THE THIRD PART of the first book, OF THE MIRROR of Knighthood.  
wherein is set forth the WORTHY DEEDS OF THE knight of the Sun, and his brother Rosicler, both sons unto the Emperor of Grecia: with the valiant deeds of arms of sundry worthy knights. Very delightful to the reader.  
Newly translated out of Spanish into English by R. P.  
Imprinted at London by Thomas East.   

To the right courteous Gentleman, my especial good friend, Master Richard Morris: health. etc.  
THE famous Philosopher Aristotle being demanded what benefit he had obtained by the study and practise of Philosophy, answered, This, that vncommanded I can do that I ought, and avoid the doing of that I should not. For (saith he) the ignorant and ruder sort abstain from evil, compelled, for fear of punishment: but the wise and learned do shun the same, of their own accord, because it is evil. A worthy saying, and well beseeming the excellency of so noble a Philosopher. For what is there that can more effectually express the benefit that ariseth by the study of any thing, then to show the effects that it worketh in them that apply themselves thereunto? And what effect is there equal unto this when a man uncommanded, can conform his judgement, frame his will, and order his actions, according to the rule of reason, and avoid whatsoever is contrary to the same? And as the study of Philosophy worketh this in the followers thereof: so doth the study of other laudable things also, bring forth very commendable effects, each one in their own kind. For which cause sundry men in times past have penned with great labour, the laudable works of antiquity, and some also in these our days, imitating the painful diligence of those ancient writers, have with no less travail written Histories of later years, which by the reading of them might be aswell profitable to repel other vain delights, as pleasant to pass away the tediousness of the time. Among which, I have caused this [Third part of the first book of the Mirror of knighthood] to be translated out of the Spanish tongue, moved thereunto with the earnest request of sundry persons, as also being willing of myself to further so worthy a work, adorned with all good examples of honour & magnanimity, that may serve to the exalting of virtue and well-doing, and to the repressing of vice. Which being done, I advised with myself where I might find out an English Patron of conformable quality, & having heard of your virtuous and every way Gentlemanlike disposition by others, as also had trial of your great & singular courtesy in myself: I thought good to Dedicate this work unto you, Master Richard Morris, in am of better, to testify my thankful remembrance of your great good will showed unto me, desiring you to accept in worth the presentation hereof, if not for the worthiness of the thing offered (and yet I trust you shall not find it altogether unworthy of the good favour and acceptance) yet as a testification of my affection which by this I here present unto you, declareth what I would if I had better to give. Thus hoping that you will friendly accept of this my doing, I take my leave.  
Yours to use, Thomas East.   

TO THE READER.  
GEntle and friendly Reader, I have caused to be translated (according to my promise) this work, entitled, The third part of the first book of the Mirror of Knighthood: which I doubt not, will be delightful unto thee, for that it concludeth the Histories of these three parts of the first book, following orderly one after another: after which three parts before mentioned, followeth the second part of the Mirror of Knighthood, which book is divided into two parts: so that now is extant in the English tongue five books. Desiring thee to accept my labour in good part, which I present unto thee, wherein thou shalt find the strange and wonderful prowess of the worthy Emperor Trebatio, and his two sons, with sundry other courageous knights, mixed with many lamentable & sorrowful Histories.  
Thine, T. E.   


WHat happened with the knight of the Sun the night before he should be married unto the Princess Lindabrides. Chap. 1. Fol. 1.  
What happened in the court of the Emperor Alicandro, when they understood of the departure of the knight of the Sun. Chap. 2. 4  
How the Princess Claridiana departed from Constantinople, & returned unto the Empire of Trapisond, for certain news which were brought her. Chap. 3. 7  
What happened to the knight of the Sun and Oristedes, travailing through Tartary. Chap. 4. 9  
How the Empress Claridiana being in Trapisond, there arrived her damsel Arcania, and declared unto her news of the knight of the Sun, which brought her almost to the point of death. Chap. 5. 11.  
How Rosideer carried the Princess Olivia by sea, where they met with a great storm, & were in peril, and how marvelously they were succoured. Chap. 6. 17  
How the knight of the Sun, Rosicler, & the rest went a land, and were meruailoustie received by the Emper●● Trebatio, etc. chap. 7. 25  
How the Prince Don Siluerio, without all hope of recovery of the Princes Olivia, her return, & what happened in the court of the king Oliverio. Chap. 8. 31  
How the Princes Lindabrides did crave of her father revengement of the knight of the Sun, & how the Emperor at her request did call a Parliament, and what happened in the same. Chap. 9 32  
How the Emperor Alycandro did consult with his Nobles about his journey into Grecia, & what Bramarant did concerning the same. Chap. 10. 36  
How there came to the Court of the Emperor Trebatio a strange knight, & did defy the knight of the Sun, and of the stout battle fought betwixt them. chap. 11. 42  
How the knight of the Sun came again unto himself, & as one desperate for the battle he had with Claridiana, departed the Court. Chap. 12. 49.  
How the knight of the Sun was found lacking in the court, & being all very sorrowful, there came Letters from the wise Lirgandeo which amazed them all. cha. 13. 54  
How the knight of the Sun came forth of the wilderness of Grecia, and sailing by sea, was by a storm carried into the solitary Island, where the devilish Fauno was. ch. 14. 57  
How the knight of the Sun arrived at the Island of the possessed Fauno, & of the perilous battle that he had with him. chap. 15. 79  
What the Empress Claridiana did after the knight of the Sun was departed from Const. cha. 16. 78  
How the great army of the Emperor Alicandro joined in the port of Tenedon, and of diverse sorts that went into Grecia. chap. 17. 84  
How the Emperor Trebatio had news of the coming of the Pagans, & of his preparation. ca 18. 85  
Of the mighty army the king Oliverio prepared to go into Grecia. Chap. 19 86  
How the great fleet of the Emperor Alicandro came to Constantinople, & forcing to go a land, the Pagans had with the Christians a great eucounter. chap. 20. 86  
Of the great succour that came to the Emperor Trebatio, etc. c. 21. 93  
Of the second battle the Greeks had with the Pagans, etc. ch. 22. 94  
How the Prince Meridian had understanding of the coming of his father into Grecia, etc. c. 23. 99  
How the king Oliverio with his host arrived in Grecia, & what else happened. Chap. 24. 102  
What Rosicleer did after the battle, and how by his means the king Oliverio was reconciled, etc. Chap. 25. 11  
How it was concluded in the camp of the Pagans to challenge the Greeks, & how it was accepted, & by what knights. chap. 26. 18  
How that Claridiana came unto the cave of A●tidon, & what happened there. chap. 27 112  
How the Princess Claridiana went a land at the Island of the devilish Fauno, and what she did there. Chap. 28. 126  
The life the knight of the Sun lead in the solitary Island, & how he was found by his Lady. c. 29. 130  
Of the stout battle fought between fifteen knights of the Emperor Trebatio, and fifteen of the Emperor Alicandros. chap. 30. 1●8  
How the Pagan Bramarant being angry at words spoken by Meridian & Brandimardo, departed, etc. Chap. 31. 146  
How the knight of the Sun and the princess Claridiana after they were departed from the solitary Island, did deliver, etc. chap. 32. 150  
How the knight of the Sun with out knowing Meridian or Brandimardo, made battle for them with Bramarant. Chap. 33. 154  
How Bramarant after he was come unto himself, returned again to seek the knights, and what he did when he found his father dead. Chap. 34. 160  
How the princes Li●dabrides had understanding of the coming of the knight of the Sun, etc. c. 35. 166  
How Bramarant destroyed all the Idols in the camp, and how the Emperor Alycandro to appease him, caused to be brought with honour the gran Capion, etc. c. 6. ●72  
What the Greeks did, and how the king Lis●. & the fair queen Radamira came to aid the Emperor Trebatio, etc. chap. 37. 174  
Of the rigorous and bloody battle that was between the people of the Emperor Trebatio, & those of the Emperor Alicandro, etc. Chap. 38. 176.  
How the Emperor Alycandro sailing by sea, was through a tempest, by the which he was driven unto the strong Island, whereas they were taken prisoners, he and the Princes Lindabrides, etc. c. 39 198  
How Rosicler departed out of Constantinople in the demand of the knight of the Sun, & how the knight of the Sun in following the Emperor Alicandro arrived at the strong Island, etc. chap. 40. 201  
What happened unto Rosicleer after his departure from Constantinople. chap. 41. 210.  
How the Emperor Alicandro & his company departed from the strong Island unto the Grecian Empire, etc. chap. 42. 215  
How Rosicler and Liriamandro at the commandment of the Emperor Trebatio went into Hunga●a, to make themselves known to the king, & to give him to understand of all that had passed in Grecia. chap. 43. 220  
Of the great treason that the duke Roberto ordained to have the fai● Polisena to be his wi●e. ca 44. 226  
How Rosicler & Liriamandro, & the gentle Lusiano had battle with the Duke Roberto and his companions. chap. 45. 229  
How the king Tiberio, with the Queen Augusta, Rosicler, & Liriamandro, departed out of Hungaria, and took their journey towards Constantinople. ca 46. 235  
How the Prince Claramante was nourished in the court of the Emperor Trebatio, & of other things that was spoken by the wise Artemidoro & Lirgandeo, with other things that happened. ca 47. 238.  
How the fair Lindabrides by art of the two wise men Artemidoro & Lirgandeo was enchanted, & the order of the enchantment. c. 48. 240.  
How the valiant & worthy princes did prove the adventure of the disloyal tower, and what happened of the success thereof. ca 49. 243  
How the Emperor Trebatio with all those high Princes and worthy knights, Ladies and damsels that were in Constantinople, went to sport themselves a hunting into the wilderness of Grecia, etc. c. 50. 246  
How the stout Pagan Bramarant came unto the place whereas the Empress Briana, with all those fair Princesses and Ladies were, etc. chap. 51. 250   
FINIS.   

THE THIRD PART of the first Book of the Mirror of Knighthood.  

What happened with the Knight of the Sun the night before the day that he should be married to the Princess Lindabrides. CHAPTER. I.  
IN the second part of the first book of this History, it hath been showed unto you, how that the Princess Claridiana, at such time as the knight of the Sun departed from her, gave unto him a Damsel called Arcania, for to go with him, and ●o bear him company till such ●ime as he should return again. And the great charge which the Princess had given unto her, as well in the discovering of the great love that she bore unto the knight of the Sun, as also to have a great care of all things that should pass with the Princess Lindabrides in that journey, that afterward she should thereof give certain and just relation.  
The History doth now say, that Arcania did never departed nor was absent out of the company and conversation of the knight of the Sun, so that she did see and understand all that did pass, and how that the marriage was concluded in such sort, that there was no remedy. Her sorrow was great ● caused in her much heaviness, to think of the great grief that her Lady should receive when she should understand the news thereof, & it seemed that her estate would little profit to pacify her, hearing that the knight of the Sun is married to the Princess Lindabrides. This damsel Arcania determined that night to departed towards her own Country, and thinking that she should do well first to give the knight of the Sun to understand of her departure. At such time as he was in his bed with great light in the chamber, she entered in, and finding him all alone, she said: God bless the good knight of the Sun. He answered: Thou art welcome my good friend Arcania, what makest thou here at this time of the night? I come (said she) to take my leave of you, for that I mean to return unto the Princess Claridiana my Lady and mistress, for whereas she is forgotten and no memory of her service, I know not what reward I shall look for of my part. How is this, said the knight of the Sun? Hast thou no hope that I will gratify thee for all thy good service? Dost thou not know, that if I should forget myself, there is the Princess Lindabrides my Lady, who will reward thee in ample manner. Hope I have none at all in you, said Arcania, for he that hath falsified his faith made unto the most highest & precious damsel in all the world, he will ill observe and keep it with so base and poor a damsel as I am. Of the Princess Lindabrides I request no payment at her hands, for being a damsel of the Princess Claridiana, I think it a great reproach to receive reward of any other. Oh knight of the Sun, how may the fame of thy great deeds from this day forwards cease, & the praise of thy high knighthood, with the continual report of thy great virtue: & increase the news of thy disloyalty, when the falsifying of thy ●ord shall be known abroad, all men will judge of thy little understanding, and will say that thou lackedst reason for to acknowledge the good. How is it, good knight, is your memory past, have you lost your understanding, do you not remember how the royal. Princess Claridiana only for your love, left her own Country of Trapisonda, & came into Grecia, at such time as you did offer yourself to be her knights she accepted you as her own, discovering unto you the great excellency of her beauty, whereby you did understand that you were by her beloved, & thought at that time that there was not borne in all the world one so happy as you were. How is it now that there remaineth in you so little force, and so great villainy, that the presence of the Princess Lindabrides can work more in effect than the memory of the Princess Claridiana. Do not you remember, how that in the Court of the Emperor ●rebatio, they were both present together, whereas they did manifest their great beauties, being with rich ornaments adorned, who was then of you most esteemed and best beloved? Call to remembrance the good will which you had at your departure out of Grecia, and join it to that which you have at this present, then shall you see and understand, how all things is changed clean contrary, not for any other thing, but that you do more esteem the things present, although they be small, than those which are to come, though they be more higher and of greater valour, the which proceedeth of base thoughts and conditions. Oh how frail and miserable is human nature, that whereas is so much force and strength for to overcome and conquer so many knights and giants, doth lack heart and strength to make resistance against one thought and appetite. If that you upon the shield of memory of my Lady and mistress, did receive the blows of the presence of the Princess Lindabrides, neither could the blows be so strong, nor the shield so weak, but that with great ease you might remain with the victory. But as you have forgot your faith and promise, so have you forgot the remembrance of her great beauty and high valour, and very easily you were overcome with the presence of the Princess Lindabrides, I do therefore mean to return unto the Princess my Lady and mistress, and make manifest your great disloyalty, therefore the Lord be with you. When that Arcania had concluded these words, without tarrying ani● answer, she departed out of the chamber, and went down the stairs, whereas she had left her Palfraie in a readiness, and taking his back, she departed out of the City, and took her journey towards Trapisonda. The knight of the Sun received great grief and sorrow for that the damsel would departed, and rose out of his bed, and went after her, but seeing that she was gone, he made little account of her, for that the love of the Princess Lindabrides had so inveigled him, that although he did well understand her words, yet they did work no more effect in him, than in one that had been clear of all cares and passions, till such time as he was laid again in his bed, whereas it did not let somewhat to alter his profound imaginations, to remember what Arcania had said of the Princess Claridiana, and of his faith and word given her to be her knight: which was the occasion that there grew in his thought a very great alteration, and troubled very much his mind, in such sort, that it disturbed him from sleep or taking any rest, but tumbling and tossing from one side of the bed unto the other, which did increase in him by little and little the remembrance of the Princess Claridiana. So after a while, being somewhat in quiet by reason of the great disquietness that he had suffered, his mind receiving some ease, and being in a slumber neither sleeping nor waking, having all his senses occupied with the Princess, it seemed that she appeared before him with so great majesty and beauty, that it dazzled the sight of his eyes, equal unto the shining of the Sun when he appeareth out of the Orient, her body all armed, saving her head & face was wholly discovered with her yeolow golden hair, which was dispersed behind her ears, and hung down unto the ground like threads of gold, she had her sword naked in her hand; and with an ireful semblance, lifting up her arm for to strike him, she said.  
Oh false and traitorous Knight, thou art now at the extremity and point to receive the guerdon for thy great disloyalty. Then the knight of the Sun who did behold her, contemplating himself with her strange beauty, accompanied with her great majesty, was strait ways overcome with the force thereof, so that the Princess Lindabrides in her presence seemed to be very foul, & caused the sparks of love new to kindle within him, which before were put out by the long absence from her, and began so much to repent himself of that which was past, that he fell prostrate upon the ground before the Princess, craving pardon at her hands, but she unto his seeming came very ireful, making no account of that which he had said, but always seemed for to strike him with the sword she had in her hand: who being marvelously amazed thereat, did suddenly awake out of that imagination or dream, with so great shaking & quaking, that all the bed shook therewith. So when he was come wholly unto himself, and considered well of all that had passed, the presence of the Princess remained so graved in his heart & mind, that it seemed unto him that she was so naturally before him in presence, as when he last saw her in the City of Constantinople, and the old wound wherewith he was wounded at the first sight of her, did now work so much effect in him, that the remembrance of the Princess Lindabrides was clean forgotten, & the love of the Princes Claridiana so graffed in his heart, that by no means he could take any quietness or rest within his bed, but calling to remembrance all that was past, & the marriage that was ordained for the next day following, he fell into a great perplexity, & abhorred himself. Wherefore upon a sudden and in great ha●● he arose up from his bed, and put on his apparel, & looked about for his armour, which he found hanging in a corner of his chamber, wherewith he armed himself in all assays, & took the light Torch that was in his chamber burning, & descended into the great Palace, and so into the Court, and coming unto the stable, he found that the horsekéepers were a sleep, and waking one of them in great secret, he commanded him in great haste for to saddle his horse. The horsekéeper when he knew him was greatly amazed, and said: My Lord, whether is it your pleasure to go in this sort, and at this time of the night? I go (said the knight of the Sun) after a damsel that is gone away from me, therefore hold thy peace and be quiet, for I will return again by and by. This young man without any farther replying, did saddle his horse with a trice, & lead him out at a poster●te gate, on whom the knight of the Sun leàpt with great lightness, and so departed out of the great City, & took an unknown way by a valley, for that if any should follow him, they should not find him. So he travailed so long by that valley, that it brought him unto many rocks and hills which was at the foot of the mighty mountain called Taurus, which is one of the largest in all the world, and entered into the said mountain at such time as the Sun appeared, and for that he found himself weary with the great travail that night, he determined there for to rest himself, supposing that no man would come to seek him in that place▪ wherewith he alighted, and pulled off his horse bridle, and committed him unto the green field to feed at pleasure. Then did he lay himself down upon the green herbs, the which were so delightful, that it yielded occasion unto his afflicted sorrow, to contemplate himself in the highness & beauty of the Princess Claridiana, which caused him for to tumble and toss upon the green grass without taking any rest, yielding forth great sighs, forced by repentance of all that was passed, & shedding many sorrowful and ●itter tears, the which distilled from the veins of his heart, he spoke as followeth.  
Oh cruel & false traitor that I am, how doth it behove me now to shun the company of people, that do understand and know the occasion of this mishap, but to conclude & end this my sorrowful life amongst the rocks. & mountains, in the company of brute beasts that doth not understand my disloyalty and great treason. What was become of my reason, and where was mine understanding? Where did I lose my wits and memory, that being blinded with folly, & forgetting myself, I should use so great treason against that royal Princess Claridiana, whom I do honour? Oh evil traitor that I am, how can I be so bold for to mention in my mouth the name of so high & mighty a Princess, endowed with so great beauty and virtue, whom all that now live in the world doth not deserve to serve, much less I, wretch as I am. Alas what shall become of me? From this day forwards may I frustrate myself of all hope even for to see her, having so great reason, that justly I cannot present myself in her presence. Ah wretch, at such time as by her damsel Arcania she shall understand all that hath passed with me, how blindly and foolishly I have used myself, then will she make no more account of me than of a base & vile knight, & with just reason according unto her high bounty take revengement of me. But alas, the punishment that I do justly deserve, according unto my desert, shall I abide to receive it at her hands? No surely, but first I will take it with mine own hands, for that I could not consider the great benefit that God did show unto me, the high throne whereunto I was exalted, the great glory that I did receive when I was accepted and received for knight unto the royal princess, what joy might have been compared unto mine? If I had not been foolish and out of my wits, I had been equal with those that doth continually recreate themselves in the presence of the almighty, without desire of any other pleasure. But alas and woe, even as so high a name cannot be comprehended in so base a knight as I am, so in short time I have lost the pre-eminence, and am deprived of all. Oh that my fortune were so happy, that the course of my natural life were come to conclusion, to make an end of this my sorrowful torment, for that living I might not feel & suffer so great misfortune. In saying these & many other words, very dolorous to hear, this passiened knight remained a good while ashamed of himself, with great repentance of all that was past, & wished that he had never been borne, especially when that he called to remembrance what the Emperor Alicandro with all the mighty kings and Princes of his Court would do, when that in seeking of him he should n●t be found, likewise when that they shall understand of his departure. So considering his own shame, & the reproach that would be imputed to him for disturbing the court, the story leaveth him for to declare what passed in the Court of the Emperor Alicandro, when his departure was known.   

What happened in the Court of the Emperor Alicand●●, when they understood of the departure of the knight of the Sun. Chap. 2.  
THe next day being come, wherein should be celebrater the solemn marriage of the knight of ●he Sun with the fair Princess Lindabrides. The Emperor with all those mighty kings & Princes, took the vantange of the morning, & did apparel themselves very richly, in such excellent sort, that it seemed all the 〈◊〉 of the world was there joined together, & for that the knight of the Sun seemed to tarry long in his chamber, the Trojan Oristedes, & many other that did love and bear him good will, did repair unto his lodging for to seek him, but when they came thither and found him not there, they were greatly amazed, & the more, for that there was none that could tell them any news of him, but searching for his armour● & horse, and not finding them, they strait ways understood that he was departed. This news was published throughout the palace, which brought them all in a maze, at which report the horsekéeper that did saddle his horse came before the Emperor, & told him of his departure, and what words he expressed at that time, whereat the Emperor greatly marveled (and entering into his cogitation some spark of suspicion) he strait ways commanded many of his knights and Gentlemen, that they should follow the quest of seeking him, which commandment being published, there was with a trice more than ten thousand knights armed, & separated themselves diverse ways, some one way, and some another, and amongst them went Oristedes, with the two Princes of Cambray & Candaria, unto whom it seemed that the knight of the Sun would not follow nor take any known or beaten way, but rather towards the mountains, the better to have his travail in secret. So being departed, they took their way towards the mount Tauro by unknown ways, and fortune did so serve them, that they followed the right way whereas the knight of the Sun had gone, and in many places they discovered the steps of his horse, which seemed to be new trodden, & followed the same so long, till in the end they came unto the place whereas they found him lying all along the green grass, with his face and eyes swollen with weeping, and seemed to be so weary that he had no power to arise, but when they saw him, and were fully satisfied of knowing him, they were very glad because it was their fortune to find him, and yet not a little amazed to see him in that trance. Then Oristedes came unto him, and did awake him, saying: Sir knight of the Sun, my good Lord & very friend, what urgent cause hath moved you at such time to departed from the Court of the Emperor. The Knight of the Sun knowing them, was very sorrowful for that they had found him, and being ignorant what answer to make them, he kept silence, but in a great confusion, imagining how he might separate himself out of their company. Then they all three together, with great love requested him to show them the cause of his departure, & the occasion of this perplexity into the which he was brought: who determining to give them to understand the whole effct thereof, began to declare to them as followeth.  
My good friends, if heretofore you have had any experience in love, then are you not ignorant, that his power is such, that it doth deprive men of all reason & understanding, in such sort, that they cannot feel nor know any thing, and especially them that be conformable unto their amorous desires and disordinate appetities, which is the occasion that we have apparent before our eyes, so many thousands of disastres in this world, and love the only cause thereof, and for to declare them, time doth not now serve: Even so I being taken prisoner with the love of the Princess Lindabrides, and blind without any discretion, had not so much reason for to consider nor to allow more than that which was conformable unto my will and amorous desire, being bound unto all inconveniences and perils resistant unto my will, by the which I was brought unto the point, as you my Lords have seen & undersfood, how that this night past was dilated the marriage between the Princess me, fo● the which I received great grief, but that mighty God & redeemer of all the ri●●es, & maker of heaven and earth, who hath power over all things, against whose infinite power there is no resistance, by his great mercy did permit that all my corporal senses which were enchanted, and prisoners unto the love of the Princess, was this night set free from all subjection by the which I was awaked out of that blind dream wherein I lay, so that I did see and consider the great error that I did commit in taking the Princess Lindabrides unto my wife: for she being a Pagan and I a Christian, it is the most reproachful thing that can be used in all Christian religion, so that either she must return to be a Christian, or else I must forsake my profession, and become a Pagan. The other, for that I being a Christian, should evil preserve so great a multitude of Pagans, as is in the whole state of the Emperor Alicandro, for that they will not have a Christian knight for their Lord and governor, neither should I be in security amongst so many Pagans. Besides all this, the great grief which the Emperor my father and all his subjects shall receive, when they shall understand how that I am married in a strange Country so far distant from his, with great reason they may all desire & wish my death. So my very good friends, I considering of this and many other things which I omit to declare, determined this night past to departed, because I would not heap one error upon another, for that there is amendment in that which is past, so that I am fully determined not to return any more unto the Court of the Emperor Alica●●●o, and therefore I desire you in my behalf; to declare 〈◊〉 him, that I crave pardon at his hands, and to consider the just occasions that moveth me not to accept the high proffer offered me, and how that in whatsoever place I shall become, he shall always find me his true and faithful servant. These three knights were very much amazed at these words of the knight of the Sun, and were very sorrowful for that which he had given them to understand, who replied upon him with loving requests for to return again unto the Court of the Emperor, and to put all such thoughts out of his mind. Who hearing those new replies, he arose up upon a sudden, and finding his horse at hand, without any more tarrying, presently he bridled him, and with great lightness he took his back, saying.  
My good Lords and friends, I do most heartily desire you that in this matter you will not importune me any more, for that I will first consent to die rather than to accomplish or fulfil your request, and rest you in the power of good fortune, for I will departed. And in saying these words he set spurs unto his horse, and like unto the wind he ran up a high and mighty hill. Oristedes when he saw the knight of the Sun depart in that sort, he set spurs to his horse, and said unto his companions: My Lords, may it please you to carry these news unto the Emperor Aly●andro, for that I will not leave the company of the Knight of the Sun, and therewith he forced his pace after him so fast, that in the end of an hour he overtook him at the top of the mount Tauro, whereas they found very fair plains and pleasant Forests, but when the knight of the Sun saw him follow all alone, he was very glad and tarried for him, who certified him how that his companions remained behind, and how that he would not leave his company, if it were his pleasure to accept it. The knight of the Sun gave him great thanks, gratifying his good will, at which instant there was confirmed between them so great & perfect love, that it endured until their deaths. These two knights travailed together many days upon the mighty mountain, whereas they did not lack of all sorts of meats for their diets, in Castles and houses which they found upon the mountain, whereas this History doth leave them, for to return unto those two Princes that came with Oristedes, who remained in great confusion with that which the knight of the Sun and their companion had done, in such sort that they knew not what to say. But in conclusion they Agr●●● together for to departed, & at such time as the night approached, they came unto the mighty City of Naptaria, whereas they found the Emperor marvelously troubled, and all the whole Court in great alteration. But wheir they had declared all that the knight of the Sun had said unto them, his grief was such, that he tore the hair from his head and beard, and smote himself upon the face, that it was great pity to behold, how the great love that before he bore unto him, is now charged into mortal hate, & swore by his high Gods, that he would utterly renounce and deny them, if he might not be revenged of that injury which was done unto him by the Knight of the Sun, in which rage, he strait ways called together all those mighty kings and noble men of his Court, unto whom he did declare all which had passed, and made manifest unto them the great anger the which he receiu●d, and said that his honour conformable unto his 〈…〉 not receive just satisfaction, except the knight of the Sun be taken prisoner, and punished according unto his desert, and for the accomplishing thereof, he knew no other remedy, but to join together a great host and number of people, and with them to pass into Grecia, and to destruie all that Empire, full such time as they have taken prisoner the knight of the Sun, and the mighty Emperor his Father, upon whom he might execute his wrath, and take revengement on their persons for the injury done unto him. And as amongst friends, and such as be private unto noble men, there never lacketh one or other that will rather be conformable unto their wills, and aid and help them in the executing of their wrath, sooner with any reason to make resistance to avoid inconveniences: even so it fell out in this assembly (although there were some there present that did not like well of the emperors words) yet there were many other that did commend his pretence in saying that it was well done, & to the contrary, if the Emperor did not seek revengement of the knight of the Sun, that for ever after he should remain injured & infamous. Also there was added thereunto by certain young brains and gr●ene heads (who were very desirous to get honour) that unto the Gods they should do great honour and service, for to destroy that Emperor of Grecia, for that they were Christians, and enemies unto their law, and the better for to accomplish the same, they did offer themselves i● person with their goods and vassals, with pretence to join together the greatest army that ever was made in all the world, and for that these young Knights took the vantage in speaking first, others that were there present (who had other things in their thoughts) held their peace, & almost perforce did consent unto all the which the Emperor would do, who being somewhat comforted in that he saw how every one received part of his anger, he forthwith commanded that it should be proclaimed throughout all the Court, that all noble men & principal governors in all his Realms & dominions, should assemble together in his great City before the end of two months, pronouncing great penalties upon them that did not perform the same. So for that the news of the departure of the knight of the Sun was throughlie known amongst the people, it could not be hidden from the fair Princes Lindabrides, who having an inkling of the same, commanded to call before her the Prince of Cambray, and declared all that passed with the knight of the Sun in his presence, but when the Princess had well heard & understood the effect of his tale, she strait way suspected what was the occasion thereof, & understood very well that the remembrance of the Princess Claridiana was the cause of his departure more than any other thing, which was the reason that her sorrow increased so much, that there was no evil in all the world that might be compared unto hers, which was in such sort, that after she had remained in a trance for the space of more than one hour, in coming again unto herself, she gave such terrible shrieks, that it seemed to penetrate the heavens, tearing in peers her kerchers & head attire which was very fine, pulling her golden & rubicond hair, uttering words of so great dolour & grief, that all those that heard them were moved with great compassion to weep, & there was not one that could give her any comfort, for that they were all oppressed with sorrow, and could not speak unto her one word, but the passioned princess amongst other lamentations, said: O high & immortal Gods, let my sorrowful complaints ascend unto your divine majesties, & let your ears be partakers of these my passions, & let these my griefs be manifest before you, y● with sudden death I may be taken out of this world, & let not your sovereign providence consent that I live any longer, for to suffer so strong repuise of fortune: Oh disgrace so unhappy, and fortune so terrible, I would I had died a thousand deaths before I had known so great disaster, and who would not first desire to die, rather than to live & see so great evil: oh destiny, signs, & planets, under whom I was borne and subject, with none could you dse your cruelty so much as you do with me, it had been better that I had never been borne, than under so cruel constellations to maintain life, but what do I say, unhappy that I am, for according unto my misfortune, and the greatness of my grief and sorrow, the high Gods, who doth exceed the operations celestials, did make the knight of the Sun of so great valour, that my misfortune should exceed the influence of the signs and planets celestials, and in saying these words, the fair Princess fell into a sound, and was so far out of all remembrance that her Ladies and Gentlewomen did think verily that she was dead, yet had thy great care, & took great pains for to comfort her, but all did profit very little, for that she suffered a long time, and never entered into her breast any joy or comfort, but many times to the point of death she was brought, she grew to be very heavy and sad, always hoping of the revengement which her Father did promise to take of him, which was the whole occasion thereof. Whom the History doth leave at this present, for to tell you of the Princess Claridiana, who remained in the Court of the Emperor Trebatio.   

How the Princess Claridiana departed from Constantineple, and returned unto the Empire of Trapisond, for certain news which were brought her. Chap. 3.  
YOu have understood by the History, how that the Princess Claridiana, at such time as the knight of the Sun departed from her, remained in the City of Constantinople, with determination not to departed thence, till such time as he should return from the gran Catayo. Now saith the History, that she being in the Court of the Emperor Trebatio, with great joy, for the high honour and good entertainment which she received of all persons, although with much grief for the absence of her knight. Upon a day it hapried, that there came unto her twelve ancient knights and of great honour from the Empire of Trapisonda, all appareled in black, which did signify great heaviness, who with sorrowful countenance did humble themselves on their knees before her, and did kiss her hands, as their Lady and mistress, and they gave her to understand, how that the Emperor her Father, and Empress her Mother, were both departed the world, upon a sickness that took them both together, and so ended their days, & how that all the nobility of her Empire did request her, y● out of hand the should departed, to put in quietness▪ and set in good order her high estate, for her absence (being without Lord) might be the occasion of some great peril. When that this doleful news was heard by the Princess, she received great sorrow at her heart, for the death of her parents, whom she loved very much, & considering of her departure from Grecia, which was of compulsion, her sorrow did double increase, yet was she somewhat comforted by the parents of the knight of the Sun, who did honour her in all respects, than she seeing that of necessity she must departed out of hand, she went unto the Emperor & Empress Briana, & gave them to understand thereof, craving licence for her departure, promising them to return again as soon as she had put in order her estate, & set it in quiet. The Emperor & the empress received great grief at those doleful news, & also that the departure of the Princess was of pure necessity, for that the love which she had recovered amongst them in the small time that she was there, was very much, but seeing the just reason that she had to 〈◊〉, in lamenting the death of her parents, they said that it was in her choice to use her pleasure as she should think best, and how that they were all at her commandment, in any thing she would employ them. This good Emperor did not alonely offer unto her knights of great renewin for to bear her company into her Country, but also did contend that himself in person would do the like. This royal Princess surrendering great thanks for the same, would not consent that the Emperor neither any of his knights should go with her, but alonely her own Ladies & Gentlewomen in company with those knight's the came from Trapisonda. So taking her leave of them all, where amongst them was shed many tears, the royal Princess departed out of the great & mighty city of Constantinople, accompanied with the Emperor & the most principal knights of his court they did conduct her unto the sea side, whereas they did embrace her & commend her unto God. She strait ways did embark herself with all her company, & began to sail towards the Empire of Trapisonda, and the Emperor with all his knights returned again unto the City, whereas he felt great grief for the lack of his sons, & of the good knights that were absent for their respects from the court. Now doth the History return unto the Princess Claridiana, & saith, that they found the wind so prosperous, that in a short time they arrived at the mighty Empire of Trapisond, whereas she was received of her nobles & vassolls with great joy and pleasure unto them all, who received great content, for that they had so noble & fair a governess, that in all the world they believed was not her equal, as truth is she was, as well in beauty as in customs & comely grace, that she had not her peer in her time. So after that the funeral was concluded for the Emperor & Empress, as did appertain unto their high estates, the royal Princess was crowned for Empress, & in the time that she remained, her government was such, that in y● as well as in all other things, appeared that God did use great bounty in her behalf above all other, who with great care did p●sse the time many days, always awaiting when she should hear news of the knight of the Sun, whose long absence was cocasion of her great sorrow & grief, in such sort, that whatsoever pastimes & pleasures her subjects did ordain to give her content, yet could she not receive any comfort or joy, neither could she put him out of her remembrance a moment, for that she was not in quiet: neither could she not refrain from the great oppressions of her thoughts, suspecting the great peril wherein the knight of the Sun was, with the continual presence and conversation that he had with the fair Princess Lindabrides, which seemed unto her such, that according unto the great valour and desert of the knight of the Sun, with the sovereign beauty and grace of the Princess: it were a thing impossible but that the one must needs lone the other. So with thi● great care and troubles of mind, the story doth leave her, for to tell you of the knight of the Sun, who in company with the valiant Oristedes, was travailing through the gran Tartary.   

What happened unto the knight of the Sun and Oristedes, travailing through the gran Tartary. Chap. 4.  
WIth great travail and haste did these two great friends the knight of the Sun, & the trojan Oristedes, make their journeys, over the mighty feeds of the mounre Tauro, which was very fresh and delightful, and polished with many castles, and fair houses, in which travail for the space of many days, they did sundry feats of arms, by reason that the inhabitants there, were very barbarous, so that every day they were driven to armour and to make their defence. And in all places wheresoever they became, they had contention with the dwellers there abouts, and although all that mountain was replenished with Castile's and houses, somewhat apart the one from the other, yet did they pass the greatest part thereof with little danger, till upon a night it happened being very dark, and they in the field where as they could not discover neither castle nor house, whether they might go to lodge themselves, & being in such a constillation, as was very cold, so that the first part of the night they passed with great trouble, till such time as from far of they discovered a light of fire, which seemed to be in a great and déeps valley, they thinking that it was made by some shepherds that kept their sheep there, being very glad, went thither wards. And when they came nigh unto the place, they saw that it was a company of more than thirty barbarous people of the country, being of a high and large stature, and either of them had but one eye, and that was in their foreheads, as big as a small looking glass. They were all appareled with the skins of bears, and of other beasts, sitting round about a great fire which they had made, and some of them were roasting of certain Uenison, and of other beasts (which they had taken) upon spits of wood. Their talk which they had was very barbarous and strange, so that these knights could not understand them, for it seemed to be a kind of howling or bleating: but when they came nigh unto them, they were greatly amazed to see people so brutish, & stayed themselves, not knowing what to say. These barbarous monsters when they saw them upon the Horse backs, and so richly armed, straightways one which seemed to be the principal amongst them, began to speak in their barbarous tongue, making signs that they should alight, & come unto the fire to warm them, and to take part of their supper, which was there a dressing. So when the knights understood their meanings, the knight of the Sun said unto Oristedes, my very good friend what do you think best that we do: Then Oristedes said, Sir it seems unto me requisite to do that which necessity doth constrain us, that is, that we alight & go unto the fire, and sup with this people, for that cold & hunger, will not consent that we do any other thing. And afterward if they demand of us payment for the shot, then is there your fine cutting sword which will pay for us all. Be it done as you have said, my very good friend Oristedes, said the knight of the Sun, for that your bounty, in what soever peril, doth put us in surety: but yet me thinks it not requisite to sleep much among this people. And in saying these words, these two worthy knights did alight, and pulled the bridles from their Horses, and gave them leave to feed on the green grass, of which there was great store, so they came unto the fire and sat themselves down by the principal of them, with their bevers lifted up. But when these barbarous people did see them so fair and of so gallant disposition, they all had a great good will for to kill them & to eat them, for that they had rather feed upon humane flesh when they may get it, then of any other beast. So that in their bleating speech, they concluded amongst them for to execute their pretence. And these knights for that they did not understand them, held their peace, warmeing themselves by the fire, making haste by signs, that the supper were made ready, for that 〈◊〉 were veris cold and hungry. So that when their ●●●ison and other meat was roasted, all these company of barbarous people did set themselves upon the ground round about their victuals, and began to tear it in pieces with their hands, and to eat with lusty courages. The chief captain of them, gave unto these knights of the Uenison for their parts, who at that present made little account of the great abundance that they were wont to have, at the Emperor Alicandro his table, and at the feasts of the Emperor Trebatio, but fell unto their victuals with tooth and nail: Yet that supper had cost them very dear, if that the sovereign creator had not remembered them. For that in the best and chiefest time of their supper, when most contentment these perfect friends received, two of these barbarous Tartarians dissembling to serve the rest, arose up from their company, and took each of them a mighty great and heavy club, which they used for their weapon, & very softly without making any noise, they came behind the two knights, & with all their source & strength of both their hands, they discharged their blows upon these two knights, which did astonish them, that they were out of all remembrance, & fell presently to the ground, whereas they moved neither hand nor foot, but lay as though they had been dead. Then these barbarous Tartarians arose up alogether and came for to unarnie them, very glad for that which they had done: but for that they had no experience in armour, and never before had unlaced any, in more than a quarter of an hour there was not one of them, that could lose any piece thereof, nor knew not where nor which way to begin, but tumbling 〈◊〉 round about from one place unto an other, viewing of all parts, but yet were they never the nearer, in which time the worthy knight of the Sun receiving air, was wholly come to himself, & of perfect remembrance, & considering in what state they were brought, with a trice, in spite of all those barbarous people that did hold him, he arose upon his feet, and finding by him his good sword (which was the best in all the world, and that which he won of the Prince Meridian) he took 〈◊〉 both his hands, and struck such a blow at him that 〈◊〉, that he cut him a sunder by the waist, that the two parts fell the one from the other, dead to the ground, & there with he struck at an other that was unarming of Oristedes, that his right arm with the whole quarter of the body he made fly to the earth, not staying with that, but with great courage and fury, he put himself amongst the thickest of them, wounding and killing all that he might fasten blows upon: but these Tartarians, recovering their clubs, with loud cryings they did assault him on every side, charging him with mighty and terrible blows, but by reason that they were clean without armour, and this valiant and stout knight, in the heat of his fury, in short speace, by killing of some, and wounding of other some, the rest ran away, for fear of his mortal blows: so that not one of all these barbarous Tartarians did remain in sight. This being concluded, he was going towards his friend the Trojan Oristedes, for to secure him, who at that instant was come unto himself, and with great courage and fury, he arose up, thinking that his enemies had been there still: but looking about for them and seeing so many slain, and none in presence but the knight of the Sun, with great joy and pleasure he went unto him, & embracing him with great love he said: now am I fully certified and persuaded, (worthy and valiant knight) that the high mighty & sovereign gods have not forgot you, but have great and special care of your great valour, the which is made maniefest unto me, in the preventing of this present peril, otherwise this supper had been full dear unto me. Then the knight of the Sun embracing of him said. The living god, who knoweth the secret of all things, would not consent that so worthy a knight as you are, should be slain by so great ●reason.  
And his pleasure was, for to deliver me by his bountiful goodness, whereby I should make defence to save us both from so great rebuke and shame. And now seeing that here is none for to disturb us: Let us sit down and make an end of our supper, and take our rest here till to morrow morning. Let it be as you do command, said Oristedes, seeing that here is none to trouble us: therewith these two good companions did set themselves down, and did eat of the victuals that was there, till they were satisfied. But yet they durst not sleep all the night, fearing that those Tartarians, which fled away would being some other of their companions & trouble them, so that they passed away that night in walking round about the fire, discoursing of that wherein they received most content, always having an eye unto the main chance, lest any should come upon them on a s●daiue. But they might very well have taken their ease without any care, for that those which were fled away were so scared with the mighty great and terrible blows of the knight of the Sun, that they thought it not for the best to return back again, and although they were fled very far, yet did not they think themselves in any security. So when the day was come these two knights did bridle their horses, and mounting upon their backs they departed from that place, & after travailed many days upon the skirt of the mount Tauro, wherein chanced unto them many notable adventures, the which the auctor doth omit for to make brief conclusion of this first part, but the History saith, that after great travail & strange adventures which happened unto them in this journey: in the end they came unto the destroyed Troy, whereof Oristedes was Lord, whereas they did repose and take their rests many days: In the end whereof it was agreed betwixt them, not to sojourn there any longer, but from thence to embark themselves for the Empire of Grecia: they strait ways commanded to rig a ship that was in the port of Tenedon, and to make her ready well furnished with all things necessary, wherein they determined to make their voyage. So being all furnished and ready to departed, they put themselves within the ship, their sails were hoist, & the master directed his ship towards Grecia, whereas the knight of the Sun thought for to find the Princes Claridiana, having her beauty so printed within his breast, that he thought every day a whole year, till he came unto her presence.  
Here the History doth leave these two companions sailing on the Sea, for to return to tell you what happened to the Princes the time that the remained in her empire of Trapisonda.   

How the Emprisse Claridiana, being in her Empire of Trapisonda, there arrived her Damsel Arcania, and declared unto her the news of the Knight of the Sun, which brought her almost to the point of death. Chap. 5.  
WIth no less care than desire for to hear news of the knight of the Snime, remained this sovereign Emprisse Claridiana, in her Empire of Trapisonda, which time seemed unto her so long, that there entered into her heart no kind of joy nor pleasure, although she did exercise herself in hunting, and feats of arms, procuring to put away the pensiveness of her thought, but nothing would serve, to put the remembrance of the knight of the Sun one minute of an hour out of her mind. And there was nothing so acceptable unto her as solitariness, the better to use her conceit in thinking on him, always wishing that the day were come that the might s●e him. And as she was one morning in her chamber at such time as the Sun did spread abroad her beams, out from the Orient, upon the whole Earth, she addressed her face the way beholding the Sun, & with a pitiful sigh which proceeded from the bottom of her heart, she said. Oh beams of the selestial Febo, which cometh from the place where as my heart is fixed, Oh that I were now in thy celestial course & movings, that I might every day see him whom you do see & behold. Oh that the divine providence were so pleased, that I might now have some news brought from him, wherewith my soul should receive no less joy than the immortal souls, which do comfort themselves continually in thy divine presence. Oh that I were fully certified, that he were now beholding the brightness of the Sun with his eyes, as I do with mine, which thing alone would be some comfort, & give me in part ease of this great sorrow the which I do feel, whereof his absence is the only occasion.  
Oh you invisible and swift winds that cometh from the Oriental Heavens, blow some comfort into these my eyes, if that peradventure with your face you have disperied abroad any of his golden locks, Oh what comfort & pleasure should it be unto me, if that I were fully certified that you did encounter with him. Oh you clear and resplendent lights celestial, whose course doth compass round about the whole world, Oh that I had in one of you mine eyes fixed, that I might with great ease, behold the valour of my knight.  
How swift should those celestial movings seem unto me at their departure, and how short should your return seem to the contrary. Oh happy country of the Scitas, that the valiant and worthy deeds of such a knight doth deserve to see, and happy Princess that had so much power for to carry him out of my presence. Oh Princess of the Scitas, how many days, nights and hours, hast thou enjoyed the sight of the knight of the Sun. Suffer now patience, if that he do departed from thee to come and see me. Consider that God hath not created me of so base and unseemly beauty amongst all other ladies and damsels, but that I should deserve the knight of most valiancy, amongst all other knights. Oh that I were now fully certified that the knight of the Sun were departed out of thy presence, there is nothing in all the world that could give me so great contentment. This and many words more like in effect, did this Empress utter, making her complaint, every morning when she did see the Sun to appear in the Orient, and at night when as she saw the Moon and the Stars, where in many times she did contemplate herself, immagening that the Knight of the Sun did likewise behold them.  
Likewise, many times her imagination was occupied with suspection, that the great beauty of the princess Lindabrides, with the continual conversation had with the knight of the Sun, should be an occasion by the force thereof, to bring him in such captivity, that forgetting all other, he should remain in her presence for ever.  
And having this in her remembravance, was the occasion of great sorrow, and to shed from her crystalline eyes great abundance of tears, watering all her fair face and rubicond cheeks. Yet otherways to the contrary, she did comfort herself, when that she called to remembrance the word and promise that her knight had made unto her, and said within herself, that he could not be of so small discretion and lack of reason and understanding, to forget her for any other Lady in all the world, and in especial, the Princess being a Pagan, and he a Christian: so that in this and in other divers and contrary thoughts, did the empress Claridiana occupy herself, looking every day when that she should hear some news from the knight of the Sun, and of his return.  
In all this time the Damsel Arcania, did not foreslow herself, but with great care and haste, travailed, with desire for to come unto her Lady the Princes Claridiana, to declare unto her the whole course of the disloyalty of the knight of the Sun, as one that was ignorant of all that succeeded afterward, but believing for truth that he had been married to the princess Lindabrides. And so not happening unto her any thing in her journey that might disturb her: in the end of certain days after her departure from the gran Cataio, she arrived at the Empire of Trapisonda, and she understanding how that the Emperor was dead, and how that her Lady was crowned Empress of Trapisonda, she directed her journey thetherwards, & came thither at such time as the Empress was most desirous to hear news of her knight, because his tarrying was so long, thinking every day to be one whole year. So when that Arcania came into the City, she went strait ways towards the royal palace, & entered in thereat, at such time as the Empress was all alone in her closet, occupied with no other thing, but with her continual anguish and sorrowful thoughts, who being certified of her solitariness, made no more ado but entered into her closet, & shut the door after her, and coming before the Empress, fell down upon her knees, and craved her hands to kiss them, with so great abundance of tears that distiled from her eyes, that she had not the power to speak one word. The Empress seeing her on such a sudden to enter in, she was greatly ameruailed, and went and embraced her, saying. Ah Arcania, the true & faithful secretary of all my secrets, what sudden coming is this of thine, that maketh me so much amazed and astonished. How is it that thou comest alone, and left the company of him that thou goest withal, where hast thou left my knight, tell me whether he be come into this Country or not, for that there is nothing in this world that at this present can give me more content or joy unto my heart: tell me out of hand some news of him, make no tarrying, for that every moment seemeth to me one whole year of thy delating. The sorrow and grief the which Arcania had (for those heavy news that she should give unto her Lady) was such, that ●he could do no other thing but weep, and was not able to speak one word, the which being well considered by the Empress Claridiana, it brought her into the greatest perplexity and sorrow that ever she was in, in all her life, suspecting the evil news that she brought, for that she was so long in declaring them unto her. And having not the heart to suffer any longer, but shedding great abundance of tears wherewith she did all to be bathe her face, she burst out and said.  
Oh high, mighty, and immortal God, creator of all the world, what is this, that Arcania maketh so long dela●e, in telling unto me her news: if they be any that appertaineth unto my long hope & desired pleasure, let me hear them. But oh vain hope of men, how can any of us live but in great fear, seeing that so many ways and times we are deceited by you, with sudden and unlooked for doubts: Alas, what is he dead? he, that only the hope that I had to see him; did sustain my whole life? As all humane creatures hath their humours, and there is none that liveth but every hour are subject unto a thousand evils and misfortunes, and the least of them all sufficeth to cause death. In the high Firmament is congealed Thunderboults against humane creatures, the waters doth swell by force of rain, the winds doth combat and cause earthquakes, the depths of the Seas do roar, by force that they do receive, and hoist the ships at times, up unto the heavens, and strait ways down unto the depth of the waters. The earth which seemeth unto us to be in security, is full of perils, upon the face thereof the terrible lightnings and thunderbolts hath their courses. Likewise the deep and profound Rivers doth exceed their limits. Upon the earth is overthrown and doth fall the mighty Mountains and Rocks, wherein doth happen great diseases. Horses doth make their course y● one against the other, at whose encounters their riders be overthrown: men travailing quietly by the way, upon a sudden and unlooked for, are beset and overpressed with thieves & robbers. The furious Tiger & cruel Lions, the huge Elephant and fierce Griffens', unmerciful dragons and Basilists, with a thousand kind of wild beasts & Serpents, that liveth upon the earth, what mortal man is he that is not afraid of them, as being the occasion that they have not their lives in any security.  
Alas, what shall I say, if any of all these misfortunes, navigating by Sea, or travailing by land, hath chanced unto the flower of all Knighthood, that my Damsel Arcania, is afraid to utter it, and hath no tongue to speak. But alas, I suppose that none of all these perils hath chanced unto him, but considering that the world is great and wide, and the knight of the Sun hath travailed through many countries & lands, and it cannot be otherwise but that he hath had the sight of many fair Ladies and damsels, that their presence hath been the occasion to put me clean out of his: remembrance. And when there were no other but the princess Lindabrides, daughter unto the Emperor Alicandro, of the gran Tartary, in whom the sovereign creator, hath bestowed so great beauty & grace, that she alone were sufficient with her presence to cause the empress' Claridiana, to be forgotten.  
This fair Empress seeing these and many other words of great dolour, wherewith her thought was troubled, she ●une unto her Damsel Arcania, and embracing her, said. Ah my loving and faithful Arcania, make an end and declare unto me this sorrowful news, for that thy delaying doth cause unto me mortal grief. But Arcania durst not declare unto her that sorrowful and heavy news, for that she knew the great grief that would proceed thereof: but yet she was so much importuned, that in the end she was constrained to utter it, who began as followeth.  
Ah my Lady and Emprisse, I would (if that God were so pleased) that this news that I do bring you, were of the death of the knight of the Sun, how that the unmerciful waves of the Sea had swallowed him up, or else how that the ground had opened and he consumed therein. For if that it had happened in this sort, than should you have no occasion to complain of him. But alas, he is well & in good health, whereas the sight of an other lady hath made him captive, & all your love forgotten, that the recovery is without remedy. For after our departure out of Grecia, till we came to the gran Cataio, the knight of the Sun never left the princes Lindabrides, insomuch that her great beauty & continual conversation wrought such effect within his heart, that you were clean blotted out of his remembrance, and the promise that he made unto you clean forgotten: so that in the way of our travail, he did offer himself wholly unto her, entreating of love, and made her prontise that so soon as they should come unto the Gran Cataia, he would marry her, the which promise, she did accept, by reason whereof she did make her defence, till such time as they came unto the court of the Emperor Alicandro, where as they were with great pomp and majesty received. So the day of the marriage being appointed, all the nobles of the land were called and assembled together, and for the space of twenty days that I was there, they gave themselves to no other thing but to banquets and feasting, for the marriage of the Princess, whereas the knight of the Sun did so high and wonderful feats of arms, that his fame will never be forgotten in that country. To conclude, I seeing that the time was short and at hand, for the celebrating of the marriage, with great sorrow and grief I departed from thence, and made so great haste as possible I could, for to come hither to give you to understand thereof. So when that the empress Claridiana had heard these news of so great dolour and grief, and understood the whole effect thereof, there was no pain, torment & grief that might be compared unto hers at that present, neither was there any sufficiency in her heroical and baliant courage (wherewith she did quail & overcome those terrible guards of the Princess, Elisea) for to suffer and to dissemble so cruel, contrary, and perversed fortune, but that losing the use of her remembrance, (as one past all hope) she fell in a sound in the arms of her Damsel Arcanie, whereas she remained more than one whole hour, before she came again unto herself, in such sort, that Arcania who did help her, thought verily that she was dead altogether, and did repent herself that ever she did declare unto her those heavy news. In the end, the Princes came again somewhat unto herself, who in mortal anguish did yield out: from her troubled breast such cruel sighs, as though her life would follow after, than she began to say as followeth.  
Oh high and sovereign majesty, how is it that your divine majesty doth permit and suffer, that your Empress Claridiana should receive so great treason, and especially of him, whom in all the world she best loved. Oh false and traitorous knight, now am I fully certified or the occasion of thy long tarrying, and thy despiteful words and promises are manifest unto me, as also who doth detain thee: Oh knight of the Sun, what missed of darkness hath dazzled thy eyes, that the sight of the princess Lindabrides could so blear and blot out of thy memory the figure of Claridiana. Be these the effect of thy amorous words which thou utteredst unto me coming by sea from Lydia, and the feigned tears that thou didst impart with me. How oftentimes didst thou desire me for to receive thee to be mine, & after that I offered myself to be thine: consider of thy promise made unto me, the which now thou hast utterly falsified and broken. If thou hadst well considered (O thou traitor) who I was, & how that my desert is without comparison, thou wouldst never have changed me for any other, and that which seemeth unto me to be without reason is, that thou hast matched with one that is not of thy law and faith: What was become of thy wits, and where was thy understanding, that thou didst not see and consider, how much thou hast offended the sovereign creator with that marriage, and how worthy thou art of punishment, in committing of such wretched sin. I do not now much marvel, that thou hast not kept thy word and faith with me, when thou hast not kept thy faith with the living God, neither do I marvel at the committing of so great sin, for that not long since, thou feignedly didst take the name to be a Christian, the which I do suspect thou hast rejected and denied. And the better to bring thy purpose to effect, thou dost publish thyself to be a Pagan. Oh that the wrath of the divine justice might now descend upon thee, and the burning lightnings and thunder engendered in the high clowves, might make revengement on thee, for thy great tniurie showed. Oh that thy misfortune had be●e such, that thou hadst fallen into some of those perils and dangers, that I suspected to chance to thee, or else that thou hadst died with some sudden & unlooked for death. What cruel death, punishment, or evil fortune, might be conformable unto thy desert, in committing so great an error. There is nothing that grieveth me so much, as that thou wert the flower of all knights, and being gone, there is not in all the world that is worthy of my excellency: & although I am not married, yet do I remain a widow, & the greater my grief, to see him the which I thought should have been my husband, in the power of another. Oh fortune, how contrary have you been unto me, in that you have given me so great beauty and sovereign dignity. If thou hadst created me foul, evil favoured, and of base birth, than had not the one been occasion of my pardition, neither the other had reason for to destroy me. If that my singular beauty & highness were not, I might put remedy in my great grief, as Ariadne that was left of Theseus, and Medea forgotten of jason. But who is there now in all the world, with whom I may make change of so faithful love? What woman is there in all the world, that ever felt so great grief for love? Truly there is no comparison to be made unto mine: no not that of Deyamir●, whom Hercules changed for you'll, nor that of Penelope for Ulysses, nor of Phillis for Demophoon. Let not that be spoken of Io, that was converted by jupiter to a cow, and presented unto juno, and that of Biblis, that followed that cruel Cadmo. Neither may be compared that of Tisbe and Pr●amus, nor of the Queen Dido that built Carthage, for Aeneas. Great reason had Gero for to bewail her well-beloved Leander, when she saw him drowned and lay upon the sands of the huge river, but yet comfort thyself with me, for that thy great dolour and grief should I receive for glory, if that I did see the knight of the Sun to die for my love, and with a great deal more speed than Gero, would I bear him company in death. Comfort thyself with me than Gofreda, which was the occasion of his death that loved her best. And if that File and Laudonia, were comforted with their sudden deaths: Com●ort yourself with me, by the evil fortunes of jocasta, whose misfortunes were such as was not in the whole world to be compared, yet may it not be compared unto mine. Oh fortunate Eucuba, and sovereign Queen, who alonely remained for to see the sorrowful sight of the destruction of Troy, and the death of thy husband, and valiant sons and fai●e daughters: and after for the same cause, thou wert of thy enemies stoned to death: Comfort thyself with my misfortune, for that it is not less dolorous than thine. Oh Sophonis be Queen of Numidia, who being with thy husband prisoners in the power of thy enemy, and being comforted to marry with him, first before that thy marriage was selebrated, thou wert slain by poision: I consider with great grief, thine not to be equal unto mine, for that thou didst lack time to acknowledge thy hurt, & in me it remains for to suffer so great grief. Oh Cornelia, wise unto Crasso, & of that mighty Pompey of Rome banished with thy husband, let our sorrows be joined together, when that with great hope for to see thy Pompey thou wert lost, and wert comforted by Cato Vticense.  
Happy wert thou Cleopat●a Queen of Egypt, seeing that thou wert forgotten by Caesar, in so short space, thou didst quench so great a fire, thy fair breasts being drawn or sucked by Snakes, till such time as they sucked thy blood, which made an end of thee.  
Oh how pleasant should thy death be unto me, (if that in the service of God so great cruelty might be permitted.) I should think myself happy, if that the blood of my breasts with those cruel Snakes, were drawn out, so that jointly therewith, the furious anguish of my heart should be expelled.  
Oh pitiful tears of Lycurgus, for thy Arquimoro, and those of Atalante, for her Partenopio, how far do mine exceed yours, and with much more just cause I do shed them.  
Oh false and disloyal knight, what reason could constrain thee to falsify and break thy word & promise given to be wholly mine. It appeareth that thou dost follow the law Gentilica, of the god Mercurio, that doth not observe & keep their word: they say that it is more polesie than deceit. Oh how I do know now to be true, that there is nothing so difficil to be understood, as the humane heart.  
Who would ever have thought that so great cruelty and disloyalty might be comprehended in a knight that doth surpas all other knights in the world. What man hath been in the world so cruel and perversed, as thou (traitor) hast been unto me, of truth none: no, not jupiter, god of the Gentiles, whom thou dost worship, that banished out of his kingdom his Father, the king Saturno. Neither that Ptolomeo king of Egypt, that slew his own father & brother, and in the end, his wife Eurydice, only for the love of his friends. Orestes was not so cruel that slew his mother Clytaemnestra, nor Nero for Agrippina, nor Antipater for Thesalonica, nor Theseus for Hippolito, nor Phelipo for Demetrius, nor Constantine Emperor of the Romances, for his son Chrisippo, nor Marco Ca●taginense, that did crucify his son Cartalon, neither that Phaces king of Parcia, the most perversed of all kings, who slew Herodes his old and afflicted father, with thirty of his brethren, and his only son: nor any whatsoever, that hath been cruel in the world, so cruel as y● knight of the Sun hath been unto Claridiana: for unto them was given the death, and afterward they felt nothing, so that their cruelty was but in slaying of them, but this is more cruelty unto me then the death, for that from hence forth, I shall wish to die, because I deserve not to live, for to feel so cruel grief and pain. How can I living, suffer one moment so great dolour, to see the knight of the Sun in the power of an other Lady. Oh that he were now in this country, surely I would be slain in battle with him, or else his great disloyalty should be revenged by me.  
In saying these words, the Empress Claridiana her sorrow was so great that she received, that many times she fell in a sound in the arms of Arca●sia, and all the comfortable words which she spoke unto her, were not sufficient in any point to appease her great grief, and certainty guish & dolour was so great, that it cannot be imagined that the grief of any woman whom she have named, might be compared unto hers, for as in wisdom, reason, and discretion, with sovereign bounty and highness, she doth exceed all other in the world, even so is her grief the more, and the greater reason she hath to complain, for that she knowing to be without comparison in beauty & estate, with all other excellent gifts that should be in a noble Lady, and having set her mind upon the knight of the Sun (as one that alonlie did deserve her) and now to see herself forgotten & changed for another, not leaving in all the world any conformable unto her highness, with whom she might marry, so that she desired no other thing but to die the death, for to evitate the suffering of so great evil, and from that day forwards her life was clean changed over that it was before, neither did she exercise herself in armour nor 〈◊〉 hun●ing, as at other times, but as one that was past all hope ever to be married, and as a widow, she spent her time in her closet all alone, occupying herself always in prayer, leading the life more of a religious woman, than of so high a Lady as she was, always waiting the coming of the knight of the Sun for to be revenged on him. Whereas the History doth leave her, for to tell you of Rosicleer that was sailing by sea with the Princess Olivia.   

How Rosicler carried the Princess Olivia by sea, whereas they met with a great storm, wherewith they were in 〈◊〉 & how marvelously they were succoured. Chap. 6.  
THe History hath declared unto you how & in what sort Rosicle●r in company with his good friend Sacridoro did carry the Prince's Olivia but of England, & how that they sailed on the sea with prosperous wind, in the 〈…〉 in being so much before the other Fleet. All the diligence of the Mariners, nor the great desire of the Prince was sufficient for to overtake them, for that they were a great way before, which was the occasion that with great anger be cursed the winds because they did blow stiffer, & lifting up his eyes unto heaven, shedding many tears he said.  
Oh divine majesty, how do you permit that so great force and injury should be done unto me, and that my loving spouse should be carried away from me in this sort. How is it that thou dost not execute thy justice, and let thy wrath to fall upon this robber● Oh that thy divine majesty were so pleased, that the same ship might strike upon some rock, or else that that little 〈◊〉 called Remora; in climbing unto the ship, might stay the fury of their sailing, that I might revenge this my great wrath and ire upon him that hath offered me this injure▪  
So in uttering these and other words of great grief, sailed Don Siluero, making so great ●●mentation, that his knights by no means could give him any comfort. And to the contrary sailed Rosicleer, as one from himself, with great pleasure, having in his arms her whom he so much loved, with so great glory, that it was wonder and always thought to be worthy of so excellent 〈◊〉 well. Likewise the Princess Olivia, although she was not as yet in quiet of the great trouble in the which she was brought, but yet seeing that she was clear from the 〈◊〉 of Don Siluerio, & in the company of him whom she loved more than herself, she was satisfied of all those troubles and griefs past, and received great contentments; & thought it better to be drowned in that deep sea, in the company of Rosicleer, than to live upon the land with so great importunances of her father and Don Siluero. And as these two faithful lovers were together with great contentment, making manifest by words the great glory that they received in their hearts. Then fortune who never is content that men should remain in one manner, but mingling sorrow with pleasure, like unto the wheel of Amyl she turned about, in such sort, that she did show herself enemy unto Rosicleer, in the midst of all his pleasures, that in a small time he was driven without repentance of his sins to yield unto death. For that being his ship, with all the whole fleet of the Prince, entered into the Tirreno sea, at such time as the one after the other sailed with prosperous winds. Out of the parts of the Levant, there arose upon a sudden so mighty a wind, and with so great force, that 〈…〉 not only against them in staying the swift course of the ships, but also did move the waters in such sort, forcing the waves to swell and to rise of so great height, that it did signify unto them great danger and peril, th● which 〈◊〉 a little time did so much increase, that the deep waves did show themselves cruel● and 〈◊〉 against the 〈…〉 beating their sails to the ●asts, tearing them in pieces with so great force, that they could not take them in, but tumbling 〈◊〉 ships from one part to another, 〈◊〉 towards that place, whereas the force of that outrageous wind would carry them. This tempest endured with them one whole day and a night, in the end whereof all that were in the ships committed themselves unto the f●rie of the sea, and employed themselves in no other thing, but in p●aying unto God to deliver them from that great peril. In this sort they passed all that day and the next night, till in the morning at the break of the day the tempest ceased, and the ship of Rosicleer and the Fleet of Don Siluerio, were all together driven into the port of Cerdenia, be whole Navy of the Prince were twelve great ships, besides other small Princes, whereof four of them with the tempest were driven into some other parts, and were not there present. And for that there were in the eight ships more than four thousand knights, Don Siluerio received, so great joy, for to see by him the ship of Rosicleer, as though he had been made Lord over all the world, & commanded strait ways that all the whole Fleet should be put in order, the which was done, and began to assault the ship on every side with so great alarm, that it had been sufficient to have terrified a great many of more ships than they were. But when Rosicler saw himself compassed round about, and assaulted with so many ships, he left the Princess Olivia in a cabin in the poop, being the highest part of all the ship, in so great confusion, that he thought she would have died, and he with more courage to die in the defence of his pray, than any fear that he had of that great multitude of his enemies, took unto him his armour, and descended into the waist of the ships, whereas he found the good king Sacridoro, all armed● with his sword in his hands, in a readiness to make his defence, but when that he saw him, his heart was ready to break with the great grief he received, and the water ran down his cheeks, calling to remembrance how many times that good knight had put his life in adventure for him, and how that he never came unto that estate, whereby he might have made him some part of recompense for the same. He went unto him, and embracing him with great love, he said.  
Oh my good and perfect friend, how perverse and contrary hath fortune showed herself unto me, that so many times my friendship hath put you in danger of your life, God doth know whether we shall be slain or no in this conflict, yet iurelie your death shall be more grievous unto me than mine own. To whom this good king Sacridoro with a valiant courage did answer, saying: My very good friend, this is the greatest glory that I can receive, and the thing that I have in most estimation, and seeing that death is ordained for all mortal creatures, wherein may I better employ the same than in your service. Come on let us go and make defence that our enemies enter not upon us, & let us venture our lives, and offer it as a sacrifice for to accomplish that which is due and doth appertain to our honours and high estate. This good king had not so soon spoken these words, but the knights of the Prince had grappled their ships together, and boarding the one the other, in such sort, that they might well leap out of the one into the other, Don Siluerio accompanied with the most valiant knights that were with him, with his sword in his hand & his shield on his arm, he put himself foremost of them all to the ship side, and with a loud voice he said: O Rosicler yield thyself strait ways unto my courtesy, & surrender the prize that thou hast in thy power, for that fortune cannot so much favour thee, for to escape out of my hands. But Rosicloer being ready for to receive them at the ship side with his sword in his hand, answered never a 〈◊〉, but yielded himself unto fortune. At that time the Princess Olivia by the importunity and good dicretion of her damsel Fidelia, put herself upon the poop of the ship, in such sort, that she might be seen of all that were there in the Fleet, with a naked sword in her hand, and with a high voice that it might be heard of all the people, she said.  
O all you knights that appertaineth to the king Oliverio my father, if there be any in these ships, do not show yourselves at this present so contrary unto me, but to favour and help the Greek Prince, for that many days passed I have chosen him to be my natural spouse and husband, and do you not consent unto his death, for if you do, I do here make a vow unto God, that at the very instant that he shall receive his death, with this sword I will cleave mine own heart asunder. At which words Don Silue●io made no account, although it was a grief unto him to understand the great love that she bore unto Rosicleer, by her outward semblance, yet notwithstanding there were in that company knights of the king Oliverio that did rejoice to hear those words, for to have the better occasion to help Rosicleer, without any colour to attempt any thing against the king their Lord, amongst whom was the valiant Zoylo, Bargand●l, Lyriamandro, and Almades of Cornwall, all which did bear good will unto Rosicleer, and were in the fore part of the ship ready to give the first assault unto the expectation of the rest. At this time was Don Siluerio with thirty of his knights entering into the ship of Rosicleer, who received them with such mortal blows, that quickly they overthrew six of them dead into the water, and Don Siluerio had been one of them, if that his enchanted armour had not defended him, but yet for all that, with his terrible blows he was so terrified, that he withdrew himself back, and put his knights forwards, and by reason that there were so many of them, and every one did procure to enter into the ship of the two knights, there was such a noise amongst them, that they could not one hear another.  
All this time was the Princess Olivia beholding the ●●ttaile, lamenting very much to see her Rosicleer in so great peril, in such grievous wise, that it would have moved any man to compassion to have seen her, and with very anguish she had used there, if that her damsel Fidelia had not been, who did comfort her in the best wise she could. But this vali●nt and worthy Rosicleer seeing that they did in great haste compass his ship round about for to enter in, with so great strength and courage as ever was seen in Knight, he bestirred himself from the one part unto the other, defending the entry of his enemies with such mortal blows, that he might account himself unhappy that was within the reach of his sword, which was that of the Queen julia, and so noble a cutter, and he so valiant who flourished therewith about him with so courageous a strength, as one which next unto God hoped to set his life at liberty, for that he never struck blow, but that either he slew or overthrew a knight, so that all his adversaries were wonderfully amazed at him, and not one amongst them all that was so hardy, that durs● come nigh the place whereas he was.  
Likewise that good king on the other side, did marvelously defend the entry, and gave them well to understand by his terrible blows, the great good will that he bore unto Rosicler, who did not esteem to venture his li●e for his good friend, and did so behave himself amongst his enemies, dealing such mortal blows, that he slew and overthrew a great number of them, in such sort, that all those which did behold him, by reason they knew him not, were greatly amazed.  
At this time the three worthy Princes, with the King Alamades seeing that it was high time for to secure and favour Rosicler, with great lightness they leapt into his ship, and returned against Don Silue●io with their sword drawn in their hands, and said: Enforce and courage thyself valiant knight, ●or we that be here are 〈◊〉 friends, And all together with a ●oude voice said, ●a●taria, Tartary, Hungaria, Hungaria, Bohemia, Bohemia, Cormual●a, Cornualia. So when Rosicleer by the naming of their Countries did know them, he received great comfort, and not having space for to answer them, he did no ●ore but humble himself, and for that his shield at that time was shievered and broken all to pieces with the mighty blows he had received, he took his sword in both his hands, and put himself amongst his adversaries, and did so great marvels, that all that did behold him wondered greatly, and they which did not see them, afterward did think it a thing impossible, and in declaring of it, very hard to be believed. The three Princes, with the king Alamades, all four together did defend the entry of the ship, killing and wounding many of the knights of Lusitania, and likewise received many blows on every side. The number of their adversaries were so many, that they were driven into a marvelous exsegent. But when that Don Siluerio saw that the four knights were on his contrary part, he received great dolour and anguish at his heart, and with the great desire that he had to take revengement of them all together, he encouraged and enforced his knights all that ever he could for to enter the ship and vanquish them, and by reason that there were so many, and very valiant knights, and continually entered in a fresh, (although that Rosicleer and his friends did incredible wonders, yet in the space of one hour after that the battle was begun, they were put in a great extremity) for that Don Siluerio was very wise, and his knight valiant and experimented in the wars and battles, and did assault their ship on every side with great strength, so that there was not one so soon slain, but another entered into his room strait ways, in such sort, that the other valiant knights had no time for to ease themselves, which was the occasion, that in the end of two hours after that the battle was begun, all the water round about the ships was died red with the blood of the dead knights ●f Lusitania, and the strong arms of Rosicleer and his friends, (as of mortal men) began to ware weary, and their force and strength did abate, and they could endure no longer, yet their valiant and courageous hearts were prompt and ready for to receive the death, and never moved counteance thereat, but determined there to die all together like valiant knights, without yielding or surrendering in any point, but amplisying their forces with their valiant hearts, making their defence in such sort, that their adversaries did not perceive that any weariness were in them, so that the battle at that instant was very cruel and wonderful, and the noise very great which they made, in such sort, that the inhabitants of Cerdenia came forth and did behold that cruel and well fought battle, dread●ullie beholding the sea, how it was stained with blood, & could not believe th●y should be human knights that did defend themselves (in 〈◊〉 ship alone) against so many. At this time were the good friends of Rosicleer very weary with the oppressing of so great a multitude of their contraries, in such sort that they could not lift up their swords, at which time many knights of the Prince Don Siluerio began to enter their ship, of the which Bramides was the first, with a great number of other valiant knights, who with great fury and shouts began to lay upon their adversaries, and saying, Upon them, upon them, for they be overcome. But when Rosicler hear● those words, and saw no other thing but perdition, he began greater to lament the death of his friends more than his own, but that which did grieve him most was, that after so many troubles & sorrows the which he had passed for the Princess Olivia, and had her in his power, always hoping at her hands to receive reward for the same, he should now be constrained therefore to die, and to leave her in the power of another, having this in his remembrance, lifting up his eyes unto heaven to ask mercy of God for his sins, he saw his well-beloved mistress in a sound in the arms of Fidelia, as she which made no other reckoning but to die, the which did cause unto him so great dolour & grief, that it kindled in him mortal wrath and ire, determined to sell his life very dear unto them that so much desired his death, wherewith he took his sword in both his hands, and stroke so terrible a blow at the Captain Bramides, upon the waist, that cutting him in two pieces, he overthrew him dead to the ground, and therewith at other six blows he slew other six knights, behaving himself so amongst them, that they fled from him as from the death. But he as one that had his death certain, without any care of his life, all alone he maintained the battle against the knights of Don Siluerio, for that his friends could not do any thing in his defence they wear so weary. And although the knights of Lusitania were valiant, and did charge him with many heavy blows, that had been sufficient to have clove amanfield in pieces, yet did he defend the entry of the ship alone, for the space of half an hour against all the company, and had about him on every side a great number of dead bodies, showing so great wonders among his adversaries, that it was scarce credible to the beholders. Whereat Don Siluerio received great grief to see so many of his knights slain, but yet he durst not come nigh him himself, but forced his knights forwards with reproach, that it was a shame to him, that one alone knight should make his defence so long against so many. Who hearing those words made no more a do, but put their lives in adventure for to accomplish that which was their deaths, and therewith they leapt into the ship of Rosicleer, and charged him so much & with so many terrible and heavy blows, that it had not been possible for him to have endured long, if that by the wonderful miracle of God he had not been succoured.  
You shall understand that fortune did serve him so well, that the ship wherein was that valiant and worthy knight of the Sun, and that stout Oristedes was constrained by the force of the storm and tempest past, to enter into th● same port of Cerdenia, and entering in thereat, they strait ways did see the execution of that cruel battle, and were greatly amazed to see all the water so stained with blood, and how that one alone ship did make his defence against all the rest: but when they saw so few knights did maintain themselves against so great a multitude of their enemies, their marvel was the more, and remained astonished for a great space to see the incredible acts that Rosicler did, as one that was desperate of his own life, which was with so great courage, that if he had seen it with his own eyes, he could not have believed that any human creature could have done it. And as he was with great attention beholding them with great good will for to aid and help them. The knight of the Sun did know him by the device of his armour, although that they were all to be raird with blood, as also by the comely proportion of his body, & therewith upon a sudden with a loud voice he said: O good God, it seemeth unto me, that yonder knight should be Rosicleer my brother, or else my sight doth deceive me: Oh my good friend, now show forth your great bounty to defend and save the life of the person of him that I love best in all the world. Come on let us go, said Oristedes, for●with▪ very good will I will offer myself in any thing that doth appertain unto you or to your brother. And in●saying these words, these two good friends did cause their ship to be grappled unto the ship of Rosicleer, and with their sword drawn in their hands they leapt into the said ship, and said: Courage, courage, good knight, and take a good: heart, here is come unto thee thy brother the knight of the Sun. And therewithal turned against his adversaries, and made so great a slaughter amongst them, that in a short space all the hatches of the ship lay full of dead bodies, and the knights of Lusitania being greatly amazed at such sudden and str●●ge succour, they fled before them with all the speed they could into their own ships, and in making such haste, many of them leapt short & fell into the water, so that by this means their ship was quickly rid of their enemies. But when that Rosicleer heard those comfortable words of his worthy brother, and knew him as well by his wonderful blows given, as by the device of his armour, what joy and pleasure might be equal unto his, I say unto you, it was much more than it was, at that time when that he was succoured by him in the Island of Can●●marte, for that his death at that time should not have been so grievous unto him, as at this present the death of his good and perfect friends, and having in his power the fair Princess Olivia. And as one who by the aid and secure of his Brother was in good hope to be set free and at liberty of so rigorous and cruel a trance, with a new and unlooked for joy, did so hearter, and encourage himself, recovering so great force and strength, that he began to make so great a destruction among his enemies, as though the battle were but as then begun, and coming nigh unto the knight of the Sun, he said: Oh my Lord and well-beloved brother, what great benefit is this that God hath showed unto me, that it hath pleased him that I am succoured by your great power and strength, and now that I find myself in your company, if that all the whole world were against me, I should not have any fear. At this time the knight of the Sun could not make him any answer, for that he was so occupied amongst his enemies, where he did so great slaughter, that there was none that durst tarrie● before him. Likewise the Trojan did so defend his party, that it was wonderful to behold, at whom Rosicler was greatly amazed, not knowing who that valiant and worthy knight should be. Then the king Sacridoro and the other Princes, when they saw that sudden and sovereign favour which was come unto them, & how that their enemies were brought into a greater strait than they were before, although they were very weary and overcome with labour, yet the joy which they received did renew in them so great strength, that they returned upon their enemies, and slew many of them with their terrible blows, & the fear which the knights of Don Siluerio received by the great prowess of the knight of the Sun and the Trojan was such, that there was not one that durst give any attempt, but withdrew themselves all that ever they could, for which cause Oristedes in company with the king Sacridoro, and the other Princes, remained in the ship as sufficient for to defend the same, and the two brethren leapt into the ship of their enemies, as in 〈◊〉 and contention the one of the other, they began to wound and to slay their enemies, and kept such a stur amongst them, in killing some and making other some to fall into the water, and other some to run away for to save themselves, that in a small time there remained in the ships none for to make any defence. Then Don Siluerio who did behold all this that passed, with great sorrow and grief of heart he complained against fortune, for that she was so contrary unto him, and for that he knew not the knight of the Sun, but saw with his eyes the great wonders and valiant deeds done by him, he thought verily that it was some devil of hell that was come to aid and succour Rosicler, in seeing the fear that his knights had of him, that there was not one that durst appear before him, but ran away, so that he was without all hope of the victory, which caused him with deep sighs to say: Ah Olivia, now I see that it is not God's will that thou shalt be mine. At which time Fidelia had her in her arms in a sound, and seeing the good success which happened unto them, and how that fortune did show herself favourable, with such diligence as she ministered unto her, she brought her again unto herself, and said.  
What is this my Lady and mistress, arise and comfort yourself, and behold the great succour (which God having compassion on us) hath sent us in such sort that the victory is very certain on your knight's behalf. Then the Princess who was as one half dead, beholding the battle, when she saw that there was none so hardy that durst abide before Rosicleer and his companions, but ran away from them as from their deaths, she received therewith great consolation and comfort, and had great hope of the victory, and being greatly amazed at the high bounty of the Knight of the Sun, she asked of her damsel Fidelia who that valiant knight should be: Ah my good Lady and mistress, said Fidelia, in this thing only may you consider of the good fortune of Rosicleer, for according unto the words which he said at his coming, he should be his brother the knight of the Sun, who as I have heard many times, is the knight that in all the world is not his like, but the other that is come with him I know not, but his valiant demeanour doth show that he is one of the best knights that I have seen. At which words the Princess received great joy and pleasure, and with better comfort than she had at any time before, she arose up and put herself to behold the battle, ●he which did not endure long, for that after that the two brethren had entered into their ship, they almost did yield unto them, finding not one that durst abide their fury, for the which Don Siluerio fearing ●he encounter, and seeming a thing impossible for his knights to have the victory, he determined to departed, without all hope of good fortune, finding her at that time so contrary in all points. So with great sorrow and grief he commanded his ship to be ungrapled from the ship of Rosicleer, and the Pilots to hoist up sails, and to departed, the which was nothing grievous unto his knights, 〈…〉 greatly at the mighty valiantness and 〈◊〉 blows of their adversaries. The ship wherein was the knight of the Sun and Rosicler remained, but the other seven departed with such people as were lost, there were slain more than half of them that came in company with the Prince, Don Siluerio So when these two brether saw th●msel●e●●● 〈◊〉 of their o●imies, they did embrace one another with great love, and their joy was such, that they could scare speak. At this time came unto him Oristedes, & the knight of the Sun declared unto Rosicler who he was, by whom he was embraced with great joy & pleasure, but the good Trojan was greatly amazed at the great beauty of Rosicleer and how boisterous and stout he seemed; when that he was beholding the great wonders the which he did alone in the ship▪ which caused him to say within himself, that not without great mystery were these two brethren borne and created with such high bounty, resembling another so much. Then strait ways came unto them the three Princes, and the king of cornualias, who were very desirous to see Rosicleer, as those who sustained great travail in his demand, he received them with great joy, & embraced them, yielding thanks for the great pleasure which they had done for him at that present▪ Then came unto them the good king Sacrido●o, whom they did embrace, with great joy amongst them all to meet together at that present, whereas they gave one another to understand what they had passed, and by what adventure they came thither but when the knight of the Sun understood all that was done & passed with his brother Rosicler and the Princess Olivia, he gave great thanks unto God, for that it was his will to bring him thither at that instant, and having great desire for to see and know her, he said, that if it were their pleasures he would go & speak with her. So therewith they went unto the cabin whereas the Princess Olivia & her damsel Fidelia were, who received no less joy (to see her knight free and at liber●e of that great peril and danger) than if she had been made Lady over all the world. And the knight of the Sun and Oristedes very much marveled at the great bounty & beauty of the Princess, who seemed unto them to be one of the fairest Damsels that was to be found in all the world. Then the knight of the Sun would have kissed her hands, but she would not consent thereunto, but did embrace him with as great love as though he had been her own natural brother the Prince Edward, and th● gave unto him great thanks for that which he did in her succour. To whom the knight of the Sun answered, that not he alone doth owe that duty, but also all the world in consideration who she was, ano that he gave great thanks unto almighty God, in that he did know her to be his sovereign Lady and sister. Then the good Trojan Oristedes went and offered to kiss her hands, and yielded himself wholly unto her grace. The Princess did surrender unto him thanks, and received great contentment to have in her company so high and valiant knights. For with just reason might be said, that there was joined together all the bounty and prowess of the whole world. So all together with great joy and pleasure, they commanded their ships to be made in a readiness, and sailed together towards the Empire of Grecia. And being at sea, they met with a great and mighty ship, wherein came the worthy and valiant Prince Claverindo, who with the company of his uncle Flamides, brought with them the fair Princess Lindaraza, And when they knew the one the other, there was great rejoicing of all their parts, bu● in especially, being given to understand by what strange adventure the Prince did bring her, and of the good will which he had for to marry with her, at such time as they should arrive at the mighty City of Constantinople, in the presence of the Emperor, the joy of the brethren was the more, and they received Lindaraxa with great love, unto whom she seemed to be in all points of great valour, and she likewise with more joy and pleasure than ever she received before in all her life, went along with them, and gave great thanks unto God for that good fortune she had to meet them. Then she embraced with great love the Princess Olivia, who with great joy did receive her, being either of them very much amazed at the strange beauty the one of the other, and very glad that they should enter together into Grecia. So with great joy and delight they sailed on their voyage, and had so gallant conversation amongst themselves, that they never felt the travail of the sea. There did the Princes, Zoylo, Bargandel, and Lyriamandro understand of Rosicleer all his adventures, and what he had passed in them, after that he departed out of England, who received great pleasure to hear him▪ although to the contrary they did complain much of him, for that they taking so great pains in seeking of him, with great desire of his company, he would not discover himself unto them.  
So passing the time with these and other such like sports they sailed towards Grecia, and in few days with prosperous winds they arrived at the port of Constanstinople, and thinking it great reason before that they did dis●mbarke themselves, to give the Emperor Trebatio understanding of their arrival, it was concluded and agreed amongst them, that the king Sacridoro should go unto Constantinople, for that he knew the whole discourse of Rosicleer, and saw by experience the most part of his valiant worthiness, that he might declare the same unto the Emperor and Empress, and in what sort he doth bring with him the Princess Olivia and Claverindo, & Lindaraza, and how they are all together in the port of that City, ready for to come a shore, and by reason that the day was far spent and the night drew on, they did infer it till the next morning when that the king Sacridoro went a land and did his message.   

How the knight of the Sun, Rosicler, and the other Princes and knights, with the Princess Olivia & Lindaraza, went a land, and were marvelously received by the Emperor Trebatio, and the Empress Briana. Chap. 7.  
WHen the next morning was come, the good King Sacridoro went a land, being armed with his whole armour very richly, alonely with one Squire, and entered into Constantinople, who finding the Emperor Trebatio and the Empress Briana in the great hall together, without any dolour he came in whereas they were, who when they saw him, received him with great joy and pleasure, as well for that he was so great a friend unto their son Rosicler, as also because they hoped to hear some news from him, the which they longed very much for, for of long time they had not heard from him. Then the king went to kiss the hands of the Emperor, who did embrace him with great love, and said: King Sacridoro, my very good friend, you are heartily welcome into this Country, for with your coming I do receive great joy and pleasure. Therefore tell me what is become of your greatest friend Rosicleer, for that I marvel greatly that he is not come in your company, & I am fully persuaded that it is a great thing that should departed you a sunder. Then the king after that he had done his due reverence, answered him and said: Mighty Emperor, I came in the company of Rosicleer, and God forbid that so long as I live, I should separate myself out of his company, for therewith I receive more honour and contentment, than with all the whole kingdom of Antiochia, the which I hold by his valiant worthiness. And here I give you to understand (most high renowned princes) that your mighty valiant & most worthy sons, the knight of the Sun and Rosicleer, are in the port of this City, accompanied with worthy & valiant princes and knights, and do bring in their company, the most excellent and fair princess Olivia, daughter unto the puissant king Oliverio, whom Rosicleer, falling in love with, did by force of his strong arm, take out of the court of the king her father, and with one alone ship (in the which we are come) made his defence at the sea, against more than sire thousand knights, & there did he show unto him a great part of all that had passed in that enterprise, and of the great sorrow which he received for the worthy knight of the Sun and of Oristedes his friend, as also how by fortune at the sea they met with the prince Claverindo, who brought in his company the fair Lindaraza, with her uncle Fla●nides, with the whole discourse how he brought her out of the castle, in such sort as he told them at the sea. But when the Emperor and the Empress heard these news, they received great joy and comfort thereat, & as those who have great experience in cases of love, did not greatly marvel at that which Rosicleer did for the love of Olivia, likewise they received content, for that he had accomplished his desire, being fully certified that the princess should inherit the kingdom of great Britain, after the deceace of the king her father, and how that Rosicleer could not marry with a damsel in all the world of more higher estate. Also their joy did increase at the news of the coming of the knight of the Sun. Then the Emperor and the Empress did render unto the king Sacridoro great thanks, for that he would come to bring them so joyful news. And the Emperor did strait ways command his nobles and worthy princes & knights that were then present in his court, to be in a readiness for to go and receive them, who in company with them all with great pomp & majesty, went forth of the City with so great a troop, that all those wide and broad fields were full of people, for that when the coming of these two princes were published & known, there were few or none that remained, but all went forth for to receive them. The Emperor went in the midst of all those Princes and knights, and by him the good King Sacridoro, with so grave and severe countenance, that he did very well manifest his high estate. So when that they came unto the sea port, at the sound of Trumpets & other kinds of instruments, these princes did disembarke themselves a land; Rosicleer brought by the hand his well-beloved princess Olivia, who was of so great beauty, that all that did behold her were greatly amazed, so that there grew betwixt divers great contention, whether that the beauty of the Princes Claridiana did exceed the beauty of the princess Lindabrides, but all in general said, that Rosicler had great reason to put himself in such peril, for the love of so fair a lady.  
Then strait ways came forth the fair Lindaraza, whose beauty did work no less admiration in the beholders, than the princess, and was lead by that worthy knight of the Sun her brother, accompanied with those renowned princes Clavarindo, Bargandel, and Liriamandro, likewise with the Tartarian Zoylo, and the good Trojan Oristedes, and the valiant king Alamades of Cornwall, all the which came forth so seemly and richly aryed, that it put in great admiration all them that did behold them.  
So when they all came before the Emperor (who received great joy and pleasure to see his two worthy sons & those two so excellent Princesses, he went & embraced them with great pleasure & delight, but in especial, the two fair Ladies, saying, I am much more bound unto God than any other man in the world, and to give him greater thanks, for that he hath not alone brought me to the sight and knowledging of my two so valiant sons, but also by them I have recovered and obtained for my daughters, two so worthy Princesses, as the like are not to be found in all the world. How is it that by my desert I am worthy to see in mine Empire of Grecia, so high and sovereign beauties, as these worthy peers are.  
Then they did humble themselves upon their knees before the Emperor, and would have kissed his hands, but the Emperor would not consent thereunto, but returned and did embrace them a new, & caused them to arise from the ground, and then with exceeding joy and pleasure he gave entertainment unto his sons, and unto those high Princes and Knights, saying unto Bargandel, Lyriamandro, & Zoilo: now my very good friends am I satisfied, seeing that with so joyful coming you will requite me the evil news, the which you gave me in Constantinople, of the death of my son Rosicler.  
In this shall your highness see, said Zoylo, how far your good fortune doth extend, & the more to esteem the acknowledging of your son, Fortune would first present before you those so sudden and heavy news of great dolour, that after when it should be found unto the contrary, the joy and pleasure might be the more. Then the Emperor did embrace them all one after another, & received so great contentment to see those so worthy knights that brought his sons, that he never rested, nor could not be satisfied in giving thanks unto almighty God, for exalting him unto so high estate. Likewise they were no less amazed at the surpassing and gentle disposition of the Emperor, and the great majesty that he did represent in his person, they did behold him with great attention, and said within themselves, that he was worthy to be Father of those two Myrrors of knighthood throughout all the world. And the Princess Olivia and Lindaraza received marvelous great contentment to see what great love and humanity he showed unto all people, and what great joy and pleasure he received of their coming. So after that there had passed much communication, in this their first meeting, than the other Prince's Rodamarte and Rodofeo, and other noble men that came in the company of the Emperor, went & welcomed their noble Princes, who did embrace and receive them with great joy and love. This being done, the Emperor and all the rest mounted upon their horses, and the two princesses upon their palfrays, which were brought thither for them, well garnished, & took their way towards the mighty City of Constantinople, accompanied with so many knights and Citizens, that all the mighty wide and broad fields seemed to be covered with them. In this sort they entered into the City with great majesty & pomp, whereas was so marvelous sweet noise of all kinds of instruments and music, that it was thought (that the entering of Caesar into Rome af●er his great victory) was not equal unto this, and passing through the streets of the City, the windows were furnished with Ladies and damsels, who greatly marveled at the strange and excellent beauties of Olivia and Lindaraza, and praised God of all parts for seeing that day, in the which the Emperor received his so worthy sons, who brought so great joy, contentment, honour, and pleasure unto that mighty Court. So when they came unto the mighty palace, Lindaraza was alighted from her Palsraie in the arms of the knight of the Sun her brother, and the fair Olivia in the arms of the Emperor, who would not consent that any other should do it, and at their ascending up into the great hall, there the Empress Briana accompanied with all her Ladies and Gentlewomen came ●orth and did receive the two Ladies, embracing them with so great love, as though they had been her own natural dauhters. But when she saw the great beauty and sovereign grace of the Princess Olivia, she received within herself a marvelous great contentment, and thanked God for the good fortune that Rosicler had obtained for the recovering of her. Then the Princesses both of them did kneel down before the Empress, & would have kissed her hands, but she would not consent un-the same, but caused them to arise, and with great love she said. Ah precious and dear daughters, what great pleasure doth my heart receive, and how joyful unto me is this your coming into this Country, and turning unto Olivia she said: How much am I bound unto God, that in losing the name of a sister in law, I do enjoy you for my Daughter. So passing betwixt them many amorous and loving communications, came unto her the knight of the Sun and Rosicleer to kiss her hands, but she did embrace them with so great love, as unto so noble & worthy persons did appertain. Then gave she entertainment unto all the other Princes & knights, with so gallant grace & demeanour, that all were contented therewith, & said, that of so high & worthy parents, reason is, that they should bring forth so worthy suns. So after that they had spent a good while in these their greetings & receiving, they entered into a marvelous fair and great quadran, where all these knights were unarmed, & had given unto them rich & precious robes to cover them, the which being done, with great joy they sat down to dinner, whereas they were served with so great majesty, as did well agree unto their high estates. Thus with great delight unto them all, they remained certain days making great triumphs, & exercising marvelous feats of arms, whereas the stout Trojan, the king Sacridoro, and the Tartarian Zoylo with the other worthy Princes, gave such testimony of their bounty, that from that time forwards they were esteemed as their worthinisse did deserve. In this time was Rosicleer in so great joy and pleasure, as before he saw himself in sorrow and sadness, for he had his well-beloved Olivia in his power, and that there was concluded & finished all his cares and mortal griefs that he had received for her cause, so that there ●as no pleasure in all the world that might be compared unto his, wherewith he went as one from himself, thinking himself not worthy to enjoy so great glory. The Princess Olivia likewise received no less contentment, for calling to remembrance the great travail & afflictions that she had sustained and passed for her well-beloved friend, and now seeing herself free and clear from them all, and put in so high estate, she thought verily that there was not a Lady nor Gentle woman in all the world so fortunate as she, so that the joy of them both was without comparison, which was clean contrary unto the knight of the Sun, for that he found not there the Princess Claridiana, her absence caused unto him great anguish and grief. And being in such sort, that he could not suffer nor abide it, he determined strait ways to departed toward Trapisonda, at such time as he saw that the Emperor his Father was most in quiet, and when that his departure should less grieve him, otherwise he would not for all the world do that whereby he should receive any displeasure. For you shall understand that this knight and Rosicleer his brother, amongst all other virtues with the which they were endued, this did surmount all the rest, for that there was not a knight in all the world that better did love their Father than these two, for that they did not alonely serve and honour him, but the more to exalt his majesty, not one of them in his presence would make any estimation of themselves, but would that all honour and reverence should be given unto him only, who for the worthiness of his person did deserve the same. So that the knight of the Sun, for not displeasing him in his departure, did pass away his anguish and griefs as well as he could, thinking every hour a whole year till such time as he might see his Claridiana. This might be a spectacle unto all such as hath Fathers, for to procure and do as this knight did, for to make equal his pastimes and pleasures unto the troubles and necessities of his Father, always desiring and procuring his honour more than his own, having before his eyes never to have quietness nor rest, at such time as his father is in any trouble, for that the gift of the father, although it be not profitable to his possessions, yet is he most excellent to give counsel, and profitable unto the son: and is never well known till such time as he is lost, when that with many sighs and tears it ought to be bewailed. Who is he that would not seem to be a good child unto his parents, if he do well consider how troublesome his bringing up hath been unto them, and how that his life is but a burden of anger and sorrows, sons of great grief, a continual labour & timorous care? How many times are we the occasion to make frustrate their desires, & a breaking of their sound sleeps, taking away their stomachs, that they cannot eat, and with our feigned tears, disturb their p●●sures? How many sudden fears & griefs caused by the va●●ance of our actions, and many times the disgrace and death of the sons, is cause of the death of their mothers. And the which is more, many with the overmuch pleasure and joy received, to hear how that their children be alive, dieth suddenly, as it chanced unto those two, the same day that they returned unto Rome, that did remain and escaped from the loss of Trasimeno, when as they saw their sons alive, whereas before it was certified them that they were slain, and having no measure to eschew so great and sudden joy, did die presently therewith. Therefore seeing that the love of the parents is so great unto their children, he is worthy of great punishment that doth not honour them, and shall have less reason to leave undone, that which is a common Proverb, that the whole fault consisteth in the Father, for that many times the hardness of the Father is profitable unto the son, and alway the cockering of them is hurtful, because we that be sons and youthful, be always stubborn, and cannot be mollified but by stubbornness, as many times it falleth out, that the pitiful Chirurgeon leaveth the wound evil cured, whereof did grow the old custom that was used amongst the Romans, that not alonelie Princes and consuls, unto whom was given the whole power over the common wealth against such as did offend, but also all particular fathers had jurisdiction over their children, to punish them, and to put them in prison, tormenting them, yea, and to put them to death. The cruelty of Cassio and Fulvio was much esteemed in putting to death of their sons, not for that they did hate them▪ but because they could not correct their customs. So that the son must understand that the good Father must not seek who should cocker & make much of him, but one that may do him good. And many things doth seem unto the son to be very hard & terrible, which seemeth unto the Father to be very profitable. Neither is he deceived therein, for that his affection is not with passion, and youth hath no more considerations than that which is before his eyes, and waring riper in years, he seeth many things a far●e of, and always the severity of the father, is more profitable unto the son than meekness. It is a strange thing to consider, that a man can better suffer the hardness of a tyrannous master, than of his own Father, the which although they be not allowable, yet should not they reprove their fathers, but rather suffer them. We read that Alexander did never incurr● so great reproach, as in that he did not only rebuke his Father, but that he was also envious, and received grief at his ertollings. Wise men say, that there is no superiority on the earth more juster than that of the Father, nor more honester subjection than that of the son, therefore let children honour their parents, & show their due duties unto them with reverence: and not doing the same, it is a just sentence that rebellious sons doth suffer. And this punishment is not so small, but unto him that suffereth, it seemeth very much, for that there is nothing that doth so much afflict and torment the mind of man, as an injurious word spoken by a rebellious child. And as by these two worthy knights, all children may take an ensample, so likewise there is to be noted, the great part that is their fathers, as appeareth by this Emperor, that deserved to be so esteemed and beloved with so great reverence of his sons, considering his excellent virtues, and the great love that he bore unto them, did constrain them for to love him, and show him humble reverence. Also when that their sons do not prove to be good, then ought their Fathers to suffer and bear with them, till such time as their childhood is past, then after as they do increase, to correct their unbridled nature, forcing them to leave their vice, whereto they are inclined, and to learn to embrace virtue, which is the badge of all Christians.  
David & Methridates king of Pontus, and Severus Emperor of Rome, did suffer and bear with their rebellious sons. Affricano did heartily love his son, although in nothing he did resemble him, but clean contrary to him in his virtues. Here we will leave these admonitions unto ancient and old men, who hath greater authority to give them. Returning to our History, which saith, that the Emperor Trebatio and the Empress Briana, received marvelous great joy, contentment, and pleasure, to see in their company their two so valiant and obedient sons, accompanied with so high and 〈◊〉 company. Likewise they were joyful that the Prince Claverindo was so desirous to marry with the fair Lindaraza, and thereto asked the good will o● the Emperor and the Empress, who at the request and desire of the knight of the Sun did grant it unto him, whereat Claverindo received great joy and pleasure, and showed himself very pleasant and gallant for the same, and wrote unto the king Oristedes his father, that he would think well thereof, and to request the Emperor Trebatio to think well of the same.  
Thus as the Court of that mighty Emperor was in great joy and pleasure, with this gallant company, came thither at that present the wise Artemidoro, and being known who he was, he was marvelously well received of the Emperor, and of those Princes and Knights there present, but in especial of Rosicleer, who calling to remembrance what he had said and done for him, did bear him so great love as unto his natural brother. Here did the wise Artemidoro ask the Empress Briana, if she did remember at such time as she was first troubled with passions, how that a Nymph out of the Fountain of water, did give her comfort and consolation, giving her to understand that it was done by his art, and how if she did call it well to remembrance (that next unto God) she was by that consolation comforted at that present, who seeing that all that which the wise man had said was already fulfilled and come to pass, she knew not how for to gratify him for so great a benefit done unto her: but he was marvelously honoured of her, the Emperor, his sons, and of all that were there present.  
Then did Artemidoro (as one that did know it very well) make manifest all that had passed with Rosicler, from the time of his first birth unto that present, jointly with all that which had passed by the Emperor with the Empress Briana, collected into one book, which did declare all things particularly, as though he had been present at the doing: whereat the Emperor was marvelously joyful, & gave unto the wise man great thanks ●or the same. So that the Emperor and all the 〈◊〉 Princes and knights that did read those wonders, marveled greatly at the strange things which Rosicler had passed, and were very glad that all his travails & troubles for love were brought to so good an end. And for that there was not written, nor any mention made of the wonderful acts done by the knight of the Sun, the Emperor did ask of the wise man wherefore they were forgotten? Who answered him in the presence of all the nobles in the Court, that he did leave off the writing of them, for that there was another great wise man who had better intelligence thereof than he, and had the charge for to write and put in memory all things that toucheth the knight of the Sun, and how that before long time do pass they shall see him in that Court, who will discover by writing so many wonderful and strange acts, that never shall be forgotten so long as the world endureth. And although the mighty Emperor Trebatio and all that were with him, did not understand who that wise man should be of whom he spoke of, yet did the knight of the Sun know that it was the wise Lyrgandeo, and was very glad to hear him say that he would come unto that Court, for that he desired much to see him, with his nephew king Florion, and did not forget that which for him he had done, and was very desirous to have opportunity to gratify him for the same. But when the Prince Claverindo had told unto him the misfortune at sea that happened unto the Prince Brandizel his sorrow was so great, that many days after he very heavy and sadd●, thinking verily that his very friend Brandizel had been lost. But the wise Artemidoro who knew it to the contrary, to put remedy to his sorrow, told him that he was safe and sound, and in a place greatly to his contentment, and how that he should see him very shortly.  
The knight of the Sun gave him great thanks for the same, and the wise man in the mean time that he was in the Court did write with his own hand in the fore front of that mighty Palace, in great Letters, that all men might read it, a prophesy, which said as followeth.  
At such time as the mighty shepherd hath best kept & gathered together his ●locke, shall come the brave and stout Lions with ravenous and hungry wrath, and between her and the most stout Lion, shall pass a very cruel and perilous contention, and being put a sunder by the mighty shepherd, the stout Lion shall fall at the roaring of the furious Lions, and for a long time shall lose his name, till such time as the roaring of the said Lions doth awake him, and with her strong arms raise him up again. At that time shall the mighty shepherd be very heavy, and there shall come upon him the great she Bear very ireful, and in her company so many Wolves and dreadful Tigers, that shall make all the world● to wonder, and the ●locke of the mighty shepherd by them shall be scattered abroad, and the green and flowered fields shall be turned into red colour, and the earth shall seem as though it had reigned much blood. The huge and mighty rivers shall burst out of their course, and the wide and broad seas shall change the colour of their profound waters, showing the great earthquake that shall come. Then afterward the day shall come, that the Sun at noon tide shall be 〈◊〉, losing the greater part of his light and brightness, a● which very instant, the mighty shepherd shall be in great care and perplexity, and all his flock dispersed abroad, and at the point to be lost, but strait ways the San shall 〈◊〉 his whole brightness, & the Lion brought by the stout Lions, by her immortat deeds shall recover his lost name, and by his coming, the mighty shopheard shall gather together his good ●locke, and with ●o great courage shall return upon those hungry Walu●s 〈◊〉 Tigers, that they 〈◊〉 kill the most part of them, and those withshall remain, shall sly and leau● the Country desolate. And here the Griffins that came 〈◊〉 the new world against the mighty shepherd, shall lose their furious wrath and betwixt them and those of his ●lock, shallbe made great friendship and very profitable. The she bear with the mighty he bear, shallbe taken prisoners by new enemies, & being delivered by the stout Lion, shallbe made friends with the mighty shepherd. And at the request of the Lion and Lioness, they shall come together, and of that society shall proceed one that the deeds past, shall make all mortality ●e forgotten. Bear this in your mind, for as I have said, so it shall come to pass.  
This prophesy being written by the wise Artemidoro, the Emperor and all those worthy Princes and Knights did behold it. And as they understood very little what it did signify, they were greatly amazed at the great understanding of the wise man: and desired him to declare somewhat the meaning thereof, but he excused himself, saying, that it was not given unto him for to declare that which was to come, but to make manifest unto them by figures: for that if it should fall out to prove to the contrary, it would be the occasion of great danger, harm & peril. But yet notwithstanding all shall come to pass in such sort, that the time shall declare it, and make it most manifest. These & many other things did this wise Artemidoro declare unto them, that if they had not been of noble courage, his prophecies had put them in great wonder & fear. So they being in great joy, pastimes and pleasures in the mighty City of Constantinople, (although to the contrary great sorrow & grief unto the knight of the Sun, for that the Empress Claridiana, his mistress, was not there present) this History doth leave them, till time do serve, for to tell you what Don Siluerio did, that returned unto great Britain.   

How the Prince Don Siluerio, without all hope of the recovery of the Princes Olivia, her return unto great Britain, and of all that was determined in the court of the King Oliverio. Chap. 8.  
THE wrath and anger was very great that Don Siluerio received, in that he was past all hope of recovery of the princess Olivia, by reason that the most part of his knights were slain, and she remaining in the power of Rosicleer, the thing that he most loved in all the world, without any hope of recovery. And again, seeing that the princes his friends with the king Alamades, that went in his company, became his enemies, and likewise remembering the great fury and stoutness of them with whom he had the battle, with great complaints weepings and lamentations, he bewailed his misfortune, which was unto him so contrary, and so favourable unto his enemies. So in the end of certain days after his departure, he arrived in great Britain, and going a land he sent the king word of his arrival, appareling himself and all such knights as came with him in black and mourning apparel, and so entered into the mighty City of London, whereas the king did receive him, to whom with great sorrow and grief he gave the King to understand of all that had happened unto him at the sea. And because at that present the rancour and malice which he had against the Emperor Trebatio, was great in him, for the death of prince Edward his son, he was very glad that he had so good occasion and opportunity to arm himself against him, & therefore did not only comfort the prince Don Siluerio to follow his poisoned enterprise, to take revengement against him, but did rather procure to kindle his wrath the more, in saying, that unto them both it should be a perpetual dishonour, if they did not procure the revengement, the injury offered was so great, and that it were better for them to die in the quarrel, then to live in so great dishonour for ever.  
Then the Prince who desired no other thing, but very joyful to see that the king was wholly of his mind and determination, made a great Oath, that he would never take to him wife in marriage, till such time as that great injury done by Rosicleer, were revenged. So that strait 〈◊〉 it was agreed betwixt them both, that it should be 〈◊〉 practice to take revengement.  
The King commanded all the nobles of his Court to come together to a parley, & being come together, he put them in remembrance of the death of his son prince Edward, how he was slain by the Emperor Treba●●o, and then of the spoiling and carrying away of the Princess Olivia, don● by his son Rosicler: showing and persuading them by many reasons, how much they were bound to procure revengement of that great injury. And although that there were some to whom the determination of the king seemed nothing good, yet in the end they all concluded and agreed, that all should be done as he thought best, and that out of hand they should begin to muster and procure soldiers and men of war to be made in a readiness, for to pass the seas, and to enter into Grecia.  
And although Don Siluerio had there with him many knights of Lusitania, yet did he promise to return into his country, and to bring from that kingdom, and also o●t of Spain, a great number, for that he that was King● of Spain at that present, was a very great friend unto his father, and he was very certain that he would not deny to help and aid him with all the force and strength he could possible.  
He being willing to put all things in effect, took his leave of the King and departed straightways from great Britain, and put himself unto the rough and boisterous Seas, taking his voyage towards Lusitania. In the mean time King Oliverio, did ordain and made in a readiness all the people that possible he could, and writ his letters unto all kings that were his friends, as well Christians as Pagans, giving them to understand of the great injury and wrong done unto him, in murdering his only son and heir of his kingdom, and then his daughter to be stolen and carried away: requesting of them all favour possible, to help him to take revengement for the same.  
〈◊〉 that to conclude, some there were that for very friendship and love, did aid him. And other some for the ill will they bore unto the Greeks, of very envy of their prosperi●i●es, did aid and help h●m, and not only with their people, but with their own proper persons, 〈◊〉 unto the King Oliverio, and there was so great haste and diligence made in the executing thereof, that many days was not past, when that in great Britain there was joined together more than ●ne hundred and fifty thousand knights, where as the History doth lea●e them, putting all things in good order, as appertained unto so valiant an enterprise, for to tell you of other things that happened in the mean time.   

How that the Princess Lindabrides did crave of her father the Emperor Alicandro, revengement of the knight of the Sun, and how the Emperor at her request, did call a Parliament, and what happened in the same. Chap. 9  
IN great confusion and alteration remained the whole Court of the Emperor Alicandro, for so sudden departure of the knight of the Sun, but above all the rest, was the fair Princes Lindabrides, whose life was so full of sorrow and grief, that many times she was at the point of death. And there was nothing that could comfort her▪ in seeing that the knight of the Sun was departed and returned to his own country, and was very certain, that if once he came into the presence of the princes Claridiana, it were passed all remedy for him to have her any more in his remembrance, so that she might very well abandon herself of all hope, ever to see him any more: the which was more bitter & grievous unto her, than death. And considering with herself by reason of the great love she bore unto him, that it should be great comfort unto her, and remedy for her grief, if that she did once again return in●● Grecia, by what manner of means so ever it was she cared not, thinking by that means for to disturb the knight of the Sun, that he should not have a●ie time nor space for to serve the Princess Claridiana, neither for to marry with her, for the which to put in effect the 〈◊〉 nothing so good as for to crave revengement of the Emperor her ●ather, for the injury done by the knight of the Sun, which might be the occasion that he with all his power should pass into Grecia, and to tarry her with him thither to be crowned Empress of Grecia, seeming by those means the knight of the Sun shall be constrained to do perforce, y● before he would not by his free will, the which she put in ure according unto her thought. And as many times the Emperor her father came into her closet to visit & comfort her (whereas she continually remained and never went abroge) upon a day when that he was fullest of grief comforting her, whose sorrow pricked him to the very heart, for the great love he bore unto her. The Princess shedding many tears from her crystalline eyes, said.  
It is lost labour, my Lord and Father, for to comfort or give any consolation unto this unhappy and unfortunate Damsel your Daughter, for that there's is nothing that can remedy nor help me but only the death, the which if the high Gods were so pleased, were so high ●ee, that I could not make an end of this my speaking, for that death were a great deal better unto me, than to live, for to feel and suffer so great an injury as tha● which the ●nigh● of the Sun hath done against you and me, for if you my Lord would consider thereof as is right and reason, you would leave off com●orting of your Daughter, and 〈◊〉 by all means that this our reproach may be 〈◊〉, wherewith if p●esenc●ie I should departed out of this world, I should g●e with comfort, but of the 〈…〉 that from their high Thro●e they ●ill yield 〈…〉 seeing that you do so little este●me it. 〈◊〉 should other Damsels of base birth look for, 〈◊〉 that a Damsel of so high estate as I am, 〈◊〉 oweth participate with the divine 〈◊〉 of the h●gh Gods, and being 〈◊〉 by one alone 〈…〉 grief of her great wrong, nor any that will take upon him to answer the quarrel. With great reason therefore from this day forwards, may your vassals and subjects take heart at grass, and be bold to rise up against you, seeing that you will put up such an injury and evil proffer, done against you by one alone Knight, and an enemy unto your law, and will suffer me that am your Daughter to live without revengement. My Lord and Father, I pray you behold and consider your high estate, which is such, that all the kings and Lords of the Orient are obedient at your commandment and service, and doth honour and reverence you as a parent and kinsman unto the immortal Gods, and if now you do dissemble this great injury which unto you and me hath been committed, without making cruel revengement, you shall neither be feared nor esteemed, but had in less reputation than heretofore you have been, and your honour overthrown from the throne, which your predecessors until this present day hath maintained and upholden. And that which seemeth to be worst of all, is, that the divine providence will feel and acknowledge part of this great injury, the which I do most earnestly pray and desire, that they do not execute against you their wrath, in that you have neglected to take revengement. For this cause only hath the divine Gods given unto you this high estate, exalting and placing you above all other that are in the world, because you should execute justly here upon the earth, as they have ordained in their divine Consistory.  
This fair Damsel had not so soon concluded these her words, when that the Emperor her Father understanding the effect of her complaint, with great grief and sorrow unto his heart, being full of anger and wrath, arose up, and laid his hand upon his head, as upon a precious relic, and said these words following.  
Here I do swear unto thee by this sacred head, and by the divine Deity, that I do participate of the immortal Gods, for to go with all my power into Grecia, and in revengement of this great injury to me done, I will destroy the Emperor Trebatio, and give a cruel and dishonoured death unto his wife and children, and crown thee my daughter, for Empress of that Empire. So with this conclusion, & without speaking any more words, he went forth of her Closet, and calling together certain of his counsel, he concluded that a Parliament should be proclaimed throughout all his kingdoms and dominions, commanding all Kings, Princes, and Nobles of the same, to come unto the said Parliament in pain of death. Likewise he did write Letters of great love unto other Islands that were not subject unto him, which were inhabited with Giants and furious people, requesting them to come unto his Court of Parliament. Among all, he wrote a Letter unto Bradaman Campeon, who was returned into his Country again, the effect thereof was as followeth.  
GRan Campion, Lord of the Oriental Islands that are in the Octian Sea, I do believe that it is manifest unto thee the injury done by the Greek Prince unto our sacred estate, and the great offence that he did unto th● immortal Gods, therefore now thou shalt understand that by the virtue of that part of the divine deity that is in us, it is concluded in our divine Consistory, that order should be taken in such sort, that revengement may be taken for the same, in such ample wise, that the whole Empire of Grecia may be destroyed down to the ground, and not to leave one stone upon another, as a just punishment for the offenders, and an example to all others, how they shall offend against the divine majesty. For the 〈◊〉 end, to the executing of the same, we do desire 〈◊〉 in this enterprise thy favour may be the first, for that as the diui●● Gods have created thee so strong and mighty over 〈…〉 all mortal creatures, so likewise art thou 〈…〉 maintain and defend their divine honours, 〈…〉 to make revengement of this 〈…〉 Prince hath done unto us.  
Herein I do enlarge no farther, but abiding thy coming, for to have thy opinion what were best to be done herein. Written in our sacred Court, etc.  
When that Bradaman had received this Letter, in all his life he was not so glad and joyful, for that occasion did so derue, that he might execute that great anger and wrath that he had conceived against the knight of the Sun, because it was a great shame unto him that he was overcome by him, and he could not forget that great iniarie received, but had as much desire to be revenged for the same. And you shall understand that this Bradaman had at that time a son of twenty years old, the most bravest and ●iercest creature that ever was seen by men: of whom shall be made more mention in this History. Bradaman had not this son by a fair Gentlewoman, but of the cruelest and furious in condition amongst all women, for that after that by the mighty power of his person he came to be Lord over the Oriental islands, which was a kind of people which for their fierceness never before could be brought in subjection, he determined within himself, for that he would not that that signory should be lost after his death) to procure to have so valiant a son, who for the worthiness of his person should be sufficient to sustain that estate, as he did get it in his life time. And with this determination and desire, he made many sacrifices unto the Gods, desiring them to give him such a son to be his heir, of no less force and strength than he was for the defence of those kingdoms. At the same time there was in one of those Islands a woman of so stout and furious condition, & of so great strength, that with her own hands she slew a great number of giants, and other terrible and dreadful beasts. Bradaman did know her, in such sort, that nature working in her by the will of the high Gods, she was delivered of that furious and fierce son, and gave him to name Bramarant. At whose birth Bradaman his Father was very joyful, and caused him for to be nourished with the milk of Lions and Tigers, and other ●arious beasts, such as were to be found in those parts, and would never consent that he should prove of his mother's breasts, for that he would his son should be the more fierce and strong. In this sort he was nourished, so that afterward it appeareth that the double strength and fierceness of the Father and o● his mother, was comprehended in him, with the aid of the milk that he sucked, which did work such effect in him, that when he came to twelve years of age, he would go alone into the deserts & mountains, without any armour more than certain sodden skins hardened in the Sun, and would seek out the strong Lions and fierce Tigers, with other furious beasts, and all that ever he could take, he would tear them to pieces with his hands, as though they had been young and tender Kids. He would eat no other meat in all the time of his hunting, but the milk of those she wild beasts that he met withal, and sometimes of the flesh of the most furious be●st that he killed, and that should be raw. But when that he grew unto more years, he left of his hunting of wild beasts, and fell to exercising himself in armour & feats of arms, in such sort, that his great force and strength was very dear unto a great number, for that he would never hear reason in the trial of his strength, as did become good and courteous knights, but without any occasion in the wo●lde, ●ee would have contention with all them that he met withal, being armed, without any fear, if they were two, twenty, or thirty, with them all he would contend and kill them, tearing them in pieces with so great c●uelt●e, that he was feared of all, & could find none that was able to make resistance against him, although all the 〈◊〉 of those islands were very stout and courageous, and almost all Giants. And ●or that Nature did show herself ●uch ●auourable unto Bramarant, the History saith that he was not in stature of his body so 〈…〉, but he was as big as any knight might 〈…〉 Giant, and of so mighty, huge, and great members, that whatsoever he lacked in his height, he 〈◊〉 it comprehended in his bigness, and was of so great force and strength, that there was no equality in that of Milo, of whom they say, that there was not his like in all the whole world, for that he did things that seemed to be incredible to all that did see them, and besides his great strength, he was so swi●t and light, that he would overtake Lions, and other wild beasts in the plain running after them▪ This young Bramarant seeing himself to be so pulsant and mighty above all others, was so stout and proud, that at such time as he came to twenty years of age, there was not one (if he were displeased with him) that durst come into his presence, so that in all those Oriental islands he was feared, & more esteemed than his Father, and was not content that they had him for their Lord, but also would be worshipped of his as their principal God, and said that all the Gods the which they did worship, had no power over him, neither were they equal in valour. And Bradaman his Father seeing him so feared and reverenced of all, and how great and mighty his strength & fierceness was, was thereof exceedingly 〈◊〉 joyful, believing of a certain, that it was not possible for him to lose his kingdoms, having so valiant and strong a son. So at such time as the Letter of the Emperor Alicandro came unto his hands, there was present with him his son Bramarant, who when that he heard the Letter read, he took a great desire for to go with them into Grecia, and thought the time long to see himself on the journey, and requested his Father that he might go with him, for that he would that his mighty power were manifest unto all the world. Then Bradaman who desired no other thing did grant him licence, and out of hand they entered their journey towards the Court of the Emperor Alycandro, Bramarant caused to be made for himself armour all of little bones of small fishes that they find in those seas, of so great hardness, that neither sword nor any other weapon could cut or break it, it was of the same making that the Prince's Meridian his armour was, which afterward the knight of the Sun ●ad, yet this of Meridian was more ●i●er and of greater ●orce. Bramarant caused his armour to be garnished with gold and precious stones, wherewith after they were made, he was so proud and furious, that he had neither sear nor dread of all the world. Then Bradaman called before him twelve kings, Captains of his Islands, who were as the History declareth great and mighty Giants, and in the company of them and his son Bramarant took his journey towards the Court of the Emperor Alycandio. So when they came thither, they were of the Emperor meruallouslie well received and entertained, as of him that seemed to have great need of their help. In the mean time that they there tarried, till all the whole host were joined together, Bramarant did many & mighty feats of arms, wherein he gaue●ful testimony who he was, putting so great wonder in all them that did behold him, that with great admiration they said, that the Gods did put upon that knight all their powers and strengths, for the punishment and destruction of the Christians. Wherewith the Emperor was very joyful, and did them all great honour, and it seemed unto him, that if they alone with their people should pass into Grecia, they were sufficient to destroy the whole Empire and power of the Christians.   

How the Emperor Alicandro did consult with the Nobles of his Court, about their journey into Grecia, and what Bramarant did concerning the same. Chap. 10.  
AFter that the Parliament was proclaimed by the commandment of 〈◊〉 Emperor Alicandro, there were few 〈…〉 lords amongst the Pagans in Asia but came thither, and b●eing all together in the great City of Neptaya, the Emperor entered into the Parliament house with all his whole assembly of Kings, Princes, and other noble men, whereas there was placed his Imperial seat in his room appointed, hang●● round about with cloth of gold, and somewhat more below was the places for the rest made, of very fine and shining silver, whereas this mighty Emperor when he was set in his Imperial seat (which was all of fine gold and precious stones) and all the other kings and Lords, every one in his degree, which was to the number of more than one hundredth, silence being commanded, with great majesty of his royal person, he did pronounce unto them these words following.  
Loyal subiets, true vassals, and my very friends, immortal thanks I render unto the high Go●s, not only for that it hath pleased them to place me in this high and sacred estate, in making me Lord over so many Countries and innumerable riches, but also for that it hath pleased their ditone majesties to consent (which is a thing more to be esteemed than all the rest) that amongst so many mighty kings and noble Lords that are here present, and subject unto this sacred Empire, there is not one amongst you but hath been (and I suppose will be) loyal and faithful, which is the thing that Princes ought to have in greatest price, for that it is no less perilous and dangerous unto a King that hath a perverse and an unreasonable subject, than for a man of meaner or base sort to have a strong and mighty enemy. So that now for that I am fully persuaded and certified of the great fidelity & truth that you have always used unto me. I have requested you all to come unto this assembly & Court of Parliament, for to communicate with you couching a matter whereof you are not ignorant, not for that therein you should do aught to accomplish my will, but that you should aid and help me with your good counsels, for that in great and profound matters one must propone, and many must determine. I think it is not needful to make much relating thereof, because it is well known unto you all, how the knight of the Sun, and son unto the Emperor of Grecia came into this land, and was received & entertained by us, with so great love and good will, as though it had been the Prince Meridian our son. Likewise how that it was our pleasure to marry him unto the Princess Lindabrides our daughter, the which was almost concluded and celebrated, whether it was his evil hap, or unhappy fortune, upon a night he departed, and left our daughter flouted, & us astonished & ashamed, in recompense of the great honour that we did and showed unto him. All the which doth not grieve us so much for our part, for the evil sact done unto us, as it doth for the great offence done therein unto the immortal Gods, believing that a greater could not have been invented upon the earth, nor a thing more contrary against their divine majesty. What Emperor, King, Prince, or Knight amongst mortal men, that durst be so bold as to refuse or take unto his wife the Princes Lindabrides, being successor, descending from the divine stock, but this only knight of the Sun. Of truth and with great reason may the divine Gods execute their wrath upon us, if so be that we do not revenge this great injury done unto us, and offence unto their divine majesties: and with no less reason their divine justice may fall upon you, if that (not only with your subjects and goods) but also yourselves in person do not procure to make this revengement. A man ought to have a respect unto the griefs & offences done unto themselves, but much more the wrongs which are done against the high Gods. We do well understand, that for to take revengement of the knight of the Sun, it cannot be so easily done, but it will cost us many people and much treasure, yea, and our own persons in the performance thereof, but yet considering your mighty power, strength, and valiant hearts, we do believe that it doth not astonish you, neither do you fear to take upon you this journey, for that great delays doth proceed of little prudence, and fear, of great cowardness, but heroical knights, such as do procure to have a fame in all the world, with equal courage ought to offer their persons in doubtful attempts as well as in prosperous affairs, & with like constancy to harden themselves against afflictions, as unto delights & pleasures. Of our own part, we do say, that although our years doth require more to take rest & ●ase in our own Country, than to travail into another, yet if it so be concluded that we shall take this journey upon us, so far off, and so costly, we will that you do no more therein, than you see us to do, as travailing by the way, navigating by Sea, clearing our passage, assaulting our enemies, in all these we will be the first, and not the last. To conclude, our very good friends are desirous to be revenged of this great injury done unto us by the knight of the Sun, & that you would not think (agreeing hereto with us) that these our white hairs shall lack good will for to pass into Grecia, for that if once we come thither▪ we hope in the immortal Gods, (not alonely to be revenged of this injury done unto us) but also to make subject unto our consecrated estate that whole Empire. And we are fully persuaded that the divine providence hath permitted this offence to be done, that we should have occasion for to destroy the whole power of the Christians. We do not mean hereby to bring unto your remembrance, how oftentimes it happened in times passed in this Country, the Emperors & Captains of Rome came, not only to make revengement of the injuries & offences done unto themselves, but also for them that were their friends & subjects unto the Empire of Rome, in executing whereof, they did neither respect the largeness of their journey, expenses of their treasures, neither the travail of their persons, so that their camps & armies were as common in Asia, as in Italy or Rome: so that in consideration, if those only for the honour of their friends did little estéem● their long travails into those Countries, wherefore should we think it much, in revenging of our own injuries, to pass into Grecia. We desire the high Gods that no such cowardness may be found in your noble minds, neither so many mighty kings & Princes as be here present to consent to the contrary, but that this great injury should be revenged. Now seeing that we have declared unto you the occasion of calling you together unto this our court of Parliament, we do desire you so let us have your judgements upon this that we have proponed, hoping to have it in so ample sort as always we have received at your hands.  
When all those that were present with the Emperor had well heard the words that were spoken, and that concerning the same he had asked their counsels, yet his determined purpose was for to pass into Grecia, so that there was amongst them some that were very glad and joyful for the same, and other some that did not like of the journey, as it is a natural thing amongst men, in like affairs to be of contrary opinions. The Emperor at that time did look for their answer, but nothing was supplied, till such time as they did all together desire the old king of Gedrosia in the name of them all to answer unto the emperors proposition, for that he was esteemed in all those kingdoms to be wise, and one that was well seen in the wars, and as it hath been told you in this History, he was well seen in Astrology, who being by them very much importuned, arose up and spoke as followeth.  

The speech which the old king of Gedrosia made unto the Emperor Alicandro before all those high kings & nobles concerning the passage of their army into Grecia.  
MOst high and mighty Emperor & our Lord, I would very feign excuse myself to give my judgement, considering this grievous case, which you have declared unto us, for that you have it for custom to ask counsel of your nobles in causes of importance and things requisite. And yet in the end say they what they can, yielding their judgements according unto reason, all things must be done according unto your desire & will, whether it be good or bad, giving to understand, that the counsel which you do ask of your nobles & subjects, is more to comply with them, than any good will you have to be counseled. But yet for all this, although I do know, that my judgement in this case will be as much as nothing, and will be conceived to another intent & purpose contrary unto my meaning, yet will I declare it, for that hereafter you shall not complain at any time of the old king of Gedrosia, in that he did not advise you in time that you might prove your fortune. And here I protest before the immortal Gods, that this which I do pretend to say unto you, is not so much for the fear & dread the which I have of the Greeks, as it is for the great love & good will which I do bear unto you and to all our Country. I would not (most mighty Lord) that you should put so great confidence & trust in this your puissant & high estate, thinking therewith to be very firm and sure, void of the subjection of uncertain and immutable fortune, and never to slide or fall from the high throne in which you are exalted, if you do believe this to be true. There are many things passed in this world long since of mighty Princes, that if you will enter into judgement of them rightly, as you ought for to do, you shall plainly see and perceive that it is all false and contrary, as a spectacle of many Caesars Romans, in which time past were Lords and rulers over all the world, as julius Caesar, Caio, Caligula, Nero, Claudio, Galba, Oton, Vitelio, Domiciano, Comodo, Pertinax, Basiano, Macrino, Heliogabilo, Belusiano, Valeriano, Galiego, Probo, juliano, Bavio, Constantio, Valente, Graciano, Valentiniano, and an infinite number more, which hath been overthrown from the imperial throne in the which Fortune did exalt them, and no other occasion to the same, but that all human things hath no security nor firmness, and he that is exalted and set in the highest of the wheel of movable Fortune, the same is most apt and readiest to fall. And in this thing you may believe me, that look how much the human power doth surmount, so much is the Empire, or what estate so ever it be, subject unto fortune, and all the great fire laden with wood, is charged with the mighty winds in the highest parts: even so likewise (most mighty Emperor) this estate is not so high, but it hath with it great peril, so that you need not to go and seek other dangers in strange Countries so far from this, that when it shall fall out, all thing to succeed and be prosperous unto you, yet shall it be great marvel, if you do return back again alive into your own country, how much more the victory against the Greeks is so uncertain, and as you may make just account thereof, although you think it to the contrary, without any consideration of perverse fortune, which may so fall out, that they shall remain all liberty, and you deceived: although the host of men which you may carry, will be a great multitude, mighty and strong, yet many times it falleth out, that the greatest host is overcome by the lesser, as it happened unto Xerxes, and unto Darius, and a great number more, who with hosts of innumerable company of people were destroyed and overcome. Likewise before that this shall come in effect, if you do well consider, and have an eye into the great angers and molestations, presumptions, alterations, and contrarieties, which doth happen daily in these mighty hosts. I believe that you will think it better to remain and live at home in your own country, then to pass into Grecia with so mighty an host, for that there is no injuries nor cruelties that may be compared unto the conditions of men of war. And these which you do think to be your own, it may so fall out, that for a little occasion, they will change their copy, and perhaps betray & ●el them, so that of knights and subjects, they may become thy enemies. Behold and consider of that great and mighty Alexander, who in his time accounted himself of no less estate than you do now at this present, yet that which all his enemies could not conclude and bring to pass, was finished by his own knights, in killing him by poison. If you will that I shall declare unto you many other examples by Emperors of Rome: behold who slew Pertinax, and the two Maximos, father and son, Baluino, Maximo, Probo, Graciano, & Valentiniano, the least of all these were good & valiant men, and yet slain by the hands of those of their host. Likewise I will declare the great perils and misfortunes that happeneth at the sea, by the which you must of necessity pass this your great multitude of people, I would it were not my fortune to speak, but could excuse myself, for that it is well known unto all men, how ready the mighty winds are to augment perils, the mighty, great and unmerciful waves, the hidden rocks under the water, the continual tempests and whirl winds. What is that so strong, that the power of the heavens and the sea do not rend and tear all to pieces, and carry away by sudden storms and tempests of the winds, and therefore it is said that the going to the sea is easy, but the coming from the sea is perilous, but putting all the perils and dangers a part, and that Fortune will show herself favourable unto you in all these affairs, and that with prosperous winds and times you are entered into the Empire of Grecia, yet I would you should consider and know, how doubtful is the victory at that present, for that in all things hope is doubtful, and much more in great wars and contentions. Very prudent and well experimented in arms was he that said, that there is nothing that hath his end more uncertain than the war, and that it is far better a certain and sure peace, than the hoped victory. One thing all you may believe of a certain, that very few or none entereth into battle without hope of victory, but yet consider if it be not a thing that hath often happened, the loss of the overcome to be less than of the overcommers. How many times doth men go unto the wars in hope to have the victory, and to the contrary, remains overcome, and that which is worst, they remain dead in the field, so that they return not back again to their houses overcome, nor with victory. And yet will I say more in contradiction of your hope, that if you did know of a very certainty and truth, that the victory should be on your parts against the Greeks, yet for all that I will not let to give you counsel for to remain in quiet at home in your own Country, for as the victory is always doubtful, even so many times it is sorrowful & bloody, & is not got with ease, that which is sought with peril of their lives, & dearly sold that is bought with blood, & more dearer, if it cost their lives. We have seen many times an host to have the victory, & yet their general slain in the battle, & this is without all doubt, that some shall be slain on your part, & possible it may be your lot before any other, for that your enemies (as upon the principal stay of your host) will seek to procure your death. How suddenly & unlooked for may you meet with the knight of the Sun, he that was here in your court, at which tune you would willingly give all that now you do possess, for to be as far distant from him as you are at this present. Of truth according unto his fury & great worthiness, bravery & stoutness, the which experience hath showed me, by the incredible things done in sight of all men in this court, surely I should think no security in my life, although I were in the midst of your great & mighty host, if I were certain that he were against me in the field. And here I do desire & pray the almighty & immortal Gods, to save & keep thee from his furious hands, for surely my heart doth tremble to hear you say that you will go and seek him to contend with him. Here is now in presence Rodaran king of Arabia, and the king of Media, who hath proved the experience of his mighty blows. I do desire your highness to ask of them, if they have any good will to return and prove them again, as also if Rodaran be in the same opinion that he was before he went into Grecia. Therefore O high and mighty Emperor, conserve and maintain this sovereign estate into the which the high and immortal Gods hath exalted you, and leave off this enterprise, for to go and seek perils and dangers in other strange Countries, for that innumerable be the misfortunes that we are daily subject unto. And you shall not do little for to conserve and keep that which you do now possess. Wise men in times past did not think it to be done with ease (who said) that it was great travail to suffer prosperity, and that it was necessary to learn to suffer, having Fortune at will, for that it is more difficult to govern himself therewith, than in adversity.  
Here therefore I think not amiss to stay my talk, for that in this which I have said you may very well understand my judgement, not only that you should restrain from executing your will, but also that you should separate and blot it clean out of your thought and mind, & never more remember it. For that if the knight of the Sun had done unto you any injury (as hitherto he hath not, for that possible he would not accept at your hands the thing which he thought himself not worthy of) it were much better for you to pardon the same, then to seek revengement. For an injury done unto so mighty a prince as you are, it is a small satisfaction the death of one knight, & there is no forgetfulness so generous and noble, as is of him that hath offended.   
This old king of Gedrosia, had not as yet full concluded these words (with pretence to go forwards with his talk) when that, that furious youth, Bramarant arose up upon his feet, from the place where as he sat next unto Bradaman his father, with so ireful a semblant, which put great wonder in all them that did behold him, he began to say these words following.  
With great pain and grief have I suffered the conclusion of these thy words, thou light and foolish king of Gedrosia, dost thou think that in such sort should be entreated the use of arms amongst knights, as you (who do call yourselves Philosophers) doth use them in your schools & universities. Dost thou think that the variety in their causes must of force follow one rule, as you do imagine, or is your understanding so simple to conceive that, the judgements and strength of men should be equal, and that there should not some be more stronger and courageous than other.  
Thy counsel were good and profitable for a king that were foolish, and a coward, as thou art, but not for so mighty a prince as the Emperor is. What fear or inconvenience may that be, to be sufficient to withdraw him from his will, although it were for to conquer the whole world, how much more for to destroy the Empire of Grecia. By the immortal gods I do swear, that if we do go thither, I alone do think for to destroy all the Greeks, although they c●me forth altogether in the field to battle against me, neither w●ll I for all their force and strength, step one foot back. This doth proceed of courageous hearts, and any thing else to the contrary, is of cowardness, and although I have spent my youth in exercise of arms, more than in reading of Philosophy: yet do I know that he that is fearful can give no good counsel for the wars, neither he that is timorous do any good act therein. And I am fully persuaded that Alexander had not been Lord over all the world, if there had been any spark of cowardness within his heart, neither should Agamemnon have destroyed Troy, nor Hannibal, Sagunto, nor Cartago, nor Numancia the Affricano, if they had followed the counsel that thou hast now given unto the Emperor. Believe me, that as commonly fortune doth sh●w herself favourable unto those that be generous and valiant of mind, even so unto cowards & weak people, fear is an ill prognostication, as it was of that Flamineo in Trasimeno, and of Crasso in Cannas, and of Pompeo in Tessalia. To conclude, for that the Emperor our Lord doth in these actions that which is needful and requisite, he must not follow the judgements of fools & cowardly Philosophers, but take the counsel of them that be stout, valiant, and courageous knights, unto them should be committed matters of justice, & unto us the state of the wars. For my part, I do say, that if the Emperor will pass into Grecia, I will serve him with my own person: & this knight of the Sun (of whom the king of Gedrosia hath so much fear) I willbe bound to apprehend him, & to bring him prisoner before his presence, that he may take revengement of him at his pleasure, yea, if he were a se●ond jupiter, yet should he not be so mighty as to clear himself out of my hands.  
So when that Bramarant had concluded these words, he sat himself down again in his place. There was present at that time one Graco, son unto the king of Gedrosia, a young knight, very valiant and gallant, and very 〈…〉 unto many kings that were there in that Court: who seeing with what injurious words his father the king was entreated, arose up from his seat and said, as followeth.  
Bramarant, if thou wert so valiant in thy deeds, as thou art discourteous in thy words, than would not I think much but thou wouldst accomplish all this which thou hast said against the Greeks: but I hope in the high and immortal gods, that if we go thither, thou shalt meet with one alone amongst all the rest, that will make thee for to know, that thy pride is more than thy deeds, & will revenge the injury which thy words hath done unto my father.  
This valiant Graco had not fully concluded these words, when that the fierce Bramarant kindled in wrath, with a devilish fury, arose up from his seat, and went unto him, clasping him with one of his hands by the arm, lifting him up in the air (without having any power this young knight to withstand it) he threw him out of the window of that great hall, and said, herein shalt thou see whether my deeds be confirmable to my words or not. And for that the windows were very high from the ground, this unfortunate Graco fell with his head downwards, where as he was slain, which was so great sorrow and grief unto his father, that he wished the misfortune had chanced unto him and not unto his son. This king was mighty & puissant, and had many kings in that court present, which were his kinsmen, who seeing that which was done by Bramarant, for that they had no armour, (neither could they be suffered to enter to that court of parliament with any) they altogether arose up and went towards him, thinking to have thrown him out of the same window, that he threw out Graco, but their determination fell out contrary: for although that they were more than twenty, & Bramarant had neither armour nor sword, yet with both his hands he took tw● of them that came first unto him, li●ting them up in the air, he threw them against a wall that was over against him, with so great strength, that their ribs were br●ken, and they fell to the ground half dead, where as they lay a good wh●le and could not ar●●e. And not staying with this, but with a d●●lish fury & quickness, he threw other two out at the window. Then arose up his father Bradaman, with whose help, not one that was in that great hall, which was against his son, had 〈…〉, if that the Emperor in great ●ast had not 〈…〉 himself in the midst amongst 〈…〉 with prayings, desires, and sweet words, 〈…〉 commandment, did put them in peace, 〈…〉 Bradaman and 〈◊〉, whole eyes 〈…〉 with great fury and wrath 〈…〉 was quickly concluded amongst them, 〈…〉 they received was such, that every 〈…〉 his friend.  
So when that the Emperor had 〈…〉, he began to reply a new, touching 〈…〉 he had said: and the ●urie and 〈…〉 Bramarant was such, in procuring that 〈…〉 should be accepted, that some for 〈…〉 they had of them, and other some for 〈…〉 thereof. In the end, they did conclude, that the 〈◊〉 should go forwards.  
Then after certain days that they remained in that Court, all those kings and mighty Lords 〈…〉 own Countries, for to ordain and 〈…〉, all such people as they would carry with 〈…〉 wars. But first before their departure it was concluded amongst them, that at a certain day 〈…〉 all meet with their people at the port of 〈◊〉 whereas the Emperor had commanded for 〈…〉 to be made in a readiness, a mighty great and 〈…〉 of Ships, for to carry their 〈…〉: and being all occupied in these 〈◊〉, the History do●th leave them, till time 〈…〉 to tell you of other things that passed in the Court of the Emperor Trebatio.   

How that there came to the court of the Emperor Trebatio, a strange knight, & did defy the knight of the Sun and of the stout and well fought battle that was betwixt them. Chap. 11.  
WIth great content & joy, did this History leave the Emperor Trebatio, and the Empress Buana, for that they had with them their excellent & worthy sons, accompanied with those high & worthy Princes, who were no less glad and joyful, for that they were in that Court, as well for the great friendship which they had with the Greeks, as for the affable conversation that they had with the good Emperor Trebatio, who seemed unto them to be the most exelentest & noblest Lord that ever they had seen or known. But yet above all the rest, the joy and pleasure that those ●oyall lovers Rosicleer, and Olivia received, did far surmount: who being at quiet, resting themselves, of those great troubles & mortal anguishes, the which the one for the other received, that verily they did seem to recreate themselves with all sovereign glory, and unspeakable joy.  
The princess Olivia, received so great contentment for that she had with her Rosicleer her love, and also to see the great majesty & highness of the Emperor, with the great love and good will which he bore unto her, that in a short time she had clean forgotten great Britain, and the court of the king Oliverio, her father, and was never satisfied in giving thanks unto almighty God, for that he had brought her unto so high estate.  
The knight of the Sun was he alone that lived not to his contentment, neither received any joy nor pleasure, in seeing himself absent from his Lady the Empress Claridiana, all pastimes & pleasures that were there ordained, were unto him great anguish and grief, thinking himself to be always in darkness, pensive, and imagining when the day should be that he might rejoice and comfort himself with her precious sight, but yet calling to remembrance his disloyalty past, it seemed unto him that he was void of all desert, and could not imagine how ●ee might excuse himself to come into her presence. So all 〈…〉 Court being in their contrariety of thoughts and dispositions, upon a day being all together in a fair hall of the mighty palace, after that dinner was done, they saw entering in at the gate a knight all armed with black Steel, which was of so great fineness, that it seemed to be crystalline glass, he was of a gallant stature and well made, and of so gentle disposition, that it caused great admiration in all them that beheld him, his helm was on his head, and the beaver down, so that none could see his face, he brought leading by the hand a very fair Lady, with a rich crown upon her head, and after them came other two Damsels, the one of them bore the train of the Lady, and the other brought the shield of the Knight, which was ●●wise of black steel, all appareled in black, seeming to be mourners. So when they entered into the hall there was great silence, than the Lady which had the Crown upon her head, without doing any reverence, said.  
Who is he amongst you that is called the Knight of the Sun? He being there present, arose up and said: Fair Lady, what is your demand? Hear I am he that you do ask for. In good time, said the Lady, and I am very glad that I have found you here, although our coming can turn no goodness unto thee. Thou shalt understand that I am Media, daughter unto that Raiartes, whom thou traitorously and falsely didst kill in Babilonia, whose strength as thou dost well know, was no less than divine, nor could not be slain by human hands, ex●●pt it were by great trason and falsehood. I remained a damsel and of tender years at the time of his death, and by reason that my beauty was such as thou dost see, there did not lack many Princes and Knights that did request me in marriage, from whence I did defend and excuse myself, 〈◊〉 that strait ways upon the death of my Father, I made a solemn oath and vow, never to marry with any knight but with him that first of all shall make me revengement ●or the death of my father. And for that the fame of thy great bounty is so blown throughout the world, I have found none that is desirous to marry with me with so great a charge, but this alone knight, who by fortune arrived at the Island of Zardo, whereas I am governess, who falling in love with my great beauty, did bind himself to come and make battle with thee, and give me revengement for the death of my Father, the which I do so much desire, and I seeing with my own eyes the great bounty and valour of this knight, in a certain contention which he had with certain knights of mine, received great contentment for to come with him, and according unto the great wonders that I have seen him do, I suppose that there is not a knight in all the world that is equal unto him, so that the revengement of the death of my Father, I have it so certain as though it were already done. This is our demand Knight of the Sun, and the occasion of our coming hither, and to know why this my Knight doth not speak unto you, is for that he is a stranger very far from this Country, and cannot speak nor understand any Greek. And in concluding these words, the Lady held her peace, and the strange knight who was very attentive unto that which was said, beholding the knight of the Sun, did decline his head downwards, in sign that he did grant unto all that which the Lady had said. So this demand being understood by the knight of the Sun, without any change of countenance, but with a severe semblance answered and said.  
Lady Medea, I would that your demand were some other than this which you do bring, not for that I would excuse the battle that this knight will make with me, for as I am clear and without fault of the death of Raiartes your father (as is well known) so do I little esteem the great bount●e of this knight, having right and justice on my part, but yet I wish, if it were your pleasure, that you would command me some other thing wherein I might do you service, that should more import the satisfaction of the a●ger which you have conceived against me, the which I would accomplish with a better will, than to enter into battle with your knight, for if it should so fall out that I should g●t the victory over him, yet must I needs serve you, but seeing it is so, that you do demand of me the death of you● father, I cannot but must needs make my defence, for that I slew him not by treason or falsehood, but as I accustom to do, in equal battle and orderly law of knighthood, therefore from this time I do accept the battle, and any other thing that shall be demanded.  
This being said, the Lady answered for her knight, accepting the same, than they took their hands together in sign of gauges to the battle, which being done, the strange knight departed from thence with the Lady by the hand, giving them to understand that he would abide the knight of the Sun, in the place appointed for their combat, who strait ways took his leave of the Emperor his Father, and went unto his chamber to arm himself. In the mean time that the knight of the Sun was arming himself, the Prince Cl●ue●ndo did declare unto all them that were in the great hall, how Raiartes was father unto Medea, and in what sort the knight of the Sun slew him, as ●ne that knew the effect thereof very well, for that he was present and did see the whole battle. So when the knight of the Sun was armed with his rich and strong armour, that was sometimes the Prince Meridian's (as this History hath told you, which did not a little stand him in 〈◊〉 that day, being accompanied with his Brother 〈◊〉, and all the troop of those valiant knights, he descended from the Palace, and went whereas the strange knight was, tarrying his coming, 〈◊〉 upon a 〈…〉, with so gallant proportion and semblance, that he seemed to be one of the best knights that ever he had 〈◊〉, and mounting upon his mighty horse Cornerino, who was all trapped with cloth of gold full of precious stones, with a plume of white feathers bespangled with gold upon his helm, which was a gallant sight to behold, for as in this history it hath been told you in many places, that over and above that this knight was of a high stature, he was therewith so well proportioned of his body, that when he mounted upon his horse being armed, there was not a thing of more wonder to be seen, and all they that did behold him were greatly amazed, whose presence alonely did declare that he should be a knight of great force and strength. So after that he had moved his courser once about the place, the Emperor and the Empress, with all the rest of the Court, being at the windows and battlements of the mighty palace, and all the whole place full of people. Then the strange knight began to move his mighty courser with so gallant disposition and fury, that all men did judge him to be a knight of great force and strength, and said that in his semblance he did resemble much to Rosicleer, who showed no less gallant proportion and grace than the Knight of the Sun. And the Emperor Trebatio who was beholding him, and pleased at his gentle disposition, said unto them that were with him: The gallant order and gentle demeanour of this Knight, doth make me beléene, that this battle will be better fought, and more doubtful than we thought for, and we shall see great marvels therein. So it seemeth unto me, said the good Trojan Oristedes, and I do not look for an end of this battle till it be almost night, at such time as the day draweth to an end, till that time the fury of the knight of the Sun doth not begin to kindle. The bounty of this worthy Prince is so strange, that the more the battle doth endure, and the stronger he is assaulted, it seemeth that his force and strength doth the more increase. When that ●ristedes had ended these words, all the whole place was in quiet and attentive, waiting for the rigorous battle that should be made betwixt those two Knights, who firming themselves i● their Saddles with their spears in their hande●, they stayed the sound of Trumpets, which was ordained for their beginning, at the sound whereof they set spurs unto their coursers, and ran the one against the other with great impetuous force, the swiftness of their horses was such, that quickly they met together, and made so strong encounters, that by reason their armour was so excellent, that the sharp point of their Spears could not enter, their staves were shievered all to pieces, and they passed the one by the other so upright and well settled, as though they had not received any encounter at all, but turned their horses about in the air, and came the one against the other with their sword in their hands, and began to lay on such unreasonable blows, that their shields (although they were of fine steel) were quickly broken all to pieces, and their guilt nails were scattered upon the ground, and with the fury of their blows, there proceeded so many sparks of fire, that it seemed that they burned, and the sound of their armour rang like an echo, throughout the whole City. Being more than one whole hour overpassed, that these two valiant Knights began their combat, yet in such sort did they so double ●heir strong blows, as though they did but as then begin, and no vantage was known of either part, but either of them began to feel the great strength of his adversary. And the knight of the Sun, who was marvelous full of wrath, for that one alone knight did endure so long against him in that combat, in the presence of his Father and mother and those high Princes and knights, said within himself, that he never combated with knight before, that did so strongly strike his blows, and with so valiant a courage did defend himself, but only Rosicleer his brother, who was he that brought him into the greatest peril and necessity above all other. Likewise the strange knight did not so little feel the great force of the knight of the Sun, but that he thought it impossible to clear himself well of that battle, but he as one that little esteemed his life, for to revenge some part of the great anger which he had against his adversary, did so enforce and animate himself, that the battle endured three hours betwixt them, without any knowledge of vantage of the one part or of the other. The blows which they struck were of so great force and strength, that many times it did astonish and amaze them, and brought them so far out of remembrance, that their horses carried them round about the place, and all those that did behold that stout and rigorous battle, were greatly amazed, and judged it to be equal unto that combat which before he had with Rosicler his Brother. Likewise the Emperor Trebatio and all those high Princes and knights that were with him, did not a little marvel at the great bounty of that strange knight, saying that he showed himself to be one of the valiantest knights that was to be found in all the world, for that he had so long sustained battle against the knight of the Sun: and Rosicleer who was at a window next unto the Emperor his Father, with the Princess Olivia, with great admiration did behold the battle, (and as one that had well experimented the strength and force of his brother,) did greatly praise the strange knight, for that he did so we●l defend himself against him, yet he said, God deliver me from the fury of my Brother. It is now four hours since the battle began, and now is the time that his wrath will b●gin to kindle, then is there no resistance to be made against his last blows.  
So when Rosicler had said these words, it was not long after that it fell out true as he had said, for being more than four hours since the beginning of the battle, at such time as the Sun would set, the knight of the Sun seeing that the day would pass away, in such sort he began to rage and burn with ire, that seemed unto his adversary, that his force did ren●e and augment, and that he began the battle a fresh, for that his blows were such and so thick, that many times it made him to lose his remembrance, so that at that time the battle was more terrible and cruel than it was all the day before, yet nevertheless the strange knight was such, that he abated not one point of his mighty and sovereign force, but with renewed strength he so charged the knight of the Sun, that many times he was without all hope of the victory.  
In this sort the battle remained in balance almost all the day without knowing any vantage betwixt them, til● such time as the Sun had left his orisent, and the night began to appear, than the strange knight began to ware weary, and little and little his strength did abate, in such sort, that it was well seen that he had not the courage that he had at the first, for that he lift up his arms with great pain, and his sword turned in his hand: the which was clean contrary to the knight of the Sun, who at that present was more stout and courageous than at the beginning, and in such sort did lay upon his adversary, that as one amazed, he chased him round about the place, (but he seeing that the vantage of that combat was on his part, and how the strange knight was the best knight that ever he met withal, next unto his Brother Rosicler) he withdrew himself and left off his striking, in such sort, that the strange knight might take air and breath himself, which was the occasion that after he returned unto the battle, he showed himself so valiant and strong, that it seemed the day would clean pass away before the battle would be ended, if they had let them alone: but Medea who was marvelously in love with the strange knight, as she was beholding this brave battle all day, thought it impossible for her knight to have there any victory, and being very desirous to part them, she went unto the Emperor, and requested him, for that the night ●yd approach, for to command that the knights should cease their battle, for that they had the next day following at their commandment, for to conclude the same. Then the Emperor who esteemed much of the strange knight, with great desire that the battle might not come to conclusion, for fear of evil, withdrew himself from the window, and descended into the great Court, whereas he mounted upon a mighty horse, & being accompanied with all those high Princes and knights, he went unto the place whereas those knights made their combat, and putting himself between them, he said.  
Worthy and valiant knights, I do most heartily desire you, that for this time you would cease and leave off your battle, for that it is now night, and neither of you hath hitherto lost any point or jot of your honours. Then came thither also the fair Medea mounted upon her palfrey, and put herself in the midst of them, and said: Here openly I do profess and say, that I hold myself very well contented with the prowess of my knight, and I do set him free & at liberty of the promise that he made unto me, in revengeing of the death of Raiartes my Father, & without any other condition, I will strait ways receive him for my husband. So when the Emperor and Medea had said these worde●, the knight of the Sun did strait ways withdraw himself (for that he did very much esteem of the strange knight), saying, that it was great pleasure unto him to obey their commandment, and not to contend for the end of that battle. Then the strange knight when he saw the Emperor in the midst betwixt them, & also heard the words which Medea had spoken, seeing that it could be no otherwise, also withdrew himself, although it was with great sorrow, anger, & grief, for that he had rather have been slain in that battle, than to escape with life. So when that their battle was separated, the knight of the Sun went unto the strange knight, with determination to be his friend, and to know him, and being very nigh unto him ready for to speak, the strange knight without the hearing of any other said: O Traitor and false Pagan, how doth God permit that the earth doth sustain thee? S●e that thou dost return hither again to morrow in the morning, for that here in this place I will abide thy coming, and will never departed from hence till I have bereft thee of thy life, for that it is against the divine providence thou shouldest live any longer to deceive others.  
The strange knight had not well concluded these words, when that in his speech and utterance of words, as also in his proportion & gentle demeanour, the knight of the Sun did know of a very certainty, that it shoul● be the royal Princes Claridiana, for whom he had passed so great sorrow and grief, then knowing her, and considering of the cruel and rigorous battle that he made with her, and being by her known and defied, he received so great sorrow and grief at his heart, that he fell in a s●●nd, and clean from all remembrance, wherewith he fell from his Horse to the earth. Then the Emperor and all the princes & knights that were with him, not knowing the occasion of that sudden alteration, but being greatly amazed to see that sudden ●al, alighted from their horses, & took him up in their arms and pulled of his helm that he might receive air, but it did little profit, for that he was so far gone that he seemed to be dead, and although they threw water in his face, yet could they not bring him again unto himself, for the which the emperor and all the rest were very sore troubled, and was the occasion that there arose in that place a great tumult, saying that it could be no other thing but that he was dead. And the Empress his mother which was a● the window beholding all that passed, as astonished and full of anguish and sorrow, withdrew herself into the palace, and fell down in the arms and lap of the Princess Olivia, who was by her, where as she remained a good while as one from herself, till such time as the Emperor came & comforted her: but yet in all this time the knight of the Sun was not come unto himself. Then the Emperor communded that he should be carried into the palace, so Rosicler his brother and those worthy princes, did carry him in their arms into his chamber, unarming him & pulling of his apparel, they laid him in his bed, whether came strait ways the best doctors in Physic and Surgery that were in all Constantinople, and perusing him in all parts of his body, they ●ound that in no part he had received any such blow that might be the occasion of such dismay, the which they made manifest unto all that were there present, saying, that it should proceed of some other thing in secret, and not of the battle passed, for that he had be received no such-blow that should cause him so much grief, requesting to comfort themselves, for that that trance would soon pass away, if that they would let him alone and suffer him to take his rest. So when the doctors had said these words, the Emperor and all the rest were very glad, and having intelligence how that the Empress was very ill with that sudden chance of her son, they left the knight of the Sun in his bed, and went unto her & comforted her saying, that the malady of her son was nothing, & that speedily he should be well again. By reason of all this trouble with the knight of the Sun, the Emperor had no time for to speak unto the strange knight for to know him, although he had a great desire thereto: but remembering him, he commanded certain knights for to go & seek him, but he could not be found in the palace, neither in all the city, for that strait ways at such time as they had carried the knight of the Sun out of the place into the palace, the royal Empress Claridiana, (who was of certain that strange knight) went forth of the city, in the company of Medea, and her damsels, and although it was night & ●erie dark, yet did they not let to travail three miles from Constantinople, & in a fair green forest they passe● away the rest of the night that remained, whereas she was required of love, by Medea, for that she loved her marvelously well, thinking that she had been a knight. For as the 〈◊〉 faith, that as the Empress Claridiana remained in ●rapisonda, very dolorous and heavy, for the news that her damsel Areania had brought her, she did somewhat quiet herself 〈◊〉 such time as she might hear of the coming of the knight of the Sun into Grecia, for that then (by reason of th● great anger she had received against him) she would with her own hands take revengement, of the faith which she thought he had falsified, and the love was not so great which before she bore unto him, but now the evil will and hate did far surmount the same.  
And when she understood that he was come into Grecia, she armed herself with black armour, and alone with the company of those two 〈◊〉 she departed out of the mighty City of Trapisonda, and being at Sea, her fortune carried her unto the kingdom of the Sardoes, whereas was this Medea, daughter unto Raiartes, who had a mighty strong Castle whereon the sea did beat, hard unto the port whereas her most abiding was, and had continuall●● in her company one hundredth knights, who all her commandment did arrest all that came unto that port, and carried them pris●uers before her, whom she made to swear to aid ● help her for to make revengement upon the knight of the Sun for the death of her father, with all their force and powers possible, and if they did deny, refusing to 〈◊〉 that oath, she caused them to be put prisoner's into a deep dungeon, till such time as they should by force do that which she commanded. So likewise she made a vow, never to marry till such time as she were revenged on the knight of the Sun. So as soon as the Empress was entered unto the port, strait ways her ship was ●oorded on either side with two mighty great 〈◊〉 full of knights, and willed her to yield herself prisoner, with whe●●e she had a rigorous battle in the defence thereof, wherein she slew many of those knights, the contention went forwards, and she marvelously defended herself, at which time Medea was at a window of the Castle, & did behold all that did pass, the strange knight did content her very much, and she greatly marveled at his mighty bounty and worthiness, and fearing the great slaughter that might happen, she called unto her knights with a loud voice, commanding them to withdraw themselves, and to leave their battle with the knight▪ Who when they heard her, they strait 〈◊〉 retired and left him. Then Medea spoke unto the 〈…〉 her to go a land, and 〈◊〉 come before her, for that she h●ped to conclude with her with reque●●●, that wh●ch her knights could not by ●orce, so as it 〈◊〉 unto her in 〈◊〉 her request, could not pro●●de nothing but good, she went a land, and entered into the castle where as Medea was, who received her very courteously, and showed her the occasion wherefore her knights laboured so much for to take her prisoner. Then she who at that present desired no other thing but to be revenged on the knight of the Sun, strait ways said, that if she had known thereof before, she would never have maintained that contention against her knights, for that she likewise came forth of her country to seek the knight of the Sunn●, with the like demand for a certain anger and grief conceived against him. But when that Medea heard that, with so great joy and pleasure as ever she received in all her life, she embraced the Empress and requested him to pull of his helm, who at the great request and importance of her, did pull it of. And for that she had her rubicond hair knit up in a call of gold, Medea did believe verily that she was a knight, & was with the sudden sight of her so stroke with love & prisoner thereto, that she could not refrain but must needs discover the same unto her, & promised to marry with him, if he made revengement on the knight of the Sun: the which seemed unto the Empress to be a good occasion and colour for her to enter into Grecia, and to defy the knight of the Sun, she would not discover herself unto Medea, but did dissemble with her, saying, that ●he did her great pleasure therein, and would strait ways depart for Grecia. But Medea, who was marvelously in love with her, and loath to leave her, said, that she would bear her company, for that she would be present to see her make the battle with the knight of the Sun. The Empress was very glad thereof, and betwixt them was appointed the time of their departure. So after that she had remained there two days, they went to sea and arrived in Grecia, and came unto the city of Constantinople, in the order as you heard before. In the mean time that they were in the forest, after the battle made with the knight of the Sun, Medea was still deceived, believing that the Empress had been a knight, and for that they should remain there all that night, after they had supped, with certain victuals brought thither by her damsels.  
Medea did never ●eace requiring the Empress of love, offering herself to be her wife, and said, that she would take her to be her husband, without any other consideration, and that it was not her will that she should return any mor● to combat with the knight of the Sun: at the which words the Empress would have laughed very much, if the great grief which she had received in her heart, would have consented to the same, but by reason that one way her mind was occupied, in considering what she was of herself, and to be forgotten for an other damsel. And again calling to remembrance in what estate the knight of the Sun remained at their departure out of Constantinople, she was so full of anguish, sorrow and grief, that she little minded the amorous words that Medea spoke unto her, neither could the wrath and anger that she conceived against the knight of the Sun, do so much, but that the love which was printed within her heart could do much more, and caused her to repent herself for that which she had done, and to receive great grief for the estate in the which she had left the knight of the Sun. Likewise in that she had proved his mighty force and courage, her love did so double and increase, that she thought verily that there was not in the whole world but he alone that did deserve her to be his wife, which was the occasion that her grief was the more, by reason that she was without all hope. And it is to be bel●●ued, as the wise Li●gandeo saith, that there was never sorrow of a damsel for love, equal unto this of the royal Empress Claridiana, for that she seeing herself to be without comparison, as well in beauty & fairness, as in all other graces which should be in a gentlewoman, likewise in blood and highness, none did pass her: and seeing that a knight, whom she did love with all her heart, and with whom she alonely might marry, confirmable unto her highness, and he receiving her for his own, and now to have forgotten her and changed her for an other of meaner estate. And again seeing that there remained not in all the world a Prince nor knight that is worthy of her lou●, so that the had i●st cause to receive grief and sorrow, more than any other, and as her cause is great, so much more should her grief be, in especial having (as she had) so excellent and clear understanding, for to conceive the same. So with this mortal anguish doth the History 〈◊〉 her & Medea, for to tell you of the knight of the Sun, which was in his bed.   

How the knight of the Sun came again unto himself, and as one desperate for the battle that he had with the Empress Claridiana he departed the court of the Emperor Treba●o. Chap. 〈◊〉.  
GReat part of the night was the knight of the Sun so far out of all remembrance, that it seemed to be mortal, till such time as was passed the dolour of his senses, the which y● sudden grief did cause unto him, and transported unto a very ●ound & sweet sleep, in such sort, ●hat all men did see that he slept very q●●ietlie, which was the occasion that the Emperor and those high Princes and knights went to take their rests, and le●● him all alone with his two squires, Biniano, and Aurelio, In this order he ●l●pt a while, and being past midnight, he dreamed that he was in battle as the day before, with the which he awaked and started us, as one that was scared, but when he saw himself in his bed, and by him certain torches burning, he strait way called to remembrance the battle that he had had with the strange knight, and how that it was his i●●stresse the Empress Clarid●ana: The remembrance whereof did cause so great sorrow and grief, that as a furious man and one from himself he threw all the clothes from him and arose up from his bed, and ●inding his apparel he put them on, and began to arm himself without the h●lp of any, till such time as his squires (w●●●ere a sleep) with the noise thereof did awake, and seeing what their Lord did, with great marvel they asked him why he did arm himself, but the knight of the Sun made them no answer, but made haste to be armed. The● they seeing that he made no account of their 〈…〉 and did help him, till that he was wholly 〈…〉 being done, he commanded 〈…〉 horse in a readiness, and ●o bring him 〈…〉 the palace, who seeing his Lord with so 〈…〉; durst not ask him any other question, but 〈…〉, and went and made his horse in a readiness, and 〈…〉 were saddled and bridled and brought to the palace gate, the knight of the Sun descended out of his 〈…〉 when he saw the horse of his squires 〈…〉 asked Biniano wherefore he had 〈…〉 own, who answered him and 〈…〉 with him. I will none of 〈…〉, there shall none of you go with 〈…〉 you remain here with the 〈…〉 may gratify you for the gread good 〈…〉 unto 〈◊〉, for that I d●e go● thither 〈…〉 have no power to do you any good: neither 〈…〉 whether ever I shall return again into this 〈…〉 no, any more.  
When his squires heard him say these words, for the great good will that they did hear him, they began to lament and weep for very grief, and their tears were so great, that almost they could not speak, yet A●●cho sake, at such time as our father did give us unto you to be our Lord, he did not give us for that you should make us either Kings or Lords, neither to give us any recompense for our service, for that he did not know you as then to be s● noble a prince, but a travailing knight, but his gift of us unto you was only to serve you, and ●●at We 〈◊〉 take you for our Lord, all the days of our 〈…〉 of any other reward, but to learn of you good manners and conditions, and new seeing it is so, we do 〈…〉 pray and desires you, that you would not leave us 〈◊〉 tute of your campanie, with this excuse that you have told us, for that we had rather die with you, in what place soever it be, then to have all that the Emperor our Lord can give us, and we shall have great reason to complain of you, if that in the end of so long time that we have been in your séruice, you will leave us, for surely our father will think no other occasion, which driveth you to leave us, but only that we are not for to serve you▪ With no less 〈◊〉 than Aurelio, his brother Biniano said as much unto the knight of the Sun, desiring him that he would think well of them, and to take them with him in his company: who when he saw their great ●●portunatie, without speaking any word he mounted upon his Horse, and departed out of the palace, and his squires followed him, and being forth of the City, they made so great haste in their travail, that when the day did break, they were a great way of from Constantinople, and fearing that some would follow after them, they left the high way and put themselves into a fair green & fresh forest, merua●lously full of trees, and in a part of the wilderness of Grecia, very famous and nota●●●, as well for the mightiness thereof, as to be very plain, for that in one hundredth miles travailing, you could not find any one mountain or hill, the which was very fresh and delightful, full of orchards and gardens, and thick trees, that few times they that doth enter into the same, can find the way out again. And travailing in the same this valiant knight with his heart so furious and full of sorrow, grief and anger, that he thought it would break within his body.  
His squires seeing him so full of anguish and grief, they kept themselves a good way behind him, for fear of his wrath and displeasure, but he was so persaue and heavy in his heart and mind, that his Horse carried him at his pleasure, for that he made no account to rule him to the one side nor unto the other: and as he road all alone, in these pensine cogitations, as you before have heard, they heard him say as followeth.  
OH traitor and false knight, whether dost thou go, and what dost thou ●éeke, how is it th●at thou dost now live in the world, having committed so great treason: O● earth why dost thou not▪ open and swallow me up into thy profoundness, for that such a traitor as I am doth not delexue other sepulchre: Oh if it were Gods will, that thou didst now open, and that all the four Glements might fall together upon me, as the fire did against Ale●b●atl●s the good Captain of Grecia, and the air and water as against Pompeyo, being drowned in the deep seas of Egypt, & Alexander horn in Epiro, and drowned in the ●iuer Lucano, Likewise that the earth might be against me, as it was against him, who with a great and mighty army was drowned ●n the sants: Oh high and congealed clouds, how sweet and in peaceable sort should ●ound in my ears the timorous noise of your wonderful and sudden thunders, if that from them might descend upon me the beams of burning fire, as they did descend upon Carro Emperor of Rome in the wars of Tiger, and upon Hosti●●o king of the Romans, who being in his palace, was slain by two sudden lightnings: Oh that my force and strength were so contrary now unto me, as was the force of Milo, and that this my horse might draw me through this forest, or that by some other occasion I might end my life, so that I did it not myself for the safeguard of my soul, and when that all these disasters doth fail me, then do I desire God that my wits may fail me, and my understanding, as did Hercules and Ajax Telamonius the Greek, for that I being mad & furious as they were, might not feel my misfortune and unhappy lot. What is he in all the world that ever felt any anguish, sorrow, and grief, that may be compared unto mine? What shall I do, and whether shall I go? Why should I live any longer upon the earth, for that I have not alonely been a traitor unto my Lady and mistress, but also as a mortal enemy I have laid upon her with my sword? What misfortune may happen worse unto me than this, to see her desire my death, in whom standeth all the state of my life, yet have I committed against her so great evil and error, that she hath just cause to procure my death, and I lack of reason for to excuse me, but now seeing that it is so, that I am abhorred of my Lady, I will not kill myself, for the safeguard of my soul like a faithful Christian, but I will thither whereas none shall know nor hear any news of me whether I he ali●ie or dead, yea, there whereas the brute beasts cannot live, for that so false and distoiall a man as I am deserveth not to live, whereas they do receive comfort of the Sun and the sweetness of the air.  
So saying these and many other things, this good knight travailed, being very furious, not desiring any other thing, but wherein it might cost him his life. And as he travailed a space in this sort, and being entered a good way into the wilderness, looking before him that way which his horse carried him, he saw come forth out of a narrow path, from amongst a ambushment of thick trees, a mighty big knight, mounted upon a mighty horse, all armed in black armour, so big membered, that he lacked little to be a Giant, and as he drew nigh unto him, he saw that he carried his ●eauer lift up, and that he was of so furious semblance, and brave countenance, and by his big stature and well proportioned members, he seemed to be very valiant, and seeing him come in this manner, he said within himself.  
Oh that my fortune were such, that this whom I now meet, were that Milo, or that mighty Hercules, or some other of no less force, strength, and valiantness than they, that might so ●orment my strength in such sort, that this my body so dis●oial, might remain in these fields for ●oode, unto the brute beasts: but my soul into the place of ease in eternal glory, for whom it was created.  
In saying these words, this big knight mer●ailing very much at the brave and gentle disposition of the knight of the Sun, did stay his mighty horse, and beholding him he said: Tell me Knight, art thou by fortune of the court of the Emperor ●rebatio? I am, said the knight of the Sun: Then tell me, if thou comest from thence, if there remaineth a knight that is called the knight of the Sun, said this big knight? Wherefore wouldst thou know this, said the knight of the Sun? I would know this, said ●he other, for that I come from a far Country in his demand, for to kill him. The knight of the Sun was so far out of order and angry, that it grieved him nothing to hear him say so, & therefore he said: Tell me who thou art, and what is the occasion that thou wilt kill him, for that I am he that in this world doth most desire the death of this knight, and if thou dost tell me this which I do ask thee, I will tell thee where thou shalt find this knight of the Sun, and not far from this place thou shalt meet with him. Then the great knight who was glad of these news, said: Thou shalt understand that I am called Brandimardo, and son to Affricano that was king of Media, he that the knight of the Sun slew in Babylon, and I am come for no other thing into this Country, but to revenge the death of my Father, and travailing towards the mighty City of Constantinople, there were certain Knights which did misuse me, and having battle with them, of seven that were together I slew four, and the other three fled, and harboured themselves in this wilderness, & I following them lost my way, in such sort, that I have been four days wandering herein without eating any other thing than such wild fruits as these trees doth yield. This is the whole resolution of thy demand, therefore tell me now that which thou promisedst unto me, for that I shall receive so great pleasure as though I were made Lord over all the world, to meet with this knight so quickly as thou hast said. Then Brandimardo (said he) thou shalt understand that I am this knight of the Sun whom thou dost seek, and truth it is that I slew Affricano in a valiant battael that we had in the mighty City of Babylon, but I slew him in equal battle being defied by him first, so that thou nor none other hath any reason for to demand his death at my hands.  
Oh immortal Gods (said Brandimardo) what great courtesy is this that your divine majesties hath showed unto me this day, in that I have met with this knight, which is the thing that I have most desired in this world. And in saying these words he put down his beaver, and having never a spear, for that he broke his with the seven knights that before ●he did combat with, he drew out a very heavy and 〈…〉, and laid 〈◊〉 the Knight of the Sun; Come 〈◊〉 and let us begin the battle, for that I am determined not to departed from hence till such time as one of us doth remain here dead in this wilderness. Then the knight of the Sun being determined not to make battle with him with 〈◊〉 word, for that he had strooken therewith the 〈◊〉 Claridiana his 〈◊〉, supposing that there was no knight worthy to receive any blows therewith, he went unto an overgrowen Oak, whose branches were very big, he set both his hands unto a branch thereof, and did tear it as though it had been a great willow, and cutting off the ●●al branch●s, and retaining it with his hands, he made 〈…〉 full of knots, and of so great weight, that sonie other knight had enough to do to lift it from the ground. But Brandimardo seeing that he would enter with him in 〈◊〉, not knowing what should move him thereunto, having other weapon, he said: Knight of the Sun, wherefore have you done this, having at thy girdle a sword? It sée●eth unto: me that thou hadst rather make thy battle with batres like a base Country man, than with thy sword, as becometh a good knight. Then the knight of the Sun said: Thou shalt understand Brandimardo, that I do refuse to make battle with my sword for no other thing ●ilt this, for that few dai●s past (without any knowledge thereof) I made battle with a damsel who is of high estate 〈…〉, considering that I did strike and oppress her ●here with, there is no mortal knight that is worthy to 〈…〉 blow therewith, and here I do tell thee, that first I would consent to be torn in pieces than to unsheathe it to strike thee. This Brandimardo was a young knight, 〈…〉 Affricano was slain, he had not 〈◊〉 the order of Knighthood, and was one of the most valiantest & strongest that was to be found in all the Pagan Country, & as it seemed afterward unto the 〈◊〉 of the Sun, he was of ●reater force and strength than his Father, and w●s of more dexterity in battle. Also with this he was very furious and s●●ut, that at such time as he was angry, there was none so hardy as durst abide before him, although they were a thousand knights, yet he feared not them for that he was so valiant and hardy, who seeing that his adversary would not make battle with the sword, because he would not have that vantage, he sheathed his sword again, and went unto that great Oak whereas th● knight of the Sun had rend off his branch, he set both his hands unto another of no less greatness than his, and renting it off with great facility, as one of great strength, after that he had dressed and righted it in the best manner he could, with great fury he went against the ●night of the Sun, who was abiding his coming, at which meeting, they did the one charge upon the other with so 〈◊〉 fury. that before hath not been seen a battle in such order and of so unusual weapons, so well fought, for the the●r blows were very thick, and stroke with outrageous ●urie, in such sort that there was none that ●id behold them but had great fear and dread only in the sight of their blows. In this sort they 〈◊〉 more than one hour, and never 〈◊〉, charging one another that it was wonderful to behold, and no advantage known of either part, yet were they greatly amazed e●●●er of them at the force and 〈…〉 in especial Brandimardo, for that before ●●me he had 〈◊〉 the force of many knights and s●out 〈…〉 did he never prove the like in all points, 〈…〉 in him which was before him, & that not without great reason he was so praised and exalted amongst all the 〈◊〉, yet notwithstanding of his person he was 〈…〉 and furious, that not one point of his courage did 〈◊〉 him in that battle, but he did in such sort enforce 〈◊〉 and charge the knight of the Sun, that he gave him very well to understand, that it was convenient to use the uttermost of his courage, and the two Squires that were present did tremble for very fear to see with what great fury these two did make their terrible combat, but both these knights being very full of wrath and anger because the battle endured so long betwixt them, they stretched themselves upon their stiroppes, and took their knotted bats in both their hands, and struck each other such terrible blows upon their healmes, that all astonied they both fell down upon their horses necks forwards, and their batres being broken all to pieces flew into the air and made a terrible noise, but when these noble warriors came unto their remembrances and found themselves without weapon, either of them laid hands upon his adversary, and did embrace other with so great strength, that it seemed their breasts and backs would meet together, if their good armour had not defended the same. In this sort they were wrestling the one with the other a good while without any advantage, so that in conclusion they were constrained to separate themselves, and with great fury either of them ran unto a mighty Oak, and laying hold on bigger branches than before they had, with great swiftness they fore them off, and dressing them in the best wise they could, they returned unto their former battle, striking the one upon the other so strong and mighty blows, that all the wide and great wilderness did sound at the fury of them. But yet this second battle did endure but a while, for that although that Brandimardo was very valiant, and showed himself to ●ée exceeding stout and furious, yet the knight of the Sun being wrathful and kindled in ire, at his terrible blows there was no resistance to be made, for that he struck them in such order and so thick, that this stout Brandimardo did plainly see that his strength did increase, and repented himself that ever he came from so far Countries to have contention with him, yet notwithstanding because he would vantage himself of his great strength, he raised himself in his stiroppes, and with both his hands he struck such a blow at the knight of the Sun, that he astonished him, and his horse carried him about the field: but Brandimardo did not long glory in giving this blow, for that the knight of the Sun came strait ways again unto his remembrance, abandoned with wrath and 〈◊〉, he returned his horse with great fury, and with both his hands he struck him so furious a blow upon the his helm, that he made it fly from his head a great way from him, and gave a ●ound like a Bell, and his mighty bat fell to the ground all to shievered, Brandimardo remaining so astonished and from himself, as though he had been dead, and lay a long● upon his horse neck, voiding from his mouth, nose, and eyes great abundance of blood, his horse being tormented with the force thereof, did carry his master into the wood amongst the thick trees, in such sort, that not making any staying, he ran more than two miles with him before that ever Brandimardo came again unto himself. Then the knight of the Sun seeing him in that case, did leave him, without making any account thereof, but forthwith set spurs unto his horse, and road forwards on his journey, saying unto himself.  
Oh that I had met with Brandimardo at some other time than now, then would I have made more account of him, and would have done him more honour than I did at this present, for that he seemeth unto me to be a merua●lous good and valiant knight. But what account can he make of another, that esteemeth not his own life? In this sort travailed the knight of the Sun four days in that wilderness, wheresoever his horse would carry him, and not by his government, maintaining himself with such wild fruit as were there nourished, no more than was sufficient to nourish nature, because he would not kill himself desperately. It was one hour after the battle was ended before that the stout Brandimardo came again unto himself, who finding himself alone and without his helm, his no●e and face all swelled, and his ears full of blood, he strait ways ●ell into reckoning in what perplexity and misery h●● was brought, then like a mad man, ●urious, and from himself, he did blaspheme against his Gods, and against all their powers, for that they had showed themselves so contrary against him, and returning to seek his helm, the History doth leave him and the knight of the Sun, for to tell you what passed in this time in the Court of the Emperor ●rebatio.   

How in the Court of the Emperor Trebatio was found lacking the Knight of the Sun, and being all very sad and sorrowful, there came Letters from the wi●e Lyrgandeo, which made them all amazed. Chap. 13.  
THE night being passed in which the knight of the Sun departed, early in the morning the next day, the Emperor Trebatio with his son Rosicler, accompamed with those worthy Princes and Knights, went unto his chamber for to see him, but when they could not find him, his armour, nor his squires, they were all very sorry for his sudden departure, yet were they glad because he was escaped and void of peril: but the Emperor commanded strait ways that many knights should go forth and seek him, as also the strange knight, for that he was very sorrowful that he departed in such sort without knowing him, because he showed himself to be a valiant and worthy knight. So by reason of the departure of the knight of the Sun, they were all that day in suspense, being all together in a quadran that was in the great hall, after that dinner was done, there entered in at the door of the palace, a Gentlewoman of very strange attire, contrary unto that Country, and after her entered a savage Giant, fierce and terrible to behold, without any other apparel or armour, but a very thick and bushy hair wherewith he was covered, with two great horns like a Bull on his ●orehead, and a great tail behind him like an Ox, who brought upon his shoulder a chest fast locked, and made no more a do at his entering into the hall, but set it down on the ground, and so departed again that he was never more seen, whose strange 〈◊〉, caused great laughter unto the Emperor and all those worth●e Princes, and to the contrary, great fear and dread unto the Empress, the princess O●uia and Lindaraza, and unto all the rest of the Ladies and damsels that were there present, for that his savage countenance was very terrible to behold. Then the strange gentlewoman making great reverence unto the Emperor, said as followeth.  
HE that doth rule and govern the high Heavens and Earth, save and increase thy high estate, most mighty Emperor Trebatio: the wise Lirgandeo, & the king Florion of Persia, (who greatly desireth to serve thee) as well for the highness of thy person, as for the great friendship that they have with thy son the knight of the Sun, do send greeting, and do kiss thy imperial hands, and doth most heartily request thee by me, that you would take and accept them as your own subjects, for that thou shalt find●e them always faithful and loyal unto the death: and besides all this, the wise Lirgandeo doth send thee this packet of letters, by the which, as one that hath achieved by his wisdom, the acknowledging of things for to come, doth give thee advisement o● some that is requisite and doth accomplish very much thy honour, as shall appear by the same. And in saying these words, the gentlewoman kneeled down before the Emperor, and kissing his hands she delivered unto him the letters. Then the Emperor with great love did cause her to arise, and took the letters and gave them unto his son Rosicler, for to read them, who did open them and read them, that all that were present, might hear it, the contents were as followeth.  
HIgh and mighty Emperor of Grecia, although these my letters be strange and new unto thee, yet is it no new thing, in the good will which I have to serve thee, for that above all Princes in the world thou dost deserve the same, as also for the great duty and service in which we are bound unto thy son, doth constrain us to acknowledge thee to be our Lord, and to give the counsel as unto our v●rie good friend. The hearts of valiant and stout barons, there is nothing sufficient to disturb them, and therefore in few words I will show thee the cause wherefore I do write unto thee. Thou shalt understand good Emperor, that all the Pagans of the 〈…〉 against thee, and in a short time there will 〈◊〉 together so great an army, that those of Darins & Xerxes, altogether were not so many, and the chief Captain and general of them all is, the Emperor Alicandro, father unto the Princess Lindabrides, Emperor of the 〈◊〉, king of the Scitas and Lord over the oriental region, who as thy 〈…〉 will pass into Grecia; with determination and good will for ●o destroy th●e. He hath in his company so many 〈◊〉 and valiant knights & other of mighty stature, that it shall be requisite, thy great power and valiant courage, with the aid and help of all thy friends. On the other side doth arise the 〈◊〉 regions, who with great and mighty armies, shall 〈◊〉 all the Grocian fields against thee, but have a good heart i● all things, and make thyself readie● for that these mighty things are not ordained for base stomachs, but for the mighty and generous as thou art. Neither doth the valiantness of the heart show itself so much, as it doth in receiving the 〈◊〉 blows of Fortune, who always showeth itself most contrary, at such time as he is exalted unto the highest of her whole. And for that all that ever I can declare unto thee in this matter is spoken of in a prophesy, which the wise Artemidoro writ upon the forefront of this palace, I will enlarge no 〈◊〉, but say, that all shall come to pass as it is there written. Also my nephew king 〈◊〉 and I, willbe shortly in Grecia, with so much people as possible we 〈◊〉, and take you no sorrow and grief● for the 〈◊〉 of the knight of the 〈◊〉 for although many days sha●● pass before you see him, yet the time will come, that his sight shallbe more acceptable unto thy royal person, then at this present, wherewith▪ I conclude in kissing thy Imperial hands.  
This Letter being read by Rosicleer, it caused in them some alteration, save only in the Emperor Trebatio, and in him that did read it, for the which they 〈◊〉 moved semblance, neither did appear in their faces that they received any trouble thereat, although the Letter did import much matter of great importance, because in equal sort they could suffer both adversity and prosperity. This being done, the Gentlewoman did strait ways open the coffer that the savage brought in, & took out thereof a suit of armour all red, of so fine a colour and glittering steel, that all the pieces thereof seemed as though they had been made of fine Rubies, and upon the ●réast of the 〈◊〉 there a crown of very 〈◊〉 and rich s●ones, that 〈◊〉 them very well to understand for whom it was. And when she had taken it all out, she turned herself unto the Emperor and said: This armour the wise Lyrgandeo doth send unto thee, for that considering the great dangers and perils that are ordained against thee, he hath nothing at this present to send thee, that shall be more profitable, and he doth desire thee that thou wilt put on no other armour but this, for that he hath made it with his own hands, and used therein all his knowledge, only for the safeguard of thy person. The Emperor Trebatio was very glad and joyful of that armour the which the Gentlewoman brought him, but much more of the good advise and warning the which the wise Lyrgandeo did write him, as from his good and perfect friend, and knew not how to gratify so great friendship & good will as the wise man did show unto him. Then those mighty Princes & worthy knights which were there present, said unto the Emperor, that it was good he should understand in putting remedy to prevent that which the wise man did give him warning of, & to put all the people of his Empire in a read●nesse that he be not taken tardy, and also to write unto his friends for their ai●e and help all that was possible. So amongst them all, ●he first that arose up was the Prince Claverindo, and offered himself to depart out of hand into the kingdom of France, and to bring from thence all the people that ever he could make. Then straightways arose up the good king Sacridoro, and said as much: and after him Bargandel of Bohemia, and the two princes Rodomarte and Rodofeo, and many other more that were there present, and subject unto the Emperor, whom altogether did offer unto him aid, with their own persons, and with all the people that they might well bring out of their countries.  
Here the valiant Tartarian Zoylo, could not offer any aid or help unto the Emperor, for that he was certain and sure, that the king his father, and all his people would not be against the Emperor Alicandro, neither could not that worthy Oristedes, for that the people of that destroyed Troy, were very few, neither could not the king Alamades, for that hi● kingdom of Cornwall, was in great Britain▪ Likewise the Prince Liriamandro, for that he was fully certified, that his Father the King of Hungaria, came in the favour of the king Oliverio, against the Emperor Trebatio, but yet all four of them did offer to aid him with their persons, promising never to fail him, so long as life did last. At which friendly offer, the Emperor Trebatio, received so great joy & pleasure to see with what good will they did offer themselves, that his joy did much more surmount the anger that he received, when he heard the news sent him by the wise Lirgandeo, and gave unto his son Rosicler, the charge in answering of the wise man, gratifying him very much for his good advice, as also for the aid of his person and people, as he wrote unto him. So● Rosicler, took the charge upon him for to dispatch the Dainsell, unto whom the Empress his Mother gave many rich and precious jewels. And he wrote unto the wise man a letter, in the name of the Emperor, such a one, that he received great pleasure in the sight thereof. So after that this Damsel was departed from the City, within few days after the prince Claverindo departed for France, and Ba●gandel for Bohemia, and the other princes every one into his own country.  
Then the good king Sacridoro at such time as he should departed towards his Country, he went to take his leave of his great friend Rosicler, who as unto the best friend he had in the world, did embrace him, and not without shedding of many tears, he said.  
Ah my good friends, I had thought that all my evil fortunes had been concluded, that you might have gone, as is great reason, to have taken your rest and ease, whereas you have been so long looked for of that worthy ●●éene Oriselua, but now I see my fortune to be such, that wh●● a man doth think himself to be at most quietness a●d ease, then doth she begin a new to give me troubles, to that new I have more need of your help and aid th●n heretofore, desiring of God to gratify you for the same, for that of myself I am not able, and he doth well 〈◊〉 how ●●●uous it is to me as now to leave your 〈…〉 considering the state of all things, it is 〈…〉 I should be absent one day from the Court. Then the good king Sacridoro with great love did embrace Rosicleer, and said.  
My good Lord, in nothing can fortune show herself more favourable unto me, than to of●er occasion wherein I may employ the good will that I have to serve you, only to pay part of that wherein I am so greatly bound unto you, and these which you do call misfortunes, are unto me good and happy fortunes, as well to have occasion not to lose your company so soon, which is so acceptable unto me, as also the more for the extolling of your fortune: and my good Lord, you ought not so greatly to 〈◊〉 that things should so fall out to make you careful, and put your friends to trouble, for that being your Father and brother and you of so great highness, of pu●e force you should show yourself stout against envy, and enemy unto them of the world, for that the most highest Pine 〈◊〉 are more assaulted of the winds than the other low tr●es, and the highest mountains more subject unto the thundering and tempests that are conicaled in the Clouds. Thus these and many other things passed between these two good and perfect friends, till such times as with many tears they took their leave the one of the other. So after that the king Sacridoro had taken his leave of the Emperor, the Empress, and of all the rest of his friends, he departed out of the mighty City of Constantinople, and coming to the sea side, he did embark himself in a good ship, and made sail towards the kingdom of Antiochia, and Rosicler remained in great solitariness for lack of his company, for that the love which he bore unto him was very great, who seeing how much it did touch him, that which should happen, although his father the Emperor Trebatio, with great diligence did understand in the providing of all things necessary. He likewise on the other part did all that ever he could for to join together the army, and in writing unto his friends, giving them to understand of the great need that he had of them. But the absence of the knight of the Sun was unto him very grievous, for that he would not that at that time he should be absent from the Court, and for to tell you what passed with him, the History doth leave the other till time.   

How the knight of the Sun came forth of the wilderness of Grecia, and sailing by sea, was by a mighty storm carried unto the solitary Island, whereas was the devilish Fauno. Chap. 14.  
WIth great sorrow & grief did this History leave the knight of the Sun, travailing through that wide, long, & thick wilderness of Grecia, after that he had made the battle with Brandimardo, in the which he travailed many days, and could never find the way out, in which time there happened unto him many great and notable adventures, the which the author doth leave to rehearse, for to make short this first part. So after a good while that the knight of the Sun had travailed in that wilderness alone with his two Squires, in the end he came unto the sea side, whose fortune was such, that at the same instant there was come a land out of a boat certain Mariners that came to seek fresh water for a ship that was at the sea a good way from the land, in the which ship was to the number of thirty knights that came from the Island of Cand●a, and were bound unto M●fia, which is now called Transiluania, unto certain triumphs and feasts that were there ordained, and as the Mariners were returning for to embark themselves, the knight of the Sun did request them to receive him into their boat, for that it stood him 〈◊〉 upon to pass into the Country. The Mariners seeing him of so gentle disposition & well armed, they durst not say to the ●entrarie, but said they were very well content therewith. So this good knight did alight from his hor●e, & also his squires, and entered into the boat with their horses, the which being done, the Mariners began to row with great force till such time as they came unto the ship, whereas they were very well received of the knights, for that the comeliness of his person, jointly with the strange riches of his enchanted ar●●or, caused all them that did behold him to have him in great estimation, and to give him the honour that he deserved, but when that he did lift up the beaver of his 〈◊〉, they were all marvelously amazed to see how nature had wrought so great perfection in his face. Besides all this, in his co●●senance he showed so great grau●tie and 〈◊〉, that as he was tall and very well made, that there was 〈◊〉 one, as the wise Arte●ndoro saith, that ever did see him, but his heart did alter, and waxed timorous. And this was 〈◊〉 of the excellentest virtues that was in this Knight, th●t he never saw knight in the face, although he were a stranger; or otherwise known, that he would 〈◊〉 or make any evil account of him, and this virtue did increase in him from his youth, till such time as he came unto the perfectness of his strength, which was at such time as he had battle with that stout and valiant Bramarant, as shall be showed you in the sequ●ale of this History, for until that time, his force and strength, as also the bigness of his members did daily increase. So having very good entertainment by the knights that were in the ship, one of them asked him of whence he was, and he said, that he was of Grecia, and for that he said no more unto them, there was not one of them that asked him any other question, although it seemed unto them by his semblance, that there was some thing that did trouble and grieve him very much he was so heavy. Thus they travailed two days together with prosperous winds, passing away the time in the best manner he could, but the third day there arose a great torment in so terrible sort, that the ship wherein they were was in great peril to be lost. The winds did increase every moment more and more, in such furious sort, that all the cunning of the mariners did not serve for the government of the ship, but were driven of necessity for to yield her unto the courtesy of the wind and seas, driving wheresoever it pleased them. In this sort were they tumbled and tossed with that tempest all that day and the night following, without any semblance of calmness, and looked every minute for to be cast away, which put great fear amongst them all, saving unto the knight of the Sun, who seeing the Sea so troubled, and the mighty waves caused by those terrible winds, fight one with another, he was not alonely without all fear, but also did like well thereof, and it was agreeable unto his mind, as unto one that was weary of his own life, but the next day following, at such time as they were without all hope to escape that danger, fortune did so serve them, that the storm began to assuage, in such sort, that the Mariners might govern their ship, but they found that they were put a great way leeward from the place whether as they were determined to go, and sailing forwards on their journey, they discovered a far off an Island, and out of the midst thereof they might perceive ascend up into the air at times, great flames and sparks of fire, with a terrible dark and thick smoke, as though they had been burning of some dry things. And when they came nigh unto the same Island, the knights were all desirous to go there a land, for to ease and refresh themselves for that they were out of quiet with the storm passed, but the Mariners knowing the Island, haled jacks aboard, and ran of from the land all that ever they could, crying out & saying, they would not go thither, for that it was the Island of the devil, called the solitary Island, and how that if they went thither they should all die the death.  
When the knights of Candia heard these words, they were all greatly amazed, for they had heard before time very much of that Island. But the knight of the Sun who was inclined by his valiant heart to attempt high & mighty things, with great desire for to see what it was that they so greatly feared, he asked of the Mariners wherefore they called that the Island of the Devil, and why they feared so much the death if they should go thither? And although all the knights that were there present had heard very much of the great peril and danger of that Island, yet there was none that could declare the certainty thereof, but an old Pilot that came as passenger in the same ship, who had heard the whole truth thereof by certain men which left the said Island in respect of the great danger, and he seeing that the knight of the Sun had great desire to know the mystery thereof, in the presence of all the knights that were there present, began to declare the same as followeth.  
YOu shall understand (gentle Knight) that this Island was called in times past, the Island of Artimaga, for that it was governed by a woman so called, who was so abominable and evil, that never the like was seen nor heard of amongst women, for that after she came unto the age of fifteen years until the time of her death, which was more than thirty years, she never believed in God but in the devil, and there was no day that passed over her head, but she saw the devil in the figure of a man, and had talk and conversation with her, as though he had been her husband, and she did every day twice humble herself unto him and did worship him. The father and mother of this Artimaga were very evil and perverse, & being Lords and governors of this Island at their death, they left this Artimaga of the age of ten years, little more or less, and for that there was no heir male at their decease, she was forthwith accepted for Lady and governess of the whole Island, who when she saw that she was absolute of herself, and all in her disposition, she gave herself so much unto all the 〈◊〉 and vi●es of this world, that for her abominable sins and wickedness, God did permit that when this Artimaga came unto the age of fifteen years, she was deceived with the devil, and would never consent unto marriage, for that she would not submit herself under the obedience of her husband, but yet she had more than thirty gallants at her commandment, and had a great delight to change every year so many more, and with the great conversation that she had continually with the devil, she came to be so wise and cunning in the art Magic, that there was none in all her time, although he were never so cunning, that might be compared unto her. She used so many and diverse sorts of enchantments, that all those of the Island did fear her very much, and although her abominable and horrible li●e seemed very evil unto them all, yet durst they do no other thing, but to obey her for their Lady and governess. It so fell out that this cursed woman was never brought to bed, nor never was with child, although (in consideration thereof many times she would not for the space of two or three months together use the company but only of one man, for the which she received great sorrow and grief at her very heart, in seeing that she could not have any issue of her body that might succeed her in the Lordship of that Island, and many times when she was in company with the Devil, she did complain very much thereof, praying him earnestly with great devotion to do so much for her, that she might have a son, with whom she might comfort herself, and put some remedy unto the great sorrow which she received at her heart, for lack thereof. Then the deceitful devil, full of policy, & enemy unto all humane generation, having great desire to bring unto end that evil fortuned woman, the more surer to make his prey upon her soul, bethought himself of a marvelous evil, and said, that unto that time he would not consent that she should have any generation, in consideration that she loved him so well, he would not that she should conceive by any humane creature, but only by him, and that he determined to lie with her, certifying that she should fully persuade herself that the son that should be borne of her, should be the most strongest that should be found in all the world, and in respect of her love, that Island should be spoken of in all the world.  
These words of the devil, caused so great joy and pleasure in Artimaga, that as one from herself she fell down prostrate at his feet and kissed them, for that great benefit offered unto her, and with great importuna●ie she desired him strait way to put it in ure. Then the devil having no other determination but only to deceive her, said: thou shalt understand Artimaga that there is not given unto me so much power, for to know thee nor no humane woman, in the form of a rational man, but in some other figure and form of a wild beast that is furious and wonderful, the which is only for to show the difference that is betwixt our great power, and that of men. And again, that which shallbe begotten by me, to be of much more force and strength.  
When that Artimaga heard him say these words, with the great joy which she received, she was void of all care, and said unto him, that she should receive great contentment and pleasure therein, although he came in the most ugliest and fearfullest form that might be.  
So the devil fell at agreement with her, that upon a certain day she should go into a Park that was in that Island, being full of marvelous great and thick trees, (whereas she did many times go a hunting) and that he would there tarry her coming. Then the devil for to accomplish and bring to pass that which he had promised, went unto the deserts of Africa, & out from the most highest and aspar parts of all the mount Atlas, he brought forth a monstrous beast called Fauno, the most terriblest amongst all beasts, and they say that by reason of the great abomination used in times passed by men, having copulation with monstrous beasts, did so alter human nature, that in process of time it concluded in this so terrible and monstrous beast, the fashion and form thereof was as I will declare unto you: His body was as big as a great bull, in form and shape like a Lion, with his feet full of rugged hair, and the claws of his feet as big as twice a man's finger, and a span long, his breast as big as of a horse, and necked like an Elephant, and from that part upward both head and face like a man, with a long beard of hard and thick hair, but the head was very big, and out of the midst of his forehead came forth an horn as big as a man's arm and as long, whose force was such, as also in his arms, that there was no beast so furious and fierce, that was able to endure before him. Almighty God showed great favour unto mankind, for that of these beasts there are but a few in the world, and they are not to be found but on the highest parts of the mount Atlas, which is all desert and no inhabitation, for if they were whereas ●here is people, one of these beasts alone were sufficient for to destroy a whole kingdom. So the devil finding out this monstrous beast, he entered within him, and brought him unto this Island, and tarried within the Park till the coming of Artimaga at the hour appointed, who with the great desire that she had to conceive by the devil, detracted no time, but kept her hour, and although she had great astonishment at the fierceness and terrible semblance of that monster, yet for all that it did not abate her courage, believing of a certainty that it was the devil, and for that the devil was within the monster, he spoke by the mouth of y● Fauno all that was requisite. To conclude, he deceived Artimaga, and by the permission of God, for her sins and abominable desire, she was conceived by that devilish Fauno, in such sort, that she remained with child. Then she returned again unto her house, and the devil carried the monster unto the place from whence he brought him, and in the end of three months she felt herself with child, for the which she received so great joy and contentment as ever she did in all her life, believing of a certainty that the son that should be borne of her, should be the most strongest and mightiest in all the world, and never ceased giving thanks unto the devil, for that he was the author and father thereof. But in consideration that his original is evil, and hath no other desire nor delight but to deceive all human generation: even so all his works and deeds cannot be but evil, and in great danger & prejudice unto our souls. So the time was expired & the hour come that Artimaga should be delivered, and she was so big, broad, and swelled, that she could not move herself from one place unto another, in such sort, that all that did see her were greatly amazed, for that she seemed to be four times so big as she was before, and by reason that the fruit of her cohabitation was deformed, monstrous, and devilish, they had no hope of any natural birth by ordinary course, but rend and tore the belly and entrails of the mother, wherewith she died and yielded her soul unto him whom she so much believed and worshipped, and the child came forth, the most horriblest and terriblest creature that ever nature form. This child was scarce out of his mother's womb, when that with a devilish fury he tore in pieces all that ever were before him, and ran out o● the doors and took the field, destroying and killing all that ever he met withal, and never ceased till he came unto the Park and wood whereas he was begotten, and there he remained certain days, and never came forth till he was grown to a bigger stature, although then when he was borne, he was as big as reasonable Lion. He had not remained full half a year in these woods, but he increased so much, that he seemed to be as big as an Elephant, his form and figure was much more horrible than that of his father, although he did resemble him very much, and besides all this, he had a whole legion of devils within his body, who in a figure of armed men, many times came forth at his horrible mouth, and did great harm whereas they went, so that for this occasion he is called the devilish or possessed Fauno. So afterward when that he was come unto his full strength, which was within half a year, he left the woods, & went throughout all the Island, & did so much harm, that he left none alive where he became, some slain, and other some hearing the report of his cruelty, fled away, so that the Island is left desolate, and no inhabitants therein, neither any other living thing. So all those that have any notice of this Island, do not only refuse to land upon it, but also they dare not come nigh it with their ships, for that many times this possessed Fauno hath been seen enter into the sea a great stones cast, when that any ship or bark were nigh the shore, and if that by misfortune those unhappy travailers do fall into his hands, there is none that escapeth with their lives, for that with the horn that he hath in his forehead, at one only blow he teareth a ship in pieces, then after with his strong arms and unmerciful teeth he rends & tears in pieces all that is before him, and there is no strength of man, nor armour so strong, that can withstand his ●urie, for that his hoary skin is of so great hardness, that it is not possible for any weapon to enter it. This is the occasion (gentle knight) that this Island is so much spoken of, and so fearful unto all sailors that passeth this way, and why it is called the Island of the devil, and that fire which we do see, with that thick smoke that ascendeth into the air, is all that which proceedeth out of the terrible and horrible mouth of that devilish Fauno, for that it is full of infernal devils. By this you may judge what the monster should be, that throweth from him such wonderful and terrible infections.  
This worthy knight of the Sun at this discourse of the old Pilot was greatly amazed, and so were all the knights of Candia that came in the same ship, the which thing seemed unto them to be one of the strangest that ever happened in all the world, yet the strangeness thereof was not so terrible unto all the rest of the hearers, as it gave great desire unto the valiant & worthy knight of the Sun to go a land at that Island, and to go and seek out that possessed Fauno, for that the hearing thereof did not cause any fear or dread in his courageous heart, as he who for such like attempts (above all other stout knights) was created, & did little esteem the venturing of his life, whereas the honour and glory of such worthiness is put in adventure, and in especial in that time abhorring himself in consideration of his fact, he was so furious and desperate, that he neither feared nor dreaded the entry into hell, much less the Island. Thus he being fully determined to go a land, called unto him Aurelio and Biniano his squires, and calling them apart, in shedding many salt tears which ran down his grave countenance, he said these words.  
My good friends, God doth know what great grief it is unto me for to declare this which I have to say, and what sorrow I do feel at my heart before I do utter it, not so much for that it doth touch me (although my misfortune above all other in the world is most strangest) as it is for that I do see, at such time as I should do some thing for you, & to give you reward for your great good service done unto me, I am constrained to abandon and leave you alone, without any hope ever to see you more, this is the thing that doth so grieve me, jointly to consider how my loss will be lamented of my father and mother, my brother, and all my friends, that to declare it my tongue doth fail me. Ah my good friends, you shall understand that my departure out of Constantinople was for no other intent but for to leave the world, and for to go whereas I might shorten my days, and thither whereas it might not be known unto any whether I be alive or dead, for that my evil fortune is such, that it doth not atcomplish me for to live any longer here amongst men, and in consideration hereof (I did at our departure) so much request you that you should have remained with the Emperor my Father, for that he and my brother Rosicler might reward you for the great service done unto me, for that I am not able to do it, and being at that time so much importuned by you, that by any means I could not leave your company, but now the time is come that my sorrowful destiny hath permitted, that from this day forwards I am constrained to leave you, and to make reckoning that of you nor of my father and brother I was never known. The occasion thereof I will not declare unto you, for that alonelie my heart (who doth suffer the inconvenience) shall know it. But thus much I will say unto you, that if the peril in losing of my soul did not disturb me, I have sufficient cause to give myself a thousand deaths with my own hands, and for that my life is so heavy and grievous unto me, and that my force & strength is not sufficient for to suffer the same, I am determined for to go a land on this Island of y● Fauno, and there to end my unhappy days, and if it so fall out, fortune to be favourable unto me, in that I do overcome and kill the monster, I shall do great service unto God, in taking out of the world a thing so fierce and abominable, then afterward shall that Island be very solitary and fit for my purpose, where I mean to end my sorrowful days. And if my fortune be such that I die in the power of the Fauno, (as sure I am that I own a death) then shall I there pay the death that is due unto this my mortal body, and the debt that is due unto this unhappy and troublesome world. Therefore my good friends, I do most heartily desire you, for the great good love which you did always bear unto me, that at this present you will show it to be more than heretofore, and to be conformable unto my will, and to think well of this my pretence, and to have patience, and persuade with yourselves in this my departure, and to comfort yourselves in that it is a great grief unto me for to leave you, and to conclude, the life of man is brief and short, and full of misery and anguish, and I pray and beseech the universal creator, that we may in the other world with more joy, quietquietnesse, and pleasure. So my will is, that after I am departed, you go with these knights unto Transiluania, and from thence to return into Grecia, and there to establish yourselves with the Emperor my father, without giving him to understand of any thing that hath happened unto me, since my departure out of the mighty City of Constantinople, but say that you lost me in the wilderness of Grecia, and remain with him, for that I am sure that he and my brother Rosicler will do as much for you, as though I were there myself: and if at any time by fortune you do meet with the Empress Claridiana, you shall say unto her, that at such time as I departed from you, I left your company, for that I went out of the world, because that in living I should not be odious unto her, nor cause her any more anger, and of one thing she shall be sure, that so long as she liveth, she shall never have any news of me.  
When the knight of the Sun had said these words, these two his good Squires did weep so bitterly, that they had no power to speak in a good space, in the end they caught him by the armour, and held him fast, saying: Oh our good Lord, wherefore is it you pleasure for to leave us in so great sorrow and care, and to cause your father and mother, brethren, and friends, always to live in great heaviness and grief. What great grief is this that you have conceived, which is the occasion that you do desire the death? What greater evil may happen unto the world, than to have the lack, & sustain the loss of such a knight as thou art? Consider our good Lord, that if you do perform this which you say you will, you do not alonely lose your life, but also your soul, for in conclusion, it is a desperate death. For the love of God (our good Lord) let not such things pass once into your thought, for that no man in all the world can imagine a thing of a worse determination, and herein you shall also lose both body and soul, and shall be the occasion of the death of the Emperor Trebatio your father, and of the Empress Briana your mother, for as they do love you more than themselves, they will die with very anger and grief, when they shall hear of your perdition, & unto none it will be so griovous as unto the Empress Claridiana, who is the occasion of all this your sorrow. What shall we do (unhappy as we are) when that we shall find ourselves all alone without your company? How can we return unto Grecia, when that the subjects doth lack their so great● esteemed Prince? With what semblance or countenance can we come in the presence of your Father, not daring to declare the loss and death of his son? Ought not we greatly to be sorrowful to think how our hearts must be hardened, that when your brother and friends shall demand of news of you, and we knowing the conclusion, dare not be so hardy as to utter it? What is he that can suffer so great grief, or dissemble so great sorrow? God forbidden that ever any such thing should be permitted, we will first consent to be drowned in this deep sea, than to return into Grecia without your company. And if you do still contend to go a land on that Island of the devilish Fauno, we will go with you and bear you company, for that we shall think our deaths happy to lose them with yours, and had rather jointly to die with you, than to live one moment in this world for to lament and feel the grief of your death.  
These and many other things in effect, said these good Squires, shedding many salt tears for to withdraw their Lord the knight of the Sun from his determination, but all did profit nothing (for although it was great anguish and mortal grief unto him for to departed from them) yet was he so firm in his determination to accomplish that which he had said, that if all the whole world had been there present for to dissuade him, yet had they not been sufficient for to withdraw him from the doing thereof. And therewithal he requested the Mariners to launch out their skiff on the water. But when the Mariners and all those knights of Candia did understand his determination, and saw how pitti●ullie his Squires did weep for him, they were greatly amazed thereat, and thought him to be a desperate knight, and one that was weary of his life, that would give attempt to so strange adventure, having heard the wonderful thing that the old Pilot had told them of that Island, who being there present, & saw with what determination, he would go unto the Island, and with what efficacy he did demand the skiff for to go a land, before them all he said these words.  
I greatly marvel at you (Sir knight) having heard the wonderful things that I have told unto you of this Island of the devil, and yet you have so great will to go thither, of truth I cannot judge that it doth proceed of any strength or courageous heart, but of some desperation that you have with you, whereby you do abhor your own life, for that stout and courageous Barons do never put their lives in adventure, but whereas they have hope to get honour and victory, but that man which doth put himself there whereas he doth adventure no other honour, but to die the death, it may be well said that it is more of desperation, than of force or courage. What account do you make of your own strength? I say, if it be equal with that of Hercules, & that of Thebano, yet were it not sufficient to escape from the hands of that possessed Fauno, if once you go a land, and it is well known that all the people of the Island could not make any defence against him, although there were amongst them more than three thousand knights, besides other common people very stout and clubbish, and yet will you take upon you alone the enterprise, surely it is a plain thing to understand, that you will kill yourself, for that you will put yourself in that adventure, whereas it is impossible to save your life, the which is a thing most abhorred before God, and this proceedeth only of the lack of wisdom, weakness, and want of patience, and to the contrary, each one where wisdom remaineth with equal heart and valiant courage doth suffer all human troubles, & not for every little trouble, doth strait ways abhor themselves, and so from a little evil fall into another far greater.  
What other thing have you in all this world that maketh a man more to abhor and hate himself and his own life than afflictions and troubles? And it is manifest unto us, as it is spoken by the wise, that troubles appertaineth only unto men. Likewise that holy and afflicted job saith, that for travails and troubles man was borne, but those which have no patience nor strength for to suffer adversities, thinketh (that all things that doth not fall out according unto their desire and appetite) that they have just occasion to desire and procure the death, and upon the sudden they are in such a rage, that for every light thing they do not only anger themselves against fortune, but also against themselves, and that which is worst of all, they are out of patience with God that did create them, using against him words of great abomination, as though that if God did not all things unto their wills, then doth he them great injury, but unto them that be wise, what state so ever God doth send them, they accept it in good part, if it be with prosperity and joy they accept it with a good will, and if it be sad and sorrowful, they suffer it with suffer it with patience, and when that with the occasions they cannot be merry, then do they comfort themselves with patience, for that there is nothing so comfortable and pleasant as is patience: therewith heavy and sorrowful hearts are made glad and joyful, wrongs are brought to perfection, it mollifieth hard hearts, & do mitigate difficultness, aspar things it maketh plain, and ceaseth all quarrels and sudden motions, and finally there is nothing of more quietness and comfort than is the life of the patiented. These wéepinges, these complaints, these clouds and storms, that causeth the weak bark of our human life to be dashed and broken in pieces against the rocks, proceedeth of no other thing but of the folly and impatience of men. So that (gentle Knight) if you did suffer with patience the troubles and afflictions of this life (considering that in the end there cannot be found a thing more common amongst men) then should no perverse fortune, although it did never so strongly assault you, be able to cause you to be weary & abhor your own life, neither to go and put yourself into the hands of that devilish Fauno, whereas you do adventure no other thing but martyrdom to your body, and perpetual condemnation to your soul. Let the Lord dispose of thy body according unto his will, seeing he made it, there is no reason to the contrary, do not procure to destroy the Castle, whereas thou laidst neither stone nor timber, and no other thing is thine but only the compassion? Do not abridge God of that work, whereas he did not only create the flesh, but also bones, blood, and spirit. And it seemeth unto me (as it is most true) that there is no other Lord over celestial and terrestrial things, but he that made all things? Well then, seeing that of ourselves we are nothing, but all is of God, and cometh from him, wherefore do we human creatures think that we may liberally we all things unto our 〈◊〉? Courteous Knight, if you have any sorrow and grief, possible God doth it to prove you, the which although it be now troublesome unto you, may yet so fall out, that another time it will be profitable, and if it be intolerable, it cannot endure long, tarry the voice of the Lord, for that he will call you, and make no answer before he call you, for that it is determined not only the day but the hour of thy end, the which thou oughtest not to abbreviate and cut off, for that thou art not able to dilate it, for it is impossible. There hath been some that hath taken it before their time, thinking thereby to eschew a little brief and momentary trouble, and drowned themselves in that which never shall have end. A mighty King or Lord leaveth in a Castle or fortress a lieutenant to guard and keep the same, who thinketh that he doth commit great treason to departed from thence without licence of his Lord. Why then shall we not think that the treason is far greater that the soul doth against the king of heaven, for to departed from the body, whereas he put it to be his lieutenant and guard.  
We read that there was never wise man that did so evil a fact, as did Cato in killing of himself, for that he would not look Caesa● in the face. Let not so much be spoken of you (gentle knight) it will seem much worse, because you are a Christian, and it 〈◊〉 thing prohibited and forbidden by God, whereas he saith. Thou shalt not kill. Why should we then kill ourselves? Likewise he doth bid us love our neighbours as our ow●e selves. Therefore have a good confidence and trust in all ●●●ng, for that it is not the part of a 〈…〉, but to bear a good 〈◊〉 unto the double face of 〈◊〉, and to the contrary, a woman's heart that doth yield for fear. Therefore touching this matter (gentle knight) I will say no more, for that unto them that hath a better understanding than I have, I have said nothing but to put in remembrance. Likewise it is needful, for that if you have your witt●s occupied in passions, the same doth blind the understanding, in such sort, that you cannot discern things at hand. With this the old Pilot concluded his talk, and although the knight of the Sun at that time was in better plight to ●ight against fifty knights, than to take counsel of one man, yet for all that he did conceive well of the words of the Patron, as of him that was endued with no less wisdom and understanding, than with force and strength, and for that his determination was so firm to accomplish his desire, and again the knights that were there present, as also the Pilot should not judge him to be an impatient man and one of ●●●all discretion, he said these words following.  
If so be that the life of man might be perpetual and endure for ever, as immortal, and the soul to die, then with great reason ought we to cherish and make much of our bodies and ●●ie from all such perils as might give an occasion unto death, for that he that should so die, might certainest account himself unhappy, for whereas before he was some thing, he should be converted into nothing. But as it is a thing natural to be borne and to die (as wise men saith) that the entering into the world with life, is the beginning of death, and the same life is the path way thereunto, and we ought to fear death more than to be borne, and we ought to fly from the death, yet both of them maketh nature perfect, and nothing of necessity doth accompany Nature which ought to be feared, and he that doth abhor and fea●● things natural, it followeth that he should likewise fear● & abhor nature, which was the occasion of life & to be borne, (saving if you think that in part you ought to praise, and in part to despise and abhor) but all men of small discretion do fear death, and I do not marvel thereat, for that all their felicities is in their bodies, the which without all doubt doth end with death, and with great reason they do fear● that, which they esteem as their chief delight, for that human nature is such, that it will not refuse nor lack their felicity: but that Baron which is wise & courageous, & ●●●●●meth of his body, no more th●n of 〈…〉, and hath all his desire set upon the 〈◊〉 of the ●oule, who when it departeth from the body, maketh no more account, but as one that in the morning departeth from an heavy & cumbersome lodging where he remained all night. If man dread death, fear is not to be 〈◊〉, for that th● soul is immortal & cannot die, but the body only: is it not 〈◊〉 man's duty to have care of his 〈◊〉, and if he fear it proceedeth of folly, but yet it is more foolishness for to desire the thing ●he which he cannot obtain, & to put from him that which is impossible to leave. All creatures borne, as well as those that are to be borne, although there be a great 〈◊〉 of living & of their deaths, yet to die is natural unto them all. What do you think to fly from that which your fathers & grandfathers, & their predecessors, y●●, Emperors & kings could never escape? let us turn our backs all that ever we can from death, & avoid the perils thereof, yet in the end it shall happen unto us, as unto hint th●● s●utteth his ●ies at the blow of his enemy, suffering the grief thereof because he would not see it. And whereas you say, that it is good for me to live longer, and not to procure my death before my time, I 〈◊〉 unto you that there is none that dieth before his time, for that all men dieth not at one time, and as wise men say, every one hath his time appointed; the which being accomplished, he concludeth his fine, and for that we have not so much licence to call time back again, neither to stay of necessity we must proceed forwards▪ No man ran die but at his time appointed, saving 〈◊〉 he take the time for him, that himself hath assigned, and not by him that doth assign nature and fortune. It is a small matter touching the immortality of the soul, some to live four score ●éeres, and other to li●e eight years, the time being past, it seemeth the one to be no 〈◊〉 than the other▪ Men do deceive themselves in many things, but in especial concerning their death (not for that all men do think to die) but because they hope the time will be long, seeming to be far of, that which one way by the briefness of life, and swiftness of time, and another way by the force of fortune, and by the diversities of human chances, being always at hand. Death unto a young man should never seem grievous, although he made reckoning of no other goodness, for abiding the time of ancient years, there proceedeth thereof nothing but sadness and miseries. The young man doth well-knowe what he hath passed in his time, but yet he knoweth not what he shall pass if that he endure long. In this cruel and inconstant kingdom of Fortune, he that first dieth, doth deceive and mock his fellow. You will now say unto me, that seeing that death is necessary and of force, it were better to abide the time of natural death, than to go and receive it of that devilish Fauno. Then you might well say, if that I were certain thereof, that the death that I should die, should be more happy than fortunate, but whosoever doth know it, for that many a one have hoped to die in their beds, when that afterward they were hanged, and some thrown from the top of a mountain, some torn with Lions, and some eaten with wild Boars; yea, that Euripides, the light of all great policy▪ next unto Homer, was cruelly ●●rne in pieces with dogs. Likewise Lu●recio Prince of Poets, by drinks that were given him by his concubine, did rave in such sort, that he thought it the best remedy to kill himself with a knife: with what great good will would the Emperor Adriano suffered himself to have been torn in pieces of a furious Lion, if his people would have suffered him, rather than have abidden that terrible sickness whereof he died. Many other more as is well known, did hope to die of their natural deaths, and yet in the end they died of very desperate and cruel deaths, and possible before they eschewed far worse. And you who doth give counsel for to fly from death, I would you would tell me how far you are from it yourself, of truth if you do consider very well, you shall find that there is but a thin board betwixt you and death: and not yet two days past when that you thought the hour was come. Oh false and foolish world of men, that flieth with great diligence from one little peril on the land, (in resisting whereof, there is no honour to be gotten) & yet putteth not doubt to put themselves unto these deep seas, whereas their lives is at the courtesy of the winds to overthrow them, and of the terrible waves to drown them, they fly from one folly on the land, and putteth their lives in four far worse upon the seas, in a ship that is always moving, the mariners never in one accord, the water that never standeth still, and the wind that never resteth.  
What Dragon or fury is upon the land that doth fear us more than upon the ●ea, whereas it is well known an innumerable sort of men hath been drowned. There is no fury nor wild beast upon the land, but that it is possible by the force and strength of man, to make defence and resistance: but upon the sea, if you join together all the strengths of the most valiantest men in all the world, yet are they not able to make any resistance against one storm or tempest, but if they please they may make thrusts with their spears into the water, and strike with their sword against the winds. And now seeing that there is all these perils on the sea, wherefore my good friend, do you not take the counsel for yourself, the which you do give unto me? What do you think that it is not more possible for me for to overcome the devilish Eauno, than you to have the victory of two so terrible Elements, as is the water and wind. Finally, to conclude, when that man thinketh himself most farthest from death, it is then nighest at hand: therefore barons that be stout and courageous, in nothing they should fear the death, whereas they do venture themselves to get honour, and not to apart themselves from perils and dangers, for that they be always ready at hand, and in the end when that it shall please God that they shall die, it is no other thing but a clearing of the soul out of this miserable captivities & prison, and to leave this troublesome & weary world, where in I do see that there is no pleasure, without sudden misthi●ousnesse, no peace without discord, no love without suspicion, no ease without fear, no abundance without lack, nor no estate without complaints, all doth weep, all doth sigh, all doth complain, all doth shriek and sob, and all things doth end. I see none that liveth content, I see nothing that is firm and stable, I see all in confusion & tossed upside down, as well in things living, as insensible, as well the brute beasts as reasonable creatures, the high & mighty towers be torn and rend with thunderboults, walls be overthrown with Canon shot, great floods doth carry away Cities and towns, Trees be eaten with worms, & the green corn with the grasshoppers, Timber doth rot and moulder away, the brute and wild beasts doth fight 〈◊〉 with an other, between the Ounce and the Lion there is great contention, and the Rinoceront with the Crocadil, the Eagle with the Ostrich, the Elephant with the Minotauro, and one man with an other, and that which is worst, women against men: besides all these, the continual wars and contentions that is amongst us, for that we have the perils of death continually before our eyes. What a number of things there is that doth put us in great ieperdie, & threaten us every moment, unto death: the earth doth open against us, the water doth drown us, the fire doth burn us, the air doth distemper us, the winter doth run through us, the summer doth trouble us with heat, dogs doth bite us, Spiders doth poison us, Gnats doth prick us, Flies doth overpress us, Serpents doth ●eare us, and above all, travails and cares doth over watch us, none can go with security upon the earth, for that every pace men doth five stones to stumble at, bridges whereof they fall, brooks whereas they are drowned, hills from whence they tumble & be overthrown, thunder cracks that maketh them afraid, deep 〈◊〉 that doth stay their passage, & thunder bolts that both kill them. And now seeing that both land and sea be all full of perils, and whether so ever we do fly, death will overtake 〈◊〉, I will say no more unto you, but that I am determined to go a land on the Island of the Fauno, ●or I had rather die whereas I do adventure to get honour, (making my defence with my sword in my hand like a knight) then to be drowned in the Sea, or to keep my bed with sickness: therefore my good friends I do desire you to hoist out your boat on the water, and procure no further to disturb me in this my pretence, for that I will not let to accomplish this my desire, ●or any thing that is in all the world, and these my squires I pray you to carry them with you, and not to let them to follow me, neither to give them any ship or boat, for that their deaths shallbe unto me much more grievous than mine own.  
Very autentive were all the knights of Candia, and the old pilot, unto all that which the knight of the Sun had said, by the which they judged him to be discreet & wise, & by the uttering of his words as also in his semblance, they judged him to be valiant, wherein he showed so great gravity of his person, that there was not one amongst them all that durst speak any more unto him in the matter, neither to disturb him of his will & determined purpose, for that there was not any that could say any thing unto him, but that he understood it better th●n they: yet they s●●ing the peril he put himself in, they all grieved very much thereat, in such sort, that with their weepings they co●ld scare speak, but in especial his two Squires, who having heard all his speech, and saw the resolute determination of their Lord, did beat their heads against the ships sides, and gave such shrieks and cries, as though they had been cut of their wits, and although the knight of the Sun did comfort them, with many sweet & loving words, yet all would not serve, for the more he spoke unto them, the more did increase their sorrow and grief. Then he seeing that all which he did, did little profit to go with their good wills, & how that the longer he stayed, the worse it was, he desired the mariners to hoist the boat into the sea, who were not willing thereunto, the which being by him perceived, as one which had as great forc● & strength as any man in all the world, he took the boat in both his hands, and without the help of any other, he hoist it into the sea, and caused his horse to be put therein, the which being done, he would have taken his leave of them all, but his squires when they saw that he would departed, they gave such shrieks and cries, that it seemed the noise to reach unto the heavens, and fell down at his feet, shedding so many tears, that it was great compassion to behold them, desiring him that he would not leave them in so great heaviness, and for that it was so manifest that he went to lose his life, that he would take them in his company, for to die with him, for that his life was no longer than he abode in their company. They complained very much of him, for paying them with such reward, after so long time, that they had served him: but the grief of this good knight was such, for his two squires, that with the great abundance of tears that fell from his eyes, he could scant speak unto them one word: especially, considering with what intention he departed, which was never to see them again in all his life, neither return any more into Grecia, for that he was determined if God did give him victory against the Fauno, to remain in that solitary Island, and there to end his days: But for that he loved his squires very well, and likewise knowing the great love that they bore unto him, his heart was ready to burst in pieces for to apart himself from them. Likewise all those knights of Candia, and the old pilot, did labour all that ever they could, for to break him of his purpose, but all would not serve, and he seeing that his tarrying did him no profit, he went unto the ships side, and with a light heart he leapt into the boat, and taking the oars in his hands, he began to row towards the Island, leaving so great sorrow & grief amongst all them that were in the ship, that there was not one of them but wept bitterly to see him departed in that sort, as one desperate to receive a cruel death, and being a knight that seemed unto them all not to have his like in all the world, yet all the grief which they received, was nothing unto that of his squires, when they saw their lord departed, who like desperate men would have thrown themselves into the sea, if those knights had not let them, and seemed unto them to be true and loyal unto their lord, and of a good disposition, so with the great care that they had of them, they did keep them from destroying themselves.  
After this good knight was departed, within a short space he arrived at the Island, and those of the ship lost sight of him: but there were some of the ship that said that it were good to tarry there a few days, for to see what should become of him, to whom the pilot said, that it was great folly so to do, for two causes, the one for that he was certain, so soon as the knight should come a land with a trice he should be torn all to pieces by that devilish Fauno, so that it were lost labour to abide any more news of him, and the other, for that all they should be in great peril of their lives, if that the Fauno should discover the ship, and before that we could do any thing for to sail from him, he would overtake us, and give us all cruel deaths, as he hath done to many others heretofore. In conclusion, at these words, the knights consented not to ●●aie, but to depart, and according unto the great fear which they received, they thought they tarried to long, but the two squires when they saw that they departed, and carried them in their company, leaving their Lord in so great peril, it cannot be declared the great complaints that they made, requesting the knights and pilot, for to carry them unto the Island, wherewith they should receive great contentment, and be joyful, but all their requests were in vain, for that they would not consent that they should die so desperate a death, as also for the great peril which should be unto them all, they would not consent thereunto, wherewith these good squires were so desperate, that if time had served them thereunto, they would have thrown themselves into the sea, and by swimming as well as they could, they would have gone to the Island of the Fauno, but the knights caused them to be kept in the ship, and put into a cabin and locked the door, and carried them in their company, till in the end of certain days they arrived at Transiluania, whereas they did disembarke themselves and went a ●and, but the Squires were so lean & so feeble, for that they would not eat any thing, and again by shedding of so many tears, that they could scarce stand upon their feet.  
And now to return to the knight of the Sun, the History maketh no more mention of them, but when they came unto Transiluania after that they had remained there two days for to refresh and strengthen themselves, they sought an other ship, where in they returned to seek the Island of the devilish Fauno, with determined good will there to die with their Lord, in which journey they were taken prisoners, so that they could not accomplish their desire, as shallbe declared unto you in the process of this History.   

¶ How the knight of the Sun arrived at the Island of the possessed Fauno, and of the wonderful and perilous battle that he had with him. Chap. 15.  
SO when the knight of the Sun was departed from the knights of Candia, he made such haste in rowing with his great & mighty strength that small boat, that in a short space he arrived at the solitary Island, and surely it was a thing of great marvel, & worthy to be put in memory, all that happened with this valiant and happy knight, for one way the water stood in his eyes, and his heart was re●die to break with solow, grief and pity, to see his Squir●s remain so sorrowful and without all comfort, & an other way, acknowledging in what peril he was of his life in that journey, and how he went to put himself in the greatest perplexity that ever was man, he remembered and armed himself with so great hardiness & courage, that he thought the time long till he did see that devilish Fauno. When that he came a land, he saw that all the Island was plain, and very fragarant and fresh, replenished with green Trees, although there appeared many buildings the which were destroyed and fallen down to the ground, in such sort, that it well appeared that the people that there dwelled to be devilish and abhoiminable. And as he was beholding the country which seemed to be very good and fertile, he strait ways discovered where the devilish Fauno was, yet was he not nigh him but a great way of, neither did he see him, but that which proceeded from him, which was an infernal fire, which seemed to reach up unto the Skies, with so great a noise, as though it had thundered, (and as the wise Lirgandeo saith, that there was no human heart of so sufficient courage for to seek out so terrible and wonderful attempt, as was this of that worthy & valiant knight) in whose heart never entered any fear, but with so valiant and courageous a stomach, determined to seek that misshapen and infernal beast, ●ull of so many legions of devils.  
And for that he would not that there should remain any thing that might carry him out from that Island, he drew the b●te that brought him thither a land, and with one of the oars with the which he rowed, he broke it all to pieces, and scattered them abroad alongst the water side, that the force of the waves might carry away the pieces. But before he departed from that place where he arrived, he fell down upon his knees, and with many sorrowful sighs, & triikling tears, which ran down his cheeks, in sign that he was a true and faithful Christian, he said as followeth.  
OH sovereign creator, both of heaven and earth, without whose good will there is no devil that hath any power, neither without it can men, fowls, nor brute beasts live upon the face of the earth, nor be sustained nor governed, without it the Elements would be confounded, & the heavens lose their course and natural movings. The earth would quake, and the high and mighty mountains would fall: The waters of the Seas would over flow the land, and no living thing should find where to be sustained, but thou by thy infinite goodness and mercy, dost ordain and sustain all, not for that it is to thee necessary, but for the profit of man. Therefore seeing that thou dost use so great pity and mercy with them, here Lord I do desire thee, that in this perilous danger, thou wouldst not leave me, and if I have any desire herein to get the victory, it is not for any honour nor vain glory that I hope to maintain thereby, but only to have a little more time for to live in this dispeopled and solitary Island, whereas I may fully repent me for the life which hitherto I have lead, and for to do some penance for the evils which I have committed against thy divine majesty: But if it be thy will that I die in this trance, I do most heartily desire thee, not to look upon my sins and wickedness, but to have mercy upon this my soul, which is immortal, and by thee created to thy similitude and likeness, for eternal li●e, and didst redeem it with thy most precious blood, the which I pray thee to pardon and to receive, at such time as it doth departed out of this wretched body: my death doth not grieve me so much, as that I have not time enough to serve thee.  
When this good k●●ght had said these words, he arose up upon his feet, and looking towards that part the which was toward Grecia, with deep & profound sighs he said.  
OH Empress Claridiana, how joyful would it be unto my heart, if that I did know of certainty, that thou wert acquainted with this my dangerous attempt, with the which I am bestead, for that seeing that my fortune hath not given place in my life time to do you any service, it may be that the acknowledging of my death might do you good, for that I am fully certified you take great pleasure therein. Oh that my fortune and cruel destiny had permitted, that in the battle the which you made with me in Constantinople, I had been slain, sure it had been a crown of martyrdom unto me, for to have received the death by your sovereign hands. But alas, in this do I know that my misfortune is great, and in the end cannot be denied of this glory, to know that you take pleasure in my death, for that taking so great pains for to give it me with your own hands, I cannot believe that in so short space you have repent you. And seeing (good Lady) that it is so that you desire so much my death, let not god permit that against your will I live any longer in this world. Oh Princess Lindabrides, how joyful will it be unto you to hear of my death, knowing that she alonely was the occasion for whom I forgot the great love that I bore unto you, and verify the sentence to be just, and according unto my desert to be abhorred of her, for whose sake I forgot you, and worthy to receive the punishment of her that was the occasion to leave so high and sovereign a Lady. But what do I say? I did neither leave her nor forget her, and is no other thing but my fortune to be so base, that I did not deserve to marry with the one, nor to serve the other. Oh Emperor Trebatio my Lord, & my Lady and mother the Empress Briana, I desire you to pardon me, for the Lord doth know that the greatest grief that I have in this world, is to consider of the great sorrow that you will receive, when that the news of my death shall come unto your ears, let this be account of comfort unto you, to make ●eckoning that you never heard of me, since the time that I was carried away in the bark by the force of the river when that I was a child, and here I beseech the almighty God and loveraigne creator to comfort you, and put this aforesaid in your minds. Oh my good brother Rosicler; oh how much is the sorrow that I do now feel, for that I so quickly do apart myself out of your company, and a great grief to consider, how sorrowful the news will be unto you when that you shall hear that I am out of this world. Ah my good brother, you that are the flower of all knighthood, comfort our father and mother that are so mentioned amongst all Nations, for whereas you are in person, my presence will not be thought upon. Oh my very good and perfect friends Oristedes, Brandizel, and Claveryndo, the Lord doth know how much it doth grieve me, to see myself separated from your company for ever, but alas what shall I do, seeing that fortune will that I shall show myself unto you and all the world in this condition. And now I do desire you never more to seek me, for that in brief I shall out of this world. Take for your friend my Brother Rosicleer in my place, as well for that of your own persons is meritorious, as for the great good will which always I did bear unto you, he I am sure will be unto you a very good and perfect friend.  
These and many other things spoke this good knight, in shedding so many tears, and uttering so many sighs, that whosoever had heard them (although his heart had been so hard as any Diamond) yet could he not have refrained but wept there at. And as he would have put himself in the way to go toward that devilish Fauno, he bethought himself how and in what sort he might make battle with him, and it it seemed that if fortune should show herself in any thing favourable unto him, it should be to make the battle better on foot than on horseback, & now according unto his determination, whether he did live or die, he had no more need of his horse Cornerino, therefore he determined to let him lose, & go at his free liberty, in recompense of his good service done unto him, and because he might more at his plasure take his repast of the field & go whether he list, he pulled off his bridle and saddle, and set him at liberty, the which was done with shedding many tears, saying.  
Oh my good horse, what a great grief it it unto me ●or to leave thee, not for that I have need of thee from henceforth, but only for that I would it were known the great good service which thou hast done unto me, & that thou shouldest be entreated, dressed, & cured as thou dost deserve. If that Alexander of Macedon did make so gorgeous a tomb for his horse, to bury him when he was dead, & commanded a city to be called after his name, I should have greater reason to honour thee being thou alive & his dead, & much better than ever his was. Augustus' made a grave for his horse being dead, for that he would not that the souls of the air should eat his flesh. Dido julio did consecrate in the Temple of Venus, the image of his horse made in marble stone. Anthonio Vero made the image of his horse being alive in gold● and now I having done nothing for thee being far better than ever any of those were, what can I do but set thee at liberty whereas thou mayst take the pleasure of the fields as other beasts do, therefore go thy ways good horse, for thou art the last company that I do leave in this world.  
In saying these words he drove him from him for to depart, but it was great marvel to see the nature of this horse, for although he was lose and at liberty without any encumbrance, yat would he not departed, but drew nigher and nigher his master, and trembled marvelously with all his body, & the more he did procure to drive him away, the more he did approach unto him, trembling as with fear, than the knight of the Sun knew not what to do, for one way the great peril of his horse if that devilish Fauno should see him, & another way he could by no means drive him away for any thing he could do, but in the end he bethought himself, that if he left him there lose, possible when he did see the devilish Eauno, he would run away, and therewith he left him, and began to travail a foot into the Island, and as he passed through a company of great and overgrown Oaks, he remembered himself of the battle which he had with Brandimardo in the wilderness of Grecia, & how that he made the same with a club made of a branch he tore off from a tree, for that he would not strike him with the sword wherewith he did make the battle with the Empress Clarid●ana, and calling this to remembrance, with great fury he sa●d unto himself.  
God forbid that the sword wherewith I did strike so high and sovereign a Lady, should now be defiled in the blood of so foul & infernal a monster. And in saying these words, with great fury and force he laid hold with both his hands upon a great and knotted branch of one of those Oaks, and tore it from the body of the tree, and trimming it in the best manner he could, he laid it upon his shoulder, the which was so great and heavy, that many other knights should lack strength to lift it up from the ground. And as he travailed in this sort, he thought within himself, that if he should be slain in that battle, that then his good sword should remain in the field, and then afterward it might so fall out, that in time that Island might again be peopled, then ●oulde it not be other wise, but that sword must come to the hand of some knight, wherewith he might shed the blood of others, and for that he would not do so great injury unto so precious a Lady, he determined first for to break it all to pieces, in such sort, that afterward none might profit himself therewith. Then considering how & in what manner he might execute his determination to break th● sword in pieces, he saw by him a little rock the height of 〈…〉, although it were far bigger, and of very hard stone, and thinking thereon to break it to pieces, he drew out that ●●ne sword, & laid upon that rock so many strong blows, that it seemed to burn with the great quantity of fire that flew out thereof, but by reason of his great goodness, for that it was one of the best that was to be found in all the world, all the strength that he had, neither the hardness of the rock was sufficient to break it, it was the sword the which he had of the Prince Meridian, whereat this worthy Prince was in so great fury and wrath, that with double strength he assaulted again the rock, and in a short space he did cut and break it all to pieces, and the sword never the worse. (In this, saith the wise Lyrgandeo, that this knight had the greatest force & strength that ever human creature had before or after him, and an evident token to consider, that in so small time he should cut & break to pieces such a rock as that was, the which no human force was able to do it, but he only) than this good knight seeing that all that ever he could do was not sufficient to break that sword (although he made it many times to double & bow the point unto the hilt) he determined to leave it there, and for that afterward it should be the better esteemed of him whose fortune it should be to find it, in the highest part of pea●e of that rock that remained, with the point of his sword he engraved in Greek verse these words following.  
IF hereafter in any time it chanceth any knight to find this sword, you shall understand that it is the knight of the Suns, son unto the Emperor ●●rebatio, who coming to this Island in the demand & seeking out of the devilish Fauno for to battle with him, & because he would not have the said sword defiled on him, he left it, & would not carry it with him, & for that after his death he would it should not come into the power of any other, he did procure to break it upon this rock, the which was cut and broken therewith in such sort as you find it, and yet the sword could not be broken, therefore I desire thee, whose fortune it is to find it, never to strike or wound any therewith, because his owner in the time of his greatest necessity did leave the same, in consideration that he struck therewith the most highest and soveraigntest Lady and Damsel that ever was borne amongst human creatures.  
〈◊〉 Thus when the knight of the Sun had engraven these words, he put the sword into the ●ich scabbard, & hanged it girdle & all of gold upon the ●aid rock, and took his knotted club upon his shoulder & began to go forwards his way a good pace, his horse followed after him a good way off. In this sort the knight travailed, & did discover from a far the fire that proceeded out at the mouth of this devilish Fauno, whereby he might discern where he was. So half an hour after that he departed from the rock, with the large pace in his going he came within an a-row sh●t of the place whereas the Fanno was, from whence he discovered the wonderful & misshapen figure of that monster, whose force & furiousness, no human creature was able to discern, but that which made this knight marvel most, was to see come forth at the mouth of this beast, with the fire & smoke, so infinite a company of devils in the shape of: armed men, that it 〈◊〉 all the devils in hell to be joined the●e together, & of them he saw coming towards him a ambushment, which seemed to the number of two hundredth, making so great a noise, as though the whole Island would have sunk, his good horse Cornerino till that time did follow him, but at that great noise he returned back again like unto a whirl wind, unto the place from whence he came, & although the infernal company came against him with so great force, yet this valiant and courageous knight did dismay nothing there●t, but with an ireful semblance he larged his pace towards them for to work his fury on them, who when they came unto him, did first assault him with infernal visions, & then did lay upon him with their shod clubs & iron mazes, so thick & terrible blows, that it seemed to be the forge of Vulcan, but this valiant knight taking his club in both his hands, began with so great fury to bestir himself amongst them, that all that ever was before him he overthrew to the ground, & by reason that they did overpress him very much with their thick & terrible blows, he waxed very wrathful, & did redouble his furious blows, in such sort, that in a short time the infernal company began to fly & return unto the place from whence they came, making such houllings & shrieks, that it would have feared any man to have heard them: This infernal company had scarce returned, when there came forth at his mouth another legion of devils, such as the first were, all armed● with mazes of iron in 〈…〉, & did resemble giants & came towards the good knight, making a greater noise than it doth when it thundieth & throweth out some thunderbolt, & when they came unto him, they assaulted & compassed him 〈◊〉 about, & charged him with so many heavy & terrible blows, that three times they made him to stoop with knees & hands down to the ground, but commending himself unto almighty God with his heart, he likewise charged them with so terrible blows with his knotted club, that in a small space he made them to shriek 〈…〉 dog when they are hurt, and not being able to suffer 〈…〉 force and strength of the knight, even as the other did they returned in great haste unto the place from whence they came, and altogether they threw themselves into the mouth of that devilish Fauno, who at this tune (as one that did awake out of his sleep) turned about and stretched himself, gnashing and grinding his unmerciful teeth, stretching out his cruel nails both on hands and féet●e, and bristled up his hair wherewith he was covered, as doth the wild Boar when that he is chased with dogs, he did also increate the fire that proceeded from his mouth, making it to fume up into the Clouds, whose sparkles scattered abroad, as doth in the Smiths forge, at such time as blowing he throweth sand into his fire, and after a while that he had thus roused himself, he arose from the ground whereas he was laid, and looked towards the place whereas the knight of the Sun was, with such terrible eyes, that at noon days they did show as much light as doth two torches in the night, there was not to be seen in all 〈◊〉 world a thing of greater marvel and fierceness, and the wise Lyrgandeo (who did see this monster after that he was slain) saith, that he supposeth that there was no human creature that had so much courage as once to behold and look upon this infernal monster, who lay on a green place which was betwixt a● mountain and a water brook that ran 〈◊〉 him, but when that he had seen the knight of the Sun, he gave a mighty leap into the air, and passed therewith over the brook with so terrible a noise, that it seemed all the wh●le Island would have sunk, and therewith he went towards the knight, and bore his head very low for to strike him with his horn, (as doth the Bull against the furious 〈◊〉) thinking therewith for to wound him, if he had fastened that blow he had struck him all to pieces, but this courageous knight, who was as light and nimble, as hardy & bold, with a light leap cleared himself of that perilious encounter, without doing him any other harm, but that he thought he should have been burnt with that 〈◊〉 fire that he threw out of his mouth, and as this infernal Fauno did pass forwards with the hastiness of his running, the knight of the Sun had no time for to strike him, who was not scarce well 〈◊〉 when that with another impetuous course he returned upon him, and the fire and smoke that he cast out before him was of so great abundance, as also the great fury of the beast, that this valiant Knight had no time nor space for to clear himself from that encounter, but it fell out very well with him, that his horn chanced betwixt his arm and his left side, and did him no other harm, but with his head he gave him so strong an encounter, that having no power to sustain himself, he fell backwards unto the earth, and passing over him, he was marvelously tormented as well with the blow of the fall, as with the fire which did secalde him very much. And surely till that time this good knight never saw himself in so great perplexity, but by reason that he was of so great magnanimity in all things, his courage did increase, so that without any whit of fear and dread, he arose up again with great lightness, being very furious and angry with himself, for that he could never fasten one blow upon the Fauno, he then firmed himself very strongly, and took, his club fast in both his hands, abiding when that he should return again upon him with his accustomed fury, he putting himself with great policy on the one side, at such time as he should pass by, the beast missing his purpose, he struck him such a blow with his club upon his horn with so great fury, force, and strength, that he brak● it from the skull, and it fell down to the ground. Great was the pain and grief that this infernal Fauno felt by that terrible blow, and it could not be imagined the fierceness that he as then used, and roared and houled with so great noise, that in ten mile's compass it might be heard, but little profit was this unto the knight, for when the Fauno found himself without his horn, he used a new means (and no less perilous than the other) to assault the knight, and procured by all means for to catch him betwixt his 〈◊〉 and strong arms, and sharp nails, throwing out at 〈◊〉 mouth great flames of fire, as though his body had 〈◊〉 ●ull of gunpowder, wherewith this good knight had been burnt to ashes with that infernal fire, if it had not been for that good armour (which was of Meridian) the which had a marvelous property, and it was this, that those great & small bones whereof it was made, were extreme cold, & made great resistance against the fire. Likewise his helm was garnished full of very fine rubies, and those (as saith the wise Lirgandeo) doth resist the overmuch force and strength of the fire, in such sort, that he was not much troubled therewith, yet for all that the sultering heat was such, that if it had been any other knight of less strength, he could not have suffered it, so as this devilish Fauno laboured by all means possible to get this knight betwixt his arms: even so did he with all lightness that might be, procure to defend & keep himself out of his claws, many ●●mes striking him with his mighty club upon the deformed body, but it did him no more harm than if he had stroke upon a rock, yet had he a great advantage of him, for out of his forehead from whence he struck his horn, there issued great abundance of blood, which ran down over his eyes, & troubled him very much, but by reason that he had within him so many legions of devils the which did aid & help him, that this good knight could not make his defence in so good order, but that he was caught betwixt his big and hairy arms, which was of so great strength that he could not imagine ● thing of greater force, & marveled much how that with his nails he was not rend & torn all to pieces, but here at this present, might the knight of the Sun esteem his good armour of great price, as of the best that were to be found in all the whole world, for although the force & strength of that in●ernall Fauno was sufficient to destroy a whole army of soldiers, yet lacked he strength for to break or buckle one piece of all that armour, & his strong and sharp nails that could tear in pieces a stith of steel, could not enter into this armour, so that this Fauno carried him from one place unto another, and did him no more harm, but that which he received by the heat of the fire, for as he carried him nigh unto his mouth, he thought verily to have been burned, but the which the knight of the Sun was most grieved at, was, that he held him so fast betwixt his arms, that he had no power to put forth his arms, neither to use his own strength. In this sort the monster carried him up & down a good while, till at the last the knight felt that he might firm his feet on the ground, at which time he stretched his legs, & made so strong resistance against the Fauno, that he made him somewhat to recoil, whereat giving a hasty & strong turn, he wrong himself out of his claws, & with great lightness took again his club (the which was fallen from him) & as the Fauno with great impetuosity returned upon him, he was in a readinenesse with his bat in both his hands abiding his coming, but before he approached nigh him, he struck him so terrible a blow with his club upon his head, that although his skull was more harder than a stith, yet he made him to tumble on the earth more than half amazed, & before he could recover himself for to rise up, he redoubled another blow, and struck him in the same place, that he made him to join both head & breast unto the ground clean out of remembrance, at which time there was so timorous a noise of shriek & howlings which those infernal devils made, coming forth of his mouth, showing such ill favoured figures & misshapen visions, that no human creature that should behold it, but would have received great fear & dread, but this knight the flower of all other, if all hell had risen against him (with the favour of almighty God, upon whom he did call) would not have feared them, so that he was not only without dread, but also with a greater force and strength than before, he lift up his heavy knotted club, and at such time as this infernal Fauno would have risen up, he with all his force did strike him such a blow upon the head, that by reason that before his skull was crazed, he now did beat it into his brains, and made them to run abroad, wherewith this devilish Fauno fell altogether to the ground, and shaked with all his body, and scrawling with hands & feet he made the earth to fly from him a great way with the pangs of death. This monster was not so soon fallen down, but all that infernal crew that were within his belly began to come forth at his mouth, with so great quantity of fire, that they seemed all to burn therewith and upon a sudden, (the Sun which shined as then very clear) was as though it had been covered with a cloud, and all the heaven was so darkened, that throughout all that Island it seemed as though it had been night, and therewithal it thundered and lightened in such terrible sort, as though heaven and earth would have sunk, and there appeared unto this good knight many infernal visions, in as horrible manner as might be, all full of fire, in such sort, that although it was as dark as night, yet there appeared a marvelous and an innumerable number of them so light as firebrands, that he thought verily that all the devils of hell had been there joined together. In this sort they continued a while, and then upon a sudden he saw together a mighty legion of devils in a ambushment, who brought in the midst amongst them a naked woman, whom they tormented in as cruel sort as might be imagined, she gave great and pitiful shrieks, and complained in such sort, that the knight well understood she should be the wise Artimaga, who was brought thither by those devils whereas her son lay dead, and as they carried her round about the place, some of them did strike her with s●rebrandes, that every blow seemed to burn her unto the guts, and other some did whip her so cruelly, that every gyrke did make the blood to spring out of her body, and she with great shrieks and cries (that seemed to be heard unto the heavens) said.  
Oh Artimaga, cursed be the day & hour that thy father & 〈◊〉 begot thee, and the day wherein thou wert borne, & cursed be that day wherein the devil did deceive thee, and the day that first thou didst put thy trust and confidence in him, these be his promises, and this infernal fruit is that which he promised thee, this is he that I so much desired, by whom I and all this Island should be so much spoken of, all hath fallen out to be true, for that the son which was borne of me, did prove to be such, that the remembrance of him shall not be forgotten▪ so long as the world endureth.  
These and other such words uttered this Artimaga, in the time that these devils carried her round about, where as her son lay with continual torments of her, that it moved the good knight (that did behold all this) unto great compassion. So after a while that this endured, it began to lighten and thunder much more than before, in which terrible noise, all this infernal company began to vanish away, and all those devils that brought Artimaga likewise returned, never ceasing in tormenting her one minute of an hour.  
So when they were all vanished and departed, the day began to clear up, & the Sun to shine as bright as before, and was nothing seen in all the Island, but this good knight standing by the Fauno, who was altogether stark dead, but Cornerino his good horse being scared with that great noise of thunder, ran and put himself into the sea, whereas he remained swimming up and down, till all was past and gone, and then he came a land again: after that all this was finished, the knight of the Sun kneeled down upon the ground, and gave great thanks unto almighty God, for the 〈◊〉 which he had given unto him, and finding himself all sowltering hot with the fire of the Fauno, he pulled of his armour, and with the water of the brook he did refresh himself in drinking thereof, and washing his body, this being done, he returned to behold the Fauno, whereas he lay dead, and in seeing him, he began a new to marvel at his wonderful and misshapen form, & thought it a thing impossible that nature should bring forth to monstrous a creature.  
Then after that he had viewed him a while, he went and viewed all the Island, and found it to be solitary, and not one left in all the whole compass, whereas before it was marvelously replenished with all manner of beasts, and as than not one remaining, for that this infernal Fauno, had eaten & destroyed them Likewise he found that all the edifices and buildings were overthrown with weather, and broken down, which seemed before time to be marvelously well peopled, where at he received great grief, and moved unto great compassion, to understand that for the sin of one woman there should come so much harm and damage unto that Island. He saw likewise that it was replenished with many Trees full of divers sorts of fruit, as well for the Summer as for the Winter, and such as he might very well sustain his life, without dying desperately for hunger. So when that he had very well perused all these things, he received great contentment, for that the place seemed unto him very necessary and apparent for him to live out of the world, and there to end his days, wherefore he did determine to remain there, and for the defence of rain and storms, he thought it good to make himself a cottage for his continual habitation, to keep himself from the fury thereof, and that farther within the Island, for that the stink and evil savour of the dead Fauno should not trouble him, but first before he would begin to put this in prose, he thought it good to leave some remembrance, where the infernal Fauno was slain, for that if it should so fall out, in time to come, the Island to be peopled again, the inhabitants thereof might know and understand who had slain him, and as a man that as then had no more need nor necessity of his armour, he laid them down by the Fauno, upon a great stone, whereupon he wrote with the point of his dagger in Greek, these words following.  
This is the devilish and infernal Fauno, the devils son, and begotten on A●timaga, and slain by the knight of the Sun, Prince of Grecia, who being determined to leave the world, would end his days in this solitary Island: this was his armour, the which he doth leave hear in sign and token that it was the last victory that he made in his life time.  
Then when that this was done▪ he went from that place a good mile farther, and came where as he found a very fair and fresh fountain under the side of a little grove, full 〈◊〉 h●ge and great Trees, the which place seemed very good and convenient for his determined purpose, he stayed there, and after that he had drunk of the water of that fountain, the which was very clean and clear, he determined under those trees to make himself a little cottage of ●oghes, wherein he might harbour himself at such time as it was fowl and contagious wether. Then he ●ore and rend from those trees, branches and boughs, wherewith he made him a little cottage, greatly unto his contentment, and at the entry thereof he set a cross so high as himself, and kneeling down before it, he lift up the eyes of his heart unto heaven and said as followeth.  
O Lord the creator and maker of all things, thou which dost permit to be crucified upon a cross (as this is) for to redeem all humane lineage, here I do desire thee to give unto me force and strength to suffer with patience here to end my days, in thy holy service, and to be heartily sorry for my sins: even as thou didst give unto those holy Fathers, (who for to clear themselves from the crafts and deceits of this wicked world) went and lived in the deserts. And in saying these words and other like, (not without shedding of many tears) he remained on his knees a good while prostrating himself on the ground.  
In this sort lived this worthy knight many days, not rating any other thing but wild fruits, and drunk of the water of that fountain, because he would not desperately destroy himself: he sustained himself with such herbs and fruits, as were in the Island, which was in so strange and strait manner, that if the zeal which moved him thereunto, had been coress●ondent unto his sufferance, his patience might have been accounted equal unto the ly●e of saints. But oh Lord, how mighty is thy force, for that unto him that did tame the most strong & furious beasts that was to be found upon the earth, and he that did abate the courage and pride of the most valiantest knights and mighty Giants that were to be found in all the world, neither all the legions of internal devils were sufficient to abate his courage, and put him in any fear, yet with one alonely does favour of his love and mistress, was overcome and overthrown, in such sort, that he did abhor his armour and his own life, forgot his parents, brother, and friends, and took & those unto himself this solitary and strait life, with determined good will there to end his days, without seeing any other living thing, but only his horse, who many times did pass that way whereas he was, where this History doth leave him, for to tell of other things that happened in the mean time.   

¶ What the Empress Claridiana did after that the knight, of the Sun was departed from Constantinople. Chap. 16.  
WIth great sorrow and grief this History did leave the Empress Claridiana, in the company of Medea, daughter unto Raiartes, by whom she was continually required of love, as she that was marvelous fair, which was the occasion that her love was the more fervent and kindled in her, till such time as the Empress (being very desirous to leave her company, the better to complain herself) put her out of all doubt and declared unto her who she was, at which sudden and strange discovery, Medea was greatly discomforted and ashamed, and after certain days that she there remained, in the end she returned into her own country, whereof she was Empress.  
〈…〉 empress had 〈◊〉 in the Country of 〈◊〉 certain days, with the company of her damsel, 〈◊〉 determined to return unto Constantinople, with 〈…〉 sort of armour, whereby she might not be 〈…〉 Lirgandeo saith, that he knew not whether it was to return to make battle again with her knight, it was forced by love that she bore unto him, as it is a thing natural amongst lovers, that when they have an occasion more to hate than otherwise, then doth love more increase in them, and although she desired to have and take, revengement of the knight of the Sun, yet it was unto her a great grief to be absent from h●m one hour: the damsels 〈◊〉 the Empress carried always with them choice of armour and apparel, so leaving that armour which she had, she armed herself all in Azure full of flowers of gold, and took her way towards the City of Constantinople, & when she came nigh unto the same, she was greatly amazed to see all the field thereof round about peopled full of armed knights, and amongst them seemed to be a great preparation for the wars, & furniture for a great army: the occasion of all this was, by reason that the letters of advise were come from the wise Li●gandeo, giving to understand of the coming of the Tartarians, into Grecia, the Emperor commanded to join together all knights possible at that present, and at such time as the Empress brew nigh unto them, the Emperor and Rosicleer, with all such worthy Princes and knights as were at that present in the Court, were assembled together in the field, mustering of such knights as were th●r prese●●, which were a great company in number, very gallant, stout, and brave, and coming nigh unto them, she new the Emperor & those that were with him, but she saw not the knight of the Sun in their company, whereat ●he marveled greatly, and being ignorant of the occasion of that great preparation, she commanded one of her damsels to go and to inform herself of one of those 〈…〉 where-ore that mustering was, and whether the knight of the Sun were in the Court or not. In the mean space that her damsel went to inform herself, she put herself a horseback in close manner under the shadow of a great and mighty Pine tree, which was nigh unto the army, and for that she was of a gallant proportion and well armed, the Emperor and such as were with him, seeing her, judged her to be one of the best armed and well proportioned knights that ever they had seen. So her damsel put herself amongst those knights, and calling one a side, (he which she thought most fittest for her purpose) the demau●ded of him that which her Lady had commanded her. Then the knight perceiving that the was sent from that gallant knight (who was a myrour unto all the company to look on) and he very desirous to show him that courtesy, said as followeth.  
YOu shall understand fair Damsel, that the occasion wherefore our Emperor and Lord doth join together all this gallant company of knights, is for that he doth look daily for the greatest war that ever was made against Christians, for that few days passed he was given to understand, that the Emperor Alicandro, father unto the Princess Lindabrides, doth come against him, and bringeth with him almost all the Pagans of Asia the great, and almost all the nations of the Oriental islands, that are in the Ocean, the occasion that moved the Emperor Alicandro to make this war against the Emperor Trebatio, (as we all do well understand) hath been the knight of the Sun, for at such time as he went with the Princess Lindabrides unto the Gran Tartarin, at his coming thither, the Emperor and kings of his estate, when they understood that he had overcome the Prince Meridian, were willing that he should marry with her, as it was ordained in their demand, the knight of the Sun, not being willing thereunto, at such time as they thought the marriage and all things to be fully concluded without any interruption. Then he secretly departed in the night from the court, without taking any leave of the Emperor, or giving any 〈…〉 thereof: what for this anger, as also for the great desire that the Princess Lindabrides, hath to return into Grecia, by her means they were indused, so that the Emperor Alycandro is fully determined to make this war, with pretence to destroy the Emperor Trebatio, and to crown the princess Lindab●ides, for Empress of Grecia. This is the answer of that you asked me, touching the first, and to the other concerning the knight of the Sun, you shall understand that he hath not been in this court many days since, for after that he had made battle with a strange knight that came hither in the company of Medea, he departed and was never seen sinc●, neither is there any news of him, for the which the Emperor and the Empress his brother and friends, are very heavy and sorrowful. Herewith he concluded, and the Damsel being certified of her demand, did gratify him with thanks for the same and returned unto her lady and mistress, unto whom she declared all that which the knight had told her, she understanding the same and considering well thereof, in her life time before she never felt herself so troubled & in so great confusion, for that before she was credibly informed how that the knight of the Sun was married unto the Princess L●ndabrides, and now to find it contrary, by that which at the present she heard, she knew not what to say nor what to do, neither which of these contraries she might believe, and being dobtfull to give credit unto that which the knight had told unto her Damsel, neither could she put herself in any security of the thing that she so much desired, the better herself, she commanded her damsel to go● unto Rosicleer, and in her part, as a strange knight that was very desirous to serve the Emperor Trebatio, to request him to give her to understand, the occasion wherefore the Emperor Alicandro, doth come (as they say) against Grecia, and the truth if they do abide the coming of all these Pagan enemies aforesaid.  
So the damsel departed with this demand unto Rosicleer, and by reason that he was marvelously virtuous, and full of courtesy and good manners, he received the Damsel, and himself gave the answer, wholly in effect as the knight before had 〈◊〉 sent her word, that whensoever it was his pleasure to come and offer himself unto them, that then the Emperor his father and he would receive him to their friend. Therewith the damsel doing her duty with reverence, departed from him▪ and coming unto the Empress, declared unto her all that which Rosicleer had ●olde her, the which lacked nothing unto the which the other knight had advertised her. But when that the Princess understood that the wars with the Emperor 〈◊〉 was certain, & of truth, she knew not what to say nor to do in ● thing so confused and incertain as that was, for that one way she believed to be true that which her damsels Arcania had told her, and another wai● it seemed very strange and contrary, that the Emperor Alycandro should come into Grecia with determined wars and displayed Ensigns, if that the knight of the Sun were married unto his daughter, and as she was in this great doubt and confusion, she thought upon the words that Arcania had told her at her return from Tartary, and did argue▪ within herself, finding great diversity and doubtful understanding, for that sometime it seemed that she had told her that she left the Knight of the Sun married unto the Princess, and strait ways a contrary opinion, that she said that she left him at the point to be married, and being so, it might be that it was left undone, for that the knight of the Sun would not consent thereunto, and this might be a gr●at occasion that the Princess Lyndab●ides did procure and induce her Father thereunto, only for that she would return again into Grecia. And being not fully certefied● of the great doubtfulness that she had in either of these contraries, she thought it th● best remedy for her, (for that Arcania as then remained in Trapisonda (for to return thither forthwith, & there to certify herself thoroughly of all that she had seen pass in the gran Tartary, & in what order and point; she had left the knight of the Sun: this thought was not 〈◊〉 considered of, but strait ways she put it in ure, and departed from thence, and took her journey towards ●ropisionda, & coming 〈…〉 sea side, she with her Damsels embarked themselves in a good ship, and made sail towards her own Empire, not without great sorrow and grief, to see that her knight was departed f●om the court of the Emperor Trebatio, & there was no news heard of him since the time that he made the battle with her, which gave her to understand that that should be the ●ust occasion of his departing, as one desperate, for that unknown he made that combat, he would depart thither whereas they should never th●re hear any news of him, at this time was abated the great anger that she had against him, and herself was determined to go and seek him, if that her damsel. Arcania did not fully satisfy her of that confused hope that she had. With these & other like thoughts they sailed four days with fair wind and wether, in the end whereof there arose a great and furious tempest, by 〈◊〉 whereof the good ship was put in great hazard to be lost, if God for his infinite mercy and goodness had not delivered thei●, and having no government in the ship by for●e of that great tempest, they were driven to sea, a great 〈◊〉 distant from the place, whereas they desired to go, and the storm endured three days and three nights without any 〈◊〉, but caùsed the seas to arise up in so furious sort, that the mariners could do no good therein, but yielded themselves and the ship unto the mercy of the winds, seas, and fortune, who in the end, seemed to show herself favourable. The fourth day théy were launched into the great and sure port of the kingdom of 〈◊〉, wherein they saw other two ships that were drivon th●ther by force on the same storm, and by the 〈◊〉 of the sanguine water, she saw the conclusion of a great battle that was betwixt the people of the said two ships, likewise she saw in the ships that there was dead knights, and heard the shrieks and 〈…〉 of Ladies and Damsels: the which being heard by Claridiana, she commanded her ship to be grappled unto those two, where by she might be fully certified what it should be, and she found that there was a knight of a very big body and well armed, and in his company other ten which seemed to be his vassals & subjects, that came in one of the two ships, and by force made a conquest of the other ship, & slew divers that came therein, and took prisoner the principal that was amongst them, with a very fair damsel, & other three ladies that were in her company, whom they had in their arms for to put them into their own ship. And these ladies seeing themselves to be carried in that forcible sort, began to give great shrieks and cries, lamenting in such sort, shedding many tears, that it moved the Princess Claridiana unto great compassion. And as she would have demanded of that big knight (who seemed to be the chiefest amongst them) what should be the occasion of that their great lamentation, he strait ways came against her, putting him to the ships side and willed her to yield herself prisoner: soft said the, we are not yet come unto that, but tell me wherefore dost thou apprehend them, as thy prisoners. Then the great knight answered, with great wrath and anger, the mighty Cleonidas should seem to have great space & leisure, if that at every one's demand he should stay for to give him an account wherefore he doth apprehend and take his prey. Thou shalt understand that I am a sea ●ouer, and I never as yet met with ship that I could overcome, but I did take it, and did apprehend all that were therein, and if they be Christians, I do sell them unto the Pagans, and make them slaves, and if they be Pagans, I do sell them unto the Christians & make them likewise slaves, so that I am friend to none of them both, and in all the ports and havens of the Mediterraneo sea, they are in confederasie, league, and friendship with me, and do suffer me in great quietness to make sale and the best of my merchandise.  
And I do tell thee, that I do more exteme and have in greater price, this damsel which this day I have taken, than any prize that ever I made in all the days of my life, for that I hope to make a present of her unto a mighty pagan Lord, who will give me for her, all that ever I will demand. And now seeing I have told thee that which thou didst request to know, do now out of hand that which is my pleasure, for that the ritchnesse of thy armour, and thy gentle disposition, doth give me to understand, that thou wilt be unto me as precious a prisoner, as ever came to me since I used the sea.  
You shall understand that all was truth which in this History hath been declared, for that this ●ouer was called Cleonidas, and with great reason he took to himself this name, for that he was no less a rover then that famous Cleonidas, which was in the time of king Tolomeo, who did take the king, and commanded him to be glistered or boxed with bags of scalding oil, for that he did the like unto all such as he did take. This was called the second Cleonidas, he continued more than fifteen years upon the Seas, and never went a land, but took and rob all that ever he met with all, and used no other office but as afore is declared. He went not alone with one ship as he was at that present, but always had with him more than twenty, that were very good, and fortified with all necessaries and people, but by fortune of a great tempest, they were scattered abroad, and separated the one from the other into divers parts, and his ship alone chanced into that port, whereas he met with the other ship, and made his prize, as before hath been told unto you.  
Then Claridiana, when she heard of the evil life of this rover, and how without all shame he did boast and advance himself of his ill doing, she was very glad and joyful for that it was her fortune to come thither at that time, and drawing out her sword, she said these words following.  
CALL to remembrance Cleonides, that an other of thy name, and answerable unto thy conditions, who had a greater power at the Sea than thou hast, with a cruel and desperate death he received his payment a land for all his evil deeds done: likewise that Dionides who was also a rover in the Levant seas, & of great power in the time of Alexander and Darius, yet in the end, was taken prisoner, and punished for his evil deeds by Alexander. Also E●tilcon was a famous rover, yet was he taken and put to death by king Demetrius. But yet more famous was that valiant and worthy Febatio, who with one hundredth Galleys and thirty great ships, was served by all the kings of the Levant, and was feared of all them that dwelled towards the Ponients, yet in the end he was taken prisoner by king Cirus, and in one hour he had his reward for all the evils that he had done in all his time. The rover Militas, with Curreo, which were both in the time of the first Dionysius the Syracusan, the one destroyed Sicilia, and th● other did rob & spoil all Asia, but after that they had used this trade the space of thirty. years by sea, in the end, the rover Militas was taken prisoner by them of the Rhodes, and when that he was brought into the place of execution, he did advance and rejoice in himself, for that with his own proper hands, he had cut of the heads of five hundredth men, and threw forty into the Sea, and thirty thousand were slain in battle with his Galleys, and in the end, was executed by them of the Rhodes, according unto his deserts. This and many other more, which I could rehearse, were famous rovers, yet when their hou●e was come of their sorrowful destiny, they were rewarded for their sin and wickedness, and never enjoyed the riches that they had stolen. Therefore I do believe, Cleonidas, that thou in all thy actions, being so conformable, that the justice which happened unto them, cannot be lacking unto thee. Consider from whence thou comest, and what thou hast been, and then I hope in God that thou wilt leave of to be a rover, or else thou wilt go to receive the reward of all the harms which thou hast done in this world, unto the devil of hell, who is author and guide of such as thou art.  
Then Cl●onidas hearing the princes Cla●idiana utter these words with so great boldness and courage, burst out in a great laughter and said, Now of my faith knight, I tell thee, that I never knew a more foolish man than thou art, that in this sort dost threaten Cleonidas, and telleth him Histories of Rovers, as though that he were less in force and strength then Dionedes, and thyself of more power than ever was Alexander. Stay a while, and I will make thee to: understand and know who I am, and likewise will teach thee to know to whom thou speakest: and in saying these words, he drew out his sword, & went against Claridiana, then there began between them a very fierce & cruel battle, & they laid the one upon the other such strong & heavy blows, that in short space their shields were hewed & broken in pieces, & all those that beheld them, were greatly amazed, at their great force & stoutness, and it seemed unto them that they were two of the bravest & strongest knights that ever before they had seen. This battle was so rigorous, that in a short space Cleonides began to feel & know the high bounty of his adversary, as he that never in all his life, met with any that did charge him so strongly, neither brought him into the like extremity, and the more he strined against her, the more he felt the weight and fury of her blows.  
This battle endured betwixt them more than a whole hour from the beginning, at which time the royal Empress Claridiana was more fresher & fought more stronger than at the beginning, and Cleonidas began to wax weary and faint, and would very feign have had the aid & secure of his knight: but the Empress perceiving it, fearing all that might happen, did so enforce herself, that striking three mighty blows at him on his helm, all in one place, in great haste the one after the other, she made him to fall forward upon his hands to the ground, and before that he had any time to recover himself again, she struck him so terrible a blow between the gorget and his helm, that she stroke & cut of his head clean from the body, so that they fell bo●h together down to the ground.  
Then the knights of Cleonidas, which were to the number of ten, when they saw their Captain headless, they altogether assaulted Claridiana, charging her with thick and strong blows, but she received them in so gallant and valiant sort, that in a short space she slew ●iue of them, and the other seeing her mortal blows did yield themselves, and craved pardon for their lives. In this sort did this famous rover end his days, God permitting that he should be without the aid and secure of the rest of th● Navy for that he whom all the coasts of the sea feared, should receive his death and be slain by the hands of a Damsel. Thus he being dead and his knights yielded, strait ways Claridiana commanded to be set at liberty all those prisoners that he had taken, the which being done, there came before her presenting themselves a damsel who was very fair, & brought by a principal knight that was taken prisoner at that instant by Cleonidas, and both of them gave her great thanks for the worthiness the used in ●laying of their enemy, and marveled very much at her great bounty and valiantness. The Empress received them very courteously, and asked of them who they were, and of what Country? Whereunto the damsel answered, saying.  
You shall understand (worthy knight) that this Knight and I are both of the confines of Sarmasia, and I am Lady over six Castles of mine own the which be very strong and good, all situated in one great and fresh valley, and this knight is Lord over other three Castles, round about mine, and being overcome with my beauty, fell in love with me, and would have taken me for his wife, I liked well of him, but there was one thing that did disturb me, and hindered the accomplishing of his desire, which was, that I had some suspicion that he bore great good will and love unto a Damsel that is very fair, and Lady over another little valley, which is very fair and pleasant, and till such time as I was fully certified of this doubt, I would never consent unto his request, for the which, seeing that there was no order how and which way I might entirely satis●●te myself. There was a conclusion conserted betwixt us both, that we should go together into the kingdom of Rusia, unto the cave of the wise Artidon, who doth answer a full conclusion unto all that is demanded of him, and doth know the secret of all hearts, and what they do desire, although they do dissemble and keep it never so secret. So this seeming unto us the best remedy, we strait ways gave order for the same, the which being in a readiness, we embarked ourselves in this ship, and departed, bringing with us to the number of twelve knights to bears us company, and being by fortune put into this port, our mishap would that we should meet with this rover Cleonidas, who strait ways with his knights did join in battle with us, and having slain the most part of those that came with us, this knight being so sore oppressed with them, in the end was taken prisoner with me and these women that came with me, according as you Sir knight, did find us. This is all that I can declare for answer unto your demand, and the occasion wherefore we departed out of our Country.  
The Empress Claridiana rejoiced very much at the good discourse of the damsel, and marveled not a little of that which she heard told of the cave of Artidon, and as one that desired no other thing, to the intent she might be fully certified of her knight, she requested the Lady once again to certify her of that cave, and to give her to understand, what is the reason that they that entered in should know all that they demanded. Then Elisea, (for so the Damsel was called) who knew very well the whole adventure of that cave, declared it unto her peticularlie in such order as it was and passed, saying that the said Artidon was th● wisest that was in all his time, and hitherto could never be found the like, he did enchant that cave in such sort, that all persons may know what they will desire, and this was of a very truth, for that she hath been certified by them that have been at the same place, and there made the proof.  
When that Claridiana understood very well the adventure of the cave, she strait ways had a great desire to go thither, as well to see a thing of so great marvel, as also for that it seemed that by that means she might come unto the knowledge of that she desired so much to know of the knight of the Sun. And so she said unto the damsel and unto the knight, that she would go and bear them company, only for to see that marvelous cave of Artidon, whereat they were very glad and joyful, thinking their journey to be made with more security. And therewith they all went a shore together, and began to travail by land, and passing by the skirt of the kingdom of Balachia, they entered into Russia, and travailing towards the cave of Artidon, the History doth leave them for to tell you of the Pagans, that in all this time were mustering and gathering together of their people for to go towards Grecia.   

How the great and mighty army of the Emperor Alicandro were joined together in the port of Tenedon, and of diverse varieties of people that there were joined to go into Grecia. Chap. 17.  
IN all this time was not idle the great and mighty Emperor Alycandro, for that after he had concluded upon the vo●age into Grecia, he made so great speed in the joining and gathering together of his people, that in a short time all his Captains had in a readiness what he should have on his charge. Likewise such kings as were his subjects having the charge for to join and gather together in their kingdoms, all the people that possible they could, so that they observed the time appointed, and met in the kingdom of Phrigia, whereas is the great and mighty Port of Tenedon. The number of people were infinite that were ther● joined together of diverse nations, so contrary the one to the other, that it seemed all the people in the whole world to be there assembled, and if every Nation had not been divided and separated the one from the other in very good order, they should not the one have understood the other, which would have been the occasion of a great confusion amongst them, by reason of the diversity of their speeches. And for that the wise Lyrgandeo would declare some of the Nations that were here met in this mighty army (which was the greatest that ever was made in all the world) as he that knew it very well, he hath named some of them in this History, and faith, that there came first thither the Emperor Alycandro, King & Lord over them all, who brought with him fifty thousand knights of Tartary, and thirty thousand knights of the Scit●s, and twenty thousand of the Oriental India's, he brought in his company the fair Princess Lyndabrides, for to crown her Empress of Grecia, who came with no small contentment, for that it seemed unto her by that order, she might with great facility have in her company the knight of the Sun. There came also the mighty and worthy Giant, Bradaman Campeon Lord of the Oriental Islands, who brought in his company that most valiant and proud youth Bramarant with two thousand of his Giants, all mounted upon Elephants, for that in those Countries they do use them for their necessities, as in other places they do horses. Also the king of Seras with twenty thousand on horseback, all warlike people and gallant soldiers. Also the Prince of Cambray, and in his company other f●ue kings of the Medea's, with an infinite number of people. Also the King of the Palibotos, who (as it is affirmed by many authors and writers) that at all times when he pleaseth, he bringeth into the field one hundred thousand foot men of war, and thirty thousand on horseback, & eight thousand Elephants. Also the stout Rodaran king of Arabia, and with him the Queen Carmania, with each of them five thousand knights. Thither came the king of Media, the king of the Pa●tos, the king of the Arrianos, the king of the Sandaros, the king of the Pari●anos, the king of the Bastros, the king of the Sugianos, the king of the Suspios, the king of the Masagetas, the king of the Corsitas, the king of the Paristeos, the king of the Rifaces, the king of the Mardoes. Also the king of Arcania, the king of Yuoria, the king of Armenia, and all the Nations of the river ●anges and of the mount Tauro. Also the king of Trapabona, and the king of Egypt, and the king of Aethiopia, and the Prince of Candoria, and the old king of Gedrosia, only for to see himself revenged on the Emperor Alycandio, who did not esteem, but set at nought his counsel, and also of Bramarant, who slew the good knight Graco his son. To conclude, there came these & many other nations m●, which he let pass for to avold tediousness: but yet one thing in all this great army, is as greatly to be lamented as noted, and that is, that being there joined together more than the third part of all the world, yet was there not amongst so many thousands of people, not one that did believe in God, nor observed his laws, for that they were all Gentiles: some worshipped Estatuas, & other some the stars, and there were many amongst them that did worship very foul beasts, and for their principal God's Oxen and dogs, a very lamentable thing, yet God did permit & suffer it for the great and abominable sins of man. Thus when that all these people were in a readiness, the great Navy wherein they should be embarked was assembled altogether, the which fleet was so great, that it covered from the port Tenedon, a great part of the Egean sea, and all the Hellesponto unto the Proponte, and it was not to be marveled, that so great and mighty a fleet of ships should be joined together, for that many days before the Emperor Alicandro caused all the masters and shipping that was to be found in all the coasts of Asia to be brought thither, so that in a short space after that they were joined together, this mighty Fleet was furnished with all kinds of victuals and other necessaries, abiding wind and weather for to departed, the which when that it came, they hoist their sails, and began to take their journey towards Grecia, with so great a noise of diverse kinds and sorts of instruments, that every Nation brought, that it was a wonder to hear. So in this their journey the History doth leave them till time doth serve.   

How the Emperor Trebatio had news of the coming of the Pagans, and how he made all things in readiness to receive them. Chap. 18.  
AS the Emperor Trebatio was advertised of the coming of the Pagans before they devarted out of their Country, even so had h● intelligence by certain scouts & messengers, at such time as they were joined together, and embarked in the Port of the Tenedon, and how that they were all at the Sea, at which time the Emperor was ready and had all things in good order, although there were not come unto him the aid and help● that he looked for from many other places, but yet of his own Countries and other kingdoms subject unto his Empire, he had joined together one hundredth and twenty thousands of very good knights and chosen men, for besides all Grecia, there was subject unto his Empire the kingdom of Macedonia, and the kingdom of Epiro, and the Kingdom of Arcadia, all Ci●ilia was his and Italia, Pannonia, Dalmasia, Dardania, Hungaria, Bitania, Suevia, Saxonia, the Islands Cyclades, Creta, and Rhodas, and many other Islands which I leave in the Tirreno Sea, whose government is by mighty Princes, all subjects unto the Empire, and are at the commandment of the Emperor at all times when that he will call them unto the wars. So that the Emperor Trebatio was in a readiness as well with all these people, as also with those valiant and worthy Knights which were at that time in the Court, and others which he looked for every day, and although he received great sorrow and grief for the absence of his son the knight of the Sun, in the time of so great necessity, and for that it was long since his departure, and never to that hour he could hear any news of him, his heart gave him that he should not hear of him so quickly, for the which he was very sad and heavy, although his valiant heart and courage was of so great force, that he dissembled his sorrow, and showed so pleas●nt and joyful a countenance unto all people, that of none it was perceived. And in all this time that they were awaiting the coming of the Pagans, he nor his son Rosicler were not idle, but always procured to fortify and strengthen the City with armour, arms, and victuals, in amending the walls, and trimming the gates, causing the fields to be made clean▪ for disturbing of themselves. So that this good Emperor was always occupied, and ready at all points, as he who looked for against him, the greatest power and mightiest army that ever was seen. Here the History doth leave to speak of him, and return to speak of the great and puissant Fleet that was ordaining in England.   

Of the great and mighty army the which the King Oliverio joined together in great Britain, for to pass into Grecia. Chap. 19  
NOw saith the History, forsomuch as the King Oliverio had very green in his memory the death of his son the Prince Edward, and also Don Siluerio the robbing and taking away of that precious and fair Princess Olivia, the which he hoped to have to wi●e, both the one and the other did procure to make revenge with all diligence and speed possible. So that Don Siluerio was not contented with such 〈◊〉 as he could take out of the Kingdom of Lusitania, but also he went unto the king Zenodoro, who was at that present king and Lord over the Godos in 〈◊〉, (who were the richest and mightiest people that were to be found in all Christendom) who for that they were neighbours and friends, he gave unto him twenty thousands knights all very good and well armed, & amongst them there were some young knights of the Godos, who for to show forth the worthiness of their persons, thought i● good to go forth in these wars, and did use themselves very valiantly, as shall be declared unto you in the process of this History.  
With these and other thirty thousand more that Don Silu●rio brought out of his country, which made to the number of fifty thousand very good soldiers, he went to great Britain▪ and at his arrival thither, the king Oliverio had in a readiness other fifty thousand chosen men out from amongst all other kingdoms that were, subject unto him, as Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and Cornwall, and other mighty Lords of 〈◊〉 so that there was joined together in great Britain, one hundredth thousand fight men. Likewise, he received letters from the king of Hungaria, that he had in a readiness for his coming, forty thousand knights, very good and chosen men, and well armed in all points: this he had besides others of great number, which would meet him by the way, the which did give courage & stomach unto king Oliverio, not alonely to assault the Emperor Trebatio, but also to conquer a great part of the world. So making his fleet in a readiness, and all other necessaries needful for such an enterprise, the history doth leave them, and return unto the Emperor Alicandio.   

How the great and mighty fleet of the Emperor Alicandro came unto the port of Constantinople, and forcing to go a land, the Pagans had with the Christians great and rigorous encounters. Chap. 20.  
THE time is come that the great and puissant fleet of the barbarous Nations did fail and navigate with prosperous wind and wether, to wards Grecia, with so great 〈◊〉 and power, that it seemed they were sufficient for to conquer the whole compass of the world, for that since the art of Navigation was first invented, there was never so puissant and mighty a fleet seen on the seas, for the first onset of them did cover the greatest part of the Proponto, besides these that remained for to pass the straits into Egeo.  
Upon a day early in the morning at such time as the Sun began to spread abroad his beams upon the earth, this great and puissant fleet of ships was so nigh unto the land, that they were discovered by them of Constantinople, that did abide their coming, who were not a little amazed when that they saw the seas covered with so great and innumerable company of ships, and it seemed unto them that there could not remain any more people in all Asia, that was of any account, but that they were come in that fleet, and with the great joy and contentment that they received for the discovery of the land, there was so great a noise of divers kinds of instruments, that it seemed all the world to join together, as at the day of the universal judgement. They that came foremost and first to the land, was the king of Media, & the king of the Partos, who with an infinite number of small Pinnaces and boats made for the purpose, began to put a land a great multitude of their people that came in their great ships, wherein they used great diligence, and made all haste possible, because they would not disturb, but give place unto them that followed after. Being a land, and not yet put in good order, neither had they taken a shore their horse and munition, when that by the commandment of the Emperor Trebatio, there issued out of the mighty city of Constantinople the prince Rodomarte, armed with very good and sure armour, and in his company ten thousand knights likewise very well armed, and went towards the sea side, who with so valiant courage and furious force, did put themselves in the midst amongst the Pagans that were landed a shore, that they flew many of them, & many they overthrew to the ground very sore wounded, so that there were very few of them but were sorry, that they were the first that came a land: but by reason that they were very many in number and continually they did disembarke more and more, they returned upon the Greeks, so that betwixt them there began a mighty and terrible battle, for that the Medianes and Parts, were stout and valiant men, and were all well armed, and defended well themselves. Likewise, the Greeks were all chosen knights, and the great courage the which they received by the hearing of their valiant captain, did cause them to put the Pagans in so great extremity, that of force they retired towards the sea, in which time there was so great haste in that mighty fleet, for to disembarke themselves a land, that all was in an uproar, and so great a noise that the one could neither hear nor understand the other, till such time as the Emperor Alicandro, (with great anger, for that he could not with his people go and aid them that were a land) commanded that they should all retire back, and that every nation in his order as he arrived, should disembarke themselves, the which being obeyed, strait ways there went a land the S●sas, Arianos, and the Gandaros, who when they joined with the other that were before a land, were so many in number, that the Greckes began to lose ground, and to retire towards the city. The Emperor seeing that, commanded to issue forth the Prince of Dalmacia, and the Prince of the Rhodes with fifteen thousand knights, who entered into the battle with so furious ire, that in killing & slaying many of the Pagans', they made them to lose that which before they had gotten of the field, and to retire back unto the sea side. There might you see these Princes do so great acts, that they were all imbrued with blood of their enemies. Likewise the king of Media & of the Parts, & other kings, princes, & captains of the pagans, were all a great defence unto their knights, for that they were of great & high stature of their persons, & very valiant, strong and stout, which caused great destruction amongst the Christians. In all this time was Bradaman and Bramarant his son, so angry, furious & outrageous, that there was no one that belonged unto them that d●rst abide their presence, for that they were appointed for to come in the midst of all that great fleet in the guard & company of the Emperor Alicandro, and they seeing so many ships before them, (the which should first v●sembarke) and they so far from that those whereto they could not by any means send any of their men for to aid & help the Pagans that were in battle and oppressed by the Christians, were ready to tear themselves in pieces with anger and grief, and commanded the mariners, that they should with all sails bearing, rush through the thickest of all the fleet, with all speed possible for to come first to the shore▪ and for that the passage was very perilous for to pass through, where as to many ships were at an anchor in the port, the pilot did withdraw himself in all that ever he could, not to pass forwards, the which being perceived by the stout Bramarant, his anger was so great, that he had against the pilot, that he took him by the heels and threw him headlong into the sea, and said, go thy ways whereas thou shalt lose all the fear and dread that thou hast of the Sea, for that mariners ought not to have any more fear at the Sea, than knights on the land: and thereupon he took the government of the ship to himself, who with stretched sails, thrust himself amongst the thickest of the fleet, with so great fury, that all pilots procured to let slip their cables for to give way unto him that he might pass, and by reason of his first course, there were some ships that had not so much time, received the wrack, and sunk into the Sea.  
Thus by force hasting to the shoreward, launching out the ship boat, both the father and son went together, and there were so great a number of them and their barks at the sea side, discharging of soldiers, that they could not get to the shore, and they not minding to stay for any turns or degrees, made no more a do but leapt from one ●oate unto an other, for to recover the land, and yet were they forced for to leap into the water up to the knees before they could get a shore, who when they found themselves upon the firm land, & against them a number of Greeks that did disturb their disembarking, they did in such sort begin to bestir themselves amongst them, that in a short time with their wonderful and terrible blows, they did so entreat them, that of very force they were constrained to retire, for that they never struck blow, but that they slew or overthrew a knight to the ground, that by their mighty force, they had place for to disembarke the rest a land. And in this sort being a foot as they were, they put themselves into the midst of the battle, by whose coming, many Greeks lost their lives, and they carried the flower of the victory, for that whereas they went, there was not one that saw their terrible blows, but did fly away before them, as from the death: so that by reason hereof, the Greeks lost a great part of the field, and retired themselves towards the city, the which being perceived by the captains, they did encourage and animate them all that ever they could, for to hold their own, and to remain in the field, but they respecting the two Pagans and saw that they were the only occasion of their retiring, and sign of destruction, the two Prince's Radamarte and Rodafeo, took to them two big and strong staves, and setting spurs to their Horses, with so great fury as possible was, the one made his encounter against Bradaman, and the other against Bramarant, who although they were on foot, yet for all that by reason of the greatness and mightiness of their persons, were seen above all the rest: but it fell not out well with these two Princes, for although they made their encounter very strongly, and broke their staves, yet did they them no harm, neither made any motion of moving thereat, but passing by, they struck either of them such a blow at his enemy with so great fury, on their wastes, that they overthrew them to the earth, and if their armour had not been very good, they had parted them a sunder in the midst. Forthwith these furious Pagans' passed forwards for to put themselves in the thickest of the Greeks, who fled marvelously before them, in which time the two Princes had space for to recover again their horses, and with great anger and grief for that misfortune that happened unto them, they put themselves amongst the Pagans, requiting on them the injury done by the other two, determining not to return any more to prove themselves upon the two Pagans that had overthrown them, because they saw that they could get but little honour at their hands. In this time the Greeks retired back all that ever they could, and lost a great part of the field, so that the rest of the Pagan fleet had room and space enough for to dise●barke themselves, so that all the fields were peopled with the Pagan host. The which the Emperor ●rebatio perceiving, he strait ways commanded the Prince of Dardania and the king of Esclavonia, that they with twenty thousand knights should issue out into the battle, and do so much, that by force they might make the Pagans for to retire, only for that they should not think Grecia so be so ill provided of knights and defence. Then these two Captains who were very valiant and stout knights, with those knights that the Emperor had commanded, departed out of the city, and passing two great fields that were between the Pagan host and them, they came unto the battle, and seeing that the Grecians retired and were like to lose the victory, with all the force and fury possible, they entered all together into the battle, and slew many of their enemies, and got again the field the which before they had lost, & made the Pagans to retire unto the sea side, although they were a great number more, than there were of the Greeks, and continually did disembarke more and more, all alongst the coast, some armed, and other some tarrying for their armour and horse, yet for all this it did well appear that those which came from the city a fresh, had not felt the great power and infernal fury of these brave Pagans, the father & the son, who with great ease did battle with the rest, but quickly they felt their mortal and wonderful blows, which caused them to lose a great part of their bravery, & seemed that those two were sufficient for to destroy them all, who with very broad and heavy falchions, did put themselves amongst the Greeks, some they cut a sunder by the wastes, and othersome they clove down to their breasts, and othersome unto the saddle, and made great slaughter in such sort, that amongst the Greeks, there was not one knight although he were never so valiant & stout, that durst abide before them, but ran away from t●e place whereas they saw them come, thinking them to be more like devils of bell, than knights. At this time the Emperor Alicandro was come a shore, and mo●ted upon a triumphant Chariot, such a one as the princess Lindabrides brought: out of the which he did behold all that passed in the battle, and was very joyful for to see the great wonders which Bradaman Campion, and his son did, and seemed unto him that they two alone were sufficient for to destroy a whole army, and he saw that by their force, the Greeks began to lose ground, although every one of them did very well, by the great encouraging of their captains. At this time the good knight Rosicler (finding himself aggrieved) would not detain himself any longer in the city, & seeing that the battle was marvelously moved, he armed himself with his strong, rich, and glistering armour. And although the Princess Olivia, and the Emprisse Briana his mother did all that they could for to disturb his going, yet did it profit them very little, for that in taking licence of the Emperor his father, he issued out of the city, accompanied with those valiant knights, the Trojan Oristedes, the Tartarian Zoylo, the two princes Bargandel and Liriamandro, and the king Alamades, all these six together without carrying any other people in their company, but only certain squires for to carry their spears. In this sort went towards the battle a gallop with their horse and according as they were of gallant proportions, and very well armed, they gave contentment unto all that did behold them, and the e●tring of these knights into the battle, fell out evil unto a great number, for that in this day a great number of the pagans lost their lives by their hands.  
With great fury entered these six worthy knights, into the battle, and so valiantly bestirred themselves, that unto the rest of the Greeks they gave new force and courage to return unto the fight, and great wonder unto the Pagans to see their bravery, with great anger they put themselves amongst their enemies, overthrowing and killing all that ever was in their ways, in such sort that they left all the field, (whereas they went) full of dead bodies, & there was not one, although he were never so stout, that durst abide before them, but in especial, that worthy Rosicleer, who had the forehand, did charge his enemies with so great and furious blows, that the Emperor Alicandio, & other Pagan kniges that did behold them out of the triumphant Chariot▪ did think verily that it was the knight of the Sun, for that in his gallant proportion, and mightiness of body, he did resemble him very much. And their blood waxed cold in their bodies to see how he did cut their knights asunder in the midst, and some clove down unto the gerdelsted: likewise they were greatly amazed at the stout Trojan that road by him, who overthrew & slew with his sword, all that ever he could reach, and did in this day make apparent unto all people, the valiant descent from whence he did proceed. Also that valiant Tartarian, did here show the great love that he bore unto Rosicler, for whose sake, he forsook his own native country, & slew so many of those barbarous people, that he was all embrewed with the blood of them, the like did the two Princes and the king, that if they had not been approved knights, they could not have followed Rosicleer, by reason he put himself with so great fury amongst the Pagans: but what did profit all this that they did, for although on that part whereas they were they got the better hand, yet in all other parts of the battle the Greeks fled away and lost the field, by reason of the two furious Pagans, Bradaman and stood, who did such di●●lish wonders, that there was non● that could 〈◊〉 what to make of them.  
There 〈…〉 knight to Rosicleer, declaring the mischief the which those two Pagans did, who hearing the same, turned about his horse, and went towards that place whereas they were accompanied with their friends: and he had not gone far when that a far of he saw them, for that Bradaman being on foot, was higher than any man on horseback from the breast upwards, and Bra●narant was equal on foot with the horsemen, and these two Pagans were all to be rayed with blood, and the place whereas they were full of dead bodies round about them, procuring continually to press forewards in the battle, all that ever they could, for to overtake them that fled away before them. The which being seen by Rosicleer, his valiant and courageous heart could not suffer it, but took in his hand the biggest spear that he could find, crying out unto the knights for to give him way: he like unto a whirl wind, made towards Bramarant, at which noise an the Pagans and Greeks gave way for to behold tha● encounter, than this furious Pagan when that he saw him coming, with his broad falchion in his hand, did abide him, and 〈◊〉 still, thinking him to be one as the other knights were, but this good knight made his encounter in the midst of his broad and great breast, with so great force and strength, (that although he was accustomed not to make any m●uing 〈◊〉 encounter that was made against him) yet at this present he was overthrown and fell backwards to the ground, that he thought verily all his bones had been broken, at whose fall there was so great a noise, as though a tower had fallen down, the which fall troubled him so much, that almost with grief he could scarce rise again. At which encounter all those that did behold it, were greatly amazed, for the Pagans thought verily, that there was no humane force that was able to make the like. But much more was the wonder of the proud pagan, for that he thought that all the power of those false gods in whom he believed, were not of force to overthrow him to the ground: & as yet he was not well raised up 〈◊〉 his 〈◊〉, when that this good knight 〈◊〉, with aspe●re of no l●sse bigness them the other, with so great force and impetuosity, that he seemed a whirl wind, returned upon the gran Campeon, and made so strong an encounter in the midst of his breast, that neither more nor less as his son, he fell with his back on the ground, and therewith he and his friend pressed forwards, making great slaughter amongst the Pagans. But when that the Emperor Alycandro saw those two most valiant Pagans (in whom he had so great confidence) to be overthrown by one alone knight, he thought verily to die in that place with very anger, and complained against the Gods, for that they did give unto one knight so great force and strength, and more, being a Christian. But his anger and grief did strait ways increase the more, for that the old king of Gedrosia who was with him, and as one that received no grief at any evil that should happan unto the Pagans, say.  
You shall understand (mighty Emperor) that yonder knight who hath put you in so great admiration is not the knight of the Sun, as you do think, for that as yet he is not come forth unto the battle, but this is a brother of his, and such a one, that when that he doth join with the other, there is not people enough in all this thy mighty army sufficient for to kill them. The Emperor did very well understand the intention of the king of Gedrosia, and marveling greatly at that which he had said, he did dissemble at that present, and returned to behold the battle, to see the conclusion thereof. It cannot be here declared the great anger and devilish fury which the two Pagans, Father and son received, to see themselves so overthrown by one alone knight in the presence of all the whole Camp, which caused them to do such things, & to strike so terrible blows, that they seemed to be devils of hell. And they seeing that they could not by any means follow and overtake that knight which had overthrown them for that they were on foot, they strait ways commanded that in great hall their horses should be brought unto them, so they brought unto Bradaman a mighty Elephant whereon he did use to ride, for that there was no horse that could bear him, and unto Bramarant the mightiest horse of body that ever was seen, for that he was engendered by a horse and a she Elephant. When that these two were mounted (for the evil of many) they put themselves into the battle, killing and slaying all that ever they met withal, till such time as they had discovered the worthy knight Rosicleer in the company of his good friends, & for that Bramarant did show himself of greater force than his father, by the mighty and mortal blows which he struck, Rosicleer would take with him the contention, and the Trojan Oristedes with the stout Zoylo, went against Bradaman, so that between them there began a terrible battle, that all those that might see them, forgot to fight, and stood to behold them, & seemed that in all their lives they never saw the like, for that they judged to be joined together there, all the force and strength in the world, there did the good knight Rosicler feel the great force and fury of the Pagan, and it seemed unto him that he was the bravest and most strongest that ever he proved in all his life. Likewise the stout Bramarant did know his high bounty and valiant force, for feeling the mighty blows which he struck on him, and seeing the little harm that his blow did unto the knight, with an angry courage he blasphemed against the heavens, and against the earth, and redoubled his blows with so great fury, that if the armour of Rosicler had not been exceeding good, every blow of them had been sufficient for to have cloven him a sunder in the midst, and yet for all that he many times astonished him, & brought him so far out of remembrance, that he fell forwards on his saddle bow and embraced his horse neck, yet notwithstanding this stout Pagan did not much advance himself of his valiantness, for that this worthy Greek being kindled with ire, did with mortal courage so charge him in such sort, that his teeth did break the 〈◊〉 against the other, by the force of his blows, that great abundance of blood ran out at his mouth, and many times he was so amazed, that he was ready to fall from his horse, so that betwixt them the battle grew so terrible, that all those that were in the field forgot themselves, and did behold them, and were greatly amazed that so much power and force should be in human creatures. No less worth for to be looked on at that present, was the mighty battle that passed betwixt the stout Bramarant & the two good knights, the Tartarian & the Trojan, for that Bradaman was the strongest that was to be found amongst all the Giants in the whole world at that time. Likewise the two knights were the best that were to be found in all that great host, next unto Rosicler and Bramarant, which was the occasion that the battle which was betwixt them was the more rigorous, for that the stout Tartarian stroke Bradaman such terrible blows on the one side, that he astonished him, and the valiant Trojan so charged him on the other side, that he made the blood to run out both at his nose and mouth, yet for all that the mighty Pagan did not dismay himself, but was so courageous, that every blow that he fastened on his enemies, did make them to double their bodies in their saddles, and many times to lose their remembrance, and if they had not been both against him together, either of them alone should have passed very evil. Thus after that this battle had endured between them the space of half an hour, the night drew on, and then was there disembarked a land so great and infinite a company of Pagans, that the Greeks could not suffer them, but were constrained to retire, the which Rosicleer seeing, and considering the great peril that might happen unto them, for to remain there alone and so far from their company, presently left Bramarant with whom he did combat, and called unto his friends, who did the like, so that in short space with their light and swift courses, they put themselves amongst the Greeks, and returning back in very good order, they got into the city, the which was no grief unto the Pagans, although the gran Campeon and Bramarant remained very angry and furious, for that they could not be revenged on those knights that did so much abase them. And by reason that the night drew on a pace, the Emperor Alycandro commanded his Tents to be pitched, and all that night they had enough to do to disimbarke the rest of the people that came in that fleet. But when that the next morning was come, they might see all the field of Grecia so replenished with barbarous people, that never before that time was seen so many people in one army, there was so many that they could not be numbered, to know how many they were, but that they might discern every Nation was divided by themselves, and known the one from the other. Likewise to see the great difference they had the one from the other in their tents, the fashion of their armour, the diversities of speeches, and the contrariety of their customs and manners, that no man whatsoever he were that should have seen them, but would have marveled, and received great admiration, the Imperial tent of the Emperor was all wrought with gold and silver, full of an infinite number of fine, prcious, and glistering stones, and was of so huge bigness, that a thousand armed knights might walk therein. Within the same tent was the Imperial seat of the Emperor, and round about it the seats of all the other kings his vassals, in such order placed, as it was in the imperial hall of his palace, and round about the same Tent was placed the tents of the Tartarians and of the Scitas, with an infinite number of tents and pavillians belonging unto them. In like order was placed the tents of the other kings his vassals, every one in his degree. These Pagans were eight days, and had enough to do to fortify their tents and trenches, in which time the Greeks gave no attempt against the Pagans, for that the Emperor Alycandro did send and asked truce of the Emperor Trebatio for eight days, the which was for no other thing, but only that the Greeks might freely enter into their camp for to see & discern their mighty power, and so they did, for in the space of that eight days, the Greeks did no other thing but go and come into the camp and host of the Pagans, and were greatly amazed to see so many and so different Nations joined together, and so conformable for to obey and accomplish the commandment of their Lord. Likewise in this time the good Emperor Trebatio hearkened to no other thing but to send to his knights from one place unto another, in the demand and seeking of the knight of the Sun, and when that he could not hear any news by them, he was very sad and sorrowful for the same, as well for the suspicion he had of some misfortune that might happen unto him, as also for the great lack of his aid and help that they might have in that time of necessity. The Princess Lyndab●ides likewise in the time of these eight days of truce, was informed by certain Greeks, how that the knight of the Sun was absent from the Court, and that many days since they never could hear any news of him, for the which news she was marvelously sad and heavy, for that she was determined to enter into Constantinople, that under colour to speak with the Empress Briana, she might see him, who was the only occasion of her coming out of her Country, and it seemed unto her that in only seeing of him, her heart should receive great comfort & ease, and she had great hope, (only for to eschew the great wars that were ordained against them) that they would think it the best that he should be her husband, but when that she saw that all fell out contrary to that which she thought, she began a new to grieve herself, and to feel her misfortune, whereas the History doth leave her, to tell of all that happened afterwards.   

Of the great succour that came to the Emperor Trebatio, and of a cruel battle that the Christians had with the Pagans. Chap. 21.  
THE last day of the truce that was put between the two Emperors, arrived in Grecia the Prince Claveryndo, who came in aid and secure of the Emperor Trebatio, with twenty thousand knights, of the best proportioned and armed, that were at that time joined together in Grecia, and they disimbarked themselves in the sight of all the Pagans, and entered into Constantinople, at whose coming the Emperor Trebatio received as great joy and pleasure, as the Emperor Alycandro sorrow and grief, for that those knights came in the time of their truce, and his will was to the contrary, for that he would have given them a recompentibus before their entering into Constantinople, but strait ways his grief began to double, for that within one hour after arrived there the good king Sacridoro with eight thousand of his own knights, and in his company came the Prince Don Lucindo, with great desire for to show the good will that he bore unto Rosicleer, all the which came a shore in the face of all the Pagans, & passed through the great field, and so entered into Constantinople, whereas they were received of the Emperor Trebatio & Rosicler, with that love and friendship as was always betwixt them. Likewise the last day of the truce lacked not the coming of the good and valiant king Florion, and in his company the wise Lyrgandeo and his son, the stout Brandizel, who met with him at the Sea, by the industry and wisdom of the wise man, and in his company twenty thousand knights, who came to pay the great debt in the which he was bound unto the knight of the Sun, and at their entry into Constantinople they were received of the Emperor and of the Empress, as such persons as they were deserved, who knew not how to gratify the great pains and travail which they had taken, in coming from so far Countries to favour, succour, and help them▪ Here the king Flo●ion and the wise Lyrgandeo began a new for to declare unto them, how & in what sort the young Gentleman of the Sun was found, and how he was nourished and brought up into his company, till such time as he departed from them. Whereat the Emperor and the Empress received great contentment to hear it told. Then the wise man turned unto Rosicler & did embrace him with great love and said: Seeing that it is so (worthy Prince) that the evil fortune of your brother is fallen out so contrary, that he is now absent out of this Country, and you alone do remain the shield and defence, of your father and Country, show yourself now as ever heretofore you have been, & let no troubles nor travails overcome you, nor weariness enter into your beans, for seeing that God hath created and made you so valiant & worthy, let the honour of your mighty & valiant attempts appear in your high knighthood, and you may well make this account, that if you go through with this enterprise, you have conquered all the world from the Orient unto the Occident (beside the small company that is on your part) they be all against you, & this much I can tell you of the knight of the Sun your brother, that since his departure from hence, he hath not been greatly at his ease, for that he hath passed greater perils & dangers than you can pass in these wars, & it doth not beho●e us to speak any more of him, for that of force he must pass the troubles the which his destiny hath ordained for him. Here did Rosicler gratify very much the wise man for that which he had said unto him, and after thanks giving, he said, that having him on his side, there was nothing that he did fear. At this instant came thither five thousand knights from the kingdom of Thessalia, and in their company came the fair Queen Arquirosa, who after that she understood that Rosicleer (by whom she recovered her kingdom) was son unto the Emperor Trebatio, she was not content to send to him of her knights, but she herself would come in person unto Constantinople, as well for to see Rosicleer, as also because she hoped to receive & take a husband at his appointment. The Emperor & Rosicleer thought great friendship of the coming of this aid, by whom as also by the Empress the Queen was received with great honour. All these were joined together in the mighty City of Constantinople, whereas the Emperor found of the one & of the other 100 ● four score thousand knights, so that if there were not joined together so many of their adversaries, they had been sufficient to have conquered all the whole world, yet was there of the Pagans four for one, & amongst them there were the most bravest & stoutest giants that were to be found in all the world, for that the Emperor Alicandro sent for them from the islands of the farthest part of the Ocean seas, and Bradaman Campeon brought with him two thousand, that he took out of the Oriental islands, so that all these were of so furious and stout a Nation, that the Emperor Trebatio had here great need of the aid and help of almighty God. All this aid and secure aforesaid entered into Constantinople in the face of the Emperor Alycandro and all his, whereat he was wonderful wrathful, as well for their coming to aid their enemies, as also for that they entered in the time of their truce, so that he and all that were with him had great good will for to distrube them of their entry into the City, and swore that after their truce was ended, if there came any more aid & succour, that first they would put them all unto the sword, rather than consent that they should enter into Constantinople, for that he might better deal with them abroad in the field than in the City, and from that day forwards the Emperor Alycandro commanded that there should be put spies and scouts in all places, for to advertise them if there came any more succour unto the Greeks, the which was no small harm unto them (as shall be told you hereafter in this History) but God who is the author of all goodness, did so ordain, that by their own spies and scouts they came to perdition & were lost, for that he would not that his Christian people should receive so much harm as was ordained for them by their enemies.   

Of the second battle which the Greeks had with the Pagans, and of the notable acts that were done in the same. Chap. 22.  
AFter that the eight days were passed of the truce that was taken between the Greeks and the Pagans, the next day following, which was the ninth day, the Emperor Trebatio determined to issue out of the City with his knights into the field, and give battle unto his enemies, who were likewise in a readiness, and very desirous they did abide their coming, thinking it long to see them in their clutches, but in especial those two furious Pagans the gran Campion and Bramarant, unto whom the eight days of truce seemed to be eight years according unto the great desire which they had to be revenged on those knights which had so shamed them in the first battle, who so soon as they saw any people begin to come forth out of the city to enter the field, put themselves before all the whole army, for that they would be the first that should enter into the battle. So he that came the foremost of the Greeks, was that good knight Rosicler, and next unto him the stout Oristedes, with the good king Sacridoro, & with them twenty thousand of Greek knights, who upon a sudden, did set upon a great ambushment of Pagans that took the fore frunt of the host, in the which was more than forty thousand knights of the Seras & of the Medoes, who had for their captains the king of Seras, & the king of the Medoes, both of the which were young men and very valiant knights, and in their company came Bradaman and Bramarant, in the forward, the one mounted upon his Elephant, and the other upon his mighty horse, and either of them a spear in his hand so great, that it seemed the mast of a ship, who pricked before their company, and made great haste towards the Greeks. Then came there forth to receive them Rosicleer and his good companions, in such sort, that he made his encounter with Bramarant, and the good Trojan with the king Sacridoro, made their encounter with Bradaman, so that all five together made so strong & mighty an encounter, that the noise thereof made a terrible sound throughout all those broad and wide fields, as though some thunder bolt had fallen when their Spears were broken, they remaining all firm in their saddles passed the one by the other forwards, & never stayed till they put themselves in the ●ace of their enemies, and with so great fu●ie they entered amongst them, that they covered the fields with dead knights, and the dust that arose into the air did c●uer all the whole host that they could scarce see one another, and the horse ran masterless about the field which was a show how many they had overthrown 〈◊〉 that their first entry: At this time those two furious Pagans being somewhat weary in killing of their adversaries, returned back to seek out them who had jousted with them, and they saw them in the midst of their adversaries & enemies all to bewrayed with blood, killing and overthrowing all that they could meet with all, and when they came nigh unto them, Bramarant went against Rosicleer, and Bradaman against his two companions, so that betwixt them there began such a battle, that many that were there did leave of their fighting, only to behold them, for that their blows which they did strike, did make them all to wonder, and there was no man that did behold them, but received great fear & dread. Here in this conflict might be seen how necessary is the armour, unto good knights, such as are made and forged by masters of Art Magic, for if they were not forged, with their compositions & subjections, according unto Art, than were the best knights in all the world as ready and as subject to be cloven in the midst unto their wastes, by the terrible blows of these monsters, as any other simple wretch and feeble person, for when their armour is not good, many times in the breaking they lose an arm and some other joint, or receive some great wound, when that at all times at their need they shall not find a Surgeon ●o cure & heal them. Therefore such as were good knights in those days, and desired to put themselves in mighty perils & dangers, did more procure to get their armour made by art, then to get a kingdom, and in this sort they did defend themselves the one from the other, assuring their own persons in such sort, that all the condition of their battles did depend in their great force and strength, and in him that most mightily and worthily with dexterity did strike and deliver his blows. So that in this conflict, although the blows of Bramarant were wonderful and terrible, yet did Rosicler receive & abide them on the fineness of his armour, which were of the best that was in all the whole world: likewise in the valiantness of his courage, which was not only for to make resistance against that furious Pagan, but also he did so furiously and so strongly charge him with his blows, that many times he made him astonished and to sweat drops of blood, for that of truth Bramarant thought before he made a proof of this knight, that in all the heavens and upon the earth, there was not to be found one that durst abide his importunate fury, wherewith he received so great courage and anger, that with an infernal stomach he redoubled his blows against the strong & worthy Rosicleer, in such sort that his own flesh and bones did ache, & it seemed that the other was all on fire, with the great quantity of sparks that he made fly out of his fine forged armour. Likewise, was no less rigorous, the brave & stout battle the which Bradaman Campion, had with the two valiant knights, for that the Gran Campion, next unto his son Bramarant, was the most mightiest and strongest that was in all the whole Orient, whom the stout Trojan and the valiant King Sacridoro, together, did so strongly charge with their blows, that it could not be better executed, i● that he had been assaulted by the two worthy Trojans, Hector, and Troilus. In this sort was these two so stout captains matched with their contraries, & the other knights and soldiers did all that ever they could for to drive their enemies out of the field, but by reason that on the Pagan's part, there was that stout and valiant knight Rodaran, the King of Media, and the King of Seras, and on the contrary part, there was none for to make resistance unto those, they made great slaughter upon the Greeks, by reason whereof, as also for that there were twice so many of the Pagans as they were, they began to retire, & to lose ground, the which being perceived by the Emperor Trebatio, he would not detain himself any longer in the City, but taking in his company those high and mighty Princes the king Florion and Brandizel his son, the Tartarian Zoylo, Bargandel, & Liriamendro, with Don Lucindo, & other mighty princes and knights the most principal of all his court, he issued out of the city, and had with him thirty thousand knights very good and chosen men, and so entered into the battle with great fury, dividing themselves into two parts, that what with killing, wounding, and slaying, they oppressed so much their enemies, that they forced the Pagans to retire into their trenches, whereas the Greeks in following of them, overthrew many tents, but strait ways there came forth against them more than fifty thousand Pagans with valiant and stout captains, & made their encounter with the other that came upon them a fresh, in such sort, that the battle was renewed and waxed very bloody. Here was to be seen the great marvels done by the Emperor Trebatio, in destroying and killing all that was before him, for some he cut a sunder in the midst, and other their arms, and other their heads, in such sort, that who soever had seen him with that impetious fury, they could not have judged him, but to be either his son Rosicler, or the knight of the Sun, and in his mighty deeds, he did demonstrate, that there was not a Christian prince that with more reason did deserve to bear the name to be father of so excellent sons. He did not content himself to kill & destroy mean knights, but did seek out the principal captains, & knowing them by the richness of their armour, he would assault them, making reckoning, that in overcoming them, he overlayed the whole state and force of the battle, and there with he met with the king of the Seras, and knowing him, by a rich crown of Gold and precious stones which he had upon his helm, he took a spear from one of his knights, and ran at him therewith, making his encounter in the midst of his breast, that the spear pierced through his body, and he fell dead to the ground, this being done he made an other encounter against the king of the Balibotros (who received little benefit of his thirty thousand knights, and eight thousand Elephants, which he brought out of his country) for that at one thrust with a spear, his heart was cloven a sunder, and the head appeared all bloody at his back, and he tumbled to the ground: likewise with another blow● with his sword he clove the head of another king of the Nidias, which had his helm more furnished with gold and precious stones, than of strength. In this sort he passed into the battle doing such marvels, that whereas he passed, they all made him room and gave way. Then the Emperor Alicand●o who saw all that passed from his triumphant Chariot, said unto many kings that were with him. Without all doubt this is the knight of the Sun, and new come into the battle, and of truth his power is very great, and he would give ●s the repulse, if there were not so infinite a number of knights in this my army to make resistance. Tarry a while (said the old king of Gedrosia) for that is not the knight of the Sun as you do say, but it is the Emperor Trebatio his Father, who when that he himself in the midst betwixt his sons, and accompanied with that bushments of knights which now are with him, he will not fear all the whole world, if they were all together against him. At this time who so had seen the great slaughter which that valiant Florion & his son Brandizel did, as also the Prince Claverindo with the Tartarian Zoylo, and all the other precious and worthy knights, surely they would have said, that by experience of the great slaughter which they did, they had been sufficient to have destroyed a great army, that although the Pagans were almost twice so many as they were, yet by their occasion they lost continually ground, and if there had not been amongst them one Bradaman and one Bramarant that did encourage them, they should have had enough to do to have defended themselves from them with whom they were so earnest in battle withal, for that it was good two hours since they first began fight, and at that time there was no more advantage to be known than at their first beginning, at the which these brave Pagans were so furious, that it seemed that they threw out smoke from the beavers of their healmes, and being very desirous to satisfy their hungry wrath with the blood of the others, Bramarant did leave Rosicleer with whom he did combat, and like a devil of hell he put himself into the battle, destroying and killing all that ever he met with, so that before him he made a broad lane, and said within himself, that Rosicler was very valiant and strong, and could not believe that the knight of the Sun had so much strength, but yet if that he might have him in place whereas they might have more room, and time for to finish their combat, he would be wholly revenged of him according unto his will and desire. Likewise at that time Bradaman his Father, with his sword in both his hands struck so strong a blow at the good Trojan upon his helm, that being all amazed and from himself, his horse carried him round about the field, and turning himself about, he struck another blow at the king Sacridoro, that he fell backwards upon his horse crupper, and had fallen to the ground, if that he had not been succoured by the Greeks, and without making any more account of them, he put himself into the battle after his son, and being both together, they made so great slaughter, that all did fly from that part whereas they went. It did not much grieve Rosicleer nor his companions to see themselves separated from those devils, yet with great fury they put themselves into the battle, killing and overthrowing all that ever came into their way, in such sort, that it went evil with a great number, for that they were separated from the battle which they had with those stout Pagans.  
At this time the Emperor Trebatio met with that strong knight Rodaran king of Arabia, and knowing him by the device of his armour, with great anger that he had against him for▪ the treason he used, he made towards him, (and for that Rodaran was one of the valiantest Pagans that was in all the whole army) it was the occasion that betwixt them there began a stout and brave battle, that many had enough to do to behold them, and the rest of the day was almost spent before that they were parted asunder, and for because there were at that present in the battle few principal Knights in part of the Pagans, and on the Emperor Trebatio his side there were a great number, and it seemed unto the Pagans that the Greeks got much ground on them. The Emperor Al●candro strait ways commanded the two thousand Giants of Bradaman for to enter into the battle, who obeyed his commandment with so great impetuosity and fury, that many of their adversaries they ●●ew and overthrew unto the ground. At this present were to be seen the great marvels done by Rosicleer, and by all the other worthy Princes and knights, who being joined together with the number of one thousand of their knights, did put themselves to make resistance against all those Giants, and with their strong and worthy arms did resist that impetuous company, who were sufficient to put them all to flight. Here did the stout Oristedes very well show his manhood, and the valiant & worthy Claverindo, the Tartarian Zoilo, and the king Sacridoro, the Prince Don Lucindo, Liriamandro, & Bargandel, the king Alamades, Rodamarte & Rodafeo, every one of these did so much, that the reader thereof may conjecture of their great bounty, but yet in the end by reason that the Pagans were double as many as they, and again those two devils the Father and the son, against whom there was small resistance to be made, for that these worthy and esteemed knights of Grecia had enough to do to make resistance against the giants of Campion, which was the occasion that all his people when the night drew on began to retire and to lose ground a little and little, the which being considered of by the Emperor ●rebatio, and fearing the great peril that might happen unto his people, he 〈◊〉 unto Rodaran, that if he thought good to leave off their battle & contention until the next day, for that as than it was very late, he would. Then Rodaran having that offer, as one that desired no other thing, withdrew himself, & the Emperor perceiving the night at hand, blew a rich horn of ivory that he had at his neck, the which being known by his people, they began to withdraw themselves and to retire towards the City, the like did the Pagans retire towards their tre●ches, saving only Bradaman and Bramarant his son, who was so fleshed in killing and slaying and shedding of blood, that he followed the Greeks almost unto the City before they would retire, neither at that time would they have returned, but that the valiant Rosicleer with all those worthy knights returned upon them, so that betwixt them there began a terrible and cruel battle, for that Bramarant stroke such cruel blows at the stout Oristedes and the Tartarian Zoylo, that with two alonelie strokes he amazed and left them without remembrance, and made the blood to gush out at their mouths and noses, at which season came Brandizel and stroke him such an overthwart blow upon his helm, that he deprived him of his sight, & made him somewhat astonished, but Brandizel departed not boasting of this blow, for that Bramarant turning himself about with his sword in both his hands so saluted him, that he had fallen to the ground if that he had not embraced himself with his horse neck.  
In like manner Bradaman entreated the strong Florion and Claverindo, for that at two blows he left them without remembrance, at which instant came Rosicleer with the good Emperor Trebatio, and with them the king Sacridoro, & in such sort they began to deal their blows upon those furious Pagans and knights that were in their company, that it seemed to be no other thing but a Smith's forge, for that the great noise of their blows were heard throughout the whole army, and although it was night, yet there repaired an infinite number of Pagans to aid and help them, but yet for all that they would not abide, seeing how strongly they were assaulted and laid on, upon a sudden they set spurs unto their mighty horse and Elephant, and ran through the rout of knights like a whirl wind, and went towards their own camp as devils that came new out of hell, meeting by the way more than one hundredth thousand Pagans that came to help them, and being night, they all returned unto their trenches together, but Bramarant was so far out of charity and angry because that one alone knight had almost all that day maintained the field against him, that he would not come in the presence of the Emperor Alycandro, till such time as he in person came unto his tent, and taking both father & son by the hands, he carried them both unto his tent, whereas he did them so much honour as unto his own person, and praised very much the marvelous deeds the which he did that day, because he would give them contentment, for that in the great force and strength of these two, the Emperor had better confidence than in all the kings and Captains together in all his whole army. The same night he did invite to supper in his Imperial Tent, all the most principal amongst them, whereas they were together with great joy, pleasure, and pastimes, although it grieved them very much the death of their kings which the Emperor Trebatio ●●ew, and there was not one amongst them all that was so hardy as to praise the high deeds of knighthood the which were done by Rosicleer, the Emperor Trebatio, and the other worthy knights their adversaries (of whom they were greatly amazed) for that they would not give any occasion of anger unto Bradaman and Bramarant that were present, who in the time that they were at supper so frowned, and showed so ill favoured a countenance & fierce semblance, that it caused fear in all them that did behold them. At this time the Greeks were entered into the City, and being all lodged, every one according unto his calling, they all supped with the Emperor in his mighty palace, whereas they had enough for to declare of the mighty power of the two Pagans, and of the wonders which they did in the battle, which was the occasion that of new they felt the lack of the knight of the Sun, in saying, that he and his brother Rosicler were sufficient for to make resistance against those furious beasts, who had made so great slaughter amongst the Greeks. So that night passed, and the next day in the morning the dead bodies that appeared in the field were of so great quantity, that they were constrained, by reason of the evil savour that did proceed from them, to take truce for a certain time for to bury the dead & burn the other. So there was ordained a truce for x. days, in which time the Greeks did bury the Christians, and the Pagans did burn them of their Nation, so that the whole field was cleared of all the dead bodies. And leaving them at this present, the History returneth to declare of man●e other things that happened in the mean time.   

How the Prince Meridian had understanding of the coming of his father into Grecia, & how he took the Princess Floralindia out of her father's palace, and departed from Macedonia, & came into the camp of his father, having first in the way battle with the stout Brandimardo. Chap. 23.  
OF long time this History hath not told you any thing of the valiant & worthy Prince Meridian, not for that he in all this time was unoccupied, and that his deeds deserved not to have any rehearsal thereof, but only for to conclude and make an end of this first part of the mighty History of the knight of the Sun and of Rosicler his brother, which is the occasion that here his acts cannot be mentioned particularly, but remaineth, and it declareth unto you all those things which are requisite touching this present history of the knight of the Sun.  
You shall understand that the Prince Meridian was one of the most noted Knights that was amongst all the Pagans, who for the love of the Princess Floralindia turned Christian, and did after such valiant deeds of Knighthood, that he alone deserved a History to be written, but now that which is requisite at this present is, that in the time that he was in the kingdom of Macedonia doing many notable things in the service of the Princess Floralindia, who showed him great favour, at which time they did muster and ●oy●e together many knights and sojourners for the 〈◊〉 and help of the Emperor Trebatio, whereby he understood how the Emperor Alycandro was coming into Grecia with all his power, and marveling very much thereat, he abode the time to hear of his arrival, for to go and see him, for that he had a great desire thereunto, and for that the king of Macedonia and the Prince went unto Constantinople with such people as they had joined together, the Prince Meridian and the princess had more opportunity for to talk together, so that in the end by reason that they loved one another exceedingly, it was agreed and concluded betwixt them, that the Prince should privily in the night take her away out of her Father's palace, and carry her unto the camp of the Emperor his Father, so that first he should give and grant unto her his faith to marry her and take her for his wife. This being concluded in a night when that it was very dark, with a Ladder he took her out at a window which opened into a garden out of her Chamber, and having Palfraies all in a readiness, he took her and a damsel that knew all her secrets, and carried them away, and travailed so much the same night, that when the day came, they had put themselves very far into the wilderness of Grecia, whereas they were sure not to be found, by reason that it was so great, and so thick of trees in many places. At their departure she left a Letter in her Chamber, dedicated unto the Queen her mother, wherein she gave her to understand the effect of their doings, requesting her to think well thereof, because she had chosen and taken for her husband the most high and mightiest Prince in all the world. At the which sight the Queen received great grief, yet in the end she did comfort herself, for that her daughter did not lose any honour in the doing of the same.  
Now to return unto the Prince Meridian and unto the Princess, the History saith, that after they had travailed two days in that wilderness, & were very nigh unto the city of Constantinople (finding themselves in a gallant and fresh shadow under a company of thick trees, full of fragrant and sweet flowers) they saw come towards them running with their horses as fast as possible they could two knights, and following after them one alone knight of a very big stature and mounted on a great horse, with his sword drawn in his hand, and overtaking one of them, he struck him such a blow upon his helm, that he clove his head in two pieces, & overthrew him unto the ground dead, and the other knight with the great fear he had, went unto the Prince Meridian, and seeing him of so gallant disposition and well armed, he said.  
Ah Sir Knight, save and defend me from this traitor, who hath slain the rest of my companions, and would also slay me. Then the Prince who was endued with all virtue, drew out his sword, and put himself before that mighty knight that followed the other, and said. Sir Knight, stand and keep yourself aloof, and let us understand the occasion wherefore you will in this sort kill this knight? Then the great knight said: Tarry and I will quickly make thee account of this which thou dost demand. And therewithal he struck him with his sword in both his hands such a blow upon his helm, that he dazzled his sight, and made him to bow forwards upon his saddle bow. Yet he boasted not much of the striking of the same, for that the Prince struck him such another blow, that he declined his head to his breast, giving him to understand his great valour, which was the occasion that betwixt them began a rigorous battle, and they laid the one upon the other so strongly, that all the woods did sound with the noise of their blows, and the sparkles of fire flew from their healmes, as out of a Smith's forge. In this sort this battle endured betwixt these two valiant knights one whole hour, & there was no vantage known of either part. But the Prince Meridian was greatly amazed at the mighty force and strength of his adversary, and it seemed unto him that they were equal unto the blows which he received of the knight of the Sun, at such time as he had battle ●ith him▪ The like thought his adversary, for you shall understand that this stout and valiant knight was Brandimardo, who had travailed many days in those woods and wilderness, in the demand of the knight of the Sun, for to conclude with him this battle, and by fortune he met that day with the four knights that fled away from him, & were thieves that ranged in that wilderness, two of them he had slain, and the other two he chased at such time as he met with Meridian, and as these two valiant and worthy knights had continued a long time in this their furious battle, without resting themselves, in the end they began to wax weary of their great travail, and withdrawing themselves a part the one from the other, Brandimardo being greatly amazed at the strength of his adversary, said: Knight, let us take breath and ease ourselves, for that there remaineth time enough to make an end and conclude this our battle. Let it be as your pleasure is, said the Prince, but yet I would gladly know before we do return unto the same again, what is the occasion that moveth thee to make this contention with me, and to take so much travail & pains for to overcome me. There is no other thing that doth move me (said Brandimardo) but only because thou dost deliver out of my hands that false knight which is run away from me, who is a thief and a robber, and kept company with other six whom I have slain, and ranged this wilderness, forcing of damsels, and did great harm and robberies. Then am I greatly deceived (said Meridian) for I thought verily that you followed him to kill him without cause, as he told me, but if it be true as you do tell me, I am very sorry for that which I have done, for I had rather he should receive the merit of his desert, than to contend with you. These words which Meridian said did not grieve Brandimardo any thing at all, for that he had 〈◊〉 will to return again to battle with him, but said: Sir Knight, the discharge which dost give of thyself is reasonable, and therefore there is no just cause wherefore we should prosecute any farther our battle, I will be thy friend, if so be thou wilt be mine, and I do most heartily desire thee to tell me who thou art, for that I cannot persuade with myself that in this Country there should be found so valiant a knight as thou art, but only he who is called the knight of the Sun, whom I do go in his demand and seeking in this wilderness. Herein (said Meridian) I am very well content, and am glad that so valiant a Knight as thou art wilt become my friend, and here I do protest to be yours, and therefore you shall understand that I am called Meridian, and am son unto the Emperor Alycandro, Lord of the gran Tartary. Let all graces and thanks ascend unto the high Gods (said Brandimardo) that a knight of so high blood and divine generation hath given himself this day to be my friend, and therefore (worthy Prince) you shall understand that I am called Brandimardo, son unto Affricano king of Media, who was slain in the wars at Babilonia, (of the which wars I am sure you have heard off before this time) he was a knight very much mentioned in all the Pagan Country.  
Then Meridian who had heard great report and mention of his Father, was very glad of his meeting, and embracing the one the other, they remained great friends, and a conclusion was made betwixt them for to departed together unto the Emperor Alycandro his camp, at whose coming there was great joy and pleasure. This they put strait ways in execution, and departing from that place they left the wilderness of Grecia, and in a few days after they came unto the great and mighty army of the Emperor Alycandro, who were not a little amazed to see so great a multitude of people, and of diverse Nations as were there joined together. When they came unto the Imperial Tent, they were known by the Emperor, who received them with so great joy and pleasure at that present, that there was nothing that could give him more contentment, for that many days he was very sad and sorrowful, because he could hear no news of his son the Prince Meridian, and thought himself at that present in so great security and quietness, as though he were in his own Country of the gran Cataya. Likewise all such Pagan Kings and mighty Lords as were there present, did honour Meridian as their natural Prince, giving great entertainment unto Brandimardo, and received the Princess Floralindia as spouse unto so high and mighty a Prince. The Emperor was very glad and joyful at his sons adventure, whereas the History doth now leave them to tell of other things which happened in the mean time.   

How the king Oliverio with his mighty host arrived in Grecia, and how by the industry and policy of the good knight Rosicler, those of great Britain had a cruel and bloody battle with the Pagans, & what happened over and above in the same conflict. Chapter. 24.  
IN the mean time of the success, as the History hath told you, the king Oliverio ceased not to make all the speed possible towards Grecia with his great and mighty army, for after that they had once passed the Sea, they crossed over land through Almania and Germania, till they came unto Hungaria, whereas the king did give and aid them with forty thousand knights, the which he had in a readiness, more for to accomplish that the which he was bound for to do for the King Oliverio, for that his son was slain in his service, than for any good will he had towards those wars, for with a better good will he would have helped the Emperor Trebatio for to make his defence against his enemies, than to do that which he did, but for ●onds sake.  
When these two armies were joined together, with all speed possible they travailed till they came into the Empire of Grecia, and at their arrival three miles from the City of Constantinople, the Emperor Trebatio had advertisement of the same. Who seeing that almost all the whole world was risen up against him, he prayed unto God to be his aid and succour, and that he would not permit that in such sort the Christian Country should be destroyed. Then the good knight Rosicler seeing his Father in so great distress, and he himself very desirous to know what people they were that were come from great Britain, he went forth of the City all armed with new armour, which was brought and given him by the wise Lirgandeo, mounted on a very good horse, with his spear in his hand, alonely with one Squire which did bear him company, and went towards the host of the king Oliverio, & when he came within a mile whereas they lay, he went upon a little mountain which was nigh unto the high way, from the which by reason that they marched forwards upon plain ground, he might from thence discover and see all the whole army of the king Oliverio, and part of the host of the Pagans, and seeing so gallant a company of armed knights, and so many Ensigns with red crosses, to make war against Christians, the one against the other, he received great sorrow and grief at his heart, seeming that all Christendom was then at the point to be lost, and prayed unto God from the bottom of his heart that he would not look upon the sins of the Christians, but in that great extremity to defend them with his own hands. Thus he being in this Oration, he saw come a far off towards that place a knight, with his galloping like unto a post, and seemed that he came from the army of the Pagans. Then he falling into reckoning what it might be (as he that was of a rare and quick understanding) strait ways he descended from the mountain whereas he was, and passed to the other side, in such sort, that the knight might not see him, and ran with his horse all that ever he could towards the host of the king Oliverio, so that he was a good way off from the mountain, and seeing himself a good distance from the knight, he turned his horse about, and little and little he travailed, dissembling as though he had come from that mighty army. Then the knight when he had discovered him, who was a valiant Pagan and king of the Masageras', called Antipatro, and by the commandment of the Emperor Alycandro went for to discover & know what people they were, for that it was told him that a mighty army was entered into Grecia, with Ensigns and flags with the arms of Christians, and he believing that they came in the favour and help of the Emperor Trebatio, he sent the king to know who they were, and what company of people, only for that he had heart & good will for to give them battle, first before they could recover the entry into Constantinople, for that he was very angry and wrathful for the other succour which came unto him before, and being within the City, it was at the will of his adversaries at all times to give them battle, and to the contrary, to take their ease at their pleasures, without any sudden alarm for to disturb them. The which was contrary unto the Pagans, for that it did behove them at all times to be in a readiness, because they did not know the time nor hour when that their adversaries would assault them, for the which occasion the Emperor Alicandro was very angry, and determined to give them battle in the field, before they should have any time or leisure for to recover the entry of the City, thinking they had come in the aid and secure of the Emperor Trebatio. The king Antipatro coming in the demand, as you have heard, when that he came unto the mountain, went unto the top thereof for to discover the whole army that was coming, & was greatly amazed to see such a multitude of gallant knights, but when that he saw Rosicler come that way, who seemed that he came from the host, with all the speed he could he descended from the mountain, and at the foot thereof he did abide till such time as Rosicleer should pass by, who did salute him very courteously, and the king said. Tell me sir Knight, are you of that great army that is here before? I am thereof (said Rosicler) but wherefore do you ask me that question? I do ask, (said the king) because I would know what people and Nation they are, and what is the occasion of their coming hither. All those that you see there coming (said Rosicleer) be Christians, and their coming is for to defend Christendom, for that there are so many Pagans arrived in Grecia. Then the king Antipatro hearing these words, not knowing who it was with whom he talked and demanded that question, said: Knight, thou shalt understand that the Emperor Alycandro my Lord hath sent me to know particularly what people those be, and for that I will not stay for to know it at thy hands in that order, I think it best that I carry thee prisoner with me, and then thou mayst declare it better unto him, and answer him unto all that shall be demanded of thee, whereby he shall be fully certified of his request, therefore come and go with me out of hand, if thou dost not determine first to prove the great force of my encounter, and the swift course of my horse.  
It is folly (said Rosicler) of him that is at liberty, to become bondman unto another, before he first prove a caréere, having Spears in our hands, therefore let us begin, and he that is first pushed unto the ground, let him remain prisoner unto him that keepeth himself in his Saddle.  
I am thereof very well content (said the Pagan with a gallant courage) but yet I would not that by the encounter which I shall give unto thee, that thou shouldest be hurt or receive any harm, whereby I could not carry thee with me prisoner. I commit myself unto fortune (said Rosicler) but if it should so happen it would be the worse for me. Wherewith both of them turned about their horses, who were very fierce and swift, and when they had taken the vantage of the ground as they thought best, with great fury, and like unto a whirl wind they came the one against the other, the Pagan king with great bravery flourished with his Spear, thinking verily to see his adversary on the ground, but yet his great pride fell out contrary unto his expectation, for that in the midst of his course, they made their encounter in such sort, that he shèevered his spear all to pieces upon the hard harness of Rosicleer, without doing unto him any harm at all, nor moved him in the Saddle, more than if he had encountered against an hard Rock, but Rosicler made his encounter in such sort, that he pushed him out of his saddle, making him sly into the air, and fell on his back to the ground a great way from his horse, and as Rosicleer would have returned again upon him, he found that he was very evil entreated with that encounter and fall, so that he could not arise from the ground without great pain and grief, and was so ashamed of that which had happened, that he had no tongue for to speak one word.  
Then Rosicler said: Sir knight, arise up and take thy horse, and go thy ways unto the Emperor Alycandro thy Lord, and declare unto him all that which hath happened unto thee, and also tell him how that there is in this army so great and infinite a number of knights, that with their help the Emperor Trebatio will very shortly drive all the Pagans out of his Country.  
The king Antipatro was very glad to see himself at liberty, for that he thought verily he would have carried him away prisoner. So without determining of himself any longer, he took his leave of Rosicleer, and mounting upon his horse, with all the speed possible he could, he returned unto his company, and coming before the Emperor Alycandro (who was in his tent with a great number of kings and Princes) before them all he declared what had happened unto him with the christian knight, and although it was a grief unto them for the aid & secure which they thought was come unto the Emperor Trebatio, yet could they not let but to laugh at that which had happened unto the king Antipatro.  
Then straightways the Emperor with the consent and agreement of all the principals that were there present, commanded that they should put in order their battle against them, which they thought were come in favour of their enemies, for that in fifteen days before they of the City never came forth, and they without were in despair, because it was at the will of them that were within to come forth when they thought best, but in especial those two furious Pagans Bradaman and Bramarant, who were very hungry, and desirous for to shed human blood. Likewise those valiant knights, Meridian, Brandimardo, Rodaran, and the king of Media, and other that were very stout th●r present, thought the time long till such time as they might give a show of their great bounty and strength, there was in that camp to the number of fifty principal knights, such as might well be said to be the flower of all the Pagans, and besides them there were so infinite a number of very furious and stout Pagans, that there remained but a few more in all the islands of the Ocian sea, and amongst them there was twelve kings, subjects and vassals unto the gran Campeon, & other twelve mighty Lords of other Islands that were subject unto the Emperor, with whom the Emperor Alycand●o thought that there was no human force in all the whole world that might be compared unto them. Thus being put in a readiness and good order those which should go forth unto the battle, the gran Campeon and his son Bramarant took the forward, and had in their company the twelve giant kings, with all those that they brought out of their Countries, besides those, they carried forty thousand knights of the Tartarians, and next unto them followed Rodaran king of Arabia, and the stout king of Media, the king of the Parts, and the king of the Affricanos, Candaros, and Baricanos, all the other which were very valiant & stout, they also carried with them other fifty thousand Pagans of other Nations. The third battle was lead 〈◊〉 governed by that most valiant Prince Meridian, who carried in his company that stout Brandimardo, & the Prince of Candaria with twelve Giants very big, furious, and terrible to behold, which went only with him for the safeguard of his person, he carried also forty thousand knights of the Scitas.  
This being done, the Emperor would not ordain any more battles, for that those which were ordained, served sufficient for to maintain the battle all that day: and being in a readiness, they remained, waiting till such time as they did appear in sight with their Ensigns, for to set upon them, thinking them to be their enemies.  
Now let us declare what Rosicleer did in the mean time, who was very desirous to go forwards with his pretence, after that he had made the contention with the king Antipatro, he strait ways ascended up again that mountain whereas he was before, he had not been long there, when that he descovered to come from that great army of the king Oliverio four knights in manner of posts, who came before the rest for to discover the enemy: but when he saw them somewhat far of from the army, and nigh unto the place where as he was, he descended from the mountain, and put himself in the high way, and travailed forwards till such time as he met with them, who seeing him they went towards him, and demanded of him if he were of that countri●, I am said he, but wherefore do you ask me this question, we do ask thee this (said one of them) for to know how many miles it is from hence unto Constantinople, and to know in what estate remains the Emperor Trebatio, where he hath advise of our coming or not, therefore knight advertise us the truth thereof, if thou wilt not be our prisoner. To whom Rosicler answered and said, as followeth.  
Of truth I am very well content to certify you of this that you do demand of me, for that it is not a thing degressing from knighthood, but that I may very well do it without any compulsion: You shall understand that from this place unto Constantinople, you have two miles, and touching the estate of the Emperor, know of truth, that he is all in a readiness and tarrying your coming in the field, with no less mighty and puissant an army, than this which your Lord the King Oliverio, doth bring with him, and be you assured of this, that when you shall come nigh within a mile of the city of Constantinople, he will meet with you in the way with all his people, and give you a very terrible and rigorous battle. The four knights were very much amazed at this which Rosicleer had told them, for that they thought verily that the Emperor had not been in so great readiness, and without any more words they left him, and returned from whence they came, for to give advice unto the king, how that his enemies were in a readiness and would meet him in the way and give him battle. So when they came before him, and gave him to understand of all that had passed, he strait ways commanded to put all his own army in a readiness, for as they were gallant and well armed knights, it was a jolly thing to behold: he made then repetition of his army, and divided them in four parts, the forefront he gave unto the government of the two knights of Spain, being brethren, and were of the principal house of the Godos, they were both very valiant, the one of them was called Don Claros, and the other Arcalus, and there coming unto these wars only for to prove themselves, and give to understand unto the world, their great valour.  
These two carried with them forty thousand knights, twenty thousand of them were of Spain, and the other twenty thousand of Don Siluerio, and in their company went to the number of twenty knights of the Godos, who did not a little in this battle. The second battle was given unto the government of Don Siluerio, with other forty thousand knights, and with him went the Princes of England, Ireland, & Scotland: the third battle had a principal knight of Hungaria, with all the knights of that kingdom. And the fourth and rearward, the king had, with all the high Princes of his kingdom, and the rest of all the people that remained. When that they were all divided and separated in four battles, and in good order and readiness, they began to march forwards by little and little, till such time as the scouts as well of the one part, as of the other, had discovered the armies, which came to the battle, and having advice of the same, they marched on the faster, till such time as the forewards of either part, was within a cross bow shot, the one from the other, which might be about two of the clock in the after none. All this time was Rosicler beholding what passed, upon a little hill, where at he received great contentment, thinking the time long to see them together by the ears in battle, his desire was not long delated, for as those two ●urious Pagans, Bradaman and Bramarant came before all the rest, thinking the time long to see themselves amongst their enemies, they pressed forwards towards them with so great fury, that it s●med the earth to shake. And although their furious countenances was sufficient to put in fear any good knight that did behold them, yet those two valiant brothers, Don Claros and Arcalus, putting themselves before all their company, went forth to meet them, and in the face of both armies, they made their encounters very strongly, Bradaman, who did encounter with Don Claros, lost his stirrups and declined somewhat upon his Elephant, and Don Claros embraced himself with his horse neck, and spurring forwards his horse, he settled himself again, & passed forwards without falling. Bramarant was encountered by Arcalus upon the vizard of his helm, that the sperkes of fire flew out in great abundance, and being half amazed with that blow, it made him to lose his encounter which he made with ●is adversary.  
So in this sort they passed all four of them, without any falling, & the two brethren were highly co●●ended by Rosicler, that did with great content meant beholie them, and also of the Pagans that were there present, for that they had made so strong and valiant resistance against the fury of those two Pagans, the which f●ll out evil, for a great number, the little profit that they had by this encounter: for being full of great courage, and encenced with anger, in a short space they furnished the wide and broad fields full of dead bodies of their enemies, not sparing any degree, that they died all the grass with blood of the great destruction they made on their adversaries, and in such sort they bestirred themselves amongst them, that all that did see them judged them to be devils of hell, for that they cut knights asunder in the waist, slashing and cutting all that ever they could reach, and some they clove from the head down unto the girdle, with the which their adversaries received so great fear, that they fled before them as sheep before wolves, on the contrary part the two brethren did such marvels and wonders upon the Pagans, that their deeds were to be noted that day: therewithal the first two battles were joined together, which was as gallant a sight to be seen as ever was, the bravery of the knights was such, for that in the forefront came the twelve kings Giants, with the two thousand that came with them from their islands, against whom there went to receive them, twelve knights of the Godos, who seeing them so great and huge upon the Elephants, made their encounter in such sort, that the one and the other were overthrown to the ground: likewise, all the rest made their encounters, so that in a moment, there were more than ten thousand overthrown, and their horses roaming about the field, fight one with an other, so that betwixt them there was a new battle begun: here in this conflict, did the knights of Spain show their great valour, for that there was none that did make their resistance with so great force against those Giants, killing some of them, and receiving their own deaths with great courage. In this battle Don Claros slew one of the twelve knights of Bradaman, with a spear that he thrust through and through his body, with a forcible and strong encounter.  
And Arcalus slew an other with the strength of his arm, in tormenting him with his terrible blows upon the head, which was the occasion that they were in great peril of death, if that the valiant knights of Spain had not come in time to have succoured them, for that a great number of those monsters had compassed them about, who were mighty and very strong, so that those two valiant brethren should evil have escaped their hands, but being joined together their battle was more equal than before and better fought: yet all did profit very little the Christians for the getting of the field, for that the ambushment of those Oriental Giants, made so great slaughter amongst them, that they were not able to make any resistance, but to receive cruel death. On the other side was those infernal pagans, father & son Bradaman and Bramarant killing and slaying with great cruelty, all that ever they could reach with their swords, they made so great destruction, that it seemed there were not people enough in the camp for to hold them play that day, which was the occasion that within half an hour after that the battle was begun, the Christians began to lose ground, and to retire towards their army, and in some place they were not content to retire little and little, but turned their backs and ran away all that ever they could, in especial, there whereas was Bradaman and Bramarant and the rest of the other Giants, who were sufficient for to destroy a whole army. Then when that Don Siluario saw that the Christians lost ground, he strait ways commanded that all those of his charge should march forwards, who strait ways with great fierceness put themselves into the battle, at whose entre, many of the Pagans lost their lives, and the Christians began to get ground again: but strait ways that mighty knight Rodaran, and the king of Media, and the other kings that were with him, put themselves forward with their people, and when they came unto the battle (by reason that they were so many, and their captains so valiant) they did make great slaughter upon their came in the enemies, and to conclude, the power of their enemies was so great, that they made the Christians to run away almost round about the field, in such sort, that the valiant knights of spain, could not secure them, for that they were enclosed in battailing with the Giants, and had enough to do to defend themselves from them. Then strait upon that, came in the knig hts of Hungaria, at whose entry, the battale was renewed and began to get ground, and had put them to the foil, if that the third army of the Pagans had not stepped forwards, in the which came that worthy prince Meridian, and the stout knight Brandimardo, who entered into the battle with so great fury, that that day was wonderful unto the Christians, and knew not how and in what sort the Emperor Trebatio, should have so great a power of knights and giants, except they should come out of Persia, for that they knew and understood, that all that country were in great friendship with the knight of the Sun, and many there were that repented themselves of their coming into Grecia, in especial Don Siluerio, when he saw so great destruction amongst his men, and the field so full of dead bodies, the tears fell from his eyes, with the great sorrow & grief which he received at his heart, and accused himself of the evil counsel which he gave unto the king Olivero.  
When that two hours was passed since the beginning of the battle, all the people of his part began to retire, for that they could not suffer the great fury of the Pagans, so that of very force and necessity, it did accomplish the king Oliverio, to enter into battle with all those knights that remained on his charge, who were many in number, and very good. And although the Pagans were Lords of the field, yet at their coming they lost all that ever they had got before, and the battle renewed and better fought, and the field so full of dead bodies, that the living could scarce pass for them.  
Here was to be noted, the devilishness of Bramarant, and his father, and the high knighthood of Meridian, and of Brandimardo, and of that stout knight Rodaran, and of the king of Media, that it might be said they were sepulchres unto the Christians: which was not a little grief unto Rosicleer, (who from that little hill did behold all that passed) for to see so much Christian blood so spilled and shed, with those heathenish Pagans, although he thought all might be well suffered, for to eschew a greater inconvenience that (unto the contrary) might happen unto Christendom. To conclude, the day passed away, and there remained no more but one hour of the Sun setting, when that the battle was in equal sort, and the one got no ground of the other, but followed their entresse, the one killing the other, without all pity, at which time the fourth army of the Pagans entered, which were many in number, and entered with so great fury into the battle, that those of the king Oliverio, not being able to suffer their force, began to lose ground: The which being perceived by Rosicleer, that by no means they could not, but be overcome and dispersed, (as one that was a good knight & very pitiful) would use charity with them, for that the king Oliverio, was Father unto the princess Olivia, as also for to save the lives of so many Christians, which looked for no other but death that day, and having before sent advice of all that had passed unto the Emperor Trebatio, by his page, he then descended from that hill, and so fast as his horse could run, he went unto Constantinople, whereas he sound the Emperor his father, with all his knights in a readiness to go forth, if need should require. And at his coming thither, he declared unto him in what point and estate the battle remained, and in the end he said, that considering in how much he was bound unto the king Oliverio, and the great love that he bore unto those christians that came with him, did constrain him that with all the power possible that he could make, for to go and secure him, for to save the king Oliverio from death, and a great number of valiant and worthy knights that were at the point to be slain. Then the Emperor who was no less endued with excellent virtues than his son, answered him as followeth.  
That he should ordain and do all at his own will and pleasure, for that therein he should receive great contentment.  
At which words L●iamandro, Bargandel, and the King Alamades, were very glad & joyful, for whatsoever damage or harm should happen unto king Oliverio, should be great sorrow and grief unto him, and they did all praise & greatly allow the great courage of Rosicler. Then strait ways and in great haste, issued out of the city, the Emperor Trebatio, and carried in his company all that valiant crew of knights, with thirty thousand other knights, all Greeks, galloping with their horses, keeping very good array and order, they came into the field whereas the battle was, and when they saw that all the camp of the king Oliverio were dispersed and out of all order and array, running some one way, and some an other way, and all those worthy princes of the whole host, were compassed round about with their enemies, and put in great jeopardy, and at the point for to lose their lives, without any hope of aid and secure for to deliver them. At which time the Emperor Trebatio, & all those valiant knights that came with him, with great fury and force, put themselves in the midst amongst the Pagans, that again the whole field was covered with dead bodies, and it seemed that all the fury of the world came there together, for on the one part went Rosicler, the king Sacridoro, the Tartarian Zoylo, Bargandel, Liriamandro, and other valiant and worthy knights, that all they found before them, they slew and overthrew to the ground: and on the other side went the good Emperor Trebatio, and with him the stout Florion, the Prince Brandizel, Claverindo, and the valiant and strong Oristedes, and the good knight Flamides, making so great slaughter on their enemies, that they were all died in blood. And the desire which the good knight Rosicler, had to kill Pagans, that they which were with him, were not able to keep him company, but all alone he pressed forwards and put himself amongst his enemies, doing such wonders, that there was not one that could resist him. And as he pressed thus forwards, he came where as he saw a great number of Pagan knights gathered together in manner of a ring, and had in the midst amongst them, five knights all on foot, very valiantly defending themselves with their swords in their hands, but their adversaries were so many that charged them, that before his face, three of those knights fell down unto the ground, as though they had been dead, and the other two were so weary, that their deaths were at hand. And as he ●rew nigh unto them, he saw that one of the two knights that defended themselves was the king Oliverio, and the other Don Siluerio, whom he might very well know by their armour, and tokens which they had, when he saw them first enter into the battle, and those who had compassed them about was the king of Bartos, and the king of the Arrianos, and had crowns of gold upon their healmes, with more than fifty knights that were about those two knights, and none nigh for to secure and take their parts. The which being seen by Rosicleer, with great fury, he put himself amongst those company of Pagans, killing and overthrowing all that was in his way, and with his sword in his hand he came whereas the two kings were, and struck one of them such a blow upon his right shoulder, that the whole arm with part of his back he overthrew to the ground, and struck the other such an other blow upon the head, that cleaving the Crown of gold and the Helm, he cut him down to the throat, so that these two kings fell down dead to the ground, and their horses which were very good, remained without masters. And for that the king Oliverio, and the Prince might have leisure to mount upon those horses, Rosicler began to charge them with so many & terrible blows, that the most part of them that were there together, he slew with his own hands, and the rest which remained, for fear of death, ran away, but the king and the prince were so weary, that they had no power to mount upon those horses, for the which Rosicleer alighted with a trice, and took the king in his arms with so great ease, as if he had been a child, and set him upon his own horse, saying, take and receive this service of Rosicleer, in token of a great deal more that he doth desire to serve you, the which being said, he returned unto Don Siluerio, and in the same order as he did unto the king, he set him upon 〈◊〉 of the horses of the Pagan kings, and he with a trice mounted upon that other, striking mortal blows upon his enemies, he departed from that place, leaving the king Oliverio, and Don Siluerio, very greatly amazed at that which he had done for them, and how he showed himself to be on their part. Also they were very glad and joyful to see themselves delivered from the death which they thought verily there to have received.  
At that time the king Oliverio, remembered the words which the wise Artemidoro, had said unto him, when that in London he carried unto him the gentleman Rosicler, for to be an armed knight at his hands, which was, that the time should come, that he should more esteem to have him by his side, than any thing in all the whole world, the which words were there accomplished, in that he clearly delivered him from death. From that place the king & the prince Don Siluerio, did behold the battle, and were very much amazed to see how the Christians had the better hand of the battle, and that there were so many and so good knights in their favour, aid, and secure.  
At this time the battle was so joined and knit together, that if the night had not been so nigh at hand, it seemed that their determination was all to be slain at that instant, for that, although on the part of the Emperor Trebatio, there were so valiant and worthy knights that were able for to overcome a mighty army, yet on the other part was those two Pagans, Bradaman Campion, and Bramarant, that did so great destruction on their adversaries, that it seemed that there remained not one before them whereas they went: on the other part went those furious and valiant knight's Meridian, and Brandimardo, with the twelve Giants in their guard and keeping, staying so many of their enemies, that they were all stained in blood, and made great way whereas they went. Likewise there was that stout knight Rodaran, and the king of Media, with other valiant kings and knights Pagans, which did great harm upon their adversaries: and although those did so worthily on their parts, so likewise did those valiant knights on the part of the good Emperor Trebatio, so much harm on their enemies, that the Pagans bagan to lose ground by little and little. And as the worthy Rosicleer, went discovering and ranging throughout the battle, he by fortune met with the Gran Campion, who was all alone, slaying and killing all that ever was before him, & c●mming unto him he struck him so cruel and strong a blow upon the waist, that he had parted him in two pieces, if it had not been for his good armour, which was such, that his good sword could not enter into it, yet for all that, the blow did so bruise and crush his bones and flesh, in such sort, that Bradaman felt that blow not to be like unto the blows given by other knights, which was the occasion that with great fury he turned himself about, and repaid the same with an other like, upon his shoulder, that he had overthrown him to the ground, if that he had not embraced himself about his horse neck: then began these two to strike the one upon the other very strongly, and the battle betwixt them endured till the closing up of the night, when that they could not know the one from the other: then the Pagans began to withdraw themselves a part, and these two knights were constrained to part themselves, but Bradaman, went away with so great anger & that one alone knight should make him so strong resistance, that no one of all his men durst come into his presence.  
At this time came more than one hundredth thousands Pagans, which the Emperor Alicandro, did send a fresh, after that it was told him that much people had issued out of Constantinople, but their coming was to little purpose, for that it was night, all the troops of the Pagans were retired, and meeting the one with the other, they returned unto their trenches, there to take their ease until the day following, for that they meant to encounter with their enemies with a fresh supply.  
Then the Emperor Trebatio, for to retire all his people, did sound his horn, the which he always carried with him, like a good Captain, (at the time of war) at which sound, all the Greeks assembled together, and leaving a part the king Oliverio and all his people in good order, he returned unto the City with all that noble crew of knighthood, whereas they were received with great joy and pleasure of the Empress Briana, and of the fairy Olivia, who did not a little rejoice when that she understood what Rosicleer had done for the king her father, and it seemed unto her that it was a good mean to obtain friendship, which was at that time, the thing that the most desired, and to the contrary, it was a great grief & corrosive unto her heart, that between the king Oliverio and her spouse Rosicler, should pass any contention or evil wil Thus leaving them the History doth return unto the king Oliverio, who gathering his people together, sound that he lacked more than the half of those he brought into Grecia: likewise, he commanded great fires to be made, at the light whereof he pitched his tents, and made his trenches very nigh unto the city of Constantinople, whereas it was given him to understand that all the people with whom his army had the battle with, were Pagans, and were come into Grecia against the Emperor Trebatio, and of the great power that the Emperor Alicandro had there, and how for that he thought that they were come thither in favour of the Greeks, he sent out his knights for to give them battle. But when that king Oliverio and Don Siluerio understood the truth thereof, with very anger and fretting, they were overcome, and requested the death, for that on the one part they saw the most part of their knights destroyed, and the power of the Pagans diminished, the which if that it had not so fallen out, the revengement of the Emperor Trebatio, had been very certain. But that which grieved them most, was that which Rosicleer did for them, and how much they were bound unto him, for delivering of them from death, and it seemed unto them to be such a bit to withdraw them from their wills and desires to make their revengement, determined before they came forth out of their own countries, who with great confusion and very pensive, in thinking what was best to be done, they passed away that night in their trenches, and commanded good watch to be kept, till the next day, wherein passed many things, as shall be told you in the Chapter following.   

¶ What Rosicleer did the next day after the battle, and how by his means the king Oliverio was reconciled to the Emperor Trebatio, and the prince of Lusitania and he were made friends. Chap. 25.  
THE Greeks were very glad and joyful for that which had passed with the host of the king Oliverio, and the Pagans, and all people did allow the great polesie of Rosicleer, which he used in causing them to join the one against the other in battle, which was not a little profit unto them, for by that means his enemies were lessened more than one hundredth thousand. The next day following after the battle, when that both the hosts, that of the Emperor Alicandro, and that of the king Oliverio, were both in sight of the City of Constantinople, being none tied past, Rosicler had a great desire to go forwards with that which he had determined, which was to procure friendship with the king Oliverio, only for the great good will which he bore unto his well-beloved princess Olivia, & also for that in the which he was bound unto him, for the great friendship received at such time as he was in great Britain. And with this determination, he did apparel himself with the richest garments and robes that was possible, & likewise the princess Olivia, & the Queen Arquirosa, in the most gallantest manner that they could. Then after that he had conference with the Emperor his father, giving him to understand what was his determination to do, he strait ways caused the princesses to be mounted upon very gallant and well dressed palfreys, and mounted himself upon a mighty & great horse● and put himself in the midst between them. And being in this manner, in the great and wide court, whereas the Emperor and the Empress with all those valiant kings, Princes, and knights, did behold them, and a new they began to marvel to behold their great beauties and gallant dispositions. And as it hath been declared unto you before in this History, that Rosicler was of a high stature, and well proportioned of his body according unto his height, for that continually unto that time, he did increase daily more & more, as well in the one as in the other, and jointly with this his face was perfect and well proportioned, very white and fair, and of a merry cowtenaunce, and there was none that did behold him, but had a great delight to see him: he was at that time appareled in a jacket of cloth of gold, garnished round about with a great number of precious stones, and a hat upon his head after the Greek fashion, full of very fine Rubies and Diamonds, and carried no other weapon with him but that precious sword of the Queen julia, at his girdle, which was suitable unto the apparel he ware, for that the scabbard was garnished with gold and precious stones, he was mounted upon a big and lusty horse, all bay, saving he was full of black spots, which became him very well, and being in this manner on horse 〈…〉 to be a Giant, and in beauty and fairness, Narcissus. On the other part was the Princess Oliui●, with Arquirosa, so fair and richly appareled, that it was very strange to behold, and Rosicleer, being in the midst betwixt them, there could not a more gallanter sight be sée●e of three persons. So in this order they took their leave of the Emperor & of the Empress, and departed out of that mighty pallas, being accompanied with all those mighty and valiqnt Princes and Knights, till such time as they came into the field out of the City, whereas at the request of Rosicler, they all returned back again, and they three alone wont toward the compe of the king Oliverio, being very much looked at of at the people of the city, and with no less admiration they were looked at by them of the camp when they came nigh unto them, and not knowing the pretence of their coming they could do nothing but behold them, and abide the time to understand the effect of their coming.  
When they were come unto the camp, they asked which was the tent of the king Oliverio, and being showed by a knight that was there, they never rested nor stayed till they came unto it, at which time the king was within, accompanied with the prince of Lusitania, and with the other princes of Scotland and Ireland, consulting wha● were best to be done in their affairs: but when they saw them & knew Rosicler, and the Princess Olivia, all appareled after so gallant a sort, they were wonderfully amazed, and were silent to hear what should be their demand. There was no moving amongst them till such time as Rosicleer, descended from his horse, who strait ways alighted the princess Olivia, and the queen Arquirosa, and taking them both by the hands they entered into the tent, than the king and all that were with him did arise from their seats, and did salute the one the other, with such courtesy as appertained unto so high persons: and although that Don Siluerio, was greatly amazed and his blood did rise when that he saw the princess Olivia, yet when that he saw her in the power of Rosicleer, and considering the great reason she had thereunto, he did not let to have a great regard unto the Queen Arquirosa, and liked very well of her, and said with in himself, that next unto the princess Olivia, she was the fairest gentlewoman that ever he saw in all his life, and greatly desired to know what she should be. His desire was quickly accomplished, for that Rosicleer putting himself before the king, having the princes & the Queen by their hands, said.  
HIgh king of great Britain, I will not call you mighty, (for that according unto the opinion of wise men) there is none amongst mortal men can attain to so glorious a name, saving alonely he may call himself mighty, that is Lord and governor over men, and hath the power of all fortunes, he at whose will the Heavens doth move, the winds doth blow, the waters of the sea doth arise and rage, and by him the earth with all beasts & plants are sustained: Here I do give you the name of high, for that seeing yourself in what estate you are in, you may know how perilous and slipper it is, and how ready you are and open unto the thundering blows of fortune. Many things doth men begin and put in ure, who cannot bring it to pass as they would, and according unto their minds, but in the end it finisheth clean contrary unto their expectation, and this proceedeth only for that it is in their hands to begin them, and in the power of God to give the conclusion unto his pleasure. Our hearts he valiant and courageous, for to attempt against all the whole world, and do not consider and see that humane force is so feeble and weak, that one little and hidden evil, doth overcome it, and whatsoever blow of fortune doth overthrow it. This we ought to have always in our remembrance, because we should not put ourselves in difficult things, for that if afterwards it doth not fall out according unto our minds, than should we not have any occasion for to be angry, neither reason for to complain us of fortune, for that the whole fault is in ourselves, and with more reason we may be angry with ourselves. You do well understand how that the Prince Edward your son with forty thousand good knights of great Britain, came into Hungaria, with what intent. I do not judge, but according as it was notorious and manifest unto all, he came for to destroy the Emperor my father, & for to make the king of Hungaria Lord over all Grecia, and for that this was an attempt as unjust as difficult, it was in his hands to begin the same, but in the hands of him that hath power over all, to conclude the end according unto his will. If the Emperor my father was to be blamed herein, judge you, and then see if there be any reason for him to make restitution, to whom fortune would seem favourable: but now let that go, for that I do believe you are certified. And touching the marriage which I made with the princess Oliui● without your licence, I will give you to understand, that if you do well consider and look into all these things passed, then should you very manifestly and clearly see, that it is not for any injury towards you, but that the divine providence hath ordained the same for to evitate and cut off the great grief and innumerable evils that were looked for between my father and you, for seeing that the harm was committed, there was no other means for to recover and make friendship again, but only by this marriage betwixt us, by the which my father doth claim of you kindred, and you may receive me as your own natural son, and seeing that this hath been ordained by the divine providence, who is he that should grant me this inclination, to have so great a desire as I had for to go into great Britain, being in such delights, joy, and pleasure, under the wings of the Empress my mother? Consider with how much honour, (you n●t knowing me) I received the order of knighthood at your hands, and how favourable Fortune did always show herself unto me in your Court? What force could be so great, that did constrain my will, and the will of this precious Princess, so perfectly to love the one other, in such sort that there is nothing in all the world that may be compared thereunto? In what heart may be comprehended so great singularity (no, that although there were here present those three worthy and famous Captains, joshua, David, and judas Machabeus, and with them th●se three Pagans, Hector, julius Caesar, and Alexander) if it doth not come of the divine providence, neither without it could there be any such force comprehended in me, and in my companion, for to give the enterprise of such an attempt with so great boldness, for to take away ou● of your power the Princess Olivia, and what we passed at the sea to deliver and defend her? Hear is the Prince of Lusitania who found himself present at the sport, and can say that the resistance was not made by any human force and strength, for that being but five knights, we alone did defend ourselves so long time against so great a fleet of ships and men. Likewise he can declare of the great misery in the aid and secure that came unto us in that great extremity. I will not here enlarge nor proceed any farther in these matters, neither would I have said so much, but only because you shall understand that all doth proceed from above, and that it is Gods will, that this marriage betwixt me and the Princess shall be the occasion for to evitate and take away all these inconveniences which are looked for, and likewise to remedy and make atonement for all that is past, & do you not think that this will be an evil mean for things past, beside, as now the doing thereof cannot be restrained, and many times, as heretofore hath fallen out, their sons in law to be as profitable to their Fathers in law, as are their own natural sons. As to ask the question of Caesar Augustus, and he will say that there was never son to true and trusty unto his Father, as was unto him Marcus Agrippa his son in law. Likewise consider of Antonius Pius who had for his son in law Marcus Aurelius, who used so great fidelity with him all the days of his life, which was for the space of twenty and three years, that for his great fidelity and continual diligence, he did not alonely deserve to be beloved of him, and to have his Daughter, but as his own natural son he did succeed him in the Empire. So that by these and many other examples that might be declared, you may plainly see what a sweet spice of friendship and perfect kindred is that which cometh by the Sun in law, and in especial this, that from the beginning unto the end, it appeareth to be governed by the divine providence, so that thereby there is no other thing to be looked for, but unto you great good, and ●●rie profitable for all your kingdoms. And that whic● 〈◊〉 I will desire of you is no other thing, but your pleasure 〈◊〉 ●●●sider how that all these things are ordained by him, who ●ath the rule & government of all, and being fully persuaded therein, for to join & confirm your will unto his will, and to procure & do no other thing but that which is agreeable unto his pleasure, which is to confirm a peace betwixt you and my Father, for that you be both Christians, and it is the thing that our saviour jesus Christ did leave most in charge unto his Disciples. And if there seemeth unto you any fault to be in the Emperor my Father, or that I and the Princess Olivia have offended your Majesty in any thing, apart and put awa●e from your heart all anger and wrath, for that you do understand, that the most noblest manner of revengement is to forgive, and how that there is nothing so inconvenient and hurtful unto man as is wrath and anger, for that it doth properly appertain unto furious beasts, and not unto men, but unto such as be most cruel and furious, and to the contrary there is nothing more convenient unto man than is meekness and mercy, and much better and more honour it is to forget injuries, than to revenge them, and there is not a more nobler and generous forgetting, than is in the offence, which was attributed unto the prince of Captains for that he did praise himself, that he did never forget any thing but offences done. The pleasure in taking revengement doth pass away in a moment, and the joy & pleasure in showing mercy endureth for ever. There is nothing so necessary amongst men, nor aught to be more common than to forgive, for that there is none but hath need of mercy, seeing that the Sun must shine upon him, the earth sustain him, and all creatures must bring forth. The wind must have his course, the clouds must pour out their waters, the S●ars must have their influence, the heavens must move, and the waves of the sea must be in quiet, and not to overwhelm the earth when they are in a rage and higher than it, and to conclude, all things of the government of this world doth use Mercy, and be necessary for the conservation of human life, and mercy cannot be lacking in him, or at least ways may not, that cannot sustain himself one jot without it, and that which is more, there is not one but that he sinneth, so that he cannot, but he needs must desire mercy for his sins and offences. What is he that can salve and make whole the wounded consciences of human creatures, if the wrath of God doth persever, then shall you never have end of contentions and troubles, armour shall never cease on the land, neither lightnings and thunders, with cruel shaking of the heavens, therefore it is necessary (most worthy King) that you do forgive, and refrain the ire of your heart, for otherwise with just reason you cannot ask of God pardon, when that you will not use pardon with your daughter and son in law. Beware, take heed, and help yourself from that which is written, That man doth keep wrath and ire against man, and both doth seek unto God for Physic. You are wise and discreet, therefore you shall understand, that all this which I have said unto you, is only to put you in remembrance, that the passioned mind can neither see nor discern things far nor nigh hand. And as concerning Don Siluerio, I have committed nothing against him wherein I am bound to make satisfaction, neither he to pardon me, for if you have promised unto him the Princess Olivia for wife, first before that she chose me for her husband, God and my good fortune hath given her unto me, so that he hath not to complain himself but of fortune, that would not be favourable unto him for to recover her, so that I do not take from him her that should have been his wife, but I have taken out of your and his power, the same whom God did promise and ordain to give me for wife. Notwithstanding for all this, I ever had Don Siluerio for my friend, and before that these things fell out in this order, I believed that he had me in the same profession, I do greatly desire that this friendship may proceed and go forwards, and if so be that any lack or fault hath been of any part, let satisfaction be made for the which I for my part will make satisfaction unto Don Siluerio, in giving unto him for wife, the most fair and precious Queen Arquirosa, Queen of Thessalia, and is this that is here present with me, who with all the power that she could make came into Grecia, to the aid and secure of the Emperor my Father, & it is in my power, for I have promised her to give her a husband, such a one as her estate & beauty doth deserve, therefore Don Siluerio consider & see if you can like of this 〈◊〉, for that there be few damsels, or not one, at this time ●o be found in the world with whom you may be better married withal than her. Now have you understood the effect of our coming, and here I do desire you both strait ways to give me your answer.  
The king Oliverio was very attentive unto all that was spoken by Rosicler, and one way he liked very well of their intent, and it seemed unto him that all things were placed in very good order, and another way, the gallant presence of Rosicleer with the fair Princess Olivia seemed to force & constrain his heart to like very well of the one & to love the other, as his own natural children, and seeing them with so great humility before him, Rosicler being so high a Prince, having confidence that in his great bounty he came to ask him pardon & forgiveness, not mistrusting his highness, the tears gushing out at his eyes with the great love he bore unto either of them, & calling to remembrance that by him he was delivered from death the day before, so that if it had not been for him he had been sla●●e and all his people destroyed, and seeing the great clemency that both Father and son used with him (he coming to destroy them in his Country) he found it great reason to use the same with them, and to forget the death of Prince Edward, for that God had given unto him in his place that valiant Prince and knight. Thus having his mind occupied in these and other things, he remained a good while without 〈◊〉 wearing them, looking always when Don Siluerio would speak, because the greatest part of the matter did touch him, and till such time as he did knew his will, he thought it not good to utter his judgement, which was the occasion that he did importune him very much to make the first answer as he thought best, who after such time as the Queen entered into the tent, was continually with great attention beholding her whose beauty gave him greater contentment than any Ladies or Gentlewoman in the world, next unto the Princess Olivia. And when he understood the demand of Rosicleer, in his life he never received greater joy & contentment, in seeing that without any demand or ask, he offered unto him so high a Lady and damsel for wife, & had clean forgotten all the anger and wrath that he had before conceived and taken against Rosicler, with the friendship received of him the day before in delivering of them from death. So perceiving that the king would not answer in any respect till such time as he had vittered his mind, he spoke these words following.  
HIgh and worthy Prince of Grecia, of all that you have here so highly declared, as also of all other things that have so prosperously fallen out on your part, I do understand no other thing but that God hath created you amongst all Princes the most highest, & amongst all knights the most noblest, and in strength the most stoutest, & amongst men of understanding the most wisest, and above all fortune hath showed herself favourable and prosperous, for whosoever doth consider the highness of your estate, shall plainly see & perceive that there is none that cometh nigh unto you, & for worthiness, none equal, and to consider of your high knighthood, they shall see that it is without comparison, and almost above nature, likewise considering how prosperous all things hath fallen out on your part, they will not only say that fortune is favourable unto you, but also that you have her at commandment to do all things at your pleasure, and seeing that you have so many and high things on your side, what enemy is there that will resist you, or friend that will lose your friendship. The wise man saith, that there are three things which ought to be feared: the waves of the sea, the thunderbolts of the heavens, & the furious wild beasts on the earth: but yet above all things (he saith) ought to be feared, the enemy prosperous & fortunable, for that he which doth not navigate at the Sea, is out of all danger of the waves, and he that keepeth his house, is out of the danger of wild beasts, and the thunderbolts very seldom strikath, but from the prosperous enemy, there is none that can apparte himself, neither can he find any place whether● to run, for whereas he thinketh himself most surest, many times it falleth out, that there is most peril, and here I say that fortune hath showed herself more prosperous unto you than unto any, and unto me more contrary than unto any other, for that she did not content herself in giving you the victory over me, but the more to cralt you, she brought me into that extremity, that of necessity I must be defended from death, and receive life at your hands, the which you gave me as a friend, whereby you got of me the greatest victory that ever man had of his enemy. Therefore God forbidden that now I should have any enmity with him, who with the great force and strength of your arm did overcome me, and I do yield myself unto the strength of your worthiness, and this offer which you do promise unto me with the precious Queen Arquirosa is of so great highness & valour, that with just reason I may think that she will be the occasion that I shall conclude friendship with you, yet God who doth know the secrets of all things, I do take to witness, that I am not constrained by love to take you for my friend, but only your great virtue doth bind me thereunto, and this being a mean betwixt us, I say that this is the greatest friendship that ever I might receive of any human creature, this thing which you do ●ffer unto me (not being of me d●serued) to give me so high a damsel and worthy a Princess to be my wife, whom from this time forwards, if she be so pleased, I do receive for my Lady and Mistress: likewise I do desire her to conceive so well of me, & to take me for her own, & here I do desire the king Oliue●io my Lord, to answer unto the rest that remaineth, & I hope in God that his answer shall be such, as he is bound to give unto so excellent a son, and therewithal Don Siluerio concluded his reasons, & the king with great contentment with that which he had said: but the answer which the king made was in embracing Rosicleer and the Princess Olivia, with shedding many tears that trickled down his cheeks with pure love, he said.  
Oh my well-beloved children, God forbid that in me should reign so great ingratitude against his sovereign majesty, and to let you understand and know the great courtesy that he hath showed unto me, in giving me so good fortune, as by his own hands is come unto me so precious children, here I do receive you, and I do love you, and will not have, neither do I look for any other contentment in all the world. The almighty God doth know, and he is a good witness thereunto, that I came not forth out of great Britain with so great a multitude of knights for any evil will that I had, but for to accomplish that wherein I was bound unto the Prince Don Siluerio, and now seeing that he is content and satisfied, there remaineth no other thing, but let us go unto the City of Constantinople, whereas I may acknowledge and know the Emperor and Empress for my brother and sister, and aid and help him with these few knights that doth remain. When the king had said these words, Rosicleer and the Princess Olivia did kneel down before the king, and by force did kiss his hands, but the king with words of great love did cause them to arise, embracing them many times, and went and embraced the fair Queen Arquirosa, and said, I do now acknowledge that all these things are ordained by the will and disposition of almighty God, in that I do see so excellent a Damsel hath been reserved and kept, and now at this time come hither, to the satisfaction of the Prince D●n Siluerio, and I beseech his almighty majesty to give you so good fortune as I do desire for myself, and therewithal Rosicleer and Don Siluerio did embrace one another, & from that day forwards there was betwixt them great love and friendship. Therewith came all the rest of the worthy Princes and Knights, (such as knew him in great Britain,) and talked with him, who never forgot the great friendship that was betwixt them. Likewise the knights of Spain for the valiant deeds which they saw him 〈◊〉 in the battle, as also for the great fame which 〈…〉 heard of him, with exceeding good will came and offered themselves to be his friends. Then he who had them in great estimation, did offer unto them the like, and esteemed them for the most stoutest and valiantest knights that were in all the army. Thus after that they had been together in these ceremonies, receiving the one the other a good while, they all mounted upon their horses, and the princess Olivia and the Queen Arquirosa upon their palfrays, and took their way towards the City of Constantinople, the Prince Don Siluerio lead the Queen A●qui●osa by the bridle, with whom he used many love tricks and amorous discourses, and she likewise answered him with a gallant grace and courteous demeanour giving thanks unto almighty God, for that so worthy a Prince had given him unto her for to be her husband, and received great contentment. They had not long travailed in this order towards the City, but the● saw a far off come out of the City a great company of gallant and glistering knights coming towards them, it was the Emperor ●rebatio accompanied with all his nobles and valiant knights, who being advertised by a Page of Rosicleers of all that passed, and of their coming towards the City, issued out to meet them, and when they came nigh the one unto the other, the king and all those that were with him, we●e greatly amazed at the gallant and gentle disposition of the Emperor, and of all those worthy Princes and knights that came with him, and said that all the flower and worthiness of knighthood in the world was there joined together. Then straightways the Emperor went towards the king Oliverio, and the one received the other with so great love, and with such exceeding courtesy, as commonly is used betwixt so high persons, and at that instant was there confirmed betwixt them such and so great friendship, that never after so long as they lived was separated. Then the Emperor received the other knights with so gallant grace and demeanour, that they all received great contentment at the sight of him, but most especially the king Olivero that was talking with Bargandel, Lyriamandio, and the Tartarian Zoilo, and the king Alamades, who all together went and kissed his hands, craving pardon of all that was passed. Then he with great love did embrace them all, pardoning all the rancour and evil will that he had against them, and it seemed very well unto him, in that they had showed themselves so faithful, and had accomplished all that they ought, could do no less but bear the like to them again. So from thence they all returned unto the City, but when they came unto the mighty Palace, the king and all those that came with him, were in great admiration to see and behold upon the fore front of the same all the whole Histories of the knight of the Sun, and said that by his figure he resembled very much Rosicleer, which was very true, for that there was no more difference betwixt them, but that the knight of the Sun was somewhat in his face more furious, and more fatter of his body, but of one stature, & in all other proportions of their bodies were all one, and resembled one another very much, so that the remembrance of those valiant and worthy deeds which were there so naturally set forth, unto them that knew not thereof, that it put in them so great admiration, that they said with great reason the knight of the Sun was worthy of the great fame & praise that was published throughout all the world, and only for the sight thereof the knights of Spline thought their coming into Grecia to be well employed. Being alighted, they entered into the Palace, whereas they were marvelously well received of the Empress Bri●na and the Princess Lindaraza, and of all the whole company of fair Ladies & Gentlewomen of high estate that came forth to bear her company, and there passed betwixt them words of great love & friendship. With great joy, pleasure, and pastime they passed away all that day, in the which the Prince Don Siluerio, and the precious Queen Arquirosa were made sure and joined hands, abiding the marriage to be made at such time as Rosicleer should be married, and Claverindo, with other more Princes and knights that did abide the same day. Then the next day being come, for that the City was marvelously pestered with the great number of people that were in it, and could not very well at their ease be lodged, it was agreed between the Emperor and the king Oliverio that a trench should be made without in the field nigh unto the walls of the City, and there to pitch their tents, whereas should be all the whole army of the king Oliverio, and the half of all the emperors knights. Thus according unto their conclusion it was commanded to be done, which was a gallant and royal thing to behold, it was strongly fortified with deep ditches and bars a● the entry, so that they were as sure within that trench as though they had been within the City. In this sort they were lodged in sight the one of the other, & betwixt the trenches of the Pagans & the Christians there was a mighty, great & broad field, whereas they might at their ease make their battles. At this time were the Pagans very glad and joyful when that their enemies were come forth of the City, and fortified their trenches, for that it was then in their hands to give them battle at all times at their pleasures, & they cared not although they were many in number, & more than before, yet for all that of their part they were five for one.   

How it was consented and concluded in the camp of the Pagans, for to make a challenge to the Greeks, and how it was accepted, and by what knights of the part of the Emperor Trebatio. Chap. 26.  
NOw the History saith, that on a day the Emperor Alycandro being in his Imperial tent, accompanied with the most principallest of his whole host, in great counsel what was best for them to do, there were some amongst them that did not let for to praise the high knighthood of the Emperor Trebatio, and of his knights, amongst whom the old king Gedrosia did praise them more than any other, for to provoke Bramarant to anger, unto whom he always bore ill will, after that he had slain his son the young man Graco. To the which there needed not much matter, for that strait ways this stout and furious Pagan arose up with so fierce semblance, that it feared all them that did behold him, and said these words.  
THe hearts of cowards and base men do fear small things, and receiveth great admiration, the which doth proceed because they are but for little matters: all that doth surmount them doth seem unto them monstrous, and almost above nature, and by their great cowardness they do fear and dread more one enemy that is in the field prepared for to fight against them, than one hundredth that are on their part, although every one of them can do much more than his adversary, but unto such as be generous of heart and valiant, high things do give contentment, and there is nothing that they do hear or see that doth make them to marvel or wonder. The force of a little thunderbolt that doth clean a tower in the midst, is much more than the strength of an Elephant that carrieth a Castle of timber upon her back, and that of the little fish called Remora, that stayeth the ships against the force of the winds, than of a man that cleaveth an armed knight asunder in the midst. But you do marvel more at the one than at the other, for two causes, the one for ●●e fear which you have of the people at hand of your enemies, and the other, for that you judge by your own strength all the whole power of human nature, seeming far to exceed yours. I do not marvel that our enemies do cu● knights asunder in the midst, and clean them down unto the breast, for likewise ●doe the sa●●●e, cleaning them down to the saddle, y●t much was the strength of M●lo, that with the force of h●s strong arms did clea●e asunder hard and great Okes, and for that you shall perceive and understand how little I do esteem th● force of our enemies, I will strait ways make and send unto the Emperor Trebatio a challenge, 〈◊〉 shall be that four of the strongest and most renow●●● knights that he hath with him, come forth to morrow into the field to make battle with me, for that I alone will combat with them all together, in the face of both those mighty enemies, and if he hath not four such knights that durst take upon them to accept this challenge, I will do the like with six or with eight, and with so many as they will charge me withal, for it shall be all one with me, to be four, or to be fifty, for that I will t●●t these cowards may see, how little I do fear and esteem the Greeks.  
This proud Pagan had scarce finished these words, when that the gran Campion arose up, and said that ●ee would send likewise to challenge other four, and make battle with them altogether, io●nthe with his son. Likewise there were other of no less valour and valiant courage than they, who for that they would make manifest their great and mighty power, would also enter into the challenge, and there were of those super-valiant knights, the strong and stout Meridian and Brand●●ardo, who had before either of them proved by experience the force of the Greeks, and knew very well the generosity of their hearts, which was the occasion that they would not make the challenge but against other two, for that they knew it was but a folly to charge themselves with any more, because the Greeks should not have the vantage, & again, in the battle past, they saw such knights, that gave them enough to do to defend themselves. Then strait ways arose up that valiant Pagan Rodaran king of Arabia, & after him the strong king of Media, a●d with them the king of Trapobana, who was a marvelous strong knight, and of so big body, that he seemed to be a Giant, he was called Zoroaster, all the which said that they would enter into the challenge, and at that time if that the Emperor Alycandro had not disturbed them, there were a great number that would have entered thereinto, especially the kings and Giants that were there present, who had a great desire for to show themselves. Thus this challenge being concluded amongst them, it was consented to send for messenger unto the Emperor Trebatio the king of the Gandaros, a young a valiant knight, who at the commandment of the Emperor Alycandro strait ways departed, being very richly armed, with a crown of gold upon his head in token that he was a king. When that he came unto the trenches of the Christians, saying that he was a messenger, they did let him pass till he entered into the mighty City, and then was carried unto the royal Palace, whereas he alighted from his horse, and leaving him with a page that came with him, he mounted into the great hall, whereas he found the Emperor accompanied with all his Princes, noble men, & valiant knights in great counsel for to give battle unto the Pagans, but when the Pagan king entered, they all held their peace, & tarried to see what was his demand, who without doing any reverence, said.  
THou shalt understand (Emperor Trebatio) that I am a messenger of the divine and consecrated Emperor Alicandro, Lord of the mighty Asia, who doth send me unto thee to give thee to understand, that certain knights of his camp being very desirous to proxy their strengths with thy knights, hath ordained a challenge, and to be used & ordained in this sort, that the gran Campeon, Lord of the Oriental islands, & his son Bramarant, doth challenge eight knights of the principallest and stoutest that are to be found in all thy host, and they two will maintain the battle against them all, likewise our precious and most renowned Prince Meridian, and the stout Brandimardo, and Rodaran king of Arabia, with the king of Media, and the mighty Zoroaster king of Traprobana, do challenge as many more of thy knights as they be to come forth and battle with them. All these do ●aie, that to morrow being past, they will present themselves in the midst of this great field, with their ●orses and armour, and abide the coming of those that will come forth against them, and the Emperor my Lord saith, for that all people with their ease at their wills may behold what shall pass in this battle he concludeth a truce for two days, in the which time all such of our camp as are disposed, without armour may freely enter into the City, & those of thy part likewise in the same order may enter into our trenches. This is the effect of the message that I do bring, therefore give me answer what thou dost pretend héerens, & also these thy knights to answer me unto the challenge.  
The Emperor who very well understood the grea●e pride of the Pagans, at the request of them all, answered as followeth.  
Of truth (King) the power of these two Pagans, Bradaman and Bramarant, is very great, but yet their pride is much more as it seemeth unto me, for that they are not content to challenge other two knights, but will that they be eight, it doth well appear, that although they have proved the force and strength of some of these knights, yet do they not know the valiantness of their hearts. Thou shalt return unto the Emperor thy Lord, and declare unto him and unto them that sent thee hither, that I have heard thy Embassage, and the answer of these knights is, that to morrow at their hour appointed they shall find us armed in the field, no more but one to one, as is the use and custom amongst us, and this vantage which they do offer unto us, we do release and pardon them of the same, and give them thanks, and in all things touching the truce, let it be done as he will command it, for I shall receive great contentment therein.  
With this answer the king would have departed, but first he desired to know the names of those knights that would go out unto the battle, and called to have a sight of them, and for that there was no agreement who they should be, many of the most valiantest that were in the hall arose up, and offered themselves unto the battle, amongst them was Rosicler, the strong Oristedes, the prince Claverindo, the king Sacridoro, the Tartarian Zoilo, the king Florion, the Prince Brandizel his son, the Emperor T●ebatio in person, the worthy knight Flamides, the two v●liant knights of Spain, Don Claros, & Arcalus, the Prince Don Siluerio, and the Prince's Bargandel, Liriamandro, 〈◊〉 Rodamarte, every one of these requested the Emperou● to 〈…〉 th●m unto the battle, who seeing that they were so many and so worthy, it seemed unto him that it should be a great debasing of their honours to choose some & leave other some, which caused him to ordain the matter in such sort, that none should remain discontent. Whereupon he said unto the Pagan king, that forsomuch as there were so many stout and valiant knights in their armies, that they should let the battle of challenge & defiance be, fifteen to fifteen, then shall it be better and the more to be looked on. Then the Pagan king said that he w●uld return with that message unto the Emperor his Lord, and before night he would bring him answer thereof, & taking in writing the names of the fifteen knights, he departed out of the City, and returned unto his camp, and finding the Emperor in his tent, accompanied with his nobles, in the presence of them all did declare the answer that he brought, the which was strait ways accepted of them all, saving of Bramarant, who knowing that there should come forth against him but one alone knight, he refused to be in that battle, and said: Let not the Gods permit that I go forth unto the challenge against one alone knight into the field, for that the victory that should grow thereby, should be more unto his shame than to his honour▪ But when that excellent, v●liant, and courageous knight Meridian heard him say so, he could not 〈◊〉 himself but to say Of truth Bramarant, others as good as thou art, hath gone forth and do go forth unto the battle one for one, and it doth well appear, that thou hast not experimented the force and strength of the Greeks, for if 〈◊〉 didst know them so well as ●, thy great pride would 〈◊〉 be so great 〈…〉 to the which likewise (said the stout 〈…〉) there is one that I know and proved myself with him; 〈◊〉 thou diddest enter with him into battle, before two horses were finished he would make thee to sweat drops of blood, and to lose the most part of thy bravery.  
At whose words this brave, Pagan received so great ire and wrath, that 〈◊〉 of fire seemed to fly out at his eyes, and many times he was moved to buckle with them, but considering the presence of the Emperor, (with whom he had great friendship) and again for that he was unarmed, fearing the great number that would overcharge him, he refrained himself, and kept his furious wrath, in his heart, for to revenge the same, when that time would serve. And although that many that were there had great dread to see Bramarant so furious and angry, for his eyes lightened like burning torches, yet the two valiant and worthy knights, Meridian, and Brandimardo, made no reckoning thereof, for that either of them were of as valiant a courage as he, and as stout.  
Then strait ways there arose up many other knights that would be in the battle, fifteen to fifteen: amongst all, at the request of the Emperor, (although his will was to the contrary) was the gran Campion, and the two worthy princes Meridian and Branbima●do, and the stout Rodaran, the king of Media, Zoroaster king of Taprobana, the prince of Cambray, the king of the Gandaros, that was the messenger, and the prince of Egypt, all these were very stout & valiant knights, and for to make up the number of fifteen, the Emperor commanded that six of the most strongest giants that were to be found in all the whole army, should go with them, they were all brethren and Lords of the Islands Diamantinas, and are so called because there are found in them more Diamonds then in any other part of all the whole world: they were all sons unto the gran Thition, the most famous giant that was in all Asia, and for the great friendship that their father had with the Emperor, they came for to serve him in those wars, with a great number of their own knights. When that it was fully ordained and concluded who should go forth in this challenge: the king of the Gandaros strait ways departed, and went to carry the answer unto the Emperor Trebatio, whereas the History doth leave them till time serveth for to tell you of the fair Empress Claridiana, who went in the demand of the cave of the wise Artidon.   

¶ How the Empress Claridiana came unto the cave of Artidon, and what happened there. Chap. 27.  
WIth great desire to come unto the Cave of Artidon, traviled the royal Empress Claridiana, through the mighty kingdom of Russia, in the company of Elizea, and her knight, thinking the time very long till she came thither, for to know the truth of that which had brought her into so great care and heaviness: the Ca●e was greatly mentioned in all those parts, and by reason of the great haste that they made, within few days after that they had entered into the kingdom of Russia, they attained to the cave, but when they came unto the entry thereof, they were greatly amazed to see the wonderful fire that came forth thereat, which seemed to be some infernal thing. But when they had read those letters and understood the property of the fire, they strait ways entered in thereat, but gave the pre-eminence of the first entry unto the royal Empress, so after that they had passed the narrow lane, they came into a fair great court, whereas they were strangely amazed, as well at the greatness the which seemed to be in that great work, as also at the mighty force which the bull seemed to show, being fastened unto the pillar, (who in that order as they saw him) began to give such terrible and wonderful brayings, that all that mighty work seemed to shake thereat. And if it had not been for the Princes, who did animate and comfort them, Elizea, and her knight had returned back again, with the great fear the which they received, after a while that they had beholden the great fierceness of the Bull, suddenly 〈◊〉 their eyes aside upon an other wall almost right against the same, the which was under the gallery of the palace, they saw graven in the same, very naturally, the whole history of the mighty and perilous battles there, done by Rosicleer, and of all that had happened unto him in that Cave, the which being well understood by the royal Princes, and greatly wondered at those worthy acts, not without shedding of a few tears which trickled down her rubical cheeks, said. Oh high and happy Emperor ●rebatio, in how much art thou bound unto God, that out of thy noble loins, hath come forth those, that hath ●●lled all the whole world with the fame of their wonderful and immortal deeds: Oh that my destiny would permit, and my fortune be so favourable, that our bloods might join together, that some part of those worthy deeds of thy posterity, might be allotted in me. Therefore come that come will, for that I cannot persuade with myself, that from the descent of so clear and worthy a stock, may be comprehended so blind a judgement, but that they do understand the great valour of my desert. And in saying these words she went forwards, and Elizea, and her knight followed her, and went all together up the stairs into the gall●●●es, whereas a new they began to marvel at the strangeness of that work, as also at the delightful gardaines and orchards which they saw out at certain windows: after a while that they had well perused the same, they proceeded forwards, & with the great desire which the Prince's Claridiana, had to see herself with the wise man, she never rested till she came unto the doors of shining 〈◊〉 that were shut, which was the entry into the enchanted hall, but so soon as she had laid hand on them for to open them, they strait ways opened of themselves with so great a noise, that all mighty work seemed as though it would have sunk, when the royal Princes entered in thereat, whereas she saw the high and rich throne, and thereon the wise Artidon, with his breast all open, showing forth his heart which was a very pitiful and lamentable thing to behold, at which time there chanced a great marvel, ●●e which was never seen before, but at such time as Rosicleer, entered into that enchanted quadran, (and it was) that when the royal Princes béeganne to enter in at the hall doors, there began so sweet and peaceable Music, that it ravished all the hearers of their senses, and they seemed as though they had been transported into an other world, and Elizea and her knights (who were without) at the sweet melody thereof, were likewise ravished, and it seemed unto them to be some celestial noise, they would not presume to enter into that enchanted hall, till such time as the princes came forth, for that they might have space for to ask and know that which was their desire. After that the princes had a while beholden the great wonders and strange things of that enchanted quadran, she strait ways conceived, that the sweet Music was made, which was the occasion that from that time, she had a better hope than she had before, of a good resolution of that she so long desired, for whereas with such Music she was received, she hoped her answer at her departing forth, could not be but very good; So with the great desire she had to talk with the wise Artidon, after a little while that she had there stayed, she mounted up the silver stairs that carried her unto the throne whereas shaking with all parts of her body, for the sorrowful or heavy news which she looked to receive, she placed herself before the wise man: who being in obedience of her sovereign majesty, did somewhat decline his head, whereat the princes received great admiration, than she humbling herself unto him, said these words following.  
MOst mighty and famous Artidon, the high fame of thy great & wonderful marvels, hath brought me into these strange countries, so far of from mine: and if it do so fall out that I carry from hence no more than I have brought, yet shall I think my travail well bestowed, and myself very well rewarded, in that I have seen and understood thy great wisdom, for as Plato the Philosopher saith, for to see and know a wise man, a man ought for to travail throughout all the whole world, which was the occasion that many times, he passed from Athens unto Sicilia, for to see his friend the wise and prudent Fotion.  
Apolonio Thianeo, departed from Rome, and travailed through all Asia, sailed through the River Nilus, sustained the cold of the mount Caucasus, suffered the great heat of the mountain Rifeos, and crossed over the whole countries of the Masagetas, till such time as he entered into the great India, and all this travail and pilgrimage was for to see and communicate, with the famous wise 〈◊〉. How much more would those have passed greater travails, for to have seen those his marvelous works, if that in their days and times they science and great wisdom had been manifest. I cannot say that this is the only cause of my coming for to see thee, as it is manifest unto thee, yet I do say, that if there were no other occasion, this should be sufficient for to come and see thee. The great care which hath been the occasion of my coming hither, (although I do believe that thou dost know it) yet will I declare it unto thee, for that he that loved so faithfully and firmly in his time, will not marvel at any force whatsoever it be that love doth upon humane hearts. I love the knight of the Sun above all other things in this world, so that if my fortune and evil destiny do permit that he take an other to be his wife, I desire to know the truth thereof, for that I may remember myself, & take order what is best to be done. It hath been told me that he is made sure unto the princess Lindabrides, and that he loved her with all his heart, therefore (for that there is nothing hid from thee) I do desire thee for to tell me if it be true, and put me out of all doubt, for whatsoever that thou shalt tell me, I shall believe it to be true, and conformable thereunto I will take order with myself what is best to be done.  
This being said, the royal princes held her peace, abiding the answer which should be pronounced by the wise man, who as then opened his eyes which before were shut, and said as followeth.  
OF truth, sovereign Lady and Empress, for that your highness doth very well employ, the great trau●ile the which you have passed in this your long journey, only for the sight of those my works: much more may I think these my travails better employed, the which I had in making of them. I being now gratified with so high a reward, in that you are come for to see them. And I do not marvel, that love hath had so great power for to overcome your highness, for that always against the most highest & most worthiest of courage, there doth he use the greatest force, but in especial with the knight of the Sun, for that his fortune and destiny doth promise him unto you, as unto her that in all the whole world doth best deserve him, and for you alone is he kept and defended. And touching the truth of this which you have demanded of me, I tell you, that the knight of the Sun was never made sure unto the princess Lindabrides, neither hath he had any more to do with her than he hath had with you, although the great and mighty Emperor Alicandro her father did give her to him for wife, and left unto him his high & mighty Empire of Tartary, with an infinite number of other kingdoms, with the which he should be made the mightiest prince and lord in all the whole world. And for that he would not receive her and all the rest, clean contrary unto his will, secretly in the night he departed and left the gran Cataia, almost distract of their wits, with great desire for to enjoy the sight of your sovereignty, the which time he thought long, and after he came to Constantinople, and had that rigorous battle with you, the which contention was so cruel unto him, after that he knew you, that desperate and weary of his life, he would go seek his death, to clear himself out of this world. So he departed out of Constantinople, and went into the wilderness of Grecia, whereas he had battle with one of the most valiantest and stoutest Pagans that was in all the Paganism, and yet in all that rigorous battle, he would never strike him with his sword, for that he had smitten you with the same.  
And from thence he departed and went to sea, whereas by a rough & great tempest, he was driven unto the Island of the devilish Fauno, where (as one desirous to die and receive the death) he went a shore, and had a marvelous battle with two legious of infernal devils, and afterward with the devilish Fauno, wherein happened very strange things, as is apparent if you please to go thither to see, where you shall find him all alone, without any other company, more than his horse, neither is there in all the Island any other beast or foul.  
There doth he lead and pass the most sharpest and asperest life that ever was holden by man, with desire there to end his days, and never more to return and wear armour. All this he doth for your occasion, and you are in a great fault before God, if you do not find remedy in the recovering of him again, for that by your occasion there doth languish and die, the best and worthiest knight in all the whole world, and one that doth love you better than any thing therein: therefore it doth accomplish your highness out of hand to go and see him, for it is so that if your succour do stay long, it may so fall out that after he shall have no need thereof, for that at this present his life is in great peril.  
In concluding of these words, the wise Artidon closed his eyes again, & did put himself as he was before, without answering or speaking any word, leaving the royal princes one way with so great joy and pleasure, that she almost knew not herself, her comfort was so great, and an other way with great sorrow, repenting herself of that which she had done against the most worthy knight of the Sun, and blamed herself very much, in that she saw not any further proof of his disloyalty, and giving him so malicious and evil reward, for the great good love and often perils which he adventured for her sake, and did think the time very long, till she departed for to have remedy for his evil.  
Moreover, she took her leave of the wise man, & he made the like in declining his 〈◊〉 at her departure, this sovereign Princes was not so soon departed out of the enchanted quadran, but the sweet Music ceased, and strait ways, Elizea and her knight entered in, and when they were mounted whereas the wise man was, there they knew all that they desired. The knight was her true and faithful lover, so that Elizea departed from thence with great contentment and satisfied of his loyalty, they were not so soon departed out of the enchanted hall, but the steel doors were shut with a great noise. So the princes and the rest went into the galaries and descended into the great court, but stayed not there long, the joy and contentment of the princess was such: but being forth of that wonderful and miraculous cave, they took their journey towards the port whereas they came a shore. And at their coming thither, the princes would have informed herself where the island of the devilish Eauno was, she found many that did give her to understand of the wonderful things of that Island, by reason of the great fame that was spread abroad thereof, but not one that knew expressly where abouts it brood, whereby she might take her direct course thither, which caused a great desire in her heart to commit herself unto fortune, for execution of the which, she took her leave of Elizea, and her knight, accompanying herself with alonely two damsels, with whom she meant to enter into the ship, with determination not to come any more a shore, till such time as she had found the place whereas her knight was, and giving Elizea to understand hereof, she was very sad and sorrowful so for to lose her company, for that they accounted themselves happy and fortunate to be in her company: but when they understood that it was her will and desire, with many tears shed, of her and her knight, they took their leave of her, always having in mind in how much they were bound unto her, for that she delivered them out of prison from that mighty and famous Rover Cleonidas. The princes being departed from them, she commended herself unto fortune, & began to make sail, having no certain way whether to go, but whereas the wind would drive the ship, having their sails all abroad, for that they would that they might navigate with the more force, all the which she thought to be very little, her desire was so great for to see the knight of the Sun, who for her sake, had put himself in so strait a life. Being in the cabin of the ship all alone, she fell down on her knees, listing up her eyes and heart unto heaven, shedding great abundance of tears that ran down her crystalline cheeks, she said as followeth.  
OH, Creator of all things, both celestial and terrestrial, by whose will and power the heavens doth move, the stars doth give their light, the Sun the and the Moon doth give light upon the earth, and the earth doth sustane all beasts, the waves of the deep and pro●ound seas doth swell and abate again, the winds doth rage and become calm, and all things are obedient unto thee: here I do desire and crave of thy divine majesty and great clemency, that the force of this invisible winds, (being governed by thy will) to direct the full course of this my ship, through these deep seas, in such sort, that in a short time I may arrive at Island of the devilish Fauno, whereas I may make satisfaction and recompense of that great evil and wrong the which I have committed against the knight of the Sun. Permi● (O Lord) that I may receive the reward of this my great offence, and not he that is without fault. Oh good knight, if that I had had the eyes of my understanding open, no occasion nor news had been sufficient for to have persuaded me, that in a knight of so perfect excellency (more than in any other man) should remain so great treason: how is it possible that in so noble and worthy a person, should be broken, the faith & promise which he made unto me▪ of truth no, for his amorous words, and profound sighs the which he uttered unto me, he never pretended to make so evil a conclusion of. Oh unfortunate that I am, how was I deceived, and how lightly was I moved to do that which I did, what reason or cause was there, to constrain me to lay hands upon my knight, and to employ all my force upon him, striking him with my sword, to procure his death.  
Oh wonderful case and horrible, how am I worthy of great punishment, the winds & waters of this deep seas with just reason 〈◊〉 ●well and rise against me. Oh, unto this day, how much ●ell have I conceived against my loyal friend, and how evil and unjustly have I condemned him in his absence: surely those were small things that so lightly I should give credit unto, neither was it in that happy knight to do them, for if that I had considered of the great excellency, and of the high and fortunate destiny of my loyal friend, than had it been apparent to have been believed, and no lack of understanding, but that I alone was she that deserved to be his spouse, and alone the whole conclusion of his triumphant joy.  
And if that I had well considered of all those things, what great travails, sighs, sobs and tears, heats and colds, had I evitated and cut of. But alas what shall I say, for that true lovers in few things do chance of the right, but in a great number doth err, sudden chances & jealous thoughts may be compared unto the water of this sea, being tossed with the surging waves and blustering winds.  
lovers doth believe all things, for that love is full of bread, and that which is contrary unto his desire, he doth lightly believe, and unto that which giveth joy and pleasure he giveth slender credit, and this happeneth most in women, for that they are more light and movable in their actions, which causeth us to give sooner credit unto variable and contrary things.  
Ah good knight, although that there ought to be in me great shame to come into thy presence, yet the great and perfect love which I do bear unto thee, aught to be esteemed in more, my desire is to be in thy presence, whereas thy sight shallbe as joyful unto me, and lightsome to my understanding, as the Sun is unto all mortal creatures, whose light doth beautify the Moon and the stars, and all the compass of the Firmament, as also the whole face of the Earth.  
Alas, when shall I see the hour, that all the tears and anguishs by me passed, and caused by your absence, I may make manifest unto you, and that your troubles told unto me, I may excuse being heard: but alas, what doth it profit me all this desire, for that me thinketh that I shall not live for to enjoy so sovereign joy and pleasure. Let that day come quickly, & make no longer tarrying, for the death which unto this day hath been so desirous of me, I 〈◊〉 not now alonely hate, but the naming thereof doth make me aghast.  
These and many other things said the royal Princes, and she had not fully concluded these her words, when that she felt the winds to begin to rage, and the waters to arise, striking against the ship sides, as though they would break it in pieces, and the Mariners began to cry out, publishing evil fortune, and fearing to be drowned, for that in a very short spare, the Air which was very fair and clear, was turned to be very dark and cloudy, and from the Heavens proceeded forth so great abundance of thunder and lightnings, as though the heavens and seas would join together, and the Mariners said, that they never saw at the Sea in all their life time, so great a storm and tempest. But this worthy Princes who was at that time upon her knees, ●earing nothing of the tempest, said as followeth.  
LORD if it be thy blessed will that I shall see again the knight of the Sun, I do verily believe, that this tempest cometh by thy providence and appointment, for that this my Ship being forced by the fury of these baysterous winds, I may the sooner come unto the place whereas he is. And if it be so Lord, (as unworthy) thou hast not heard my prayer and petition, but that all things doth work according unto their nature: yet here I do desire thy divine majesty, for that it is in thy power, to stay the celestial powers, in such sort, that they may not disturb me in this my journey, nor be contrary unto me.  
And I am fully persuaded Lord, that if it were thy will that I should die before that I do see the knight of the Sun, it were not needful the force of the Elements, nor the noise of so great thundering and lightening for to kill me, for alonely thy will is sufficient for to sink this my ship down to the centre of the sea. And again, if it be thy will that I shallbe saved, then wherefore should I fear fortunes tempests, or the force of the great and furious waves? the good Prophet was in greater peril, when that he was swallowed up by the mighty whale, and the mighty Apostle in the depth of the sea, and for that it was thy will for to deliver them, those perils did little trouble them. The wrath and ire of Esau did little profit against jacob, nor that of the Chaldees against Abraham, nor that of Pharaoh against thy people, nor that of Holophernus against judith, nor that of the Lions against Daniel, and little can this tempest hurt me, if it be thy will for to save and deliver me as thou didst deliver them. So in saying these words, the royal Princes it seemed unto her that the storm increased more and more, and so did all that day & the night following, without any hope of calmness: The next day in the morning, whether it was by the will of God, for that his pleasure was that the troubles & sorrows of the knight of the Sun should have end, or whether it was by art of the wise Lirgandeo, I know not, but the ship with that torment was arrived at the solitary Island, whereas happened unto the royal Princes, as shallbe told you in the next Chapter following.   

¶ How that the Princes Claridiana, went a land at the Island of the devilish Fauno, & what she did there. Chap. 28.  
WHen that the ship of the princes Claridiana was arrived at the solitary Island, she, her damsels and the Mariners were very glad, and gave great thanks unto God for that he had delivered them out of that great storm and tempest: and being somewhat weary of the sea, the Princess determined to go a shore, as well for to see the fertileness of the Island, as also for that her heart did give her that by the hand and will of God, all those things were ordained.  
Then strait ways she disembarked herself, and commanded her damsels to tarry in the ship til● she returned back again, so that all alone with her horse and armour, she went a shore. And being a land she was greatly amazed, to see the country so plain and no habitation therein, she found it void of all people, and the foundation of certain houses, which in times past had been there builded, but now overthrown and fallen down with the wether. She saw that the Island was very fresh & green, and full of trees, but not a beast nor bird she could see in all the Island, but as an unpeopled and desert place, and being very much amazed at all this, she could not judge otherwise but that should be the Island of the devilish Fauno, conjecturing of all things, as hath been told her before, of that Island & it did plainly appear, that it was in all things conformable unto that which she had heard declared by the mouth of others.  
And being in this troubled thought, she saw upon the sea side somewhat aparted from the place whereas she was, a boat broken all to pieces, (the which was the boat that brought the knight of the Sun thither, and he broke it all to pieces, because he would have nothing to carry him from thence) but when she came nigh unto it, she saw the prints of the blows, which gave her plainly to understand, how it should be broken with the oars, the which lay by shivered all to pieces, she being greatly amazed thereat, passed further into the Island, whereas she discovered the saddle and bridle, with all the trappings of the good horse Cornerino, scattered upon the ground, which although it was evil entreated with the wether, rain, and dust, yet might she well perceive that they were of estimation, and very rich, for that they were all wrought with silk and gold, and the pommel and arson of the Saddle gold, was of purefi●e set full of precious stones, which caused her strait ways to suspect, that it should be the saddle and trapping of Cornerino, for that many times she had seen the knight of the Sun with them, and he wa● them of the Prince Meridian. When that she saw this, with a 〈…〉 from her horse, and the better to satisfy herself, she took the trappings in her hands, and wiped of the dust that was on them, than did she perfectly know them to be the knights of the Sun, for that in all her life she never saw the like, neither was there any prince in all the whole world that had the like: the sight whereof, did so trouble and amaze her, that she was in 〈◊〉 dump with great marvel, & knew not what to say, neither whether she should rejoice, or be sorrowful, for that one way she saw plainly that to be the Island whereas the knight of the Sun arrived, and an other way, those tokens with the wonderful things which she had heard of that devilish Fauno, did put her in great fear that he was slain, and it seemed unto her a thing impossible, that any humane creature could bring in subjection so devilish and misshapen a beast.  
Being in this thought, for fear and grief of the worst, she shed so many tears, that they ran trickling down her fair cheeks, that she was all to be bathed in them: so after a while that she had been there, she mounted again upon her horse, and went forewards, but she had not gone far from that place, when as she saw the good horse Cornerino, who was lose an● at his liberty in the field, who like a wild beast came running towards her like unto a whirl wind, leaping and frisking in the air, and neighed as though he received great joy and comfort at the company of the other horse, as one that many days before had been there all alone, but when the Princes saw him and knew him very well, she thought verily that her heart would have burst with sorrow, where with her eyes burst out with tears, and having no power to speak one word, she said with in herself, Oh good horse how is it, that thy master hath left thy company: surely it cannot be well with him, seeing that he hath left thee, for thou art so good a piece, that thou art to be esteemed of all the Princ●● in the world: and neither thy master nor thyself doth ●eserue to dwell in deserts. But alas what shall I say, I am she that hath bone the occasion of all this, and I beseech the sovereign creator of all the world, that it fall not out, that I am the occasion of his death, for if it be so that I have been the author and chief instrument of his death, I will also with these my hands be revenged on myself with cruel death, and never departed from out of this Island, but make it my sepulture, for that one country shall possess the bones of us both, so shall we remain in death together, although that cruel Fortune and my evil destinies would not permit and suffer that in our lives we could enjoy the one the other. In saying these words to herself, the Princes procured for to take the horse, somewhat for to comfort herself with his company, for that the knight of the Sun many times did ride him, but by no means she could not do it, for that the horse was fierce and courageous, and would not suffer himself to be taken of any other but of his master the knight of the Sun, whom he did visit many times, and fed diverse and sundry times before him, in the place whereas he abode. This seeing, the royal Princes, all to be bathed with tears, which for her knight's sake she shed; passed forwards on her determined journey, but she had not travailed far, when as she came unto the craggy and hard Rock that he had so cut and shivered to pieces, but yet such was his force and strength of his arm, and the goodness of his sword, and upon the top of the same, she saw where hung the rich sword of the knight of the Sun, with the scabbard and the hangers, which were wrought and embroidered with gold, and set with precious stones: and knowing it very well, she was at that present more astonished & amazed then she was before, and coming nigh unto it, she read that which was written in a plain place of the same stone, but when she had well understood the effect thereof, it cannot be rehearsed what she felt at that time at her heart, considering of ●hrée strange & marvelous things that was represented there, of the knight of the Sun. The one the great loyalty and reverence that he had unto her, insomuch that he had struck her with his sword, yet in the time of that great necessity, he left the same, because he would not defile it with any other blood. An other, in the great and sovereign force and courage which he had, for to go fight with that devilish Fauno, without any sword. The third, in the great and incredible strength which he had, for to cut and clean that cragged and hard Rock, shivering of such great pieces, as very plainly it might be seen, that every shiver was a blow with the sword: all the which being by her considered, the great joy and pleasure which she should receive in acknowledging the great loyalty of her knight, was turned into great anguish and grief, in seeing the reward he received at her hands in recompense of the great love & fidelity he had borne unto her. And the more greater his wonderful and excellent deeds seemed to be, so much more she waxed penitent, and repented herself, and with so great grief, that it séem●d her soul would departed her body, she said as followeth.  
OH my very good friend, if you be a live, how dare I presume to come into your presence, that in recompense of so great fidelity and love (which your deeds do make manifest) you had unto me, and I to have showed myself so cruel and contrary unto you. And if it be so that you be departed this world, what revenge may I take of myself, to make it equal unto the great error which I have committed: of truth no other but with this thy sword, I will open my entrails and take out mine own heart, that jointly it may remain in this solitary and unfortunate Island, as a sign and token of thy great fidelity and faithful good will unto me: and contrariwise, my great cruelty towards thy guiltless person, and yet this wilb● but a small revenge for so great an evil committed for the death of so high and excellent a Prince cannot be revenged by my death.  
In saying these words and other more of great dolour, & grief, and in shedding great abundance of tears, she overwept herself, and was very desirous to proceed forwards to know what was become of the knight of the Sun, leaving the sword hanging whereas she found it, she departed from thence, and as she travailed for a great space with a sudden fear that came over her heart in such sort, that all her members shaked, that she could not almost go forwards, still misdoubting the success of the knight of the Sun.  
Then after a while having not travailed the full quantity of a mile, a great way before she came whereas the Fauno was slain, she saw from a far off the great bulk of the monstrous and misshapen body, which seemed to be a great house overthrown, it was so great, and imagining what it should be, she went that way, but when she came there she was straunglie amazed to see the infernal figure of that misshapen beast, and yet more horrible and wonderful it was than heretofore it hath been told you, for that there was no understanding of man that was sufficient to imagine the great deformity of this beast, being dead as he was, but the good Princess had not much time to peruse the great ugliness of this beast, for when she salve all the armour of the knight of the Sun there laid upon the stone, and knew them very well by the strange and rich work that was in them, her heart was ready to break with dolour and grief, and almost from her selfelshe fell from her horse down to the ground, whereas she lay a good while upon the green grass in a sound, and could not speak any one word, but lay as though she had been dead, but within a while after she came again unto herself, and arose up, and went forthwith unto the armour, and embracing herself with them, she uttered these words, with so great sorrow and grief, that she would have moved any man to compassion to have heard her, but in especial when that she had read that which was written upon the Stone, which was in this manner following.  
This is the devilish Fauno, son unto the devil, begotten of Artimaga, who was slain by the knight of the Sun, Prince of Grecia, who being determined to leave the world, would conclude and end his days in this solitary Island, this was his armour, the which he doth leave héer● in sign of the last victory that he concluded in his life time.  
When the Princess had concluded the reading of these lines, she lacked but a little to conclude her end, for that by those words she conceived that the knight of the Sun was dead, especially when she looked about on every side, and could see no other sign nor token of him, she conjectured evil in ●er own imagination, and having net so much force and strength for to suffer that mortal grief, in great rage and anguish of her heart, she embraced herself with the armour and said.  
OH good knight, what is become of thee, that in this sort thou hast left thy excellent and precious armour, God hath created thee of so great magnanimity above all other knights in the world, for to lead thy life in the deserts, like unto brute beasts, and if it be so that I am in ●ault, and have been the occasion of all this evil, here I do promise and make a vow unto thee, never to departed from hence alone, except it be in thy company, here will I end my sorrowful days, here will I for ever make my bed on this hard ground, and never lay my head upon any other thing than the hard stones, for that with the hardness of them I may mollitie my hard heart that was so hardened against th●e, my sustenance shall be no other thing but griefs and sighs, and that which I will drink shall be the tears that distilleth from the fountains of my eyes, and I will not have any other company but alonely this armour, the which so many times and oft hath been upon the worthy body of that good Knight, and defended him from my raging and mortal blows. These shall be only my comfort, and the mirror whereon I will look, for that the memory of them shall every moment increa●e my heavy dolour. I will wander all alone in these deserts like the Turtle dove, that hath lost her loving mate, and give shrieks in this wilderness like unto Narh●o, to see if thou wilt answer me, as the Nymph Eco did answer him.  
These and many other things spoke the Princess, tormenting herself with exceeding great anguish and grief. Then in the end of half an hour that she was there, she remembered how that the wise Artidon had told her, that she should find him in that Island, yet she doubted very much of his life, to see all that she had seen before, although by that remembrance thee 〈◊〉 some hope. Likewise she called unto her remembrance, that he said that she should make haste in his demand, for that it might so fall out, that his comfort might come to late, by reason that he was brought into so great 〈◊〉 and danger of his life. which doubt brought her 〈◊〉 so great con●●sion, that he heart sailed her, and it 〈◊〉 that thee had neither force nor strength sufficient for to 〈◊〉 any farther forwards, but as ended did very well behold that devilish and infernal Fauno, to see how that rigorous battle was 〈◊〉, she saw the great and wonderful horn that was broken off from his head, and his skull broken all to pieces, and his great and mighty club lying thereby, whereby she did understand how and after what manner he was slain, and giving a great and deep sigh the said as followeth.  
Oh excellent knight, how worthy are thy deeds to be published throughout all the world, and with great reason the deeds of all other knights ought to be put to silence, and never more to be spoken of, for the worthiness of thy deeds being so excellent as they are, so many, and of so great admiration, and dispersed abroad in so many Countries, that they cannot be seen, neither be heard of, and those which doth not see them, how can they believe them? Here I do desire the universal creator, that now, neither in the times to come they may not be forgotten.  
After that this royal Princess had said these words in the praise of her knight, she departed from thence, and began to go and to seek him, and for that she could not find him there abouts, she would have mounted upon her horse to seek farther into the Island, but it fell out, whether it was with the fear of the Fauno, or for to go with the horse Cornerino, by any means she could not take her horse, but he fled from that place with so great swiftness, that in a short space the Princess lost the sight of him, for the which she received great grief, so by force she was constrained a foot to go and seek her knight, the which she did on every side, but could find no mention of him, which caused in her great suspicion to think verily that he was dead, so that many times she stayed, and was so troubled, th●● she thought verily she should have died with sorrow.  
In this 〈◊〉 she passed all the day and all the night, till the next day in the morning, and never could find the knight of the Sun with so great sorrow and grief, as though her soul would departed from her body. And for to tell you what passed with him, the History doth leave her till time doth serve.   

The life which the knight of the Sun lead in the solitary Island, and how he was found by his Lady the Princess Claridiana. Chapter. 29.  
AFter that the knight of the Sun had slain that devilish Fauno, till such time as the Princess Claridiana came unto the solitary Island, there was two months between, as saith the wise Ly●gandeo, in which time he passed his life with sorrows and complaints, sighs and sobs, all the day long, & in the night time to sleep upon the hard ground, although for to withdraw himself in the time of water and rain, and from the heat of the Sun, he made a cottage covered with boughs, compassed round about with a fountain, situated under a company of thick trees, this place was a great way separated from that whereas the ●auno was slain, so that by reason that the Princess was a foot, as yet she was not come unto that place, but in all the time that this good knight was there, he never eat any other thing but such wild 〈◊〉 and roots as he found in the Island, so that with great h●●●nesse he did sustain his li●e, by which means, as also for the gre●t heaviness and grief which he had taken in his heart, he was brought very lo●●e, & warred leave and 〈◊〉 such sort, that whosoever had seen him should not have known him, all the which he 〈◊〉 with great patience, and determined in that sort to end his days, h●e was brought very weak and feeble, and could not long have ●ndyred if remedy had not come in time▪ neither could 〈…〉 to strait and weary a 〈…〉 condition and strong of nature. There was not in all the Island any person for to comfort him, neither 〈…〉 thing to recreate his understanding, but 〈…〉, which many times came that 〈…〉 him, who one way gave him some com●ort when he saw him, and another way he did double his 〈◊〉, in calling to r●membrance the great and worthy 〈…〉 that he did with him. Likewise the 〈◊〉 of his friends turned him to great sorrow, as ●he Emperor ●●cbatio his father, and the royal empress 〈◊〉 his mother, his good brother Rosicler, and of all the rest of his friends, and he found himself very solitary without their company, but by reason that the grief was much more which he printed in his heart, in considering the misliking and evil love of the Princess Claridiana, there was nothing sufficient, neither that raging and solitary life which he suffered, for to cause him once to change his mind for to departs from that place, for that many times he said unto himself, seeing that the Princess Claridiana desired his death, and that she procured to give it him with her own hands, he desired to live no longer in this world, at least ways not in place where he might be seen of people.  
Thus in the end of all this time that he was there, it chanced the final day of all his troubles to be very hot and soultering, and being passed a great part of the same, he went forth of the cottage whereas he was, and went and put himself under the shadow of a company of thick trees, whereas the water of the fountain passed by with a swift course, the place was very pleasant and delectable, and being sitten down upon the green grass, and the pittering leaves upon those green trees being moved with a most sweet and peaceable wind, jointly with the clear water of that fountain, & running out between the stones, made so pleasant and delightful a noise, that the knight of the Sun being overwatched with his continual care, fell asleep, and being in this order asleep, lying a long upon the green herbs, it chanced to be the very same day that the Princess Claridiana went to seek him, with great sorrow and grief because she could not find him, neither alive nor dead, and by reason that she went a foot, and the day very hot, she waxed somewhat weary, for in all the other day past, and in that day she never ceased seeking of him round about in all parts, yet notwithstanding her great weariness, the great care that she had at her heart was the occasion that she rested not till such time as fortune brought her whereas the knight of the Sun lay under the trees in the shadow all along a sleep, but when she found him whereas he lay in that order upon the ground, and knew him, there was no human pleasure that might be compared unto that which she received at that instant, for she remained a good space as if it had been one transported into a new world without any remembrance, and it seemed verily that it had not been possible so great joy and pleasure should have entered into her breast, although to the contrary when as she saw that good knight, the flower of all the knighthood in the world, to be so lea●e and wan, and put into so asper and strait life, she shed great abundance of tears which ran down her fair face, wherewith she was so bathed, that when she came nigh unto him, she remained a pretty while as in contemplation, and could not satisfy herself in beholding him, for although he was unarmed, and lay along upon the hard ground, yet did he show forth that sovereign majesty and grave semblance wherewith he was adorned, he was appareled in a doublet of cloth of gold somewhat worn out, and his fair yeolow hair, which seemed to be skeins of gold, was spread upon the green grass, and his severe countenance, although it were lean and wan, did show forth the gallant perfection wrought therein by nature. For as the wise Lyrgandeo saith, and as it hath been declared in many places of this History, the proportion of his body, he saith that he had a long visage, almost a spanae and a half long, besides his beard, which at this time was somewhat grown, a broad forehead and big eyes, his eye brows compassing like an ark, and almost a hand breadth from point to point, his nose was somewhat sharp, a little mouth, and his lips very red, he was of a gallant stature, which was about eight fo●te long, and is sufficient for a Giant, and all his members so well proportioned, that it seemed Nature did strain herself, and endued him with all graces. Therefore because he was so big and well made in every part, with that great majesty in his countenance as he lay along upon the grass, that sure it was a strange thing to behold, and the Princess did never until that day see him in apparel that it better please her, and give her greater contentment, which was the occasion that she remained there a good while beholding of him as one greatly astonished, and it seemed unto her that his shape did very far surpass all human understanding, and she said within herself that God had not created that knight of so good a disposition for to live in the deserts, and how that she deserved all evil for that she was the occasion of his sorrow and troubles. In the mean time that she thus debated with himself, the good knight began to move himself and turned into another place, and began to distill from his eyes so great abundance of tears, that it was a grief to behold. Then she because she would not wake him quickly, withdrew herself on the one side, and stood behind a tree, where she tarried to see▪ what he would do, but could not satisfy herself in beholding him, and giving thanks unto almighty God for that she had found him alive.  
All this time the good knight was in a dream, and dreamt that the Princess Clandiana his mistress was come into that Island, and how that she went round about in seeking him and could not find him, and he having a desire to go unto her, procured himself to arise, but by any means he could not, for his strength would not serve him, and she seeing that she could not find him, returned again unto the Sea side, whereat he received so great sorrow and grief that he wept, and shed those tears which the Princess, had seen. Likewise it seemed unto him that she was departed, which caused in him so great anguish and grief, that in the end he awaked as one scared and amazed, but when he saw it was but a dream, his grief increased the more, & tumbling himself from one part unto another, wi●h mortal grief and raging anguish he said.  
Oh love how is it that thou art new become less pitiful and more cruel than any fury, and more stronger and terrible than any of the elements? All things created hath but one kind of death, but against mortal men thou hast so many and so different kind of torments, for to cause them to die, as there is difference in the diversity of thy thoughts and desires, but yet if God were so pleased, that some of them might make an● end and separate this soul from this my sorrowful and heavy body, for that it might be clear from this outrageous and burning fire, but this is thy order of cruelty, to kill him that is living, & not him that hath time to bewail his death. Let it suffice thee (Love) this great disfavour that I have received at thy hands, and let it content thee in that I was of the world, and now thou hast banished me into this solitary Island, and do not now give me any new kinds of tormet, in making me believe in dreams, that the Princess Claridiana my mistress doth come to seek me, and to set me at liberty of this exile to the which I am committed? How is it possible that she should have any care, sorrow, or grief over me, she lifting up the sword with her rigorous arm for to kill me, and again, so high and sovereign a Lady should come and seek a knight so unfortunate and abased as I am? It may well be said that it is a dream, being a thing so variable and out of all consert, and I do now well understand, that it is a new procuration of love to call unto my remembrance, setting before mine eyes that high and sovereign glory, that after being deceived, and finding myself frustrate and not worthy thereof, it may be the occasion that my sorrow and grief may the more augment. But now (Love) use thy will against me, and let fortune show me as much cruelty as she can, for that the cruelty of the one nor the tyranny of the other is sufficient for to make me to leave off and not for to love the Empress Claridiana my Lady & Mistress, and loving her, for to suffer & abide any kind of torment whatsoever for her sake, for that the day will come that the life shall leave this mortal body, & the burning fire which continually flameth shall cease his fury.  
In saying these words, the knight of the Sun expressed so great sorrow, throwing from him such profound sighs, that the Princess did very well understand the great grief that he had at his heart, and thought it not at that time perilous to give upon a sudden knowledge of her being there, for that she could not suffer any longer to hide herself, but would put remedy to her evil, but yet for that she would that that pleasure should enter into him by little and little she pulled down the beaue● of her helm, in such sort that he could not know her, and began to go towards him, making a noise with her going that the knight of the Sun heard it, and looking about to see what it was, he was greatly amazed to see that knight there a foot, and one of a gallant disposition and well armed, where withal he strait ways arose up upon his feet and did abide his coming, than the Princess, changing her voice all that she could, saluted him, saying.  
God defend and keep thee noble and famous knight, for that as I understand, and according unto the things which I have seen in this Island, you should be the knight of the Sun, who hath slain the devilish Fauno. So the Lord increase in you gentility and worthiness, Sir Knight, (he answered) truth it is that I am the knight whom you have named, and marvel greatly to see you in this place, for that many days passed there hath not landed at this Island any other person but I alone. I do verily believe it (said the Princess) for that this was not a Country that any other should enter in of less bounty & valiant force than that of yours, for that there is none other in all the whole world amongst human creatures, but only you, that was sufficient for to clear and set at liberty the entry into this Island. And you shall understand that by the force of a great storm that we had at the Sea, we were driven unto this Island, and being desirous for to know what Country it was, I came ashore, whereas I have seen so many strange things, that so long as I do live, I shall have enough to do to tell of the same, and I give great thanks unto almighty God who hath brought me hither, as well for that I have seen some part of your worthiness, as also for to importune and desire you for to leave this solitary life (which appertaineth unto brute beasts) and to depart from hence, turning a new to use and exercise your armour, for that such a worthy Knight as you are, should not be absent from the world, and herein you commit great offence against God, for that he hath employed in you so great bounty, and you not to use it, you shall understand that God did not give it unto you for yourself alone, but also for to defend and secure all such as hath need thereof. Likewise it cannot be without grievous offending of the almighte God, to cause unto your parents so great sorrow and grief, alonely for your absence, which is no less grief unto them than the death, and for my part here I do advertise you, that if you do not out of hand depart from hence in my company, that I will remain here with you and bear you company, and will not depart from hence till that death doth conclude and make an end of one of us or both together.  
The Knight of the Sun was greatly amazed as well at the gentle disposition of the Princess, as also at the great bounty and courtesy which she offered unto him, and believed verily, as well in the riches of his armour, as in all other things, that he should be some knight of high estate, and being very desirous to gratify his words, he said.  
Sir Knight, I do give you great thanks for this your courtesy and great good will which you do offer unto me, and I would if it were Gods will that my fortune might be such, that I were able to do you any service or pleasure, but my fortune hath been so contrary, and my evil destiny hath brought me unto this estate, that I cannot afford myself to lead any other life than this which I do now lead, neither have I remaining in me so much power and liberty for to accomplish any thing of this which you have spoken unto me off, for that according unto the great fire wherewith I am tormented, I have not any more hope of my life, neither have I any more certain continuance than the flame that in haste consumeth a candle, and he that hath his end so nigh at hand, to what purpose, (I pray you) should he go and seek his own natural Country, for to die there, for that it is death to leave both both the one other, and as wise men have said, That unto man there is no Country proper, but all the whole world is a common Inn touching this miserable life, and for that Grecia is my natural Country, in no part in all the world can the death be more grievous unto me than there, the lamentations of my parents, the tears and weepings of my brethren, the complaints of my friends, the cryings of my subjects, all the which will be an occasion to me of greater torment, and the grief much more greater unto them, so that for to excuse all this I am determined to die there, whereas nothing else but my sorrowful death shall be grievous unto me, and there whereas I shall always have it in memory, and now seeing that my fortune will not suffer nor consent to any other remedy, I do most heartily desire you (gentle knight) to return again unto the sea unto your own company from whence you came, and let me remain here alone in this Island, and although it be solitary, yet am I accompanied with so many sorrows, griefs, and torments, that I have no need of any other company.  
Here the Princess could not choose but feel at her heart very grievous the words of her knight, but of his great fidelity she was very glad and joyful, and had great pity of his sorrow and grief, and willing to proceed in farther talk with him, she said: Of truth (worthy Prince) I do not know what evil this of yours should be, so great and so stran●e, that in this sort hath taken away your strength, that all the power you have is not able to resist it, if it be not that the which could tame the mighty Samson, the most strongest of all men, and that Hercules, that had so great power and force against the Centauros, which is Love, that did bring these in subjection and many others more in the world, if it be this which hath brought your life into this estate, I know not what she should be that against you should show herself so cruel, except it be such as w●ll pervert the courses and natural movings, for being as you are amongst Princes the most highest, and amongst the most excellentest, and induced with all goodness of nature, I do believe that there is no damsel in the world, of what estate and beauty so ever he be, but would receive great contentment, and think herself happy to be of you beloved, knowing the love that you bear unto her to be perfect and ●oiall, and if it fall out not to be such (believe me) for that I know thus much of women, that first they will consent themselves to die burning in amorous fires, than to make any show of love unto them that they think to have their thoughts occupied in other parts, and so far forth as I can see they have great reason, for that the heart of a man being set upon more than one, there is none that hath any part in him, neither can his love with any be perfect, the which you may very well judge by yourself, in thinking of that which you would do, if so be that you did see this to be in her whom you at this present do so earnestly love.  
Ah good knight, said the knight of the Sun, this is the hidden fire wherewith I am scorched, and that wherewith the bones of this my mortal body doth consume. This is that which hath me prisoner and hath enchanted me, and that to whom all my force and strength is yielded, without having any other thing in me to make any resistance, but to do that which he desired, and suffer with a good will all such pains and torments as he giveth me, esteeming much of the wound, making poison to be savoury, bitter sweet, pain delectable, torment, joy and pleasure, and finally, death to be very sweet and easy. And if that love hath showed herself so cruel against me, good knight do not marvel thereat, for that, that high and sovereign Damsel, the which my fortune and destiny did permit me to love, is of so great valour and high desert, that here I do confess that I am not worthy of her, for that fortune amongst human creatures did exalt her most highest, and nature did paint her in such sort (that putting a part the power of God) I am persuaded that there was to be done no more on her. This way hath she been cruel unto me, and not that way (Sir Knight) which you have given me to understand, for that she it is alone whom I love, and my heart is fixed upon no other but only upon her. It is not needful that I say any more herein, for that my life doth bear witness of my great fidelity, for i● so be that I had my thought fixed in any other place, than should not my disfavour have so much force and power over me, as to cause me to receive such mortal grief.  
Then she said, of my faith (Sir Knight) according unto your words, and as you have given me to understand by them, it can be no other for whom you do suffer this sorrow and grief, but Claridiana, the Empress of T●apisonda, for that she is a Damsel, as well in highness as in beauty and gifts of nature, that doth surpass all other that be in the world, and if this be not true, I tell you that you do injury me in this which you have said, for that I have seen her, and I do believe that she hath not her equal in the world.  
The great sorrow and grief of my heart (said the knight of the Sun) unto her alone I would that it were manifest, but for that I will not do so great injury unto so high a damsel a● you have here mentioned, and again because you shall not say that I lack reason in this which I have said, I give you to understand of a truth, that she is the party, and now seeing that I have told you, I most heartily desire you, that so long as you do live, you keep it secret, for that seeing I must die for her sake, yet I would not for all the world that she should be accounted culpable of my death. Now will I give you to understand, said the Princess, that there is remedy put in all this your sorrow and grief, and that your fortune is much better than you did make reckoning of, for that I do know this damsel, and am certain that many days since she hath travailed in your demand with great sorrow and care for to find you, and according unto the words which I heard, and the profound sighs which I have seen her utter, I do believe of certainty, that she doth bear you as much good love as you do bear unto her, & if it be so that you have received any disfavour or discourtesy at her hands, it is not unknown, that over much love many times is the occasion of jealous thoughts conceived against them whom they love, the which she might well have, in seeing you in company with some other fair damsel, & afterward being certified of your fidelity, repented herself, and then the love which before she bore unto you, to be a new redoubled in her, for that there is nothing that doth in●ame and kindle the amorous hearts, so much as d●th a false jealousy, when that faithfully they are certified to the contrary, for then all wrath and anger is turned unto love, and is the ocsion the more to augment and increase, and so it may be now in Claridiana, that if so be that you alonely do love her, than was it not possible the truth to be hid, and now she being repent of that which is past, it doth cause her (as I have told you) to go in your demand, and with no other intent but to ask you pardon for that which is past, the which you ought out of hand for to pardon, and to go & seek her, for that there is nothing more worthy to be pardoned, than those errors which are committed by over much loving. Then he said: Ah sir knight, tell me I pray you where you did see my Lady and mistress the Empress Claridiana, and how you do understand that she travaileth in my demand, for that of truth if it be true, I will presently departed and go seek her unto the world's end, only for to see her, wherein there shall be no man in all the world so happy as I. I will tell you how I do know it, said the Empress, for that it is not many days since that I saw her, and if thou wilt that I shall tell thee true, not many hours, and you shall understand that yesterday she arrived in this Island in your demand, and she is a aland, and not far from you, and I do believe that that is she that cometh yonder. This she said, pointing with her hand towards one part of the Forest, that ways which she came. Then the knight of the Sun all amazed and ameruailed, as of a thing in mockage and impossible, did look towards that part, in the mean time the Princess pulled her gauntlets from her white hands, and tooke●off her helm, wherewith all her rubicond hair, which seemed to be skeins of gold spread abroad upon her shoulders, of so great length, that it reached unto the ground, and showed forth that fair face with so great strangeness and majesty, that there was nothing in the world that might be compared thereunto, and the more her beauty showed for that she was hot in travailing a foot, by reason whereof her colour was in her face, and it seemed in the midst of her white cheeks to be two fragrant red Roses, her fair and rolling eyes glistered like unto two very fine and great Emeralds, glittering with a green clearness, in so profound wise, that in them it might be naturally said, whosoever did behold them, to be converted into stones, for that all human understanding they did amaze and leave as astonished. But to conclude, the sovereign Princess in all points seemed rather to be a divine thing than human, but the knight of the Sun, who with great attention was looking towards that place whereas she told him that she was coming, had not as yet seen the Princess in that order, till within a while after, seeing that he could see no body coming, he turned his head about for to ask the Knight where he had seen and left her, but when he saw her helm off, and knew her by her fair face, it cannot be said and told what that worthy knight at that instant felt within himself, but remained wonderfully amazed, and marveling more than any man in the world, without any power to speak one word, neither moved he any eye lid, but stood still beholding that seraphical face, out of the which he received so many dazzling sights and glittering clearness, as though he had continually looked upon the Sun in the morning, at such time as he spreadeth his golden beams abroad upon the earth.  
Then the royal Princess seeing him in that great perplexity, with the exceeding joy and pleasure she received, clasping him about the neck, and embracing him, she said.  
Just, true, and good knight, seeing that I am she alone that have committed this error, and hath been the only occasion of all this your sorrow and grief, I am here come in presence to make a means for the same, and to cra●e pardon at your hands for all that is past, for if I have committed any offence, believe me, it was by the overmuch love which I did bear you, and your troubles and sorrows hath grieved me as much, and gone as nigh my heart, as mine hath been unto you, in such sort, that if God of his infinite mercy and goodness had not permitted me to find you here, of truth I do tell you, that I would never have departed from hence alive, for that I was determined to end my days, leading the most strictest & sorrowful life that might be imagined, in recompense of my great error, In the mean time that the Princes spoke these words, the knight of the Sun received so great joy and pleasure, in seeing him in the presence of his so desired mistress, that he embraced her, excusing himself with such amorous & sweet words, that he thought himself transported into an other world, and knew not whether he was in heaven or on the earth. And coming unto himself after that he had received that courtesy at her hands, kneeling down before her, he took and kissed her lily white hand perforce, receiving thereby more glory, then if he had been made Lord over all the world. Then the Princes a new, did embrace him, and almost by force, did cause him to arise, saying, your highness (worthy Prince) doth not consent, that you use with any this courtesy, much less with me, that am wholly yours, Then the good knight said, ah mistress, as you are all only she in all the world (next unto God) that may show me courtesy, so have you now this my mortal body glad, joyful, and happy: I am not only bound unto you to kiss your hands, but if so be that the great love which I bear unto you do not deserve it, then is not my high estate sufficient that I deserve to enjoy so great courtesy, and here in I do receive so great glory, that if continually I may enjoy your presence, with a very good will I would forget all highness and royal estates, and live and lead my life here, with as great joy and pleasure in your company better than in any royal palace, and think myself verily to be in eternal Paradise.  
I would to God (replied the Princes) that with our honours and imperial states, we might accomplish the same, leading our lives here together in this solitary Island, for that for my pleasure and contentment, I request no other thing, but only the enjoying of your company, in place whereas I might not be disturbed one minute of an hour, but for that fortune hath exalted us unto so high estate, and that God hath not created us with so great callings, only to serve ourselves, but we must (as we are bound) accomplish and perform our duties to our subjects, and go and sustain our imperial estates, and in especially you, having so excellent parentage, you are the more bound for to go and see them, and to take from them by your presence, the great and long heaviness which they have received by your absence.  
Then the good knight said, Mistress, I do receive so great joy and contentment of heart, only in beholding of you, that as the happy saints unto whom the loss of parents, nor any worldly thing can cause them to feel any pain, sorrow, and grief: even so I being in your presence, there is no absence, nor any other thing, that can give or cause unto me, sorrow and grief, but yet for all this, use you your will and discretion, for that I have no will, but whereas is yours.  
These and many other more amorous words passed betwixt these two true and perfect lovers, and yet could neither of them manifest entirely, the great joy and pleasure the which they received at their hearts. After a while that they had passed the tune in this their joyful meeting, they sat themselves down upon the green grass, in the shadow under those huge and mighty trees, whereas with sweet words, & still more amorous than eloquent, they discoursed the one with the other, of all things that had happened unto them, since their departure out of Constantinople. And the princes did give the knight of the Sun to understand the occasion why and wherefore, she made battle with him, and how much sorrow and grief the suspicion thereof did cause unto her, and how and in what sort she was put out of all doubt concerning the same. Likewise she told him of all the great preparation to the wars which was made in Grecia, at her departure, and how she understood that all the whole Paganism, and a great part of Christendom, came against the emperor Trebatio, for which cause he did put himself in a readiness to receive them, and was very sad and sorrowful for his absence: all which when the knight of the Sun understood, he strait ways had a great desire to be in Grecia, seeming that in time of so great necessity, there was no reason that he should be absent, in especial for that the chiefest occasion and greatest part of those wars were for his sake.  
Being in this communication, they could not be certified the one to hear the other, they saw coming towards them two damsels, upon two palfrays, whom the princes did strait ways know to be her Damsels, whom she left in the ship, and being greatly amazed that the princes tarried so long and not returned, came a land, and went in her demand, with great sorrow and heaviness, because they could not find her: but when they saw her and knew the knight of the Sun, they were wonderfully glad, as well for the joy which their mistress received therein, as also for the strange things which they had seen in that Island. And surely they were very sad, thinking that the knight of the Sun had been dead, because he had not been heard of a long time.  
When these two Damsels came unto them, they left & ceased their amorous communication, and received them very courteously. Presently upon the green grass they did eat of such victuals as the Damsels had brought a shore from the ship, for their Lady & mistress, whereas the knight of the Sun, with the great joy and pleasure that he received at his heart, the colour and semblant of his face was chanced, so that he seemed an other manner of man, and showed the true and perfect●perfection in colour and presence, the which nature had wrought in him. And the Princes for to see him in that sort was so glad & joyful, that there was no pleasure that might be compared unto hers. After that they had eaten & well refreshed themselves, the knight of the Sun seeing his good horse Cornerino in company with that of the Princess, he lured, and strait ways he came unto him, for that he had used him thereunto, so he took him, and after that, that of the Princes, and being both desirous to departed from thence, they took each other by the hand and went unto the place whereas the knight of the Sun had left his good armour, & there he armed himself again with them, being helped by the princes, for that her Damsels, with the great fear which they had of the devilish Fauno, the which was dead, durst not come nigh them. And the knight of the Sun, seeing him so favoured and helped by the hands of his Lady and mistress, was in that case that he knew not whether he was in heaven or upon the earth, and being in this glory, ready for to departed out of the solitary Island, the History doth leave them, till time do serve.   

¶ Of the strong and well fought battle, that was betwixt the fifteen knights of the Emperor Trebatio, with the fifteen of the Emperor Alicandro. Chap. 30.  
WHen that the day was come of the challenge, and that the battle should be tried between the fifteen knights of the Emperor Trebatio, and the other fifteen of the Emperor Alicandro, they were all in a readiness, and the field whereas the battle should be fought, was appointed, in the midst betwixt both the Armies, nigh unto the City, in place whereas those of the mighty palace might very well see and beh●lde all that passed, from the battilments of the same. At this time was the fair princess Lindabrides very sad, and full of sorrow, for hat she could not bear by any means news of the knight of the Sun, and therewith was very de●irous to see the battle that was appointed that day, 〈◊〉 to the end to behold the Emperor Trepation his father, and Rosicleer, his brother, she requested the Emperor Alicandro, to carry her for to see it, who for to please her, received great contentment, and commanded the triumphant Chariot of ivory, to be made in a readiness, the which being done, the fair princess mounted into it, & in her company were more than thirty damsels, all very fair and richly appareled, and amongst them was the princess Floralindia, spouse unto the prince Meridian, & the wise queen julia, and other queens and ladies which the princes Lindabrides had brought in her company, all mounted into that triumphant Chariot, and twelve furious giants, with their great and steely mazes in their hands, for their guard and keeping, who placed themselves round about them.  
So with great noise and sound of trumpets and Music, twelve horses began to draw forwards the Chariot, and carried it nigh unto the place, whereas the battle should be made, hard upon the host of the Pagans', in such sort, that they were backed with them. Then straightways the Emperor Alicandro, the better for to see the battle, commanded an other triumphant Chariot, like unto that of the princess, to be brought, and therein to place his imperial seat of gold, with all the seats of the other kings round about it, in such order, as they were in his Tent, the Chariot was drawn with four Elephants very great, who had strength enough for to draw a tower. And when they came whereas the battle should be made, they placed it hard unto that of the princess. Then the Emperor Alicandro, and those kings his vassals, who came thither a horseback, alighted from them, and mounted into the Chariot, and placed themselves every one in his seat. The Emperor set in the Imperial 〈◊〉 above them all, and being accompanied with so many kings, every one with his crown of gold upon his head, and he with his Imperial Sceptre in his hand, 〈◊〉 publish there his great power and 〈◊〉, and about those two Chariots were place● all the rest of the other people for to see the battle, and 〈◊〉 the Emperor commanded twenty thousand Tartarlans to be armed for the guard of the battle. This when all was in a readiness, it was high noon, at which time the Emperor Trebatio with the rest of his knights were all armed, and being ready for to depart into the field, they went 〈◊〉 took their leave of the Empress Briana and of the rest of the Ladies and Gentlewomen, who with many tears did commend them unto God, and the sorrow and grief which they received to see them depart unto to cruel a battle was such, that they could not depart from them, neither would they let them go, till such time as the Emperor almost by force went out of the great hall, then straightways all the rest followed after him, and being mounted upon light and good horses, with twenty thousand Greeks for to keep the field, they went out of the City, and surely it was a gallant and strange sight to behold, for that the fifteen Knights went by themselves somewhat aparted from the others, and because they were all mighty Princes and worthy Knights, they were all armed with very strong and rich armour, bordered about with gold and precious stones, likewise the trappings of their horses was all of cloth of Gold very sumptuous, with gallant bunches of ●eathecs on their foreheads of diverse colours. The worthy Emperor Trebatio road in the midst of them all, and was armed in red armour, these which the wise Lyrgando had sent him before, the 〈…〉 muele of so léene metal, that they seemed to be all of fine Rubies, he carried no crown upon his head, for that he did ●●uer accustom the same in battles, saying that there was no 〈◊〉 of a Crown, whereas they should more profit the●selues of their force end strength, than to 〈…〉 of ivory, which he threw at his packen which became him▪ singular well, and gave testimony unto all these that he held him who he was. On the one side went with him his son Rosicler, then after him▪ 〈◊〉 all the other Knights in very good order, and for that they were all very big and richly armed, the Ladies had enough to do to behold them, but most especially the Empress Briana, the excellent Princesses, Olivia, Lyndaraza, and the Queen Arquirosa, who from the windows of their mighty palace did behold them, as they that had their joys in that company, could never apart their eyes from them, and with great devotion they prayed unto almighty God for to save and defend them from the hands of their enemies.  
In this sort went this noble Emperor and his knights into the field, every one of them with his Spear in his hand, accompanied with a gallant crew of most worthy knights, which was a goodly sight to behold: but yet the tears trickled down the cheeks of that high and worthy Emperor Trebatio and his valiant son Rocleer, because they wanted in their company at this present the worthy knight of the Sun, as we● for that he should be at that time a great stay unto them in the conflict, as also for that of long time passed they had not heard any news of him. Likewise all the rest of those his friends said, that if they had him there in their company, they would not fear all the whole host of the Pagan Emperor.  
In this order when they came unto the place whereas the battle should be made, the valiant and courageous Prince Meridian, with the gran Campeon, and the stout Brandimardo, withal the rest of the company of the other knights which were of their part, were all ready armed, and mounted upon their horses with their spears in their hands abding the coming of their adversaries & when they 〈…〉 was in them, every one thought his adversary to be very stout and valiant.  
There c●me on the part and behalf of the Pagans for judge of the battle, that proud and valiant youth Bramarant, being 〈◊〉 upon his great horse, road and put all things in order, apperting the people out of the field, that there might be space enough for to make the battle. And on the part and behalf of the Emperor Trebatio, came forth for judge of the field, the king of Macedonia, than the two judges parted the field, putting every knight over against his adversary, so his those and desire. They were placed in this order, against the great and mighty Campion, was placed Rosicleer. Against the prince Meridian, the valiant prince of Fransia. Against the stout Brandimardo, the mighty Trojan O●stedes. Against the stout Rodaran king of Arabia, the Emperor Trebatio. Against the king of Media, the courageous Flo●●on, for that it was given 0him to understand, that he was a valiant knight.  
Against Zoroaster, king of Trprobana, was placed Bargandel. Against the prince of Cambray, Liriamandro. Against the king of the Gandaros, Don Siluerio. Against the prince of Egypt, Rodoma●te. Against the six most valiant Giants, sons unto the g●an T●iteon, was placed the prince Brandizel, the king Sa●ridoro, the Tartary Zoylo, the stout knight Flamides, with the valiant knights of Spain, Don Claros, and Arcalus, who according unto the great strength and power that was in the Giants, had need of no small courage and valour for to countervail with them. And of truth you may be lee●e, 〈◊〉 before that the battle was 〈◊〉, there was not two amongst that great number of thousand of Pagans, that was in the whole Camp, but thought surely the victory to be on their part, for that the fifitene Pagan knights, next unto Bramarande was the whole 〈◊〉 and strength of all the Pagan●.  
Being all in a readiness, and the people in quiet, the judges commanded the Trumpets to ●ound, in s●gne and token of battle: and all these knights set spurs unto their light horses, who ran with so great force and fury, that all the earth whereas they were, seemed to tremble, & when they came to make their encounter, the noise was so great of their shivered spears, as though they had shot of great ordinance: and surely in many days before, in that country was there not seen the like encounter, of so many worthy and valiant knights, the good Emperor Trebatio made his encounter against that valiant Pagan Rodaran, whose encounter was such, that they shivered their spears in small pieces, and passed the one by the other, but by the force thereof, Rodaran lost his stirrups, and the reins of his bridle fell out of his hand, and complained very much of that encounter. The like did the two most valiant Prince's Meridian and Brandimardo, making their encounters with their two strong and stout adversaries, Claverindo, and Oristedes, they passed all four, the one by the other, in gallant manner, shivering their spears into small pieces, but no vantage perceived of the one part nor of the other, in this their encounter. Then the six sons of the gran Titheon, made their encounter against those six valiant knights that came against them, and the strength was so great which they used in their encounters, that if their armour had not been very good, all tw●lue together had been thrust through and through, but by reason that the force of their armour was a de●ence against the sharpness of their spear points, there was no more harm done, but the one and the other with their horse betwixt their legs foundered backwards to the ground, but strait ways they recovered again and began their battle with their swords. The like did the stout king Florion, and the king of Media, and the four princes Bargandel, and Liriamandra, Don Siluerio, and Rodamarte, who made their encounter against their adversaries, in such sort, that without moving in their saddles, they passed the one by the other, with a gallant demeanour and stout courage.  
But now hearken and be attendant, how that the gran Campion as big as a tower upon his Elephant ●ade his encounter with that strong and mighty knight Resicleer, who like unto a whirl wind with all the furi● of his mighty horse Rondarte came against him, and in the midst of his course made so strong an encounter, that although their Spears could not pierce their fine armovys, yet the stout Rosicleer being astonished by the forc● of that encounter, lost the rains of his bridle out of his hand, and if he had not well stayed himself by the pommel of the saddle, it could not have been otherwise, but of force he must have fallen unto the ground, but firming and staying himself very strongly, he passed forwards on, greatly tormented therewith, but this gran Campion received so strong an encounter of Rosicleer, that his mighty force was not sufficient for to hold him, but doubled his back in such sort, that he fell over the crupper of his Elephant unto the ground. If the fair Princess Olivia (who did see and behold all that passed from the windows of the Palace) received any joy and pleasure at that gallant and strong encounter, I report ●ée unto your judgement, and on the contrary, the grief and anger which his son Bramaran● sustained, to see his mighty and valiant Father by the encounter of one alone knight to be overthrown unto the ground, and having no patunce in himself, neither could his courageous hear● 〈◊〉 him to be silent, but in a rage he ●urst out and said.  
It is not possibl●; but that the Gods (being 〈◊〉 against us and our great strength 〈◊〉 join 〈…〉 in a conclusion, and she● forth 〈◊〉 strengths against us, in this stout and valiant knight for otherwise to the contrary, ther● is no human force that is able to 〈◊〉 the strength of my Father B●ada●●●● but 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 seeing it is so, that they will show themselves so contrary against us, from this time forwards I do renounce them and blaspheme them, and 〈…〉 to take me 〈…〉 enemy, and if so be that this knight may fall into my hands, there shall be no sufficiency in his great force be it either human or divine, for to withdraw me to give him the death.  
Then the Father with no less fury and braveness than his son arose up from the ground, proclaiming no less injuries against their false Gods, for that in such sort they showed themselves so contrary against them, and therewith he drew out a mighty great and heavy falchion which he had, and with a hasty pace he went against Rosicleer, thinking in a short space to hue him to pieces with his variable and mortal blows, but there was three things in this battle clean contrary, which was the occasion that he could not execute his furious and angry desire: the one, the great lightness that Rosicler had, that being on foot his Brother the knight of the Sun had no advantage on him, so that it was a great marvel, for the gran Campion to fasten a blow upon him in any respect, the other was the fineness of his armour, which was made by the wise Artemidoro of so great valour, that no human force, nor edge of any sword was sufficient for to cut or buckle them, the third was the great dexterity and strength wherewith Rosicler did strike him, and so thick, that he did not let him rest one minute of an hour, neither gave him any advantage for to profit himself of his great strength, and although that Rosicler had these three things on his part for to make his defence against his adversary, yet could he not with so great ●ase get of him the victory, for that Bradaman after that he had the battle with the knight of the Sun, did always after arm himself with very strong and enchanted armour, and it was so exceeding good, that the good sword of the Queen julia was not able by any means to cut it, and besides this, his blows were so strong and heavy, that when so ever he chanced to strike a full blow upon him, he made him to stoop with his knees and hands unto the ground, and he had as much care for to clear himself from his terrible blows, as he had for to strike him, so that the battle between them was very well fought and in great doubt, and put great admiration in the Emperor Alicandro, & in all them that did behold them. In all this time did the other knights make their combat very strongly, some a foot and some a horseback, the which was a thing worthy to behold, to see what terrible, blows were strooken, the breaking of shields, c●tting of harness, unmailing of goriets, making the fire to fly out of their stéely healmes and harness, of so great abundance, that it was strange to behold: so that the battle was so strong and well fought of every part, that one whole hour was passed, and there was no advantage known nor seen of any part, amongst them, and the great valiantness of either of them was such, that they did deserve particularly their worthiness to be declared, but by reason that there were so many together, and mingled the one with the other, they could not deserve the worthiness that they did. Amongst them all their blows were terrible, but in especial those valiant Prince's Meridian, and Claverindo, who with so great fury did strike their blows, that many times they were both astonished, and either of them were greatly amazed at the great strength of his adversary, and the prince Meridian said, that the knight in his blows resembled the knight of the Sun. Likewise those stout and valiant knights Brandimardo and Oristedes, with no less fury and redoubled blows, did charge their adversaries, and put great admiration in all them that did behold the battle, who said, that they twain were two of the stoutest knights that were in all the world. It was no less worthy of beholding the great contention that was betwixt the good Emperor Trebatio, and the stout king of Arabia Rodaran, whose blows were of so great force, that they were heard a great way of, and being an hour past since the battle began, the strong Pagan was greatly amazed at the great force and strength of the Emperor, and said within himself, that it was impossible for him to get any honour in that cruel battle, for that continually the force and lightness of his adversary increased, and a thing to be wondered at, was his valiant courage, of whom naturally his sons had received the like. And the Emperor Alicandro, and all those kings which were with him, that did behold him, and knew him, being greatly amazed, said, that he was one of the most valiantest knights in all the whole world, and one that was most fiercest in battle. Then the old king of Gedrosia, said, My flesh and my bones tr●●ble, when I do think of that I shall see this Emperor do, in the field against us, he being in the midst between both his sons, and it seemeth unto me, that there is no security, whereby from the fury of their arms, we cannot make any defence: and this good knights that we have on our part, behold how many there is to the contrary, who doth make resistance and detain them, till the other doth destroy▪ these miserable people. At which words all those mighty kings that were in the triumphant Chariot, laughed very much, and imputed them unto the great fear and little force the which the king had, for that he was old. But yet time happened afterward, that they did feel and know that the words which he spoke, proceeded more of wisdom and understanding, then of fear.  
Likewise, it was a thing worthy to be seen, the furious and well fought battle, that was betwixt the sons of the Gran Thiteon, and the six knights their adversaries, for according as they were all strong and valiant, it were enough to do in this Chapter, only to declare of their valiantness, for the force of the Giants was wonderful, and they struck their blows with so great fury, that either of them was sufficient to cleave an armed knight down to to the waist, but yet they contended with such knights who knew very well how to resist their great strengths, and made them to sweat drops of blood, for that they had amongst them that mighty and strong knight Brandizel, who by reason that he was very big of body and of great force, and hot in courage, brought his adversary in a great perplexity, and all his armour broken and unbuckled, although they were a finger thick, and this was the eldest of the six brethren, with whom he combated, and the most valiantest and strongest: on the other side did combat, those two valiant warriors the king Sacridoro, and the worthy Tartarian Zoylo, and behaved themselves in such sort in their battle, that they gave them very well to understand, who they were. Likewise, with no less courageous force, those two most valiant knights, Don Claros, and Arcalus, did oppress with their mighty blows, the two Giants their adversaries, in such sort, that in the space of one hour, they brought them in that case, that the victory appeared to be theirs, and for that those two knights were not known, they were greatly amazed there at, for their high and strange bounty.  
The good knight Flamides, did make battle, with the younger brother of the six Giants, and although the battle betwixt them was well fought and very perilous, yet for all that by reason that his armour was excellent good, and he very light and stout, he had the vantage of his adversary. Also the valiant king Florion, and the king of Media, made their battle with mighty & furious blows, but before that one hour was passed of the battle, it was well known that the king Florion, was the valianter of both. At this time the four princes had so entreated their adversaries, that they were very weary and faint, and they likewise were well moiled, for that they had received great and mighty blows of them, for they were strong, stout, and valiant.  
Thus in this sort was this cruel battle betwixt them all the best fought that ever was seen, betwixt so many knights, for that all those that did behold them, had their ears deafened, with the continual sound of the hard and thick blows, that were stroke amongst them, and there could not have been a greater noise, if ther● had been a hundredth Smiths together working and striking upon their angels.  
Likewise in this time it was a marvelous thing to see and behold Rosicleer, with Bradaman, with although he lacked but one finger breadth of eight foot high, which was a gallant stature, yet before the Gran Camp●on, he seemed nothing, for that he was almost fifteen foot high, nevertheless the blows of the one and of the other was equal in furiousness, for that Rosicleer, did so charge with his furious blows Bradaman, that although he could not cut his armour, yet did he all to torment and bruise his flesh and bones, and with more lightness than was comprehended in him, he made him to bestir himself and turn about on the one side and on the other: the like did Bradaman, unto him, for although that Rosicleer, did save and defend himself from the most part of his blows, by his great nimbleness and lightness, yet for all that, when he fastened a blow upon him, he made him to stoop both with knees and hands to the ground: and the armour of Rosicleer, did make such a sound, as though it had been a bell, and out of both their armours there flew so great quantity of sparks of fire, as though they should be burned in them.  
In this sort the battle betwixt them continued more than two hours, in which time some of those Ladies that did behold them from the mighty palace of the Emperor Trebatio, were not much at quiet and ease at the●● hearts, for that the Princess Olivia, seeing her spouse and loyal lover to combat so terribly with that furious Pagan and monster, her face began to be wan and pale, and the blood waxed cold within her body, so that fell down in a sound amongst the Ladies: in the like perplexity was the royal Empress Briana, for her husband and son, and the fair Princes Lindaraza, for her loving and faithful spouse Claverindo, and the like had that fair Ladies Arquirosa, for Don Siluerio.  
Furthermore you shall understand, that after two hours was passed from the first beginning of the battle, and that there was not one of those worthy champions that had any will or desire (as it seemed) to rest themselves, than the good Emperor Trebatio, being very desirous to make a final end & conclusion of his battle, with the uttermost of all his force, he raised himself in his styrrups, with his sword in both his hands, & therewith struck so strong and terrible a blow upon the helm of the stout pagan Rodaran, the which by reason that it was somewhat crazed, with that battle, as also with other battles before: he altogether unbuckled from his head, and breaking his skull (by the force thereof all to pieces) he overthrew him from his horse dead to the ground, and said, Now shall it be seen if thou canst deliver thyself from my hands, and what can profit thee, the subtlety & deceit of the queen of Carmania. The which being concluded he withdrew himself a part, and did behold the battle of the other knights, whereat all that were on his part received great pleasure and contentment, but in especial, the Empress Briana, who knew not where she was, with the great joy and pleasure she received. But the sorrow and grief of the Pagans was very great, but in especial the Emperor Alicandro, who had Rodaran in great estimation, for that he was one of the strongest knights that was in all the whole Paganism, as of truth he was so. But yet the grief of his heart did not herein end, for that the worthy prince Brandizel, at that instant overthrew at his feet the Giant with whom he had his battle, who was the eldest of the six brethren, wherewith he unlaced his helm and cut of his head. And it was not long after when that the two valiant brethren, Don Claros, and Arcalus, did the like with their adversaries, which were the second and third brothers, and were the most fiercest and strongest of them all, and they withdrew themselves apart, and did behold the battle of them that remained.  
Then strait ways, Bargandel, did overcome the valiant King of Taprobana▪ and Liriamandro, made for to yield the Prince of Cambray, and within a little while Don Siluerio, did cut of the head of the stout king of the Gandat●s, and not long after the king Sacridoro, and the Tartarian Zoylo, overthrew their adversaries to the earth, who were the fourth and fift brethren, of the Giants who as the other before did cut off their hands, of all the which the Emperor Alycandro received great sorrow and grief, and the like did all the Pagans, and they repented them very much in making of that challenge. Then Rodamarte took the Prince of Egypt prisoner, for being very weary and feeble, of his own good will he did yield himself to be prisoner, so likewise the valiant knight Flamides did force so much upon the youngest brother the Giant, that in the end he was slain as the rest, so that all the generation of the gran Thiteon was slain in that battle. It was not long after that the king Florion overthrew the king of Media at his feet and pulled off his helm, helping him to arise from the ground, he took him prisoner, and put themselves on the one side, and did behold the battle of the other three that remained, the which at that time were so entangled and furious, that all those that did behold them were put in great admiration, marveling greatly how they could suffer so great & long travail, and make any defence from so terrible and cruel blows which were given of all parts.  
Those which remained were those precious and valiant knight's Meridian and Claveryndo, a●d the mighty Trojan and Brandimardo, who in force and dexterity were so equal, that almost there was not any one that could know any advantage to be of either part, and being now more than three hours since they first began the battle, and both parts agreeing thereunto, they ceased for to take breath, and to ease themselves, in the which time they did behold the great contention that was betwixt that valiant and worthy knight Rosicler, and the stout Pagan Bradaman, the which was condign and worthy to be seen, for that without all order and measure they struck their blows, with so great force, that all the fields and the mighty City rung with the great noise of their battle. All this time did the fair and precious Princess Lyndabrides from her triumphant Chariot behold Rosicler and the Emperor Trebatio, and for that both of them did resemble very much the knight of the Sun, she rejoiced greatly to see them, although another way her heart was very sad and sorrowful; for that she did not see the knight of the Sun amongst them, and she imagined within herself that he should be in Trapisond with the princess Claridiana (which went unto her very heart,) and other ways she did argué within herself that he should not be in Trapisond, for if he should be there, it were not possible but that he should understand the great necessity that his Father had of him, and having knowledge thereof, there is no estate that should cause him to be absent so long, but that he would have come thither for to have helped him. Thus having these and many other such like thoughts and cogitations in her mind caused only by love, she did behold the battle, the which at this time seemed to be more kindled and better fought than at the beginning, and gave sign and token that as that night the victory was doubtful, for that it was but almost noon when the battle began, and now it was almost night, at which time there was more doubt of the victory than at the beginning, and all waxed weary to behold them, and yet in them appeared not any manner show of travail or weariness, although all the day before they did no other thing but lay load the one upon the other, but when that Rosicleer saw that it drew towards night, he was so greatly ashamed in that he could not overcome his enemy, that a new he began to say upon him with all his force and strength, but Bradaman was of so great strength, and struck his blows so terrible, that all his care and thought was in vain, and brought him many times unto the point for to lose the victory, yet at the last, having three times rested themselves, the gran Campion with very weariness withdrew himself apart, and lifting up the ●eauer of his helm, he requested Rosicleer that the battle might remain as it did till the next day, for that it was late, and could not be concluded except it were in the night, who for that he was no less weary and out of breath than he, did likewise withdraw himself back, and said that it should be as he would have it, so shall betwixt them the battailè was separated: At this 〈◊〉 and Oristedes, being returned a●newe-vnto their battle waxed faint and weary, by reason that all the after noon they did not any other thing but give and 〈◊〉 great number of terrible and cruel blows, the appraising of the night did nothing grieve them, and when they saw the battle betwixt Rosicleer and Bradaman to be separated, they strait ways withdrew themselves back, and lifting up the beavers of their healmes, they requested their adversaries that the battle might cease betwixt them for that day, who were so outrageous and angry because they could not overcome them, that they would not departed from thence until such time as the battle were concluded, but they seeing that it was night, and how that they were very sore bruised and weary, they could do no less but withdraw themselves, and lifted up their beavers to receive air, so that the battle was wholly separated betwixt them. Then strait ways there was made a great noise of instruments, that all the whole fields were filled with the sound, in such sort, that one could not hear another.  
Then the Emperor Trebatio being accompanied with those noble knights of his part, went to speak unto the fair Princess Lyndabrides, offering unto 〈◊〉 his City and mighty palace for her lodging, for all the time that she should remain in Grecia, and she with no less good will than if it had been the Emperor Alycandro gave him entertainment, and surrendered great thanks for his large proffer unto her. Then the Emperor Alycandro being accompanied with all those mighty kings and vassals, descended from his triumphant Chariot, and came and talked with the Emperor Trebatio and his knights, and the one received the other with such courtesy as was requisite between so high estates▪ Then after a while that they had talked together very friendly, the Emperor Alycandro did give unto the Emperor Trebatio great thanks, for the good entertainment which he gave unto his daughter for the time that she was in his Court. It was then very late, so that the Emperor Trebatio and all his knights did take their leave of him, offering their City at their commandment, and so returned, whereas they were received of all those Ladies and Gentlewomen, with that joy and pleasure as reason required for to see them return safe and sound from so terrible a battle as they had maintained all that after noon before, and every one received the praise as his valiant deeds deserved: and to the contrary, the Pagans remained very sad, sorrowful, and angry, for the good knights that were slain on their parts, and Meridian and Brandimardo were greatly amazed, in that the Emperor Trebatio had on his part so worthy and valiant knights, and praised in especial Rosicleer, for that he endured and maintained battle so long with the gran Campion. Then the Emperor Alycandro commanded strait ways, that the dead bodies of all them that were slain in that challenge should be burnt, and the dust of them to be put in vessels of gold, and so carried into their own Countries.  
In this sort they passed away that night, and other two days, wherein was done nothing neither of the one part nor of the other, till the third day, in the which happened all that which shall be declared▪ unto you in the next Chapter following.   

How the proud Pagan Bramarant being angry at the words which were spoken by Meridian and Brandimardo, departed out of the camp, and sent to call them for to combat with them, and what happened beside. Chapter. 31.  
THE proud and insolent heart of Bramarant could not suffer nor dissemble the anger which he received at the words spoken by Meridian and Brandimardo, at such time as was concluded the battle of the challenge past, but as one that was very desirous to be revenged for the same, he determined in great secret to departed out of the camp, and to send and call them into a secret place, whereas he might make battle with them, and none to be present for so part or separate them, and as he determined, so he put it in ure, for that in a morning before the break of day, at such time as the people of all the whole camp were most at rest, in as secret wise as was possible, being armed with his strong armour, and mounted upon his great horse, he departed out of the camp with alonelie one man that he carried with him, and being very desirous to find a secret place to accomplish his desire, he never rested till he came unto the skirt of the wilderness of Grecia, whereas he finding it a place fit for his purpose to accomplish his desire, stayed, and from thence sent his man that he brought with him, unto Meridian and Brandimardo, for to give them to understand how that he did tarry there for them, who when he came back again unto the camp, went strait unto the tent of the Prince, whereas he found them both together, for that they were great friends after such time as they battailed together the one with the other, and there he declared unto them the message that he brought from Bramarant, who when they heard it, were of so valiant a courage, that they were nothing troubled thereat, but rather it seemed to be a great shame unto them to go together, being their adversary but one alone, so that betwixt them there grew a contention who should go first, but in the end for that they could not conclude that point, and neither of them would be the last, it fell out that they must go together, and according unto the great force and strength of that worthy Pagan their adversary that did abide their coming, afterward it did not repent them of their so going. Thus these two friends being armed with their rich and strong armour, without giving any knowledge unto the Emperor or any other person whether they went, departed out of the camp, and being guided by the man who brought the message, in a short time came unto the wilderness of Grecia, and not having travailed long therein, they found Bramarant a foot from his horse, lying along under the shadow of certain trees a sleep, for that the Sun was very hot, and he laid his head upon his helm, and slept so soundly, that although they came unto him making a great noise, yet could he not awake, until such time as Brandimardo with his Spear struck him a little blow upon the breast, wherewith this mighty Pagan awaked, and seeing his adversaries before him, as one amazed arose up, and put his helm upon his head, and with a trice leapt upon his horse whom he had there at hand tied unto a tree, and took his Spear in his hand.  
Meridian seeing him in that case, said: Bramarant, what is it that you would have with us, we are now come hither at thy challenge? That which I will have, answered he with great pride, is to make you both understand together, that my force is much more than the force of all the knights of Grecia, and to revenge the words that you said unto me before the Emperor Alycandro, and those that were with him.  
Unto proud and arrogant persons, answered Meridian, a little occasion is sufficient for to cause contention and strife, of little effect or profit, and less necessary or needful, but seeing that it is so, that thou hast so good a will for to have battle with us, let us strait ways come together, and I hope in the high Gods that either of us both will give thee enough to understand. And in saying these words, with his Spear in a readiness in his hand, he addressed himself unto the course, and desired Brandimardo that he should not aid nor help him, for any thing whatsoever that he should see pass in the battle. Thus Bramarant being in a readiness, they both set spurs unto their horses, and made their encounter together with great fury, and for that they were both of very great force and strength▪ they shéevered their Spears all to pieces, and without doing any more harm, passed the one by the other with a gallant demeanour, and upright in their saddles, but they had not gone forwards many paces, when that they turned about their horses, with their sword ready drawn in their hands, and joining together in such sort that they might strike the one the other, they struck at each other such cruel blows, that they clove their shields in pieces, and the points of their swords descended down upon their healmes with so great ●urie, that great abundance of fire flew out of either of them, than they struck each other another blow, with so great fury, that they declined their hades down unto their breasts, and then Bramarant did very well feel that the force and strength of Meridian was very much, and he likewise on the other side gave him to understand that his blows were wonderful, and that it was requisite with great care to defend himself from them, for the which Meridian with a greater courage did lay upon and charge his adversary, and with all lightness possible did clear himself from his blows.  
In this sort they executed their battle more than half an hour, making so great a noise, that three mites compass in that wilderness the sound of 〈◊〉 great blows were hedroe. Thus they continued for the space of more than three quarters of an hour in their battle, without any point of advantage between them. Then Meridian with both his hands struck such a blow upon the helm of Bramarant, that he took his remembrance from him, and without any feeling his horse carried him round about the field. But this mighty Pagan strait ways came again unto himself, and with great fury setting spurs unto his horse, he returned upon Meridian, and with an infernal fury struck so terrible a blow upon the helm of that worthy and valiant Prince, that if it had not been so good as it was, he had cloven him down unto the waste, but yet for all that, he made the blood to gush out both at his eyes and nose in great abundance, and deprived him of all understanding, so that his horse carried him about the field as though he had been dead, and having no power to make resistance against his unbridled wrath, he went after him with great villainy, for to strike him another blow before that he should come unto himself, the which being perceived by that stout knight Brandimardo, with great fury he set spurs unto his horse, and before that Bramarant had space for to strike Meridian, he overtook him, and struck him such a blow with his sword in both his hands upon the right shoulder, that he had overthrown him unto the ground, if that he had not embraced himself with his horse neck. Then the furious Pagan seeing himself so entreated, strait ways settled himself in his saddle, and returned and struck such a blow at Brandimardo upon his helm, that he thought verily his teeth had been all broken in his head with beating one against another, his head was so overladen, and almost from himself the rains of his bridle fell out of his hand, & his horse ran away with him, at which time the valiant Prince Meridian was come again unto himself, and was very sorry for that Brandimardo was come for to help him, but with very great wrath and angry courage he returned upon Bramarant, his adversary did the like, as also Brandimardo, so that between three the battle was so well fought, that it was a strange thing to behold. But now let us leave them for to tell what happened after this.  
You shall understand that by and by after that these three valiant knights were departed out of the camp, by many they were found lacking, yet there was not one that knew wherefore they went, neither did they imagine that betwixt them there should be any defiance, so that the Emperor Alycandro and all the rest were without any care or suspicion of that matter, but thought verily that they had been gone all three upon some adventure which was offered unto them in that Country. Likewise the great valour that was in all the three, did assure them to be without any care of whatsoever peril might happen unto them, but that man whom Bramarant carried with him, fearing the great peril that might come unto his Lord, for that he was assaulted with so strong and valiant knights, strait ways after that he saw the battle begun, returned unto the camp, and secretly declared unto the gran Campion all that passed, who strait ways without any staying armed himself with his strong armour, and mounting upon a mighty Elephant departed out from the army, and gave none to understand whether he went, but all men thought that he went to recreate himself in the Country, as the others were gone. Then taking his way towards the wilderness, by reason of the great pace of the Elephant, in a short space he came thither, but yet two miles good before he came unto the place of their combat, he heard the great noise the which they made with their terrible blows, which gave such a sound through the woods and valleys, as though a company of pieces of Ordinance had been shot off, and following the sound, by aim he came unto the place, he was not as yet come unto the place of the battle by a good stones cast, when that he saw coming towards him on the one side in great haste a knight of a big stature and great members, who seemed to be a giant, mounted upon a great horse very well armed, and his Spear in his hand, and as it appeared by his hasty coming, he was alured thither by the noise of the battle between the three knights, but when he saw the gran Campion, he never rested till he came unto him, and said.  
Whether art thou journeying this way Bradaman? Then he very angry because the knight was so bold to ask him whether he went, would not answer him because he would not be detained, till such time as he saw in what state the battle was betwixt the three knights, but setting spurs unto his Elephant, he road on, and this big knight followed him till they came whereas the battle was made, and saw that it was the best fought battle that ever they had seen in all their lives, for that the two Prince's Meridian and Brandimardo were very valiant knights, and of great force and strength, and charged Bramarant with their mighty blows, very thick and strongly, in such sort, that if he had not been of so great valour and force as he was, be could not have prevailed against them. But this furious Pagan was so brave and courageous, that he esteemed in nothing their mighty blows, but repaid them with others of so great strength, that many times he made them so astonished, that they were driven to sustain themselves by their saddle bows and horse necks to keep themselves from falling, but by reason that they were two of great valour, they always put him in great perplexity, which caused his anger and wrath the more to increase. At this time the gran Campion settled himself for to help his son, the sooner to make a conclusion of that battle, but the big knight that came thither with him (who received great contentment to see the three how they made that battle) did put himself before Bradaman and said, that if he would aid and secure his son, that then he should be constrained first of all to combat with him: who being very angry at those words, answered and said: Sir knight, tarry a little, and I will make thee to understand what a fool thou art for to take with me contention. In saying these words he departed from him, and setting spurs unto his Elephant, with his Spear in his hand, which was as big as the mast of a ship, he came running against the knight, whose with so great swiftness as his horse could run, came against him, whereas they made their encounters in such sort, that their spears were shievered in pieces, & the shievers slew into the air, and either of them declined somewhat backward upon the arsons of their saddles, but strait ways they arose and settled themselves again, and drawing out their sword they came the one against the other, whereas begun betwixt them such a battle, that it was a wonder to 〈◊〉 the great and heavy blows that they struck, that the fire ●lew out of their healmes and harness, & many times they were very sore astonished & from themselves. Then the fierce Pagan Bramarant, and the two knights that did battle with him, with the great noise that the other two made in their contention, left off their combat, and did behold the other, and were greatly amazed to see with what great fury and force they executed their blows the one upon the other, the gran Campion they knew, but not the other knight, yet they had him in estimation of a worthy knight, and were very desirous to know who he was, for that they could not imagine whom he should be, so mightily did he behave himself. Thus after a while that they beheld the battle of the two, being very desirous for to conclude and make an end of theirs, they began a new to charge the one the other so strongly, that it seemed they were more fierce and furious at that time than they were at the beginning. And being in this angry and doubtful battle, the History doth leave the one and the other, for tell you of the knight of the Sun, who with the Princess Claridiana remained in the solitary Island.   

How the knight of the Sun and the Princess Claridiana after that they were departed from the solitary Island, did deliver their Pages and the knights of Candia from the rover Cleonidas, who carried them Prisoners. Chapter. 32.  
Very glad and joyful did this History leave the knight of the Sun and the Princess Claridiana in the solitary Island, whereas with the company and sweet conversation of them both, with a very good will they would have lead their lives, clean void of all care and thought of their high and royal estates, if they might have been free of the great bondage in the which they were bound, but having a great respect for to accomplish their duties, the same day that they met together, and knew the one the other, they departed out from the Island, and embarked themselves in the Princess ship, and having a fair wind and prosperous, with great joy they began to sail towards the Empire of Grecia, and the fourth day after their departure from the Island being at three of the clock in the morning, a great way from them they saw coming two great ships, and as it seemed with all sails bearing they came towards them. So in a short space by reason that the one sailed towards the other, their ships met together. Then they that were within the two ships joined with the other ship, and grappled them together, and cried out with a loud voice, commanding them to amain, & to yield themselves prisoners. The which being heard by those two faithful lovers, they strait ways laced on their helms, and came forth to the ship side, and asked what they were that would take them prisoners? Then strait ways more than ten knights of a gallant proportion and well armed, came forth unto them, and said. That unto two alone knights as they were, there was no need for to make that account, but yet for that you shall understand unto whom you shall yield yourselves prisoners, know that we are all belonging unto the gran Cleonidas, and we do pardon unto none their lives, except they do yield unto us at the first to be our prisoners.  
Of truth (said the Princess) this cannot be, that you should be belonging unto that rover Cleonidas, for that he is not in this world, nevertheless if that you be in your works and deeds as he was, you shall quickly be whereas he is, and that is with the devil. How is this, said they, is our Lord Cleonidas dead? It is not possible, for that there is no human power, neither yet divine, that is of so much power for to kill him.  
Then you shall understand of a truth (said the Princess) that I did see him slain only with one blow. But these knights would not believe it, but thought verily that they said it because they would deliver and clear themselves from their hands, and one of them would have laid hold upon her, and said.  
False Knight, they mocking shall little profit thee, for in spite of thy heart you shall go with us prisoners. Then the knight of the Sun who heard and saw all that passed, without drawing any sword, struck him with his armed fist such a blow upon▪ the head, that he buckled his helm into his brains, and overthrew him dead at his feet. Then all the rest greatly amazed at that blow, drew their swords and leapt altogether into their ship, and began to charge them with their blows in the best wise they could, but these two who in the like conflicts were very well experimented, drew out their fine and slashing swords, and so bestirred themselves, that with a few blows they slew six of them, & the other which remained, making a great noise leapt again into their ships, out of the which came strait ways forth more than thirty other knights, who seemed to be very good and well armed, and altogether began to leap into the other ship, and charged the knight of the Sun and the Princess with their blows all that ever they could, but▪ it well appeared that they did not know their great worthiness, in that they approached unto them without order, but in a short space they lost all their bravery, for that in the space of less than half a quarter of an hour that the battle was begun, they overthrew more than twenty of them to the ground, with such mortal blows, that the rest which remained alive being terrified and amazed, retired back unto their ships, and the knight of the Sun and the Princess followed them, whereas they found a new resistance, with certain fresh knights and other people that were in the ships, who began to charge them very greatly, and laid upon them many heavy blows, but the knight of the Sun taking the forward of his mistress, settled himself in such sort, that if there had been a thousand knights before him, he would have esteemed them little, and being very desirous to be revenged on the long time that he was idle in the solitary Island, he put himself amongst his enemies, and charged them with such mortal blows, and without all pity, that if the battle had endured but a little longer, he had not left one alive of all that were in the ships. Then those which remained, seeing there was no resistance to be made against the fury of those two knights, 〈◊〉 down before them, and craved pardon for their lives. Then they who were ready to accomplish their requests, did grant them their desires, and understanding the truth how they were rovers, & how that they had many prisoners in their ships, they commanded them to bring them forth before them. Then they obeying their commandment, carried them into certain big cabbines in their ships, whereas they found many men and women with chains and bolts of iron, and amongst them the knight of the Sun knew his good Pages Binnano and Aurelio, and the twenty knights of Candia that were in his company. Likewise the ancient Pilot that told unto him the story of the devilish Fauno, of the which he was not a little glad, for that they were delivered by his hands. But when they knew him as well by his armour as by his face, for that at that time his beaver was lift up, it is not to be spoken how greatly they marveled, and what joy and pleasure they received, and as amazed they looked the one upon the other, and could not believe that he should be alive, and his two Squires as from themselves, came unto him, and kneeled down before him, and began to kiss his armed hands, and the skirt of shirt of mail, saying: O Lord God, how can we gratify this great courtesy which thou hast done unto us, in letting us see before our deaths this excellent and worthy prince our Lord. The knight of th● Sun received them with great love, and raised them from the ground, saying: My good friends, those who have had you in their powers did not love you so much as I have done, and I give thanks unto almighty God that I do now see you, and I do desire him to give 〈◊〉 so much liberty that I may gratify you, these grease troubles the which for my sake you have sustained, for surely it was a great grief unto my heart for to leave you alone in that case without all comfort, when I thought to go and leave my life. Go and kiss the hands of my Lady and mistress the Princess Claridiana, who next unto God hath delivered me from death. They hearing the same, marveled very much thereat, and went and kneeled down before her, and would have kissed her hands, but the Princess caused them to arise, and received them very courteously, for that she knew the knight of the Sun did bear them great love, and for that she would not be known of the other, she did not raise up her beaver, but commanded that it should not be known who she was. Then the knights of Candia and the ancient Pilot came and kissed the hands of the knight of the Sun, giving him great thanks for their liberty, which at his hands they obtained, who received them with great love, and commanded their chains and shakles to be pulled off. Then they asked the knight of the Sun what had happened unto him▪ in the Island of the devilish Fauno.  
My good friends (said the knight of the Sun) God of his infinite goodness and mercy gave me power for to clear and deliver myself from him, and to kill him, for that in that Island he may be served, being peopled, as he hath been hitherto dishonoured by the evil life and demeanour of that evil Artimaga. Whereat all those knights and the ancient Pilot (as well at these news, as also at the great destruction which they saw done in those ships on those roaners which had taken them prisoners) were greatly amazed and knew not what to say, neither conjecture who that valiant and worthy knight should be, neither durst they ask him the qustion, but had a great good will all the whole sort of them for to go unto the solitary Island, for to see the deformed shape of that devilish Fauno which remained dead. Thus afterwards all together went unto the solitary Island, and when they came aland, they saw the rock hewed all to pieces, and the Fauno where's he lay dead, and by the writing that was upon the stone, they understood that he which did that worthy act ●as the knight of the Sun, & son unto the Emperor Trebatio, & having a great desire, that that worthy & famous deed should be manifest unto all the world, they commanded the Fauno to be skinned or slaied, & filled the skin full of straw, and so carried it unto many Countries, causing great admiration unto all those that did see it, in the end they carried it unto Grecia, as in the event of this History shall be told you.  
When the knights of Candia understood all that they desired, they gave the knight of the Sun to understand how that fifteen days past, as they were all together navigating towards Candia, they met at the sea with that rover, and after a long time that they had made battle with them, by reason that they were many, they were constrained to yield and be their prisoners, and how that long before that, they had taken his Pages, and they returned back again for to seek the solitary Island in his demand, and there to die in his company. Thus after a while that they had been with him, and given him to understand of all that had passed with them, saying, that he had a journey in hand with his companion, that he could not by any means excuse, and so committed them to God and good fortune, and gave them the ships of the rovers, and all the riches that was in them, which was a great quantity, for the which they gave him great thanks and kissed his hands, taking their leave of him, although with a better will they would have gone with him in his company. And being departed they took their journey towards the solitary Island, having enough to do all their lives after for to tell of the knight of the Sun. Then he with the Princess, embarked themselves into their own ship, and having the wind prosperous, with all sa●les bearing, they sailed towards the Empire of Grecia, and not being troubled with contrary winds, neither with storms nor tempests, in a short space they arrived in a port the which was but two days journey from Constantinople, whereas they understood of the great multitude of Pagans that were entered into Grecia, and in what state the wars were in, than they gave great thanks unto almighty God, and departed from thence, and for that the knight of the Sun would not be known, till such time as he had done some valiant act worthy to be noted, they agreed that he should leave his armour and his horse that he had, and to arm himself with some other strong armour, which the princes had, packed in farthels, the which her damsels carried always with her, for to change at all times at her pleasure, because she would not be known. This thing they strait ways put in ure, and the knight of the Sun unarmed himself of that good armour that was of the Prince Meridian, and gave them unto the damsels of the princes, for to put them into their farthels, and he armed himself with others, the which was all Azure, and full of stars of gold, and garnished about full of fine precious Stones, and in strength and goodness, nothing inferior unto his own, for that they were made by the wisest men that were to be found in all the Empire of ●rapisonda, and although they were made for the princes, yet were they ●it for the knight of the Sun, for that in stature they were almost equal, but yet the knight of the Sun was more fuller of flesh than she was, although she was meetelie reasonable in all parts.  
Being thus armed as you have heard, he took a big and light horse, one of them that the Damsels brought, and left his own to be lead alongst by the 〈◊〉, and covered his horn that he had on his forehead, because he should not be known. Likewise, the princes being armed with other strong & bright armour, both of them together with great joy and pleasure, took their journey towards the mighty city of Cons●lantinople. And the second day after their departure from the port, they entered into the wilderness of 〈◊〉, wherein they had not travailed fully two miles, but they heard a great and continual noise, which rung and sounded throughout all the wilderness, and it seemed unto them to be the noise of some strong and well fought battle or combat on horseback, And being very desirous to know what it should be, they amended their horse pace, and road that way from whence they thought the noise should come. In the end of a good hour that they had travailed, the noise brought them unto the place whereas the Gran Campion and his adversary made their combat on the one side, and on the other side the stout Bramarant, with Brandimardo and Meridian, and for that the knight of the Sun knew none of all those knights, but only the gran Campion, which was by his great and huge bigness, they all greatly marveled to see that strong and rigorous battle that was between them, and could not imagine who that valiant Pagan Bramarant shóuld be, for that unto his remembrance he had not seen a knight of so big a stature, and one that struck so terrible blows, neither could he fall into the reckoning of those stout and valiant knight's Meridian and Brandimardo, who so strongly did charge their adversary, and made so great resistance against the fury of that Pagan. On the other part they greatly beheld the gran Campion and his adversary, and as they were beholding the singular disposition of the knight, and the high bounty wherewith he made his combat with Bradaman, he saw that it could be no other but his brother Rosicler, and greatly rejoiced to see with what courage and mighty force he made his combat, as also in what feeble state he had brought him, and there they stayed a good while to behold them, and the Princess Claridiana said within herself, that over and above all knights that were in the world, God had created the sons of the Emperor Trebatio to be most mightiest, and with great reason they deserved to bear the praise above all other, for that their high knighthood and marvelous feats of arms were without comparison. Truth it was, for that knight which at that time combated with Bradaman was Rosicler, who being advertised by a knight how that he saw the Gran Campion departed out of the Camp, he having a great desire to make an end of their former battle begun, very secretly (without giving any knowledge unto the Emperor Trebatio, went forth of the City, and road so fast upon his horse Rondarte, that he overtook Bradaman, as hath been told you before.   

How the knight of the Sun without knowing Meridian or Brandimardo, made battle for them with the stout Pagan 〈◊〉. Chap. 33.  
WIth great desire for to know those two worthy and valiant knights, Meridian & Brandimardo, with the mighty Pagan Bramarant, was the knight of the Sun and the Princess beholding the strong and rigorous battle that was betwixt them and they seemed unto them to be the most strongest & valiantest knights that ever they saw in all their lives, and for that he was fully persuaded that he who made the combat with the gran Campion was Rosicler, so likewise he thought that it could not be otherwise, but those who did combat with Bramarant must needs be of his company, and possible to be those two Princes Brandizel and Claueryn●o, or that mighty Trojan Oristedes, for that they ●id resemble very much those knights.  
Then the worthy knight of the Sun being very desirous for to make peace and quietness betwixt them, for that they were all valiant and strong knights, as also for to know who Bramarant was, left the Princess and went unto them, and putting himself betwixt them, he said: Sir knights, I shall receive it in great courtesy, if that at my request you will leave off this battle betwixt you, for that it is a great grief unto me to see such worthy and valiant knights as you are, contend to kill one another, without having any just occasion thereunto. Then the two worthy Prince's Meridian and Brandima●do seeing the gentle disposition of the knight of the Sun, & the great courtesy he used in his words, strait ways withdrew themselves a part, in saying that they were very well content at his request so for to do, for that as than they themselves knew not for what cause they did make that battle. But this proud and fierce Pagan Bramarant, who was very furious and wrathful, with a great desire to revenge himself upon them, with a proud disdainful and horse voice, faming at the mouth, said: Knight get thee away strait ways from that place, and so that thou speakest no more unto me of that matter, for if thou dost, I do swear unto thee, that in concluding of the battle with these two, I will begin it with thee, and then thou shalt quickly pay me this anger and grief which thou hast given me. And as the knight of the Sun did reply in requesting him again to accomplish his request. He very furious and angry, lift up his heavy sword, and struck him such a blow upon the helm, that he dazzled the sight of his eyes, and said, now come you all three against me, for I will revenge myself on you all.  
Then the knight of the Sun, who received not so much grief in receiving that blow, as in the discourtesy of Bramarant, in drawing out his good sword said, here I do promise thee proud and discourteous knight, that this which thou wouldst not accomplish nor do at my request, this my mortal battle shall make thee to do by force, and concluding these words, he turned unto the other two knights, desiring them to let him deal alone with him. But they for that they did not know him, and had felt by experience, the mighty power of Bramarant, would not consent théreunto, for that they thought it a thing impossible, for him to make defence against that mighty and fierce Pagan half a quarter of an hour. ●ut yet in the end, he did so much importune them, that they were constrained thereunto, with condition that they should secure him, when that they did see that he stood in any need of either of their helps.  
Here was the stout Pagan Bramarant greatly amazed to see how that knight durst venture to combat with him alone, and to refuse the aid of the other two good knights, could not imagine who it should be, but judged rather that his boldness should proceed more of folly then of ●orce: but he was put quickly out of that doubt, fo● that 〈…〉 as the battle was begun betwixt them, he quickly understood stood that he was the most bravest & strongest knight that ever he had proved, for that many t●mes he did departed him of his sight, and made him to decline his head to the horse neck, making him to puff & blow like a Lion, who waxed therewith more wrathful and furious, which cau●ed him with mortal ire, to strike such blows upon the knight of the Sun, that he gave him well to understand how great & mighty was the power of Bramarant, who mused greatly who that mighty knight should be. In this sort was shear betwixt them the bravest battle that ever was sen● fought betwixt two. All this while were the two Prince's Meridian, and Brandimardo, in great admiration, when that they saw the great worthiness of the knight: but the princes Claridiana, who also did beheld them, did nor marvel at that which her knight did, for that she had before time known his great bounty, but yet she greatly wondered to see how strongly Bramarant, did combat with him, who although more than two hours before he had maintained battle against the other two knights, yet at this time there appeared no point of weariness in him, but rather he showed himself to be more braver & furious then at the beginning.  
Then after when that the knight of the Sun began to be kindled in wrath, and that his ire increased, was the battle worthy to be looked on, to see what he did therein, for that his terrible blows were such, that eue●i● one of them was sufficient for to have cloven an armed knight from top to toe, if they had not been defended by their enchanted armour: great abundance of sparks of fire flew out of their armour, and slew up a great way in the air, before they lost their light, and with the great noise which they made in striking their blows, all that wilderness did ring there with, and Meridian and Brandimardo that were talking together, could scarce hear the one the other, but had their ears 〈◊〉 with the noise thereof.  
〈…〉, with mortal fury and devilish wrath, stretched up himself in his stirrups on his mighty horse, and took his sword with both his ha●ds, and struck this good knight such a blow upon his left shoulder, which glanced down from his helm, that he thought ver●ly he had been cloven in pieces, the pain was so great he fol●: and agine, if he hadd● not embraced himself about his horse neck, he had surely fallen to the ground. And as ye he had not well righted himself in the saddle, when that this strong Pagan, struck him an other blow overthwart the helm, that he dazzled the sight of his eyes, and it lacked little to deprive him of his remembrance.  
Then this valiant knight seeing himself so entreated of his enemy, being all kindled in wrath, raised himself in his stirruppes, and with his sword in both his hands, did strike such a furious blow at this stout and devilish pagan, upon his enchanted helm, that being deprived of his sight and remembrance, he declined backwards so much, that his head almost touched his horse buttocks, in such sort, that if he had not strait ways come to his remembrance, and with all the strength of his legs and body, procured to bustle up himself again, with that alone blow he had been overthrown to the earth: then with great fury and wrath, they began to charge the one the other with their heavy and fell blows, and according unto the terrible force with which they struck, it seemed that the battle began anew. Meridian and Brandimardo, who did behold all that had passed, said, it may be that this is the knight of the Sun, who so long time hath been absent, and could not be heard in all the country of Grecia, for that it is not to be believed, that any knight in all the whole world, should do that which this worthy and valiant knight hath done in our presence, except the knight of the Sun.  
They did also on the other part behold the cruel and 〈…〉 had with the G●a● Campion, who likewise they did not kn●w, whereat they were greatly wondered, and it seemed unto them, that those four which at that present did there combat, were four of the most 〈…〉 in all the world, and they said within 〈◊〉 that the Emperor Trebatio, had not in all his court, a knight that one to one could resist the great and mighty strength and furious rages of the two Pagans, but only the valiant Rosicleer, whom they did judge of a truth, to be the same that did combat with the stout Bradaman.  
Now was it a good hour and a half, since the battle was begun, at which time the stout and furious Bramarant, seeing that his adversary endured his mighty and heavy blows so long before him, was ready to burst with anger, and began to blaspheme and curse himself, for that at one blow he could not cleave him a sunder, right down from the top of his head to the waist, the which strong resistance, made him to think verily, that he should be one of his false gods, or else all they together, had placed their force and strength in that alone knight, for to battle against him: which caused his great pride the more to increase, and being troubled with that thought, he forced himself by his pride, for to surmount the divine Gods, he took his heavy sword in both his hands, and raising himself all that ever he could in his stirruppes, and like a furious whirl wind, he went against the good knight of the Sun, and his wrath was such, that I think there was no steel or Diamond, nor any other hard thing in all the world, that could make any resistance against that mortal and devilish blow, for that this fierce Pagan for to accomplish his fury, forced himself all that ever he could, to have bereaved the valiant knight of the Sun of life and ●im, and his wrath was such, that the wise and learned clerk Lirgandeo, was in doubt, that against that mighty force, should support any thing the enchantment of the armour which the wise man sent to the good knight of the Sun: but he who saw him come so wrathful and furious, with a mighty and valiant courage, did abide him. And at such time as he would have discarged his heavy sword upon his helm, he lift up his sword with both his hands for to ward the same, and received that mighty 〈…〉 same, & for that the edge of his swor●e was 〈◊〉 finer fi●er and sharper than his, it cut the sword of Bramarant a sunder in the midst, and the piece which remained towards the hilt lighted upon the helm of the knight of the Sun, and although it was not much, yet did it deprive him of his sight. Then the good knight being greatly amazed at the mortal fury of his enemy, did pray unto God from the bottom of his heart for to remember him, & not to forget & leave him in that perilous conflict. It seemed at that time that he had great need of the divine favour for to get victory in that battle, at which time his wrath and ire increased with so great anger to see himself so entreated before his mistress by one alone knight, that he retired back somewhat from the place whereas they made the battle, from whence he set spurs unto his horse & came against Bramarant, with so great fury, that the earth seemed to tremble under him, and his fierceness was such, that it seemed to put some dread into the heart of that fierce Pagan, in the which before never entered any fear, for I insure you, who so ever had seen that furious knight, with his sword above his head in both his hands, and with what wonderful fury he came against him, would have had no less fear of him, then of the thunderbolt that falleth out of the air: so in this sort when he approached unto the Pagan he struck, and chanced such a blow upon his great, thick, and enchanted helm, with so great fury, that it had been sufficient for to have cloven a Smiths stithe asunder in the midst, and for that the fine cutting edge of his sword, could not cut the magical art and enchantment of his strong helm, yet did that blow so overcharge his head by the great weight thereof, that it took his remembrance clean from him, and like a dead thing he fell forwards upon his saddle bow, and horse neck, hanging down his head, and out at the joints of his helm issued great 〈◊〉 of blood, and his mighty horse being tormented with the force of that blow, ●anne out of that place, and put himself into the thickest of that wilderness with his Lord, than the knight of the Sun who desired not to follow him, returned unto Meridian and Bra●dimardo, saying, Sir knights, I do desire you to pardon me, if you have any anger against me, in that I took upon me the battle with that proud knight, that did combat with you, for I ensure you that his great pride would not let me to give place, unto that I am bound to your great courtesy and bounty. Then did Meridian and Brandimardo, very much behold him, and were greatly amazed at his great strength, and said within themselves, that he was the most valiant in all the whole world, for that he alone hath done, that which the whole army of the Emperor Alicandro could not do, and according thereunto they answered and said.  
Of truth Sir Knight, your great bounty and courtesy is such, that we should account ourselves for happy, for to know you, and thereby to serve you, and to have you in that estimation as your great worthiness doth deserve, and we do give you great thanks for the travail and peril from the which you have delivered us. Your bounty and worthiness is such, so far forth as I have seem, (said the knight of the Sun) that of yourselves you are a sufficient security to deliver you from all peril: nevertheless, if I have done any thing, it was nothing but by virtue of your great courtesy, considering the great villainy used by that knight. And in that you do require for to know my name, I do most heartily desire you, that for this present, you would not request the same, for that it is not in my power for to declare it unto you, till such time as I have accomplished and performed a promise, the which I have made unto yonder knight, who came with me:  
Then they seeing that he had no will for to declare who he was, but to keep himself in secret, would not importune him any more for the 〈◊〉, and 〈…〉 themselves that it could be 〈…〉 the knight of the Sun, and that constrained through some great occasion▪ he would not suffer himself to be 〈◊〉, and the more to provoke him thereunto, they ●fted up the beavers of their helms, in such sort that the knight of the S●nne did kn●w them, and was very glad thereof, for that he had them in great estimation, although at that time he would not give them ●o understand in any wise that he did know them.  
In all this time the Princess Claridiana received great contentment in that which the knight of the Sun had done, and all four together did put themselves to behold the cruel contention and rigorous battle that was betwixt the valiant knight Rosicler and the gran Campion, who at the great noise of the last blow that the knight of the Sun gave unto Bramarant, did apart themselves from their battle to see what it should be, and they saw the mighty Pagan clean void of any remembrance, and his horse carrying him into the thickest of all that wilderness.  
Then Rosicler marveling greatly at that knight, for that he had so great power for to bring him into that perplexity, made no more a do, but returned unto his battle, whose blows were so many, and of great force and strength, that it was a wonder to behold, and for that it was more than four hours since the battle was begun, the gra● Campion wa●ed weary, and it seemed that Rosicleer had somewhat the vantage of him, but yet with the exceeding great grief which he received to see his son Bramarant carried by his ho●se in that sort, he wa●ed therewithal▪ so wrathful and furious, that he neither felt travail nor weariness, and charged Rosicleer with such a multitude of blows, that many times he did astonish and amaze him, but yet in the end, the cruel destiny of this Gran Campion was such, and again, for that his cruel death was ordained from above, the ire of that worthy and valiant Rosicleer, so increased in him, that with a mortal fury, he struck so mighty a blow at Bradaman, overthwart his waist, that he made him decline on the other side almost from himself, and being in this sort almost out of his saddle, his evil fortune was such, that in his stooping, he discovered a naked place under his arm, whereas was no other defence but his shirt of mail, the which being seen by Rosicleer, being very desirous to make an end of that long contention, he thrust at him with the point of his good sword, with so great force and strength, that he made his sword to enter up to the hard, hilts, and pulling it out all blodied, the Gran Campion fell from his Elephant down to the ground, and within a little while after he yielded his soul unto the Devil, who had deceived him in the blind law of his false gods.  
Oh false and weak foundation of man, for that they which are most endued with corporal force, doth think their lives in most security, without respecting that contrary unto the confidence which they have in their great strengths, fortune doth double hers, and that many times with great anger, for that he doth find no equal contemner. And for to show what a weak animal man is, with an unseemly weak and hidden evil, be the mighty great Giants overthrown.  
As he that slew Hercules, was very little, who was he that had the victory in all things. Likewise Milo, the stoutest amongst men, an Oak did stay him, so that he was torn in pieces with wild beasts, so that we may say that that force the which was without comparison, was less than a cloven Oak: what doth he think then to do, that is but of a mean strength, what doth he think to have his life in more security, and to be more aparted from the light and movable wheel of Fortune, than was this stout and fierce Bradaman Campion, the most valiant and mightiest of all Giants, one that had force and strength, for to bring in subjection, those fierce and indomable people of the whole compass of the Oriental Islands, and yet at this present he lacked strength for to defend himself from one alone knight, of a great deal less stature than he was of, who with one alonelie blow he slew him, and did abate his p●ide, the which many thousands of Giants could 〈…〉 Likewise mortal men do think, and do boast themselves more of virtue, than of valiantness or strength, for that alone the force of the soul, in that which receiveth no strength cannot be overcome, neither hath fortune any power against it, and as it is placed in the soul, it hath no need of any corporal strength, and according unto the saying of the wise Ly●gandeo and Artemidoro, they were not so much moved, by the high knighthood and mortal conflicts of these two so worthy Princes, for to write this mighty History, as they were by their great virtues, and excellency of courage and gallant demeanours, the which in all their life times did shine in them, for which cause (say they) they were more esteemed and had greater fame, than for the great force and strength which they had, and always they did esteem themselves, and delighted more in virtue than in their strength, and therefore these wise men say, that if this mighty History be pleasant and delightful unto the readers, so shall it be no less profitable unto them, that with great care and diligence will note and consider well, how these knights were given unto virtue all their life times.  
Thus as it is very profitable and necessary for the taking out of any work to have a pattern before him, even so likewise it is no less necessary and profitable unto him that will give himself to virtue, the good pattern or example of virtues, in especial of these so high and worthy Princes in whom by reason of their high estates, their virtue and bounty doth shine the clearer. But now to return to our matter.  
The History saith, that when the gran Campion was dead, Rosicler did make clean his sword, and put it up into his sheath, giving infinite thanks unto almighty God for that victory permitted unto him, and when he saw the other four knights coming towards him, he likewise went towards them, and received them with great courtesy, for that he knew both Meridian and Brandimardo, by reason their faces was discovered. And for that he had them in estimation to be no less virtuous than worthy and valiant knights, he lift up the beaver of his helm, and discovered himself unto them, saying, My good Lords, I do verily believe, that the battle the which you had with Bramarant, aught more to be attributed unto his great pride, then of any misusing committed of your parts against him, for that it is not in your conditions.  
Then Meridian and Brandimardo, received him very courteously and rejoiced very much in knowing him, and Meridian said: Worthy prince, I do give great thanks unto all our gods, for that they have given me to know so great worthiness, as this day I have seen in you, and in this worthy and valiant knight. And I promise you th● occasion of our battle was for a very light matter, for that unto proud and haughty persons a little thing is enough to bring them out of quiet● There d●d he declare unto them all that ever had passed betwixt them till such time as that knight came thither, and put Bramarant in that estate as you have heard. All this time did the knight of the Sun behold Rosicleer, his brother, and rejoiced very much to see him so good, strong, and valiant, and if it had not been, because he would not anger nor give any discontentment unto the princes, he would have given himself to be known unto him, his joy and pleasure was so great, but because it was the princes will, not at that present to be known, it was dissembled, although that Rosicleer, and the other princes did desire it very much, who being greatly amazed, at the mighty and gallant disposition of both of them, could not be persuaded to the contrary, but that one of them should be the knight of the Sun.  
At this time the knight began to approach, and the princes said that it was time for them all for to return, they unto their camp, and the other unto the city. And as they said, it was concluded, and they all departed together from that place: and when that they came nigh unto their camp, Meridian and Brandimardo, did take their leave of Rosicleer, and of the knight of the Sun, giving them great thanks, for that which they had done for them, offering unto them great courtesy.  
When that they were departed, Rosicler, did ask the knight of the Sun and the princes, if it were their pleasure for to go and take their lodging with him in the city and palace of his Father the Emperor, who will take great joy and pleasure for to honour such knights as they were, within his own palace. Then they answered him with great courtesy, giving him thanks for his gentle offer, but desired him at that time that he would pardon them, and hereafter they shall have better opportunity of time for to go and kiss the hands of the Emperor, but first their determination was, for to do him some service in those wars: and how that with this pretence, they came forth of their countries, the which is very far, and a great way out of Grecia, for which occasion they came unprovided of things necessary to their persons, requesting him to pleasure them so much as to send them a Tent, for to lodge themselves, and their squires: whereat Rosicler was very glad, for that they would be of their part, and for to send them out of hand, the Tent, he took his leave of them, leaving them in the field, hard by the other camp, he entered into the City and went unto the royal palace, whereas he found the Emperor, and all the other high princes, in a great alteration, determining for to arm themselves for to go and seek him, for that they could not hear any news of him, where he was become, mistrusting that some evil had happened unto him, he was so long out of the city, but when they saw him enter in, they were all very glad and joyful, but in especial the Emperor, who asked of him where he had been, than he in the presence of them all, declared what had happened unto him since his departure out of the city. But when he said that he left the Gran Campion, dead in the wilderness, their joy and pleasure did redouble in them all, likewise when that he told them of the battle, which the strange knight had made with Bramarant, they were greatly amazed, and could not imagine what knight he should be of so great power and force, except it were the knight of the Sun, who of long time they never heard any news of: yet they thought verily that if it were he, he would not keep himself secret, so that the Emperor and all the rest remained in a confusion, and prayed unto God, that it might be the knight of the Sun, for that having him with them, they should think themselves in great security of the mighty power of the Pagans, surely they received great grief for his absence, although the good Emperor did make no show thereof, yet did there never enter any mirth into his heart, since his departure out of the court, and in especial for that he had sent many knights into divers parts, for to seek him, but yet could he never hear any news of him: and now was his mind full o● suspection that it should be he, that made the battle with Bramarant. Then strait ways, he sent unto the two knights two Tents, very rich of gold and silk, with bedding very good for them and for their damsels and squires, and all other things which he thought needful and necessary for them, and sent the king of Macedonia, in his behalf unto them, with them that carried the Tents. When that he came into the field, he strait ways met with them, to whom the king did present that which was sent, and said that the Emperor did send them great commendations, saying, that if it were their pleasures for to enter into the City and take their lodging, he should receive great pleasure and contentment therein, for that there he could better give them such honour as unto so good knights doth appertain: the which they received with great thanks, and sent him word that they did kiss his Imperial hands for the great courtesy showed unto them. When that the king was departed, the squires of the knight of the Sun and the damsels, did arm and raise up their Tents, somewhat what aparted from the tents of the army, the which being done and made close in such sort that they could not be seen and known, they supped together with great joy and pleasure, whereas they passed a good part of the night, at such time as they were most in quiet, they heard a great noise and tumult in the Camp, as shall be told you in this History, who doth leave them at this present, for to tell you of the stout Pagan Bramarant, who remained in the wilderness of Grecia, & of other things that happened with him.   

How the stout Pagan Bramarant after that he was come unto himself, returned again to seek the knights, and what he did when he found his Father dead. Chap. 34.  
WIthin a little while after that the four knights with the Princess was departed from the place whereas the battle was made with the gran Campion, Bramarant who was astonished, was come again wholly unto himself, & finding himself alone, and aparted from the place whereas the battle was made, and beside, that he himself was all to be rayed with blood that gushed out at his nose and mouth, and without the half sword the which remained in his hand (for that it was fallen away) the fury and outrageous wrath which he did take against himself was such (considering in what estate he was brought) that many times he would have slain himself, the which he would have done in effect, his desperation was such, to see that one alone knight should bring him into that perplexity, but his great desire was such, for to be revenged for the same, that he did as then withdraw himself from the doing thereof, presupposing in his heart for to make the cruelest revenge that ever was executed, and with that rage puffing out great abundance of smoke, he went unto a mighty Oak, and renting off a great branch from the same, the made thereof a huge and knotty club, and taking it in both his hands h●●et spurs unto his horse, and with so great fury that it seemed a whirl wind, he returned unto the place from whence he came, in the demand and seeking out of the knights that hadd● made battle with him, swearing 〈◊〉 he would not leave one of them alive, but when he came unto the place whereas the battle was made, and found none other but the gran Campion his Father dead, lying along upon the ground all to be rayed with his own blood, there was no comparison to be made with the wrath of so famished a Lion, neither that of the fierce Tiger, when that they have lost their whelps, as unto the fury and wrath of that stout and devilish Pagan, when that he saw his Father to lie in that sort dead, his wrath, courage, and fury was such, that he seemed rather to be an infernal devil, than a knight, & he might have accounted himself unhappy, that should have passed by him at that present, for at that time he would have combated with all the legions of infernal devils, and not finding upon whom he might execute his furious wrath, he lift up his eyes unto heaven, and said thus.  
Oh false and traitorous Gods, enemies unto my generous and natural blood all you together have been confederate unto the death of my divine Father, come down all together upon the earth with all the power of your impetuous and wonderful thunderings and lightnings, or else show me some way whereby I may ascend into the celestial Regions, whereas you have your habitations and dwelling places, that I may take most cruel revengement upon you for the death of the Gran Campion my Father, who was much better than all you. Descend therefore and come down O ye traitorous and false dogs, and have a courage to come before my presence, for that I am now here alone, I 〈◊〉 that it is a great shame and reproach unto you 〈◊〉 you dare not descend unto one alone knight. Here I do swear a●d promise you, that if you dare not come in my presence, neither show me which way I may ascend into the heavens, that I will never take any rest till such time as I have gone throughout all the Paganism, and destroyed all the Idols and Temples that be dedicated and consecrated unto you, neither will I not leave one Pagan alive, that will not renounce and deny your also and deceivable law, and I will make them all to turn christians, for to scorn and burn your Idols, for that he seemeth to be a better God than all you, that giveth so great strength unto Christians: Oh my good Father Bradaman, who is he that hath slain you, and so clear delivered from my hands? Here I do promise you never to pull off this armour from my back, until such time as I have torn him in pieces with my teeth, and staunched my great thirst in his hot blood. But oh what ill fortune and mishap is this of mine? What revengement may Brainarant take, although he destroy the whole world, in recompense of this so great harm and injury which is done unto me.  
In saying these and many other words this furious Pagan did alight from his horse, and took the broad and heavy sword of his Father, and hung it at his girdle, and mounted again upon his horse, determining for to go and seek those knights that he left there, or some other, whereon he might revenge his furious wrath, and there withal he set spurs unto his great horse, and like unto a devil he made him a run throughout all the fields with so great fury, that the earth seemed to tremble under him. At this time it was dark night, and Rosicler was within the City, and the other in their Tents at their ease, but Bramarant not finding or meeting any for to detain him, never stayed till he came into the Camp of the Christians, whereas was more than one hundred thousand of knights, and as many footmen, some lying a long upon the green grass, and other some in their tents and pavilions, yet was there in the guard and watch of the host sittie thou● 〈◊〉 knights and so many footmen.  
But when this surious Pagan saw so many before him, upon whom he might revenge his outrageous wrath, with more arrogancy, pride, and hardiness, than the hungry and ravening Lion, that thrusteth herself in the midst amongst the feeble and timorous flocks, he thrusteth himself in the midst amongst all those of the camp, charging the footmen of the watch with terrible and cruel blows, killing and destroying so many of them, that all the way whereas he went was full of dead bodies, and the rest who were greatly amazed at that sudden and mortal mischief, began to cry out 〈◊〉 call to armour, so that in a short time all the whole 〈◊〉 was in a● uproar, and thinking that they were assaulted with many enemies, they ran from the one part unto the other for to aid and help their companions and friends, but when they saw there were no enemies, they were worse amazed than they were before, and knew not what to make o● that tumult, but they were all quickly put out of doubt, and cerlefied what it was, for that this fierce and devilish Pagan not staying in any one place, 〈◊〉 himself from one part unto the other all to be imbrued in blood, and according unto the great slaughter and destruct on the which he made, he seemed rather to be an infernal devil than a mortal man. But when they understood and knew that it was Bramarant, there was but a very sew of them which with fear did not tremble ●or to see him, and with all the speed that ever they could make, they did apart and separate themselves from him, thinking that thereby they should have their lives in far greater security and safety when that they are most farthest from his furious and merciless hands, whereby he hadd● opportunity and space for to do what 〈◊〉 and mischief so ever it pleased him, and none so bold for to put himself before him, whereby to make any resistance against his outrageous fury, except it were alonely two knights which were very courageous and vatiant, who were Captains over the rest: the one was called 〈◊〉 Adriano, and the other the Earls of ●edo vassals unto the Emperor 〈◊〉, who offering their lives, as they were bound, came both against him, and made their encounter with their spears in such sort, that they were shéevered to pieces, but yet their appeared no more moving in him, than if they had encountered against a strong tower, 〈◊〉 at their passing by he struck one of them such a blow, that being very fore hurt, he overthrow him off his horse unto the ground, & at the second blow his companion was constrained to bear him company. This being past, the stout Pagan put himself into the thickest amongst the, people, and overthrew all that ever he met before him, and never stayed until he came unto the 〈◊〉 whereas; he began to cut the cords and tyonbers wherewith they were armed, in such sort, that in a little space he overthrew twenty Tents, and as many Pavilions down unto the ground. But all this was nothing unto the furious and outrageous wrath of Bramarant, who thought it but a pastin●e, in consideration of the blood that he determined for to shed, in recompense of his Father death. There were some in the Camp which seeing the great destruction that he made, ran unto the City, and gave advertisement unto the Emperor Trebatio of all that passed, who out of hand with all the other worthy Princes and knights, made themselves in a readiness for to go forth and make resistance against that proud Pagan. At this time for that the great uproar and tumnlt that was in the Camp was very well heard by the worthy knight of the Sun and the Princess Claridiana, who were somewhat aparted and separated from the rest, and very desirous for to know what it should be, with a trice they caused themselves to be armed with their rich and strong armour, and mounting upon their horses, they road forthwith towards the place whereas they heard the noise of the battle, but when they came whereas Bramarant was, they were wonderfully amazed at the great fury & wrath of the Pagan, and supposed that in any human man could not ●ée comprehended such exceeding force and strength, and having great grief and compassion for the great quantity of blo●d that was there shed, the knight of the Sun 〈…〉, and putting himself before him, he said 〈…〉 and ravishing fury, leave off the shedding of innocent blood, for look what thou dost here, so much the more will the horrible pains be that thy soul shall endure in hell. The night was verire clear for the Moon did shine and was at the full, and by the light thereof this proud Pagan did know the knight of the Sun, by his armour, to be he with whom he did combat the day before, who with as great pleasure as ever he received in all his life (thinking at that time to have opportunity to be revenged of that was passed) said.  
Art thou by fortune that knight that did combat with me this day past? I am the same, said the knight of the Sun. Then the Pagan said: Hear I do tell thee, that all the whole power of the heaven and on the earth, are not sufficient for to defend th●e from my fingers. And in saying these words, he lift up his heavy and great cutting sword, & with it in both his hands, he struck this good knight such a blow upon his helm, that it made him to 〈◊〉 his head down to his breast, and the fire flew out thereof, as out of a 〈◊〉 stone, but the knight of the Sun required him that blow with both his hands, and struck him such a one upon, his shoulder, that he had overthrown him to the ground, if he had not embraced himself with his horse neck, than began the one to lay upon the other very strenglie, with so great charge, that many thimes they were both astonished, and the sparks of fire were so many that flew out of their armours, that if the Moon had not shined so bright, by the light of the sparks, they might have well seen how to combat, at this time were all the people of the camp round about them for to see that strong and well fought battle, and were all greatly amazed at the high bounty & strength of the knight of the Sun, and the noise was so great the which they made with their terrible blows, that it was as well heard within the City, as in the camp whereas they did combat, which was the occasion, as well for that they were advised thereof, that the Emperor Trebatio and Roficleer, with all those worthy Princes and knights, came strait ways forth of the City, and with great haste came unto the place whereas they heard the great noise of the battle, and thither whereas the most people were gathered together, and when they came thither, they saw that fierce Pagan and the knight of the Sun, how they behaved themselves in their battle, and by reason that it was night, and their blows strong and great wherewith great abundance of fire flew out of their armours, it was a strange and wonderful thing to behold, so that the Emperor and all those that came with him marveled greatly at the strong and mighty force of them both. Then when this stout Pagan saw himself compassed round about with so many people, and knew that the Emperor and all the rest of those precious and worthy knights that came with him were there present, he saw that as than it was very needful for him to use all his whole force & strength, and being desirous in their presence to show forth all his great and mighty power, he charged the knight of the Sun with terrible and heavy blows, revenging and blaspheming against himself, and this he said within his heart.  
Oh jupiter, if it be so that thou art he that doth combat with me, I do desire thee to tell me, for that if thou be he, here I do promise to acknowledge thee to be a God, and I will honour thee as thou dost deserve, and I do at this present confess that thy power is great.  
And when he had said these words, and saw that the force and strength of his adversary did still increase, he was very furious and wrathful against himself, and said: Oh base and vile knight Bramarant, wherefore shouldest thou acknowledge him to be a God, although he were the same jupiter, having force and strength enough, not only for to defend thyself from him, but also for to destroy and raze out all those false and traitorous gods And in saying these words his wrath and fury did increase, and he charged the knight of the Sun in such ●ort with his terrible blows, that it did well appear how his strength was augmented. But then his adversary seeing himself be●ore his Father and those high mighty Princes, as also in the presence of his mistress the Princess Claridiana, who did behold him, he was so angry and wrathful, that there was nothing that did abide before him, and he charged this stout Pagan with such furious blows, that he gave him well to understand that he was the mightiest and strongest knight that was in all the world. In this sort did these two make their combat, putting great admiration in all those that did behold them. Then after that they had battailed together more than the space of one hour, this furious and fierce Pagan. said within himself, that his adversary was so strong and furious, that he could not judge to the contrary but that he must needs be some infernal devil, or that Pluto Prince of devils. And more than this, I am compassed about with so many and good knights, that when so ever I get the vietorie of this battle, I shall have enough to do with them, therefore it shall béee better for me (seeing that I get no honour) for to departed. And in saying these words, the stout Pagan stretched himself upon his stirops all that ever he could, and clasping his sword fast in both his hands, gnashing his teeth one against another, he struck so strong a blow at the knight of the Sun, that it had been sufficient to have cloven him down unto the waist, if that his helm had been as the helms of other knights, but the fineness thereof, with the enchanted mixture did withstand the sharp edge of his sword, in such sort, that it did not damage any part thereof, but yet for all that, the force of the blow was such, that he made him to fall forwards, & with his head to strike his horse a great blow upon the neck, and again if that with both his arms he had not embraced his horse neck, of force he must needs have fallen unto the ground, and with the blow he was so amazed and astonished, that he knew not whether he was in ●heauen or upon the earth. But yet this stout Pagan had not bragged nor advanced himself of this blow if that he had 〈◊〉 a little longer, for that the knight of the Sun came strait ways again to himself, and settled himself in his sabbls, and according unto the anger and wrath the which he had, it could not be otherwise but his answer to be very perillons, but he would not hold the same, for that he had not so soon given the blow, when that he turned his horse about and set 〈◊〉 unto his sides, and with great fury he put himself into the thickest of all the people that were beholding the batta●le, and although they were very close together the better to behold all that passed, he very quickly made a great & broad way, what with killing and wounding, he o●erthrew many with his sword, and with an infernal force he thrust himself in the midst of all the camp, killing and flaying all that ever he met with, so that there was none that burst come before him, and although the knight of the Sun & all th●●e worthy Princes would have followed him, yet by any means they could not, by reason of the great number of-people that were joined together 〈◊〉 to see the battle, so that first Bramarant escaped out of the camp: but when he saw himself clear of them; he set 〈◊〉 unto his horse, and made him run like a whirl wind towards his own camp, and without speaking unto Emperor Alycandro he went unto his own Tent, but when that he came shether, calling to remembrance how that he left the Gran Campion his Father dead, the anger and wrath the which he received was so great, that it repented and grieved him very much, for that he was depar●e● and come from the 〈◊〉, & being very desirous to execute his ireful wrath upon join thing, with great courage he went out of his 〈◊〉, and he alone went through all the whole camp of the Pagans, seeking out all the Idols the which they 〈◊〉, and all that ever he found he broke them to pieces, and 〈◊〉 without to the ground. Many there were that found fault in 〈…〉 him very much for doing that 〈◊〉, but he answered them no other thing, but that the Gods should come and revenge themselves if that they were aggrieved. With the which Bramarant did put the whole camp in an uproar, and many ripaired unto the place whereas he went, and although he did raze and destroy all their Idols, yet there was not one that was so hardy or durst make any defence against him, till such time as he came unto Meridian, who entered in battle 〈◊〉 him, and would have persevered in the 〈…〉 that the Emperor Alycandro, accompanie● with all those kings and mighty princes had not come, and put peace between them, appeasing the great fury of Bramarant with fair words. Now to return unto the knight of the Sun, that remained in the Camp of the Christians, the History saith, that the great desire which the Emperor Trebatio and Rosicler, and all the other worthy Princes and knights had, for to know who the knight of the Sun was, and his companion, they would not departed from them till such time as the Princess Claridiana by great importunation did pull off her helm, and went unto the knight of the Sun and pulled off his, and returned unto the Emperor and said: My good Lord, let your highness behold, if that contentment and satisfaction be not made of all the tumult and travail which hath been caused unto you this night, by this knight and that Pagan which is run away. But when that the Emperor and all those knights did know them, it cannot be rehearsed the great joy, mirth, and pleasure that they all received, for that there was not one amongst them all, that desired any thing so much as to hear news of the knight of the Sun.  
Then the Emperor said: Fair and worthy Princess, I was always fully persuaded with myself, that your sovereign highness could not let but come and secure us, and put us all in great security. Then the knight of the Sun came for to kiss the hands of the Emperor, who received him with that great love that he always bare unto him. Then strait ways came forth the king Florion, and with him the wise Lyrgando, and said unto the Emperor. Lord, let your highness give us part of the sight of this knight, whom we have all desired so much to know, and therewith they embraced him many times, as they that entirely and with all their hearts did love him. Then those good and perfect friends of his, Claveryndo and Brandizel, and that good Trojan, as all the rest of the other worthy knights. It cannot be rehearsed the great mirth that all of them received, as also the worthy things that passed at that meeting, especially with the royal Princess Claridiana, for that all did receive her with that duty and courtesy as was due unto so high a Princess. Then was there complaints made, for that they till that time would not make themselves to be known, as also for that they were absent so long out of the Country. Whereto the wise Lyrgandeo replied, requesting them to let that demand pass for that time, because to give them to understand thereof, it will ask a great time, and how that he had it all written, and when time did serve he would show it unto them, forsomuch as they were things worthy to be known & published.  
After they had passed these and many other things betwixt them, they all together went and returned into the City, and the king Sacridoro went before to carry news unto the Empress Briana of the coming of the knight of the Sun, and unto all the rest of the Ladies and Gentlewomen that were there with her, who were marvelous glad and joyful at those news, but most especially the Empress, who always was very sad and sorrowful, after that the knight of the Sun was departed from the Court. Then at the sudden noise of these news, great preparation was made, and an innumerable company of Torches was light, that it seemed in the City to be noon day, and all the streets were full of people for to see their good Prince, then at their entry into the imperial Palace, the Empress accompanied with all those Ladies and Gentlewomen, came forth for to receive them, whereas between the Empress and the royal Princess Claridiana passed many words of great love. Then the knight of the Sun went for to kiss the hands of his mother, who did embrace him, and kissed him on the cheek, saying: Oh my welbelo●ed son, for this your coming I do give thanks unto this royal Princess, and if it had not been for her, your pardon at my hands had failed, in that you have forgotten us so long time. These and many other words of great love, said the Empress unto her son, and unto the Princess, the which this History doth let pass untold for to avoid tediousness, and telleth of no more, but how that all the rest of the night that remained, they passed away with mirth and pastimes, whereas the king Florion and the wise Lyrgandeo could not satisfy themselves in beholding the knight of the Sun, marveling greatly to see him so much grown, as well in body as in the rest, since he departed from them out of Persia, and here began he to tell of many things that passed as well with the one as with the other, but when he came to tell of the solitary Island, and of all that passed there, they were wonderfully amazed, and eveuerie one did double their good wills and love which before they b●re unto the knight of the Sun. At this time came the king Oliverio, with those of great Britain, & those worthy knights of Spain for to speak with the knight of the Sun, who would have kissed the kings hands, but he would not consent thereunto, but said: Worthy Prince, for well employed I do account my coming into this Country, for that I have seen the magnanimity of all bounty and fairness of a knight, comprehended in your person. To whom the knight of the Sun answered: My good Lord, how & in what sort so ever I am, I am ready at your commandment to serve you, in as ample manner as my brother Rosicler, for that it is our duty unto your highness & great valour. In like sort he gave entertainment unto all the rest of those worthy knights, who marveled to hear told the great wonders of the knight of the Sun, as also to see his mighty and sovereign proportion and grace, with the great majesty of his severe countenance, wherein only was sufficient for to publish & declare who he was, so that after 〈…〉 departed into their own Countries they had enough to do all the days of their life, for to tell of the marvelous and strange things that they saw in Grecia, as well of the Grecian knights, as of she without, comparison in beauty, fairness, gentle 〈◊〉, and grace, the Princess Claridiana, who of the 〈◊〉, and of the Empress, and of all people, was most esteemed, and had in reputation above all the rest, But when they understood that they hoped she should be spouse unto the knight of the Sun, with greater love and good will they did serve and honour her of all parties, and she likewise did the like unto them, and was not a little amazed at the great beauty of the Princess Olivia, who seemed unto them to be one of the fairest Gentlewomen that ever they had seen, next unto the worthy and fair Princess Lyndabrides, who seemed to them to be a pearl in excellency. So from that time forwards the two Princesses Olivia and Claridiana did bear good will and love one to another wonderfully, so that with great reason all those that did behold and see them together might say, that they did deserve to be spouses unto those two brethren the knight of the Sun and Rosicleer, as unto the best knights in all the world.  
Here was given to understand unto the knight of the Sun all that had passed in the battles, and many other things more. In this sort they passed away the night till the next day, in the which happened as shall be declared unto you in this Chapter following.   

How the fair Princess Lyndabrides had vnderstan●●ing of the coming of the knight of the Sun, 〈◊〉 ●home she wrote a Letter, and of other things that to 〈◊〉 in the mean time. Chapter. 35.  
WHen the next day was come, all the Greeks received great joy and pleasure, for that it was publicly known unto them the c●mming of the knight of the Sun and the Princess Claridiana, so that the news thereof was carried into the Camp of the Pagans, which was sorrowful news unto all them, especially when they understood of the death of the Gran Campion, and how that their valiant and worthy knights did every day decrease and wax fewer in number on their part, and how that on the part of the Emperor ●rebatio, they did increase every day more & more, yet was all this nothing in comparison unto that grief which the fair Princess Lyndabrides felt, when she understood how that the knight of the Sun, in company with the Princess Claridiana, was come into Constantinople, understanding verily that he was continually with her in presence● all the time that he was absent out of Grecia, and how that he had taken her to be his wife. It cannot be here rehearsed the grea● grief and exceeding anguish the which the felt within herself, in such sort, that many times she was ready to die therewith, and putting herself in a closet by itself in her tent, she did nothing but weep, complaining against herself and fortune, and after that many contrary thoughts had occupied her mind and senses, fight one against an other, without finding any comfort or case in thinking of them, with great wrath and anguish of heart she took paper and Ink, and with her own hand she wrote a Letter unto the knight of the Sun, the contents were as followeth.  
A Letter written by the Princess Lyndabrides unto the knight of the Sun.  
IF the divine Gods and my cruel destiny had permitted, that as I am constrained to love thee, I might I 〈◊〉 had so much liberty for to forget thee, than had not I returned again into Grecia, neither had consented that the Emperor my Father with so infinite a number of people had enter●d into this Country for to be revenged of thee, for that it had been a sufficient revengement and satisfaction unto me, for to leave thee, and not to think that I was she that was of thee forgotten, but to leave thee as one ●nworthie of my great beauty, not deserving to enjoy my imperial and consecrated estate. But oh my evil fortune and mishap, which caused me so firmly to love and bear thee good will, that there remaineth no part within me, but it is yielded to be all thine, neither have I so much power as for to put thee one moment out of my remembrance. I know not what cruel and unjust law is this of Love, for the more that thou didst understand and know that I did love thee, thou hadst the greater liberty for to forget me, and the more that thou wert cruel and forgetful of me, the more did my love and good will increase towards thee. I am advertised that thou and the Empress Claridiana are come together to Constantinople, the company of so worthy a Damsel is not to be left, neither is there any reason to speak evil of her, but for her that doth love thee as I do, it cannot be without suspicion, for that my sorrowful heart hath divined it, and mine eyes doth now see, that thou dost desire her to be thy wife, and she is not displeased therewith, but when that I do imagine with myself what thou hast b●ne, and consider likewise what thou now art, I cannot think any other thing, but that there are two knights called of the Sun in this world, and that thou art another, and not the same that was wont to be all at my commandment? Is it possible that thou art he, who at the first time that thou didst behold me in my triumphant Chariot, ●ert troubled in such sort, that if thou hadst not been succoured by thy Page and my Damsel, th●u hadst follen from thy horse unto the ground? Art th●u by fortune that same knight of the Sun, that for to defend my justice, thou tookest upon thee that strong and perilous contention with the Prince Meridian 〈◊〉 brother? 〈…〉 not be that thou shouldest be that knight of 〈◊〉 Chariot, that didst so long time defend the great and singular beauty of the Princess Lyndadrides in the Court of the Emperor Trebatio? Of truth it must needs be some other, that did show so great and entire love unto me, and so absolutely did publish himself to be all and wholly at my commandment. What is become of those amorous and sweet words that thou wert wont to utter and speak unto me, and those deep and profound sighs, with the which thou gavest me to understand the great grief that thou receivedst for my love? Is it possible that thou hast forgot thyself, or hast thou lost thy wits and memory? With what great joy and contentment thou goest in my company towards the gran Tartary, hoping at thy coming thither to be married unto me, and how many times I was required of thee in that journey? Hast thou forgotten that for the celebrating of our nuptials, thou didst cause in the gran Cat●ya to be joined together all the kings and mighty Lords, almost all the Pagans, & how that my father the Emperor Aly●andro had received thee for his son, and all his subjects for their Lord? Of truth I do verily believe that all this thou hast forgotten, and dost not remember any of these things, of the which I do not greatly marvel, for that he who did forget the law of the divine Gods, and doth renounce the same, it is not much that he do forget and deny all this that betwixt him and me hath passed. My very heart doth cleave and part a sunder, and my soul is ready to departed my body with great grief, when that I do think thereof, and the great abundance of water that daily distilleth from my eyes, doth declare and testify that it cannot endure long, but that my life will likewise distill and consume away, the which I do beseech the immortal Gods that it might shortly come to pass, for it shall be unto me a great glory to lack life, rather than to feel such exceeding great anguish and mortal pain. I would write unto thee more at large, for according unto the great reason the which I have to complain myself of 〈◊〉, although I did nothing else in two days, yet should I have matter enough against 〈…〉 things which doth withdraw my hands and my will not to consent that I shall do it: the one is, that they who have borne thee so much good will, and loved thee as I have done, it is not good for to enlarge much with anger, for that uttering with passion, causeth for to say that, which after doth repent them: the other, for whereas doth lack love and good will, many times brief reasons doth seem large and prolixious: the third is, for that I do know that all whatsoever I shall write unto thee, thou wilt stop thy ears thereat, so that all my writing shall be in vain, and therefore I am determined to be quiet and hold my peace, and conclude with this, that either the bones of this sorrowful and unfortunate Princess Lyndabrides shall remain in Grecia, or else to take of thee cruel revengement before she doth departed from hence, and seeing that thou wert so hardy and bold for to offend the divine majesty, make thyself ready for to receive the pain and punishment for the same, for that it cannot be otherwise, but that the immortal Gods will have a regard unto this my great injury, and for the part of kindred that belongeth unto them, will punish thee conformable unto thy deserts.  
Lyndabrides.  
In the mean time that this fair Princess was writing of this Letter, at every word her eyes ran down with water, and her anguish and grief which she felt was so great, that many times before she could conclude the writing of her Letter, she fell in a sound. In the end when it was concluded, she called a damsel unto her, (in whom the had great confidence and trust) and gave unto her the Letter, saying, that incontinent she should departed unto the City of Constantinople, and in the secretest wise that possible was, she should give that Letter unto the knight of the Sun, and that she sh●●ld not return again in any manner of wise without an answer unto the same. Then the Damsel who was wise, and very well understood all● her secrets did their promise, and gave her word to do and accomplish all her request. So in taking her leave of her, she departed towards the City of Constantinople, and when she came unto the mighty palace, the aske● for the lodging of the knight of the Sun, and being certified therof● she went thether● and entering in, she found him not there, for that he was gone unto the Emperor, but yet the found there a young man, by whom she sent him word that there was a damsel tarrying for him at his lodging, who bringeth unto him a message. He then so soon as he heard thereof, did take his 〈◊〉 of the Emperor and departed with the young man, but when he came whereas the damsel did abide his coming, he was greatly amazed to see her, for that by and by he knew her to be one belonging unto the Princess Lyndabrides, wherewithal his heart seemed for to turn upside ●●wne within his breast, according unto the great alteration that he felt within himself, but he was troubled a great deal more when that the damsel delivered the Letter, and said that it came from her Lady & Mistress, and being in a great confusion, with a pale and wan colour he received the Letter, & opening it he read the whole contents thereof. In the mean time that he was reading the same, the damsel that brought it di● very much behold him, for so she was commanded by her Lady, to see that is by 〈◊〉 outward semblance he made any sign of sorrow, at which time all his whole members shaked, by the which the damsel did very well understand that he was not a little troubled, in the concluding and reading of the same, for that his eyes were still full of tears, with great pity, which he conceived by the words of that Letter, and he who had great and force, courage for to combat with the most furious, fierce, and bravest knights and giants in all the world, had not now any heart for to dissemble the great p●ine and sorrow manifested by that Letter, that the fair Princess Lyndabrides received. Then after a while that he had studied with himself what was best to be done, 〈◊〉 strait ways took paper and ink, and forthwith wrote her a Letter in answer unto that which he received, the which being concluded, he gave it unto the damsel & said, that in God's name she might return again unto her mistress, although before she departed he demanded many questions of her touching her estate, receiving great pleasure to be certified of the same, as he who sometimes did love her above all things in the world, and as yet he could not so perfectly clear himself from her, but there must needs remain in his heart some sparks of that amorous fire before past, the which could not but many times trouble his conscience. and although the royal Princess Claridiana in beauty and worthiness was without comparison, yet was that precious Princess Lyndabrides so fair and gracious, that there was no per●on in all the whole world but would have been in love with her, in especial that continual and long conversation which the knight of the Sun had with her, did work so much in effect, that what with his procurement, as also with the great majesty wherewith she did always defend her honesty and pureness, was not of so small force, but was sufficient of itself to work so great effect in him, that he could not by any means wholly root out the great love the which he received in his heart. Thus when the Damsel was diparted the knight of the Sun returned unto the place whereas the Emperor ●rebatio was, for that with the presence of the Princess Claridiana he might extinguish those fiery flames which the remembrance of the Princess did cause desire for to kindle within him, the which did assure him in all points, for that in her presence there was not any one so much to be desired as the royal princess Clarid●ana, because she had so great exquisiteness and bounty, that she seemed amongst all the whole company of the other Ladies and Damsels, as doth the fragrant Rose amongst the other small flowers.  
When that the Damsel was returned into the Camp, she strait ways went unto her mistress, who taking her by the hand, entered into her Closet, with great abundance of tears and profound sighs, (before that she read the Letter) the ●●ire Princess did ask the damsel where and in what place she did find the knight of the Sun, whether he was with Claridian, or whether he made a●ie token, 〈◊〉, or alteration, when that he knew her, and received the Letter. Likewise when that he read it, if his countenance● did continue, or altered in any point. These and many other particular things she did ask and demand of her Damsel, which were caused by the hot burning love that did molest her mind. Unto all the which her Damsel did make her answer, and gave her advertisement of all that she had seen in the knight of the Sun. Which was not unto her small contentment and joy, to hear how that he was troubled in mind with the re●ding of her Letter. So that such like comforts (although they be small remedies unto ●●ue lovers) yet for all that they be great ease unto amorous passions, though in the end it be occasion of farther heat. Thus after a while that they had passed the time in the demau●ds, the ●aire princess would read the Letter, but she was so troubled to think what should come written therein, that she almost wanted courage and heart for to open it, but yet in the end with ●r●at alteration of colour in her face, she did open it, which said as hereafter followeth.  
A Letter of the knight ●f the Sun sent to the Princess Lyndabrides.  
Sovereign Princess of Tar●●ria, by one of your damsels I received a Letter of yours, with the which is that I could make manifest by words all that I felt at my heart, I do think verily that you would hold yourself for satisfied, and not to desire to have of me more revenge, for that you see my whole heart burn in bright flames, and hath not so much liberty as to quench one spark of that fire. Fair princess, do you not believe that the love which you say I was wont to bear unto you, with the great solemnity of tears, and profound sighs published, is forgotten. For here I give you to understand that it hath hitherto endured, and shall endure so-long as life doth last, for that it was in such sort rooted within my heart, that first it shall consume into dust and ashes, before the roots thereof be pulled clean out. I am he that I was wont to be, and in no point altered nor changed unto that I have been before now, and if you say that before I was yours, so I will now be yours, and yours all the days of my life, and you have no reason to say that there is in the world two knights of my name, if it were so, yet I am he alone that doth love you, and first I will consent to death, rather than any herein should bear me company. You do say, that how is it possible that I should be he that was so dismaid-the first time that I saw you in the triumphant Chariot. If it were a thing that you might see and behold what I felt, and the great alteration of my heart at such time as I saw your Damsel, only for to know the occasion of her coming: with greater reason you might say, that you should see me in a greater confusion if you saw me now in your presence. And whereas you do say that I had battle with the Prince Meridian in the defence of your justice, I am now more readier in that quarrel to combat with all that are in the world, and first I will consent to be hewed all to pieces, than in onepoint to consent unto your injury, so that in conclusion, high & mighty Princess, in all things that shall accomplish your service, my good will at this time is more prompt than heretofore it hath been, and the knight of the Sun you may esteem him as wholly your own, saving one thing which I do reserve from your subjection, which is my soul, for that is immortal, and the sovereign creator did create it unto his own similitude and likeness, the which shall lose his whole price and estate, if I do yield it to be yours, for to obey your commandment, and therein I shall offend the divine majesty, & what grea●er offence may I commit, than for to join with you in matrimony, you being a Gentile, and I a Christian. And again, you that do presume to descend from the high original of the high G●ds, unto whom you shall do great injury, if that you do join issue and blood with a knight that is contrary unto your law and profession, I do believe that you cannot long time suffer me to be your husband, neither your vassals and subjects obey me for their Lord, for either I shall be constrained for to turn me unto your law, or else you and all yours unto my possession. All this I had forgotten when that (as you do say) we travailed together towards the gran Cataia, and nothing was the occasion of this forgetfulness, but that it was so little past that I became a Christian, that as then my soul was not well awaked out of that obscure and dark law in the which I was deceived, but afterwards I called myself to remembrance, and I give infinite thanks unto almighty God, that he hath given me such inspiration, that if it had not come from him (according unto the great love which he bore unto me) I had not been able for to have cleared myself from you, but that needs I must have fallen into that perilous snare. And by that I do know that the universal creator of all things, of his own hands created with so grea●e excellency the royal Princess Clarid●ana, who for that she is a mirror, without offending of the divine majesty, I may receive her for my spouse, and with the shield of her beauty I will labour for to defend the encounters of your great beauty, the which is of so great source and strength, that if I had not so excellent a shield, there were not in me sufficient force for to make resistance, but that needs I must be overcome. Therefore sovereign and worthy Princess, have patience, and think (because fortune hath been so adverse and contrary unto our desires, and that our destinies would not permit the same) that the divine providence was not served therein, and as a thing that was neither convenient for you nor me, he would not consent nor give that in this our purpose our wills should be accomplished. You say that you writ to me brief, for that you will not write to me with anger, wherein I receive great courtesy, for that being as I am, so much yours, it should grieve me very much that you should speak against me words of great choler. And in that which you do say, that whereas love doth lack, your brief reasons will seem unto me prolixious, and that you know to all things I will make my ears deaf, if it were a thing possible without preiudiee for to open these my entrails, for to show unto you my heart, wherein you might plainly see, how you are deceived, for that there is nothing in all the world that doth delight me more than in the receipt of your Letter, and in reading of the same, so that if it were a thing possible, I would it should never conclude. You do conclude in your Letter, that you never will departed out of Crecia, till such time as you have of me revengement. I would very feign know in what order you would have it, because I would execute it myself, and if it be your pleasure and commandment that I put myself in your power, give me strait ways to understand thereof, and I will be as ready to obey, as you for to command me, and I do not much esteem that love, if you think that with my death you should remain satisfied, with the which I conclude, kissing your imperial hands.  
The knight of the Sun.  
In the mean time that this fair Princess was reading the Letter, she shed so many tears from her fair eyes, that she was all to be sprinkled therewith, and when the had concluded the reading thereof, all her members failed her, and her heart was overcome, & her amorous passions were more kindled with the loving words that he wrote unto her. But when she saw clearly that the knight of the Sun did discover the love that he bore unto the Princess Claridiana, and that her suspicion fell out to be true, she remained as one dead, and knew not what to say nor to do, but to complain of her Gods and of fortune, and it is to believed, that her life had not endured long, if that she had not been wonderfully succoured, as shall be declared unto you hereafter in this History.   

How the stout and furious Pagan Bramarant overthrew and destroyed all the Idols in the Camp, and how the Emperor Alycandro for to appeal him, caused to be brought with great honour the body of the gran Campion that was in the wildemesse of Grecia, and what happened over and above this. Chap. 36.  
THe great wrath and fury was so exceeding of that proud and barbarous son of the gran Campion for the death of his Father, that there was not room enough for him in all that mighty camp of the Pagans, but he ran up and down from one place to another, like unto a mad man, or one from himself, crying out, making a great and terrible noise, casting up his fiery eyes unto the heavens, blaspheming and denying his Gods, uttering words of great reproach and anger, thinking thereby to provoke them unto wrath, to cause them to descend upon the earth against him, where he might execute his wrath upon them. As he was wholly ignorant of the immortal pains, which these false Gods (in whom the Pagans do believe and worship) hath in hell, and for that in no place he could take any rest or be in quiet, he went into all the Tents of the Camp, whereas he found many Idols very rich and of great price, whom he overthrew and cut in pieces with his sword, and left not one standing, neither was, there any king or knight of so great hardiness, that durst make any resistance against him, but only those two mighty and valiant knights, the Prince Meridian and Brandimardo, who with a very good will would have baunted the pride of that proud and insolent Pagan, if the Emperor had not disturbed them, in requesting them not to return to renew any more their contention and anger, so that finding not one that durst make any resistance against him, the pride of this furious and fierce Pagan Bramarant increased so much, that he never stayed till that he came into the Imperial Tent of the Emperor Alycandro, within the which was a very great and rich stature of gold full of precious stones, dedicated unto the God jupiter, the which was made by the devils art, in such sort, that the Devil was within the same, and spoke by the mouth of that Idol, deceiving those wicked and miserable Pagans, who with great reverence and duty did prostrate themselves unto the ground and worshipped him, it was set upon a very rich Altar, whereas none durst be so bold as come nigh unto it, except certain Priests, which were consecrated for to do sacrifice unto him daily. Besides this, the Emperor Alycandro had in many places round about his great Tent many other Idols, whom he did worship and all his subjects, and being that day in his great Tent, accompanied with all those mighty kings and Lords of his whole Camp, ordaining for to give battle unto the Emperor Trebatio, this mighty Pagan armed with his strong armour, mounted upon his mighty horse, entered into the Tent, and when he saw the stature of the God jupiter upon the Altar, as soon as he was entered in, he went towards the same, and in drawing out his sword he said.  
Now will I see if the power of that Christian Knight be more than thine. And in saying these words he struck him such a right down blow, that although it were made of massy gold, yet he clove it down to his breast, and falling one piece from another, there was suddenly heard a great and timorous thunder clap, wherewith it seemed that the heavens would have rend a sunder, and in the midst of the great Tent was seen a vestigell or spirit so dreadful and horrible to behold, that it seemed to be some infernal vision, casting out fire at his nose and eyes, and in both his hands he had a great mase of iron, with the which he made a show as though he would have strooken Bramarant upon the head, as those which had no more power but only for to put in fear with those his visages and semblances, so that alone with the sight of him there was not one in all that Tent but did tremble ansd was afraid, thinking verily that they should be destroyed for that which Bramarant had done. But this proud Barbarian who feared not all that infernal company, with no more dread than if it had been a weak and feeble damsel, he did abide his coming, and as this vestigell or devil did make a proffer to strike him with his mase, the Pagan stroke a terrible blow at him with his sword, and thinking to have cloven him a sunder in the midst, he struck at nothing but at the air, for that the vestigell as a fancy consumed away, and was no more seen in the Tent. But the Emperor and all those that were with him were very sorry for that which Bramarant had done, & mistrusted that there would happen unto them great evil and misfortune for the same, yet for all that there was not one amongst them all that durst return against him in the quarrel of their Gods, but one Meridian and Brandmardo, who because they would not anger the Emperor were in quiet, wherewith Bramarant went out of the tent with great fury. Then the Emperor thought within himself that it were good (somewhat to appease his fury,) for to send for the body of the gran Campion, which lay dead in the wilderness of Grecia, and to bury him with that honour and solemnity as is used in their Country: even so as he thought he put it in ure, and strait ways commanded that thirty crowned kings, the most principallest of all the army, should put on mourning apparel, and cause him to be laid upon a beer, and so brought unto the Camp, and commanded to accompany them ten thousand armed knights, and all those Giants that came from the Oriental islands, that were subject unto Bramarant should go with them. And in this sort these thirty kings with all their company departed, according unto the use and manner of their Country, which was a strange thing to see, & when they came into the wilderness, they strait ways found the body of the gran Campion, which was begun to be eaten with the fowls, and after that they all for a while had made great lamentation and bewailed his death, those kings (for to do him more honour) did balm him, and then laid him upon a Beer which they brought with them, that was very rich, and covered with a fair cloth of Tissue, and so carried him towards the Camp, whereas he was received with great honour, by the Emperor and all those mighty Princes that were with him, who went forth and met with them a good mile off. The manner which they used for to give his sepulchre with more honour (according unto the use of their Country) was, that they laid the dead corpse upon a very broad and smooth marble stone all white, whereas they burned and consumed the body all to ashes, and in the mean time that he was a burning, all the principallest of the whole army, were placed round about the fire, all covered with robes of Sackcloth, so long, that it trailed upon the ground, and made great sorrow and lamentation, and prayed unto their Gods to receive him into their company, in which time all the prayers which his son Bramarant made, was no other but blaspheming against all the Elements, and against nature, for that they had power for to consume and burn the body of the Gran Campion his Father. Thus when that the body was all consuned and burned, the ashes remaining upon the Marble stone, the which was taken and put in very rich vessels of gold, whereunto they put water and stirred it together, and put the vessels upon a fair Table. Then the Emperor Alycandro (the more to honour the Gran Campion) began first for to drink of the same mixture, and after him Bramarant, and after them in order all those Kings, Princes, and worthy Knights that were in the Camp, till such time as they left no mention of the water and ashes, so the mightiest Lords that were in all the Paganisine, made their bodies the sepulchre of that mighty Pagan, and this they had amongst them for the most honourablest burying that could be. With these and many other things more which the Emperor Alycandro commanded to be done for the Gran Campion, making great lamentation for his death, Bramarant was somewhat appeased, and lost great part of that outrageous fury and wrath which he had conceived, and understood and procured no other thing but only how and by what means he might make terrible and cruel revengement for the death of his well-beloved Father.  
Then after certain days were passed of the truce which was taken with the Greeks, they began of all parts to prepare and make themselves in a readiness against the battle that was determined, and was thought to be of both parts the bravest and most cruelest and bloody that ever was seen upon the earth, for that the Emperor Alycandro had commanded, that the first day that the Greeks should come forth for to give them battle, that all the people of their Camp should proceed against them, for that they would at once conclude that enterprise, and not to leave their adversaries any force and strength at all, for to return again unto the field, for although there were many battles betwixt them, as the History hath showed you, yet there went not forth the third part of the people that was there with them which were so many in number, that there might well be made of them three mighty armies, and of truth there was never seen in all Asia nor buropa so many and so valiant, stout, and worthy knights gathered together, as were at that present in the fields of Constantinople.  
Now let us leave the Pagans in readiness for the battle to come, and let us veturne unto the Greeks that were in the mighty City of Constantinople.   

What the Greeks did, and how the king Liseo and the fair Queen Radamira came to aid the Emperor Trebatio, and what happened beside. Chap. 37.  
IT was a thing of great wonder unto the Greeks, to see themselves closed within the City, and so compassed about in their own fields, for their enemies were so great and infinite a number of Pagans, that it might well be said, that they had against them all the whole force of the world, for there were in the field an infinite number of barbarous people, of different and diverse Nations, and the most part proud and terrible Giants, that the like were never seen in all the world, but God of his goodness created such hearts in that mighty Emperor Trebatio and in his worthy proicnie, as also in those high Princes, and stout, worthy, & valiant knights that were in his company, that not only they were without all fear and dread, but also had great force and courage for to destroy and overcome all those that had compassed them about, and there were few or none amongst them but received great contentment to be there at that present, for that the Emperor Trebatio (seeing with him his sons and so many worthy Princes & knights) received so great joy and pleasure, that he thought himself to be the most happiest and fortunatest Prince in all the world. And of the knight of the Sun, & of the fair and sovereign Empress of Trapisonda, it may well be said that there was never s●●ne two hearts with so great contentment, for that having one the other in presence, either of them thought themselves in paradise, although you must understand that in all this time the knight of the Sun could never bring to effect his desire with the royal Princess, for she was of so high a courage that the knight of the Sun never durst in heart cause her, to receive any anger, neither would she consent to any thing that was against her honour, the which she had always before her eyes more than any damsel in her time. With no less joy than they, lived those two faithful and perfect lovers, the fair Princess Oli●ia and Rosicler, who being in presence together, thought themselves clear of all sorrows and griefs the which the one had sustained for the other, whereat the king Oliverio received no small glory and contentment, for that it seemed unto him, the with no other Prince in all the world he could not have married his Daughter so highly and worthily as he had married her, neither could she have been exalted to no higher estate. So that he & all those that came with him from great Britain were wonderfully amazed to see the mightiness of the Emperor Trebatio, & the highness of his Court, so furnished with a great number of worthy Princes and valiant knights, as also with so many fair and precious damsels, that of truth it might be spoken, that there was never seen so great highness and majesty in the court of any Prince before the time. And the Pagans that came forth of Persia with the king Florion, marveled greatly to see the orders of the Court of Grecia, for by the sacrifices & ceremonies of the Christians, (for that they did see and behold them every day, to be done with great iumptuousnesse & reverence) they were partly inclined to think well of the law and faith of jesus Christ true God and man, and truckle (although there were many that died for this love which the knight of the Sun had which the 〈◊〉 Lyndab●●les) yet grew there not so little effect 〈◊〉 of these famous wars, but that by occasion of 〈…〉 those Pagans were saved, for that there was 〈◊〉 that came out of Persia but turned all christians Likewise the valiant and worthy Prince of France in this time did rejoice himself with his love, the fair Princess Lindaraza, as two that loved together exeéedinglie The like did all the other Princes that had their Mistresses there in the Court, as the Prince Don Siluerio with his love the Queen Arquirosa, and Rodomarte and Rodofeo with their Ladies, and as all these received great delight, so to the contrary, Bargandel, Liriamandro, the king Sacridoro and Brandizel were very sorrowful for the absence of their Ladies, although the great good will which they had for to serve the Emperor Trebatio in those wars, did witigate the great grief which otherwise they should have received for their lovers.  
After this sort they were all in sundry and different thoughts, although for to give battle against their enemies they were conformable, in which time upon a sudden there was brought news unto the Emperor, how that the king Liseo and the fair Queen Radamira were come into the port, they for whom the knight of the Sun made battle with the stout and doubtful knight Raiartes, & restored unto him the kingdom of Lydia, the Queen brought with her four thousand knights, & the king six thousand, all valiant and well armed, who coming towards Grecia, by fortune did meet together at sea, and coming both in one demand, they kept company together until they came into the port. Then so soon as the news was known in Constantinople, the Emperor Trebatio did so much that his sons and all that worthy crew did go forth to receive them, & being together in the field, they went unto the sea side, whereas they found at their coming thither, that the king and the Queen were landed a shore, & coming unto them to give them entertainment, the knight of the Sun said: My good Lords, from this day forwards we may have little fear of our enemies, having your highness on our side. This fear may we all put a part, being in your company (said the Queen Radamira) for he that delivered me from that furious and fierce Raiartes, will deliver me from all the knights of the world. Well then (said the king Liseo) I am no less bound unto this happy Prince than all the rest, for that by him I have my life, & all my whole kingdom, and there withal they embraced one another with great love, & all that were there rejoiced of their coming, for that the king was a very good knight, & furnished with all good manners and conditions, & the Queen Radamira was very fair and gracious, and received wonderful joy and contentment to see the knight of the Sun, for there was nothing in all the world that she desired so much to see, but when she saw him so much grown, as well in bigness as in height, more than he was at such time as he was in Babylon, she marveled very much. When the knight of the Sun and those that came with him had given them their welcome, they took their way towards Constantinople, & passed by the camp of the Pagans in sight of them all, who did behold them, & offered them no harm nor discourtesy, for that there was a truce betwixt them. When they came unto the City, the Emperor and the Empress, and all those Ladies and Gentlewomen that were with her received great joy & loved their new guests, grasifieng very much their coming. And here you shall understand that at this present that worthy and valiant Tartarian Zoylo, when he saw the Queen Radamira was taken in love with her, with great good will for to take her to he his wise and spouse, if that she were so content therewith, and from that day forwards he did procure by all means to give her knowledge thereof, and she when she was advertised & knew him to be so valiant a knight and high a Prince, she took great pleasure in his service. So by reason that the time drew nigh of the general battle, with great diligence the Emperor and all those worthy knights minded no other thing but to visit their people, commanding that they should be provided of good armour & & of all other things necessary for the battle, as they that made account, that they had all that remained in the world against them. Likewise on the other part in the camp of the Pagans they did as much, for in all the days and time of their truce, they understood no other thing but to make all things in a readiness against the day appointed, being determinded amongst themselves to go forth all the whole Camp unto the battle, for that they would at that time make an end and destroy all the Greeks, and strait ways enter into the mighty City of Constantinople, and so remain Lords over all the whole Empire. Thus after this sort they passed away the days of the truce, and afterwards there happened many other things, as shall be told you in this Chapter following.   

Of the rigorous and bloody battle that was between the people of the Emperor Trebatio, and those of the Emperor Alycandro, and of such marvelous things as happened therein. Chapter. 38.  
I Had need of an understanding & judgement much more higher than●that of Plato, who was amongst the Philosophers had in reputation of a divine understanding, & more prompter than that of Epaminondas, or of Cirus amongst the Greeks and Persians, who were accounted without comparison, and also a memory more greater than that which may be given me by the Memorative art of Simonides: eloquence more eminent than Homer or Demosthenes, to declare here the worthy and incredible deeds, and memorable acts of those heroical & famous knights that in the last battle between the Emperors were joined together in the field of Grecia, in the sight of new Rome, founded by Constantine the Prince, for that if with good affection you read the History before written, you shall see this pleasant History so entangled, and the worthiness of renowned knights so exalted, that for to declare particularly every one of their mighty acts, you shall well perceive that it were needful of the divine favour: & again if you do remember the most part of the names of those worthy knights, and the variety of Nations there joined together, you had need of a good memory, and to tell of them and every thing in order, it is for to manifest all the whole world, and all worthiness therein: So I seeing this work to mount and ascend so high, & my small understanding not able for to comprehend the same, was determined for to 〈…〉 last Chapter, and not to proceed any farther, but leave this travail unto some other, that hath a more sharper understanding than I have, and remained certain days in this determination, and occupied my wits in other diverse and variable things, being fully persuaded that my understanding was not sufficient for to declare and make manifest so high and worthy things: for one way the mightiness of these two Emperors did make me to wonder, for that to bring in subjection the whole universal world they lacked nothing, and another way, I did greatly marvel, that the great number of so many worthy and valiant knights, who according unto their great valour showed in the battle for to come, of either of them might be made a particular History. But when that it cometh to my remembrance, that I shall find that shining Alphebo in the same battle, I am then tongue tide, and my wits troubled, to think that I do put myself for to declare his deeds, for although I had so many and more eyes than Argos, yet were they not sufficient for to behold them. Who likewise should behold the other son of Trebatio, and the son of the gran Campion, shall find that their acts are not worthy of any less memory.  
I know not whether you do remember or not, the names of those two valiant Pagans, Meridian and Brandimardo, that only in hearing them named the earth doth tremble, as much more shall be done by their equals, the Prince of ●raunce and the mighty Trojan. Let not be forgotten the mighty Emperor of Grecia, with all the remnant of the inclite and general knighthood of his sovereign Court, for according as they are all most valiant and stout, so are they sufficient to make the whole universal world to be their own. What shall we then do if we remember so many thousands of Pagans which are under the banner, and at the commandment of the worthy Emperor Alycandro, amongst whom (besides the Nations of strong Giants that came from the Oriental Islands, of the Gran Campion) there were one thousand more of Giants, who were so big, mighty, and strong, that they were sufficient to be accounted walls unto a great City. I know not what you do think of this, you that do read this History, but I for my part when that I do think of things of so great worthiness, my memory and wits doth fail me, And I am fully certified, that if you did see this great battle concluded, all the Histories that heretofore you have read and seen, treating of love and of wars, if that they were laid before this, you would account them as nothing.  
I will not contend any farther herein with reasons, but certify you, that I being determined to stay here and proceed no farther, yet for all that, as the wearied horse being forced by the sharp pricking spur to be quick in his course: even so the overmuch affection the which I have unto those high and worthy Dames and valiant Knights, doth constrain me to proceed forwards, till such time as I do conclude the first part of this mighty History, and in that my weak and wearied understanding cannot comprehend, let my affection supply the same, the which hath mounted my wits so high, that although with great travail, yet have I translated that which I thought never to comprehend, seeking it out of great volumes, from the original written by the wise Artemidoro, who being helped by the wise Lyrgandeo and the Magician spirit, left it in writing, according as hereafter you shall hear declared.  
At such time as the day approached of that heavy and sorrowful time (wherein was ●ought that general and bloody battle, in which was concluded the expedition of new Rome) was seen great wonders and tokens terrible to behold, and sufficient for to terrify the hearts of those valiant and stout warriors, for that the heavens and the earth did manifest the exceeding great grief which they felt of that mortal destruction, and it seemed verily unto them that the end of the world was at hand, by manifest tokens which were seen that day, for that there was never so great multitude of people seen slain in one day, as appeared afterward by the great streams of blood which was in so great abundance, that it was sufficient for to change the colour of the great Sea of ●geo into Fuxino. In testimony whereof, at such time as the day should break, the same day of the battle all the whole region of the air seemed to be on fire, with great abundance of lightnings, accompanied with so many and dreadful thunder claps, that all the celestial movings seemed to have fallen upon the earth, and at such time as the day did somewhat appear, the dew that was wont to fall from heaven in the mornings, appeared to be of red blood, wherewith all the grass and flowers in the fields of Grecia was laden. Likewise there were that saw, that whereas the shining stars always at the break of day did vanish and take their leave, that now at that instant many Comets of fire did fall from heaven into the camp of the Pagans, and did as much harm as thought they had been thunderbolts amongst them. And at such time as the Sun should show herself, they saw plainly how that it had lost his rubicond colour, and was changed into the colour of blood, but after that this earthquake and storm of lightning and thunder was past, yet there appeared not one cloud in all the whole region and compass of the air, and the day was very obscure and dark, by reason of the sorrowful and unaccustomed colour the Sun showed. The earth quaked and trembled very terribly, wh●ch was the occasion that many edifices did fall and were overthrown down, and many high mountains did sink and were censumed, so that with the one and with the other all the people were greatly amazed, and there was not one, (although he were never so valiant and strong) but at those sighs and tokens received both fear and dread, saving only that superbious Pagan, the son unto the gran Campion, who said within himself and spoke it plainly that the heavens and the earth did show those signs, in token of the great abundance of blood that should be shed that same day, 〈…〉 of the death of his Father, and● thought it 〈…〉 such time as the battle was begun, and their companions joined together, that he might execute his mortal fury, but it was not long after that his desire was accomplished, for that, that worthy and valiant Emperor Trebatio seeing that the day was come of the battle, very early in the morning at the day break, was in the field accompanied with all those valiant and worthy knights, putting in order all his people in the best manner they could, for to execute their battle, and although they did see those wonderful signs and tokens, which caused them to have some fear and dread, yet for all that, the good Emperor never once abated any whit of his valiant courage, but had great hope and confidence in the only living God, that he with his mighty hand and outstretched arm would defend the whole state of Christendom, and did continually in his heart call upon God, requesting him of his infinite mercy and goodness for to grant unto him the victory in that battle, and not to permit that that worthy crew of Knighthood should be vanquished and lost in that battle, and did confess and acknowledge that his great power and all that mighty Camp was in effect as much as nothing, if that be of his benevolence did not aid and secure him. These and such like things said the good Emperor in his heart, and never rested in going from one place to another, putting his people in good order, with a tipstaff in his hand, like a valiant and expert Captain, wherein there was not one that did pass him, neither in his own Camp nor in the whole Camp of the Pagans was there any did so well.  
The first battalle that he ordained was of the Greeks, saying, that in the defence of their Country it was great reason that they should have the forward, wherein there was four and twenty thousand knights, all very well armed, and exceeding expert, and committed the charge and government thereof unto that valiant and worthy Alphebo, the light of all Chi●alrie and knighthood, and put in his company that worthy and royal Princess Claridiana, for that they being together y● one for the other, would force themselves to work the greater wonders, and on the otherside, he placed with them, his great friend Oristides, that valiant Trojan, so that they three being together, they were sufficient for to put fear and dread in all the whole Pagan host.  
The second battle, he did commend unto that valiant and worthy Rosicleer, (called by an other name, the knight of Cupid) who did so great wonders that day, that so long as the world doth endure, his fame will be mentioned therein, he gave with him in company, his very good friends the Tartarian Zoylo, and the king Sacridoro, with twenty thousand Greek knights, of great courage, who followed after his brother.  
The third battle he gave unto that mighty king Florion, with all his knights that he brought with him out of Persia, and other ten thousand of his own people, and in his company that valiant prince Brandizel, being father and son, that made great destruction amongst the Pagans that day.  
The fourth battle he gave unto the worthy prince of Fransia, and unto the king of Lidra, with all the people that they brought out of their countries.  
The fift battle he gave unto the government of the king Oliverio, and unto the prince of Lusitania, with all the people that c●me out of great Britain, and in this battle went those two worthy princes Bargandel, and Liriamandio, with other worthy princes and valiant knights that belonged unto the king Oliverio.  
The sixth battle the Emperor Trebatio, took unto himself with all the rest of the knights that remained, which were to the number of three score thousand knights. There went in this battle in company with the Emperor, the king of 〈◊〉 the two princes of 〈◊〉, and Transilu●nia, with the two gallant princes Rodomarte, and Rodoteo, and the two most valiant & worthy knights, Don Clarus, and Arealus, who in this day did not a little exalt the honour of the Godos of Spain. There went also with the Emperor, those two good knights Flamides, and Florinaldes, who were great friends unto the knight of the Sun. Also, there went with him those four brethren, sons unto the gran Torcato, with that stout Rogelio, who were so courageous, that there were few in all the whole army that were more valianter than they, being but young youths.  
There went also with him, the King of Bohemia, and many other mighty Lords, belonging unto the Emperor of Grecia, whose names be not here rehearsed, for to auoi● tediousness. So that this mighty Emperor had about him such a company of valiant and worthy knights, and of high estate, that never the like was seen, who little and little in the order above mentioned, did begin to fill those fields and plains, that it was a thing worthy to be seen, so great number of worthy and valiant knights to be joined together, although they saw before their eyes, put in good order their enemies and occasions of the great destruction looked for, as also those fearful signs and tokens which the heavens and the earth did show unto them, the which was a thing of great wonder and dread to behold, in especial, for those Ladies and gentlewomen that were in Constantinople, who seeing their husbands and children to departed in that sort, their clamours and cries seemed to ascend unto the heavens. And in the mighty city of Constantinople, there was seen no other thing but old men, women and children, who went bare foot & bare legged, through the streets from one church unto as other, praying unto God to grant the victory on their parts, and to defend his christian flock. At this time was the Empress Briana, and the fair princess Olima, with the beautiful Linderaza, the Queen Radamira, and Arquirosa, and many other more very fair and beautiful Ladies and gentlewomen, mounted up into a high tower of the mighty palace, from whence they might at their ease, discover and see all the whole armies, but when they saw so great a multitude of infidels, against them whom they loved more than themselves, they received great sorrow and dread at their hearts, which caused them to shed many tears, and to pray unto God for the victory from the bottom of their hearts.  
Now let us leave them, and tell of the Pagans, who were so many in number, that all the night past, with good part of the morning they had enough to do for to set all things in good order and in a readiness for the appointed battle.  
The first battle ordained by the Emperor Alicandro, he gave unto the rule and government of that proud pagan Bramarant, who like unto an hungry Lion or wolf, would be the first, and he had with him fifty thousand horsemen, the most furious and fiersest that was to be found in all the whole camp, amongst whom he carried all those giants that his father the Gran Campion, had brought out of his own countries, which were more than one thousand and all mounted upon Elephants, who with certain engens that they brought with them, made them to be very swift. Bramarant had with him in that battle all the kings of the Oriental Islands, who as you have heard, were little in●erour unto giants, and were the most strrongest and stoutest that was in all the whole islands, and being this brave Barbarian in the midst amongst them, he thought verily that all the whole world (if they had been there together) were not able to make resistance against him.  
The second battle was governed by those two mighty Pagans Meridian and Brandimardo, who had with them three score thousand horsemen, all of the Gran Tartary, marvelously well armed, although the most part of them were armed with the hard skins of wild beasts: there were in this battle, twenty brave and furious Giants, whereof twelve of the most furious and ill favoured, had no other charge, but to keep the person of the worthy Prince Meridian.  
The third battle was given unto the charge of the king Orlan, and the king, Tiderio, who were two mighty and strong giants, and had in their company all the people of Arabia, Carmania, and Palibotros, for that their governors were slain in the battle past, all the which were to the number of more than three score thousand, but yet very ill armed and nothing expert.  
The fourth battle was given unto the prince of Cambray, who as you have heard, was a young knight, but very valiant: He had in his company three kings of the India, who were very fierce giants and stout, and carried with them in charge four score and ten thousand horsemen, but not all mounted, upon horses, but on other wild beasts, that were very light and swift, and strange to be seen in that country.  
The fift battle was given unto the king Balardo, Lord of all the Seras, who was marvelously esteemed amongst all the Pagans, and feared, as well for his great bravery and fierceness, as that he was a mighty Lord and of great power and strength● he had in his company five kings, with all their people, which were to the number of more than four score thousand; he had also with him five giants, who being in the fore front of the battle, seemed above all the rest like unto towers.  
The Emperor Alicandro, had for the guard and keeping of his person, twelve giants, the most fiercest and misshapen that could be found in all the whole Paganism, who never were out of his presence & company, day nor night, so that the Emperor, by reason of their great force & strength, did account himself in great security.  
He was marvelously feared of all his subjects, for that who so ever disordered himself at any time in his presence, (although he were a king or mighty Lord) strait ways those misshapen giants with battle ears of fine steel which they always had in their hands did hue them all to pieces. The most principal and strongest amongst them all, was called Organte the furious, he was all full of ha●re his body over and had so fierce and terrible a countenance, that there was none that did behold him, but was afraid, and therefore he was called furious.  
This Organte, the Emperor took a part and gave unto him fifteen thousand knights chosen out of all the whole army, & said, that they should put themselves into a thick wood, which was somewhat on the one side apart whereas the battle should be fought, and they should not go forth from thence, neither show themselves, nor be seen, till such time as he did send them word what they should do. So when that Organte the furious, was departed, the Emperor took unto himself the sixth and last battle, with the rest of all his people, which were as many as were ordained be●ore, in all the five battles. He had in his company many kings and mighty Lords, who esteemed themselves to be very stout and valiant knights.  
Now all you that do read the History of this battle, consider that never before you have read, to be seen joined together in one field, so great a number of barbarous and stout people. And likewise, what should be the hearts of those Greeks, who with so great good will doth march towards the battle, having so great a multitude of enemies against them.  
Now let us return to tell you of the first battles that was governed by the knight of the Sun and Bramarant, who marching little and little, the one against the other: This furious barbarian in the midst betwixt two of th●se giant kings that went with him, they marched a pace before all the rest of the camp, and put themselves in the face of their enemies, abiding to see if that an● of the principalest knights and most valiantest, would come to receive them. The which being seen by the royal princes Claridiana, she turned herself unto the knight of the Sun, and said, Having so good and ●r●ed knights by me, I will not let to prove my spear with one of y●nder three which are come forth before the rest, although according unto their greatness, they seem rather to be devils than knights, & those spears which they bring with them, may well serve for masts of Barks. L●d●e and M●stresse, said the knight of the Sun, I should have been better contented if that you had remained in the city, and from thence to have beheld us, and not for to have come to take all this travail: but seeing that it was your pleasure for to do us this high courtesy, let us go whether your pleasure is to command us, for that▪ I do more esteem your favour and help, than all the s●ro●gth of this mighty army, so that & if there should come against me all the whole infernal company, having you in presence, I would not let to assault them. I will not refuse to be the third (said the good Trojan) for having such worthy persons for my companions, I am fully assured of the field. And there with these three went forth for to meet the three Pagans, that came forth against them, so that all six made their encounters together, and their fury was so great which they had in their swift course, that they made the earth to tremble a good way from them.  
The first encounter (by reason of the swift course of Corne●ino) was made by the two mighty and stout warriors the knight of the Sun and Bramarant, and by reason that either of them did put over much force to their encounters, their spears which seemed to be masts, were shivered all to pieces, and the splinters flew into the air, and both of them fell backward upon their horse croupers, and so passed the one by the other, but strait ways they righted up themselves again in their saddles, & either of them thought to have made his encounter against some rock, for that they thought by their strengths to have overthrown a tower to the ground, such was the valiantness of those worthy knights.  
The royal Princes made her encounter with one of those Kings called Bel●igro, who made his encounter so strongly, that the point of the spear with more than half the staste had passed through her body, if that her enchanted armour had not made resistance against the force thereof, and yet for all that, she lost the rains out of her hand, and her stirrups, and a good while she could not settle her self again in her saddle, till such time as the knight of the Sun (returning from his course) took h●r by the arm and did help her to stay herself, and was greatly amazed at the strong encounter which she made, for that she had with her great strength thrust her spear through the body of that Giant, and therewith overthrew him to the ground, whereas he lay without moving either of hand or foot.  
Oristedes, made his encounter with the other King, who was called Leopardo, and did so valiantly herein, that he did very well make apparent the high progenity from whence he did descend, for being very strongly encountered with that Giant, which made him to lose the rains of his bridle and his stirruppes, and to embrace himself with his horse neck: yet did he make his just with so great force and strength that he overthrew him and his Elephant down to the ground, one upon an other, and by reason of the great weight of the fall which did bruise him so ●ore, that he could never arise, but died presently in the place whereas he lay.  
Now at such time as these encounters were made between the fire knights, the two first battles were joined together, whereas was so great a number slain on the one part and on the other, that the living could not pass but upon the dead bodies: and by reason of the great dust that did arise amongst them, they could scarce see any other thing, but the great number of horses and Elephant, that ran lose out from the thickest of the p●eace. And sure it was a most pitiful and lamentable thing to hear the great shrieks and cries of those that were hurt and maimed, for without all doubt many a thousand of them might have been cured and have lived, if they could have been by any means helped to arise and come forth, but by reason of the great press and multitude, they died a miserable death under the horse feet.  
But who so ever had seen at that present the knight of the Sun in presence of his mistress the princes Claridiana, how that in a small time he overthrew & ●●ew more than thirty of those giant knights that came with Bramarant, some of them he cut off their arms, other he clove their heads, and othersome he clove down to their breasts, in such sort, that in so small time there was never seen so great a slaughter done by one alone knight. And the royal Princes with Oristedes, who followed him, many times did with draw themselves from fight for to behold the meruaivailous acts that he did, and the sight thereof did so alter them, that the blood within their bodies seemed to ware cold, to see the terrible and mortal blows which he struck: and although they for their parts did kill and overthrow all that came before them, yet had they enough to do to ●olow him, his fury was so great, wherewith he put himself amongst his enemies, and his soldiers that did behold the wonders which those three did, took marvelous courage themselves in such sort, that in a little time the battle had been over come, if it had no● been for that strong and stout Bramarant, who played the devil amongst the Greeks, killing all that ever he could reach with his long & broad cutting sword, against the which they could make no more resistance then against a thunder bolt.  
This day was the death of the Gran Campion, unto many very dear and sorrowful, for that his son for to make cruel revengement for the same, with furious wrath and mortal anger, doth destroy & overthrow all that cometh before him, wherewith he doth increase the streams of blood in the field, that it flowed with great abundance. The kings likewise of the Oriental islands, such as remained, did help him very much in this slaughter, for that they were great Giants and deformed, the people fled away before them, as from the devil of hell. Likewise, all the rest of the people that came with the gran Campion from those islands, by reason that they did surmount in stature and bigness, the people o● Grecia, and more in number, did kill and destroy many o● them, and in that place whereas they went, they had the better hand, so that the battle was in balance, for that on the one side the Greckes 〈◊〉, and on the other side the Pagans lost and had the worst. In this sort the battle mingled together, and on both parts was done great slaughter, till such time as they joined with the second battiles. But these worthy knights seeing how their people were overcome and fled before their enemies, and the great destruction that was done upon them, they turned about their horses for to rescue them, and the knight of the Sun procured to come to that place whereas Bramarant was, and when that he came thither, one of those Giants that was with him, struck so terrible a blow at the Princess Claridiana, upon her helm, that it made her eyes to sparkle with fire, and again if that she had not embraced herself about her horse neck, she had fallen to the ground. But this Pagan did not advance himself of that blow, for that being seen by the knight of the Sun, who was all kindled in ire, with a mighty courage he raised himself in his stirops, and struck him such a blow upon his left shoulder, with so great fury and force, that he clove him down to the saddle bow, in such sort that he fell down to the ground in two pieces, with so great wonder unto all them that saw that terrible blow, that they could not persuade with themselves that he should be a human knight, and the royal Princess who very well saw the execution of that blow, was very glad and joyful at her heart, for that she had so nigh her so valiant aid and succour, and being almost ashamed to see herself so evil entreated before him, she took her sword in both her hands, and struck such a blow at another of the Giants, (who had his sword in the air all aloft ready for to discharge it upon her) that she cut both his arms a sunder, that his hands, sword and all fell to the ground, and the giant ran away and put himself in the midst of the battle, roaring and howling like a Bull. From that time the worthy Alphebo and the royal Princess so behaved themselves in the thickest amongst their enemies, that what with killing and wounding all that ever they could reach, in such sort, that they were greatly feared of their adversaries. At this time the good Trojan was not idle, but all to be rayed with the blood of them that he had slain, and at one terrible thrust which he threw at one of the Giant kings, he passed his sword through his body, so that he fell down dead to the ground. But when that Bramarant saw the great destruction the which these three knights made amongst his people, he rolled his eyes in his head as though fire would fly out of them, and with great wrath he came towards the knight of the Sun, (for that it seemed unto him that he was the knight that struck the mortalest blows of all the rest) and when he came unto him, he struck him such a terrible and overthwart blow upon his helm, that he made the sparks of fire to fly out a great way off, and with the force thereof it dazzled his eyes, and did somewhat astonish him, and this infernal Pagan had not so soon struck this blow, but that he struck another at the Princess with so great fury, that ●t might well be said, that next unto God, her enchanted armour did save her life, for that his great cutting sword could not cut nor enter into them, yet for all that he broke them and made the pieces to fly a great way of, so that all her one side was unarmed and left naked. Then the stout Trojan seeing his companions so evil entreated, forcing himself with great courage, struck such a blow at Bramarant upon his helm, that he amazed him in such sort, that his sword fell out of his hands, and hung by the wrist band, the which blow made this stout and proud Pagan to know that his knight was of noble blood and courage. Then the knight of the Sun, when that he saw his Lady unarmed, he went unto her and requested her to departed out of the battle to avoid the great danger and peril in the which she was brought for lack of her armour. And therewith he left Oristedes in contention with Bramarant, and went with the Princess to set her fr●● out of the battle; and did so much between them both, that quietly they cleared themselves out of the press, and being free thereof, the royal Princess (with great grief for to departed from her knight) returned unto the 〈◊〉, whereas she was honourably received, and gave great comfort unto all those Ladies and Gentlewomen. The knight of the Sun returned again into the battle whereas he left the valiant Oristedes, and found that the stout Pagan had overthrown him upon his horse crupper all astonished and amazed, and as the Pagan would have struck him again, the knight of the Sun put himself before him, and said: With me Bramarant thou viddest begin the battle, therefore conclude it with me before thou makest any farther contention with this knight. And in saying these words he struck him such an overthwart blow upon the helm, that it seemed he had been all on fire, with the burning sparks and flames of fire that flew out thereof, and the force was so great, that if he had not embraced himself with his horse neck, he had fallen down to the ground. Then this furious Pagan righted up himself again, blaspheming against the heavens and against them that gave so much power unto nature, for to create a knight of so great force and strength, and therewith went against him, and began to charge him with such terrible blows, that if it had been some hard Marble rock, in a short space he had broke it all pieces, but yet the good armour of the knight of the Sun was of so great force, that it would have made resistance against a far greater strength than his, by reason of the fineness of the bones of those little fishes, which were found in the frozen sea, as you have heard before, wherewith the armour of the knight of the Sun, as also that of the Pagan were made, whereby we may see and understand, how great and strange be the secrets of nature, that in so little bones nourished in the water, should make more greater and stronger resistance than any iron or steel, so that these two worthy warriors being in such security by reason of their armour, did execute the fury o● their great strengths, and laid so cruelly the one upon the other, that it was a wonder to behold them, and many nigh unto them left of their own fight for to behold them, marveling greatly at their terrible and most cruel battle.  
Now here let us leave them for a while in this their contention, wherein either of them had enough to do to defend themselves, and also the valiant Trojan, who was entangled with a stout Giant in battle, and had great care for to clear himself from him, and let us tell of that inclite and generous knight Rosicler, that had the charge of the second battle, who when he saw the other battle so entangled, with great desire that he had to see himself amongst his enemies, he and his two friends, the king Sacridoro and the Tartarian Zoilo, did put themselves before their camp, and setting spurs unto their horses, went against them that came in the second battle, who likewise did move themselves to receive them. There came in their forefront the Prince Meridian, and the stout and strong Pagan Brandimardo, and with them a king of the India's, called Albiro, a young knight and very proud, these three came against Rosicleer and his companions, and in the midst between the two battles they made their encounter in this sort.  
Rosicler and Brandimardo made their encounter the one against the other, and shéevered their spears in pieces, passing along without receiving any harm, but Brandimardo being greatly amazed at the strength of his adversary, said within himself: Out of all doubt this is he that did combat with Bramarant in the wilderness of Grecia, or else it is he that slew the gran Campion his Father, for that I cannot believe, that in any other knight should be so great force and strength. The like did Rosicler think of Brandimardo, whose encounter seemed to be equal unto those of the knight of the Sun, and said within himself.  
Oh that God were so pleased that this valiant Pagan were a Christian, for surely it should grieve me very much that such a knight should perish. Then the strong king Sacridoro and the Prince Meridian made their encounters, in such sort, that their spears were shéevered all to pieces, but the king declined so far back, that his head touched his horse crupper, and he stayed himself so strongly, that he fell not, but passed along being greatly amazed at the great agility of his enemy the Prince, who in the same encounter lost one of his stirops, and therewith put himself into the battle, having his adversary in great estimation, but he that had the best luck in these their encounters, was the valiant Tartarian, who meeting this proud 〈◊〉, strikking him in the midst of the breast, he thrust his Spear through his body, that it appeared at his back, and overthrew him dead to the ground. With that encounter he likewise had fallen to the ground, if there he had not embraced himself with his horse neck. When that these encounters were finished, the two battles joined together, and the noise was so great which they made at the breaking of their Spears, that the mountains and hills seemed to shake therewith, and the great slaughter that was on both parts was marvelous great. But when that Rosicleer with that gallant courage (as he was wont to have) did put himself in the midst of the guard of Meridian, who (as you have heard) to be twelve strong Giants, he did that which never before time of ancient people was the like heard of he assaulted them in such sort, that one of them he cut off his right arm, wherewith he did govern his great and mighty cutting sword, so that he was 〈◊〉 and another he clove his heart asunder with a thrust he threw at him, he had not at that time 〈◊〉 pulled out his sword from the giants body, when that two of those which remained, with their great and freely hatchets, gave either 〈…〉 a blow the one after the other, upon his rich and precious helm, but it was forged by that wise A●temido●●●, by his Ma●●icall art, so that it might well be said, that it saved his ly●e, for that thei● 〈…〉 hatchets could not enter any, more unto it, than if they had b●●e ●ade of 〈…〉 yet for all that, the blows were exceeding strong 〈…〉, that it 〈…〉 him of his understanding, and 〈…〉 to fall forwards upon his saddle b●we, and his horse carried him about the field, but all fell out for the best, for that the Giants having no more care to guard the person of the Prince, for that he had put himself in the thickest amongst his enemies, he and Brandimardo making such destruction and slaughter amongst them, that whereas they went they left all the ground full of dead bodies. But when Rosicler came again unto himself, and saw that the Giants were gone, he put himself into the thickest of them that were next him with great fury, destroying and overthrowing all that was in the way, so that it was an unhappy day for him that once proved his sword.  
Not long after when that the third battle saw the battles so entangled, they marched on a pace for to ioy●e together, and for that there might be space enough for 〈◊〉 one to have his fill of fight, marched forwards strait ways the fourth and fift battle, for that there were such knights amongst them, whose stomachs were so great, that they could not refrain themselves one●minute of an hour, in seeing that others were executing their furies, and they to be idle, so that in a very short space there were so many dead bodies in the field, thate the living could not pass but upon them, and whereas so many people were joined together, it could not be but some encounters must be made for to●bée noted above the rest. As that worthy king Florion and the valiant Prince his son, made their encounters against the king Orlan, and the king Triderio, whose encounters were such, that the Prince overthrew the first dead to the ground, and although he was somewhat astonied at that encounter, yet he kept his saddle, and passed forwards on, and the king. Florion overthrew Triderio from his Elephant, whereon he was mounted, in such sort, that with great grief he could not arise again. Likewise the valiant and worthy Prince Claveryndo, with one of those Giants that came with the Prince of Cambray, did make their encounters the one against the other, in such sort, that the Prince laid his adversary along●in the f●eld dead, and the stout king Li●eo thrust the Prince of Cambray over the crupper of his horse. Also the king Oliverio and the●Princes, Bargandel and Liriamandro, Don Siluerio, and the king Alamades, made their encounters against the king Balardo, and his companions, and there had like to have been a marvelous misfortune, for that Lyriamandro and the furious king Balardo fell both of them to the ground, and in great peril before they could recover themselves again. Bargandel made his encounter with one of those kings of the India's, with so great fury, that the point of his Spear appeared at his back. Don Siluerio and the king did overthrow other two, but unhappy were they that made their encounters with the five Giants that came with the king Balardo, for that they were all overthrown dead to the ground, saving the king Alamades, who by reason of his good armour could not receive any hurt, yet for all that he lay upon the ground more than an hour, clean from himself, before he could come again to his remembrance. So in conclusion of these encounters, these worthy knights did put themselves into the battle, at whose entry the slaughter was so great, that the little brooks were made mighty rivers with the abundance of blood that was there shed, & for to declare particularly the mighty deeds & wonderful acts done by Rosicleer, it were requisite to have an hundredth thousand eyes for to behold them. Likewise the worthiness done by all that valiant company, as the Tartarian Zoylo, the king Sacridoro, Brandizel, and Claverindo, his very friends, with all the rest of that gallant company, as the History hath showed unto you. On the other part goeth those furious Pagans Meridian and Brandimardo, the king Balardo, and the other misshapen Giants, all to be ra●ed with blood, and killing and destroying all that cometh before them. At this time the good Emperor Trebatio could no longer abide nor suffer, seeing his people in so great travail, but commanded incontinently to sound a great and infinite number of Trumpets and other instruments of war, and made Proclamation that none should remain behind but all to enter into the battle. And therewith they marched forwards with so great a noise, that the earth seemed to open therewith.  
Then the Emperor Alycandro seeing that (who was in a readiness) would not be the last, but strait ways marched forwards with all the remainder of the knights, and sure it was a thing of great compassion and pity for to behold, so infinite a number of people slain, when that these two battles joined together, for that the Horses of Darius, Cirus, & Alexander, being joined all together, were not so many as were there at that present.  
The worthy and renowned Emperor Trebatio made his encounter with the king Orilardo, who was a mighty Pagan, and was almost so big of his body as a Giant, but this good Emperor made his encounter in such sort, that he broke his gall within his body, and thrust him ever his horse crupper to the ground. Likewise all other knights of fame that were in the company made worthy encounters. After which being done they put themselves in a ambushment together round about their good Captain, & put themselves into the camp, killing a●d overthrowing those Pagans all that ever came befor● them. On the other part g●eth the Emperor Alycandre compassed about with those mighty giants, and other kings and knights of estimation, that it was a lamentable t●ing to behold the great destruction that they made amongst their enemies, & for that there was on both parts knights of great valour & estimation. The battle was in ●allance, although there were of the Pagans three times so many as were of the Christians. All this while we have forgotten those two stout warriors, the knight of the Sun and Bramarant, for to comply with other worthy and valiant knights. But you shall understand that they continued always in their cruel battle, and did no other thing but charge the one the other with their terrible blows out of all order, and with so great fury, that if they had been two Rocks, they had broke them all to pieces, and the anger and courage of either of them was so great, because they could have no victory, that they left one another, and put themselves into the battle, whereas they slew and overthrew to the ground, and covered the fields with dead bodies, as the Mower with his Sith covereth the sorrows with corn. The knight of the Sun put himself amongst those monstrous Giants of the Oriental India's, and made so great slaughter amongst them, that those which were living, although they were fierce and rough people did fly before him, he put himself with so great fury amongst them, that the stout Oristedes remained behind him, and could not follow, but yet with the great desire that he had to keep him company, he did strange exploits and of great wonder. Then the knight of the Sun looking back, and seeing him all alone, did tarry his coming, making a bread way in every place whereas he went, at which time came forth against him a rough and 〈…〉, named Othibe●●, and was Lord over the Island of 〈◊〉, his armour was edged round about with gold and precious stones of great price, who stroke so strong a 〈◊〉 at the knight of the Sun upon his helm, that he somewhat a●●●med him. But this proud Pagan departed, advancing himself thereof, but was rewarded for his boldness, with his head cloven asunder to his breast, so that he fell down dead to the ground, yet there lacked not another more hardy than wise, that thought to make revengement for the same. There was a king called Armelion, who having a great confidence in his strength and in the excellency of his armour, wherewith he was armed, and was very good, went towards him, and struck him a mighty blow upon one of his shoulders, but he that had received so many of that furious Bramarant, received that of him as nothing, but in payment of his great folly, the son of Trebatio struck him such another upon his head, that both helm and skull he struck into his brains, the which being done, he stayed not, but proceeded forwards on, not finding any that did disturb him in his way, and always he had an eye unto such as seemed unto him to be the principal of his enemies, so it chanced he discovered two mighty great and deformed Giants, that were both together with mighty mazes in their hands, and made great slaughter and destruction upon the Greeks, these Giants were two brethren, and Lords over an Island in the Indian sea. The one was called Zario, and the other Drago, and in all the whole host was not to be found two Giants, more mightier and fuller of pride than they were. But as this gallant lover of the royal Empress Claridiana had seen them, without any consideration that they were two, and he all alone● he took a Spear from a Pagan that was next him, and se● spurs to his good horse Cornerino, and with so great fu●ie, that he seemed a whirl wind, he went towards those Giants, (who were seen above all the rest more than two cubits) and in sight of all the people he encountered wit● one of them in the midst of the breast, in such sort (that ●●though his armour was twelve plates thick) yet did he thr●st his Spear a good yard through his body, that the sharp point of his Spear appeared at his back, and this great Giant fell down dead to the ground, and made so great noise as though a tower had fallen down, and at such time as this good knight did pass alongst in his course, the other Giant that did abide his coming with his yro● maze in his hand all aloft, he discharged such a right down blow at him, that if he had chanced to fasten the same, it had not gone well with him, but the great fury and swiftness of his horse Cornerino was such, that before he could discharge the same, he was passed by with his Master, so that the blow fell down to the ground, and entered into the earth three spans, and as yet he had not lift up his mase when that the knight of the Sun turned about his horse with great lightness, and joining himself with the Giant, he cast a thrust at him with the point of his sword in the midst of his bellue, and put so great force and strength there unto, that without any staying it passed through his double and thick armour, and entered into his guts up to the hard hilts, and pulling his sword out, his guts followed after. And therewithal the Giant▪ with an infernal fury struck such a terrible blow with his mace on his back, that he had overthrown him to the ground, if that he had not embraced himself with his horse neck. But so soon as this blow was given, the mighty Giant fell down dead to the earth, and the knight of the Sun doing the●e and many other great marvels passed forwards on, discouering●through all the whole battle, beholding the mighty deeds, great marvels, and high knighthood which was done by the famous knights on his part, unto whom it seemed that they alone were a shield and defence unto all his people, for without them they had been all overcome and dispersed, for that in comparison there were a great number more on the pa●t of the Pagans than there was on theirs. He likewise looked about for Rosicleer, and saw where he was all alone so bewrayed and bathed in blood, that scarce he could be known from another knight, but only by the incredible deeds which he did, and seeing him in that sort all alone, without any of his comforts, that could come unto him for to secure him, he fell greatly in love with him and his estimation, and prayed unto God with all his heart to save and defend him from all peril and danger.  
Likewise he saw in another place the good Emperor his father in the midst betwixt the two Spanish knights, who went all three together with equal courage and magnanimity, and made exceeding great slaughter amongst the Pagans.  
At this time the good knight would not stay any longer to behold them, but thrust himself into the midst of the battle, and went from one place unto another, aiding and helping there whereas he saw was the greatest peril.  
At this time the day was well spent, for it was past noon and the knight of the Sun feeling the wether to be hot (as he, that had travailed more than the rest, for to refresh himself and to take some air, as also to see in what estate the battle was) went out of the camp, & stood under a little wood side that was there hard by the Camp, and alighted from his horse, and pulled off his helm, and did from that place behold all that passed, and saw that on every side all the whole fields was full of people, and by reason of the great multitude, he could not know those worthy knights his friends from the other, but the most that he could discover was, that those which were of his part got ground on their enemies.  
Now let us leave him in the place where he is, who for a greater destruction unto his enemies, is refreshing himself and taking air, and let us return to tell of them that remain in the battle, where are so many of renewmed, worthy, and famous knights, doing and executing so great wonders and marvelous deeds, that for to tell them particularly, it were needful of another great History. On the other part goeth the Emperor Alycandro, accompanied with those kings his vassals, and his deformed Giants, that it is great lamentation and grief to behold the slaughter that they do.  
Again, what is to be said of those two valiant Pagans, Meridian and Brandimardo, of truth not one that beareth good will unto the Emperor Trebatio would see it. On th● other side goeth that mighty king Balardo, and the king ●●hiderio, overthrowing to the ground all that cometh before them, but yet for their evil were they seen, by the 〈◊〉 Princes, Claverundo and Brandizel, being together, for they went against them, so that betwixt them began a rigorous and furious battle, but yet in the end the two Giants were slain, and the two Princes proceed forwards, doing great marvels in the midst of the battle. As much as that doth the Tartarian Zoilo, and the king Sacridoro, who in seeking of Rosicler doth put themselves in the midst of the battle, making broad ways whereas they went, till such time as they met with two strong and stout Pagans, who stayed them a while, & they had enough to do for to clear themselves from them. All this while was not idle, but did their parts in ample manner, Bargandel and Lyriamandro, and the king Alamades, Flamides, and Florinaldus, and the Prince Don Siluerio, Rodomarte & Rodofeo, all these together did wonderful things, aiding and helping whereas was most necessity, yet was there none that was with Rosicleer, for he was all alone, and did very well clear the way whereas he would go, and did so much on every side, that in the end he came whereas the Emperor his Father was, and saw that he alone with those two Spanish knights were in combat with the five Giants of the king Balardo, and waxed very faint and weary, but when that he saw it, like a hungry Lion he went towards them, and when he came whereas they were, he struck such a blow at the first upon his shoulder, that he clove him down to the breast, and overthrew him to the earth, and strait ways turned unto another, whom he slew, with another blow struck off his arm wherewith he h●ld his sword, and as he was turning for to strike another, that did charge much the Emperor, he saw that the Emperor at one blow overthrew him to the earth, for that he struck him overthwart the waist, in such sort, that his sword entered into his bowels, that he fell down dead. And when he saw the good succour that he had of his son, in the tune of so great extremity, he was very glad and joyful.  
Likewise at this time the two valiant brethren, Don Cla●● and Arc●lus had so wounded the other two Giants, that in the end they overthrew them to the ground. Then Rosicler seeing that the Emperor was marvelously accompanied, for that the other Princes were come unto him, set spurs to his horse, and put himself in the thickest amongst his enemies, and never rested till he came whereas the stout Pagan Brandimardo was, and seeing the great slaughter that he and Meridian made, he went towards them, and at his approaching, between them was dealt mighty, strong, and terrible blows, in such sort, that Brandimardo thought verily within himself that his adversary should be the knight of the Sun, with whom he did combat in the wilderness of Grecia, for that he supposed Rosicler was not of so great strength, although many times he heard him greatly praised and spoken of, which gave him great good will to prove himself with him. And for that at that present Brandimardo did show the uttermost of all his force and strength, it gave Rosicleer to understand that he was one of the strongest knights that ever he had proved, he was so valiant and full of dexterity.  
You may well believe that in all this time was not that furious Pagan Bramarant unoccupied, but with in●ernall fury he destroyeth and overthroweth all that cometh before him, who when he saw that the most part of the day was past, and saw that there was no advantage gotten on their part, but rather they had lost ground, thought verily that there was no other occasion thereof, but only the worthy, famous, and valiant knights that were of the Greeks part, and it seemed that it did profit very little for to kill and s●aie so many of the common people, before that first he had overcome the principal knights. So this infernal and devilish Pagan having his mind occupied therewith, he presently left off the slaughter which he made before, & took a mighty great, and big Spear from one of his men, and setting spurs unto his furious horse, he put himself into the thickest of the battle, looking round about where he might ●ee any knight of valour and prowess, and upon a sudden he saw the king Oristedes, who at that present concluded and slew the king of the Pa●tos, with one blow, wherewith he clove his head asunder in the midst, Bramarant ra●ne against him, and made his encounter on the one side, in ●uch sort, that he overthrew him on the other side of his horse with his saddle betwixt his legs, and had with that blow slain him, if that his enchanted armour had not resisted his fury, so that he departed from thence, and wen● whereas he found the Tartarian Zoylo, and the king Sacridoro, and overthrew them both to the ground in justing, and passing forwards on, he saw the stout king Florion, who at that instant slew a mighty Giant, and making his encounter against him, he thrust both horse & man to the earth.  
This mighty and furious Pagan stayed not in this place, but passed forwards, and came whereas he found the two Princes, Brandizel and Claverindo, making their combat with the king Balardo, and his companion, at which time they obtained the victory with the death of those two Giants, he came upon them unbewares, and one of them he overthrew with the just of his Spear, in such sort, that his valiant strength and courage could not profit him any thing at all, and the other he justled him with his horse, who ran with so exceeding great fury, that he overthrew him to the ground, and as he proceeded forwards on in the battle, looking round about him, he saw a far off the worthy Emperor Trebatio, accompanied with a great number of Princes and valiant knights, who did great marvels and wonders upon their enemies, and taking the biggest lance that he could find, he went towards them, and struck the good Emperor on the one side, unbewares, and thrust him clean out of his Saddle. The like he did unto the two brethren Don Clarus and A●culus. Then the other Princes when they saw the Emperor unhorsed, they came forthwith for to secure and help him, but their coming had like to have cost them dear, for that at two blows which he struck with his sword, he astonied and left without remembrance the two Princes, Bargandel and Lyriamandr●o, and within a little while after he overthrew to the ground Don Siluerio and the two Prince's Rodamarte and Rodofeo, Flamides and Flo●inaldus, and thinking that they were dead, this devilish and outrageous Pagan proceeded farther on, till he came whereas Rosicleer and Brandimardo were combating together, and he seeing their battle so entangled, and knowing him for certainty to be the same which slew the gran Compion his Father, being full of mortal courage, as sparks of fire should fly out at his eyes, he went unto him and stroke him an overthwart blow with both his hands upon his helm, which was of so great force and strength, that the blood gushed out at his ears and nose, and deprived him of his remembrance, so that his horse carried him a while about the field. Then the stout Brandimardo, who was more virtuous than he, saw the great villainy the which Bramarant had done, with a wrathful courage he went against him, and said.  
Oh thou uncourteous villain, come to the battle with me, for that it shall cost thee full dear, this shame and discourtesy which thou hast showed unto me. And therewith he struck him such an overthwart blow upon the helm, that with the sparks of fire that flew out thereof, he burned all the hair upon his brows and eye lids. Then Barmarant, who always did bear him ill will since the time that he did combat against him and Meridian in the wilderness of Grecia, returned a reply against him with so great fury, that the noise of their new begun battle betwixt them was heard throughout all the whole camp, but their combat endured not long, for that Rosicleer came strait again unto himself, and remembering what had passed, he went unto Brandimardo, and gave him great thanks for that which he had done for him, and requested him to let him to have the battle against Bramarant, who understanding what Rosicler had said, with great pride said: Come both of you together against me, for if there were ten such as you are, I would not esteem you in any thing. Well said Brandimardo, for that I will not do thee so much honour, I will leave the battle, for that thyself alone shall conclude it with this knight, who I am persuaded is such a one that will abase and break the heart of this thy great pride.  
And in saying these words ●he withdrew himself a back, & strait ways began Rosicleer for to combat with Bramarant, and at two blows that he struck at him, doubling one after another, did entreat him in such sort, that he knew not whether he was in heaven or on the earth, so that betwixt them there began a brave battle, in such sort, that Bramarant did well understand that he had enough to do to clear himself from the furious blows of Rosicler alone. without the help of the companion that he esteemed unto to him, and Meridian and Brandimanrdo who stood and did did behold the 〈…〉 not a little rejoice, to 〈◊〉 how much that alone knight did 〈◊〉 the great courage and pride of Bramarant, and with the great contentment that they t●●ke to behold them in the battle, they stayed and withdrew themselves a while from fight.  
At this time all those knights that were overthrown by that monster, found themselves in a great perplexity, for that much people did overcharge them, in such sort, that they could not mount themselves again on horseback, but in especial the Emperor Trebatio, and the two brethren Don Cla●os and Arcalus, who were all afoot together making their defence with their sword in their hands, killing & slaying so many, that round about them lay a great number of dead bodies. But the king of Gandaros did trouble them very much, with two great ill favoured and deformed Giants, that he had in his company, with other knights, who put them in great peril. Not far from that place were these Princes, Bargandel and Lyriamandro, Rodomarte and Rodofeo, Hamides, and Hormaldus, all together, whereas they did great wonders, but by reason that they were a foot, (and charged with much people) they passed great trouble.  
The like marvels did those two worthy Princes, Brandizel and Claverindo, who were compassed about with more than twenty Giants of the Oriental islands. But he that was in greatest perplexity more than all the rest, was the Trojan Oristedes, for that he was all alone and a foot, and was closed in with three kings of the Indians, and with and infinite number of other people, in such sort, that by no means he could get out from amongst them, except he should fly into the air. But yet this good knight in 〈◊〉 day did make manifest the noble and valiant stock from whence he did descend, for that he slew a great number, and made his party good, defending himself till such tim● as succour did come unto him, but yet they that did best clear themselves was the Tartarian Zoylo, and the king Sacridoro, for that the five sons of the mighty Torcato and the stout Rogelio, all together chanced to pass that way whereas they were, & with the high knighthood which they used, they mounted again upon their horses, and joined with the king Oliverio and his knights, so that they all together put themselves into the thickest of the camp, whereas they did great wonders.  
Now let us leave them in this sort in the battle, doing of valiant and worthy deeds on every side●, and although the common people and soldiers on the part of the Pagans were without number, yet those on the part of the Christians were far better and better armed, and did great slaughter upon their enemies, and let us tell of that dreadful Organte, who was in an ambushment in a wood with his people.  
When the Emperor Alycandro saw that the day passed away, and that it was then time to put in execution that which he had determined (for that the battle was at that time in a balance) he sent out of hand a messenger unto him for to issue forth. So when that Organte had received the commandment of his Lord, like as the hungry Lion runneth out o● the thick woods for to seek his pray in the plain amongst the cattle: even so he with all his people went out o● the ambushment, and with as great expedition as might be, th●y went to put themselves into the battle, but it so fell out before they came thither, that there happened ●nother thing clean contrary unto that which they look●● for. For if you do call unto your remembrance the knight of the Sun, where we left him upon a little ba●ke under the wood side, beholding the battle, as he cast his eye aside towards that place, he saw those people coming out of the Forest●, whereat he was greatly amazed, and if did not a little molest and grieve him, for that he saw they were Pagans, and in so great exeremitie for to enter into the battle. But committing himself unto almighty God, desiring him if it were his pleasure to grant the victory unto the Christians. And therewithal descended from the place whereas he was, and put himself in the plain, whereas that most dreadful Organte with his people should pass, and being there with his spear in his hand abiding his coming, he saw coming towards him a big knight and very well made, whose proportion did give him great contentment, he was mounted upon almighty great horse, and was armed with armour, broidered about with gold and precious stones, so fresh and bright, that it seemed thereby that it should be the first time that he was armed with them, and being very much delighted in his gallant disposition, he was desirous for to know who he was, but he had no time for to inform himself thereof, for that at the same very instant approached that dreadful Organte, who came a good space before his people, and was mounted upon a mighty and strange beast, not inferior unto the bigness of an Elephant, very strong, and as light and swift as any horse, and by reason that he was so mighty and huge of his person being on horse back, he seemed like unto a Tower, his countenance and expectation was so terrible and grim, that it was sufficient for to put fear and dread in any knight, how heroical and valiant so ever he were. But this flower and mirror of all Knighthood, who never made any other account, but unto that which reason and honour did bind him, without any fear and dread came unto him, and said: Giant, tell me whether thou dost go with so great haste. Then the Giant very wrathful and angry at that demand, beholding him with a fierce countenance, answered and said: As thou art one, if thou were one hundredth, I would make the answer to be very dear unto thee, but yet whether is it that I should go, but to make mighty rivers of the Greekish blood. blood.  
Then the knight of the Sun said: first before that thou dost attempt that enterprise,, thou must combat with me, for I do tell th●e, that before thou canst make great rivers, thou must first make little brooks. Then with great fury, throwing out smoke from his ●ealme; this dreadful Organte turneth about his mighty beast, and said in this manner.  
Oh jupiter, how hast thou given unto one alone knight so great hardiness, that being armed in the field he durst challenge and dos●e the dreadful Organte. And when he had taken of the field so much as he thought sufficient for his course, with his Spear in his hand, which seemed to be a high and mighty Pu●e tree, he came against the knight of the Sun, who so fast as his Corner●no could ●unne, came against him, and according unto the great fury that either of them brought▪ it seemed that the earth did thunder and quake, but wh●n they joined to make their encounter, the Spea●● of the Giant was 〈◊〉 all to p●●es upon the 〈…〉 of the knight of the Sun, and considering the 〈◊〉 thereof;, and with what force and fury it was broken, it had been sufficient to have overthrown a wall, for that it made so great a noise as though a thunderbolt had fallen from heaven, and yet for all this it made no more 〈…〉 that good knight, than if it had been but a small 〈…〉 but he made his encounter, 〈…〉 in the midst of his 〈◊〉 and 〈…〉 that he thri●●● through and through, not sp●●●ing his thick and 〈◊〉 of make, but with the force thereof he made the point of his Spears to 〈◊〉 all bloud● at 〈…〉 wherewith he ouerthr●w 〈◊〉 and his beast's the 〈…〉 that some Castle had 〈…〉  
Likewise 〈◊〉 worthiness of● that 〈…〉 was sufficient, for 〈…〉 he was very desirous to know who he was, she came thither in that sort out of the City for to see the estate of all the whole camp, upon that little mountain, whereas the knight of the Sun was, as he had done before▪ whose generous heart having no power to keep herself in 〈◊〉 any longer▪ being in presence of him whom she so much ●●ned, and knowing him, received great contentment 〈…〉 that worthy encounter, ●he went unto him and said 〈…〉 them, upon them my good friend, and leave not one of them a live. But when the knight of the Sun knew her, it could not be expressed the great joy that he received. But by reas●n that the people of Organte drow nigh unto him, he had no time to make her answer according unto his 〈◊〉 desire, but only he said: My good Lady, having 〈◊〉 good 〈◊〉 and succour as I have of you, I have no reason for to fear all these people, although they were many more than they be. Thus they both together went towards the battle, and gathered many people that were scattered abroad from the fight. In the mean time that they were doing this, the people of Organte came unto the place whereas their Captain was slain, and were very strangely amazed for to see him in that case, with so terrible and mortal a thrust, and could not imagine that any mortal man could give it, and being all of them very desirous for to be revenged of his death, they went towards the camp, and with a great noise and shouting, they put themselves into the midst of the battle, in such sort, that by reason at that present th● battle was in balance, and that to enter in a fresh, was the occasion that the Greeks received great damage, and the whole battle like to have been lost, for that the Emperor and the rest of the principal knights were detained and a foot as you have heard.  
But at this instant the knight of the Sun, and the most excellent and royal Princess Claridian●, with more than thrée●thousand knights, such as were dispersed and gone abroad, and by them gathered together, pressed themselves into the battle with great fu●ie and force making great and mighty slaughter, in such 〈…〉 was more filled with blo●d, and all those of their part recovered force and strength, and to the contrary part the Pagans seeing so great slaughter and destruction of their people, began to give way and to lose ground. Now at this time might be seen very well accomplished the prophesy of the old king of Gedrosis, for that according unto the great destruction that the knight of the Sun and the royal Princess made on their enemies, it seemed that there were not people enough in all the whole camp for to satisfy their furious appetite, and there was not 〈◊〉 one in all the whole army that was in perfect security, from their furious and bloody hands. Within a while the knight of the Sun came into the place whereas was the good Emperor his Father a foot, and so weary that almost he could not life up his arm to his head, he and the two Spanish knights, although they had done great and marvelous 〈◊〉 and incredible wonders, yet were they at the point to have been slain, for that they were charged and assaulted by the king of the Gandaros, and with two mighty, great, and deformed Giants, with an infinite number of other people, who brought them into a marvelous perplexity. But quickly they were rescued, and their enemies deceived of their prai●, for when the knight of the Sun knew him to be his Father, with a new force (more than of a knight,) he str●ke one of these Giants such a blow under the gorge of ●is helm, that he cut his head clean from his body. The which being done, with great lightness he turned himself about, and with both his hands he struck such an overthwart at the other upon his waist, that almost 〈◊〉 unto his saddle bow he parted him in two pieces, and the royal Princess struck such another blow upon the helm of the king of the Gandaros, that with the incredible force thereof she clove his head quite down unto h●s teeth, and overthrew him dead at his feet.  
The blood waxed cold within their bodies, and their members shaked of all them that did see these mortal and deformed blows, in especial those Pagans that were there nigh at hand, who had compassed about the Emperor, and the other two Princes, so that it was not needful of any other occasion for to cause them to departed thence, for that they gave them such entertainment, that they all fled away, and put themselves into the battle, and thought not themselves in any security wheresoever they should become. And although the good Emperor Trebatio had time and space enough for to mount upon his horse, yet he was so weary, that he had no force for to do it. Likewise the two Spanish knights were ready for to lie down with weariness. The which being seen and perceived by that good Knight, with a trice he alighted from his horse 〈◊〉, and took the Emperor his Father in his arms, and with his own strength he put him into the saddle, and gave unto the two brethren other two horses, and with his own hands he mounted them. The which being done, in spite of all those that were against them, he took unto himself the horse of the king of Gandaros, which was both strong and swift, and with great lightness he leapt into the saddle, and passed forwards on, leaving the Emperor Trebatio no less amazed, than joyful and content, to see the wonderful deeds of his son, who with new force and strength, the which he recovered with that sudden joy and pleasure, pressed forwards into the battle, being in the midst betwixt the two Spanish knights, and did such 〈◊〉 acts, that it seemed he had but as then entered into the battle. Then the knight of the Sun came unto the place (with the Princess Claridiana) whereas they found on foot the prince's Bargandel and Lyriamandro, Rodomarte & Rodo●eo, Fl●●ndes and Florinaldus, by whose coming they were quickly set at liberty, and had space for to mount themselves on horseback, the which being done, he did the like unto the Tartarian Zoilo & the king Sacridoro, & never stayed till he 〈◊〉 whereas the stout Oristedes was, which was a strange thing to behold, to see the great number of dead bodies at his feet round about him, but by reason that he was overpressed with so many against him▪ he was very weary, and almost out of breath, which being perceived by the knight of the Sun, with a great good will he did secure him, slaying and overthrowing to the ground all those that he found against him, and of the three kings of the India's; the royal Princess overthrew two of them dead to the ground, and the third ran away, for if he had tarried, his golden crown: the which he had on his head, would little have availed him.  
Then the good Trojan being very glad of that advantaged succour, took unto him a very good horse, and mounting upon him, they all together thrust themselves into the battle, and never stayed till they came whereas the two Princes Brandizel and Claveryndo, who were compassed round about with those gyantine knights, but quickly they were delivered out of their hands, and ●●●unted upon other horses.  
At this time were joined together the Emperor Trebatio, with all the rest of the worthy and valiant knights, with the knight of the Sun, and the royal Princess Claridiana, and all was needful, for that the Emperor Alycandro, accompanied with those Giants his guard, and with the most principallest kings of their host; came unto that place of the camp, making such destruction and slaughter, that they alone had been sufficient to have got the whole victory of the field. But being discovered by this generous company, they all together moved towards them, whose encounter was a thing worthy to have been seen, for that the knight of the Sun, the royal Princess, with the mighty Emperor Trebatio, Don Claros, and Arcalus, the two princes, Brandizel and Claveryndo, the king Florion, and the king Sacridoro, with the Tartarian Zoilo. All the together made their encounter against the ten Giants of the Guard of the Emperor, and that which seemed not to be believed, and impossible to be executed, amongst all them that were in the whole army, fell out n●we dean unto the contrary, for that every one of these worthy Princes miss not, but overthrew his adversary to the earth, either stark dead or sore wounded, and although some of them of the Emperor Trebatios' part were unhorsed, yet quickly and with a trice they were mounted again. And of other twelve kings that were mighty and stout, and of great valour, that came in company with the Emperor Alycandro, there remained but two of them, but all the rest were overthrown and slain by Ba●gandel and Lyriamandro, Rodomarte and Rodofeo, Flamides and Florinaldus, the sons of the gran Torcato, and the stout Rogelio. When these Pagan kings were slain and overcome (although the number of Pagans were infinite) yet they began to lose ground, for that they had no other Captains for to govern them, but only that mighty Pagan Bramarant, who was detained in battle with Rosicleer, and the two worthy knights Meridian and Brandimardo, if there had b●ne many in the camp like unto them, before the Pagans would have yielded any ground, there had been greater destruction and blood shed more than there was, but by reason that they were but two only, they were not sufficient for to govern and rule them, although they did make so great slaughter, that they seemed not to be any human creatures.  
But now was the time come of the good fortune and destiny promised unto the Emperor Trebatio to show itself favourable, and the prophesy before said by the old king of Gedrosia to work effect, and accomplish the truth thereof in confirming of the same, for that the Pagans began to retire, and night drew on, and it warred dark, they received great fear, in such sort, that they put themselves unto flight, and ran away with great shame, so that a little before the shutting of the evening, the Pagans put themselves in such fear and haste in running, that there was no force of resistance in them, but to be all slain by the Greeks, who followed them at their heels. And the Emperor Alycandro when that he saw himself left alone without his strong guard, and mighty kings (his vassals that were wont to keep and bear him company, and all his people) to run away before him overcome, and clean without any hope of victory, he larged the rains unto his horse, and ran about the field, complaining very much against the Gods, (whom he took to be his parents and kinsfolk) as also against Fortune, for showing herself so contrary against him: but most he complained against himself, for putting so great confidence and trust in his own power, in that he would not give any credit unto the good and true counsels of the old king of Gedrosia, and going in this sort, he came unto his Tents, and taking the fair Princess Lyndabrides, and the rest of the Ladies and Damsels that were with her, with other such things as conveniently he could, he fled down unto the sea side, whereas was all his whole Fleet, whereof the Christians had burnt a great part of them, such as were at the Sea, for although the said ships of the Christians were but few in number, yet when that they saw the great destruction that was made on the land, they recovered great courage ●or to assault them that were at the Sea, in such sort, that they set fire on many ships that were in the Fleet, in spite of them that were there, for that they found small resistance. Thus as I have said before, when the Emperor came unto the Sea side, there was so great haste of embarking, that with great travail he embarked himself▪ into a ship with those that came with him, and being embarked, yet he thought not himself in any security, but in great haste caused the Sails to be spread abroad, and launched themselves into the Sea, leaving all this troop and power overthrown in Grecia.  
Then the Prince Meridian and Brandimardo, when that they saw how that the people were dispersed, and that by no means possible they could not stay them from flying and running away. Then went they from one place unto another seeking of the Emperor Alycandro, but could not find him, till such time as they came unto the Sea side, whereas it was told them how that he was embarked into a ship, and departed with the Princess Lyndabrides, and the other Ladies and Gentlewomen that were in her company amongst whom was the fair Princess Floralinda, spouse unto the Prince Meridian, who when that he understood of their departure, did strait ways embark himself in another ship, and followed after them.  
In all this while the Greeks understood in no other thing but in killing and slaying of Pagans as they ran away, and made such slaughter, as in all the day before was not the like, at which time all the water in the Tirreno sea, from the ●geo unto the Euxino, was red, and turned into the colour of blood, with the great quantity that were slain as well on the sea as on the land, which was a thing of great terror and wonder to behold. But the knight of the Sun when he saw that the battle was dispersed, and how that the Pagans fled before them, he made no farther account of them, but went and sought for the Emperor Alycandro and the Princess Lyndabrides; fearing that in the moving and running of the people they should receive some damage or harm. The which he would not that it should so fall out for any thing in all the world, for that he considered very well in his mind how much he was bound unto them for the great love which they bore unto him.  
And when he came unto the Tents, he went from one unto another, inquiring for the Emperor, and it was told him how they were fled and gone, wherewith he galloped his horse till he came unto the sea side, whereas he saw the Pagans making great haste for to embark themselves, and many of them did swim aboard, because they would not abide the fury of the Greeks a land. Then the Knight of the Sun came unto one of those Pagans, and put the point of his sword to his face, and said that he would kill him, if he did not tell him news of the Emperor Alycandro. Then the Pagan who saw him departed for fear of death; told him how that he was departed from thence in a ship, with the princess Lyndabrides and all her Ladies and gentlewomen. Whereat when the knight of the Sun heard of their departure he was very sorrowful, as well for the peril in the which they put themselves, as also for that he would have done unto them the honour and service that they deserved, and for that his valiant courage could not suffer that they should departed in such sort, with a settled purpose and determination full of virtue, he put himself into a Boat, and caused the Mariners to row him unto a good ship that was there at hand, whereas he found certain knights that did resist him at his entry, whom he slew, and threatened the Master and Mariners that he would likewise kill them if they did not govern the ship right that way which the Emperor Alycandro was departed and gone.  
Then they who saw the great destruction that he had made in so short a time, being greatly amazed thereat, and with great fear did obey all that he commanded, so that in company with the other ships, they hoist sail, and departed through that bloody sea, whereas we will leave them in their journey, and return unto them that were left in the field.  
At this time the good Emperor Trebatio when he saw the night come on a pace, and that it waxed dark, being very weary he all & his company in killing of pagans, began to blow and sound his rich horn, which like a good Captai●e he carried always about his neck, and he did sound it i● such sort, that in all those broad and wide fields it was heard, at which sound all his people did obey his commandment, and gathered themselves together. But yet in all this time the battle betwixt Rosicleer and Bramarant never ceased, but rather as then was more furious and kindled in wrath, and they did no other thing but procure to charge the one the other with their terrible blows, all that ever they could. At which time Bramarant thought not that the Emperor Alycandro had been spoiled and lost the victory, but rather suspected that the Greeks had lost the field, but very quickly he was put out of that doubt, for that by reason of the great noise which they made in their battle, the Emperor Trebatio and all those worthy Princes that were on his part, came thither whereas they were, for as then they were all joined together, & put themselves round about these two warriors, with determination for to part them from that contension: but this valiant and worthy pagan when he saw them in that sort, and knew them, he was greatly amazed, and strait ways suspected that they had got the victory, who as then with a hoarse voice and proud semblant, said. Oh fortune, how is it that thou hast had so great power, for to show thyself so contrary against the pagans: who is that mighty and valiant prince that hath had so great force for to overthrow the mighty Alicandro and the gran Campion my father, who was sufficient to set fire on all the whole world. To whom Rosicler answered and said, if thou wilt know him it is easy to be understood, for I do give thee to understand that all which is here done, cometh alonely of him, that did create and make all things, and hath power over all men, and at his will is governed both nature and fortune. And this is jesus Christ true God and man, in whom all christians do believe and worship: and it hath been his pleasure to give us the victory against so many thousands of Pagans, by the which thou mayst understand, how false and deceivable be your Gods, who were not able for to aid and secure the Emperor Alicandro, who presumeth to descend from the race, and stock. Then this proud Pagan replied and said, I never believed in any gods, neither am I now determined to believe in any, for that both their gods & thine, and all the rest, I hold them for my enemies, and I will spoil them all where soever I may find or meet with them. And in saying these words he raised himself in his stirrups, and with his sword in both his hands he struck so strong a blow at Rosicleer upon his enchanted helm, that it seemed a Thunderbolt to have fallen from heaven, the noise was so great, which made him somewhat astonished: But when this Pagan saw that he was compassed about with so much people, & that it was night, he thought it not good to abide there any longer, but set spurs unto his horse, and rushed through the thickest of them, & over, threw to the ground all them that was in his way, & like a whirl wind he runneth through those fields, and never stayed till he came into the wilderness of Grecia, with intention not to departed from thence till such time as he had very well and to his contentment revenged the death of his father.  
Rosicler would very feign have followed him, for that he had a great desire for to conclude and give end unto that battle, but the Emperor his father and those that were with him did distrube him. Then when they saw themselves together, and miss the knight of the Sun, they were greatly amazed, and separated themselves some one way and some an other way, and went into all places for to seek him: but when that in all the whole field they could not find him, they could not imagine where he should be, for the which they were all very sad and sorrowful, but in especial the royal princes Claridiana, for that she thought every hour a year till she had spoken with him, and travailed from one place to an other with great care in his demand, but could not find him, nor have any news of him, till in the end of great inquiry, it was told her by a soldier that he did see him embark himself in a ship, and all that he procured was for to know some news of the Emperor Alicandro.  
When she heard this, she was somewhat quieted in herself, and went and informed the Emperor Trebatio, thereof, who with all the rest of the other princes received great joy, and began at that instant to celebrate and rejoice the la●e victory won, and in very good order returned to the City of Constantinople, where as they were in the arms of those Ladies, with such joy, as the reader may judge, yet I must needs say, that if the absence of the knight of the Sun had not mitigated somewhat the extremity of their pleasure, there had never been in Grecia the like joy and triumph.  
Let us now leave them in all their pastimes, for that I am sure this long chapter hath somewhat wearied you, and let us return to tell you of other things wherein you shall receive pleasure and delight.   

¶ How that the Emperor Alicandro sailing by sea, was through a tempest, by the which he was driven unto the strong Island, whereas they were taken prisoners, he and the princes Lindabrides, with all her Ladies, by the Giant Roboan and his sons. ¶ Chap. 39  
WIth great sorrow and heaviness of heart did the Emperor Alicandro navigate the Sea, with the fair and precious Princes Lindabrides, in company with a small number of Knights that entered into the ship with him: who when they considered with what great pomp and force they entered into the Empire of Grecia, & with what disgrace they departed from thence, their hearts were ready to break with sorrow, for that they saw no other thing, (of so great a number of thousands of people that they brought with them out of their countries) but only the water of the Sea, covered with blood, and a few other ships full of people that had escaped from the fury of the Greeks, some one way, and some an other, without any order, but whether soever the wind & fortune would carry them.  
The night was very dark, so that the ship of the Emperor was all alone, & fortune who would show herself more contrary for to give ●im to 〈…〉 what small trust there was in her, it happen that in the night there arose a great tempest, that did not only hinder them of their journey, but also did put the ship many times in great danger to be drowned, so that the mariners and such as were in the ship, had enough to do, for to void and cast out the water, that was forced in by that tempest, and the fair princess Lindabrides, with all her ladies and gentlewomen, received so great fear that they all amazed remained as dead persons: although unto this fair princess, the grief was not so much in beholding before her eyes, that great peril of death in the which they were brought, as to see herself in that sort for to departed from Grecia, where as remained the knight of the Sun: and again to consider how evil her purpose and desire was brought to pass, so that she remained without all hope or remedy. And prayed unto her gods and fortune, not to appease the torment, but to be so contrary unto their journey, that they might return again (by the force thereof) into Grecia, either a live or dead: for that she thought in her heart, that there was no death could be more crueler unto her, then to return into her own country whereas she should lose all hope ever for to see the knight of the Sun. In this sort uttering great and profound sighs, which proceeded from the bottom of her heart, she said as followeth.  
Oh my soul, depart and leave this my sorrowful and afflicted body, seeing that my fortune and cruel destiny will that I shall leave the land whereas the knight of the Sun doth remain: Oh you winds and celestial movings, that doth carry the ships upon the Seas, here and there in all places, carry us now into some part whereas we may be taken prisoners by some Grecian, and carried before the Emperor Trebatio, for that it shall be unto me more comfortable to be prisoner and 〈◊〉 in his pallas, then to be Queen in the gran Scythia or Empress in Tart●ria. Oh you bloody waves ●ossed up and down by the furi●●s winds, and forced into rivers, show yourselves so favourable unto me, that when by this torment and storm, we shallbe drowned, you would (dead as I shallbe left) carry me unto some part of Grecia, for that possible the knight of the Sun hearing of my death, will not be so cruel but that he will give sepulture unto this my unhappy body, and at times remember me, and be sorrowful for this my untimely and cruel death. Ah when that this shall lack in him, yet shall my sorrowful bones take comfort, in that they shall remain in so glorious and happy a land.  
In uttering of these and many other things of great grief, did this sorrowful princess navigate, and with so great trouble of mind, that I do verily believe, if the knight of the Sun had heard them, he would have had great compassion on her. Likewise it was of no less sorrow & grief to see the demeanour of the Emperor Alicandro, for that the day before he saw himself in the estate to be lord over all the whole world, and at this present for to be a land in his own country, he would have been content to have had the government, and to be lord of a poor castle: an estate unlooked for, & they that do think to sleep in great security, whom fortune hath put in the highest part of her movable and inconstant wheel, they may well behold this Emperor, for that possible he may be unto them a greater security, and cause them to lose the condition of hope that always they had in her, for that always when that she doth once begin to frown and to turn her back unto any, she is not content to touch them with a little adversity, but will so follow them, as their fall shallbe equal unto their first triumph of exalting, as by experience you shall see in this Emperor, who was not content to bring him into this estate of perplexity, but strait ways did ordain a greater and crueler conclusion greatly to be considered of: for that the next day in the morning at such time as the Sun did arise, the furious force of the winds and seas, did carry their ship into the port of any land, with so great extremity, that it broke all to pieces, and they with great travail escaped, being all wet, out of comfort, and in a place unknown, and for that you shallbe certified of the comfort and ease that they found there. You shall understand that this was called the strong Island, the most famous in all the Tirreno Sea, it is called strong, for that it is all compassed round about with the Sea, & on the parts towards the sea, high and mighty Rocks, and hath no entering into it but only one part, in the which the Emperor Alicandro and his company were driven by force of that great tempest: at the entry of the same sort, was two great high and mighty towers, and of great strength, and at the foot of them into the Island, a great and large plain, in the which was many gallant peaceable and fresh fountains, that did invite all them that passed by, to take their ease and repast, and beyond the same plain, there was a beautiful mountain, upon the which was edified a very fair castle and strong, compassed round about with a high wall▪ and watch towers, with a 〈◊〉 very broad & deep, upon the which was a drawn bridge of timber, and before the same a gallant little plain in manner of & court. The highest part of the tower was full of windows and galleries▪ some towards the Sea, and others towards the entry of the said Castle, so that for strength and beauty, in all the whole Sea, was not an Island to be found equal unto the same▪ but only that of Lindaraza, the which was edified and made by art of enchantment.  
The Lord of this Island was a Giant, called Roboan, who by lineal dissent doth proceed from Nembroth, he that built the high and stately tower of Babel▪ and from his time to that day, hath been maintained and governed, by that lineage, as appeared by old and ancient writings which they had amongst them.  
This Roboan was very big of body, and of strength more th●n any other Giant, and he had four sons all young men, the most stoutest and grymmest that was to be found amongst▪ all the islands of the Sea. So that by the 〈◊〉 of them, as also 〈◊〉 the great strength of the Island, Roboan 〈…〉 all the whole world, if they coem against him, which was the occasion that he did great harms and robberies at the Sea. And did maintain in his Island an ill custom, which was, that every time at the wain of the Moon, he did sacrifice two damsels, the most fairest that could be found, and when that the Moon did increase he did sacrifice two knights, the which they did, by the increasing of their great sins, whereby his ancestors did fall into a great and abominable Idolatry, to honour and worship the Moon, without knowing any other God or Lord, but only her, saying, that with her brightness she did illuminate the earth, and cause it to engender Giants, and that she wa● the occasion that the earth did bring forth all manner of fruits and herbs, for the which occasion they had her for their Goddess and Mother.  
Also they said, that when the Moon was in the wain, she did hide her brightness for that she was angry with men: for which cause they did sacrifice unto her two damsels, because with their blood as they said, her anger was appeased. And at such time as she did begin to increase, they did sacrifice unto her two knights, in giving to understand, that they did acknowledge her for their Goddess. And for the executing of the same, they had caused to be made betwixt the two towers in a very fair plain, a rich and gorgeous throne of Alabaster, nigh unto a fair clean and clear fountain, whereas Roboan prostrate upon his knees, and appareled with white garments, and a towel upon his shoulder, did make this Sacrifice, cutting of the heads of those damsels and knights with a broad & sharp knife. This order and custom was maintained and kept in that Island by the ancestors of Roboan, ever since the time that they fell into that devilish Idolatry. And this Roboan did keep and celebrate the same with greater care and diligence, than all his ancestors had done before him, in such sort that on a time at the wain of the Moon, having in his custody but one damsel for to Sacrifice, because he would not lack the number of two, he did Sacrifice a daughter of his own, whom he lo●ed verymuch, ●he which extremity afterwards was the occasion that he put such diligence to seek out for 〈◊〉 and knights, that always after they had still great sorrow. The sons of this Giant were named, the first Langereon, the second Andricardo, the third Rubero, the fourth Ac●orante▪ all the which were very well spoken and of good conditions, and had no other fault amongst th●m but blindness in that cursed law & custom, wherein they did so much esteem themselves, that all the world beside they made little account off, as though they were of small valour, as well in state of degree, as in observing their law, with valiant force and strength. And at such time as they did celebrated their sacrifice unto the Moon, whom they worshipped as their God, the higher of blood that those damsels & knights were that they did sacrifice, the more was their joy and pleasure. And they pardoned none although she were a Queen. Two of these his sons were always in the two Towers at the 〈◊〉 side at the port, with divers other knights that did bear them company, & when that any by fortune or other wise arrived in their port, they did take & apprehend them. The other two were continually at the Sea, apprehending and taking prisoners all that ever they did meet, and having taken any prey, they returned unto the Island. Their father Roboan, was in the castle with his wife, who was lady Gyantesse, and many times he would descend unto his sons in the two towers, & they likewise unto the castle, when that it was their pleasure for to meet. This was the Island whereas the Emperor Alicandro with the Princess Lindabrides and all her Ladies and gentlewomen arrived, who were scarce out of the water a land, when that they were beset and apprehended by the two giants, Lange●eon & Andricardo. who were in the towers with their knights. And although some that came with the Emperor would put themselves in defence, yet did it little profit them, for that the two brethren were such that they would not have 〈◊〉 one of them alive, if they had not yielded themselves prisoners. Then the two brethren with as great joy and pleasure as ever they received in their lives to see themselves possessed with so rich a pray of damsels, went up into the Castle with them, saving one damsel of the Princesses, (for that she would not see herself in the power of those Giants) would put her life in adventure for to escape from them, and ran and put herself amongst a company of Rocks, whose fortune was so favourable (for that there was a great number of them) that she was not seen, so that she remained there all alone hidden amongst the Rocks.  
And here you shall understand that this was the Queen julia, she that forged and made the sword that Rosicleer won in great Britain of Candramarte, who came in company with the Princess Lyndabrides out of the gran Tartary. Thus when the Emperor and all those damsels were carried into the Castle, Roboan received great joy and pleasure for the rich pray, and it seemed unto him that the Princess Lyndabrides was the fairest creature that ever he had seen in all his life, and he said that with the blood of so high a Damsel, their Gods the Moon, should receive great contentment, and cause the fruits of their Country to bring forth in greater abundance than heretofore it hath done, and commanded strait ways that they should be put in hold and good assurance, their prison was ordained in the highest part of all the Castle, whereas were great galleries and battlements, from whence they might discern all the whole Island, and a great part of the Sea. But when that the Emperor Alycandro saw himself prisoner unto such evil and unmerciful people, and well understood to what end they were prisoners, you may well judge the sorrow and grief that he received at his heart, who before was Lord over so many Countries, and of power more than any one in all the whole world, and now to be prisoner in the custody and power of them that at his first entry heard the sentence of his death. The Princess Lyndabrides of this imprisonment received no great grief, for that she was not far parted from the Empire of Grecia, but did comfort herself very much, for that she hoped in some time for to see the knight of the Sun, being in that place, and not in the gran Tartary, whether as her Father did carry her. And she said within herself, that forasmuch as in that land they did commit and use so great cruelty against Ladies and damsels, it could not be, but at one time or at another, it should come unto the ears and hearing of the knight of the Sun, who was of so valiant a courage and generosity, that he would not let, but to prove and force himself to take away that great cruelty and disobedience against God, and had so great confidence in his worthiness and valour, that having him before her, she esteemed all the world as nothing.  
Let us now leave them in this their sorrow and grief, for that you do well understand hereby the small security that is in fortune, how hurtful a thing it is for to abandon wise counsel, and to lean so much unto her who●le, as did this Emperor in the great and overmuch confidence that he had in her, for that she had put him in so high estate, he did esteem the wise counsel of the old king of Gedrosia as nothing, and for that he would not use thereof, he was brought into the estate whereas we now left him. Let us now tell of such other things as happened in the mean time.   

How Rosicler departed out of Constantinople in the demand of the knight of the Sun, and how the knight of the Sun in following the Emperor Alycandro arrived at the strong Island, and what happened about the same. Chap. 40.  
THe next day after the fierce and bloody battle, which was the whole expedition of Constantinople, all such Pagans as remained alive (which was but the third part of those which came from the gran Tartary) fled and ran away towards the sea coast, whereas they embarked themselves, so that there remained but certain kings and nobles, such as were known, and were prisoners unto the Greeks. At which time the Emperor Trebatio with all his nobles, having a great good will to celebrate with triumph the great and joyful victory which God had given them, were greatly disturbed by the absence of the knight of the Sun, for without him it seemed that they could not rejoice, nor take any joy or pleasure, for which occasion at that instant departed many knights from the Court, in the demand and seeking of him, amongst whom Rosideer was one, who departed all alone from Constantinople, and in such sort that he was not known, neither would he carry any body with him, for that he had great desire for to meet with Bramarant, and to conclude with him the battle, before that any knight be present for to separate or part them, and coming unto the sea side, whereas he could not hear any news of him, he strait ways there embarked himself into a ship, whereas we will leave him and all the rest in Constantinople, for to tell you of the knight of the Sun, who being very desirous for to overtake the Emperor Alycand●o and the Princess Lyndabrides, navigating by Sea, was likewise the same night constrained with the torment (that took the Emperor) for to lose his way. But whether it was by the will of God it should so fall out, for that the end thereof was very good, or else by the art of the wise Ly●gandeo, or else by good fortune that governed his ship, in such sort the worthy knight of the Sun was thrown by force of the said storm and tempest into the port of the strong Island, the which being perceived and known by the Mariners, they would strait ways have departed from thence, having that quiet p●rte far more perilous than to be at the Sea, with that great storm and tempest, whose great fear being manifest unto the Knight of the Sun, he was very desirous to know the occasion thereof, and they declared the cause, very much extolling the force and strength of Roboan, and of his sons, as also of the great cruelty that was used there, with such knights and damsels as they did take. And although the knight of the Sun would first have accomplished his voyage in following of the Emperor Alycandro, and have left that enterprise until some other time, yet for all that, seeing that it would little profit for to return unto the Sea, by reason that the waves were greatly increased with the force of the storm, he determined with himself to go a land, and in the mean time till it pleased God to appease the rage of the weather, he would put in practice to see if he could do any thing against those people, for to cause them to break that evil and devilish custom, and as he was determined within himself, he put it in ure, but the mariners would not enter into the Port, nor board their ship aland with a good will, but he did so threaten them that he made them by force to do all that he commanded.  
When that he was a land, and had not well mounted upon his horse, (which was that which he won from the king of the Gandaros in the battle,) there came forth against him ten knights on horseback, and as many on foot, all armed, with their hatchets of arms in their hands, and bade him to yield to them as prisoner, and some of them approached to lay hands on his horse bridle. But this good knight answered not one word unto these villainous people, but having his Spear in his hand, struck one of them such a blow therewith, that his strong armour did not profit him, but he overthrew him backwards stark dead unto the ground, and as one that as then was not to learn to shed the blood of such unhappy wretches, in a short time he made such slaughter amongst them, that there escaped no more alive but three of them, who fled and ran with all hast possible unto the Castle, which was upon the little mountain, whereas were the two oldest brethren, Langereon and Andricardo, with Roboan their Father, for that after that they had carried prisoner unto the Castle the Emperor Alycandro, and his company, until that time they had not descended unto their Towers, whereas they were wont to be continually, which was the occasion that the knight of the Sun was not assaulted, but by their Knights and footmen, who remained below in the Towers for to keep and defend them, for that all the rest were gone into the Castle with their rich pray.  
But when the knight of the Sun saw himself clear of all those that came forth against him, and that there came no more people out of the Towers, he imagined within himself that the Giants should be in that high Castle, which he saw before him somewhat a far off, which caused him to take the way thitherwards, and it seemed unto him to be one of the most fairest and strongest that ever before he had seen, and as yet he was not come unto the plain that was before the entry, which was in manner of a Court, when that he saw come forth of the Castle by a false door one of the Giants, all armed with thick plates of steel, and mounted upon a mighty, great, and strong horse, with a great cutting hatchet of Steel in his hands, who seemed unto the knight of the Sun to be one of the best furnished, and well made and proportioned Giants that ever he saw in all his life. And this was Langereon the eldest and most valyantest of all the four brethren, who being advertised by one of them that ran away, of the great slaughter and destruction that that alone knight had made amongst his people, he issued out to seek him, for to take revengement of the same, and at such time as the knight of the Sun came into the plain ground, by the Castle, the Giant approached nigh unto him, and lift up the beaver of his helm. But when he saw him of so big and gallant proportion, and considered the news which his men had declared unto him, he held him strait ways in reputation, and thought him to be a knight of a most singular and valiant courage, but making no account of him, he said.  
By thy unadvised arrival and coming hither (Sir Knight) I do understand that thou knowest not who is Lord of this Island, neither the use and custom that is here maintained, for if thou hadst been advertised thereof, then wouldst thou not have come hither to seek him, whom thou hast so much grieved and angered in the slaying of his knights. With as little fear and gallant semblance as he spoke, the knight of the Sun answered him and said.  
Giant, I do very well know, that this is the strong Island, and how that Roboan is Lord of the same, who jointly with his sons doth maintain so evil and abominable a custom, that whatsoever good knight he be, he ought for to adventure his life for to cause the same to be broken, as well in the great Idolatry used in the worshipping for God his creatures, as also in the great cruelty used against all knights and damsels, so that I am come hither, and have so great hope and confidence in the divine justice, to do so much, that you shall not persever with this great violence, and if that thou art Roboan or any of his sons, determine and put order to amend thy life, or else come presently with me to battle.  
Then Langereon with great laughter and disdain, said: Of truth (Sir Knight) thy great boldness and courage is the greatest that ever I have heard or seen, that thou hast so valiant a heart for to approach and give attempt in that which all the whole world is not sufficient, but because thou shalt see and understand that thy attempt is more of folly than of any valiant courage or fear, do now what thou canst against me, for that I am one of the sons of Roboan, whom thou hast named. And in saying these words this worthy and valiant youth did lift up his great trencheant and steely hatchet, and therewith went towards the knight of the Sun, with so terrible and dreadful semblance, that it was sufficient to put great fear in any good Knight. But unto him who had been accustomed unto such like enterprises, it was not only without fear and dread, but also a Sp●are which he had in his hand, and taken from one of those knights which he stew, he threw unto the ground, and drew out his sword, and went towards Langereon, who was greatly amazed at that which he did, so that these two the one against the other charged each his adversary with such terrible blows upon their healmes, that with the great force thereof they caused perforce their horses to stoop down to the ground, and by reason that the helm of the Giant was not of so fine metal as it should have been, it was cloven by the knight of the Sun, in such sort, that he made a little wound in his skull, out of the which proceeded great abundance of blood that fell in his eyes, and about his face, the which did disturb him very much in this battle, and this Langereon marveled exceedingly at that terrible blow which he had received, which was the mightiest that ever in all his life he had felt, and being very desirous strait ways and out of hand to be revenged of the same, for that in continuing in battle, it might fall out unto him very perilous and dangerous: he flourished with his steely hatchet about his head, and with it in both his hands he struck so strong a blow at the knight of the Sun overthwart upon his con●●aled helm, that he thought verily a whole Tower had fallen upon him, it so amazed and astonished him, and with a trice he redoubled another blow with no less force and strength, with the which the knight of the Sun had passed great danger, if that he had struck it full and right, but with the force and strength that he put in striking of the first blow, the blood of the wound in his h●ad burst out a new, and fell with great abundance down about his eyes, in such sort, that whereas he thought to have strooken the worthy and valiant knight of the Sun, he was deceived, and struck his horse hard by the po●●ell of the saddle, that without any staying he cut him clean asunder in the midst, so that he parted him in two pieces, and he strait ways fell down dead unto the ground, whereby he was constrained to overthrow his Master: but this valiant knight was not so soon fallen, but he arose up again on his feet, and marveled greatly at the mighty force of the Giant, and seeing himself so entreated, he said within himself, that it did well appear, that there was not present his Lady and Mistress the Princess Claridiana, for that one alone knight had brought him unto that extremity. And in saying these words he did abide the coming of Langareon, who approached with his hatchet above his head for to strike him another terrible blow, and at such time as he would have discharged the same, he stepped on the one side with so great dexterity, that the blow fell down to the ground, and as the Giant by reason of the force wherewith it was stroke, did bow his body and arms after the same, the Knight of the Sun laid hold on the gorget of his helm with so great strength, that he broke the lacings and buckles thereof, and pulled it from his head, and overthrew him from his horse to the ground, and before that he could arise, he struck him with his helm upon his unarmed head, that he astonished him, and laid him a long upon the earth, and not willing to do him any farther evil, he left him, and took his hatchet and mounted upon his horse, the which was both big and very swift. And looking towards the Castle to see if another did come forth, he chanced to cast his eyes up unto the battlements thereof, whereas he discovered the persons of the Emperor Alycanidro, and the fair Princess Lyndabrides, and some of her Ladies and Gentlewomen, who were beholding and did see all that passed in the battle with the Giant, and by reason that all his armour was bewrayed and imbrued in blood, and never made clean since the great battle that was fought in Grecia, and again, that he had not his horse Cornerino, they could not imagine or devise who he should be, but the Princess Lyndabrides said within herself.  
Oh how I would pardon and forgive fortune all these travails and adversities which she hath given unto me, that my fortune might now be so good and happy, that this might be the mirror of all knights, or his brother Rosicler, or some of his friends, that might do so much, in this Island, as to carry us prisoners into Grecia. But when that the knight of the Sun did see that fair and rubicund face of the Princess, he was not so greatly troubled with the mighty and terrible blows which he had received of the Giant, as he was for to see her, who some times was governess of his heart, in that place: wherewith he trembled and shaked, striking himself upon the breast, as one that walketh by night in security and without fear discovereth upon a sudden, some vision or fantasy before him. And being somewhat amazed, he remained a good while, beholding her, without moving of hand or foot, that he thought all his senses were disturbed, with the sudden sight of this fair Princess, whose beauty was so rooted within his heart, and the old sore so festered, that of truth it was very hard and evil to be healed, if that the wisdom of Lirgandeo and Artimidoro, with others more ancienter than they, had not put remedy in the same, for that the valour of this precious princess was such, that the knight of the Sun in her presence, could never have his free liberty. And being in this maze Andricardo, the second brother came forth out at the castle gate, all armed with very thick armour of hardened steel, and mounted upon a mighty horse, who was of no less stature and bigness than the first: but when that the knight of the Sun did see him, he said within himself, that never in all his life he saw giants of so gallant proportion, nor of so great force & strength as Langereon seemed to have. But when that Andricardo approached and saw his brother lie along upon the earth, thinking that he had been dead, it could not be imagined the great sorrow and grief he received, which caused him with so great fury and lightness, as the arrow that is forced out of abowe, to throw at the knight of the Sun a mighty great boar spear which he brought in his hands, that if his armour had not been that of Meridian▪ it had passed his body through and through to the other side, for that it struck him in the midst of his breast with so great strength, that it made him to double his body backwards upon his horse crupper, and for that the steely point could not enter into his armour, it doubled & recoiled back again, and the shéevers flew into the air, making a great noise, but this good knight with great lightness did settle himself again in his saddle, and remembered that the fair Princess Lyndabrides did behold him, and therewith went against Andricandro, with his hatchet in both his hands, & struck him so mighty a blow upon his helm, that if it had chanced to be a full blow, he had cloven him down unto the waist, but it chanced somewhat aside, in such sort, that it cut away a piece of the helm with one of his cares, and from thence descended his fine cutting hatchet along his breast, cutting all that was before it, till it came to the saddle bow, the which it clove asunder, and cut his horse almost in two pieces, so that he fell down dead to the ground with his master, and caught one of his legs under him, in such sort, that what with the wound that he had on his breast, and the doubling of his leg, he could not by any means arise, but was the greatest amazed man in all the world, to see that terrible and wonderful blow the which he had received, and it seemed to be done by a knight of the biggest force that was to be found in any part of the universal world.  
Then Roboan who was all armed, and at a window beholding the battle, when that he saw his sons overcome and in that perplexity, it could not be expressed the great sorrow and grief which he received, for that he thought it a thing impossible, that ten of the best knights that were to be found in all the world, were not able to do that which was there done, and thinking in a short space to be revenged for the same, he mounted upon a mighty horse, and took a great spear in his hand, and went forth at the Castle gate with so furious and terrible a semblance, that the knight of the Sun did very well perceive that he was of no less force and strength than his two sons, for that he was higher of person, and bigger of members, and when that he came nigh unto the knight of the Sun, with a hoarse & terrible voice, he said.  
Knight, tell me who art thou of such courage and hardiness, that having slain my two sons, darest abide me in the field? I am a knight (said he) that in the name of jesus Christ, in whom I do believe and worship, do hope to destroy thee, and all those that are obedient unto thy law, for that the divine justice being angry at the great sins and evils by thee done in this Island, is now come to punish thee according unto thy deserts, in the deepest parts of hell. Oh Goddess, the creator of all Giants, and the bringer forth of all the fruits upon the earth, (answered Roboan) how canst thou suffer that one alone knight shall say that he will destroy thy law, and maketh a mocking stock thereat. In saying these words he spurred forwards with his horse, and struck him such a blow with his spear in the midst of his breast, that he would have sworn, that the point with half the staff would have appeared at his back, but it fell not out according unto his thought, for at the force thereof he made no more mention nor moving thereat, than if he had stroke against a tower, but with his mighty hatchet he repaid him in such sort, that a mighty great and thick shield, that he had, wherewith he would have warded that blow, he cut in two pieces, and the blow descended upon his helm, cutting the same, and also a steel cap which he had under it, and made a cruel wound in his head, and as they joined with their bodies very nigh the one the other, the Giant laid hold with his arms about his neck, thinking by his great force and strength to hoist him out of the saddie, but he that was endued with no less strength than he, and with more dexterity, laid hold on him by the waist, & held him so fast, that by reason their horses pressed forwards, they both ●ell to the ground, and let go their holds, & rose up upon their feet. The knight of the Sun drew out his sword & the giant a great falchion, so that they began the battle a foot, & made so great noise, that they were heard throughout the whole Island, and it seemed that there were in battle together, more than one hundredth knights. Here was to be seen the great fortitude and strength of Roboan, who did combat in such sort with the knight of the Sun, that he troubled him very much, and many times his unmeasurable blows did put him in great peril, and had brought him into much more danger, if that the great strength and goodness of his armour, and his great lightness, had not helped him. There was also an other thing that did profit him very much, which was the great fury of his temerous blows, which made the Giant to bestir himself from one part unto an other, for to clear himself from the fury of them, with more lightness than his big and great body required. So that after half an hour that the battle was begun, his unwieldy body not being able to endure any longer, waxed weak & feeble, by reason of certain wounds which he had received, out of the which issued very much blood, in so great abundance, that all the ground was stained there with. At which time the knight of the Sun considering, that if the battle should go forwards, it would not be well with Roboan: and again, for that he had him and his sons in respect of strong and valiant knights, & for such would esteem them, if that he might cause them to leave this great error the which they had maintained a long time, he there with all withdrew himself aback, and lifting up the beaver of his helm he said. Hear me a little what I will say unto thee Roboan, first before that this our battle be finished, thou shalt understand that I do esteem thee and thy sons very much, as well for the great valiantness that is in you, as also you do seem unto me to be good and courteous knights: my will and desire is, that this our battle betwixt us may cease, and that remedy be put in the curing these thy wounds, and the wounds of thy sons, in case that thou wilt leave this law Gentilica, wherewith thou hast been so much deceived, and from this day forwards not to observe nor maintain the evil and most cruel custom, as hitherto thou hast. For that if thou wilt see and behold with the eyes of thy understanding, and consider of the law in the which thou dost live, thou shalt clearly see and perceive the great error and deceit wherein thou art wrapped. Tell me I pray thee Roboan, who ought to be honoured and worshipped for God, but he alonely that created and made all things both celestial and terrestrial, and hath power over all things, for to punish the wicked, and to gratify and reward the good and just. Well then, if he alone that hath all this power, aught to be esteemed, honoured and worshipped, for God, what reason is there for to believe that the Moon is the Goddess. Thou shalt understand for her to shine and give light, hath need of the clearness and brightness of the Sun, without the which, of herself she is very dark and obscure, and cannot be seen. God created the high coloured Rubies, the green Emeralds, the blue sapphires, the white Pearls, the shining beams of the Sun, that giveth light unto the Moon, the Stars, the green trees on the earth, and her Plants, the quietness of the heavens, the roundness of the world, and the marvelous course of the celestial movings, not for that we should occupy our wits and understandings in these things: but by the great beauty and sight of them, our spirits may be moved unto the beauty and love of the creator and maker of all them, from whom like as from a fountain, proceedeth all that is fair and delectable unto the sight of man. In the mean time that the knight of the Sun was saying these words, Roboan was very attentive, taking as great pleasure, at that he said, as at his great force and strength, and looking upon himself, he saw that he was bewrayed with blood and his armour broken in many places, and his adversary not to have received any wound, but rather was more stronger and lighter than at the beginning, which was unto him apparent, either to be slain, or to lose the victory. Likewise he well understood to what end the knight of the Sun had spoken those words, which did proceed more of virtue & good will towards them, then for any fear or dread he had in the conclusion of the battle: but by reason that he saw his sons lying a long on the ground in the field, the eyes of his understanding were so blinded, that he could not see the great profit which might come unto him in leaving of his law and custom. And said unto the knight of the Sun, that he should not speak any thing more thereof unto him, for that he was determined to follow and take his fortune, whether it were good or bad, against him, or with him. And therewith they both returned again unto the battle, & for that they had somewhat breathed & rested themselves, it was then a thing worthy to be seen, the strong and terrible blows which the one stroke at the other. For as I have said, Roboan was a stout and strong giant, and sufficient of himself to destroy and kill one hundredth knights that should contend against him altogether in battle. The knight of the Sun had great desire quickly to conclude and make an end of that contension, to see what the Emperor Alicandro and the Princess Lindabrides did in the castle, who being greatly amazed at his great force and strength, could not imagine who it should be, except it were the son of Trebatio, he who had done great marnailes in his presence. And he that should at this instant have certified the fair princess, how that it was the knight of the Sun, you may well believe that he should have caused her to receive greater joy and contentment, then if they had given her all the whole world for a present, as she who should not receive so great grief, if her soul should departed from her body, as she should receive in departing from the country whereas doth remain her knight of the Sun, who did so much against Roboan, that in the end of one hour, that the battaele was begun, he fell down a long at his feet, so séeble and weak, by reason of the great quantity of blood, that he had lost, that till such time as the knight of the Sun did pull of his helm, and gave him air, he could not come again unto himself. But when that he was in his remembrance, the knight of the Sun flourishing with his sword above his head, said, with this sword will I separate thy head and body a sunder, if that thou wilt not amend thy life, and apart thyself from the law, wherein thou hast lived hitherto.  
The fear of death (said Roboan) shall not make me to do any thing that is against my honour, but thy great virtue and force, doth make me to believe that thy law and faith is better than this, the which I have hitherto maintained, in the which I do confess greatly to have erred and been deceived. And here I do promise thee in the faith of whom I am, and by the high blood from whence I do descend, never to maintain any longer this evil custom, but will esteem and worship for my God all the days of my life, him whom thou hast told me off, who universally did create all things.  
Then the knight of the Sun who was very glad and joyful for to hear him so say, did help him to arise from the ground, and embracing him with great love, they went both together unto Andricardo and Langereon, whom they found both a live and without peril, but that they were very weak and feeble, with the great quantity of blood the which they had lost: but when the sons had understood all that which had passed with their Father, God had inspired his holy spirit within them, in such sort, that they were very well content therewith, and premised him that from that day forwards, they would hold him for their Lord and very friend, and requested him to tell them, who he was, & how he was called. Unto whom he said, that they should go unto the castle and there in the presence and before his prisoners he would give them to understand. And therewith they went all four together unto the castle, and being within they mounted up unto the battelments whereas the Emperor, and fair princess, with her damsels were. And when they came unto them, the knight of the Sun pulled of his helm, and kneeled down before the Emperor & the princess that were together aparted from the rest, & with that grave & merry countenance that he was wont to have, he spoke these words. If the errors done by the knight of the Sun could move the generosity of your hearts, to come with so great wrath accompanied with so mighty a number of knights, into Grecia, for to take revengement of me alone, behold me here now under your obedience, for that with this sword strait ways you give me my reward, as my desort doth deserve, for greater force to this effect hath the great love and good will which always I bear unto you, than all the great and mighty armies, which you ordained to pass the Seas, for that to countervail them an other force equal is sufficient for to destroy them, but against the good will which always I had for to serve you, there is no force, nor perverse fortune sufficient for to oppress the same: and if hitherto my Lords, I have seemed unto you to use the contrary, for that I made resistance against your in these battles passed, it was not for to excuse me to be yours, but to withstand that the Emperor of Grecia were not wholly destroyed: and again, that they should not suffer & abide the smart, that were nothing in the fault hereof. In the mean time that the knight of the Sun was saying these words, the fair Princess did behold him as though she had been transported, or from herself with the sovereign joy and pleasure which presently she received, to see before her with so great humility, him whom she loved much more than her own self, and his fight so greatly wished & desired for. But when that the Emperor Alicandro did know the knight of the Sun, and had well understood his humble and courteous words, who could imagine or conjecture the great admiration and wonder that he received in his heart, with the variety of divers things that occupied his mind and understanding at one instant. For one way he called to remembrance, that once he thought that this knight should have been his son, and how that he gave unto him his daughter, Empire and high estate. Likewise he remembered to the contrary, how that for to be revenged on him, he left his own countries, and departed with a great number of people into Grecia whereas happened unto him all his ill fortunes and overthrows. he remembered also how that he saw him in the field against him with so great fury and fierceness, that he alone did make to quake all his great and mighty army, and how that by his rigorous arm the most principallest kings and Lords of all his host were destroyed and hewn to pieces, and now likewise he saw him upon his knees before his presence with so great humility, that more could not be done by his son Meridian, if at that present he had been there. In this sort was his mind troubled and tossed withal these thoughts, which was the occasion, that he stood and did behold him without speaking of any word a good space, till such time as coming unto himself, and remembering that he was the Mirror of all Princes and knights in the world, and as then thought him to be equal unto the eternal Gods, and that his great valour & estate would not suffer that he should continue in that sort before him, he determined to consent and to suffer with patience, all that was ordained by fortune, and to accept and receive the liberty of his imprisonment at the hands of him, who hath been the occasion of all his evil, but in especial the necessity in the which he was brought, would not give way unto any other thing, so that he went unto him, and did embrace him, and kissed his cheek, and in shedding of many tears that ran down his cheeks, he uttered these words.  
Worthy Prince and well-beloved son, I am he that alonely have erred, & most worthily doth deserve the punishment, for the great quantity of blood which I have caused to be shed of those that were without fault or blame, for I may well know and understand, that whom the Gods did make of so great magnanimity above all others in the whole world, it cannot be but Fortune must be favourable unto him and unto me the contrary, for that I will maintain against him the war and contention, yea, and besides all this, the destiny's hath been favourable unto thee, in that by thy great force and strength, we shall be set all libertis out of this prison in the which we were committed, therefore I will acknowledge the great● subjection and submission I own unto fortune, and give her thanks, that although in the one she hath been unto me contrary, yet herein hath she been favourable, in bringing you hither into my presence in this great need and necessity. Therefore I will (if you be contented therewith) return with you unto Constantinople, for to conclude an entire and everlasting friendship with the Emperor Trebatio your Father, and to do that now by peace, which I could not before conclude or finish by wars.  
Here did the knight of the Sun take great pleasure and contentment, in that the Emperor Alycandro would return into Grecia, for the which he offered to kiss his hands: but yet the joy and pleasure was much more, that the fair Princess Lyndabrides received, in that the journey should be such, that she might not so quickly departed out of the presence of the knight of the Sun. And more it is to be considered of them that in the like operations hath had experience, for to give judgement of the imagination of those two, when they saw themselves together before the Emperor Alycandro, whereas they could not manifest any part of that which they thought within their hearts. At this time approached unto them Roboan and his sons, & when they understood who they were that were their prisoners, and also the knight of the Sun, they fell down upon their knees at their feet for to kiss their hands, and craved pardon of them for all that was passed. Then the knight of the Sun said unto the Emperor: My Lord, may it please your Highness for to honour these knights, for that they do deserve it, for the great bounty and courtesy that is in them. Then did the Emperor embrace them, & caused them to arise from the ground, & offered himself to be their friend ever after, & for that he saw them sore hurt, he caused them to be cured & laid in their heads, whereas we will leave them, to declare of other things that happened in this time, & is needful in this History for the accomplishing of the Prophecies past.   

What happened unto Rosicleer after his departure out of Constantinople. Chap. 41.  
IN the beginning of the Chapter past, it was told you, how Rosicler was departed from Constantinople, as well to seek the knight of the Sun his brother, that was departed from the battle past, as also for to meet with Bramarant, for that he had great desire for to combat with him, for that he seemed to be the most strongest and mightiest Pagan that was to be found in all the Paganism. Now the History saith, that after he was gone to sea in a little ship that he found in the port, the passed storm and tempest did carry them so far, that they were in sight of the strong Island, and being discovered, the Mariners did declare unto him whose it was, and the evil custom that was there maintained. Which when he heard it did give him a great good will for to go thither, & when that he came nigh unto, the Island within a bow shoot, he saw upon the tops ●●certaine mighty rocks amongst the cliffs, a damsel which made great haste in running away, giving great shrieks and cries, and following after her two mighty, great, and deformed Giants, with great desire to overtake her, the which when he saw, with great good will for to secure her, he caused the small ship to be carried to the shore, whereas this worthy knight leapt a land, and began a foot to climb upon those rocks, with all the speed possible he could, not respecting the manifest peril that was ordained, with them whom he went to seek, but only that whereunto he was bound by justice and honour. And when that he was thus arrived, at the top of those rocks, he saw come forth from amongst those cliffs the two Gyanted, who brought betwixt them the Damsel that before he sow●, giving great shrieks and lamentations because that she was carried prisoner after that sort. These two Giants were Rubero and Acorante, the two younger sons unto Roboan, who arriving at the Island, had seen the damsel upon the top of the rocks, looking out if she could discover any ship wherein she might have saved herself. This damsel was the Queen julia, and damsel unto the Princess Lyndabrides, who for to deliver herself from the prison whether as they carried her mistress, did fall into another danger as ill, whereas all her wisdom and cunning could not deliver her, although she did divine and prophesy of the same, who when the Giants did see her, and that she seemed to be very fair and well proportioned (as of truth she was) they strait ways followed after her, and took her prisoner, and carrying her in that sort as you have heard, Rosicler did put himself before them and said.  
What is the occasion that you do carry this Damsel prisoner in this sort? Then the Giants who had not seen him before he spoke unto them, did very much behold him, and seeing him of so gallant a proportion and so well armed, the elder of the twain called Rubero went against him, and said. Thou shalt be prisoner with her, and when the time doth serve, thou shalt have 〈◊〉 answer of this thy bold demand, with the sacrifice that shall be done with both of you. And as he would have taken him in his arms, Rosicler struck him with his close fist such a blow upon the stomach, that he all to buckled the plays of steel wherewith he was armed, & without breath overthrew him backwards to the ground, whose fall was so great, that his brother Acorante thought verily he had been dead, who like a ravening Lion, giving a great shriek, went against Rosicleer, and with a great falchion that he had, he struck so strong a blow upon his shield, that he cut it clean asunder in the midst, and the falchion descended down upon his helm, and having no power against the enchantment thereof, it made him to stoop with his knees to the ground. Then Rosicler drew out his sword, which was the same of so great value, forged by the Queen julia, who was present, wherewith he made him answer, in such sort, that he clove his shield asunder that he had on his left arm, and also his thick and strong armour with the flesh, unto the hard bone. Then betwixt them two began a brave and stout battle, striking the one the other so great and furious blows, that they were heard throughout all the whole Island, in such sort, that the Emperor Alycandro and those that were with him in the high Castle of Roboan were greatly amazed, and could not imagine what it should be. After this sort their combat endured betwixt them more than a quarter of an hour, in the end whereof, the fine cutting sword of the Queen julia, being flourished by the furious arm of Rosicleer, brought the st●ut Acorante into that perplexity, that he was all bewrayed in blood with the great number of wounds that was given him on all parts, that if he had not been so stout and courageous, & of so great force, he could not have sustained himself upon his feet, the which was to the contrary in Rosicleer, that although the blows of the Giant were very strong, and caused him many times to stoop with his hands and knees to the ground, and gave him great pain and grief whereas he did fasten any blow, yet for all that, his excellent armour did assure him from wounds, and his great lightness did make him to strike many of his blows in vain. Thus in the mean time that Acorante was so feeble and saint with the loss of blood, and waxed weary, Rubeo the other brother was come unto himself again, and remembering what had passed him, and seeing the great peril whereinto his brother was now brought, with a trice he arose up from the ground, and taking his sword in his hand he began to lay upon Rosicler such great and mighty blows, (that by reason he entered in a fresh, and the other being samewhat weary) he put him into great extremity, so that all his valour and worthiness was very needful at that instant.  
Then when the Queen julia saw how that that knight did all alone combat for her against the two Giants, she strait ways called to remembrance that which many days before she had prophesied, and beholding the sword, which the knight had, she knew it to be the same which she had forged with her own hands, and then she thought all her ●raua●le to be well bestowed, having great hope that the knight should have the victory against those Giants, for that she saw him very nimble and light, and that he wounded the Giants in many places of their bodies, and all the ground was beraied with the blood that ran out of their wounds, but by reason that they were so boisterous and so stout, they so doubled their blows with so great fury upon Rosicleer, that it had been sufficient to have hewn a rock in pieces, so that in a short time they made him very faint and weary, bruising his flesh and bones, although their sword could not enter nor cut his enchanted armour. And of truth, if that this battle had endured long, he had been brought into the greatest peril that ever he saw himself in, in all his life, for that these two Giants were youngmen, and the most strongest that were to be found amongst all Giants. But yet at this instant Acorante was so weak and feeble by the loss of much blood, that he could not stand on his feet, but fell down to the ground as though he had been dead. Then he finding himself alone with Rubero, the battle was more indifferent, & the one did charge the other very strongly▪ striking whereas they thought they should do most harm, each to his adversary, but Rubero for the death of his brother was so full of wrath and ire, that he made little account of the blows that Rosicler did strike him, although his ●ine cutting sword had so sore wounded him in many parts, that his death could not be long dilated, by reason of the great quantity of blood that ran out of them.  
These Giants had certain knights which always went with them, who at this very instant came unto the same place whereas they made their battle, but yet in any manner of wise they durst not help their Lords, for that many times before they had plagued them, and given them warning, that whensoever they were in battle with equal knights, that none of them should aid or secure them, for which occasion they stood still, and were in quiet, till such time as they saw one of their Lords lie along upon the ground as though he had been dead, and the other so sore wounded, that he could not long endure, neither could they any longer refrain themselves, but all together (who were more than fifteen) all well armed, went against Rosicleer, and began to charge him with very thick and strong blows, but Rubero when he saw this did put himself before them, and cried out that they should depart and let him alone, but they would not retire, but still pressed on all that ever they could. Then he returned against them with his sword, and did so much, that against their will he made them to retire. Then would he have returned again unto the battle, but Rosicler li●t up the vizor of his hem and said.  
God forbidden that I should be overcome at thy hands more than at one time, for this which at this time thou hast used with me, hath rendered me so much, that I will put myself wholly into thy power, ●or to do with me according to thy pleasure, upon this condition, that you give unto this Damsel free and whole liberty, who was the occasion of this battle which hath been begun and continued betwixt us.  
You shall understand, that all the sons of Roboan were by nature well conditioned, and this Rubero the third son was the best of them all, who acknowledging the great vantage that Rosicler had of him (although all the knights had helped him) and how that his words which he had spoken proceeded of great virtue, he then unlaced his helm and said.  
Let not my fortune permit, that against him who hath so great vantage on me, as well in virtue as in strength, that I make any more contention or farther 〈◊〉, for that in the end both in the one and in the other, I cannot choose but needs must be overcome and lose the victory. This damsel is thine and thou hast won her, and now look what is thy pleasure to be done with us, for that all shall be accomplished as you will command. Then Rosicler did embrace him with great love, and both of them together went to help up Acorante, who was so feeble that he could not move himself, but when that they had pulled off his helm, and given him air, he began to come better unto himself, and gather some strength. Then the Queen julia with a piece of a vail which she had, bound up his wounds and staunched the blood, by virtue of a stone which she had in a ring, as one that in all things was a damsel very wise, and of great discretion. When all this was done, the Queen said unto Rosicler.  
Happy and fortunate knight, if you do well remember the condition wherewith you got this sword that you now possess, in great Britain, it was, that you should combat with two Giants together for the delivery of a Damsel. When Rosicler heard these words, being greatly amazed how she should come to the knowledge thereof, he said: I do well remember the same. Well then (said she) now may you well understand and see, how that the condition is well accomplished, for that you have had the battle with these two Giants for to deliver me that am the Queen julia, she who with her own hands did forge the sword that you now have at your girdle, having experience before, how much it should profit you in this battle for my delivery. Good Lady (said Rosicler) what fortune hath brought so wise and high a Damsel in this sort into this Country? That fortune (said the Queen) that could overthrow the mighty Alycandro from the high throne whereunto he was exalted, and bring him to be prisoner, ●oyntlie with the Princess Lyndabrides his daughter, in the power of two Giants, who carried them yesterday unto the high Castle that standeth upon yonder mountain. This is she that no force nor human wisdom is able for to deliver from the subjection of her tumbling and turning wheel. And as I came with the Princess, thinking for to escape from the prison (whether as they carried her) I ran away secretly and put myself amongst these Rocks, but yet in the end I chanced to fall into a danger no less perilous than that, out of the which I thought to have escaped. At which words Rosicler was greatly amazed and said, is it possible to be true, that the Emperor Alicandro and the Princess Lindabrides are prisoners. It is of truth said the Queen, for that two Giants did carry them unto yonder castle. Well then let us go thither out of hand, said Rosicleer, for with a very good will I will adventure my life for to ●et at liberty, so high personages. It shall not be needful said Rubero, for that those two who did carry them be our brethren, and sons unto Roboan our Father, therefore let us go strait ways thither, for by your intercession they and all those that be prisoners in the castle shall be set at liberty. Rosicler received great contentment at that which Rubero had said, and gratifying him, they all together went towards the castle, and their knights did carry Acorante in their arms, for that he was very sore wounded. And it fell out in this sort, that as those that were in the castle did hear the great noise that was made in the battle, with clittering of their armour Roboan and his sons were in their beds very sore hurt, and could not arise, but the knight of the Sun being very desirous to know what it should be, for that it seemed unto him, to be some contension or combat fought by valiant and worthy knights, he went forth of the castle, and all alone on horseback he road that way, whereas Rosicleer and the giants should come. And when that he saw them coming a far of, he strait ways understood that they should be the sons of Roboan, that came from the Sea, & brought with them some prize, but when that he came nigher unto them, he was greatly amazed to see those Giants so sore wounded, & could not imagine who should do the same, till such time as he asked of one that came foremost, with whom they had had battle, but they were all so sad and sorrowful, that they would not answer him any word, but passed forwards on without making any reckoning of him, for the which the knight of the Sun being somewhat angry, took one of them by the horse bridle, and said that he should not departed thence till such time as he had told him. Then this knight who was more proud than courteous, without speaking any word drew out his sword, and struck the knight of the Sun a mighty blow upon his helm, thinking therewith to have parted his head in two pieces, but it had been much better for him not to have begun that contention with him whom he did not know, and to have answered him to his demand, it would have hindered him nothing at all. But the knight of the Sun being very angry at his great villainy, struck him such a blow with his armed fi●t upon his armed head, that he buckled his helm to his skull, that his brains flew out, and he fell from his horse dead unto the ground, so that it cost him his life, because he would not speak, but use villainy. And the rest which were of his company when they saw their companion thus overthrown, strait ways began to make contention with the knight of the Sun, in drawing out their sword, and charging him with their blows on every side, but before that they could fall in the reckoning of the great error the which they had committed, the most part of them were slain and overthrown to the ground, and not one of them had remained alive, if that at this instant had not come Rosicleer, who was behind all the rest, who when he saw the great slaughter that the Knight of the Sun had done in so short a time, he was greatly amazed, and for that he could not know who he was, and was very desirous to prove himself with him, for to be revenged for the death of those knights, he caused the other for to apart themselves, and with his sword in his hand he assaulted him, charging him with those strong and heavy blows which he was wont to use, and the knight of the Sun not knowing him, but believing within himself that he had been one of the company of the other knights of the Giants, did receive him after such manner, that in a short space the wrath and anger both of the one & the other was greatly increased, & as mortal enemies they laid the one upon the other, making so great a noise, that it seemed all the whole Island would have sunk, where at the Emperor Alicandro and the princess Lindabrides did put themselves at the windows of the castle, and were greatle amazed when that they saw the battle between the two knights, not knowing who he should be of so great ●orce and strength, that could endure so long the blows of the knight of the Sun: a good half hour in this sort they endured, charging one the other with their thick blows, and had no time to breath themselves, and seemed to be all in burning ●ier, with the great quantity of sparks that flew out of their armour. Either of them were greatly amazed at the great force and strength of his adversary, as they who never had seen themselves in so terrible and furious battle, for that, although they did combat together in the great court of Constantinople, at that time they had not their force and strength so perfect, neither were they so big grown in parsonage.  
And now if it were not for that neither of them would seem to be the first, they would both have withdrawn themselves, for to have known each others contrary, before they would have proceeded in executing their furious battle: but this point of honour was the occasion that they would not withdraw themselves, but procured to overpress each his adversary, all that ever he could, with their mighty and furious blows. Amongst a great number that was struck Rosicler se●led one blow at the knight of the Sun with his sword in both his hands overthwart his helm, that it deprived him of all his senses, that he was as one dead, till such time as he redoubled an other blow on him, whose force was of such strength and might, that it made him to come again unto himself, so amazed, that he knew not where he was.  
Then he forthwith settled himself firmly in his Saddel, very furious & full of courage, he gave him his payment in such sort, that Rosicleer in all his life before received not so mighty and terrible a blow, except it were that the which concluded their contencio●s battle in Grecia. His nose gushed out with blood, and he fell forwards upon the pommel of his saddle, and his arms hanging down as though he had been dead, and his horse turned round about twice in the field with him, in which time the knight of the Sun would not strike him, till such time as he was come again unto himself. Rosicler called upon God for his aid & succour, as he who found himself in so great extremity, that he thought it unpossible to escape from death, if he should receive such an other blow, equal unto that he had received. He then settled himself again in his saddle, and prepared himself, to be revenged on his adversary, and did abide his coming with his sword in his hand, with terrible & furious semblant. In the mean time whilst they were recovering of more fury and courage for to charge the one the other, it so fell out that the Queen julia being very desirous to know who those knights should be, that seemed unto her to be the most biggest of proportion and most valiantest that ever she had seen in all her life, took out a little quadrangel, (the which continually she carried in her bosom wherewith she did use to make her cuniurations) and thereby she found that these knights should be both sons unto the Emperor Trebatio, and being certified hereof, with a trice she went unto them, and at such time as with furious courage they began to strike the one the other, she put herself betwixt them saying: I do most heartily request you sir knights, that you would stay your fury a little, and to grant unto me a boon the which I will crave at your hands, for as it will be unto me great joy and pleasure, so will it be unto you profitable.  
Then they who were endued with no less virtue than force and valour, withdrew themselves a part, and said, that either of them for their parts, did grant her request. Well then said the Queen, seeing that you have granted me my request, here I do demand of you, that first before you do return any more unto the combat, that either of you do pull of your helm, for that I am desirous to know who you are before you proceed any further. She had not so soon spoken these words, but these knights without any longer tarrying did unlace their healmes, and pulled them of, being greatly amazed at that boon, which she demanded. But when their healmes were off, and they knew themselves to be brethren, it could not be imagined the great and unlooked for joy and pleasure that they received. For in place of their mortal blows which they had given before, they embraced the one the other, as they which did love the one the other exceedingly. And giving great thanks unto the Queen for that which she had done, they declared the one unto the other the whole discourse what had happened unto either of them.  
Then the knight of the Sun spoke unto the two brethren Rubero and Acorante, and told them of all that had happened, who were not a little amazed, to hear how that their Father and brethren were overcome by that alone knight, and as a thing impossible they would not believe it: then they went all together unto the castle, whereas they were well received by the Emperor Alicandro, and the Princess Lindabrides, when they knew that that was Rosicler, brother unto the knight of the Sun, they could not satisfy their eyes in beholding of them, seeming that nature did very much strain herself in the forming of these two brethren. After a while that they had passed away the time in treating of many things, they sat down and did ease themselves, and determined to stay there till the next day, whereas they were very well 〈◊〉 of the wife of Roboan, who was Lady (of the giants nation) very honourable, and never took pleasure and contentment of the evil custom that was maintained in that Island, by her husband and sons. The Queen julia did cure the wounds of them that were hurt; as one that was experimented and knew more in that art then any other. So they s●ept and took their rest all that night in the castle: but the knight of the Sun, was not very much in quiet, for that with the presence of the fair and beautiful princess Lyndabrides as also the remembrance of the royal princes Claridiana, his mind was so troubled, that he thought there was the greatest contention that might be imagined with in his breast.  
And again, for to declare the profound thoughts with their varieties which the fair princess was troubled with, it may be equal in numbering the sands of the sea, and for that her remedy draweth now at hand, the history concludeth this Chapter.   

How the Emperor Alicandro & his company departed from the strong Island unto the Grecian Empire, and of a strong battle that the knight of the Sun and Rosicleer had with two knights at the Sea, and how they were parted, & after went together to Constantinople. Chap. 42.  
THE next day after that the Emperor Alicandro was taken prisoner, they all made themselves in a readiness for to departed towards Grecia, the which being done, they all together entered unto Roboan and his sons for to take their leave of them, who lay in a great quadran, every one by himself, in very fair beds. Then he, (who received great sorrow for that they would departed so quickly) requested them to hear certain matter that he had for to say and tell them. Who being attendant, held their peace, and he said. My Lords, it is notorious unto all people, how long time here, I, my sons, and forefathers, have lived in this law which hitherto I have kept, and the evil custom which always we have maintained. It hath now pleased God (and as I believe for a farther benefit unto us) that this happy and fortunate knight of the Sun as came and arrived at this Island. In the which he did not only overcome by force of arms, myself and two of my sons, but also by the ●orce of his surmounted virtue doth bind us, from this day forwards for to accept and serve him, as our proper and natural Lord, jointly with Rosicleer his brother, unto whom hath fallen part of this victory. At such time as I saw myself mortal in the battle, and that by no means I could not escape, but be either slain or overcome, I did promise at that time, that which now I do a new confirm, and will perform, which is, that I and my sons do here promise and vow before your high personages (for that none of us hereafter shall fly from the same) for to leave this law Gentilica, in the which we have lived hitherto, blind and deceived, and also the evil and cruel custom the which hitherto we have maintained, and of our proper and free good will, become christians, and believe in that true God maker of all things, in whom the knight of the Sun doth believe, in the which law I do promise to believe, so long as my life shall last.  
When that Roboan had concluded these words, strait ways his sons did promise to perform the same. Then the knight of the Sun and Rosicleer being very glad and joyful for the same, did gratify them very much, and did promise unto them that so soon as God did send them into Grecia for to send unto them Preachers and Ministers for to instruct and teach them in the law, and minister unto them the holy Baptism, the which every good Christian is bound to take.  
Passing betwixt them these and many other things, they all of them took their leave of Roboan & his sons, and of the Lady Giantess, who received no small grief of their departure, and yet afterward it grieved her much more, for that there passed not many years, there came unto that Island a Pagan, a young man, who all alone did put them in great extremity, in such sort that they were driven of necessity for to send unto the good knight of the Sun, (who never failed to help the distressed) to crave of him favour and help. As shallbe ●ould you more at large in the second part of this history, whereas shallbe made manifest, the immortal acts and deeds of this knight.  
When they came unto the Sea side, they all embarked themselves in a ship that was there made ready, and having the wind prosperous, they hoist out their sails and began to navigate towards Grecia. And here you may well believe, that the fair princess Lindabrides did not think long this navigatorie, although it had been more longer than that of the Greek Ulysses: for that she did there wholly recreate herself in the sight and sweet conversation of the knight of though Sun. Yet for all that she feared very much (at the coming to Constantinople) the presence of the princess Claridiana, with the which she should be clean wiped out of the heart of her knight. So navigating in this sort, the next day in the morning, two hours before day, it chanced that by their ship there passed an other ship hard aboard, in the which was certain knights, & one of them, who seemed to be of a very big stature and members, and being above hatches, and the ships joining very nigh together, commanded to cast out his grapple into the other ship, because we should not departed till such time as they had demanded what it should be, and who was there within. Then he asked of a knight that was the Emperor Alicandros, if that he could tell him any news of the Emperor Alicandro, and of his daughter the fair princess Lindabrides, or of any damsel of hers. Ah sir, yes said the knight, for they are in this ship, & certain Greek knights doth carry them unto Grecia. At which words this big knight and an other, made no longer tarrying, but leapt into their ship with their swords drawn in their hands, & strait ways met with the knight of the Sun and Rosicleer, who when they understood of the grappling of their ships, lase on their helms, and went forth to see what it should be, and when they saw the great haste that the two knights made to enter, with their sword in their hands, they strait ways drew out their sword and put themselves before him, and said: What is it that you would have (Si● knights) that you make so great haste to enter? We would said one of them, that out of hand you do deliver unto us the prize that you have in your ship. That shall you not have, nor carry with you, said the knight of the Sun, for that we have it in great price and estimation. In this sort it shall be full dear unto you, answered one of the other knights, and strait ways without any more speaking, they began to strike at the two brethren, each of them a blow upon their helms, that caused either of them for to sto●pe with their knees to the ground, and made them very well to understand that they were knights of estimation and prowess, but yet things did not fall out on their part as they thought, for that they, as those that in all the whole world were without comparison, gave them their answer in such sort, that they were forced to step backwards three paces, to sustain themselves from falling, and were wonderfully amazed at the great force and strength of their adversaries, so that then betwixt them began the battle to be well fought with charging each other with mighty blows, that it was a very strange thing to behold, and with the noise of their mighty and timorous blows, it seemed that those long and wide seas did sound of them, much like unto the forced waves, being driven by tempest into the hollow caves of the rocks. And by reason that it was before the break of the day (being at such time as there is silence with all things) the mighty noise of their terrible blows seemed more great and timorous. Neither at that time had they need of any Torches, or of the clearness of Diana for to make their combat, for that the innumerable sparks of fire the which flew out of their fine armour, gave such exceeding great light and clearness, that if there had been ten knights, they might have seen to have fought by the brightness thereof.  
All the which battle and contention did the Emperor Alycandro and the fair Princess Lindabrides behold, with all her damsels; amongst whom was the fair ●loralindia, daughter unto the king of Macedonia, who were all greatly amazed, and could not imagine who those worthy knights should be, that against the knight of th● Sun and his brother could make so great resistance. Thus after one whole hour that the battle was begun, those two brethren, the sons of Trebatio were half ashamed that their adversaries should so long endure before them, which caused them to wax very furious and wrathful, and to redouble their blows in such sort, that I believe there was no strength nor fineness of Diamond that was able to resist their terrible blows, and their adversaries feeling the force of them were greatly amazed, and it seemed that their vigour and strength was increased half so much more as it was at the beginning of the battle, for that they never struck blow, if it chanced aright, but it made them to stoop both with their hands and knees unto the ground; and gave them no spate for to breathe themselves, so that they were put in the most greatest travail that ever they were in all their lives, but yet these knights were such, that first they would consent to be hewed and cut all to pieces, before they would yield, and if their adversaries had not been the mirror of all the world, they should have had enough to do to have escaped out of their hands, and although they seemed to be weary, yet was it in such sort, that they could not judge or discern any point of weakness in them, but rather made hearts of their guts, and so charged their adversaries, that many times they were in doubt of the victory, and it had been a battle very long and well fought, but that at this instant the day did break, and as the clearness came on, the Emperor Alycandro and the Princess Lyndabrides and Floralindia did know those two knights by their armour, who were Meridian and Brandimardo, the which being known, with a trice they went and put themselves betwixt them, saying. Worthy and valiant knights, let this ●our rigorous battle cease, for that there is no reason that it should proceed any farther. Then those knights when that they saw 〈…〉 betwixt them, did strait ways withdraw themselves, and made unto them great reverence. The Emperor strait ways went and embraced Meridian and Brandimardo, naming them by their names, the which the knight of the Sun and Rosicleer hearing, they pulled off their helms, and with great joy and pleasure went and embraced those two knights, for the love was great that they bore unto him, the one for that he was brother unto the Princess Lyndabrides, and the other for that which he did when that he took the battle for Rosicleer with Bramarant, and besides all this, for their great valour and bounty they were to be esteemed amongst all in the world. But when that these two understood with whom they had made their battle, it was no small joy and pleasure that they received, for that they desired very much their friendship, after such time as in the wilderness of Grecia, they saw the one to kill the Gran Campion, and the other did combat for them twain with Bramarant, but more was their joy when that they understood what they had done in the delivery of the Emperor out of prison, with the Ladies and all their damsels from the power of Roboan and his sons, they knew not how to gratify that great goodness, but offered themselves to be their friends, and craved pardon of all that was passed. And when they understood that the Emperor of his own good will went unto Grecia, for to conclude a league of friendship with the mighty Emperor ●rebatio, these two valiant knights were exceeding glad and joyful, for that they had a most earnest desire to he in that Court.  
Thus after there had passed betwixt them many things, their joy and pleasure was such, that it seemed to make void the remembrance of all troubles and adversities past, and so did prosecute their voyage ●owardes Constantinople. The Prince Meridian was more joyful than the rest, and received greater contentment for that he had with him his well-beloved spouse the Princess Floralindia, and again, for that he went towards Grecia, whereas was the king of Macedonia forth unto the Princess, with whom he hoped to make friendship, in such sort, that he might have her to wife, which was the thing that the Princess most desired. After this sort they did navigate by sea four days with prosperous winds, in the end whereof they arrived at Grecia in the mighty port of Constantinople, whereas strait ways they gave to understand unto the Emperor Trebatio of their arrival. With which news, he and all those of his Court were exceeding joyful, for that they lacked no other thing entirely for to celebrate the triumph of that victory which they had got.  
Then straightways the Emperor Trebatio being accompanied with those mighty kings and Princes, and worthy knights that were with him, went forth of Constantinople for to receive them at the port, and the quantity of people was so great that went forth with them, that all those wide and broad fields and mountains seemed to be peopled with them, and although the dead bodies by the commandment of the Emperor were burnt, yet for all that, all those f●eldes and plains were stained with the blood that was there shed. When the Emperor Trebatio with all that royal and worthy company came unto the Port, strait ways the Emperor Alycandro and all those that came with him, went a land, whereas their receiving was as unto such personages did appertain, but in especial with those two Emperors, for in a great space they were embraced together, and did not lose the one from the other, in which time there passed betwixt them many words of singular great love, as though they had been always before great friends, and the Emperor Trebatio did give him great thanks, gratifying him for his coming into Grecia, offering him great offers by word of mouth, in such sort, that the Emperor Alycandro thought himself fully satisfied, & received more pleasure at that return, than he did at his first coming into that Country. Then straightways the Emperor ●rebatio received with great courteous the two Princes, Meridian & Brandimardo, & did embrace them with as much love as he did his own sons that came with them. For you shall understand, that he was a Prince, that in all the world could not be found his equal, in maintaining & honouring of good and valiant knights, which was the occasion, that whatsoever knight he was that once came into his company, could never find himself in any other place, but only in his Court. Then he received the fair Princess Lyndabrides, in doing unto her great courtesy and honour, as unto the highest damsel in all the whole world, and unto one that did deserve it. But when the king of Mae●donia did see the fair Princess 〈◊〉 his daughter, and the Prince M●rridian to demand his hands for to kiss them, there was no ●oy and pleasure that might happen unto a Father, to be compared unto ●is, and he went and embraced them, keeping them betwixt his arms a great while before that he would let them lose. Thus af●er one whole hour that there had 〈◊〉 betwixt them many 〈◊〉 at their meeting, they all together with 〈◊〉 triumph took their way towards the City of 〈◊〉. And it was a wonderful thing to behold, and worthy to be noted, to see so noble and worthy knights to accompany them, that it might well be said, that there was never seen so high and worthy a company joined together.  
Likewise at this present it was needful of a better Painter than ever was Appelles, or that worthy Pirgotiles, for to paint and set forth the fair and rubicend face of the Princess Lynd●brides, by reason of the differences of variety of colours which went and came, at such time as she remembered how that the Princess Claridiana should receive her in the Palace of the Emperor Trebatio, and also of that which the knight of the Sun would conceive in his heart when he saw the same, the which thoughts did make her to go in so great confusion, as to your judgement I do refer it, her love was so great the which she bore unto him, that she could not be without great iuspition of alteration, when that she considered of the great worthiness and desert of the Princess Claridiana. So that the whole world was nothing in comparison, that she would give, on condition that the knight of the Sun might never see the Princess. If she were sure thereof, then were she fully certified that the knight of the Sun would not change her for any other Lady or damsel in all the whole world. When they were entered into the City, and came unto the palace, those worthy Princes and knights did descend from their horses those fair Ladies and damsels, and being mounted into the great hall, the Empress Briana with the Princess Claridiana, and the Princess Olivia and Lindaraza, with all the rest of those high and worthy Ladies & Gentlewomen that were with them, came forth and did receive them with that honour that was requisite unto so high and mighty personages. And the Emperor Alycandro, with Meridian and Brandimardo, marveled greatly to see the sovereign beauty that was there assembled together, which seemed unto them, as it was true, that in all the whole world could not the like be seen, but when the fair Princess Lyndabrides went to embrace the royal Princess Claridiana, Good Lord how her heart was troubled, to see in her rubicond face, all the beauty in the world to be comprehended, and also how that her knight of the Sun had his eyes fixed on her. At that instant she thought verily her soul would have departed from her body, & almost she could not go forwards, neither scarce speak a word she was in such a trance. The which was all contrary in the Princess Claridiana, for as she was sure of the love of the knight of the Sun, ●o did she show herself very merry and content, and gave the princess to understand that she received great joy at her coming thither.  
Likewise with no less joy and loving embracings did the fair Princess Olivia receive her well-beloved Rosicleer, as though they had not seen themselves together in one whole year. Then the Empress Briana took by the hands the two Ladies Lindabrides and Floralindia, & having done their salutations the one unto the other, they altogether entered into a very fair and great quadran, whereas the Empress and all those Ladies and damsels did sit down in a place by themselves, and the two Emperors with all those worthy Princes & knights on the other part by themselves, whereas they passed away the time in gallant and pleasant conversation, till such time as it was time to go to dinner, and sitting down, they were served very highly & suniptuouslie, as in the palace o● so mighty a Prince was requisite, and in the mean time that they were at dinner, there was he●rd no other thing but the sweet noise of many instruments, and in all the whole City was there so great triumph and pastimes, that it se●med at that instant the Greeks' did celebrate the victory of their wone battles.   

How Rosicleer and Lyri●mandro at the commandment of the Emperor Trebatio went into ●ungar●a, to m●ke themselves known unto the king, and to give him to understand of all that had passed in Grecia. Chapter. 21.  
WHen the next day was come, and the Emperor saw his Court of so great sonera●gntie, as never was the like seen by Prince in all the whole world, he thought that there lacked nothing 〈◊〉 for to rejoice the victory of their triumphant battles won, but only the presence of the king of 〈◊〉, Father unto the Empress Briana, his loving and well-beloved wife, and for to entreat with him of that concord and friendship as aught to be between Father and son in law, and also that he might see the great magnisicence and high throne, into the which Fortune (governed by the will of God) hath mounted him unto, so that if he did see that his Court in so great abundance of riches, and adorned with so sovereign Princes and knights, he would think himself very well contented and satisfied of the change that was made for the Prince of great Britain, and also that he might recreate himself in that joy and glory which should proceed of the sight and acknowledging of his worthy newness, by the which he should receive great contentment, and account himself to be the most happiest & fortunate Prince in all the whole world. And having this in his mind, he strait ways went unto the empress 〈◊〉, for to communicate with her about the same, who was in the same determination and care, as she that desired no other thing but to see her Father present, for that he might be partaker of h●r great triumph and glory. Thus being both of one mind and determination, they strait ways gave their valiant and worthy sons to understand thereof, betwixt whom there strait ways grew a great contention, which of them two should be the messenger. The knight of the Sun said, that in times past (without knowing any kindred to be betwixt them) he did him a great grief & anger, & that now he would make a recompense for the same, in carrying him this message. And Rosicler said, that he was nourished and brought up in the Monastery of the ●iuer, & how that there remaineth his feigned parents Leonardo and his wife, whom he thought to have been his natural father & mother, and had great desire to see them, and to recompense them the great benefit that he ought them, & more he said, how that Lyriamandro was so much his friend, that he left his Father for his love, for the which his perfect friendship will not consent, but that he must bear the Prince company, for to give him that great joy and contentment which he shall receive at the seeing of him, seeing that by his occasion he hath been so long without his company. The contention was so great betwixt these two brethren, which of them should go upon this message, that in the conclusion they should go both of them together, if that the Emperor Trebatio had not stayed them, in saying that it did not seem well that in the time of great joy and pastimes, accompanied with so many strange and worthy knights in this Court, they should both be lacking, or at least ways one of them.  
In conclusion, seeming unto 〈◊〉 that Rosicler had greatest reason for to go and acknowledge the king his graunfather, for that he had never seen him, they were content that he should go on the message, and that the knight of the Sun should remain in the Court, for that he should have time enough to be known of the king, and that he was fully satisfied of his great beauty.  
These two knights were such and of so great obedience, that they had no other delight but to give contentment unto their parents, so that Rosicler prepared himself for the voyage. But first he went unto his very friend Liriamandro, and told unto him all that the Emperor his Father had ordained, who received great pleasure thereat, as he that had great desire for to see the king his Father, whereby he m●ght acknowledge his nephews, and understand of the good and happy fortune of the Empress his sister, who above all the Ladies in the whole world is most exalted, & therewith he embraced Rosicler very much, and was very glad of that which was determined, and strait ways they both together went and did take their leave of the Emperor and of the Empress, who did recomend them unto G●d, and gave them great charge, that their return with the king might be short, for that till their return they should not receive any joy or contentment. So having taken 〈◊〉 leave for to departed, such as did love him, as the king Sicrido●o, and the valiant Ta●ta●o, with Bargandel, were very desirous for to bear them company, as his perfect and good friends, came unto him and offered their service. But Rosicleer whole desire was for to go that journey alone, with courteous words did gratify their good will, and desired them to pardon him, at that instant, for that by the help of almighty God, his return should be very shortly. And there with these two worthy princes with alonely two Squires, departed out of the mighty City of Constanti●op●e, and having passed through all the whole Empire of 〈◊〉, that came unto Danubia, the which descendeth from Hungaria. (And when they should pass the mighty bridge wherea● th● knight of the Sun was taken prisoner by the parents and friends of Florinaldus they were strangely amazed to see the great and mighty edifices of the Castle that ●eemed we●e burned and destroyed▪ and such relics as remained, as pieces of towers and wall●s with their foundations, did put great admiration in all them that passed thate way, and being ve●ie desirous to kno●e what was the occasion of so great destruction, they stayed and procured ●o see if they could fi●de any 〈…〉 that could give them relation thereof, and by craunce they found certain men that did dwell in the s●me place, who declared unto them the whole circumstance of that which the knight of the Sun had there done, from the first contention that he had with Flo●●naldos, till after he was cl●●re out of prison whereas he was, and how the Castle with all the towers were destroyed, and left in that order as they ●aw it, the which when they understood, without lacking any part thereof, they were wonderfully amazed, as well a● the strange buildings which seemed to ha●e 〈…〉 at the valiant and worthy 〈◊〉 of the knight of the Sun, and they who had seen by experience many of his wonderful deeds, said that with great reason they ought to put in oblivion the acts done by the ancient and f●m●us knights, of whose worthy deeds the world doth resound, for that the knight of the Sun was such a one, that not one of them might be compared unto him. In this sort, when they had heard the whole discourse of their desire, being very glad and joyful thereof, they gave great thanks unto him who had made it manifest unto them, and departed from thence, and having understanding how that the king was in a ●itie called Viana, which was upon Danubia, they took their journey along the river upwards, towards the said City, and having travailed many days thetherwards, in the end they came within three miles of the mighty City, about the hour of one of the clock in the after noon, at which time the great heat of the Sun unto such as do travail is most troublesome, and being troubled with the great heat, these two knights determined to put themselves out of the high way, and to enter into a very fair and fresh Orchard that was there at hand, and there to rest and recreate themselves till the force of the heat were passed, and looking towards the City, they saw coming towards them a damsel mounted upon a Pal●●aie, with so great speed as her palsraie could run, and as one that made haste to accomplish some great necessity. And seeing her to come with so great haste, they were very desirous to know the occasion thereof, which made them for to stay until her coming thither, and drawing more ●gher unto them, they ●awe that the wept and made great lamentation, in such sort, that she was all wet with tears. But when she saw the two knights, she began to weep more pitifully, and to lift up her lamentable voice, saying after this sort.  
Oh justice of God, how do you permit that so great treason be done v●to so high a damsel as she is, & that there is not a knight in all the world that will defend her justice and quarrel? Th●se two knights when they heard these words were more desirous than before, to understand the effect thereof, and put themselves before the damsel, and staying her ha●●ie journey, one of them said: Damsel, we pray you to let 〈◊〉 a while this your complaint and weeping, and declare unto us the occasion of this your great sorrow, for that we are knights that with a very good will, will offer our persons to put remedy therein, if it be a thing that with reason and with our honours we may perform. Then the Damsel when she heard those courteous words did very much behold them, and saw that they were knights very strongly and richly armed, and of a gallant and stout proportion, she conjectured that they should be knights of great bounty, and strangers in that Country, for that at any time she had not seen in the Court of the king, 〈◊〉 of so gallant and warlike disposition, and having more hope than she brought with her, she answered them 〈◊〉 said.  
Sir knights, a heavy thing it is that you do demand of me, to cause me now for to stay, and declare unto you the dolorous care that I have within me, the which only for to express, will cause my grief to renew and increase, and I do believe that there is no heart so hard, but of my sorrow will take great compassion. But for that you have used unto me so great courtesy in your words, and again the good disposition of your persons, do give me to understand that my labour shall not be in vain, for to give you to understand of the greatest treason that ever you have heard of, the which was done unto a fair Damsel of high estate, and is the occasion of all this my sorrow. You shall understand sir knights, that in the court of the king T●berio of Hungaria, who is at this instant in the city of Viana, the Queen Augusta, wife unto the king Tiberio, ●ath in her company many Ladies and gentlewomen of great beauty and high estate, of all the principallest of Germania, amongst whom, there was one, who as well in beauty as in riches and estate, did pass and surmount all the rest, and is the Duchess of Austria, called the fair Polisena, for that her great beauty and faireness●e (as they say) is equal unto that, that was of the daughter of P●●a●o. When this damsel came unto the age of twelve years, her father died, and for that she was so young and tender of age, (although heir unto that high estate) the Queen Augusta did take her into her company, and it is now full four years since her first coming into the court. In which time as she increased as well in beauty as in years, many worthy knights of high estate and renown that saw her, did procure by all means possible, for to marry with her, amongst whom there was none that she could fancy or bear any good will, or perfect love unto, but the gallant Lusiano, prince of Su●uia, who was the gallantest proportioned and stoutest knight, that at this present is to be found in all the provinces of Germania. It is now more than three years since this Prince did begin to love and serve her, in which time, for her sake, he did many valiant deeds worthy to be put in memory. Likewise the fair Polisena being no less overcome & vanquished with his love, did not love him with any other entension but to marry with him, thinking that with no other knight she might better match herself then with him, so that these two, were very conformable together in their wills and desires, as I who was a third person betwixt them, do know and am a witness to the same, and also do justify, that betwixt a knight and a lady, there was never so perfect love, as was betwixt these two, or that more entirely did love the one the other. And yet not being satisfied nor well content with this, but the more to be in security the one of the other, I was as a mean betwixt them, that this Lusiano should come on a night appointed unto a window that had a grate of Iron, out of the chamber of the said duchess, whereas he should find her, & there the one unto the other to assure the bands of Matrimony by word and promise betwixt them, in such sort, that from that day forwards they might live in more security. It fell out that all was done as it was agreed, that this gentle Lusiano in a dark night came unto the windo whereas he found his fair Polisena, and betwixt them was concluded the bands of Matrimony by word of mouth, in my presence, and in the presence of an other damsel of the Duchess, (who I do believe is not clear of this treason that I will tell you.) This being done, the duchess for that she would not that they should be discovered or spied, did desire the gentle Lusiano that he would strait ways departed, and she likewise did withdraw herself and caused the window to be shoot: and being very fearful that it should be discovered unto the Queen, she never after durst speak unto her knight, neither be with him in company in any suspicious place, as one that was fully persuaded of the love to be perfect that was between them, in this sort all things did prosper very well between these two lovers, but yet their love was not so perfect, as their fortune was contrary; to apart them from the joy and glory that they hoped to be betwixt them. For that (Sir knights) you shall understand, that little more than half a year past, there came unto the court of the king Tiberio, the Duke of Saxonia called Roberto the mighty, for that he was so big of his body, that he lacked but a little to be as big as a giant, and of so great force & strength, that there was not a knight to be found, that man for man durst enter with him in battle, but alonely this gentle Lusiano, who feared not the bigness of his body, neither his great fame. At such time as this Duke Roberto came unto the court, the king gave him good entertainment, and did him great honour, as well for that he was of high estate, as for the great fame the which he had. This Duke so soon as he had seen the fair Polisena, was so far in love with her, that strait ways he thought to have her unto wife, which was the occasion that strait ways he laboured all that ever he could to bring his determination to effect. But she that nothing did more abhor and hate, (as well for the love which she bore unto Lusiano) as for the boisterous and braveness of his person, for that he had a fierce face, and terrible countenance, by no means she could not abide him, but did refuse his offer, and many times she said unto him in my presence, that he should not come any more before her, for that his presence should be grievous unto her, yet for all that would he not give over his suit, but still did contend to importune her, in such sort, that she was determined for to give the King to understand thereof, if that I had not persuaded her to the contrary.  
Then the Duke Roberto, seeing that nothing whatsoever he did profited any whit for the obtaining his purpose and desire, determined to seek some other means, how and which way he might make the Duchess for to do by force that which now she would not of her good will. I promise you I know not, neither can I imagine how and which way the devil did help him, for to cause three knights of the court of the king, for to suffer themselves and be 〈◊〉, such as were in bounty of arms, as also of good credit 〈◊〉 their persons, have not their equals to be found in all the land, that I promise you the king would put them in trust with all his riches, he and all people had such con●iden●e in them.  
The one is called Ricardo, and Duke of Barbaria, the other Anibardo, Lord of the Albios, and the third, Carmelio, Lord of Marehomandia, all three subjects unto the king Tiberio, and nourished and brought up in his court from the time of their tender age. Then Duke Roberto having these knights on his part, watched his time, and went before the king at such time as the Queen was present, and made a great complaint unto them saying, that of long time he loved with true and perfect love, the Duchess of Austria, and how that by the good will and consent of them both, they were made sure together, so that he was her husband and she his wife. But now since the conclusion of this matrimony, the Duchess doth deny it again, and hath sworn never to marry with him, not knowing wherefore she should be thus angry with him, to deny that which she before hath promised, requesting him as his king and sovereign Lord, to do him justice therein, and to command the Duchess to perform the matrimony the which she promised unto him, and to deliver her into his power, for that she was his natural wife. The king received no content, but was very sorry at this embassage of the Duke, for that the king had better good will to marry her unto the gentle Lusia●o, then unto him, but because he loved justice, and was a very good Christian, he strait ways commanded to come before him the fair Polisena, and asked of her if it were true which the Duke had said. Then she who understood the devilish intent of the Duke, was so amazed, that for a good space she could not speak a word, (whereat the king and the queen had great suspicion) but when that she came unto herself, with great anger she said unto the Duke, that he lied in all that he had said, and how that there never passed any such thing by word nor in thought. At which answer the Duke was very angry & furious, whi●● was the occasion that the king commanded the fair ●olisena for ●o depart, 〈…〉, the Duke strait ways presented before the king, the three knights before rehearsed, who swore in the presence of the King, that Duke Roberto and the fair Polisena were made sure together, in so ample manner, as man and wife ought to be, and how that over and above all this, they had been together: and that it was of a truth, for that they were present thereat, in a garden that is next adjoining unto the lodging of the Dutches. Ah lamentable case and a thing never the like before heard off, that so great falsehood should be found in the mouths of such three knights, whose credit is so great with the king, that he doth believe th●● more and better than if all the knights in his court had spoken and sworn it. And as a thing verified to be most true, the King commanded the Queen that strait ways she should deliver unto the Duke the fair Polisena, for that she had chosen him to be her husband. Now sir knights I pray you judge what the gentle Lusiano might feel in his heart, who found himself present at all that passed, and had more con●●dence in the love and loyalty of the Duchess, then of the credit, of those knights, & with great pain did suffer that reproach for that he would not discover the secret between them. But when that he understood that which the king had commanded▪ he as then could not suffer it any longer, but put himself before the king and said. Lord and sovereign, here I do say that all which the Duke Roberto and these knights hath said against the Duchess of Austria is the greatest treason and falsehood that ever was said or invented: For that that she is my legitimate spouse, and she never gave her faith neither her love unto any other knight (in all her life) but unto me, and this will I prove upon the Duke, or upon any of these three knights. This Prince had ●●arce concluded these words, when that the Duke and these three knights, laid hand upon their swords against him, and he did the like against them, so that there had been done great harm, if that the king had not put himself betwixt them, and parted them● & commanded that either of them should keep his house and not to come abroad. Then the king being very desirous to know whether it were true or not, which the Prince Lusiano had said, commanded that the Duchess should be brought before him, and asked her if that the Prince Lusiano were her husband or not? Then she seeing that it was not at that time to keep it in silence, said that it was true, that he was her spouse and none other. When the king understood that, he commanded that the Duchess should be put prisoner in a strong tower, believing verily that she had made herself sure and given her word unto both of them, and the great good will which she bore unto Lusiano, was the occasion that she did falsify and deny that which she had promised unto the Duke Rober●o, and for that he would clear this doubt by justice, he gave strait ways sentence, that the Duke and the three knights that were his witnesses should maintain and defend that which they had spoken and sworn, and that Lusiano and the Duchess should in the space of one month bring knights, such that upon their just quarrel should take and make combat with them, in this sort, that if those which are of the Duke's party do get the victory, that then the Duchess should be his, and strait ways to be delivered unto him, and to the contrary, if the Prince and ●is knights do get the victory, that then the beautiful and fair Polisena should be his, the which sentence being declared unto them, they were all consent therewith, for that the Duke thought that in all the whole world there were not to be found four knights, that against him and his companions were able to wage battle. And Lusiano hoping in his justice as much as in his strength, presupposed the victory to be on his part, but alas Fortune hath fallen out clean contrary unto his expectation, for that this is the last day of the month, and in all this time he could never find any knight that durst take his part in the battle, one way, for that the other four knights were commended to be so strong and valiant, and féared of all others, and other ways, for that they thought of a truth, that the Duke Roberto had reason, for that it was verified and affirmed by three knights of so great credit, so that now the Prince seeing himself all alone, is determined all alone to go forth unto th● battle this day against those four knights, for that first he will suffer himself to be slain, rather than to see the fair Polisena delivered into the power of the Duke, so that this evening the battle shall be tried, the which cannot otherwise be, but that the gentle Lusiano must be slain, whose death unto all people will be very grievous, and he shall not be so soon slain, when that the Duchess will kill herself with her own hands, for so she is determined to do, if that in the mean time God doth not ordain some remedy for the same. This is the occasion (gentle knights) of all this my great sorrow, which causeth me to come forth into these fields and high ways, making my cries unto the heavens, and because I do know the truth hereof better than any other, I cannot suffer to abide in the City, to see before my eyes slain such two persons by a treason so manifest & evil, but come to see if that in this short space I could meet with any knight that would have compassion on them, and now seeing God hath permitted that I have met with two such knights as you do seem to be, here I do desire you by the great obligation in the which you bond yourselves at such time as you received the order of knighthood, that you would take compassion of that gentle knight Lusiano, and of that sorrowful and afflicted Lady the Duchess, & if it so fall out, that you show them any courtesy, they be persons that will very well gratify the same, and because you shall be fully certified of their justice, here I do swear unto you by that God that created and made both heaven and earth, and afterwards by his death and passion did redeem us, that all this which I have told you is the very truth of all that hath passed, and again, the more to certify you herein, you have need of no other thing, but to behold the ill favoured face and barbarous countenance of the Duke, and the great beauty of Polisena, whereby you may judge the great unlikelihood, that the duchess should treat of love with him in secret.  
When the damsel had concluded the whole discourse of this treason, the two knights who were replenished with all virtue, were moved unto great compassion, and gave thanks unto almighty God that he had brought them thither at that instant, and thought it long till they saw themselves in battle with the Duke, and said unto the damsel that they would go with her, and take 〈◊〉 with Lusiano for to defend his right towards the Dutches. And she who very well noted their gentle dispositions, and the great riches of their armour, by the which she was fully persuaded with herself that they were knights of great estimation, & that her travail and coming thither was well employed, for that there was some hope by their aid, on the part of Lusiano, much better than to battle alone, for the which she asked their hands for to kiss them, for the great courtesy they offered unto her, and therewith she returned with them towards the City again, and said.  
Oh that it were Gods will (Sir Knights) that my fortune might be this day so happy and prosperous, as it was unto another damsel in times past, who brought unto this Court a strange knight, for to defend an honourable Lady from the power of the stout Aridon, who alonely did not kill him in battle, but afterwards had so much power and force for to defend himself from all the power and force of the King 〈◊〉, maintaining battle a great part of the day with more than two thousand knights, till such time as night drew on, and they all thought it best to leave him, so that he went free away, and none of them all able to hurt or do him any outrage, who afterward was told us to be the knight of the Sun, and son unto the Emperor ●rebatio and of the Empress Briana, daughter unto my Lord the king T●berio, and if it were not for the great wars, as is told us, that doth detain him, and also for the great 〈◊〉 that the king hath against him, the Duchess would have sent unto him in commending her whole cause, in hope that he would have had some compassion on her.  
All this time Rosicler, and Lyriamandro did greatly rejoice to hear told the wonderful acts and deeds of the knight of the Sun, for wheresoever they went, they found all the world full of his great fame. Thus in travailing, they talked of these and many other things, till at three of the clock in the after noon they entered into the mighty City of Viana, at such time as the great place was full of people, tarrying for to see the battle that should be made betwixt the Prince Lusiano and Duke Roberto. Then they put themselves into such a place whereas they were very secret, and commanded the damsel to go forth at such time as the Duke and his knights were in the place, that then she should come and tell them, for that they would not be seen till such time as they were in the field, and for that in this next Chapter you shall understand the whole truth of all that which passed, I do conclude this and refer me to the next.   

Of the great treason that the Duke Roberto ordained, for to have the fair Polisena to be his wife. Chap. 44.  
NOw the History faith, that all that which the damsel had told unto Rosicler and Liriamandro was most certain true, but yet there was another secret unknown, and known unto none but unto the Duke, and another damsel of the Duchess, which was this, insomuch as the Duke Roberto had lost all his hope for to have at his will the fair Duchess Polisena, he determined within himself to use some other means, which was the worst that ever was procured or done by any knight, for when he saw nothing could prevail him, he then laboured with all diligence, for to know which of the damsels that weighted upon the duchess, was the basest of lineage & poorest, for that these two things in inconstant minds be easiest to accomplish their lusts and desires. And when he had learned out this, and found that there was one (amongst them that served the Duchess) which had these qualities (or better to say inconveniences) he did secretly practise to talk with her, the which being done, what with requests, & gifts, and fair promises, in the end he brought her unto the bent of his bow, and having her at his commandment, & as he would wish, upon a night, at such time as the Moon did shine most clearest, he practised with her, that she should apparel herself with the same apparel & attire of her head, that the Duchess her Lady did wear the day before, & being so attired she should come forth into a gallant fresh garden, which was under the window of the Duchess, whereas many times she would recreate herself with her damsels, and could not be seen of any, by reason that the walls were so high, & being there, she should present herself to be the fair Polisena, and he would meet with her in the said garden, whereas betwixt them they would plight their faith & troth of matrimony, & how that he would take her into his arms, as though she were his spouse and lawful wife. When this and all the rest which the Duke requested was concluded with that damsel, he then began to increase the friendship which before he had begun, with those three knights, Ricardo, Carmelio, & Ambardo, who were three of the principallest knights & of most credit that were in all the Court, unto whom many times before (because he would have their friendships more surer) he did impart the secret & great love which he ha● with the Duchess, & did not only declare unto them the sharp answers which she gave him, but rather said, that he was very well beloved of her, and how that she had promised him many times to receive him for her husband, although she did delay the time from one night unto an other. Then after a while when that they were partly persuaded of the truth, the day before the night that he had con●orted with the Damsel to come forth into the garden, he went unto these three knights, and in great secret he said unto them these words.  
It is not unknown unto you my Lords, how long time I have travailed with sorrow for to conclude this love that I have always had with the Duchess, & to no other intent and purpose but to marry with her, and to have her in that honour as her high estate and great worthiness doth deserve, she hath driu●n me off from day to day, dilating the time, and hindering me of that great glory and contentment, the which I hoped long ere this to have enjoyed, as you do very well know, but now by the good success that always I hoped for of this my Matrimony, it hath pleased God, that the Duchess hath now conserted with me, that this next night that cometh, she will come forth into a garden that is on the back side of her lodging, where as she willeth me to meet her, and there she will accomplish all that I have desired, and for that I do know and have proved by experience the inconstancy and variety of women's hearts, I am very desirous that you (my Lords) would show me so much pleasure, as to go with me thither, and to be in secret there whereas you may hear and see all that passeth, because if it should so fall out by my evil fortune, that the Duchess of Austria for fear of displeasing the king or Queen, or by any other occasion that should move her now: pretended purpose, shall deny and fly from this her promise, that then you (if occasion did so serve) as witnesses of that ye saw, may declare the truth of all that which you have seen and heard. And again, I being in my glory with the Duchess in the garden, should chance to be discovered and bewrayed, to have your help and succour, as of my very perfect and good friends.  
When the Duke had concluded this his feigned protestation, the three knights who were so much his friends, did promise unto him for to accomplish all his request. Then when the night was come, about twelve of the clock at midnight, at such time as the Duchess and all the rest were in their found sleep, the Duke with the three knights went unto the garden, and although the walls were very high, yet by Ladders they went up to the top thereof, the wall was somewhat broad above, and on the inside towards the garden, hard unto the wall did grow a great number of thick and high Cypress trees, which shadowed all the wall, in such sort, that the three knights might remain upon the wall, and hear and see all that should pass in the garden, and they not to be seen and discovered of any. In that place did the three knights remain, and the Duke descended down by those trees into the garden, whereas he remained till within a little while after he heard a little postern to be opened, whereat came forth that false damsel, who by reason that the Moon did shine so bright, yea nigh hand she did seem to be the Duchess, for that she was fair, and of her own stature, and was appareled with a gown of green velvet, set full of brouches of gold, wherein was set many fine presious stones, she also had her hair hanging about her shoulders, which reached down to the ground, and upon her head a garland set full of Diamonds and rubies of great price, with the which garment and garland the three knights did see the Duchess the day before, in certain banquets and feasts that were made, and by reason that it was night, although the Moon did shine very clear, yet because she was somewhat a far of, they could not discern any other but that she was the Duchess. Likewise she had in her hand a bunch of feathers, wherewith this Damsel did dissemble and hide her face, in such sort, that she could not be known. Then so soon as the Duke had spied her to come forth, he strait ways went & kneeled down before her, and said.  
Oh my Lady Polisena, what Prince or knight in all the world, was ever worthy to receive so great courtesy and favour as this is? Give me these your fair and white hands, that I may kiss them, as one unworthy to receive so great honour and glory, and yet I cannot think but that it is a dream. My Lord (said the Damsel) give thanks unto almighty God, who hath done so much for you, that you do deserve this at my hands, the which I have done for your sake, arise up from the ground, for that your state 〈…〉 courtesy vento any damsel, in all the the whole world, much less unto the Duchess of Austria, who is altogether yours, and in saying these words, she took him by the hand and caused him to arise from the ground, and the Duke strait ways began to embrace and kiss her, and took their way● towards a fresh fountain there at hand, compassed round about with jasmires and Musk Roses. And before that they could come thither, the Damsel said. My Lord, you do well know, that I do not come hither for any other thing, but to plight unto you my faith and troth, to be your wife, and you my husband and spouse, and that to the contrary, I would not come for all the world into this place, so much against my honour. My desire is, that this should be done out of hand, and that we might departed, for that I fear to be discovered. My good Lady & Duchess (said the Duke) this is that the which I so long have looked and hoped for. And now seeing that we are both agreed, and conformable in our good wills, now I do say that I do receive my Lady the Duchess Polisena, for my well-beloved spouse and wife, and that I do renounce all other and cleave myself only unto her, so long as we shall live.  
Well then my good Lord, said the Damsel: Here your true and faithful Polisena, do receive and take Roberto Duke of Saxonia, for her spouse, and will that no other shall be her husband, but you alone.  
All this that passed betwixt them, was very well heard by the three knights that were in secret: and surely they were out of all doubt to the contrary, but that should be the Duchess of Austria. For if they had known otherwise, or had any other thing in their thoughts, they were such knights, that they would not have affirmed that which they had said for all the kingdom of Hungaria.  
When that this communication of matrimony was concluded betwixt them two, the Duke went with the Damsel towards the Fountain, and at their co●ming thither she making the matter somewhat strange, so that it might be heard by the three knights, although they could not see any thing, by reason of the thickness of the trees whereas they were, there the Duke did accomplish his will with the Damsel. And when it was hour and time for to withdraw themselves, they went hand in hand together unto the postern where she came forth, and there the duke with many embracings and kissings, did take his leave of her, and she entered in, and went to sleep, leaving the apparel of the Duchess in the place whereas she took them, and was not seen by any: And the Duke returned unto the three knights, and departed from thence.  
It fell out within a while after happened all that this History hath declared unto you, the which fell out to be unto the Prince Lusiano great sorrow and grief, for that he did love the Duchess so entirely, and was so fully certified of the good will & love she bore unto him, that it brought him into a great alteration of mind, and almost from himself, to see the witness that was brought against the Duchess, by those three knights, whom he had in estimation to be loyal, faithful, and of great credit: and believed verily that they would not but tell the truth, in that behalf, if that to either of them should be given a whole kingdom. And to the contrary, he had so great a confidence in his lady and mistress, that he was fully determined first ●o be s●aine, then to consent, that any such shame should be offered unto her. But his great bounty did little profit, for to deliver him from the death, for that every one of the four, were so strong and valiant knights, that in all Hungaria was not to be found one that could match any of them. But yet for that above all things justice is of greater force, God did permit, for that Lusiano had justice on his part, that he should be succoured in this his great extremttie: as shallbe told you in this Chapter following.   

How that Rosicleer and Liriamandro, and the gentle Lus●ano, had battle with the Duke Robert● and his companions. Chap. 45.  
AFter that the Damsel of the Duchess was departed from Rosicler and Liriamandro, she went strait ways into the place appointed for the battle whereas she kept herself very close, till such time as the Duke and his companions came forth all four together, and armed with rich and glittering armour, mounted upon a great and gallant horse, & had with them so gallant semblance, that they seemed to be knights of great valour & worthiness, as well in their armour, as in their gallant proportion. In this ●ort they rid about the place, and when that the king Tiberio and the Queen Augusta with all the principallest of the court were set in their places at the windows of the mighty palace, then strait ways came farther the gentle Lusiano, all armed in blue armour, garnished about with gold and rich stones, which was conformable unto his estate, and was mounted upon a mighty horse trapped with blue velvet and bordered with gold, and was in all things of so gallant and gentle disposition, that there was not one in all the place, but when they saw him, did receive great sorrow and grief, in such sort, that there was amongst them a great sound in manner of a lamentation, for that they made reckoning that he was a dead man, and there were few amongst them but would have given a good part of their goods, upon condition that the gentle Lusiano might clear himself of that enterprise, in especial the king and the Queen, who loved him almost as well as though he had been their own son, and would have been very glad if that the prince 〈◊〉 would give over that demand, for that they believed that the Duke Roberto had reason on his side, and again (as it was likely) they thought it impossible that he should escape from that battle with his life. Then the king commanded that the Duchess should be brought forth for to see and behold the battle that was ordained for her sake, who very much against her will, was brought unto a window of the pallas: but when she saw her gentle spouse, her heart was all covered with sorrow and grief, and as dead she fell down to the ground, whereas her life had been in great peril, if that within a short space she had not been comforted with the coming of the two knights.  
So soon as the damsel saw that it was hour & time, with a trice she went unto the In whereas she had left Rosicler and Liriamandro, and giving them to understand of that which had passed, and how that they were ready to go to battle. They strait ways mounted upon their horses, and with all the speed possible, came unto the place, at such time as the judges did part the Sun and the field unto the knight, ready to leave them to their battle. And as they pressed to enter into the place, all the people did make them large and broad way, for to pass, as well to clear themselves from the fury of their great haste, as also for that they saw them to be armed with so precious and rich armour, and of so gallant proportion, that strait ways they thought they came upon some set purpose and determination.  
When they came unto the place whereas the knights were, without speaking ever a word, they plase themselves the one on the one side, and the other on the other side of the Prince, with their spears in their hands, ready for to go unto the battle. Then the Damsel who was well known went unto the king and said: You shall understand worthy and mighty king T●berio, that I this day going forth of this city, because I would not see the death of the prince Lusiano, by my good fortune I met with these two knights, who when as they understood by me, the occasion of my sorrow and grief, having no other occasion, but as they are bound by reason and justice, are come hither with me, and will defend the cause on the part and behalf of my Lady the Dutches. Therefore on their parts I am come unto your highness, to request you to grant them licence for the same, for so much as they be strangers, and would not err in any thing that is dewtifull unto your service.  
The king, who all this time did very well behold the two knights, and liked them marvelously well, was very glad and joyful at the words of the Damsel, and having some hope (more than before) of the delivery of the Prince, by the aid of those two knights, answered and said, that the Duke and his companions were four, so that Lusiano might likewise take unto him other three companions, and that there was no reason in him for to deny them, therefore the knights might do what their pleasure was, and that he should be well content therewith.  
The Duke and his companions when that they saw how that Lusiano had companions, made no reckoning theroff, for that if they were ten of them, they hoped before an hour were ended, they would bring them unto their ends. But the Prince when that he saw himself in the midst betwixt two such knights, received no small contentment, for that they seemed to be of high estate & great renown, as well in their rich armour, as of their gallant and stout proportions. But in especial Rosicleer, for that there was not a knight in all that place, but he had four fingers vantage of him in height, so that it seemed unto him that in all his life he had not seen a knight of a gallanter disposition. And having no time for to speak unto them, he bowed down his head, in token of humility, giving them thanks for the great courtesy which they showed unto him.  
At this time the hour was come, and the trumpets began to sound, making a great noise, whereat the Duke & his companions, with their spears in their hands, set spurs unto their horses, running with all fury possible. The other three knights s●acked no time, to run and receive them, so great fury, that it seemed a whirl wind, and made their encounters the one against the other in this sort. The Duke Roberto and the gentle Lusiano made their encounters together all alone, in such ●ort, that by reason they were both ●rong and valiant knights, they broke and shivered their spears all to pieces, but justling together with their horse and bodies they both fell down unto the ground, who with great lightness arose upon their feet, an● as mortal enemies, made battle together with their swords, Liriamandro made his encounter with Ricardo, who was a gallant knight. And now whether it was for that he was in presence of his parents, or by his great bounty and worthiness, Liriamandro overthrew the stout Ricardo, horse and man to the ground. And although by the force thereof he lost his stirrups, yet like a good knight he passed forwards and kept his saddle: and for that he seemed to have the vantage on his adversary, he did alight from his hose, & made his battle on foot. Then against Rosicler (for that he seemed to be the biggest and most valiantest of them all) he was encountered by the two most valiantest and stoutest knight of the four, who was Carmelio, Lord of the Alb●●●, and Anibard Lord of Marchomandia. And for that never at any time before they met with their equals, they thought verily at that encounter, to lessen the number of their adversaries, by one. But it fell out unto them contrary, for that 〈◊〉 of them broke their spears upon Ro●●cleere, without moving him any thing in his saddle, but he made his encounter upon the stout Carmeli●, in such sort, that thrusting him out of his saddle, he bore him to the ground over his hor●e crupper, and he had enough to do afterwards to arise again he was so tormented with the fall.  
The king was wonderfully amazed, and all those that did beh●lde 〈◊〉 to see those gallant encounters betwixt them, and could not 〈◊〉 that the 〈◊〉 of Lusiano were of so great force and strength, that so lightly had overthrown their adversaries, and from that time forwards had a better hope of the victory. Then the Duchess who was as one half dead, being comforted with those news, with a better good will then before, put herself at the window for to behold the battle.  
Then the worthy Rosilceere finishing the fury of his swift course, with great lightness, he turned his horse about, & returned upon Ambardo, who remained on horseback, and stroke at him such a blow with his sword, that the shield he lift up for to ward the fury thereof (although it was of fine and hard steel) he clove it in two pieces, and from thence descended upon his helm with so great fury, that it made him to stoop with his head, declining it to his horse neck. And this stout Ambardo, when that he felt himself overcharged with that mighty blow, being greatly amazed, he said within himself, what is this, me thinketh I feel all the fury of the world against me, is this by fortune the son of Trebatio, that passed this way when he slew Aridon, or else is that strong Achilles, son unto Peleo, risen again from death to life, or that first begotten of Priamus: for according as I do feel the great force of this knight, it is not possible, but he must needs be one of them. And in saying these words, for that he was a valiant and courageous knight, with all the fury of his arms he struck such a blow at Rosicler upon the head, that he gave him well to understand that he was a very valiant and chosen knight.  
All this time Liriamandro and Ricardo combated together, in such sort, that the battle was worth the beholding, they were both stout and valiant knights, and charged the one the other with so great power & strength, that it made them all to marvel. But he that was most oppressed and had greatest travail in this battle was the prince Lu●iano, for that being in battle with the Duke, came also against him the stout Carmelio, and although he was of great bounty, yet had he enough to do for to clear himself from either of them: and he had passed great evil betwixt them two, if that at this instant had not chanced that the worthy Rosicleer being in battle with Anibardo, seeing himself before his grandfather, his courage so increased in him, that with the fury of all his force, he struck so mighty strong and furious a blow upon his helm, that he had cloven him down unto the waist, if that his helm had not been the finer, and forged by art magic, which was the occasion that his fine cutting sword could not enter nor cut it, but yet by the great force of the valiant Anibardo, clean from himself fell from his horse to the ground, not without great wondering unto all them that saw that terrible and furious blow: and looking on the one side, he saw the Prince Lusiano, how he was in fight against both the other knights, who then with a trice leapt from his horse, and went and put himself before the Duke, and struck his first blow at him in such sort, that he made him to stoop with both his hands to the ground. Then the Duke, who was of a valiant and stout courage, let Lusiano in battle with Carmelio, and began to charge Rosicler with such mighty and strong blows, that he made him to understand, that he was a valiant and worthy knight. And it grieved Rosicleer very much to think that in the Duke should remain so great treason, he being a knight of so great bounty and valour in arms. And being very desirous that the truth thereof might be known, he forced himself all that ever he could, for to overcome the Duke, who for a while did defend himself very valiantly, being greatly amazed at the strange bounty and force of his adversary, and could not imagine who it should be, except he were sent from heaven for to punish the great treason which he had done against the Duchess, as one worthy thereoff. All this time the prince Liriamandro seeing himself in the presence of his father and mother, and desirous to get honour before them, did so overcharge his adversary, that in a small time he abated the courage of Ricardo, that the vantage was on Liriamandros' part. Likewise the gentle Lusiano & the stout Carmelio who were almost equal in bounty, with great force charged the one that other with such blows, that they seemed to be all on fire, with the great quantity of sparks that flew out of their armour, and although for a good while there was known no advantage betwixt them, yet in the end the courageous force of the Prince endured longest, and he did so entreat his adversary, that he would have given a great part of his estate, so that he might have been cleared of that battle with honour. The which grieved nothing at all the fair Polisena, who seeing her knight so stout and light in the battle, received great joy and pleasure, and with shedding of many tears praie● unto God for to deliver him clear from that battle, as one that made no reckoning to live any longer than the saw him alive, but quickly she was brought out of that care, for that the inclite and worthy Greek that did combat with the Duke ● charged him so fast with his terrible and furious blows, that he made him all astonished and amazed, that he knew not whether he went, nor where he struck his blows, and ●éeing him in that perplexity, with his right hand he took him fast by the goriet, and pulled him with so great strength, that he overthrew him at his feet, and before he could arise again, he put his knee upon his breast, and pulled his helm from his head, and put his sword unto his throat, and said thus.  
Duke, thou art but dead, if thou dost not confess the truth of this treason which thou hast raised against the Duchess of Austria.  
Then the Duke seeing himself in that extremity, thought of truth that the divine justice was come upon him, and that he was some Angel sent from God for to destroy and kill him, and fearing least both body and soul should be destroyed, he determined to tell the truth of all the whole treason, so that he said unto Rosicler, that he should hold his hands and not kill him, not for that he feared to die, but to save his soul, he would tell him the truth thereof.  
Then Rosicler did assure him his life, and gave him his hand, and did help him to arise from the ground, and when he saw the other knights in battle, he and Rosicler went and did part them, and put themselves between them, and said.  
Sir knights, let this your contentious battle cease, for there is no reason wherefore you should receive any harm, but I alone who is in the fault and worthy to be blamed. At which words saying, Liriamandro had overthrown the stout Ricardo, & Lusiano had brought Carmelio into a great perplexity, so that they had not much a do to part them, the which being done, the Duke with an high voice, that the king and all that were there about him might hear, declared all the whole treason, how and in what sort, in all points as he did it, and as you have heard. But when the gentle Lusiano saw the honour of his spouse so clear, and the great fortune and victory that he had in the battle, whereas before both the honour of his Lady and his life was clean lost, it cannot be expressed the great joy and pleasure that entered into his heart, and how thankfully he gratified Rosicler and Liriamandro, desiring them to show him so much pleasure as to tell him who they were, & to take of his treasure all that was their pleasure and wills, for that was too little for them, in consideration of the great pleasure that they did for him. But the joy and contentment which the fair Polisena received, no man is able to express. Likewise the King and the Queen were very joyful, for they loved marvelous well the Prince Lusiano and the Duchess, and marveling very much at the strange bounty of the knights, they thought it long till they knew what they were, for that they understood they were not of that Country. The king then commanded that they should come before him, who strait ways with Lusiano went before the king, and when that they had done their duty, and before that they pulled off their healmes, or treated of any other matter, they craved of the king that both the Duke and the Damsel might be pardoned, and although the king determined to punish them as they had deserved, yet in the end at their request he did pardon them, with this condition, that the Duke with the Damsel should out of hand departed the Court, and never more in all their lives to enter into the same. The Duke strait ways gave great thanks unto the knights for that which for him they had done, & the same day after that they knew who the knights were, he departed from the Court with his damsel, and the reward which he gave unto her for her labour, was, that the same night he slew her in a Forest, being ashamed of that which with her he had done. And this is the reward that all such aught to look for, for although there be many that would profit themselves of the treason, yet in conclusion (by great fortune) there are few traitors that do escape their reward, & surely they ought not to be suffered amongst men, for that there is no peril or danger that may be compared unto the mischievous practice and pretence of a traitor no not the raging waves of the sea, earthquakes, whirl winds, thunder bolts, storms, wars, no nor the fury of the elements, for the proof whereof I do refer me unto the mighty Alexander, whose ●lying in the air, and travailing on the seas, whose conquests of the whole world, with wars and battles, none of all these were sufficient for to bring him unto his end, but only a traitor, one of his own retinue, by treason did kill him. If this example be not sufficient, consider of Darius that was before him, and of Priamus the mighty, Achilles, Minos, Nisus, Agamemnon, Romulus, Tarquinus, Servius, and the minor 〈◊〉, the mighty Bompeus, julius Caesar, and many other Emperors and kings, unto whom no peril was so dangerous, as treason, ordained and wrought by their own servants, so that with great reason the traitor ought to be abhorred, as well as they that do enjoy the benefit of treason rewarded, as well the Damsel as the Duke Roberto, who thought she went for to be rewarded for her travail, yet she received the just punishment for her fault.  
But now to return unto that which did remain, the History saith, that after the king had pardoned and forgiven the Duke, he had great desire for to know whom the knights were. Then Rosicler and Liriamandro pulled off their helms, and kneeling down before the king, Liriamandro said: Let your Highness know and be acquainted with this knight, who is Rosicler, son unto the Emperor Trebatio, and of the Empress Briana, whom all the whole world for his great bounty ought to honour, & me for Liriamandro your son, and of the Queen Augusta my Lady & mother, who with news of great joy and pleasure do come to kiss your hands. When the king knew to be in his presence his so long desired son, and the other to be Rosicler his nephew, it cannot be expressed the great joy, contentment, & pleasure he received at his heart, as he that in all the world desired no other thing, and as one from himself with great joy he went & embraced them, saying: Oh my sons, what joyful and happy news is this unto me, for that in it is accomplished the thing that I most desired before I should die, how is it that you have consented so long time to keep from me this great joy? The king had scarce concluded these words, when that the Queen with incredible joy & great haste came unto them, & threw her arms about their necks, whereas she remained embracing of them both a great while, and could not speak one word for joy. Thus after there had passed betwixt them many words of great joy in this their joyful meeting, strait ways the Prince Lusiano came and kneeled down before them, and would have kissed their hands, as well for the great courtesy which they had done for him, as also for that Liriamandro was his Prince and natural Lord, but they who had him in great estimation, did receive ●nd embrace him with great love and joy. Then after him came unto them the three valiant knights, Ricardo, Carmelio, and Ambardo, and offered great courtesy unto the two Princes, who did them great honour, and made them friends with Lusiano, as persons that were without blame in the treason 〈◊〉. But when these news were published in the court, there came so great number of people to s●e Rosicler & Liriamandro, that the palace would not hold them, & all people marveled at their strange dispositions, but in in especial of Rosicleer, for that they said that in all things he did resemble the knight of the Sun his brother, he that was so famous and feared in that Court, for that they partly understood and heard of his wonderful acts and deeds, & unto the king it was notorious all the whole History of Rosicleer, from the time of his first creation & bringing up, with his daughter the Princess Briana, till such time as he was known unto the Emperor his father and Empress his mother. Of all the which the king was very joyful & pleasant, and loved the Emperor Trebatio and his sons, as he did his own son Liriamandro, and for that he had not until that time heard of the success of the wars that he had against the Emperor Alycandro, he was very sorrowful and full of care, and thought long till that he had heard some news thereof, and if he gave any aid & secure of knights unto the king Oliverio, it was not for any hatred or ill will that he bore unto the Emperor Trebatio, but for to accomplish that wherein he was bound unto the king Oliverio, because his son Prince Edward was slain in his service, & was fully persuaded that all the whole army of the king Oliverio was not of sufficient power for to do any harm unto the Emperor Trebatio, yet afterwards when he understood of the mighty power of Pagans that were come upon Grecia, it grieved and repent him of that he had done, so that if it had not been very much against his honour, many times he was moved in conscience for to go and secure him in person, with all the power that ever he could make, & being very desirous to know the whole success thereof in all points, he requested the Princess for to tell him, who (as those that knew the truth thereof) in the presence of the Queen, and all those worthy Princes and knights of the Court, did give him to understand as well of the success with the king Oliverio as with the Emperor Alycandro, the which being published amongst them, they all received great joy, in as ample manner as though it had touched either of them in particular, but in especial the king & the queen, in that they saw how much to their honar they had accomplished their promise unto the king Oliverio, as also of the high estate whereunto their daughter the Empress Briana was exalted, so that they could never satisfy themselves in giving thanks unto almighty God for those great benefits showed unto them. When these things were passed, strait ways came thither Leonardo and his wife, the feigned parents of Rosicleer, with whom Rosicler received great pleasure, as he that had great desire for to see him, & for that which he was indebted unto them, the which he did marvelously well gratify in all points their great service done unto them, for he carried them with him unto Grecia, whereas the Empress Briana did make them owners of great possessions, so that they were very well content, and thought their travail very well employed the which they had in the bringing up of Rosicleer. Likewise Rosicler rejoiced very much with those Gentlewomen, with whom he was brought up in the Monastery of the River, and the most part of them he carried into Grecia, whereas he did very much for them all. Then for that the king did bear great good will unto the Prince Lusiano, and had him in high estimation, he strait ways commanded that his spouse the Duchess of Austria should be delivered unto him. After this sort within few days that their nuptials were celebrated with great honour and triumphs, which those knights his friends did ordain, in the which the gentle Lusiano did so much, that he got unto himself honour for ever after. And in the mean time of all these sports and feasts, Rosicleer and Lyriamandro did declare their message unto the king, desiring him in the part and behalf of the Emperor Trebatio, and of the Empress Briana, that he would think well for to go with them unto Constantinople, for to reioyie themselves of the victory and joy, the which the Emperor and the Empress do receive.  
Likewise they gave great and lawful excuses, wherefore the Emperor Trebatio did abstain from coming into the Country, for that he had in his court such mighty Princes and Lords, that there had been no reason for him to leave them. Then the king and the Queen, as they which desired no other thing, commanded Straignt ways that all things should be put in a readiness needful for their journey, and for that we have other matters to declare for the conclusion of the first part of this History, there is here no more to be said, but that Rosicleer and Liriamndro did pass away the time in Hungaria, till such time as they were ready to departed, as shall be told you in the next Chapter following.   

How the king Tiberio with the Queen Augusta, Rosicler, and Liriamandro, departed out of Hungaria, and took their journey towards Constantinople. Chap. 46.  
WHen the day appointed was come of their departure, the king and the Queen, with all the other worthy Princes and knights of his Court departed out of Viana, & took their journey towards the mighty Empire of Grecia, in the which they travailed many days, without happening any thing worthy the telling, in the end whereof they arrived within two miles of the mighty City of Constantinople, and when the Emperor Trebatio had knowledge of their coming, with great joy and pleasure, he and all those mighty Princes and valiant knights together went out of Constantinople with so great majesty, that it seemed all the whole world were joined together, the number was so exceeding great, so that the king of Hungaria and the Queen Augusta his wife, with all those that came with them, were wonderfully amazed to see so royal and worthy knighthood to come forth of Constantinople, for of truth they never would have thought that so many as there were, might have been received in the court of any Prince whatsoever he were in all the whole world. But when the king and the Emperor saw one an other, they both went & met together, & did embrace the one the other, with such great love as aught to be between Father and son, and as though they had known one another long time before. And if before the king Tiberio and the Queen Augusta did account themselves happy & fortunate to have so high a Prince for their son in law, yet now they did much more when they saw his person & presence to be so strange & wonderful, for alonely by his semblance and proportion they knew him for father of the two brethren, the knight of the Sun and Rosicleer; above all other Princes that came in that worthy crew. The king and the Emperor had not yet fully concluded the loving words of their first meeting, when that the Queen Augusta came unto them, and with the self same love wherewith she did embrace her son Liriamandro did embrace the good Emperor▪ Then came the knight of the Sun (who above all the rest might be seen, he was of so gallant and tall statu●e) & offered to kiss the king's hands, but the king would not consent unto it, but embraced him, and the king clasped him very hard between his arms, saying: Oh happy and fortunate kinsman, I do now find myself in great security, for that I am in the arms of him that alone did defend himself from all my power, & made my kingdom to tremble and quake, tell me I pray you, if that you have forgotten that anger or not, if you have not, then am I fully persuaded that I have no security in my own. Country of Hungaria, much less in Grecia? My good Lord and grandfather (said the knight of the Sun) your highness in whatsoever place you are, is in great security from my hands, for although I would procure any outrage, yet am not I sufficient to do you any harm, and if I were fortunate against your knights, it was nothing else but the will of God to save and deliver me, for that afterwards when you should know me you should not have so great reason to be sorrowful, as now you should be, if I had at that time been slain.  
Then the king said: Ah my son, if that had happened, my life could not have endured so long, but God who doth know the secret of all things that should happen unto us, did guide and govern all things, in such sort, that it is come to this point and instant, wherein I do account myself the most fortunatest Prince in all the whole world, not only in knowing thee to be my son, but in recovering you to be my friend.  
The king had scarce concluded these words, when that the Queen came to embrace the knight of the Sun, but he did offer to kiss her hands, and there passed betwixt them many sweet and amorous words, such as might pass between the mother and the son, at such time as of long time they had not seen the one the other. The Queen Augusta received so great joy and contentment to have him in her presence, that she knew not almost where she was. Then approached unto them the king Oliverio, with the Emperor Alycandro, and all those mighty Princes and Lords, whereas passed betwixt them great courtesy, with such duty as appertained unto so high and worthy estates. In this noble meeting they spent a good while, the which being finished, the Emperor Trebatio accompanied himself with the king, & every one ●hose his companion as best liked him, and began to return towards the mighty City of Constantinople. The knight of the Sun and Rosicleer did carry between them the Queen Augusta (who went with so great joy and pleasure that she knew not were she was) to see herself in the midst betwixt so worthy nephews. When the Emperor Trebatio had opportunity, he said unto the king: Now is my desire fully accomplished, in that I do see your Highness in this Country, for although all other things succeeded unto me prosperous, as I have desired, yet had I no conclusion of all this my victory, neither could I receive any glory therein, till now I have your Highness in my presence, and do honour and obey you as dutifully as your own natural son. And if the great obligation in the which you were bound unto the king of great Britain, had not been betwixt us, I and the Empress Briana many a time long ere this, had come unto you to have craved pardon for that which is past, with licence and consentment for that which was to come. For although the Empress Briana seemed to receive contentment to be with me in Grecia, yet received I great grief, for that I could not accomplish of my part, the duty which I own unto your highness. When that the Emperor had concluded these words, than the king (who received great pleasure thereat) said: Sovereign Emperor, if that you have received great joy, contentment and pleasure, at my coming into Grecia, how much more reason have I to rejoice and receive pleasure to have so glorious a sight of your person and presence, being accompanied and honoured with the most highest & mightiest Emperors and kings of all the world, and mounted unto the highest estate of honour that fortune may extend, the which is apparent before my eyes, & also endued with such sons, that there is not the like knights in all the whole world. And here I do acknowledge that I am not worthy of so high a kinsman: and in that you have said (of my consentment) it might have been excused, for that I do see it clearly before mine eyes, to be the will and permission of God, by whom all things hath been governed, for the which neither I, nor any of your adversaries could withstand or resist. And seeing my daughter hath brought unto me the highest and worthiest Prince of all the world to be my son in law, and that this marriage was made by the divine will and permission, from whence hath proceeded so excellent, 〈◊〉 what have I to say unto it, but give unto the sovereign creator infinite thanks, for his great goodness showed unto me. And do most heartily desire him to let you enjoy for many years, this high estate into the which you are exalted, and also the high and worthy progeny that he hath given you. With many sweet and courteous words the Emperor Trebatio did gratify with thanks, all that which the king had said. So passing betwixt them, these and many other things in communication, which were to long here to rehearse, they came unto the 〈◊〉 of Constantinople, whereas the king of Hungaria and the Queen Augusta were wonderfully amazed, for to see the great knighthood of that Court, for that with great difficulty, they might pass the wide streets, the multitude was so great, so that it was a good while before they could come unto the mighty pallas: but when they came thither, they all alighted and entered into the mighty broad court, whereas the Empress Briana did receive them, with that joy and pleasure, as you may imagine, and there passed betwixt them many loving and sweet words, as betwixt Fathers and children, the which I do let pass, to eschew tediousness. And the royal Empress Briana was so gallant & fair, that her Father did not know her, she was so changed. Yet they well perceived in her the joy and pleasure she received, and the more to manifest her glory, she did show unto the king Tiberio and unto the Queen Augusta her Mother, her third son, who was the fair Prince Claramante, and at that present was nourished in the court with his Mother, with so great care, as in this next Chapter following shallbe declared unto you, for the which this History doth leave of all the surplus of this receiving and coming of the king of Hungaria and the Queen Augusta, for that they remained a long time after in the court, whereas they declared at large the one unto the other, the whole circumstances of all that had passed, and from that day forwards, the king Oliverio and the king of Hungaria were great friends, as well for the kindred that was betwixt them by the marriage of Rosicleer unto the Princess Olivia, as also for that in times of necessity, these two kings did very much the one for the other. But in especial the king of Hungaria, setting apart the great love that he bore unto his son in law and nephew, he would accomplish his duty bound unto the king Oliverio, and aid him with his people to go against Grecia, as hath been told you in this History.  
All this noble crew remained certain days in the City of Constantinople, in which time they spent their time in no other thing but in mirth, pastimes & triumphs, which were made as well by strange knights as by them of Grecia: and might well be said that there was joined together all the majesty of the world.   

How the young Prince Claramante was nourished in the court of the Emperor Trebatio, & of other things that was spoken by the wife Artimidoro, and Lirgandeo, with other things that happened. Chapter. 47.  
IN all the time that the Emperor was in Constantinople, there lacked not the two wise men, Artemidoro and Lirgandeo, who were of the Emperor Trebatio and of his sons and of all that were in the court, very much esteemed and honoured, for that their great wisdom & understanding did deserve the same, and they knew that they had in charge to write and put in memory all things that should pass. And although for that as than it was not time for to discover the secret loves of the knight of the Sun, they would not in this part make them manifest, neither of the Prophecies before said, although the most part of them hath come to effect: yet in all that ever these two wise men did write, they never writ any thing of this fair youth, the Prince Claramante, son unto the Emperor Trebatio, but only one chapter, which was written by the wi●e Artemidoro, of his wonderful Nativity. The occasion hath been as I believe, the great trouble which they had in penning of such things past, as seemed to be most necessary in this part of the History. And now for that it seemed they were all occupied in tr●umphes & feasts, these wise men were at more leisure, so that both of them did write of the young prince Claramante, as of a person, whom they knew afterwards should be made great account of. They said, that at the season that the Emperor Alicand●o remained in Constantinople, Claramante was nour●●● & brought up in the pallas of the Emperor his father, and was of the age of three years, the semeliest, whitest and fairest creature that was to be found in all the world, for that his force seemed to be a celestial Seraphin, as may be imagined here amongst men, & his hair was like unto thirds of gold. Likewise of stature tall, such as did well appear in him, that when so ever he should come to his perfect growth, he should be iof big stature, he was of a gracious semblant and merry, yet had he therewithal so great severity, that of himself he seemed to have the deity of a Prince. But to conclude, what shall we say of this child, the wise men say, that in all things he did so much resemble his brother the knight of the Sun, that many times (as shallbe declared unto you in the second part of this mighty History) the one was taken for the other. Oh happy and fortunate Claramante, (saith Li●gandeo) that unto such a knight and sovereign Prince thou art compared, wherein can we more eralt thee, but in this thy age to attribute the excellencies which thy brother had being but a child. But after that he was an armed knight, this fair child was of all knights Ladies and damsels so welbelo●ed, that none would willingly departed out of his company. And now for that he was so amorous, all people received with him great pleasure and sport, but above all other he was esteemed and beloved of the precious princess Lindabrides. For that he did resemble so much that figure the which she had printed in her heart, she could never leau● him out of her arms, so that when the child should departed, he conceived a displeasure, and the princess an inward sorrow for his absence, equal to the absence of the knight of the Sun. The occasion thereof was, for that she did cocker and make more of him, than any other, the child conceived a greater love unto her then unto the Empress his mother that nourished him with her breasts, so that the child could never be from her, whereat the Emperor & the Empress received great pleasure, and it was the occasion that they loved and bore a greater good will unto that royal Princess.  
And as upon a day, in the mighty quadran, were joined all those mighty Princes and knights, and all the Ladies and damsels of the court, showing great joy and pastime, there was amongst them the old king of Gedrosia, for that he and other five kings, vassals unto the Emperor Alicandro, after the bloody field was done, were taken prisoners, by reason they were overthrown from their horse, they could not fly out of the camp as other did: & as it hath been told you in this History before, that this king was very wise, and well seen in divinations, and partly knew of things to come, and told many things unto the Emperor Alicandro, before he departed out of the gran Tartary, that afterwards came to pass, that if they had given credit unto his good counsel, the Emperor had not been brought unto that extremity in the which he was. Not for that those things which are ordained by God may be eschewed, but for that all men hath free will, to apart themselves from such things as be evil & hurtful: but if God do first determine and predestinate any thing, it is for that he doth know to what end the free will of man will ●row unto.  
Being there in that conversation with the king of Gedrosia, and seeing the great pleasure and pastime that was amongst them, giving a great sigh that was heard of them all, he said's: Oh miserable world, that for one pleasure alone, thou dost give and return two thousand griefs and sorrows. In saying these words he held his peace and would say no more, till such time as the Emperor Trebatio (who had him in reputation of a man of understanding, and greatly marveled at those his words, being spoken at that time) asked of him wherefore he spoke those words. I do speak them (said the king) for that the world doth ●se us as children, at sometimes singing, & at other times weeping, & many times a fair and clear morning, is turned into a cloudy and sorrowful evening. And there is no pleasure or pastime can be so great, but that sorrow and heaviness doth disturb i●, we be like unto the air, that being so clear and fair that we cannot almost discern it from the firmament, upon a sudden, with a little wind that do●h arise, is troubled and darkenot: so likewise when that unto our judgements we are most joyful and merrie● upon a sudden, not knowing from whence it cometh, we find ourselves put in great sadness and tears. This doth proceed for that all our felicity and prosperity; we do build upon things that of themselves do perish and decay. We are also like unto travailer 〈…〉 Seas, whose fair and calm wether is upon the 〈◊〉▪ who of itself is movable and of small foundation, and look so many times as they be assaulted with the wind, so many times their pleasure do abate, and their sorrows double. Even so do we put all our felieitie in thirgs wherein is no stability, but like unto the loaves that is carried away with every wind, as it appeareth in high estates and dignities, for the higher he is the greater is his fall. In riches, difficulty in the getting, with care in the keeping, and sorrow in the losing: unto many it causeth death, and depriveth all of their case. The most fairest in a short time doth 〈◊〉 and fade a way like a flower, and he that is of most force & strength, is overthrown with a little Fever.  
When a friend doth die or is lost, in especial of children, then sweet mingled bitterness, Honey mixed with gall, miserable fortune, rarefull pleasures, and many times sorrowful, successors of folly, unto them that alonely doth recreate themselves with the blossom of the tree, we ourselves do it, in that we do rejoice and show so much pleasure and pastimes unto little children, who are no less subject unto misfortunes, than the delicate flower. Of many things, that I have spoken of, you have had experience, so likewise, very shortly, you shall see the proof of the rest that lacketh, if that Nature or Fortune, doth not disturb or let it.  
I will say no more unto you, for that it is not given unto us to affirm that which we do divine, but to declare that which the order of Nature doth show us, to 〈◊〉 the inconveniences▪ which might happen ●f that peradventure we should be deceived.  
herewith the old king concluded his reasons, & for that all those Lords that were there present were wise & of great understanding, they well understood that his words did extend unto some thing that should happen unto that fair & young child Claramante, and could not let but receive some trouble of mind, but yet for that his Father and brethren were or noble and valiant hearts, they did not only with equal and quiet mind abide that which the stars did permit, but also referred all things unto the determination of the sovereign creator, so that they answered nothing unto that which the king had said, but the wise Artemidoro, that had more understanding in the art Magic than the king answered unto his words and said. By your word we do understand (wise king of Gedrosia) that you would declare some things that should happen unto this fair child Claramante, as of truth it is so, for that his parents shall sustain great sorrow and grief for him, but according as his good fortune and destiny doth promise unto him, it shall be for a greater glory and extolling of the Greekish Empire, and so much more joyful shall his prosperity & good fortune be, than his sorrowful & perverse fortune which is ordained, great reason hath his father to rejoice of such a son, for the excellent fr●it which shall proceed of so worthy a blossom, & yet there is no perverse fortune that can be so contrary unto him, to be compared in equality unto that which happened unto his brethren in their first age, who having now passed all their misfortunes, with more joy and pleasure do enjoy the time of their prosperity. So shall it be of this fair Claramante, for that his high and strange birth doth not prognosticate any other thing.  
When the wise Artemidoro had concluded these words, it gave great conteatment unto them all, whereas before the words of the king of Gedrosia did cause in them great sorrow, thinking that some evil hap and misfortune had been ordained against that most singular and gracious child, Claramante, but most especially, the beautiful and exovisite Princess Lindabrides, who scarcely did shed many tears, as one that did ●ou● him more than her own parents, only for the love of that figure that he did represent. And for that it is now time that the great grief & overmuch sorrow of this precious Princess should cease, this History doth declare what the two wise men Artemidoro, and Lirgandeo did for to put remedy in the same.   

¶ How the fair Lindabrides by art of the two wise men Artimidoro and Lirgandeo, was enchanted, and the order of her enchantment. Chapter. 48.  
NOw saith the History, the Emperor Alicandro remaining many days in the Court of the Emperor Trebatio, was the occasion that the grief of the fair Princess Lindabrides did every day increase more and more, one way for that the presence of the very fair and worthy Princes Claridiana did make her suspect that which her knight (he of the Sun) had determined within his heart: & an other way, in remembering that in the end the Emperor her Father would 〈◊〉 into his country again, and that forseably she must 〈◊〉 with him; all the which she could not suffer with patience, neither imagine that it should be possible for her to depart out of G●ecla 〈◊〉, ● that in thinking hereof, her dolour and grief was such that many times it brought her ●o the point of death. And for that all this was not hid from the two wise men Li●gandeo and Ar●einido●o, and unto the Queen 〈◊〉 her damsel, many times having great compassion on this fair Princess, they did determine amongst themselves to put some remedy in the same, in such sort, that she might not live in so great sorrow and grief. Being fully persuaded in their determination, and knowing what afterwards would happen and come to 〈…〉 together all those worthy Princes and knights, Ladies, and damsels, in the imperial palace, the day being very fair, and the Sun clear and bright, upon a sudden there came over the City a great cloud, that was so black and dark, that being together they could scarcely see one another, out of the which proceeded great thunderings and lightnings that were terrible to behold, in such sort, that all the whole City trembled as though it would have sunk, and not one amongst them all, he of most courage, but was in great fear, because they knew not what it should mean. This storm and tempest endured half an hour, & was so dark as the night, at such time as when the Moon is in her conjunction, and all those worthy Princes and knights were together in a mighty quadran, and would not departed from thence, for that they would not leave that gallant & fair crew of Ladies & Gentlewomen alone, who was marvelously afraid and in great dread of that which they saw. Being in this sort, and dazzled with the darkness, they saw out of the mighty windows (which were open) coming towards them in the air, a great burning fire which did lighten all the earth, & extinguish the darkness, the which when it drew nigher unto them, they saw that it was two furious dragons that did throw out all that fire which they did see, at their mouths, noses, & eyes, and seemed to be infernal devils, that it did surmount the noise of thunder. These two dragons were yoked together, and brought with them a Coach all of bright and shining Crystal, in the which were set two 〈◊〉 of the same Crystal set full of bliew sapphires and Rubies, the one of them was empty, and in the other was set a Damsel or great beauty, who seemed unto them all to be the wise Queen ●ulia, and she brought in her hand a little viol of Glass, full of very fair and clear water.  
When these Dragons came unto the windows the which were as though they had been very wide gates, they entered in thereat, and strait ways put themselves with their Coach into the midst of the great Quadran, whereat all that were there present received great fear & dread, but in especial the women, who remained as dead persons. Then the knights seeing the great perplexity and fearful estate of the women, would have drawn their swords and made contention against the dragons, but the Queen I●lia who came in the Coach, said unto them: My Lords and worthy knights, hold your hands a while, for that you are in security, and you shall understand that I am not come for any other thing, but to ask and crave a bound of the Princess my Lady and Mistress. At which words they were all in quiet. Then the Queen descended down out of the Coach with her Glass viol in her hand, and went unto her Lady the Princess (who was in great fear of the Dragons) and kneeled down before her and said as followeth.  
Madame, if any part of my service doth deserve any reward at your highness hands, let me crave now in recompense of the same, that your Highness will grant unto me a boon, the which I will demand. Then the Princess being greatly amazed to see her in that order, with great curtes●e and gentle grace, said: I do grant it unto you. The Queen than kissed her hands for the great courtesy showed unto her, and showing unto her the little Glass viol she had in her hand, said: The boon which your Highness hath granted unto me is this, and no other thing, but only that you drink up this water which I bring in this viol, whereby your Highness shall receive no harm nor inconvenience. Of truth (said the Princess) to do this at thy request is a small recompense, to that which they service doth deserve. And in saying these words she took the viol of her, and without any more circumstance she drunk up the water, which was not much, she had not so soon drunk it, but strait ways she forgot herself, and remembered nothing that ever she had done, the water was of so merua●lous virtue, and brought from the Fountain of forgetfulness, that Merlin made in the highest part of the mount Olympus, there whereas neither wind nor weather doth trouble it, but the air is always clear and calm, of the which we w●l declar● more at large in the second part of this History, for that many learned Historiographers do say, that this marvelous Fountain is situated in another place. When this fair Princess had forgot herself, and was deprived of all remembrance, she strait ways forgot all that was in the Quadrants, as though she had never seen them, and took the Queen julia by the hand, and went with her to the Crystalline Coach, and going into it, they sat themselves down in the two Chairs, then straightways the Queen made the Dragons to mount into the air, for to go forth whereas they entered. The which being seen of all that noble crew, and thinking that it was some treason pretended against the Princess, in great haste the knight of the Sun and the worthy Prince Meridian her brother, arose up with their swords drawn in their hands, and went against the Dragons for to take the fair Princess out of the Coach, yet were they not able to approach unto them, for that the Dragons ●lung their tails about them, in such sort, charging the two knights with such terrible blows, that they made them to recoil backwards with more speed than they pressed forwards, and before they could recover to assault them a new, they were out of the window with the Coach, and being out, strait ways ceased all the tempest of thunderings and lightnings, and the cloud vanished away, so that the day was as fair and as clear as it was before.  
And as these worthy princes did put themselves at the windows for to see whether this wonderful Coach was carried, they discovered in the midst of the mighty Court a piece of work, the strangest to behold that ever was seen, which was a great Tower four square, and of twenty paces broad every way, cut out of one stone, of so great clearness & brightness, that it soomed to be of Diamonds, and upon the top of the Tower there was an exceeding fair steeple, which shined like unto burnished Steel in the shining Sun, and was of so great height, that the top could scarce be discerned from the ground, very strange and the like never before seen, which did declare it to be a thing never made by human creatures, and in all the tower there was no other window nor loop hole, but only the door the which was open, wherein they might discern the stairs, the which was turning, the steps very broad and of shining Crystal, and although there were no wi●dowes for to give light unto the stairs, yet was it so light within by reason of the brightness of the walls, that it seemed to be more brighter than abroad. There was at the entry of the door two Images of Brass, as big as Giants, the one on the one side and the other on the other side, and had in their hands each of them a great Falchion of f●ne steel, and had them above their heads ready for to strike them that should give the attempt for to enter in at the door, and had so furious and fierce semblance, that they caused great fear in all them that did behold them, and above over the door were written Letters, which seemed to be of gold, which afterwards were read by those worthy Princes, who were marvelously amazed in beholding that strange and wonderful work, and looking for the Coach wherein the fair Princess was carried, they saw it of so great height, that it was equal with the Clouds, and within a little while after, in the sight of them all, the two Dragons descended down out of the air, and lighted upon the T●wer, who jointly with the Coach consumed into the Tower, and could not any more be seen. Whereat all that were there present marveled greatly, and for that they knew not what it should mean, they requested the two wise men Lyrgandeo and Artemidoro to tell them, who answered them to nothing, but said: Let us go & read the writings that are upon the gates, and then afterwards they would declare unto them the whole circumstance of that remaineth. Then straightways the two Emperors with those worthy Princes and knights, descended out of the palace into the Court, & when they came unto the gates of the tower, they saw in three parts written in Greek letters, on each side one, and in the midst the third, which was as followeth.  

The first said.  
This is the disloyal tower, into the which, let none attempt the entry, except his heart be void of all love, for if he do, you shall understand that the first Porters will defend the entry.   

The second said.  
Hear within is the precious Princess of the Scitas, who above all other Ladies in her time doth deserve to be Lady of this tower, & shall not go forth of the ●ame till such time as cometh a knight, who with his great force and strength shall conquer the entry, and mount into the tower, and conclude this adventure.   

And the third said.  
He had need of great force and strength that is able to comprehend to see the great marvels of this tower.   
When that these writings were read, they were all greatly amazed, but the wise Lyrgandeo seeing them in that dump, said.  
My Lords, here is nothing to be mused at, but if it be your pleasures that the fair Princess Lyndabrides shall come forth of this tower, it is convenient that you prove this adventure, for it is a thing without remedy and not to be spoken off, that she shall not come forth hereof till such time as all things be accomplished according as these writings have declared, and here I do say unto you, that so far as I do (or can) understand by this adventure, that long time shall pass before any shall come for to finish the same, although on the part of the Princess there shall no time be lost, for that she shall go forth out of the Tower according unto nature, of the same age that she is now of, although she remaineth there one hundredth years, and in all this time she shall not want any thing, but of all joy, pleasure, and pastime, she shall have unto her contentment, for that the Queen julia, (knowing what should happen and come to pass hereafter) for the good will and service that she did owe unto the Princess her Lady and mistress, did ordain this adventure, the which will fall out more for her honour and glory.  
But when the wise man had concluded his words, it grieved much the Emperor Alycandro, for that he loved the Princess very much, and doubted whether he should live so long as to see the delivery of his Daughter. The like care received the valiant and worthy Prince Meridian her Brother. The like grief received all the rest of the whole crew that were there present, for that they loved her very much for her great valour and desert, but in especial it grieved the knight of the Sun, as of one that to forget her needed the process of a long time, yea, and the travail unto the mount Olympus, and if it had not been that there was in his presence his well-beloved and royal Princess Claridiana, he would have detracted no time, but have been the first to have given the attempt to prove that adventure of the Tower, but for that he would not give any suspicion of that which he felt in his heart, he bridled his affection and desire, till time some other knights went and armed themselves, and proved the entry of the Tower, as shall be declared unto you in the next Chapter following.   

How the valiant and worthy Princes did prove the adventure of the disloyal tower, and what happened of the success thereof, Chapter. 49.  
WHen the knights began to come forth armed for to prove that adventure of the disloyal Tower, strait ways the Emperor Trebatio, and all those high Princes and knights, went & put themselves at the windows of that mighty palace. The like did the Empress Briana, with the rest of those principal Ladies and Damsels, for to see what should be done with those knights in the attempt of the tower. The first knight that came into that Court, was that valiant and worthy Prince Lyriamandro, brother unto the Empress ●riana, who was armed with guilt armour set full of rich stones, and alighting from his horse, with his sword drawn in his hand he went towards the gate of the tower, without receiving any fear or dread at the furious and fierce countenance of the two Giants, but as one whose amorous effects towards the fair Princess Rodasilua did make him more courageous and bold. But yet nothing might be more contrary unto him, as now it happened, than for to see the secrets of this fair Tower, for that as he would have put his foot upon the threshold, before he was within, one of these Images discharged upon him a terrible blow, with such force, that it astonished him, and overthrew him to the ground without the gate, that he seemed to be dead. Whereat they all marveled greatly, as well at the mighty blow which the Giant stroke, as to see the Prince in that perplexity, but quickly their fear that they had of the Prince was quieted, for that so some as they had pulled off his helm; and gave him air, he came again unto himself, and was as well as he was before, but having no will to approve the attempt any more, he withdrew himself.  
It was not long after when that his good friend Bargandel came forth into the place, who as one that loved with all his heart the fair Princess Rodasilua, did no more in that attempt than the prince Li●iamandro, for that at the first blow of the Image, he was overthrown to the ground, without the gate, so that it was very well understood by them all (according unto the letters that was written,) how that these two knights were amorous, which was the occasion that the entry of the Gate was denied unto them. The like happened unto the worthy Tartarian Zoilo, and unto the valiant king Sacridoro, and unto other valiant princes and knights that presumed to be amorous. Whereat they were greatly amazed, and had much sport and pastime to see how these knights were overthrown by the two Images.  
The first unto whom was granted the entry of the disloyal tower, was unto the stout knight Flamides, uncle unto the princess Lindaraza, who being clear of such passions, and never subject unto love, went unto the gate, and entered in thereat, without receiving any harm of the Giants (as the other did) but the Images did rather humble themselves in declining their heads, whereat they all marveled greatly, but although there was no defence made against him at the entry of the gate, yet there lacked not them that made resistance against him for the going up the stairs, for that so soon as he put his foot upon the first step of the crystal stairs, very suddenly he felt himself charged with many thick and strong blows, that it seemed he had twenty knights upon him. But by reason that he was valiant and of great courage, he drew out his sword, and going up the stairs he laid about him on every side, striking such terrible blows that it was a gallant thing to behold, and by his mighty prowess he did win part of the stairs, although that every step he ascended, it seemed unto him that the resistance did double, as truth it was, for as he mounted, so much more did the thick & strong blows overcharge him.  
After this sort when that he had ascended ten stairs, not being able for to suffer the mortal fury of those unreasonable blows, waxing faint, and his strength failing him, he came tumbling down the stairs, and as one dead was thrown out at the gate, but his shield remained behind, & was hanged up at the tenth stair, which was so far as he mounted, and unto that place might all men see through the walls all that was within, so clearly, as though they had been of Crystal, and there was nothing to hinder their sight, and so was all the whole stairs afterwards so far as any knight did ascend, and all that did behold the same, received great contentment, and were wonderfully amazed thereat, for that it was the strangest that ever they had seen.  
Then strait ways came into that mighty Court, the two valiant and worthy knights, Don Claros and Arcalus, being armed with their bright and rich armour, and for that they were two knights of a gallant 〈◊〉 gentle disposition, they gave great contentment unto all them that did behold them. But the first that gave the attempt unto this adventure, was Don Claros, who alighting from his horse, with his sword drawn in his hand, went towards the gates of the tower, and for that he was void of love, and had not his heart troubled with any amorous passions, he entered with in the gate, and the Images did bow themselves unto him, but when he came unto the stairs and began to ascend, he felt himself charged with many & terrible blows, yet for all that defending himself and laying about him on every side, he ascended up the stairs, and although the resistance was great, and the blows increased (at every step he ascended) double, yet for that he was young, valiant, and of a good courage, and in spite of them that did defend him, he mounted fifteen stairs, the which being seen of all that were in the court, they gave him great praise, and said, (as they had great reason) that he was one of the valiantest knights in his time. And as he did pursue and strive for to ascend higher, the resistance was so strong, that spite of his heart he was forced to defend two stairs of that which he had got, he procured all that ever he could to get them again, but it did profit him little, whereby it was convenient for to leave the demand, and departed out of the Tower, leaving his shield at the fifteenth stair, so far as he ascended. Then straightways his brother Arcalus, entered in the demand, and to conclude, he did very well, and with great travail he ascended so high as his brother Don Cla●os did, but in the end he was overthrown down the stairs, and his shield remained and was hanged next unto his brothers, in the same place. Not long after came 〈◊〉 that mighty court, two knights, who by their gallant disposition and rich armour, were known to be the two Princes, Brandizel and Cl●uerindo, who came for to prove the adventure of the Tower. But strait ways as they would have put their desire in execution, it did little profit them all that ever they could do, by reason that the one was in love with the Princess 〈◊〉, and the other with the fair Lindaraza, so that with two blows that was struck at them, they were both overthrown to the earth without any remembrance, and therefore they returned into the pallas, somewhat abashed, and understòode very well the secret of the disloyal tower. Then the last that came forth that day, was the valiant trojan the stout Orist●des, who by the judgement of all that were there, should by force of arms make a conquest of the stairs, and ascend unto the ●oppe: for that as this History hath told you, he was one of the best knights in all the world, and did well appear in him the worthy stock from whence he did proceed, who being alighted from his horse, with his sword in his hand, went towards the gate of the Tower. And for that he ne●er knew what love meant, the porters did let him go in, doing their reverence. And when he was within, he strait ways went up, the stairs with so great lightness, as though there had been made no resistance against him, but when that he had assendid so high and came unto the place whereas the other knights had been, he was put in great trouble and care, for that he thought all the whole world had been against him, the blows were so many and strong where with he was charged. But this valiant and courageous Trojan seeing himself in the presence of so high princes, forced himself all that was possible, and ascended more higher, laying about him on every side, and it seemed unto him that he struck his blows upon armed knights, so that all that ever he did was for to get unto the top of the stairs. And although they that were without did see but Oristedes alone, yet did they hear the noise of the great battle, whose thick and mighty blows did resound throughout all that mighty pallas, as though a thousand knights had combated together: in this contempt was Oristedes, and they were all greatly amazed how he could far so great travail, and thought verily that he would conclude and make an end of that adventure. But it fell out otherwise, for that before he came unto the top of the stairs by four steps, the blows were so many wherewith he was charged, that he was constrained of very force to lose two steps of those which he had gotten, and never after could recover them again, but in the end he tumbled down the stairs clean out of all remembrance, and was thrown out of the gate, but his shield remained and was hanged above all the rest. But when that he was come again unto himself, he was very sorrowful, for that he could not conquer the whole stairs, of the Tower.  
At this time it waxed late, and night drew on, so that for that day it was convenient for to give over the 〈◊〉 of that adventure, so they went all and unarmed themsel●s, and the Emperor Trebatio with all those high Princes, did sup together in the royal pallas, having enough to occupy themselves in talk of the strange adventure of the Tower, and according unto the conditions of the same, they thought verily that there was very few to whom was granted the ascending to the top of those stairs, for that so worthy knights as there was received the repulse, for the which the Emperor Alycandro did not let but receive some grief, for that of necessity he must be constrained to leave there his worthy and well-beloved daughter Lindabrides, yet did he comfort himself very much, in that she was there in great security, and also of the words which the wise Lirgandeo had told him (not long before) of her delivery.  
The night being past, the next day in the morning came forth the stout and strong king Brandimardo, for to prove the adventure of the Tower, and did so much that he lacked but two steps for to conquer the top of the stairs, and for that he was mighty boned, big and very fat and heavy, when that he came thither he was with his great travail (for want of exercise) so weary and faint, that he could not go any whit farther at all but was constrained to 〈◊〉 back again, so that he was thrust out at the gate, but his shield remained above all the rest, with great honour, as to him (that next unto Bramarant) was the most strongest Pagan that was in all the Pagan countri●. At this time, the two brethren, the knight of the Sun and Rosicleer would not prove the adventure, for knowing the condition of the disloyal Tower, they were f●lly 〈◊〉 that the entry should be defended unto them, by the Images that kept the gate, yet for all that in the mean time that all those high Princes were 〈◊〉 together, there were many knights that did 〈…〉 adventure, of whom for that they were not so principal as the other, this History doth make no 〈◊〉.   

¶ 〈◊〉 that the Emperor Trebatio with all those 〈◊〉 Princes and worthy knights, Ladies & damsels that were in Constantinople, went to sport themselves a hunting into the wilderness of Gre●ia, and what happened therein. Chap. 50.  
ALL the care which the Emperor Trebatio had was, that all those high Princes and worthy knights that were in his Court, should be well served, and have great contentment, for herein (as this History hath told you) he had the vantage of all other that was in his time: & as he did always procure to seek out new inventions and pastimes for to give them pleasure and contentment, he determined one day for to carry the● a hunting into the wilderness of Grecia, alongst the Sea side, and to carry in their company the Empress Briana, and all the rest of the worthy Ladies and Damsels, for that the place was gallant, fresh and delightful, & great store of game, of Bear●s, Dear, and other wild beasts. He being fully determined, gave them to understand thereof, who when they heard it, they all received great pleasure