairer a far of, whereas when they come to trial, they are but as ordinary.  
After this he mused in himself who that Trebatio might be, for he never heard of such a man: but by the draft of the picture, he took him to be a comely parsonage, of a mild and sad countenance, and it did him good to behold him: so looking farther he saw the whole Story of the Emperor Trebatio drawn underneath, from his first landing in Hungary till the hour of his enchantment in that Castle. How he was in the company of Lindaraza without knowledge of himself, or witting to his friends. Now did he at length learn the purpose of the strong wards, which was to hold in the Emperor Trebatio there bewitched for the company of Lyndaraza, whom before he could reshore to the knowledge of himself, he must bring from that peer of the Castle which was enchanted to that only effect. This when he understood, it pitied him much that so good an Emperor should there be in hold by false means, to the great sorrow of his subjects, and principally of his wife the Princess Briana, whom ve saw likewise all clad in black like a widow, and to work some means of his delivery, he looked about him which way was best to take, and liking best one of the gallories the which was nearest to the paved court, that he followed, mounting up a pair of stairs all made of jasper, in the midst whereof he mercomming down a big knight, armed with rich and glistering armour, his face bare and of a fresh colour, which approaching to him drew out his sword, and without saying aught, laid at the knight of the Sun as fiercely as he could.  
The Knight of the Sun would rather have talked with him to have learned some news, but it could not be, so it behoved him to draw his sword and to defend himself. There began a hot skirmish, that the claftering of their armour and the flashing of their Swords rang throughout the Palace. This fury notwithstanding lasted not long, for the Knight of the Sun in a cholarike rage hit his adversary so sure upon the top of his helmet, that the big Knight fell down and lay for dead.  
The Knight of the Sun stayed not to make dispatch of him, but rather having compassion on him (for he seemed a noble-knight) he unlaced the knights helmet to give him air, but not being able then to recover him, he passed farther, and coming to the gallary, he then went up another pair of stairs so wide and broad, that if two were going up near the two ends, scarcely the one might know the other. Now in this his way albeit many things were which might have stayed either an idle gazer or a curious eye, and many things beside to have invited a wearied man to take his rest, yet the desire of finding the Emperor carried his feet, and overcoming the pains of the way he came to a portal curiously wrought, to the entry whereof there lead three steps of beaten silver. By them be entered into a great chamber where first the Emperor Trebatio had a sight of the fair and beautiful Lyndaraza, and was bereaved of his wits.  
In this chamber he was greatly abashed at the cost and workmanship of rich Tapestry and other ornaments, and ever though the stuff were of the costiliest, yet the workmanship bettered the matter. Hence must he as I told you convey the Emperor if he mean to make himself known. Now for your farther instruction, know that among other things which the wise Lyrgandeo gave unto the Knight of the Sun, at his departure from Babylon, he gave him a little stone set in a King of excellent fine gold, the same being of so strange virtue that no enchantment might prevail against it, by this he was bold to enter the chamber, and being within was free from the charm. Out of this chamber he came to the Orchard whereunto this chamber looked, so fresh and delectable, that if ever pleasure might ravish the senses of man, a man might affirm it of that place. In the arbour near the entry he saw a number of fair Gentlewomen clothed with silk, their breasts bare and white as Snow, some played on instruments, and other sang sweetly to them.  
Such kind of Mermaids would have beguiled a well stayed Ulysses, or such Musicians as well for their cunning song as their company, would have brought a watchful Argus to a sleepy head. A good way off he saw the Emperor Trebatio and the fair Lindaraza alone, set in several chairs, all unmindful of other things but of their love and wish to other. The Emperor Trebatio leaned his head upon the white and delicate breasts of Lindaraza, with such show of pleasure therein, that the young Greek feeling thereby in himself that which all men have, could have been content with the others room, and for very love he made an invective against nature which had ordained that kind to have such sourreingtie over valiant knights, with many words to the same matter, but this was yet the wantonness of his imagination, his neck had not felt the yoke, hereafter perhaps he will speak more earnestly when you shall believe him.  
Nows, when the Gentlewomen espied him as all abashed they laid aside their Music, with the sudden stay whereof Trebatio and Lindaraza lifted up their heads, and seeing a Knight so strongly made to come towards them, they were overtaken with fear, especially Lindaraza, which guessing at the troth of the matter that her long love should now take end, for very sorrow fell to ground, Trebatio comforted her in as much as yet no violence was offered, but she replied with tears, saying. Alas my Lord, I shall die unless you do justice on this Knight, which hath here entered without my leave, and which hath interrupted our joys by the destroying of my keepers. herewith the Emperor very angry, spoke to the knight, saying. Sir knight, why have you come within this place without the licence of this Lady, it being hers & kept by strong keepers for her use. The Knight of the Sun gently answered. Noble Emperor I confess I demanded no leave, and till now I met with none which would ask wherefore I came, but my arrant is for yourself, which here live unknown, and have forgotten your wife and Empire. The Emperor angrily replied: neither thou nor the whole world may bring me hence, & for thy good zeal to put me from my joy, stay a while and I will acquit thee thy fee. So hastily he flung to a chamber where he armed himself, the while that Lindaraza whom it touched as in especial, reviled the Knight of the Sun for his thither coming. O saith she, thou saucy and unmannerly Knight, how hast thou had the face to enter my Castle in despite of my Porters, either depart hence quickly or tarry to abide the emperors puissance.  
And if my mind deceive me not, I shall soon be satisfied for this disgrace. The Knight of the Sun knowing how grievous it would be unto her, that the Emperor should leave her, laid contrariwise with fair words to persuade her to give consent to his departure, saying Worthy Lady, may you not content yourself with so many years, in which you have detained this noble and famous Emperor both from wife and kindred, from land and subject, but will you also for your pleasure, neither lasting nor honest, undo a whole Country, and take a man from his wife, which hath mourned for him twenty years. I beseech you madame content yourself with that which is past, & let him not wade farther in this error, which if it may please you to remove, to your great honour at my entretie. hereat Lindaraza all fiery could not abide the end of his suit, but with great outcries to incense the poor Emperor, she put him off The Emperor being armed, in great choler ran upon the Knight of the Sun, and without saying any thing, laid at him with all his force. The Knight of the Sun knowing, that what the Emperor did, was but as done in a dream, would not strike him to do him harm, but only to save himself, and to find the means whereby to bring Trebatio from that enchantment. Thereupon by little and little he gave back, that the Emperor following him, he might in the end bring him from the enchanted chamber. This came to pass accodingly, for as he made show of lack of resistance, so the Emperor thinking to follow the advantage, pursued him to the great chamber, where the enchantment first took effect. In short, by this foresaid means, there also this Emperor was brought to the point of avoiding the chamber, whereat Lindaraza fearing lest he might be led, cried with a loud voice. Stay, stay, my Lord, for this Knight is full of falsehood, and if you go out of this chamber, both you and I shall die. hereat the Emperor, who was not desirous of any thing but to please her, returned back. The Knight of the Sun would not follow him, but still kept at the pitch of the entry, and the Emperor would not come to him for fear of Lindaraza.  
Well, this devise not succeeding the Knight of the Sun, thought now to try if he might carry him by main force. This he knew would be a dangerous matter for the courage which he knew in the Emperor, but all was well employed, if he might set him at liberty. So towards the Emperor he goeth, whom not prepared to fight, he suddenly catcheth in his arms, and with a lusty courage raiseth him from ground to have carried him away, but before the Knight might get to the door, the Emperor catching hold likewise, held the knight so short, that for a while they tumbled in therhall, neither part gaining any great scantling of ground, but the odds was the Knights, and in the end he quickly lifting up the Emperor would he or not, he brought him without the chamber. The Emperor struggled to recover the door, but in their struggling, they both tumbled down the stairs. Now hath the Knight of the Sun played the man, for ere they came fully to the ground, the doors of the enchanted chamber clapped together, wherewith, and with the noise thereof, a great part of the edifices sank withal. The Emperor returned to his former wits, presently saw that he thought he had not stayed there past a day, and that which passed between him and Lindaraza, had been but a short and pleasant dream. After calling to mind his wife the fair Princess Briana, and the great host which he had left before Belgrado, he became so sorrowful, that the tears trickled down his cheeks in great measure. But of this manner and condition are we mortal men, that for our pleasures we sometimes forget our spouse's, the one half of ourselves: sometimes neglect our children, the more half to ourselves (as in whom the hope of posterity resteth) and lastly, sometimes we overturn our Country which ought to be dearer to us then ourselves, neither mindful to what use we are created, namely to the benefit of others, neither careful what loss ensueth, as in especial our own discommodity, but that which is more than careless, is the little thought of change, and the loathing to depart from it.  
That when we are at our ways end, we seem but as it were now to begin a fresh. It is like a sweet sleep, but let us shake off this drowsy humour, and let us open our sleepy eyes. Let us use ourselves so that sometimes we have recourse to matters of more importance, & to think of heaven, to despise the vain temporal things of this world, to separate ourselves from the man of flesh, and willingly to heave him lest he leaveth us against our willer.  
Little shall remain thereof after scores of years, and that which remaineth, shall be shame and grief, for the life passed, be●●des desperate repentance, which is a double torment. 〈◊〉 much after this same manner was this valiant Emperor for his long delights with Lindaraza, now twenty year was but a Summer's day, and yet there left him not shame of his fact to fret his conscience, albeit he advised himself the best remedy which I have read of, which is amendment of life, the safest haven for a weather-beaten pe●●cent. First therefore knowing that this Knight was he which had as it were awaked him from this dream, he pul●ed of his helmet & embraced him, giving hearty thanks for his deliverance. Withal professing, that he thought himself unable to requited that great courtesy, yea, even with the bestowing of his Empire, so assuredly be meant not to forget it, if peradventure God would show him the occasion of doing him service. For (saith he) you have not saved my life, here might I have lived without danger of sword, but you have saved my soul, etc. Extolling the greatness of the benefit, and in the end, he prayed him of courtesy to tell him his name and Country, with the cause of his coming to that Island. The knight of the Sun answered him geatly: Valiant Emperor, the thing which I have done in your service, is not like to that which I wish for, as your valour forceth my will, so my will sueth a desert on your part, more unto you, then to all the Knights of the world. But wit you, I am called the Knight of the Sun, my country I know not, but my bringing up hath been in Babylon, where I was told that I was found upon the sea, being a very child, my coming to this castle was by chance, my boat being driven by tempest upon the shore, where seeing it so fresh and fair I had desire to know the owners, and fortune being favourable, I passed through all killing the keepers till I came within this court, where I saw engraven your whole history from the time that you were married with the Princess Briana, till time 〈…〉 There knew I the manner of your bewitching, and albeit yourself were unknown to me, yet I thought I would set you free if that I might, from whence this hath proceeded which you have seen. When he had ended, the Emperor embraced him many times with great pleasure, as well wondering at his great prowess, for he could not be ignorant of Lindarazas power, as also at his boldness for a matter not touching him in any respect, by all appearance. For he neither knew country nor parents. But as the remembrance of his wife and Empire caused in the Emperor much grief, so he besought the Knight of the Sun that they might departed from thence to go into Greece, where he might better thank him then he had erst done. The Knight of the Sun with a good affection to bear him company, condescended easily, rather yet upon desire to know the Country, wherein he had heard to be right valiant Knights, then of any hope of reward. So when they came near the outward Court, they found that Knight (whom the Knight of the Sun had left in a trance) now returned to himself and upon his feet safe and sound. The Knight when he saw the Emperor and the Knight of the Sun coming down, giving great sighs and weeping bitterly, began to say. Oh what a dismal day is this for me, now my sister Lindaraza is dead and I have lost a sweet companion, I would rather that I had been killed by this stranger, which hath destroyed all our good, then that I should live and sustain such anguish. Little have the monstrous keepers prevailed, whom we put in our Castle to defend her life, and to defend the death which so suddenly hath taken her away. The Emperor hearing him, and knowing him, ran to embrace him, saying.  
My dear friend Flamides, how chanceth this heaviness in your countenance? Why do you fetch such deep sighs, and spill so many tears with so great sobs. If it be for my departure, and for the liberty which I have received by this Knight, you know how long time I have here remained out of my remembrance, and forgetful of my Empire and kingdom, and shall I not go to comfort her, which long time by my absence hath been comfortless. My Lord said Flamides, I can not deny but your reason is good, and that the injury hath been great in detaining you so long from thence, but as your excellency knoweth, there is no love more natural then between brother and sister. O the death of my sister Lindaraza pierceth me to the heart, and I had rather than my life, have accompanied her in death, than thus to bewail her lack after death. For so soon as you came out of the enchanted room, my sister died presently, so was it appointed by the destinies, that no longer than she should enjoy your presence, she should live. Blessed man, said the Emperor, and is Lindaraza dead? yea assuredly quoth he. Now on my honour (said the Emperor) her death grieveth me, and during my life shall I be sad, as oft as I shall call her to remembrance, and although my case is such, as in more need of comfort, then likely to comfort others, yet me thinks, I may tell you, that you ought not to bewail her death so much, for belike a long time have you known that her life should not last after my departure. Now, wherefore do you lament her so sore, as if it were but now thought on, & not before foreseen. Again, your overmuch carefulness in fortifying your Castle, was but peerless, for it is given to man to have the mastery over beasts which either by Art or Nature become tractable. And be it your Castle had been inexpugnable for all men in the world, yet what fence had you to shut out death. A man in no place can warrant himself such safety, as that at every step he draweth himself nearer unto death. Whether we be free or bond, on foot or horseback, sleeping or waking, whole or sick, we daily draw near unto our end: or if you will speak more truly, to our perfection, for then man beginneth to live indeed, when he goeth out of this miserable world.  
Lindaraza is dead, and weeping may not recall her: if you bear unto her any love, you may show it now after her death, in receiving to her place her daughter Lindaraza, for her provide that she may departed from hence, & I will carry her to my kingdom, where she shall be in that estate as is due to the daughter of such parents: when the Emperor had thus said, Flamides forced himself so much as he might for to speak, & thus answered him. Your reason satisfieth my understanding, & I confess it true that we ought not to weep when death assaileth us, neither ought we to make strange of it, for in the end we must leave this world, and then is there nothing more certain, but my conceit builded upon outward sense being contrary to reason troubleth again that part where affections are, and maketh it rebellious, and howsoever men be provided for death by continual thought that they must die: ordinarily notwithstanding we think ourselves immortal till death attacheth us. And what old man only for age is so feeble that he hopeth not for a day to live: But as to Lindaraza my sister, I believe that although you had stayed here many days, the secret of this adventure had never been disclosed unto you, neither do you know the cause why you were brought and put here. But I will tell you plainly. My sister Lyndaraza and I had both one Father named Palisteo being the second son to the king of Phrigia, my Father not being borne to the kingdom fell rather to seek his own delight without envy, then to trouble himself with the care of governing. Above all he studied the Art Magic, where by his pains at length came to the most absolute perfection of all in Asia, he was matched with a Lady of high parentage, by whom he had two children, my sister Lindaraza and me, we were of young years when our mother died in labour of the third child, so there remained none else but our Father alive, and loving to be solitary came and dwelled in this Island, bringing with him my sister and those waiting women which you have seen, by his great skill he builded this Castle, here he lived until my sister and I were of some discretion to guide ourselves. Here he drew many histories of things passed in the world, and among other, the pictures of many valiant Knights which were then on live, with the rest you were so lively drawn that it happening my sister to enter one day where the Imagerye was, by the sight of your picture she was surprised with your love. Our father Palisteo knowing her disease, devised you should be brought by following your own wife carried from you. For this cause, was this enchantment made in that quarter of the Castle wherein you abode, without making yourself privy to your own estate that if your Knights came to seek you, they might not persuade you hence, neither could ever persuasion have served, only force which this man hath used. When the wise man our father had done all this, he declared unto us the secrets of these things, and farther told us by his Art that the tim●●hould come when you should be delivered from the enchantment although he knew not when nor in what manner. He told us, that at such time as you should be at large, my sister Lindaraza should die, either for the grief that she should conceive, or for that the fates had so appointed. Moreover, that you should have a daughter by her, which might not hence departed till there should come a Knight, which should win the entries once again, and after marry her. Of this Knight he said that there should spring the race, whence issueth the two noble families much spoken off throughout the world, the one house to be called Mongrana, the other Claramonte. Me he charged not to leave the Castle till my niece Lindaraza should be acquitted. After this, our father Palisteo being sore sick, died: since his death hitherto every thing hath fallen out accordingly. And thus you have heard the whole process of my tale, and the cause why your daughter Lindaraza cannot go from hence at this time.  
The Emperor and the knight of the Sun had very attentively listened to all that which Flamides had spoken: and albeit the Emperor was desirous to carry his daughter Lyndaraza with him, he could not yet refuse to leave her when he could not otherwise choose, and he besought Flamides that at such time as they came both out, that they should take the way to Greece, there to rejoice with him. After they had thus argued a little, Flamides brought them through the part of the Castle which was not enchanted, showing them many things, as well, of halls, of cloisters, as of pictures and painterie, whereat the Emperor and the Knight of the Sun were greatly amazed. And for that that day the knight of the Sun had not eaten, Flamides made them sit in a fair parlour, where they had plenty of delicate viands: when they had eaten, the Emperor being desirous to departed, desired Flamides to convey him through the gates. So (by the ●●aie) this piece of the story as I have heard, was afterward penned and portrayed in the Court hall of the emperors Palace at Constantinople. But they went through all the gates of the Castle and of the bridge, till they came where the pillars stood. There Flamides took his leave of the Emperor and of the Knight of the Sun.  
When Flamides had departed from them, and they had passed through the bridges, presently the gates of the Towers clapped together with great noise, being as surely shut as ever they were. The Emperor and the Knight of the Sun were amazed at the strange things which had happened in that Castle, and took the way towards the Sea by the same path in which they had come, rejoicing at the sweet harmony which the Birds made in those pleasant trees, so that although they went a foot, yet it seemed no pain unto them. And the love that they bore to each other was so great, that it could not have had been more if they had known each other, especially the Emperor, whom so often as he saw his face thought upon the Princess Briana, whom he much resembled. In this manner the father and the son travailed, running over in their discourse strange things of the enchanted Castle, till that they approached the main sea, whereas yet the little boat stood in which the knight of the Sun had come thither. Now for that along the shore there were no more boats, the Emperor was somewhat sorrowful, seeming to him that he was ill furnished to go whether he purposed, and telling it to the knight of the Sun. The knight of the Sun answered. My Lord I pray you be not aggrieved with this, for the boat is guided by a wise man a friend of mine, one as I believe so careful to carry me hence, as he hath friendly sent me to work your deliverance. Besides, this boat will hold us both, and if it be so you will vouchsafe my ship, you shall never sail more safe, neither better provided for victuals. The Emperor was greatly amazed at it that all things were so plentiful with the knight of the Sun. But both very merry they entered into the boat, which being driven from shore so soon as it took the shore sailed amain, neither miss they aught which was then thought necessary. Quickly they hasted over the sea Euxinus, where we will leave them until another time, to write of other things which chanced before this time.   

¶ The three Princes which went in the quest of Rosicleer, were transported into the Empire of Trabisond, where chanced to them a fair adventure.  
Cap. 45.  
AS the valiant deeds of Rosicleer while he was there caused great joy in the court of king Oliverio: so no less was the grief there for his sudden departure amongst his friends, yet all these sorrows joined in one, might not be equal to that which the fair Olivia felt, for she seeing she had been the cause thereof, took thereat such inward grief, that she became both weak and pale, and her father with the whole court greatly lamented for her. In this general sorrow for the loss of Rosicleer, you must think that the Princess Rodasilua and Siluerina were not free, for the loss of Rosicler procured the absence of their loves. So as the history recounteth, that they two together with the valiant Prince Zoylo took upon them the search of him, and therefore let us leave the court of king Olivero to tell you of them.  
Thus it is, that after they were all embarked in the Haven which was nearest to London, they sailed forwards a months sailing, not desiring to bend either this way or that way. At the end of the month rather upon chance then their purpose, they were driven upon the coast of Trabisond, where yet glad they were when the Country was descried to see it & to abide there. Coming to land armed with their rich armour and their Esquires accompanying them, they took their horse, and riding through a beaten path, at the side of a pleasant wóode they heard a noise, whereat being moved they turned back to see what it be might be.  
Out of the thickest of the wood they saw a wild Boar driving so fast as possibly it might, and in the pursuit thereof, a young Gentlewoman upon a mighty courser and a Boar Spear in her right hand, her hunter's weed was all of green Velvet, her tresses hanging down in colour like the gold of Arabia, in her left hand a wand of gold, and two rich Pearls hanging at her ears. She came spurring her horse in such wise and with such courage to overtake the Boar, that she much delighted them, and at such time as the Boar crossed the way between them and her, she struck the Boar on the flank, that her Spear appeared at the other side of the Boar.  
The game was got, and the Lady not taking heed of the other knights, perhaps shadowed by the trees, returned with soft paces to her company, but the knights overtook her, and as I may say, abashed at that which they had seen, at her graces and beauty, they only gazed one upon the other, not once making offer to salute her, whereat the Lady more bold than the men, as it were to awake them out of their dreams, took and winded a fair horn which hung at her neck so loud and shrill, that all the forest and valleys rang thereof, and when she had thus done she came to the three Princes, in her seeming the properest knights that ever she set eye on, whom she friendly welcomed on this wise. God save you gentle knights and send you the comfort of your loves, for by your sad and demure looks, it seems you are either strangers or others thrall.  
The Knights turning towards her made their courteous obeisance, and for them the valiant Tartarian spoke in this manner. Madam we have stood astonished neither for strangeness, nor for ill success in love, which some of us have not yet tried, but only for the thought of your beauty, being a Lady huntress as if you were Diana, which in like attire was wont to hunt the Forests: but as you say we are strangers indeed, and because we would carry somewhat worth the telling, we crave your name, and the fashions of the Country.  
The Lady delighted in the good behaviour of the three knights, and tickled with the words of the Tartarian, in great majesty answered him. Assuredly sir knight I know no cause you have to marvel at me, but rather I at you. For if I seem to you like to Diana the Goddess of the Gentiles, you likewise seem to me the three sons of Priamus, Hector, Paris, and Troilus, not far inferior in renown to the Gods themselves, whereas you desire me to make you know who I am, I will do it gladly, but yet conditionally, that afterwards you tell me your name and Country. This shall be one for one, and by just exchange we shall hereafter find peace.  
Wit you now that I am called Claridiana the daughter to Theodoro Lord of this Empire, and to the Empress Diana Queen of the Amazons, which two having been mortal enemies, as by long wars appeareth, continued hotly in every part, they were after great friends, meeting in a pitched field, either being then young and unmarried. I am their only child which since my young years have been brought up in hunting, and I am promised to be made knight, for my mother being but young achieved such enterprises that in her time there was no knight more famous, and I am desirous to be somewhat like unto her, especially in that point. And now sir knights tell me who you are, for I would well accompany such lusty knights.  
The Tartarian who had first taken in hand to speak answered. Noble Princess we were sure enough that there wanted not in you the divinity we spoke off: but yet we failed in the name, for so many graces which accompany you could not be in a Lady of less estate, as my Religion being▪ Pagansine would rather have induced me to take you for the Daughter of jupiter, then of the Emperor Theodoro. And now sith your excellency hath showed us such undeserved favour as to tell us who you are, it is reason that we obey in telling who we are, and where we were borne. This Knight pointing to Bargandel, saith he, is the Prince Bargandel the kings son of Bohemia, thi●, by Liriamandro, saith he, is the Prince of Hungary called Liriamandro, and I am called Zoylo son to the king of Tartary, we have joined for adventure, beginning in the great Britain to find a new Knight a friend of outs taken from us, we wots not how. Him we are determined to look in the world and we have already sailed a month since we left England, so this morning we landed here very glad to have found your highness. God be praised said the Princess, for the names of so high Princess ought not to be concealed, especially here where the Emperor my Father would be glad of such knights for the honour which his court should receive thereby, and I for my part would think it a great courtesy in you, if you would stay here till I were knighted, for by such noble Princes might I be honoured. In the mean while, the courtesy which our Court can afford, shall be accomplished to the full, and after that you may tourns you to your purposed journey. The Princess had thus said, and strait ways there came from the forest thirty Gentlewomen on rich palfreys, and in long weeds of green Taffeta, among them also a troop of more than thirty Knights, all surely armed, with their Spears in their hands, coming to seek the Princess, which being better horsed than they, had killed the Boar long before their approach: The princess when she saw them, said to the three Princes. My good Lords, if you thought it not amiss I would see what my Knights would do in my defence. Bargandel answered. Noble Lady the thing cannot displease us which contenteth you, we will endanger out, persons to serve you▪ The Princess then called her knights, and said unto them.  
In good time my friends are you come. These three Knights whom you see here would have carried me away against my will. But I prayed them not to offer such wrong to a Gentlewoman, and if they would therewith satisfy themselves, I offered them that of my knights so many as they should hurl down or unhorsed, they should have so many of my Gentlewomen for reward, and themselves or any of them were overthrown▪ that then the party faviting should forfex h●rse and harness. H●ere● o● they have agreed, now do the best you canue to defend the Gentlewomen which are in your company. Here the Prince Zoylo which knew the Princess meaning, said unto her. Nay madame let us first know whether the Gentlewomen will yield to our covenant or no, & let their knights speak for them. Marry answered the knights, we are content. Yea, but so are not we said the gentlewomen, shall we say they, venture imprisonment upon our knights and they lose nothing, they may befraie us if they will, but we fear rather that it will not be in their power. Yea marry answered the knights, you are now wise: but if you be so fearful, we pray you alter the justs to the trial of the sword, and you shall 〈◊〉 presently these knights both ashamed and unhorsed.  
Nay but yet quoth the Gentlewomen we had need of better warrants then your words, but if you will deal with our knights as we would have you, you must wager your horse & armour to be given them with us if you fail, and hereto we request these knights strangers, otherwise to discharge the Princess of her promise. The three Princes feigned to mislike the Gentlewoman's device, and the knights of the Country were angry to see how little hope their Gentlewomen had in them. So coming unto the three Princes, they said unto them.  
Sir knights you may behold there that our Gentlewomen are not content with the first ma●ch, therefore we will unbind it and lose as much as you should, therefore take to yourselves so much of the field as you shall think good, and let us to the just, for we will deceive the women of the little hope they have in our virtue. Three of the knights at this alarm prepared themselves to just, and the three Princes did as much glad to show there their manhood.  
The three first knights were horn down horse and man to the great discomfort of the Ladies, whereof one mocked her knight for his courage, crying. Marry it seems sir Knight that I might have been safe between your arms, when you know not how to sit sure within your saddle. Which words caused as great laughter in the princess, as shame and confusion to the Knights which were on ground.  
Then came three other which doing as much as the other were in like manner welcomed. So that to make short tale from three to three the Princes unhorsed whole thirty, and no man offered a second course: but yet the shame of their falls so egged them on, that they demanded the combat with the Swords. hereat the knights which knew well enough the Princess purpose, made a great stay, as it were to consult with their power, being strangers and but three, in the end say they. You know that the prize which was ordained at these jousts were your horse and armour the which you have lost, if you will therefore needs urge us to the combat with the s●woordes, lay away your horse and armour which are ours and come your ways. Otherwise you must beg the use of them at these Gentlewomen, to whom we surrender our whole title.  
Marry said one of the Gentlewomen. My Lords we accept of your courtesy, and here we else stay the combat, for we will not give them leave the second time to hose both themselves and us: The Knights were so ashamed as well for the Prince's words as for the Gentlewoman's rebuke, that altogether with their swords drawn they would have rushed upon the strangers, if the Princess coming between had not stayed them, speaking to the strangers. That this was sufficient, and it greatly liked her that they had thus showed their valour.  
Whereto Prince Zoylo answered. Madam we have beside to demand our prizes, which we will not otherwise remit but to yourself, whereat smiling, they all unbuckled their helmets, Bargandel and Lyriamandro being then of the age of xx. years, seeming so beautiful that as well the Gentlewomen as the knights were amazed at them. After them the Tartorian showed himself, who although he was a Morian borne, and somewhat of colour tawny, yet had he a manly countenance, & therewithal pleasant, that he pleased them as well as his companions. With this there are no more foes to be feared as it appeareth said the Princess, if you challengers unarm yourselves, but if it be no grief to you, let us go together to the City of Trabisond, not being far off, for at your instance, I may the sooner receive the order. The Princes thanking the Lady for that favour, prepared themselves to obey her command, so rid they on with the Princess towards Trabisond, where they stayed about xv. days much increasing their honour at the feasts proclaimed for the knighting of the inheritress, they being made known to none but to the Princess. Here likewise the great prowess which the Princess Claridiana showed, were such, that every man was amazed at them, albeit the three princes never jousted against her, but hereafter you shall hear sufficiently of her and them. Now to the two Princes Brandizel and Claveryndo, whom we left in the kingdom of Persia, very sad for the loss of their dear friend the worthy knight of the Sun.   

¶ The two Princes, Brandizel and Claverindo stolen secretly out of the kingdom of Persia, to seek the Knight of the Sun.  
Cap. 46.  
NOw you are to remember yourselves of the two volyant Princes Brandizel and Claverindo, which remained in the kingdom of Persia, very pensive for the loss of their friend, touching whom the history saith, that after these two Princes were in Persia some days, having great desire to find out the Knight of the Sun, & seek strange adventures: one day as they were with Armineo, uncle to Claverindo, they determined between themselves for to departed closely from them, & to go by sea whether soever fortune would transport them, whereto although Claverindo and Armineo would have made the king Florion privy, yet the Prince Brandizel would in no case consent, believing that if his parents knew of it, they would not give him leave to go from them, so to pleasure him, they kept that counsel as privy as they could. And when all things were in readiness, one night secretly they conveyed themselves out of the city, and so strait to the sea side, where they entered into a ship provided for that purpose, and hoisting up sails, they were carried they neither knew nor cared whether, for the courages of these two Princes, resolved to the search of worthy adventures would not let them be quiet, so that any thing might better content their ease at home. But as soon as they were gone, the wise Lirgandeo knew of it, and weighing the great commodity which might ensue thereof to themselves and others, he would not hinder it, not yet make as if he knew it: yet had he great care to guide their ship wherein they sailed, and they reached thither in fifteen days which to other is an ordinary months sailing, that the mariners were abashed to see the swiftness of the ship being more than usual, which when they had discovered to their Lords, the Princes knew presently by whose means it so happened, wherefore yet they were the better apaid, for now they were sure thither to be carried, which fitted best for their purpose. Well, shortly after these Prince's departure, and before it was either so noised or suspected, Lyrgandeo declared the truth to the king Floron and the queen Balisea, willing them withal not to afflict them, for that they thereby should gain much honour, and should return safely, with the knight of the Sun in their company. With this the king and queen were indifferently appeased. Now all matters quieted in Persia for the Princess absence, we may the fréelier bear the knights company which are yet sailing on the Sea, so that the. 15. day after they were departed from Persia, they landed in a haven of Polonia, where their ship stood still, and taking land to learn some news and know the country, ere they had long travailed they saw before them a little town, to their judgement pleasant, and round about great flocks of men and women scattered, and making great cries as if some great mischance had happened to them. Armineo demanded of them the cause of their sorrow, whereunto an ancient man amongst them answered, that a fierce Giant with more than fifty knights had come in this morning upon them to steal away the Princess Clarinea, daughter to the king of Polonia, their liege Lord, that he had killed the greater number and spoiled the residue. And as he thought was ere this time on his way with the Princess in his carriage, from whom if it so be, not all the world may recover her: why so said Armineo, and where is the king, or where are his knights that they do not defend their Lady. The old man answered, they are in a town four mile off, not mindful of any such matter, and it hath not been past eight days since the Princess came to this town, and now this which you have heard hath happened to her: when the three knights heard this of the old man's relation, without staying longer they galloped with their horses so fast as they might, & coming near to the town, they saw issuing out of the gates a great troop of knights, the one part driving the other before it. For so it was that the Giant having the Princess in his power was caring her away, and the townsmen fought with him, but their power little prevailed, the Giant was strong, his knights many, and so they murdered all that came, in such sort that all the Town dwellers flood: then came the other knights, which slew many of them. Twenty of the giants knights at once fell upon them laying at them with all their forces, the mean while that the Giant held in his arms the Princess Clarinea, and thinking that his knights would make riddance of these three, he took no more keep but road away softly with the Princess. The Princess cried out so loud, that it was great pity to hear her, and those which heard her of her own knights, came pitifully crying to the knights strangers, that for the honour of God they should go help her. When this was spoken Brandizel besought his companions to stay there in the battle, & to give him leave to follow the Giant, which when they granted him, he putting the spurs to his horse followed the trace, the whiles the knights of France thoroughly galled their enemies. For the one of them matchable I dare avouch with the ancient Franconio the Trojans son of whom he descended: for he putting himself in press among them, to some he clave their heads, to other some their shields, murdering many and felling many, that at length there was none so hardy, which durst stand him a blow, but every of them did his best to save one. His uncle Armineo in the broil, helped not a little, for he was a valiant knight, and much esteemed of in France. But let us leave them, & speak of the Prince Brandizel, who pursued the Giant. He road so fast, that ere the Giant came within a flight shot of the sea, he overtook in a large plain, and crying aloud, bade him redeliver the Princess false traitor as he was. The Giant looked back to see what it was, and seeing but one, though riding in haste, he cared not for him, save that not to be found unprovided, he loosed the Princess from between his arms, and set her on ground: the Prince coming to him spoke never a word, but drawing his sword, hit him so great a blow upon the helmet, that he made him bow his head to his breast, wherewith the Giant increased in choler, and gave him the like: this began the skirmish between them, wherein the noise was so great, that the Princess Clarinea before in a sound returned to herself, and seeing the battle with so little hope as that one only knight should adventure her deliverance, fell into a sound again, wherein she had died for sorrow, had not God 〈…〉 When they had thus fought an hour, it was a wonder to see their bruised armour with their backed shields, but ever the steel coat defended the biting of their swords, especially Brandizels, which made by Art Pagicke had this virtue, that no metal might pierce it. The Giant was hurt in many places, whereat as at the force of his adnersarie he was greatly estonished & blasphemed his Gods in desperate manner, which had made him stay that good Knights coming. The Princess Clarinea seeing the Giant's blood thus cover the ground, was very glad, and by'r colour became fresh, which increased her beauty: whereto also (Fortune willing to be favourable) it was so that the prince Brandizel beholding her, was enamoured of her beauty, and entirely loved her. For his heart now set on fire angmented his conrage, and he buffeted the Giant so, that in short time he unarmed him in many places. In the end the Prince desirous to give end to the battle, raised in his stirroppes, struck a full blow at the Giant upon the shoulder, that his sword entered a handful, and the Giant fell dead. The Prince seeing him fall, presently leapt from his horse, and pulling off his helmet, went to the Princess to recomfort by'r, saying: Madam, I beseech you accept in good part this little service at his hands, which destreth to do you much more. The Princess very joyful to see her enemy on ground, and more glad to see her friend so goodly a man, courteously answered. Noble knight you have done so much for me, that with all that which my father hath, I shall not be able to requite it you, but if you will that this good which you have done me do like me indeed, show me so much favour as to carry me to the king my father, for bether will come the residue of the giants knights, & then my liberty is to begin again: the Prince gently taking bath her hands in his, kissed them & said unto her. Madam if it please you we may return to the town from whence we came, for I believe that these knights of whom you spoke, are but few alive to put us in danger, I left my companions fight with them, who I am sure have done their parts, and yet they shall do us no wrong though they be many, But in far greater jeopardy am I of my life by you, if you vouchsafe me not your service, wherewith the Princess was nothing offended, for she liked very well his comely parsonage, but she answered nothing. The Prince seeing the Princess without a paltray, took her up behind him, and with easse paces rid towards the town. In which way, the prince with many amorous words feasted the princess, and manifested to her his love, and after disclosing himself also, he beseeched her to keep it secret, which she did, resolving not withstanding if her father were so content, not to match otherwise. Well, near the town they came, where they saw a great troop of Knights hasting so fast as they might, and indeed they were the King and his Knights, more than 500 in number, who by the report excited to secure their Princess came to the town, and finding almost all the Giants knights taken or slain by the prince Claverindo and Armineo, with such aid as the town afforded, they altogether follow on, in the pursuit of the Giant which had led her away. Now there were of the company, which a far off escried the princess behind Brandizel, and learning that it was the Knight which road to follow the Giant, they told it to the King, whereat he was very glad, and making much of the three strangers, especially of Brandizel, he spoke on this wise. Sir knight, how shall I be able to requite this friendship which you and your companions have showed to me. Assuredly I know not, though I should give you my kingdom, for were it not for you, I should have lost this day my daughter Clarinea, and with her my joy and pleasure, which being lost, what joy should I have found in ruling? But tell me I pray you, how dealt you with that Giant, for he was strong and great. Sir saith Brandizel, offering to kiss his hands, which the King gently refused.  
Sir saith he, mighty Prince, my companions & I, think our Fortune to be very good, in that we are thither arrived where we may do service to so courteous a Prince, and it is reward sufficient, your acceptation. As touching the Giant, his ill purpose was his own decay, for be is already dead, not far from hence. The King wondered to hear tell that the Giant was dead, for by the report of his bigness, he thought it impossible that one only Knight should cope with him, and then much more making of the Princes, he embraced them oftentimes, and desired them to tell him their names, which at length they did. And the King understanding of their births, carried them with himself towards the town, where, in the way he told them who that Giant was, and what the cause was why he had come thither in such sort, saying: My Lords this Giant was called Lamberdo, Lord of the Island of Perda not far hence, he hath since the time he was first knighted, never employed his time to other advantage but to robbing and spoiling, and for this, he hath an Island exceeding strong, but very little, and scarce well peopled. In this he may defend him from any enemy, and bestowing his spies in every corner to watch for some such chevisance, he knew that my daughter Clarinea was in this town with a few knights, so hither he made a voyage and had stolen her away, but that God be blessed, such valiant Knights as you, came in such a time for her succour. While the King told this tale, they were within the town walls, and as they entered through the streets, the whole town gathered together to see the Prince which had stain Lambardo. And then through the town they came to the King's palace, where they abode a great while.   

¶ Rosicler departeth from the Island of Candramarte, and meeteth with certain adventures on the sea.  
Cap. 47.  
THe history left the valiant Rocleer very sad in the Island of Candramarte, as well for his Lady's letter, as for that the knight of the Sun departed from him so suddenly that he could not know him. For remembering himself of the words which the wise Artemidoro had told him as concerning his brother, his mind gave him that it might he he, wherefore as without hope ever to see him, & not having to comfort his afflicted spirits, he burst out into fears, saying. O Fortune how hast thou been froward to méee above all men. First before I was borne I lost my father, & when I was borne my Mother was in sorrow and care for me, and scarcely began I to know the world when I was banished from her whom I loved better than myself. And now by chance have I bene brought to the company of a noble knight, with whom I might have been more friendly acquainted, but the waves rose vo against me, and have carried him away from me as if I were unworthy of any good. When he had wept his fill, he went to one of the Castles, there to set such things in ordes as were disquieted by the death of their Lord, and so comfort the woeful Gyantesse, whom he afterward matched with one of the best knights of all those whom the Giant had left, giving them livery and season in that land, and making others to swear obedience. Short time after he would needs departed, with full purpose to keep in the Sea, and not to departed till that he should have sailed so far, that no words might be heard of him in those quarters. Therefore he took his armour, wherein was drawn the God of lous, in such sort as our ancestors were wont to paint him, with his eyes out, his bow and arrows in his hand: The picture being so lively drawn, that Rosicler kuewe it was done by the wise Artemidoro, and thereupon he took his name of that device, from which time he never called himself other than the Knight of Cupid, under which name he achieved many enterprises, and Rosicleers name came never more to the ears of Olivia.  
Having put on his armour he took his leave of Candriana, for so was called the Daughter of Candramarte, and for remembrance only the ship wherein he first sailed when he lest great Britain, with two mariners to conduct it, whom he charged not to call by other name then the Knight of Cupid, and to guide the ship Eastward. When he had so sailed fistéene days without chancing to him any thing worthy of recital. It was so, that one morning by Sun rising, he saw a little boat pass by him, out of which he heard many cries, as if it had been the labour of some woman, and thinking that there might be need of some help, he was desiraus to know what was in the ship, and thereupon he commanded to join with them.  
Presently there ftept upon the hatches a sad ancient man with a white beard all armed save the head, which demanded what he would. Rosicler said, I would know who is in your Ship, for me thinks I have heard some woman complain, and if it be so, I will venture my person to do her good. The ancient Knight beheld Rosicler, & taking him to be some knight of great bountiss, especially in that he had offered himself so freely. When he had thoroughly beheld, he opened the matter on this sort. Assuredly good Knight, I thank you for your great good will, and as it is not mis beséeming your outward beauty to have some inward virtue like thereto.  
But know you that in this ship there abideth a Gentlewoman making towards the great Britain, there to complain her to the King Oliverio and his knights, of the outrage which is done unto her. Now because our stay is dangerous, I may not tell you farther of this matter, our enemies follow us, and so rest you with God. When the old man had said this, Rosicler having desire to know more, stayed him, and besought him to discourse more at large, for himself was a Knight of that Court, and could tell him what remedy was to be hoped for there. The old man was loath to stay longer, yet hearing him say that he was of the same Court, he told him in few words, that this Gentlewoman was the Princess Arguirosa, one of the fairest Ladies in the world, and a Princess of Thessaly, only heir to that kingdom. That her mother being dead, the King Arguidoro her father fell in love with a Gentlewoman of Thessaly, not so honest nor of so high estate, as wanton and of base birth: and loving her affectionately, after married her, to the dispossessing of his own child. Then in the time of her Father's life, there was in the court a knight called Rolando, besides his great living, one of the strongest knights in all those parts, but proud, and little respecting the whole world. That this Knight during the life of the King was liked of Ipesca, and so soon as the King Arguidoro died of a sudden disease, was promoted to the kings bed by matching with the Queen, and being of great revenues, that he now enjoyed the kingdom by force, and excluding the right heir, none of the kingdom daring to gainsay him, for the most able are his night kinsmen, the other learn patience perforce. But that which worst of all was, that to undo her rightful claim, he mindeth to marry her with a kinsman of his, and to give only some little Town to dwell in, reserving the title of the Kingdom after his own days to a son the which he hath begotten on his Queen Ipesca.  
I am kinsman saith he to the Princess, being her mother's brother, and therefore I have adventured to rescewe my niece, but not knowing any remedy at home, because my power is not equal with Rolandos, I have brought her out from thence, and I determine to go to the great Britain, where as I have heard there are many valiant knights, especially a new Knight, of whom I have heard especially since the great feasts there holden. If this Knight help me not, I know not who may withstand Rolando. Three nights and days have we been upon the Sea: only I, the Lady, two Gentlewomen, and our Mariners, and I believe that there come after us Rolandos knights. Now have I told you the whole of your desire, and I beseech you tell us what news you know of that good knight.  
Rosicler now having heard the whole state of the Princess Arguirosas matter, was much treubled, and desirous to help her, he answered the ancient man, that for his stay he thanked him, and as touching your demand (saith he) of the new knight. Truth it is that in Britain none can tell you news of him, wherefore your labour should be lost if you sought him there. But the Princess' affliction so much moveth me, that albeit I was purposed other where, yet would I gladly fight with Rolando in the Princess behalf.  
The ancient knight was very sad to hear that the new Knight was not in Britain, but well eyeing this knight which had so told him, and made proffer of help, he stood in doubt whether to take or refuse, by and by he discovered two ships under sail, and by their tops to be of Thessaly, whereat striking himself on the breast he cried out. O most unhappy that we are, here cometh Rolandos knights which will take us, and being brought again to Thessaly, we shall there receive most cruel death, and he wept, cursing the hour of his departure, the Princess Arguirosa hearing the complaints which her uncle made, his great sorrow which he sustained, the extreme danger they were in, and the cause why he did it, took it as heavy, and woefully bewailed their misery  
When Rosicler saw them in this plight, he much pitied them, especially Arguirosa, which the Princess Olivia not remembered might have well contented him. Therefore he willed them to get under the hatches again, and to let him shift for their safety, the old man thinking that Rosicleer would defend them by saying that they were his people, did so, not ceasing yet to fear the worst and to pray earnestly for their escape. Rosicler leapt into the Princess ship, and sat upon the brim thereof to see what would happen, till that the other ship came near, and that he which was the Captain commanded to grapple, and espying Rosicleer, with a proud voice bad him say both who himself was, and what people he had in his ship, and not fail in any point. Whereto Rosicler by and by answered. I am a stranger in these parts, and farther it is not reason that you know who they are that are with me, for we keep our way without molesting thee or thine. The Captain angry for his short speech said unto him.  
I will strike thy head into the water, unless thou answer me directly to my question, and so saying he hauled and pulled Rosicleer to have forced him. Rosicler thus rudely entreated rose up, and with his gauntlet gave the Captain such a blow upon the helmet, that his brains flew above his head, and presently he fell into the water, where the weight of his armour kept him down. Strait ways more than twenty knights well armed and well angered for the death of their captain, altogether with their swords in their hands smote at him. Rosicler drawing out queen Julia's blade, struck again with such courage, that at three blows three knights were slain, and those which presently knew his great prowess drew back, making no great haste to come near him. Rosicler knowing his enemies fear, leapt into their ship, and there laid so about him that in short space he killed half of them. The Princess Arguirosa and the ancient knight now began to show themselves above board, and they greatly wondered at his manhood.  
So shortly after Rosicler was ralone in his enemies ship without resistance, either all being slain, or all slain or wounded, or slain, wounded, or by flight escaped: for Rosicleers own ship was lost in the garboil. Now returned he to Arguirosas ship wherein she with the old man received him, Rosicleers salutation to the Princess after this exploit was in this wise.  
Madam what hath been done yourself hath seen, but for a recompense thereof I shall think myself thoroughly satisfied if you will venture that into my hands, which you dare hazard into the hands of the new Knight. For I promise you I will as willingly jeopard my person as he shall. Now when Rosicler had so said, the Princess & the old man stayed a good while without speaking word, for the consideration of their own danger with recovery if this man failed, made them the more wary, and so between the examination of Rolandos valour and Roscleers hardiness. In the end Arguirosa herself rather upon love towards him, then of assured confidence, would put her matter to no other trial than Rosicleers, so she commended her quarrel to him on this sort.  
The courtesy valiant knights which you have offered me, though unworthy, hath been so great that I want the holdness to accept more, yet because you erst defended me from death by the vanquishing of Rolandos knights, and now again you will needs take upon you a further matter, rather not to refuse you, then willing to trouble you again, I will return with you to my Country, and commit wholly to your hands the whole ordering both of myself and my cause: her uncle gave his consent thereto, and Rosicler thanked them much. So they sailed to Thessalia, where by the way Rosicler casting in his thought how to redress the Princess wrong, to the least displeasure of her and her uncle which were loath to be known, determined as a stranger to enter the land & to demands justice as it were against a person not known. To which device after he had made them privy, and promised that they should not be disclosed till it so served for their avail, they were better comforted, and sailed with so good wind that they took landing in a haven near the place where the king was, taking land, he made the Princess to put on a muster, and the old knight to cover his head, besides bidding both to counterfeit for the time some strange behaviour, either in holding down their heads, or in bisguising their attire. To either of them he gave his horse, and himself mounted upon a courser the best of all Candramartes stable. In the cool of the evening they fooke their way to the nearest City, where then were many knights and Ladies coming out of the city to disport them in the shadow.  
Rosicler being of a comely parsonage and so lustily mounted forth to be seen, and was well liked off and praised amongst them all. And they followed on their journey toward the gates of the City, the king at that time came accompanied with his nobility to solace himself in the field as at other times before he was accustomed. The king road upon a mighty horse, with trappings and harness most of beaten gold, his horse being so brave, and himself so fierce and stern to look too, that it would have daunted a right good knight to have but spoke to him. So soon as the Princess and her uncle saw him, they counterfeited the best that they could, and for fear their blond sunk down into their bellies. The valiant Greek knowing that this was Rolando whom he sought for, as nothing afraid of his terrible looks, but rather glad to have met with him so convenienly, and in the company of so many knights, willed the Princess and the knight to follow him. So came they all three before the king, Rosicler speaking to him and saying.  
Mighty king, in justice stay thy horse to hear a poor Lady's complaint, and to right the greatest wrong that ever was offered to a Gentlewoman. Why she complaineth to she is, for that thou art the king and shouldst above all men repuise the wrong doer, (so further discovering of the king's duty.) Now the while Rosicler spoke thus, Rolando beheld him very well, liking both his courage & parsonage, and albeit of his own nature he neither feared God nor kept justice in things which pertained to himself, yet hearing in Rosicleers discourse, himself to be made on now and then as of a right judge, and that he would not consent that other then justice should be executed in his kingdom, he was tickled therewith, and bad Rosicler tell on, for he would hear his matter willingly. Rosicler straining his voite, that what he said might be heard and noised busoade, spoke as followeth.  
Know you mighty king that the father of this Gentlewoman was Lord of great possessions, which marrying with an honourable woman begat on her this Lady. Few years after his wife deceasing, this Lord married also another woman, by whom he had no child, after that the Lord himself died also, the stepdame remaining alive, and shortly marrying with another man whom in her husbands days she had a liking too. This man sir king, matching with the mother in law, hath dispossed the true heir of her lawful inheritance, insemuch too, as being so disseised, she hath in no wise been considered off as such a man's Daughter. Now, séking her redress abroad, it was my chance to meet with her, to whom after she had declared her case, I made offer for to fight for her with any which impugned her right. These are therefore to require thee O King, so to tender her suit in the honour of justice, either that she may lawfully enjoy her own, or that you authorize the lists, that the conqueror may enter by a lawful mean.  
So Rosicler ended, expecting the kings answer, who neither warily nor advisedly weighing and understanding the drifie and purpose of this parable, answered. Sir Knight, thy demand is just, and the Knight which hath done this wrong, cannot choose but take the one of the two, therefore tell me who thou art, and I will send for him to answer thy challenge. be it as the king hath spoken it said Rosicler. And know for truth that the Knight which hath done this injury is thyself: the Gentlewoman which received it is the Princess Arguirosa which here standeth by me, the lawful inheritor as thyself knoweth of this kingdom: thou without just title hast intruded upon it: therefore do that which thy mouth hath witnessed to be just. When Rosicler had said, Rolando much amazed at his great presumption, and not being able to bridle his choler, answered despirefully.  
Thou foolish and unhappy Knight, how hath so great madness entered into thee as to appear before me with such a demand, that were it not for the sentence which I have given, I would ere this have abated thy pride: but I will not keep long from thee the rod of due correction, I am content to take the battle, and with the conditions which thou hast named, hard enough I warrant thee for thyself, and that woman, whom I will so cage up that she shall no more seek such knights as thou art. When the King had thus said he went on his way, and all those that heard the demand of Rosicler were much abashed at his boldness, for though he was big, yet seemed he nothing so strong as to resist Rolando, presently it was published throughout the whole City, and the battle was appointed to be on the morraw, where you should have seen most part of the Town pray to God for the right of their natural Queen, many scaffolds were erected to see the lists.  
The ancient Knight uncle to the Princess was called Alberto, and he had a Nephew a strong and lusty Knight, dwelling a mile from the City in a Castle of his own, whence he seldom departed for fear of the king. Thither did the uncle of the Princess for that night carry them, where they were received gladly, and took their rest.   

¶ The battle which Rolando had with Rosicleer.  
Cap. 48.  
ROlando made no account that night of the battle which he was to fight the next day, for he thought no harm could happen him, though there had been ten more such Knights as his adversary was. The day being come he arose and armed himself, where inquiring whether the Knight his adversary were in field or no, it was told him yea, wherefore he made the more haste, & coming to the lists with a troop of armed Knights for his more honour, he defied the Knight of Cupid, for so was Rosicler then called, of the device which he bore: the King's words were to this effect. Tell me now foolish Knight, dost thou not repent thy yesterdays challenge, wouldst thou not give much not to be here now: whereto Rosicler. No assuredly I repent me not, for if thou vanquish me I look for nought but death, which I set so light by, as in so right a quarrel, I would venture my life twenty times, but thou oughtest rather to repent thyself, and to have remorse of thy ill dealing. Rolando heard him say so, and began to laugh aloud. Art thou (saith he) become a Philosopher? who wanting strength of arms to purchase honour, when they lie striking themselves on their couches, can talk gallantly, which they account for as great a glory. Thou trusts more I perceive in thy tongue Philosophy, than in chinalrie or manhood, and yet to be spoken off after thy just punishment, thou wilt die forsooth in defence of justice. But if death in such a quarrel be so acceptable, prepare thyself for it, for thou shalt stay no longer, than the proof of my spear.  
So saying, Rolando turned the rains of his horse to take the carrier. The mean while that the judges were placed on their bench, and that the Queen with her Ladies had taken the windows to behold the battle, the princess Arguirosa sat upon her palfrey all heavy, and only accompanied with Alberto, for none else durst make any countenance of well meaning towards her, for fear of the king. But to our matter, these two knights putting their spurs to their horses, with their spears in their rests, ran together, and with their force the earth shook, and their spears burst in sunder. The King in the midst of the carrier being borne upon his crupper, and Rosicleer not moved at all, save that his horse peantrells burst with the rushing, and both knights lighted down, where began a fierce battle on foot, either laying at other so thick, that their shields were burst in pieces, and themselves so wearied, that either followed the other staggering and not tertaine of his gate. The beholders of the battle were much amazed at Rosicler, and at the danger wherein he put the King, but if any marveled, much more did Rolando, which both felt it, and could judge what terrible shakes he had borne both on horse and foot, and he thought in himself, never to have met with the like knight, one or other, man or Giant. Ever Rosicleers nimbleness helped him much, for he could step easily aside and escape the blow: but Rolando found a want of his horse, for he was so heavy, that he could not avoid one blow. At length stark tired, his bones aching for very pain of travail, he would have taken breath, but fearing to make his adversary privy thereto, he forced himself quickly to kill or be killed, and heaping his blows upon Rosicleer, he so galled him, that the lookers on mistrusted Rosicleers party. But would he or not (Rosicler enduring the uttermost) Rolando was feign to give over, whereat Rosicler, though not having so much need, yet not to take so foul on, did the like.  
They two leaning their breasts upon the pommels of their sword, beheld each other a long while, where Rolando thinking it not best so to end the matter, but take it up some other way, spoke to Rosicleer, saying. I had not thought Knight, that so much courage had been in thee, and yet ere the end it will little further thee against me: but for that I am given to love and like of such knights as thou art, I will use clemency towards thee, which I never determined to do towards one, which hath so much offended me. This it is, I will that thou leave off the battle which thou hast in hand for the Princess Arguirosa, and from thenceforth that thou abide in my Court, where I will do thee that honour which thy person meriteth, and I will bestow a living upon thee, wherewith thou shalt live contentedly, Rosicler here well perceiving what he went about, said unto him: I would willingly Rolando, that as thou hast in show offered me great honour, for the which I thank thee, so that thou wuuldest in deed perform another thing, which should be less impair to my present honour then the leaving of the battle: the battle as thou sayest would I gladly end, not only for mine own danger which I am like to be in, but for thy sake, whom I rather wish to amend his fault by living, and restoring the Lady to her own, then by dying in a wrong cause to hazard the utter perdition of thy soul: and for truth take this, that I will choose to die, than to suffer her cause to be lost by my collusion. Take therefore some other means to leave this battle, for this will not succeed, or let us fight it out, for I hope in God, that he will defend the innocent. When Rosicler had said this, Rolando thinking that his own gentle speech had made his enemy more bold, became mad outright, and forgetting his weariness, took his sword with both his hands, and therewith he struck Rosicler so hard on the headpiece, that he made him boowe both hands and knees unto the ground, the blow being so heavy, as if a Tower had fallen upon him. Rosicler rising up acquitted it him, that he made him stagger five or six paces backward. And between them the combat was renewed. Now this especially refreshed the poor Princess Arguirosa, that her Knight troubled his enemy more now then at the beginning. And not long after it was apparent that Rosicler had the better, for Rolando began to be weary, and could not move out of his place. Rosicler knowing the advantage, and willing to end the battle the sooner both for the contentment of the Princess, and the safety of Rolandos life, whom he judged to be a valiant knight, offered again the conditions before mentioned: but it was not Rolandos good hap, and true it is, that those which live so wickedly, die commonly as desperately, lest they should repent their faults, and find mercy: But Rolando more than mad at the courtesy which was offered him, would hear nought, but struck at Rosicleer with all his force, Rosicler stepped aside, and the sword fell upon the ground sticking up to the hilts. The while that Rolando haled at his sword, Rosicleer discharged his blow with great strength, and cut the neck in sunder from the body. Wherewithal the whole multitude shouted, but in divers tunes, some for sorrow of the Tyrants death, but most crying: Live thou Arguirosa, our Queen and Lady. Then albeit some of the King's friends would have avenged his death, they durst not signify it, the people being so bend after the new Queen. The Knight of Cupid when the battle was ended, thanked God, and demannded of the judges, whether ought else were to be performed, for the restoring of the Princess Arguirosa to her kingdom. To which, all said no, and the Trumpets sounded. Yet sat the Princess upon her palfrey till there came to her of the most principal Knights, and others Citizens, which now all fear set aside, durst discover their good affection.  
The Princess therewith and the knight of Cupid, with her uncle Alberto, road in great honour to the Palace, where, that present day, the princess was crowned Queen, the chief Lords kissing her hand, in the name of the Gentlemen and Commons. After this, there was no talk but of the marriage of the Queen, every man as he wished, naming the Knight of Cupid, which herself more desired than they all, but knowing that the Knight of Cupid had else where bestowed his liking (which she gathered by likelihood of speeches which she had heard in the ship, by the deep sighs which he hourly fetched, and especially by his device, which did not argue in a new beginner) she ruled her passion the best she might, and for this time moved him not therein. Afterwards, she sent for Rolandos wife, her mother in law to keep her company, but the report was, that for anguish of mind she had slain herself. Well, yet she commanded them both to be interred as belonged to the Kings and Queens of that land. Rosicler remained in that Kingdom six days, at the great entreaty of the Queen to help all things to good order. After feeling the wound which sat more deeply imprinted in his heart, than the Image thereof in his armour, he departed thence. And so let us leave him, to recount of the Emperor Trebatio, and the Knight of the Sun, who were left sailing upon the Sea.   

¶ The Emperor Trebatio and the Knight of the Sun, are in their way to the Kingdom of Hungary.  
Cap. 49.  
THe Emperor Trebatio and the Knight of the Sun, departing from the Island of Lindaraza, were left sailing in the Sea Euxino. Now, the ship wherein he was, having so good and skilful a Governor as we have told you, was carried so swiftly, that within two days they entered the mouth of Danubia, and being upon the river three days and three nights, the fourth day in the morning, they were set on land ere that they witted. The Emperor looking about him, knew the country very well, since he had followed the Chariot to the self same place. And being glad to have arrived to Hungary so safe and so shortly, he embraced the Knight of the Sun for joy, telling him that this was Hungary, where the Princess Briana lived. So he devised with him in what manner he might best make himself known to the princess, and convey her into Greece. The Knight of the Sun being so friendly asked his advice, answered as faithfully. My Lord, it is requisite for us, first of all to know where the King Tiberio is, and in what order the Princess now abideth, which being done, you may the better compass that which you purpose. You say right well, answered the Emperor, let us keep along the shore, that if perhaps we meet with any one, we may inquire what news there are. So on foot they walked through a Forest, leading upon the River, wherein they travailed half a day without meeting any one: after, 〈◊〉 wearied, they sat them down to rest themselves, where they fed on such vyandes as they had brought with them from the boat. An half hour after, when they had 〈◊〉 indifferently, they saw near at hand a Gentlewoman upon a palfrey, making as much haste as she 〈…〉 her a Knight on foot with a naked sword, 〈…〉 the stayed not, when he overtook her to 〈…〉 through. The Gentlewoman seeing the Emperor 〈◊〉 the Knight of the Sun, leapt from her palfrey, 〈…〉 good Knights, for this traitorous Knight ●anish me. The Emperor rose up, and comforting the Gentlewoman, stayed a while till the Knight 〈…〉 ●●●des on her, than he said, Sir Knight el●●●●● 〈◊〉 this gentlewoman alone, or tell us why thou wilt carry her against her will. The Knight which was both 〈…〉 peevish, answered him, I will carry her away maugre your teeth, and I have no charge to make you other answer, but as to the cause, wit you well, it is formy self and for no other, whereof you shall be no let I warrant you. But you carry her not away, said the Emperor, for sooner shall you die then touch her honour. The Knight thus overawed in words, thought to make amends in deeds, and suddenly he hit the Emperor under the ribs. The Emperor to yield it him again, struck at his head, which he received in his shield, & not daring to abide another, he fled through the Forest as fast as he might, neither the Emperor nor the Knight of the Sun would follow him, but demanded of the Gentlewoman why that Knight pursued her.  
Alas my Lords said she, my fellow and I came riding through the Forest, where we were met with four Knights which would have carried us away by force, myself fled this way, my campanion another, and but if you do help her, these wicked Knights will do her villainy. The Emperor ●auing alone begun the battle, desired the Knight of the Sun to abide there. The while he took the Gentlewoman's palfrey to secure the other Lady. The Knight of the Sun would rather have taken that travail upon him, then to expect the report, but not to importunate the Emperor, he promised to stay his coming, or to follow him. The Emperor took up the gentlewoman behind him to conduct him on the way, and being brought by her to the midst of the forest, about a flight shot, they heard the scriching of some Gentlewoman, and following the sound, they find four knights laying hands upon a Gentlewoman, whereat she cried out. The Emperor presently as he saw it dismounted from his horse, and cried to the knights saying, Knights let this gentlewoman alone, for it is great villainy to force a woman. One of them hearing the Emperor, cried again. Who made you a justice, or do you look for an Attorneys fee, and they all three laid at the Emperor, but it had been better for them not to have been so hasty, for ere long they received just reward for their insolency. For the Emperor cleaved one of them to the skull, and another from the shoulders downward, the other as he made haste to escape, was taken shorter by the legs. For the Emperor albeit very inclinable to any reasonable pity, yet was he in this point very rigorous, not to spare the dishonourers of virginity, his saying was: That it quenched the natural love between father and mother, sister and brother, between kith and kin: that the bastard borne seldom came to good purpose: that it was partly the sin of Sodomy, etc. And for his own fault, it was in deed mere ignorance or rather constraint, and thereby the more pardonable, or perhaps the detesting of it himself, made him more severely exact the keeping of chastity in others. But forward with our matter: The Emperor beholding this Gentlewoman whom he had succoured, knew her presently to be Clandestria, a Gentlewoman belonging to the Princess Briana, wherewith he was the gladdeit man in the world, as hoping to hear some good news at her hands. Yet to cover himself, he made the Gentlewomen sit down, himself sitting by them, and to tell him whether they went, and wherefore they were in those parts. The Gentlewomen glad and feign that they might without danger tell of what Country they were, and what their arraunt was thitherward, answered.  
Sir Knight, we are belonging to the Princess Briana, Daughter to the King of this land: the cause of our coming, is, that long time agone our Lady lost her Husband the prince Edward prince of Britain, I hath never since heard of him. For his sake she hath remained a widow in the Monastery of the river, demeaning a very sorry life, as penned up in a religious Cloister. Her belief was always that he was dead, till within these fifteen days, she dreamt that she saw him alive, and that he came by Sea to this land, very merry, of the same age which he was off when he first left her, which dream she hath dreamt three nights together, the last night of the three there appeared to her an ancient man much rebuking her for her distrust, whereat the Princess, though hardly persuaded, yet being so admonished, the better hath credited that night's vision, and hath sent us to a religious house, dedicated to our Lady the blessed virginne, with rich offerings, and many good devotions for his safe return. Whence after we were returning by this Forest, these Knights beset us, and had ravished us, but that we cried so loud that you heard us, and you have thanks be to God well eased us of them, and for your so great courtesy, if it so please you to ride with us, I doubt not but our mistress will well consider you. The Emperor much rejoicing at the great constancy of his wife Briana, and desiring to discover himself, asked the Gentlewomen if any of them had seen the Prince Edward or no. Whereto Clandestria answered. Yea sir Knight very well, and I would that God would once show him me, I should know him by his lovely face, excelling all other knights which I have ever seen. I will see that presently said the Emperor, and so saying he put off his helmet: and how now saith he, whom take you me for. O say they both, yourself are Prince Edward, & kneeling down before him would have kissed his hands, and they earnestly entreated him to go with them to the monastery of the river. The Emperor consented gladly. For I have saith he as great desire to see her, but here not far hence there is a knight which stayeth for me, him must we seek and carry in our company, for he is the man next unto God, to whom I am most beholding, for by him have I been delivered from prison and from enchantment. The whole story I will tell you by the way.  
So the Emperor made the Gentlewomen to mount upon their palfreys, and himself took one of the horses pertaining to the dead Knight for himself, and another for the knight of the Sun, & by the way he discoursed as he promised of his own estate with Lindaraza, till that they met with the Knight of the Sun, with whom the Emperor, communicated of his good adventure to light upon briana's maids, and what news he had heard of them. Whereat the Knight of the Sun became as joyous, and they made a merry journey towards Belgrado, which held them four days travail from that place.   

¶ The Emperor and the Knight of the Sun riding towards the monastery of the river, are by an adventure separated.  
Cap. 50.  
THE Emperor by the way declared to the Gentlewomen and to the knight of the: Sun who he was, not Prince Edward as they thought, but in his name briana's bridegroom, and so forth of that matter, which you may conceive by that you heard before. Whereat the Gentlewomen were not a little amazed, but nothing sorry. And with the knight of the Sun the Emperor entered into farther counsel in what order he might make the king Tiberio privy to his fact, and carry the Princess Briana into Greece. Whereto the knight of the Sun counseled thus. My Lord, you know the faith of a Prince, a bond very strait for kings and great Lords, as touching the preservation of their honour in promise, for which many times many have preferred the trust laid upon them before the safety of their near kindred. This I say for that peradventure Tiberio will be right glad to have matched his daughter with you, yet for the Prince Edward's sake, coming under his safe conduct, he may not take it in good part, or if he did, had not king Oliverio just cause to be angry being so abused, as under his word to have lost his son, and subjects withal, my counsel is therefore, for the better dispatch of your business, and avoiding of being shent, if you venture rashly upon an enemy not reconciled, that you go secretly to the monastery, and carry away the Princess from thence, scarce letting herself know whether she shall go, save that behind you you may leave a letter which shall signify the whole effect of that which is passed. By this means if the king of England bewail the death of his son, the king Tiberio may complain of the loss of his daughter, and in time when these fares are skinned; there may friendship be made on either part. The Emperor liked well this counsel, and giving him many thanks told him that he would put it in effect. So two days they kept company, in the mean time happening nothing worth the telling.  
The third day coming to a cross ware well trod, they saw a pavilion pitched, and not far off twelve Gentlewomen clothed in black, and having very sad countenances, at the tent door they saw three knights which were their keepers. When the Emperor and the Knight of the Sun approached, the Gentlewomen cried out, whereat the knight of the Sun stayed, and spoke unto them.  
Gentlewomen, as well by your countenances as by your outcries, we perceive you are distressed. Show us now the cause thereof, and if the thing be such as that we may remedy it, we will do our best to do it. One of the chiefest of them answered. Sir your courteous words makes us the bolder to utter our grief. Therefore know you that I have a sister called Elisandra, Duchess of Pannoma, and married to a Knight the most wicked man that was ever borne, for he hath staundered her with such a misreport, as the like hath not been heard off. So it is that my sister and he have been married eight years and have had no children, wherefore he fearing that after his decease the Dukedom should return to her kin, as by right it should, being her only inheritance, and minding to establish the state in his own name, hath suborned a desperate person to challenge her of adultery. By which means she being executed as false to her husband, all her lands and goods are forfeited to the husband, as it were to make him amends of his wives wrong. Now this slander is apparent to all men, but because the Duke offereth that the combat shall be granted to him which shall gainsay the slander, the matter is made the likelier, and is borne out, though not by strong hand, yet by policy, and yet no man dare oppose himself to the challenger. For there is a knight in the land called Aridon, Lord of the black wood, by report the strongest Knight which ever was in these parts, albeit very like unto the Duke in his ill living, him hath the Duke made his friend and accuser of the Princess. For a plot of ground adjacent to his signories, his accusation lieth thus, that with himself she committed adultery, whereas though he was a long sojourner in his Court, yet he neither persuaded her to it, or would ever move her in it, for he knew his answer. But the matter was thus canvased, the while the Duke▪ kept at the Court of the King Tiberio, thither word is brought of the false packing of the Duchess and Aridon. The Duke presently complaineth to the king, and both parties are sent for in all haste. Aridon being first asked confesseth it, and is acquitted by his confession. As (by the way) our law in this case acquitteth the man once confessing it, though otherwise never so great an offender, and only stretcheth to the woman, in respect of her faith given at marriage. Now what could the Princess do standing before the King, and accuses not of bear say, but by himself, with whom she is said to have lain? yet denieth she it. Well, the Duke charging her with it, and she purging herself, she was feign to require respite for providing a sufficient Knight to maintain her innocency. Yet was she commanded to prison under sure keeping, and there is a day set for the trial, Arydon being the accuser, against whom I do not think that any man in her defence, though the cause be righteous dare show himself, for we have tarried here these. 20. days, and have not found any. Now because here are cross ways, in which it is likely that many knights should pass, we determine to abide the rest of the prefixed time. And this is the cause sir knight why we mourn, and so she ended weeping bitterly.  
The Emperor and the Knight of the Sun pitied them much, marveling so ungodly dealing could have any place to rust in Hungary, but God is wise say they, yea, and seeth his time. So the Knight of the Sun talking a part with the Emperor, said to him. My Lord you see good cause binding me to pity the Duchess in her extreme need, if you be pleased therewith, I will go answer for her in the Court of king Tiberio. In the mean time it will be best for you to go to the monastery of the river, the most secretly that you may, and I will not fail to certify you from the Court if I hear aught which might avail you being known. This being done, I will with Gods help come to Greece, where I look to find you very merry. The Emperor was loath, but seeing the urgent necessity he was content, and answered, that he would not be against his pleasure, although it would grieve him to be so long without his company, but at Constantinople shall we meet.  
Thereupon the Knight of the Sun turned to the Gentlewomen, saying. Gentlewomen, your mourning hath so much grieved this Knight and me, that although his affairs lie other where and that he cannot be present, yet for his sake will I go with you to the Court, there to answer for the Duchess if she be so content. The gentle women willingly accepted of the knight, and not staying longer but to thank him, they pulled down their tent and to horse back they go. By the way he had much talk with Elisea, for so was the Duchess sister named, he comforting her, and she requesting him to make speed, for we lack not many days of our appointed time, when if we fail we shall lose a good cause for lack of pity in knights adventurous. But let us leave this, and turn we to the Emperor in the company of briana's Gentlewomen.   

¶ The Emperor Trebatio came to the monastery of the river, & there was made known to his wife the Princess.  
Cap. 51.  
THE Emperor having good hope to meet with the Princess, whom he loved no less than before he had, when he hazarded his person for her sake upon Prince Edward, made great baste, and he travailed with the Gentlewomen three days and three nights. Now we have told you often that the Princess lodging was in one quarter of the monastery separate from the other, whereto she had a postern gate towards the wood, by which Clandestria had carried Donzel del Febo and Rosicler to nursing, & by this gates no man either entered or went out, but by clandestria's leave, thee was groom porter and kept the key herself. And for to recover this matter which the Emperor would in no wise have known, it was very fit that Clandestria was there in company. For when they approached the monastery saith Clandestria, my Lord if you will not be known to the Gentlewomen here belonging to our Lady, best it were that I should first enter & see what they do, & that I should cause the Princess to take her most secret chamber, where as I shall find her, so will I declare of your coming, otherwise it may he that your so sedeine approach might work some alteration in her body to the danger of her health, she being so sore weakened by continual mourning, but this night shall pass & the morrow you shall come unto her. The Emperor liked well of clandestria's speech, and so he stayed in a place which she provided for him, the whilst that the Gentlewomen went to the Princess. Some will think that the Emperor should be much changed, this being the 20. year of his absence, but it was not so, for when he first entered the Castle of Lyndaraza he was but. 35. years in age, and no more was he when he came from the enchantment, neither his age increasing nor his beauty decreasing. When the Emperor left the Princess Briana, she was but 14. years old, and counting the time that she had lived afterward, she was just one year under him, wherein her beauty best appeared, and the great sorrow which she before had taken, did not so abate her colour, but that the joy of his return fetched it again more fresh and lively than it was before.  
But the story saith that the Gentlewomen found their mistress alone, praying devoutly upon her knees, and more merry than she was before, whether by inspiration or by imagination, conceiving hope in the dream I told you off: but her Gentlewomen were very glad to be witnesses of her mirth. The Princess lovingly welcomed the Gentlewomen, especially Clandestria which was her sure friend, demannding of them how they had speed in their journey.  
Clandestria answered: Madam, we were once in danger to lose both our honours and our lives, after that we had done as you commanded us. Ah blessed virginne said the Princess, and is it possible that ever you should be in so great danger for my cause. Yea it is most certain madame answered Clandestria, but as after a fowl evening comes a fair morning, so after this trouble we had some quietness by the means of our flight, for we met with a good knight, which not only saved us from great shame by killing these wicked knights which would have spoiled us, but after told us such news as you have cause to be the gladdest woman in the world. He said that not many days before, he departed from your husband, which was in good health, and of the same age as he was when you first knew him, for since he was with you he hath been enchanted, & being now set at liberty coming to you.  
O my good Lord, and is it possible said the Princess that thou art so favourable unto me as to send me my husband alive: or is this some dream the farther to increase my dolour. Tell me Clandestria in good faith, is it true which thou sayst, for I can hardly believe thee. Yea assuredly said Clandestria, for the Knight which reported it is so credible that he will not tell other than troth. Ah Clandestria said the Princess, thou hast been always diligent, discreet, and liberal in those things which hath touched my service hitherto, but in this now concerning my life, especially thou hast been negligent, or hast wanted discretion. For why didst thou not bring him before me, that myself might have heard it of his own mouth, would it not then have been pleasant unto me to have seen that knight which so lately saw my loving husband, and to have known of him in what manner he met with him, and for what cause he cometh not so soon as the other.  
Madam be not aggrieved with this said Clandestria, for the knight which told it me is not so far hence, but that within a quarter of an hour you may see him if you have desire thereto. Desire said the Princess, I desire nothing so much in the world, therefore go and fetch him before me, that I may know whether that be true which my heart thinketh so incredible, I will go my ways said Clandestria, and so she went out of the Princess lodging, and straight to the Emperor, to whom she told all that talk which she had had with her Lady, whereat the Emperor was so glad, that up the stairs full feign he goeth, and by such privy ways, as none but Clandestria knew, he is brought before Briana, Clandestria first entering, than the Emperor clothed in rich armour, and his viso pulled down. The Princess was somewhat afraid to see so big a man all armed: but the Emperor pulling off his helmet, quickly showed his: lovely face, the which she had imprinted in her remembrance, and with hasty paces he made towards the princess, whom he kissed on the mouth so sweetly that their tongues this while were slent, not to interrupt the joy of their first meeting. Anon after, the Princess which indeed, had the chiefest wrong, spoke to the Emperor thus.  
My Lord and only life, what cruel Fortune hath detained you from this land, and banished you so long from my presence? In what strange and hidden countries have you been, that we could never bear word of you? Madanie answered the Emperor, you may call that Fortune cruel, for it hath offered you a great wrong, by forcing you to endure a far greater penance, than Penelope did by Ulysses' absence: But one thing you may assure yourself off, that the fault was not in me, though I am not to be excused, for if I had had life, and liberty, and judgement, all the world should not have stayed me from you.  
Since my freedom, if I have not had as loyal a regard of your constancy and my duty, then blame all mankind for my sake of unsteadfastness and wrong: and for this time, let these things slip▪ with less grief, to entertain our present joy.  
So he kissed the Princess again, and they both sat noun together kissing and colling each other like two young lovers. Whaen they were thoroughly entered this delight, and that the Emperor was sure of her good liking towards himself, whosoever he were, he bewrayed to her the whole matter, first that he was not the Prince Edward as she thought, but the Emperor Trebatio, and so in few words, he told her the whole story of his first heat by the Prisoner's confession, and from thence in order to this deliverance, wrought by the Knight of the Sun.  
The Princess for a great while stood hereat amazed, and began to gather more of the words which Rosicler had written to her, and not being displeased with her former error, in the end she told him, that whosoever he was in deed, yet was he the same to whom she was married, and that vow which she then made, she said she would perform to him alone.  
The Emperor courteously thanking her, bad her say on what had happened, whereat she graciouslys blushing, told him, that she had been delivered of two children at one burden, being two goodly Boys with strange marks in their bodies. Of them she told him farther (pouring down many a tear) the manner of their loss, the one called Donzel del Febo, at three years of his age, the other named Rosicleer, at seventeen: and for Rosicleer, (saith she) he hath proved a right manly Knight, and therewith she gave him the letter which Arinda had brought.  
The Emperor read the letter, and was very glad to hear of that hope which Artemidoro had put him in, as touching the recovery of his Brother. And in good time while we have occasion to entreat of trebatio's children, let us hold on with the Knight of the Sun, whom we left in the way travailing to the court of king Tiberio, which shall be declared in the chapter following.   

¶ The Knight of the Sun riding to the Court of King Tiberio, jousteth with a Knight for passage.  
Cap. 52.  
THE Knight of the Sun and the Gentlewomen with their Knights rid towards the City of Ratisbona, where the King Tiberio and his Court for that time lay. Three days almost they travailed, hearing of nought that might be told you, till towards noon upon the third days they met with a fair Gentlewoman upon a palfrey, which saluted them courteously in this manner: God save you sir knights, I pray you tell me whether you are going to the Court of King Tiberio or no, for if you go thither, I have certain news to tell you.  
Marry said one of the Knights, that we do, what do you command us thither fair Gentlewoman? I will tell you that willingly sayeth she, if the Knight which hath the device of the Sun, will grant me my ask. I grant it you Gentlewoman; answered the Knight of the Sun, if it be neither let to my journey nor prejudicial to my person. I am content with these conditions saith she, and so I accept of your promise.  
Now Sir Knight, truth it is, that riding this way, I must of force pass over a Bridge, stretching over Danubia, not passing two miles from the great City of Ratisbona, over which you must also pass, if you would go to the City, This Bridge saith she, is kept by a Knight called Florinaldes, for the love of a Lady named Albamyra, equally beloved of two Knights, the one is this Florinaldes, the other is an Earl named Orfeo, and they two have been at long strife for her love. She to be rid of the one, she careth not whether, hath commanded that in her presence, they should severally keep this passage fifteen days space, promising that he which doth best shall be her Knight. Florinaldes hath been the first, and hath kept this Bridge twelve days in Albamyras presence, where are many Knights and Gentlewomen. Now, it being so near the Court, there come daily many good Knights to prove themselves, but he hath the mastery of them all, and his praise is spread far abroad.  
This morning, myself riding towards Ratisbona for certain business I have there, would have passed the Bridge, but I could not be suffered, except I would have confessed Albamyra to be the fairest Lady in all Hungary. This if I would not do, they bade me bring some Knight that should win the passage for me. When I heard this, I called to see the beauty of Albamyra, that I might judge whether it were so or no. Then was I led into a rich Tent, wherein Albamyra sat accompanied with many Gentlewomen, and I beheld her at the full: but truly, if my Glass at home lie not, wherein I was wont to see mine own beauty, hers is nothing equal to mine. So I told them that for aught I had seen, I must be fain to return back, and to find a Knight, which would break the passage.  
Now the gift which I demand of you sir Knight is, that hereupon you just with Florinaldes, and in the maintenance of my beauty against hers, be you assured of the victory.  
When the gentlewoman had said thus, those that were present, laughed a good, and the Knight of the Sun to shift her off, answered.  
Gentlewoman, if your business had been so great to the Court, as you would have us think, you would not have stayed for so small a matter. The Gentlewoman very angry, replied shortly. Call you it so small a matter? mark what I say, you are not so courteous as I took you for, if you so little esteem women's suits, you being a Knight. Now know you, that a woman esteemeth her beauty above all, and that there is no injury so great for a woman, as to say that another is fairer than she: I tell you that I had rather be called any other name of reproach, than not a well favoured woman, and being as I am, I account myself much fairer than Albamyra, or rather would I all my great business undone, then to confess that which the Knight of the Bridge doth will me too. Now sith you have given me this grant, perform it, or otherwise during my life I will complain me of you. The Knight of the Sun & those which were with him, laughed to see the Gentlewoman so hot, for the light regarding of her beauty: and they said: Sith we must pass the Bridge, we will see the beauty of Albamira, and if it be less than yours, then will we do our best, that you shall pass uncontrolled.  
Of the one part be you sure quoth the Gentlewoman, that my beauty is more, and if I had the maintenance which Albamyra hath, Florinaldes or the Earl Orfeo would rather quarrel for my beauty than for hers. At this and other like things they laughed till they came to the Bridge, where they saw a big Knight armed, and a fair rich Tent pitched, with certain Knights and Gentlewomen walking by the river side, who so soon as they saw these Knights come, gathered unto the Tent.  
The Knight of the Sun and his company offered to ride over the Bridge, but there came a Gentlewoman out against him, saying: Sir Knight this Bridge is defended you by Florinaldes, over may you not pass, unless you just with him, or confess that Albamira is the fairest gentlewoman in this Kingdom, and that Florinaldes is the Knight which best deserveth her, the which also must these Gentlewomen say which are in your company, or bring Knights to answer for them.  
We could be content answered the Knnight of the Sun, to agree to these conditions which you speak off, but the Gentlewomen in our company make such account of their beauties, that they will rather return back, then confess that which you would. Now that they are in our company, we must answer for them.  
Determine what to do, and for your choice, it must be one of these two, said the Gentlewoman, and so she departed.  
Florinaldes and Albamyra heard all this, and presently they caused the Tent door to be set open, where these strangers saw Albamyra amongst the Gentlewomen, much excelling them all, which made them take up a fresh laughter at th●ir merry Gentlewoman. Florinaldes issued forth of the Tent taking a spear in his hand, and coming towards the Knight, he spoke saying. You have known already knights, that this Bridge is kept by me, if you say not that which I demand of you, or else presently just with me. The Knights answered, We will do what we like best, and therewith they required the knight of the Sun that they might just first, which he granted them, and so the one taking a spear in his hand, ran to encounter Florinaldes, but he was unhorsed: and so the second, and the third: all of them as easily, and with no more a do, than I have had in telling you.  
The Knight of the Sun seeing these three Knights thus cast down, spoke unto the Gentlewoman which had brought them thither. Gentlewoman, this Knight is no babe you see, were it not better for us to say as he saith, than might we go free. And the rather, for that I have seen Albamyra, which in my eyes is much fairer than you.  
Blessed Marie, saith the Gentlewoman, if Albamira be saiter than I, it is for her apparel only, but sith you have promised this, you must perform it, and although I gain nothing herein, yet shall it do me good to see you fly from your saddle, for the little skill you have in discerning beauties. Albamira heard this, and the other Gentlewomen, and knowing that this was the Gentlewoman which had been there before, they laughed much at her, whereat she waxed angry.  
The Knight of the Sun than took a spear from the ratler, and called for Florinaldes. Then ran they together with such force, that they made the Bridge to shake. Florinaldes only burst his spear upon the Knight of the Sun, but the Knight of the Sun bare Florinaldes over and over so strongly, that he had a sore bruise and might not rise, his Knygtes took him in their arms into his Tent, where he was heavy: and it is uncertain whether more grieved with the sore of his bruise, than the shame of his fall, so to be foiled before his Mistress: but if I may meddle in school points, I think he had rather burst an arm, than so to have cracked his credit with both Lady and friends, such as many resort thither from Tiberio's Court to see him just.  
And the Knight of the Sun seeing Florinaldes so unhorsed before his Lady, was as sorry for him, and presently departed. The Gentlewomen and their Knights in whose company he travailed, were glad of the hope given them of a farther trial, but above all, the gentlewoman which had required him to these Iustes, triumphed now, as if rather in her quarrel, then by the knights strength, Florinaldes had been overthrown, and she bade them aloud, to remember the comparison of Albamyras beauty and hers, from this time she liked much better of herself, but age coming upon her, her beauty decayed, as there is nothing more uncertain, either impaired by sickness, or withered by age, or by sundry accidents in man's life corrupted and depraved, & what should I talk of the harm that thence issueth.  
It is at home a breeder of unrest, a robber of ease abroad, a continual care, a cause of many dangers, a sea of travails, and an everlasting grief, whether coming or going: But what needeth this so long a digression, the rest let us leave to those that are idle, to discourse at leisure: now, more at large of our necessary matter. The Knight of the Sun with his company rideth to Ratisbona, whether they came ere full Sun set, and lodged for that night at a friends house of Elisea. The story saith also, that Florinaldes and his company dislodged their Tent, and came that night to Ratisbona also, all greatly amazed at the Knight of the Sun, to whom Florinaldes bore such an evil will, that it had almost cost him his life, as the next book shall tell you hereafter.   

¶ The Knight of the Sun answered before the King Tiberio for the Duchess Elisandra, and the battle was appointed between him, and Arydon of the black wood.  
Cap. 53.  
THe next day being come the Knight of the Sun ●emed himself, and being ready, only with Eli●●a went towards the Palace, whether when he came he found the King amongst his Nobles, and w●●h t●em the Duke of Pannonia, and Arydon of the black ●●●de, either of them not a little puffed up with vain glory, that the time prefixed was now spent almost, and no man daring to answer the Duchess. Now at the coming of this knight with the device of the Sun, there was suddenly a great silence, belike by occasion of some in the company which had seen his valour proved upon Florinaldes. And the knight of the Sun glad of such convenient time of hearing, after he had humbly bowed to the king spoke as followeth. Mighty king, I am a Knight and a stranger neither of your Court, Country, nor religion: but fortune casting me upon this coast, it was my chance to meet with this Gentlewoman, sister to the Duchess of Pannonia, whom you hold prisoner. This Gentlewoman travailed to seek a knight  would answer the accusation that the Duke her husband layeth against her, and lighting upon me she hath opened to me the whole treachery and packing of the Duke her husband, with the perjured Aridon of the black wood. In the justifying of which words spoken by the Gentlewoman, and the improving of Aridons' false and shameless slander, I am hither come to prove that he belieth the Duchess upon his body. The king now and all which were present beheld the Knight of the Sun very earnestly, and were abashed to see him being so young speak so courageously. Aridon very angry rose up, and to the knight of the Sun spoke on this wise.  
Sir Knight, it appears thou art both young and a stranger in this Country, for if thou wert of years, or knewest Arydon which now talketh with thee, thou wouldst not be so hardy as to defy him in presence, and were it not for the King my Lord, I would in some wise tell thee of thy rudeness, but there needeth no such haste, I hope I shall have time enough, sith thou canst not betract the battle, whereto thyself hast first made offer, but let us go to it presently, and end it in this place. Aridons' high disdain sore displeased the Knight of the Sun as appeared by his look, but he refrained for honour to the King, and for the rest he desired the king to authorize the lists. The king answered him gently, that day it might not be, both for that it was needful the Duchess of Pannonia should appear openly to put her quarrel into his hands, and for that also judges must be ordained of the field, and the lists erected: which could not be provided in so short warning. The knight of the Sun yielded to the king's pleasure, and after that he had witnessed his forwardness to defend the Duchess, he took his leave of the king, and to his host he goeth. The king as soon as he was gone, by occasion of this young knight, calling to mind his son Liriamandro whom he had not heard of in long time, wept bitterly and said aloud that diverse heard it. If my son Liriamandro be like to this lusty knight, and have a care to be notable, no doubt he will excel all his ancestors. Whereat those which were there by declared to the king what themselves had seen of this knight, and how strongly he had overthrown Florinaldes: which report did in a manner discomfit Aridon, that he would have wished his stake out at that dealing with all his heart, but indeed a very desperate contempt both of God and the world, brought him to his end.   

¶ The battle between the knight of the Sun and the strong Aridon.  
Cap. 54.  
THe next day the king rose earlier than he was wont to do, because of the battle which was to be made between Aridon and the Knight stranger. And Aridon likewise made more haste, nor the knight of the Sun falled for his part. When all were in the field, the king caused the Duchess to be brought, which came thither in a mourning weed, and with so sorrowful a countenance, that no heart so stony but would have pitied her, for she had been very fair, always accounted as wise and honest, the king demanded of her whether she would refer the trial of her cause to the success of her knight, whether good or bad, whereto she answered yea, and that she had no other help but in God and the innocency of her cause. So was she lead to a scaffold provided for her & other Gentlewomen. The judges next were called for, which were named by the king, the Duke of Ostrich, and the Duke of Saxony, two ancient Knights, and then restaunt in that Court. The judges thus placed, Aridon and the knight of the Sun took their Spears in their hands, forcing themselves against each other. Now sounded a Trumpet and a Herald cried. Go too knights, and God defend the right. With this they ran together with all the force they could: their encounter was such that Aridon burst his Spear and diseased not his enemy, but the knight of the Sun both hur'st his spear and unhorsed Aridon, and with the fall he gave him, almost burst his back while he pained himself to keep the Saddl.  
Aridon thus bruised lift up his eyes to heaven, and in despair of conscience murmured to himself some like thing. Thou O God as I believe haste sent this young man from heaven to revenge my misreport, otherwise who is he in this world which might have sat so quiet in his Saddle after so violent a push as I have given him, or who might have annoyed Aridon so, and with a desperate rage he drew out his sword to have sheathed it in the knight's horse belly, but the knight descended, and with his sword before him went toward Aridon, that between them the battle beginneth. The king and the Princess there present were very glad to see so good a beginning of the Duchess deliverance. And Aridon failed not to do his best, that the knight of the Sun could not but take him for a strong knight, the battle endured a great while no man being able to judge who had the better, till that the knight of the suns courage grew as his honour increased, for he was not angered at the first. The end of this battle (for it was not long neither very equal) was in this manner, Aridon hit the Knight of the Sun on the headpiece, that he bowed his knees to the ground. Then the knight of the Sun gave him another that he staggered with it, the second time Aridon hit the Knight of the Sun a blow upon the head piece, where at the last time the knight of the Sun stretching himself and following his blow, with all his might hit Aridon so sure, that Aridon fell upon the ground, moving neither hand nor foot. The Knight of the Sun thinking it to be but an amaze, stood still while Arydon might recover again.  
The whilst all the beholders much praised the Knight of the Sun for the best Knight living, as well commending his courage as his activity. The Duchess Elisandra likewise having now some hope by her knight, gate her colour again, and her joy was as much as her husband's sorrow. But you have not yet heard the worst of the wicked Duke, for Aridon revived: whom when the knight of the Sun saw raising himself up, he came hastily, and holding the point of the sword against Arydons' throat he spoke saying. Thou shalt die false Arydon unless thou confess the treason that thou hast devised against the Duchess, and if thou dost die in this obstinate mind of concealing so great outrage, thou hazardest thy soul's health. Aridon as it were half awake, and yet not so loath to die as strooken with terror of his own conscience, answered. Thy words have abashed me more than the death which thou threatenest, the fault which I have committed, hath bread a greater horror in my flesh, but make the judges come near and I will declare the whole.  
The Knight of the Sun called the judges, they coming near heard these words of his own mouth, the substance of the Duke's shifting to wring his wives inheritance to himself, in such manner as you have heard in Eliseas' report. The judges strait ways declared it to the king, who detesting their fact, caused the Duke to be apprehended, and both to be executed in that place.  
For albeit many of his nobles entreated for their pardon, yet the king so abhorred the villainy that nought availed: and at this time was the law first enacted in Hungary, that the law of punishment for whoredom, should stretch as well to the man as to the woman, and that equal penalty should be assigned to like offenders, whereas before the men escaped, the women only were in danger. Now after this execution, the Duchess Elisandra was set at large, and the Queen Augusta received her with great honour into her company. The Knight of the Sun was very desirous to leave the City: but the king desired much to know him, and to have him abide for some time in his Court. In the time of his abode, the Knight of the Sun grew in more familiar acquaintance with the king, and was much liked of him, because he seemed to resemble the Princess Briana, but one day the king importuning the young Knight to know his kindred, used such like words.  
Sir Knight, we thank you heartily for the pains that you have taken in the Duchess of pannonia's behalf, and for the maintaining of her honour, whereby if she have received commodity of living and avoiding shame: so have I received some quietness in my Realm by the open detecting of such malefactors, and their punishment will be occasion of fear in others: for this cause I have willed you to stay here, as thereto I pray you heartily, but I pray you let me know your name and where you were borne, for I know not how to call you. The Knight of the Sun well nurtured in the soldan's Court, after his humble thanks for his majesties most gracious proffer and the promise of acceptance, being a thing in deed very convenient for the certifying of the Emperor, began as followeth. For your majesties favour I shall most willingly do your highness service, and for the Duchess, I am glad that the equity of her cause furthered my attempt, and for my name and Country, I can better tell you the story of my life since I came to years, then declare that. Yet am I called the Knight of the Sun by my device, and my education hath been in the soldan's Court at Babylon, thither I being brought by the king's son in law, the king of Persia, when I was but a child, and as it hath been told me, found in a little boat upon the Sea, for my life hitherto it hath been in arms, and that do I mean to pursue. The king and those which were with him were greatly amazed that he had come from so far a Country, and had been found upon the Sea, and that he knew no more of his estate, but they thought that he was of some noble birth. The king thanked him, and in this order the Knight of the Sun stayed with the king Tiberio for certain days, where he gained many friends, & one only enemy, by name Florinaldes, which could not forget the shame received before his mistress, although it had done him no scathe: for in the end Albamira preferred him before the Earl Orfeo. So as I say, yet Florinaldes seeing the honour of the Knight of the Sun daily to increase, to the discredit of the borne Hungarian, his stomach rose against him, and one day he set upon the Knight of the Sun at unawares, but to his own loss, had not the knight of the Sun been more merciful, after they were made friends. But let us break off this story to dispatch the Prince of Lusitania out of England.   

¶ Don Siluerio demanded the Princess Olivia for wife of the King Oliverio.  
Cap. 55.  
THe great sorrow which the loss of Rosicler caused in the court of king Oliverio, hath ere this been declared to you, for all the good knights his friends went to seek him, leaving the Court bare and naked for noble men, and above all the Princess Olivia was worst wringed, albeit her grief was not so manifest. Now is there stayed in the Court the Prince Don Siluerio strangely surprised with the love of Olivia, and using the help of his sister Rodasylua to the persuading of Olivia. One day the last I take it he unfolded his grief unto her, telling her, that unless she found the means, he should here leave his life in a far Country. The matter is mine old suit that you wots off, my desire is, that at least I may be assured of her good will. Sure I am if I move the king in it I shall obtain it. The Princess Rodasylua moved indeed with her brother's affliction, promised the uttermost of her pains, and within a while after she had some talk with the Princess about that matter, her words tending to like effect.  
Madame, you know right well the great love which since I came to this Court I have borne unto you, and how I have done you service in all that I was able, that which more is, in what manner I have absented myself from my parents only to be in your company, which if you know and confess to be true, you must likewise believe that, that which I shall say now, rather proceedeth of good zeal towards your honour, then of any purpose to work mine own contentment, though I cannot deny but that if I obtain, it will content me highly. But I do not besire the thing which standeth not with your honour, and for my pains reward seek I none, but that I may be heard.  
If I err in aught wherein I shall counsel you, then may you blame me, and yet I doubt not but when you shall have thoroughly examined the whole, you shall rather impute the fault to lack of skill, than to any lack of good meaning, and as I am certain that you have this same opinion of me without any farther suspect, so will I tell you my mind flatly. You know that you are the only inheritrix of this kingdom, that your Father the king, my Lord, must needs marry you with such a one as may equal your estate, both for the natural care which he hath over you in respect that you are his daughter, and for the profit which shall thereby redound to his subjects, which cannot be well governed, the seat wanting a●rightfull heir: you are withal at this time marriageable, my suit therefore is, that herein you will have a more regard of the Prince Don Siluerio my brother, a worthy knight of parsonage and valour, of an high birth, a king's son and heir, besides loving you so entirely as he can nothing more, long hath he endured this torment, and never would bewray it to any but to me, and I have hitherto suppressed it not to molest you, now for compassion towards him whom I must love and honour, mine own brother, I require this, that at least you show him some good countenance, whereby he may be encouraged to demand you of the King your Father, which suit shall not be impossible, if only your liking may be won.  
The Princess angry at the heart with this speech, for it was the thing most contrary to her wish, replied shortly. Madame Rodasilua, if I had thought that the zeal and love which how have professed and I do confess had tended to this issue, I should less have liked your company, and I cannot think well of it, that either you should break with me of such matters, or should have communication thereabouts with your brother, who as you say lacketh boldness to discover his affection, which cannot be, doth he love so earnestly when he vouchsafeth not to speak unto me but by a messenger. I suspect your words, perhaps if I had heard the man speak, I might have judged in his countenance whether he had lied, yea, or no.  
But for truth you know I am of young years at this instant, neither have I will to marriage, I pray you therefore name it no more unto me, and yet when I am of years I may not choose my husband, and I am at the King's commandment whom I must obey. The Princess Rodasylua so sharply rebuked by the Princess Olivia, and thereby gathering the lystle good will she bore unto her brother, demanded pardon of her speech, and returned to her lodging, whether she sent for the Prince Don Siluerio, and to him she told the whole talk, with the Princess answer, willing him notwithstanding not to give over, but to make a better show, as if her answer misliked him not, and covertly to labour to the King for his consent. This can he not deny you, and after you may win the Princess: for as yet her excuse is but of years.  
The Prince liking her counsel, departed from the Princess his sister, and the next day finding the King at leisure, he required his Majesty of a secret matter. The King commanded those in presence to avoid, and took him to a window, where the Prince after his duty done, began on this sort. With your grace's favour (I trust) I have this long time been a well-willer to your daughter the Princess Olivia, and to have her to wife, whereto if it might please your highness to condescend, I know my parents would well agree thereto, for the great love which they bear to your Majesty, & to me their son, & thereby should I take myself to be the best rewarded for my long tarrying, that ever Prince was: I humbly beseech your highness to let me know your mind herein. The demand of the Prince was nothing strange to the king Oliverio, for he suspected this matter long before, & therefore his answer was short, that he was content to accept him for son in law, as well for his own worthiness, as for his birth, and for the friendship betwixt their parents: yet saith he, you shall give me leave to think thereon, & you shall have a more resolute answer: the prince hoping that his desire would take effect. Now the King to know the Princess mind therein, went himself to the princess lodging, where finding her alone, he counseled her in this sort. It hath pleased God that the Prince Edward thy brother should be lost in the realm of Hungary, I having none other child but thee, think it convenient both for mine own liking, and the common profit of my subjects, to have thee married with some Prince of like estate. This have I thought on a long time, and now upon mature deliberation had with some special of my counsel, I have found one: a Prince which both for his power may, and for his courage will, and for his nobility is worthy to bear sway in so great an estate as this is: him am I content to take for son in law, and to commend my title unto you. This Prince is Don Siluerio Prince of Lusitania, whom you know right well, a comely knight of parsonage, valiant in arms, of a courageous spirit: above all, virtuous, and in his dealings circumspect, courteous of speech, and of high estate, as I know few like. There are beside to commend this march, the intercourse of traffic between our subjects, and the friendship between his parents and me. Herein therefore say your fancy, for so far as reason will, I am content to hear you. Thus said the King. But the Princess whom these words more galled, than either sword or spear, not knowing how to shift off the King her father, and not to answer his demand, stood in a maze for fear. The King seeing her so silent, asked the cause why? she answered nothing yet a while. In the end forced to say somewhat, she rather excused her silence then resolved the doubt: My Lord and father saith she, I have not answered you hetherman, because I know not how to do, neither may you now look for a full answer. The matter is so strange unto ●ée, as that I never thought of it before, and your Highness knoweth that I am of young years, and as yet I have no desire to marry, the time groweth on when I shall be of more age, end then perhaps shall I have more desire, which when sooner it falls out, shall be of your choice more than of mine own. The king thinking that she had spoke as she meant, and that her young age had been her only stay, took in good part this excuse, willing her notwithstanding to remember what he had said. So the King departed and the Princess remained somewhat better apaid by the Kings liking of her answer, but her hope was, that Rosicler would come, and that he being present, the King's mind might be altered as touching Don Siluerio, and for this cause she made many a secret vow for his speedy return, but above all she looked for Fidelia. The King at his return, caused Don Siluerio to be called, to whom he declared his talk with his daughter, and her answer, adding moreover, that hereafter he thought the matter possible enough, for her good liking, besides his, whereof he might be assured. Don Siluerio was the gladdest man alive and thanking the King for so high favour, for that time he departed from the King, but the Princess grew to be more melancholic than before, for she espied what courage he had taken by the comfort which the king had given him. After Don Siluerio thinking the matter sure enough departed the realm with his sister Rodasilua, where let us leave him, and turn to the Emperor Trebatio.   

¶ The Emperor Trebatio carried away the Princess Briana from the Monastery of the River.  
Cap. 56.  
IN great pleasure and contentation did the Emperor Trebatio remain with the Princess Briana, at the monastery of the River, where, by their continuance together, their loves increased so towards each other, that either of them delighted in the other, and either of them thought themselves happy when they were in the others company.  
This love between them was in other manner, then that which ariseth by a blast of beauty: and it endured so long between them, that neither years nor sickness, nor death scarcely could once impair it, and for this loves sake could the Emperor Trebatio willingly have forborn both kith and kindred, and acquaintance in his own country: and for his love, durst the Princess adventure to fly her father's Realm, and to abandonne herself to unknown passages, and to travail with Trebatio into Greece, As the Emperor Trebatio finding opportunity told her that he had counseled with the Knight of the Sun as touching their departure, by whom he understood that both for themselves and for the King Tiberio it was meetest to departed, otherwise saith he, may the King your father be blamed for the death of the Prince Edward, and our joy might find end if I were discovered, but for the dispatch of this whole matter, he said that he would leave a letter in her chamber, wherein should be showed both how and in what manner all things had been done which you have heard of. The Princes yielded there to gladly, and between themselves they provided things necessary for their departure, none being privy thereto, but Clandestria and the other Gentlewoman. The day before the Princess should departed, she told her Gentlewomen, that she had vowed nine days fast in her lodging, charging that for that time none should trouble her, save that she would have Clandestria as she was wont and this Gentlewoman for necessary occasion. The Princess was thus wont to do very often, which made it probable. The next day when all were ready and had voided the Princess lodging, the Emperor threw in his letter, and Clandestria shut the door: So by the secret postern, they all departed. This was a good while before day, and they took such horse as had been provided by the Princess. By the opening of the morning they had ridden a pretty way, and the Princess being weary turned out of the way to rest herself in a shade, as every thing made her afraid and weary, till that Clandestria hastened her on, by saying that she thought her business would be suspected, in that she fetched not the broths as she was wont. So up to horse they go, and here breaketh of the first book, what happened by the way the second book declareth. Now let us remember by the way where we left our worthy princes, that when we have need of them, we may there find them. The Emperor in his way to Greece: the knight of the Sun abideth in Tiberio's court: Don Siluerio is upon the Sea towards Lusitania: Rosicler now departeth from Thessaly after the establishing of the kingdom to the Queen Arguirosa: Brandizel and Claverindo stay in the king of Polonias' Court, where the Prince Brandizel maketh love to the Princess Clarinea: Zoylo Prince of Tartary, Bargandel Prince of Bohemia, and Liriamandro Prince of Hungary, all three together sojourn at the emperors Court of Trabisond, with the Princess Claridiana, a woman knight, of whom this whole story specially entreateth, but more at large hereafter. And thus endeth the first book.   
FINIS.   

A TABLE CONTAINING ALL THE Chapters which are in this book.  

caput. 1. The description of the kindred and choosing of the Emperor Trebatio. Fol. 1.  
Cap. 2. The king of Hungary pretending a title to the Empire, setteth himself against the Emperor Trebatio. 3.  
Cap. 3. The Emperor Trebatio by the hearsay of her beauty was surprised with the love of the Princess Briana. 5.  
Cap. 4. Prince Edward entereth into Belgrado: the Emperor bethinketh himself of his remedy. 7.  
Cap. 5. Prince Edward riding towards the monastery of the river, was by the Emperor Trebatio encountered and slain. 8.  
Cap. 6. The Emperor Trebatio was received at the Monastery by the Archbishop of Belgrado, & there betrothed by the name of Prince Edward. 9  
Cap. 7. The Emperor Trebatio driveth in his conceit the order how to consummate the marriage, which in the end he bringeth to pass accordingly. 11.  
Ca 8. The Emperor Trebatio pursuing those which had stolen his Lady, left all his knights, and took another way. 1●.  
Cap. 9 The adventures of the Emperor in following the enchanted chariot. 14.  
Cap. 10. The emperors knights find not their Lord, and the Hungarians miss the prince of England. 18.  
Cap. 11. The Princess Briana taketh great sorrow at the loss of Prince Edward. 19  
Cap. 12. The Princess Briana was delivered of two sons▪ Clandestria christneth them, & causeth them to be nursed. 20.  
Cap. 13. The king of Boheme raised the siege, and the king of Hungary returned the Prince's knights into England. 22.  
Cap. 14. Clandestria deviseth with the princess Briana how her sons might be brought up in her company. 23.  
Cap. 15. Donzel del Febo was lost by misadventure. 25.  
Cap. 16. The pedigree of the valiant Prince Florion, and other matters as touching him. 29.  
Cap. 17. Prince Florion in his way homewards, findeth by adventure the young Gentleman Claverindo, son to the king Oristeo king of France, and bringeth him with the Gentleman of the Sun to Babylon. 31.  
Cap. 18. Prince Florion with the two young Gentlemen entereth Babylon, and were there honourably received by the soldan. 35.  
Cap. 19 The delivery of the soldan by the Gentleman of the Sun. 36.  
Cap. 20. An adventure in the court of the soldan, which befell to the young Gentleman of the Sun. 41.  
Cap. 21. Donzel del Febo is dubbed knight, and overcometh Raiartes. 46.  
Cap. 22. Africano king of Media & Persia, inferred war upon the soldan of Babylon. 50.  
Cap. 23. The knight of the Sun maketh answer to Africano, as to his letter. 52.  
Cap. 24. A cruel battle between the knight of the Sun and Africano: with the discomfiture of Africanos host. 56.  
Cap. 25. The knight of the Sun, the two Princes, Florion and Claveryndo, with a great host entered into Persia and there put Florion in possession of the crown. 61.  
Cap. 26. The knight of the Sun and the Prince Claveryndo being in their way towards Babylon, were divided by a sudden adventure. 63.  
Cap. 27. The Princess Briana discovered to Rosicler secretly that he was her son. 66.  
Cap. 28. Rosicler departed from the monastery of the river, without the knowledge of the Princess his mother. 68  
Cap. 29. Rosicler in Liverbas name slayeth Argion and removeth the laws. 71.  
Cap. 30. Rosicler departed from the valley of the mountains, meeteth with two Princes christened, & by adventure is carried from them again. 74.  
Cap. 31. Certain accidents which befell Rosicleer after his departure ●●m the two Princes. 79.  
Cap. 32. The great feasts began in Oliverio's Court. 82.  
Cap. 33. An adventure which chanced in king oliverio's court. 90.  
Cap. 34. A dangerous battle between Candramarte and Rosicleer. 93.  
Cap. 35. A Gentlewoman came to the court from the Princess Briana, which made him follow Brandagedeon. 97.  
Cap. 36. A cruel battle between Rosicleer and Brandagedeon, with his knights. 100  
Cap. 37. Rosicler and the two princes seek adventures in the land of Britain, and the two Gentlewomen carry the giants body to oliverio's court. 104.  
Ca 38. The Gentlewomen brought the body of Brandagedeon to the Court, & the Princesses receive the letters of their knights. 160  
Cap. 39 Arinda the Gentlewo●●● belonging unto the Princess P●na, told the bringi 〈◊〉 rosicleer unto the Princess Olivia. Fol. 113.  
Cap. 40. Fidelia being on her way to carry the letter to Rosicleer, was taken by six knights, & from them delivered by Rosicler. 118.  
Cap. 41. The Princes, Bargandel & Liriamandro returning from the Forest, miss Rosicler. 125.  
Ca 42. Rosicleers departure is published in the Court of king Oli●●rio, Olivia after knowledge whose son he was, reverseth judgement, passed by a countermand in another letter, whereof Fidelia likewise is the bearer. 127.  
Cap. 43. Rosicler was betrayed into the Island of Candramarte, that Giant, whose hands had been cut off before by Rosicler. 131.  
Cap. 44. The knight of the Sun was carried to the Island of Lindaraza, where he achieved many strange and fearful adventures. Fol. 135.  
Cap. 45. The three Princes which went in the quest of Rosicler were transported into the Empire of Trabisond, where chanced to them a fair adventure 149.  
Cap. 46. The two Princes, Brandizel and Claverindo, stolen secretly out of the kingdom of Persia, to find the knight of the Sun. 153.  
Cap. 47. Rosicler departeth from the Island of Candramarte, and meeteth with certain adventures on the Sea. 156.  
Cap. 48. The battle which Rosicler had with Rolando. 161.  
Cap. 49. The Emperor Trebatio and the knight of the Sun are in their way to the kingdom of Hungary 163.  
Cap. 50. The Emperor and the knight of the Sun riding towards the Monastery of the river, are by an adventure separated. 165.  
Cap. 51. The Emperor came to the monastery of the river & there was made known to his wife the Princess. 169.  
Cap. 52. The Knight of the Sun riding to the Court of king Tiberio, jousteth with a knight for passage. 179.  
Cap. 53. The knight of the Sun answered before the king Tiberio for the Duchess Elisandra, & the battle was appointed between him & Arydon of the black wood. Fol. 172.  
Cap. 54. The battle between the knight of the Sun and the strong Arydon. 173.  
Cap. 55. Don Siluerio demanded the Princess Olivia for wife of the king Oliverio. 174.  
Cap. 56. The Emperor Trebatio carried away the Princess Briana from the Monastery of the river. Fol. 178.   
FINIS TABULAE.