THE SECOND part of the Mirror of Knighthood.  
CONTAINING TWO Several Books, wherein is entreated the valiant deeds of Arms of sundry worthy Knights, very delightful to be read, and nothing hurtful to be regarded.  
¶ NOW NEWLY TRANSLAted out of Spanish into our vulgar tongue by R.P.  
IMPRINTED AT London by Thomas Este. 1583.   

TO THE RIGHT Worshipful, and my very good friend, Master Edward Cordele, Esquire.  
ARISTOTLE (right Worshipful) being demanded, what benefit he had obtained by Philosophy, answered: This is my gain, that uncommanded I can do that I ought, and avoid doing that I should not; For, (saith he) the ignorant for fear of punishment abstain from evil, but the sapient can shun the same of their own accord: noting, that studious exercise bringeth experience, and maketh as well civil policy, as martial prowess apparent. For which cause, there have been sundry in times past, and some in this our present age, that have not only penned with great labour the laudable works of Antiquity: but also with as much travail have imitated certain old writers, by inventing of histories, no less profitable to repulse other hurtful pastimes, then pleasant to pass away the tediousness of time. Amongst the number of which late works, there chanced about a three years since to come into my hands, the first part of a Spanish translation, entitled, The Mirror of Knighthood: which being published was so accepted, that I was importuned by sundry Gentlemen (my very friends) to procure the translation of the second part: whereto, (partly to accomplish their desires, and partly for the vulgar delight of all) I condescended.  
And finding this Spaniard adorned with all good exercises, which pertained to the exalting of virtue, and the extinguishing of vice: I laboured (as much as in me lay) to find an English Patron of conformable quality, whose countenance might as well prefer him with the courteous, 〈◊〉 protect him among the envious. But I had not long bethought me, when the consideration of your worship's courtesy with the good report of your virtue, expelled that doubt, and encouraged me to present you with this work. Beseeching you to accept in good part, this poor present at the hands of him, which wisheth to you long life, with the continual increase of virtue, prosperity, and health: and after this life endless felicity.  
Your Worship's most assured: T. E.   

To the Reader.  
GEntle Reader, I have here published the second part of the Mirror of Knighthood, to the end that I might both satisfy thy desire, and yield unto thee the delight, that by reading thereof thou mayst receive. About the verity of the history I will not contend, neither would I wish thee to be more curious to inquire, than thou wouldst be desirous to ●ift the truth of each transmutation in the Metamorphosis of Ovid, or ●uerie tale in the works of Aesop: but to consider, that as the one by the transformation of reasonable creatures into sundry brutish shapes, shadowed the deformity of their wicked lives: and the other by the manner of his beasts figured the behaviour of all the estates of men, wishing a reformation of the ●uill, and a confirmation of the good: So our Author hath pleasantly compiled this present work, as well to animate these that are by nature forward unto the exercise of arms, for to exalt their fame: as also to provoke them that have hitherto slept in the bed of security, to shun their wont sloth, with desire rather honourably to lose their lives in the defence of equity, then shamefully to live with perpetual infamy. And whereas there are some so stoical to contemn the reading of histories, alleging that their vain delight withdraw many from other virtuous studies. I answer, that in any matter where vice is reprehended, virtue is no way hindered, and although I must needs confess, that the learned works of the liberal sciences are principally to be preferred, so it cannot be denied but that the pleasant style of a well penned history, is as it were a whetstone to the mind, being almost dulled with continual study: and albeit there shall (peradventure) want the like grace of eloquence in the translation as is requisite, yet I doubt not but the variety of the matter shall make a sufficient recompense. Moreover (courteous Reader) I request thee to note, that whereas the beginning of this part followeth not consequently upon the same book which was published in the name of the first part, it is not to be imputed to any error committed in the translation of this second part: for that it is verily the self same, that beareth the title of the second part in the Spanish tongue, but the book that lacketh, is the second book of the first part, which with as much speed as may be, shall be joined thereunto. In the mean time, accept this in good part, which I now present: wherein thou shalt find the strange and wonderful prowess of the worthy Trebatio, and his sons, nephews, kinsmen, and sundry other courageous knights, mixed with many lamentable and sorrowful histories, together with the redress of the wronged innocents. And so I end, committing this my labour, to thy courteous consideration, and thyself to the Almighty's tuition.  
Thine: T.E.   

¶ THE FIRST BOOK of the second part of the Mirror of Knighthood: wherein is entreated the valiant deeds of arms of many worthy Knights.  

¶ THE CRUEL Battle which passed between the Knight of the Sun and the fierce Giant Bramaraunt, in which bickering the Giant perceiving he must needs have the worst, murdered himself. CAP. I.  
WHEN THE GLITTERING armour of Aeneas of Troy was at the request of his Mother Venus forged in Vulcan his shop, the well steeled hammers did not temper and beat it with grea●er 〈◊〉, ●hen the heroical son of Trebatio (〈◊〉 the stou● Pagan Bramarant through the midst of the Grecian woods,) did with his 〈…〉 blows upon his armour, mangling by little and 〈◊〉 his strong and lusty body, so much the more their choler increased, as the combat did endure between them. There were present at this bickering the renowned▪ Emperor Trebatio, Alicandro the king of Hungary and his Grandfather, with many other puissant Princes and great Lords, who with no small admiration did behold ●he exceeding fierceness with which they let drive their blows, the one at the other, which did resound an Eckoe in the air, and yielded a terrible noise in the woods. This battle did continue between them the space of two long hours, and albeit it was fierce and sharp, the valour of the incensed knight of the Sun prevailed not to abate or extinguish the rage of the Pagan, & much less could the force of the Tartarian quail in any sort the courage of the princely Grecian. The skirmish being hot, and the redoubted son of Trebatio perceiving that it endured very long without certainty who had the better: hereupon being greatly inflamed with fury, lifted up his peisant club above his head, & did discharge it upon the pagan his left shoulder, in such sort, (that notwithstanding his strength) he was forced to shrink backward, and so fell flat upon his right side, being greatly dismayed at the blow, & much more at the fall: he began to recover himself at length by the friendly help of an ash tree which was close by him, for otherwise his unwieldy body had taken more pause upon the ground. Scantly had be taken good footing when he perceived the knight of the Sun sort him another sequence answerable to the first. The Giant being unprovided of any trump to cast in his way, whereupon he was driven to close with the Grecian, and having ceased his body with his sharp talents, he began to gripe him very hard: The heroical Prince seeing himself thus embraced contrary to the custom of all courtesy, began to shift, for to avoid this course entertainment so well as he might, but wanting more time than courage he was thereby tripped to the ground. And finding himself laden with his enemy he was thereby compelled to forsake his club, and by all means to seek to shake off that unfriendly burden. Therefore catching Bramarant by the middle with no less agility than fury, he did violently pull him underneath: whereby he requited him in part, for the discourtesy of the former fall. There did they both show their inestimable forces, and passing nimbleness of body, in this cruel and dangerous encountering. And thus they long time tumbled and tossed each other on the grass, some times not moving for want of breath, otherwhiles wallowing together to get the mastery, yielding forth most terrible groanings, by reason of the great pains and weariness that they sustained in this hard conflict, at length they set each other at liberty, & then start upon their feet, and began to fight as fiercely as before. The Knight of the Sun drawing out his Sword, supposed that no resistance of the enemy, how strong so ever it were, could suspend the execution of his purpose, the Moor likewise took hold of his heavy triumphant blade, cursing and banning his Gods, that they had endued this Knight with so great force and prowess. Being in this brainsick mood, he would not attempt to make experience of his enemies force again, but flourishing his sword amongst the troop, caused them to sunder themselves and so in flying, made a broad lane between them, and ran to shroud himself into the thickest of the Wood, that he could, leaving the people in a great admiration: The noble knight of the Sun when he beheld that his champion betook him to his heels in so great haste, whether he did it for fear (which was unlikely being a stout champion) or for devilish madness, (which might seem true) being no christian, called for his horse, & could not be persuaded from pursuing the Pagan, by the Emperor his father, making a semblance of great anger by his countenance, his horse being brought by one of his esquires, he mounted into the Saddle very lightly, without help of his stiroppes, and broaching his courser with the Spurs, he made him run so swift, that he seemed another Perseus upon his Pegasus, to them that beheld him. He ceased not to coarse up and down the Forest, with set purpose to single out his Enemy, and not to rest until he had subdued him, or else to be conquered by the virtue of his adversaries force.  
Noble Rosicler perceiving his brother to be inclined for to take revenge of the Pagan, and thereby mistrusting lest that some froward mischance might attend upon him (which fickle fortune doth usually afford), hereupon did call for his horse and armour out of hand, which being brought with as much speed as might be, in so short a time he being furnished with his own weapons & armour, he leapt up nimbly into the saddle, & posted through the forest in as great hast as he might, following his brother in the same path whether he went, where we will leave him, to make rehearsal of that which did befall in the emperors court, in the mean time: when as the beholders had somewhat staid themselves in remembering this notable battle, & had as it were forgotten the sharp brunts the two champions sustained, the Emperor with the rest were somewhat recomforted to see how lovingly Rosicler did follow to aid and succour his brother, and discoursing by the way of the battle, and of the incredible strength and courage of the Pagan, they withdrew themselves into their tents: being not long there, news was spread abroad in the court of the loss of Clarim●nt, which report when the Empress hard, it laid such an impression of grief in her Imperial heart, that albeit she was an Empress and had ruledome of many nations, yet had she not so much power over herself, but presently thereupon she fell into an extreme Ecstasy between the Empress claridiana's arms. The Queens and Ladies beholding so tragical & sudden mischance, they clustered altogether, & with certain drugs which they had about them in a readiness, they somewhat revived her again, she being before greatly distraughted out of her wits and senses. And with sorrowing sighs replenished with much martyrdom, descending from the bottom of her heart, bathing also her beautiful visage with two streams of salt tears gushing from her eyes, with a lamentable voice she delivered certain speeches, which did move the assistants unto very great compassion: To whom the emperor came (although he was God wots, in such plight himself, that his case rather required more comfort) then to visit the comfortless: yet notwithstandding he with a grave countenance, very lovingly did cherish & persuade her: which speeches of his savoured somewhat of an angry show of reprehension, in the end he wrought so much with her, as she was fully recovered and contented. The Emperor not to seem daunted with any thing, but to make a more apparent show of his valour, he commanded his huntsmen to continue the sport, and in outward semblance seemed to be so merry as ever he was, whereas in truth he was secretly wringed, for the exceeding great passion which he saw the lady Claridiana endure, for the sudden absence of him who was newly married unto her, & had begotten her with child. After three days were passed, they were desirous to return to the City again, and taking up their tents, they laid all things in order, and in readiness to proceed on their journey. But as they began to march on their way, they might perceive coming a long by the Forest side a Coach, all covered over with black Serge, which four horses did draw, trapped with such like black furniture. Before it eight knights came riding, with Targets and armour, all out of order, and broken, which did very well express, that they escaped from some dangerous & hot skirmish. Behind the Coach did attend as many more knights, having their armour suitable to the first, all did bear black devices, the barbature of their Horses, answerable to the same. The Emperor and Knights which beheld this same show, being all black in mourning wise, did rain their horses to know what came in the same Coach.  
Here must I digress and recite unto you the cruel order and miserable end of the unfortunate Pagan, & will return at length to relate unto you, what did betide the Emperor and his company, after this sight of the Coach. The devilish More Bramaraunt ran through the Grecian forests (a hellish fury being his guide) yelling & braying against his Gods, and as a starved Tiger he travased the woods, cutting down oaks, & r●oting from the ground pine apple trees, as if they had been slender reeds. And being plunged in this pansive mood, he entered into the highest degree of his melancholic passions, debating which himself, why should it not be possible that his mighty hand should conquer & subdue one silly Knight. But other sometimes descending from the mood into a more mad & frantic kind of behaviour, this disturbed Moor did bend himself towards the midst of the wood, & kéeeping on his right hand, he repaired towards the brink of a broad & deep river which ran by that wood, where he purposed to ease his weary limbs: and the better to perform his desire, he unlaced his helmet, and hurled it scornfully to the ground. Now the infernal furies began to visit the Moor, and attended to sting his poisoned breasts, in such sort, that what with desire of revenge, and sorrow for his late mishap, he was all kindled in fire, having tossed many thoughts in his crabbed mind. In the end, he cast up his wretched eyes to the heavens, saying: O ye treacherous Gods, join in league to defend yourselves from mine unfortunate hand, stay not, but muster your forces together, for if mine own hand in the mean while be no impeachment to the cause, by pulling out my heart, I will change the colour of these crystalline waters with the Sacrifices of your blood: for no doubt there resteth more valour in this one knight, then in you all, when you are together. O ye dastardly cowards, where are ye now become? Trust ye to this, that I have in more regard the worthiness of that knight that fought against me, than I have in liking your famed forces. And seeing that neither your powers nor my strength, may not paragon to his courage, and to the end, ye shall not flatter yourselves with a good opinion of your own sovereignty, being insufficient to secure me, & much less unable to suppress my will, or bridle my desire, I will renounce you all, & trust no more to your favours. After he had thus spoken, forthwith he began to pull in sunder his strong & bright shining armour, & what with outrageousness, or with sorrow which did greatly gall him, he cast from him one piece here, another there: & blaspheming against all his Gods, he said: What doth it avail me your virtue, your favours, or mine own strength? is it not altogether weakness? is it not a show without substance? Have you not suffered my father to be slain without taking revenge? have you not seen me subdued, wanting forces to requite it? Might not my father have been preferred before jupiter for gravity & wit? before Alcides for prowess? & before Mars for courage? Can I otherwise conceive, but that you are all dastards, in that you take no revenge: deaf, in that you will not hear the complaints of the oppressed: & blind in that you cannot see the deserts of me. I should think truly my father's forces exceeding you all, ye have been a mean to breed his death so soon. Why did you not assist me against the Emperor Trebatio? why did you not maintain me against the knight, that hath conquered 〈◊〉 in the field. O ye faint har●ed wretches, what hath brought me hither, thus in the prime of my youth to be put to shame, by being subdued of this knight. I will use such means, that none of you shall take revenge of me, by dying at my enemies hands: neither shall any have occasion to triumph & say, that he hath slain the knight Bramarant. And speaking these & like speeches, he took his sword into his hand & said. O good & faithful sword, release me from the shame which I deserve, in that I have not executed that, which I did covenant to achieve by thee, sith that neither thy trenchant edges, nor my approved stoutness have sufficiently played their parts, to satisfy that, whereunto my promise hath bound me. A cowardly arm did hold thee, a dastardly heart did direct thee, & an evil guerdon be thy glory. Well, I will shroud thee in such sort, that hereafter thou shalt not stand any other hardy knight in steed, nor be subject to any man as thou hast been to me. This only thing I request of thee, if any of the Gods carry the good will to take the up to serve their own needs, express in what small regard my unconquered heart held them, & thou shalt perceive, that they are not so valiant and stout as I am, or ever have been. Having thus said, he cast it in the deepest part of the river, not having any more weapons but a poor poynado, which usually he did wear about him: & taking it in his hand, delivered these speeches unto it. Thou silly bodkin shalt finish the piece of work, which all Christendom was never able at any time to begin, I mean in bereaving me of my weary & linger life, for I above all men only deserve to lose it, seeing that I being the son of so valiant a Father, have not showed any spark of that valour which by right aught to descend to me from mine ancestor, sith than I have digressed, I repute myself unworthy to be registered for his son. O how worthily dost thou deserve death unfortunate Bramarant, sith there are so few buds of valour springing in thee. And let me not deny but that mine ancestors deserved to find much more favour at the God's hands then I have done. Forasmuch therefore as my cas● is so bad, I will neither commend my soul to the tuition of the Gods, neither will I crave of any man so small a favour as a grave for my wretched body. Yielding forth these reasons with a great and pitiful sigh, descending from his heavy heart, he stabbed the Dagger amidst his ribs, which pierced unto the liver and heart, and so the vital powers striving with death, and his miserable carcase beating up and down the small sands for life, there died in this sort the most valiant & stout Pagan, whose semblable the world did never yet bring forth, most unworthy (God knoweth) of so cruel and pitiful an end.   

¶ The worthy Knight Rosicler finding Bramaraunt giving up the ghost, after he was dead, did entomb his corpses near unto a Pineapple tree, wherein he did engrave an Epitaph. Cap. 2.  
THE last pang & deadly gasp that the valiant Tartarian yielded, being distressed between life and death, was overheard by noble Rosicleer, who by chance (pursuing him and his brother) repaired to that place where the Moor lay wallowing: & aiming very well by his sorrowful sighs, that he endured heaps of passions, reigned his horse towards that way where he heard so shrill these groanings, and staying a while to hear his pitiful complaints, laid himself squat upon the ground, not far from whence the dead pagan lay imbrued in his blood. And wondering how so deep a river might change his colour by the loss of the blood of one man, began to tossy the dead corpses up and down, presuming in himself, that rather the passion of the mind or the weight of his armour then any deadly blow that he had received, had brought him to this extremity. In the end, seeing his visage so besmeared with blood, as he could not truly guess what Knight he might be, insomuch as he never saw him but in his Beaver. hereupon he wondered greatly, partly to see that this Knight was so strong timbered, but principally to see his stern and sour countenance. And by as much as he could gather by his foresaid complaints, he imagined him to be the executioner of his own body. He pausing somewhat in a maze, in viewing this lamentable slaughter of Bramarant, without moving his eyes either one way or other, until in the end he looked up, being greatly afflicted in his mind, and deeply sighing, cast his eyes that way where the Moor his armour lay strawed as you have already heard, and seeing them to be so great and strong, he went about for to piece and lay them all in order, which thing being done, he knew by the device engraved in them, that this was Bramaraunt the More, which lay thus murdered. His stout heart could not brook this sorrowful Sacrifice, but in considering of the miserable end which did befall upon this Tartarian, he could not but shed from his eyes some trickling tears, saying: O wretched world, what booteth so much the mighty limbs and exceeding forces of any man, when as thou with thy smooth and flattering face, dost draw them at last that follow thy course▪ to such a wretched end, and at the pinch of all their pangs thou forsakest them. O Bramarant, Bramarant, whose forces did resist the mighty Grecian army, the incomparable strength of my brother, the tried knight of the Sun, and hast not had power to suppress thine own outrageous passions. Alas thy valour and noble courage did require, nay rather deserve, more glory, and more guerdon than this. Thy strong and fast knit members did merit to be entombed in a more rich Sepulchre, then in this wet and small sands, and God knows, never deserved to be a pluming stock to the ravenous Fowls of the air. What did move thee, O most unhappy amongst all men, to make thy angry arm bereave thee of thine own life? It could be nothing else I am sure, but thy surpassing great pride: What did move thee to this untimely death, as it well may be termed, sith thy fortune hath been such, I will not suffer thy body to be pulled in fitters with hungry beasts and ravenous Harpies, neither will I see thine armour dispersed in such sort, without bestowing upon thee the due desert of honour, which are sufficient witnesses of the sacrifice of thine own body, and a testimony of that which thou didst offer up to thy Gods, by sprinkling the pleasant ●ieldes and green grass with such a crimson colour. And after having thus pitifully bewailed the Moor, he took his helmet, and pulling out the murdering dagger, which was nailed close to the hilts in his body, he digged a deep grave therewith, wherein was interred the miserable body of the unfortunate Tartarian. Likewise he did hang the armour upon a very fair and high Pine apple tree, which was near unto his grave, and with the point of his Dagger did engrave this Epitaph in the rind of the Tree.  
This Pine with stretched arms o'ershades a valiant knight,  
Whose body here interred lie●, and Bramarant he hight:  
In strength and feats of arms, he most men did surpass,  
A Pagan borne, his native soil and land Tartary was.  
His own right hand, a woeful case, himself did slay,  
And rend his heart which never was subdued before that day  
trebatio's son first there this mighty More hath found,  
Twixt life and death, and with his hands ingrau'de him in this ground.  
A Monument too base unfitting his degree,  
Whose blood & acts in tomb of gold interred deserved to be▪  
In this fair growing pine for honour of his name,  
He did engrave these lines, to be a record of his fame.  
And placed his armour here, forbidding any Knight,  
To take it hence, unless he be as stout as he in fight.  
And who so shall it wear, must wars continue still,  
With Grecian Lords, as Bramarant did, this standeth for my will.  
Now having finished this piece of work, he said: Pardon me valiant Moor, I beseech thee, because at this time & in this place I do not attribute so much honour to thee as thou deservest: yet I do promise thee by the faith of a Christian knight, to fulfil every point in this Epitaph, (I esteem so much) though it be done with the loss of my life. And to make the more assurance of this my promise, I vow that no year shall pass, but tha● I will come to visit thy Sepulchre, to see and know who hath been so hardy and venturous, as to think himself worthy to carry away thy heroical armour.  
And in speaking these and such other like words, he did not forget to mingle them with some trickling tears, his courageous heart was so tormented in meditating of the lamentable end of this desperate More. Having finished his talk and travail, without longer abode, he mounted upon his courser, and directed himself through the thickest of the Wood, determining always to accomplish that which he promised, although it did import so much in it, as the weight of his life, as you shall perceive hereafter. This valiant knight continued not without great grief of mind, in remembering the order of the death of Bramarant, which did continually occupy his memory. And as he went thus drowned in sudde● of sorrow, he knew not, neither cared he which way his horse did carry him, until the darkness of the night surprised him, so that he could not pass any further, wherefore he was constrained to light from his horse to walk on foot, and to remain in that place all Night, wherefore he unbridled his horse, and gave him liberty to feed on the sweet grass, (whereof he had great need) having endured much travel before. He likewise unlaced his helmet, and laying it under his head in steed of a pillow (being a course bolster for an emperors son) rested his weary limbs upon the green meadow. And thus being alone and solitary, he could not suspend the remembrance of those passions, which the day before he had passed. Also those conceits did call to account more sorrows, & made him to be grieved for his long absence from his best beloved Olivia, whose beauty he entertained so deeply in his mind, as neither time, place, nor any fortune whatsoever, could separate her from his good opinion. Nourishing his mind with this sweet passion, he continually tossed too and fro: and in the end, seeing the bright shining Moon, & fixing his eyes upon it, he began to contemplate the divine power of almighty God, not wondering also a little, how that the heavens were beautified with golden stars, and how the great Architector of the world, had settled every one in his due and convenient place, which engendered a great confusion in his mind. These cogitations summoned him to sleep, wherein he had not taken long rest, but that he heard on his le●●● hand a harmonious sound of some musical instrument, & therewith all so pleasant and Angelical a voice answerable to the same, that he supposed it to descend from the heavens. The prince start up, and softly went through the dark thicket●es, to the end he might approach the more nearer, thereby to be partaker of that celestial music, but he was hindered of his journey, for that Diana's brightness was eclipsed with a Cloud: wherefore then lifting up his eyes, he might descry under a broad Pine apple tree, a certain Lady sitting upon a cushion of black velvet, embroidered with diverse pretty knots of gold, whom he supposed to be that Lady, with which her divine harmony delighted his troubled spirits, her fair & yellow hair untied, and hanging down beneath her ears, did rest upon her comely shoulders, in such seemly sort, and so long, that some part thereof touched the black velvet cloth, which did seem with their golden colour to represent some golden emblem, woven in the same cloth. She had before her Crystalline breast, a goodly Lute, whereon she played (as you have heard) this sweet music. There waited upon her person nine fair damosels, arrayed all alike, with gowns of black velvet, & on her one side there lay prostrate a lusty & strong knight well proportioned in body, and tall, harnessed in a black Diamond armour, without any other device, who was very attentive to the music, which the fair Lady did sing: the tenor of the which is comprised in these verses following.  

Strain forth a voice conformed to my heart,  
and let my fingers heavy stops apply:  
Whilst that my tongue in words bewray such smart,  
as who them hears, may know in life I die.  
Fowls, beasts and worms, that neighbour near this place,  
All in your kinds, assist my woeful case.   

Yea even the fish that in this river dwell,  
whose clear sweet streams my tears have bitter made,  
Will stay to hear the process which I tell,  
the Nymphs also that haunt this grovie shade:  
And Ecko eke, full glad of such a mate,  
Will in my words bemoan her passed state.   

I love (ay me) whereby my joys I lost,  
and am not loved, wherein fresh grief I find:  
Proud Tyrant thou, with shame thy conquest boast,  
thy faith, my fame, stained by thy cruel mind,  
Who got'st with guile the guard of my good name,  
And leav'st me now to ransack of defame.   

Cannot my face where nature prints her praies,  
thy liking draw her A.b.c. there to know,  
My hairs excel bright Phoebus' golden rays,  
my eyes more clear than stars in frost that show.  
My cheeks likewise, for perfect white and red,  
resemble blood that in the snow is shed.   

The rest unnamde doth match all these likewise,  
but lo my faith my form too far doth pass,  
Yea, form and faith he shuns and doth despise,  
whom ceaseless I pursue from place to place:  
Whereby though oft my tender limbs I tire,  
My will yet fresh, through hope and sweet desire.   
She made an end of her song with a pitiful sigh, and letting her lute fall out of her hand, with a trembling voice she said. O Prince Zoilus, if thou didst or wouldst know the great travail that this careful damoisel sustaineth for thy only cause, I do verily think, that albeit thou hadst tasted of the water of the enchanted well of Merlin, yet could it never work such effect in thee, as to make thee careless of my torments, sith they are so sharp, and I have sustained them so long.  
These words were no sooner uttered by this sorrowful lady, but presently, the knight start up, who was laid down close by the Lady, and could not be quiet, until he had answered her thus. What breath hath love made in your breast, most delicate damosel? how hath he subdued you with his blind force, unless the great disdain and discontentment that the Tartarian Prince showed you do oppress you, I know not why you should complain: why should not you quite his discourtesy with like disgrace? why should you not make him taste of the sower which seems so bitter to you? You sent for me (you know) to come into Greece, only to be revenged of his cruelty: and how often have you wished his head as a Sacrifice in respect of his contempt? And how comes it now to pass, that in your songs he is remembered with such affection, thought upon with such plaints, and called upon as a divine creature? Believe me and doubt not of it (good madame) if Fortune be so favourable to assist me in my purpose, I will in such wise contrive these matters, that you shall never have any occasion to lament his life, neither yet to suspect that he doth bestow his good will and liking upon some other Lady.  
The afflicted Dame notwithstanding all these his comfortable speeches, could not strip herself of any part of these exceeding sorrows, which so deeply did sting her, whereupon she answered him in this order saying.  
Prince of Mesopotamia, I sail even now between two doubts, whereby I do not only doubt, but am also persuaded my shipwreck is hard at hand. For if I become so froward, as to envy him whom I wish to be my friend, or that I have so cankered a mind as to seek to destroy him whom I love so well, what might be said of me otherwise then of a feigned lover, and cruel homicide: again, if on the other side I pardon his death, whose life and disdain breeds me this sorrow might argue too much pity without desert. Alas, what luck had I, that love should intrude himself so forcibly into my poor heart, and govern there as chief Lord, and could he not have battered the breast of Zoylo, whose de●ence in resisting had been more strong than mine, but the weakest must to the wall, and the least able must bear the heaviest burden. How gladsome would that day be unto me, wherein I might see my Knight abandon his strangeness, and extend more favour upon me: or else alas, how willing would I be that my afflicted heart were drawn out of his place by his bloody hand. The poor Lady being not able to speak any more, wrong her hands and stayed herself against a Pine apple tree, which was behind her back, at the view whereof the Mesopotamian knight in great sorrow laid himself down again, upon the green grass. And the Grecian Prince wondering at this strange adventure, returned very softly to that place where he left his horse feeding, with intent and purpose to encounter that Knight, so soon as Titan should appear to light the world with his beams, and for no other cause but only to deliver his friend from that prepensed malice. And when as the fiery Phaethon began with his glancing beams to shine, the Grecian Prince put on his armour, laced his helmet, mounted upon his horse, and with a soft pace made towards the Prince of Mes●potamia, who was now prepared to undertake his journey with his company. After they had travailed a while, the Prince did espy them passing through a fair champain or field, and was greatly abashed at the exceeding beauty of the Lady, whom he viewed a long time, and love having tickled him for that she was so rare a Phoenix, he thought for her sake he could subdue all the world: wherefore he turned his eyes toward that place where the Knight was, and if before he wondered at the ladies comely graces, not much less was he now amazed at the strong body of this knight, and at his huge and well fashioned weapons, whereby he reputed him to be some worthy & noble champion. After he had shaked off this imagination, he said unto him: Knight, take thy weapons and armour for thy defence, for I am desirous to have some trial of thee, before that thou dost prove thy valour with the Tartarian Prince, thereby peradventure to quite him (if I can) from the like battle which thou dost intend to have with him, at the request of this Lady, and therefore I mean to prevent that devilish purpose which thou hast promised to accomplish The Moor hereat began to swell, and very scornfully and with a fearful countenance replied. What fury or devil of hell hath placed so foolish a thought in thy brains, to undertake that exploit, which the best of the Gods never durst enterprise: and not able to speak any more, his choler & rage was so great, he laid both his hands upon his sword, and therewithal let fly at the Grecian Prince such a blow, that he made his head redouble in his breast plate, and upon the neck of the same, he discharged another upon him, which made him yield backward. The Grecian Prince wondering at his incomparable strength and nimbleness, drew out that strange and unknown sword, which the Queen julia did give him, and lifting it above his head with one of his accustomed blows, he did smite it upon the pagan his helmet, which made him bow down his head to his saddle pommel, so that his senses were almost benumbed with the force of it, but being recovered, he began by little and little to smite and wound the noble Prince, yet his dexterity in fight could little prevail, for the Prince stood not still, but did so bestir himself, (and with as great fury as the other) that he did scar his enemy in diverse places, which he felt not without great pain, although he made no semblance of the same, whereupon the battle being before but kindled, was now on a hot flame, both of them burning in revenge, and therefore continued a good while furious and fierce, slashing main blows between them, which sounded a terrible noise in the thickness of the wood, as if many Smiths had been hammering upon their Ansieldes. But whosoever had then beheld the appalled countenance of the Lady, he would no doubt have taken her for no living creature, so much did this desperate and fierce combat astonish her comely face. And thinking upon the valiant enemy of her Knight, who like a Bear that hath lost her younglings assailed him evermore▪ on the one side she wished in her heart the victory over him, and on the other side fearing to see herself all alone, she desired greatly truce between them, and that they might part friendly, & that which did most glad her mind was, that oftentimes she did imagine (& yet but doubting of the matter) if perhaps this should be the knight whom she did take so great pains to find out, and that which did confirm her surmise, was, that she heard him at the first name the Tartarian prince. In such and other like thoughts and doubts, the comfortless Lady passed away her time: In the mean while that the courageous Knights were busy how they might dispatch the one the other. But the crabbed Moor with both his hands gave the stout Grecian such a blow upon his helmet, that he made his horse neck a pillow for his head, wherewithal he began to thump & beat all his feeling, & in this senseless sort was Rosicler carried up & down the plain by his horse, the Moor pursuing him to cut off his head, but as God would have it, he awaked as it were out of a dream, and furiously recovering his sword, he turned back again, and repaid the Paganne with such a forcible blow upon his friendly helmet, that his wonderful strength made the well tempered steel to yield, and therewithal it made him fall backwards upon his horse's buttock, casting out blood out of his mouth, his horse caring him here and there amidst the pleasant fields more than half dead, but Rosicleer would not follow him, but did attend whether and about what he went, who tarried not long but that he enjoyed his former senses & strength, (being once almost dispossessed of them) and abashed to see the Prince to have surmounted him by lending him such a cruel blow, so extremely did all the furies in hell conspire in his breasts, that now having reared up his sword, which fell from him by force of that unreasonable blow, he broached his horse with his spurs amain, and with incredible swiftness he encountered with the Grecian Prince, and hit him so mortal a stroke upon one of his shoulders, that it made his bones rattle within his skin, but he failed not to leave the print of his sword in some part of the sinnowed flesh, so that now the battle seemed to be but begun, such was the fierceness of both these stout champions. And both of them employed their forces in smiting of each other, and also their wits were not idle how the one by some s●ight might sooner cut off his enemy, because it grieved them both that the battle begun two long hours since, should endure any longer without advantage of any part, wherefore both did their diligence to finish it by some way or other. And all this while it was very hard to know whether of them had the better over the other, being equivalent in prowess and manhood. But the courageous and fierce Grecian being angry in his mind to see one only Knight to keep him at the staffs end so long, replenished with an infernal fury, he began a fresh to double and redouble his mighty and peysaunt blows upon the Pagan, whereat he had good cause to wonder: and perceiving that his strength did more and more increase with his courage, he began to blaspheme against his Gods, yet notwithstanding like a fierce Lion he thought to tear in pieces the worthy Grecian, wherewithal he let slip so devilish a blow upon his head, that with the loss of his understanding, he did almost fall from his horse: The worthy Rosicleer quickly again recovered, and seeing himself to be in such a plight, he turned his horse so nimbly, that he scarce left his treading in the ground, and now when he saw himself jump with his enemy, gathering together his forces and standing upright in his stiroppes, he weelded his sharp Sword between his strong and mighty arms, and thundered so deadly a blow upon the Moor his headpiece, (who indeed was not provided for any defence) the force whereof made a division from the skull even to the very shoulders, the wretched Pagan falling down dead to the ground, the most part of his blood came gushing out of his body. Unneth had he fallen from his horse when the trembling and troubled Lady did also fall from her palfrey, as one that should give up the Ghost, whom when her Gentlewomen did espy, lighted all of their palfreys, and with streams of salt tears began to lament her woeful case, & to accurse her froward fortune, every one striving about her, to try if they could by any means restore her again to her memory. The Prince seeing her in this extremity, did also forsake his horse and come towards the place, where this miserable Lady lay like a stake, and causing one of her Gentlewomen to fetch a little water from the river which was hard by, he besprinckeled her beautified visage with it, and thereupon she came to herself again, and opened the dimmed windows of her dark body, and when she beheld the Prince so nigh her, with a profound sigh and pitiful voice she said. O cruel homicide of my faithful and valiant champion: thou thirsty bloodsucker of the royal blood of Mesapotamia, dispatch now, dispatch I say, to execute thy fury with thy imbrued Sword upon my sorrowful heart, and speaking these words she fell again into an ecstasy as before, which Rosicler marking, and guessing at her inward pain by her extearne countenance, he turned himself to one of her Damoysells, which as he thought among the rest of her train seemed the chiefest, in knowing most her Lady's secrets, and said unto her: Gentlewoman, I see (God knoweth, not without great sorrow be it spoken) the grief that your Lady endureth in viewing my face, therefore I pray you tell her from me, that I entreat her to go to the emperors court of Greece, and there present her parsonage to his majesty, and certify him of all these accidents, and there to stay my coming, for I mean shortly to return thither, and then I promise her, that there I will use such means that she shall enjoy to her great contentment, that thing, the want whereof doth so greatly grieve her, and because my words may carry more credit with her, you shall tell her, that one of the Emperor Trebatio his sons, the greatest friend that the Tartarian Prince hath, did inform you this much. And hereupon not tarrying for any reply, he mounted upon his horse, coursing through the forest. When he was gone, the Gentlewomen helped their lady by certain drugs which they brought forth for preventing such mishaps, and so recontinued her health again, and afterward expressed to her all that which the knights imparted unto them, which report comforted her not a little. The grief which the Lady and her Gentlewomen did sustain, in seeing a strange Knight glance by them armed, and to remain in the wood alone without succour or comfort of any, I would here set down before your eyes: but I am enforced to return to the famous Rosicleer, and at this present, I will not make recital to you, what Knight that was, who parting from Rosicler did appear again unto him at his going out of the forest.   

¶ Prince Rosicler travailing on his way, having already taken leave of the Princess' Ladies, did chance upon a certain adventure, and of the success he had therein. Cap. 3.  
THE valiant Rosicleer being departed from the sorrowful princess, went as he thought the nearest way through the forest to find his brother, with set purpose to make him acquainted with that which you have already heard, and afterwards to return back to Constantinople. So it happened that fortune guided him into a broad and large way, which was his direct path to Constantinople, and turning him to the foot way where he saw a great gate in hope to learn some news of the knight of the Sun. He had not travailed long, but he descried a far off a rank of men all armed, and they drawing more near unto him, he perceived that they were xx. Knights armed with black armour, and their head-péeces and beveres of the same colour, and in their company came a Chariot, all covered with black Serge so close, that it was impossible to see what was within it, the light came in through two windows which were placed at the side of the chariot. Four horses did draw it, all clad in black cloth, and there did ride two fair dwarves, as guyders of the same, all appareled in black. Behind the same there came likewise ten Knights clothed in like sort, & by their countenance they wear all right sorrowful, so that the troop of the Knights that came with the Chariot were thirty in number. With this heavy countenance and great strangeness, they passed by Rosicler, without speaking any word unto him: whereupon the Prince came to those that waited behind, and demanded of them in courteous wise, what they were, which were enclosed in that sorrowful Wagg●n, but the Knights were so heavy and sad, that they made him no answer, but passed on forward, which bred a more earnest desire in Rosicleer to know who was within, sith that with such mild speech he had demanded, and could not be resolved to any purpose. And hereupon without taking any further advise in the matter, he rushed among them that environed the Chariot, only to see what was within it, but ere he might come near it, he was lette● by two of the Knights which said unto him: Stay thee Knight, stay thee, for if thou longest to know who is here, thou shalt be hindered from it by us, which stand here to no other purpose. It is my desire (said Rosicler) and willingly would I be satisfied of my request without entering into the combat, and if ye would afford me so much courtesy, as to tell me the cause of so great sorrow, I should be heartily glad. Thou mayst not understand it, answered one of the Knights, at this time, therefore depart thou hence in peace, unless thou wilt make experience of our forces, which do attend upon it. I know not (replied Rosicler) how it shall betide me, but truly whether you will or no, I am purposed to see what is within it. After he had thus spoken, he laid his hand upon his sword, and without tarriaunce for more speeches, he hit one of them so strongly, that he killed him. His companion seeing this, let drive at the Prince with all his force, but the fierce Grecian suited him a passport suitable to his companions: which thing drove their companions into a wonderful admiration, and hereupon forgetting all courtesy, they altogether environed the Prince, and struck at him on every side: but the valiant Grecian seeing himself in such a press, it was not long, but that he did unharnesse some, and maimed other some, and others he struck down dead, and cursed was he unto whom he lent a full blow. In such sort the Prince skirmished with those Knights, that they began to recoil, fearing the death, considering that it was better to disclose to him that which with such humanity he had demanded of them. hereupon the knights with blushing countenance made toward the Knight, and being so weary as they were, which turned to their own harm, they struck freshly at him again, whereupon the Prince did cut and mangle them at his own will. He then perceiving the small resistance that they made, he came unto the Chariot, and pulling up the coverture, he saw that there was within it, a dead body all imbaulmed, and on the head of it, there was the Crown of a King, which head unto the breast was divided in sunder with some blow, and he did repute him for such a one by his royal garments, which were all imbrued in blood. There sat in a Chair covered with black cypress, at the foot of this dead king, a Gentlewoman of a middle age, leaning her cheek upon her hand, and her eyes shut, she bedewed her face and breasts with innumerable brinish tears, and near unto her there sat another Gentlewoman, who seemed to be but ten years of age, all wrapped in black, which Gentlewoman was so fair, that she appeared unto his view more divine than human.  
The renowned Grecian Prince with great admiration and no less pity, beheld this sorrowful sight, and at length the distressed Gentlewoman, opened her heavy eyes, and seeing the Knight, knew he was none of hers. thereupon with an angry countenance she said unto him, Who are you sir Knight which have been so bold as to come and see what is here without my commandment? where are my Knights and keepers which have not depended you the passage, nor bridled your exceeding boldness? The courteous Grecian who greatly bewailed the sight which he saw, and the great dolour wherein the Gentlewoman was, he answered her soberly. Madame, I am a Knight, whose help if it might stand you in steed, though it were with hazard of my life, you should find it ready at your commandment: and as concerning the guard which have attended upon you, they have done what lay in their power to prevent me, but all could not prevail. The Lady attentively heard the speeches of the Knight, and hearing the tidings he delivered her of her Knights, she lift up the other side of the covering of her chariot, she espied some of her Knights murdered, other some hurt, & other some all to be trampled under the horse feet. After she had seen the great overthrow of her Knights, with an angry countenance she turned her to the Knight and said: The Gods send thee a perpetual plague, sith that in such sort thou hast entreated the best Knights in all my Province, and sith that our misfortune hath been so great that thou hast had the power to vanquish my keepers, I beseech the Gods, that thy forces hereafter may prove as weak, as my troop is now poor and slender. Fellow on thy way, and suffer me to go mine, with that company which hath scaped thy cruel hand, what wouldst thou farther learn then that which thou hast already seen? Besides this, my griefs cannot afford me so much time as to recount them, neither hath thy courtesy wrought in me such good will as to recite them. When she had thus spoken, she opened one of her casements, and made sign to the dwarves which ●idde, that they should whip the horses, which when they had done, they went like the wind, leaving the Prince more discontented than he was at the beginning. And without more tarriance, he continued on his journey, greatly blaming the courtesy of so evil mannered people: and he travailed a long time without encountering any thing worthy the recital, until he came unto the shore of the Sea, wherein he saw a great boat of very fair workmanship, upon which he had great delight to look, yet he did not forsake his way, and he had not continued long in riding, but that he heard a woman's voice as he thought, call unto him: Knight of the Princess Olivia, secure this captive Gentlewoman. At the call hereof, the Knight turned his head, and gazing on all sides, he could not see who called him in such haste, and so following his way, he heard again a new voice which said unto him: Knight of Cupid, thou never deniedst to any thy help, and wherefore dost thou not secure me. The Prince greatly astonished, turned himself to see if he could perceive who called him, which thing when he could not do, it bred a bitter passion in him. Going forward in his journey more careful than he was, he heard the third time a voice crying unto him. O son of Trebatio, courageous Rosicleer, what is become of that pity which was wont to dwell within thy valiant heart, towards the succouring of the oppressed Ladies, why dost thou now begin to fail me. When he heard himself called by his proper name, it did strike him into a greater dump than he was in before, herewith imagining that the voice came forth of the ship which he saw at the shore side, he lighted from his horse, and nimbly leapt into the Boat, and his horse as if he had understanding followed him. They were no sooner in the Boat, but it began to cut the Seas with such swiftness, as the wind which hath long time been imprisoned in his cave, and could not get forth at any chink, & it blewe now in such sort, as juno by long intercession entreated Aeolus, who untying the chains, commanded the Winds with all their fury to transport the enamoured Aeneas and his Troyans army into the depth of the seas. Rosicler was greatly amazed to see himself thus swiftly conveyed, and saw not any in the Boat which so often ●ad cried to him for succours. Here we will leave speaking of Rosicler, and will return to declare unto you, the many worthy deeds that his brother did accomplish, suffering him to ride in his boat, as already hath been recited unto you.   

¶ The great sorrow that the knight of the Sun received in thinking of his own disloyalty, and that which happened unto him. Cap. 4.  
THE Knight of the Sun with great fury and haste, wandered through the Forests of Greece, as it hath been already declared unto you, kindling the air with fire, with that burning choler wherein he was wrapped, unhappy had he been, which at that time durst have undertaken to have resisted his purpose, for while he was in this mood, there had been no roeke so hard, but he would have torn in pieces, nor no hill so steep, but he would have pulled down. In this sort he went all the day not finding any print of that he sought for. The dark night did overtake him in the thickest of the Forest, whereby he was enforced to a light and ease his horse, who fed upon the green grass, and he leaned himself under a high Pine tree, the place being so solitary, it was a mean to draw him in mind of many things which had already happened unto him, and specially it renewed the fresh assaults of that love which passed between him and the Princess Lyndabrides musing with himself what should move him so unkindly to forget her, and in comparing the beauty of the Princess Lyndabrides with his beloved wife, he found the Empress did far exceed her, and hereupon the knights good will began to kindle, and was inwardly glad of his own choice, but this affection was soon extinguished, so firmly settled was that good will be bare unto the Barbarian Lady. The impression whereof was so deep, that he altogether forgot the ancient love that he had borne unto his beloved Empress, whereupon with sorrowing sighs he sounded forth his grief, and with brinish tears he said. Is there in the world any knight so little attainted with love as I am, or can there, be any one so ungrateful as I, sith that I bestow no care upon one, so furnished with beauty, and endued with so many excellent virtues. Alas Lyndabrydes, right worthy do I acknowledge myself to be chastised with love, sith that without reason I have transgressed his bounds. As there is nothing in me to merit your divine beauty, so am I altogether unworthy (being a disloyal Knight) any so undeserved courtesy, but I will promise you to execute upon myself a more sharp revenge, than lay in you to give me, sith that I have forfeited that bond wherein I was bound unto you. Oh miserable knight what sayest thou in thine own defence, how canst thou excuse thy folly? hast thou blotted out of thy mind that sovereign courtesy of thy Lady? or hast thou suspended the sweet memory of her divine beauty, being so rare an Empress? Oh traitorous heart why hast thou yielded to this folly? & why dost thou not now repent this passed fault, sith that love which first enthralled thy mind, doth now without ceasing torment thy heart? Oh wretch that I am, what condign punishment may I bestow upon myself. O sacred Emperico, thou gavest me free possession of all, without reserving any thing, thou didst surrender to me thine Empire, & thou didst yield to me thy liberty, and I careless of my faith, & neglecting thy courtesy, could not entertain a good opinion of thee alone in my heart, according to thy desert, but have been prevented by the Tartarian lady, who hath made a breach in my affection. Forgive me I beseech thee: Oh sorrow, oh intolerable grief, no less sharp than death to see my heart divided in twain. Is it possible that I can live & sustain these nipping passions which assault me▪ with this the miserable knight sent forth a scalding sigh, & by his countenance appeared to be plunged in great sorrow, insomuch that the ecko of his bitter passions moved the shivering leaves to quietness, & the piercing air to a certain calm stay, only to hear the plaints of this oppressed knight. In this heavy plight, & woeful cogitation the afflicted Grecian spent the weary night, until the glistering Sun with his radiant beams, did shine upon the green grass and sweet budding trees, and moved the chirping birds with their golden lays to warble forth their sugared tunes. At that present hour the knight of the Sun bridled his horse, and without setting his foot in the stirrup he mounted upon him, leaving the rains on his neck, to the end he might go where best liked him, he had not long journeyed but he was come near unto a river which ran through the Forest, his horse being very dry entered into it, altogether careless of the exceeding anguish wherein his Master was, whose mind was so perplexed in considering his strange mishap, that he forgot where he was, until the bubbeling of the Crystal water awaked his benumbed senses, and then seeing himself in this golden stream, and gazing on every side he espied the armour of the valiant Moor, which was chained for a monument unto a Pine apple tree. The Prince stayed long in viewing them, greatly admiring at such an adventure, and approaching more near, he might well discern by the head piece that the armour belonged unto the Moor whom he had sought with great labour and pain, which sight did greatly trouble his mind. And turning his horse to see the strangeness of this misfortune, he saw the bloody altar where the Moor had committed this sacrifice, & near unto it was annexed a goodly grave closely couched by a lofty Pine, wherein was engraven certain verses, which when he perused he might perceive that they were compounded by his brother, and when he ●ad by reading of them, gathered the sorrowful end that the valiant Moor made, he could not so well govern his affection, but that his eyes distilled gushing streams of water, greatly deploring with himself the froward fortune of so valiant a man, where by imbruing his hands in his own blood had thereby eclipsed his former honour. Then greatly exclaiming against the wretchedness of this world, and the looseness of the people, he did note the solemn vow his brother made, and therewithal did remember the fruits of his virtue, and thereupon desirous to join with him in travail, he did engrave with his dagger somewhat under the other Epitaph, these verses that follow.  
Whose travail strange shall lead him to this place,  
to view this shield and strong Tartarians grave:  
That man I warn that he do not deface  
the same, devised by Rosicle'er the brave.  
Whose brothers blood the quarrel shall maintain,  
Against such knights, that would this armour gain.  
When he had written this, he walked up and down by the grave, & by chance saw the dagger wherewith the Moor had killed himself, and taking it in his hand, he said: Truly thou hast great cause to lament, sith that thou hast been the instrument to murder the best knight that ever aware armour, and in memory hereof thou shalt stay here, saying this, he lift up his arm and struck the Dagger into the pine tree up to the hilts, and without any more tarriance he took his horse and travailed on through a young grove, the night being very close, till at length he repaired to one corner of the River, which was all shadowed with the green branches of Pine apple trees, and not far from the River, he discerned an old ruinous house, which was very ancient, and as it seemed no man did inhabit it, and as he made thitherward, he heard the voice of one which as he thought sang very sweetly, whereupon he reigned his horse & directed his way thither. Not far distant from a tree he saw a green armour engraven with perfect gold very richly, and there was fast tied unto a bough of the same, a shield of fine steel, the field being green, wherein was portrayed a Mermaid, which in shape seemed to be a Goddess of the seas. Likewise close unto the shield, there was chained a rich helmet, which was very strong. It might well be thought by the riches of the armour they appertained to some valiant man, and also it seemed the time was long since they had been hanged there, for that the washing of the water had wasted the brightness of the colour. The knight of the Sun with an earnest desire beheld them, and saw the body of the Tree engraved with this word Florisdama. And when he could by no means understand the conceit hereof he became very pensive, and balancing to his mind the fortune that chanced to him in the Island of the wild Fairy: hereupon he imagined this other was not much different from it. The Grecian dwelling in this dump, turning his eyes he saw that all the trees there about'ts did carry the name of Florisdama, and in some places it was shortly written with an F. and a D. It chanced also among those trees he spied a sword fast chained, which by the dama● king and bravery of it, might be guessed to belong unto some worthy Knight. These things procured the Knight of the Sun to imagine, that this Knight ended his days desperately, through the sweet enticing baits of love, which thing drove the Knight of the Sun into a greater maze than he was in before, and therewithal engendered a desire in him to see the end of this adventure. The stern of his ship being thus guided by a careful Pilot, he returned back to the place where he first heard the noise of the instruments, and the farther passage he made, the shriller he might hear the sound, whereupon he travailed so long, that with ease he might perceive the sorrowful Knight touch his Lute, with a panting heart, and sometime intermeddled his music with a sweet voice and a pitiful ditty. The knight of the Sun was greatly inclined to know him that bewailed so bitterly his mishap. And hearing him begin to sing certain verses, he stood still. The sorrowful Knight of the Forest, began in this sort.  

O Direful death! when shall the hour be  
so long desired, for to dissolve my grief:  
That this my corpse bereaved of breath by thee,  
in Mistress praise my soul may find relief.  
Oh Atrapos (in deserts where I pine,  
And living, die) do thou my thread untwine.   

O loathed life! oh most unhappy fate!  
wherein I feel such force as none may bide.  
Injurious Dame, (which brought'st me to this state)  
thy cruel dealing plainly is espied:  
Yet thus I deem, and so myself persuade,  
My moan, no mirth unto thy heart hath made.   

But sure I fear my fortune is not so fair,  
that I for thee should bitter death sustain:  
Yet if it chance, this still shall be my praire,  
that ere my end, I may thy sight attain.  
Ay me poor wretch, my wish would work my woe.  
Thy ireful face would cause my grief to grow.   

What force I that? If God would give consent,  
that thy white hands a while before I die  
Might comfort me, I should be well content,  
whether with friendly or with frowning eye  
Thou me beheldst: For, being trained to grief,  
Till life be lost, I look for no relief.   

But what availeth me my vain desire?  
too childish is this fond conceit of mine.  
No hope can help to that which I require,  
these deserts are unfit for one so fine.  
Yet oft times here me thinks thy face I see,  
With mercy mixed, anon with cruelty.   

And even as one which spectacles doth wear  
in eight parts cut, can have no perfect sight,  
(In that from one, such sundry forms appear):  
even so my fancy never falls out right.  
For in my sleep I only shadows see,  
When substance sweet is farthest of from me.   

Sometimes I prove, and forth I put my hand,  
and think to feel the thing I hope to find:  
But then (alas) my dream I understand,  
and torments fresh do newly vex my mind.  
So that these trees as witness of my care,  
To hear my plaints to silence them prepare.   

The time I sing to ease my heavy heart,  
converts in fine to former misery:  
Ah cruel Dame, that I (without desert)  
for loving thee, in country strange should die.  
But what know I, that thou dost this intent:  
Heavens grant thy sight to me before mine end.   
Here he ended this song, the Knight of the Sun gathering by his ditty the wretchedness of his estate, he could not but accompany his pitiful music with many streams of brackish tears renewing in his mind the old storms that lately battered his breast. Whereupon he then alighted from his horse, (which before he had not done) and with a soft pace he marched towards the old ruinous house, where he saw a knight prostrate upon the ground all clad in cloth of gold, which in truth was torn in many pieces, and perceiving the Knight to be of a goodly stature and very well proportioned, and so young that scarce might be seen any hair on his face, and therewithal so fair, that the knight of the Sun never saw any one that might match him, he greatly wondered. This enthralled knight having his eyes shut up, h●● guished forth trickling tears so fast, that almost with bl●bbering he had disfigured his face. As the Knight of the Sun viewed all these things attentively, the young forlorn man without opening his eyes, turned him upon the other side and said, Oh Prince of Dacia, how much better were it for thee to die then to live in this continual thraldom. The Grecian prince stood still to see if this sorrowing knight would renew his plaints, who immediately after with extreme dolour began to say. Oh death, what do I feel, whether are thy forces fled, why hast thou now forsaken me, sith at this present thy courtesy might favour mine estate. Oh cruel Fortun● (admit there be any▪) art thou not satisfied with tha● injury which thou hast already extended upon me: wilt ●hou needs enjoin me to suffer more penance: make an end I say, of thy greedy desire, make me not sometimes merry and more of●en sorry. When he had finished these speeches, he began to slumber, and immediately with a sorrowing sigh he began to say. Alas Fortune, how many things are there framed by thy hands, sweet in all men's taste, and sour in my digestion, pleasant to many, and bitter to me. After this he took again his instrument, & with an harmonious stroke & pitiful voice he sang these verses.  

O Heart more hard than Hircan Tiger fell!  
and are more deaf than senseless troubled seas:  
O causeless foe, whose rigour doth excel!  
to thee I yield, thy anger to appease:  
Take tyrant wrathful, wreak of me thy fill,  
That ending now, my grief remain not still.   

My heavy cheer, and evil that is past,  
my fainting voice, my case so comfortless,  
Thou moandst not once, so merciless thou wast,  
nor stirdst thy foot, to ease me in distress:  
But time will come, when sorrow hath me slain,  
That thy repentance will increase thy pain.   

Ah cruel, how canst thou the love forget,  
that each to other we in youth professed?  
Which when I mind, full many a sigh I ●et,  
for that was it which first bred my unrest:  
And for the sweet, which then by thee I felt,  
I find sharp sour, O most unjustly dealt.   

Tell me wherein I have offended thee,  
or when I slacked thy service any way:  
Then how canst thou so much unmindful be,  
when oft in secret thou to me wouldst say:  
That in my absence, Lucifer so bright,  
Nor gladsome Phoebus once should give thee light.   

I gone, thou vowest, the waters should not yield  
their wont solace, nor the pleasant Rose,  
Or any flower of the fragrant field:  
such love thou saidst, thou didst on me repose.  
Which was but small as now the end doth try,  
That thus distressed, thou sufferest me to die.   

Oh Gods of love, (if so there any be)  
and you, of love that erst have felt the pain,  
Or thou thyself, that thus afflictest me!  
hear these my words, which hidden grief constrain:  
Ere that my corpse be quite bereaved of breath,  
Let me declare the cause of this my death.   

You mountain Nymphs which in these deserts reign,  
cease off your chase of savage beasts a while,  
Prepare to see a heart oppressed with pain,  
address your ears to hear my doleful style.  
No strength, remorse, no work can work my weal,  
Lo●e in my heart so tyrantlike doth deal.   

O Dryads, of lovers much adored,  
and gracious damsels, which in evenings fair  
Your closerts leave, with heavenly beauty stored,  
and on your shoulders spread your golden hair,  
Attend my plaints: and thou that made'st me thrall,  
If thou have power, give speedy death withal.   

Ye savage Bears in caves and dens that lie,  
remain in peace if you my reasons hear:  
And be not moved at my misery,  
though too extreme my passions do appear.  
Ye Mounts farewell, ye fragrant fields adieu,  
And silver streams, high jove still prosper you.   
He finished his song with many a bitter sigh, and he was so windless with sobbing, that he lay as it were in an ecstasy stretched upon the ground. The Knight of the Sun entering into this ruinous lodge, finding the Gentleman in this wretched estate, he began ne to behold the proportion of his face, and with extreme dolour wept, as well in ballauncing his own passed misery with this young knights, as also for that he verily reputed him to be his brother Rosicler, or else some near kinsman of his, for that in beauty and strongness of body, he resembled him so much, that there was but small difference between them, saving only the beard. While the Grecian Prince was beholding this sorrowful sight, the enthralled knight with a deep sigh awaking, and seeing the Knight of the sun afore him, he wondered what might draw so comely a Knight unto so solitary a wood, and therewithal he reared up his body, and sitting upon the green grass, with many a dreary tear, he beheld the shape of the Knight of the sun, & enforcing himself to speak, he said: Sir Knight, insomuch as fortune hath directed you hather to accompany me in this desert place, sit by me I pray you, and pardon my folly, in that you have found me so disordered. The Prince without making any answer, sat down as the Knight entreated him, being very desirous to know the end of that adventure, & what cause made him demean so tragical a life, he being set, he told the Knight, that the desire he had to understand the bark verses that were in the trees, and likewise to hear his sweet songs, which so harmoniously he sang, moved him to forsake his way, and to repair to this ruinous lodging, & therewithal made render of his service to the knight. While the Prince delivered these speeches, the comfortless Knight was musing with himself, what he might be, who by his comeliness appeared to be valiant, and by his courtesy to be honourable, and therewithal was very desirous to know what he was, and being somewhat stinged with the bitter passions which he had already sustained he said.  
Alas sir Knight, how little is the body touched with the doleful cares of the heavy heart, and how slenderly now a days is the guerdon of a faithful friend, as mine own experience can best relate it, so shall your courtesy move me to impart the well spring of all my woe, and then I beseech you judge how unworthily I am tormented, I cannot otherwise think but you will pity my mishaps with some sorrowing sighs, especially if at any time you have tasted the bitter pills of love, and I promise you I would be heartily glad that it might stand with your pleasure to make me acquainted with your name, to the end I might know to whom I might disclose my wretched estate. The Prince made him answer and said. I am son to the Emperor Trebatio of Greece, and am called the Knight of the Sun, brother unto the renowned Rosicleer, whom you greatly resemble, and be thus persuaded, that the sparks of love hath kindled as many glowing coals in me as in any other, and hath left as deep impression of sorrow in my poor heart as in any other Knight. Therefore Knight as I have satisfied your request, so I pray you unfold to me the cause which makes you live so pensive. In so doing, I will swear by the almighty God, I will hazard my life to purchase your desired quietness. The Prince of Dacia which had already heard of the prowess of the Knight of the Sun, herewithal began to shake off part of his martyrdoms, and knowing the worthiness of the knight, bowing down his body somewhat low he said. Although that my mishap have been great in sustaining such continual griefs, yet do I esteem it slender, sith that hereby I have purchased acquaintance with the flower of all chivalry, whose valiant heart doth bemoan my oppressed estate, & whose only counsel will determine my exceeding torments. Sith them renowned prince the love hath already made a passion in thine heart, whereby you may the better be an eye witness of my wretchedness, or to say the truth of my cruel death: Understand you then that I am Don Eleno Prince of Dacia, son to Cadislao, brother to the high and mighty Emperor Trebatio your Father, and to the beautiful Florisena Daughter to the king of Cypress and Nygroponte, under whose wings I was nourished till I was eight years of age, and was trained up in the regal sort as was incident to my parent's estate. Being of this age, spiteful Fortune who is slippery to all men, and levels commonly at the contented mind, spun me so course a third, as I fear me in the weaving it will prove my utter destruction. This blind Fortune I say, conveyed to the king my Father his court the beautiful Princess Florisdama, daughter to the king of Nygroponte, brother to my Father, she was equal to me in age, and so endued with beauty, that she seemed Angelical. While I was thus young, the burning flames began to scorch me, which now do sing me, and we were so allied, that without any suspicion we walked where we would, and most commonly we spent our time in a banqueting house which was half a mile from the City which was right fair, & compassed about with crystalline streams, and green meadows furnished with sweet flowers we lead so pleasant & princely a life, that we bestowed all our care in catching chirping Birds and young ●eauerets. Our mutual good wills was so great, as seldom did we forbear each others company, mine proceeding of an inward desire to have her to my wi●e, & hers in regard of the affinity which was between us. This augured life continued until we were fourteen years of age, the which time we bestowed in hunting, to the great comfort of my heart (though in the end not to the heart's ease of my mind) my Florisdama having a crossbow in her hand, and a bugle horn about her neck, little mindful of that sorrow which galled me so much. While she continued this vain in hunting, it begat a singular good will in me to see her shoot, having her golden locks somewhat laid forth, and upon her head was knit a garland of all sweet smelling flowers, she had a gown of white Satin all laid over with gold lace, which made her seem so celestial, that she had been able to have quailed the heart of Cupid. Believe me and doubt not of it, valiant Prince, that Venus in her most bravery did never excel her. Neither could the enchanted Circus with all her cunning, frame so much beauty in her face, to beguiled those whom she thought to entice. My desire still increased to behold so much beauty, and the beautiful Lady settled all her care in chase the little Fawn, which when she had gotten at any advantage, she would surely shoot and speed, whereupon I would speak softly unto myself and say. Alas, that arrow we●e better bestowed in my heart, for being once dead, I should avoid an hourly death, which pierceth me every day. Therefore be assured of this, Knight, that I sustained not so much joy by her company in the ●aie time, but I endured as great torment in the night by her absence. Being thus wasted in woe, Florisdama had a narrow scantling at the cause of my passions, and yet was she not fully resolved that it was for her sake, and therefore with making shows of love she demanded what wringed me in such sort, either whether it was an imperfection in myself, or a want of boldness to discover it, having as I have already declared attained to the age of fourteen years, I was dubbed Knight by my father, God knows how grievous it was to me to be separated from the thing wherein I joyed so much. The imagination whereof I refer to your discreet judgement, most worthy Grecian Prince, sith that already you have tasted the same sauce of cruel love, and alas how grievous were those thoughts unto me which brought unto my mind the intercourse of speech, the kind familiarity, the pleasant walks, and the comely graces of my divine Florisdama, your passed misery may easily have an aim at the same, & my present estate may best discover it, what shall I say more, right worthy knight, but my passions were so bitter, and my help so slender, that I lost my colour, forbore my meat, and grew to be so weak, that an inkling thereof came unto my ladies ears, who perceiving in what poor and low estate I remained, entreated me most earnestly to disclose unto her the cause which pinched me so greatly, promising me that if my sorrows might be relieved through the favour of any Gentlewoman, she would strain herself to release them if it were possible, and would hazard herself to procure her favour which had so much enthralled me, whereat with watery eyes I thus answered her.  
Alas Florisdama, love hath laid such a corsive to my heart, such a flame unto my lights, and such a sting unto my breast, as it hath reduced me to this state wherein you see me. Oh sovereign Lady, how much better had it been for me, that rather in my green years and in the midst of my hunting, Atrapos had shred in sunder the twist of my life, than now to continue in sorrow without any hope of release or delart of relief. The Angelical Lady seeing me weep so heavily, could not but distill some few tears from her crystalline eyes, albeit she did not thoroughly feel the bottoms of my inward grief, and thereupon she said thus.  
Ah my loving brother, let me obtain that favour as to manifest unto me the cause why you fail in sorrow, and as it seems remodilesse, granting my request, I promise you to procure with all diligence that there may be some salve that may cure that festering wound which seems to cancur your heart & impair your joys, for if you give me credit I am persuaded there is no Lady so ungrateful as to deny you her love, being so valiant a Knight as you seem to be: and again, knowing the worthiness of your progeny, the disposition of your mind, and those incomparable virtues which shine in you: Alas why should not the courage of your mind suffice to kindle the affection of all the Ladies in the world. And for that it hath been your course Fortune to yield and surrender the interest of your good will to the subjection of one Lady, relinquishing all other joys and pastimes. I mean not as now to shrink from you, but with all my endeavour to relieve and secure thine estate, until such time as my care and practice may have light of her, that hath brought so worthy a Knight into such a Labyrinth, and hath clean bereaved him of his liberty, and dispossessed him of his former joys: spare not therefore to impart unto me what it is that wrings you: thereby then shall you perceive the willingness I have to do you good. And the great care that I will execute, to stay the ranck●ur of your disease. The pithy persuasions of this angelical Lady, were so sweet and comfortable, that they caused such bashfulness in my heart, that it moved me to change colour, and through modest shame I could not, no nor I durst not open my lips for to untwist unto her the bottom of my grief, but craved pardon, promising her, that at our next meeting, I would bewray who she was, that galled me so greatly, she being satisfied herewith, and my words caring some credit with her, she departed from me: but the terrible night that I suffered, what with visions, dreadfulness of dreams, mistrust of good Fortune, I refer the taste of those pills to your savoury and mature judgement, noble Prince. For sometimes I thought good to disclose and discover the whole state of my pain. And immediately I would charm those thoughts, preferring a cruel death before a perpetual torment, but yet in the end I concluded with myself, and thought it good to unfold the plaites of my sorrow to so good a Physician, whose skill I knew could help me, if disdain did not let it. I thought it good to entertain her courtesy as one that could enfraunchise my bondage, but wanting ability to perform my desires by means of inward pains, which hourly gripped me. I thought it not impertinent to use a policy by (Metaphora.) And having decreed with myself how to handle this practice, I rose very early in the morning, and shoving off all fear, I appareled myself more brave than I was accustomed, and went out of my Chamber to present myself to her, who had more authority over me then myself. And lo, I found my mistress attending for me, desirous to hear the exposition of that riddle which so darkly I had propounded unto her. The time was exceeding favourable and the place most convenient, so that I had very good opportunity and leisure to disclose the secrets of my heart. And surely she had no sooner discovered a glimmering of me, but she came to encounter me immediately, (whose Angelical and brave beauty surpassed the twinkling Stars,) and: he● great desire remaining to know the cause of my sorrow, with a gracious and smiling countenance she approached to me and said on this manner.  
Loving Cousin, the place is now so convenient as y● you need not to make it strange to me wherein you are so grieved, I beseech you blush not to rehearse your pangs, which I know do sting you, and in so doing I promise you I will adventure myself in any danger, how great so ever it be, to remove those pinching passions which so greatly afflict you. Then I seeing the hour so fit to make my market; I took out of my bosom a fair bright Crystal glass, and with a panting heart, I said.  
Fair Lay, and the only nourisher of my life, receive this Glass, & therein shall you see the Image of her who is the procurer of my martirdonie, and increaser of my woes: mark well her countenance, and then tell me I pray you whether it lies in your power to use any authority over her, I am persuaded she is so near a friend of yours, as you only may dispose, which being true, I earnestly require you, to fulfil that which you have promised me, even for affinities sake, and for promise made▪ I am bold to crave you to keep the covenants which you have made with me.  
After I had thus spoken, with great haste and quickness she took the glass out of my hand. And drawing off the cover she looked therein, whereupon she conjectured strait that she was the breeder of my woes, which sudden and strange thought altering her colour, she remained greatly grieved, staring on me with a stern and wrathful countenance, believe me the memory thereof as yet redoubles my sorrow, for considering then with myself how bitterly she harped upon this string, and what a passionate mind did feed her melancholic humour, I would more willingly have spared my life, then to have her waste herself in sorrow, through the green imagination of that 〈◊〉, which not being applied. I had no comfort left me but death: and yet with this strange demeanour she was not contented, but start up, and rolling the beams of her crystalline eyes towards me, as though they were sparks of fire kindled with malice, she said.  
Cousin, hardly could I ever have been persuaded to have found you so presumptuous, as to have given the onset to any thing which might prejudice mine honour, or offend my mind, partly for that you are bound to please all Ladies, but principally for that you should not harm your friends, among whom albeit I have been least able, yet have I not been most unwilling to stand you in steed: sith therefore these considerations have not prevailed to quench the firebrand of your foolish love, I enjoin you upon the penalty of my displeasure, not to make me stain my credit, by imbruing mine own hands in mine own blood: for in so doing, your villainy shall be published to the world, and the loss of my life shall make your traitorous heart accessary to my murder.  
After she had ministered this corrosive unto me, she returned into her closet, leaving me so benumbed of my senses, and so surfeited with this banke●, that not being able to digest it, I sunk presently to the ground, lying as it were in a trance, where I was found by the maidens of honour, which attended upon the person of the Queen my mother, who seeing me in this pitiful plight, bethought them immediately of those drugs, which might awake my dulled senses: and as it is seen commonly, that women are timorous in such tragedies, they yelled and shrieked in such sort, that the Queen my mother over-hearde them, who wondering at the cause of this clamour, and less thinking of my distressed estate, repaired unto the place, whereas I lay thus martyred, and seeing me lulde and rocked up and down in the Lady's laps, so bathed in tears, and so hopeless of life, she wringed her hands, and what with their cha●ing of me, and pitiful noise they made, I felt myself somewhat revived again, and when I opened mine eyes and saw myself enclosed with so many Ladies and Damosels, and she absent whose unkindness had dragged me to this misery and torment, I suddenly fell again into a trance, and after long travail, and no less sorrow, they summoned together my vital spirits.  
When I was the second time brought from death to life, I found they had strippeth me, and laid me in my naked bed, the same company continued with me, which came first to visit me. Likewise there came to comfort me certain Knights and Gentlemen, who demanded of me where I felt my greatest grief, and what was the cause of it. I then considering with myself how despair did rule the stern of my boat, and how frozen I found my Mistress her favour (though undeservedly I was despised) I did request them to be quiet, and to departed from me for that time, giving them to understand, that I was disposed to sleep, which courtesy they presently granted me.  
Now Cousin, and worthy Prince of Greece, you may guess what discontented thoughts, what bitter imaginations, what sudden alterations of mind, and what sundry sorrows I masked in, being hemmed in between despair and death. I know not I assure you what human or earthly body were able to sustain so many tortures or so often rakings as my oppressed mind did, having not any helping card in my hand, nor any hope that my Fortune would prove better. In this perplexity at midnight I arose up and appareled myself, putting on my armour, the which I think you have seen. Amongst these thick bushes, I caused a Lackey to make ready my horse with as much secrecy as might be, and taking my horse I departed out of the palace without caring or resting in any place a moment, but with continual sighs and sorrows, in the end of eight days I attained unto this place where you find me and perceiving it to be so proper and convenient to shed my complaints in, I unbridled my horse in this wild fields, and determined with myself here to end my days, where I have remained this two years, demeaning this sorrowful life, wherein you see me now, nourishing myself, with such fruits, as this wilderness doth ●éelde. And sometimes the shepherds that come hither to shroud themselves from the suns parching heat, do favourably bestow some pittance on me, and keep me company according to their leisure. Thus have I unfolded unto you (most excellent prince) the beginning, not the ending of all my sorrows: see I beseech you, if you can call to mind any remedy that may stay the rankling of my disease, which hath continued so long, and wasted me to the very heart.  
Unneth had he rehearsed these words, but his senses began to fail, he was so overcome with sorrow in rehearsing the tale.   

¶ How the Grecian Knight persuaded his uncle the Prince of Dacia, to accompany him, & leave that sorrowful and desolate life: and of that which after happened to him. Chapter. 5.  
THE joy that the Princely Knight of the Sun received in finding his Cousin in the pinch where some comfort would do him good, can hardly be here expressed, especially for that he knew him to be the son of the King of Dacia his Uncle (of whom till now no mention is made in the book before) because of the long sickness that the King sustained, and therefore was his name concealed, and his valour clouded by means of his misfortune, albeit in truth the heroical deeds of his son did almost equal his ancestors in every degree, as shall be said hereafter. And as I said before, The Prince of Dacia remained in a trance, embraced between the arms of the knight of the Sun, by reason of the words that he spoke, yet in the end he wrought such means that he revived again, promising him that if any thing did lie within the compass of his power which might banish his sorrows, he should find him ready to perform it, and he would rather die then see him linger his life without any spark of comfort. This great kindness was friendly received by the Dacian Prince, and after many cogitations he thought it most convenient to return to his Country, and also it seemed him best for his most safety to cut the seas, for being unprovided of a horse, he might fall into some danger, being strongly encountered. Whereupon without more tarriaunce the Prince armed himself with his guilt armour, and girded his sword close unto him, and mounted behind the Prince, and so going where Fortune would guide them, and where the horse made choice of the way, in the end after a little space they came to the shore of the sea, where they found a strait and narrow path, hard by the same, which seemed to them the direct passage to find some haven, where they might travailing embark themselves, and in this manner as I have told you, they saw coming towards them in the sea a fair bark well rigged and trimmed, wherein they saw no pilot to govern it, but it made directly toward the place, which when the two Princes saw it came so near the land, they alighted, and drawing more near, there launched forth a Gentlewoman all alone, in a mild kind of speech she spoke and said unto them. Noble Princes, the wise Lyrgandeo which at this present is resident in Constantinople, commendeth himself unto you both, and by me hath sent you this fair bark, which with his art shall bring you where he hath extreme need of your valour, and farther he prayeth you not to stand in suspicion of that which I say unto you, for the truth is, he hath great occasion to put in proof your sovereign knighthood. The knight of the Sun his heart throbbed with joy to hear the news which the Gentlewoman told him, and especially for that it should be his good Fortune to do him pleasure, which loved him so tenderly, and had done so much for him in his childhood, and herewithal the Dacian Prince leapt into the bark, and after him his noble cousin, leading Cornerino by the bridle, and turning unto the Gentlewoman, he said unto her on this wise.  
I am assured that mine old and approved friend the wise Lyrgandeo doth favour me so greatly, that he will not see me staid for lack of a ship, either to pleasure myself or to do him a good turn. The Gentlewoman having done great reverence, turned her speech to Don Eleno and said to him.  
Ualiaunt and amorous Knight, Lyrgandeo kisseth your royal hands, and willed me to tell you that your captived heart somewhat lately amended shall in the end be thoroughly helped, to your no less comfort then great joy, and because your present estate is sorrowful and fraughted with grief, he sendeth you this armour which is answerable to your mourning mind, wrought with a Metaphor, which declareth your passions already passed, and saying this, she took the trunk wherein the armour was laid, & albeit the Prince made haste to give the Gentlewoman thanks, she was so nimble in vanishing away, that his thanks came too short, whereat he was more abashed then before. The Knight of the Sun tying his horse in one part of the vessel, saw standing by him another more beautiful, the which he knew presently the Gentlewoman had brought for his cousin, and making toward him to see what armour the wise man had sent him, being laid abroad, saw them wrought all with one work, LL, and the shield was of strong and fine steel, the field black, and therein was set a grove, so lively as there appeared to be nothing but trees, and likewise there was wrought in it many fine inventions, which did testify to be the artificial work of the wise Lyrgandeo. And in the midst amongst those trees there was a fair Lady shadowed, appareled in a strange attire, in her countenance she was very sad, her hair ●littering all about her ears.  
The sight of these strange devices made the Dacian Prince very pensive, and caused him to marvel much at the great art that was used in the framing hereof, it was so dainetely handled. But in the mean time that these two Princes were thus musing and beholding these strange things, the ship slyst the Seas, with a brave gale of wind, and carried them so swiftly that when they called to mind the strangeness hereof they were greatly astonished. In this wise they sailed six days, not knowing whether they went, nor whether the ship would carry them: neither could they see any land, but they were assured of this, that they were directed by the will of the wise Lyrgandeo. And sailed not toward Dacia, whereat the Prince Eleno was greatly discomforted, but this grief was somewhat stayed by the gentle persuasions which the knight of the Sun used.  
After the long and wearisome travail which these two noble Princes sustained, one morning by the peep of the day, they did discover not far from the place where they were, the land, towards which coast the Ship sailed amain, the Knights very joyful hereof began to arm themselves, with set purpose to land there. Not long after the ship came to the shore with such a bottom rush, sticking fast in the sands, that they thought she had been slit in sunder. Which sudden chance made them with all speed to leap to the land, assuring themselves that the wise Lyrgandeo had ordained the stay to be made there, wherefore without tarrying any longer, they took their horses and mounted upon them, and presently after the Prince Eleno made proof of the goodness of his horse, which was sent him by the wise man, and broaching his sides with the Spurs, he found him very ready, strong, and light. The noble and worthy Knight of the Sun his Cousin stood by and did behold him, wondering how comely he backed him and managed him, the hor●e in his judgement seemed to be of great price, and very swift in coursing, imagining in this sort he always thought that this young Prince was the very portraiture of his loving brother Rosicler.  
These valiant knights not meaning to sleep out the day, they undertook their journey, and in travailing they came to a narrow and strait lane which lead them by the foot of a huge and steep mountain, they had not long rid, but they entered into a broad and rough path, always hoping that the country would prove very pleasant and well shadowed to ride in: but after they had told all their ●●rds, it fell out contrary, for it was a champain so●le destitute of inhabitants, and altogether unprovided of victuals, which discommodities galled these worthy Princes very greatly, and that which grieved them most, was, that they knew not whether they went, neither could they meet any one that might guide them in what place and Country they were. Travailing onwards they found that this crooked way was divided into two broad lanes: And then being in a doubt which way they might take, stood still, and in the end they did determine between them to make a division, the one to take the right hand, and the other the left. And thus these two valiant knights parted the way between them both, being right sorrowful that their late acquaintance, was so untimely separated by a crooked lane. The one having lost the sight of the other, they road very sadly, and the Knight of the Sun travailed all that day, and could not happen upon any path that might guide him to some town or village. The night wrapping herself in her brown mantel, made the Grecian alight from his Cornerino, nigh unto a fair Forrest and green meadow, adorned with all sweet and smelling flowers, and pulling of his bridle he suffered him to feed in the green meadow. This valiant knight being somewhat weary of the travail he had the day before, laid himself down upon the green and pleasant grass, to ease his weary limbs and to pass away the night, where he slept until such time as the grey morning with the notes of the sweet singing birds awaked him. This valiant Prince being start up, returned unto his new begun journey, & travailed so long, that at the last he came to a very fair and clear river, and going along by the brink of the same he beheld, how by reason of the calm wind that did blow, there did arise many small bubbles in the water, the sight whereof did greatly delight him, until such time as he descried in the same certain little streams and drops of blood, at the view whereof he was stricken into a marvelous admiration, and the farther he went, the streams did more plainly show forth the scarlet colour thereof, in such sort, that the clear and crystalline water had lost his natural colour, & was changed into a crimson, which strange and unacquainted case procured the noble knight of the Sun to be half amazed, and marveled greatly whereof should proceed such abundance of this bloody water. And having an earnest desire to know the head spring of the river, and the occasion thereof, he caused his horse to hast his pace somewhat more fast, always having an eye to the way from whence the bloody streams descended, but in the end he lost the sight thereof, by reason of a little hill which was between him and the river, and there he was constrained to take another path, which did lead him unto the top of the said hill, which in truth was not far distant from the brook or River, And when he came to the top of this hill, he beheld there a pillar of Marble stone artificially wrought and firmly fixed in the ground. Upon the highest part of the pillar, there was fastened a chain, whereat hanged a very fair table of cypress wood, and therein was written certain words, which this noble Knight began to read, the contents were as followeth.  
TO the Knight or damosel, whose froward & perverse fortune shall lead this way, I desire thee not to proceed any farther, but to return again: for true it is, that here thou canst find no other favour but death, with oblation of thy blood, in memory of that sacrifice, which once Queen Arcalanda made, who slew herself with her own proper hands, and sharp two edged sword, using the greatest cruelty that ever was heard of, both to herself, and to me Bramidoro King of Sardenna: for she at once wrought her own hasty and untimely death. And I live still, yet for her unhappy end, through exceeding sorrow, ever dying.  
Little account did the valiant Knight of the son make of these threatening words, which were there written, but weighed them as wind, and as one desirous to see the end of this so strange an adventure, not regarding the peril thereof, he took his journey forwards, determining to come again to the waters side. So long he travailed that at last he came to a little Temple, that was very curiously wrought, erected to the use of the greatest cruelty that ever was heard off. Near unto that Temple he saw four dead bodies, whose heads were cut of, and as it appeared by their apparel, two of them were Knights, and the other two Damosels, then casting his eyes a side towards a fair & green field which was hard by, he beheld a great number of heads, which were the heads of those that had been slain, amongst which were the four heads of the new slain bodies, that he before found dead, for the fresh blood did as yet run out upon the ground. This lamentable spectacle, this noble Greek beheld, with such surpassing sorrow, as almost no heart can comprehend: but being ravished as it were with desire, to be resolved of the effect of this so monstrous inhumanity, he proceeded farther, till at length he approached the Temple, where he discovered a postern door to be open, and incontinent alighting from his horse with a heroical courage, being incensed with anger, he rushed in, hoping there to have found the homicide, which was the chief auctor of this tragical cruelty. Being entered, the first thing that appeared to his view, was a very fair Altar curiously wrought, and upon it the dead figure of a very fair Lady, through whose body was thrust, a terrible two edged sword, likewise at the foot of the same Altar, was another figure of a huge and mighty Giant, being ten cubits in height, all marvelous curiously wrought in Alabaster with strange and subtle devices, who kneeled with both his knees on the earth. This noble Knight was very much amazed, at the sight of so strange a matter, and yet not satisfied, he went into a little Court● there adjoining, & found that it was all hanged with black clothes, which represented great sadness and sorrow, and in those clothes was figured divers dead men and women. Hard at the foot of the foresaid Altar was made fast in the earth, even to the brim thereof, a sesterne of lead, into which the blood of those that were slain, and their heads cut off in sacrifice, was poured, and out of the same ●esterne it was conveyed under the earth by a gutter very secretly, the which went unto the River, whereof we spoke before: & this was the same blood, which the valiant Prince did see, in the channel of the river, even the blood of the four headless bodies that he found newly slain. On the other side of the Altar he saw an old man with a fair white beard, sitting in a chair, who leaned his aged head upon his left hand, and his elbow upon the chair side, whose eyes were shut, and his countenance so sad, that it appeared there was in him no comfort, but only great sorrow and mournings. This valiant Greek who greatly desired to understand the end of this sorrowful antecedent, approached unto the sleeping old man, & pulling him by his apparel for to awake him, this careful old man presently lift up his eyes, & with out any delay or farther demand he said. O gentle & noble ●night, what crooked fortune hath brought thee into this perverse & accursed place, wherein is exercised so much sorrowful impiety, and whereas thou mayst expect no other thing, but death, by the hands of the most cruel Giant that ever thou hast heard of, take therefore my counsel, & return the way thou camest, & that speedily before thou be espied, for otherwise it will be hard for thee to escape from death. Then the worthy knight of the Sun answered and said. I give thee great thanks for thy counsel (good Father) nevertheless I request thee to declare unto me the cause, for that as yet being ignorant of farther peril, thou seemest to persuade me to so great a fear. To whom the old man replied, for that thou seemest unto me to be of an incomparable perfection & exceeding force. I will not let to declare unto thee with as great brevity as I may this tragical matter, whereby thou mayst well perceive the singular profit that thou shalt receive in following this my counsel which I have given thee, and so with a sad ●nd heavy countenance, mixed with many salt and bitter tears distilling down from his aged eyes, he began in this wise and said.  
This country wherein thou now art, is that ancient and famous kingdom of Tinacria, which not long since, was governed by one of the most puissant Kings that ever reigned therein, or in any Province héereabout: but death, by his accustomed fury, deprived him of his life, and all his loyal subjects, of a virtuous and loving Lord, leaving the guiding of the Kingdom, in the power of two very fair and Angelical damosels, his daughters, who represented the former virtues of their noble & late deceased father. The eldest of them was named Arcalanda, & the youngest Garasilea. Not long after the death of the king their Father, this fair Arcalanda was requested of love by the king of Sardenna, whose name is Bramidoro, a giant of huge and mighty bigness, (as by the stature which thou dost here see) thou mayst easily suppose: but this virtuous queen not only denied her consent in marriage, but also to hear the message of the ambassadors, and would in no wise see them, so that they returned without any answer. Then this Giant seeing the great disdain and small account that the Queen made of him, and how little she esteemed of his love, being more inflamed with fury than any other reason, and trusting in his incomparable strength, with five hundred knights he transported to Tinacria, and landing in the Port of Saragosa, he there began to make known his unmerciful cruelty, hoping that he should obtain that by force, which by fair means he could not win. The Knights of Tinacria, like true and faithful subjects obeyed the commandment of their noble Queen, and made diverse and sundry valiant skirmishes with the Knights of the Giant: but by reason of his great force and surpassing strength, they were always constrained to retire to the City, not without much loss: for that this Giant had in his company to aid him a brother's son of his, who in valiance & force of arms equalled well near his uncle. And in such sort they maintained the wars, that in small time they put the city in great peril to be lost, and likewise the whole kingdom. The knights & subjects of this noble queen Arcalanda, not able long to resist the Giants forces, & ceiling themselves marvelously oppressed & in great distress, began to persuade with their queen that she should accept his demand▪ and grant to marry the aforesaid giant. Then this unfortunate Lady understanding the feebleness of her subjects forces, and the effect of that which they had declared unto her, and feeling in herself such impossibility to accomplish the demand of the giant, that the accepting of it would be more grievous unto her then to receive y● death, she remained for a time in so deep a study, (being confounded as it were by her own conceits,) that she could neither give answer unto them, nor yet declare any thing of her mind: But in the end lifting up her angelical face, with a cheerful and merry countenance, she said after this sort.  
My renowned and well approved knights, it is a very great thing to persuade, nay rather to force my own will to the fulfilling of your requests. The pure and chaste Goddess Diana doth well know the great wrong that I shall commit against her, in not performing y● vow which I have promised unto her long since: nevertheless the consideration of your loyal fidelities hath taken ●uch deep root & impression in my heart, that I am more careful of your safeties, then of the vow which I have made unto the chaste Goddess Diana, wherefore I am determined with all speed to accept his offer.▪ Therefore out of hand let messengers be dispatched unto the king of Sardenna, to ask and demand of him truce for the next day following, ●o the intent that I may make some public sacrifice, as well to appease the wrath which the chaste goddess Diana may conceive against me, as to satisfy my own heart, for not fulfilling my vow: so incontinently without any more delay the Knights dispatched a messenger unto the king, giving him to understand of all that had passed, and the determination of their Queen. The exceeding great comfort that this king did receive thereat, the time will not permit to declare unto thee, but with right good acceptation of the truce he granted to all that was demanded, and moreover proffered himself to be present at the same sacrifice. The next morning when that Phoebus with his golden beams did scarcely appear, they began to prepare all things in readiness for the sacrifice) (which hath since been the occasion of so many inhuman sacrifices,) and in the mid way betwixt the City and the Camp of the Sardenians, they erected a scaffold all covered with cloth of gold very rich, and upon the scaffold about the middle thereof was placed a fair table covered also with a carpet of cloth of gold, and upon it a chafindish of coals burning. This being done, there was strait ways heard a sweet and harmonious sound of clarions and Trumpets, and sundry other kind of instruments, these went before the people, and next unto them wer● brought fifteen rams, all adorned with fine white wool: and after them followed five Bulls, with huge and mighty horns, being all black of hair: and after them there followed five kine, and with them a certain number of the Priests of Diana, singing their accustomed songs in the honour of Diana: then followed a great company of knights all armed with strong armour & bright, without any other device: and after them came the Marquis of Modique, bringing in his hands the image of Diana, and on either side of him two Knights of great estimation, each of them bearing in their hands great vessels of gold full of most precious and sweet Wine. Then after all this came the beautiful Queen Arcalanda, appareled with a robe of state, being of great and inestimable value. And with this ceremony they went upon the scaffold, where the Marquis placed the image of Diana, behind the chafing-dish of coals that was there burning: and the Priests continued still singing their songs, which customably they used in the like sacrifices, drinking of the precious Wine that the two Knights did bring in the golden vessels, and all at once they brought low the stout and untamed necks of the Bulls, and the rest of the other beasts by cutting their throats, whose blood they sprinkled all about the Sacrifice, and opening their bowels they took out the inward parts, with the call on the liver, and put them upon the Chafindish of burning coals, and with this slaughter they did make sacrifice unto the chaste Goddess Diana, and the Priests fell down flat upon their breasts on the earth, and so ended their sacrifice. At the sight of this ceremony was present the king of Sard●nna, and his cousin, his brother's son, both armed with all their armour, and very attentive to this that I have told you. The Sacrifice ended, this unfortunate Queen commanded silence to be made, and all the company being stilled, she raised up herself upon her feet, and with a heavy voice distilling many salt tears, she said.  
O most excellent and chaste Diana, in whose blessed bosom the chaste and undefiled virginnes do recreate themselves. Unto thy divine excellency I do commend these my last Sacrifices, craving record of all the Gods, that I have procured and done my best, & yet still do, for ever to be thine: for whose sake O mighty jupiter, I know not how thou dost consent that I by force should lose that, which thou by thy omnipotency and almighty Deity, oughtest to keep and defend: and not to suffer that I thus should be compelled to deliver my body into the power of him which with all tyranny would seek to have the use of the same. And nevertheless if to this I do not consent and agree, behold the utter ruin and sorrowful destruction both of myself and also of all my true and faithful subjects approacheth, the which proceedeth only by means of my beauty. Oh sacred Diana, is it possible that thou dost consent, that so worthy a damosel, descended from so noble a race, and nourished in this my Country, should procure to spot the worthiness of her predecessors, without respecting my beauty, or regarding the chaste vow that unto thee I made, but that I must needs violate myself against all human nature. Well, seeing it is so, I am content, and beseech thee to receive the solemnity of this my death, which I offer in sacrifice unto thy Deity: for me think there is no reason, that one infortunate Lady as I am, should be the occasion, that such a noble Kingdom as this is, should be brought to ruin and decay. Oh my loving subjects, by you I am constrained to surrender myself unto him, who cannot choose but entreat you ill, and endamage my Country, which thing is contrary to all our expectations: in consideration whereof, I am here constrained with my own trembling hand, to cut off the flourishing branches of these my days: for this I swear unto you my dear and faithful subjects, that I had rather offer my soul into the society & sacred bosom of Diana, than to yield myself unto this deformed figure. And thou King of Sardenna, the greatest tyrant amongst tyrants, behold here I yield unto thee my body to use according to thy will and pleasure, requesting only this one thing of thee, (if there be any pity or mercy in thee) considering that thou enjoyest that which thy heart desired, that thou sufferest these my loving subjects to live in peace, wherefore come now I say, and receive that which is thine. And thou O chaste Diana, accept likewise that which with so much blood I offer unto thee. And in finishing this sorrowful speech, she drew out a fair and bright shining sword, which she had hidden secretly under her gown, and putting the hilt upon the scaffold, (little looked for of all those that were present) she suddenly threw herself upon the point of the said sword, so that not all that were there, could deliver her, for the point passed through her body in such sort, (as thou dost see here by this figure portraitured) rendering her soul to her tuition, unto whom she offered her sacrifice. What should I here declare the lamentable sorrows and pitiful lamentation that was there made for this unhappy mischance, committed in the sight of all the people, I say it was such that the woods eccoed, and their pitiful shrieks ascended to the heavens: but none was more galled with grief, than the afflicted Giant, who rose up, and like a man distraught foamed at the mouth, and roaring with horrible cries like an infernal creature, in great fury he rushed amongst the people throwing them down on every side, till he came upon the scaffold, and approaching to the dead body of the damosel, he took her in his arms, and with a terrible and fearful voice he said. Oh my beloved joy and erst my only heart's delight. Is this the desired sacrifice, wherein through thy desperatenes thou hast deceived me? who loved thee more than myself. Is this the truce thou requiredst for one day only, therein to conclude both thy death, & mine also. Oh noble Queen, and my beloved Lady, if this were thy intent, why didst thou not first sacrifice me thy servant and love, wholly subjecteth unto thy beauty. Woe be unto thee thou unfortunate King of Sardenna, that for thy fault & lack of looking too, thou hast lost her, whom thou madest Lady of thy heart. O ill granted truce, whereby my heart hath lost that, (yea without all hope of recovery) wherein only it had lately rest. O Diana, is it not sufficient, that they do worship and honour thee, but that thou wilt have all goodness to consist in jealousy? Tarry therefore, for I will make that thy determined purpose shall mitigate thy malice, and thy own device shall be thy destruction: for I vow by the d●uine jupiter, because thou hast permitted this detestable act, that so long as I live, thou shalt not be worshipped for the chaste Diana, but Arcalanda in thy steed shall be adored. I will procure moreover to diminish thy name, yea, utterly to extinguish it, so that there shall be no more memory remaining of thee, for that thy bloody tyranny doth deserve no less. What shall I more speak (gentle and noble Knight) of the anguish and deadly sorrow that the King sustained, for no sooner had he delivered these speeches, incensed with fury, he set his hand to his sword, & overthrew the image of Diana, that was there, & parted it in two parts: and yet not content with this sacrilegious fact, he descended from the scaffold, exclaiming against the sorrowful Tinacrian people, and saying: O villains and traitors, it is not possible but that all you were consenting unto this cruel fact, and determined evil. And uttering these and such like reasons, in his devilish fury, he began to flourish with his sword cutting, killing, and wounding on every side, with such unmerciful cruelty, that in a small time there did not remain one of all them, that were there present, but I alone: and by reason that I was one of the Priests of Diana, he saved my life, although he little esteemed it. Then when this fierce and bloody devil did see that all were slain, and that we two only remained, he took the dead Queen in his arms, & commanded me to follow him with my prayers and orisons accustomed unto Diana, and bringing her to this place, he straight ways commanded this Chapel to be builded, in this order as you now see, and promised by vow unto all the Gods, to sacrifice every week six persons, naturally borne in the land of Tinacria, three men, and three women, in satisfaction of the bloody sacrifice that they consented to be offered by their deceased Queen. And it is now two months past, since they have used this tyranny: and it is not only he that doth persecute the poor people of Tinacria, but he hath also to farther him in this his devilish determination, his brother's son, being of like cruel disposition as himself. And in this sort do these two hellhounds exercise themselves in this detestable murder, insomuch that the City is almost left desolate, and there remaineth very few which doth maintain the wars. And you shall understand moreover (gentle Knight) that the City is so strong, that it is not possible to win the same, neither by force of arms, neither by hunger or any other ingen, for that it is so well furnished with munition and victuals: yet in the city there are but a small number of Knights, which for their great fidelity and love unto their Country, have not left it desolate, but do defend it to the uttermost of their powers. Nevertheless to the judgement of all men, although for a time they do never so politicly defend and make resistance against their enemies, yet in the end they shall be driven to yield and to render themselves: for that in two battles which the people of the Island have had, the devilish Giant hath had the victory, so that now they remain in great fear, for that the strength of these two tyrants, is incredible to be told. Now here (gentle Knight) I have declared unto thee that which thou so greatly didst desire to know, requesting thee to return back again, he way that thou didst come, & to keep thyself from feeling the event of this expressed evil. The noble Prince which with strange attension gave care unto this sorrowful Priest, being fully determined to adventure his life for to violate this cruel and wicked custom, answered, (not according to the counsel the which he gave him, but according unto his courageous determination,) saying. Friend, where is (I beseech thee) the abiding of this unmerciful giant, & which is the way that leadeth thither. The old Priest replied, His Castle is two leagues distant from this temple: but what shall it avail thee to know the same? & what profit wilt thou get by going thither, but only death: but if thou wilt needs adventure thyself, the same which brought thee hither, is the direct way thither, for other there is none. Moreover, the valiant prince demanded of him if he could advertise him how many knights & what store of people the Giant had about him, and he answered that the most part of them that were about him were servants, & that all the rest of his knights and men of war, were placed in other castles and forts of the Island. And while they were occupied in this communication, they heard without the chapel horsemen, as it appeared by the treading and noise of their horses. Wherefore to understand what they were, they stayed their talk, & the prince issued out of the chapel, where he found six knights, armed with very good & strong armour, who were alighting from their horses to enter into the chapel, but when these knights espied the Prince so well proportioned and of so good disposition, & with his armour of strange device contrary unto theirs, than one of those six knights which seemed to have more authority than the rest, said. Oh Knight, what infernal fury hath hardened thee to adventure hither, knowing the custom which is used here. But it seemeth unto me that rather ignorance is the occasion hereof, more than any other thing, wherefore I am content to let thee departed again upon condition, that thou leavest with me thy armour and thy horse (if it be thine to give) for that they do greatly delight me. This valiant Prince dissembling his anger, with a very merry and smiling countenance made answer.  
You have said true, the ignorance hath brought me hither, for that I am a stranger in this country, and never understood that any such cruelty hath been used here till now, that this good old man hath told me. But to give thee my armour▪ I am not determined at this time, for that I am not accustomed to travail without it. And as for my horse, I do insure thee that he will let none take his back but myself, therefore it were best thou ask some other thing, for that in this I pretend not to accomplish thy request. They understanding the words which the Prince answered unto them, one of the six knights pretending more hardiness than all the rest, replied. I will see how thou canst defend thy horse, and with that he went to lay hand on the horse bridle, which he had not so soon proffered, when the fierce horse opened his mouth and with great fury he caught him by the shoulder, and lift him up from the ground, and in his fall he all to trampled & trod him in pieces, and so slew him. At the which this noble Prince could not refrain from laughing, and merrily said.  
In this sort doth my horse reward them that be so bold and hardy of enterprise. Then the Knight which did first speak unto the Prince, said unto him with exceeding great anger. I do promise thee for certainty, that this great disorder and outrage which thy horse against my companion hath done shall cost thee thy life: And on a sudden another of the five knights which remained drew out his sword, thinking to have cut off the horse legs, but this expert horse with great lightness shunned the blow, and on a sudden rose on his hinder feet, and with his fore feet he played so with his helm, that he broke it all to pieces and threw the knight dead to the ground: the which fact did greatly amaze these knights of Sardenna. Then the noble Prince with a pleasant semblance said. I am afraid that if in this sort you battle with my horse, he will in the end deliver me from all danger of the loss of my armour. Then this other knight hearing these words, which he took to be a great reproach unto him, being almost overcome with anger, in a great fury and rage he drew out his sword, and flourishing it about his head, he said. The great outrage which thy horse hath here done, (as I before said) thou shalt speedily repay with the loss of thy life, and uttering these words, he smote the Prince upon the helm so vehemently and with such courage, that the very sparks of fire sprung out, & fell burning to the ground. This noble prince feeling the blow not looked for, determined that that miserable knight should not go unpaid for his good deed, lest he should praise himself for doing it, but with great● anger and fury he struck the knight such a blow a little above the waist, that it almost parted him in two pieces, so that he fell down dead to the ground. Then the other three Knights seeing this terrible and unmerciful blow, made no tarrying, but all at once fell upon the prince, doubling their blows to bring him to his end, that it was wonderful to see, but this worthy Knight, who little esteemed of such dangers, struck one of them so hard upon the head, that he cut him down to the breast, & he fell down dead upon his other companion. And turning to another, at one blow he parted his shield in pieces, & cut off his arm from his shoulder. Then the other knight which remained alive, seeing his companions to be so ill entreated by one only knight, thought it best to save his life by trusting to his legs, rather than to repose any confidence in his prowess, for that he thought it would little prevail him, and betaking him to his feet, he fled away: Of whom this noble Prince made small account, but let him go, the old priest of whom we before spoke, was present and beheld all that had happened, and marveled very much at the great prowess of the unknown Knight. And this noble Prince seeing himself clear of them that would have done him wrong, returned unto the Priest and asked him if he had any thing that he might eat, and requested him to let him have it, for that he hungered and had great need thereof. Then this Priest gave him such meat as he had for himself, still persuading the Prince for to return again the same way he came, and not to put himself, into that so dangerous and terrible an adventure, but this heroical prince made little reckoning of his requests, but giving him great thanks for the good entertainment he gave him, he took his leave of him, & went the same which lead way towards the castle where the giant dwelled, & travailing by little & little with an easy foot pace, he anon had a sight thereof, and perceived that it was very fair to behold, and walled about very strongly, which he beheld not long, but that he hard a Trumpet sound with marvelous sweet melody, and at the sound thereof there looked out of a window a giant, being a young man of great & large bigness, & comely in all parts accordingly, his face was very ireful to look on, but not ill favoured, but rather seemed to be adorned with a senere kind of gravity. This Giant looking that way where this noble Greek was, he asked him with a high and mighty huge voice.  
Knight, what dost thou here so securely seek, and what wouldst thou have, not respecting this my unfortunate and unhappy custom, but without any fear thereof thou approachest hither, presenting thyself of thy own free will to be sacrificed. But this worthy Greek in the mean time that the Giant spoke these words did contemplate himself in beholding the huge making and the great strength that did appear he had by the proportion of his members. And placing his words with great discretion he answered and said. I come to demand battle of thee O King, not for that thou hast at any time grieved me, or given me cause, but only to take away and frustrate (if it be possible) this evil and di●ellish custom which thou maintainest, or else to lose my life in the quarrall, therefore if thou dost think good to proceed in this thy hellish pretence, take thy armour and arm thyself and come forth, and here in this field I will abide thy coming, where I hope by the favour of almighty God, that with thy death thou shalt pay here the tribute of all this tyranny which thou hast used. The Giant remained still at the window beholding this worthy Grecian Knight, for that he seemed unto him to be a Knight of great valour and prowess, (by his comely proportion, and by the devices that he had in his armour he seemed to be a stranger) with a familiar countenance he said.  
I would somewhat reply unto these thy words, but because thou shalt not say I speak like a Thrush in a cage, I will refer it till such time as I am with thee in the field, if thou darest to abide my coming. And so without any more speaking he withdrew himself from the window, and with a terrible voice he called for his armour, in the mean time this noble Greek did peruse his harness in all parts that it was well, for it was needful, as hereafter you shall hear.   

¶ Of the terrible battle that this Grecian Prince had with the Giant, and of all the adventures that chanced in the said battle. Chap. 6.  
THis worthy Grecian knight lifting up his heart and eyes unto heaven, craved favour and help of almighty God, requesting his aid against so great and terrible an adversary, and being thus in his prayer he suddenly heard a great noise & well consorted sound of Trumpets, the which made melodious and sweet harmony, and not long after this the gate of the castle was opened, where out issued the Giant at all points armed with very rich armour of fine steel, and upon his right shoulder a great club barred with iron of a huge weight, and at his girdle a very big and broad sword, and about his neck there hanged a rich and strong Shield, whereon was portraitured the same devise which he saw on the Altar in the Chapel. In his demeanour, he showed himself to be valiant, and with a gentle countenance he came towards the place whereas the Knight abode. All this, the noble and courteous Greek did steadfastly behold, and prayed God, that of his mercy he would abolish this evil custom that he did maintain, and that he would give him grace to acknowledge his error wherein he had transgressed, and that he might be converted unto the knowledge of the true faith, for that it was great pity, to see so much cruelty remain, in so noble & worthy a parsonage, as he was, or in so well proportioned a body as he seemed to have, and thus this noble prince remained in beholding his parsonage till such time as the Giant drew nigh unto him, who without showing any defiance or countenance of pride, said. I believe (gentle Knight) that this my presence hath put thee in some fear of my force, therefore for that thou seemest to be a knight well disposed & of great valour, I yield unto thee the battle. And if so be thou mistrust thy power, I give thee licence to return from whence thou camest, or else if thou so please, to remain with me in my company. But this valiant Greek as one nothing daunted, without moving of his countenance answered and said: Do not thou think O king, that the bigness of thy body, although it show thee to be of great strength, maketh me in any part either to marvel or fear, for that my sword hath been accustomed to abate the courage of diverse such as thou art, but that which maketh me most to muse, is, y● god hath suffered thee so long time to exercise this cruelty. And again, that thou being adorned with so gentle disposition and courage, unto my seeming conformable, wouldst maintain so cruel a custom, without either fear of God, or regard of his laws. Nevertheless considering thou hast no knowledge of the true God, but of other feigned Gods, I do not so greatly muse that thou hast followed thine own appetite so much, but take my counsel, and bestow not this thy great strength and force in the service of those evil Gods, but turn unto my God, and in his defence and faith (which is the right faith) exercise these thy good gifts, with the which he hath endowed thee, and if thou wilt thus do, I will take thee for my friend and keep thy company, for that thou ●éemest unto me to be of so good a disposition, & one y● doth well deserve to be had in reputation. For verily, it is convenient (worthy King) that thou leave this cruelty which thou dost here use, being so far different from nature's rule, and to forget this service which thou dost unto the Devil, which is the only willer of this damnable work: and so reforming thy life, I would wish thee to become a christian. For I promise thee it doth not a little grieve me, that so worthy a knight as thou art▪ should through unbelief perish and be dampened: and if already thou have any remorse in conscience, or perseverance of this my speech, accept my counsel I request thee, which if thou do, I promise thee to be always thine, and by firm friendship to unite myself unto thy fellowship. Contrariwise, if thou persist in this thy pretended tyranny▪ prepare thyself, (and that speedily) unto battle, whereby thou shalt perceive how smally I fear thy force, (as thou dost fond suppose.)  
The Giant which was very attentive unto all that the Prince had uttered, replied in this wise. Before we begin our battle (sir Knight) let me request this little suit of thee, which is, that thou unfold to me thy name, forasmuch as by thy comely proportion thou seemest to descend from some noble progeny, and by thy behaviour to be of no less prowess than authority: the one arguing in thee no small valour in fight, the other no little eloquence to subvert thy foe. The heroical Prince discreetly marking with what sober advisement he delivered these speeches, with no less mildensse, returned unto him this answer, saying. Forasmuch as I will not in any respect be accounted either quarrelous by concealing an answer, or disdainful by denying thy request, understand then (O King of Sardenna) that I am a Grecian borne, & named the Knight of the Sun, son unto the renowned Emperor Trebatio, and brother unto the invincible Rosicleer, whose courage as yet was never quailed in fight, neither hitherto hath my heart been vanquished by any force: for although as yet I have detracted time, by means of this my conference, it hath not been for any conceived fear, but the only grief of my conscience, which is not a little afflicted with sorrow, to see so worthy a parsonage as thou art, so impiously to lead thy life: admonishing thee friendly to forsake thy former wickedness, and to revoke the abominable sentence of thy froward will: & seeing I have both answered thy demand, & thou understandest my desire, I would feign be certified whether thou wilt accept me for thy friend, or defy me as thy foe: that either by thy subversion we may favourably conclude, or by thy persisting, proceed to the combat: for although for thy sake I chief wish for peace, yet for mine own part, I am indifferent. Great is the joy (answered the Giant,) that I conceive at the sight of thee, whose worthiness is so much wondered at throughout the world, and to the end I may both try thy famous strength, and thou feel my renowned force, I accept the battle, with this condition, that if by thee I be now vanquished, I will not only in my armour blaze forth the honour of my conqueror, but for ever hereafter I will submit myself willingly to thy commandment: and if my Fortune be so friendly that I subdue thee, thou shalt in satisfaction leave unto me, the thing thou most likest: which is my life answered this noble Prince, as a due reward for my weakness. That were much more than I would willingly request (replied the Giant): but if, (which indeed is doubtful) thou escape my hands, thy horse shall suffice me, if likewise he feel not my fury, in that (as I suppose) he is of so singular properties.  
If thou obtain the victory (answered the Prince) I promise thee my horse, which I will here in safe●ye leave, both for that if thou win him thou shalt be sure to enjoy him: and also for that I never use in any battle to fight with advantage. Wherewith, with no less agility than courage, he left the saddle, and drawing out his sword, courageously he said: Giant, prepare for thy defence, for behold me ready to begin the fight: and therewithal he gave him so furious an overthwart blow upon the waste, that the sparks of fire fell burning to the ground, and the strength of the stroke constrained the Giant, to stagger side-warde, three or four steps, deceiving him for that time of the dangerous blow, which with his peysaunt club he had provided to endanger the Prince. But when he felt this course entertainment, his choler double increasing, he lightly recovered, and lifting his club above his head, he determined to repay the Prince with such unreasonable interest, that at that one blow he would end the battle: (which in deed if in the descending, it had lighted on the Greek, it had not a little endangered him). But the noble Prnce being of no less prowess than experience, and nothing unacquainted with such skirmishes, having an eye to the main, by the nimbleness of his body made way for the blow, which without harming him, fell to the ground with such terrible fury, that it caused a resounding Echo, in the woods and mountains there adjoining.  
The valiant Knight of the Sun, greatly misliking so monstrous a weapon as that club was, determined (with as much speed as possibly he might) to deliver himself from the danger thereof, and before the Giant could recover another blow with the same, he struck again at his hands, with so great force and incredible fury, that he cut his heavy club a sunder, and moreover if he had followed his blow, both club and hands had ●allen to the ground: Then when the Giant remained with no more than a yard of his club in his hand, much marveling thereat, he threw the rest at him with such rage, that it whistled in the air, but the knight perceiving the troncho● to approach, stepped aside and let it pass by, and closing with him, with the strength of his Herculine arm he struck him such a blow upon the thigh that the harness broke all to pieces, although they were exceeding strong, and wounded him upon the thigh, which wound although it were not much, yet the abundance of blood that ran from it did greatly trouble him. The Giant seeing himself so ill entreated, with a wonderful and outrageous fury, gave terrible & fearful shrieks, and out of his helmet issued forth a thick smoke, and therewith he drew out his huge & broady sword, and shrouded himself under his strong shield, and began with great fury to redouble his strokes upon the knight, the which the noble Prince with great nimbleness defended him from. Now here began the bravest & best fought battle that ever was seen between two knights, there might you behold the whole strength and valiantness of giants, there might you perceive all the prowess of knighthood, with every policy used in arms, there might you see how these two knights pressed one upon another, and procured one to hurt another, and also to ward the cruel blows, that the one bestowed on the other: there might you view the sparks of fire like lightening flash from their terrible strokes, and the pieces of harness flying in the air, having no compassion the one of the others pains, but each one seeking to have the vantage of his enemy, travesing ground from one place to another, that it was right wonderful to behold, and how like two ramping Lions they endured for the space of two hours, without receiving any rest, neither could it be perceived that any of them both did faint, but rather the longer they fought, the more their fury kindled and their strength augmented, of the which the Giant much marveled, and feeling the great force of his adversary which was before him, was not a little amazed, but that which most grieved him, was, that he could not fasten one blow to his contentment upon his enemy, for which cause he began to exclaim against his Gods, but especially against Mars, for tha● he was persuaded, that he was descended from Heaven, to make that combat with him, whereby to work his destruction. And therewith his fury double increasing, with an infernal anger, he multiplied his blows with so great haste and strength, that he caused the Greek, to bestir himself from one place to another to make his defence: but he as one which was not idle, but by these means the more inflamed, letting slip the bridle of all patience, his valiant & heroical courage double increased, and his strength & lightness did surmount in such sort, that under his harness in more than ten places he hurt the Giant, and although the wounds were not great, yet the blood that issued out, was very much. Then the Giant seeing himself in such a pickle, threw his shield from him to the ground, and with both his hands took his great cutting sword, & heaving it aloft, he let it fall with such wonderful fury, that it was very strange to behold. But this politic Prince seeing on which part this terrible blow would fall, determined not to receive it, but with a light leap did clear himself from the fall thereof, the which fell to the ground with so great and terrible haste, that the half of it entered into the earth, and by reason that the stroke was given more of anger then of cunning, by the great strength that he put to it, he could not keep himself, but was forced with the stroke to fall with his breast upon the pommel of his sword. He was no sooner downe, but the Son of Trebatio gave him another upon his helm, that it sounded as though he had stroke upon a bell, wherewith the Giant fell flat to the ground, greatly astonished, and almost beside himself. This valiant Greek when he saw him in this trance, laid fast hold upon his helm, and with the exceeding strength that he set to it, he pulled it from his head. The Giant which was then somewhat recovered, caught hold upon the skirt of his harness, and pulled the Knight towards him with such strength, that he was not able to make resistance, but needs he must go whether his strong arm carried him. Then gladly would this noble Greek have defended himself from this peril, but he in no wise could, for stumbling upon the Giant he lighted on his breast, in such tumbling sort, that he fell on the other side of him, & seeing himself so overthrown without any power in himself to provide for help, he gave a loud cry & said. O jesus Christ the son of God deliver me from this danger, so incontinently as soon as he was at the ground, with a light and valiant courage he rose up again, pretending not to show any pity or favour in this fight, and returned to the Giant whom he found on foot and ready to defend himself, and approaching nigh him, because he would show the greatness and valiant stomach that he had, he said. Ualyaunt King, take to thee thy holm, for that I will not that for lack thereof thou dost lose the surmounted valour of thy heart. The Giant which had proved by experience the great prowess of his surmounted strength, and again seeing his noble courtesy in offering him his helm, with an humble and meek voice he said. valiant Prince, I pray thee tell me if it be true, that thou art he which at the beginning thou saidest thou wert, or whether thou art the God Mars, which is come down from heaven to destroy me, and to make my strength of no estimation. This worthy knight then placing the point of his sword upon the ground, and leaning his arm upon the cross of the hilt, not making any outward appearance of weariness that he had in this battle, with an amiable countenance he said.  
O king, if thou wouldst acknowledge this great cruelty which thou committest, and the small reason which thou hast to execute it, and how greatly thou dost err and art overseen, in thinking that thou servest thy Gods in maintaining and defending such extreme tyranny, thou shouldest do much better, & so return unto the knowledge of my God, who is the true creator of heaven & earth and all that therein is▪ Then the Giant replied unto him & said: Of truth (gentle Knight) thou knowest well how to extol thy God in whom thou doest believe, but how shall I know that this thy God is of more goodness and virtue than my Gods. Unto whom the Prince answered and said. Oh king, that is very easy and apparent to be seen and perceived. Tell me I pray thee that if at any time thy Gods have in their own causes had any power or defence? no surely, for if they had, then would not they have suffered themselves to be so ill entreated of them who should worship and serve them, for if at any time your Gods do not grant unto your requests, and perform that which you would have them do, than you begin to curse and to ban them, and speak the worst that may be spoken of them, and some of them you throw into the fire and burn, and other some you pull out of their Tabernacles, and tread them under your feet and pollute them, and presently you leave them and change them for other new Gods, and unto them you do your worship till such time as they likewise fulfil not what you ask of them, and yet these poor and infortunate Gods are in no fault, for that at any time they cannot help themselves, but doth burn in the pit of hell. So that it cometh of a great simplicity that thou wilt believe in the devil, who is the author of all evil, and forget the creator of all things, who hath given thee this thy strength and prowess, and will deliver thee in all thy necessities. Oh king thou shouldest not need any other proof, but only that which thou thyself didst unto the image of Diana. For in thy anger thou didst throw it down and cut it with thy sword, and didst unto it all the evil that thou couldst, so that if they had had any power, thinkest thou then they would have suffered that thou shouldest have offered this outrage unto them, no I tell thee thou mightst not have been once so hardy as to have moved against them. The Giant who then was somewhat touched with the truth, said.  
Worthy Prince, I henceforth promise thee, that I will serve this thy God & will desire thy friendship & remain thy friend, for that thou hast opened my eyes & given me the light of the true life. And for that I may the better bring to pass and accomplish this my determined purpose, I will without tarrying take my journey to Constantinople, to the end to be instructed in the doctrine of the faith, & understand perfectly the power of thy god, not doubting but to have the aid and help of the valiant Emperor thy Father, and by his means to be the better informed. And noble Prince I do desire thee to declare unto Tefereo my cousin and brother's son, all this my pretended purpose, and persuade him to leave of this evil custom, and not continue in it any longer. And moreover to give order unto all his knights and Gentlemen, that they follow no more this wicked race, but command them to return unto their own Countries, and to remain there in the good governing thereof, with his brother Tramarando. And the like words he spoke unto his own knights that were there present at that time, and when the valiant knight of the Sun heard these words, which proceeded from the Giants heart without any dissimulation, he received so great pleasure therein, that incontinent he threw his sword to the ground, and pulled off his helm from his head, and ran and caught the Giant in his arms, and with great love embraced him, giving him to understand the great contentment that he received to hear that he would forsake his false Gods, & turn to the true and living God, the author of all goodness. The Giant when he saw his face discovered, he much marveled to see the great beauty of that Prince, and took him fast by the hand, and departed towards the Castle, reasoning with him of diverse matters by the way, And when he came to the Castle, he strait ways commanded that a ship should be made in a readiness with all kind of furniture belonging to it, for that without any delay he would prosecute his voyage, and so curing himself of the small wounds which he had, which did a little trouble him, he commanded strait that they should bring him somewhat to eat, for that it was needful, as well for the great travail he had in the former battle, as also for the loss of so much blood which ran out of his wounds. And when he had eaten and dined according to his desire, without any more delay or further resting himself he stayed not so much as to pull off his harness, but departed out of the Castle, and entered presently into the Ship, and without taking any farther leave he commanded to hoist up the sails, and caused the Mariners to direct their course towards Constantinople, leaving great charge with the knight of the Sun for to bury the body of Arcalanda, which he promised to perform with all his heart. And strait ways he finished it, for in the same Chapel under the altar he caused her to be buried, and upon her for a perpetual memory caused an Epitaph to be written, as in the story hereafter shall appear. So this giant being departed his journey, the knight of the Sun without any more tarrying asked where he might find this Tefereo, and when he was informed of the place he took his journey thitherwards, and left order with the people that there remained, that they should not remove nor depart till such time as he returned again. So long he travailed that day that the night drew on, and towards his left hand he heard a great rumour and noise of harness, whereat he turned about that way with Cornerino his horse, where we will leave them, to tell you of all that which happened unto the knight Don Eleno of Dacia.   

¶ How the knight Eleno had battle with Tefereo the giants cousin, and the success that was therein, and how the Prince Eleno by a strange adventure was separated from his cousin and Tefereo. Chapter. 7.  
AFter that this knight Don Eleno of Dacia was departed from the knight of the Sun, all that day he travailed without meeting of any body, and when night approached it waxed so dark that he was constrained to withdraw himself out of the high way, and to repose himself in a fair green field, where as he let his horse feed of the grass that did there grow, and he laid himself down under a fair and green Willow, thinking there to take his rest, but the place being solitary was fitter to occupy his amorous mind with his old thoughts, and to call to remembrance things past, then for any ease: neither was there any near to give comfort, or to bemoan him, and calling to mind the answer which he had of the fair Florisdama, in such sort it afflicted his mind, that he remained a great while without any memory, but as one half dead, leaning against the body of a tree, that whosoever had seen him at that time, would rather have judged him dead than alive. In the end he came again to himself, and being somewhat eased with the tears that distilled from his eyes, of the grief he had, he took his lute in his hand, which he always carried with him for his comfort, and began to play on it very sweetly, and with his sweet voice mixed with agreeable music, he represented the dolour of his heart, and sung the sorrow of his subjection by love, which song is contained in these verses following.  

ACcord your sounds unto my careful songs,  
ye silver streams that pass this grovie shade,  
Refrain your course a while, to wail my wrongs:  
whose former weal, by love is woeful made.  
My bliss to bale, my pleasure unto pain.  
Converted is, and I in care remain.   

And sith I seek in sylvan shade to shroud  
myself so oft, my sorrows to declare:  
Ye savage satires, let your ears be bowed  
to hear my plaints, with speed yourselves prepare.  
Trees, herbs, and flowers (in woods and fields that grow,)  
While thus I mourn, do you some silence show.   

Sweet Philomela cease thy songs a while,  
and will thy mates their melody to leave,  
And all at once attend my mournful style,  
which will (I know) of mirth your notes bereave.  
If you desire the burden of my song,  
It's sighs and sobs, that are constrained by wrong.   

You furious beasts that feed on mountains high,  
and restless room with rage your prey to find,  
Draw near to him, whom brutish cruelty  
hath clean bereft of rest and ease of mind.  
For quite devoid of reason, love or kind,  
Are these great plagues to my poor heart assigned.   

But sith that Fortune is so much my foe,  
that force perforce I was enforced to part,  
From her whose presence first procured my woe,  
and for whose absence now I feel this smart:  
This only one thing rests to comfort me,  
I will be firm, though still she froward be.   

In that I love, and am not loved again,  
my life I loathe, and only death require.  
But since my prowess is not proved plain,  
to show my love, I longer life desire.  
And when in field my martial force is tried,  
Sweet Death from thrall my heavy heart divide.   
This dolorous Knight could not proceed forwards with this music begun, by reason of a Damsel, which was in that place unknown unto him, and therefore unlooked for, who with a soft and mild voice saluted him, and this Knight returned her again the courtesy she offered. Then this damosel right sorrowfully said. It doth well appear sir Knight that thou dost not know how near thou art unto the peril of death, considering that so without all care thou art publishing these thy passions of love. Unto whom he answered and said.  
I do know very well fair Lady, that always I bear about me a deadly peril. But alas, how can I help that, although this occasion hath brought me into such extremity, considering that it is so ordained. But to what end fair damosel, you have uttered these words, I am as yet altogether ignorant, wherefore I would be very glad to know somewhat, whereby I might have occasion to forget these thoughts, & to bring myself in care of some new defence. Then this damosel drew nigh to him and said, Thou shalt understand sir Knight, that this Country in which thou art, is the old and ancient Kingdom of Tinacria, whose happy days, which in times past it had, are now abated, and the great felicity thereof is turned to confusion. Then this damosel did relate unto him, all the whole story that you have heard, which the old Priest told unto the Knight of the Sun his Cousin: but the great sorrow that he received in the hearing of so great cruelty, constrained a few salt tears to fall from his eyes, from the which he could not refrain. And proceeding▪ forwards in her talk, she said, You shall understand sir Knight, that I am a damosel belonging to the Countess of Modica, who is now in company with the virtuous Queen Garofilea, in the City of Sarragosa, here in the land of Tinacria, by whom I was sent about certain business, and came now from thence. verily, the hearing of this terrible and heavy history, did very much cause this noble Knight to lament, & compelled his heart to earn, although on the contrary he did rejoice very much, for that now in the beginning of his knighthood, he might employ himself and his valiant courage in such terrible conflicts, whereby he might win to himself a renowned name and report, if so it please God that he may go forward with this enterprise. So he determined with himself, to lose his life in this quarrel, or else to set the same City at liberty, although he gave not the damosel to understand any thing concerning this his intent, who in the end of many good reasons and pitiful persuasions that she used in counselling and persuading this worthy knight Don Eleno for to have very great care and to look well unto himself, that he did not fall into the hands of this cruel Giant, she took her palfrey and departed her way towards the City, to the end that she might enter in at the gates before the day did break, whereby she might not be discovered of the enemy. So this damosel departed, and left the Knight in great anguish and sor●●w● of mind, as well in thinking of the cruelty of this uncharitable Giant, as also, for that the night was so long that he could not put his determined purpose in ure, but in the end the gladsome day appeared, at which time this worthy Knight perused his armour, and surely armed himself, and laced on his helm, and taking his horse, he road the way which led towards the City, being the same way which the damosel went. He had not ridden far when he discovered the City, which was marvelously adorned with Towers and fortresses, but yet round about it was to be seen a marvelous and dolorous spectacle of dead men and women torn in pieces, and others hanged by the neck upon jybbets hard by the walls, and some upon trees which were in the field nigh at hand, which caused the Prince to stay, and to sigh with great sorrow and tears in the beholding of so inhuman cruelty, and in bitterness of heart he said, O Lord how wonderful be thy secrets, that thou sufferest this Knight to use so great cruelty without punishing of him, it cannot be without some great mystery which thy divine Majesty doth pretend. I beseech thee (O Lord) to give me so much grace and strength, that I may cause this great cruelty to be taken away, and utterly to cease. O noble City, I cannot judge what anger fortune should receive of thee, in that she consenteth thou shouldest be subject unto such unmerciful people, so much without pity and compassion. Well, I may say, that as Grecia may brag herself of most excellent, wise & learned men which it hath brought up, even so mayst thou complain, that against thee hath been fostered two terrible and abominable tyrants. And in saying these words: he drew nigh the gates of the City, which for fear of the cruelty of the Giant, they kept shut, & taking hold at the ring thereof he began to knock▪ which he had not so soon done, but the lifting up his eyes, he beheld to descend from above out of a bulwark a great free stone which was cast down by the hands of a Gentlewoman, which came so suddenly, that he almost had no time to deliver himself from receiving the fall thereof, and if the lightness of his horse had not been the quicker, he must needs have taken the blow on his head, which would not have fallen out well with him. But when this Gentlewoman saw that the stone fell down without doing any harm, with a grievous and terrible sigh that proceeded from her heart, she said.  
Art thou that cursed Tefereo, through whose cause the most part of the mournful matrons of this distressed City are made widows, and with great affliction are enforced to bewail the loss of their loving husbands and well-beloved sons? Art thou he that doth not only content thyself to kill them and tear them in pieces, but also hangest them before our eyes, and garnishest the walls of this our unhappy City with the bodies of them? Art thou that son of the devil, which without all fear of the Gods hath put our City in this extreme necessity? Oh cruel tyrant, open the eyes of thy understanding, and let some spark of pity reign in thy heart, and suffer not that for thy cause only so worthy a Country as this is should be destroyed? Let it suffice thee that thou hast already been the occasion that all these noble matrons of this City, have lost their rest & forgot their estate, and are now become as scouts in the wars, and frame themselves to wear armour. This gentle knight of Dacia would not suffer her to proceed any farther, but cut off her tale, and with great soberness he said.  
Gentlewoman, I am not he that you take me for, but I come hither rather (if so be I may) by some means to procure your rest, & deliver you from this outrage that is offered you. Then this gentlewoman with much more anger answered. O traitor, dost thou think that by thy treasons and subtleties to increase our care more than hitherto thou hast done? Get thee hence traitor, for thou art the most fall & cruel man in all the world, for thy naughtiness we do well understand, and to all the world it is known▪ O immortal Gods, you do well know that on the earth there is no strength sufficient to root out this devil and cursed tyrant from amongst us? why do not one of you come down from heaven and confound him with your deity. The good will which hath brought me hither, gentle mistress, answered Don Eleno, doth not deserve to be thus ill entreated of you, who for to procure your liberty will put his life in adventure. I suppose I do deserve better entertainment at your hands. Well, let it be what it will be, said this Gentlewoman, but touching thy coming into the City, it is labour lost to speak, nevertheless if thou art not that cruel knight whom I did take thee for, turn thee about and look towards the corner of yonder tower, which standeth amongst the green trees, and there thou shalt find him, whom I do believe without seeking for thou bringest with thee, & so without any more speaking this Gentlewoman went from the wall, and left this knight alone. Then the Prince Don Eleno seeing himself alone, took the way which the Gentlewoman showed him, wherein he had not travailed far, but in the midst of a grove amongst a company of green trees, he saw a very fair house and well wrought, whereunto when he approached he found that the gates were shut and closed very fast. And drawing nigh the gate, he took the ring in his hand and gave a great stroke, at the sound whereof there looked a man out of a window of the same house, and by the riches of the armour that the Knight ware, he knew that he was none of their company, but said unto him.  
Who art thou that art so hardy being a stranger, which without fear dost call at the gate, whereas thou canst not escape, but must of necessity suffer death. Friend answered this Dacian Knight, go thy ways and tell thy Lord Tefereo, that here is a knight of a strange Country that hath a great desire to speak with him. This man without any answering went away from the window, And not long after, there was another window opened more lower than the first, from whence there looked out a knight who seemed to be of a gentle disposition, his face somewhat swart of colour, who with great courtesy said. Knight what is it that thou wouldst have, for I am he whom thou dost seek for: that which I would have answered Don Eleno, is, that thou dost leave this devilish custom which thou dost here maintain, for that a knight of thy disposition and manner should rather occupy himself in breaking these evil customs, then in maintaining them, for these be not works of a knight the which thou dost, but of an infernal devil, I therefore much marvel how thou using so much cruelty, thou dost live with so great ease and without care. Come therefore thou tyrant and arm thyself, and I hope thou shalt here pay the tribute of all these evils which thou hast done, for it is not reason that so devilish and cruel a man as thou art shouldest live. These reasons did little trouble this Giant, neither made he any reckoning of them, but with his accustomed sobriety, he answered.  
Miserable knight, thou dost not know how here thou dost seek thy own death in demanding battle of me, therefore return again the way thou camest, for thy te●der age and smooth face without a beard doth move me to use this my virtue and courtesy with thee, and considering that thou art a stranger and not of this Country. Then this Dacian knight answered. It is not this that I do seek, but to accomplish this which I have told thee, and if my words are not sufficient to cause thee to leave this which thou dost exercise, I do believe that my sword will ere long compel thee thereto, for either I will die the death or else I will deprive thy body of that damnable and accursed soul, and send it whether as thou hast sent many a better than thine is. To these words this Tefereo answered nothing at all, but withdrew himself in great haste from the window, and called for his armour, the which was all black, and of a very fair and strange making, he was with a trice armed, and being on horse back, the great and princely Palace gate was opened, whereat issued out this Sardenian with a gentle and demure countenance, and after him followed a page with two spears in his hand, of the which Tefereo took the one, and sent unto the Prince the other, who standing in need accepted it, and without farther reasoning they turned their horses about with such courage and quickness, that the like hath been seldom seen between two knights. And when each of them were come into their appointed place, they set spurs to their horses with as great force as the thunder in the air, and meeting together in the mid way with their spears, their shocks were so terrible that it was wonder to see, so that not one of them failed of his blow, but joined in such sort, that the staves (although they were very strong) broke, and the shéevers of them separated themselves in the air with great violence, and yet the valiant knights both remained in their saddles, no more moved than a rock by the sea side. But when either of them beheld the little harm they had done in this their just, they both with their sword in their hands returned their horses, and began to strike so extremely the one upon the other, that their bodies felt the force of their arms, and although their harness was not cut, yet it could not be but their flesh should receive damage. In this sort travailed these two knights more than an hour, without knowledge of any advantage, but either of them were inflamed with anger to see his adversary to endure so long, and the knightly courage of each of them did more and more increase, and their exceeding choler was such, that the battle began to be more terrible then at the first. But this furious Tefereo somewhat feeling, and therefore by experience knowing the surpassing strength and valiant courage of his enemy, although he did not greatly marvel at it, yet it did cause him to be more furious, and being incensed in such sort, that with both his hands he took his sword, and struck at him such a stroke upon the helm, that the blow sounded through all the fields, & made an ecko in the mountains, that by the weight thereof the Dacian knight was constrained somewhat to incline his head downward and remained a while without his remembrance, but his horse being scared with that terrible stroke, gave a great leap towards the one side, by the which he delivered his master from the second blow, which Tefereo thought to have bestowed on him. The Dacian Knight being again recovered, and not a little abashed at this blow, settled himself in his saddle, and throwing his shield from him to the ground, he took his sword fast in his hand, and stroke Tefereo so terribly upon his helm, with his sword some what flatling, (by reason whereof, the force of the blow somewhat abated, it slid down upon his left shoulder,) that it constrained him to stoop forwards with all his body, and if he had not clasped his arms about his horse neck, he had fallen down to the ground, and with the force of this great blow, the horse was constrained also to bow his fore feet, who with a sudden and furious force rose up again: whereat this noble Dacian warrior, with great haste pricked his horse with the spurs, pretending to make an end of this cruel battle with his second blow: but it fell out contrary, for that Tefereo coming again to himself, as fierce as a Lion, thrust forwards against his adversary, procuring (if it passed not his power) to repay again with interest, that which he had received. Now here began a new their battle, and their forces multiplied in such furious sort, that all the mountains and valleys, were occupied with the noise of their terrible strokes. The courage was so great of these two Knights, that many times they lost their wits, with the weight of the terrible raps which they received one of another. Then this Prince Don Eleno said to himself, that if all the rest of the Knights with whom he should have battle, were of no less prowess than this present Knight, that he feared quickly to be disgraced: and on the other side, Tefereo found himself very sore troubled, and saw that he was in so great distress, began to invocate upon his Gods for aid. The prows, strength, & policy was such between these two Princes, that whosoever had been present to have beheld the same, would have said, that there was between them expressed, all the knighthood in the world: for it was wonderful to see, how sometimes they pressed forwards, and presently retired backwards, as well to bestow as to avoid their terrible strokes. It was full three hours, that these noble knights thus contended together, & yet there appeared not in them any kind of faintness, but by their behaviour, their strength seemed still more and more to increase. Then this heroical Dacian not accustomed to find such resistance, began to forget all patience, & as one overcome with anger clasped his sword fast in his hand, & being settled in his saddle, he struck the giant so hard in the midst of the helm, that with the heaviness of the blow, he was forced to fall backwards upon the crupper of his horse without any remembrance, & with the great strength the Prince put to this blow, his sword flew out of his hand, & hanged by the wrist band, which while he recovered, Tefereo returned to himself, and with outrageous anger (provoked by the great pain he felt) with both his hands he struck such a blow unlooked for at Don Eleno with the half sword upon the viso, in such furious sort, that it bereaved him of his sight, & glancing wise it descended down upon the head piece of the horse, but by reason of the first blow the last had small strength, so that it did but little harm, notwithstanding it amazed the horse in such sort, that with his staggering the Prince was constrained to use policy to keep himself from falling from his back, but when his horse was recovered, he returned again, so inflamed with anger as though sparks of fire had issued out of his mouth, & crushing his teeth together, he uttered these words. O thou infernal devil, is it possible, that by thy strength so evil bestowed on thee, thou shouldst in the beginning of my knighthood, put me in danger to be overcome, by one only blow, I protest by the honour that I own unto the progeny from whence I proceed, that if by this one blow I bring thee not to the point of death or overcome thee, that I will never wear armour more against knight, & so with great rage he returned against his adversary, that he did not only fear him, but if there had been there a whole army of men, considering his fury, they would have been afraid, & pressing forwards the prince raised himself in his stirrups, and struck the Giant so terrible and wonderful a blow, that the blood gushed out of his nose & mouth, and therewith he fell to the ground as though he had been dead. He was no sooner downe, but with great lightness the Dacian Knight leapt from his horse, and stepped to the Giant to unlace his helm, which while he was a doing, he heard a voice which said, Do not kill him knight, do not kill him, and turning his head about to see who it was that so disturbed him, he perceived it to be his cousin the Knight of the Sun. (This was the great noise of harness, that the Knight of the Sun heard towards his left hand, as before I have told you.) So when Don Eleno had pulled of the Giants helm, he withdrew himself apart, and his cousin alighted from his horse, and presently came and embraced him with exceeding joy, and no little love, which the more increased, when he considered that the Knight which should vanquish so great a Giant, could not be but of great valour, as it appeared by that furious blow, by which the Giant was marvelously martyred: for the astonishment was such, that in a great while after Tefereo could not recover himself, till such time as they brought water from the house which was hard by, and threw it in his face, by which means, he came to his remembrance, and seeing himself in such a pickle, and the sword of his conqueror prepared for his death, I do refer unto your iudgemen, what such a valiant Knight should thereof conceive, and with a very great and sad sigh he said.  
Oh thou that hast rob me of my surmounted honour, content thyself to enjoy this my great and high glory, and suffer me not to sustain any farther shame in saving of my life, with the enjoying of which, I shall never hereafter receive joy, but every day, yea, every hour thereof, will represent unto me a thousand deaths, in remembering that one arm hath had so much strength as to bereave me of that which so many with all their forces, have not had power to maintain themselves against. I know not wherefore thou detractest time, make an end of me, for that thou hast had so much power to overcome me,) I earnestly desire thee. And never think that thou shal● be Lord of the thing which thou hast overcome: for otherwise I will not yield myself, but only to death. For they may account him only conquered, which having strength to defend, submitteth himself unto the mercy of his enemy. Therefore gentle Knight I do beseech thee, not to show any pity towards me, but to finish with my death this tragical triumph which fortune & time hath now bestowed on thee. These two Knights and Cousins were very attentive to the words that this mighty pagan uttered, and liked exceedingly of hi● reasonings, and in reply, Don Eleno answered, Although that Fortune, (nay rather God) thus in the beginning of my glory, hath given me this victory, and liberty therewith either to extend cruelty or clemency, yet both ●or thy words which touch me to the heart, and for thy prowess, which I so much esteem, I protest unto thee, I wish rather never to have been borne▪ than willingly upon thee to execute this extremity, considering what a blot it is unto noble Knights, to have the name of tyrants, for that it depriveth them of all the honour & glory, that strong arms can any way achieve. Therefore know worthy Knight, that the royal blood of Dacia desireth not the death of Tefereo, neither was it my request to have thee overcome, but only to have thee converted from thy cruel conditions, to the end that I might enjoy thy friendship. Then the valiant Knight of the Sun did cut off their talk, to the end he might declare unto them, all that happened with the other Giant. Which when Tefereo heard he was sore abashed, and with great sobriety he said: Well, seeing it is so, that the flower of all Knighthood and the glory of arms, is possessed by you and your kindred, I vow that from this day forwards, I will not remain any longer my own, but nominate myself as only yours, and in delivering these speeches, in the best manner be might he arose up from the ground, and with great love embraced them both. And after salutations ended, they entered altogether into the Palace, whereas they remained all the night, for to repose themselves, considering the great travail and pain which they had passed. The next day in the morning, although they had more need to have taken greater rest, yet there altogether they mounted on their horse backs, and took the way that lead them to Saragosa pretending to enter within the City, and there with all humility to crave pardon for all the injury that was passed: but their travail was all in vain, for that before time they of the town, having had sufficient trial of Tefereos' cruelty, would not by any means open the gates, always believing the lamentable spectacle before their eyes, and therefore fearing that they would deceive them. So that when these noble knights perceived it was labour lost to stand long in contention, these people (though then causeless) being so incredible, they returned back again towards the Castle: and all the way they went, being almost by the sea side, these two Cousins saw their ship coming towards them in great haste, and staying their horses, they saw, that she was fast at the waters side.  
The knight of the Sun perceiving well, that her coming thither was for no other cause but to invite them to come aboard her, which Eleno and Tefereo condescending unto, they presently did: and sent word by a page of Tefereos to command all those of Sardenna that they should set at liberty all the Country, and without farther delay return unto their own houses. These worthy Knights were no sooner entered into their Ship, but she began presently to spread her Sails, and shoving from shore, in great hast she launched in to the main Sea, wherein with prosperous winds they sailed two days, but the third day very early in the morning, they discovered a Galley, governed with six Oars on a side, which came rowing towards them, and being joined together, they beheld that there was in the same a very fair Lady, whose hair of her head was dispersed abroad, and herself very ill entreated by an uncourteous Knight. This sad and distressed Lady with a sorrowful voice and pitiful lamentation, cried out for succour unto the heavens: at whose complaints and uncourteous handling, these Princes received great anger. The valiant Dacian Don Eleno being in all points prepared to fight, laid fast hold on his sword, and with great lightness leapt into the galley, into the which he was not so soon entered, but that these two vessels were lose, and voided the one from the other, so that not one of his other friends had time to follow him, & the swiftness was such in the departure, that in a small time either of them lost the sight of the other.  
By reason of many accidents, which are to be accounted in this history, it is convenient I imitate the good musician, who to content all those, which attend to hear his melody, changeth into many tunes: therefore now we will leave these three knights, and return unto the Emperor, to declare such things as chanced in his Court.   

¶ By what adventure Floramonte was delivered from the peril he was in, and how the Princess Claridiana was delivered of child, and how she was comforted in all her trouble by the wise Artemidoro. Chapter. 8.  
WIth great joy and contentment departed the Pagans, that carried away the In●ant Floramonte, understanding that Fortune had greatly favoured them, to bestow on them so good a price. Wherefore with great hast they got themselves to the Sea. Wherein they had not travailed long, but that upon a sudden they discovered a ship, which was coming towards them, all black, and out of it proceeded very fearful and wonderful lightnings, accompanied likewise with terrible▪ Thunder, seeming by the force thereof that the heaven opened: and when the ship drew nigh unto the Galley of the Pagans, it was presently covered with the thick and terrible lightnings, in such sort, that it deprived all them that were therein of their sight, and with the great fear that they received, they fell flat down upon the floor in the Galley. And when they came again to themselves they looked about to see if they could perceive what it should be. And then they could not find the infant Floramonte, for whose loss they lamented greatly. You shall understand that the wise Lyrgandeo by his learning had delivered the infant from them to keep him close and in secret, for that he understood by his art of the great wars that was pretended and made ready for in Grecia, in the which wars should be slain the flower of all knighthood, and that it should be in great danger to be lost and utterly destroyed. Also he did comprehend by his learning to know how this infant and one other that was then begotten (but not yet borne) should be the greatest help & chief of this victory, coming by chance to the end of the conquest, likewise he did know that if this child should at any time before this adventure use armour, that he should be put in great peril of death. This was the only occasion that he set him at liberty as you have heard, and did enchant him in such sort, that none other could clear him of it, but only he which should be his companion and aid in the great necessity of these wars: which was the son of the heroical knight of the Sun, and of the Empress Claridiana, of whom thou shalt hear hereafter. Thus this wise Lyrgandeo having delivered this child that none in all the Court knew of it, returned thither again, and from that day forwards kept it secret to himself, not suffering any to understand thereof, nor of any other thing that he foreknew in his heart by learning. All those of the Court were very sad, for that the Emperor was so sorrowful, forasmuch as he could hear no news of his sons, as I have before told you, determined after he had ended the hunting, to return back again to the City. And in the way as they should go, they discovered coming towards them a Wagon, which did represent much dolour, (and this was that which Rosicleer did find,) and there they remained to see what it should be, and when the Wagon drew near where the Emperor was, they lifted up a cloth wherewith the waggon was covered, and out of the waggon there issued a Lady, who lead a maiden child by the hand, all covered with mourning apparel, which did represent great sorrow, and of so marvelous beauty, as it was to be wondered at. This Lady when she understood which was the Emperor, she kneeled down at his feet, and with sundry sorrowful sighs, she lamentably said.  
Considering that all distressed women and oppressed damzells, forasmuch as they are women and of the weaker sort, do find in thee (Oh sovereign Emperor) succour and defence, what should those that descend from noble and royal estate hope for at thy gracious hands? Among which number this which doth present herself before thee, is neither the least in birth, though now one in most misery, for redress whereof she craveth thy aid and defence. Thou shalt understand O sovereign Emperor, that this child is right heir apparent unto all the kingdom of Lyra, of which she hath been dispossessed by marvelous great violence. The Emperor when he heard that this was the Queen of Lira, he did reverence her, and took her by the hand, and caused her to stand up, and embraced her with exceeding show of love, & offered unto her his person and all his power at commandment for her help & succour. Then the Lady would have kissed his hands, but the Emperor would not consent thereunto by any means, but took his horse to proceed forwards on his journey, & for courtesies sake took up the young queen behind him on horse back, and the Emperor Alicandro took also the other Lady. In this guise they returned unto the City, for to put in order all things for the departing of the Emperor Alicandro, & riding by the way the emperor Trebatio demanded of the Lady the cause of her coming to the court, the which she did declare unto him, not letting in her tale to show by shedding of salt tears from her eyes, the sorrow that in heart she conceived, and in this wise she answered. High & mighty Emperor, in the kingdom of Lyra not long time since reigned the father of this young Queen, in so great prosperity and fame, that he was not only honoured of his own subjects, but also feared of the borderers thereabout. Nigh unto this kingdom there is an Island called Roca●or, which beareth this name for the great strength it hath, as well in the buildings with castles and towns, as by the inhabitants of the same, who are very strong, of the which Island was Lord and governor a Giant of a marvelous huge and mighty bigness, being also proud and of very ill conditions, who hath a son of a more greater stature and fierceness than himself, such a one as I believe hath not his like in all the world, and for that he had this vantage over and above all other, it seemed unto his Father, that there was none so convenient in marriage for his son as was this Damsel, daughter unto this aforenamed king, and heir unto the kingdom. And thus being wholly determined, he sent messengers unto the king to demand his daughter in marriage for his son, but the king made them answer very rigorously, (and although the Giants are greatly feared; yet the power of this king was such that he did esteem them but little.) But when the Giants Bulfar and Mandroco (for so were they called) did perceive with what disdain the king answered them, they were ready to burst with anger, nevertheless Mandroco gave counsel unto his Father, saying: That he alone was constrained herein to return for his honour and no other, and that it touched him to make answer unto them, and that he would never be accounted to be his son if he did not wholly revenge himself. Then Bulfar who well knew the great strength of his son, very much rejoiced to hear those his reasons which he uttered, & commanded strait ways that it should be put in ure: and so with f●ll determination in as secret manner as they possibly might, they gathered together five hundred of the most valiantest knights that were in all the Island, which were almost all of their affinity, with that which knights very secretly they arrived unknown in the land of Lyra, and very closely in the beginning of the night, two miles from the city, they put themselves into a little grove that was nigh at hand, whereas they remained unespied two parts of the night, then upon a sudden when the people were all at rest, and little suspecting any such sudden misfortune, they entered the city & never rested till such time as they came to the king's palace, at which entry & first encounter the king himself was slain, by a cruel blow that Mandroco struck him on his head, as you may behold here where the body lieth on a Beer within the waggon. This Bulfar made such destruction in the entering of the palace, that in a small time he possessed it for his, and so descending through the city, by reason that those knights which he brought with him were of great power and strength. And again, that those of the city were unprovided of all defence, with very little a do he overcame them all and brought them under his subjection, by compelling them to yield: So I a miserable woman more than half dead in beholding so great damage d●n● by a false door that belonged to the palace, I went out, whereas escaped also many of the king's knights that were taken on a sudden: so I took my way forwards and came to Hyrcania, for that the king thereof was my brother's son, & cousin unto this Princess, who received us very well, & was not a little sorrowful for our misfortune. From which place we sent to demand of the Giant to surrender unto us, that which with great violence he had usurped, and answer was returned, that they would not do it, except this young Queen should first marry with Mandroco, to the which we would not consent for that he was so deformed. So seeing his determined purpose, we sent once again, demanding whether he would give us the body of the dead king, to the which they did strait ways grant. And Mandroco sent us word, that forsomuch as we would not consent unto that which he did require us, tending to our own quietness, to the end we should understand how little it was that he did esteem of us, he swore with a solemn oath never to departed out of the Kingdom, for the space of two years, with condition, that in this time we should seek two Knights, who by their great force and chivalry, should overcome his father and him in the field, and then they would departed the land, and return to their own Country. And contrariwise if we did not procure, to bring these two knights to the battle, or else to deliver unto them this Lady within that prefixed time, that Mandroco, might marry with her, that then they would fully possess themselves of all the kingdom, and fortify themselves in such sort, that all agreement notwithstanding, we should never return to Lyra again. And so understanding their embassage, I determined to come to this Court, whereas I do understand is all the prowess, and flower of Knighthood in the world. So here I present myself (noble Emperor) before you and all your Knights, in ask favour and requesting help to revenge us of so great wrong, as we have received: and thus she finished her talk, and with great weeping, she held her peace.  
This noble Emperor received very great sorrow & grief to hear this lamentable tale that the Lady told, and to see that fair young Damsel so dispossessed of her right by such extreme tyranny, and with a mild countenance he answered. Noble Duchess, since that thy good fortune (though the efficient cause thereof be to too bad) hath brought thee there▪ where with all good will ye shall receive succour and comfort, I request you to take your rest, and be quiet, and leave of this your mourning. And although there be knights in this my court, that are able to comprehend such enterprises, by their great prowess and strength: yet I do look every day for them, to whom I may commend greater affairs to be done then these, wherefore rest you a while till two do come, of whom I have more dominion over, & to them will I commit this charge. There were many knights present that would very feign have offered themselves to this enterprise, but hearing the pretence of the Emperor, they durst not in any wise attempt it, but kept silence.  
Then this duchess began to tell them of all the success that happened unto her knights by the knight of Cupid. Unto whom the Emperor said: that knight is one of them to whom I will commit the charge of your combat, and I am right glad that the service he shall do you in this enterprise shall be the occasion that you shall forget this anger that you have against him. So with these and like reasons they drew near the City, whereas strait way they began to prepare all things in a readiness for the departing of the Emperor Alicandro, and in a short time all things being provided, this Emperor being also ready with a very good will entered the ship, and carrying with him the Prince Meridiano, and his well-beloved spouse, and the Trojan Oristedes, he taking leave of the Emperor with a better countenance than his heart would consent unto, committed the sails unto the wind, and with a prosperous voyage they went a land at Tenedon, whereas we will leave them, for to tell you what chanced unto the Empress Claridiana, who was very sad for the absence of her spouse, and likewise to see herself so great with child, (although in the great hall she continually showed a merry countenance.) So it happened one day being in conversation with the Empress, and the queen Lira, there entered into the great hall the worthy Prince Claverindo, all armed with his accustomed harness, and leading by the hand a very fair damosel, all appareled in black velvet, and after her there came other nine fair Damosels, all appareled after the same manner. This damosel if you do remember is she, whose keeper Rosicler did kill, which was the Prince of Mesopotamia, & the knight which came to her at her complaint & sorrow, was Claverindo, who in great secret followed the knight of the Sun, and because of the great confidence that he had in the friendship of Zoylo, he promised her favour & succour: for the which this fair Lady who was daughter unto the king of Tiglia, came in this order as you shall hear. In the mean time that all this happened, there chanced a thing of very great admiration, which was, that the Tartarian being at that time in the hall as the Damsel entered, he made a great noise without any more tarrying, neither was there any that could stay him, were he never so strong, but running forwards as a man distraught, he went out of the Palace. The sorrowful Lady seeing this, fell down to the ground as though she had been dead. And Claverindo beholding the ingratitude of this Tartarian, would have followed him, but the wise Lyrgandeo stayed him and would not suffer him to go, saying: They should let him alone, for that all they should procure to follow him should be in vain. And so returning unto the Lady he practised such remedies, that very quickly she returned to herself again, and then promised her such remedies, as should in the end restore her to rest. And when the Barbarian Lady did know who he was, she did marvelously rejoice. So this Tartarian went to the sea side, and with great diligence embarked himself in a ship that was there ready fraughted for Spain, which he did in such great haste and diligence, that before Bargandel and Lyriamandro could turn themselves, the ship had hoist sail, and yielded herself unto the wind, the which was the occasion that these two did the like in taking another ship, who sailed after the first, with determined purpose, with all their powers to procure that this Tartarian should return again, whom we will leave now sailing on their voyage, for it is necessary for our history to relate other matters in this Chapter. Let us return therefore to the emperors court. The Empress Claridiana seeing her time at hand to be delivered with child, was very sad, and knew not what to do, but in the end of many thoughts she determined to decipher all her secret unto a maid she had who was called Arcana, to whom she did disclose all the secrets of her heart. This Arcana seeing the great friendship and courtesy that the princess showed her, in opening her secrets more to her then to any other, and had a more trust in her then in the rest, kissed her royal hands, and promised her to be no less secret than diligent in all her affairs. So they determined between themselves and did provide as it was best for their purpose, to be continually alone and without any company, but that which did most trouble and gave greatest care unto the Empress Claridiana, was, for that she did not know to whom to give the charge of nursing that, which should be borne of her, yet the maiden who was very wise, subtle, and discreet, had ordained all things in good order, for she had in great secret disclosed it unto a very honest matron of the city, saying, that she was the party that should be delivered, and gave unto her very largely of gifts and jewels, with promises of a farther benefit for to keep her counsel therein. It was not long after when that with great pain and grief this noble Princess was delivered of a very fair son & daughter, being of so great beauty that it was wonderful to be seen. The son had under his left side a marvelous & very strange mark, which was a spear of such a fiery prospect that it made them afraid to touch it. The Empress took them both in her arms and with many bitter tears she blessed them, and returned them again unto Arcana, willing her that she should dress them, and put all things in order to send them to the nurse, the which she did with great diligence, wrapping and swaddeling them up in very fair and rich clothes, according to the best guise that she could, although she were but little acquainted in such like matters. She had not scantly made an end of swaddeling them, when that upon a sudden with a great rumour, as it seemed unto the Empress and Arcana, one of the walls of the chamber where they were did open, whereat did enter a Serpent, very horrible and fearful to behold, from whom there proceeded great flames and sparks of fire, who stayed not, but went strait unto the place whereas the two little Infants were, and at two mouthfulles he swallowed them clean up, and so without doing any more harm or making any longer tarrying returned out of the Chamber the self same way that it came in, leaving the Empress in so great fear, as in such cases is required.  
And being in this great trance she looked towards the place, where the Serpent went out, and she saw enter in thereat an old man, which came with a staff in his hand, whom strait way she knew very well to be the wise Artemidoro, who with great courtesy saluted the Empress saying: Madam, take you neither care, pain, nor grief of that which is done, neither trouble yourself for your children, for that there could be no more done, then that which is done: for all is convenient and necessary for the establishing both of yours and their good fortune. And more I do certify you, that the time should come, wherein you shall receive more joy and comfort, than now it doth cause anguish and sorrow. And thus without any more reasoning he returned and went out again at the place whereat he entered, and he was not so soon out, but that the wall closed again as even as it was before, and no sign of opening could be seen. After that he was departed the empress & her maid remained reasoning and marveling at this sudden and strange case, & after they had considered of many things, they determined between themselves to keep all very secret, till that by opportunity were offered them, what they should do.  
The Prince Brandimardo of whom I told you of, was so inflamed with the fire of Cupid, which kindled in him through the love of the young queen of Lyra, whose name was Ardisilora, that he could find in himself neither rest nor joy, & his passions were not so secret, but that this young queen did perceive them, & spared not to repay him again with a kind of honest and single love. Of whom we mean to declare more in the process of this history, and of their wonderful acts which they did: for you shall understand, that this young Queen, being a horseback and armed in her armour, proved another Claridiana, as shall be rehearsed in that furious battle between the Greeks & Africans. And you shall moreover mark, that all that you have heard in the process of this chapter, was ordained by the wise men, which I only note, for that those which shall read the same, may the better understand the history.   

¶ How that when the King of Hungary was taking his leave to departed, there came a Giant, having a cruel and furious countenance, who defied the Emperor and his sons, and of all that chanced therein. Cap. 9  
THE king of Hungary seeing that it was time for him to return to his own Country, it happened one day being in company with the Emperor his son in law, he said unto him: My loving son, I would very feign before my departure (if it were possible) that my son were come, to the end I might have him with me, seeing that my Nephews do not come, but sith their tarrying is so long, I must be content to take patience, and 〈◊〉 their companies return home into my own Country, lest peradventure this my long absence be cause of some insurrection or commotion. The Emperor would very feign have answered him, but upon a sudden and unlooked for, there was raised a great rumour amongst them that at that present were in the Palace, and demanding what was the occasion of such sudden alteration, they saw entering in at the gate a very great and mighty Giant, of more than sixteen cubits high, of strong body, and double the bigness of any other ordinary man, he was armed with very strong and rich armour, and he carried upon his shoulder a great and heavy Maze, and at his girdle a very fair & broad sword, and without doing reverence or showing any kind of courtesy, but with a proud and arrogant voice he asked: Which amongst you is that false and treacherous Rosicleer, son unto the traitorous Emperor Trebatio? All that were there present (were not a little amazed, as well in beholding the huge greatness and strange form of the giant, as also of his great pride and boldness in his words) answered him not a word. Then the Emperor, as one unto whom it most belonged to make answer▪ with great sobriety and wisdom, as in such like matters he was accustomed to use, replied. Grant, Rosicleer at this present is not in the Court, for the which I am very sorry and conceive great grief, for I am sure if he were here present, he would soon tame and bring down this thy great pride, and mitigate thy malice, and soon abate this thy unreasonable bold enterprise, which thou hast attempted. And in that thou doest say that I am a traitor, I answer that thou dost falsely lie, like a naughty and ill taught knight, for I never used treason towards any man, neither would I at any time consent thereunto, but I have procured to the uttermost of my power to punish it. When the Giant heard this answer, being more kindled with rage, he said. Emperor, thy words be spoken very fond and without fear, as the Cock upon his own dunghill, here thou seest me mighty and strong, insomuch that being in thy Country I do make thee quake, and more I would do 〈◊〉 thou 〈◊〉 abroad. Thou great beast and deformed creature, replied the Emperor, for that thou shalt understand how little here in Grecia we esteem such monsters as thou art, tarry a while, for in place of my sons, because they are not present for to give thee thy payment according unto thy desert, in me being their father, thou shalt find such resistance, that I hope by the favour and help of almighty God, to take that devilish and infernal head from thy accursed shoulders. So the Emperor in great haste with a knightly courage called for his armour. This Giant seeing the disposition and prowess of the Emperor to be so valiant, with a great cry he said. O ye feminine Gods, is it possible that your deity doth consent, that alonely one man is so hardy & courageous to enter into the field with me. Emperor, take to thee one hundredth of the best knights thou hast about thee & come, for altogether I will cut you in pieces, for that my gods will not permit that he in whom all their power consisteth should have battle with one knight, & in saying these words, he did show the great pride that rested in his heart. Here you may judge in what perplexity the Empress and all her Ladies were in, to see so ill favoured a monster before them, I promise you they were all in a manner without remembrance and clean beside themselves, but Claridiana never moved her countenance, but was very quiet. In this mean time while the Emperor was arming himself with as great hast as he might, the fierce Giant which burned in anger, thought that the Emperor tarried very long and said: What dost thou Emperor? why dost thou not cause thy knights to arm themselves as I have willed thee, for that both of thyself & them I pretend ●o end the weak days, and in saying these words he went unto the place whereas the Emperor was arming himself, there the Empress Claridiana put herself before him, and struck the Giant such a blow on the breast with both her hands with so great anger, that she made him to withdraw backwards, and in the end was forced to fall, and she said: Thou devilish beast, what thinkest thou in thy heart to do, and what is thy pretended purpose? and seeing the giant in so great fury, she cried out and said: Oh holy God deliver these thy knights from all evil, for he arose up with such ire from the ground, that a great mountain had not been able to make any resistance against him, if it had not happened, that in the same extremity there entered into the hall that gentle & valiant giant the king of Sardenia, who understanding the contempt of the other giant, & how much he had misused the emperor with his proud speeches in the hall, he was very greatly incensed, & that the emperor should understand the great love that he bore unto his son, the knight of the Sun, like a furious lion he attempted the battle before the Emperor could be ready to make the assault, & lifting up a great club which he had in his hand, he said: O thou foul dissignred monster, far more proud than appertaineth to the order of knighthood: first before thou approvest thy strength with any other, thou shalt feel the force of me. The great disdain that was in this giant whose name was Bust●afo▪ arg●●● that he l●tle esteemed the other, but without replying any answer, they began to flourish with their great & mighty Mases, that the great noise of the Emperor, neither the shrieks of the Empress and her Ladies, would suffice to make them withdraw themselves the one from the other, but terribly they let fall their heavy and mighty blows one upon another, that their strong helms were bruised, & they inclined their heads unto their breasts. So then there began a cruel and mortal battle, one of the most terriblest in the world, for the strength of their blows were so outrageous, that with the least blow they gave, it was thought that the great hall would have fallen down. The Empress and her Ladies what with the great grief they had, and again, with the exceeding heat that began in the hall, withdrew themselves into their closets and Chambers, and likewise the knights that were present, departed and left them alone in the hall, saving the Emperor only remained at the door, to keep the entry that none should either go in or out, who was very well armed. And Brandimardo and Claveryndo were with the Empress Claridiana, beholding this cruel battle, not knowing who this great Giant was that travailed so much for the honour of the Emperor and his sons. In all this time these Giants had no other care, but in bruising & mangling one another's flesh, with so great strength, that whosoever beheld them marveled at their fierceness, and without doubt, all the furious rage of Giants consisted in those two, as it did appear by the terrible and outrageous strokes that they bestowed between them, for with the great strength and the sound thereof, the whole palace did not only shake, but also the whole City: in this sort they continued a great while without taking any breath, and all the floor of the hall was full of holes, with the heavy blows that had scaped by. Thus they long continued without knowledge of any mastery between them, but still they procured the one to endamage the other, and to be revenged one of another, with so great rage and in such sort, that they seemed rather to be rash and unreasonable Giants, then expert and valiant knights: and in this their great fury they both lifted up their great and heavy clubs, in such sort that their blows met and discharged together, with such surpassing strength, that the club of the King of Sardenna, was parted in twain, but the mace of Bustrafo discharged upon the other, although almost in vain, for that it had lost the former fury by reason of the first encounter, nevertheless it made his helm to sound as an anfielde when it is strooken on with a hammer. Then this king seeing he had such an adversary, thought it not good to use delay, but with great hast he drew his sword, and at such time as Bustrafo turned the second blow he could by no means shun or apart himself from it, but bore it off with his sword, and the fall of the blow was such, that the mace was cut clean a sunder, and the great end rolled on the flower in the hall. Bustrafo seeing himself dispossessed of his heavy mace, threw the tronchon which remained in his hand, at the King of Sardenna, who received it upon his shield: but the strength of it was so unmeasurable, that it glanced on his shield, and flew upright to the top of the hall, and the king retired back three or four steps, so that it was a wonder he fell not to the ground. In this time, Bustrafo had space to draw his sword, and to shroud himself under his shield. Now there began a new, a more cruel and rigorous combat between them, then at the first: for Bustrafo at his first blow, struck the King upon the shield, and parted it in two pieces, and with an infernal fury, it descended on his helm, and hurt his head, but the wound was not very great, yet the blow rested not, but glancing on the harness, fell to the ground, whereas it made a great hole: but in the mean time this new converted King, was not idle, neither did his adversary escape his payment for the blow past, but having his sharp cutting sword raised on high, he discharged it with such exceeding force upon Bustrafo, (who received it upon his shield) that with the great strength thereof, it parted it in pieces, and descended upon his helm, taking away with it all that it touched both of the harness & flesh, which fell together to the ground, so that Bustrafo remained very sore hurt. And when he saw his own blood, the battle began a new to kindle, in such sort, that in a very small time, each of them were sore hurt in sundry places, whereout issued so much blood, that all the hall was sprinkled therewith. This fierce Bustrafo seeing himself so ill entreated, his anger still more increased, and gave the Sardenian such a blow under the waist, that it ●hewed his hard harness, and part of the sword was sheathed in the flesh, wherewith he was very sore hurt: so with the anguish and terrible pain that this Sardenian felt, he gnashed his teeth together, and with great fury he struck at the head of Bustrafo, who well knowing the weight of his blows, stepped a side, which was the occasion, that the whole force of the blow could take no effect, but with the point of his sword, he cut him on the visor, and it descended to his breast, and so downwards, insomuch, that it divided the harness and hurt him very sore, from top to toe, by means of which wound, he suffered great grief, especially being in the place, where it was.  
The deeds which in all this time chanced unto that valiant Rosicleer, we will here declare, and leave these two Giants, with their perilous, and well sought battle, till such time as occasion do serve to to go forward with the same. You do remember, how that we left Rosicleer within his enchanted boat, sailing on the deep seas, under the protection of Neptune. And so they travailed for the space of five days, and as many nights, without seeing any thing, but the starry firmament, and the furious waves of the sea, with out knowing whether they did sail. In the sixth day of their navigation, they beheld coming towards them another great Foist, who came with no less fury, than their boat sailed, and the course thereof was directed right with them. So when they drew nigh together, the Foist passed by so close, that they might well see and discover who was therein, and they perceived within the same a damosel who seemed to be dead, and by her stood a monstrous Giant, and by the mast of the Foist there was tied a terrible Griffin, which caused great fear in them that beheld it.  
The Foist made such great way, that Rosicler had no time to leap into her, which caused him to be very sorry and he was the more incensed, for that he could not be thoroughly certified what this adventure was and what the strangeness thereof did signify, and with the anger that he had, he began to curse all enchantments, and all them that used it: but all this did profit him but little, for that in a short time it sailed out of sight. And looking about him, he saw two ships, which were in a great fight, and very fiercely the one assaulted the other, to whom the boat wherein the Prince was, directed his way with so swift course, that he almost had no time to put on his helm. And with these two ships was another boat, which by the force of arms was brought in subjection and overcome by the other two ships, and all the people were slain that was in her, saving a few which had withdrawn themselves into the poop of the bark for their defence, amongst whom, there was one of a very great and excellent stature, who with strong and mighty blows, caused all those that approached unto the place where he was, to withdraw themselves, but by reason that they had been very long in this battle, and that they had troubled him very much, he could not choose but be very weak and weary, in such sort, that if it had endured long, he must needs have finished the sight with his death.  
After that Rosicleer had well beheld and noted the great strength and fierce courage of the Knight, it seemed unto him to have known him, and viewing the device that he had on his armour, he knew that it was Zoylo the Tartarian, and strait way without any more tarrying he leapt into the ship, and began to let them know the strength of his strong arm, for in such sort he bestirred him, that at the first blow he cut off helm and head, of one of his enemies, and not being content with this, he began again to strike first on the one side and then on the other, so that there was not one that was so hardy to abide his terrible blows, but when his adversaries saw his fury, there joined more than thirty of them together, pretending to assault him, but amongst them there was one who seemed to be the principal of them all, said. Return you all back again and make an end of that, which weak and simple women would long since have finished, and let me alone with this knight that so rigorously doth behave himself, and with great fury he pressed forward and struck the Prince such a blow that he made him astonied, but this miserable man little knew that he had to do with the best Knight in the world, for if he had, he would never have made resistance against him face to face. And turning to strike him once again, he discovered the device that he had in his shield, whereby he knew him, and was very much afraid of that which should succeed. The Prince understood by them that were in the ship, that this was he which did govern them, he struck such a blow at his right arm, that he cut it clean off, so that arm and sword fell down upon the hatches of the ship, who seeing himself so ill entreated, with a great noise and pitiful shriek he entered in amongst his people, and cried for help and succour, but all was in vain, for that the Nephew of Tiberio struck him such another blow upon the helm, that he parted helm and head in two pieces, so that he fell down dead: but when his company saw this, they altogether fell upon him with terrible fury, thinking to make an end of him, but he received them in such order, that quickly he made them to understand the strength of his victorious arm, for he never struck blow but either he slew one, or felled him to the ground, which was the occasion that their hearts fainted, that not one of them which remained durst approach, nevertheless they had so compassed him about, that he could not neither on the one side nor on the other make any way, for when he determined to put himself forwards one way, than the other began to lay on him behind, so that of necessity he was constrained in the end to set upon them all at once, for that they did so trouble him. In this time Zoilo had somewhat recovered his strength, and was well eased of his weariness, and seeing the valiantness of his defender, he went towards the place where he was skirmishing, & with his sword in both his hands, he began to make great destruction amongst his enemies, that the slaughter was so great, and their enemies not able to make any resistance, but like miserable people determined rather to submit themselves to the mercy of that new come knight, then to the force of their own arms, and falling all down at the feet of Rosicleer, they craved pardon of him for their offence, and mercy for their lives, the which he strait way granted, and said: It is great courtesy, yea, and no little charity showed toward the evil man in punishing him, if that he pretend to go forwards and persever in his naughty life. Nevertheless if you will promise me, that from this da●e forwards you will amend your lives, and leave this naughtiness, that you shall not alonely find in me this which you do ask, but also true and perfect friendship at all times and in all things that you have need of, to the which they did all willingly swear they would perform. This being finished, the Prince and the Tartarian embraced one another, with great love and friendship, and Rosicler asked of the Tartarian what was the occasion that brought him into so great peril and danger of death. The Tartarian said, that by force of an adventure he departed the emperors Court, (but he did not declare the effect) and how coming in that small ship he was taken with those rovers, who brought him into that great distress that he had found him in. Then Rosicler again threw his arms about his neck, and with great love he said.  
Fortune dealt but frowardly to bring thee out of Constantinople in such a time, for to lead thee unto this peril, and so began to tell him of all that he had passed in the Country of Greece. And when he heard him name the Lady Tetigliasa, he shaked like the leaves of a tree, and said▪ Oh for God's sake my Lord, let not my cares hear the name of that thing which my heart doth so much abhor and detest. For hear I do swear unto thee, that living I will bury myself in this Sea, rather than to abide that speech.  
At the which words the Prince was very sore troubled, but a certain adventure which chanced him at that very same time, caused him to forget this his troubled mind.   

¶ How the king of Tire gave an assault to rob the ship where the Prince was, and how the same king was overcome. Chap. 10.  
Suddenly amongst the knights of those rovers that had escaped from the hands of the Prince, there arose a great tumult and shouting, with terrible shrieks, calling upon their Gods for aid and succour, and the Mariners in great haste began to ungrapple and lose their ships the one from the other, and with as great haste as they could they hoist up their sails, for to fly away and escape from the peril which they beheld very near at hand. But when Rosicler saw this tumultuous cry, with a very angry voice he said. What noise is this amongst you captive people? What sudden fear is this that is come upon you, that with so great haste you prepare yourselves to run away. Lord answered one of them, great reason we have to make all this haste which we do, for you shall understand, that there approacheth nigh unto us either dreadful death or cruel imprisonment. This noble and valiant Prince looked about on every side to see what the occasion should be that should cause them to work this fact: and strait ways he discovered a very fair and rich Galley which came towards the place where as they abode, with their Sails aloft and a prosperous wind, so that the Galley in a manner seemed to fly upon the water. Rosicler without any alteration asked them, saying.  
Tell me who is it that cometh in yonder Galley, that hath put you in so much fear. Ualyaunt Knight (said they) there cometh in yonder Galley the king of Tire, a mighty and strong giant being a rover, we are not able fully to certify you of his great strength and deformity, but of this we are assured, that the very Gods in heaven do fear him, his life & custom is to rob all that ever he doth meet, and if it so fall out, that any do make resistance against him, he strait commandeth them to the point of the sword with extreme cruelty: so here gentle knight, judge whether we have cause or not to do our endeavour for to avoid this great danger. The Prince hearing all this which they of the ship told him, began to make himself ready to the battle, and laced on his helm, and put all things in very good order, and when that all was ready he said unto them that were with him.  
O you people of little courage & small strength, I see well you are all base minded, and that there is no hardiness in you, but only for vile matters, get you down and hide you in the pump of the ship, for I will not consent that any of you shall run away, neither shall your cries excuse me of this battle, and so with a loud voice he commanded to bear up the helm, that the ship might run right upon the Galley. The Tartarian seeing that they pretended to give the enterprise, commanded those that were with him strait ways to put his vessel in very good order, of the which it had great need, so with as great hast and swiftness of sail as was possible, they procured that the Ship and Galley might join both together, and in very short time they were come so nigh each to other, that any man might well discover and perceive all that was in the Galley of their adversary. This valiant and worthy Rosicleer saw the great Giant where he sat in the midst of the poop of the Galley in a Chair, where they very plainly saw his countenance was so terrible, and his body so great, that all those which were present with Rosicler were afraid to behold him. And when the Giant understood that those which were in the ship would not alonely defend themselves, but also offend their enemies, his rage was such, that in great hast he arose and with a mighty voice he called for his armour, uttering these words.  
O you people most unfortunate, from whence hath come this hardiness unto you, to offend the King of tire, understanding and knowing, that I am not only feared of men, but also the Gods in the high heavens do tremble at my name, and desire to have my friendship. Then Rosicler answered and said, Make thy reckoning, that thou hast said even as much as nothing, for of myself I speak, that I am none of the Gods thou namest, neither know I thee by the name thou tellest, nor yet do I desire thy friendship, nor any others that practiseth the like works, as thou dost, neither, do I esteem thy threatenings, nor yet thy furious countenance, neither can thy great body put me in any fear. And with this, he commanded the mariners to grapple the ship & Galley together very strongly. Which, when this fierce King saw, with great anger he arose out of his chair, and not tarrying to lace on his helm, would have entered into the ship: but Rosicler perceiving his pretence, thrust him with so great force, with both his hands upon the breast, that he made him to fall backwards into his own galley, and said. Stand back thou infernal creature, & take thee to thy armour, what, dost thou think that thou meetest with such as thou art wont to do, to fear them with thy devilish countenance? Thou shalt have need both of armour and hands, for to deliver thee from the punishment of the just judge, whose reward shall now be executed upon thee, for thy unjust works, and cruel customs, wherein thou hast long continued.  
There was never seen amongst savage beasts so much anger, as at this instance appeared in the Giant, and with the madness of his heart, he drew out his mighty & heavy sword, wherewith he would have strooken Rosicleer, but this valiant Knight with great discretion, stepped on the one side, so that his blow was discharged in vain, only it struck upon the side of the ship, and it fell with such great strength that it cut the ship down, even with the galley.  
This noble Greek was nothing at all idle, but having his rare and precious Sword, which Queen julia had sent him, in his hand, he struck a terrible and fierce blow at the Giants face, but by reason he was so far off, he could not reach it, but that the point of his sharp Sword only passed through his cheeks, but if he could have comprehended more of his head with that blow, he had made an end of the battle. This furious Giant when he saw his blood before him, he gave a terrible groan, and therewith took his broad sword in both his hands, and with blaspheming and cursing his Gods, he life it up for to strike this valiant Greek, who seeing it to descend, determined not to receive so doubtful a blow, but with great and singular wisdom delivered himself from it. The blow was such that if it had not doubled in the main sail which somewhat disturbed it, it had been sufficient to have divided the Ship in pieces. This valiant and martial Prince, which with great discretion and advisement sustained this battle, had always a very good eye to the Giant, who for to unloose his Sword where it was fast in the Ship, was enforced to put his left hand to hold fast by the ship side, whereat Rosicler struck with such fury that the giants hand remained fast to the Ships side, divided from the arm. But when this terrible and fierce Giant saw himself lame, and that he had clean lost his left hand, he began a new to curse and blaspheme his Gods, and procured to hurt this Greek by all means possible that he could invent, but he provided so to the contrary, that not one blow which the Giant stroke should either touch or hurt him, in such sort, that at last when this furious & outrageous devil striving to strike this Greek Knight, was driven to balance his body, thereby to reach at him, this Knight let pass the same blow even as he did all the rest of his blows, and in passing by he gave him such a cruel blow upon the right arm, that he cut it off almost by the elbow.  
And when this miserable king saw himself without hands, he gave a great cry and roared like a furious bull, and therewith he clasped himself to the m●ste of the galley, and with great case he pulled it out of his place, and in an infernal rage, he would have entered into the ship, but Rosicleer with his hands once again thrust him on the breast in such wise that he was constrained to fall down upon the side of the galley, and by reason of his hugeness & great weight, he lighted with the one half of his body over board: and because he had not his hands, he could not help himself, but tumbled with his head forwards, into the deep and wide Sea, wherein being drenched, he finished his miserable and unhappy days. Then those which were of his Galley seeing this his wretched end, and fearing their own misfortune, in a marvelous great haste ungrappeled the Ship, which was done with such speed, that when Rosicler remembered himself, he had no time to offend them, nor to do them any more harm. Then those which were in his Ship and had beheld this short and victorious battle, began a new to fall down at his feet and most humbly craved pardon for their former fear. Then the Prince turned towards the Tartarian, who all the time of this conflict, was beholding his excellent and mighty strength, and much marveled at that which he had seen, and asked of him what he had determined to do. And the Tartarian answered, that he would in no wise depart from his commandment, and being in talk, they, upon a sudden saw two ships, which seemed unto them, that they were in a great fight. These Princes were marvelous desirous to be with them, to understand what they were. So this valiant Greek, turning to the Tartarian, he said, Prince of Tartary follow me, and in great haste he leapt into his Boat, and he was no sooner entered therein, but that it began to make way like a Thunderbolt in the air, so that it seemed sparks of fire flew out of the water, in such sort that the Tartarian had no time to follow him, but by reason of the swiftness, he had quickly lost the sight of him.  
So for that it is requisite, let us leave this Tartarian, who was very sorrowful being left alone, and commanded the marrineers to make way with his ship, towards the other two that were a fight. So this valiant Rosicleer sailed on in his enchanted boat, not without great sorrow, for that upon a sudden he had lost his perfect friend: nevertheless for that he did understand that he was carried to conclude the things that were more for his contentment, he was driven to comfort himself, with that which most he loved. So with these great thoughts, he sailed two days without any adventure worthy the telling. But the third day very early in the morning, at such time as Apollo showed abroad his glistering beams, they discovered land, whether the bark with terrible fury made way: and it seemed unto him to be a very small Island, where they arrived, nevertheless by the prospect of the rivers, it appeared to be a place of great delight, and full of meadows and other green fields. So by the resting of this bark a ground, Rosicler understood that there he should go aland, wherefore he descended out of the bark, and after him came his good horse, and to the end he would travel in more safety, he mounted on his back, and looked round about him, if he could discover any way or path. But not far from the place whereas he was, he beheld very fair and sumptuous buildings, wherewith he took the way that led him thither, and being nigh thereunto, he saw that it was old & ancient building. And as he went round about it a while for to behold the same, he saw that over the principal gate, was this superscription written. This is the famous and ancient Temple of the goddess Venus, from whence the noble Paris of Troy, stole the fair Queen Helena: this is the Island of the mother of that cruel Cupid▪ the greatest sower of discord in all the world. This valiant Knight did very much content himself in beholding that old and sumptuous Temple, the name whereof was spread through all the world, and left not any thing, neither without nor within, but beheld it fully to his contentment. After that he had spent a little time in perusing this, he put himself in a strait way, which was not far from a foot path thereby, whereas he saw a man that was cutting of wood, of whom he asked what country it was, and who was Lord of it. This man perceiving that he demanded somewhat of him, was not able to answer him, but made signs unto him that he was dumb, & moreover, that he should return back again, giving him to understand that if he did proceed forwards, he should find great peril. This noble Rosicleer said then to himself, I do not know what shall chance or happen me: notwithstanding, if a thousand that had their tongues should tell me, (yet would I not do it, nor leave off to follow this my pretended purpose) much more thou, whom I cannot understand. And so without any more tarrying, he returned unto his new begun journey, and at the going up of a hill, he beheld a Castle of a mighty and strange bigness, which was edified upon another hill's side. He was a good mile from it, when he discovered it, and so journeying thitherward; he had not travailed far, when he found himself in a fair, broad, & smooth way, whereinto when he entered, he saw certain footings of horses, which appeared not to be made long before, but that lately they had passed that way: the which footings he followed, although he found other fair ways, and as much occupied as that wherein he was, yet for all that, because he would see what footings they were, he would follow that way and none other, so not very far from that place where he was, he heard (although it was somewhat distant from him, to his seeming) a great rushing of harness, and the more he travailed forwards, the more plainer his ears were occupied with this martial music. Till in the end, drawing nearer, he perceived, it was a notable & well fought battle, for which cause he pricked his horse onwards the faster, in such sort, that at that going down from a mountain, into a fair & broad plain, he beheld at the foot of the castle very much people and amongst them Giants, all which were in battle against one only Knight, of a marvelous great & well proportioned stature all armed in russet harness without any other, devise thereon, who with his sword in both his hands made a marvelous and cruel slaughter, for that at his feet there lay many of the knights dead, and also of the Giants, notwithstanding they did trouble▪ him very much, so that he was brought to a very ill pass, for he had hewing and striking on him more than ●ortie knights and two great giants, it was a thing of great admiration to see how the knight did bestir himself beholding himself so beset, yet for all that there was nothing looked for of him but death. Somewhat on the one side a little distant from the battle, he saw a Damsel of a marvelous & excellent beauty, who with great sorrow complained herself. This valiant warrior seeing what this knight did for his defence, and by his mighty prowess appeared to be of high estate, he descended and left h●s horse, & with a quick pace he proceeded forwards wi●h his sword in his hand, pretending to aid and help that one knight, seeing he had such need thereof. Before I proceed any farther in this battle, I will (although it be somewhat troublesome to the reader) declare the rest of the terrible battle that was between the two giants in the great hall of the Court of the Emperor. You have heard how we left these two Giants Bustrafo and Bramidoro in great contention of the battle, each one of them endeavouring themselves to win the victory, although of each part they denied to either other the same. He that seemed to be most troubled in this battle, was the Sardenian King, and with the thick breath that proceeded from his unpatient heart, his face was inflamed with the heat thereof. The which his adversary perceived, and like a terrible and outrageous Tiger, he lift up his mighty sword, letting it fall with such fury, as though fire had fallen from heaven. The King seeing that by no means he could escape it, lift up likewise his sword, to ward that terrible blow: but by reason that that of the Giant Bustrafos, was of better steel, and of more strength, he cut the sword of the Kings in two pieces, and the blow descended upon his shoulder, and did a little hurt him. When this King saw that his sword was in two pieces, he was somewhat amazed, yet for all that, he lost not his knightly courage, but with a valiant heart pressed to his enemy, and with that ●●tle that remained of his sword, he struck Bustrafo, upon his helm such a blow, (that if it had been with the whole sword, he had cleared himself at that time of this danger) yet it was not of so small force, but it cut off one of his ears, and carried away a piece of the jaw bone. This Giant Bustrafo feeling himself so sore hurt with this terrible blow, pretended to repay him with double interest (the which if it had chanced to take effect) it had made an end of his days: but this new converted Knight, ran in under the blow of Bustrafo, saying: O jesus, keep and defend this thy new converted servant. And so joining together, they embraced one another, whereas began a marvelous & strong wrestling, wherein they continued a good while proving their strengths, and procuring the victory, the one over the other, till at the last, both being not a little weary, they fell down to the ground, tumbling here and there from one place to another, without losing their hold, & in this stri●e Bustrafo his helm fell from his head, by reason that she laces wherewith it was made fast, were cut in pieces, so that his terrible and mighty face was plainly discovered. But they seeing that this wrestling did little profit them, unloosed themselves: but the King was the first that rose up, as one that showed himself to have the best stomach, and seeing that all Bustrafo his head was bare, in that he wanted his helm, he bent his armed fist, and struck him such a blow upon the forehead, that his brains flew out, and his eyes started out of his head, and there this unfortunate Giant fell dead to the ground. The King seeing then so good a success in his battle, fell down upon his knees to the ground, and lifting up his eyes unto heaven, he said. I give thee thanks most mighty jesus, that thou gavest me to understand thy power, & lightenest my understanding for to leave this error in the which I was led, and to come to the knowledge of thy true light. Then the Emperor came unto him, and embraced him, saying. Worthy Giant, unto whom it hath pleased God to impart so much of his grace, I do most heartily desire thee to tell who thou art, that we may know who it is, that hath showed us so much favour and courtesy, to the end we may render thee thy due deserts, for this thy worthy deed. The Giant took off his helm, and showed his fa●e which was of a sober countenance, all to be spotted with his own blood, and without moving from the place wherein he kneeled, replied and said, I am Bramidoro King of Sardenia, who of long time have been subject to the superstitions of feigned Gods, and by the prowess of thy son the Knight of the Sun, I am come to the knowledge of the almighty God, and am now ready to receive the sacrament of baptism. Therefore I desire thee (sovereign Emperor) that it may be strait ways ministered unto me, and likewise one that may instruct me in all that shall be necessary for my salvation. The Emperor received great joy to see a person of so great estimation, turned unto the knowledge of the law and scruple of God, and said. Noble king you shall a while repose yourself, to provide remedy in the curing and healing of your wounds, for it is right needful, & when you are well of them, then shall all things be fulfilled that you do desire, that shall be necessary for you. This he said, for that he would have it done with the pomp and right, that to so high a thing is requisite, and with the solemnity that in such cases they accustomed to use: & in saying these words, he took him by the hand, & raised him from the ground, & led him unto the chamber of the Knight of the Sun, where as he was cured of the wounds that he received in the battle, and was visited of all the Kings, Princes & Knights, that were in the Court. The dead Giant was drawn out of the palace, and carried without the City, where, in steed of a grave to bury him, they made a great fire and consumed him to ashes. The third day after this adventure was ended, the King of Hungary departed with many other knights, that were very desirous to go into their own countries to take their ease, at which the Emperor remained very pensive. So the other day following, being on a sunday, they did ordain a solemn feast for to minister the sacrament of Baptism unto Bramidoro, for he had so great desire to be baptized, that he would tarry no longer.   

How the king of Sardenia was baptized, and how that a Lady demanded a promise of the Emperor, which he granted, for the which all the Court was very sad. Cap. 11.  
THE next day in the morning being Sunday, as you have heard, the king of Sardenia was brought to the Church to receive his Baptism▪ accompanied with all ●he nobility that at that present were in the emperors Court. There went with him for his Godfathers, the king of Bulgaria, and the king of Nisa, and the Emperor using his magnanimity went also with him side by side, until he came to the Church of Saint Sofia, whereas the Cardinal of Constantinople said Service and did baptize him, and confirm his own proper name, when this was done with all the solemnity belonging, they returned again unto the Palace, in the which upon the one side was a very fair Damsel, appareled all in black, having no company, but alonely one Page, she had her beautiful eyes all swollen with weeping, her countenance was very sad, which did very well declare the sorrow of her heart, and beholding so noble a company to enter in, she was in quiet till such time as the Emperor entered, and by his side the king of Sardenia, who was marvelously well adorned, & of goodly greatness, and of fair and gentle disposition. This damsel did well know which was the Emperor, whom she did come to seek for, so drawing nigh unto him there distilled from her sorrowful eyes sa●t tears, resembling oriental pearls, which ran down ●er cheeks, giving very sorrowful and grievous sighs, that all those which saw her, were moved with compassion. The Emperor when he heard this heavy mourning▪ looked thitherward, and when he saw her using his accustomed virtue▪ he put himself before her, And at such time as he would have kné●led down (he seeing her so fair, and of so excellent beauty) would not consent unto it, but kept her up by the hand, and with sweet words gave her a comfortable welcome, and like entertainment. Her severe countenance, with her well proportioned body did declare that she was worthy of all this honour. To the comfortable words which the Emperor had spoken, this fair and distressed Lady answered.  
Surmounted Emperor, this my great sorrow is so rooted in me, that I have no joy to receive any comfort, nevertheless, if it be true which I have heard, both of thee and thy royal Court, the fame whereof, all the world doth resound: then I am sure that thou wilt not deny me of my request, for that hitherto thou hast not at any time denied any Lady or damosel, which hath requested the same, having necessity and need thereof: much more now, being demanded of thee by so afflicted a damosel as I am, being martyred by the son of that adulteress Venus, whom I may resemble unto the vulture, which always taketh for her repast and feeding, the bowels of that infortunate Ixion, and the more pain he suffereth, the more her hunger increaseth, so that evermore by her greediness, he sustaineth a lasting grief, Even so (sovereign Lord) love doth torment me, & always is gnawing of these my afflicted bowels, yet never do I feel them without love, but rather always, both in the Winter & Summer, in presence and in absence it doth still increase: so that I am at no time without love, and continually my faith increaseth: and by no means can I receive remedy for this grief, but by the force and strength of some stranger, whom I do seek for continually, with great sorrow. Therefore I do desire thee (O sovereign Emperor) if at any time thou hast passed the pains of love, that thou wouldest pity them that are so sore afflicted and unfortunate, and do not deny me thy aid & help: for if I were the daughter of base parents, yet in respect I am a woman, thou art bound to succour and aid me. Much more, for that I am Lydia the daughter of the King of Lydia, who for the love of that liberal Brenio of Lusitania, I am constrained to procure his liberty, and for the performance thereof, your highness shall not deny me a promise or boon that I will demand, & in so doing, thou shalt perform all that is due unto thy Estate, and by duty thou dost owe unto such as I am. The Emperor who was marvelous attentive unto all that this fair Lady had said, & very much beholding her great beauty, he answered and said. Of my faith fair Lady, I will not let to remedy this thy sorrow much more than I am bound to do by my high estate, and will procure by all means to ease this thy afflicted evil. Therefore now ask what thou seemest best for thy purpose, for I am here ready to perform all, that by thee shall be demanded of me. The Lady said, I looked for no other thing but this, of thy Imperial dignity. Therefore (sovereign Emperor) it is requisite that alone without any other company, you go with me to give me this remedy. The Emperor although he saw that it was a heinous thing at that time to leave his whole Court and estate, yet did he not show any such countenance, but with a valiant courage he called for his armour, the which was strait way brought unto him, being all of russet colour, and the shield of the same colour, and there was portrayed in it the picture of lean Death, with a sharp flesh hook in his hand. All the Kings and Lords that were present at that time, would have dissuaded him from this his enterprise, but specially and above all the rest, the ancient Prince of Clarencia said. Sovereign Lord, it is not convenient nor agreeable unto your high estate, to venture yourself in that, which appertaineth unto travailing and v●ntrous Knights: behold Lord, Princes, although they be liberal in promising, yet they ought to moderate themselves in performing, neither should Princess be so bountiful of themselves: for many times by procuring to extol their fame, they abate the worthiness of their estate. And again, he that hath not to whom to give reckoning, but unto himself, to him alone doth Fortune fail. Notwithstanding, thou (O sovereign Emperor) art more bound to look and have a care unto your own subjects, more than to your own person. And a good Prince ought rather to subject his will to the favouring of his people, then to please his own appetite. For which cause, honourable Lord, you must pardon us, for that we will not willingly consent, that only for desire of this pompous same, that you do pretend, we should lose your person. Tell me (noble Emperor) if that Fortune should (as she was wont to do) turn her wheel, and keep your honour from us, it would not only make an end of you, but also deprive us of the most noblest and worthiest Lord under the Sun. All those that were there present, and heard these reasons which the Prince uttered, did greatly praise and allow his discreet saying. So this honourable Emperor without showing any alteration, answered and said. Noble Kings and Princes, and my very friends. I give you great thanks for the good will you do show me, in that you would not that I should be absent from you: likewise you shall understand, that it doth as much grieve me, to separate myself from your companies, and I do think myself blessed to have such noble Knights as you be unto my subjects: notwithstanding you must consider, that as you do love the body and person of your Prince, so likewise you should desire and procure his fame and honour, for you know you have many meats that are very savoury to the taste of any man, and yet to the contrary very hurtful to the stomach. It is a very good thing to live under compass, and that governing is good, by the which fame and honour is not diminished, as this, for that he that is bound, must procure, perform, and maintain his promise. For if I of my own free will, and to feed mine own appetite, had procured and moved this journey, you had had great reason for to have dissuaded me, but being sought for, and procured hereto, by this noble and distressed damosel for her defence, than what reason is it that I should abandon my faith? Tell me I pray you if now I should falsify my promise, what hope of confidence hereafter should remain in you of my virtue? Of truth I say unto you, that Prince which doth not keep and maintain his faith which he hath promised in giving his word●, he is unworthy of life. And seeing that I have granted this journey, although you be displeased therewith, I beseech you comfort yourselves, for that by justice I am constrained to go, trusting in almighty God to return again unto you with great honour and renown. What would the world say, when that for fear of human things I leave to maintain justice and righteousness, and the observation and keeping of my word? Surely they would report me for a Prince of small virtue, & deem you (so persuading me) not worthy of a good Prince, for y● many times God doth show his power, whereas the weakness of human things be without all hope. Therefore I do desire you all (my friends) that you will not withdraw me from this my pretended purpose, for if I were not willing thereunto, you were all bound to complain of me. And making an end of these his reasons he began to arm himself. The Empress that of all this thing was ignorant, when she understood thereof by some of them that were present with the Emperor, she came with shedding of many tears for to hinder and withdraw him from his journey: the emperors heart was somewhat grieved to hear her sorrowful words, but with an heroical courage he commanded her to return unto her closet, and willed all those that were present to go and bear her company, and would that none should remain with him but Brandimardo, unto whom the Emperor in great secret said: That when Rosicler or the knight of the Sun should▪ return to the court, that he should tell them that he was gone to Lydia at the instant of the Lady, for to restore her again to her kingdom. With this he did charge him very much, and that they should strait ways and without any delay depart for that place: Brandimardo thought great friendship in this which the Emperor commanded, and gave him great thanks, with faithful promise to accomplish the same, and taking his leave, the Emperor strait weigh entered into a Foist that was there ready with six oars on a side, and hoisting sails they made such way that in a small time they had lost the sight of the City. This fair damosel was very glad, and did exercise herself in no other thing but in serving the Emperor. In this sort they sailed all that day and all the night till the next morning: this noble Emperor say in the poop of the Galley, and by him sat this fair Lady, on the one side, of whom he asked the cause why she brought him out of Constantinople. Unto whom with many tears distilling from her crystalline eyes, and with great sighs that proceeded from her dolorous heart, she said.  
I have told you noble Emperor that the force of love hath brought me to this extremity wherein you now see me. Also I told you that I am Lydia, daughter unto the king of Lydia, and was marvelously and daintily brought up, and much set by of my parents, and now all alone with no other company than you do see I go subject unto this misery. The great fame of this my surmounted beauty was so spread abroad, that it was the occasion that many knights of strange Countries resorted unto the Court of the King my Father, and amongst them all there was one that came from a far, whose name was called Brenio, of the Country of Lusitania, being of a marvelous beauty and no less valiancy, which did so surmount, that in all the Country hath never been seen the like, and cruel Cupid, I know not whether it was to use his accustomed policies, or whether he was envious of his beauty, he struck me with his poisoned arrow, in such sort, that I was constrained by that force to love this unhappy knight, and therewith constrained to forget the royal estate from whence I descended, I did exercise myself in no other thing, but thinking on his love, and determined to give him understanding thereof in as secret wise as I could, so long it lasted that I waxed blind in love, & feared that he would not understand that I loved him, wherefore I did plainly declare it to him, which grieved him nothing at all, (but rather unto my seeming) he was very well pleased therewith, so by all means possible I did procure to speak with him, and imagining which should be the best way, I thought it good to ordain a hunting, thinking there to have opportunity to be alone in the thickest of the Forest, and there to ease and lighten myself somewhat of that heavy love, which by sorrow I received, in giving him to understand the whole effect of my determined mind: so this hunting I put in ure, and took the mountains and woods, and the hunts men provided the ●ame, being a great Hart, which Hart was (as in the end it proved) accursed in my sight, yea, more worse than the shield of Pallas in the eyes of Medusa, which made all people to desire to follow her: so the hunts men followed their game with such haste, that there I was left alone, remaining only in my company this knight, who was half persuaded of my determination, so I had scant well framed my eyes to content me in beholding of his crystalline countenance, when that upon a sudden we were beset and betrayed of a great and furious giant, and with him eight knights more, in such sort, that my Brenio had not time to defend us, nor I to call for help and succour, so that we were their prisoners, and they carried us, and put us into their thievish Galley, whereas strait way they hoist sail, and carried us to sea, we being without all hope of succour, and there was I with great travail delivered from the hands of a vile thief, that would have dishonoured me. And so having the wind prosperous to their desire, we arrived very shortly after at an Island called Otono, which is adjoining unto one part of your Kingdom, whereas we went a land. Noble Prince, I did not feel so much force by my imprisonment, neither did I receive so much grief for mine own sorrow, as I did for my best beloved Brenio, who was so laden with irons & chains, that my heart could not by any means suffer it, but I began to call them traitors, and that they were no Knights, but thieves and robbers, saying, that over one ●lone & an unarmed Knight they have strength to work such violence, but not able to make any resistance against armed Knights. And the Giant answered, Oh how simple dost thou show thyself, in thinking that there is any who is able to resist our strength, and for that thou shalt understand and see how little we do esteem the strength of men (yea, the strength of the Gods we make no reckoning of) take this Galley and all things that shall be necessary for thy voyage, and take with thee one of these my Pages, and go and seek the Emperor Trebatio, or either of his two sons, whose fames are spread throughout the world, and bring them hither, and see whether their strength is sufficient for to deliver this thy knight out of prison. So I put this journey strait in practice, & departed, and in the voyage I escaped with great danger to be rob at sea by rovers and thieves, so in the end I came and presented myself before your highness. The Emperor who was very attentive to all this which the sorrowful Lady had told him, and understanding the cause of all her trouble, he answered. Oh happy & venturous knight, to whom love hath showed so much favour, to cause so n●ble as Damsel as thou art, with thy travail to procure his liberty? how much is he bound unto thee fair Lady, seeing that thou dost deserve the praise of all other women that hath been wounded with love, & these thy deeds to be registered for a perpetual memory, & for an example to all other ladies▪ Noble Lydia, of truth I tell thee, that my departure from Constantinople was with some sorrow, to leave my Empire and subjects, but now I am void thereof, & am glad that I am come to procure thy remedy, & the death shall be unto me a happy death, receiving it for a lady that is so loyal. These & such like reason of a perfect lover the Emperor expressed, when upon a sudden they were constrained to leave the way they took, by force of the wind, which came with such gales, that they were feign to take another way, which carried them unto a desolate Island, where by force of wether they entered into a port, that was known by the mariners, & there let fall their anchor▪ The Emperor who was moved with much compassion of the great travail of this Lady, and somewhat to refresh her in the air, he caused her to go a land, and taking her by the hand, he did help her out of the Galley, and they rested themselves upon a little mountain, from which place they might discover a great part of the Island, and more they discovered a great way from thence, another small mountain, upon the which there seemed to be a fire, or light, and making little account thereof, they asked somewhat to eat, which strait way was brought them by the mariners, & so they refreshed themselves. They had scarce made an end of eating, when that they heard a terrible shriek, which was such, that the fair Lady lost her colour: but the Emperor rose up on his feet, and looked round about him to see if he could perceive what it should be, but he could see no more them, than he saw at the first, and so returned and sat down again: but he was not scant settled, when he heard the like shriek again. The Emperor turned and rose up the second time, and said: Who art thou, that dost think to make me afraid with these thy shrieks, I tell thee that thou art very much deceived: thou wilt rather give me occasion thus in offending me, to seek what thou art that makest this terrible noise. And with these words he said unto the Lady, that she should return unto the galley, for that he would go see what thing it should be, the which she would not consent unto, but would needs go in the company of the Emperor. And when the Emperor saw the determination of the courageous damosel, he threw his shield upon his arm, and laced and made fast his helm, and so a foot they took their way towards the place whereas the light was, for that towards that part they heard the noise. And travailing in the midst of the way, at the foot of a hill, they found an Image of fine Crystal, which seemed to be wrought by the hands of some excellent workman, all to be spotted with blood. And it appeared by the wounds that were form in the same figure, that it was the Image of one that had suffered great torments, as well with terrible cuttings, of irons, as with cruel whippings. The legs and the arms did seem as though they had been martyred and wrong with cords, and about the neck, as though it had been strangled with a towel hard wrong, and there was written upon the breast, with letters of lively blood, this Epitath. I am Herea the King's daughter of Cimarra, violated and slain by Noraldino King of Numidia. And thou knight that this present spectacle shalt view, I do desire thee, that if thou dost go forward this way, let it be with great courage, for to take vengeance on this cruelty, for that I am not of myself able to seek revengement. This Emperor, who had well considered the great cruelty that had been used against that infortunate lady, being moved with great compassion he said, I do vow that if there be any means whereby to be revenged of this thy death, to procure it with all my power: and with this determined purpose, they proceeded on their way, and went so far, that they perceived, that the light which they had seen, did proceed of two gates of fine Crystal: and there they saw in the high way, a great pillar, whereon was hanged a written table, with these contents: Knight, look well unto the oath which thou hast taken, for that this is a perilous enterprise: and from this place thou hast licence to return back a gain, and not to fulfil thy promise, for that the King of Cimarra, will not constrain nor force any manner of Knight. The Emperor said, As well they may raise from death to life all the famous Romans, which have been from the time of Romulus unto Caesar, and all the rest unto this time, as to persuade me to return from my promise, which I have made: and if they were all present living, they were not sufficient to cause me to leave my oath. Therefore here now I do swear again, never to return into Greece, till such time, as I have performed that which I have said. And thus burning with great desire to see the end of this sorrowful adventure, he proceeded forwards, until such time as they came to the crystal gates, the which they found open, and at the thresholds of the entering there lay a long a great and huge Giant, who when he saw this knight, he arose on his feet and went unto a place thereby, whereas was made fast to a pillar a very furious griffon, which with great speed he did unloose out of his chains, and he was no sooner at liberty, but that with great fury he flew up into the air more swifter than an Eagle, and as you do see a Hawk hovering in the air, till such time as the Hearn● riseth out of the water, and then with great fury falleth down right on her pray, so likewise this furious Griffon when he saw his time, with a marvelous and infernal fury descended right down, but when the Emperor saw that he descended with such fury, he caused the Lady to shroud herself under an old house that was there at hand, and he covered himself with his shield, and having his sword in his hand at that time as the Griffon descended with so great violence (that it somewhat feared the Emperor) notwithstanding he lifted his shield for to receive that terrible blow of his claws, which fall was with so great force, that he pulled the shield clean from his arm, but this valiant warrior struck him such a blow with his sword, that he thought he had cut him in two pieces; but yet he found his feathers to be so hard, that he had done him no harm, and although his hard feathers did defend him, not to receive any hurt with the sword, yet it could not be but he must needs feel some grief by the greatness of the blow, for that with a grievous shriek he mounted up into the air, giving a thousand tournings. When the Emperor saw himself without his shield, which that infernal Bird had carried with him into the air, and let it fall down again a great ways distant from the same place where he was, it made him to have always a very good and diligent eye, to the griffon to mark when he would descend, who strait way began to descend, unto his thinking with much more fury then at the first. And look even as the Eagle when she hath caught a viper, doth procure to pull off her skin in striking her upon a hard stone, whereby to save herself that she be not stricken with that strong poison, and so in safety to devour her pray: even so did this Griffon flying here and there from one place to another, to see where he might lay hold on the Emperor, without receiving such like harm as before he did. And as by force of the water the Mill carrieth the stone about with great fury, even so this worthy warrior bestowed himself for to defend him from this furious beast, yet he could not do so much, but that he must needs receive some of his terrible blows, and his swiftness was such in rising into the air, and falling down, that he could not fasten one blow on him with his sword, but he did hurt the Emperor with his claws sometimes on the arms and sometimes on the helm, but yet could he never have any fast hold on him to do him harm, for that he never stood still, but moving here and there, shunning his blows, & even as a furious Lion, who in the time of sleep is molested and troubled with small beasts, creeping on him in all places, which he feeling with his mouth, snappeth here and there on every part round about, so long, till in the end being thoroughly incensed, at once they pay for all the injuries that they did him: even so this valiant Emperor used himself with this terrible Griffon, flourishing with his sword round about on every side, awaiting opportunity at one time to requite him for all the sorrow that he did him, but in the end seeing that it did little profit him in doing this, he suddenly bethought him of another remedy, which was to kneel down with one of his knees on the ground, that when the Griffin should descend more lower to hurt the Emperor, that then with as great lightness as he could, he would rise up, and with more ease strike him, which he presently did put in practice, So this terrible Griffon descended down, and with one of his sharp claws he clasped fast hold on the emperors helm. Then the Emperor seeing this fierce Griffon now to descend down more lower than he did before at other times, he thought it not good to be idle at any time, but with exceeding great lightness he arose up and carried his sword right up with the point, and by reason that he● was fast with his claws upon the helm, he could not lose himself so quickly, but that the Emperor did hurt him in such sort, that he thrust all his sword into his belly. And when the Griffin felt himself so sore hurt, he pulled with so great strength, that if the helm had not left his head, he had pulled the Emperor up into the air with him, which would not have fallen out well with him, but God was so pleased, that in that time the laces with the which it was made fast broke. This Griffin feeling himself pierced with this mortal wound, cut through the air, as a whirlwind, with great and terrible shrieks, but strait he fell down dead to the earth, for that the wound reached unto his heart.  
The Giant when he beheld his Griffin to be dead, made no more a do, but entered into the castle to arm himself, the which the Emperor well perceived, which made him to make speed to fetch his shield, whereas this infernal bird had let it fall. So not long after this giant came forth all armed with armour of a boiled skin, with a great club full of knots in his hand, saying with a hoarse and terrible voice. Do not think thou knight of the Devil, for all that thou hast slain the keeper of my Castle, that the entering is any whit the more at thy commandment, and hereof thou mayst be sure, whereat the Emperor answered never a word, but rather invited him to battle, & they joined together like two furious tigers, having their defence in their hands, burning with great fury the one against the other. Then they thrust themselves forwards with marvelous force and speed one against another, discharging their great and mighty blows that it was wonderful to behold. But the Emperor did not determine to receive the blows of his enemy fully and whole, but rather procured that he should discharge them in vain, and so he did, for the Giant lift up his great and huge club to strike him therewith a marvelous and mighty blow, which when the Emperor perceived it to descend, he stepped a side with so great lightness, that it seemed to be wonderful, in such sort that his clubb● fell down to the ground without doing any harm. Then this valiant warrior before the Giant had time to recover and lift up his heavy club again, struck him on both his arms such a terrible and furious blow, that he cut them both off, and they fell to the ground. When the Giant saw himself so sore arrayed, like a ravening. Wolf he ran to him and would have embraced him, but the Emperor with his accustomed knighthood gave a thrust at his breast, that by the great strength thereof he thrust his sword clean through his body, so that the point came out at his back almost the half sword, wherewith this Giant gave so great a fall to the earth, that it seemed a whole Tower had tumbled down. When the Emperor saw this good success he had against his enemies, and in so short time, he kneeled down upon his knees, and gave thanks unto our Lord jesus Christ for the victory, in overcoming two such infernal monsters as they were. The fair Lady seeing the Emperor in battle with so devilish a monster, ran and fetched his helm which the Griffon had carried away, & brought it unto him with all the speed that might be. The Emperor who perceived the great care which this Lady had, and the diligence she used to help him in so great need, he gave her hearty thanks, and took his helm and put it on his head, and made it fast, and when he saw that there was none to disturb him of his entering into the Castle, he went unto the door whereas he found the Giant lying along at the threshold, and entered in thereat, and lead this fair Lady with him by the hand, for that she would never leave him, and so they entered in at the Castle gates, without finding any to disturb them, and passed on till they came unto a fair large and great hall, whereas by certain windows very subtly devised from the top thereof they received light, and in the midst thereof was a stately bed, adorned all with black clothes, and upon the bed was the perfect figure of that Image of Crystal, which they saw in the midst of the high way. The Emperor could not by any manner of means refrain from shedding of some sorrowful tears, in seeing before him so lamentable a spectacle, and to think that so great cruelty should be showed unto a woman of such beauty. This pitiful Emperor had great compassion when he saw first the counterfeit of this tormented creature, but much more without all comparison, his sorrowful heart lamented when he beheld the natural body, for that all her flesh seemed to be crystalline stones, by the great whiteness and beauty it had, she had all her legs spoiled with the torments of cords, and all her body wounded with whippings, and that cruel and strangling to well about her neck. The Emperor was a great while in grievous contemplation in beholding of this lamentable sigh● (as I have told you) and with him was always this fair and beautiful Lydia, till at the last, lifting up his eyes, he saw a Table which hanged upon a beam, whereon was written these words which followeth.  
O thou knight which hast passed by the keepers of this my pitiful daughter, if thou wilt confirm the oath which thou hast made, lift up the pillow whereas her wre●ched head doth lie, and under it thou shalt find written in a scroll of Parchment all the success of her heavy and sorrowful death, for that in understanding it, thou shalt be the more provoked to encourage thyself to procure her revengement, seeing that so much without fault or desert she suffered it. The Emperor did as was there declared, and ratified and confirmed there a new his oath, and lifting up the pillow he found a sheet of Parchment rolled up together, which he opened. Here will I make an end of this Chapter, to receive some ease in telling of this that is past, & turn unto the other, to declare unto you the most dolorous and grievous history that ever hath been heard or seen.   

¶ How the Emperor did open the scroll of Parchment, and therein read the cause why this dead Lady was slain, with such cruel tyranny, and of the great sorrow that he received for the same. Cap. 12.  
YE fair Ladies and Damosels, for that there be some, which without having any knowledge of your deservings, that take great pleasure with their venomous words & poisoned pens to entreat evil of your honours and fame, publishing unjustly that, which with just reason and by nature, they are bound with all their ability to restrain. Likewise, all valiant Knights, are bound either by force of arms, or else by sufficient conclusions, to defend your fame, from such false detractors. So here therefore I do request, all you bountiful and beautiful Ladies, to pardon this my over much hardiness, for that here I presume to declare that, which should be of all understood, & in especial of your firm loyalty, having for a mirror before your eyes this fair Lady, who hath not deserved to suffer so cruel a death. So as I have told you, the Emperor took from under the pillow, the scroll of parchment, and opening it he read it over, which contained these sorrowful words.  
I the heavy and unhappy King of Cimarra, which in times past have been much esteemed, by reason of my great estate, wherein Fortune savoured me very much, as also for two fair daughters, in all points so exquisite, as Nature could possibly frame, in whom I took much delight but yet in the end, that which I thought should most content me, the very same was the occasion, that I received this great torment, which is such, that no human creature can suffer it. My two daughters (as before I said) were endued with wonderful beauty, & accompanied with no less honesty than was convenient for their high estate: whose great fame was blazed all the world over, by reason whereof my court was honoured with divers strange princes & knights, & specially with those of Africa, so that it grew to be the most noblest court that ever king had. Some came to see the worthy knights, & uthers with great desire to marry with my daughters▪ but above all the king of Numidia called Noraldino, who being absent by the ●ame of their surmounted beauties was taken prisoner for the love of them, by force whereof he sent unto me his Ambassadors, desiring me that I would think well of him, and to give him one of my daughters in marriage, so (not respecting his accustomed treason, but rather considering the great honour that might redound thereof for that he was a mighty Prince) I thought it good to conclude with his Ambassadors, and to fulfil his desire, and granted him in marriage my eldest daughter. Then I ordaining all things that were necessary and needful for the same, in all respects convenient for her estate and my honour, I sent her with all the pomp that was possible to the kingdom of Numidia, & I retained and kept in my company the youngest, who was named Herea, being of far more beauty than her sister, of which this traitorous and unnatural king was informed by them which he sent to company with my daughter, they did so much exalt her for her surpassing beauty, that there was not in him power to make any resistance against that cruel and mortal wound of Cupid, but it constrained him to forget his new married wife & sweet companion, surrendering himself wholly unto the power of the absent Lady, without any consideration that she was sister unto her, that he had already taken for wife. So this disordinate love kindled and increased in him every day more and more, and he was so troubled with this new desire, that he daily devised with himself what means he might procure to obtain her, in such sort, that no man might have power to withstand him. In the end he thought by policy and deceit to get her home to his kingdom, and sent unto me, requesting that I would let her to come unto her sister Melinda to bear her company, for that therein she should receive great joy and comfort, to pass away the troublesome time of her Sisters being with child, for that she said, with her company she should think the time far more shorter, and should pass it over with much more ease, especially for that the love she bore her sister was so much as to her own self, and although I was not advertised of the evil event which might happen in sending her, yet did I make excuse, that by reason I was an old man, and had no other comfort but her, I durst not send her, neither suffer her to understand thereof, for that as I did suppose, she would receive gre●● grief to leave me alone and desolate of comfort. At y● 〈◊〉 answer this inhuman King thought very much, and was greatly grieved: notwithstanding with marvelous 〈◊〉 and subtlety he did dissemble it, till such time as my daughter Melinda his wife, should be brought to bed and delivered, and then thinking that with the great joy and pleasure I should receive for the birth of the new born infant, that I would not deny the sending of her. So the ●ime expired, he sent to me again for her: but I was always firm, being resolved not to let her go from me, but still denied it, for that she was the whole joy and s●affe of my old age. Then this traitorous King seeing that by no means he could get her from me, strait way ordained a mighty and strong army, and came himself to fetch her. And when I understood of his coming, I went to receive him with great pomp, as was needful for our Estates: and at our meeting, he requested me with very fair and loving words, that I would let my daughter go unto her sister, to give her that contentment which she desired, for that she did love her more than herself. Thus his crafty and subtle persuasions so much prevailed, by reason of the humility and love he showed in his words, that I could not frame any excuse to the contrary, (he was so importunate,) but must needs consent unto his demand. O immortal Gods, that in so secret wise ye made the heart of man, that you only can comprehend the good and evil that is hid in it. Who would have thought, (much less have believed) that this traitorous King by his sweet words and subtle speeches would have rob me of my only daughter. So strait way, when he had in his power, that which his soul so much desired, he would not make any delay of his departure, giving me to understand, that he would not let any time, but carry her unto his wife, for whose sight so much she had desired, and at whose coming she would receive great joy & contentment. But what sorrow did I then feel, (nothing thinking of that which should happen, for that my heart was ignorant of the knowledge thereof) but to see her departed from me, for whose absence my heart remained in so great sorrow and heaviness: giving to understand by the outward shows, & by the tears that proceeded from my eyes, the great pain and passion that the lack thereof would shortly procure: & in this sorrowful sort, I was forced almost without any remembrance, to return unto the palace. And they were not so soon entered into his ships, but as one very jealous to keep close his treason, he commanded strait to hoist up sails, and commit them unto the wind, and having too good and prosperous a weather, in a very short time he arrived in his own Country, whereas two leagues from the City, he was received of his subjects with great majesty, who brought with them both horse and palfreys needful for the company. So being all in a readiness, he commanded that they should begin to march forward towards the City. This false King still persisting in his evil determined purpose, commanded (as I said,) that all the company should proceed forwards, and he with my sorrowful daughter Herea, remained a good way behind. And when he saw his company so far before, and they two alone together, he stepped on the one side, and led the way into a little grove which was hard at hand, fast by a rivers side. He without any more tarrying, carried her into the thickest part thereof, and as it appeared he was well acquainted in the same, and where he thought it most convenient, he alighted off from his horse, and willed my most well-beloved daughter that she should likewise alight. She in whose heart reigned no kind of suspicion, alighted, and sa●e her down by the rivers side, and washed her fair white hands, and refreshed her mouth with the same water. Then this dissembling traitor could not refrain, but by some outward shows, and dark sentences, gave her to understand, the kindled fire of love, with the which he was tormented, and in the end he did wholly declare his devilish pretence and determined purpose towards her. So my loving daughter Herea, being ●ore troubled with his importunate and continual requests, with great anger, yet not without advisement, she began to reprehend him, giving him to understand, all that was needful against so devilish a pretence. This unclean King when he heard, that so earnestly and contrary to his expectation she answered, and would have rose up from the place whereas she sat, held her fast by her apparel, and would not suffer her to arise, but began with soft and mild words to persuade her to be quiet, and said. O my best beloved Lady, wherefore wilt thou consent, that for thy cause I should die, & mayst now very well without being discovered of any, give me remedy for the same? Be not then obstinate to deny me that, which with so great love I do desire of thee. Who is here that can bear witness of this my privy desire, and bold enterprise, neither discover thy gentle liberality showed me? not one surely, but only the immortal Gods. understand this for a certainty (my sweet Lady) that the God jupiter doth receive more grief in this my sorrow, then in the pain which thou dost suffer. This deceived damosel, when she saw that he held her so fast with his treacherous hand, that she could not deliver herself, with furious anger she said. Traitor do not thou think that these thy lecherous words have power to move my heart, to grant and fulfil these thy filthy, devilish, and lascivious thoughts: for here I do swear unto thee by the high and sovereign Gods, that first I will permit & suffer my body to be torn in pieces, then to open my ears unto the hearing of so great treason. Therefore false King let me alone, and consider with thyself, that I am sister unto thy wife, whom I see well thou hast forgotten, by reason of this thy insatiable drunkenness, and greedy desire of fit●hye lust. Therefore if it please thee determine to let me alone, and defile me not, or else to the contrary be fully persuaded of this, that I will rather die the death in my defence. Then this cursed king seeing that this shalt Lady, did defend herself, he took fast hold by her neck, and said. Do not thou think O cruel Herea, that thou canst deliver thyself out of my hands, except first thou grant unto this my desired will, and if not, I do promise thee in payment of this great pride which thou dost use unto me, to put thee unto the most cruel ●eath that ever was devised for any damosel or mai●e. This distressed Lady was nothing dismayed to hear that she should die, but without all fear she answered. Think not false traitor, that the fear of death shall cause me to yield to thy filthy desire. The which being well understood by the king, he said. understand then and be well persuaded, that either living or dead I will perform my will and pretended purpose, which so without measure and with unquenchable fire doth burn in my heart. Thus with great strength she did defend herself, and with a manly courage she kept her honour, but this cruel and lascivious king seeing that he could not fulfil his evil desire, in a great madness he cut off a great part of the train of her gown, and bound it very fast to the hair of her head, in such sort, that with the great strength he put thereto, and the tenderness of the same, together with his evil entreating, all the green grass was sprinkled with the blood that issued out, whereat he believed that she would have been quiet, and have consented unto him, but she respected not the evil entreating, but the more he procured to torment her, the more angry she showed herself against him with continual denial. When this cruel traitor saw that all would not serve, he began to forget all faith and loyalty he ought ●nto knighthood, and the respect he should have unto such as she was, but blasphemed against heaven, and tearing her clothes all to pieces, he stripped her stark naked, and with the rains of the bridle of his palfrey he all to be whipped and scourged her white and tender back, that it was full of view spots, with such horrible cruelty that it was a very grievous and sorrowful ●ight to behold. And yet th●● did pro●it him nothing at all: he seeing that this damosel did still persever and continue in her defence, he strait ways like a bloody monster heaped cruelty upon cruelty, and took and bound her▪ well proportioned and crystalline arms and legs with cords, and made them fast very strongly unto a tree, saying. O cruel and more cruel than ever any woman in all the world hath been, wherefore hast thou been the occasion to bring thyself to be thus so evil and mischievously entreated, and only for not giving consent unto him, which always would have procured thy ease? What doest thou think, is it better to suffer to be thus martyred, then to live a most loving, swee●e, and contented life. Then this evil entreated Lady with a hoarse voice answered and said unto him. Oh wicked traitor, more hard hearted then ever knight hath been, wherefore doest thou make any delay, tell me thou enemy to the Gods, why doest thou not finish thy cruelty, and take the soul from this my miserable and woeful body? Dost thou not do it, because it shall not go and complain whereas thou shalt receive the reward of this thy merciless inhumanity. O you Gods, deny me not my right justice against this false and traitorous king? Let not to be true executioners of justice in revenging so damnable a deed. And thus being wearied with the cruel and terrible torments, she held her peace and said no more. But for all this, the king did not let to prosecute his cruelty, and with great anger he looked on her, having his accursed eyes fixed, in such sort that he could not withdraw them back. Then this tormented Lady seeing him, and being very desirous of the death, with a furious voice she said: What doest thou think thou traitor, the greatest traitor that ever was in the world, wherein dost thou contemplate thyself, thou fleshly Butcher, thou unmerciful Tiger, thou lecherous hog and dishonourer of the royal crown, make an end of these thy torments, for it is now too late to repent thee, give me the death, and send me into the bosom of Diana. This unpitiful king, seeing the steadfastness that she had in the defence of her honour, with a cruel and infernal heart, he took a towel which this damosel had girded at her waist, and with a brutal anger doubled it about her neck and pinched it so strait that the soul departed from the body. O thou knight that by thy prowess dost come to read this Harchment, consider the great constancy and chastity of this unfortunate damosel, and let the grief thereof move thee to take vengeance of this great cruelty, showed without any desert. So when this infernal king saw that she was dead, he took his horse and returned from whence he came, and in a short time he overtook his company, and looked with so furious and ireful a countenance, that there was not one that wae so hardy to ask him where my daughter was, but one of the knights of my Court which I sent to bear company with my daughter, having a suspicion by the great alteration that appeared in the king, and being very desirous to know what was become of the Princess, for that he came alone without bringing her with him, neither could he have any sight of her, he then presently withdrew himself back, and following the footings of the horse, he ceased not until he came unto the place whereas this cruelty was wrought, whereas he found this miserable Lady lie dead, in the same sort as I have declared, at the view whereof he remained almost beside himself, in such sort that he had almost fallen to the ground. This Knight remained a good while before he could speak, so when he was come again to himself, he began with a dolorous complaint, crying out against the Gods and fortune, because they had suffered so great cruelty to be committed unto this damosel, and making this sorrowful complaint, he unloosed her from the tree, and laid her upon part of her apparel, and covered her with the rest, and said on this wise: O cruel hands, what an infernal heart was that, which did bear thee company to do this uncharitable sacrifice? Was it not sufficient that this surmounted beauty should have moved thee to more pity. So with these and other like sorrowful words that this knight spoke unto the dead corpse, he cut down branches from the trees for to cover the body, and left it lying so, that it seemed to be a mountain of green trees, & then determined with himself in the best manner that he could to dissemble the knowledge of this fact done, he took his horse and went the way towards the City which lead to the king's Court, in which he road so fast that he overtook the king and his company at the entering into the City, whereas the king alighted, and without speaking to any person he entered into his close●, by reason whereof this my knight had time to declare unto the Queen all that he had seen, and the dolorous end of the damosel Herea her sister. The sudden and unlooked for sorrow mixed with great anger and wrath, was such in this queen, that she commanded the knight not to departed the court until such time as more occasion did serve, and she herself remained making marvelous and great lamentations to herself, all in secret, for that she would not be perceived, yet with a soft voice she said: O unfortunate queen and borne in a sorrowful hour, oh unhappy destiny, which madest me to be subject unto the most cruelest king amongst all kings, I suppose y● fortune cannot be so much against me, but that she will procure to take revengement of thee? Oh immortal God's reuēg●● 〈◊〉 this so great and horrible an homicide, and if not, I 〈◊〉 ●eare unto you that I will with my own hands put in practise such an enterprise, that you looking down from the heavens shall tremble for the fear thereof? What do ye, you deaf Gods, altogether without justice, will you not hearken unto this my grievous complaint, well seeing you regard me not, I will see if that you have power to withdraw me from executing of mine own will. This saying she ●ooke in her hand a dagger of the kings, and in her arms her youngest son, saying: I do not wish so much evil unto the world, that I will leave the son of so wicked a father to sojourn in it, & in this order she entered into the chamber whereas the king was, and there she found him tumbling upon his bed from the one side to the other, without taking any rest, and with sorrowful weeping, and a terrible voice, she called him traitor, and like a fierce Tigress with the dagger, which she carried, she cut the throat of that innocent infant, and threw it to him on the bed and said, take there thou cruel traitor, the fruit which thou madest within my body, and then she threw the dagger after him to kill the King: but Fortune would not that it should take effect. This wretched King, when he saw all this which the Queen had done, he was therewith marvelous sore troubled, and in his fury, he laid hold upon her, and did entreat her very evil. But when the Queen saw that the blow took no effect, & that she could not bring to pass that which she had determined, she returned upon herself her outrageous fury, taking that bloody dagger, & thrust it to her heart, in such sort, that she parted it in two pieces, and so she fell down dead into the arms of him, which was the occasion of all this evil and cruelty. The great sorrow that this false and and unhappy King received was strange, in such sort, that he knew not what counsel to take, but thinking upon the great punishment that might succeed these cruel acts, he strait ways procured that the body of the queen should be buried in great 〈◊〉. At that time there was a soothsayer, a wiseman in 〈…〉, who advertised him, that for this cruel fact which 〈…〉, his kingdom should be destroyed, and that it should fall into the hands of him which he most hated, who was his brother's son, his cousin. The King being advertised of all that which should happen, he determined to use a cruel policy, which was, he would set watch and ward throughout all his Kingdom, for to take and arrest all such travelers, as by adventure landed upon his Island, not suffering them to pass, till such time as they had promised him by oath to aid and assist him even unto the death against certain his enemies, which would dispossess him of his Kingdom, ma●●ng them believe that unjustly and without occasion, they intended to take it from him. Then this my aforenamed Knight, which had seen and heard all the tragical dealing that is here declared, in the best wise he could, returned again to my Court, and told me all that you have heard, which was unto me very sorrowful and heavy news. judge here then gentle Knight what sorrow I poor and unfortunate king received, and what bitter anguish I sustained. So herewith entered in the great soothsayer and wise man, called Artemidoro, who came to comfort me, and certified me, that all this cruelty should be revenged by a mighty and strong arm, although before that should come to pass, there should be fought many fierce battles, and persuaded me to believe it, for that he told me the truth. So because that this wise man was so well known, I did believe him, and gave credit unto his words, and requested him for his part, to procure all that in him did lie, to prefer this my revengement. So strait way he put it in practice, and caused a Chariot to be brought, and bade me enter into it, and in a trice he carried me whereas my daughter was, and commanded me to put her into the Chariot, and brought her unto this Island, assuring me, that he which should overcome the keepers which he would here set, should be the Knight, that should revenge my injury. And seeing that thou hast overcome the keepers that had the charge of the body of this my murdered daughter, perform now the oath which thou hast made like a valiant Knight: and for the better performance, thou must go unto Cimarra, whereas thou shalt find me the unfortunate King thereof, awaiting thy coming.  
At the reading of this sorrowful history, the Emperor and she that was with him did shed many salt tears, wherewith there did increase in him a farther desire of revengement. And so they departed to the Sea side, whereas they did refresh themselves, and returned unto their voyage late begun.   

¶ How the Emperor Trebatio did land himself at the Island Citarea, and of all things that happened there. Cap. 13.  
Here you have heard told how that after the Emperor had read the scroll of parchment that was written and laid under the pillow at the head of the dead body of the Lady Herea, how he returned to prosecute his journey which he had taken in hand for the defence of the fair Lydia, and how that they did embark themselves in their Galley, and the sea being pacified of that boisterous tempest which they received in their last voyage, the Galley settled forwards with a very good and prosperous wind the space of three days without meeting with any adventure. In the end whereof they landed at the Island of Otonio, which by another name is called Citarea, which strait way was known by that fair Lady to be the Island where her beloved Brenio was, and she said unto the Emperor. Lord, this is the Island that keepeth hid from me the whole comfort of my heart. So strait way the Emperor went a land and took with him the fair Lydia, and commanded that his horse and his Spear, and the Ladies palfra●e should likewise be ●aken out of the Galley, and when the Emperor had well perused his armour, he armed himself, and took the way which lead him towards the Castle, leaving on the right hand the famous Temple, which from far did show the great sumptuousness thereof, in the gate whereof they did discover and see an armed Knight, who contemplated himself in beholding the greatness of that Knight. But the Emperor had no care to know who it was, but with great hast they went forwards on their way, and when they drew nigh unto the Castle, it seemed unto them to be the fairest that ever they had seen, and as the Emperor proceeded to go up the hill toward the Castle, he heard one which with a great voice said. O thou Knight of the Devil or of death, go no farther up, but tarry a little, for by her which thou dost bring with thee I do understand thy demand, stay a while and I will be strait way with thee, for I think that thou hast already repent thy coming hither. The Emperor who heard these words, would very feign have seen him who spoke them, and lifted up his eyes towards the Castle, but he could behold no body. But he tarried not long, when that out of a narrow way coming down the hill he saw a great Giant, shaking in his hand a heavy Spear, and when he came to the place whereas the Emperor abode, he said. Knight, tell me, art thou the Emperor of Grecia or any of his sons. The Emperor answered and said, I am he (who by the help of God) may frustrate thy force which thou hast done unto this damosel. Then the Giant said, O miserable wretch, how thou art deceived, what dost thou think thyself so strong and to have so much strength to do that alone, which all the world is not able to undo, and with great anger for the words which he heard the Emperor speak, he took his Spear and did level it in his hand, and threw it at the Emperor with such fury, that the air did sound therewith, the Emperor made his defence and received it upon his shield, and the point slid in such sort, that it glanced and broke in two pieces. When the Emperor saw that he threw it at him dart wise, he took his Spear fast in his hand, and firming himself in his stiroppes he raised up his body and threw his Spear against his enemy with great strength, who would have received it upon his shield, but the fury was such wherewith it was thrown, that it pierced both through his shield and likewise the body, that the head was seen come out at the Giants back, the which terrible blow being seen by them which were in the Castle, was the occasion that there arose a great uproar therein. The Emperor gave thanks to God for this short victory, and turned himself unto the Page which came with Lydia, and bade him take the Spear out of the giants body and bring it unto him, for that it was whole, which presently the Page accomplished. He had no sooner received it, but he saw presently to descend out of the same path way another great and huge Giant, which seemed to be no less furious than the first. He came mounted on a a very strong and mighty horse, (for he had need to be of a great strength, in that he did sustain the carriage of so mighty a monster as the Giant was) and when he was come whereas the Emperor abode, he looked whether the other Giant were altogether dead or not, but when he saw there was no life in him, and that by that only blow he was slain, he said: Is it possible mighty brother, that a thing so vile as this is, hath had power so quickly to ●laye thee. And turning unto this noble warrior, he said: Tell me Knight of so wonderful a courage, what devil hath brought thee hither, to do us so much harm, as the Gods themselves were not sufficient to have done. The Emperor replied, The Lady which thou seest here, brought me hither, to deliver and set at liberty a knight, which without all reason thou dost keep in thy Castle, and which with great treason thou broughtest hither. Of truth I tell thee Giant, that it seemeth very evil in such Knights as thou art, to commit such outrages, for that nature hath not bestowed on thee these well proportioned members, nor given thee a body of so mighty a greatness, for to exercise it in doing of so great wrongs, as you do daily practise. I therefore do desire thee, by the honour which I own unto the order of knighthood, and for that thy disposition doth greatly content me, that thou wouldst make satisfaction unto this fair damosel, the which only I am come to demand of thee, & likewise that thou wouldst apart thyself from these wicked customs: otherwise, believe this of a certainty, that even as thy brother was slain with so small a blow, (not being by my weak arm killed, but only by his great tyranny confounded): so likewise if thou dost pretend to lead this tyrannous life, as thou hast hitherto done, believe me the like death will happen unto thee. Turn and repeat that once again which thou hast said (answered the Giant) perhaps thy words may win me to do somewhat of that which thou dost request me, although not altogether. Hast thou me in derision thou vile beast (said the Emperor) thou shalt soon understand that I know better how to bestow my sword upon thy bones and flesh, than again to declare that which thou dost demand, for that I do see my reasons do little avail, and that I utter in vain my speeches unto thee, & thou shalt soon see that the sharpness of my Spear shall be no less bitter unto thee, than it was unto thy late brother: and in saying these words they returned their horses the one from the other, like the swift wind, and when they were one strait against the other, both of them stroke their horses with the spurs, and bare● their spears very low, in such sort that neither of them failed of their blows, the giant struck the Emperor in the midst of the shield, and by reason of the great strength thereof, the stroke glanced on the one side, and the Spear sprung up in the air without doing any harm, but the Emperor chanced to strike him under his shield where he was a little open, so that the point of his spear entered into his belly, and if his Spear had not been somewhat blunt, with the blow he gave to the other Giant, he had at this time finished the battle, but with great haste both of them laid hands on their swords, and turning their horses there began a cruel and fierce battle. The Giant with the great pain that he had of the hurt which he received, felt himself very ill, so that his anger did the more increase, and travesing his horse from the one part unto the other, procured by all means to hurt the Emperor, who was not at that instant idle, but according unto his accustomed valiantness avoided his blows, and smote at him such furious and heavy strokes, that he made the blood to follow in what place so ever he chanced with his sword to hit, and with the great pain that the Giant felt, there proceeded from his helm a very thick and hot smoke, his fury and anger was so much to see himself bestow so many blows, and not one of them could hurt his enemy, he threw his shield from him to the earth, and took his sword in both his hands, and very fiercely struck his horse with his Spurs, which made him to leap thither where as this worthy warrior was, and without any defence he struck him such a blow upon the helm, that he made him to decline his head to the mane of his horse, and being troubled with that great and cruel blow, his horse carried him a while here and there about the field. The terrible and fierce Giant would have given him the second blow, but he could not, for that the Emperor was come again to himself, and being settled in the saddle, he firmed his sword fast with both his hands, and being incensed with great anger and fury, insomuch that fire flashed out at both his eyes, he struck his horse with his spurs, and thrust himself forward, saying: Tarry, tarry thou furious beast, for that I mean to revenge myself of the blow past that thou gavest me, and without delay send thy dampened soul deservedly to the devil of hell, and therewith he struck the devilish Giant such a blow upon the helm, that he made it sound like a bell, and he without any remembrance fell down backwards upon his horse crupper, the blow was so terrible and delivered with so great strength, that the blood started out both at his eyes and at his nose. And as the Emperor would have turned to have strooken him again, he heard one with a great noise that called aloud and said: Stand still vile knight and hold thy hands, except thou wilt die the death. The Emperor lifting up his head to see who it was that with so great arrogancy threatened him, beheld another Giant which descended down from the Castle, of a greater stature, and seeming to be of more strength and fury than the other two, which by reason of his greatness was feign to go on foot, for that there was no horse able to bear him. When the Emperor saw a thing so monstrous coming towards him, he said with an angry voice: Cursed he that evil and devilish generation from whence such monsters doth proceed, if it please God I will do my best to abate this thy courage, and in this time the Giant was come to himself and rose up again, and was prepared against the Emperor, who seeing him so nigh, with purpose to strike him, took the advantage, and struck first, with such an overthwart blow, that by the force thereof it cut his throat, neck and all, so that the head fell down to the earth, and the body also like the corner of a great castle. This other Giant seeing his brother dead in such sort, cried out reviling his Gods, and with blaspheming of all creatures▪ he descended down the hill, and drew out his huge and mighty sword, pressing towards the Emperor, with such fury, as commonly the fierce Lion doth after his pray, which being well perceived by the Emperor, he avoided a little on the one side with his horse, & lighted in great haste, and with his accustomed courage he went to meet the Giant, who was ready with his sword in his hand, & came & stroke at the Emperor a mighty blow, which he received upon his shield, that did then deceive him, and by reason thereof it fell down upon his helm, and made him s●oope with both his knees to the ground, losing somewhat of his sight by force of that furious blow. The Emperor seeing that it was not then time to sleep, and that the Giant had his sword over him to strike him again, he being somewhat troubled, stepped aside and cleared himself from the fall thereof, and therewith pressed to the Giant before he could again recover his terrible sword, to bestow on him a blow corespondent to his rage, and struck him upon the arm, but by reason that the Emperor was not wholly come to himself of the former blow he received, he could not repay him with his whole strength as his heart desired, or as he would if he had been come to himself, notwithstanding it was not so little, but that his sword cut his arm to the bone, wherewith he was so sore hurt that he could not lift his sword from the ground, with the pain whereof the Giant did feel himself very ill, and was constrained to change his sword into his left hand, with the which he struck blows very much out of order. In this time the Emperor stroke at him so terrible and thick, that it did almost amaze him, & when the Giant saw himself so ill entreated, he began with a terrible voice to call for help of his people from the Castle. The which being understood by the valiant and heroical Emperor, he said: no thou traitor, for neither thy strength nor thy Gods, nor thy people shall deliver thee, but thou shalt die by my hands, and therewith he struck at him the faster and with more courage, but within a small time after he saw descending from the Castle another mighty giant, and in his company more than forty knights, who with great shouting descended down the hill, the which being seen by the worthy Trebatio, he was persuaded certainly that there he should die. And although he was somewhat weary of the great travail which had passed, yet he purposed to sell his life very dear, determining that they should pay well for it before he lost it. Then all they which descended from the Castle did compass the Emperor round about, and struck him on every side without mercy or pity, whosoever had been there to have seen this worthy warrior, should have had just occasion to say that there was the valiant Emperor Trebatio, the flower of all knighthood, for that he alone defended himself against his enemies, in that great extremity, and if those giants had not so pressed upon him, he had esteemed the other knights very little, but it were the giants that did most trouble and molest him, nevertheless he that did come in the danger of his blows, might think himself bewitched or to have evil fortune, for either he was slain or else maimed, or beaten down to the ground, but yet all this valour that he used little profited him, except he did first procure to destroy these two devilish Giants, who through their might brought him into great perplexity, making him sometimes to decline with his hands to the earth, and at other times also to stagger here and there. And these shameless people by the importunate noise of their Lords, procured on every side to hurt and molest the Emperor, and with the same noise there descended from the Castle more than three score persons, besides them that were there before. But when the Emperor Trebatio saw himself so evil entreated and beset on every side round about, he called upon the name of God, and desired him of pardon for all his sins, and that he would have mercy on his soul, for that he thought verily there to end his life, and therewith he encouraged himself a new, and gathered such strength to his heart, that what with the just quarrel he had, and the great anger he conceived, he gave unto that Giant (who had called for succour) such a terrible blow upon the waist, that for all the great force of his armour, it had almost parted him in two pieces, wherewith he fell dead at his feet. And at the very same instant he struck one of the knights such another blow upon the helm, that he divided both it and his head down to the shoulders. The other Giant when he saw such marvelous blows, began to exclaim out against Mars, reviling him, that he had bestowed so much strength and force on one knight, to declare such prowess as there the Emperor showed. The rest of the knights were somewhat afraid of that which they had seen done, and durst not press so nigh as before they did, yet by reason of the great fear they had of the Giant, they did not let greatly to molest and trouble him, and they pressed upon him in such wise that he waxed weary, so that his good heart and noble courage would little prevail him, but that he must needs be overcome and slain. The sad and sorrowful Lady Lydia when she saw the Emperor in such great perplexity, with crossing and wring her hands, and with bitter weepings she said.  
O most unhappy and unfortunate wretch that I am, it had been much better that I alone had suffered these my pains and passions, then that this noble Emperor should lose his life in my quarrel, which will be the occasion of very much sorrow and great tribulation unto the most high and noblest lady in the world. O famous knight of the Sun, oh renowned Rosicleer, what may you say when you shall hear that for my cause your father that worthy Emperor should be slain, it had been better for me (miserable as I am) to have been transported into a plant as Daphne was, & not to have caused that for my comfort so much harm should be done, unless it had pleased the Goddess juno to make an everlasting memory of this my true and perfect love, as she did by Celos in so many Nymphs, of whom unto this day their memory doth surmount the high Throne of their celestial seats. Oh noble Emperor, who by thy surpassing excellency hast brought thyself to die amongst barbarous people, whereas without all hope of any help, or any respect of thy mighty estate, thou must receive the death. Here I do make a vow, that before death doth deprive thee of this great valour and strength, to destroy myself in recompense of the great wrong that I have committed against thee.  
The valiant Rosicleer which at that time God and good fortune had brought into the place, did cause her to cease this her sorrowful lamentation. If you do remember, this is the battle I told you of, whereas I left Rosicler beholding the great wrong and outrage that so many did against one only knight. And likewise he did consider the surmounted prowess which that one knight used, and because he was armed with contrary armour, he could not know who it was, and much marveling at that he saw, without any more tarrying, he lighted from his horse and laid hand on his sword, & with great fury and anger he pressed in amongst these false knights, and the first that he did encounter with, was the disordinate Giant, to whom he lent such a blow upon the leg that he cut it a sunder, and with the force thereof he hurt the other leg by the knee, in such sort that he must needs fall to the ground, not being able by any strength to sustain or help himself. The Giant seeing, & to his pain feeling so furious a blow, cried with a loud voice, saying: Upon them valiant warriors, for they are of no force nor ability to resist, at which noise the Emperor turned his head aside, and saw whereas the Giant lay all along on the earth, by force of that most terrible and cruel blow. Also he saw how this noble knight bestirred himself amongst the rest of the Giants knights, which was a valiant sight to be seen, wherefore he remained a good while in beholding and viewing him, till at the last he knew him to be his worthy son, even that renowned and invincible Rosicleer. I need not here to declare the exceeding great joy and comfort which this worthy Emperor received in seeing him, and especially at such a time being in great need and necessity, for of long time before that he had not seen him, neither had he thought ever to have seen him after that time any more, if at that instant he had not come unlooked for, in that he could not choose but to have been slain by those barbarous and uncivil people. Then gathering unto himself new strength and courage, he pressed in amongst those false and wicked knights, in such sort that they began to run away, as well because they saw their Lords and Captains slain, as also for that they could not in any wise abide the terrible blows of the Prince. So these two valiant warriors bestirred themselves, that they were constrained in hope to save their lives to turn their backs, and took the way up the hill towards the Castle, but this valiant Rosicleer followed them with so great lightness, that before they came half way up the hill, he had slain the greater part of them. Then the rest which saw themselves so evil entreated, turned altogether and pressed on him in such sort, that by their force they had almost constrained him to tumble backward down the hill, at which he was marvelously wroth, and therewith like a courageous Knight he pressed amongst them with so much fury, that with cutting off arms and heads, he made them less than they were by the one half. The Emperor by reason of his great weariness and travail which he sustained, remained at the foot of the hill whereas the first encounter was, but when he heard the moving and rushing of the people, he took the way up the hill with so great lightness, as though the battle had but then begun, and after him followed the fair and beautiful Lydia, but when the Emperor came in sight, he beheld how the Prince with great courage followed after those wretched people even to the gate of the Castle, for they thought to save themselves if they might by any means get in at the gates, pretending to make it fast unto them, but this valiant Greek pursued them with so great swiftness that they had no time to fulfil that, which they had determined, for at such time as they would have shut the gates, he approached them and disturbed their desire with cutting and hewing them, in such sort, that he entered into the Castle in spite of their hearts, and those that were within would have made resistance at such time as he was in the great Court, but this valiant Prince did threaten them, saying. O you wicked & contentious villains yield yourselves prisoners, for be certainly persuaded you shall find more in me by humility than by making resistance. There was one knight which remained, and having more civility than the rest, answered and said.  
Ualyaunt Knight, if we had thought ever to have found in thee so much merciful clemency, as we have found mighty courage, verily long since we would have yielded ourselves: now therefore we do desire thee if there be in thee any jot of pity, to manifest thy clemency unto us, for considering we were servants unto those Giants, we were by duty bound to defend them, and on the contrary to our powers, offend you. Then this noble prince promised them their lives, conditionally that they should yield and surrender themselves. In this time the Emperor letted not to enlarge his pace for to come to the aid and defence of the Prince, but when he came thither, he found that he was in quiet, & that all those that were left in the Castle requested peace, and when the Emperor saw that it was then time to discover himself, full of great joy he fell upon Rosicler his neck, and said.  
Oh my son, I did well understand that in the time of my greatest necessity, that thou wouldst never deceive me, with great reason I may call thee my fortunate son, not for that thou wert borne in a good day, but also that love did cause so great affection to thy mother, of whom hath proceeded such finite as thou and thy brother. Now of this worthy Prince what shall I say, that with very joy he was almost beside himself when he heard his Father the Emperor speak, for by the sound of his voice he did know him. So strait way the Emperor pulled of his helm, wherewith this valiant Rosicleer was fully resolved and without all doubt. When he saw the majesty of his regal countenance, and his beard adorned with some royal white hairs, his face somewhat high coloured, by reason of the great travail he received in his late battles, in the which he showed his great power, and the prowess of the progeny from whence he did proceed: his son bowed down his knees to the earth, and lifted up the viso of his helm, and kissed the emperors hands, bathing them with the tears, that fell from his eyes, which was forced by his heart, for the great joy which he received. The Emperor took him by the hand, & raised him from the ground with great love. If I should here declare the rest of the extremities, that passed in this their joyful meeting, it should be very tedious unto the hearers, therefore I do remit it unto such a father, whose lot it is to have good children, & therewith their like help in necessity. So without making any more delay, the Emperor would have delivered out of prison the Knight of this fair Lydia, the which being understood by them of the Castle, they strait way brought him before the Emperor, with many other more, which were partakers with him in the succour of the Lady. These Knights altogether gave great thanks unto the Emperor, for the friendship he had showed them, in helping them out of this their terrible imprisonment. And thus they remained in great joy and pleasure, as well the Emperor for the sight of his son, as also all those which were prisoners, for the good success, that they had, but especially and above all the rest, was the joy of Lydia, which with the contentment that she received to see her Brenio in her company, so that she was almost ravished of her wits: but in the countenance of the Knight, it appeared by his outward show, that he received no pleasure: the which being understood by this fair Lydia, not knowing the cause whereof it should proceed to move him thereunto, all her great joy and delight, was turned into despair.  
Then the Emperor commanded those of the Castle, that they should give him somewhat to eat, and likewise to all the rest which were taken out of prison: unto him for the great travail which he had passed in this battle, and unto the rest, for that they had great need thereof. So it was strait way made ready, and that in very good order, and they all sat down together, at the emperors table. So when they had almost dined, and that they were well refreshed, the Emperor told unto Rosicleer, who that King was which he had seen in the wagon, & the occasion thereof: for the which he desired him that no other adventure should be the occasion to let him, but to go strait unto Constantinople, and to take in company with him Brandimardo, and procure that the Lady might be restored again unto her kingdom, using all your diligence to give her him to wife: for that the noble Prince is worthy of no small honour. And here my son I do profess unto thee, that a more beautiful Lady in all my life I have not seen, but only the Empress Claridiana. Also if that fortune do so serve, that thy brother the Knight of the Sun, come to those parts, thou shalt will him, that he do not move nor departed from those parts, for any kind of adventure that shall succeed, till such time as I do return, for that now at this present I cannot return, for that I have sworn and given my word. So there he told unto them all the history of that infortunate Herea: at the which all they present received great sorrow, saving only Brenio, which seemed that he received neither pleasure nor joy. So when the board was voided, Rosicler took his leave of the Emperor his father, and leapt up on his horse, and took the way which led him whereas he left his boat. He was no sooner entered into it, but it began to make way, and sailed with so great swiftness, that the third day he arrived at Constantinople, whereas at this present we will leave him.   

¶ How the Lady Lydia talked with her Knight Brenio, who was very sad, demanding of him the cause of his discontentment: & of other accidents. Cap. 14.  
Here you have heard of the great discontentment that Brenio did show, at such time as he came out of the prison, and in how short time, the joy that Lydia received, was turned into sorrow and sadness: and that she could not demand to know the occasion, by reason of the company that was there: so she was driven to pass all that day with bitter sorrows, and anguish of mind, and without all comfort, till such time as the night approached, thinking that when she was alone with him whom she loved more than herself, to ask of him the occasion of all his pain. Thus her desire being brought to pass, this false Brenio did unclothe himself, and the time that he was making unready, he never left weeping, till such time as he was laid in his bed. This fair Lady leaning with her breast upon the bolster, joined her hands with his, and said.  
My sweet Brenio, what thing hath caused thee, thus against the firm love that I have towards thee, to show thyself so sad, as it doth appear by thy heavy cheer: turn my love, and show a joyful face, and give me some comfort with thy smiling countenance, & let my troubled heart receive some ease, of that unmeasurable sorrow which I have sustained, during the time that these unknown and traitorous people, have kept thee in prison and absent from my sorrowful sight. What is this my sweet Brenio, hast thou seen in me any occasion to dissolve this faithful love which I bear thee? Let the great travail, sighs & sorrows move the which I received to find out the Emperor, and bring him to set thee at liberty: and if this be not sufficient, consider with what great love I have passed many sorrowful ways and terrible storms, for to attain thy presence, as now I do. And here I do swear unto thee by the true & faithful love, which caused me so sorrowfully to weep being on the deep sea, that if I the infortunate Lydia be not acceptable in thy heart. Only for that I will not displease th●●, I will with mine own proper hands open this my loving breast, and sprinkle the blood thereof round about these thy ingrateful feet Oh what pain and sorrow was in the heart of this fair Lydia, when she spoke these words unto her ingrateful Brenio, and yet not one of all her sorrows was sufficient to cause him to show any kind of comfort unto her. With these and such like extremities, the night passed away, and when the lightness of the day had entered in at the windows of the chamber, he arose from his bed, and likewise this sorrowful Lady, which had passed all the night, with heavy weepings, and sorrowful sighs, without putting of her clothes, in such sort she went out and followed him.  
The Emperor was then risen and ready, and was putting all things in order that was necessary to pacify and make quiet the people of the country: the which was done with great ease, when it was known that their Lords were dead, whom they did without all measure hate, for that they were so great tyrants: and four great Cities, beside many other fair towns and villages, did yield and surrender themselves under his jurisdiction. The Emperor caused them to swear to receive Rosicleer as their true Lord, and they to be his faithful subjects, and with them likewise all the whole dominion, the which they did with a very good will: and the Emperor appointed a governor amongst them, to govern all the land. All this being finished, and that the Island was in peace and quietness, he commanded to make ready two galleys, the one for the fair Lydia and her Brenio, and the other for his own person, for that he would departed for Africa. So all things was provided presently in good order, and being ready, the Emperor commanded the fair Lydia to embark herself, and to carry with her her Knight, who strait way went aboard the galley, and commanded the mariners to take their course towards Spain. Likewise the Emperor did take his leave of all them of the Castle: who for his noble customs and valiant Knighthood, after that they knew who he was, they both feared and loved him with all their hearts. And when he was embarked in the galley, he commanded the mariners to take the way towards Africa.  
What is he that could signify by any reason the small contentment and joy, that the fair Lydia received, in beholding the lad and melancholic countenance that her Brenio continually showed: who without speaking any word, sailed on till they found themselves in the Pontic sea, whereas continually it is accustomed with his fury, to terrify those, which do navigate that way. So there arose a mighty and great tempest, which was such, that it caused the g●●ley to tumble and toss from the one part to the other, in great peril and danger. Thus they remained three days & three nights in this great danger, & the fourth day they were driven a land, at a small Island uninhabited, that was called Rees. This Island was hid in the sea very far from any land, and was pointed with very great rocks. There they came to an anchor with their galley, and for to refresh and ease themselves of their great travail which they had passed, they went a land, and commanded to raise up a fair Tent which they brought with them, and therein they made a bed, whereon Brenio lay down to ease himself: and this fair Lydia leaned on the bed side by him, and was somewhat in quiet, for that she saw that the sadness of her Knight was a little abated. And by reason of the great pain and dolour that she had received, and the unquietness in the tempest: and again, for the contentment she had, to see her Knight in better quiet, her wearied body required some rest, in such sort, that as she was leaning on the beds side, she fell a sleep. This false Brenio when he saw her at rest and in a sound sleep, in great secret he arose from the bed, and went unto the water's side whereas he had left the galley, and entering therein, he commanded all those that were aland to embark themselves, and to hayse up the sails, and would not by any means tarry, till that the seas were calm, but rather did put himself in the peril of these furious waves, then to enjoy the sweetness of this fair damosel: and left her all alone, in this desolate and unpeopled Island. Oh Neptune that governest ●he seas, let loose thy furious & outrageous waves, and sink so unnatural and inhuman a Knight, and suffer him not to live, that uncourteously did leave this loving Lady in this distress, who for his delivery had put herself in all this trouble. This sorrowful lady still sleeping, dreamt, that there was a great and fierce wild man, which stood before her, with a very sharp sword in his hand, making as though he would kill her, and she was so troubled with the great fear that she received, that she gave great shrillness, and called unto her Brenio for aid & succour, and as she thought, with his hands he stopped his ears, for that he would not hear her, and seemed that he would not move himself in any respect. This dreaming lady seeing this, determined to make her own defence so well as she could, it seemed unto her that there appeared before her a Centaur, which said, fear not fair damsel, for I am come hither to aid & secure thee: yet for all that, this wild man did not let to strike her upon the breast, and as it seemed to her, her breast was all open, and how that the Centaur put his hand into the wound, and pulled out her heart, and threw it at the wild man, and said, Take unto thee this heart, that without all consideration loved a man, which with such ingratitude hath rewarded her. So strait at the same instant there appeared a Knight, which likewise laid hold on the heart with the wild man, and they two strived greatly between themselves with much contention, who should pull the heart out of the others hands: but in the end, each of them remained with his piece in his hand, and the heart parted in two. So the piece which remained in the power of the wild man, turned into a hard stone, and that piece which remained in the power of the knight, turned into red blood, and being in this great perplexity, this sorrowful lady did awake, thinking to have told this terrible dream unto her beloved Brenio, but she found him not in place, and turning her face to the other part, to see if she could see him, but she could neither behold him, nor any other person, of whom she might inquire. Wherewith she leapt from the bed, and with a loud voice, she began to call for her Brenio: but all was in vain. So with a swift pace she went down to the waters side, thinking to have found him there. But at her coming thither, she found neither him nor any other person, neither the galley which brought them thither. Then she looked to sea wards, to see if she could disover any thing, but she could see nothing but water, which was the occasion that she made great lamentation. And being very hoarse with the terrible shriek which she gave, she went up upon a little rock which was nigh the waters side, from whence she did discover the galley, in the which was her unloving Brenio, whereby she perceived plainly how she was deceived, & how she bestowed her affection, whereas was nothing but falsehood: although before time she could not persuade which herself, that so great treason remained in his heart. The great sorrows and lamentations which this forsaken Lady made, was sufficient to move the stones unto compassion. Thus being weary with lamenting, she sat her down upon the little rock, and leaning her cheek upon her white hand, she fell in a great sound, in such sort, that in a long space she moved neither hand nor foot, but when she came again unto herself, she began a new to make great lamentation, and did publish her pain with terrible shrieks, saying: Why was I not drowned in the Sea, that the fishes thereof might have torn my body in pieces, or else to have been delivered into the hands of tyrants, to have used their tyranny against me, that my heart might not have felt this sorrow, neither my eyes have seen this cruelty? O unhappy chance, oh cruel fortune, why didst thou not make me to pass this bitter and sorrowful life in my childhood, in such sort, that it had consumed me. Wherefore did the Gods permit and suffer me to live so long, it had been far better that I had died in my Cradle, and not to live to see myself in this great affliction without all help: O you mountains, O you wild beasts, O you deep sea, there is not in you any sense to hinder me, but that I may publish here the great disloyalty of that traitor, who is the cause of all this my harm. O cruel and ingrateful fortune, I see that here plainly without all pity, thou dost drive me to the death, and although the fault be others, yet thou dost apply the pain to be mine. And in this sort, with great grief, the sorrowful and unfortunate Lady did torment herself.  
So likewise, by reason of the great tempest and torment of the sea, (whereof we before spoke) there arrived nigh the same place, a Knight, with no less danger, than the others that landed there before. The Pilot seeing that Aeolus had shut up his winds, and made fast the gates in such sort, that the sail beat against the mast of the galley, that they were constrained by the force of oars to return again to sea. For that they did see by all seafaring tokens, that the weather would be troublesome: they did perceive it also by the Cornesa, also by seeing the Dolphins, leaping and plunging in the sea, more than they were accustomed to do. These and such like tokens the wise Pilot did consider off, who desired to take part where as he might defend himself from that terrible weather looked for. So with this great desire they struck the water with their Oars, & with great fury they tormented their arms, to get to the land: but the fatal Queen Atrapos, would not consent thereunto, for that at the hour when the troubled Moon, did extend her beams upon the face of the earth, and upon the large and deep Sea, than the wind Boreas began to blow his blast, so that it constrained them of the galley to bring their sail to a bow line, and to strike it very low, which made the vessel to tumble and roll from the one part to the other, in such sort, that every time of her turning, all they that were in her, thought to be drowned. Then the mariners thought good to strike and amain their sail, the which they did in great haste, and laboured to profit themselves with their oars and by the strength of their arms. But in the end, when they saw that neither sail nor oars would profit them, they committed themselves unto God, and left the Galley and all their goods unto his gracious will, and the fury of water, which began presently to entreat them in such sort, that it gave them plainly to understand of their destruction. This was the Galley in which the Emperor departed in, at such time as the Lady Lydia did take her leave, wherein he took but small rest, always labouring to aid and help whereas most necessity required, in throwing out water which troubled them very much, being driven by those mighty waves into the Galley. Thus were they tossed and tumbled all the night looking, every hour for death, at length the Sun appeared and showed his golden face, whereby he did declare the cruel storms & tempests which was past, and likewise gave show of that which was to come, by reason that it was darkened upon a sudden, and showed a heavy cheer: so the winds began to arise & blew more and more, and the waves increased and rose of a great and huge height, beating upon the galley with such violent force, that being taken between two billows, the galley broke a sunder in the midst. These sorrowful mariners which until that time had travailed and fought with the wind and sea to defend their galley & to save their lives, were now constrained to strive with death, and endeavour with all their strengths by swimming for to come to the shore, but all would not serve for their defence, for waxing weary by the great force of the waters, being able no longer to endure, they yielded themselves into the hands of God, and their bodies to the fury of the sea, wherein they finished their lives, the Emperor Trebatio being helped by the mighty hand of God, upon whom he always called in his heart, desiring to deliver him from so terrible a death, praying him for the merits of that mighty mediator jesus Christ, that he would secure and defend him, who of his wont mercy heard him, & would not permit that he should perish, for that he laid hold of a board which was broken from the galley, and made himself fast thereto, though it were with some labour, nevertheless this distressed Emperor thought that the end of his days were at hand, for that the mighty waves kept him a great while under the water, & when he discovered himself aloft, there came another great wave which struck him with such violence, that it threw him upon the shore, almost without any remembrance, whereas I will leave him amongst the shingles which were at the sea side, and of all that happened, I will tell you hereafter.   

¶ How the Emperor when he was recovered of the weariness which he received by the great trouble of the sea, he travailed in the same Island, and how he met with certain knights, with whom he had battle, and what happened. Cap. 15.  
O Mighty princes & valiant knights, and you excellent barons, & all you which find yourselves mounted up in the triumph of felicity, & have all the contentments & pleasures of this world, even all you together, I do here admonish, that you stand not too much in your own conceits, neither be you negligent nor forgetful, for that you know, or at the least you have heard say of the sudden and variable changes of perverse fortune, who respecteth no man, for unto them which be most mounted & are in greatest prosperity, unto them she giveth the mightiest fall: let none show himself proud nor use any cruelty, because he is in high estate, but rather in the authority let him use all humility: for here you have seen the great surmounted quietness & peaceable estate, in which the Emperor hath endured until this present, & now you may see unto what an ebb fortune hath brought him, there he lay along upon the sands a great while, until such time as the Sun had almost run three parts of his daily course before he came to himself, at which time he rather desired to die then to live, committing his soul unto almighty God, whose only it was. The night drew on when that with his black mantel he procured to cover the brightness of Apollo, at which time this emperor was somewhat refreshed of his passed travail, and arose up, but he was all to be mired & full of sand, whereof he made himself clean, in the best manner that he could, & began to take his way through a very narrow path, but he could not travail far, for that the night came so fast & it waxed very dark, so that he was constrained to seek a place where he might rest himself, for that he would not lose the path wherinto he had entered, so he laid himself down under a broad pine tree, where as he passed the most sorrowful and afflicted night that ever knight endured: next unto God he had great comfort by means of his mighty courage, for to pass over all his adversities, thus he passed all the night with great desire that the day would come, & when the day broke it seemed very fair & calm, and the air appeared quiet, & he travailed out onwards his way in that strait path, until such time as he came to a very fair & delectable forest, whereas sundry chirping birds had gathered themselves together to refresh and shroud themselves from the parching of the Sun, yielding very delectably divers sweet notes. In this forest, he travailed well nigh two hours, & then he went up to a small mountain which was at hand, from the which he discovered a very fair & well towered city, upon the farther side whereof the sea beat against the fair & high walls, & towards that part whereunto the narrow way did lead, without the city there was built a princely palace very sumptuous to behold, & moated round about, which moat made a separation between the city and the palace, there he received great pleasure to find himself in a peopled country and of so goodly building, for that before he thought he had been in a desert: likewise he discovered from the hill, a fair fountain all wrought of Marble, pillar like with a great bowl in the midst also of marble, out of which did proceed four spouts running with water, which fell into a great sesterne, & coming unto it he washed his hands and refreshed his face, and sat him down by it upon the green grass, with a great desire to eat somewhat, but there was no body to give him any thing, so he rested himself upon his elbow, & what with the weariness of his way & with his hunger, & being very pensive for his troublesome sorrow, he fell a sleep. Not long after there came out of that fair palace certain knights which road abroad to solace themselves, and by chance they came to the place whereas the Emperor was, and when they saw him of so fair a favour and of so goodly a stature, and to their thinking he slept without all fear or care, one of them said: Out of all doubt this is a knight of a strange Country, and by his countenance and proportion, it seemeth that he is of some high lineage, & that perverse fortune which always is fickle unto mankind, hath caused him to come hither, & brought him to be in this estate. To the which answer one that was in company, who seemed to be of greater estate than all the rest, said: that he doth rather seem to be some robber and thief, and one that doth lead an ill life, more than a knight of prowess, and that the sword which he weareth, he hath stolen from some travailing knight, let me come and I will awake him out of his sound sleep, and I will take this sword from him which doth not become him to wear, for it is not to be bestowed on him, and without any more delay he alighted off from his horse to seek his own death (as it fell out) for when he came to the Emperor, he pulled him by the beard with so much strength, that spite of his heart he did awake him, but when the Emperor awaked and saw the hands of that villainous knight fast upon his beard (which was full of hairs) he with his left hand struck him such a blow upon the breast, that he made him to recoil back, and whether he would or no, he fell to the ground with the force thereof, and with great anger he rose up, (not making any outward appearance of the great and incomparable travail that he had passed) he laid hand on his sword, and without tarrying till the other did arise, he struck him such a blow upon the head that he cut him down to the breast, so that he fell down dead to the ground, in this sort he gave him his payment for his great and unseemly pride: these knights that came together were eight in number, but when the rest saw that which the Emperor did, they prepared themselves to fight, & lighting from their horses they laid hands on their swords, & wrapped their cloaks about their arms, & then began a cruel battle, but when this mighty Trebatio saw himself so beset with the other seven knights, he determined to sell his death very dear, or else to kill them all, and as you do see the greedy Lion ranging the Country with his hair bristeled, and raging with great hunger to find his pray: even so the valiant Emperor began to strike with his strong arm, flourishing with it in such sort, that on whom it chanced to light, he had no need of a Surgeon to heal him. In a little space of the eight that were of them, there were four of them s●aine, and the rest were so scared with his terrible and mortal blows, that they durst not come nigh him. There was a lackey that came with them, which when he saw this great destruction of the knights, took the horse of one of them that was slain, and in great hast he galloped with him towards the palace, crying with a loud voice: Armour, armour, come knights quickly and help, for that there is slain the Earl of Modique his son, and all the rest that were with him, the queen and Lady of that Country, when she heard that great noise, she looked out of her closet, and asked who had done that murder, to whom the Lackey answered, that one only knight unarmed, whom they found a slape at the marble fountain, hath slain them. These words caused great alteration amongst all them in the palace, and in great hast they called for their armour to arm themselves, but this fair queen asked farther of the Lackey, what was the occasion which these eight knights offered, to cause that knight to attempt so hard an enterprise, who told and declared unto her all that you have heard, and when she understood the whole circumstance, she commanded strait that uproar to cease, and that there should other eight knights go and procure to take and bring him prisoner, without doing him any harm, for that she was desirous to know what he should be that was of so valiant courage and so great a strength. So strait way at the commandment of the queen these eight knights were ready and armed, and went to the place whereas they were still in battle, and at such time as they approached, there was but two left of the eight, that were first against him. And when those two saw the other eight knights coming, they stepped on the one side, & with a loud voice, cried. Knights kill this devil, kill this devil, who in this sort hath entreated us. When the Emperor saw that there came other eight armed knights against him, he could not but judge himself to be in great danger of death, for that he was unarmed and without any defence, yet for all that, his accustomed courage did not fail him one ●ot, but he put himself in defence with so great hardiness, as though he had been armed with all his accustomed armour. Then one of the eight armed knights who would show himself to be of a more courage than the rest, pressed forwards with his sword in his hand and his shield on his arm, making show as though he would strike him, the Emperor did ward that blow on his sword whereon it fell, and with his left hand he took so fast hold on his shield, and with so great strength, that he pulled it from 〈◊〉 arm, and with great speed he covered himself therewith, and with a valiant stomach said: Do not think you disloyal and cowardly knights to take me prisoner or do me any outrage, first I hope to put you all to the point of any sword, or to die in my just defence, but by reason that he spoke to them in the Greek tongue, they could not understand him one word, wherefore forgetting that which the queen had commanded them, they strived with all their strength to kill him: the Emperor by reason of the fountain had his back defended, so that they were constrained to fight with him face to face, but he which by his hardiness did seem to press forwards more than the other, was strait s●aine or very sore hurt. Amongst these knights there was another which was of a more hardy courage than any of the rest, who many times did press forwards, & had hurt this valiant Trebatio in two places, & although the wounds were not very great, yet it caused his adversaries to have the better stomach to assault him. This knight which had hurt the Emperor saw well, that if every one of the rest had done as much as he, that this unarmed knight had been s●aine, & with a loud voice he said: O ye Knights of Tinacria, how is it possible that one only knight, & without armour, hath brought us into this jeopardy and great extremity, the which words he spoke in the Tuscan tongue, and so with great hardiness & mighty courage he pressed forwards, but the Emperor who well understood his words, stepped forwards to receive him, two steps more than he did before, the which was done with great lightness, and followed his blow so hard, that the knight was constrained to receive the blow upon his helm, the which was given with so much strength and fury, that i● parted it in twain with the head, & before that he could return back again into his standing, they hurt him in two or three places, but it was not much, but the Emperor as he recoiled, struck two of them, & that with so much fury that they fell dead to the ground, the rest of the Knights which remained were marvelously afraid, for that they had felt his mighty blows, and again with the sight of those that were s●aine before the ●herefore they withdrew themselves back so that his blows might not reach them. The Emperor seeing himself at more quietness, retired to the place where he fi●st was, by the fountain, and there he remained in more safety being better able to make his defence, so there was left of all those sixteen Knights, but seven, of the which, three of them were more importunate than the rest, and dealt with him even as a company of small spaniels with a great mastiefe, who with their barking run round about him both before and behind, yet not daring to touch any hair, but when they come before him, the mastiefe maketh them afraid, and forceth them to run away: so in the same sort was the Emperor amongst his enemies, and being in this conflict, they heard a great noise in the city of making haste unto armour, and anon they perceived how the old Earl did know of the death of his son, who by reason of the great sorrow & passion that he received was almost beside himself, & commanded to bring him his armour and his horse, on whom he mounted, and took in his hand a great and mighty Spear, and road forth towards the Fountain whereas the Emperor was, and after this old Earl issued out many of the people of the City, as well knights as other Citizens. The queen understanding all this uproar & tumult, fearing that by force of all those people, there should be slain that knight, who amongst all other was worthy to live for his great valour and knighthood, she determined to go forth accompanied with all the nobility of her court, & with many fair Ladies and Damsels to aid and deliver him from peril, but before the queen could come thither, the old Earl was there whereas the Emperor was, but when he saw so many men there dead, and all by the force of one unarmed knight, if it had not been for grief to see his son lie slain amongst the rest, and also the fatherly love which did provoke him to wrath, I promise you he would have been the first that should have procured to set him at liberty, for that he thought it not possible there should so much valiantness rest in one knight and also unarmed, against so 〈…〉 armed knights, except some of the Gods had descend●●●●wn to help him, but the great affection which the father ought to have to his son, caused him with great shouts & cries to press in amongst the knights that were fight, & to put them apart, & likewise all the whole multitude that were there joined together, & with his spear in his hand he came to the place whereas the Emperor was, whom I will now leave, for that the South wind blue in my ear, & hath constrained me to move my purpose and return to Constantinople, whereas the court of the Emperor remained in great sorrow for the departing of their Lord, whose careful countenance seemed to prognosticate the great danger that the Emperor should be in, & if there had not chanced at that time to come to the court the wise Artemidoro, who did very much comfort the Empress, in willing her not to torment her body with so many lamentations and passions, for that in this his travail all things should fall out very well and unto his great honour, to whose words the Empress gave great credit, otherwise she would verily have been slain with sorrow. The Prince Claverindo was he which did most lament at the sorrow of the Empress, and determined to go forth in the quest of the Emperor, for that he accounted nothing to be grievous to comfort the sorrow of the Empress, which would be mitrigated by the seeking of the Emperor. This secret determination came unto the ears of the king of Sardenia, and he declared unto Claverindo, that he would ●eare him company, who strait ways determined together to take their voyage, and commanded to make ready a fair and strong ship. So without giving any to understand, in a night they embarked themselves, and hoist their sails, and committed their ship thither, whereas Fortune would carry her. The Empress, although she received great discomfort by her being alone, yet she did dissemble it in the best wise she could, and did labour with great discretion to govern her Empire in quietness, thinking thereby to mitigate her grief, for the absence of the Emperor. So one day 〈◊〉 in this sorrow, there was heard a great rumour, which wa● 〈◊〉 to proceed of great joy and gladness. The Empress hearing it, could not by any means imagine what it should be, and being doubtful, she sent one to know what it was, that caused that great tumult in the Court: but quickly she was resolved, and put out of all her doubt, for that it was given her to understand, that the joy was, because of the Prince Rosicler, of whom I have told you, who did then at that instant disembark himself at the water's side.  
What should I here speak of the great joy which the Empress received, I am not able fully to declare it, but it was in such sort, that for the great love she did bear unto the Prince, and again for the great comfort which she received in her sorrowful mind, that with both her arms cast about his neck, she received him and embraced him, with great joy and contentment. Rosicler did kiss her Imperial hands with great humility. The Duchess was present at this meeting, who knew very well Rosicleer to be he that did make such slaughter of her Knights coming by the way, and when she came unto the Prince, she said. Knight, I never thought to give you so loving entertainment as now I do, by reason that you did entreat me very ill, & all my people, and caused me to receive great grief: nevertheless, the amends which I hope to have of so worthy a knight, doth cause me to crave of you pardon for this my former anger, for that the little knowledge and acquaintance I have had of you, hath been the principal occasion of my discourtesy. Then the Prince did call to remembrance, that she should be the Lady which was in the Chariot, as well by her speeches, as by the apparel she wore, to whom he answered and said: Lady, for your great grief I am very sorry, and surely I should receive much more grief, if occaon should not fall out, wherein I might do you service. Not for so much in that I own by duty unto knighthood, as it is to be at your commandment: and more, it is the will of the Emperor my father, to labour to obtain you all the ease and contentment, that possibly I could: and therefore only for this cause and purpose, he commanded me to come unto the Court: so that whensoever you think it necessary to put your necessity in ure. I am here ready at your commandment, to do all that in your service is convenient. And for that all things in your service shall be fulfilled in more ample manner, I will that the noble Brandimardo go with me in my company, for that your defence shall be the more certain. And although the attainment be never so difficult▪ yet having him in my company, I hope to make all things dead sure. Brandimardo rendered unto him great thanks and did accept his desire to have him in his company. The Queen of Lira was not a little joyful of this she heard, and gave great-thanks both unto the one and unto the other, for their great courtesy showed, and said. Noble and valiant Princes, I do conceive very much joy in this your great courtesies offered unto me, touching the restoring me again unto my kingdom: but in the mean time that you do pretend to make me this restitution, and likewise in satisfaction of this great courtesy which you have offered, I beseech you to procure unto me (having so good opportunity, & none more worthier for this effect than you, of whom I may receive it) the order of Knighthood, which is the thing that I so much desire. This she delivered with so goodly a grace, that the Prince stood and beheld her, and was much amazed at her marvelous beauty: and replying unto the words of the Queen, he said. Oh fortunate Empire, that shall be governed by so valiant a Princess, the order of Knighthood, Lady, I know not how to give it, for that it doth wholly and altogether consist in you. There is nothing lacking but the girding on of the sword by the hands of some worthy Knight: but who is he that hath deserved to obtain ●o do so worthy an act unto so noble a Queen, notwithstanding seeing at this present it is offered unto me, I will enjoy the benefit of this great desert, although I well know myself, not worthy thereof. And with this he took off his own sword, and put it about the queens neck, who with a marvelous and cheerful countenance said, I do receive it by the hands of the best Knight of the world, and here I do return it unto you again, for with it, I hope to be restored into the Kingdom of Lira. And whiles she was saying these words, he girt himself therewith again. Then the Prince said. Fair Lady, I have this sword now in such estimation, that I do believe no Knight may esteem more thereof, nor have it in greater price, neither will I change it for any thing in all the world, and here I do give you great thanks for this your courtesy, and desire of God speedily to give me occasion, that I may pay this great debt, in the which I am indebted. And for that I may the better satisfy my desire, I do request of you to grant me a boon, which upon my faith, I do promise you, is the very first that ever I did demand of Lady▪ and that I protest by the honour I own unto the order of Knighthood: Uerilie said the Qéenne, and it shall be the first that ever I granted unto any Knight. And believe me it is unto me no small pleasure and contentment, that this my first grant should be given unto a knight of so noble valour as you are, let it be therefore what it shall be, I will grant it unto you. And being reasoning in this manner, they were cut off from their talk by the coming of the Empress Claridiana, who brought leading by the hand, the Lady Olivia, who came from her closet, whereas being together, they heard of the news of the arrival of the Prince. If Rosicler did receive great pleasure when he did see Olivia, (unto them that have reason and discretion of understanding, I leave the consideration): so likewise he did much marvel, at the great leanness of Claridiana, for the which he was very sorry, and with some reasons he did comfort her, as one that knew all the secret of her heart. All the whole Court received great joy and pleasure for the coming of the Prince, and all the Knights and Gentlemen came to visit him. And being dinner time they sat down at the table, and at the end of the dinner, when that all was taken up, they did determine and thought it good, that out of hand they would procure to give battle to the Giants, usurpers of the kingdom of Lira, and that the Queen and the Duchess should remain in the Court: and with this conclusion they commanded, that for the next day, should be made ready, all that should be necessary for their journey. In the Court was made great lamentation and sorrow, for that the prince would so soon departed, & leave it without any knight of estimation or account to be made of: for that they were all departed in the Quest and seeking of their Lord and Emperor: whereas I will leave them. And the Prince's Rosicleer & Brandimardo going onwards in their voyage, left the Empress with the government of her Empire, and in her company the Empress Claridiana, and the Queen of Lira, and the Princess Olivia. Where let them rest, and now I will tell you of the success of the two children of the great Alphebo.   

¶ How the two children of the great Alphebo, were stolen away, by the Giant Galtenor, and what afterward did succeed of the same robbery. Cap. 16.  
WIthin the wide and deep sea, towards the parts of India where the people are governed, under the Pole antarctic, and whereas the furious waters with their great waves & terrible noise, with violent force do make hollow and undermine the rocks, & strong defence of the port Palato, and the sumptuous city of Sina, are two very fair islands, the one of them is called Trapona, a very great Island and plentiful of all things, wherein reigned a knight of great fame called Delfo, which was not far off from the other Island, named Arguinaria, being like wise very abundant of all kind of victuals, & very strong and was governed by a Giant called, Gedereon Brandembul, a very fierce man. His power and strength was such, that he was not only feared of them of the Island, but also of all other Kings and Knights, borderers and confines upon his Island. He was fifteen cubits in height, and his face very furious and wild, and his strength surpassed the power of men. And above all he was very cruel, and had usurped that land of another Giant, who by lineal descent should have had the government, whose name was called Galtenor. This was he, which in a Serpentine figure entered into the chamber of the Empress Claridiana, and stole away her two children, for that he did know by his art Magic (in the which he was very cunning and expert) that he could not recover his Island, but by means of the young son, whereof the Empress should be delivered. For which cause he did steal them away in the form as I have tolds you, I say two young children newly borne. Then this Galtenor, having these two young infants in his power, travailed onward his journey, and overpassed all Greece, he came unto the uttermost parts and confines of Armenia. And approaching unto a Castle, by reason that the infants were out of quiet with hunger, he used the effect of his art, and did enchant all them that were within the Castle, and deprived them of their wits, saving only one Lady, that was newly brought a bed, whose child strait died, to whom he did commend the two infants. And as at that time this fair Lady was not sufficient to give them both suck for lack of milk, he did by his art likewise provide a Liones, which had newly whelped, and a she Goat, which did help her with their milk, to the nourishing of these two infants. This Lady for the refreshing of the Infants, did ask licence to unswaddle them, which being granted unto her, she unswaddeled the young infant out of his rich clothes wherein he was, and in making clean of his little body wi●h a fine linen cloth, she saw on his breast, a very fiery spear, at the which she was greatly amazed, & for this occasion they gave him to name Claridiano, of the spear: and the other infant they called Rosaluira. So in this order as I have told you, were these infants nourished two years, with these their nurses, and every day more than other their exceeding fairness and beauty increased, so that they seemed to be heavenly creatures. This Giant did determine not to departed from that place, till such time as they came unto age, for that the country did like them very well. So they were there six years without removing from thence to any other place, in the which time these Infants were so great of body that they seemed to be of a dozen years of age. Claridiano was of a marvelous and fair beauty, but the infant Rosaluira was without comparison, more than any human creature. Then Galtenor seeing that it was time to carry them unto Trapobana, he caused by his art to be brought a Chariot, which was drawn by two great Griphons, and therein he put the children, and also their nurse: for that the children did cry pitifully for their nurse, and the nurse likewise shed many tears, and began to torment herself, when they should be carried away, and so being in the Chariot they travailed, and left behind them Armenia, and the fair and white Albania, the great Sea of Caspro, and likewise Marmantina, the Gran Tartary, with his surmounted seas, which is separated from the great sea, they passed likewise by Armenia the great, and came unto the head spring of Euphrates, which doth begin a hundred miles from Damascus, & is compassed about with two fair cities, the one of them to the Eastward called jerosolima, & the other is situated to the Ponents, called Sabiosca. Here he caused his wagon to descend for to ease themselves, and that the children should take some refreshing: the which was done to the great contentment of them all: and being somewhat weary of their journey, the Giant fell a sleep, and so likewise the nurse, who was called Formisa with Claridiano in her arms, who also was a sleep, but Rosaluira was awake, and being appareled with very rich apparel of white Damask, all spotted full of jewels of gold and pearls, she descended out of the Wagon, and with her fair yellow hair, which seemed to be gold wires, all hanging down behind on her back, gardished about with very rich jewels, & without all fear she went unto the rivers side, the which was beset on every side with very fair Orchards and gardens, and all the fields garnished with divers kinds of sweet flowers and green herbs, which served for the feeding of many sheep, that were nigh at hand feeding by the rivers side. And she received such contentment, in these sweet delights, that before she was aware, she was very far from the place, whereas her brother and the rest were a sleep.  
There was nigh that place a shepherd, which kept certain sheep, & with that exercise he passed his life, (although with great misery) and in a very poor and little cottage, who seeing that Infant all alone, and so gallantly adorned with rich apparel, he drew near the place whereas she was, and looked round about him towards all parts, to see if there were any that came after her to seek her, or if she had any keeper: but when he saw that there was no body, he took her by the hand, and the child followed him with a very good will, always looking him in the face. The Shepherd spoke unto her in the Tartarian tongue, and the child spoke unto him in the Chaldean tongue, and asked of him somewhat to eat, with a smiling countenance: this shepherd did partly understand her & lead her unto his house, and gave her a dish of milk and sops of bread, and the child being a hungered did eat it with a very good will. The shepherds wife, who was somewhat discreet, seeing the great riches, that this infant Rosaluira had about her, said, Husband, I do believe that this child is of some high lineage as it doth appear by her apparel, and surmounted beauty. It shall be very well, that we do keep her here till such time as we do know what she is. For in keeping and making much of such a fair creature, cannot choose but redound unto us great profit. And if it so fall out, that we cannot learn nor know what she is, with this riches that she hath about her, we may bring ourselves out of all trouble, and be more richer than any shepherd in all this Country. This shepherd received great joy with the finding this child, acknowledging all that which his wife had said unto him, to be very good and well spoken: and so in great secret they kept her eight days, maintaining her in the best wise they could, with such meats as they were accustomed to eat, always having a great care, at all times when he went to jeroshlima, to demand if there were any inquiry for such a child, although he believed for a certainty, that she was of some strange Country, by reason of her apparel, and different language, which was an occasion that they put in practise their determined purpose: and laying all fear apart, they took from her, her rich apparel, and put on shepherds apparel, as was accustomed amongst them, wherewith this child was as well content, as with the other: and under that course raiment, she did discover so great and surpassing fairness, that Diana was almost ashamed to extend her silver beams, whereas this young feminine shepherd did walk, who always carried in her hand a little shepherds crook, and following the sheep whereas they did feed, many times with her golden hair about her shoulders, being of so great beauty, that the glistering beams of Apollo passing through, appeared to have no vantage of it. The old shepherd's wife did very well intrate her, and made as much of her as she could, for that those jewels was the occasion of their great wealth. And again this shepherd was wise, for when he saw himself rich of money, yet would he not begin to use his wealth too speedily, because he would not give any to understand of his sudden riches, but by little and little he did employ it in buying more sheep, in such sort, that he came to be the richest shepherd in all that Province, accounting and esteeming of that child more than if she had been their own daughter. Now let us return unto the Giant that we left sleeping, who when he awaked and found missing the infant, was very sad, and took a book, and began to make his accustomed conjurations to know where she was become, but he could not come to the knowledge of her nor any thing touching her, and when he saw that he had not so much learning to know where this infant was, he called to remembrance the wise Ly●gandeo and Artemidoro, believing surely that one of them had carried her away, and being in this believe, he strait ways without an●● more tarrying went into his Wagon, and began again to travail: but the great sorrow and lamentation that Claridiano made for the absence of his sister was very grievous to hear. Likewise the Nurse Formisa did bear him company with many tears and sorrowful sighs, but the Giant caused them to hold their peace, and did comfort them in the best manner he could, and so travailing he left behind him the river Euphrates, the kingdom of Syria and of Babylonia, the great kingdom of Media, the Gran Tartary, and the high mountain Masarpicoronas, in the which Alexander did shut up the Centaurs. Likewise he passed other great mountains, rivers, and kingdoms, which I do here omit for to avoid tediousness. So long they travailed till they came to the kingdom of Tigliafa, and passed the Port of Palato, and left behind them Sina, and put his wagan in the pleasant Island of Trapobana within the Palace of the king of Delso, before whom he did present himself with this ●oung Claridiano by the hand, and said.  
O good and bountiful king, here I do present thee a presents the greatest that ever was presente● unto any king: 〈…〉 thee this child, & look unto him as thou wouldst look unto thy own person, for you shall understand, that this is he that shall restore you into your kingdom, and shall set you at liberty from this subjection in the which you now are in, and shall put me in my kingdom, taking it out of that tyrants hands who doth now enjoy it: therefore O king do not forget to do this which I have told thee, for if we do lack or lose this remedy, all the hope that we have in this the restoring of our kingdoms is lost. The king which in the words of the Giant had great confidence, giving unto him great credit, took the child by the hand and set him vp●n his knee, and kissing his fair face, he said: Ah my good friend, where hath been seen a thing of so great beauty and of so fair and perfect proportion, it is not possible that amongst human creatures should be any such, but rather some of the Gods hath descended from above, and hath engendered him. And here I do swear, by that which I do owe unto the deserving of the mighty Apollo, to have him in possession, and to entreat & entertain him as though he were my own proper and natural Lord, and think myself in this doing to be the most happiest king in all the world, and thou my friend in the mean time procure to keep thy person from the most cruel dog, whom I do think is feared of the high throne of the supernal Gods: one thing there is which only doth grieve me & put me in great fear, which is, that I would not we should bring up so tender and fair a youngling as this child is, for to be a pray hereafter unto so cruel and monstrous a beast as he. Then the Giant answered and said: O king put thyself out of all doubt, for he shall not only abate the courage and fury of this great and savage tyrant, but also in hearing him named, all the country shall be in a fear & quake: travail therefore in no other thing but to bring him up with all the majesty that thou mayst, for thou shalt understand that he is son unto the most valiantest Prince in all the world, at which words the child was in a great dump, and blushed in such sort that his face seemed to be a Ruby: so the Giant took leave of the king, not without great sorrow to a part himself from that young Prince. The king turned and gave the child again to Formisa his Nurse, until such time as he came to the bigness and stature to exercise himself in learning and in feats of arms, the which he did in so short time, that it put them in great admiration that did teach him, for that in less than the spare of three years he was so expert in both of them, that they never heard in times passed of any like unto him. Moreover, in speaking of all manner of languages, he was so perefect, that it seemed how that all his life time he had been brought up in the place where either of all the languages were spoken. His understanding and policy was such in all manner of things, that not only the king but all others were persuaded that he was the son of some of the Gods, by reason whereof they did use him with such reverence as though he had been a thing sent unto them front heaven. And when he came to be twelve years old h●e was of such greatness, that he seemed to be twenty years old, his height was according unto the mightiness of his members, which were exceeding well proportioned: particularly he showed in his countenance a great grau●●ie and sober disposition, very little talk, but when he spoke, it was with great discretion, and his words very well placed, very full of humility, and if at any time he were angry (as very seldom he was) it was in such sort, that being blinded therewith, he respected nothing. The wise Artemidoro saith, that if this anger doth proceed of base things, it were a great vice, and that it would overshadow and darken all other virtues that a man was endued withal, but he saith that it did not come unto him, but by too much force of the heart, and that it was always accompanied with reason, which did nothing at all hurt● him, but rather did the more exalt his deeds, and if it did chance at any time that he were angry, in looking on them that were present he put them in great fear. Besides this, he was very pitiful, for that many times, hearing talk of any terrible cruelties, he would weep for the compassion he had thereof. The king which every day did see his mightiness and virtues more & more increase, thought himself very happy to have in his power so precious a jewel. Many other things I could tell you here, of the nobleness of this Prince, according as the wise Artemidoro doth discover, but the success of his worthy father doth cause me to change my style, to tell you of his high and mighty deeds.   

¶ Of the great pain that the Prince did sustain for the absence of his cousin, and how he had battle with a certain knight that was very dolorous through love, & of all that which chanced herein. Chap. 17.  
THE grief was very great which the Grecian Prince received for the sudden absence of his cousin, but he did comfort himself, for that he understood that the vessel was governed by the art of Lyrgandeo, and persuaded himself that it was convenient, for that which should succeed, and so dissembling his sorrow in the best wise he could, he went onwards his voyage, very desirous to see land, purposing that if he went aland, being on firm land, not as then to go any more to Sea, and being still in this determination, he sailed forwards two days. The next day following when that the Sun had run a great part of his course, they saw coming towards them a great Boat or Galley, of which the wind with his blustering gale did fill their sails, and also it was rowe● with four Oars on a side, and had the Sea likewise favourable unto them, and the Prince's ship lost her way, for that the wind was against her, and therefore they struck their sails and made a stay, intending to see what was in the other Ship: drawing nigh them, they heard the sound of a Harp, which made a marvelous sweet and pleasunt noise in the ears of all the hearers.  
And beholding with good advisement, they saw that within their boat they brought hanging at the mast an image, which seemed to be of silver, of a marvelous great beauty, with this title written thereon: Floriana the daughter of the Duke of Cantabria, Lady of all the beauty of the world. At her feet she had hanging by little chains of silver, many images of fair Ladies & damsels, amongst them all there was two which did hang higher than all the rest, the one of them had a crown on her head, which seemed to be an Empress, & the other to be a queen, and every one of them had their names written what they were, & reading the titles of those two which hung more higher than the rest, they saw the one of them was Claridiana Empress of Trabisond, & upon the other was written, Olivia Princess of great Britain. O heavenvly God, how great was the ire that upon a sudden appeared in the prince, when he beheld the image of his Lady at the feet of the other which was highest, & blowing like unto a wild bull, he said: O my very friend & one of great understanding, if thou do not speedily assist to punish this great outrage offered me, from this time forth I will renounce thy friendship & account thee as my mortal enemy, because I see, for the more augmenting of my pain, thou hast showed me the which might have been excused by shunning the sight of it. Tefereo which likewise did behold the which the prince had seen, & saw the great alteration which the sight had caused in him, & fearing that his outrageous choler, would be the occasion that he should do some unseemly act, he had great care of him, & surely he had done no less, but that little & little they drew nigher with their galley unto the other boat, & they were so nigh that they might plainly hear the music that was within the boat, & for that it seemed unto them to be very pleasant, they gave attendant ear thereto, & also to a song that a knight in the galley sung, which here followeth.  

Feign would I cloak and hide my heavy care,  
and closely bear the burden of my grief,  
If spite of will, my woe did not declare  
my sundry sorrows, void of all relief:  
provoked by her, that laughs when I lament,  
And in my torment's, seems to rest content.   

Oh blinded sense, whereby I was misled!  
and headlong tumbled into Cupid's snare,  
Where I a while was with my fancy fed,  
which meat seemed sweet: but sauce he did prepare,  
[A shaft of gold, whose head was dipped in gall]  
This hit my heart, and spoiled my taste withal.   

I know right well, that lover finds delight,  
which now and then hath pleasure mixed with pain:  
But well may he be deemed a hapless wight,  
that void of hope, doth helpless still remain.  
So wretched I, have ten years sued for grace.  
And for reward, have frowns in friendship's place.   

Ah cruel love, that first didst make me blind,  
when I beheld the beauty of that face,  
Which made me judge her of celestial kind,  
and deem her heart dame Mercies only place:  
But too too plain I now in fine perceive,  
That smoothest shows, do soon men deceive.   

If thou desire my death for thy delight,  
with willing heart I will the same forego:  
But know, in heaven there is a judge most right,  
that just revenge will for thy rigour show.  
Take then no pleasure in my restless pain:  
Blood guiltless spilled, requireth blood again.   

The world likewise of me would deem the best,  
and being dead, will term me, firm and true:  
But thee (still living) they will so detest,  
as thou wouldst soon with tears thy rigour rue.  
Wherefore way all, and pity my distress:  
Lest thou thyself in fine be comfortless.   

I well do know thy beauty is so brave,  
that only it deserves ado'rde to be:  
And such it is, that none the like can have,  
Lady or Damsel, whatsoe'er she be.  
As Queen of beauty, thou deservest to reign:  
And this will I 'gainst any Knight maintain.   
This is that which I deny, answered the Prince unto these words, and with a high voice, he said, Knight whosoever thou art, come forth and defend this great lie, which even now thou spakest, for it shall not be answered with any other thing, but with the loss of thy life. So their barks were joined one with another, which the Prince seeing, he went and would have leapt into the other boat: but he was disturbed by the coming forth of a very well set Knight against him, being of a good proportion, who had heard the words which the Prince had said, and for to see who it was which spoke them, he came from under the hatches of the bark. He was armed with green armour, the most richest that ever Knight did wear, & was full of these two letters F.F. all guilt. This Knight of the bark issued out not having his helm on his head, who discovered a very fair face, such as hath not been seen, but only that of the Prince, his beard began to bud as yellow as the gold, and his hair was of the same colour. And when he saw that the Knight of the Sun had his helm on his head, and that he was a Knight of so gentle disposition, and with so rich armour, he almost suspected who it should be, & said with great gravity, It is not seemly (especially in a Knight of such disposition as you seem to be) to speak such proud words as you have uttered, and above all, unto one that doth esteem them so little as I do. The knight of the sun at the time was not to strain any courtesy, but answered, It is worse in them which do presume of themselves as thou dost, to speak lies & commit villainy, in esteeming so little of them, that are not only in beauty far passing the fairness of this Lady whom thou so honourest, but also of more, than any in the world, and yet thou dost put her a degree lower, making her whom thou dost serve to be the Princess of all beauty, what devil hath bewitched thee in this wise, & deceived thee, not to esteem nor to make any reckoning of the excellent Claridiana. Dost thou think that the Grecian Prince is not in the world, or else dost thou understand that he is so oloe, that he cannot use his members to maintain her quarrel against such like falsehood as this is, which fond thou forcest thyself to defend, take unto thee thy helm, thou vile and naughty Knight, ●or thy bold hardiness is worthy of no other thing but death. By these reasons which the Knight of the Sun had uttered, that was confirmed in the other, which before he did suspect, and rested half doubtful to deal with him, but seeing he must of force he la●ed on his helm, and commanded the mariners to grapple fast the Barks together, the which was done with a trice, which caused the one to join fast to the other, and so without any more words between them, they both drew their sword, and the Knight with the green armour took the advantage, & struck the Prince such a blow upon the helm, that he made him stoop, and firm his hand upon the ship board, and in great hast he doubled another with so great strength, that he was almost astonied, and it made him to recoil backwards two paces, that he had almost fallen down. The Knight of the Sun came strait way to himself, and lifting up his mighty arm, he chanced such a blow upon the helm of his enemy (which was as hard and strong as a Diamond) that it gave such sound, that all the sea was occupied with the noise thereof. And made him to boowe with both his knees to the ground. The green Knight marveled very much of that great blow which he had received: but for that he was strong and of great courage, he arose strait up again on foot●, and lent unto the Prince such another blow, and with so great anger, that as it hit him on the waist, it made him to fall sidewards to the fore ship. The Prince did not marvel much thereat, but was strait way with him again, and struck him so mighty a blow upon the helm, that it made the blood start out at his eyes and at his nose, and he was so troubled therewith, that he thought a great tower had fallen down upon him. The Prince seeing him in this trance, did procure to leap into his bark, but the green Knight by reason he was not fully astonished, with both his hands thrust at the Knight of the Sun upon his breast, for to hinder him from his entering, so that spite of his heart he made him to recoil, and that in such sort, that he lacked but a little to fall down backwards, which was the occasion, that his anger did the more increase. And either of them firming themselves on their feet, there began a new the battle, with so great anger and fury, that the mariners thought, that at every blow the battle would have been ended. Nevertheless, the more they did fight, the more their anger did increase, so that their fierce blows were incomparable. Oh how much the knight of the sun found himself troubled to see the great strength of his adversary, for the except it were in the Knight of Cupid only, he never in any other had found the like courage & strength, as he did in this Knight with the green armour, who likewise did no less marvel at the power of the Knight of the Sun: and with this, in either of them increased great courage, with like desire to overcome their enemies, procuring to strike the one the other with great fury, and multiplied so their blows, that neither of them was without his payment. The Prince was marvelously amazed to see that the courage of his enemy did so long endure, which caused his anger in very strange manner to increase in such sort, that he struck at him such strong and incomparable blows that they were not to be suffered, and almost no resistance to be made. So long they endured the battle, that the Sun had made an end of his ordinary course, & the heavy and mourning night began to throw his mantle ever all the earth, in such sort that they could scarce see: but they were so kindled in their anger, & so furious in their battle, that the darkness was not sufficient to separate them, but they called with a great noise for lights, that they might make an end of their battle, but Tefereo seeing their determination, conceived great grief that such a valiant knight as he with the green armour should run in any danger of peril, he did persuade with the Mariners, & made signs that they should ungrapple their barks, and being moved with great compassion they procured to do it, so privily that the knights might not perceive it, the which was easily accomplished, for that they were so blinded in fierceness of this their battle, that they could not intend to mark it. The grapples were no sooner taken off, when that the bark of the knight of the Sun with great force did separate himself from the other, which when the prince did see, and that he could not finish his desire, he was purposed to throw himself into the sea, for to come unto his adversary, but considering that it would little profit him, he began to exclaim against Lyrgandeo to be his enemy and a robber of his honour, and saying that he was a vile man and of base blood and lineage: with this and such like reproach, and other ireful thoughts, the Prince went onward his journey, and upon a sudden his Galley struck a land, and in a trice he leapt out of her, and after him went out Tefereo, and caused their horses to be taken out, and put them into a fair meadow full of very fair and green grass, where as they did feed. The knight of the Sun being very full of thoughts and pensive, he would not consent that any should speak with him, but got him amongst a company of fresh and green trees, where as he remained till the morning. So very early in the morning at the break of the day he called for his horse, and when all that were with him were in a readiness, he began to journey, and took his way through a very strait and narrow path, which brought them unto a very broad & common beaten way, so they had not travailed long in it, when they saw coming a Damsel with a very sad and sorrowful countenance, as appeared by the great quantity of tears which proceeded from her eyes, and she came in great haste riding on her palfrey, and when she came nigh whereas the Prince was, he and all that were with him did salute her, the Damsel did return unto them the thanks, and with the great sorrow that she had in her heart she spoke unto them in the French tongue, and said: Oh sovereign Gods, that I might find in these knights so much strength as the outward show and appearance of their well proportioned persons doth promise, than they would soon give remedy to this my troubled sorrow. Tefereo who was not so troubled in his mind as the Prince was, answered and said: Of truth Lady your petition being justly demanded and the cause conformable, we will not only adventure our persons for your remedy, but also our lives, for that we are thereto bound by the order of knighthood, in the favour and defence of Ladies and Damosels. The damosel answered and said: I have so much justice on my side, that I do marvel how the heavens do consent unto it, or why the human force or strength of men will maintain such falsehood, notwithstanding, gentle Knight, if you promise me to do your best to remedy me herein, I will declare it unto you, and in the performing thereof you shall redress three things. In the one you shall deliver me of this great sorrow and pain in the which I now am, in the other, you shall set at liberty the fair Lady Artalanda, who is accused by the greatest and falsest treason that ever was invented in the world, and most shamefully imputed unto that innocent Princess, and by the third you shall get to yourselves great honour, which is the thing that all good and valiant knights doth procure and desire in this world. The Knight of the Sun answered: We know well that these three are to be esteemed, therefore fair Damsel, for myself and for my companion I thus much say, that we do offer our persons, with the conditions aforesaid. In the mean time that he spoke these words, the damsel did behold him very much, and it seemed unto her that he was of a great valour, and seeing him of so good a proportion and so well armed, she imagined in her mind that he should be the knight of the Sun by all likelihoods, according as she had heard talk, and declared o●●en times in the Court of the French king, and was persuaded that it was none other, as appeared by all tokens that she before had heard, & comforting herself with these new and joyful thoughts, she desired them to alight from their horses, and that if it pleased them to sit down under a fair green arbour which was there at hand, she would declare unto them the greatest treason that ever was invented in the world, to the which these knights did condescend with a very good will, and being set down amongst those green herbs, the Damsel with a very dolorous complaint began, and said.  
Noble knights and Lords, you shall understand that you are in the kingdom of France, unto the king whereof it pleased God to give a daughter, of so great beauty & fairness, that it caused great admiration unto all them that beheld her, the which fame was spread abroad, which caused very many great and valorous knights and Lords of this and other kingdoms to repair unto the Court: amongst them all there came one who was son unto the Prince of Scotland, and named Dalior, a man of a very good grace & gentle disposition, & one endued with all feats of good knighthood. Likewise there was another who was son unto the duke of Guyan, one of the greatest noble men that was in all France, a strong and stout man and of great pride, and by lineage of the most valiant and strongest knights in the world●, called Lidiarte. These two Princes had discord between themselves, & did contend in the service of this fair lady Artalanda. The great contentment the which they received, and the great bravery they used in apparel in this their service, I cannot here express. But this fair lady did so govern herself with discretion (who was endued with it as much as with her beauty) that she made as though she understood nothing of their desire, although always she had a better affection to the good will of the Prince of Scotland, then to the love of Lidiarte, and for that, love doth not permit that any thing which appertaineth thereunto should be kept secret, this unbeloved knight did apparently perceive it, by which occasion, the great grief which he received, abated his co●●our and he waxed very lean, and his face became yellow and wan, and did determine to change his apparel o● joy and gladness, and all pleasures, and to apparel himself in such sort, that she might well understand his great sorrow and heaviness. And to the contrary Dalior did show himself in his apparel, the great contentment that he received, for that he did perceive that his Lady did show him some favour: the which was unto the young Earl the cause of great sorrow and grief. Then Love, who never resteth from finishing his effects, but always doth with great efficacy make perfect his works, did wound with firm and faithful love towards Lidiarte, a damsel whose name was Tarfina, being in the service of this beautiful Princess before named, who loved him so firmly, that this miserable damosel could find in herself no kind of quietness nor rest, and most of all she now tormented herself, for that she ●awe so sudden a change in her lover. This cruel pain did so much constrain her, that she of necessity was driven to seek all means & policies, to procure how she might at her ease talk with him, and give him to understand, with her own mouth, all the pain and grief that she did suffer, and the only cause thereof. And putting this her determination in ure, it chanced on a day, (as she might say bitter and unfortunate) after dinner when the Table was taken up, she found time convenient to declare unto him all that her heart desired, for finding her lover leaning against a cupboard all alone, she came unto him and saluted him with great courtesy, the Earl did receive her with no less gentleness, (believing for that she was a Damsel of his lady the princess, that she had come from her of some message) she seeing so good opportunity▪ spoke unto him in this manner. Many times noble Lidiarte, I have been moved to demand of ●o● what thing it should be, that hath so much strength and force, which only doth not cau●e you to change your gorgeous & brave apparel, but also doth take away the colour from your gentle face, and in this manner we●ken all your members. Where is now all your bravery and contentment, that you were wont to hau●? discover unto me all your pain and grief, and the occasion of all this your sorrow. Noble Lord let me here understand of all, and being known of this thy servant, I will procure the best and most assured remedies, that may be for thy redress convenient. Tell me Lidiarte, if it be corporal grief, or whether it be a wound hurt by the cruel force of Cupid's dart. My loving Lord, I do desire you to declare unto me the cause of all your sorrow & grief, and here I do protest and give my faith, to procure with all my power and strength, by policy & other means to find remedy for this your tribulation. These and other such reasons, with her words well placed, spoke this damosel unto the Earl, with hope that he would declare unto her, the cause of all his sorrow, and from whence it did proceed. These sweet persuasions and loving reasons, took such effect in the Earl Lidiarte, that he discovered all that was in his heart, and the whole occasion as heretofore you have heard. This damosel when she understood the whole effect thereof, it grieved her to the very heart, although she did dissemble it, and kept it secret to herself, and would not suffer him therein to know her mind: and strait way● for her remedy, the devil put into her head, a marvelous & wicked invention. And for to give contentment unto the Earl, she told him, that she would declare unto the Princess, all the whole estate of this his sorrowful pains, and passionate grief, willing him withal to remember, that the next day at that hour, he should meet her again at the same place, for that she would bring him an answer of all that should pass. And with this she left off her talk and departed, leaving the Earl somewhat comforted, with the hope of her answer, that he looked for the next day: yet he stood in doubt of her returning at the appointed hour, & thought the time very long: so he passed all that day & night without any rest. And on the other side this amorous Lady was no less troubled and without rest, desiring earnestly the appointed times approaching: even as the wearied Mariners being weatherbeaten at the sea, and tossed here and there by the furious force of tempests and blustering wind always in hope that they will abate, whereby they may have fair and peaceable weather, and so be ●ased of their great travail. At length, the long desired hour drew on, of their appointment, and the Earl repaired unto the place: he was scant there, when that the damosel likewise approached, almost at the same instant, and the Earl received her with great contentment: but the damsel said, that she had no time to have any great talk with him, but only my Lord this I say unto you, that this night at midnight she will tarry thy coming, whereas thou shalt fulfil all thy desire, and give thee to understand, how that she is not culpable of all these thy passed sorrows and griefs, (naming a meeting place, which after shall be declared). And pardon me, I pray you, for that the time doth not give me any more leisure to talk with you, and so without any more tarrying she went away, and left the Earl in such great joy, that he was almost in an ecstasy therewith. The Earl went unto his lodging, where he remained, and tarried until the time appointed, the which he thought very long, imagining every minute a whole hour. The hour being come, he went alone unto the place appointed, and covered himself with a mantle of cloth of gold. He tarried not long there, when that this infortunate Tarfina, put herself upon a wall, where as she put down a piece of timber, whereby the Earl should lay hold on for to go up.  
The Earl with the great desire which he had, thought all very easy to be done, and so with great lightness he got upon the wall, and descended down on the other side into the garden. And when the damosel had him therewithin the garden, she said: My Lord and Earl tarry there a while, by the postern gate of the palace, being the entrance into this garden: for thereout will issue thy Lady and mistress the Princess, & in the mean time will I go and advise her, that thou art here, and keep thyself as cl●se, and in as great secret as may be. The Earl with no small pleasure kept himself secret and was quiet, abiding (as he ●●oug●e) the Princess coming. He had not tarried there long when that this wicked damosel came forth, adorned with the same garments which her Lady the Princess had worn the day before, and opening very softly that postern gate, ●he issued out, and drew herself towards the light of the Moon, or that the Earl might know the garments. The which when that the Earl saw, and knew that they were her garments, he thought berely that she had been his Lady so long desired, and without any more thinking, he fell down upon his knees, and taking her by the hands, he kissed them many times, and so both of them by great policy and deceit, and with exceeding joy, did fulfil their desires, and took their leave each of other, with many pleasant and sweet words, fearing that the day would appear, they departed. The Earl returned unto his lodging, whereas he passed the rest of the dark night with great contentment. This damosel did the like, putting from her those usurped robes of the honesty and honour of her Lady the Princes. So the next morning when it was day, the Earl rose up, and appareled himself with the most richest apparel that he had, and went unto the King's palace somewhat betimes, and so walking round about out of one chamber unto another, until such time as he came unto the chamber whereas the Princess was, he lifted up a cloth which was before the door, where he might well discover the innocent Lady, with a prayer book in her hand, using her accustomed prayers, & daily devotion. This former dissembled & feigned love, gave him great courage & hardiness to enter into her chamber, & entering in, he spoke unto her certain loving and amorous words, throwing his arms about her neck, and joining his face unto the face of the Princess: who seeing this great ●oldnesse, marveled very much, and with the great alteration of her heart, her prayer book fell out of her hands, and the arose up upon her feet, and began to cry out with a loud voice, and said. O holy God deliver me from this uncourteous and unmannerly knight. And a● those words entered in the Prince of Scotland and certain of the Princess' Damsels, but when the Prince did see the great boldness of Lidiarte, he drew out his sword with great anger, and said.  
Traitor, thou shalt not clear thyself as thou dost think to do, having committed so great treason as thou hast done, and his anger was such, that he struck at the Earl a terrible blow, which was more of ire then regarding how he delivered it, the Earl let the blow slip by and running in with the same, he struck the Prince such a blow upon the head, that he parted it in two pieces, and he fell down dead on the floor. The tumult and uproar was such amongst the Ladies and Damosels, that at their great shrieks the king went thither, and his coming was in such haste, that this unfortunate Lidiarte could not by any means get away. There came in company with the king, Beraldo of Bordeaux, and the Earl of Anjou, and the Prince of Viarne, and many other knights and Gentlemen. And when the king saw the Prince slain, and the murderer standing by, the king stepped unto him and took the sword out of his hand, and said unto him. Oh knight without measure or mercy, what hath been the occasion of this thy folly to kill this Prince. There was by a Lady of the Princesses, (who very grievously lamented the death of the Prince) and told unto the king all the truth of the matter as it there passed, and when the king heard of all this enterprise, he received so much anger, that he himself in person did carry him into a strong tower which was in the palace and put him prisoner therein and commanded to put on him very great and strong chains, and without any more tarrying he called his counsel together, and opened the matter in public before them all, whereas he was condemned for a traitor (although there were some which did fear much his great power, but the king made no reckoning of it) and so before that he would break his fast, he commanded him to be hanged out of one of the windows of the Tower, and commanded publicly to be proclaimed all the whole treason, where as to all men was seen his sudden & sorrowful death. Then he commanded the Prince to be buried with great honour, as unto such a person did appertain. After this the sorrowful Tarsina seeing that she was the only occasion of all this evil, not remembering the loss of her virginity, nor respecting any shame, which such as she was aught to have and keep, began to tear her hair, and to scratch her face, & gave marvelous shrieks, that all the Palace did found thereof, and with great fury she went up unto the place whereas her well-beloved Lidiarte was hanged, and when she saw him dead with so shameful and dishonourable a death, she began with great lamentation to publish the occasion of all this evil, saying.  
Oh sovereign God, now will I acknowledge this great error which I have committed and done, for the which I do not deserve one, but a thousand deaths: Oh miserable creature that I am, and unhappy body that hath committed so great harm and villainy, and only because thou couldst not refrain thy disordinate appetite, thy soul must now pay that which thou didst consent unto: Oh cursed delight, that for a little transitory pleasure I would lose my virginity, thereby causing him whom I loved more than myself, to receive so miserable a death & evil end, & have likewise brought in great suspicion the honour of my Lady the Princess, therefore I will give myself the correction that so worthily I do deserve, paying with my life and honour, the prize of my great lasciviousness and devilish hardiness. And with this she leapt into the window with great fury, and laid hold on the rope whereby the Earl was hanged, and slipped down by it till she came and embraced her arms about the neck of the Earl, and joining her mouth unto his mouth, which was then very cold and black with the blood, and holding herself fast with the one of her hands, with the other hand she drew out a little knife which she had, wherewith she cut the rope a sunder which he hanged by, so that both of them fell to the ground, whereas they were all broken to pieces, and there she died. The great alteration which was in the Court, when they understood of all this that had passed, was strange and without comparison. And although many did hear her complaint, yet there was not one that could tell wherefore it was, till such time as a Lackey which was nigh her, declared all that you have heard told, for that he had heard it word for word, but when the king did know the effect thereof, he was very much amazed at it. And for that he would there should be a perpetual memory thereof, presently he commanded that they should be buried both together, in a Sepulchre without the City of Paris, declaring in it the effect of this dolorous act, the which was forthwith published throughout all the whole kingdom. So when that this unhappy death of the Earl came unto the ears of his Father and all his kinsfolks, they were very sorrowful, and received for it great grief, and waxed very wrathful, and determined (if it were possible) to revenge the death of the Earl, and devised continually in secret what order might best be taken to bring it to effect. So in the end of many inventions, they concluded, to accuse the Princess, that she should be the only occasion of all this evil. And the better for to compass and bring this accusation to pass, they did commit it to the using of the brother's son of the old Earl, and cousin unto Lidiarte, who was son unto the Earl of Province, an excellent and valiant Knight. The which accusation he did accept with a very good will, and for to make their determination of more strength, they agreed to send unto the kingdom of Sardenia, unto a brother of the king Bramidoro, with whom they had at that time great friendship, requesting him that he would send them some one of his lineage to favour them herein, the which he granted with very great good will, and for that they should the better understand the great desire that he had to pleasure them in this matter, he sent them two of his lineage, and by reason that they were Giants and of a marvelous huge bigness (although all the world did know that the Princess is without fault and not culpable) yet they dare not put their persons in adventure, with those two horrible and disordinate monsters. So after they had made this their traitorous and false accusation, after many and great contentions they grew in the end to this conclusion, that the Princess should within the term of fifteen days bring three knights that with these other three should make and maintain battle in the field for the defence of this false accused Princess, and if so be that she could within that time prefixed find but two knights, than it shall be at their courtesy to take upon them the enterprise, and neither more nor less than they three if she did find but one knight. Now there is twelve of these fifteen days past, so that within these three days the full time is expired: therefore noble Lords and knights, let me be resolved what you will determine herein. To lose our lives for to set at liberty this wronged Lady, answered the Knight of the Sun, therefore it is convenient without any more delay that we take our journey thetherward. Then the damosel said, how is it that you will take the enterprise in hand and be but two, and they be three, and beside, almost invincible. Then Tefereo answered, the justice on the Princess part shall be the third person, take you no care fair damosel for that, for although we are but two, we do little esteem them. When the damosel saw their liberal proffer and determination, she was very glad and content, and strait ways she leapt upon her palfrey and they on their horses, and so road towards the City without making any farther delay or tarrying.   

¶ How the Prince met in Paris the knight of the Images, and of the battle he had with him, and how they overcame the three knights which did accuse the Princess, & afterward how Tefereo knew who the knight of the Images was, & of all that happened beside. Cap. 17.  
WIth great haste the Prince and all that were with him travailed that day and the next in the kingdom of France, until they came within two leagues of Paris, so the next day very early in the morning they arose & travailed again till they came within the sight of the City, and for that it was very early to enter into the same, they alighted amongst a company of trees, whereas by the great thickness they might not be seen of any: and refreshing themselves by a clear fountain of water that was there at hand, they sat down and did eat of such as the damosel had brought with her. So in this sort they passed the time, till they thought it to be the hour to go unto the defence pretended, so when the time drew nigh, they perused their armour in all points, and armed themselves and leapt on horse back. Tefereo if it had not seemed unto him to be a point of cowardliness, would have procured to have disturbed this battle, for they against whom he should fight were his kinsfolks, but yet he thought that he was more bound by the order of knighthood to keep company with him with whom he came, and to resist such like wrongs in the defence of truth and justice, then to have any respect to his kindred, and especially in such like false accusations. He therefore determined to dissemble it and say nothing, so with these and such like thoughts they went forwards till they came into the city, unto the place appointed for this battle, whereas they found the Princess set upon a scaffold, all covered with mourning robes of great sadness, which did declare and show her great sorrow and undeserved trouble. So likewise all the whole scaffold, and all the Ladies and Damosels that came with the Princess were covered and appareled correspondent unto her attire. The king was at a window of his Palace with no less sorrow and sadness to see his honour put unto that blemish as it was. And that which grieved him most was, that not one knight in all his Court durst give the enterprise, yet was there present all the whole company of the knights of his Court. So these two Giants and the other knights came armed into the place with very fair and strong armour, and mounted upon great and mighty strong horses, saving the greatest of the Giants, for that there was not any horse that could sustain so mighty and huge a weight: wherefore he was mounted upon an Elephant. So looking round about, the Prince saw on the other side of the field the Knight with the green armour, which he had fought with all in the Bark being at the Sea, as I have told you, who was in a readiness to make the battle in defence of the Princess. This knight there by had hanged upon a piece of timber all the Images that he brought with him, in such sort as they were hanged in his Bark, the which when the Prince saw that the Image of the Duchess was above that of the empress, his anger did so increase, that he had clean forgot wherefore he came thither, and spurred Cornerino his horse with so much fury, that by his force he made the ground whereas he came to tremble and shake. And when he came unto the place whereas the Images were hanging, he with his strong arm laid hold upon the device and broke the chains wherewith they were made fast, and swinged it about his head with such great strength, that he made them fly to the highest parts of all the Palace, the which was done in such great haste, that when the knight with the green armour was come to disturb him, it was too late, for that his Lady was ●lowen up into the air, whereat he received so much anger, that without any more ado, he threw his shield at his back, and with both his hands he laid ho●de on his sword, and struck the Prince such a terrible blow, that he made him to fall backwards on his horse crupper, without any remembrance, and with the great strength wherewith he struck him, he made his horse to stoop under him. Cornerino being somewhat amazed at this terrible blow, carried his master round about the field, but before that the knight with the green armour could double to strike him again, the Prince was come unto himself, and settling himself upon his horse back, being firmed in his stirrups, with great fury he threw his shield to the ground, and took his sword in both his hands, and pricked Cornerino towards the place whereas his adversary was, who was likewise in a readiness to discharge his blow, so both of them together discharged each upon the others helm, with such fury and force, that the Prince of the Sun was constrained to fall upon his horse neck as though he had been dead, for that never blow that ever he received before that time did bring him to the like perplexity, but only one, the which he received at the hands of Rosicleer, when he had battle with him. Likewise the knight with the green armour did nothing advance himself of his deed, for the blow which he received was so terrible, that he fell from his horse to the ground, and the blood issued out at his month and nose with great abundance, and he stretched his arms and legs upon the sandy ground as though he had been altogether dead. The king and all that were with him were very much amazed, to see that so cruel and sudden a battle should happen, without knowing the occasion wherefore. And more they did marvel, imagining a little by the tokens of the horse who that knight should be, which having his enemy for so valiant a knight in so short time had brought him into such extremity. Now when Tefereo did see the Prince thus put to his shifts and in such great necessity, and how that he lay upon his horse neck without any remembrance, he began to cry out upon fortune, and with great fury he drew out his sword and went against the defenders of the evil accusation, and called them traitors, (although they were his brother's children.) Here you may see what great force and strength the truth hath, that although they were his brother's childen, yet he did procure their deaths, for that they came out of their own Country, into a strange and foreign land to defend treason. The son of the Earl of Province was the first that did offer to put himself forwards, to whom Tefereo gave such terrible and strong blows upon his helm, that without remembrance he made him fall to the ground as one that were dead. The Giants when they saw themselves so ill entreated, both of them set spurs unto their beasts, and drawing out their great and sharp cutting swords, they did procure to hurt him with their heavy and terrible blows. In this contention the valiant Sardenian did show his mighty and strong courage with great policy and cunning, now striking at the one, and then at the other, and always providing to let their blows slip aside without receiving any harm, and such was his policy and lightness, that in a great while they could not fasten one full blow upon him. Now was the knight of Province come to himself, and seeing himself on the ground, and his enemy so courageous between these two mighty Giants, he approached upon the one side whereas Tefereo could not see him, and cut off one of the hinder legs of his horse, the horse when he felt himself hurt, would have risen upright before, but by any means he could not, but recoiled backward with his crupper to the ground, which was yet in such sort that Tefereo had time to go out of the saddle, with so great anger, that the blood burst out at his nose, and without any fear before him, he pressed at the knight of Province, and thrust such a foin at his breast, that his armour could not deny the passage but that the sword came out at his back, so that he fell down stark dead to the ground: he had scant drawn his sword out of the body of the knight, when that (without any policy to defend himself, he received such a terrible blow with the breast of the Giants horse, which came with such great fury that (albeit against his will) he was constrained to fall tumbling unto the ground, and although the fall was somewhat heavy and grievous unto him, yet with a trice he was a foot again, and seeing both the Giants ready prepared against him, for his better defence he thought it good to put himself on the other side of the dead horse.  
At this instant the knight of the Sun came again to himself, and looking towards the place whereas the battle was, he saw that his friend like a furious Lion made resistance against the two Giants. My pen is not here sufficient to signify unto you the great fury, that on a sudden came unto this worthy knight of the Son: so that I suppose no Diamond rock had been at that time able to make resistance against him: for with a furious & hoarse voice he said, Away, away you vile Knights, not worthy of these your great members, and double forces which you do possess, seeing that with so much shame this day you have maintained such great treason. The prince carried his sword in his hand, having reared it on high, ready to strike him that first came in his way, and raising himself in his stirrups, he struck the Giant with the Elephant so terrible a blow upon his shoulder, that his double armour was not able to make resistance against this great force, but that it passed through, and divided it in such wise, that he cut off the one quarter thereof, together with the head, and the rest which remained, fell down to the ground, with so great weight, that it made the earth to tremble. The other Giant in the mean time had struck the Prince such a terrible blow upon the helm, that it made him to gnash his teeth together, with the pain he felt, which was the occasion that he was wholly incensed with anger, insomuch that he pressed towards him with no less rage, than the Hawk which pursueth the Hearon, and struck such a blow at his head, that for the defence thereof, the Giant was constrained to lift up both his arms, and the blow descended in such sort upon them, that it cut them both in pieces, and his sword being fast in his hands, they fell altogether to the ground. All the whole Court greatly marveled at these fierce and terrible blows: and having thus concluded all that they had to do the Prince returned unto Tefereo, and said unto him, Brother, do you remain here, till such time that all be concluded that is here necessary to be done, and in the wilderness of Ardenia you shall find me, in the very same place, whereas we did rest ourselves this day, and I desire thee to procure to know who is that Knight with the green armour, and whether he be dead or no. And without any more tarrying he spurred his horse, who made as swift way as the thunderbolt, and presently departed the City, and never rested till he came unto the place, whereas he told his companion he would remain. Then Tefereo went unto the judges, and asked them if there were any more to be done, in the defence and favour of the Princess: and the judges answered, that it was sufficient which was done, and that there was no other thing to be done in that matter. When Tefereo saw that all was done that was needful, he went unto the place, whereas the Knight with the green armour was, and pulling off his helm, he saw that all his face was swollen with the terrible blow that he had received, and he seemed as though he had been dead. At the same instant, the King was come down from his window, into the place whereas the battle was: only for to honour these knights and to know who they were. And when he could not see the Knight of the Sun, he asked for him, and strait way it was told him in what great hast he went from that place and out of the City: for the which the King was very sorry, and if they had not told him, that it had been labour lost to seek him, he would have followed to see if he could have seen him, and have made him to return to have honoured him in his court. Then the King with amorous words requested of Tefereo to tell him who that Knight was, and he told him with a very good wil And when the king knew that it was the Greek Prince, he received great sorrow, because he could not do him the honour, as unto such a knight appertained. But considering that they could not impute unto him any fault for the lack thereof, he commanded that the Knight with the green armour, should be carried unto the Palace, and asked his Knights what he was, & it was told him, that he was the Prince of Spain, who was called Torismundo.  
And when the King understood, that he was a Knight of so high lineage, he commanded that all his Physicians should join together, and provide all remedies possible for his recovery, and that they should apply no less core unto him, then unto his own proper person, the which presently was done, and they did apply the best remedies that could be gotten, till such time as they brought him somewhat to his remembrance, although it was with great labour. The prince of Spain, when he saw himself in his naked bed, his sorrow was very much: and calling to his mind all that which had passed, the very grief he received, was almost the occasion of his death.  
When Tefereo knew who that Knight was, and that there was no more to be done, without any tarrying he took his leave of the King, and of the Princess, who wept very sorrowfully at his departure. Tefereo took the horse of the lame Giant, (who with very anger to see himself in that pickle, would not consent to the receiving of any cure, neither would he eat any thing, but there desperately died) and leaping upon him he went to seek the Knight of the Sun. Where we will leave them: for that I am now enforced by the sweet darts of Cupid, to refresh the wearied ears of the hearers, and to declare some of his loving wounds, and to leave the furious sword of Mars for a while.  
Now to return to the story that is past, whereas if you do remember, that the Prince Eleno of Dacia, entered into that bark wherein the Knight was, which would have forced a Lady, and how that upon a sudden their galleys did separate themselves, so that he lost the sight of his Cousin the Knight of the Sun, and of Tefereo, and being entered, he would have made resistance against his adversary, for to disturb him, that he should not commit the violence that he had offered. But upon a sudden they were all vanished, so that he saw neither Knight, nor Lady, nor Mariners, nor yet any other person, but only himself in the Bark, with his enchanted Horse, neither could he see who brought him thither: and thinking to return again into the galley whereas his cousin was, he could not find him: but looking about, he discerned no other thing, but the Element & the water. When the Prince Eleno saw himself absent from his beloved cousin, his sorrow was very great that he received, and began to curse all the wise enchanters, and all those that do permit & suffer them, for that they were the occasion that in the world, there was so much evil done. When this Prince Eleno saw himself all alone, and not one with whom he might pass away the time, there came unto his mind his Florisdama, which was the occasion that he turned to his accustomed sadness, and imagining that he was in her presence, he said: Oh cruel Lady which dost now rejoice thyself, and art at ease in the Kingdom of Dacia: art thou fully pleased with these my pains? Art thou now pacified, that thou hast brought me into this extremity and trouble? wherein, I am in the power of I know not whom, and do navigate I cannot tell upon what. Thy cruel heart I am sure is now content, seeing that without desert, for thee I do suffer so many troubles: which as yet I am not certain, whether thou hast pretended or procured it should be so or no. Oh cursed enchanters, how many evils have you wrought by the help of devils, so that by reason of your enchantments, many worthy Knights are brought into such like troubles as I am. Here you may see into what extremity this Magical art hath brought me, so that I can by no means profit myself of the strength of these my young arms, but am here in the power of a devil, who will overthrow this bark: but that which doth most grieve me, is, that I am brought into a place to die, where of my death shall be left no memory, but must die disdained of that cruel Lady. So with great sorrow and trouble, he passed three days, in the end of which, he discovered a very small Island, which was in the midst of the sea. The bark made thither with great witness, so that in a small time he was fast a ground upon the sand. It was not long after that the Prince leapt a shore, & when he found himself out of the bark, he looked round about him on every side. And towards his right hand amongst a company of green trees, he saw a small tent armed. Toward which the prince directed his way, with an easy pace, and entering into the Tent, he saw no body, although he remained a while, and hearkened if he could here any s●irring, but he could neither hear nor see any thing: but only he found the print of a little foot upon the sand, and he had a great desire to know whose footsteps they were, for that they seemed to be of some Lady or Damsel, and finding the trace, he followed them, and the more he went, it seemed unto him that the more hast they made, whosoever it was that had left that sign, which made him more earnest in his desire to see the end thereof. So long he followed that trace, that in the end he came unto a little mountain, whereas he found scattered about yellow hair, which seemed to be threads of gold: and stooping for to gather them up, he perceived that some of them were wet with spots of blood, whereby he well understood, the great anger where with they were pulled of from the head. Likewise he saw in divers places, how the earth was spotted with drops of lively blood. Then with a more desire than he had before, he went up to the top of that little mountain, and having lost the footsteps, he recovered it by gathering up the golden hair, he had not travailed far up the mountain, when that towards the water side he heard a great complaint, which seemed to be the voice of a woman, and by the faint sound there of he might well perceive that they waxed weary, for that a while they would rest and be still, and strait way would return unto their accustomed sorrow and complaint. And the words (which the Prince did well understand) were these. Oh love, now shalt thou no more rejoice, neither have any longer dominion over me, for that gentle death will show me so much favour as to finish these my sorrowful passions, and therewith unloose and frustrate this string of love, with the which thou hast bound me, having a desire to ask revengement of him, which hath been the occasion of all this evil. I have asked the same revengement, but it hath not pleased the Gods to hear my request: nay rather they have stopped their ears against these my continual complaints: and with this she held her peace, giving a very sorrowful and terrible sigh. The Prince Eleno turning his eyes towards that place, from whence he heard this comylaint, discovered amongst certain green trees, a Lady, who was endued with marvelous great beauty. It was so excellent, that it deprived him of his heart, which he never thought again to have lost. She was with her hair all about her ears, and marvelously ill entreated by the violence that she used against herself, and leaning her cheek upon her delicate and white hand, which was all to be spotted with blood in many places, which was constrained by the scratching of her nails. The spots was the occasion to dissolve the great passion which the Prince did feel for his Florisdama, representing in his heart, the figure of this heavy and sorrowful Lady: who seeing her of so great beauty, and in such affliction, was overtaken and wounded with the demeanour of her fair face, and grieved to see her so evil entreated, in such sort, that in a sound he leaned to a green tree (amongst many other which were upon that mountain) clean without any remembrance.  
Oh Cupid, thou being but a boy, why dost thou use these cruel kind of feats. Who hath taught thee to use such deceits, which is the occasion of great and endless unquietness. Thou dost show thyself to be blind, and yet thou art more quick of sight then a Hawk. How is it possible that thou dost make us believe, that without seeing thou canst hit so right with thy arrows, and that with so good an aim thou dost wound whereas thou wilt. Thou subtle boy, do not so plainly show thyself what thou art, if thou doest think to deceive me with thy feigned innocency? It is sufficient thou showest thyself naked, for that thou art void of all pity. Oh ye Gods give me understanding, that I may declare the subtleties and deceits of this false Cupid, for that I care not for him, neither have I any fear of him. Here this noble Dacian did feel himself clear of the love of Florisdama, and his heart was new set on fire with the sight of the fair Lydia, unto whom he had subjecteth himself, and remained more without hope of help for his last wound, than he was of the first. And when he came unto himself, and ●elt that he was freshly wounded, he did delight himself with the yellow hair, the which he had in his hand, and considering with what ire it was pulled of, and also calling to remembrance her complaint, he did plainly perce●●e that the occasion of all this her sorrow was love. So with these considerations he lifted up his eyes, and did behold the great beauty of Lydia, & gazed on her fair face, which was disfigured with the wounds that she had made with her nails in scratching it, and it was all to be spotted with the blood that proceeded from the same wounds: likewise he did meditate in the great and thick tears that distilled from her sorrowful eyes. All these was the occasion wholly to confirm his new grief, and with a sorrowful sigh looking on the yellow hair he said. Oh hair, if with the great ●urye of love thou wert torn off, with how much more force is thy owner graffed in my heart. It had been far better, hair, that thou hadst still remained to have garnished that gallant face, which (as it doth appear) at other times did much esteem of thee▪ then here to be scattered abroad upon this mountain, and having lost a mistress of so great valour, thou dost give occasion of death unto him, which never offended thee. But in recompense of this evil which thou hast caused unto me, here I do promise to make much of thee, & to put thee within my bosom, & lament with tears thy desolatenes. And herewith, he went towards the place where she was: at which noise the Lady did lift up her eyes, & seeing the Prince, with a soft voice she said: A my friend, is my Brenio come back again, doth he take any grief for his distressed Lydia. This new lover whose heart yearned to see her pain, replied which weeping eyes. Fair Lady, I cannot answer unto this which you do ask me, for that I am a strange knight brought by fortune to bear thee company, & to be partaker of thy sorrow and pain, and to wound myself in beholding 〈◊〉. This fair Lady gave ear unto the words of this Knight, believing that he would have given her some good news, for the mitigating of her sadness, but she perceived that he was a strange Knight, she lifted up her head, and with weeping eyes she said. Gentle Knight, if my love have been the occasion of this thy sorrow which thou dost show, I do desire thee to departed, for in me thou shalt find no other thing, but that which only I desire, that is, death. For what love can they have, that so cruelly are forgotten, what possibility is there of help in them, that are without all hope. Wi●h so great grief Lydia delivered these and such like reasons, that the over much anger she had, caused her to retain her words, so that she could not speak, but gave a marvelous and sorrowful shriek, that the stoniest heart that ever was, would have been moved with compassion. This good Dacian, seeing that at that time there was no remedy for his evil, by reason of the great pain and grief, that the fair damosel seemed to sustain, constrained himself by discretion to suffer a while, considering the time did give ease unto all things: so hoping in time to have help of his disease, and turning to talk unto Lydia, he requested her that she would show him so much favour, as to declare unto him the cause of all this her sorrow and pain. So this Lady did declare it unto him, in so sorrowful a sort, and with such pitiful sighs, that the tempestuous sea being moved with compassion▪ contrary unto his accustomed noise made a new & strange rumour in the caves near unto the shore. The Prince with no less pain attended unto her sorrowful ●ale, so that it was even a tragedy to behold the heavy & lamentable prospects of either of them. Then in the end of relating this heavy history, the fair Lydia held her peace, and remained silent with wonderful sadness. This troubled Dacian wholly yielded unto his new grief, replied: What fury, what cruel, and what a hardened and stony heart had he, that a beauty so far surpassing, could not move him to yield.  
Then the fair Lydia, who well understood from whence these grievous and sorrowful speeches which the knight had spoken proceeded, yet not giving him to understand that she had any knowledge thereof, said. Sir knight, I render you great thanks for the sorrow which you seem to receive at my grief, but if you be a knight of estimation as by your parsonage it doth appear you should be, here I do desire you by the honour you own unto the order of knighthood, to perform two requests which I shall desire thee. The valiant Eleno answered: I do not only Lady grant unto this which you do demand, but I am wholly subject to your service, and will not refuse to do any thing that you will command me. Well, seeing it is so, said this fair Lady. I first request thee to carry me from this solitary land, wherein I have received so much wrong, and therewith she arose up and began to descend from that little mountain towards the water's side, at such time as Phoebus finished his accustomed course.   

¶ Of all that happened unto this fair Lydia and to the Prince Eleno, after they departed from the little mountain whereas they met. Chap. 19  
BY reason of the great darkness of the night, and again for that they would take som● rest, they would not enter into the Bark at that present. The damosel Lydia that night entered into the Tent somewhat to rest her weary limbs, but the Prince remained without whereas he walked up and down all the night. And as the solitary night is an enemy unto quietness, so being alone there came to his remembrance many things past, which caused him to sustain sundry passions, wherefore to comfort himself, he went unto his Galley for his Lute, and returning a land, he sat him down behind the Tent, and began to put his Lute in consort, although the force of love be more full of discord than concord. So when his Lute was in right tune, h●● began forthwith to play upon it, and with a sweet and pleasant voice he sung these verses following.  

HArd is his hap that still of help hath need,  
crooked his chance that never ●ase can find,  
And great his care that fresh is forced to bleed  
By Cupid's shafts, that tyrant most unkind,  
who ceaseless plagues the poor afflicted mind,  
And having once possessed at will the heart,  
The same adorns with wailing, woe, and smart.   

Amongst the crew of those that feel this care,  
even I myself may most of all complain,  
Which now have twice been caught in Cupid's snare,  
wherein I felt dolour, distress, and pain,  
with which oppression yet I do remain:  
And so shall still for aught I can descry,  
Till friendly fates accord that I may die.   

For why? the Dame whom I in heart adore,  
disdains me not, I will it not deny,  
But doth with tears her own mishap deplore,  
in that a knight she loud, from her did fly,  
judge then (ye heavens) what simple hope have I.  
She follows him that left her comfortless,  
And kills my heart that yielded her redress.   
When he had made and end of this song, with the great grief that he sustained he fell into a sound, so that his Lute fell out of his hands, but within a small time he came again to himself, and crossed his fingers and wrong his hands, and distilled from his eyes many ●al●e and sorrowful tears, and lifting up his eyes unto heaven he remained in this case a great while without any remembrance. This sorrowful Lady did well hear and understand this sweet and cheerful song, but by reason that all her mind was upon her cruel Brenio, his delicate music had no strength to remove ●ne ●ot of her love. In this sort as you have heard they passed all the night till the morning, so ●he day b●●ing come, this fair and afflicted Lady arose up and went out of the Tent, whereas she ●ound the Prince walking up and down, and with a sorrowful and soft voice she requested him once again to take her out of that uncharitable Island. The Prince without any tarrying took her by the hand and lead her into his Galley, wherein they were scant both well embarked when that the Galley began to shove from shore, and to sail with such swiftness that in a small time they were in the depth of the great Sea, as though he which did govern it had been the wise Artemidoro, who for the delivery of this sorrowful damosel had ordained all this that you have heard. This Lady was very much amazed to see herself carried away in that manner, and durst not ask the prince any manner of question, for that he was very sad and pensive. Likewise the Prince Eleno considering the great sorrow and trouble that Lydia received, d●rst not say any thing unto her, so in this sort they travailed all that day and all the night, till the next day that they discovered land, without speaking one word the one to the other, and in a small time the Bark came so nigh the land, that they might discover a very fair and well ●owred ●●tie, the which was adorned with a very fair haven, full of marvelous great and strong ships. So this Galley sailed in amongst the thickest of them all till it came to the shore side, where at their arrival, they discovered a land, a very well fought and bloody battle, being hard by the haven, which was made by very many knights, which fought only against three knights, who balyauntlye did defend themselves, the one of them was Bargandel, the other two, Lyriamandro and Zoylo the Tartarian, that if you do remember, when that the vaylaunt Rosicleer in mortal battle slew the king of Tiro, who was a very mighty and strong Giant, and how that they saw a good way from them two Foists, in battle together the one with the other, and determining to go unto them to see what it should be, the valiant Rosicleer leapt into his Galley, which was carried another way with so great fury, that Zoilo was driven to remain, & he departed in great haste. So this Tartarian Zoilo remaining alone in his ship, directed it towards them that were in battle, and came unto them at such time as they had great neede of his succour, for that they were oppressed by the same ship of the rovers that met with him, and they were in a marvelous great fight, but with the aid of the Tartarian, they assailed them in such sort, that if they had not yielded themselves to mercy, they had sunk them all in the sea, & taking all their oaths they made them to swear that they should leave that evil and naughty life. Then they all entered into the ship wherein the Tartarian was, with determined purpose to proceed forwards whether their fortune would carry them for to get them fame, and to increase their honour. So the weather constrained them to arrive in the port of Numidia, whereas you have heard told, in that country they did constrain all knights that there did arrive, to swear unto them to aid and help that traitor their Lord. These Princes would not be sworn except first they would declare the cause wherefore, and hereupon they multiplied words, which was the occasion of this cruel battle, which the prince Eleno did see being in his Galley. So it seemed unto him to be a very unseemly thing and unequal, so many against three knights only, who according unto the great and worthy feats which they did, they gave the lookers on to understand that they were of noble estate, and for to secure them he would willingly have leapt a shore, but first he desired the fair Lydia to remain in quietness under the hatches of the Galley, for that he was determined to go forth to aid and help those three knights. And without any more caring with great speed he leapt to the shore, caring his sword in his hand, and his shield on his arm, he pressed in amongst them all, saying.  
O vile knights, cowards, and of small estimiation▪ wherefore are you not ashamed so great a number of you to fight only against three knights, and therewith struck such a terrible blow on him that he did first meet, that he made him in two pieces to fall to the ground, so that in a short time by his furious entering was known the great power of his arm, in such sort, that wheresoever he went, he made a broad way, and with small trouble he joined with the three knights, who when they knew of the help that was come unto them, each of them recovered new strength, and did procure to do strange feats, because the other should have no advantage of them. And they very much marveled who that knight should be of so great prowess, for that the blows which he struck might well be known from all the rest, for if it had not been by the armour that he wore, they would have thought him to be one of the sons of Trebatio. These four knights kept so good order in their fight against their enemies, that they gave over to fight with them, and began to shout and cry against them, so that they were constrained to go and seek their enemies, the which they found to be no good remedy, for that they did entreat them evilly at their backs, and being very angry herewith, they determined to put themselves amongst the thickest of them, which did not fall out well with them, for that there was of them together more than ten thousand, the which this valiant Eleno seeing, he threw his shield at his back, fully incensed with anger, and with his sword in his hand all aloft, he pressed unto that part whereas most people were, and the first he met withal, he parted him in the midst, and the second he cut off his head, and so went forwards cutting and wounding now one and then another, with so great fury, that there was none that durst abide his blows. Is there any doubt that whilst this Prince was thus troubling and molesting his enemies, that the other three knights which were with him did stand by and look on, no not so, but for to sociate his worthy acts, they wrought such wonders in arms, as the report would seem almost incredible unto the hearers, in striking such terrible blows that they seemed to be no human creatures. They did fight with so much courage that their enemies were constrained to withdraw themselves back, it was a great trouble unto these knights that they were a foot, for if they had been on horseback all four together, without doubt very quickly they had made an end of the conquest, so being in this conflict they ●awe come forth of the city a great number of knights, and before them came a well proportioned Giant, armed with very fair and rich armour, who with great haste came unto the place whereas the knights were, and when he saw the great harm which was there done, with a terrible and fearful voice he said.  
Oh immortal Gods, is it possible that four knights hath done all this harm, that a thousand of very good knights are not able to do, and is their strength and policy such, that not one of them have received any hurt. O wretched knights what had you rather to die in my power then to swear unto so just a demand as they have asked of you in the behalf of the king Noraldino. Then Lyriamandro who heard the words which the Giant had said, answered. There is not one of us, that for the fear death will swear unto any thing, but first we will know if the cause be just, because we will not fall unto any crime of that which shall be contrary unto the order of knighthood. So then I do perceive said the Giant, that you do not purpose to swear in any thing except it be first declared unto you what it is, and the occasion thereof. To the which answered Zoylo, no. Well here I swear unto you by the high Gods (said the Giant) that I myself alone will bring you all to that stay, that you would willingly swear, but than you shall have no time. And therewith he drew out a broad and glistering sword and flourishing therewith he pressed forwards, than the Prince Eleno stepped forth and requested the other that they would let him alone with the giant, the which although it were against their wills, yet they consented to it, and the other putting themselves all on the one side, they began again their mortal battle. The Giant with the great fury he had, did discharge his blow, but it was in vain, for that the Prince did let it slip by, in such sort, that he could not strike him, and in putting the blow aside, he cut the said Giant upon one of his legs, and made a wound, which although it were not great, yet there ran out of it very much blood. When the Giant did feel himself hurt, and that he saw his blood run down, he did so kindle in ire, that he let his shield fall to the ground, and laying hold on his great and broad sword, with both his hands he lift it up, and stroke at the Dacian, thinking with that one blow to have finished the battle, but the Prince for that he was nimble and light, did procure strait ways to clear himself from the force thereof, the which he did in such sort, that the sword fell down to the ground, and by reason of the great force and fury wherewith it was discharged, the Giant was constrained following his blow to fall likewise down upon the earth. Here the Dacian was not idle, but with both his hands struck him upon his strong helm with great courage, and although he could not cut it at that time by reason of the hardness, yet it astonished him & brought him out of his remembrance. The Giant which saw himself in this perplexity, with great fury in the best manner he could, tumbled himself on the one side, and procured to arise upon his feet, but it was not possible for him, for that he was tormented with great and heavy blows, and forced to fall down again upon the sand, but yet as soon as he could, he turned once again and forced himself to arise, but he could not do it with such speed, but first he must prove again the sharp edge of the Dacians sword, who struck him such another terrible blow upon the helm, that it yielded, and he cut his flesh. The Giant did feel himself very ill with that blow, and with the great fury and anger which he had, he struck at the knight a terrible blow which was in such sort, that by any means he could not shift himself from it, but must needs receive it upon his helm, the which was with such force, that it made him to fall down to the ground, but this knight with great lightness tumbled himself away upon the sands, and in a trice he was on his feet again, and went towards the place whereas the Giant was, with full pretence to strike him such a blow, that he should not be able to make any more resistance. The Giant when he saw him coming would have strooken him, for to disturb him of his blow, but he could not, for that this Dacian stroke him such an overthwart blow, that lighting on his foot, he cut it clean off, and the Giant chanced a blow on his helm, that it made the knight to tumble on the sand, the giant seeing him down, would have turned to have stricken him again, but he could not for the lack of his foot, for when he thought to firm his foot on the ground to press forwards, he could not make a step, but gave a terrible fall to the ground, and being sore troubled with the wound of his head and other wounds, he yielded up the Ghost, and sent his soul to whom it did appertain. The Pagan people when they saw their stout Captain dead, with great shouts and shrieks they pressed altogether upon those four knights, but they found them neither dastards nor cowards, but they gave them well to understand that they were of great val●ur. Then they joined themselves together back to back, and struck such strange blows upon their enemies, and with so great force and fury, that he which had received one blow would not turn to them again, with great fear they were so scared. Prince Eleno being incensed with anger, at the fall that he received by the blow of the Giant, it caused him to clasp his sword fast in his hand, and with double fury he pressed amongst his enemies, that unhappy he might think himself that came to the receipt of the first stroke, for that with an overthwart blow, he cut his head clean from his shoulders, and returned unto another, and struck him upon the waist, so that it had near hand parted him in two pieces, so with such like blows and feats of knighthood they made them to retire. And at the same time they saw coming forth of the city a great number of knights & gentlemen, which they judged to be about six thousand in an army, and all on horse back. It could not be chosen but the this valiant Prince Eleno should have some fear, seeing so many Knights: notwithstanding, with a loud voice, and with great courage he laid. Excellent & valiant knights, now is the time, (most noble & stout warriors) that we show the great strength & courage of our hearts, by a plain testimonial in leaving our bodies as sacrificed unto their wills, and our blood to be sprinkled abroad, receiving more joy and honour in our deaths, fight in our own defence, then to give consent unto our enemies in overcoming us. Notwithstanding, this young warrior did not forget himself, but rather with more furious blows he pressed on his enemies, and working such terrible feats, that it is very wonderful to be heard: and so without all hope of their lives, committing themselves unto God, they did procure by all means, to cut off and make less their enemies, killing them in such sort, as it seemed to man's capacity impossible. The quantity was so great, that by reason of the bolud that ran from them, the water on the sea side was made red, and lost his natural colour, and being in this conflict, there approached all that great company that came forth of the City. And before them all there came a Knight armed with very fair and rich armour, all gilded, and something of a good stature and bigness of body, & he had on his head a royal crown: who when he came unto the place whereas this bloody battle was, he commanded all the people to stand aside, and with a severe voice, showing great humility, he said. Ualiaunt and worthy Knights, whom jupiter defend and keep, I f●●le myself very sore troubled, in seeing Knights of so great valour and worthiness as you are, to be endued with so much cruelty against yourselves, and only for not swearing an oath, (considering you have chanced upon this adventure) whereby you should make defence against so great treason again me practised, of traitors, which only by tyraunnie pretend to take away my kingdom from me. To the which words, the valiant Prince Eleno made answer, and said. If thou hast justice on thy side, as thou sayst thou hast, wherefore do you consent to suffer so vile a custom in this your Country, constraining all strange Knights by force to swear unto your defence, the which by 〈◊〉 and order of Knighthood they must do it of their own free will, if you give them to understand the truth thereof. To whom the King answered and said, Gentle Knight, all this which hath been done, was never by my commandment, but by this my Captain whom thou hast here slain. And for that I did understand the great harm which he did, & that without all reason, I am come hither to remedy it: for which cause I do desire and pray you, to let the 〈◊〉 of your strong arms to cease, and to pacify your s●ou● courages, and to take in good part, to come and rest yourselves with me, the which you may do with all security. And here I do promise you to hold and keep my faith and word the which I do give unto you: and then will I declare unto you all my trouble, whereat you will not only take great contentment to swear that which I shall request you: but also I believe that you will of your worthiness take the demand to be your own, according unto the great right and justice, that I have on my part. So these four Knights were satisfied of all that this Morish King had promised unto them, & by his words were overcome and yielded unto that which he had demanded of them, and were determined to go with him: at the which, the King received no small joy, for to have so valiant Knights with him in his company. Then the King alighted and caused them to put up their swords into their sheaths, and did them as great honour as though they had been in their own Countries. Then the Prince Eleno seeing how that all things were finished, he determined to go for his fair Lydia, but when the King knew who she was, himself did bear him company, and took her out of the galley, and brought her a shore. All that did behold her, did marvel at her great beauty, being mixed with so much sadness. So the King took her by the hand and bare her company, till he came unto the City, and carried her unto his palace, which was very rich and great, for this king was one of the mightiest Princes in all Africa. So strait way it was commanded to make ready dinner, for that it was very needful, the which was accomplished very sumptuously. When they sat down to dinner, they pulled off their helms, which before that time they had not done: and when the Prince Eleno had pulled off his helm, all the rest did think verily, that it had been the valiant Knight Rosicler, (for that as I have told you) he was very much like him) complaining for that he had kept himself so close, without showing what he was in so long time. The Prince with a smiling countenance did put them out of all doubt, in showing them who he was of the which they remained very much amazed, & for all that, if he had had a little more beard, they would not have believed him. The King was very well content and pleased that he had such Knights in his company, & told unto them a great circumstance of treason, clean contrary to that it was, applying all the injury to be offered unto himself, mingling his tale with counterfeit tears, which caused these Knights to give credit unto his words, in such sort that they did swear unto the King all that he would demand, of the which this traitorous King remained greatly contented, and ordained for them very fair & rich chambers to ease themselves, with all service needful, & likewise for the fair Lydia, for he lodged her in the Queen's chamber, & caused many Ladies and Damsels to come and bear her company, and to serve her in all that was necessary, for that he perceived how the Prince Eleno did receive great pleasure therein. In the end of twenty days that these Knights had sojourned with the King, there came one and advertised the King, how that there was arrived in the port of the City, a fair ship, and how that there descended out of her a Knight, and a well proportioned Giant: and by reason that they would not hearken unto the accustomed oath, which they that did arrive there should swear, that there was begun a marvelous and stout battle, with them that did keep the Port, wherein the knight did marvelous & worthy feats, and likewise the Giant. The which being heard by those knights that were with the king, they called for their armour, & were which a trice armed, & there were brought unto them very fair and strong horses, which the King had commanded to give them, and mounting on their backs, in great hast they went out of the City to the haven side, to the same place whereas they fought their own battle, whereas they found these two knights with no less rigour & fury, than they themselves were before. So strait way, three of those Knights did know, who that Knight & Giant was, which were in battle, & said, that it was Claverindo and the King of Sardenia, whom I told you departed out of Greece in the quest of the Emperor, and by fortune they were driven into those parts, for that the King might have more aid for to execute his tyranny. Then the valiant Zoylo pulled off his helm and said. What is the matter valiant Prince, that you show yourself so furious against him, which in all points is ready to be at your commandment. At which words, the Prince lift up his eyes, and when he beheld those three Princes and knew them, he very much marveled to see them, and left off his battle, and so likewise did Bramidoro, and all three with their arms abroad, came to embrace him. And Claverindo said, It had not gone very well with us in this conflict, if these knights had not known us, and in saying these words, he threw his arms about their necks with great joy that he received to see them: and with no less joy and pleasure all the rest did show themselves & said. We are those which have most gotten in the knowing of you, for that we have put apart the great battle that was prepared for us. So with the like courtesy they received the Prince of Dacia, who, if that the other had not told him what he was, he would have believed that it had been Rosicler. So with these and such like reasons, at the request of the other Princes, they went with them unto the City, at such time as the King came forth, accompanied with a fair company of Knights and very well armed, who received them with great courtesy, & caused the prince of France to ride with him side by side. So they altogether returned unto the City, and then to the Palace, whereas they were marvelously well entertained, and there the King told unto them all his contrary and changed treason, wherefore these two knights did swears and promise unto the King, the same which the others had done. The prince Claverindo had so great affection unto the Prince Eleno, that he would not at any time depart from him, neither would the Prince Eleno do otherwise unto Claverindo, declaring unto him all his evils and strange adventures. At which communication was present the king of Sardenia, and when he heard him tell of his adventure in Tinacria, and of the battle that he had made with Tefereo, and how that he was overcome, he with more affection beheld him, and requested him to hear the whole estate thereof. So the Prince did declare all, and how that he departed, and how that afterward he found the princess Lydia, that Lady which carried the Emperor out of Constantinople: the which being all known unto them, they would strait way go and visit her, and she received them with her accustomed sadness.  
Now for that I have long time forgot that noble Emperor, I will return, and tell you what happened unto him, at the fountain of Tinacria, where I left him.   

How that the Emperor went unto Tinacria, and of all that passed in the battle, which he had with the Earl of Modique. Cap. 20.  
IN great trouble and affliction we left the valiant Emperor Trebatio, in the Island of Tinacria, hard by the fountain of marble, at such time as the Earl of Modique with his spear in his rest, was prepared for to hurt him. The Emperor seeing him come, he had great care of himself, and being in a place that neither to the one part nor to the other he could slip back to save himself from that blow, he did determine to stoop with both his knees and shorten in his body, for that he was sure he could not overrun him with his horse, by reason of the fountain that was at his back. The Emperor defended himself in such sort, that the spear without doing him any hurt went over his head. The blow was not so soon past when that the Emperor rose bolt upright, and cast such a thrust at the horse breast, that his sword entered in up to the hilts. The horse when he felt himself hurt, gave a leap into the air with so great swiftness, as though it had been a whirlwind, and in the end, he fell down to the earth with great force, & in his fall, he caught the Earles leg under him, in such sort, that he could not by any means arise. Hear might the Emperor have slain or hurt him, but he would not, for that he seemed unto him to be a knight of great estimation. Then all the people that were there, both them a foot & those on horseback, with great shouts and shrieks they would have set upon him: but they could not come nigh him at their will, for that the dead horse was between them: & again, the Earl was a shield for his defence, who was prisoner under his horse right before him. So at this instant came forth of that fair palace, a great number of knights and Ladies, and amongst them the fair Queen Garrosilea. And when all the people saw her they put themselves out of the way towards the one side, by the which the Emperor understood that she was Lady of all that Country. She came foremost of all that company, being so fair and so well proportioned, that she seemed unto the Emperor to be as beautiful as ever he beheld any in all the world: she was of the age of fourteen years, but yet her body was of a marvelous and great stature. She was adorned with very rich robes, & upon her head a crown of gold, which was very great, placed with such gravity, as her state required. And when she drew nigh unto the place whereas this warrior was, she very much marveled at his w●ll proportioned body and good disposition, and at the severe and fair countenance of the Emperor, and turning unto him, in the Tuscan tongue she said.  
Worthy and valiant Knight, whatsoever thou art, thou dost seem unto us, that thou art a stranger. Notwithstanding, thou must not think that thou art in a place, whereas shall be done unto thee any thing without reason, although I do not know, how thou canst excuse thyself, for doing of all this harm, which I see thou hast done unto so valiant and worthy Knights, as these which I do see dead before thee, only by the strength of thy arm. And wherein I may most excuse thee, is in their small prows: for although they were armed, and thou naked without armour, yet had they neither power nor force to bring thee unto prison. And therefore, seeing their small force, I determined, being a woman and a damsel, to come forth of my palace, to make an end of that: which without great harm and damage could not be ended by Knights. Therefore now seeing there is no other remedy, I do desire thee that thou wouldst yield thyself to be my prisoner, and give unto me the glory and triumph, that so many worthy Knights could not attain: and put thy whole trust and confidence in me, and I do promise thee that no man shall do thee any wrong, or offer thee any thing against reason.  
The Emperor did well understand all that the Queen had said unto him, but he made as though he did not understand her, and turned to ask her what she had said, in saying, that he did not understand the language, and how that he was a Grecian borne. Then the Queen who was very discreet, and could speak the Greek tongue very well, renewed her tale, and spoke that in the Greek, which before she had done in the Tuscan tongue. Then the Emperor boowed his knees to the earth, and with an humble voice, he said. I cannot deny, most excellent & fair queen, the great grief which I have, for that which I have done, neither can your knights deny the just occasion that I had to do it. For they finding me a sleep & taking my rest by this fountain, being constrained thereto, by the travail I received at sea, and being cast aland in this your country, they did ●ntreate me as they would not entreat a plough man, constraining their courtesy against my will, and doing that, which the gravity of my heart would not permit.  
In the end seeing that they did so ill entreat me and in such manner, I did determine first to die, then to yield myself unto them as prisoneer, neither would I have altered my intent, if it it were not now by occasion of your great beauty, accounting myself happy to die at the commandment of so excellent a Lady: all this time that the Emperor was speaking unto the Queen, she never withdrew her eyes, from beholding of his parsonage, and had great admiration to see the Majesty of his countenance. O cruel Cupid, wilt thou now begin to use thy accustomed malice. O false tyrant, I can never talk in these or such like matters, but thou art always at hand. This queen was so blinded with love, that without any more consideration, she went unto the Emperor, and took him by the hand, and made him to stand upon his feet and said. valiant Knight, I do account myself very happy, for that I have had so much strength, that only with my person I have moved your stout courage to so great humility. And with this she caused him to put up his sword into his sheath, and promising him safety, she led him with her into the palace, and commanded that the Earl should be taken from under the horse, for at that time he had not so much strength to clear himself from that fall: for that it was in such sort, that it did bruise and entreat him very ill. And when they came unto the Palace, the Queen commanded that there should be given him a marvelous fair and rich lodging. And for the great complaints which were made of him, she commanded, that he should be kept in good ward, although the prison which she gave unto him, was not so strong, as that which the Emperor had given occasion unto the Queen to have, & although it were not very grievous, yet the Emperor could not choose but feel it, when he saw himself locked up, being never accustomed unto any such trouble: the Queen had great care of him, and caused him to be healed of those small wounds which he had, and that with great diligence, in such wise, that in a small time he was whole of his pain, swellings and other griefs. In all this time, the Earl and all the kinsfolks of them that were slain, made great haste and suit unto the queen to execute justice upon this knight that was prisoner, but she did defend the case very much, and excusing him in declaring unto them the small right she had to do it, and giving them to understand how that they had their payment according unto their deserts, but by reason of the great importance that those knights made, she was constrained to keep him straighter in prison, which was unto her so great pain, that she could scarcely dissemble it. So the Queen being thus sore troubled she went unto her chamber, and there was between her chamber and that, where as the Emperor was but one wall, and out of the Queen's chamber there went a door, whereas many times she communed with him. Thus being very pensive and sore troubled, for that she was constrained to command that which her heart would not consent unto, she went herself close unto the door to see if she might comfort herself with the sight of her prisoner and captive, and she chanced to come thither at that time as the Emperor did complain very much of his fortune, uttering marvelous pitiful and sorrowful words. Oh cruel fortune without all stability, envious, and the only causer of all my unquietness, I see that no mightiness nor the power of any Monarch is sufficient to bridle thy disordinate appetite. Art not thou content in doing me so great evil, in that thou broughtest me out of my worthy Empire, clean contrary to the will of my subjects, and didst not hold fast thy wheel till such time as thou hadst delivered me into the hands of strange people. It had been better for me to have died in the depth of the Sea, or else with the edge of the Sword like a knight, then to see myself in the power of barbarous people. O Emperor Trebatio, now after so many and great troubles in the which thou hast seen thyself, and hast over passed them, and by this misfortune thou art put unto that great necessity, that neither thou cannest profit thyself of thy valiant courage, neither of the strength of thy worthy and valiant knights.  
And so in such like anguish he walked up and down the chamber, and swore that if he did see himself at liberty, he would not give credit unto any such fair words as the queen had promised him, and sometimes he threw himself upon his bed, calling for his valiant sons, and his wise men, saying. Oh my sons and my friends, if that you did know of all these my troubles, I am sure that you would give me aid and secure with the strength of your arms, in leaving this Island desolate, which by you was once restored, & now as it is happened to the hurt of your Father: or at least ways, if thou Lyrgandeo or Artemidoro, or any of you would give me secure with my armour and horse, I do here swear unto you by the almighty God, that in the anger and fury that I am in, that in spite of all Tinacria I would set myself at liberty, and leave them so plagued as their deserts do deserve. And with this he held his peace for a while, and looked round about to see if he could find any place where he might get out, and seeking he found a very fair and well proportioned Lute, hanging upon a nail on the wall, the which he took down and did put it in tune, and began to play with very sweet melody, accompanied with a very heavy and harmonious voice, & against fortune he sang these verses following.  

YOu worthy wights which fortunes frowns have felt,  
and headlong fallen from top of high estate:  
And all, with whom she mutably hath dealt,  
consent with me her falsehood to relate.  
Whose double face when smoothest it doth smile,  
Then means she most the mighty to beguile.   

Ay me poor Prince a pattern of her spite,  
Who erst on top of all her wheel was placed:  
And now have care in steed of late delight,  
for regal crown with captives life disgraced.  
From Croesus' wealth far worse than Codius' poor:  
Fie froward fortune what canst thou do more?   

Well, since that I have felt thy farthest ire,  
in this distress I flatly thee defy,  
And for redress, I only death desire,  
hoping that then my soul to him shall sly,  
Whose due it was before that I was borne:  
Who with his wisdom laughs thy slights to scorn.   
And thus making an end of his song, he threw his Lute upon his bed, and turned unto his accustomed unquietness, and again complaining of Fortune he said. O vile coward and ingrateful, tell me where is thy habitation, and thou shalt see if this wheel in the which thou goest, can profit thee any thing or deliver thee, that both thyself & the wheel be not broken all too pieces by my strong hand, if I go out from hence: and I will never rest till such time as I have found thee, and although thou dost hide thyself in the deep and infernal places, yet will I not leave to follow thee till such time as I have rooted out all thy power. These and other like words this sorrowful Emperor uttered, with so great anger, that if he had found himself with armour, there had been no doubt but that he would have broken the chamber whereas he was prisoner, and in spite of all Tinacria have set himself at liberty. The Queen which was hearkening unto all that which the Emperor said, was not so much kindled with the love of the Emperor before, but now it increased without measure, when she heard and understood what he was, and if it had not been for the respect of her estate, out of all doubt she had entered in where as the Emperor was, but bridling her own will, considering what an evil report she should have amongst her subjects, if they should by any means attain to the knowledge thereof. With this and such like extremities she remained a great while silent, till such time as the force of love did so overcome her, that she forgot clean all that touched her honour and royal majesty, and determined to open the door, which without any delay she did, which straightways the Emperor heard, and thinking to be some other thing, he arose upon his feet, and took his sword in his hand (for the Queen would never consent that his sword should be taken from him,) and when he saw that it was the queen, he did quiet himself, and dissembling his anger in the best wise he could, the Queen drew near unto the Emperor, and dissembling what she had heard, she saluted him and said. Gentle knight, how do you feel yourself of your passed travail. To whom he answered, I can make no other answer, most mighty Lady, but the very same which you yourself may think, if you were prisoner, especially for such an occasion, as you ought rather to receive favour and camfort, and therefore I cannot but muse at your highness, knowing in how little fault I am, that you set me not at liberty, but I do well see that you are a damosel and subject unto the will of your subjects, for look what they ordain you dare not resist against them, therefore fair Lady I do desire you if you pretend to set me at liberty (as by promise and justice you are bound) let it be out of hand, and if any of your subjects will say to the contrary, I request the acceptation of the battle for the defence of my right, with eight or ten, or if they will, with twenty of the best in all your kingdom, and I doubt not but in mine own person against them all, to deliver myself from this enthralled peril: unto whom the queen answered with a very good grace. I do well understand gentle Knight, that the highness of your heart cannot suffer such strait imprisonment, as well for that which I have seen of thee, as also for that which I have heard. So likewise thou mayst well believe, that which I have done, hath been partly to content my subjects and people, for that this evil hath fallen out upon the person of the most mightiest man amongst them, and of this be you assured, that the thing which you would have done, and so much desire, shall not be done, only for that you are without fault, although they charge you with it greatly, but also for that thou art Father unto that excellent knight of the Sun, whom in this my Island they honour for one of the most high and sovereign Gods, as a restorer of the same, and again, that it is not decent that so high and mighty an Emperor should in this Island be so rigorously entreated, as that his cause should be determined by the terms of justice, unto whom not only they, but the whole world, willingly aught to serve, for that thou art an Emperor, and father unto such a son. The Emperor was very sore troubled when he perceived that he was known, the which this fair Lady marking, went forwards in her talk, and said: Do not vex yourself, neither be any whit troubled (most mighty Prince) for that you are known, considering that of such a one as thou art it is reason we do esteem, according to thy desert, neither can my captive heart consent unto any other thing but the exalting of thy honour. Alas what shall I say, who hath received most wrong for their imprisonment, it hath been only my crystal breast and captived heart, they have wronged thy body but for a time, but me, love hath bereaved of my former liberty, in wounding my heart, so that it is almost uncurable. In this (my good Lord) you may understand that I alone am she which hath the greatest wrong. Thou valiant Emperor hast taken away from the Earl of Modique his son, but thou hast rob me (most infortunate) of my heart. Oh how much better had it been for me to have been partaker with him of death, than now to live, not knowing what cruel love will do. Oh immortal Gods, how is it that you have permitted that the tender heart of a poor damsel, being always willing to offer unto you sacrifices, and exercising of myself daily in your service, and now in payment of all this, you have permitted it to be sacrificed unto the cruel will of Cupid, who hath forcibly pierced my feeble heart with his furious darts. I beseech thee (O Emperor) do not deny me this my unreasonable demand, although thou seest it so far to exceed the mean. Oh virginity, thou mayst well be compared unto a rose, which so long as the leaves are reserved within the bud, it keepeth the natural colour, but when it once gins to blow, then doth it quickly change, even so the flourishing beauty of virgins doth no sooner bloom, but Cupid blotteth it with his despiteful blemish. O foolish queen what caused thee to departed out of the Palace whereas thou wer● at liberty and without grief, didst thou it for to do honour unto the Emperor, & yet not knowing him. Well, for what cause so ever it were, see now what is become of it, for that freely thou hast yielded thyself unto him, without reserving any thing in thy own power. All this the queen delivered with such sorrow and lamentation that it would have caused a stony heart to have relented. But the emperor who with a single heart did love the Empress Briana, and moreover being a very good christian, was not moved with one of these lamentable words, neither made he any show of love unto the queen, but wishing rather to have had battle with one of the hardiest knights in all the world, then to have found himself so suddenly assailed by this amorous woman: wherefore when this fair Lady had plainly declared all the whole secret of her heart, the Emperor using his accustomed discretion, did show himself to be very heavy and ●ad for that which the queen had heard, and taking her by the hand they sat down together upon the corner of the bed, and began to answer unto her amorous reasons, although not so much unto her purpose as she desired, saying.  
〈…〉 Lady and queen, I am fully certified that from so 〈…〉 and beauty there can proceed nothing without 〈◊〉, and therefore I did now lose the confidence of your ●●uour, when I was unknown, much more now that you 〈◊〉 know me to be the Emperor of Greece, the truth whereof I do here confess. And although I find myself in the land where all the people be my mortal enemies, yet for all that I will not deny who I am, because my heart wheresoever it becomes, cannot but use manifestly his noble courage. Hear this Queen did cut off his answer, saying: Oh Emperor I do not ask of thee any recompense, neither do I demand of thee whether thou be our enemy or our friend, but the thing which I alone desire of thee is this, to give a remedy unto this my pain, & a plaster for my sore, for that the view of thee hath been the only occasion thereof. Oh Emperor, what trifling is this, to talk of that which is not answerable unto that which I demand: Oh worthy Emperor, have compassion on me, for that thou alone mayst remedy this my evil, for thou seest apparauntlye the need I have of thy help: Oh that it had pleased the Gods that my remedy were as sure as thy liberty, restore unto me (I beseech thee) that whereof thou hast bereaved me by beholding thee, yield unto me O sweet Emperor, seeing that I am already yielded unto thee, insomuch that there is no doubt, but to put into thy hands the spoil of my royal marriage.  
The Emperor did lean his cheek upon his hand very pensive, all the time that this Lady was declaring her complaints, not for that he was without pity, but for that he was moved with great compassion, and yet not with determination to satisfy her disordinate appetite, but with fair words to put her in good hope of remedy. And very feign she would have answered, but that she was cut off by a damosel which called her. The Queen dissembling her heaviness in the best wise she could, went out of the chamber to see what they would have, unto whom the Damsel said. Lady, there is a messenger come from the king of Mauritania, which doth tarry for you below in the palace, whereat this fair queen did feel herself troubled, the occasion was, for that this king was in love with her, who was very valiant and of great force, and began to govern his kingdom very young, with another brother of his, who at that time was not knighted, nevertheless to hear him named in all Africa, it made the people to tremble with fear, therefore many times by reason of his great pride his fame was much abated. This king did determine with himself to marry with the Queen, either by fair means, or else by force, and for to put this his pretence in practice, he sent unto her his messengers, and for a more majesty, he made his own brother Lord Embassodour. And seeing this history will most entreat of this young man who was called Brufaldoro, the wise author would discover his customs and manners, he saith that he was in the stature of his body well near a leaven foot high, and all his members conformable unto his height, being endued with incredible strength, he had his countenance very grave and of great beauty, without any anger, very tractable, and a gentleman of great courtesy, he detested to do any thing that was unseemly, he was very ready to correct where it was needful, and far from any unhuman cruelty: all which virtues were extinguished when he was angered, for that then in all Africa and Asia there was no wild beast so fierce and cruel. And many times it hath been seen, when his anger had been past, he would have weapt with great sorrow for the hurt which he had done, he had one custom which was very devilish (being no small blemish unto all the rest of his good qualities) that he would never pardon them of whom he had received injury. So when this Pagan was come into the palace, and in the queens presence, with a grave countenance and hardy voice he declared his embassage, and by reason that at that time the queen had not her heart at liberty, she gave him for answer, without tarrying to take any farther counsel, that her intent was not as yet to marry, for that she was very young, wherewith this Pagan departed, and did return to give this answer unto his brother Bramarandus, at which he was very ireful, & commanded to make sacrifices unto Mahomet, praying unto him for to change the will of the Queen, that she might marry with him. Then there was made answer unto him (by the Devil which had entered into that infernal Image of Mahomet) that he should not tarry for any other hope to obtain her, but by force of arms, and that he should procure with all his strength and power for to marry her, adding that from her should proceed an infant, at whose valiantness and strength half the world should tremble and stand in fear. This false God did well divine and prognosticate, but yet he did deceive the wretched Bramarandus, in saying, that of his seed should proceed such a child, & when he heard the answer of this accursed Mahomet, he commanded, that withal diligence should be joined together, five hundred of the most valiantest knights that might be chosen, not only in Mauritania, but also in Numidia and Garamantes, for that not one King of all these countries would deny him any thing, with pretence with them and himself in person, to win by force that, which by fair means he could not obtain: and embarking themselves, with a prosperous wind, they came in a small time unto Tinacria: and before they would go aland, they did send their Ambassador a shore, to see if they did find her first purpose altered. The which message was committed to a mighty strong Moor, called Forimon: who did declare it unto the Queen with proud and obstinate words, threatening them with cruel wars, if to the contrary they would not con●ent unto the marriage. There was present at this Embassage, the Earl of Modique, and the Earl of Modeli, and the Earl Farlera, and the Marquis of Aposto, and many other valiant Knights: and although they made an outward show, that they did not esteem of it, nor made any reckoning thereof, yet they were in great fear. The good Earl of Modique with a sad voice said. Oh mighty jupiter, how well thou hast paid thyself for the great courtesy which thou hast showed us, in giving us for our Ladies and governors, the fairest damosels in the world. For not long since we did behold one of them with her own hands to thrust a sword through her breast (which was a pitiful sight to see): & now the other is even at the point to do the like. Notwithstanding now shall my life perish, for to maintain my honour, in the service of my Lady and Queen. And with this, they did all determine, rather to have wars with honour, than peace with shame: weighing the little good will the Queen had to marry with him, & to take him for her husband. And with this determination, they gave him for answer, that the Queen was not intended to marry as yet: so that if he pleased to tarry the time he might, if not, he might do as he thought best, and that they would not let, but defend the honour of their Lady and Queen.  
The messenger not well pleased with the answer, returned to declare it unto his Lord. And when he was gone, all the queens Knights determined to fortify themselves in the City, and make all things very strong, and so they gave the Queen to understand thereof, whereof she was very well content, seeing them so well encouraged for her defence. The day following they commanded to call together all the best Knights of the land, that they might come to her aid and secure: for that there were very many in that Island. But that same night Venus would have wrought one of her accustomed cruelties, if she had not been hindered, as hereafter you shall hear in the chapter following.   

¶ How the Queen being kindled with the fire of love, and seeing that the Emperor would give her no remedy of her pain, would have struck herself with a sword to the heart, wherewith to have finished her life: and how the Emperor was constrained to consent unto her will. Cap. 21.  
IN the mean time that they were putting all things in good order, as you have heard, Cupid did not cease, but continually tormented the Queen, so that every day she did not let to trouble the Emperor, with her loving and amorous complaints, provoking him in what she might, unto her will, who always with great discretion did delay the same, until the last night that they were determined to leave the Palace, and to enter into the City. Then this fair Lady endured very great pain, until such time as the clear Diana with the fairness of her beams, had passed the half part of her journey, when that all the people were at their accustomed and natural rest. Then this fair Garrofilea arose up from her bed with a desperate determination, which the force of love enforced her to practise, and covering herself with a very rich rob, she took a sword which had been the King her Fathers, and put it under her left arm, and in her right hand she carried a light that she might the better find the door, the which she opened as softly as was possible, at such time as the Emperor, was very fast a sleep, and when she saw that he did not hear her entering in, she went unto the beds side, with the light in her hand, that she might contemplate herself in beholding the grave and fair face of the Emperor, and unto her it seemed that in all the world there was not such another, nor that there could be any greater thing to be desired, then that which her heart did require. In this sort she was beholding him a great while, until such time, as the sorrowful sighs Garrofilea set, caused the Emperor to awake, and when he saw the Queen, he was very much amazed, and would have risen up, whereto the Queen would not consent, but caused him to lie still, and setting the light upon a table which was in the chamber, she came and sat her down upon the bed by the Emperor, and shedding many tears of perfect and true love, she said.  
My Lord, I would very feign know what thou dost pretend towards me, most unfortunate Queen, wounded with the dart of Cupid, only by the sight of thy exceeding parsonage. For knowing it, with thy answer I would put in order, that which I have to do, concerning this my miserable life. I do well know my Lord and Emperor, that this my bold discovering of myself, hath been too much, and beyond all reason: but if at any time thou hast loved, and dost know the great grief that love doth cause, thou wilt not blame me, nor put me in any fault: & I would that I could show thee my wounded heart, that in seeing it so sore afflicted, thou mightst take some compassion of me, & that which doth most torment me, is, that I have yielded myself unto one, that hath so little pity on me. Who hath ever heard, that women should woo & require of men to love them? But I most unfortunate Queen, have broken that law and custom. O immortal Gods, what have you conceived against me? Is not the apparent which you used against my sister, & now will you use it also with me. I should be requested of Emperors & Kings: and now I come to request one, that maketh no account of me, neither doth my present destruction move him to any pity. Go too Emperor, make an end and answer me, that therewith I may receive either life or death. Here may you, which have known what love is, judge what the Emperor Trebatio might conceive in himself, in this cruel case. One way he did consider the great loyalty that he ought unto the Empress his wife: and this constrained him to deny her. Another way, the great desire that he had to see himself at liberty, and the great love that he did know Garrofilea bore him, caused his heart somewhat to yield. Notwithstanding, he did procure with fair and sweet words, to see if he could cause her to change her thought and purpose saying, Lady, I do see very well, that the force of love is so cruel, that whosoever he doth wound, he leaveth them in a manner without remedy, except it come from them, on whom they have fixed their heart. I do not deny, but that your amorous desire is such as he hath ordained it, who spareth no creature. But considering your highness and great estate, & the honour that all such as you are, should have by your royal marriages, I do more rejoice that you suffer pain, than you should take your ease with that, unto which sensual love doth constrain you. Most sovereign Queen, here I do desire you, to bridle your affection, and restrain your appetite, that you fall not into that infamy, which will be the only blemish of your estate, seeing it appertaineth so much unto your honour. The queen seeing that his reasons did not incline unto that which she desired, shortened his talk, & said: Emperor, all that which thou hast said, and all besides that thou canst tell me, I do already understand, and there is nothing that may be spoken herein, but I have before this time considered of it. Notwithstanding, love hath more force, than any regard or consideration I should have unto my honour. Therefore I am here come, fully determined to make a second sacrifice unto my gods, which afterwards shall be lamented by thee. And in saying those words, she took out the sword which she brought in secret under her robes, and with great hast she set the pommel thereof unto the ground, and would have thrown herself upon the point thereof. The worthy Trebatio seeing her in this desperate mind, leapt quickly out of his bed, and with a mighty courage caught hold of her, and took the sword out of her hand, saying: Oh blind queen, what devilish determination is this? The Lady answered, Unloving Lord●, 〈◊〉 other thing, but to ease myself by death, for that I 〈◊〉 not longer live, as one dying. And saying these words, she fell in a sound in the arms of the Emperor. Hear could not the stoutness of the Greek heart make such resistance, but that with great love he took her, and cast her upon the bed, shedding many tears with much compassion, and considering the firmness of the love that the Queen had showed him, he was confounded in his own thought, and enforced to have done that which he never thought to have done, and so purposed to give her all her whole contentment: and so joining his mouth to hers, he remained kissing her till such time as this sorrowful Lady came again to herself. But when she perceived she was of him so lovingly embraced, being the thing she only desired, she straightway recovered all the strength that she had lost, and cast her arms about his neck with exceeding love, which grieved not the Emperor any thing at all: & in such sort they used themselves, that the Queen was made Lady, with great contentment unto them both. So with like sport they passed the rest of the night, in great joy and pleasure. The Queen Garrofilea when she saw that it was day, returned unto her chamber very pleasant & merry, until such time as it was her accustomed hour of 〈◊〉, which was somewhat early that day, for that the two 〈◊〉 made very great haste that they might enter into the City, the which was strait way done. And the Queen brought with her the Emperor, and made him to swear to be her true prisoner, and not to departed from thence without her will and leave. So the queen took the Emperor by the hand, & in this order they went out of the Palace: The Earl of Modique when he saw this, could not choose, but receive great grief, but he did dissemble it, for that he considered, that in such extremity, so valiant a Knight was needful, and so altogether they entered into the City. The Queen was very gallant and pleasant, whereat all her subjects received great delight, and in the chief street of the City, there was erected the Images of two Knights, made all of stone, of a marvelous good proportion, and they had over them a cover like a Tabernacle, very rich and well wrought, because the water should not fall upon them, nor any other thing to hurt them. As soon as the Emperor saw those figures, he knew that the one was the Image, of his son without reading of the supercription: but when he came nigh unto it, he read the same, which said▪ This is the great Prince of Grecia, called the Knight of the Sun, restorer of the ancient kingdom of Tinacria, & the abater and breaker of the strength of the most strongest Giants in all the world. And going a little farther, he saw upon the other Knight this title: Prince Eleno of Dacia, cousin unto the most valiant sons of Trebatio, the wellspring of all our quietness. Upon this he looked with great affection, and earnest desire to see his perfect parsonage. The Queen did well understand the great joy that the Emperor received, in beholding the figure of his son, and of his brother's son: for which cause she commanded that to be told publicly, which was spoken in secret: & then entered into the queens palace, and the Emperor was carried into a very fair and rich lodging, whereas by force he must be shut in, to make as if he were prisoner, for that the nobles of the Realm, would not consent that he should go abroad at his will. The third day following, this brave Bramarando with all his Knights, came before the walls of the City, and spread abroad their Ancients: and he himself upon a fierce horse, drew towards the walls of the City in great haste. He was armed with very strong armour, and had at his neck hanging a very rich horn of ivory, and when he came to the gate of the City, he lift up the viso of his helm and set his horn unto his mouth, & began to sound it very strongly, to the end that the knights of the City should come thither to hear what he would say. So when the some of them, such as were near at hand, approached, he said. O you Knights of Tinacria, whom the sovereign Gods confound, that according as I am informed, by your counsel, I cannot enjoy as mine own that fair Garrofilea. What do you, that you come not forth with your armour against me? and show yourselves if you be as valiant to overcome, as politic to give counsel. Some of the nobles of the court, did well hear what this Pagan did say, and strait way, they went unto the Queen, for to see what was to be done in this case, to whom she answered. My friends, you do well see and understand, how little knowledge I have in such matters, being but a weak and frail woman: in such a case as this is, unto you it belongeth to take counsel, for that you are knights, and together you may establish that, which is convenient, for herein I have little knowledge and can say almost nothing: and with this she held her peace. These Earls, seeing that with great reason the Queen had answered them, they would argue no farther with her, but called a counsel. At which time, the King the second time did sound his horn, to call them again to hearken unto his speech: and being attendant unto that which he would say, he uttered these words. O vile Tinacrians, what do you, why come you not forth with your armour? How is it, that you are not ashamed to hide yourselves from one only knight, which calleth you. Here I do promise you, that your high walls and deep dithes which you have about your City, shall little profit you, but that you shall all die in my hands like vile knights. And if amongst you there be not one that is able to make his party good in the field with me alone. Then come forth two, or three, or four, or ten, for that altogether I will drive you out of the field: and if these te●ne be not sufficient, then come you all forth together such as are able to bear armour: for here I do swear unto you, to make you die like cowards: but I take you to be such, that you will not put me to this trouble, but keep yourselves in your city. The Earls did hear all that was spoken, at which word● they were very much grieved, but because they knew the strength of the African, they feared much his fury, but yet shame would not suffer them to bear the force of these words, but did determine to go out and take the advantage which the Pagan did offer them. So amongst them all they chose ten of them that were most esteemed: who were, the Earl of Modique, and a son of the Earls, a valiant young man, being of fewer years, than he which the Emperor slew at the marble fountain, and Fabiniano of Hena, and Robio of Yscla, and other six chosen Knights. So when they were armed and upon horseback, they opened the gate of the City, and they went out into the field, all very well horsed. So when this King of Mauritania saw them, he let go his horn, and put down the viso of his helm, & called for a great spear, which straight way was given him by a Knight of his, and with great arrogancy, he went towards the place, whereas this fair company of the ten Knights abode, and with a loud voice he said that they might hear him, Who gave you counsel to make resistance against my fury, for that you can find no other thing therein but death. Then Don Rubio answered, none other: but only to abate thy pride, therefore take thy choice of the field, for here I defy thee to the death. All this while Bramarando stood and beheld him with a terrible look, and seeing him use so great nimbleness, he thought him to be a good Knight, & giving a turn unto his horse, he put himself into his place, and being both ready, they spurred their horses together, & ran one against the other, & in the midst of their course they met, & neither of them miss their blow, in the which incounnter this gentle Rubio fell down to the ground, and the Pagan somewhat stooped in his saddle, and his spear remained whole, and straight way he put himself in good order. But when he saw that all the rest which remained, did prepare themselves to make resistance, he could not refrain but with a loud voice, he said.  
O vile cowards and defamers of the order of knighthood, come hither unto me, even all of you, for I do no more esteem of you, then of one only Knight: and so spurring his horse, he ran against them, and they did the like, and at one time he received the encounter of five spears, albeit he moved nothing at all in his saddle: but he did encounter the Baron of Monflet in such sort, that the spear passing through his body, he fell down dead to the ground, and there with he turned about his horse, with wonderful lightness, and drew out his sharp cutting sword, and pressed amongst the rest, whereas began a marvelous and terrible battle. Then the Knights of Tinacria perceiving that they must either die or overcome, they began to lay about them on every side, with so much fury, that it was sufficient to have hewed an anfield in pieces. Yet for all their force, they did not seem to molest him any whit. But he which did show himself most valiant amongst them all, was the Marquis of Modique his son, and next unto him was the Marquis of Mondeli▪ and Don Fabinio. But this strong African laid about him so valiantly, and with so great fury, that he astonished them, insomuch that with the great fury he had, out of the viso of his helm, proceeded a thick smoke. At this time, he threw his shield on his back, and took his sword in both his hands, that whosoever he met, he struck him with such terrible strength and fury, that helm and head he cut in two parts. The Earl of Mondeli was not at this instant unoccupied, but with his sword fast in both his hands, he struck him on the one side of his helm, which was very fine metal, that he made it sound like a bell, which caused him to turn up the white of the eye, and he was almost beside himself. He had scarce given him this blow, when likewise the Earl of Modique gave him another, that made him to decline his head to his breast: wherewith Fabinio gave him also another blow, which bereft him clean of his remembrance, insomuch that his horse carried him round about the field, even as one dead, with his arms hanging down.  
The knights of Tinacria with great fury did follow him, to see if they could make an end of this their battle, but strait way he came to himself, and seeing how they had compassed him about, and considering into what great● peril they had brought him, he recovered again his sword the which hung by the wrist band, and turning about his horse he roared like a wild Bull which had been baited, and pressed unto Fabinio, and struck him so furious a blow, that he carried away both his shield and helm, with a great part of his head, and he fell down dead to the earth. Then the Earl of Modique forthwith struck the Mauritanian such a blow on his arms, that both of them were wounded, but most of all the right arm, for that the force of the blow was more on that side then on the other, wherewith this furious African seeing him within his reach, with his left fist he struck him upon the viso of his helm so great a blow, that without any remembrance he made him to fall backwards upon the crupper of his horse. Then the Earl stroke at him an overthwart blow upon his helm with so great force, that he made the sparks of fire to fly out, the which did grieve him very much, and as one desperate, he lift up his sword with great fury to strike the Earl, who with very much nimbleness put himself on the one side, and caused him to lose his blow, at the which he was very angry, and flourishing with his sword he chanced to light upon the waist of one of them, and cutting him in two pieces he fell down dead to the ground, and not resting with this, but continuing his fury, he lifted up his sharp and cutting sword, and struck another a blow upon the left shoulder, whom he divided down to the girdle. At this very same time the valiant Rubio of Yscla was come to himself, and recovering his horse he leapt upon his back with exceeding great lightness, and joined himself with the four knights which remained of all the rest, and there he began with great fury striking on the Pagan in sundry places, and the Earl of Modique & Mondeli likewise did multiply their blows in great haste. At the which the Pagan was so furious, that without all patience he began to redouble his strokes, and struck the Earl of Mondeli upon his helm that he made him fall to the ground very sore hurt, and voiding blood out of his mouth: yet this blow was not given so much at his ease, but he must needs receive for it four blows, which had almost deprived him of his wits. Hear Rubio of Yscla began to multiply his blows with so great haste, and therewithal so mightily, that he put the Pagan into great extremity. This furious king turned for to strike him a blow at his pleasure, but the nimbleness of this Tinacrian was such, that many times he made him to lose his blows, at the which this Pagan was very much amazed, but because he could not strike him at his will as he intended, he determined to leave him and to return unto the rest, and at two blows he overthrew two knights, the one stark dead, and the other very sore wounded, so there remained no more but he of Modique & Rubio of Ysola, & the earl, which turned again to horseback, so like desperate men without hope to escape they struck at the furious Moor, but he seeing himself more at liberty, began to work wonders upon them, cutting them on the right hand and on the left, in this order they travailed more than two hours, that the strength and valiantness of the Moor was not sufficient to subject them. Then this Pagan seeing such resistance, he firmed himself in his stiroppes, and lifting up his sword on high, he struck such a blow at him of Modique, that without any remembrance he made him fall upon his horse crupper, and would have doubled that blow for to have made an end of him, but Rubio did disturb him, giving him such a side blow upon his helm, that he made him to lose that which he was▪ striking, causing his sword to fa●● out of his hand, that he could not execute it, and the Earl seeing him in that plight, strait ways returned another on his left shoulder, which grieved the Pagan very sore. In this time the Earl of Modique was come again unto himself, and settled himself again in his saddle, and being firmed against the Pagan, he struck him such a blow, that glancing he gave him a little wound, whereout issued blood. The Moor feeling himself hurt, returned against him of M●dique, but this light Rubio was with him him at a pinch, and struck him another blow on his shoulder, that he made him shrink in all his body, of which he made little account, but desired only to go unto him which had drawn his blood, who likewise with great courage did attend his coming, having both his hands on his sword, so they discharged their blows both together, which were very mighty and strong, wherewith he of Modique, all his helm being bathed in blood, fell without any remembrance to the ground, and the furiour Pagan in spite of his heart declined his head to the horse neck. Then the valiant Tinacrian quickly turned to strike him, and before that he could raise up himself again, he struck him so strong a blow, that without all remembrance he made him to stagger upon his horse, that he lacked very little to fall to the ground. The Tinacrian seeing him in this trance, never left striking him until such time as he did see that he began to come again to himself, and knowing that hes power was not sufficient to make resistance, he turned his horse head and with all hast road towards the City, in such sort, that when the Moor was wholly come again unto himself, the Tinacrian was in safety, wherein he did wisely, for if he had tarried, it could not have fallen out otherwise but that he must needs have died by the hands of the cruel Pagan. Then the Morisco king seeing all the field clear and without trouble, he felt himself to be very sore vexed with the speedy blows which the Tinacrians had bestowed upon him, and commanded to carry those knights which were alive from the rest, unto the tent whereas he should 〈◊〉, and he likewise went to take his rest and ease, for that it was very necessary & needful, and was quickly cured of that small wound which he received. And as for them of Tinacria, he willed that they should pronounce their healths with many remedies, & entreat them honourably, for that he knew very well what they were, Rubio when he came into the City, without any tarrying went unto the Palace to declare unto the queen her unhappy success. The queen with great severity, not showing any sorrowful countenance, answered, that he should go and take his rest, and cure his wounds, saying, that she had such confidence in her Gods, that they would remedy all these evils, and without any more tarrying, she arose from the place whereas she was set, and went unto the Emperor's chamber, & told unto him all that had passed, & of that which happened, in the next chapter▪ I will declare.   

¶ How the Emperor went into the field with the Pagan, and of all that happened in the battle between them. Chap. 22.  
WHen the queen came where the Emperor was, she told him all that had happened in the battle, as I have before said, of the which the Emperor received no grief, but rather he was very well content therewith, yet not showing any sign thereof unto the Queen, he said. Lady, take no grief at this which is past and gone, for that God will undoubtedly provide that which shall be requisite for thy defence. Command that I may be provided of very good and strong armour, for that I have so great a confidence in my God to abate the great pride of this Pagan. This shall be done with a very good will answered the Queen, for I will give thee such that no strength shall be able to pierce it, the which did belong unto the king my Father, and strait ways at the hour appointed, she commanded them to be brought, the which were of the colour of a very fine Ruby, all to be spangled with very delicate and glistering stars of gold, and all the graving were garnished with rich oriental pearls, wrought with great subtlety. The shield was of the same colour, and the field thereof was a mighty great star which covered all the whole shield, they were such that no Prince or Lord ever had the like. The Emperor when he saw them he would strait of his own good will have armed himself and have gone out into the field, but the queen would not consent unto it, but they passed that night together with great joy and pleasure, which was so much, that I dare not here with my pen declare it, but of this I am sure, that when the Queen departed from the Emperor she remained with child, as hereafter you shall hear. So▪ when the morning was come, the Emperor arose up with great desire to go out to the battle, and strait ways there were called certain knights only for to arm him with those rich arms, and the fair Queen Garrofilea did help to arm him, and when he was armed he went out of the palace, and at the foot of the stairs he found a very fair and strong horse, who was very richly barbed and well shod, and calling for a horn he hung it about his neck, and took his leave of the Queen, and so without putting his foot into the stiroppe he leapt upon this mighty horse, and then being accompanied with a company of noble Knights, he went out of the City, not without great grief unto them all, which pra●ed earnestly for his return. And when he was in the field whereas he might be heard, he lifted up the viso of his helm and set the horn unto his mouth, and began to make a fearful sound, and after that he had done with a high voice he said. Thou fierce Pagan that with so great ●ase liest in thy bed, and boastest thyself that there is none in the world that can bring down thy proud stomach, take unto thee thy armour, and do thy best to drive me out of the field, for I doubt not but before thou do it, thou shalt find in me some resistance: and with this he held his peace. This stout Pagan which at that time was at his rest, was sore troubled, and could not imagine who that knight might be, which was so arrogant, that he durst alone call him into the field, and desiring to know what he was that was so hardy, he caused to be brought before him the Earl of Mondeli, & the Earl's son of Modique, and with an ireful voice said. Did you hear with what great pride that knight hath spoken and challenged me. The Earls answered, yea, than he said: Who have you in Tinacria that is so hardy to call me to battle with such upprobious words, I cannot believe that he is of this kingdom, but if he be, it seemeth he should be some vainglorious fool and one of little understanding. The Earl of Modique answered, I do swear unto thee O king by the sovereign Gods that I am in the same doubt: but it may be that it is a knight which a few days past being very ill entreated by the tempests of the sea, was driven into this Island, and being without armour he made such a battle with certain knights, & with so great fury and strength, that being as I have said, without armour, he did marvelous and heroical feats of arms, where he slew many knights, and amongst them he slew a brother which I had, and it may be, that the Queen being desirous of his liberty, hath given this enterprise unto him, and therefore I think that this is he that hath spoken these arrogant words. Well, let it be who it shall be, replied the king, for here I do swear unto thee by Mahomet that I will make him dearly to pay this his folly and hardiness, and speaking this, he heard him sound his horn again with much more fury then at the first, and said.  
O vile Pagan coward and of an evil nation, thou king of little estimation, what makest thou? wherefore dost thou tarry? why comest thou not out to take revengement of these my words? dispatch and come forth, or else understand that I will come and seek thee in what place so ever thou abidest: Oh mighty and unmerciful wrath, how is it that thou hast so much power over this proud African, who with a hoarse voice and terrible words called for his armour, and because it was not brought him strait way, he did entreat them all very ill which were nigh him, so that there was not one of all his knights but at the time would have been glad to have been far from the place where the king was: when he was armed he leapt upon his horse, & with a reasonable pace he pricked towards the place whereas the Emperor abode, who when he saw him come he threw his horn from him, and let fall the viso of his helm, and took a great Spear in his hand, wherewith he flourished marvelous strongly about his head. This Mauritanian was so inflamed with wrath, that he had no mind to show any agility with his Spear, but rather with a wrathful voice he said: I do believe that with the flourishing of thy Spear & braveness of thy horse thou thinkest to scar me, having spoken words that could not be uttered but by some foolish man, or by some knight of little estimation, or by some one that is enemy unto Mahomet. The Emperor answered: so much thou mayst say, that thou mayst happen upon the truth, and here I give thee to understand, that I am a Christian and servant unto my Lord jesus Christ, and enemy unto Mahomet, and much more unto thee, therefore make thyself ready to the battle, and take that part of the field which pleaseth thee, & I will make thee to know what my Spear can do. The fury of the Pagan was such, that he was almost without all feeling, yet he comforted himself in thinking to make revengement of the words which he had said, and had a great desire to know who that knight was which with so great hardiness and courage did speak unto him, and he asked it of him, saying: Knight, here I do give thee licence to speak all that thou wilt, for that thou art now in place where none can deliver thee from my hands but only Mahomet, nevertheless I do desire thee by that God in whom thou sayest thou doest believe, and that so truly & vehemently thou doest serve, that thou tell me who thou art, whereby I may know what he was that hath been so arrogant against me. Thou hast so conjured me (answered the Emperor) that I cannot let but tell thee. Thou shalt therefore understand that I am the Emperor Trebatio of Greece, father unto those clére lights of all knighthood, the knight of the Sun, & that valiant Rosicleer, which by another name is called the knight of Cupid, if at any time thou hast heard any talk of them. When the Pagan heard that it was he, whose fame was so much spoken of in all the world, and no less feared, without any more tarrying, he defied him to mortal battle▪ and without any more words they turned their horses, and not staying for the sound of trumpets; they pricked them with their spurs, and with great violence in the midst of their course, they broke their spears so easily, as though they had been made of Canes, and neither of them received any harm, nor once moved out of the saddles, and turning their horses about, they laid hand on their swords. The Emperor of Greece did first strike the Pagan king, so terrible a blow, that he threw down to the ground a very rich mirror which was upon the crest of his helm, having in it, the Image of Mahomet, and it was with such strength, that it made his teeth chatter in his head. At this blow the pagan did not marvel, but rather gratified his courtesy in the like sort, but the Emperor did bear it off with his shield, and it cut off one corner thereof, and descended upon his helm, with such force, that it made him bow his head. At the which this ancient warrior, took so great anger & and wrath that throwing his shield to the ground, he took his sword in both his hands, and struck such a blow at his adversary, that if it had not been that he did defend it very well with his shield, with that one blow he had finished the the battle: but yet his shield was cut in two pieces, and the blow glanced from his shoulder downwards, & lighted upon the Pagan's knee, whereas it made a wound, for that the blood gave testimony thereof. This fierce Moor, when he saw his own blood, with great fury he threw from him the rest of the shield that did remain in his hand, and struck such a cruel blow at this heroical Emperor upon his helm, that it gave a great and marvelous sound through all the plains and fields. The surmounted fury where with this terrible blow was discharged, was the occasion, that he without any feeling fell down upon the horse neck with all his body. When the pagan saw him in this case, he procured to give him another blow, but by reason of the emperors stooping, he pricked his horse with his spurs, and with a little remembrance he held himself fast for not falling. His horse with great lightness leapt on the one side, whereby this valiant. Trebatio was clear of that blow. And when he saw himself so evil entreated by that Pagan, he recovered again his sword, and clasping it fast in his fist, he discharged upon the Moor so strong and terrible a blow, that he made him without all remembrance to fall backwards upon the horse crupper, and there issued out of his helm very much blood, which proceeded out of his mouth and nose, and seeing him in this trance, he said, I swear by God, King, that thou hast small remembrance, but tarry a little, and I will make thee remember thyself better, and giving a turn unto his horse, thinking to cut off the pagans head, his turning was with such great haste, that his horse doubled in such sort, that he fell to the ground with the Emperor on his back, nevertheless with great lightness, with out putting his foot into the stirrup, he leapt into the saddle again. But yet it could not be so quickly done, but that this strong Mauritanian was come to himself, and seeing that he was all be bathed in blood, he knew that he had been in great peril. Then with wonderful courage he recovered his sword, and settled himself in his saddle, and with furious blows he began to strike, so that at every blow, it seemed his strength did still increase, which indeed was true: for the more his wrath and ire kindled, the more his fierceness and strength increased, in such sort, that every blow which he struck, was almost sufficient to overthrow a great Tower. All these feats the Queen did behold from a tower which was in the Palace, greatly fearing the success of this terrible battle, and praying with all her heart unto her Gods for the emperors victory. This furious Pagan was half ashamed, for 〈◊〉 he could not bring the Emperor into subjection, although his terrible blows did double increase, and seeing he could not, he begun to exclaim against his Gods and said. Oh Mahomet, where is now all thy power and strength? how is it that thou dost consent that one only Christian should make so great defence, & endure so long. The Emperor which heard all that the Moor had said, with a wrathful and angry voice, answered. O thou wretched infidel, how greatly art thou deceived, in thinking, that he which hath no power to help himself, can help thee and deliver thee out of my hands. I believe with the assistance of my God, before that night do come, to hew thee all in pieces by the strength of my arms, and herewith he never ceased to strike him with so much fury, that many times he was without any feeling. Thus they continued four hours without any resting of themselves, but wounding one another. When this furious pagan saw, that he could not bring to pass his pretence, but that he was in great peril to be overcome, he struck such a blow at the Emperor, that with the mighty strength wherewith it was strooken, he made him to lose his remembrance, and forced him to stoop unto the horse neck, and after that, he struck his second blow upon his back, that the great noise that it made, was the occasion that the Emperor came again to himsel●e. And he was not scarce settled in his saddle, when he lift up his sword, intending to strike the Moor a mighty and terrible blow: the which when this African beheld, & knew the great strength wherewith it came, with marvelous policy he put it aside, and made him to lose his blow, & at the same time flourishing with his sword, he discharged such an overthwart blow upon his throat, that if the harness had not been forged by Magical art, the Emperor had been in great peril. Oh what great anger and fury did this mighty Trebatio feel, to see himself so ill entreated by that furious Moor, and therewith he raised himself up in his stirrups, and struck at him in such great haste, and with so great strength, that it seemed that then the battle was but new begun. But when this Mauritanian saw that the Emperor had not lost any of his strength, but rather that it was more increased, with a terrible and fearful voice he said.  
O Mahomet, what is this? for that I see, that if all the strength of Mars were here together, it were not sufficient to make resistance against this Knight: and in saying these words, he did procure to offend his adversary, with terrible and furious blows.  
Amongst them all, this Mauritanian chanced one upon the Emperor's helm, that he made him to gnash his teeth, where with, without any remembrance, he fell upon the horse cr●pper: in such sort, that the horse being scared with the blow began to run, and carried the Emperor in that trance, a good while about the field. The Moor had well thought at that time that he had finished his work, & with great shouts & shriks he followed him, but all his thought was in vain. For that the Emperor recovered & settled himself in his saddle, and when he saw himself so ill entreated, there was never Tiger of Hyrcania, nor any other wild beast so furious as he was at this time, with his great anger. Yea, he was so vexed with himself, that with the madness thereof, he crushed his teeth together, and turning his horse about a great deal lighter, then at any other time, he firmed well his sword in his hand, and lifting up his mighty & strong arm, went whereas this Morisco king was, who in the like sort came towards him, at that time the Emperor neither remembered life nor death, nor any other thing, but to take revengement on his enemy, procuring to bring him to cruel death, and raising himself up a good span in his saddle, being firmed in his stirrups, he struck such a blow, that at the fall of his mighty cutting sword, the sparkles of fire flew into the air, and it lighted on the Pagan's helm, so that all the strength thereof did little profit him●, but he cut his head and all down to his stomach, that this Pagan fell dead to the ground, the which being seen by his knights they gave a marvelous and lamentable shout and cry, and without using any more courtesy, they altogether put their Spears in their rests, and went against this strong warririour, all on horse back, but here the mirror of all knighthood did abide their coming with his accustomed courage, & heart? all these moors made their encounter on him together, & many of them broke their spears, but for all that he moved no more than if they had run against a tower. The Emperor seeing their villainy, begun to revile them which shameful words, and returning towards them, he made them to run away like vile cowards. Unhappy was he that he struck, although it were but with half a blow, for it made him that he had small mind to return again, but by reason that they were very sorrowful and angry for the loss of their king, many of them did strike at him on every side, procuring to defend themselves, and not to come nigh his terrible blows. The Emperor then remembering that if he did not procure to come whereas the prisoners were to set them at liberty, that it were possible that they would entreat them evil. Wherefore he put himself among the thickest of his enemies, wounding and killing all that he found in his way, and all that he could overtake, although his armour were as hard as Diamonds, yet he could not escape from the death, so in this sort in spite of all the Pagans he came unto the kings tent, and seeing that there joined together much people to make resistance at the entering, it gave him the more desire to enter into the tent, not knowing that the Tinacrians were there prisoners. The Mauritanians with all their powers they had made resistance, but their strength did little avail them, for in spite of them all the Emperor went into the Tent, whereas he met with the Earl of Modique, and the Earl of Mondeli, who were put there in prison. At this present time Don Rubio of Tinacria when he saw that the Moor of Africa was overcome, and the great villainy of his knights, he made great haste to go out of the City, and with eight hundred knights, all very well armed, they pressed on their enemies with so great force, that they made them look better about them, then before that time they did. When the Emperor saw the diligence of this knight Rubio, he procured to set the prisoners at liberty, the which thing being done, he said unto the Earl's son of Modique. Gentle knight, this succour do you receive and your honourable father, in recompense of the great grief which I caused you to receive, and without speaking any more words he returned unto the battle which was very much increased, but when he came amongst them it was quickly brought to an end, for by reason that they had no governor to govern them, and that the fury of the Greek was not to be suffered, they durst not abide, but with great shame they began to run away, Then those of Tinacria did follow them till they came to the sea side, killing and wounding all that ever they could come by. So when the Emperor saw that all this conflict was brought to a good end, and that the valiant Rubio was by him, he called him unto him and said. My friend, go and tell your Mistress the Queen, that I request her to pardon me, for that I do not return again into her City, for I was so ill received the first time, that I have no will to return the second. And more, I desire her of my part, that she do entreat better, and give better entertainment unto such Knights as I am, than she gave unto me, lest she get unto herself the name of a wrathful Queen, and be accounted as one subject unto her own opinion: & of all other things, if any thing do chance, let her thank none but herself, for that she hath been the only cause thereof. And moreover, I do desire her not to trouble herself in sending to seek me, for that I say, not her power alone, but all the power in Africa is not sufficient to return me again into so great straits, as once she had me in. And so without any more speaking he spurred his horse, and road a reasonable pace towards the sea side, which was not far from that place, and when he came thither, he sought to see if he could find by chance any bark or galley, to carry him whether he would, with his good will or else by force. He had not gone far, when that he saw a very fair and great bark at the sea side, hard aboard the shore. The Emperor entered into it to see if there were any mariners: his horse which was hard by him, without being constrained by the Emperor, very lightly leapt into the Bark. He was not so soon with in, when that the Bark began to make way, in such sort, that in a small time they were very far at sea. At the which the Emperor was greatly amazed: but there was a voice, which did satisfy him, that said: Mighty Trebatio, Lyrgandeo doth govern thee: at the which the Emperor was very joyful.  
So he put his horse in a place by himself in the bark, whereas he found sufficient of all things needful. Likewise he found all that was convenient for his own person, which was ready upon a table in very good order, all kind of dressed meats: and being set down to eat, he was served so bountifully, and with so great diligence and care, as though he had been in Greece. In this sort the emperor went sailing eight days, in the end of which he discovered land, which had belonging unto it, a fair haven or port, and nigh unto it, a very fair and great City. The Bark went strait into the haven, and brought herself to the shore.  
Here we will leave the Emperor in his bark in the haven, and will tell you of the great lamentation that the fair Garrofilea made for that the Emperor departed in such sort.   

¶ How the fair Queen Garrofilea made great lamentation for the departure of the Emperor, and how at their last being together, she remained with child by the Emperor Trebatio, Cap. 23.  
AFter that all the Knights of Tinacria ha● joined themselves together, and had made an end of their battle and travail, they repaired unto the city with great joy and gladness for their good success. Rubio of Yscla went to declare unto the Queen his message that the Emperor had commanded him: at the which, the Queen was so troubled, that she could not in any wise dissemble it, but in a great sound straight way she fell down as though she had been dead. This courageous knight when he saw her in this trance, took her up in his arms, & carried her unto her Strado, or seat: & strait ways when the Ladies heard the noise, they all came forth to see what the matter was, & when they saw their Queen in that trance, they began to use all means and remedies till such time as she came again unto her remembrance. And although it was with great trouble the queen lifted up her ●yes, & seeing that she was co●●●assed about with Ladies and others, she shut her eyes again, and gave a great sigh which came from the bottom of her heart, and in this sort she remained a great while, and her Ladies and Damosels▪ seeing that she was so troubled, determined to unclothe her and to carry her to her bed. Then she made signs with her hands that they should departed and leave her all alone, whose commandment they strait ways obeyed, not without great sorrow of all them that did behold her, for that the queen was marvelously well beloved of her subjects. There was not one that could understand the cause of this sudden evil, but only the earl of Modique, who discreetly did imagine what it might be, who kept it close to himself at time, until such time as time & the matter itself should declare, whether his imagination or thought should fall out true or no. This afflicted queen when she saw that she was alone, began to exclaim against her fortune, putting forth these sorrowful reasons. When wilt thou be content thou perverse enemy, and without all reason. Thou which haste warped such strange webs in this Kingdom. Thou gavest me into my power the Greek Emperor very poor, and without all comfort of thee, and absent from all his Empire. This thou didst, for that with his sight I should be wounded with the cruel dart of love, that without all remedy of any comfort, I most unfortunate damosel should be constrained to set my life to sale, and to sell my honour as it were with the common crier, compelling me to do unto myself that, which I only did, being made blind by him, which would that all others were as blind as he himself is And although me life were set at liberty, by him which without any weapon bereaved me thereof, yet am I not at so much liberty nor so fr●e, but that wheresoever he goeth my heart doth follow him. Woe is me for my virginity (which my parents gave me such great charge to have a respect unto) that it hath been so evil kept, and so lightly regarded me. I will so chastise myself for thus forgetting of myself, and be so revenged for the little regard that I have had of my honour, that it shall be an example to all others which be of high estate: Oh miserable Queen, Oh unhappy Lady, thy speech is too too foolish: for although this thy desperate hand should pull out the despised heart of this miserable and afflicted body, yet shouldest not thou make satisfaction of the dishonour which thou hast committed against thyself: Oh cruel death why dost thou not with thy sudden fury set at liberty (me most unfortunate) from these grievous pains: Oh Emperor of Greece, those loving and amorous words which thou spakest unto me, I would they had never been spoken: O false and deceiving Lord, thou shouldest have suffered me to have tasted death, when with so great good will mine own hand would have ministered it to me, and not now to cause me to endure a thousand deaths, only by thy departure. With these & other like lamentations this afflicted Lady passed away the time, till at last she found herself to be quick with child, at the which she received double pain, for that it was impossible to cover or hide it, & seeing herself in this ca●e▪ like a woman hated & abhorred, she determined to discover herself unto her subjects publicly; and to deliver her body unto them to sacrifice it unto their Gods, and with this determination one day she caused certain of the nobles to be called before her, who strait way came at her commandment. Amongst the rest there came the Earl of Modique and his son, and the Earl of Mondeli, & the valiant Rubio, and many other knights and Gentlemen of honour, when that the Queen saw them altogether about her, covering herself with a rich robe, she sat up in her bed, being so lean, that all them that saw her had great compassion, being all set round about the bed, and keeping silence, she said. Our Gods would make us so subject unto time, that only they do not bring us under their malicious yoke, but also altogether submit us under their hands, to the end that they may liberally do whatsoever it pleaseth them, and as their malice is more than their virtue, having us so yielded at their commandment, they do entreat us like unto public slaves. And so much honour is obtained by him which is altogether unfortunate, as may be gotten by any kind of worthiness. Oh what base and vile things do they cause them to do whom they get under their wings, if it were lawful for me to speak it I might tell you many examples of them of the old time, where as fortune using her accustomed deeds, did get unto herself many and divers names according unto her strange effects. Some called her Fortune, venture, or chance, some honoured her as a Goddess for her liberality, others despised her as a devil for her mutability: But what shall I say to you of her (my good friends) for that I cannot tell by what terms to name myself, neither do I know whether she were the beginning of all my evil, or that blind Cupid, who hath so cruelly handled me: well, which of them so ever it was, they caused me to put my heart into the power of another, only for the remedy of this my Country, for whose weal (alas) I have lost the liberty of my heart, with all my wont joy, and now endure perpetual pain, and an ever pining death: I have lost my honour and recovered shame and infamy. To conclude, I have lost the liberty of a Queen, and remain in continual captivity, and yet of all this, I myself am only in fault. Therefore without making any excuse, here I do surrender myself into your powers, for that you may as an evil Queen do sacrifice with me, as also that which I have in my womb. For now my friends you shall understand that the knight who with his mighty & strong arm slew Bramarando, was the Emperor Trebatio, father unto him whom you now honour as a God. This is he that rob me of my honour, but with my good will (I must confess) and left me for a testimony of this my evil deed, big with child. And with this she made an end of her lamentable speech, and without any more strength to sit up she fell down again in her bed. So when these Earls and noble knights that were present understood all that the Queen had said unto them, they were all of them greatly amazed and changed their colours, looking one upon another without speaking any word, but printing in their hearts the fault done by their queen, yet not without consideration that there remained fruit of that surmounted tree, even that Grecian, which gave unto them great joy and mirth, in such sort, that this worthy fame had in them more force than the blot that their queen and Lady had received in her honour. And with this 〈◊〉 the Earl of Modique rose up, and answered for all that were present, saying. Sovereign Lady, there is not one of us that canno deny but that there was a fault, and that you are worthy of blame for committing this fact, not respecting your royal estate, for the which we cannot but receive great grief in our hearts, neither can we deny, but that in reserving the fruit of him which hath been the occasion of this dishonour, will bring unto us a particular joy, and cause great contentment unto all your subjects, so that 〈◊〉 shall easily forget the loss of your honour and honourable virginity: Therefore weighing equally the fault with the profit which shall redound unto all Tinacria, in recovering such a successor, we do find that thou art worthy of no pain, therefore sovereign Lady look not upon the error, for that ●erily it was so ordained by the Gods, that at that instant and without looking for this Greek Emperor came for the defence of our kingdom, and for thy restoring, and hath left us this good successor which we hope shall be delivered out of thy womb, who shall be a defender of these thy Kingdoms, and a maintainer of us thy subjects. And here we do desire thee to put away all these imaginations & griefs from thy heart, and to forget it, and renew thy former joy and pleasure, in making sacrifices unto the Gods, that they may give strength to thy person, whereby thou mayst have good deliverance of that which thou goest with, which unto us will be most acceptable. Great was the joy which the Queen received at these comfortable words which her subjects had spoken, and giving them great thanks she requested them to depart til● such time as she should be brought a bed. So the time being near approached, she was delivered of a very fair ●onne, and likewise of a daughter of a wonderful beauty, for the which there was made great joy throughout all the kingdom, & they called the sons name Polifebo, and the other young infant Rosal●ira. The great beauty and fairness that was in these two infants, was such, that in all the kingdom they esteemed them for divine creatures, they were nourished and brought up with great care and honour: but for all this, the Queen conceived in her heart a marvelous hatred against the Emperor, and many times she would go up into a tower which was towards the sea, to see if that she looking towards the parts of Grecia, might receive any comfort or take any pleasure, but all was in vain, for the greatest pleasure & comfort that she received was, to see these infants to be children unto such a Father, and endowed with such surpassing beauty, & sometimes she would sit and talk to them, saying: Oh figures of him, who without all pity wounded my heart, & left me comfortless with the greatest cruelty that ever woman was left withal by any knight or Gentleman: how is it possible that I have the force to bring up children of that Father, who hath bereaved me of my liberty: Oh sovereign Gods, that with your powers have sowed in this unhappy land, the offspring of that unmerciful Trebatio, grant that I may establish in my heart so much anger, that it may cause me to put from me the love of that adulterous father: Oh children born for a farther grief, here I do desire the mighty Gods that your beauty may have so much force & power, that with the beams thereof you may take revengement of the dishonour of your mother, & thou my daughter borne in the dishonour of thy generation, by the loss of my virginity, here I do swear unto the celestial jupiter, that thy beauty shall not be enjoyed by any, but by him that shall give thee in dowry the head of thy disloyal father, that by it I may recover part of my former glory. These & other like words spoke this afflicted queen, & even as she had sworn she put in practice, publishing it through all her kingdom, & giving information of the effect of her pretended purpose, & sent messengers into Africa & Asia concerning the same, all which she did contrary to the will of her subjects. And because that they saw her so fervent in her anger, whereto she was more prone, by desire of revengement, then unto any reason, they did all determine to content themselves, and sh●e for to, give a better courage unto them which knew her, and unto all such as would prosecute this enterprise, she gave diverse devices, so that they which did presume herein were not few in number, but very many and right valiant knights, as hereafter I will declare unto you. So some there▪ were which did offer themselves for the fairness of the mother, before that her daughter's beauty should come to any perfectness, and other some for the love of the daughter, of which there were very many that lost their honours in Grecia, and sundry lost their lives, and he which first did offer himself in this enterprise was the king of the Garamantes, who by hearing report of her great beauty, was in love with her. And when he heard the message which was brought from the queen by her Ambassadors, strait way without giving the queen to understand thereof, he went into Grecia, trusting only in his great strength, of whom when time serveth we will speak. And so it ●ell out, that neither time nor any other thing was sufficient to remove from the Queen this great desire she had to seek revengement, but every day her anger did more increase, neither was the beauty of his children of so much force, as to mollify the fury of her stomach, although when they were at six years of age, they were of so excellent beauty, that the Tinacrians believed that they were the children of some of the Gods, and not of any human creature, their bodies and their beauties were so conformable, for all they which did see the young Prince, would have judged him to have double the years that he had, and in his body and face he did so much resemble his brother the knight of the Son, that it was a thing to be marveled at. Of the young princess Lyrgandeo would not make any description, for that he said, that whatsoever thing should be spoken of her, his pen were not sufficient to utter the worthiness of her beauty, so this queen was ever firm in this her thought, & for to give them better to understand, she commanded to renew the signs & tokens, and more, that they should carry her picture into all parts, the which was the occasion that the court of the queen of Tinacria was marvelously increased in honour, with so many Princes and knights which repaired thither to see this Damsel. When the queen saw that her kingdom was so honourably nobled more than at other times, she commanded that upon the gates of her royal palace should be placed a title, which was contained in these words following.  
Attempt not any either Prince or king,  
Within Tinacria Court his love to show:  
Except that he do first in dowry bring  
trebatio's head, our most detested foe.  
The faithless father of this Damsel brave,  
That restless grief to me her mother gave.  
And when all this was finished, she strait way dispatched a messenger to Grecia, with a letter unto the Emperor, the which she sent by a damsel that was very trusty & one that she loved well, whereas now I will leave them till time do serve for to tell you of the knight of the Sun. But first for that it is necessary to this our history, we will declare what Brufaldoro said, when he knew of the death of Bramarando his brother, king of Mauritania, who being certified by them that escaped alive out of the hands of the Tinacrians, and were very sorrowful for the loss of their Lord and king, and landing in their own country they went and carried the news unto Brufaldoro, the which when he heard, he felt in himself so great pain & sorrow, that in a sound he leaned himself unto a chair because he would not fall, he was so far beside himself, in which trance he did not long endure, but came again to his remembrance, and wish a terrible and fearful voice he said: Is it of truth that my brother is dead, and the messengers answered and said, that it was too true. Oh traitors, answered this fierce young man, how durst you come before me, except first you had taken revengement of his death. Then they answered and said. He that did kill him, is not a man so soon to take revengement of, for that after that we were clear of his devilish fury, it was told us that he was a christian and the Emperor of Grecia, called Trebatio. Oh vile people, answered the Pagan, yet will you reply against my words, get you out of my sight, if it were not but that I am letted for lack of the order of knighthood, I would with my own hands tear you all to pieces. Oh false Mahomet, thou liar, perjured, & without all faith, is this the honour that my brother should have out of Tinacria: to be abated and slain by one alone christian, and in saying these words he entered into a chamber, where he had the Image of Mahomet all of gold, with twelve Angels on both sides, this youth took a heavy club and with both his hands he struck this poor God such a blow upon the head, that he made him to fall to the ground, and not resting with this, he turned against them that bore him company, & stroke on them so many blows, that in a thousand pieces he made them fall to the ground, and said. O thou false traitor, here will I give thee thy payment and reward for that which thou hast done unto my beloved brother. Here I do forsake and deny thee, and all them that do believe in thee, for that I will neither believe in thee nor serve thee, but if I did know the way unto the place, where as the devil hath thee, I would go and seek thee, to give thee to understand that my fury is more than thy power. And when he had concluded with this, he went forth of the chamber, and with a terrible noise he called for his armour, the which was strait way brought unto him, and without tarrying to be made knight, he commanded to arm him, with armour that was all white, & made by art Magic, them he commanded a ship to be made ready & furnished, & entered into it, with intent to go to Grecia, and there to ask the order of knighthood of the Emperor, & when he had received it, to defy him to mortal battle, but it chanced not unto him as he thought it would, for the the sea with some of his accustomed torments carried him unto the coast of France, & by reason of his small patience, once being a land, he would not return to embark himself in his ship, but remained with only two lackeys, and commanded the vessel to return back again, and so went traveling whether his fortune would carry him two days. The third day very early in the morning, he heard a great rushing of armour amongst a company of trees, & going towards the same noise, he saw a Knight of a very good proportion against a great● number of other Knights, in a very fierce and unreasonable battle. And for to tell you who it was, it is requisite, that we begin another chapter, in the which I will declare the whole matter unto you.   

¶ How that the Knight of the Sun would have tarried for Tefereo, in the place whereas he appointed him, and how he lost himself in a thick mountain, and of all that happened unto him after that. Cap. 24.  
THe knight of the Sun who was purposed to tarry for Tefereo, whereas he appointed him, put himself into the wilderness of Ardenia, with a reasonable quick pace: but because of the great thickness of trees & bushes, being amongst them: and again, troubled with thoughts, wherewith his mind was occupied, he lost his way, and in such sort, that although he turned his horse every way from one place to another, yet could he not find any way, but rather did so entangle himself, that when the night came, he found himself so far from the place where as he thought to have remained, that he was in doubt to recover his way and his company he knew not when: for the which he received great grief, which was the occasion that he died very evil words against himself. So being in this choler, the night drew on, which constrained him to alight from his horse, and sat him down under a green tree, having set his horse to feed in the green grass, of the which there was abundance at hand, and so in the best wise he could, he laid him down upon the ground to take some rest for a while: and towards his right hand he heard a great noise of the running of water, and being very dry, he was constrained to arise again. And so he went feeling & following that pittering sound of water, until such time as he found a little fountain of very fair and clear water, and by reason of the great drought that he had, without any more tarrying, he kneeled down to drink thereof, till such time as he had mitigated his great thirst, and remained there a while to refresh himself, for that the place was very pleasant: so after a while, he returned unto the place whereas he was before, and laid himself down to rest. He had not remained there long, but he felt the water to begin to work in him: For you shall understand, that this was one of the fountains of Marlin, which he made in that wilderness, and brought the water, from the high mountain of Olympo. But this fountain whereof the Knight of the Sun did drink, was that of Disamore, or without love. In such sort it did work in him, that he did not only lose and forget the love which he had to Lindabrides, but also, if it had not been for the great force of matrimony, and for the pawn that he received of Claridiana, he had likewise forgot her, and had brought her as far out of remembrance, as he did the Lady of Tartary. And this water did not only cause forgetfulness, but also it forced him to reprehend himself, saying. Oh fool without any understanding, that so long hast had thy heart subjecteth unto a Lady, that is a stranger unto thy Religion, entreating thee, not as a man that doth proceed from a high and noble generation: but like the most basest and vilest wretch in all the world. Tell me thou lost man, who hath been affectioned unto a Moor without faith, but only thyself? Who would have left his natural wife, for to love a stranger & Barbarian, but thou? Who would give so many sighs in vain, but I most miserable, giving occasion of everlasting death and damnation unto my soul.  
Oh base and gross understanding, in what didst thou set thy love? What beauty didst thou see in her, that thou wouldst follow her, as one lost for her love? What blindness hath constrained thee, considering the great valour of the royal Empress, and with what liberality she hath surrendered all her Kingdoms, and her own person into thy hands. These and other like complaints he made against himself, without taking any sleep or rest, but was sore troubled with this thought, till such time as the morning came, and that Phoebus with his golden beams covered all the earth, than he took his horse with a more lighter heart, and clearer of all thoughts, then at the time he came thither: for that he had as clean forgot Lindabrides, as though he had never seen her. So all that day he traveled in that wilderness, not knowing which way to take: and had eaten nothing, neither had he any thing to eat, the which did trouble him very much. So when night drew on, he discovered a heard of cattle, which were there feeding in the wilderness, and determined to go towards that place whereas the heard men were, who received him very well. This Knight did ask of them, if they had any thing to give him to eat, for that he was very hungry: the heard men bade him that he should alight, and that they would give him of such as they had for themselves. So he alighted & did eat with a very good will, and so good a stomach, as one which had not his heart nor mind occupied with the cares of love, and there with those heard men, he passed all that night, till it was morning. So when it was day one of the heard men did bring him into a very great & occupied way, to whom he gave great thanks. Then the Knight took that way forwards, which led him towards Province, intending to see if he could meet with his friend, and did determine to travail thereabouts, to see if Fortune would bring him that way: he had not travailed far, when that he discovered another way, which did cross overthwart the same way, in which he was. And studying with himself which way to take, it was told him that it was the way which led straight unto Paris: of the which he was very joyful, and remained a while, thinking which way he might take for to find Tefereo. And being in this muse, he heard towards his right side a great rushing of armour and armed Knights, and casting his head on the one side, he saw that there was about a ten knights which came running towards him with their spears very low, calling him traitor: as soon as the Knight of the Sun saw them he put down the visor of his helm, and laid hand on his sword: and at the same time, he beheld on the other side, as many more Knights armed, which made towards him as the other did. In the end he was compassed round about on every side with forty Knights, which all cried out saying, kill the traitor, let the traitor die, of the which the Prince did greatly marvel. So altogether they set upon him, and ran at him with their spears, and struck him all at once, yet for all that, he moved no more in his saddle, then if they had made their encounter against a strong Tower: but at the passing by, he struck one of them upon the viso of his helm, that he cut half his head a sunder, and he fell dead to the ground. All the rest returned with their horses against the Prince, some with their swords in their hands, and other some, whose spears remained whole, ran at him again, what on the one side and what on the other, they made a very fierce and strong encounter, as of those which were the whole choice of them that were in the City, only to kill him. When the Prince saw himself so enclosed on every side, his wrath and anger began to kindle in him, insomuch that he took his sword fast in his hand, & struck such blows, that whosoever he chanced to hit, was either slain or maimed.  
At this present time arrived in those parts at the Sea side, as I have told you, Brufaldoro: and this was the battle, wherein he saw so many Knights against one only Knight. This Moor did stand and behold them, and was very much amazed to see the power of one Knight, who brought so many as they were, into such great distress, which made them to repent and were very sorry that ever they began that enterprise, but by reason that they were all chosen knights, they would not but assault him very fiercely, which was the occasion of their farther harm & destruction, for that the Princes▪ ire did so much increase, that it caused him to double his blows, in such sort, that some he killed out right, and some he wounded, that in a small time he left not one upon his horse, but all brought unto the state that they could make no resistance, and when the Prince ●awe himself at more liberty, he demanded what was the occasion of this so sudden conflict, so one of those knights which was very sore hurt, told him how that they were knights belonging to the Earl of Province, which lay in wait for him to be revenged of the death of his son, for that the whole circumstance of the battle came unto his knowledge. So the Prince left them, and would not speak any word more unto them, but his intent was to get him out of the Country, for that he well understood that neither he nor Tefereo should have any good entertainment at their hands, and when he would have departed, there came unto him Brufaldoro, and did salute him very courteously, the Prince did return him his salutation, and had a great pleasure to behold his good grace and gentility. So the Mauritanian begins first to speak and said. Gentle and valiant knight, the first boon or gift that ever I did demand since the time that I was borne, is this that I will ask of thee, and the occasion which doth drive me to ask it, is constrained by the great valour and prowess which I have seen in thee, & sure it is an easy thing on thy part to be fulfilled, and therefore I do desire thee to grant me my request. The heroical Grecian which had his eyes fixed upon him, with great pleasure that he received at his gentle disposition, answered: As yet I never denied any thing that was demanded of me, being justly demanded and in a just cause, neither had I any respect whether it be easy to be done, or difficult, therefore gentle knight ask whatsoever pleaseth thee, for if it stand with justice and reason, that I may grant it thee, I do promise thee to accomplish it in very ample manner, not only o●e boon, but so many as thou wilt ask of me. That which I will ask thee, said the pagan, is not to put thy person in any peri●, no, nor that thou shalt move thy horse one foot out of the place where he standeth: but that thou wilt with thy valiant hand give me the order of Knighthood, & arm me knight, the which thou mayst do, without any doubt or s●rupulositie. For here I do swear unto thee by my mighty thoughts, that I am a crowned King. This noble Greek did accept his demand, and asked of him, if that he had watched his armour. The Moor answered, I suppose I have watched them enough, for that it is now eighteen days since I have had them continually on my back. And for me there needeth no ceremonies: for that I am no Christian, neither Pagan, nor Moor, nor jew, nor Gentile, neither do I worship nor believe in God: For that the God of the Christians, I take him for my enemy: and as for Mahomet, I know he is little worth, and can do less: and the Gentiles have for their Gods, stocks and stones: and as for the jews I hate them as base and vile people. Therefore I do neither worship the one, nor believe in the other: but only follow my own proper appetite. The Knight of the sun could not refrain from laughter at his words, in seeing him to be a man of so much liberty, and answered him, saying. By God King, I do swear unto thee, that I have seen few or none of thy Religion: but whatsoever thou art, I will here accomplish thy desire and request. Then the Prince asked him, Wilt thou be a Knight? The King answered, This I do desire, and seek no other thing, and putting on his right spur, he kissed him on the cheek in token of honour, and taking a rich sword, which a page of his carried with him, he struck him a blow with it upon his shoulder, and putting of it up again into his sheath, he hung it about his neck & said, Now King, thy desire is fulfilled, for that thou art a Knight. With great good reason may it be said, that in the fields of Province was given the order of Knighthood, unto the most valiantest Moor in all the world, and by the hands of the best Knight that ever was. The King was very glad to see himself a Knight, and gave great thanks unto the Prince for the same, requesting him very earnestly that he would tell him his name, for that he might know at whose hands he received the order of Knighthood: the which the Prince with a good will declared. And when he knew that he was son unto the Emperor Trebatio, whom he accounted for his mortal enemy, altering his voice, he said. Oh Mahomet, thou vile God, and full of all treasons, thou hast not lef● to persecute me, even unto this present time: for thou hast brought me to receive the order of Knighthood, which was the thing that I most desired, at the hands of him, which is son unto my mortal enemy. Here I do say unto thee valiant prince, that I would it had cost me my kingdom, that I had not received knighthood at thy hand, for that thou art son unto the Emperor Trebatio, the fallest traitor, that ever hath been seen. The prince somewhat angry answered him saying, King, it is not seemly in such as thou art, to speak words which be so false. It is very true, that the Emperor is my father, and the mightiest Prince in the universal world. And not as thou dost account him a traitor. For the which cause I do tell thee that thou dost falsely lie, like the most vilest Pagan in all thy kingdom: and in the defence thereof I will drive thee out of the field, and deprive thee of this order which I have given thee, that thou shalt not excercise it, by taking from thee thy life. This miserable Pagan, who strait way was subject unto his fury, with great alteration said. Oh wretched and unfortunate knight, dost thou think that I am one of those Knights that will be tamed by the strength of thy arm, I wish thee not to believe it. For if thou dost prove my strength, thou shalt be sure to find another manner of rigour and force, than thou hast found in those; with whom thou hast got thy honour: the prince, whose patience could not suffer such great pride, but as wrathful as a Lion replied. Thou proud Pagan, arm thy head, and prepare thee to the battle, for by God I do swear that I will do my best to cut of such an enemy from the Emperor my father. The Pagan, without any more replying caused his helm to be ●ased on, and laid hand on his sword. And the Prince likewise was ready to discharge his blow, who raising himself up in his stirrups, struck so strong a blow upon the pagans helm, that the sound was heard a great way in the fields, and it enforced him whether he would or not to make reverence, & to hold down his head being so astonied, that it seemed a great tower had fallen upon him: and as he would have settled himself again in his saddle, he struck him such another upon his shield, that he drove it unto his head, which made him to turn up the white of his eyes with the great grief which he received: and to keep himself up from falling, both he and his horse staggered on the one side, which made the Prince to lose many a blow, notwithstanding, he pressed on him so fast, that he had no time to turn him to strike again. This Moor was very much amazed at his great force and strength, and struck at the prince so furious and strong a blow, that he made him to lose his understanding, and almost to stoop with all his body upon his horse neck. The prince came strait way to himself, and returned unto the Moor with so much fury, striking such a blow upon his shield, which although it seemed to be as hard as a Diamond, yet for all that, he cut it in two pieces, and the blow descended upon his shoulder, with such a great weight, that the mountains eckoed with the noise: which made the pagan for fear of falling to hold himself fast by the Horse mane, very much marveling that in one Knight there should be so much strength. Then he threw from him the rest of his shield which was left, and took his broad sword in both his hands, and drove such a blow at the Prince, that lighting upon his visor, it deprived him of his sight, & forced him to fall upon his horse neck without any remembrance. This stout Pagan would have returned to strike him again, but he could not: for that his horse being skarred with the blow, leapt on the one side, which saved him from it. Yet the pagan followed to accomplish his will, which he could not do so speedily, but that the Prince did settle himself in his saddle, and recovered again his sword, and committing himself to God, as he always was accustomed to do, he said: Oh holy jesus for thy name's sake, aid and help me. And therewith he spurred his Cornerino with great fury, that he made him run like the wind, and in his course he said, Tarry, tarry, thou man without faith, and do not think that thy blows hath done any other thing on me, but only caused my ire & anger to increase the more, for to procure to bring thee to thy end, and to send that excommunicated soul of thine to the devil: and in the running of his horse, when he drew nigh him, he threatened him with his sword, shaking of it in such sort, that he gave him to understand, that at the next blow he would make an end of the battle: and therewith he struck him such a blow on his helm, that the blood ran out at the visor thereof, and he fell down backwards upon his horse crupper almost dead. The great force that the Prince gave to strike him, was the cause that he broke the leather of his right stirrup, and therewith he fell to the ground from his horse. But straight way with great lightness he arose up again, and in the best manner he could he made it fast, and leaping into the saddle, he returned towards his enemy: who was with great trouble settling himself in his saddle, and looking up to the heaven, he showed a pitiful countenance, as though he had been very sore hurt, as in truth he was. And when he saw himself so ill entreated, and all his head bathed in blood, he began to cry out against Mahomet saying. Oh Mahomet, thou art the falsest God, amongst all the Gods, cursed be all they that do trust in thee, and believe in thee. And of this be thou sure, that I do not believe now in thee, neither will I so long as I live: and this I do promise thee, that wheresoever I find any Temple or Image of thine, to break them down with the strength of mine own hand and furious arm. And with this anger he lift up his sword aloft, going towards the Prince, who was tarrying for him in the same manner, and with like fury. And both together, they discharged their heavy and terrible blows, but the moors blow was the first that lighted upon the knight of the suns helm, so that it made him to shake in his saddle, and he lacked but a little to fall down, the great force and heaviness of that blow was the occasion that the blow of the Prince could not be executed with the fury wherewith it was discharged, for that peradventure if it had, he had not found himself so well as afterward he did, for although it hit not right, being strooken with so much madness, yet it made him whether he would or no, to stoop with his head, and therewith he strait ways settled him, and seeing that the knight of the Sun was still remaining in without any feeling, he said.  
I do not determine to tarry any longer, for that as I do believe, thou art none other but the God Mars (although thou hast said that thou art a mortal man as I am,) and that thou art come down to give me the order of knighthood, and afterward to make me feel the strength of thy arm, and when he had said these words, he called his Lackeys in great haste, and road away with as much speed as possible might be. At which time with the noise of the battle came Tefereo, and as he saw the Prince in that sort, and his enemy going away▪ with so much haste, he made no longer tarrying, but set the spurs unto his horse, and with a● great swiftness as he could, he followed after him. The Prince when he came again unto himself, and could not see his enemy, was so kindled with anger and wrath, that the blood ran out at his eyes with very anger. This Mauritanian did very well in not tarrying the fury of the Prince at that time, for with the wrath that he had, hard Diamonds had not been able to have made any resistance against him, wherefore he determined forthwith to follow after him, but that a Damsel which was by, put herself before him and said.  
Gentle Knight, it is sufficient that Tefereo doth follow him, wherefore venture not thyself a new in that wherein thou dost get but very little prowess, for he that doth follow him; wil● handle him well enough, therefore come and follow me, for that there is other matters of greater importance which are tarrying for thee. The Prince when he heard these words beheld well the damosel that was talking with him, and strait ways he knew her to be the damosel that he and the Prince Eleno had found in the Bark, who after these speeches went onwards her way with great speed. The Prince at that time had not his heart so quieted within him, as to ask her any questions, but without saying any word he followed her, till they came unto the filled whereas he saw the Bark wherein the damosel had come thither, into the which she entered, and after her followed the Knight of the Sun, but when they were settled within the Bark moved nothing at all, whereby they well understood that it tarried for more company whom he thought to be for his friend Tefereo, and as you before heard, he with great fury on horse back road after the Moor, and made so much▪ haste in following him, that he overtook him in a plain field, and at the great noise and calling that Tefereo made, this Moorish king looked back, believing that it had been the Knight of the Sun, but when he saw him and knew by his armour that it should not be he, he tarried for him, and when they drew nigh together, he said! Knight, what a Devil wouldst thou have, that with so great hast thou dost follow me, and with so arrogant a voice dost call me, Tefereo answered him and said.  
Coward, to make thee pay the giving of that blow, which thou gavest unto a better Knight than thou art. Then the king said. Oh high Gods, what may this be, that in the beginning of my knighthood I should be so reui●ed, and unto Tefereo he replied: Knight thou liest, for I never left my battle for cowardness, but that as I do well know, he with whom I had battle is no man, but a Devil, and again I l●fte him for that he gave unto me the order of Knighthood, but now thou shalt pay for all that which he hath done unto me, jointly with the words which thou hast here spoken, and without any more tarrying they began to strike many and unmeasurable 〈◊〉 the one at the other, the Moor stroke 〈◊〉 at the Sardenian which was so terrible, that it made him clean to lose his sight, and to lean on the one side of his horse, so that he had almost fallen down, but with a ●rice he settled himself upright in his saddle again and finding the Moor at hand, 〈…〉 a thrust at him so firm and strong, 〈…〉 thrust him clean out of the Saddle upon the crupper of his horse● so that he lacked but a little of falling down backward, and seeing him in this sort, with wonderful agility he 〈◊〉 on the other side, and before that the Moor could settle himself well again, he struck him such another blow upon his helm, that he made him to reel forwards as fast as he did backwards, and then he doubled him another blow upon the back, that whether he would or no, he made his head to touch the buttock of his horse, and with the great fury that he struck the blow, he pricked his horse, which was the occasion that he ran forwards in such sort, that the Moor had time to recover himself▪ again, using his accustomed cursings against Mahomet, 〈◊〉 calling him a thousand detestable names. So these valiant warriors without any farther staring, joined again together, whereas there began a new battle far more rigorous than the first, for that they were both furiously incensed with anger, not ceasing to torment their arms with terrible blows, without all pity, in such sort▪ that their blows were delivered more with strength then with any policy. Thus with terrible fury they bruised one another's flesh, that either of them did feel it very much: this Mauritanian with great fury lift up his sword for to strike the Sardenian, and he placed it in such sort that he made him to fall upon his horse crupper, but by reason of the great fury wherewith it was discharged, & again that the moors ho●se was somewhat weary, he stumbled & bowed upon his knees, in such sort, that in a great while he could not rise up again, and although he spurred him very much, yet it 〈…〉 The Moor seeing that all that he could do was to little effect, cried out against Mahomet, and with the great force that the Moor used, his horse arose again upon his feet, at such time as the Sardenian with so outrageous choler, that the smoke flew out at his viso, took his great sword in both his hands, letting his shield hang at his back, and struck him such a terrible blow upon the crest of his helm, that he made him clean to lose his feeling for a great while. The moors horse by reason of his weariness was ready to fall down on every side: This valiant Sardenian seeing him in that case, and remembering in what order he had before left the knight of the Sun, without any more tarrying turned about his swift and light horse, and with as much swiftness as might be possible, he returned unto the place where as he had left the knight of the Sun and when he came unto the place whereas the battle was fought between the two warriors, he found not the knight of the Sun there, but returning back again he took his way towards the Sea side, following the foot steps of them and their horses, and in a small time he came unto the place, whereas he saw a bark which was at an anchor fast upon the shore, and coming nigh unto it he knew it to be the very same which had brought them thither, and for to know of certainty whether the knight of the Sun were there or not, he called with a loud voice unto them which were in the Bark: unto whom the Greek made answer, and when he saw that it was his friend Tefereo that had called, he was very glad, and likewise Tefereo did greatly rejoice to see him, and therewith he entered into the Bark, and when he was entered therein, he heard one with a loud voice, which said. Tarry, tarry, thou cowardly villain, and do not think to escape me without thy due punishment. At which great noise the Knight of the Sun looked about and saw that it was the King of Mauritania, which with very great haste came towards them. The Prince would have gone out to him if that the Bark had not been so far in the sea, as it was, for the which he was very sad, & not a little disquieted, yet for all the anger which the Prince had, he could not choose but say that the king was a good knight, and of as much might as Bramarant, and somewhat more valiant and politic, and marveled with himself whether he were his son or no. So when the Pagan saw that he could not execute his fury and rage, he began to roar like a Bull, and although he was not purposed any more to embark himself to sea, yet at that time he was constrained to change his pretence, and finding opportunity by reason of certain merchants which were freighting of a ship to Grecia, he determined to go into her. There he embarked himself, and the wind being very prosperous they departed, and in a very short time they arrived at a haven in Grecia, where as he went a land, and travailed in the Country certain days. So it happened one day that he found by a house of pleasure, a great company of Knights, Ladies, and Damosels, which were recreating of themselves. What they were, and what the king did, in following the Story you shall understand, and I will now leave him for to tell you of the heroical son of Trebatio, who for the space of six days sailed on the Sea with great pleasure, often talking of the great strength and force of the Moor, the seventh day he arrived in a very fair haven or port, which was nigh unto a very sumptuous City, the which was furnished with great ships and Galleys, and other small Barks and foists. Amongst all these they passed very quickly, without the interruption of any person, till such time as the Bark was fast a ground, and perceiving that it was there convenient that they should disembark themselves, they leapt a shore, and likewise took out their horses, and strait way they leapt on their backs, and took the way which lead them unto the City, wherein they discovered on the one part a very fair and great army of men, and likewise all the field was pitched with very rich Tents, and as they looked about, strait ways they saw come forth of the City five mighty and strong Knights, and a very great and strong Giant, and in the other part of the army one only knight, whose armour seemed to be of a passing fine Ruby, all to be spotted with stars of gold, and set with Pearls. This sight did like them so well, that they were looking on that one Knight a great while very earnestly, and took great pleasure to see his good demeanour. The Knight of the Sun was imagining with himself what knight that should be, that was of so gentle disposition and proportion, believing certainly that it could be none, but some of his lineage. This knight passed hard by those two friends, who did behold them very much, yet he made no staying, but without speaking any word he passed on forwards, and when he was come into that place of the field that was appointed for the battle, he put his spear in his rest, at the which token one of the six knights came forth to make resistance, whom the knight of the Sun did know.  
But now for that the history goeth in order, it is needful to leave them in this order, till time shall serve, and to return again, and tell you of the Emperor of Grecia, that came to the port of Cimarra, and there did disembark himself.   

¶ How the Greek Emperor did disembark himself at the City of Cimarra, and what happened unto him there. Cap. 25.  
YOU have heard before how that the Emperor arrived at the Port of Cimarra, which was governed by the Father of that unfortunate Herea, where when he had put in order his enchanted Bark, he leapt a land, and going on foot armed with that rich armour which Garrofilea had given unto him, carrying his right hand upon the rest which was in his armour, and his left hand upon the pommel of his sword, and his helm close which covered his face, and hanging at his neck his gallant and rich shield, with a comely and grave countenance he went towards the City, and of the first that he met withal, he asked what land or Country that was, for that he was ignorant thereof, and strait way it was told him in the Saracen language, that he was in the kingdom of Cimarra, whereat he was not a little delighted, and considering the knowledge of the wise Lyrgandeo, he went forwards on his way without staying, till he entered into the gates of the City, and all they which met with him, did very much behold him, greatly marveling at his gravity, good disposition, and wonderful stature. There were sundry that advertised the King thereof as soon as he was come a shore, how that there was a knight which did disembark himself at the Port or Haven, which came without government, being armed with very rich and costly armour, and one that was of an excellent stature and good disposition. The ancient King of the Country who was advertised thereof before by the wise Lyrgandeo, did strait way know that it was he which had passed the terrible keepers of his murdered Daughter.  
For you shall understand, that as soon as the Emperor was departed from the Island, the wise Lyrgandeo commanded that the body of the Lady should be carried unto Cimarra, advertising her Father, that the long looked for revengement was not far of. And likewise how and in what manner the knight which did it should come into his land, and also who that Knight should be. Wherefore as soon as the king was given to understand of his arrival, without any more tarrying, being accompanied with all his noble men, and leading in his hand a very fair and young child, about twelve years old; the most best proportoined that ever nature could frame, of whom you shall hear no more in this book, for that in the second book it shall be declared at large of him. The king went forth till he came to the chief place of the City, there to meet with the Emperor, whereas likewise he met with this old and ancient King, who bowing his knees to the earth, and shedding of many tears, with joy, received him, saying. O high and mighty Emperor, give me here your hands, that I may discharge the duty that all human creatures do owe unto your highness: how much more I, that am bound thereunto, for that with so much firmness thou wouldst confirm thy oath, and take the charge in thine own person to work my revengement. The Emperor was in a great confusion, to hear himself named, and never gave any in all that land to understand thereof, but straight way he suspected, that Lirgandeo should advise him of his coming. And herewith using of his accustomed bounty, he took him by the hand, and lifted him from the ground, saying, Good King, the debt which thou sayest is due unto me, thou hast repaid in showing the nobleness of thy heart and courage, and otherwise I am constrained by the order of knighthood and justice, to make revengement of that cursed fact, which was without all pity committed upon thy daughter. And seeing that there can be no other remedy but only revengement, here of my part I do offer thee to do all, that in my power is possible to be done, desiring thee that thou restrain these tears, and give order that with great speed there may be joined together all thy power, to the end that we may go and conclude that which in me lieth. The King with a sad voice answered. High and mighty Emperor, this hath been provided for before, for all my people and shires are at an hours warning, to go to the aiding of so just a cause, and we tarried for nothing but only your royal person, who must be the sword of my revengement.  
Thus with these and such like communications, they went unto the King's palace, which was hanged all with black clothes, for others he would not consent to have hanged, since the death of his daughter Herea. There was the Emperor unarmed, and served with as great highness and honour, as though he had been in Grecia. Notwithstanding the Emperor, would not sojourn nor rest there much, for the next day in the morning he commanded that all th● people should march forwards unto a haven which was at the uttermost parts of all the Kingdom, whereas they found ships and barks of all sorts, very well furnished of all things that was needful. There was three hundred ships one with another, in the which there was embarked fifty thousand moors marvelously well appointed, and committing their sails unto the wind, all this Navy took their voyage towards Numidia. So they navigated, and find the wind favourable, which brought them unto a port or haven, which was but two leagues from the King's house. There, with great joy and pleasure they went a shore, with out any resistance or gainsaying. So when they were all out of the ships a land, they displayed their ancients, and in very good order they marched forwards. And at such time as Apollo had made an end of his journey, and that the dark night came on, they came in sight of the City, and without taking any rest, towards the land side they pitched their tents, and fortified themselves in the best wise they could, in such sort, as their good Captain which did govern them had commanded, without doing any thing to the contrary. So when all things was put in good order as they would have it, he commanded that all the army, should go unto the gate of the City that was most nearest, the which was strait way done: and in three days after they did no other thing but ease and rest themselves: for that the people were somewhat out of quiet with their great travail.  
The fourth day, the Emperor seeing that there was no stirring in the City, (the which was done by policy, tarrying to see what the enemies would do) the Emperor called for his armour: and being armed, there was brought a very fair and mighty horse unto him: and with his accustomed courage he issued out from amongst his company, and road towards the wall of the City, and put himself into a fair green plain nigh unto the walls, and lifting up the viso of his helm, he set his horn unto his mouth, and did sound it very strongly, which was to warn them that were in the City, to come to the walls and hearken what he would say: and when he saw that there was much people, attending to hear him, he began to say. O King Noraldino of Numidia, how careless thou art in this thy strong country, thinking that the strength thereof will defend thee, that thou payest not the price of thy naughty treason, which thou didst use with that unfortunate Herea. Take unto thee thy armour, and for that thou hadst a heart to commit this evil deed, have now likewise a courage to make thy defence: come forth of these thy walls, thou traitor, and destroyer of the royal blood. All they which were on the walls did hear the threatenings, and strait way went and told it unto the king of Numidia, who was at that time in communication of wars and of armies, and of all things that belonged thereunto, and when he heard these news, giving a great sigh he said. Oh ye Gods, are not you content to see me in this perplexity, and so much wronged, but likewise with sound of trumpet suffer me to be outraged in calling me traitor. These feigned griefs and sorrowful words had so much force, that it moved the hearts of the Princes that were with him, for to go out into the field for his defence: and in great hast they commanded, that their harness should be brought unto them, with determination to die, or to defend his cause. And there was none that had any fear, but only the Giant, for that he would not give any credit unto the King's words, although he dissembled never so muuch: but by reason that he had sworn thereunto, he was constrained by his oath to go forth with the rest.  
So in this order as I have told you, they went forth of the City all six together: and he which gave the first onset was that valiant and amorous Eleno of Dacia brother's son unto the Emperor, who with a gentle behaviour when he came nigh the Emperor, said in the Saracen tongue: It is not the part of good Knights to speak any villainy, especially against Kings whom they are bound to have in reverence & honour. To whom the Emperor answered in the same language. Art thou Noraldino King of Numidia? Don Eleno replied, No, but I am a Knight, and a very stranger in this country: but yet by firm oath, I determine to die in the defence of his right. The Emperor answered: He hath neither justice nor right on his side, but it is most apparent wrong which he doth maintain, and there is no reason that such a traitor as he is, should be by any other defended: neither is it seemly that any Knight of price should charge himself in his behalf, for that he is a traitor. And likewise he that doth defend him and take his part (in this, that he will sustain and maintain so great unjustice) is partaker of his treason, and meriteth a traitors name. And for that thou art his defender, here I give thee to understand, that I care not for thee, and less I do esteem thee: for that he which doth take upon him to defend a traitor, may well be accounted a traitor. This valiant Eleno, when he saw himself to be so ill entreated, answered: Thou liest in so saying, for that I was never traitor, neither do I proceed of the lineage where traitors ever were: notwithstanding, thou shalt pay me with thy head, the great uncourtesy which thou hast used unto me. Therefore it doth stand thee in hand to look unto thyself, and take that part of the field which thou thinkest best for thy purpose, and leave off these blazing words to join with me in battle, that I may see if thou canst as well defend thy quarrel, as thou canst handle thy tongue. At which words, there drew nigh them the Prince Claverindo, and as the Emperor would have departed to put himself in battle, he did behold him, & strait way knew him. And casting his eyes on the one side, likewise knew the other three, but he could not know who the Prince Eleno should be: and for the great desire which he had to know what he was, he said: Knight, I do desire thee for courtesies sake to tell me what thou art: & if thou wilt not grant me this, than I pray thee to lift up y● visor of thy helm, y● I may see thy face? for here I give thee to understand thy four companions I do know, which is the occasion that I have no desire to enter into battle with thee. Then Don Eleno answered and said: Pagan, of the two things which thou dost ask of me (although there is no compulsion) yet will I pleasure thee in fulfilling one of them: and in saying these words, he lift up the viso of his helm, and when the Emperor saw him, he believed that it had been his son Rosicler, and with a loud voice he said. Oh mighty God, how can this be true, that unto knights of my lineage should chance so vile a spot, who hitherto in all their doings have got great honour and praise, and now are come to defend such apparent wickedness and treason. Thou shalt understand knight, that I am the Emperor Trebatio, and would not willingly now be called thy Father, for that thou art come to defend so apparent and known an evil, for I knowing the unreasonable naughtiness that this king hath committed, am come to take this conquest in hand, for in all my life time I never took a more juster cause in hand, neither was there ever in all the world a thing more worthier of punishment than this, and seeing that my fortune hath been such, that my first enemy that should come against me, seemeth my son, put thyself here now before thy high progenitor from whence thou dost descend, and for God's love do not blot thy stock, in defending traitors & treason, & therewith in few words he told unto them all the whole history, as before I have told you. Then this excellent Dacian answered. High & mighty Emperor, although by my name thou hast not known me, yet in calling me son thou didst happen on the truth. For thou shalt understand that I am called Eleno of Dacia, son unto the king of Dacia thy brother, and in that which thou hast said that we do maintain treasons, we are to the contrary informed, nevertheless I beseech your highness to tarry here a while, and therewith he and the Prince in a great confusion returned to the place whereas the rest of his companions were, and turning his talk unto the king, he said. King of Numidia, thou shalt understand that yonder knight is the Emperor of Grecia, my uncle, who in that small time which we have been with him, hath told unto us all the effect of this thy matter, clean contrary unto that which thou hast declared unto us. Therefore King, there is no reason, that Knights of so high blood and name as we are should be set to defend lies and treasons: but if it be to the contrary of that which he hath told unto me, have no doubt but tell us the truth. For here I swear by the love that I bear unto that unloving Lydia, that I will travail so with my uncle, that greatly with thy honour thou shalt go through with this conquest. Then this false King answered. O Knights which do confess yourselves to be Christians, and by the God whom you do worship have made a solemn oath to help and defend me by the strength of your arms: how happeneth it now y● without any care of your oath, which you have sworn, you will leave me desolate, and go from your words, being doubtful of the very truth. The courageous French man answered: Do thou not think King, that our oaths and words shall be abrogated, rather first we will lose our lives, both I, the prince, & all our companions: but consider king, that God will not that we shall imagine amiss of Trebatio, who is a prince of great verity and truth, and again, our very nigh kinsman. Therefore this, and that which he hath told us, hath moved us to come and tell thee, and do say, that none of us will go from his word and oath if thy cause be just. Then the valiant Eleno did cut off his reasons, and turning unto the King he said. King of Numidia, here I do most humbly desire thee, that with false illusions thou put not us unto so great travail, for that then it can not be, but either we must die in the hands of him whom we do desire to serve, or else, (though far unlikely) to kill him. Is it possible king, that thou hast brought us unto this estate, that cruelty should govern our wills, without having power to do any other thing. The King when he saw that the Knights were very earnest, began to swear with great oaths that his cause was just, and that he had told unto them the truth of the matter, and if so be that the Emperor had told them any other thing, it was only to deceive them, and to turn them, that they should not make his defence, and charged them again with their oath which they had made and how that they had given their words to be his upholder and defender. This worthy Dacian turning unto his companions said. Knights, what do you think in this matter, what is it best that we do herein? For well you do see, that we are so bewrapte & bound one against another, and cousin against cousin, yet for all that we cannot by any means excuse the battle. So they did all determine to return unto the Emperor, and to desire him for to accept it in good part, and to leave off that battle, & to make them believe that he was falsely informed, & when they came unto him they said. Worthy Emperor, and our only Lord, look well unto this false information, wherewith they have informed you, and having well considered thereof, we do all request you, for the love which unto your sons and cousins, and unto all your friends you do owe, that it may move you to take no occasion to put us into this extremity, for that by any means we cannot go from our oath and word. Unto the which the Emperor answered and said. My loving friends, if that you have given your word and oath to procure to make defence of so false a King, do you likewise endeavour to perform the same: for the like will I do to accomplish that which I have promised, for that there is no more reason for the one then for the other. But this one thing I do tell you, that it is very apparent that you will maintain the treason of this false King, as it appeareth plainly by many reasons, which I have told unto you: and the principal cause, wherein you may see plainly his treason and falsehood, is the little haste that he doth make himself unto the battle, and if he knew that he doth maintain the truth, let him come forth and make his own defence. At the which reasons they all held their peace, considering the great reason which the Emperor had declared, and determined that the next day they would conclude, what were best to be done, & so these six knights returned unto the City, and the Emperor unto the camp. Of all this that happened, he that received the most contentment, was the Prince Eleno, for he desired very much to return unto the City, for that at his departure he left his Lady very sick, so that he thought not to find her alive, and coming to the City, he was no sooner alighted from his horse, but he went strait unto her Chamber, whereas he found her with a mighty burning ague, and seeing her in that case, he was as one that was beside himself, and the more that her ague increased, the more furious she did show herself and farther out of quiet. So this grievous and sick Lady did ask paper and ink for to write a few lines unto him which was the causer of all this her harm, and making an end of her writing, without power to do any other thing, with the great feebleness she felt, she fell down upon her pillow, & speaking unto Eleno she said. valiant knight, behold here thy Lydia, at her last end: for that there doth not remain in me strength for to give thee thanks, for so great benefits as I have received at thy hands: yet I carry one great comfort with me, which is, y● although I die, yet thy great loyalty doth not die, neither my firm faith, and although I was unloved of an unfaithful Knight, yet am I beloved of the most courageous knight in the world. This sorrowful and troubled Prince would not suffer her to go forwards with her talk, but with shedding of many tears from his eyes, he said.  
Oh my sweet Mistress, do not give me to understand that thou wilt die, if that thou mean I shall remain alive. Oh my love, I would rather that my heart should be parted in twain, by the greatest enemy that I have, then to remain without thee. Oh my loving Mistress, let this thy youthful years and great beauty which thou hast, encourage thee, & die not in this order: this feeble Lydia for to show with more ferventness the good will which she did owe unto the P●●●ce, for his great courtesy forced herself to hold up her head, and he lifted it up with such quickness, as though her weak members had felt no grief, & as though the fury of that burning ague was not able to resist her, but with the force of love she sat up in her be●, and with her face of a fiery colour she said. My Lord, time doth not give me any place, that with words I might gratify the great courtesy that of thee I have received: for that I do feel, that the hour is come, and that the three fatal sisters have the thread of my life between the edges of their shears, so that it lacketh nothing but to put them together: insomuch, that I miserable creature do feel my soul tremble in my flesh, at this my last hour. But one thing, (oh my sweet and true lover) I will desire thee before that I do die, which is, that thou wouldst procure, that this letter may be given unto that cruel Knight, who hath brought me unto this estate, giving him to understand of this my troublesome death, the occasion whereof, was his unreasonable cruelty. And making an end of saying this, this miserable Lady fell down, without having any more strength to sit up, but let the letter fall out of her hand before her true lover, who took it up and said.  
Oh all my joy, what a cruel knife is this to my heart, to hear thy complaints, in giving me to understand the great cruelty that love hath used against thee, without any desert or reason: and verily I do believe, that these thy great thoughts and griefs, but most of all thy absence will be the occasion of my death. And if y● my enemies are not of power to give it me, here I do swear unto thee by the great and true love which I bear unto thee, that I myself with my own hands will procure to pull this heart out of his place, for that it knew not how to give thee contentment paying therewith the duty that I owe unto thee. O happy Brenio that didst obtain so much grace & favour at Venus' hands, for to be beloved of the flower of all beauty. The Clime in the which thou wert borne was not so happy as to the contrary my Clime hath been unhappy & unfortunate. Take a good heart my Mistress, comfort yourself and be strong, and be not the occasion that I seek my own death, & here I do promise thee by thy unhappy success, to bring thee into the Province of Lusitania, or else to die.  
Then this weak Lydia said: Gentle Knight, there is now no time all being passed, for that I do feel myself that this is the last fight. The sacred Gods will not permit, that before my death I should see his face: for if I did, I verily believe that I should receive some comfort. O immortal Gods, into your divine bosoms I do commend my soul, ask no other revengement against the causer of all my evil, but that he die of the same infirmity. And thou mighty Greek, here I do desire thee by the love which thou dost seem to owe me, for that thou seest that my death cannot be excused, and that Proserpina, is tarrying for me, with both her arms abroad for to receive my soul. And again, that this shall be the last request that by me shall be demanded of thee, as also to verify this lo●e which thou hast showed unto me to be true, so that I hope thou canst not by any means deny me to do it. How is it possible my sweet Mistress, said the Prince, that now thou art in doubt of my love, I promise you that my true love doth not deserve this suspicion, and here I give you to understand, that first the mighty river of Tigris shall forsake her course and run back again, before that any lack shall be found in me of that I own unto thy love, neither any forgetfulness to be the occasion to withdraw me from doing any thing that you shall command me, therefore sweet mistress ask what your pleasure is, for that thou canst ask nothing at my hands, but it shall be all thine. This weak Lady, whose power and strength was wholly decayed, and that her hour drew nigh at hand, with a weak and feeble voice she said. That which I desire, gentle Lord, is, that this my letter may come unto the hands of Brenio, wherein he may see how cruel he hath been unto his Lydia. So this dead Lady spoke never a word more, for at that instant the destinies concluded to cut the third of her life a sunder. Hear the Prince lacked both reason and patience, here he lost all his comfort and understanding, & coming unto the dead body of Lydia, he fell in a sound, & when (by the procurement of the Ladies and Damsels that were there present) he came to himself, he arose up with a furious wrath, saying: Is it of truth sweet soul that thou art departed & gone without me? Is it possible my Lydia that I shall not follow thee whether thou dost go? Alas what shall I do? where am I y● I do consent to let thee departed alone? how is this my only love, shall I lose thee? What is it that this cruel heart aileth, that it renteth not in pieces. O Eleno is this the love that unto thy Lydia living thou didst show. At which great noise the other four Princes entered into the chamber, who were marvelously altered to hear his lamentations. So either of them in the best wise he could did procure to comfort him, but this amorous knight with the great anguish that he had, fell in a sound in the arms of Claverindo, who requested the Ladies and damsels which were there in company with the dead body, that they would ordain some thing to bring him again to his remembrance, and so with such remedies as they did make he came again unto himself, who then with great rage crying out, called for his Lydia. Oh my Lydia, what is become of thee, who for love in another man's arms didst die, & now I die for thy love? Oh the whole stay of all my life, where art thou my Lydia, my comfort, dost thou hear me? Dost thou not carry with thee this thy heart? No, no, for yet I do feel it. Is it possible that I can live, or life will long sustain me? I hardly believe it. Oh my joy, dost thou come again, I pray thee be not so ingrateful, but stay a while for I will come unto thee. For now I am certainly persuaded that I am altogether without life. Fond Eleno if thou be dead, wherefore dost thou talk so much of vanities, wherefore dost thou not hold thy peace. And with these & such like reasons he remained without any feeling, in such sort that it seemed that he was dead.  
The other Princes which were there present seeing him in that case, took him between them, and carried him unto another chamber, and procured that Lydia should be buried, which strait way was done, for that the King commanded his Sepulchre should be open, in which they put this dead Lady. The Prince of Hungaria did remain in company with the Prince Eleno, for that he would not let him alone, for he loved him out of all measure, because he did resemble so much the valiant Rosicleer. So he remained there till such time as he came unto himself, and the first word that Prince Eleno said, was: Where is the Letter of my Lydia. Liriamandro did give it him, who taking it in his hand, he said.  
Oh work, and the last work of that white ivory hand: here I do swear unto thee by the honour that I do owe unto knighthood, not to a part it from my heart, till such time as the heart of that cruel Brenio be cut it pieces, and in speaking this he kissed it a thousand times, uttering a thousand varieties. And strait way with a furious anger, he arose up and said: What is this Eleno, dost thou believe that with lamenting thou shalt recover thy well-beloved Lydia, and not perform that which by her was commanded thee. It is more requisite that thou dost travail and wander, till such time as thou hast performed that which thou hast promised, gather unto thyself strength and courage, for to perform that which thy heart is bound to do. So with this anguish he arose up at such times as Aurora, with his glistering beams had spread over the earth.   

¶ How that Eleno before he would go into the field, would see the Sepulchre of Lydia, and what chanced in the battle appointed with the Emperor, his kinsmen & friends. Chap. 26.  
THE next morning when the day was come, all these stout warriors were ready on horse back, but Prince Eleno, would first go and see the Sepulchre of his Lydia, and going into the Temple of Mahomet, he went strait unto the place whereas they told him that his Lydia was, and having no strength to suffer the great grief that his heart did feel, he said. Oh my sweet Lydia, if thou dost hear my grief and lamentation, let it appear by some outward show in these hard stones, which hath bewrapt and enclosed thy white and delicate body, that receiving grief at these my lamentations, it may give place that I may see thee, let this my anguish grieve thee my Lydia, likewise let this my misfortune grieve thee. But alas what shall I say, is it not sufficient that the great pain that I do sustain for thy death, but I must bewail my own sorrow: Oh mistress, at thy death thou madest an end of all thy pains, and mine doth more and more increase. And in saying these and such like lamentations, he drew out his Dagger, and with the point he wrote an Epitaph, which was as followeth.  
Here Lydia loved and vnbelou'de doth lie,  
Whose great good will to her small good did bring:  
She love did feel, which causeless did apply  
to her (perforce) of death the bitter sting.  
And though her corpse enclosed here doth lie,  
her luckless fate and fame will never die.  
So when he had made this Epitaph, he arose up, saying: here I do promise thee Lydia, since my fortune is such that I have lost thee, there is no other that shall enter into this my heart and hard breast. But how can I say that it is hard, did it not open at the hour when it felt thy absence, and so without saying any more, he went out of the temple, with all the rest of his companions, and taking their horses, they altogether issued out of the city, at such time as the Emperor was arming himself in his rich tent. The fierce king of Sardenia when he saw that they returned again, unto the which the day before they did entreat of, he could not be in quiet, but said. O king, that for the defence of thy person we must contend with that man whom we most esteem, and thou must remain in the field only for the show of a knight, and we enforced to finish the harm, whereof thou art the occasion. Well, do not thou think that it shall be so, but persuade thyself, that thou shalt be the first in the encounter, that thou mayst prove how evil it is to suffer the ●urie of the Emperor of Grecia. O worthy king of Sardenia, answered the king of Numidia, how the great affection which thou hast unto the Emperor, doth cause thee not to give credit unto this my justice and right. Here I do require thee by the oath which thou madest unto me, that thou be the first to put thyself in the defence of my person. To which the Sardenian answered: First, the heaven and the earth shall join together, before that I will consent that my arm shall move itself against him, whom I take for my Lord and master. And here I say unto thee oh king, that if thou doest but once again will me hereto, I swear to thee by the sovereign God, that neither thy power, nor all thy subjects shall be able to deliver thee out of my hands. So their communication was cut off by seeing the Emperor to come towards them upon a very fair horse, who showed so great fury, that it was a wonder to see. At this present time there appeared coming from those parts which was towards the sea, two Knights, who were very well armed. If you do remember, these were the two valiant warriors, the prince of the Sun, and the strong Sardenian. The great desire that the Emperor had to see himself with the Numidian, was the occasion that he little esteemed the tarrying for those two knights, for that he thought the hour was come of the battle, and that the defender should be (as he had demanded) that false King and traitor, he put himself forwards towards the place whereas the Princes and the king came. And when they were together, these Princes with very fair and amorous words and of great fidelity, endeavoured so persuade the Emperor for to leave the battle, and that therein they should receive marvelous great contentment, if he would accept it. The knight of the sun stood & did behold their reasonings, & did look for no other thing but furious battle, by all tokens that they showed with their hands and other demeanours of their bodies: & knowing five of the knights, he very much marveled what should be the occasion, and with this desire he had to know what should move them to this controversy, he saw a Lackey which passed by, and he called him, & asked of him in the Saracen tongue, saying: Friend, tell me if thou cannest what is the occason that doth cause them to make this cruel and furious battle, and who they be that do make it. This Lackey (by the riches of his armour, and by his good proportion) judged him to be a knight of estimation, he said: Gentle Knight, the cause of this controversy and defence, if I should stand to tell you it all, it would be very tedious, but of all the rest that thou dost ask me, I will give thee to understand that which I do know. You shall understand that the knight which is alone is the mighty Emperor Trebatio of Greece, and that which he doth maintain is great justice and right, and will give great punishment for the same, which is that that the others do defend. The knight of the Sun was very much amazed at that which he heard, and therewith he went towards them before they had made an end of their reasoning▪ and so without any show of trouble he said unto the Prince of Dacia (who was still sore troubled with the sorrow, as you have heard). Art thou Don Eleno of Dacia, my cousin, and brother's son unto the Emperor, my Lord and Father? I am he answered the Dacian, who ought not for to die, before I give thee thy death, for that thou hast caused so much evil to come upon me, that living I do now die. The knight of the Sun being almost in a confusion to bear his dry reasons, answered: Loving cousin, I feel myself somewhat troubled at these thy words, and greatly amazed that thou art fallen into so great pride to lift up thy armed hand against thy natural parents, and more being informed, that which thou dost pretend to defend is apparent treason. The Prince Eleno did cut of his talk and said. Oh my cousin, here I do tell thee, that I do seek no other thing but death, therefore procure to give it me, for that I shall think myself happy to die in thy hands, notwithstanding defend thyself as thou wert wont to do, for that thou knowest it doth so behove thee. With this fury and forgetful understanding, speaking no more words, he turned about his horse, crying out and saying: I will live no longer, seeing I have lost that, beside which, to me can be no greater loss. The knight of the Sun very much marveled at these his short reasons, not knowing of any thing that had happened unto him, & wondering that his true heart should commit or maintain such wrongs, he turned about his horse for to make his defence, in such sort, that all the knights that were there, were not sufficient to disturb him, but with great fury they met together with their spears, yet not one of them was moved in their saddles, but remained as though they had been two towers, and strait way with no less force they began to lay hold on their sword, and for that the knight of the Sun had a respect unto him, he did rather procure to make his defence, then in any thing to offend him, but Don Eleno stroke such a blow at his cousin, that he made him to stoop with all his body to the horse neck. The knight of the Sun would have taken revengement of the same blow, but he considered that he was his cousin, and that he was ignorant of the cause that should move him to commit this folly, for the which consideration he did suffer him, and would make no revengement. Tefereo who saw all that had passed, & remained in his first place without removing, till time did serve him to accomplish that which he had determined in his mind to do, and when he saw occasion for the same, he threw his shield upon his arm, and put his spear in his rest, & made a show that he would be doing with the giant, that which he perceived, & he put himself in a readiness, but more to give him to understand what he was, then to hurt him. This furious Sardenian stroke his horse with the spurs, that he made him run like the comet which falleth from the side of Trion, & when he came in the midst of his course, he turned his horse toward the place whereas the king of Numidia was (who had put himself a part from the rest) with so great swiftness that by no means he could keep or defend himself from that encounter, but by reason of the strength wherewith it was given he threw them to the ground, very evil entreated. He was no sooner fallen when that this courageous Sardenian leapt from his horse very lightly, and found that the king of Numidia was on foot ready for to defend himself, and crying out: Knights, succour, succour, or else I am but dead. At the which noise all the other five knights looked about, and when they saw the king in the power of that valiant knight, they would have rescued him, but the light of all knighthood which was the father and the son, did disturb them, and put themselves before them, and would not suffer them to give any such aid, but did there great wonders, striking on every side, in such sort, that now one and then the other they made them to recoil back. The strong and furious Eleno did but little harm with his sword, neither made he any great resistance, the Giant with as little hast as might be went to help the Numidian king, & with a reasonable pace he went towards the place whereas the king was, (but for that reason would not consent that such as he is should be helped) with the haste that he made, his horse stumbled, in such sort, that horse and master fell to the ground, of the which he was very sore hurt and bruised, as it appeared by his slow rising up again. The valiant Sardenian with great policy procured to bring to an end his desire, before that any did come to disturb him, and being lighted of his horse he made haste to the King and said: Thou traitor, it shall little profit or pleasure thee to call for help, for that in my hands thou shalt leave this thy traitorous soul, who doth deserve to suffer all the evils that may be, and therewith he struck him such a blow upon his helm, and with so great fury, that he made him in spite of his heart to kneel with both his knees upon the earth. So when the Sardenian perceived him to be in this case, with great valiantness he strait ways laid hold of his helm with his left hand, and pulled it clean from his head, and with his right hand he smote him such a blow upon the head, that he parted it in two pieces, and immediately he fell down dead to the ground, and looking about to see whether his horse were gone or no, he found that he was nigh at hand. Then he took the dead king and made him fast unto the stiroppes of the Saddle, and with a trice he leapt upon his horse, and so without any help of his stiroppes, he made his horse to run, and so drew the king after him throughout all the field. The Giant would have succoured him, but all was in vain. In this sort went Tefereo drawing the king after him before all the knights that were there present and said: Knights, what do you mean to be so still? Why do you not uphold and defend this traitorous king, in whose strength was all his confidence? Behold now where he hath received the payment, that such evil works as his deserved, and therewith he road round about the field as he did before. The Emperor when he saw that this fact was ended, would that his cousin Don Eleno, and the Prince his son should leave their battle, which was between them begun a new, and they were giving one another terrible blows, but not with such great fury, for that they did know the one the other, otherwise it would have gone ill on both parts. The Emperor put himself between them and said.  
Oh Knights, cease your battle and hearken unto my words. Eleno which was still kindled in wrath, had no respect unto those words, neither would he part, but like a man distraught from himself, he doubled such a blow upon the viso of the Emperor, that he made him lose the sight of his eyes. The Emperor who was very angry and not a little grieved, at the small regard that he had of his words, would presently have revenged the blow, but that he was disturbed by the Giant, who pulling off his helm went towards the place whereas these three worthy warriors were, and with a heavy and troubled voice he said.  
Hear me O noble Emperor and you worthy knights, cease this your controversy and stay your unweakened arms, till such time as I have uttered that which I will say. Then the Emperor with his accustomed meekness said. Noble King, what is it that thou canst demand of me, that I would not willingly accomplish? To whom he answered. Well, seeing it is so my Lord, I do desire you to return unto your Tent, and take your ease, and to leave off this, and such like controversies: for that the cause thereof, my cousin and brother's son, hath taken away from between you. And when he had said these & such like words, he returned unto his companions, and persuaded them altogether to return unto the City, to the which they all consented, although it was clean contrary unto the will of Don Eleno. So when they were entered into the City, they found that all the people and burgesses thereof were in great lamentation for the loss of their king and Lord, and the more, for that his death was so shameful and odious. But they rested not till they came to the King's Palace, whereas they were received, and were unarmed, and commanded the dinner to be made ready, whereat they were marvelously served. And when that dinner and all was ended, the valiant Giant began to speak in this manner.  
Worthy Princes, and my Lords and friends, you do well know, and here you have seen, how that all our travail which we have had for to defend this king, hath been greatly against our honours, and that neither our threatenings nor words were sufficient for to disturb the will of the Emperor herein: for that he knew that his quarrel was very certain and just, which was the occasion, that the punishment of this fact in all things hath been favourable according unto his desire. And for the better verifying of the same, at that present time you saw come in place, his worthy son, accompanied with my brother's son my cousin, that with their aid he should conclude to put in execution his just & true desired revengement: which hath been a great reproach and ignomy unto us all, neither was there in any of us so much force or strength to withstand or disturb him: but after the king being slain, as you all did see, they tied him to the stirrups, and dragged him through all the field. So that now you ●hal understand, the king being dead our oat● is free, and we at liberty, neither stand we bound unto any other thing. And that which we ought at this present to be aggrieved at, is, for that we are out of the grace and favour of our Lord the Emperor. Therefore one of us being his brother's son, another his son in law, and another his brother in law, and all the rest his dear and entire friends, for that we do well know that he was not the occasion of this our fond offence. Let us now acknowledge our fault, and procure to enter again into his favour and friendship, and go altogether and discharge ourselves, for that it is n● shame unto us, to ask pardon for our faults and offences. Here have I declared unto you my opinion and my will: & I promise you I am determined to do this, so that every one may herein do, as best shall please him, and as he shall see occasion. The first that answered hereunto, was th● va●●ant Tartarian, and said.  
Excellent king, your counsayl● herein doth like me very well, and we ought not to take any other counsel, but this only which thou hast given us: for that we see plainly▪ that it hath pleased God to punish us, for that we would defend and maintain such evil and naughtiness, and without any farther counsel we did subject ourselves by our oaths: therefore I do determine myself to follow thy pretended intention. So likewise this counsel seemed good unto the rest of the Knights and Princes▪ repenting themselves of all that had been past. Don Eleno, who was almost confounded for the controversy that was betwixt him and his Cousin, with an altered and angry voice, he presently replied.  
I do not deny, but that this which hath happened, hath been to our infamy as much as may be, by the which it is known that we have not maintained the truth. But for all that I will not give unto the Emperor nor unto the rest so much glory, but let them make an end to triumph over our baseness: for as for my part, I will first die, & be cut all to pieces▪ then to go and yéeldo myself unto them, nor to any person in the whole world. Let every one do as he thinketh best, for that the Dacian Prince will not let to be the same, which his fortune hath ordained, and therewith he arose up from the table, and made as though he went unto his chamber, but he did not: for incontinent he called a Lackey of his, and armed himself, and commanded him very secretly to carry his horse out of the City, and to tarry for him there, and the lackey did as the prince had commanded him. So when he was out of the City, he leapt upon his horse, and carried in no place till he came unto the water's side, and by chance he came unto the place whereas the bark was, that brought his cousin thither, into which he entered, and his lackey put in his horse. He was no sooner in, when that with great swiftness the bark began to make sail, whereas we will leave him till time do serve.  
Now I will return unto the Princes, who after many reasonings, determined to go forthwith unto the emperors tent, and went unto the chamber of Don Eleno▪ to persuade him to do the like, but when they came there, they neither found him nor his armour, for the which they were very sad and sorry, imagining strait way what he had done. And seeing that it was labour lost to go and seek him, they themselves determined to depart without him. And when they came unto the scouts of the host, it was asked them what they fought, and what they would have? The Giant said unto them: Friends, go unto the Emperor, and tell him that here are the Knights with whom he had all his late contention, that are very desirous to speak with him. So the scouts sent a messenger strait way unto the Emperor. And when he had told it unto him, he commanded that they should presently let them pass.  
When the Emperor understood that they drew nigh unto the Tent, with his mighty courage, and with his accustomed nobleness, he went out to meet them, with his royal arms spread abroad, and so by one and one he lovingly embraced them all, and also desired them, ●hat there might be no communication of that which had passed, for that it would be the occasion to disturb their joy and mirth which they ought to use together meeting by adventure together in strange Countries, so he cast his e●e aside to see where his cousin the Prince Eleno was, but when he could not see him, he asked for him, and it was told him all that had passed, and the dolorous end of Lydia, for the which they were very sorrowful, but especially the knight of the Sun, for that he loved him very much, and if the Emperor his Father had not disturbed him, he would have gone to have sought him. Likewise the great joy and contentment which the Giant received in seeing his cous●n Tefereo, was no less than Tefereos to see his uncle, so that the delight of all of them apparently appeared. In this sort they passed away the time till it was night without feeling any pain of their passed travail. The next day in the morning the king of Cimarra did arise, marvelously richly appareled, with robes of cloth of gold, and went unto the knights, giving them to understand that he was more contented and in quiet then any other king, in that he was revenged in such sort as you have heard. This good king never ceased in giving thanks unto the Emperor for the great courtesy which he received at his hands, and there they gave order that all the whole camp should return unto their own country, for that which they came for was concluded, and that their departure should be in such sort, that the people should not do any harm, that which was strait way accomplished, & they appointed for king over that country a valiant knight, of whom we will entreat in the third part of this history. So all the people of the king of Cimarra without giving any occasion of anger or harm, by the way which they went, came unto the place whereas they left all their fleet of ships, and there they embarked themselves, and committed their Sails unto the wind, which they found favourable and prosperous, and brought them quickly unto Cimarra, whereas the king did detain them fifteen days, although they were unwilling. At the end whereof they determined to departed their way towards Grecia, and commanded to freight a very fair ship: so taking their leave, and shipping themselves, they had a pleasant and peaceable wind, which brought them unto the haven Pireo in Grecia, whereas they went all a shore: and all of them took horse saving the great Giant, who travailed on foot, so they took their way towards Constantinople. And when they came within two miles of it, nigh unto a great house of pleasure, whereas the Empress was at that time. In the midst of the way, they saw two knights, which were in a very great and well fought battle. Whereas we will leave them, for to tell you what the Morisco, King of Mauritania did, in the place whereas we left him.   

¶ How that the two Empresses went for to recreate themselves unto a house of pleasure, and what happened unto them in that journey. And how the King of Mauritania found them in their pastimes, and knowing who they were, he would have laid hold upon the Empress Briana. Cap. 27.  
BEfore in the history, if you do remember, the fierce Moor Brufaldoro came unto the place whereas a company of Ladies and damsels were, whereas he stayed to look and behold them: and with them were sitting knights of a good disposition, and well proportioned. At which time as we began to entreat of them, I did not tell you who they were: but now you shall understand, that they were the two Empresses of Constantinople and Trapisond, who were come unto that house of pleasure for to recreate themselves, which was very nigh unto a fair village. And the occasion of this their going forth, was the great esteemed Queen of Lira, (of whom till now our history hath made no mention, nor of her surpassing excellencies, but hath referred them till time did serve) She being many times with the Empress Claridiana, heard her teil of some feats of knighthood that had passed by her, the which the Queen with great contentment gave ear unto, imagining within herself to be of as good disposition, and have as much strength as she, yea, and rather more: and knowing that her strength was much, she purposed very secretly to prove herself, and taking this place (whether as they went to recreate themselves) to be very fit for to perform her will, with all secrecy in the world, she commanded that her armour (which Lirgandeo had presented unto her) should be carried thither, which was fulfilled and done by the damosels, for that they all had a great delight to pleasure and serve her, she was of them so well-beloved, and her excellent virtues deserved no less. So when they were come unto the house of pleasure, she went forth to recreate herself with two Ladies towards a fountain somewhat out of the way, whereas the Empress & her Ladies were set down. And for that the Empress Claridiana did understand, (whether by her own imagination, or that Lirgandeo had advised her) that in such place commonly doth fall out some adventures, she commanded to give unto her, her armour, which she caused to be brought unto that house: and whilst she was arming, came the Moor Brufaldoro, thither: who seeing so fair a company, had a great desire to know who they were, and coming unto a damsel which was thereby, speaking with great courtesy, he said. damosel let me obtain. I pray you, so much favour at your hands, that you will tell me who they be that are in this fair company. This damsel seeing that with so great courtesy and good manners he did request her, and being a knight of so good disposition, she said. Sir knight, they be the Empress of Grecia and her Ladies, which are come to this place to recreate themselves: and have brought hither for their safeguard these well proportioned knights. When the Moor understood that there was the Empress of Grecia, there entered strait way many things in his imagination, and many thoughts troubled his mind, till such time, as he dermined to do that, which I will tell you.  
So with a determined purpose he came unto the place where as the Empress was: and without saying any word, he took her by the arm, and with great strength lift her up, till he had her on his saddle bow before him, and turning his horse about he took his way towards that place, from whence he came, with purpose to embark himself again, in that ship in which he came thither, and so to carry her away: but the noise and shrieks of the Ladies and Damosels were so pitiful and loud, that there came unto them the knights that were dispersed abroad in the forest and other places. And when they came, and saw all that had passed, they altogether followed the Moor, so fast as their horse could run: and in a short time they came for to take away his booty, so that whether he would or not, he was driven to let her go, for to defend himself from the blows which the knights laid on him, who on the one side and on the other, began to strike fiercely at him: but he made no more reckoning of them, than the huge and mighty Rock doth of the troublesome waves of the seas, beating against it continually. Even so were the blows which the Greek knights struck upon the Pagan, who seeing himself hindered of his purpose, drew out his sword, and struck one of those knights such a blow upon the shoulder, that he cut him down to the girdle, so that he fell down dead to the ground: and not content herewith, but began so to bestir himself, that in a small time, he separated them all, some slain and some very sore hurt & wounded. In this ●ime, that these knights were in their battle, the Empress Claridiano was armed, and set upon a mighty strong horse, and came with great ire, and said. Oh infernal Pagan, what devil was that, which made thee so bold with those vile & wicked hands to come and take hold of the Empress: and in saying these words, she drew out her sword, and struck him such a blow upon the helm, that she made him bow his head unto his breast: but strait ways the Pagan came to himself, and firming his feet in his stirroppes he made her answer, with a blow no less furious than that that he had received. So there began one of the best fought battles that ever was between two Knights. The Empress when she saw herself clear out of the hands of the Moor, got on the one side, and sat down upon the green herbs and did behold the battle. All the Ladies & Damosels when they saw her at liberty, ran unto the place whereas she was, and in small time they had compassed her with a mild lamentation. At the same time out of the thickest of the Forest came forth a Knight very well armed, with green armour, all to be spotted with Lilies; and his shield of the same manner, but in the midst thereof was painted a hand, which seemed to be in a lake of water, holding in it a Lily flower. And as he saw that furious battle, he went unto one of the Ladies, and with a gracious courtesy he demanded the occasion thereof. The effect thereof she told, and declared unto him which was the knight that was in the empress defence. At this time the battle was so kindled, that with the furious blows that were given, it had been sufficient to have cut a rock in pieces. This strong Empress was so wrathful, that her battle was more governed with ire then by policy, and with the great choler that she had, she struck the Pagan so terrible a blow, that he fell down upon his horse neck, without any remembrance, and with the sound of that terrible blow the horse was somewhat scared, in such sort, that he carried his master a while about the field. The Empress following him with her light horse, thinking that she had made an end of the battle, when that in the midst of her course, the Moor came to himself again, and with madness, he foamed at the mouth, and beginning to use his accustomed cursings against Mahomet. And recovering his sword, taking it fast in both his hands, he went towards the Empress Claridiana, threatening her with a furious blow.  
The Empress who saw the blow coming, she lift up her shield to receive it therewith, the blow fell so terrible thereon, that it parted it in two pieces, and lighted on her helm in such great force and fury, that it made her to fall backwards upon the crupper of her horse without any feeling, voiding much blood out of her viso, with which blow the horse was scared, and ran round about the field, the which when the Pagan saw, he followed after the Empress, as the hawk, when you have taken of her hood, discovering the Heron, with great fury flieth at her: even so went this Moor saying. Now will I see Empress, whether all the strength of this knight be sufficient for to hinder me, that I carry thee not into a place, where Mahomet shall not be able to deliver thee, nor take thee out of my hands.  
Then the gentle Knight of the lilies, did put himself before the Empress, and said. Stand thou proud Pagan, for first before thou dost that which thou thinkest to do, it standeth thee in hand to look to thyself, and in saying these words, he drew out his sword, and struck him such an overthwart blow upon the viso of his helm, that he was ready to fall down on the other side, and with the strength thereof, it deprived him of his sight, and after that he struck another blow on the other side, that the Moor was not able to make any defence, but that he fell down upon his horse head. The Moor being kindled with great madness, to see two such mighty blows given him, and he not able to make any defence. when he was come to himself, he went against his adversary with his sword fast in both his hands, who was in the same sort tarrying for him: & they struck both together such terrible blows, that both of them were constrained to embrace their horse necks for not falling: but setteling themselves again, they recovered their swords, and pressed the one against the other, as commonly the wild Bulls do in their fight, with the like ire these two joined together, making one of the most perilous battles in the world, striking one another whereas they might do most harm.  
It was so much without pity, and with so furious wrath, as though it had been two Lions, and giving such notable blows, and battering of the copper and iron with such great noise, that it did not only glow in the ears of those Ladies and the rest that were looking on, but the mountains thereabout were moved with compassion and pity, to see their great cruelty one toward another. At this time the Empress Claridiana was come to herself, and when she remembered the great peril in the which she was, she called unto God for his help, and turning about her light horse with so great swiftness, that wheresoever he did put his foot, there was no sign seen, she came unto the place whereas the battle was. The Knight with the golden Lilies with a high voice said. Most mightle and Imperial Lady, take you the Empress and carry her away, and leave her in safety, and let me alone to punish this uncourteous Knight.  
Then the Empress and all her Ladies did call her and said. Ualyaunt and worthy Lady, provide to set us at liberty, where we may be out of danger, that you may return in time to help this Knight that hath done us so much good. The Empress consented hereto at their requests, and so taking their palfreys, they went with great haste unto the Village. But when the Pagan did understand, that it was a woman, which had brought him into so great extremity, with a great noise he said. Oh vile Mahomet, false, and of a base kind: for thou, to do me more evil and shame, hast ca●sed me to enter into battle with a woman, who hath brought me into this necessity. Oh traitor, and falsifier of thy faith, come down from the Cottage whereas thou art, and I will give thee to understand, that thou thyself with all thy might shalt not be able so much to anger me, in that thou hast so despitefollye for my dishonour and shame, put me in battle before a woman. The gentle knight with the lilies to those words said.  
Hold thy peace Pagan and be still, and speak not so proudly, whereas in respect thereof thou shalt not be feared: for here I do certify thee, that the Empress Claridiana hath brought into subjection many better than thou art, and made them to stoop. And for that thou shalt understand how little thou art esteemed in Greece, and how much more thou mayst complain thy unhappiness, know that I am likewise a woman as she is, and am called Archisilora Queen of Lira, and with the strength of my arms, I hope to cut off this wretched head from thy accursed shoulders. And it was very true which was spoken, for when she went away from the company of the Ladies, she went to arm herself, with purpose to demand battle of the Empress Claridiana, but when she came forth, she found them as you have already heard.  
The Pagan could be no more angry and wrathful than he was, and without speaking any word, he turned & struck very strongly at the Queen, who with no less fury defended herself, and returned his blows with both her hands, that it made a marvelous noise. At this present time approached the two lights of all knighthood, the Emperor of Grecia and his son, and with them the Giant and the rest of the Princes that came with them. You shall understand that these were the two knights, that in the high way they found in cruel battle, and marveling very much at the power that was in the two warriors, they stayed to behold them, not knowing who they were. The Knight of the Sun who had his eyes more fixed on them then the rest, did know the Pagan, as one which had first proved his furious force, & turning unto the Emperor his father he told him all that which had happened unto him in the fierce battle which he had fought before with him in France.  
Then they esteemed much the knight with the Lilies, to see how well and how valiantly he did behave himself, not only in this subtle defence, which against his adversary he made, but also his policy he made in offending his enemy. So the knight of the Sun with the great desire that he had to revenge himself on the Pagan, moved his horse towards him. At which time there came forth of the village a Knight with white armour, all full of Garlands of gold, made by subtle art. Likewise his shield was white, and there was painted on it an Imperial head, which showed as though it had been cut off with a cruel knife, the throat all so berayed with blood, very artificially wrought, and when he saw the battle, he put himself to behold them, at such time as the valiant Greek approached unto the two knights that were in battle for to speak unto them, and he said: Worthy knight with the Lilies, for courtesies sake (if this battle be of small importance) that thou wouldst let me alone with this Pagan, for that I have a just quarrel against him. This excellent Lady looking upon the knight of the Sun as one which had never seen him, marveling much at his fair disposition, and replied, saying: I would be very glad sir Knight, for your great courtesy and gentle demeanour, to leave to you the battle, if the occasion were not of so great weight. Therefore I do desire you that you would stand aside, for if my success fall out unfortunately, there will time enough remain, for to execute your anger. The Moor did well understand the demand of the Knight of the Sun, and knew him very well to be the same that gave him the order of Knighthood, and when he saw him, he roared like a furious Lion, saying: Oh vile and base Knight, to whom Mahomet hath given more power and strength than he hath himself, come, come, and bring with thee in company all these that be there with thee, for of all you together I do esteem nothing at all, and in saying these words, he pressed unto the Knight of the Sun, very fiercely and with great courage the knight of the Sun met him in the way, and put himself before the Queen, but this excellent Lady with great lightness returned and did recover her standing, and said unto him.  
Knight, be not so far out of measure, to give ease and help unto them that give thee no thanks for it. But the Prince who was then burning with wrath, returned again by the left side to put himself before her, and gave the Pagan so terrible a blow, that he made all his body to shake. The knight with the lilies did put himself again before and said. In an evil hour dost thou use this great uncourtesy with one that thou dost not know. The fierce Pagan in all this time was not idle, but at such time as the Queen did cross the way for to take her room, the Pagan stroke her so strongly, that it lacked but a little, that she fell not from her horse to the ground. The knight with the Imperial head when he saw that, set his spurs to his horse, and said.  
O men of small estimation, come hither to me one of you, and do not occupy yourselves in such controversies. And with saying these and such like words, he struck the Queen such a blow, that he made her teeth to chatter in her head, in such sort, that she had almost lost her feeling, but he had no cause to boast himself very much of that blow, for that quickly she returned his salutation with so great strength, that she gave him well to understand her cauragious force. Now there began a rigorous battle, and the Knight of the Sun remained alone with the Pagan: Oh wise and warlike Eliza, give me to drink of that water which the nine sisters did discover, that by the help of that sweet liquor I may make sharp my rude tongue, so that mixing the speech of Mercury with the prowess of Mars, I may unfold this furious battle which these four knights made, who with exceeding and wonderful blows struck one another, without any casing, that they made them whether they would or no, to incline their bodies to their horse head, without any feeling. In this sort continued these valiant and warlike knights a good space, till such time as the Empress Claridiana came in great haste, running with her light horse, and making a great noise, without any consideration, but only to be revenged on the Pagan and said.  
Give room, give room, for this battle doth belong unto me to make an end thereof. And without any more speaking she put herself before the knight of the Sun, and began to lay on the Pagan with her furious blows. The Pagan was nothing abashed at that, but as one which had strength and courage enough, he received them. Then the knight of the Sun with great anger said. Tell me knight what is the cause which hath moved thee to offer such like villainy. This womanly warrior returned unto him, and strait way she did know him to be the Knight of the Sun. Here all you true lovers may judge the great joy that she received when she beheld before her, him who with so great love she loved, and the great desire she had to hear of him. So she replied with very amorous words, and said.  
My dear and well-beloved Lord, seeing that fortune hath brought you hither at this instant, procure jointly with your revengement to work mine against this Pagan. Then the knight of the Sun did know that it was his Lady, wherewith his strength increased, and also his anger, understanding that the Pagan had used discourtesy against her, and said: How is this thou false Pagan, that thou hast been so hardy, for to anger and disquiet such a Lady: Tarry, for here I will give thee thy reward according unto thy deserts. And with a new strength and valiant courage he pressed forwards. This pagan was amazed in seeing his enemy to show more strength and better courage, which continually increased more and more, yet for all that he showed no kind of faintness, but rather he struck at him such terrible blows and with so great strength, as at any time before he had not done the like. At this time the Emperor, (which till that time did behold all that had passed, and suffered not himself to be known unto any, by reason that he continually had his helm on his head) pulled off the same, that the more better to his contentment he might see and behold this furious battle. Then the people of the village which were come forth for to see the battle, when they saw the emperors face and knew him, they altogether with a great shout said. Oh happy is this day, in the which we have seen the excellent face of our renowned Emperor, & therewith altogether they ran to him for to kiss his hands, and he which could first come unto him, he thought himself most happiest. For he was the best be loved Prince amongst his subjects in all the world. Many of them with great haste went to tell the Empress, for to get a reward. The Pagan by the great stirring and rus●ing of the people, understood that the Emperor was there, and thought within himself, that there he could get no honour, wherefore with great fury he lift up his sword, and gripping it fast in his hand, he stretched himself in his stirrups all that ever he could and struck such a terrible & furious blow upon the helm of the knight of the Sup●e that without any feeling be fell upon his horse crupper, & when he saw him in that trance, he set spurs to his horse, and made him to run like the wind through the midst of all the people, that were looking on the battle, and like as a Lion in the mountains of Libya, whose breast is wounded by the stout hunts man, leaving his dart in him, and besprinkeling all the grass, with his blood, which he doth expel from him without any fear, and tearing in pieces the dart, that was cause of all his harm, he giveth great and horrible roarings with his bloody mouth, and bristling up his rugged hair. So with like fury this valiant Pagan past through amongst the people that were there, so that some he threw down from their horse, and others he left very sore hurt, and with this perilous assault he put himself into the thick woods. The Queen which was fight with the knight of the Imperial head, did see very well, how that the the Moor was escaped, and with the great anger which she had to see him run away without taking revengement of him, she gave so terrible a blow unto her adversary that it made him to join his head with his breast, and left him without any remembrance, and without any more tarrying, she went and followed the Pagan. The knight of the Sun, who at this time was come to himself, and had fully recovered his remembrance, and could not see his enemy, he demanded for him. And there it was told him of his desperate running away. The Prince would have followed him, if the Emperor had not letted him. Likewise the Knight with the Imperial head came again unto himself, and thinking to have made payment of that blow unto his adversary, he looked round about and could not see her, and beholding all the rest which were in that company, he saw that they were all well content and very joyful, and full of pleasure, wherefore without any more tarrying he put himself into the forest, leaving the Emperor and all the rest, very desirous to know who he was, as also of the knight of the lilies: the which was strait way told him by a damosel of the Queens, at the which they all remained much amazed, judging it to be one of the most notablest things, that was in all the world. The Empress when she understood the good news, strait way went forth for to see the Emperor, with so much joy and pleasure, that she scantly knew where she was: & when she came to cast her arms for to embrace him she said. My Lord, I do not compare this embracing unto that, which an uncourteous Knight did give me not long since. The Emperor did receive her with great love and gladness, and embracing her hard he said. My loving Lady, let the delight of this, cause you to forget the despite of the other, and yet by it we have lost the most excellent Lady in all the world, which is the Queen of Lira. Then did the Emperor declare unto her all that had passed, there in his sight, at the which the Empress greatly marveled, and was sorry for her departure: & with she great pleasure she received at the sight of the Emperor, she did not look for the famous Knight of the Sun, until such time as he came to kiss her hand: then was all-her joy wholly accomplished. So there they declared unto the Emperor of the departing of Rosicler and Brandimardo, and how ●hat they never heard any news of them.  
There was no less joy between the Knight of the Sun and his spouse, for the one received the other with great rejoicing. For by reason of the water that he drunk at the fountain, he had clean forgotten and lost the love he had to Lindabrides, which was the occasion of a double delight with his well-beloved Lady. This fair Empress somewhat dissimuling the sorrow which she had for the loss of her children, declared it unto her dear beloved spouse, who with no less discretion, did give her the hearing, not suffering her to know the grief that he received, but rather comforted her, and gave her to understand by outward shows, that he was very well content of all that had happened, which was unto her great and particular joy and pleasure. So in this order they went talking together, till they came unto the village, whereas they were received of all the people, with great joy and rejoicings, and with sundry pastimes, and there they dined: and in this sort they passed the rest of the day.  
The next day in the morning they went towards Constantinople, one there was not one who saw the Emperor and his company but received great pleasure. But Sindera the Duchess, and Aunt unto Archisilora, was greatly grieved for her absence. As they travailed by the way, the knight of the Sun determined to give the Emperor to understand of all the love that had passed between him and the Empress Claridiana. So the Emperor when he understood it, was nothing sorry for that which had passed, but rather did determine to send and call for the subjects and vassals of the Empress, and so in public to marry them together: yet at that time he did not give him to understand of the loss of the two children,  
So with this and like communication, they came unto the City, whereas they were received, as unto their estate appertained. And at their entering into the Palace, there came forth to receive them, the Princess Tigliasa, and the fair Olivia, who for the discontentment which they received for the absence of their Knights, would not go forth of Constantinople. What shall I say to you of the Tartarian Zoylo, he was so out of quiet and troubled to see the princess, that he was almost beside himself, and changed his colour, and like a man without understanding he came down from the Palace, making a great noise: and with out taking any rest, he went out of the City, and with great fury he put himself into the woods and wilderness of Grecia, leaving the sorrowful Lady with so much care, that if the wise Lirgandeo had not comforted her, she thought verily to have died at that present time, by whose counsel she was willed to go and seek him, and to carry in company with her two of her damosels: and he promised her so to remedy her sorrow, that she should be fully satisfied. The which did fall out clean contrary: for that the knowledge of man doth little avail to hinder the will of the Creator of all things. As hereafter shall be told you in the third part of this history.  
Now to return unto the great pleasure which the subjects of the Emperor received for his coming: it was in such sort, that they did no other thing but make feasts and pastimes. In the mean time whilst they were making all these pastimes in Constantinople, they sent to call the subjects and vassals of the Empress Claridiana, who came strait way without any delay: and they which came, were the King of Pontus, and the King Simonia, and the great Duke of Alafonte. Unto whom was declared the whole occasion wherefore they were called. And when they knew that they should obtain for their Lord so royal a prince, they were marvelously well contented and received great pleasure: and without any more tarrying they made them sure together, whereat was made great feasts and pastimes▪ and there he was sworn Emperor, and they desired them, that they would go & acknowledge their lands & countries, and gave them to understand, that the long absence of the Empress was the occasion of many dissensions, wherein some rebellious people did begin to show their cankered thoughts. To the which they granted with a very good will, and they carried with them Tefereo and his uncle. What shall I here declare unto you of the honourable receivings and great pastimes and sports which were made unto them, it were too much here to write, so the possession of all the Empire was given unto them, whereas they determined to take their rest, till such time as fortune caused the contrary, whereas they reigned with the most highest fame that ever any other obtained. And here we will leave them till time serveth, and begin to declare of the high & worthy feats of the fair Archisilora, the Queen of Lira.   

¶ How the worthy Queen Archisilora was gone to pursue the Pagan, and of that which happened in the way of her battle. Chap. 28.  
THE worthy Queen of Lyra which with great haste followed after the Pagan, striking with her spurs her light horse (who was without fault of all that had past) yet all was in vain for to find the Moor, but her swiftness was like unto a furious thunder bolt, for she travesed in such great haste, that there was no sign seen where her horse did tread: but all her labour was in vain, for that she went clean contrary unto the way which the Pagan went, but as the thought of this ireful Lady was for no other thing, but to procure to seek him, she never left this her furious course, till such time as she came unto the sea side, whereas for all the fury she was forced to stay, nevertheless she looked round about her on every side to see if she could discover or find him, whom with so great desire she sought, and in looking about her, she saw come forth from that part of the forest a damosel, who was very fair, and saluted the Queen very courteously, who returned again her salutation, and asked her, saying: Fair damosel, can you tell me any tidings of a knight that should come this way, all in white armour. And what is it that you would with this knight, answered the Damsel: it may be (that if you will grant me a thing that I will ask you) that I will carry you into a place whereas you shall see him. Hear I do grant it thee said the Queen: You shall understand, that in great hast he doth navigate by sea, said the Damsel, therefore I do desire thee (if thou wilt follow me) to put thyself in a bark with me which is here by. The Queen looking towards that part whereas the Damsel did show her, saw the Bark which was very fair and great. The Damsel lighted from her palfrey, and put herself in the bark, and said: Knight with the lilies, if thou wilt have that thou seekest, it behoveth thee to enter into this Bark with me, that I may carry thee whereas thou shalt lose on a sudden thy great mirth and gladness, thy heart remaining in so great captivity, that the best remedy that thou shalt conceive, shall be to desire the death. This fair lady had no regard to demand the secrets of those words, as she which made no reckoning of whatsoever should happen, neither did esteem it, but without any more words, she lighted from her horse, and leading him by the bridle, she put herself into the Bark, she was not so soon entered in, but as the piece of ordinance which by the force of kindling the powder, casteth out the pellet with great force: with no less fury the bark shoved from the shore side. The damsel when she saw herself at the Sea, she said: Gracious Lady, do you know me. The queen turned about to behold her, and beholding her well, she saw that it was the wise Lyrgandeo, at the which she found herself sore troubled, Lyrgandeo seeing that she did know him, said: Worthy Lady, fear you nothing in this journey, for by me thou shalt be carried whereas thy fame shall be exalted, till such time as the brave Lion doth rob thy heart, & thou remaining overcome, shalt overcome one of the best knights in all the world. And making an end of these reasons, he vanished away, she knew not how: And although the Queen remained somewhat pacified, with that which Lyrgandeo had said, yet for all that, she did not let to think and muse of his words, and that very much: so strait way came to her remembrance the furious battle of the Pagan, and likewise she considered of the fury of the knight of the Imperial head, and seeing that she could not overcome them, she remained very sorrowful, and lifting up her eyes unto heaven, with great ire she blasphemed against her Gods, and blamed much the wise Lyrgandeo for his negligence, but when she called to remembrance the words of Lyrgandeo, and what he had said, she altered her mind and changed her thoughts, and began a new to consider of the sharp cutting sword of the Mauritanian, which more entered into her heart, than the wild Boars tooth in the dainty body of the fair Adonis. In this manner this solitary Queen of Lyra did navigate four days, and was so pensive in thought, that she forgot and had no remembrance to refresh herself in eating, but the wise Lyrgandeo had always a great care that she should be served very daintily, not knowing who did serve her. So the fift day very early in the morning she discovered land towards her left hand, and the Bark in great haste and with very much swiftness made her way● thither, She went so fast, that almost she had no time to arm herself before that the Bark came unto the shore, where she might most at ease disembark herself, according unto the will of the wise man. So when they were at the shore, she took her horse by the bridle and went a land, and without putting her foot into the stiroppe, she leapt into the Saddle, and guided herself into a narrow way, all garnished with trees of diverse sorts, whereas the chirping Birds did make their accustomed songs without fear of any man to molest them. Amongst the which trees there did not lack the Sallowes, nourished by Alciades, nor the green Laurel, so much esteemed of glistering Apollo, nor the sweet Myrtle tree hallowed by Venus, nor the high Cypress, so much regarded of Cupid, nor the hard Oak, so much desired of Mars, nor the Pine apple tree, which jupiter doth cause to flourish. Of all the which this mighty Queen did feel and had great delight, judging it to be the habitation of the Gods, for that the Sun with his glistering beams did pass through those green and pleasant trees, without any let or hindrance of the heavens, by reason of their clearness, with a very soft●●nd pittering wind, shaking all those green leaves, which did make so sweet a noise that it seemed rather celestial then terrestrial, and a thousand little Brooks which ran upon the enameled ground, making sundry fine works and devices, by their crooked runings and turnings, and joining one water with another, with a very gentle meeting, not making any great noise. This fair Lady being ravished at the sight of this celestial habitation, had not any regard at all, whether that her horse went in the right way or not. And travailing in this sort she went forwards till she came into a meruaifous great and wide meadow, being of so great fairness, that I am not with my pen able to paint out the excellency thereof. Whereas was feeding both wild and tame Hearts, adorned with their great and cragged horns. Likewise the furious wild Boar, the simple Coneys, and the envious Bear, with the fierce Lion, altogether were feeding with so great friendship, as to the contrary by Nature they are enemies. The Lady was in such a dump to see and behold the great difference that was, and the great love between these wild and tame beasts which were there present, that she did not cast up her eyes to behold a very fair and sumptuous Palace which was in the midst of the meadow, and upon that sudden sight she fell in a musing and dump, as commonly the husband man doth when he goeth into the wild fields and cragged mountains, to seek his simple sheep which he hath lost, or as one finding himself in a royal city, all garnished with rich citizens, of exceeding good behaviour, stayeth at every door & corner of the streets, musing at their strange apparel, being different from that which he hath seen before in his own country: even so was this Queen overcome in her own conceit, and amazed in her imagination, to see so strange love, clean contrary unto nature.  
The wise Lyrgandeo doth write, for that he would not put the reader in admiration, he would not tell all which he might of this strange workmanship, but part thereof, which is requisite to this our history. Towards that part of the principal gate, and right before the palace there appeared twelve Pinnacles of so great and mighty height, that the pyramids of Egypt were very low in comparison to them, in such sort, that whosoever would look on them, was scant able with his sight to comprehend the height, and they were all made of different colours of stone: down below under the tower there was an arch, with a gate, which seemed to be of Diamond, and all was compassed about with a great moat, being of so great depth, that they thought it to reach to the midst of the earth, and it was almost two hundredth paces broad, and every gate had his drawn bridge, all made of boards very red, which seemed as though they had been all bathed in blood, and on the utter parts of all this, there was a pillar of jasper stone, at the which there hanged a horn, which seemed to be of a Diamond, all wrought full of precious stones of a strange work, the which was of great valour, and garnished with chains of gold that were made fast unto it, whereat hung a Parchment as white as the Snow, wherein was written certain Greek Letters which were all red, and reading of them she saw that the words were these.  
At such time as the great matron increasing with her excellency the fame of the Greek blood, with a furious sound, that blowing of this horn he shall be accepted with great contentment of the Egyptian (but with braiding and reviling at one time or other.) And giving hope of that which is certain, he shall come to enjoy of the future time to his perpetual fame.  
Lyrgandeo for to explain the mystery of this speech, put in every demand the exposition, declaring what it was, with the title in the Greek tongue, and for that the reader may the better understand it, he hath declared them in the vulgar tongue. So when the excellent Lady had read it, she stayed to behold the excellency of the workmanship of the horn, and the great riches thereof, and taking of it in her hand, she saw that round about it there were certain letters, which being read, she found to be thus: In sounding of me the gate shall be opened to thee. The which when she understood, without any more caring, she took that rich horn and set it unto her mouth, and began to sound it, the which sound was very thrill to be heard, she had scarce made an end of blowing, when that the gate was open. The Queen when she saw it open passed the draw bridge, and entered within the gate into the Palace, till she came unto a great open Court, which was compassed about with three rows of very fair rails, on the which there was leaning on their breasts many knights and Damosels marvelous richly appareled, who when they saw her within the court, with great hast they vanished away. And in the midst of the Court there was a very fair tree, whose boughs were spread all abroad, and it was of great riches, for that the boughs were, some of gold, and others of very fine silver, and enameled with great subtlety, and when she approached to it, the better to see the riches, she saw in the body thereof a table which was all of gold, wherein was engraved this that followeth.  
Unto that Knight, to whom is granted the entering into this sumptuous palace, if it be so that thou hast so much prowess as to break one of the branches of gold which is upon this tree, than hast thou made an end and fully concluded all that which thou seest here: but if thou cannest not obtain to break it, then laying hold upon that which is of Silver, and if by thy prowess thou dost break that, it shall be a token, that he which shall conclude this adventure is already borne: and if it be so, that thy source and strength is insufficient to do either of those, than thou shalt be thrown from it like a vile and naughty person.  
When she had read this engraved superscription, without any more tarrying, but even on horse back as she was, she drew nigh unto the golden boughs, and presently laid hold upon one of them, with so much strength that she bowed it down unto the body of the tree, but all her labour was in vain, for that they who should conclude this enterprise, aught to be a man and not a woman. And while she persevered in this her purpose, she heard a voice which said: Woe be unto me, wherefore do you in this manner so greatly torment me, let not the coveting of this bough overcome thee: let all this evil suffice thee which thou hast been the occasion of to me. For persuade thyself it shall not profit thee any thing. Behold I am Alpatrafio the unfortunate Emperor of Egypt, who for that I was murderer unto my own daughter, I do suffer here this torment. This worthy Queen did find great alteration in herself to hear so lamentable a voice, & letting go the branch out of her hands, she looked about to see who it should be that spoke those doleful words, but she could not obtain to the sight of any one: and for to prove and see if it would again speak, she took the branch once more in her hand, and pulled it with double fury and with so great strength, that almost she remained hanging by it as she was on horseback, wherein she got little honour, for that she did no more than at the first time. So she stayed to hear what the voice would say, which uttered this speech: O greedy Knight, why dost thou contend in such unsatiable covetousness, what dost thou think that this silver is not a sufficient treasure? Here I give thee to understand that thy malice shall not have so much strength for to achieve to the end of that which the body of the tree hath declared unto thee. Therefore get thee hence, and let me alone with this my sorrowful adventure, for that there be many more besides thyself which do torment me, and let this content thee, that by thy arm I am all bathed in blood. This valiant Queen who was attendant unto all that was spoken, she did perceive that the sound of the voice came forth of the body of the tree, and not being then certified who that should be which spoke, she asked, Who art thou, that in so monstrous a figure hast requested me to have compassion? Thou shalt understand, that by proving at thy branch, I well hoped to have made an end of this enchantment, but this branch of gold hath resisted me very much, therefore I will prove this other which is of silver, and without tarrying to hear her answer, she laid hold on the branch with so great fury, that she tore it off from the tree, the branch remaining in her hands: and out of the place from whence it was torn, there issued out a stream of blood, that all to be sprinkled the queens▪ armour, in such sort, that it never lost the colour, and when she had torn it away she heard the voice with a lamentable cry to say: O Knight, the cause of my great affliction: O merciless man, that without pity hast thus wounded me? What did move thee so cruelly to tear off these my sorrowful white hairs, leaving me all to be bathed in my red blood, make an end to kill me with thy cruel sword, for that by death I shall finish the suffering of these cruel torments which I pass here, and in so doing I will take thee for pitiful: O cruel Knight, make an end of this work which thou hast begun, and give me here the death. This disquieted Queen answered.  
I do not determine to do any such thing, but rather if thou deservest this torment, suffer it contentedly, till such time as thy adventure come to conclusion. And so without tarrying any longer to hear an answer, she went towards a door which stood wide open on the one side of the Court, and coming thither, immediately she saw that there was a pair of stairs, and the steps thereof went turning upwards like unto a Snail, and with the great de●ire that she had to know whether it went, she alighted forthwith from her horse, and went up the stairs, which brought her into a very great and large hall, whereas she did behold on both sides much people, who altogether made a great and sorrowful lamentation, and coming nigh unto them to see what was the occasion of their heaviness, she saw laid along upon a black Carpet two dead knights well proportioned and of great beauty, and going more nearer to see if she could know them, she knew strait one of them to be the Empress Claridiana, but the other she did not know, for that she had never seen him, but by the lamentable words which were spoken by an Emperor which was at the head of them, she understood that it should be the knight of the Sun, and he which made that great lamentation was the Emperor his Father, at the which she remained greatly amazed, and hearkening unto that which the Emperor said, she heard that he complained on Fortune, saying: Oh fortune that hath so persecuted me: Oh my son Alfebo, flower of all chivalry, is it possible that there was so much power and strength in the people of Africa that they have deprived thee of thy life, and given thy body to rest on the cold earth: With no less complaint this excellent Queen did celebrate that of the Emperor. And if at that present she had seen, that which afterward she did see, (as shall be told you in the third book of this history) much more she would have complained. Then she went unto the other side of the hall to know the occasion of that grievous complaint, she saw likewise that they mourned over other two knights, & plainly she did know one of them to be Rosicleer, but the other she did not know for that it was the king Sacridoro, whom she had never seen, for at such time as the queen came to Grecia, he was gone to his own kingdom to take his ease, and the chief of those which did lament & mourn over Rosicleer, she knew to be his mother the Empress of Grecia, who with deadly grief and anguish said: Oh my son, the cause of all this my bitter torment, thou my son art in continual rest, and hast left thy sorrowful mother in continual lamentation: Oh wounded heart, what sorrowful and bitter days shalt thou pass without any contentment: ah my Rosicleer, wherefore w●rt thou so cruel that thou wouldst not call me thy sorrowful mother, that in this trance she might have borne thee company. The valiant Queen felt no less sorrow and grief to see this second company, then at the sight of the first, but the lamentable and sorrowful words which the Empress uttered did move her to bear her company, if that at that time she had not seen come forth at a door which was in the hall, a Lady, seeming to be of great authority, accompanied with two fair Nymphs, all appareled in russet Satin, pinked & cut, and lined with green Satin, which colours were very pleasant, and greatly delighted the sight. And when she came nigh unto the queen she said: Knight, whosoever thou art, and dost show thyself to be so furious, why dost thou hearken and give ear unto this lamentation: tell me out of hand, without any farther delay who thou art, & wherefore thou comest hither, for that thou shalt understand that this place is prohibited to all knights, except he first bring with him some sign or token of the branch of the tree, whereas he who was murderer to his own daughter is enchanted: so that if it hath been thy fortune to achieve the cutting either of the branch of gold or silver, show it me forthwith, if not, understand that thou shalt die a terrible death. This worthy Queen who with a sober countenance gave▪ ear unto the sayings of the Lady, and beholding much her great sobriety: likewise the beauty of those which bore her company, held up the branch of silver in her hand, and with a high voice she said: Lady, I would not have been so bold to have approached hither, except I had brought with me the token which you speak off: therefore I ought not to incur the pain provided, behold is this it which you see, and therewith she showed her branch. The Lady when she knew that to be the branch of the tree that she spoke of, did abate her anger that she before had, and showed a merry countenance, and taking her right hand from the shoulder of the Nymph, she laid hold on the armed hand of the queen, and holding it very fast, she said: Excellent Lady, many days passed I was given to understand of thy great worthiness, and that thou shouldest give some contentment unto the afflicted hearts, wherefore come with me and I will show thee my habitation, for that unto thee the sight hath been granted, and not unto any other: come on Lady and rejoice the self in the sight of that which hereafter shall come to pass, without all doubt. And in saying these words she carried her in at the same door whereas she came forth in great haste, for that she did know the tenderness of her heart which was moved by the lamentation she heard, and there showed unto her great riches and very fair buildings, but especially she carried her into a very fair and four square Court, which had at every corner four pillars, and upon the top of either of them an Image, marvelously wrought, and every one of them had his title written what it did signify, and she told her that those which she had showed her, were kings and Princes, and famous Lords, that were there enchanted. And how that all that should be made frustrate by one of the best knights in all the world, who shall bring for his device blazed on his shield, a branch of gold, signifying the same which she saw in the first Court, in the which was enchanted the Emperor of Egypt. Likewise he shall deliver the daughter of the said Emperor, whom he supposeth he hath murdered, and she was the fairest damosel in the whole world. And for that in the end of the third book of this history shall be declared the rest, where you shall receive more contentment in the reading: Lyrgandeo will now go no farther herein. And telling unto her these and many other things, they went farther, and passed through very many and fair halls, the which were adorned with the stories of the notable acts of worthy knights, but in one hall, in the midst of a Cloth, she saw the Picture of a knight of a great stature, who was nine foot in height, and armed with Purple armour, and his shield of the same colour, without having any device, and his face was very fair. The Queen could not by any means, but by sight thereof stay a while and behold his great beauty, and felt within her heart a new and strange wrestling of love, which turned afterward into an amorous fire. This Lady did well perceive her new imaginations, and with a gracious smiling she took her by the hand, and carried her out of that Chamber, (although she could not bring her out of her new conceit) she went out so troubled, that all which the Lady showed her afterwards, she little respected, and when she thought lest she found herself out of the Palace, between the deep Moat, and the fair and rich walls, even as one that had been new awaked out of his sleep, and turning herself unto the Lady, dissembling her new pain she said. Lady, I do not desire here to have gotten more honour, then in that I have obtained the knowledge and secret of so notable a thing as this which you have discovered unto me, and more to have achieved the desert of this branch, so that by you it be granted that I may carry it with me. So the Lady took the silver branch in her hand, and made it very small, to the bigness of a suanne in length, and put it upon her helm, and made it so fast and firm, as though it had been wrought in by force of workmanship, and made it to extend the silver leaves on the one side and on the other with great subtlety, that it was a thing to be wondered at. And when she had done this, she said.  
Worthy and fair Lady, the branch is yours, for that you have won it, and in token of thy desert thou dost carry it upon thy helm, where it shall remain till such time as by the hands of a fierce Lion it shall be thrown down, leaving his heart wounded, and he remaining unto thee submitted. And for to do● thee pleasure Lady, here I do present thee these two Nymphs for to be at thy commandment, And so taking her by the hand, without any more communication she brought her over the bridge to the other side of the Moat, they were not so soon over when this Lady did vanish away like the wind, and the Bridge was drawn up, and she heard within the palace a celestial music, and looking that way whereas she founded the horn, and towards that gate wherein she had entered, she saw upon the pillar that was there a Nymph of gold, which seemed to be very subtly wrought. And presently without any more tarrying she leapt upon her horse, which was brought thither for her, likewise the two Nymphs upon two white Palfrays, which was likewise brought for them, and so they took their way towards the sea, without any remembrance of all that which she had seen, neither did she think of it, till such time as she did see the perfect figure of that Knight, which she saw in the hall, as shall be told you hereafter. So in great haste this queen and her Nymphs travailed till they were all embarked in their Bark, whereas they found in the one part thereof very rich roads. The making and fashion of them, and all the rest that happened shall be told you, when time serveth: and let us now return unto the rest●●ng of the kingdom of Lira, which cost the Prince Brandimardo full dear.   

¶ How the famous Rosicle●● and Brandimardo went to the kingdom of ●ara, and of all that had passed in the battle they had with the Giants. Cap. 29.  
YOu do well remember, how that the worthy Rosicleer, and that gallant and new Lover Brandimardo, travailed by sea, towards the kingdom of Lira, to make battle with the Giants, that had usurped the kingdom. The time & wind was so prosperous unto them, that in a short space they arrived, & took land in the haven of the great city of Lira, without any contradiction. And when they were a land, they determined to send a Page to demand safeconduct of the Giants, giving them to understand of their coming. This gallant lover would needs be the messenger, and therewith mounting upon a very fair horse, he entered into the City, and stayed not till he came unto the Palace of the Giants, but went ask where there abiding was. And straight way they were given to understand thereof by a Knight, which said, that there was a strange knight which did demand after them, & coming before them, without showing any humility or stooping down his head, he said▪ Giants, there are two knights come into the haven of Lira, to defend the right of the Queen Archisilora, and they do send unto you to ask safeconduct, for that they may not be disturbed by any person in these kingdoms but only yourselves, who do pretend by might to make you to acknowledge your evil and naughtiness. Then Mandroco, who had less patience than the other, said. I do not know wherefore these unfortunate knights will occupy themselves in proffering to defend that, which many other would have done, and yet were never able. Go thy ways, and tell them that they make no tarrying to come and receive their death. Brandimatdo, who well beheld their fierce disposition, saw that it was no time to spend words in waist, but to put in practise the execution of that, which they came for, and without any replying unto their words, he returned unto the place whereas he left the Prince, unto whom he declared all that had past. So without any more a do Rosicler leapt upon his mighty horse, and they lace● and made fast their helms, and hanged their shields about their necks, and took each of them a great spear in their hands, and put themselves into the City, and rested not till they came into the broad place, which was right against the Palace. Their coming thither was at such time as Bulfar and Mandroco came forth of the Palace, all ready and prepared for the battle, and brought in their company a great number of Knights. At that time the place was very full of people, who desired secretly in their hearts, that the strange Knights might win the victory, that they might be clear and at liberty from that great subjection, in the which the Giants held them: the which they thought to be almost impossible, considering the great worthiness and strength that was in the giants. And when they were altogether in the place, Mandroco with a mild voice said: Miserable knights, at such time as you offered your people unto the queen Archisilora, with whom did you think to have battle, that you gave credit, supposing yourselves to have sufficient force to execute your wills. Wherefore if you do now think yourselves deceived, we shall be here content to set you at liberty of your former promise, with condition that you shall go and tell her, that she ought to send Knghts of great prowess and strength, and not such as you are. Then Rosicler said, Thou art very much deceived Giant, in that thou sayst, for we did very well know with whom we should have battle, and were fully informed thereof, and purpose to take the head from thy body, in satisfaction of these treasons which thou dost use. The anger and ire of the Giant was such, that without any more tarrying, with great fury he turned about his horse, and his father did the like, the two Knights also did the same. And when they were right the one against the other, at the sound of sundry instruments of wars, they ran the one against the other, in such sort, that not one of them miss his blow, but made the shivers of the spears to fly in very small pieces in the air, without receiving any grief. So they altogether returned with their swords in their hands. Rosicler encountered with Bulfar, for that he found him next at hand, and pressing unto him, he struck at him very great and heavy blows, and the Giant rendered him the like. With no less fury pressed Brandimardo against his enemy, making a very furious & well fought battle. At this time, the fierce Bulfar seeing the great resistance of his adversary, threw his shield at his back, and his son Mandroco did the like, & both together they struck such blows at the knights, that without feeling it caused the horse of Rosicleer to give a turn in the place, and the like happened unto Brandimardo▪ Here his unhappy fortune would, that his horse should carry him thither, whereas Bulfar was, who assailed him at his ease on that one side, and stroke at him with both his hands such an unmerciful blow, that lighting upon his helm, which was near hand as hard as a Diamond he cut it jointly with his head, and being very sore hurt this unhappy Knight fell down to the ground, at such time as the Prince was settling himself upon his horse, & seeing Brandimardo down, & so much blood running from his head, he did verily believe that he was dead. Wherewith his rage was so much, that the fire came forth at his visor, and setting spurs to his mighty horse, he made him to move like the wind, and said with a loud voice.  
O vile beasts, that so villainously have slain him, who is more worth then both of you. Here I do swear unto you by the living God to force my power in such sort, that only which two blows I will send you unto hell, which is your habitation, & therewith he came unto Mandroco, who likewise came towards him, & struck him such a blow upon the helm, that the strength thereof little profited him, for by the fury of his arm he parted it in two pieces together with the head, so that the Giant fell down dead to the ground, & by reason of his great weight, the fall seemed almost to shake the earth. The Giant Bulfar when he saw his son dead, with so desperate a blow, roaring out against his Gods, he lift by his sword to strike the Prince: but he, who had as much policy as prows, spurred his horse a little forwards, & with a furious leap he cleared himself from that blow, and finding himself on the left side of Bulfar, he threw at him so terrible a foin, that his harness deceived him, and his sword entered into his body up to the hilts, and at the pulling of his sword out, he drew out therewith his infernal soul, and he fell down dead to the ground. Then when the people saw the good success that their desires had, they began to cry out with mighty voices, saying: Liberty, Liberty, and ran unto the Prince, some kissing his hands, some his skirts of Mail, and some his feet, in such sort they pressed on him that he could scantly stir himself, but by reason of the great grief and sorrow which he had for his friend Brandimardo, who could not receive any pleasure at all in this high and mighty victory: and without any care thereof, he alighted from his horse, and went unto him, and took off his helm, and living up his head upon his knees, he called for a linen cloth, the which was straight ways given him, wherewith he wiped and made clean his face which was of a wan colour.  
Then this weak knight somewhat lifting up his eyes, and seeing himself in the arms of Rosicleer, and understanding that the battle was finished, to the honour of his Lady and mistress, with a feeble & fainting voice he said: Ah my Lord, and perfect friend, here may you see how contrary fortune hath been unto me, in that she would not consent that I should rejoice in the triumph of this victory: it doth not grieve me to die, for that it is in defending the right of her whom I best loved. There is nothing that doth grieve me so much, as that I cannot obtain the reward I looked for. Here I do desire thee my Lord, that by you she may understand of all this my pain: and do my hearty commendations unto that my great desired Archi. Here he could not make an end to speak her name, but yielded up the Ghost, his unfortunate body remaining in the arms of the Prince, and with great weeping he turned unto the people that were there, and said. O you knights and Gentlemen of Lyra, how dearly is this your liberty bought, for in the recovery thereof was slain the best knight in all Asia. Then he seeing that there was no remedy for the harm that was done, he commanded that he should be carried unto the palace, and by the agreement of all the nobles he was buried in that place whereas the kings of Lyra were accustomed to be buried. So when Rosicler had seen the funeral of his friend, he would stay no longer in that kingdom, but by the consent of all that were present, he left the government in the power of a worthy knight and noble gentleman of the realm, and took his oath that strait way they should surrender it to their queen & Lady. And therewith he departed out of the City, & when he came unto the water side, and would have entered into the ship in the which he came, he saw nigh unto it the barks wherein he was wont to travail, and considering that it should not be there without occasion, without any more deliberation he entered into the same, who strait way began to move herself with her accustomed fury, and so without tarrying in any place, he travailed six days & six nights, in the end of that which the Bark brought herself a ground into a fair wide and sandy Bay, whereas he saw upon the shore many knights which made battle against one alone knight. The Prince seeing all that passed, with great anger he went out of the Bark to help him, who with great courage and policy did defend himself, whereas now we will leave them, and return unto Grecia for to make an end of our first part. You do well remember how that the knight with the Imperial head, when he saw himself clear of that blow which the Queen of Lyra gave him, put himself into the forest, even unto the t●ickest of it, and did not determine to go to the Court at Constantinople, about a certain demand which he came to make, till such time as all the knights and the rest of the people were in quiet. When he thought that it was time, he went unto the Court and asked for the emperors palace, when he came thither, he alighted from his horse and went up into the great hall whereas the Emperor was, with all them of his Court, exercising courtly pastimes and pleasures, and without making any reverence he went unto the place whereas the Emperor was, and he said: Good and noble Emperor of Grecia, this speak I for a truth (according unto that which I have heard reported of thee) that thou art one of those Princes that doth maintain all justice and equity. The subjects and vassals do not alone make this report, but all the world is full of it. And (as I understand) although it be even against thy own person, yet thou wilt not let to do that which is right, justice being demanded of thee, wherefore I doubt not but unto me shall be granted licence here in thy Country to put a demand unto whom it shall think me best, certifying thee that it shall be a just thing. The Emperor who knew him by the device that he had on his shield, that it was he which made the battle with the Queen of Lyra, with a sober countenance he said: Knight, although my fame be not such as you have here published, yet demanding any of this with equity (as you do certify me you will) I cannot but grant it unto thee. And therefore here I do give thee licence that thou mayst propone all that thy pleasure is, although it be against myself. The Knight who was very attendant to all that the Emperor said, and saw that licence was granted him to ask at his pleasure, he said. O mighty Prince I would to God that my demand were not that which it is, that without it I might enjoy and comfort myself in being in your company, and the more that I do certify myself of thy virtue, I do find myself the more troubled, marveling, how that in so noble a person, should remain so great naughtiness, as that which thou didst use with the Queen of Tinacria, who comforting & refreshing thee, when thou arrivedst there in great poverty and distress, in the end, thou didst leave her very sorrowful and made a mock of her. Look well unto it Emperor, for that thou canst not make satisfaction for so great a fault, neither will she take any of thee, except it be with sending thy head, I will not that thou makest any amends, but that for her, I do defy thee to mortal battle, only thy person and mine together, that I may fulfil the promise that I have made unto her: and if it so fall out that Fortune be to me contrary, I will remain for the payment of my fully, with my head out from my shoulders. And with this he held his peace: and looking on the one side and on the other, very joyful to see so goodly a company of Knights as was at the time with the Emperor, he expected his answer. The Emperor who well understood his reasons, without showing any alteration in his countenance, answered. I do not know whether my answer shall be sufficient for to excuse the fault, which the Queen without all reason doth burden me with. For the which, valiant Knight, I would, as the Queen hath told you the little reason that I had, so she should have told you the great reason I had to do that which I did. Here I do certify thee that my thought doth not deserve, that she should be unto me so cruel, nor extend so far, for to desire my death. And certainly in this, the Queen hath no reason, for that the head of Trebatio, may do her more service living, than it can do being dead: but seeing it is her will. Here I do tell thee, that so long as I do live, I will practise no other thing but only to pacify her, and so likewise will I procure to keep and defend my head, and not only mine own, but also the heads of those which at her commandment do come, thinking to take away mine: & in this she shall understand how much I am desirous to serve her. The battle here I do grant it unto thee, and if thou wilt, let it be out of hand, and here I do promise thee Knight to procure to ke●pe my head, and likewise to keep thine. Oh how the Moor found himself troubled, when he heard the emperors answer, and the little reckoning that he made of the battle, and somewhat touched in pride, he replied and said. I know well Emperor, that the great confidence which thou hast in thyself, maketh thee to esteem little of the King of the Garamantes whom thou hast in thy presence: but I do hope and trust in Mahomet, that before one hour when we are in the field, to make thee to lose thy confidence. And in saying these words, he went down out of the Palace, and leapt up upon his horse, and went into the field, which was right against the Palace, ordained for such like occasions. The Emperor demanded for his armour, and called for that with the stars, the same which the Queen Garrofilea gave him. So in a trice he was armed, not without many tears of the Empress, who said. Ah my Lord I do well understand, that of so long absence, there can grow nothing but great troubles, as doth appear by this sudden battle. The Emperor not letting her to go forwards with her talk, but casting both his arms about her neck, and with show of great love, he said. Thou my Lady and Empress wert the occasion of all that evil, for if it had not been only for the loss of thy sight, I vow that thy Emperor would first have died the death, than merited the name to be disloyal. And that in not fulfilling her intent, there should not only have happened one evil, but a great number. So it was God's will that I should escape out of the battle, as more at large I will tell you, having more leisure. And in this manner he departed from the Empress, leaving her very sad and sorrowful. And the Emperor went to take his horse, carrying with him the king of Lacedemonia, who carried his helm, and the Prince Claveryndo who carried his shield, & his spear the Prince of Hungaria carried. And when they went forth of the gates of the Palace, they began to sound a great number of instruments, which endured till such time as they were entered into the field, whereas he put on his helm, and the rest of his armour given him which those Princes did carry. So with a gallant demeanour he put himself on the one part of the field, awaiting a token or sign that should be given them. So it was not long after that the Prince Bargandel did sound a Clarion the which he had in his hand, at the sound whereof they ran one against another with great fury, and in the midst of their course they gave such encounters with their Spears, not missing of their blows, but it was with so great force that they broke all to small p●eces, and without doing any harm the one unto the other they passed along, and strait ways turned their horses about with their swords in their hands. The Moor when he saw that the Emperor remained in his saddle, he was ashamed, for that he did believe that only with one blow with his Spear to make an end of all that work, his force and strength was such: And as you do see a fierce Ly●n constraine● by hunger to go out of her cave, and followeth her pray with great desire to fill her paunch, even so and rather with more fury went this Pagan, & casting his shield at his back, he gripped his sword in both his hands, raising himself in his stirrups, he str●ke such a blow that whether he would or not, he made the Emperor to fall down upon his horse neck▪ and was so without remembrance that he made his sword fall out of his hands and hang by the chain, and his arms hung so lose as though he had been dead, and his horse was so afraid that a while he went about the field. The Moor had well thought that the Emperor had been dead, and stood still and said. Well, I do believe Emperor that thy promise shall be in vain, and mine shall fall out true. At that time the Pagan spoke the truth, for that the emperors promise did not fall out true: so strait way he came again to himself, and saw that he was so ill int●●ated with one blow alone, he turned and recovered his sword with great ire and wrath, he threw his shield at his back, & foamed at the viso of his helm with very wrath that he had, even as an a-row driven out of a ●ow by the hands of a Sirian, so he pressed himself unto the More & said: Tarry thou devilish Pagan, tarry, for here I do promise thee that by one blow alone I will take away thy life, for that thou with one blow didst deprive me of my understanding. And thus my rude pen waxing weary, and very desirous to take his ease, as also my hand being governed by that Nymph Calliope, causeth me to make an end of this first part, for that in the second part having refreshed myself and gotten new courage, I may go tearing of the skies and the troublesome waves, not resting till I come into those concavits, where as Vulcan doth command the Cyclopes hammers for to give a new advise unto this workman which never will be weary, and that he be in a readiness jointly with fierce Mars, to assist me to declare the new deeds and acts of knighthood, contained in the second book of this part.   
The end of the first book of the second part of the Mirror of Knighthood.   

The second Book of the second part of the Mirror of Knighthood.  

Of the Prince Claridiano, & how the king of Arginaria sent his brother to the king of Taprobana, and of all that happened to the messenger with the Prince. Chap. 1.  
AT that time as the warlike Moor, in the supremacy of his triumph and power, had blazed his famous feats of wars, most worthy of memory▪ and causing that active Vulcan (only for his contentment) should double the Smithly rumour of his forge, for to animate his artificers with his rough and hasty callings, that they might with more fury move and strike those restless hammers, upon the laboured and well beaten Anfield. At that time did the mighty & prudent Pallas spread abroad her streamers (with a peaceable blast, helped by the fresh Favonio or west wind) over the great and renowned Island of Trapobana, the heroical son of that renowned Alfebo, or knight of the Sun, nephew unto the magnanimous Emperor Trebatio, being in the same (as it was told you in the first part of this history) who was nourished and brought up under the power of the king Delfo, excelling in all beauty and fairness, so much as ever nature bestowed on any human creature, there lacked nothing in him but only the knowledge of jesus Christ, for in that he was brought up amongst Pagans he knew him not. He was so endued with virtue and mightiness of courage, that the wise Lyrgandeo thought it best to hold his peace and to be in quiet, referring himself unto his works, as in the process hereof you shall understand, therefore he will say little at this time, but only he was one that God had endued with many graces and good gifts, that the Pagans did account him to be one of their Gods. The king Delfo did make so much of him, that he would not at any time let him depart one minute from him. He brought him up with great majesty until he came to fourteen years of age, and at that time whosoever had looked on him, would have judged him to have been of more years (according unto the high stature of his body,) for there was no knight, although he had been a giant, that could be equal with him, not only in his height, but also he was so well set and knit, & double membered, conformable. At which time this great Giant usurper of the great Arginaria (when he saw himself so mighty a Lord) his pride so much increased, that he was not consent with that Island which with so great peace & quietness he did possess, but co●e●●●snesse increased so much in him, that he likewise would be Lord & ruler over other kings & Princes, whose countries were adjacent, wherefore he determined 〈◊〉 take into his power the Island of Trapobana, & had no sooner thought thereon, when strait ways he would put his desire in practice, taking for his quarrel that he had denied their tribute which they were wont to pay him, and so without any more counsel he commanded to call unto him a brother of his, a mighty giant (although nothing so strong as he himself,) and when he came before him, with a proud and terrible voice, and with a great majesty he said: Bruno, take unto thee two galleys, & let them be marvelously well furnished, & go thou by force of wind, smiting the sails, & likewise by good government that they may make the better diligence for thy navegation, being helped with those knotty oars, to cut by force those deep waters, not taking any rest, till such time as thou art a land at Trapobana, or wheresoever the king Delfo is, unto whom without any humility thou shalt say from me: That seeing his hardiness hath been such, to deny me that which the Gods (if they did reign or dwell on the earth) were bound ●o give me, if he do not now send it me with a new confirmation of his subjection, that by the omnipotent jupiter I do swear, to give him such correction, that when it is heard throughout the world, they shall all tremble & shake. This Pagan and youthful giant without any more tarrying prepared for this his departure. Of all this that had passed was Galtenor advertised by his learning, & having well understood the whole secret, it moved him in great haste to cause a cloud to descend out of the air, into the which he did put himself, wherein he was carried in very short time to the City of Trapobana, and without giving knowledge to any person he went up into the king's Palace, whereas he found the king and the Prince walking up and down in the hall, talking of matters of pleasure, who with the good entering of Galtenor had their joy and delight doubled. The king showing great mirth and pleasure, did ask him, saying: What is the occasion of this your coming, my good friend, unthought or unlooked for, it cannot be without some new and strange thing. In the mean time whilst the King was speaking these and such like words, Galtenor had the Prince in his arms, who received such joy to see his great beauty, fair body, and good disposition, that ●ee was blinded therewith, and having the Prince Claridiano in his arms, he forgot himself that he was before the king, and the king seeing him in that trance, procured to take him out of his arms, than he like a man awaking out of a slumber, returned unto the king and said. Most mighty Lord, the great contentment that I do receive at the sight of this young man, hath caused me to forget to be in thy presence, and I did occupy my senses in such sort, that I could not do that which I am bound by duty to do. O king thou mayst account thyself for happy, for that thou hast obtained so much favour, as to bring up so gentle a youth, worthy to be had in as much reverence as the mighty jupiter, and turning unto the king he said: There cometh a messenger from Arginaria, with a message nothing profitable, therefore good king, it doth stand you in hand for to make in a readiness all your power, and to suffer the furious war that is ordained against you. Hear my Lord, I do certify thee, that it had been the more to have been feared, if thou hadst found thyself without this young man in thy company, who is the flower of all men. The king when he heard these news could not but receive some alteration, and it was in such sort, that he was constrained to sit down to talk with Galtenor, and said: I swear by God my friend, seeing it is so, let your discretion remedy that, which mine is not able to comprehend, that we fall not into the power of so cruel an enemy. Claridiano who was very attentive unto that which Galtenor had told unto the king, and likewise unto the answer which the king made, kneeled down on both his knees, and with great humility he desired the king to grant him two things, the which he would ask, the which the king by the counsel of Galtenor did grant, and did lift him up from the ground embracing him very lovingly. The Prince Claridiano s●eing that he had granted it him, he said. My Lord, the first thing that you shall do for me, is, that you give unto me forthwith the order of knighthood. and the second is, that you do give me licence to answer the messenger of Arginaria. It grieved the King very much, for that he had granted him these two things, for that he did well understand his intent: but seeing that he could do no otherwise, he was content. Great pleasure received Galtenor, to see with what good grace, Claridiano did ask these two things of the king, and for to put away part of that discontentment which they should receive at the messengers hand, he told unto them some pleasant and joyful devices. So strait way it was accorded, that Claridiano should that night watch his armour, the which was given him by Galtenor. They were all white, and bespangled with twinkling stars of gold, and his shield was also all white, and in it one only Luzero, which did occupy all the whole shield, all garnished with fine pearls, that it made them that did look on it, almost to lose their sight, the brightness was so great that proceeded from them, and they were such, that no Lord in all the world had the like. When this famous youth was armed with them, the delight was so much, that the king Delfo received to see him so well set and so gallant, that he could not refrain but distill some salt tears from his eyes for very joy, and said. My brother here I do desire the sovereign Gods, that they make me so joyful with thy good fortune, as I am now at thy sight. The prince did watch his armour that night, and the next day with great solemnity, he was armed Knight, and gave that day many and great gifts. In the afternoon was ordained great justings and dances of all sorts, of very fair Ladies and damosels, which the King had commanded to come together for the same effect. But they who did most participate of all these pleasures and pastimes, was the heroical young man, and his nurse, whom he took to be his mother. So that in the King's Palace, there was no other thing but feasts and pastimes, tarrying for the Ambassador that should come: and they of the City had care in the fortifying of the same, as well with victuals, as repairing the walls, and putting all the people in good order, in such sort, that within eight days they found within the City ten thousand Knights, marvelously well appointed, at the which Claridiano did receive great contentment. The ninth day after that he was made knight, there was brought news how that the messenger of Arginaria was come a land: of the which the king being advertised, he sat himself in his royal seat abiding his coming, being accompanied with very rich and well esteemed knights, and on his right hand was Claridiano, and on his left hand the banished King of Arginaria, and being all in this manner as hath been told you, the Ambassador Bruno entered into the hall, with a furious countenance, and without humbling or making any kind of reverence, he drew nigh unto the king, and with a wrathful voice he said: King, what devil was that which put it in thy head, to deny that tribute that thou wert wont to give unto my mighty brother, and thou dost not only deny it, but I see that thou makest thyself in a readiness to make resistance, for the which here I do tell thee, that there is no punishment that can make satisfaction of thy boldness and folly, notwithstanding if thou wilt clear thyself better than thy overmuch pride doth deserve, give me strait way double tribute, of that which thou art bound to pay, but if thou dost it not, by the mighty Gods I swear to thee, that he will take of thee and thine revengement, with such rigour, that the mighty Gods shall tremble when they see it. All this he spoke with so great pride and wrath, that it made them all to quake to see his furious demeanour, save only he to whom all the honour of Knighthood belonged, who did little esteem his unreasonable and proud words, but with great sobriety he answered. They do not deny any thing which they ought for to give unto this tyrant whom thou dost name for thy Brother, and although he did lose the Island that he doth now possess, yet should he lose nothing that hath been his, for that with tyranny he hath usurped the same. Therefore without any more tarrying, get thee hence and tell thy brother, that the king of Trapobana will not only detain from him the tribute which he doth not nor never did owe him, but also with armed arm he doth pretend to recover again all that which without reason he hath received & carried away, and he doth give him to understand, that he will not rest till such time as he doth thrust him out of the Island, which with so great tyranny he doth possess, & from which he deprived my father Galtenor. So with this answer thou mayst return unto him who sent thee hither, without any hope of other. The giant stood & did behold him very much, & with a fearful countenance his eyes turned into a sanguine colour, & laughing or smiling in manner of mocking, he said: I see without any outward proof, but only by thy foolish words, that thou art but a young and new made knight, & as such a one I will esteem & entreat thee: & if my coming hither were not more for a messenger, then for a warrior, for this thy boldness which thou dost show, I would use thee in such sort, that thy answer should little avail thee, & yet I should remain satisfied of all the anger which thou hast caused me to have. The prince Claridiano when he heard that with so great disdain he was raviled, with as much anger he went towards him, and with an altered voice he said: By all the Gods that are in heaven I swear unto thee, if I did not consider & respect the courtesy which is due and aught to be showed to Ambassadors, I would bereave thee of this thy bravery, in such sort, that when thou art before such a king as now thou art, thou shouldest bridle thy tongue, & ever after have in remembrance the punishment that I would give thee, but not respecting thy folly, but only my estate, I will stay myself from correcting of this thy overmuch pride. The wrath of this Giant was so much, when he heard himself so reviled, that he could not by any means refrain himself, but laid hand on his sword, and went towards the Prince Claridiano, and threatened him with a very mighty and strong blow, striking at his head. The prince when he saw the blow coming, retired with a light leap, which was the occasion that he failed of his blow, & by re●son of the great strength wherewith it was stroke, the sword fell out of his hands, and flew along the floor of the great hall, the Prince without drawing his sword, with a trice joined with him, entering in at his left side, & with his fist he struck him so strong and mighty a blow upon the mouth that if his hand had been armed, it had been the last which the Giant should have received, yet for all that it did so much harm that his teeth fell out, leaving his mouth all bloody, & with the great strength of the blow it made him to fall backwards on his back, and with the great pain which he felt, he scantly knew where he was. The Prince when he saw this, stayed without doing any more harm, for that he would not disgrace the king, but put himself on the one side: the king did show himself very much grieved for that he was an Ambassador, for if it had not been done by him which did it, who so ever else should have done it, would hardly have escaped without punishment. And for to appease the messenger he arose out of his seat and did help to take up the Giant, & looking toward Claridiano, he said: Brother, I would that this thing had not chanced by thy hands, for that all this harm which you have done unto Bruno, is done unto me & not unto him. Then this valiant Prince said: Hold your peace my Lord, for those uncourteous messengers, & such as do digress & go from that which they are commanded, should not alonely be entreated in this sort, but also lose their lives, and have their tongues cut out. Bruno did complain him very much of the grief, & seeing himself without teeth and so dishonoured, he blasphemed against his Gods, but this invincible Greek made little account of any such thing, but turned himself toward Bruno & said: Now mayst thou return in the devils name, & tell thy brother the Prince of pride, that he doth command to plaster and cure thy teeth, for that from hence thou goest well cured of thy great folly. Also thou shalt tell him of my part, that as I have hurt thee with the strength of my fist, so I will use him with the sharp edge of my sword, governed with the self same arm that unto thee hath done this damage. And I do here hope in such sort to search that proud body of his, that all the world may take an ensample by him and his pride. Bruno who was at the point of death with the great pain he felt, understood all that was spoken, and without making any answer, he went out of the king's Palace, and returned unto his Galleys where he was cured, and put his Sails into the power of the wind, and in a very short time he arrived at Arginaria, and went a shore, carrying all his face wrapped and bound with bonds and rolls of linen cloth, and his mouth all to be plastered. In this sort he went and presented himself before his brother, and said: I have given thy Embassage unto king Delfo, as thou hast commanded me, and to give me answer there arose up a new and young knight, whom I do believe and as I have proved the same, that he hath in his body all the infernal strength, and in his fists all the legions of devils that are in hell, as it did appear by the great fury wherewith he hurt me, that he did not only strike out my teeth, but also threw me to the ground as though I had been a child. This proud Giant the king of Arginaria, when he heard all that his brother had said, with a terrible blaring & noise (that he made all the Palace to shake) said: O vile coward, and is it possible that with fists like a vile villain he made thee to fall, in such sort, that thou didst kiss the ground with thy mouth. Bruno answered: Brother, I do swear unto thee by the high jupiter, that if thou hadst proved as I have done the strength of his ●istes, thou wouldst not revile me in this sort. And here I do give thee to understand, that he said, and bade me in his part to tell thee, that if from me he hath taken away my fore teeth, that he will not only take away thine, but also thy double teeth and thy life. But when this Arginarian king heard this, he arose up and went from him with so much wrath and anger, that he seemed rather a Devil then a man: and without taking any farther counsel, he commanded to assemble all his people together, and that they should be called with all the speed that possible might be, and when they were come all together, he found that there were two thousand horse men, and six thousand foot men, & made Captain general over them two Giants & brothers, that were Lords of one Island, joining unto his Island, called Bisperia. And he commanded them to embark themselves with great fury, and when they were all embarked, he commanded to hoist up anchor, and to commit their sails unto the wind, that which they found prosperous, and brought them unto the Island of Trapobana, and without any impediment or disturbance of them of the Island, they went a land, and raised up their tents, and pitched their camp. This fierce king being mounted upon an Elephant, went with great care and perused all his people, and put them in very good order: so all was apparent and known unto them of the City. The King of Trapobana feared much his fierce and cruel adversary, and so likewise did many of them that were in the City: but yet that courageous youth did fear him nothing at all, nor esteemed him any thing, but rather did desire the hour to see himself in battle with him, for to make satisfaction with his deeds & works, of that which he was in debt unto his Lord. At such time as the camp was pitched, and all in good order, the radiaunt Phoebus had made an end of his journey, leaving in his absence the sad and dark night. So when time cam● that he began a new to take his accustomed course, and to show his shining face, dispersing his glittering beams over all the Island, the king of Arginaria called unto him a trumpeter, and with a furious voice he said. Go thy ways unto the City, and in such sort as thou thinkest best salute the king Delfo, and tell him on my behalf, that without any tarrying or taking farther counsel, he send me him, who did entreat my brother Bruno so evil: and if not, I swear unto him by the high jupiter, that I will do so much that his body shall be made meat unto dogs. The trumpeter when he had well understood his message, taking liberty of the accustomed pride of his Lord, went with great arrogancy unto the City. The Scouts when they saw him, let enter into the Cite, and they carried him before the King, before whom when he came, without showing any kind of humility he said. The Gods confound thy person & state, and break down thy great pride & power: that dreadful king of Arginaria my Lord, doth send me unto thee, that when thou hast heard my embassage, forth with thou send unto him that uncourteous knight and of small valour, who with his proud hand, struck out the teeth of his well-beloved brother Bruno, and thou must send him prisoner and bound before his royal presence, that he may give him the punishment, that his great boldness doth deserve. When this valiant Claridiano heard the proud words that the Ambassador brought, and with what arrogancy he delivered them, he was altogether without patience, and having no power to refrain his wrath, he went unto him and said. Here I do promise thee goodman brablor, to give thee answer according as thou dost bring the embassage, and it is great reason that we make thy body to fly at large, as thou dost cause thy tongue to run at liberty, and procure out of hand that thou mayst the better leap, to call unto Mercury for to sustain thee, & without any more saying, he took him by the choler, & with out any power to make resistance, he threw him out of a window, letting him fall upon the pavement, before the palace gate, that he broke all in pieces, and this being done, without speaking any more word, he went unto his chamber, and armed him with his armour, with the help of Galtenor his father, for so he always esteemed him: but his wrath and anger was such, that neither his father nor the King durst speak a word unto him, all the time he was arming. And when he was armed, he turned his face unto the king, and said. Worthy king and my Lord, have a good confidence in the Gods, and in thy justice and right, that I shall be he, that shall take away from before thee, this proud enemy of thine. And without any more tarrying he demanded for a borne, so strait way, there was one given him of ivory very rich, the which he cast about his neck, and descended the stairs out of the Palace, where he found a very fair & great horse marvelous well furnished, & lightly he leapt on his back, & with a reasonable pace he road his way towards that camp of his enemy. Galtenor & the good king of Trapobana followed him, being armed with very rich armour, and commanded that all the people should be in a readiness. So they put themselves in a place, whereas they might well see, all that Claridiano did.   

¶ How that Claridiano went unto the camp of the King of Arginaria, and how he demanded of him battle, and of all that succeeded in the same. Chap. 2.  
AS many times the hungry Lion doth compass and search the folds roaring with ravenish hunger, and finding the strayed Goad or Hart, discovering them from far by their horns, and with a sovereign joy doth sift up his neck, & never rest until such time, as he be musting in their blood, with great desire to satisfy his pining hunger: even so with like desire went out of Trapobana the Prince Claridiano, till he came in sight of his adversaries, and carried his viso up, and putting himself in place whereas he might be heard of his enemies, he blew his horn, to give a token that they should hearken unto that which he would speak unto them, and then with a loud voice he said. O ●ruell and tyrannous King, what dost thou think by threatenings to show thy fury, come forth, and take to thee thy armour, for here doth tarry and abide thy coming, he that struck out the tooth of thy brother Bruno, & he that not long since did teach thy Ambassador to speak, whom thou sentest this day with thy proud message. The dog Cerberus when he was made fast with Alcides' leash, did not show himself so furious, as did, this terrible Giant at that present, and rising up from the place whereas he was set, he turned unto the Image of jupiter, unto whom he had done great sacrifices, & stretching forth his rigorous arm, he took it from the place whereas it was set, and threw it out of the door of the tent, in such sort that he made it to fly into the air, more than ten fathom, with which it fell into the sea, and he said. Get thee thither thou God of little valour that being honoured of so valiant a man as I am, thou wilt consent that so vile a man (after that he hath angered me so much) should put himself with so great pride before my presence. And not content with this, but with the same fury he took a great club, and what on the right side, and what on the left, he threw down all the Images of his Gods that were there, and broke them all to pieces. One of the ministers that always did assist them in their sacrifices, said with a bold courage. Wherefore do you so evil entreat and misuse your Gods. The Giant struck him such a blow on the forehead with his fist, that he broke it all to pieces and threw him dead to the ground & said. Get thee hence, and go and make relation unto jupiter, and unto the rest of the Gods, of this great reprehension that thou hast done me. And looking about, he saw all the rest of the ministers half amazed, without speaking any word, unto whom he went with great haste, and said unto them. Vile villains, what do you tarry here, why do you not go after the figure of that God, whom you do worship and honour, and laying on them with his club, he killed six of them, and so he would have done with all the rest if they had not run away. Then one of the two Giants which were brethren, came unto the King's tent, all armed with his strong armour, & mounted upon a great Elephant and said. Be in quiet my Lord, and abate this thy unsufferable anger, and I will bring unto thee strait way him, who hath been the occasion of this thy disquietness and anger. And without tarrying for any answer, he turned about his great and unwieldy beast, and went that way, whereas the Prince was: who when he saw him so well proportioned and furnished, he had well thought that he had been the King of Arginaria, as one which had never seen any of so mighty a stature, and there with he put down the visor of his helm, & took unto him, a great & knotty spear, purposing not to spend the time in words. Then Belerofonte (for so the Giant was named) said. Art thou that bold Knight, that with thy deeds hast so evil angered, that mighty king and Lord of Arginaria. The Prince, who-by his reasons was certified that he was not the King, replied. I am he whom with so furious ire thou dost seek, and if it be so that the King hath so much anger against me, wherefore doth he not come forth in person to take revengement. The Giant when he saw him speak with so bold a courage, with a dissembling laughter said. O fool without all wit, hast thou in so little estimation that great Geredeon, that he for twen●●e such Knights as thou art, should arm himself, & come forth to battle, having them which can excuse him thereof: And seeing that thy great folly is come to this extremity, I do require thee (that if thou wilt remain with thy life) that thou dost leave thy armour, and yield thyself with both thy hands bound behind thee, and go and ask forgiveness of him, that if he will kill thee with his own hands, thou mayst account thyself happy. To whom the Prince answered, Thy counsel doth not please m●, neither his honour will I receive: but rather I hope to send thee without a tongue before that infernal King, as I sent Bruno without his teeth. And for that thou shalt not have any more time to speak such folly and foolishness, either return the way from whence thou camest, and repent thyself of this thou hast said, or else prepare thyself to mortal battle. The Giant when he heard that unsavoury answer which he gave, he took up his spear and put it on his shoulder, which was made fast in the midst of the staff Dart wise, and raised himself in his stirrups, and threw it at the Prince with so great fairy, that by the force thereof, he hoped to have concluded that enterprise. But this new Knight seeing the spear coming, he put his shield before him where on the sharp point stroke, & pierced it through, till it came to his fine and strong armour, whereas it lost his force: but with the strength wherewith it came, it bowed in such sort, that it broke in two pieces, without hurting the knight or once moving him in the saddle. This valiant and stout Greek, when he saw that in that sort he would have slain him, he clasped fast his spear in his hand after the same manner, and said. Tarry and thou shalt see, whether I can better throw a dart than thou? And therewith he threw his great spear at the Giant, that without having any power to defend himself from that blow it pierced his shield, and bored through his armour, and not staying there, the sharp point passed through his body from the one side to the other taking from him that miserable s●ule, and the body gave a terrible fall to the ground. At all that passed, was present the proud & strong Geredeon, who with an infernal wrath threw fire from him, and in great haste called for his armour: at which time the other giant, brother unto Belorophonte, no less ireful and furious, whose name was Bolifo, said with a great voice. Mighty Geredeon, and Lord, let me take this revengement, for that of right it appertaineth more unto me, then unto thee. And here I do promise thee (or else the Gods shall be false in doing justice, and my strong arm without virtue) that I will take cruel revengement of that devil: and so without speaking more words, he went towards the place whereas this new knight was, who without any fear with a great spear in his hand, did tarry his coming. This Giant who was blinded with his unreasonable anger without any reasoning, he set spurs unto his Elephant, and likewise, the new knight set spurs to his horse, and met together in the midst of their course, so that neither of them lost his blow: but the encounter was with so great force, that the Giant did pierce through the shield of the Prince, without doing any other harm, & the spear shivered all to pieces, but this warlike youth with his spear gave unto the giant so strong an encounter, that it pierced through his shield, & made him to fall backwards upon the crupper of his Elephant, that he made the great beast to double with his legs, and falling down he fell upon one of the giant's legs. The Prince when he saw him in the extremity, & that he could not arise, he leapt from his horse with great lightness, & did help him to take out his leg from under the Elephant: likewise he did help him to arise upon his feet, and said. Do not think Giant, that thou shalt have any occasion to praise thyself, in saying that by a disgrace I did subdue thee. Therefore now do what thou canst do, for to defend thyself. The Giant without any consideration of the courtesy showed him, clasped fast his broad sword, striking a terrible and fearful blow at the Prince, who by leaping on the one side, caused him to lose his blow, & stepping on the other side, he gave him such a stroke upon the waste, that the harness broke, and his sword hid itself in the Giant's flesh, and hurt him very sore, whereat ran out very much blood. When the Giant saw the great damage that he had done unto his body by that blow, he thr●we his shield from him, taking fast bold of his great sword in both his hands (and without having any power to shun from it) he struck the prince such a blow upon his shield, that he cut it in two pieces, and it descended down upon his helm with so great strength and weight, that against his will, it made him to stoop with his knees to the ground, and to stay himself with one of his hands, because he should not fall down all together. This devilish giant, when he saw him in that case, would have struck him another blow: but at such time as he would have discharged it, this invincible Knight arose up with so great wrath, that a thick smoke came out of his visor, and without any more tarrying, he threw the piece of the shield that remained from him, and with a light leap he joined with his enemy, and struck him so horrible and furious a blow upon his helm, that it did little profit him the strength of the steel, but he cut it in two pieces, head & all, and he fell down to the ground. Oh what great disturbance and fear this unmeasurable blow caused unto all the people, as well to those of the City, as to those of the contrary part. But above all this, Geredeon was much amazed. And with the great anger and wrath which he had to see the two Giants slain before him, he thrust himself amongst all the people, which so great rumour, as when a strong rock by force of an earthquake, when the fierce and furious wind doth take it, and tear and rend it out of the place and situation, whereas it was wont to stand: and with the terrible & great noise and sound thereof, not only all the shepherds and heard men of the field be scared and afraid, but also the great blow doth remain in the air with a great and rumbling ecko: even with the like fury this Arginarian king rushed amongst and through his people. Claridiano without showing any kind of trouble, did abide his coming with so strong and courageous a heart, as doth the crooked & cragged rock abide to make defence against the force and vnbr●●eled ●urie of the restless Neptune. So with great haste went the Giant against the new knight, and as he came before him, he could not conjecture who or what untamed young man that should be, for that he never at any time heard any speaking of him, and with the like confusion he said. Knight, I know not what to say unto so heinous a matter that by thee is committed against me, for seeing thy great boldness which thou hast had to disquiet and anger me, it doth cause me to procure to have revengement of thee. And to the contrary I see thou art one alone knight, and therefore I do take it for a dishonour and rebuke to lift up my furious arm against thee. Therefore that which I desire thee, is this, that thou dost return unto the city and cause to be gathered together one hundredth of the best knights, chosen out from amongst the rest, and see that you come strait again, for that of you all together, I will take this my desired revengement. And yet for all this, I do tell thee, I shall not be satisfied for the great anger & wrath the which I have against thee. Whosoever had been present to have heard him speak these words would have trembled with fear, but he in whom fear could never take place, and one which took no care nor did not esteem his words, said: I do not know whereupon thou dost stay, if thou dost mean to take revengement of him who hath so much offended thee, especially having him before thee: but thou shalt understand, thou devilish Giant, that thy furious look, nor thy beastly body, neither thy monstrous members, can put me in fear, for that being as thou art, furnished with a cruel heart, & so great a friend unto tyranny, & here I tell thee, that the advantage which thou biddest me to take, I do not desire it, neither I will not take it, but rather I will thee that thou make thyself ready for thy defence, and procure if thou canst to drive me out of the field, and when thou hast overcome me and got the victory, then mayst thou make thy combat with the other ninety and nine. And with this he did put himself a part, shaking his sword with a marvelous good grace. When the Giant saw this, in manner of mocking he said: Go get thee hence thou vile thing, and take unto thee the favour and aid which I do will thee, and do not think that thou shalt obtain of me so honourable and end, to be slain of me in equal battle. Here this new knight by any means could not suffer his outrageous arrogancy, but said unto him: Thou cruel tyrant, subject to all pride, defend thyself, and leave off these revilings and boasts. And in saying these words the Prince pressed to the Giant, and stroke at him so strong a blow upon one of his thighs, that his strong armour did falsify, and he made a little wound, out of the which issued very much blood. When this infernal monster felt himself thus hurt, and seeing that he made little account of him, but rather despised his words, without any more tarrying, he lift up a very heavy mase of iron, which was great and long, and had hanging at the end thereof five balls of steel, each of them hanged by a steel chain of great strength. The king Delfo was marvelously troubled, when he saw the deformed weapon which was raised in the air, making a great noise, and with great fury ready to be discharged upon the head of this warlike knight, who when he saw it coming, with his accustomed lightness did procure to deliver himself from so horrible a blow, and in such sort it came, that all those five balls fell together on the ground, at which fall by reason of the great weight of the mase, he was constrained to fall forwards with the blow. The Prince which at that time was not without care, but seeing him in that sort, he stepped quickly unto him, & struck him so mighty and great a blow upon his strong helm, that with the great strength wherewith it was given, did constrain the giant by pure force to put both his hands on the ground, but strait way he arose again, and lift up his monstrous weapon, and stroke at him another terrible blow, the knight would once again hau● cleared himself from that blow, but he could not do it, but the one of those balls did glance upon the viso of his helm, in such sort, that it made him to gi●e three or four steps backwards, he was so amazed, wherewith he was ready to fall down, which without all doubt he had, if that he had not laboured to stay himself by falling forwards, with his hands to the ground, the which was not so quickly done, and he recovered, but that the Giant had his mase in the air ready to strike him again, but having time, he cleared himself thereof, so that he struck that blow in vain, wherewith the prince fastened so mighty a blow at the Giant upon his back, that he made him to fall forwards with his hands upon the earth, he had not so soon given him that blow, but strait way he gave him the second upon his helm, that without feeling he made him to fall again upon his hands, with both his knees to the ground. The Prince's sword was not so fine & strong to suffer so great strokes, but broke in pieces with those terrible blows, which was the occasion that as then the battle was not finished. So the Prince when he saw himself without his sword, thought it best to withdraw himself back, and the Arginarian king when he beheld himself so used, giving terrible roarings, he arose up, so that he made all the earth to shake, and when he was on ●oote he lift up the visor of his helm for to take air: likewise he lift up his g●ea● maze, and went towards the Prince for to strike him, this invincible knight when he saw himself without any weapon for to make his defence against so terrible an adversary, who had lifted up his arms above his head with his mase in his hands al●●t for to strike him, and for that he knew very well that the small piece of his sword which did remain in his hand was but little available, he determined strait ways to throw it at him, and in the throwing of it his fortune was so good, that before thy Giant could let his arms descend with that furious blow be struck him on the viso (which a little before he had lift up to take the air) that it all to plastered his face and nose, whereof he received so much pain and grief, that he had no strength to execute his heavy blow. When the Giant felt this great harm, he let loose his hold from the mase with his left hand, and clapped it unto his face. The new knight, who received no grief at his extremity, but weighing the necessity into which he was driven, for lack of a weapon, but seeing the Giant occupied in feeling of his face, and wring his body at the grief thereof, he did procure to win from him his mase, and giving a contrary leap, as the Ounce doth when she is oppressed by the hunter, laid ho●●● on the mase, and pulled it, giving so strong and wily a turn, being done with so great swiftness, that he was constrained to let it loose out of his hand. The Giant when he saw that he had lost his mase, and that it was in the power of his enemy, pressed unto him for to catch him between his arms, but this new knight, who was nothing desirous of such embracing, defended himself from the same by putting himself on the one side, and as the Giant passed by, he struck him with that furious mase so terrible a blow on the back, that he made him to go forwards spite of his teeth, which made him forget to desire any more to come to wrestle. So when the Giant had stretched himself upright, he drew out his broad and sharp sword, and with a gallant demeanour, his sword all aloft, he pressed unto the new knight, who was with his mase ready at his standing, abiding his coming. The new knight did first discharge his blow, for that he might strike him a far of, and chanced with one of the balls to hit him upon the left arm, with so strong a blow, that the bone of the wrist he broke in pieces, which made the Giant to lose his furious blow. Who were now able to declare the great fury and outrageousness of this fierce Giant: there was never fury so fierce, nor the swift wind of A●olus in the close and narrow caves of the mountains, as the Giant was at that time, without having any regard unto the damage which a little before he had received, but flourishing aloft with his great sword, he said: O vile knight, I tell thee that there is no Gods in the heaven, no, on the earth, or sea, that shall have any power to deliver thee from me. This warlike knight answered: Thou uncourteous and unreasonable Giant, hold thy peace, and speak no such blasphemies, but do what thou canst, and then thou shalt see how little thou art worth, and of what small estimation, and therewith he lift up his mace and returned unto his former and furious battle. Here I do now lack a sharp and prompt understanding, for to set forth at large, and with sweet and delicate reasons, that it might be delightful unto the readers, the great courage and strength which that strong warrior did show, and the great haste and speed he used against his furious enemy, laying on him with that great mace, which always oppressed him with those great and heavy blows, in such sort, that it hurt and wounded him very much. And here I 〈◊〉 give you to understand, that the fierceness and fury of this battle was such, that the author durst not declare at large th● great valiantness therein used, for that he stood in doubt of his own understanding, to declare it effectually as it passed, therefore he doth omit the declaring ●hereof, but that these two strong and stout warriors were two hours together, striking and hur●ing the one the other, and each of them showing the great stoutness, strength, and courage of their hearts, and were ●oth kindled in so much wrath and ire, that more by strength then by policy, they defended themselves, either of them procuring to overcome his adversary. So at this time the fierce Giant struck his enemy such a terrible blow, which chanced glanceing upon his helm, and descended down with so great a sound upon his left shoulder (●hat if it had not been by ●he great virtue which his armour had, being made by the wise enchanter) the hardness of the steel would little have profited but that he should have cut him, with all that part of the body down to the waist, nevertheless the strength of the blow was such, and put him to so much pain, that the Prince felt himself to be very evil thereof, insomuch that it did deprive him at that time of his 〈◊〉, that he could not lift up the heavy mase for to strike the king of Arginaria. His pain and grief was such, that his adversary did perceive his weakness, which caused him to make more haste in striking of the Prince, with such furious blows, that it made this new knight to retire from him, drawing after him that heavy mase with his right hand. Who at this time should have seen the countenance of the king of Arginaria, and the king Delfo would well have judged their great trouble of minds. This warlike knight was very much troubled with that great grief, insomuch that many times he thought to have embraced with the Giant and wrestled with him, which certainly he would have done if the grief had continued, but he felt that the pain decreased, which was the occasion that he went dallying with the giant, who with hasty and terrible blows followed striking of him, but when the Prince felt himself clear of the pain, and that he was able to lift up his arm, he took the mase in both his hands, and settled his feet very strong on the ground, and kept in his breath, that he might with more strength discharge his blow, detaining it till such time as the giants blow was stroke, which was with so great strength, that falling on the ground, the sword entered into the earth more than half of it, and it was the occasion that the Prince had better time, for to execute his mighty and determined blow, and discharging it, with two of the balls of steel which hung at the mazes end, he let drive such a blow on the Giant, that he made him to stoop with both his knees to the ground, and seeing him in that plight, he struck at him another blow, which was upon his helm, which gave such a sound, as though it had been stroke upon a bell: wherewith he fell with all his body to the ground, and stretched out his huge members, making no more moving, and when this new knight saw that he moved not, he pulled of his helm, and perceived that the blow was such, that it beat out his eyes and the brains out of his head. Then the young Prince gave thanks unto the Gods, for that he had no perfect knowledge of his descent, nor any light that he was a christian, & taking up the mase, he laid it on his shoulder, and with great quietness he went unto the City, and strait way there came unto him Galtenor, & the king Delfo, with a great number more of knights, that had been beholding the furious battle, who did embrace him with so great joy and love, that I am not here able to express it, and did request him that he would go and lie down, for that they judged he should be very weary. He was so much importunated by so many knights, that he could do no otherwise but go take his rest, and lie down, whereas he was cured & healed of such blows as he had received, which was black and blue, and there was ministered unto him such ointments as did mitigate the pain●s and griefs which he had received. So all those which came with the Giant when that they saw their Lord was dead, they received no sorrow nor grief thereat, for they could not 〈◊〉 his great pride & evil conditions, for they did not only 〈◊〉 him, but they did desire that he might die a naughty death, & make a short and evil end. And in this sort as you do see, the entreating of this Giant of his subjects, so are all them that be of so great pri●e entreated in all the world: he was scarce dead when that all those of the kingdom of Arginaria were very joyful to see it so come to pass, and were very desirous to yield up unto Galtenor, his right and inheritance, and sent strait ways Ambassadors to the City▪ whereas he was▪ promising to give him peaceable entering into the kingdom, as unto their natural king & Lord, and justly discharging themselves of all wherein they were found guilty. The messengers were marvelously well received of Galtenor, and with great love, and he did accept their offer. So it fell out that in one day, was the Giant Geredeon king and Lord of Arginaria, and in the self same day was Galtenor with great contentment unto all the people of the Island And when he saw himself that he was Lord of that which he so greatly desired, he strait ways dispatched messengers for his kingdom, in giving them to understand of all that passed, in the which they did rejoice very much, and with exceeding great good will they received all the news which was sent, and were as glad of the death of Geredeon, as they were of restoring of the kingdom unto Galtenor. In few days after was Claridiano come again to his strength, and made whole, which was so great joy and pleasure unto the King Delfo, that unto his judgement, he needed not to desire any other thing. So when the messengers were returned that they sent unto Arginaria, they did determine, for that all the country should ●e put in good order, that Galtenor should departed for that part out of hand, who did procure to carry with him Claridiano: but the King Delfo would not consent unto it by any means, for the which the king Galtenor went away greatly discontented. And when he came unto his kingdom they received him with great pomp and honour, and with great delight to s●● their natural Lord, and there was non● that made any resistance against the receiving of his possession: for that one son which the Giant left and his brother Bruno, were gone into the Island of Vespe●a of whom in the third part of this history shall be told unto you. And now it is necessary to leave the King Delfo, and the King of Arginaria, with the great delight of their victory, and to return unto the noble Emperor, whom we left with his furious and well fought battle, in the first part of this book, with the King of the Garamantes, who had given the Emperor so great a blow, that he left him without feeling. But when the Emperor was come again unto himself, he turned about his horse with more fury than the Lion's in the wain of the mother Idea, when that with a furious rage they moved against that sorrowful Atis in the desert mountains of Phrigia. In such sort went this fierce Emperor with his sword all a loft, and struck him such a terrible blow upon his shield, that parting it in two pieces, jointly with his helm and head, he fell down dead to the ground, the which did grieve the Emperor very much, for that he could not perform that which he had promised unto him. So when this was finished, the Emperor returned unto his palace, whereas he was received with great solemnity of instruments, and unarmed by the Empress, between whom there passed many sweet and amorous speeches touching the communication that they had before the battle began. And the next day openly, they returned unto the same talk: but they were cut off by a strange adventure which entered into the hall, as shall be declared unto you, in this chapter following.   

How a damosel, messenger from the Queen of Tinacria, brought a letter unto the Emperor of Grecia, and of all that passed about the same. Cap. 3.  
ALthough I always purpose to separate myself in my discourses, from the frauds, which that most cruel Venus doth many times use, accompanied with the deceipts of her son, yet am I constrained to speak some thing thereof, and to leave the stout & strong Mars with his sword in his hand, turning my pen for to tell unto you her cruelties and disordinate customs. You do well remember of the amorous wrath that the Queen of Tinacria had against the Emperor of Grecia, and what in that furious rage she did ordain, and how that she commanded a faithful damsel of hers, to carry a letter unto the Emperor of Grecia, who made so much haste that she arrived at Constantinople, at such time as the battle between the Emperor, and the king of the Garamantes began. And when she saw the unhappy end of the King, she received great grief, being informed of the occasion of all the battle, and wherefore it was made. So with this grief, for that night she went and took her lodging, whereas she remained till the next day in the morning, at such time as the Emperor was with the Empress, and many other Knights in great joy & pastimes, & talking of the occasion of the battle that was the day before. At that time entered the queens damsel with a severe countenance, and without making any reverence, she went unto the Emperor & said. Emperor▪ much more valiant and mighty, than loyal and faithful, the unhappy queen of Tinacria, doth send me unto thee that thou mayst read this letter, and thereby understand the great tyranny without all reason that thou didst use against her. The Emperor with an amorous smiling did receive it, & said, Thou art welcome, and for the letter of the queen, the receipt thereof doth give me great delight to know and understand of her highness. And therewith he opened the letter, and reading it found that that therein was contained that which followeth.  
The unhappy and unfortunate Queen of Tinacria, unto the disloyal Emperor of Grecia, can send nor wish no salutation, for having no health myself, I cannot send it unto him, that so much without love by cruelty hath forgotten me. I cannot but lament, and complain me of thee unto the Gods, considering that without any refuge thou camest unto my kingdom, whereas thou hadst no other hope but of death, and I procured to deliver thee from it, and sought it for myself, what occasion hadst thou O Emperor, that thou wouldst not return to see me? In me thou foundest so much fidelity, that I did furnish thee with armour and horse, that with them thou shouldst deliver me from those, which did seek to have me against my will: But I with my good will did yield myself, I say myself unto him, which now doth seek my death. Ah Emperor, remember, that I saw thee deprived of all help: an unhappy day for me, for that in making much of thee, and giving thee joy, I bereaved myself of all, and lost the possession of my liberty and honour: and although thou hadst not esteemed, nor took any care of the sorrowful Queen of Tinacria, yet thou shouldest not have moved thyself to have made a mock of the perfect love which I did show thee, and the great desire that I had to serve thee. Thou shouldest have had some care and grief seeing that I defended thee from all my Nobles & Knights who sought thy death, thou having deprived so many of my knights of their lives: thou shouldest have had pity of them that had pity on thee. O love, that so quickly didst make me blind, & deprivedst me of the knowledge which I should have had, unto my royal highness. O Emperor of Grecia, I being blind with the love of thee, did deny my honesty, which I ought to have kept. If thou hadst pretended to mock me, thou shouldst have put me out of all doubt, and not have suffered me, to lose so much as I have lost for thy sake, but have procured that I might have eschewed all this harm, whereof thou hast been the occasion. Tell me, why didst thou not suffer me to execute my will, that I might have opened my white breast with that sharp sword: it had been better for me to have died then, than now, for now living, for thee I daily die. Remember thyself Emperor, and behold the harm that will come hereof, and do not use so much cruelty with them, that have not deserved it at thy hands. Have thou a care unto the pawn which thou didst leave behind thee, & let it be an occasion that thou dost return to see me. Do not give an occasion, that my children remain motherless in the power of them, for thou dost not know what my subjects will do. O Emperor of Grecia, I do still tarry & look for thee, that which hope doth cause me to suffer this cruel pain: & if thou dost send my trusty messenger without it, I shall be driven to do that, of which thou hadst been better, thou hadst not disturbed me at the first. But now it shall be in this manner, that if thou dost give ease unto me, I will procure thine in such sort as possibly I may. So that Emperor, I do tarry thy coming, or else answer of my death. And do not judge this which I do, to be of great boldness, for that Love doth command it. By her, which without all regard, or any foresight, did yield unto thee her liberty.  
When he had made an end of reading the letter he could not have so much sufferance with himself, but with the tears which distilled from his eyes, he must needs show the pain which his heart endured, for the sorrowful complaints, which that lamentable and complaining Letter did utter. The damosel which brought the Letter, all the time that the Emperor was reading of it, she never withdrew her eyes from looking on him: and when she saw that he had made an end of reading it, she said: Wherefore wilt thou give me to understand O cruel Trebatio, that thou dost receive great sorrow of that, which when thou mightest have redressed thou wouldst not, and do not make me believe that these outward shows do proceed from thy heart. Dost thou think that it is sufficient to excuse thee from the pain that is pretended to be given thee. Dost thou not see, that when thou couldst give remedy (thou wouldst not) unto them, who now are without all hope, and tarrieth for no other satisfaction but with thy head. O false Emperor, didst thou not see that she was not a lady to be thus mocked and deceived. Surely thou hast recovered to thyself a very good name, for the exalting of thy lineage. Thy son whom we honour there for a God, may well praise himself for his descent, in having thee for his father. O false and cruel, is this the inheritance which thou didst inherit of thy most famous blood? Is this the great loyalty which thou dost show unto thy sons? O vile Greek, how do the God's consent that so disloyal a knight should live in the world. Is it not possible that these sorrowful & continual complaints of Tinacria do not open your ears, and cause you to send down punishment, for this great offence. O ingrateful Gods, receive the sacrifice of my chastity in payment of the revengement which from your high heavens I hope shall be done upon this counterfeit without all faith, and make that my blood here shed upon this store, may show the singleness and clean love of Garofil●a and that with the like solem●nitie may be broken in pieces the heart of him which was the causer of her dishonour. And in uttering of these & such like sorrows she took forth a naked sword which she brought ready for the same effect, and put the pommel to the ground, and cast her breast upon the point, the which she did with so great haste, that the Emperor nor any of all that were there present could not secure her, nor take her from doing that fact. All that were present remained very much amazed to see so sudden a mischance. The Emperor very full ●● grief of this success, withdrew himself into his closet, & would not consent that any one should speak a word unto him. The courageous Empress with a royal stomach & great discretion, dissembling her grief in the best wise she could, commanded her body to be carried out of the palace, and in the Court of the palace she commanned to be made a rich tomb, in the which she was buried: there was made her proportion, which did show what chanced unto the damsel: and about the tomb was written an Epitaph, which did declare the occasion of her death. All the time that this damsel was a burying, the Emperor never came forth out of his closet, neither would he have come forth when he did, and if it had not been by the great importance of the Empress. Whereas now we will leave them, for to tell you of the chances and adventures which happened unto the Prince Eleno, the time that he travailed in the world, the which for that he was as noble as warlike, and of great strength, it is not reason, that he should pass so long without making any mention of him. You do well remember how he went out of Numidia, with one only Page, putting himself to sea, in that enchanted bark of the Knight of the Sun. He was so heavy and sorrowful for the death of his Lady and Mistress, that he was clean changed, and appeared not to be him that he was wont, neither had he so great wisdom to govern himself. In this manner he travailed almost a whole year, and never could meet with Brenio, unto whom he was commanded to give the letter from Lydia, neither could he hear in any place wheresoever he came, where he might go to seek him: in which his travail, he did not let but to meet with some adventures, the which, with great honour to his person, be finished. Yet for all this he could have no ease of his sorrow & grief, which brought him in such perplexity, that if he had not considered the great loss of his soul, many times he would have slain himself, So it happened that one morning very early, the bark had put herself a ground, giving him to understand, that it was requisite there for him to go a land. The Prince who was very desirous thereof, quickly went a shore, and after him his page, who as you have heard, that by reason of the great haste that the bark made, he could not return a land to Numidia. His name was called Fabio, who was to his master such company that many times he would comfort the Prince, when he was most troubled with very comfortable words and persuasions, and did serve him with great love and fidelity. The Prince and his Page began to travail a foot with an easy pace through a narrow and strait path, and with a marvelous and diligent eye, he did behold that country, and it seemed unto him, that he should know it, & that before that time he had passed by that way: but the firm love that he had to Lydia, was the occasion that it was out of his remembrance. So with this sorrow he travailed, till such time as Phoebus had passed the fourth part of his journey, when that being weary with the long way, & the great weight of his armour, he was forced to take some rest & ease, under the fresh & green myrtle trees, whose leaves did hath themselves in a fair & clear fountain, whereas he began a new to have in remembrance his former pain, & complaining of Fortune, he published his great grief, making thou of the great sorrow that he felt, & although he was weary of complaining, & seeing himself so without all remedy, he called for his lute, for that Fabio did always carry with him, & taking it in his hands, only to give some ease unto his tormented heart, he began to sing these verses following.  

SInce heavens accord for to increase my care,  
what hope have I for to enjoy delight?  
Sith Fates and Fortune do themselves prepare,  
fully to work 'gainst me their worst despite.  
I know no means that may yield me relief,  
But only Death, which can dissolve my grief.   

I muse, and may, my sorrows being such,  
that my poor heart can longer life sustain,  
For that (God wots) I find my grief so much,  
as every day, I feel a dying pain.  
But yet (alas) I live afflicted still,  
And have no help to heal me of my ill.   

When as I mind my pain and pleasure passed  
together mixed, it makes me moon my state:  
And since my weal with woe is overcast,  
O Death give end to my unhappy fate.  
For only death will lasting life provide,  
Where living thus, I sundry deaths abide.   
His Page Fabio did cause him to leave off his singing, for with the great attention that he gave to hear his Master, he likewise heard a lamentable sound, which seemed to be of a Lady. Likewise the Prince, when he had ended his sweet music, did hearken to hear it: and giving a very attentive ear, that although she did complain with a low voice, yet he might hear that the sound of the voice, came forth of the thickest from amongst those trees: and without any more tarrying, he left his lute with his Page, and went that way from which he thought the voice came, and the farther he went, the better he might hear, that weak and feeble voice. Still he went forwards, till such time as he might see who it was that made that lamentation. And he saw that it was a very fair Lady, that was bound unto a tree, all naked to the skin, she had all her hair spread abroad upon her naked back. The Prince came unto her, and before that he said any word, he did untie her, and cut the cords wherewith she was bound, and took a gown which was there of the Ladies, and covered her delicate and white body. The Lady was very much ashamed to see herself lose and at liberty: and sitting down under a green Oak, the Prince asked of her who he was, that without respect of his own honesty and honour, had left her in that sort. This fair Lady said: Knight, thou shalt understand that I am Daughter unto a very good Knight and Gentleman, who was Lord over three Castles of the best in all this Country. My Father's name was Cosdros, he was one of them that was slain by the hands of Bramarandus, whom afterwards the Emperor Trebatio slew in battle. So I remained all alone, very much made off, & well beloved of the widow my mother, and we kept ourselves in a very fair castle of ours, not far from this place, whereas we did pass our solitary lives. So I was required of love, of a Gentleman, more richer in goods and lands, than in lineage or virtue, and I understanding his little estimation, did always esteem him as little, and never made any reckoning of his messages: the which was the occasion that his desire was the more stronger, in such sort, that he seeing himself by me not esteemed, but put off, with the great grief that he received for my love, he died, and at the hour of his death, he never left naming of, Felina, the cause of all my harm. At such time as he died there was a brother of his present: and hearing him to declare the causer of his death, there kindled in him so much anger and wrath, that he bore unto me a perpetual hatred and did procure to have amends for the death of his brother. So it happened on a time, that I went out of the Castle without any mistrust, in the company of other two damsels, at which time I was stole away by him, and other four Knights, who brought me unto this place, which is to my great sorrow and grief, whereas they bond me in that sort as thou hast found me gentle Knight, and not content herewith (but for my more pain and sorrow) they left me naked, with greater desire to die then to live. This Lady could not let but to associate her tale with great lamentations, wherein this Dacian did bear her company, and said. Of truth sorrowful Lady, fortune hath used with me great liberality, to bring me hither in this time, for to set you at liberty from this great captivity, and to make revengement of thy honour: and here I do offer myself, and do give unto thee my faith of knighthood to perform it, or to lose my life. This fair Lady was somewhat comforted with the offer of the Knight, and gave him great thanks for the favour which he did offer her. In this sort they passed the rest of the night that remained, till such time as the Sun of Tona did show his glistering face, spreading all abroad his golden beams, accompanied with the sweet and rosalyke Aurora, at which time they were all ready a foot for to go onwards on their way, & strait ways they heard amongst the thickest of those trees a still sound. The Prince being very desirous to know what it was, and coming thither, he saw that it was his horse, the which was brought thither by the order of the wise Lyrgandeo, from the place whereas he left him, at such time as he did embark himself. The Prince received great delight at the sight of him, and taking him by the bridle, he leapt on his back, and went to seek the ladies palfrey, which was let lose amongst those thick trees, and they found him feeding in a fair and green meadow, adorned with many fresh and sweet flowers. So his page leapt on his back, & took the Lady behind him, and travailed through a narrow and well beaten path which brought them into a broad way that carried them into a very great and large plain, at 〈◊〉 the end thereof there was a very fair Castle, and in the midst of the plain they saw four knights which came towards them, and when they were nigh together, the one of them said: Tell me knight, who made thee so bold, as for to unloose this Lady from thee place whereas she was made fast. What is this that thou askest, said Eleno, is it possible that thou art he, that forgetting all the honour that thou dost owe unto the order of knighthood, madest fast this Lady. The knight answered & said: I am he that did it, & he that will take away thy life from thee, in recompense of thy great boldness to unloose her. So without any more tarrying the Prince Eleno turned about his horse towards him. When this sorrowful Lady ●awe him that was the occasion of all her evil, she leapt down from her Palfrey, & began with a new sorrow, her grievous lamentation. Those four knights came all against the prince, some with their spears, & he that had none, came with his sword in his hand with great fury, one of the four, who thought himself to be more valiant than all the rest, came foremost with his sword in his hand all a high, & struck him a mighty blow upon his helm with all his strength: but this Dacian Prince made little account thereof: and passing by he struck him a blow upon his shield, and for that his blow could extend no farther, he remained with his life, otherwise it had cost him the price thereof, for it parted his shield in two pieces. The Knight returned, and gave him another blow, that it made the sparks of fire to fly out of his helm. Then the Dacian full of ire, let go his shield, and clasped fast his sword in both his hands, and struck him so terrible a blow upon his helm, that he cut helm and head in two pieces, and he fell down dead to the earth. The other seeing their companion dead, all three together set upon him: but this valiant Dacian who in such like adventures never had any fear, did receive them with his accustomed fury, striking on them both on the right and left hand with mortal blows. In the mean time, this afflicted Lady, when she saw the Knight dead, which caused her dishonour▪ like a furious Lioness she went towards him and said. Oh how the gods have given thee thy payment for the dishonour, which thou hast done me: yet she said. O heavy Felina, what doth this revengement profit thy honour, being lost, it were very great riches unto me, that by the death of him which hath rob me of it, it might be restored me again. Oh my gods, I am in no fault, in the losing of my chastity, for that it was violently taken from me, in the thick forest. There shall be none able to disturb, but that I will execute my fury upon myself, although I do not deserve the same: and in saying these words, she took the sword of that dead knight, and put the point to her breast, and threw herself thereon, in such sort, that Fabio could not secure her, although with great hast he would have done it. The Dacian Knight casting his head on the one side, and saw the harm done, he pressed forwards with great fury and ireful wrath, and lift up his sword, and struck such a blow at one of them upon his right arm, that arm and sword together fell to the ground, and straight turned unto another, and with an overthwart blow, he struck him on the making fast of his helm, that head and all came to the ground. Then he which remained, seeing the fierceness of his adversary, would have run away. But the Dacian perceiving it, before that he could put in execution his desire, he struck him such a blow upon his helm, that being parted in pieces with the head, he made him to bear company with his dead companions. So when he had concluded this battle, he went unto the dead Lady, and having great sorrow to see her he pulled the bloody sword out of her body, and commanded Fabio that in the best manner he could to make a grave, and to bury her. The Dacian did help him all that he could, and being done unto their contentment, he put an Epitaph over her, which was in this wife.  
Luckless Felina here interred doth lie,  
whom traitor false within this forest wide,  
Deflowered first of her virginity.  
She loathing after, long a live to bide:  
Upon his blade her tender breast did cast,  
A bloody offering to Diana chaste.  
So when he had written this Epitaph, joining this great sorrow unto that which he had before, he leapt upon his horse, and put himself amongst a company of troublesome trees, among the which he had not travailed long, when he heard one playing on a shepherds Rebucke, which made a very sweet sound, and turning his horse that way from whence the sound came, he chanced to come whereas he found certain shepherds, who by their countenances appeared to be very sad, and they sat under a Walnut tree, where they passed away the great heat of the day. These Shepherds when they saw the Prince, arose up, and with great joy they did salute him: The Prince returned unto them their salutations, and did alight from his horse, which he gave unto Fabio his Page, that he might put him into some void Pasture, together with his palfrey, whereas they might feed on the green grass, in the shadow from the heat of the Sun. The Prince sat down under the Walnut tree, and asked of them if they had any thing to eat, the which was given him with a very good will, being such as they had provided themselves, and he eat of it for that he had a very good stomach, so here to take some ease, I do refer the rest till the next Chapter.   

¶ How the Dacian Prince did meet with Brenio, to whom he gave the Letter of Lydia, and what Brenio did answer thereunto. Chap. 4.  
IN the mean time that the Prince and his Page did eat of that which the shepherds had given them, they never withdrew their eyes from the Prince, but did very much behold him, and rejoiced to see him so well proportioned and so fair, but yet they marveled to see him so sad and pensive, musing what should be the occasion of his great heaviness, and one of the shepherds did ask him, and said: Knight, what great heaviness is this which you seem to have, for according unto the outward show it seemeth to proceed of love. Ah my friend, answered Eleno, is it possible that thou dost know any part of those evils, for that me thinketh love ought not to be remembered of them that do dwell so far from any towns or company, as you which in these sharp and cragged mountains do make your habitation. How do we know, answered the shepherd: he is of such strength and subtlety, that he doth not only show his force upon us, but also he is the occasion that we do occupy our imaginations in his delights (which is so great a torment that we cannot receive a greater) he maketh that our cattle (that do not deserve any such harm) lack their good feeding which we should procure, the which our small regard doth appear in their weak and lean bodies, lowing more time for hunger than for too much feeding or good pasture.  
Ah Knight, what should I tell you of that which he hath caused all us that be here to suffer, and when we do talk of it, there is not one of us, but doth muse at the other, how he hath the force & strength to bear it. The Dacian knight said: I know well that he doth pardon none, neither is there any that doth escape from his power, such is his pride and ambition: therefore it is not much to be marveled at, seeing that he doth as well walk the fields as the dwelling towns. But sith it hath pleased Fortune (the more for my pain and grief) to meet with them that are wounded with love, I do desire you that I may take some pleasure in your music, and in hearing some songs that you have made to publish your true and perfect love withal. This we will do with a very good will answered the shepherd: and for that you do seem unto us, for to be of high estate, we will play on our instruments, to give you some comfort, and we will publish our pains and griefs, with our own mouths: and taking the Rebeck in his hand, which was marvelously well wrought, he began to play upon the same very sweetly, and likewise did associate the music with these pastoral verses.  

YOu Lovers all assist my song,  
and help me to declare  
The slights of crafty Cupid strong,  
the worker of my care.   

Whose shafts and shifts be of such might,  
they make one heart to guide  
Two bodies: and by outward sight,  
two souls in one do bide.   

O union sweet by love so knit,  
O life adored to be:  
If this were all the harm of it,  
it could not hurtful be.   

But Cupid useth such delays,  
such spites for to oppress  
The heart: that one may pine always,  
and never find redress.   

Yet if the parties firmly love,  
his spite cannot prevail,  
My mind therefore shall never move,  
until my life do fail.   
With great pain, and with a gracious countenance in his music, this shepherd did sing his song: and when he had made an end, he said. Ah knight, if you did know the cause of this my song, you would take as much grief & sorrow at it, as of my pain: you shall understand that I did love a Pastora very much, and do believe she repaid me again with the same love, and no longer ago, but yesterday she was taken out of these fields, and carried unto Tinacria, unto the Queen Garrofilea. The shepherd uttered this with so great abundance of tears, that he could not speak a word more: so one of the other shepherds took the Rebecke, and began to sing as followeth.  

THe troubled mind afflicted is,  
when changed thoughts appear,  
Of pain and glory, bale and bliss,  
which still disturb man's cheer.   

And if that grief the goal doth win,  
the heart doth then remain,  
By this debate enclosed in,  
with thought of passed pain.   

Even so my heart afflicted is,  
I no defence can make:  
My wont mirth I so do miss,  
I no delight can take.   

My heavy mind is clogged with care,  
my glory overthrown:  
And sorrow lotted for my shar●,  
my grief so great is grown.   

Yield wounded heart in sunder torn,  
sith thou no gain canst get,  
Cease off thy suit thou art forlorn,  
by thee she nought doth set.   

Let Death dissolve thy bitter grief,  
and glory in the same:  
For therein thou shalt find relief,  
and blaze thy Faith by Fame.   
This loving shepherd when he had made an end of his song, giving a great and sorrowful sigh, let the Rebeck fall out of his hand. The third shepherd with a dissembling laughter, arose upon his feet and said. Oh sovereign gods, that this Love might be seen, whom all you do account to be a God & Lord, that you might at your ease rejoice in his simpleness, & know him that hath brought you out of all understanding & remembrance, as it doth appear by your variable reasons, & ill placed words, which without any order be uttered▪ so that I promise you, if we should turn & make rehearsal at night, of all that which you do talk on in that day, you shall not find that theridamas is any agreement therein, as by their songs gentle Knight you may know, & with what philosophy they would give us to understand, that two bodies have but one heart. And here I swear unto you, by that might & power of Alfebo, the restorer of our Countries, & by the great valour of the Dacian Prince, that in what sort soever you will tumble and toss these variable reasons, there is no understanding of man can cause me to believe, the two bodies are governed by one heart alone, at least ways I would not be he that should be without a heart. Likewise hear the reasons of my other companion, who tumbleth together and maketh a mixture of glory and pain, and pain and glory, as though we should mix honey and gall together: and if I should let them contend much, they would go about to make me believe that which never chanced: but remain you with these your amorous thoughts, or as I might better say, with your foolish conceits, and let me have continually my cattle well fed and governed, and in as good plight as now they are, being so fat as the skin may hold, and not to be as you are, that hath lost all your own reason and understanding, and therewith forget and lose the care that you should have of yours, who for lack of looking unto, be so lean. And making an end in saying these words, he sat himself down, and seemed to be very angry to see his companions so without reason & understanding, and blinded with love. The which words was the occasion, that the Prince Eleno was constrained to do that, which since his departure out of Dacia he did not, which was, that he laughed to hear the simplicity of this shepherd, and taking in hand to answer him, he said: Friend, I do tell thee that thy resistance is great: likewise thy understanding is very much, that being conversant daily and hearing the great complaints and communication of so amorous shepherds, thou art not entangled with the same. And here I do desire thee, that thou hold thyself firm in the same, and keep thyself still as thou art, lest peradventure that which thou dost now call folly, hereafter thou wilt call discretion and wisdom. Thou mayst now well account thyself happy, for that without all care and sorrow, thou mayst revile them who doth complain of so many miseries. With a great laughter this shepherd answered and said: Now gentle Knight, I do tell thee, that I will as little contend with thee as with thy companions, for that it seemeth unto me that thou art also a vassal unto that foolish love, and I do more esteem my liberty, thus simple as thou dost see me, than all the wisdom which thou dost presume to have: it is much better for the shepherd to have care and keep of his cattle, to guide them in good feeding, and not every small time to call for his crowd, and singing two thousand songs, the which the Devil cannot understand, and although they sing them, yet I think they understand them not themselves. So one of his companions cut off his reasons and said: Tarido, dost thou not know, how at mine own liberty, in times past I did govern myself, and mocking and jesting at them who did publish the like complaints. Here I do desire the Gods to maintain thee in this estate, and to keep thee y● love do not extend his fury upon thee, for if he do, he will make thee repent a thousand times these words which thou hast said. And here gentle Knight (without giving any attension unto this Rustical shepherd) here I do desire you, for that I see you bring that which is necessary, that you would play and sing, for that the manifesting of thy sorrow in some verse, may be an occasion to mitigate somewhat of our pain. The Prince to show pleasure unto the shepherds, and using his accustomed magnificence, took his Lute in his hand and played and sung these verses following.  

CAliope from Pernasse hill proceed,  
and show thy sacred face with tears bedewed.  
Let Gods and Nymphs prepare themselves with speed,  
to hear my plaints that are by love renewed:  
And with thy moans, O mournful Muse assist  
My wailing song, which doth on woe consist.   

And then may I at large paint out my pain,  
amongst these pastors which desire the same:  
And after I have ended, to complain,  
'gainst him whom justly I have cause to blame:  
Except these shepherds too uncivil be,  
They will with sobs assist the sighs of me.   

Time wears out love, it is reported so,  
and so it may, I will it not deny,  
Yet I have tried long time, and this I know,  
Time gives no ease unto my misery:  
But rather Fortune, Time, and Love agree,  
With cruel pains ceaseless to punish me.   

O rare report, yet too too common found,  
that Love should murder man with such despite,  
Thou blinded boy which dost so aimelesse wound,  
and in the grief of lovers hast delight:  
Cease off to shoot, and though thy eyes be blind,  
Let mercy now at last possess thy mind.   

I never heard of any yet so praised  
for constantness, that might thy force gainsay,  
I cannot show the mischief thou hast raised,  
nor bring one proof my passions to allay:  
For by thy fury kingdoms are subdued,  
And trenchant blades in people's bloods imbrued.   

Wherefore all you that hear my mournful song,  
and tasted have the grief that I sustain,  
Complain with me 'gainst cruel Cupid's wrong,  
whose slights almost my loving heart hath slain:  
Shun his deceits, so subtle, false, and sly,  
His poisoned baits for ever seek to fly.   
With the great pain and sorrow that Eleno felt, he was not able to go forwards with his song, for that there came to his remembrance the sudden departure of Lydia, which constrained him to leave it of, and one of the shepherds that was there said: Oh gentle knight, how the queen our Lady would rejoice to hear you, for that she is likewise afflicted by love, for which cause and for that she would at some time take ease of her sorrow and pain, she doth command us to sing our loving and amorous songs, who doth solemnize our sweet and loiung verses, with tears distilling from her sorrowful eyes: Then Eleno asked of them who was the occasion, that the queen, without having any power to remedy herself should suffer such like torment. The shepherd did declare unto him all that hath been told you in the story passed of the Emperor Trebatio, and of all that passed with the Queen. Tarido, who of all this had no care, but only to the feeding of his cattle, did break off this conversation, in rising up to put abroad his cattle into the green meadows, the other shepherds that were in company with Tarido, desired that the night were come, for to return and to rejoice themselves in hearing the sweet and well consorted music of the Prince, & so they made agreement to return to the same place, but it fell not out as they had determined, for that upon a sudden and unawares Eleno heard a very dolorous sigh towards his left hand, which was so terrible, heavy, and bitter, that it made him give attentive ear to see if he could understand what it should be, and with the quiet ear that he gave, he might discern that the occasion of all that evil was love, which caused him to say: Oh almighty God, I suppose that this is the place where in old time they reported to be planted the dwelling of the Goddess Venus, for that since my coming hither to take my rest, I have heard no other thing but lamentations, and so with making the least noise possible, he arose up and began to go towards the place whereas he might see what it was, and there he beheld a knight very well armed, which thou did alight from his horse, under a fair and green Myrtle tree, his armour was all russet, and full of bars of black steel, which showed to be a very sad, sorrowful, and heavy enameling▪ he was somewhat of a big stature of body and well proportioned, and there seemed by his disposition to be in him great virtue, and with sorrowful sighs he laid himself down on the green grass, and with sad and heavy words he said.  
Ah heavy and perverse fortune why dost thou consent that so naughty and evil a man as I am do live so long: Oh my Lydia, with how much reason mayst thou complain of the cruel outrage that thou receivedst at the hands of Brenio, being nothing of him considered: O Brenio, Brenio, whereon was thy thought & understanding▪ which did induce thee to commit so great evil, in leaving all alone and without comfort, the thing, of whom thou wert most beloved in the world, giving and leaving her, unto the will of the wild and furious beasts. It is possible indeed that they will have more compassion on thee my Lydia, than he who had more reason to comfort and love thee. Oh cruel, and without all faith, thou wert born into this world, for thy own torment, when with thyself thou didst consent to commit so great treason. Where was thy understanding that thou couldst not remember thyself, & take pity on her, that did forsake her affinity and Country, for thee and thy love. O Lydia, who made me to forget all the great pains and travail which thou tookest, in wandering by land alone lamenting, and sometimes by sea sorrowing, and all for to set at liberty him, who left thee prisoner amongst the wild beasts. Oh happy beast is he, that chanceth to bury thee in his belly: and woe be unto me traitor, without any knowledge of virtue or pity. What doth it now profit me to fill the air with my lamentations, seeing that the harm and evil is already past, and without all remedy or hope of comfort: & herewith he gave a terrible and grievous sigh, & so held his peace. Don Eleno by those heavy and sorrowful weepings together with his reasons which he heard, knew him to be that Brenio, whom so long time he had laboured to seek and find out with so great travail, and knew him to be the causer of the death of his Lady and Mistress, the pain and sorrow was so extreme the which he felt, that he was constrained without any feeling to fall down to the ground, but yet the fury of his courageous heart would not give place that he should so remain long, but strait ways with the great anguish that he had, he arose up again on foot, with great desire to fight with Brenio, but calling to remembrance all that which was commanded him, he would first perform the same, in giving him the letter, and then when he had made an end of reading the same, to demand of him battle▪ So with this thought and determination, he went unto the place whereas Brenio was, who, when he heard the noise, strait ways on his feet: then Eleno did salute him with a voice somewhat heavy. And Brenio did return unto him his salutation, with no less show of grief. Then this amorous Eleno, took forth the letter out of the place, whereas so long time he had kept it, and taking it into his hand he said. Is it possible that thou art the forgetful and disloyal Brenio, the which left Lydia, with so great pain and sorrow, all alone in the power, of the wild beasts. Brenio when he heard him to say these words, he began to behold him, although his eyes were all to be blubbered and weary with weepings, he answered him and said. I will not deny thee gentle Knight, that which the high heavens doth complain of. Thou shalt understand that I am the same Brenio, whom thou hast demanded for. Tell me what is your will, and what it is that you would have. Eleno answered him. Oh ingrateful Knight without all knowledge and understanding, what devil was that, which put in thy thought to commit so great villainy, take here unto thee, and read this letter, the last work of the fair and white hand of Lydia. The prince was so troubled in his thought, and so much grieved, that it was almost the occasion, to dissolve the soul from his body. This penitent and sorrowful Lusitanian, put forth his hand somewhat trembling, in such sort, that being constrained, by force to take the letter, the same force by weary means, did constrain him to sit down, on the ground, without any farther power to the contrary: & when he opened the letter, he knew it to be written by his Lydia: who with great alteration of heart and mind, did read it, the which was as hereafter follolloweth.  
The Letter.  
THe infortunate Lydia, and thy mortal enemy Brenio, doth send thee health, although of her part there is no power to give it thee neither able to move herself, for that in thy respect, she hath it not, neither hath she any hope thereof. Oh Brenio, wherefore didst thou consent, that so perfect & true love which I bore to thee should be accounted vain, and wouldst not perform the faith which without ask in a very short time thou didst grant unto me, oh cruel Brenio, oh hard heart, is this the firm love that so feignedly thou didst profess to me, what is he that hath been more unmerciful than thou hast been. There is no furious beast, Tiger, nor Lion, unto whom at their will thou didst deliver me, that with their unmerciful nails they might cruelly entreat my flesh, but would have accompanied me with more pity, and have helped me to lament my cruel destiny. Ah Brenio, the great pain which I suffer will not consent to declare the unreasonable torments, troubles, and sorrows the which for thee I have passed, so that I need not to refer it unto them who doth know it very well: but of one thing alone I will give thee to understand, that in the end when thou didst leave all alone, and at my waking I could not find thee, my dolorous pain was so great, that I did not think to escape with my life. But my mishap, (which hath been always unto me contrary, and the more to increase my pain) was such, that my lamentation was heard by a knight, who being moved with compassion, did ask of me the occasion of all this my harm and grief, and when that I had told him (whether it was by motion of love, the which I had wholly given unto thee, or by the overmuch compassion which he had of my pain) he brought me out of that solitary place whereas thou didst leave me, and carried me whereas▪ I made an end of all my great pains and passions. Ah Brenio when I wrote these few lines, my body was almost cold and without all strength, ready to yield up my soul, which is (I know) to thee great contentment, and for that thou shouldest be satisfied of thy desire, I did determine to advertise thee, in giving thee to understand of my desired death, thou being the only occasion thereof: Oh Brenio, now are the Fa●es cutting of the third of my life asunder, & I can give thee knowledge of no more. But yet I do desire thee by the true love which I bore thee, that thou wilt read these few lines which some sorrow: & here of the Gods I do desire, that they do make thee to pass the ●ame evil which thou hast been the occasion of unto me, till such time as it bringeth thee to die the like death that for thee I now die. And if thou dost desire to know any farther of this matter, he which bringeth thee this can inform thee of the whole state thereof, for that now I have no more time, neither my strength will consent unto it.  
The tears were in so great abundance which this sad & heavy knight did shed in the time that he was a reading this dolorous letter, that he all to wet the same, the messenger likewise did not let to bear him company, and to solemn his heaviness with so many more tears distilling from his eyes. The great sorrow & lamentation was such & so much, that in a great space the one could not speak unto the other, but afterward their pain being somewhat appeased, Brenio began to speak & say. Oh messenger from her, with the remembrance of whose wrong my soul is wounded, being undeservedly, of me evil rewarded. Tell me for God's love if thou dost know where she is, show unto me her abiding place, that I may go thither, & give a discharge of this my great fault, in yielding myself to death: Oh cruel & without all love, answered Don Eleno, what discharge canst thou give unto her that already through thy cruelty is dead & buried: thou shalt do much better to arise & take unto thee thy armour, & defend thyself from him that will procure thy death, to make satisfaction of the debt, that she without any duty did pay. Is it possible answered Brenio, that Lydia is dead: it is possible answered Eleno, and she is dead, by the occasion of such a forsworn knight as thou art. This penitent & pained knight when he understood the certainty of all this evil, with a sudden and hasty fury struck himself on the breast a great stroke with his fist, and lifting his eyes unto the heavens in manner of exclamation against his Gods, giving deep and sorrowful sighs, he threw himself to the ground, and tumbled & wallowed from the one part unto the other, without taking any ease, or having any power or strength to declare his inward pain and grief the which at that time he felt, but with an inward lamentation, which did torment his heart, he called continually upon Lydia, and with that devilish fury wherein he was, he drew out his dagger, and lifting up the skirt of his shirt of mail, he thrust it into his body, and giving himself this unhappy death, with calling upon Lydia, he finished his life. The Dacian knight remained in a great confusion to see this sudden chance, and that in such sort, that he could put no remedy therein, but with the great heaviness and sorrow, that he received, he fell down in a sound, without any remembrance of himself. The Page which Eleno brought with him, did then procure all remedies that were possible for to bring him again unto his remembrance, and laboured to do it with great love, but yet for all that he could do or procure, there was no possibility of his recovery, till such time as Phoebus had made an end of his journey, & that Diana had begun her government, them he began to come a little to himself, & looking on the one side, and saw that Brenio lay dead by his side, with a dolorous voice he said unto his page. Ah Fabio, wherefore hast thou procured to put remedy unto my body, and consented that it should endure so terrible pain and evil, thou shouldest have suffered me to have died, and not to have been the occasion that now I live dying, and having no more power to speak, he held his peace. At this time he had great need of the force and strength of his christian courage, for to assist him that he did not that, which should cause him to bear company with this dead Brenio. His Page Fabio did very much comfort him, and did procure by all means to give him ease: but all that ever he could do did profit very little, or give any contentment unto his pain, till such time as he heard a great noise of armed knights, which was the occasion that he came unto himself, and for that he would not be discovered, he put himself into the thickest of the bushes, & with the help of Fabio; he carried Brenio, drawing him from the place where he was, and covered him with boughs and leaves, till such time as they might have opportunity to bury him, as hereafter you shall understand. So there he continued all that night till the morning, with great sorrow and pain, lamenting much his unhappy lot, in a place whereas he could not be discovered or heard, not for any fear that was in him, but only to have time to lament, weep & bewail his unhappy fortune. Then at such time as the bright Apollo, did spread abroad his golden beams, over all the fields and cragged mountains, he did perceive that those which did lodge themselves nigh unto the place whereas he was, did procure to departed, he let them go, without any desire to know who they were, but rather being still, did let them pass forwards on their way, procuring to put in execution his former intent. But first of all he caused to unarm Brenio of his armour, the which was according unto his passion, in colour and all things, and as strong as a Diamond, & made by Art Magic, with great lamentation he armed himself with them, and took also his shield, which was all of a russet field, and in the midst thereof was put Cupid with two faces, the one was very fair and bound with a cloth about his eyes, and the other was made marvelous fierce and furious. He continued and was so long in arming himself, that he heard a great number of Knights, which passed along by the sides of the forest, and amongst them there was a dolorous lamentation, which seemed to be of Ladies and Damsels, and it seemed that they were forced and constrained against their wills, which moved the courage of this Dacian, to desire to know what it was. And leaping upon his horse, his Page took the horse of Brenio, which was very good, & with as little noise as was possible, they went out of the forest into the high way, whereas they might see all that which in the chapter following shall be told you.   

¶ How that Eleno went out of the forest to see the adventure of those Knights which passed by the forest, and how he encountered with them, and of the battle, that happened thereupon. Cap. 5.  
AT such time as the clear Apollo had passed one part of his journey, the Dacian prince issued out of the forest, to see what it should be, that made all that noise under the forest side. And there he discovered thirty Knights, which road before a chariot, that was drawn with four horses, and therein a company of Ladies and damsels, appareled with marvelous rich robes, making great lamentation and sorrow: and in the midst amongst them, there was a very fair Lady, who had before her two childre●: and before the Chariot road a Giant of a fierce and furious countenance mounted on a wonderful beast, and after the same went another giant, not altogether so furious as the first, that was mounted on a mighty horse: these made great haste to travail forwards. When this valiant Dacian saw this adventure, he was in a great confusion, for that he found himself so lean and weak, yet for all that, the great valour of his person, and courage of his heart, would not suffer any sluggishness, but determined to set them at liberty, and to punish so great outrage, or else to die in the demand. And with this determination he said. Let life suffer the pain, and let not the honour be blotted with cowardness, and perusing well his armour, he committed himself unto God, and issued out of the forest with a swift pace, at such time as the Chariot with the great haste that it made, had passed by a good space, and setting spurs, unto his horse, he made him to fly like the wind, and with a high voice he bade them tarry. At which calling, the Giant that was hindermost looked back, and when he saw that it was a Knight that called him, and that he came running towards him with great swiftness, he said unto those that governed the Chariot. Go and keep on your way, and let me alone to see what that unhappy creature would have: and he turned about his horse, at such time as that warlike Dacian, was come nigh unto him, the Giant said unto him: Knight what haste is this that thou makest. The Dacian answered: It is to amend if I may this outrage which I suppose thou dost unto those Ladies, which thou dost carry away with thee in the wagon. The Giant smiling, and as it were, seeming to have him in derision, disdainfully said. I do tell thee of a truth knight, that if I did not believe, that folly doth make thee to speak that which thou hast uttered, thou mightest well take me to be the vilest person in the world▪ to have so small courage, to put myself before one alone Knight in this demand. The Dacian did well perceive that these words proceeded of great pride & presumption, and without giving him any answer, he drew out his sharp sword, and then without any more tarrying, he struck him upon his helm so great a blow, that it sounded like a bell, and made him to decline his head down to his breast. But strait way he had his payment for the same, for that the Giant laid hold on his great and cutting sword, & with strange swiftness, he struck him upon the fine and hard helm, that he almost made him to lose his feeling. By which blow, this courageous Eleno perceived, that it stood him in hand, not to be idle, and having great fear, that in the mean time while they made their battle, the rest would go away with their prey, and then all his labour and travail should be in vain, he let his shield hang at his back, and clasped his sword fast with both his hands▪ & struck him so furious a blow upon his helm, that the strength thereof did little profit him; for that it was not able to make any defence, but it was cut in pieces with the head, and the Giant fell dead to the ground, & without any more tarrying, he followed after the wagon, and did procure to disturb them, that they should not go forwards on their way. So all those that went with the wagon, were alighted from their horses, ready to embark themselves into a small bark which they tarried for, to carry them unto a great and fair ship, which was there, a little farther from the shore. This Dacian called with a loud voice, & said. Tarry, tarry, & do not think, so much at your ease to carry away your pray, for that I hope first to take away your lives, or else to be slain in their defence. And when they saw and knew that it was the Knight that remained with the Giant, and seeing him come in such order, they were all marvelously astonished. The other Giant which was yet still upon his beast, and was not alighted, returned against him, more furious than a Tiger, and uttering a thousand varieties, he asked where he remained that made battle with him. Don Eleno said: Put at liberty these Ladies which thou dost carry away by force, and ask not for him: for he wanting life, hath finished all his evil deeds and works, and without tarrying for an answer, he lift up his sword, all to be bathed with the blood of the dead Giant, and stroke at him so terrible a blow, that he gave him to understand very well, the strength of his mighty arm. The Giant who felt the blow to be very strong drew out from his side, a broad and heavy sword, and stroke at him such a blow, that almost it brought him to the ground, if it had not been for the great force, which he put in firming himself in his stiroppes, which was the occasion that in a trice he settled himself again in the saddle, & seeing himself so evil entreated he pressed towards him, and began to lay on him so sharp and strong blows, that he made the sparks of fire fly out of his armour, and although he was marvelously occupied in striking of the Giant, yet did he not forget to have always an eye unto Chariot whereas the captive Ladies were, to see if they did procure by any means to do them harm or damage, and he saw that they went about to take them out of the waggon, and to put them a land, for to embark them, which made him to make more haste in his battle, and knowing the strong enemy, that he had before him, and enraged with that sudden sight, to see them embarking, and that if they should carry them to sea, then by no means he could neither favour nor secure them, he received so great wrath, that he threw his shield at his back and took his cutting sword in both his hands, and went unto the Giant on his left side, and firming himself in his stirrups, he struck him so terrible a blow, that he made him to ●ull upon his beasts neck, without any remembrance, and to void at his mouth and nose great abundance of blood, and without any tarrying he spurred his horse and in great hast he went towards those knights that had those Ladies in keeping, & began to stir himself amongst them, in such sort, that when they remembered themselves to make resistance, there was three of them slain, than all the rest joined themselves together, & put back to back, & made a round circle, with their swords in their hands to make their defence. At this time the prince Eleno had forgot the great virtue which his horse had, but because he would not that they should kill him, he alighted from him, the which was the occasion that he put himself in great travail and peril, notwithstanding with the great anger which he had, he pressed in amongst them, & stroke & wounded them on every side, without taking any rest, that it was a wonder to see, and he so bestirred & tossed his cutting sword upon them that made resistance, that he made them to know and feel his great strength, although that they were chosen & valiant knights, & they did not let to entreat him very evil, in such sort, that many times they made him to stoop & feel the grief of their blows: notwithstanding the courage & strength of Eleno was such, that in a very short time he brought twelve of them to the ground before him. The mariners which saw the great fury that was in that one knight, in great haste put of their bark from the waters side, and with the fear which they had likewise to be there slain, returned unto their ship, forcing their bark with the great strength of their arms, striking in the water with their oars, and when they came to the ship they called aloud giving & making a great noise unto the rest of the knights that were in the ship, which was to the number of twenty, that they should come and give aid and secure to those which were a land, for that some of them were slain, & some very sore hurt, and other some standing still in their defence. In the mean time this furious Dacian did so behave himself amongst them, & in such sort, that quickly he had cleared himself of all those, if at the present time the Giant which was before astonished & beside himself, had not come whereas they were, for being come again unto himself, and saw the great peril wherein he was brought, I cannot nor am not able to declare here the great and unmeasurable fury the which he had, and it did the more increase in him when he saw so many knights slain and dead, only by the power and strength of that one knight: his wrath was so great, that he began to cry out against his Gods, and alighted from his beast, & took his sword into his hand, and with a furious pace he went towards whereas the Prince was, but when the valiant Eleno saw him, he could not but think that he should pass great trouble with him, notwithstanding for that he saw no other thing but death amongst those barbarous and rude people, he did determine to sell his life very dear, & had good regard unto the blows which the Giant should strike at him, and in the best wise he could he cleared himself from them. In this sort went this valiant knight maintaining his quarrel, & damnifying his enemies when opportunity did serve, and always had a good hope to clear himself of that battle, although that there were come a land three and twenty other knights, against whom he made his defence at his pleasure, for that they feared his terrible blows, and had hurt & wounded them in many parts, although the wounds were not very great, for that he could never fasten on them one blow to his contentment. At this time there came another Giant a shore out of the bark, which had remained in the ship, and with him came other twenty knights, and thirty men with hatchets and other weapons, which made great haste to come a land. At such time as this warlike Dacian was entangled & in battle with the other, this giant came before all the rest and struck this knight behind him so terrible a blow that it made him to bow both his knees to the ground, but his mighty courage which in such like chances always recovered strength with great haste & a valiant heart, he put himself a foot again, and looking about him to see who it was that so tormented him, he saw that it was a mighty and terrible Giant, who with a great club was ready to give him the second blow, the Prince with good advisement did put himself a part from the force thereof, and made him to spend his blow in vain, and took his sword in his hands, and pressed unto the Giant before he could defend himself, and struck him such a terrible blow upon the right knee, that he cut it a sunder in the midst, and the heavy and fierce Giant fell dead to the ground. At this time all those that came out of the ship pressed on him for to kill him, that by reason of their thick and mighty blows, so many together, he was constrained to fall down to the earth, but when he saw himself in this great peril, he did procure to kill all that ever he could of them that put themselves before him, which was the occasion that he had space to arise up again on foot, and seeing himself in this great danger, he began to call upon jesus Christ, committing unto him his soul, and besought him that he would take mercy on it, and therewith he pressed unto his enemies, and with double force he laid on them on every side, but all was in vain for him to make resistance, for that the company was so great that did compass him about, striking at him as though they were desperate men, so that this good knight was constrained to retire unto the sea side, and to put himself into the water up to the waist, whereas he made his back sure, that they could not come behind him, & there he made his defence somewhat with less travail against them that did procure to offend him: the Giant which saw so great a slaughter of men committed by one knight, with a furious voice returned unto the people, and reviled them, calling them cowards, and cursing himself for that he would accompany himself with so naughty and vile a generation, and said unto them: Enter into the water and follow him, for it is but one knight that is before you. And therewith he put himself into the water, than all the rest for very shame were constrained to do the like. At this time this valiant knight saw himself in the greatest danger that ever before that time in all his life he had been in, and made not any reckoning to live longer, yet nevertheless he thought to sell his life very dear, with the death of all such as he might possibly fasten one blow upon: But at this instant came unto his mind his beloved Lydia, and he said with a deep and profound sigh. Ah my Lydia, what great delight do I feel in myself, here to make my end, and to set me at liberty of so great sorrow and care, which I do suffer in not seeing thee: but therewith remembering himself, he said. O Lord what is this, what have I said? I do find myself at the point to be slain, and do I now call to remembrance her, that I know is in the depth of the earth. Am not I a Christian? It is better for me to return unto thee my God, unto whom I do commit my soul: and Lord, for thy mercy's sake, do not look upon this my weakness, but according unto thy great mercy take pity upon me. And although he was weary, yet was not his valiant arms at this time unoccupied, but rather with a more strength he did procure to defend himself, working such wondrous feats, that seemed even impossible, but unto them that saw it. And he recovered unto himself a new courage and force, in such sort, that the water of the Sea did give testimonial of his great prowess, for that unto more than ten of them which did pursue him, he gave the sea for their sepulchar: and if it had not been for the Giant that did trouble him very much, he would before he had been slain, made that very few of the rest should have remained, for to brag themselves of their victory. But I promise you, he was in such plight, that of very feebleness he was forced to make his strength. This wearied Eleno was in this sort as you have heard in great weakness, and void of all human strength, although he lacked no courage in his heart. At which time there arrived in great haste a bark at the shore side, in the which came one alone Knight, armed with very rich armour, who (if you do remember) was the valiant Rosicleer, that after he had made an end of that perilous battle at Lira, in the which he lost the company of that good Knight Brandimardo, he full of sorrow and grief, returned unto the sea, whereas by fortune he found his light and enchanted bark, which with her accustomed swiftness did carry him, whereas he saw was made a fearful battle, the which was this that here before I have told you that the afflicted Prince did make. So that when Rosileer saw that one alone Knight with so great courage did make resistance against so many, who did molest him without all pity, it moved in him a desire to help him, which strait way he put in ure, and leping a shore with his accustomed courage, he went towards the place whereas they were in battle, and having his sword fast in both his hands, he pressed in amongst those vile people, and when he saw that he which did most trouble the Knight, was that furious and devilish Giant, he struck him such a blow upon his left shoulder the harness and body altogether he cut down to the waist, & made him fall dead into the water where he was. Yet his fury rested not with this, but striking about him, at four blows he brought four Knights to their end. And as the watered herbs or flowers doth recreate themselves when they are covered with the beams of the son of Tona, in such sort did the Prince Don Eleno rejoice at the coming of this new succour unlooked for, and therewith recovering new strength, with one leap he sprung out of the water, and put himself by the side of Rosicleer, and laid upon his enemies, with great and mighty blows. The worthy Rosicleer being moved with the great outrage that those vile people did, wrought such valiant wonders, that it was to be marveled at, and unhappy might he account himself, who chanced to receive a blow at his hand. They made so great haste in cutting, wounding and killing of those vile people, that leaving some dead, and other sore wounded, others running away to deliver themselves from the fury of their unmerciful blows, these knights were free & at liberty of all their former peril. This valiant Eleno would have gratified the Prince for his good succour and aid, and went towards him for the same effect: and when he would have spoken, he knew that it was Rosicler his Cousin, by the device that he had in his shield which was Cupid painted in it, and therewith in great haste he pulled off his helm, and said.  
Worthy Lord and cousin, if the device of your shield, and the great strength of your person do not deceive me, you are Rosicler son unto the Emperor Trebatio, my good uncle. The Greek was very attentive unto the words that Eleno spoke and when he saw his face discovered and his his helm off, it seemed unto him, that he saw the proportion of his own natural face, as though he were looking of himself in a glass, and he received great contentment at the sight of him, although he did very much marvel to see him in that place, and therewith he pulled off his helm, and discovered that severe and fair face, with great delight unto all them that did behold him, and it was the more to be rejoiced at, for that they were the one so like the other (that except it were for the little beard that Rosicler had) not without great difficulty they could know, which was the one, and which was the other. The two Knights could not persever in their communication, for that they were disturbed by the lamentable noise of those Ladies which were prisoners, for that some of them had their hands bound, & some both hands and feet, and they cried out for succour and help to those Knights, and for that they did see them to prolong the time, they made the more haste in crying for their liberty, at whose pitiful cries they were constrained to go unto them, & to cut asunder the cords wherewith they were bound. The great joy which they received when they saw themselves at liberty, I do refer it unto the judgement and consideration of them, which have been themselves in captivity, & afterward obtained like liberty. The Lady which had the two children in her lap, seeing herself at liberty, with the great joy thereof, she changed a new colour, so that the blood that entered into her face, caused her to appear to be very fair, & with a severe Majesty, she did surrender unto them great thanks, for the goodness, which by them they had recovered. This fair Lady did not let in the mean time whilst they were talking to behold the countenance of the two knights and in her own imagination did consider, that she saw the natural proportion and gesture of him, whom she carried pictured in her heart: and suspecting what it should be, she gave very attentive ear unto the words which Rosicler uttered, remaining with as great delight of his courtesy and discretion, as when she was wholly yielded unto the love of his father: and for that in the end of all their talk Rosicler did demand of her who she was, she could not in any wise do other than tell them, and with great courtesy she answered and said. Worthy knights, in whom the Gods hath made so great equality and likeness, you shall understand, that I am Queen and Lady of this Island called Tinacria, who without all good fortune was mocked by the false Emperor of Grecia. Rosicler, when he heard his father so evil spoken off, could not take it in good part, yet remembering himself that it was a woman, and that she spoke it with anger, he therefore accordingly did frame himself to answer her, and said. High and mighty Lady, there is no reason that I do answer you unto those words, which your troubled heart hath pronounced against him, that I am sure, and do right well know, in your service would lose his life, & not he alone, but also all his sons and subjects, for the great good will y● to you we have, as it doth appear in this aid & secure which now we have made. And if you do well consider (high and mighty Lady) the great service which the noble Knight of the Sun, and son unto the Emperor my father, being accompanied with the Prince Don Eleno our Cousin, who is here now present before thee. If as I say, it were well considered, the service which they have done unto you, it were great reason and with desert, that the error of the father should be forgiven, if he have committed any. And if these be not sufficient to make satisfaction, take in company with the rest, that which now at this present, was showed unto thee, whereof part of it was done likewise by his son Rosicler. And if it be so, that still your heart be hardened with the desire to take revengement. Behold here Lady my head that which I do yield into thy power, that thou mayst therewith set the father at liberty, from thy fury.  
The Queen had her eyes fixed on the Prince, & without having any power to make resistance against so terrible a blow: she did show very plainly and clearly what she felt in her, and giving a great sigh which proceeded from the bottom of her heart, she said: Alas for me, O fortune, can this be true, that that which I received for glory, is converted into a troublesome pain. So she said no more, for that she was disturbed by a great noise which a damsel made, by reason of two men, who when they saw that Rosicler & Don Eleno were occupied in talking with the queen, they went running to put themselves into the bark of the Prince, and procured to put it from the shore, thinking to save their lives in rowing away with the Bark. And when Rosicler saw them, not having any time to put on his helm, he carried it in his hand, and leapt out of the waggon, as light as a Hart amongst the cragged mountains, and in a trice he was with them, yet the strength of those two men was not sufficient to launch the bark from the shore, the which Rosicleer had forgotten, and for covetousness that he would not lose his horse, he went to disturb them, and leapt into the Bark: he was no sooner within it, when that with his accustomed swiftness the bark began to move itself from the shore, the which when these two men saw, they would have leapt into the water, but Rosicler caught fast hold of the one, and staid him, but the other he could not, for that it was so quickly done. Whereas we will leave them for to tell you of his cousin, who when he saw that the Bark so suddenly did depart away, I cannot here declare the great heaviness and sorrow that he received, because he could not delight himself in his good company. The like sorrow made the Queen (although she did procure to hide her desire) yet her sorrow was great, and because Don Eleno was the first that did begin the battle for to set them at liberty, they did honour and worship him as a divine thing. And herewith they determined to return unto the City, whereas I will leave them with the success of the queens imprisonment, and the occasion thereof, for that hereafter I will declare it, being now constrained to tell you of the worthy deeds of the Mauritanian.   

How when the valiant Mauritanian had slain the Tartarian Zoylo, he put on the armour of Bramarant, for that he would not be known, and of all that happened therein. Chap. 6.  
YOU do well remember when that the furious young man Brufaldoro fled away from the battle, not for any fear that he had, but for anger to find himself in place whereas he could get but little honour, like a whirl wind he crossed over all those plains, & put himself into the thickest of the forest, travailing in vain his faultless horse, and never rested till he came unto the mighty great river the which before he had passed, & there he alighted off from his horse, and for to refresh himself he pulled off his helm, and took water with his hands and washed his face, and drunk thereof, refreshing himself, and as he found himself all alone, there came unto him many thoughts, amongst all he was greatly grieved at the remembrance of that which had passed, and the more, for that a woman was the cause of all that harm, and with great anger giving terrible sighs, he began to curse, not alone the hour of his birth, but also the queen of Tinacria, accounting women to be all the occasion thereof: likewise he considered the great travail and sorrow that most knights do pass for their respects. At that time Phoebus began to withdraw himself into his accustomed lodging, and hiding himself in the occidental parts, and therewith drew on the dark and tenebrous night, which was the occasion that his pain did the more increase, and caused him to say: Oh cruel and vile women, the causers and authors of all evil, what do you see in yourselves, that you do make so much thereof, I see that you are good for no other thing, but to cause murders and great treasons. It is possible that you do esteem so of yourselves, and the occasion of your high looks is, for that we men be borne of you: if you do well consider thereof, for the very same occasion you should abate your great pride and pranking gestures, for that we do plainly see and perfectly know, that from and out of an unprofitable & pricking ●●●lke doth spring and grow a fair and pleasant rose. Also from that venomous Basilisk, do they not take a stone of 〈◊〉 innumerable value: and this believe of a certainty, that the evyllest men doth all proceed from you: Oh wretches, when you see your opportunity, what is the knight that can make resistance, but is strait overcome by you so vile and base creatures, here I do swear to you by all the Gods, that I do not honour you, neither will I reverence you, although that Mahomet do command me, for that I have him in estimation as vile and base and of no value, and for the great hatred which I do bear unto you, if I did think that my heart should be subject unto you, I would pull it out of my body with great cruelty, to punish myself and it for committing so great foolishness. The sighs of this Moor were so great & terrible, that all the woods and mountains did sound thereof. O thou outrageous and hardy Pagan, how strong and stout dost thou show thyself, thou shalt quickly know and have thy payment for these thy reviling words, in subjecting thyself unto them, that now thou dost publish for false. O Ladies and Damsels ask revengement of so cruel an enemy, that with so many reasons doth revile you all to nought. So with these lamentations the which I have told you the Pagan passed away the night till the morning, that Apollo began with his glistering beams to cover all the earth, the which being seen by the Pagan, with a trice he arose up, and took his horse for to prosecute his journey begun, and lifting up his eyes towards the heavens, he did discover hanging upon a high and mighty pine apple tree which was nigh him the armour of Bramarant, which was put there for a remembrance, as hath been told you in the first part of this history. The armour had all lost their colour, yet for all that, it did show the great value of them, and looking about, he saw the Epitaph which the two brethren had made there. And understanding the reason thereof, it gave him a farther desire to take them down, without respecting the harm that might thereof proceed, not making any reckoning of the words that were there manifested. And for that he might the better bring to pass his pretence, he unarmed himself, and climbed upon the tree, and took them from the place where they were and brought them down, and when he was below, and saw the armour to be so good, he armed himself with them, and when he lacked no more to put on but his helm, he heard the voice of a knight which said: Be not so hardy thou knight as to undo this Tropheo, erected by the Greek Princes, and look well to thyself for thou shalt die for the same. The Moor at the noise which he made, east his head on the one side and saw that he that spoke those words was a well set and armed knight, but for all this he did not let to make an end of arming himself, and without setting his foot into the stirrup he leapt into the saddle, and setteling himself therein he went towards the demander with his sword in his hand. You shall understand, that he which did threaten him was the Tartarian Zoylo, who if you do remember departed in great haste from the amorous Tigliafa, and unawares entered into this wilderness, and by reason of his weariness in making so great haste in his travail, it caused him to be very dry, and having great desire to drink, he crossed here and there in the forest, at last there appeared before him a very ancient old man, who had his beard and hair all white with age, who did secure him with water, and gave him a great cup full, & with the great thirst that Zoylo had he drank well thereof, till such time as he felt himself satisfied, and returned the cup again unto him, and when he thought to have given thanks for his courtesy showed, he was vanished clean out of his sight, so that he saw him no more. For you shall understand that it was the wise Lirgandeo, which brought the cup full of water from the fountain of Merlin, who understanding by his enchantments the thirst Zoilo had, brought him of the water, for so mitigate his dryness, increasing in him a new desire to the love of Tigliafa. He had scant made an end of drinking when that he felt in himself a new thought of love, and repenting himself of all hatred past, being overcome by the water, and fixed in that new love, he determined to return again unto Constantinople, and crave pardon of the Princess, but that cruel Atropos who had his blow ready, would not grant unto him any time for the same, neither was the wise Lyrgandeo able to deliver him from the death. And so it fell out, that when he would have made his return to Constantinople, he chanced to come to that place whereas Bramarant did kill himself, and whereas Brufaldoro did disarm himself, and armed himself again with the armour of the Tropheo. And the valiant Tartarian knowing the great harm that would proceed unto them which did procure to come unto the Tropheo, he would give advisement unto him that was so bold to give the attempt, that he might understand, that it would be demanded at his hand. And so he did advise Brufaldoro in that sort as you have heard, who without any answering came against him with his sword in his hand, inviting him to mortal battle. Zoylo who saw his determination, did procure to defend himself and offend his enemy. Oh my Muse, that now I had so much discretion and eloquence for to set out and declare the great harm that this day happened in this unfortunate Forest. This valiant Tartarian when his enemy came unto him, struck him so terrible a blow upon the viso of his helm that with the fury thereof he made sparkles of fire to issue out thereof with great abundance, and to bow down his head upon his breast. The Pagan did return unto him his salutation, and struck him such a blow upon his helm, that with the great noise thereof it made a sound in all the mountains. Now began between them a marvelous and fearful battle, at the great noise whereof, Fortune willing to use her extremity, for to amplify a farther evil, caused the Princess. Tigliafa in the company of her Ladies and Damsels to come unto that place whereas these knights were, in battle, and strait way she did know her well-beloved Tartarian and seeing him in so dangerous a battle, she was in great anguish with herself. These Knights thought on no other thing, but either of them procured to bring his adversary to his end, striking at each other such terrible blows, and with so great fury, that many times it made either of them to lose his feeling: and both seeing the great force of one another, were marvelously incensed with anger. This fierce Tartarian threw his shield at his back, that with more force he might strike and hurt his enemy, and therewith gave him so strong a blow upon his helm, that all astonished he forced him to fall upon the crupper of his horse, who carried him a great space round about the field, without any feeling. But when he came again unto himself, this fierce Mauritanian settling himself in his saddle, stroke at the Tartarian so terrible a blow, that if it had chanced on him, it would have turned him to much grief, but with great discretion he cleared himself thereof, in such sort, that it was strooken in vain, and with great lightness, he returned, and struck the Mauritanian so, that he made him once again to fall upon the crupper of his horse all astonied, and there appeared by the viso of his helm, the abundance of blood that issued out of his mouth, and his horse being gréuéd with that blow, stooped with his forefeet to the ground, and being amazed, with great fury he rose up & with his great kicking and flinging backwards, he did defend, that the Tartarian could not come nigh to hurt the Mauritanian, which was the occasion that he could not have any time for to give him the second blow, although he never left to follow him, to see if he could make an end of the enterprise, which would have made much of his part, not to have given way that this fierce Mauritanian should have returned to himself so quickly which was in so short time, and with so great anger, that the smoke which came from his mouth, seemed like a mist about his helm, so that almost it could not be seen. Then this furious devil set spurs to his horse, & blaspheming against his Gods, having his mortal sword very fast in his hand, he ran towards his enemy, who without any fear of his fury, went forth to receive him, and when they met together, they discharged their blows at once, but it fortuned that the Mauritanians blow did first fasten, with so great strength, that for all the helm which Zoylo had was so good, it was not sufficient to make defence, but that with the devilish fury wherewith it was discharged, it bended, in such sort, that it broke all to pieces the scalp of that unhappy Tartarian, wherewith he gave a terrible fall to the ground. So when the Pagon saw his enemy on the earth, with a loud voice he said: Now shalt not thou be he that shall disturb me, that I carry not this armour with me. This sad and heavy Princess when she saw her sweet and well-beloved friend on the earth, with great suspicion what was happened, began to weep bitterly. And as a Lion who seeing before her her young Lion evil entreated of the hunter: even so she leapt from her palfrey and ran unto her well-beloved Zoylo, and with great speed she pulled off the helm from that wounded head, and with a fair linen cloth she wiped of the blood from his mortal face, and when she was certain that it was he that cost her so dear the seeking, and that he was without life, with furious madness she tore her attire from her head, and all to rend her golden hair, tearing it in pieces, and returned again and wiped that infernal face, making such sorrowful lamentation, that whosoever had seen her would have been moved to have had compassion. Then she took the head between her hands, and did procure without doing it any harm to lift it up, and to put it upon her lap, and seeing for all this that there was no moving in him, she joined her face unto the face of that unfortunate Zoylo, and with sorrowful words she said: Oh my love, open thine eyes and behold me, open them, I say, and look upon this thy Lady most unfortunate, and while life remaineth give me some contentment, if fortune be so favourable: Oh my Lord, strengthen thyself to look upon me, wherein I shall receive such delight, that willingly I will bear thee company: Ah Zoylo and my only love, seeing that in former time my tears were not sufficient to reclaim thee in any part, make me satisfaction for the great travail which I have taken in seeking thee out, come now in death and enjoy this thy unfortunate lover, and die not without seeing me, open these eyes and behold me, give me I pray thee some comfort: Ah my Lord, I know not whether in seeing me thou shalt receive pain, or no, for that at any time thou never delightedst in any thing that was mine, but now I will gratify thee in dying with thee, and seeing that in thy life time I could not rejoice in thee, nor have any company with thee, I will now in thy death seek thee, and peradventure thou wilt now have more pity on me. The Princess sorrowful lamentations and great weepings were such, that she almost sounded. But this discomforted Lady coming to herself and saw that her love made no appearance of life, she began again to wipe his face, for that it was again all to be bathed with blood, and with her white hand she felt his eyes and mouth and all his face and his head, till such time as she chanced to put her hand on the mortal wound, and when she knew that there was all the harm, she held her hand still, and looking on him whether he moved or no, with the great fear which she had that he would die, without giving her any comfort to speak unto her, she made a marvelous and great lamentation, and cried out with terrible shrieks, the which did augment much heaviness and sorrow in them which were in company with the Princess, and she said. Ah my love, how many troubles and great travails have I passed in seeking thee, by mountains and hills, by valleys, wild fields and high ways, watering them with my amorous tears, always demanding for thee, and always in vain calling thee, yet was I never desolate of the true love which I bore unto thee: Oh how many times in calling for thee, have I been answered by the ecko, which was unto me great dolour and grief, and now that fortune hath brought me into the same place whereas thou art, for to recreate and rejoice myself with thy beauty, the same fortune would that it should be for the more increasing of my dolour and grief, in finding thee in this sort, as now thou art. Oh cruel Fortune, I have not deserved to be thus ingratefully used at thy hands: for when I thought to be clear of all sorrow and trouble, now I find myself most afflicted therewith. Ah my Lord, seeing that in thy life time thou gavest me so bitter and evil a life, for that thou didst hate & abhor me, now in thy death give me some comfort. Open these sweet eyes and behold me, lift up this wounded head and give me some comfort before thou diest. Ah Zoylo my joy, if ever thou didst bear me any love, it is now time to give me to understand thereof, before thy soul departed from thy body, and in saying these lamentable words, she was constrained to hold her peace, for that she saw that this wounded Tartarian recovered some strength: who opened his eyes, and when he saw himself in the arms of her, who at that time he so much loved, & before by force of enchantment he hated, he suddenly arose up, and recovering strength he sat himself on the ground, and cast his arms about the white neck of the Princess, and they joined their faces the one with the other, distilling betwixt them many salt and bitter tears, in such sort, that it would have moved the wild beasts unto compassion, and with a feeble & weak voice this unfortunate Prince said: Ah my Lady and mistress, let me recreate and comfort myself in enjoying this thy mouth, the time that I shall remain alive, and before that my soul doth departed the company of this my body: give me my Lady some comfort, do not make any excuse, although without all reason, I have been pitiless unto thee, in making thee to travail with great sorrow, seeking him, that because he would not see thee fled always in shunning thee, & now I come to desire thee. Here must you show me in what estimation you had me in, in giving me succour, before that I do leave thee in this wilderness alone, with my dead body cold and wan: Oh my love give me a thousand kisses, let me only have this delight, for the little time I have to tarry, & afterward I desire thee, to give my body his sepulchar. This sad and discomforted Lady answered: Ah Zoilo, what dost ask of me, what wouldst that I should give thee, I always was thine, I have nothing of mine own, I am all thine, it were now a strange thing to begin a new to love thee, for all that ever I could give thee, I gave it thee long ere this, oh my love, why dost thou not understand this: alas what shall I say, I that am without all good fortune, for now I see that thy time draweth on, & that my contentment, joy, and comfort is very short: Ah my Lord, dost thou request of me to give thy body a Sepulchre: well, I see that it is requisite to seek some to give it unto us both. And without strength to proceed any farther in speeches, she kissed the face of her well-beloved & so long desired Zoilo, with great sobbing & sighs making within herself a terrible conflict, tarrying for the answer of her well-beloved friend, who with no less pain & anguish of death said: Ah my Lady and mistress, I do know that thou wert always mine, & I thine. That which I will now desire of thee, is, for that I was beloved of thee in my life time, that now in my death I may be favoured of thee. Oh cruel love, oh what a wish is this, a case never the like heard of before, that I should desire the death of her that so long time hath travailed and taken pains and sorrows with terrible weepings and sighs for my sake. Ah my mistress, how happy should I be, that thus embracing one in the others arms we might departed together: Oh what a happy death would it be, oh sweet Fortune, I have no other grief with me but to leave thee behind me: Oh unhappy that I am, I never determined to desire thy death, but now, and only for that I would not leave thy company. The Princess being very much troubled with grief and sorrow, answered him and said: Oh my love, therein take thou neither grief nor care, for here. I do promise thee by the great love that I do bear unto thee, that if death do show himself any thing contrary unto me, that I will procure it with mine own hands, for that the Gods will not consent that I should live and thou die, therefore I say, that if he do contrary me, I will give thee this contentment, for that without thee I shall find here no joy nor comfort at all for me, neither yet any ease of this my great grief, so that I shall think it for the best to lose all my joy, and now I do find in myself that death will be my friend. Ah my sweet love and Lord, join thy face unto mine, let us kiss together, and let us make our departure both together. The Prince being troubled with the anguish of his hasty death, said: Here I do desire thee my Tigliafa, by the firm & faithful love which thou dost bear me, not to consent that I be the occasion, that with a cruel death thou dost finish thy life, but to sustain & maintain it so long as the Gods doth permit the same, and when that I am dead (which shall be very quickly) let me receive this favour at thy hands, that thou wouldst vouchsafe to give a Sepulchre unto this my body, for with great ease and comfort shall I departed, seeing that I die in the arms of my Lady and mistress, and a great deal more comfort shall I receive if I knew of a certainty that thou wouldest perform this, that I do crave and desire at thy hands: Oh my love, do not deny this my supplication, and for that I am certified that thou wilt perform the same, here I take my leave of thee, farewell, the Gods preserve thee, and take me to their mercies. And when he said these words, he inclined his neck upon the face of the Princess. When this sorrowful Lady saw that the soul had got the victory and departed from the body, she kissed the mouth of the dead body, and giving deep and dolorous sighs, she began a marvelous and heavy lamentation, calling herself unhappy and unfortunate, and laid herself upon the dead body, cursing herself so that it was lamentable to ●eare. All her Damosels (who did bear her company in that great sorrow) when they saw their Lady in a sound, they took the helm of the dead knight, & brought water in it from the River side, and in throwing of it in her face, and all to be bathed her therewith, they brought her again unto her remembrance, who began a new to make great lamentation, and to bewail her ill fortune, uttering words of great dolour and grief, which proceeded from the bottom of her heart, and said: Ah my good friend, what small benefit have I received for all my travail and pain, the which I have suffered in seeking of thee, and now in finding of thee it is the more for my grief, for that I came to see thee die: Ah most unhappy that I am, where was I when I saw descend upon thee that mortal sword? Whereon was my thought? Wherefore did I stand still, and did not with great lightness make resistance against that terrible blow? And if my strength would not have served me, yet at the least I should have borne thee company: Ah you furious beasts, that now are hid in your dens and deep caves, where are you now? Why do you not come and take pity of my grief, and put remedy therein, in taking away my life, for in so doing you shall show yourselves pitiful, for that I do abhor this dolorous life. Yet she did not forget the promise the which she made unto her well-beloved Zoylo, which was the occasion that she did somewhat cease her lamentation. And taking unto herself more courage than her dolorous grief did consent unto. With the help of her Damsels, she put the dead body under that great and mighty Pine apple tree, where the armour did hang, commanding some of those that were with her, that they should go unto those villages that were nigh at hand, to cause some people to come thither, ●hat they might with as great speed as was possible, make a very sumptuous piece of work, in the which they should bury the dead body of Zoylo, the which was the occasion that in Constantinople they did know of the death of this unhappy knight, and when the Emperor and all those that were in the court did know of it, they were marvelous sorrowful for the same, for that he was well-beloved of them all. That same day came likewise news to the Court of the restoring again of the kingdom of Lyra, which cost the life of the Prince Brandimardo, which was the occasion that they made no triumph nor rejoicing of that great victory, but rather a double lamentation for the death of the Prince.  
The Duchess did then provide for her departure, as it was determined, leaving the Court in great heaviness The death of the Prince Zoylo was published all about, and the occasion thereof, insomuch that it came unto the knowledge of the Emperor Alphebo of Trapisond, which was the occasion of great grief in the Emperor: but he did dissemble it in the best wise he could, with intent to revenge the same. Whereas we will leave them until time shall serve: and I will also omit at this time the great work which the princes Tigliafa caused to be made, for that here I will tell you what the Pagan Brufaldoro did.   

¶ How the fierce Brufaldoro, having spoken evil of women, and of them that are lovers, was taken in the snares of love with a Lady that he met, after that he finished the battle with Zoylo. Cap. 7.  
ALl the day after that Brufaldoro had finished the battle with Zoylo, he travailed through the thickest of the forest, being very weary of the troublesome journey, till such time as the dark night drew on, and what with weariness, and with the great desire he had to eat which did trouble him very much, he was constrained to alight from his horse by the rivers side, whereas he remained till such time as the morning came, and rising on foot for to begin to take his journey, being half amazed in beholding the great calm and quietness, which was in the river, and the little noise which it made, by reason of the great depth thereof in that part, upon a sudden in the midst of the river he saw that the waves did increase & arise up, like as though it had been taken with a whirlwind or tempest, which caused the water to make a great noise, and being very desirous to see what was the occasion of that great and sudden change in the water, he beheld that it was a Nymph, which appeared in his sight from under the water, who did show herself to the breasts, in discouring them unto him, and her face was so fair, that in his life, he had not seen the like, and the whiteness of her flesh was such, that the snow in comparison to her, was obscure and dark. The Pagan received no alteration at this sudden sight, but the Nymph with a marvelous sweet and delicate voice, began to sing these few verses following.  

WHo thinks himself at freedom most of all,  
and lest esteems of Lady Venus' fire:  
Let him not boast, for he may soon fall,  
and quickly feel the fury of her ire.  
Her blinded son such sudden shafts let's fly,  
That freest hearts are first enthralled thereby.   

There is not one which may himself defend  
by strength nor wit, from mighty Cupid's dart:  
For that unseen he doth his arrows send,  
and uperceiude, with pain doth pierce the heart.  
Bereaving wholly all delight and joy.  
Leaving behind, distress and great annoy.   

The wont weal He into woe doth turn  
of him, that once despised hath his power:  
His cold affection He doth cause to burn,  
and turns his sweet to most detested sower.  
Triumphing most with terror to torment  
The man, that erst against his will was bend.   
When she had made an end of her song, without any more tarrying, with a furious force, she threw herself into the water again, from whence she came, leaving the Pagan much amazed: but by reason that the force of his stomach was such, he determined to let it pass, & to think no more thereof, believing that it was some enchantment, and having his heart at liberty, with a light courage, without putting his foot in the stirrup, he leapt upon his light horse, and laying the bridle upon his neck, he let him go at his own liberty, whether he would, without governing him. So his horse brought him into a great plain, where a far off he discovered an armed Tent pitched, which seemed to be fair and rich, and by it upon the green grass, there lay four great Giants, who had in the midst among them, a very fair Damsel, who was very heavy and sorrowful, leaning her cheek upon her hand. The Pagan being nothing afraid of the Giants, did keep his way, till such time as he came whereas the Giants were laid, and he came so nigh, that he might see the face of the Damsel, which seemed not to be any human creature, by reason of her excellent beauty, with her gold yellow hair dispersed all upon her back, and her Lily white hand whereon she leaned her cheek, discovering her fair face, with her eyes shut, which showed her well set brows, from under which, distilled many toares which seemed to be oriental pearls, dispersed upon her fair and white face, and sundry times giving deep and sorrowful sighs, which declared the great pain and grief that she did suffer. The Pagan when he saw her great beauty and fairness, upon a sudden his heart wounded with the cruel dart of Cupid, in such sort, and with so great fury, that nothing could give him ease thereof, but only death: wherewith he strait remembered, that which of late he heard the Nymph to sing, and considered within himself, how her words and threatenings chanced to fall out true, which caused him to give a terrible sigh, whereat one of the Giants did awake, & setting himself upon the ground, he said. How hast thou been so hardy, that thou darest to put thyself before us, & without any fear of our great strength, thou ●ast showed signs and tokens of love. At these words which the Giant spoke, this Lady did open her eyes, and when she saw the Pagan, she could not refrain herself so much to hold her peace, but that she must needs give a sigh, whereat this fierce Moor was fully certified that she was forced by those Giants, and with that thought he said.  
Giant, my deeds shall bear witness of these thy proud words: therefore, for that the time shall not pass away, and be spent in reasonings, one thing I do demand of thee, whether this sorrowful and weeping Lady goeth with you, of her own proper good will, or else constrained by your force and violence. The Giant with great pride put himself on foot, and in lacing and making fast his helm, he said. My sword shall wholly and fully certify thee, of all that which thou dost demand, and in speaking these words, the one pressed towards the other. But the Pagan for that he would not that he should kill his horse, was constrained to put himself somewhat on the one side, and lighting from the saddle, he left his horse alone, and laid hold upon his sword, wherewith his enemy stroke at him a mighty & terrible blow, who with a strange lightness caused it to be strooken in vain, in stepping on the one side, and therewith he closed with the Giant, and threw at his breast so terrible & strong a foin, that his armour was not sufficient for to make resistance, but that the fury thereof must be executed, and pierced him through unto the back, wherewith the Giant gave a terrible fall to the ground, at which noise the other three Giants did awake, and one of them put himself quickly on foot, and without tarrying for to put on his helm, or to take his shield, but blaspheming against his Gods, he ran against the Pagan, who abode his coming with such like courage, as his presumption did require. The Giant with both his hands, stroke at him so monstrous a blow, that if it had chanced on him, it would have put his life in great jeopardy. But this valiant Brufaldoro with his accustomed policy, did clear himself from the same. The great & broad sword of the Giant had not so soon passed down, when the Pagan pressed unto the Giant, before he had any leisure to lift it up again, & with an overthwart blow, he struck him with so great strength upon the head, that all from the ears upwards, he brought unto the earth, wherewith the Giant fell down dead to the ground, whose fall was so terrible and made so great a noise, that it seemed a mighty tower had tumbled down: whosoever at that time had some that fair Lady, might very well●haue discovered the great joy that her heart received to see two of those of her enemies dead before her, and did not let to pray unto her Gods for the accomplishment of the whole victory against the other two which remained. And therewith the other Giant like a furious Lion blaspheming against his cursed Gods, not tarrying to arm himself with more armour then at that present he had, for that there they were all with their helms unlaced and from their heads, he took hold of a great & heavy club that was there with both his hands, and pressed forwards with a large pace against the Pagan, with determination to take revengement of the others death, but this young furious Brufaldoro did tarry and receive him with his accustomed courage and valiantness, the fearful Giant did strike at him so terrible a blow with his club, that swinging with it in the air it made a fearful sound, but the Pagan, who without all fear did abide the coming of the blow, determined with himself to let it pass in vain, as he had all the rest before, and so it fell out, that when he saw the blow descend he stepped on the one side, in such sort, that the club fell to the ground, with so terrible a weight & strength, that the blow made all the trees that were nigh at hand to tremble. This terrible blow was no sooner passed to the earth when that this valiant Mauritanian stroke a blow at his arms, which was with so great strength, that he cut them both off by the wrists, and his hands being fast to the club, they fell all to the ground. The Giant who felt himself wounded & lame, would have embraced with the Pagan, thinking by his great strength to have crushed him to death, but this Mauritanian with great valiantness did put himself before him, his sword in his hand with the point forwards, so that the Giant (with the great pain that he felt of his wounds, and the great anger he had in his heart,) without any consideration he pressed himself forwards, & the Pagan followed in his determination in such sort, that the sword entered into the giants body up to the hard hilts, falling down dead to the ground, with no less noise than the rest. Then the fourth Giant which remained, did put himself on foot, who was of a greater and huger stature and bigness than the other which were dead, and taking in his hand a great and mighty spear which lay on the ground by him, with a terrible and fearful voice he said: O thou infernal devil, for that thou canst not be other, seeing thou hast slain my three companions, for I tell thee that the Gods in the heavens did tremble for fear of them. Here I do promise thee that thou shalt not departed without thy reward and punishment, neither I without taking vengeance of thee. The valiant Moor who very well heard and understood his words, made little account of his proud speech, but said: Make an end thou furious devil and come unto the battle, delay not I say, that thou mayst bear these thy companions company. Then the Giant lifted up his arm above his head, having fast in his hand that great and mighty Spear, which was all full of knots, with the bark remaining still thereon, and threw it at him with so great strength, that it made a marvelous sound in the air, but this valiant Mauritanian was not without great care of the coming thereof, but with a counter pace he put himself on the one side, with so great policy, that the blow passed on the one side, and the Spear stuck fast in the ground, and by reason of the great force wherewith it was thrown, it made it to shake as though it would have flown in a thousand pieces, and turning round like a Snake when she doth make haste to go away from him that would kill her. Then the strong and stout Mauritanian being very ireful, to see so great villainy, he ran unto the spear, and with great strength he pulled it out of the ground, and in throwing it again at the giant, he said: O thou furious beast, take unto thee thy dart. It did well appear that it was not thrown by a sluggish arm, for that by reason of the great strength striking on his shield it pierced it through, yet it did not there remain, but likewise pierced his armour and shirt of mail and never stayed till such time as it showed itself at his back all to be bathed with blood, wherewith the Giant fell down dead to the ground, whose fall was so terrible that it made the earth tremble, and all the trees that were there about to shake as though they would have fallen down▪ When Brufaldoro saw that the four giants were dead, who were the keepers of that fair lady, he went towards her, who was already on foot abiding his coming. The valiant Moor did pull of his helm, and did discover his face, which did represent a great majesty & severity, such as his state did require, and although he was of a great stature & bigness of body, yet his fair face did give great delight unto all them that did behold it, and when he came nigh unto the fair lady, he kneeled down on the ground and said: Fair Lady, I know not whether you are discontented, or have received a small benefit or service in this which I have done, but of this be you assured, that my determined thought was to do you service, believing that so fair a Lady should not with her good will keep company with so monstrous people: she with with great courtesy did answer him & said: Gentle knight I cannot deny but that I was constrained by force to keep company with these proud and ill conditioned Giants, and much less can I keep in secret the great joy which I have to find myself at liberty and clear from them, but one thing there is which I do greatly fear, that is, that now I falling into thy hands and power, I dread to come into a new prison, therefore I beseech you to give me free liberty, with the seguritie which belongeth unto my honour. The Pagan who was very attentive unto the words of the Lady, would have made her answer, but this fair lady did disturb him, desiring him first to sit down by her, for that she was persuaded that with the great travail which he had taken in the battle with the Giants, it could not be but that he was weary, and therewith taking him fast by both the hands she made him to sit down, to whom Brufaldoro said: Ah fair Lady if I did know that my heart were as free and clear of your love, as you are sure of me for offering you any violence, then with great reason I might account myself happy, as well in the doing of your service, as in giving you liberty, but I am he Lady that must ask liberty of your beauty, desiring you not to have any doubt of me. So with deep & sorrowful sighs this Moor did give her to understand how his troubled heart was tormented with excessive love. The Lady when she understood and knew that she had of him so sure a pawn, was nothing discontent with all, for that he seemed unto her to be a knight of a very good disposition and of great value, more than any other, and for that he should receive some contentment, she answered and said: Sir, I am very well satisfied, that a knight in whom is comprehended so great beauty, cannot be without the courtesy requisite in so worthy a warrior, for the which cause I do deliberate and put all my honour into your hands, and believe me that time shall not lack to put remedy in this your new grief and pain, without incurring unto myself any rebuke, but to maintain and keep my honour, as belongeth unto the royal blood from whence I do descend, in the mean time gentle knight, I would crave one boon at your hands, which in telling you I would not have it denied me: Oh how great was the joy that this valiant Pagan received when he understood so good hope which she pronounced unto him, and therewith he turned unto the Lady, and whether she would or not, he kissed her hands, with great thanks for the grace and favour which she showed him, and therewith remembering the words which passed by the Nymph at the river, he said unto himself: How is it that not long since I made a mock and a jest of the advice the which was givan me, and now I do see that I made a mock & a jest of the advice which is turned into good earnest. And in saying these words he returned unto the Lady and said: What is that fair Lady that I should bind myself unto you to do, nay what is it, that lying in my power to accomplish, I would not do, being wholly yours, for the my heart is your prisoner, & my liberty subject to your will, so that there is no occasion that you should desire the grant of me, but command me to fulfil all your will and request, but yet fair Lady, before that you do proceed to your request, I do desire you that I may know the occasion of your keeping company and travailing with these four furious Giants in this Country of Grecia. This will I declare unto you with a very good will answered this fair Lady. You shall understand that I am daughter unto the king of the Islands of Spain, my parents had no more daughters but I alone, the which was the occasion that I was the more made off and esteemed of them. And by reason of my beauty, they put me into a strong tower, which was nigh the sea side, whereout many times for my recreation I issued in company with many Ladies and Damsels, which were with me to bear me company: so it chanced one day when I was abroad in my accustomed recreation & sport, I was beset with this infernal company, who carried me into their mighty and strong ship in this order as you do see me, whereas I did no other thing but lament and bewail my sad and heavy misfortune. So the first Giant which you did kill, seeing me make so great lamentation, with loving and amorous words did procure to comfort me, and did offer me, that all which was my will to be done, he would fulfil the same, and I seeing his great courtesy, and again, that my remedy was so far from me, upon a sudden there came a thought into my mind, which I supposed to be very good and requisite for to redress my harm & grief, and I desired of him to grant me a boon, this giant did grant me my request, and the rest did promise to fulfil all that I would ask them, and my demand was, that they should carry me unto Grecia, unto the court of the Emperor Trebatio, and that they should for the space of twenty days defend my beauty and fairness, making a challenge against all other. These Giants by reason of their great pride, did think it good to accomplish my request, the which they did grant unto me in such sort that no other thing could disturb them. And strait way commanded them of the ship to take the way towards Grecia, whereas fortune hath brought us, and this morning we did disembark ourselves at the point of a land which is here at hand, and for that they did seem very weary and overtravailed by sea, they did determine to carry me all the rest of the way by land, till we should come unto Constantinople, but now whether it was my good fortune, or their great pride I know not, that would not consent that they should come thither, but first they should here end their days. And being in this discourse, they saw a great number of people coming towards them, which seemed to be household servants or such like, who came with all their beasts laden with victuals and other necessaries, who were all servants unto those Giants, and when they came nigh the place and saw that wonderful spectacle of their masters: even as you see the small birds how they will hide themselves amongst the bushes, briars, and thick trees, from the sight of any ravenous foul: even so did all these servants of those vile Giants, hide themselves in the thickest of the woods and mountains of the Forest, fearing the like entertainment. This valiant Moor when he saw the sudden flying of them, without having any care of them, and making little reckoning, he took that gentle Lady in his arms and set her upon her palfrey, and he himself without putting foot in his stirrup, leapt upon his horse back with great lightness, and took their journey towards the place whereas the others had left their ship, into the which he entered with great speed very joyful of his good hap, & strait way he commanded to hoist up their sails, & to take the way towards Mauritania, whereas we will leave them for to tell you the great discontentment that the valiant knight Claridiano had, by reason of his long tarrying in the Island of Trapobana. O omnipotent God, I do desire thee to give me wisdom & discretion to declare the great worthiness of this young knight, for without thy help I do not find myself able for to set forth so many and so marvelous feats of arms as was done by this worthy knight, as in this chapter following and in all the rest shall be declared.   

¶ How Claridiano was very sad and sorrowful to see that he was an armed Knight, only for to do one worthy feat of arms, and what policy he did use for to absent himself from the king Delfo. Chap. 8.  
LOng time have we forgotten to speak of that valiant Prince Claridiano, son unto that famous Emperor Alphebo, and of the excellent Claridiana, who in the Island of Trapobana we left somewhat troubled, which was the occasion that his courageous heart did find itself greatly oppressed, and especially for that his valiant deeds should be kept close and not come to light and be spread abroad in the world, for to show his mighty strength and worthy courage, & the occasion of his let was, the great persuasion of the king Delfo, who would not lose his company, putting before him for excuse his young and tender age, procuring him to tarry and not to try himself in adventures, till such time as he should have the full age of eighteen years. This young knight thought the time to be very long, which was the occasion that he was very sad and sorrowful, in such sort, that his fair and beautiful face had lost part of his natural and lively colour, and daily he did exercise himself in no other thing but to go to the sea side, and there to set himself upon a rock, having no other contemplation but to behold how the water with great fury and force did strike and beat upon the said rock. So after long time using this disport, it chanced on a day at such time as the Sun had made an end of his journey, he saw at the foot of that Rock a Dwarf, who with an outrageous and ireful voice said: Don Claridiano of Grecia, what dost thou think that the hardness of that Rock is sufficient to blaze thy fame and to get unto thee honour? No of very truth, but with thy armour, and travailing through the world thou shalt obtain valour as thy predecessors have done before thee: it had been better thou hadst never been an armed Knight, if that only in one valiant deed of arms thou dost employ thy time. Therefore I say arise up O Greeke, and procure to find out thy royal blood and generation from whence thou dost proceed, and let not thy descent lie hid, neither thy prowess unknown. He had no sooner made an end of his speeches, but that upon a sudden he vanished clean away, and was not any more seen. The sorrow and heaviness was very much which the Prince then felt in himself, in hearing the words and reasons of the Dwarf, and the more, when that he understood that he was not son unto him whom he always thought he had been, the which caused his courage greatly to alter within him, and made him to say: Unfortunate that I am, what do I make here amongst those which are not of my lineage, I had thought for certainty that I had been with my Father and kindred, and now I do see that it is to the contrary, and that I am kept in this Island like a weak and silly woman: O Galtenor, seeing that it was thy pleasure that by my hands thou shouldest be restored unto thy kingdom, and for that effect thou hast had me hitherto in thy keeping: Why dost thou now consent that my fame perish and decay, I remaining in this Island▪ O immortal Mars, to thee I do invocate, that being by thee helped and with thy favour I may stretch forth the bright beam, which with thy partial hand thou gavest me. So uttering these and such like complaints, he passed a few days, till that upon a certain day, following his accustomed exercise, he saw coming towards the shore a Foist, which was governed with four mariners, and beholding who was therein, he saw come from under the hatches, a very fair damosel, who was all appareled with mourning apparel, and with her two ancient Squires, who led her by the arms, appareled in the same manner and guise. This Lady's face was all to bedewed with tears, and her countenance did declare and show, that she suffered great sorrow and anguish. This valiant and worthy young knight very desirous to know the occasion of her great lamentation, moved himself towards her, and having saluted her, he desired her if it were her pleasure, to declare unto him the occasion of her complaint. The Lady turning unto him who had demanded the occasion of her sorrow, and being greatly amazed in viewing his comely grace and gentle disposition, she said. Gentle knight, if thou dost desire to know the occasion of all my harm, bring me before that worthy young knight who slew Geredion Bendambul, and there thou shalt understand the greatest wrong without all reason that ever was done to so noble a Damsel as I am. The Prince taking pity of her great sorrow answered: I do not not know for what effect & purpose you do ask after this knight, but be it what it will be, you shall understand gentle Lady, that he whom you do ask for is before you, and seeing that it is so, you may be bold to declare your pleasure, and here I do say unto you, that if it be requisite and necessary in your service, I will venture my life without putting any excuse for to remedy this your great sorrow and grief which you do● show to have. And you shall understand that I will do it without taking any leave of my Lord, the king Delfo, and there is nothing that doth so much grieve me, as that I am not armed. This sorrowful Lady seeing her good fortune would not lose the occasion, but with a new lamentation and complaint she kneeled down before him and kissed his hands for the great offers which he made unto her, the Prince did take her up from the ground with great reverence, than the Lady with amorous words said. If that by the occasion of king Delfo (gentle knight) we shall receive any disturbance: here I do desire thee by the honour which thou dost owe unto all virtue, that we make no farther delay nor detainment, for here I do give you to understand that there remaineth but a small time for the remedying of my sorrow and grief. Well, let it be out of hand answered this valiant Greek, and at our coming a land, the first knight that we do meet, either with his good will or ill will shall lend me his armour, and therewith taking that fair Lady by the hand, they put themselves into the Foist, commanding strait way that they should return their voyage unto the Sea, so finding the time and wind favourable, in a very short space they were passed on their way so far that they clean lost the sight of any land.  
What shall I say of the king Delfo and the Prince's nurse, when they could not hear of the Prince what was become of him, but only that he was departed away. But if I did not put before me the great duty which I do owe, and consider the gravity of a Prince, I might say that he did things more liker a mad man, than a Prince, & surely he had great reason, for he had lost the company of the best knight in all the world: so this warlike Greek did sail upon the Sea with an indifferent thought, being in company with the fair Lady who likewise went very well content, for that with so great ease she had found and obtained him that she sought for. But this I can certify you of Claridiano, that he had not forgot the words which the dwarf had told him, but always remembering the same, it put him in great confusion, in such sort, that he did not remember to demand of the Damsel the occasion of her grief, who with such diligence went to seek him. At such time as Diana did spread abroad her golden hair over all those troublesome waters, he discovered that there came towards them a bark, in such haste, that in a small time they were come unto them, the which bark came without any government, and he saw sitting on the poop of the bark a giant, who had his head and beard very white, and appareled with robes of estate, who was strait ways known by Claridiano to be Galtenor, for the which he received great joy. When the barks were joined together Galtenor went and embraced the Prince, saying: Son do not think to departed away in such sort, but that first I will rejoice myself with the presence, for it shall be more profitable unto thee than thou dost think for, as well for the remedy and ease of thy thought, as for the adorning and safeguard of thy body. To whom the Prince answered and said: I do very well know my Lord, that from you can proceed nothing but that which is good, as always hath been the use and custom hitherto. Then the Giant said unto him: This thou mayst perfectly believe, that so long as my soul is joined and knit with my body, that it shall not exercise itself in any other thing but in thy service. And now for that thou stand est in need of armour, here I do bring it unto thee, for that before many days come to an end, thou shalt have need thereof. Also I do bring thee a marvelous precious sword, forged and made by my great skill, such a one as in all the world there is not a better. And this shall continue & endure with thee, till such time as thou shalt be in battle with the Bastard Lion, then shall it lose his virtue and valour, for that thou shalt recover another of no less price, and of a greater fame, jointly with thy honour in the acknowledging of thy unknown parents, and in that time thou shalt lose all thy service, that ever thou hast done in the honour of Cupid, being in company with the disguised Hind, all though altogether thou shalt not lose thy great love, till such time as by the Goddess Venus shall be thrown at thee the African lance, which shall pierce thy heart clean through. Then did he declare unto him, how he was stolen out from his mother's lap, certifying him that he was son unto the mightiest Emperor in all the world: but more light than this, he would not give him, neither the place whereas his sister was lost, and therewith he took out from under the hatches of the bark, a farthel which was bound up, the which he did deliver unto the Mariners, that they should lay it up safe, and embrace him again with great love, and put upon the finger of the heart, on his left hand, a King, which had in it a precious Diamond, that was of so great clearness, that in a dark night it gave as great a light where it was, as though a torch were lighted. This did he straightly charge him to keep, for that it was of so great virtue, that so long time as he had it about him there was no enchantment that should hurt him. This excellent young Knight would have surrendered great thanks for his precious gifts, but at such time as he would have given it, Galtenor was departed upon a sudden a great space from them, who made so much haste, that in a very small time he lost the sight of him. This young knight remained with great contentment, in knowing that he did descend from so high a generation: and likewise for the succour he received in the armour he had brought him, the which he commanded to be very well kept till such time as occasion should serve that he had need of them: in this sort he passed away all the night, thinking upon the words of Galtenor. So the next morning this young knight sitting on the poop of the Foist, with this fair Lady, he requested her to tell him the whole occasion of her coming to seek for him. The which this Lady with great lamentation began to tell him, saying. Gentle Knight you shall understand that I am daughter unto the King of Mesapotamia, which is a province situated between the two great rivers Euphrates and Tigris. Of long time was I of him well-beloved and made very much on, till such time as my father's Court was in great heaviness, for that they could not hear any news of a brother of mine, who was prince of that kingdom, whose absence at this time is very grievous unto me. There came from the other side of the river Euphrates, a prince, whose dominion was over the Province Palestina. He was the proudest and arrogantest Knight that ever hath been seen, in such sort, that by reason of his fierceness, he was not only feared of them, who of duty did owe it him, but also of all the Provinces that joined with his kingdom, which extended from that river unto the main sea of Phoenicia, the mount Libano, Gamogenia, and the high and mighty cragged rocks and mountains Nabateos. To conclude, almost all Asia did tremble at his fury. This knight at the great fame which was uttered of my beauty, came unto the famous and large Province of Mesapotamia, unto the great city of Mesos, whereas I was of him marvelously entreated and requested of love, but yet all that ever he did or could do, did little profit him, for that by any means I could not admit him into my service, and the occasion was, because of his great and unmeasurable pride. So like wise came thither the Prince of Chaldaea, a Knight of great price, and adorned with many virtues, unto whom I always showed a better countenance, and made acceptation of his service.  
Then Brandemoran (the Prince of Palestina, who was so called) when he understood thereof was in a great confusion, and received great grief, in such sort, that he determined no other thing, but with his mischievous heart to persecute me: it so fell out that the Prince of Chaldea whose name was Gelerosio being overcome and forced by love, having opportunity and place convenient, with dolorous reasons he did discover unto me all his whole heart, but whether it was his ill hap or my froward fortune, I know not, but at such time as he uttered unto me his mind, it chanced that Brandemoran had his ears attentive unto all that was spoken betwixt us, and when he heard that my answer was such, that it caused great joy and comfort unto Gelerosio, & unto him great pain and torment, with a mischievous heart he went unto my Father the king, and before him he did accuse me of whoredom. When the king my father heard it, the great ire and wrath which he received was so far out of reason, that without taking any farther counsel, he caused me to be apprehended, and likewise the Prince Gelerosia, and both of us to be put in prison, but after a while when his choler and anger waxed colder, he commanded to call together all the nobles of his counsel and men of honour, who did persuade with my father, that by reason of the great pride and mischievous stomach of the Prince Brandemoran, he might do it of presumption, or else by the great ill will which he bore unto his contrary Gelerosio, he had raised up this slander, & that they thought it good to be put into the trial of arms, with condition, that in the space of thirty days I should bring a knight that would defend my honour, and by reason the valour of my cruel enemy is so mighty, there is not one in all the kingdom that dares take in hand to defend my cause, and I seeing that the time passed away, with a loud voice I began to complain against fortune, and reviled Brandemoran, calling him coward and wretch, that against a Damsel he hath raised so great treason and falsehood, who hearing me to revile him, he answered and said: Princess, for that thou shalt see how little I do esteem all the knights of the world, I will give thee one whole years space, that thou thyself in thine own person go and seek him who hath the best fame in arms that may be found, and bring him hither to defend this accusation which I have laid against thee, and so likewise I desire the king thy Father to consent and grant unto the same, of whom it was granted and consented, and likewise of all the knights that were counsellors of my cause, believing that it might be the occasion of some remedy. And therewith I took leave and 〈◊〉 and departed from Mesos, with only these two Squires, committing myself into the great river Euphrates in this Foist, and so long we sailed that we entered into the Mediterraneo sea, whereas was given unto us knowledge of your great valour and mighty force, which was the cause that made us take our way towards the place of your abode, sometimes with great torments, and sometimes with fair weather, in such sort, that in the end we arrived whereas you were, in so good time and order, as mine own desire could not have wished better. Here you may see and understand, worthy knight, the extremity of my evil, and the cause of my seeking for you. At the which relation of this sorrowful Lady, the Prince remained very pensive, and had great pity on her, & answered, saying: Lady, I am very much bound unto your highness, that you have taken so much travail and pain to seek me, for that there are other a great number of more valour, that are bound to defend your great justice and make your defence, notwithstanding, for that it hath been your pleasure to attribute unto me the honour, here I do promise you to take upon me your justice and defence, with th● small valour of my person, until I put my life in danger for the small experience done in your service, I looked for no other thing at your hand gentle knight, answered the Princess, and for that thou hast recovered so great fame & renown only in doing of one great deed of arms, it is not without great reason, that although I have been hitherto infortunate in all my adventures, yet now I do find myself happy, for that I have found such a worthy knight to remedy my evil. So upon this matter there passed betwixt those very many reasons, but the mariners which governed the Foist were greatly amazed, and marveled very much to see the great swiftness of the Foist, and the great way that it made, because they knew not the occasion, but the Prince did well understand how that Galtenor who helped him was the occasion of the great swiftness. In the end of ten days travail upon the sea, they did arrive in a Port or Haven of the Nabateos, whereas they did determine to go a shore, and from thence to take their way unto the place whether they should go, and with this determination he commanded to take out two horses which they brought with them in their Foist, and a palfrey, and likewise the farthel which Galtenor brought him, and commanding it to be undone, he saw that there was in it very fair purple armour, all to be spotted with stars of gold, much after the sort of the armour he was wont to wear, and the shield was of the same sort, saving that in the purple field there was no device made, and there the Prince proved the armour, and it was so just and fit for his body as they had been made by measure, and being therewith armed, he seemed to be of a fair disposition unto all them that looked on him, by reason that he was of a goodly stature and proportion, then strait way he set the Lady upon her palfrey, and he leapt upon one of the horses, and the two squires upon the other, and in that sort they began to travail, and commanded the Mariners to return the same way they came, and they took their way through a narrow path which lead them upon an high mountain, & by reason of the great quantity of huge & mighty trees & the great company of them that were there, they were constrained to go one after another, for that otherwise they thought it unpossible to attain unto the top thereof, and the thickness of the trees were such, that they withstood the Sun, that it could not enter in to warm & comfort the cold ground: in this sort they travailed with great care till such time as the dark night approached, although the Moon did shine upon them, yet by reason of the great thickness of trees, they thought they travailed in a dark land, & were constrained to alight from their horses, & put themselves apart out of the high way, and chanced nigh unto a fair fountain which was unto them a delightful hospitality, for that it was in the spring of the year, & there they sat down upon the green grass, wherewith the ground was adorned, and called for some thing to eat, that which was strait ways given unto them, although it was not eaten with such contentment as their hearts required, so their stomachs being satisfied, every one of them withdrew himself into his place to take his rest, this new knight took up his helm and shield, and went to rest in that part which lead towards the mountain, and making of his shield a pillow he laid him down to rest, without having care of any other thing, but only to seek out his lineal descent from whence he came, and what he was, and therewith he fell a sleep, but his rest endured but a small time, for that in the beginning of his rest or first sleep he heard a very lamentable complaint, which seemed not to be far from the place where he had chosen to take his rest, the which complained at sundry times, and not hastily, so the break of the day drew on, & being desirous to know what it should be the made so great complaint and heaviness, he arose up and laced on his helm, and threw his shield on his shoulder, and went unto the place where the Princess Antemisea was at her rest, and said unto her: I have heard this night a marvelous great lamentation, which hath been the occasion that I have not had any rest at all, and therefore I do determine to go and procure to know if I can who it is that doth so lamentably complain, and the occasion of their great grief, for that my heart cannot suffer me to hear so great lamentation: but needs I must procure to seek remedy for the same, if it be possible to be had. Therefore in the mean time, I do desire your highness, to take your rest in the the thickest of this Forest, that you may be seen of no body, for that I am sure that my return shall be very quickly, for that this complaint doth sound very nigh unto the same place whereas I lay to take my rest all the last night. The departing of the Prince was very grievous unto the Princes Antemisca, and she understanding that it was in vain to say to the contrary by reason of his determination she pretended to bear him company, and said unto him. Sir knight, know this for a truth, that your departure is unto me very grievous, but in that you desire me that I do remain here, I do not admit the same, for that surely wheresoever you go, thither will I also with you, for I am not determined to lose your company. The Prince Claridiano could not dissemble, but that he must needs laugh at the speech of Antemisca, and with a pleasant countenance he said. Lady, I will not be against your determination in any thing, for that it shall be unto me great honour that you be in presence, whatsoever adventure do happen unto me, for that in beholding of you my valour shall increase, and taking her by the hand (leaving the two Squires to keep their horses) they went into the thickest of the wood towards the place whereas he had heard those great sighs and complaints, but they had not gone very far, when they heard that heavy voice, and going strait way towards the place whereas they thought it was, the farther they went forwards, the nearer they heard the voice, so that they might clearly perceive that it was the voice of a woman being in some great grief, the which the occasion that they made the more haste on their way, till they found themselves in a great plain where grew no trees, and on the other side of the plain was there a mountain, and at the foot thereof, there seemed to be the mouth of a great cave, out of the which issued that lamentable sound, and when they drew nigh unto it they saw that it was very dark, and for to enter into it they must needs descend down certain steps which were of stone very ill wrought. At this time the Prince would have been very glad that the Princess Antemisca had not been with him, for that he found himself greatly troubled with her, and then desired her that she would remain and keep herself secret amongst certain bushes that were there, the which she was constrained to do, more for to give contentment unto the knight, then for any desire she had of herself. This courageous knight when he saw himself alone (after that he had left the Princess) with great hast he put himself into the cave, and going about from one place to another, he chanced into a great hall, which was made in manner like unto a great court, saving the place where the light entered, was a a lover hole, which was in the midst thereof, and going round about the same, he chanced into a place where many bones & skulls of dead men were, which did amaze much the Prince, and caused in him a new desire to know what it should be. And going farther in where the light showed most, he saw where was a woman laid along upon a bed, who was the most deformedst person that could be seen, and by her lay a young child which seemed to be of a year old, who was of the stature of a mean man, and on the one side he saw a door, which was very strong and all of iron, out of the which came forth that sorrowful voice. The Gyantesse when she saw the knight there within, she with great haste laid hold on a bow which lay at her bed's side, and strait ways bend it and nocked a sharp arrow therein, and drew the bow with so great strength, that almost she brought both ends together, the knight who remained with great care, when he saw the arrow coming, cleared himself thereof, but the arrow had not so soon passed by him, when as like unto the wind he went unto her, and with his close fist he struck her such a mighty blow upon her mouth, that without remembrance she fell down upon the ground, & without making farther reckoning of her, he went unto the iron door, and looked which way he might open it, and having proved the same he saw that it was all in vain, by reason of the great strength thereof, so that he was constrained to return again unto the place where the Gyan●esse was, and in looking about him he found that she had tied at her girdle the key of that door, the which he took and did open it, and went in thereat, but he could not see any thing therein, by reason of the great darkness that was there, and for to see if any would make him answer, he asked who was there within, that so lamentably did complain, saying: Come forth if you can and that without 〈◊〉. And presently there was one which answered, and said. Here is one of the most unfortunatest Damsels in all the world, who without help cannot move herself. Then the knight went strait way forth, and saw that there was fire, the which he blew, and lighted a Rosin stick, that did burn very well, and went into the place where the damosel had answered him, and in the farthest end of that chamber he found the damosel that did so greatly complain, who lay a long on the ground very evil appareled, and that which she had was all torn in pieces, in such sort that her skin was seen in many places, and beholding her cruel usage it moved the knight to have great compassion, and without speaking any word, with his own hands he broke all the irons & chains wherewith she was bound, and took her by the hand and brought her out of that dark room, into the great hall where it was very light. This damosel when she understood that he took her out to set her at liberty, she kneeled down on her knees before him, and said: O Knight, the comfort of my grievous pain, tell me I pray you if that foul butcherly giant be dead or not, or how you had power to come hither into this place, without being disturbed by him or his cruel son. The Prince answered and said: Hitherto I have not seen any, but only I have heard thy grievous complaints. Then the Lady with great weeping said: Worthy Knight, put strength and courage in thy heart that thou mayst departed with great lightness before these fierce devils do meet with you, for if they do meet with you, you may be assured, that we shall not have any favour of them, but that they will fill their stomack● with our flesh as they have done with many others. The Prince replied: If it so fall out that they will taste of my flesh, they shall find it hard and ill in the chawing, worse than any that hitherto they have eaten, and therefore I do determine not to move myself from hence more now then at any other times I have been accustomed to do. And in saying these words they went out of the cave, whereas they found the Princess Antemisca, who was coming to enter in at the door, by reason that the Knight ●arried so long, and when she saw the nakedness of the damosel, using her royal clemency, she took off the black robe that she had on her, and covered her therewith, shedding from her crystalline eyes many tears, with the great compassion she had of that damosel, and strait way she took her by the hand and with great haste went with her towards the place whereas she had left her Squires, and going on their way, in th● midst of the plain they heard amongst the trees a great rumour and noise, and looking about to see what it should be, they saw coming forth of the wood a furious monster, of so great bigness, that he was almost equal with the high and mighty trees, and was of a very great and boisterous making of his body and members, and as you do see the hungry Lion who is very desirous of his pray, springeth & leapeth amongst the green herbs, complaining of his great hunger and empty belly: in such sort came this monster, all all armed with skins of wild beasts, which were very strong and hard, and brought in his hand a Pine apple tree, full of knots, and when he saw the knight, and knew that he carried with him his prisoner, he gave so terrible a shriek, that it sounded throughout all the mountains, and lifting up his great and mighty club he pressed towards this courageous knight, who when he saw him coming, did abide him which such courage as his valiant heart did constrain him, and having his sword in his hand he commanded the damsels to put themselves a part on the one side. This furious devil having his club in the air fast with both his hands he did discharge the same at the prince, who with great lightness did clear himself from the fury thereof, and caused it in vain to fall upon the ground, which was with so great strength, that it made the Prince and all the ground thereabouts to tremble like an Earthquake, but in this time the Prince did not sleep, but seeing himself clear from the blow, pressed unto that monster on the one side, & struck him such an overthwart blow upon his knee in the very joint, that he cut it clean a sunder, with so great ease as though it had been a Glas●ie or such like, wherewith the monstrous Giant fell down to the ground, with so great strength and weight, as though it had been a mighty tower, he was not so fallen down, but the knight put the point of his sword into his mouth, the Giant seeing him so nigh, he took hold upon the skirt of his shirt of mail with so great strength, that he made him perforce to come near him, and as he had his sword fixed in the giants mouth, what with the strength that the giant used to pull him towards him, and likewise the strength which the knight forced, it caused the sword to pass through his throat, in such sort, that strait way he remained dead, and voided a great stream of blood. Oh that I were here able to declare unto you the great joy that those Damosels received when they saw that great devil dead, and with chéeréfull countenances they went and received the knight, although the great fear which remained in that naked damsel would not let her wholly to enjoy and rejoice in her liberty, who said unto the Prince: Valiant knight and our succour, now doth it stand us in hand to make the more haste before the son of this great devil come unto us, for that he is more terrible & of more strength than his Father is, to whom this courageous knight said: Fear not fair Lady, for that the Gods will help and secure us, in such sort, that his great fury and force shall little avail him. These words he spoke with a cheerful countenance, & lifting up his helm, did show his great severity. So he took them by the hand, and went their way towards the place where they left their squires keeping of their horses, and at his coming thither, he strait way mounted the two damsels upon their Palfr●ies, and he and the rest upon their other horses, and began to travail their former journey, they had not travailed very far, when as they heard a great rushing, which seemed to be of many people amongst those thick trees, which caused them to stay to see what it should be, as you shall understand in the next chapter following.   

¶ Of the battle that Claridiano had with the fierce and timorous Giant, son unto the other Giant which he had slain, and of all that happened in the battle. Chap. 9  
THE great noise which the valiant Knight heard, was no less than that which Favonio made in the Antarctic sea, nigh vunto the Tartarian coast, which is all replenished with high and mighty trees of Pine apples, so the Prince and all the rest stayed to see what it was that caused all that noise and rushing, and they saw that it was a furious, fierce, and terrible Giant that came from the thickest of the wood, he was thirteen cubits of height, all full of rough and thick hair, and he had in his hand a great and heavy club, which seemed to be the m●st of a mighty ship, but whosoever had seen the faces of the Damsels at that time, would have judged their alteration to be like unto the Sun, when he is eclipsed with the Moon at noon days, but this invincible Claridiano made no sign of any mutation, but rather did make himself ready unto the battle, seeing that the Giant did make towards him, the great blaring noise which the Giant made was so terrible, that it caused great fear in all them that heard it, saving only in him who put himself in defence, and tarrying for the coming of the enemy, the great pride which this Giant did use, having his club in the air coming towards the knight was much more than that which Belona used when she sat in her armed chariot, being governed with ●urious Dragons, over all the fields: the horse whereon the Prince road seeing so strange and seldom seen a monster before him, raged in such sort, that this courageous warrior head not so much strength to govern him, but that by pure force he cast himself about in the air, flying from the presence of that ugly beast, but the valiant Prince fearing the great peril which might happen unto those damsels, with great lightness leapt from his horse leaving the saddle, and being on foot he quickly turned towards the Giant, and saw that at one blow he had broke all to pieces one of the ladies Squires, whereat the Prince took great grief to see so great an outrage done and without all reason, and with an ireful voice he said: Thou furious beast without law or reason, come to me, for I am he which hath been the occasion of thy anger, if thou hast any. This infernal monster went towards Claridiano with his club all aloft, and with great fury he did assault him: Oh almighty God, save, keep, and deliver thy knight from this infernal fury, and do not permit that he die in the hands of so cruel an enemy, but first he know that thou art his true and perfect God. This valiant Greek stood still when he saw that terrible blow coming, till such time as he began to discharge it, at which time with a strange lightness he made him to lose the fury thereof, and with his sword in both his hands he struck at the Giant a mighty blow, which chanced upon his club with so great force that he cut it a sunder in the middle, this furious devil when he saw that he had erred his blow, with much more fury and double strength he lift up his mighty club again and discharged it at the Greek, who in the same sort as before he cleared himself from the force thereof, making him to strike in vain that terrible blow upon the ground, and with the great strength wherewith it was stroke, the rest of the club which remained did break in pieces, at which time the Prince was not idle, but with great lightness he entered in to him, and with both his hands he struck him a terrible blow upon the waist, which made his armour to fail, but by reason of the huge and long hair which he had upon his body, he could not hurt his flesh, which made the Greek very much to marvel at it, but seeing that the Giant was discharging at him another blow, it made him to step aside, and although the club was cut and broken, yet there remained a great tronchon thereof in his hands. Here you might see begin so terrible and furious battle, that it seemed that all the warriors of Mars, were there assembled together in fight. This valiant and courageous Knight had here great need of all his force and lightness to make his defence against his enemy, ●●re might you see the valiantness of Giants and their infernal force and fury: likewise the incomparable force of the Greekish blood of chivalry, here might you see the great haste that the one made unto the other in doubling of their blows, and procuring the one to hurt the other, travaising ground and moving from place and place, seeking whereas most advantage might be found. In this sort they travailed for ●he space of two hours, not knowing between them any advantage. But who should have seen there the great lightness and prowess of this young knight, would have judged him to be one of the best knights of all the world, for that in all the time of the battle, and all the terrible blows which the giant did strike at him, yet he never broke mail, nor hurt any part of his armour, and yet he hurt his contrary in more than ten places, although they were not very great, yet did they trouble him, and it was by reason of the great hast he made in the striking of his blows, but when the Giant saw himself to be so evil entreated, he began to puff, bluster, and blow, much like unto a baited Bull, and doubled his blows with so great haste, that the Prince could not have any time of advantage to hurt him, but had enough to do for to clear and defend himself from his fury. And being in this great extremity he heard those two Damosels which he had brought with him cry out, making a great noise, advertising him to t●ke heed and look unto himself, and being very desirous to know the occasion thereof, he saw that it was that fierce and ugly woman which he had left before in the cave without any remembrance, and for dead, who came with her Bow bend in her hand, & shot at him with her sharp and unmerciful arrows, the which he was constrained to bear off with his armour, for with his shield he could little profit himself, and by reason that his armour was made by art of enchantment, it did profit him much, for so soon as the arrow did strike on it, it recoiled back again a great way, at this present time did the knight find himself in great peril and danger, for that he must make his defence against that infernal monster, and likewise against that divellysh and furious woman, who continually assaulted him with her arrows, and then he could not profit himself of his force and strength, but only of his great lightness, shunning the fury of his mighthie blows, so by little and little he drew nigh unto the place whereas the Gyauntesse was, who having spent all her arrows, she took in her hand a mighty club and came towards her furious husband to help him. This valiant Greek found himself in great extremity, and with the great anger which he had, it changed his eyes into sanguine colour, and was determined to clear himself of that infernal woman, and with that purpose he turned towards her, and letting her blow to pass by, he stepped in to her on the left side, and thrust so terrible a foin at her breast, that his sword entered in up to the hard hilts, and she fell down dead to the ground. The Giant who at that instant was not idle, struck the Greek such a monstrous blow upon his back, that he overthrew him to the ground as dear, without any remembrance or token of moving, the Giant seeing him in this case threw from him his club, and took the knight in his furious nails, and with the great rage and wrath which he had he would have eaten him up at the instant, but it fell not out with him as he thought it would, for that he found the armour which he had on was very hard, and when the Giant saw that his sharp teeth did little profit him, he began to tumble and toosse him up and down from one place to another, and by reason that he was not expert in the lacings and buckeling of armour, he did nothing but tumble and toss him here and there, to see if he could find a place where he might begin to tear him in pieces. Whosoever should at that instant have seen the great affliction of those two Damosels, might very well have judged in himself the anguish and sorrow which they received, judging themselves to be wholly lost & destroyed. But the Princess Antemisca, lifted up her eyes unto heaven and said. I do see O jupiter, that thou art very well pleased, that I do suffer this grievous pain and sorrow. Ah Fortune, it is now great reason to leave me, and not to persecute me any farther, and if it be so, that as yet thou hast not accomplished thy whole desire. Oh jupiter make sharp thy cutting sword, and therewith take away my life. Oh Mars, behold that now thy strength doth fail, if thou dost permit that this Knight do perish. O what woman amongst all women hath been so infortunate as I? Oh Gods, I do not know wherefore you do thus persecute me, for that I have been always obedient unto you, and now seeing that you had given me a Knight for to be my defence, (against that unjust cause, which was laid against me) you should likewise have suffered me to give testimony of my truth, and their false accusation? Oh thou chaste Goddess, be favourable unto me, seeing that jupiter hath forgotten me, turn and take my cause upon thee, and be favourable, for that I never offended thee. These and such like complaints uttered this afflicted Princess, and having concluded, the Prince was come again to himself and recovered his memory, and seeing himself in that perplexity, he did procure by all means and policy to clear himself out of the giants claws, and being clear he put himself on foot, and recovered again his sword, blaspheming against the small power of his Gods, and was marvelously kindled with wrath and anger, the Giant likewise recovered his mighty club, and stroke at the Prince a mighty blow, who seeing it coming did procure to clear himself from the fury thereof, and letting it pass, he stepped in to the Giant, and stroke at him so terrible a blow on the waist, that it little did profit any defence that he had, but that his mighty sword must needs cut him a sunder in the midst of his body, and he fell a sunder, each part from the other dead to the ground. The great pain and sorrow which those timorous damsels received was not before so much as their joy and contentment now was, when they saw their mortal enemy dead before them, & never rested in giving thanks unto their Gods, for the deliverance of their knight from so huge and monstrous a beast. Claridiano when he had made an end of this enterprise, he sat him down amongst those trees for to rest himself, for that he had great need thereof, and demanded of them somewhat to eat, which was given unto him of such as they had, and when he had eaten and rested himself well, they began to travail their former journey, and for that they should go up a great and mighty mountain, they determined to ascend by little and little for the easing of their horse, and when they were half way up the night came upon them, that they were constrained to put themselves a part out of the high way amongst the trees, and there to rest themselves all the whole night, so when the morning was come they followed their former travail up the hill, it was well noon before they could get unto the top of the mountain, whereas they did discover on the other side marvelous great and mighty plains, adorned with trees of all sorts and great herbs, and being weary of their long journey up the hill, they sat down t● take their rest, and to eat of that which they had left the day before, and then made an end of all, so that there remained behind no more victuals, which grieved them very much, and for that the way was somewhat sharp and ragged, they made the more haste to get to some town and there to take their ease, but their hasty travail was all in vain, for that there was no town nigh them by a great way, so that the war which they sustained with hunger was more greater than the battle of the Giants, as shall be told you in the chapter following.   

Of the great travail that the Greek knight had & the Ladies for lack of victuals, by reason of their long journey, & how they found a Giant, with whom the Prince had battle and slew him, and what order they had to help themselves with victuals. Cap. 10.  
AT such time as the Sun of Tona began to spread abroad his golden hair over and amongst the green and fresh boughs of the high and mighty Pine apples, Cedron's, and other trees, which were in that fragrant mountain, whereas all kind of small birds ●lew round about, recreating themselves in the beauty of the day, and with their well tuned notes, making a sweet and heavenly melody. At that time the mighty and well esteemed knight Claridiano, of the Spear, the unknown Prince of the Greekish Empire was on horse back with his amorous company, and taking the way which they thought to be most used, that they followed, the ladies were marvelously troubled for lack of their accustomed and daily victuals, and could not hide nor dissemble their great hunger, for the which the knight of the Spear was very much troubled & sorrowful. So in this great extremity they passed all that day, and travailing in and out amongst those mighty trees, that might drew on, and although by reason of the Moon it was very light, ye● unto them it seemed to be very dark, for that they were very sore troubled for lack of that which should sustain them, and their faces did show and declare the perplexity of their stomachs. So they sat them down upon the green and fresh herbs, very pensive of their extreme necessity, procuring to take their rest that night, but all was in vain, for that their corporal necessity would not consent thereunto, but without sleeping they walked up and down all that night, till the next day in the morning, that they turned to their accustomed travail and journey, procuring by all means to see if they could find any thing for the easing of their stomachs, and had their eyes always attendant to see if they might discover any village, whereas they might satisfy their hunger & take their rest, but all did profit them very little, & with this the night came on them, & these afflicted Ladies fell to the ground with feebleness: Oh what sorrow was this unto the Prince ●o see them in this case, being notable to help them, & parting a little from them, he lamented saying:  
O jupiter, the mightiest amongst all the Gods, thou which didst set at liberty those of Trapobana, by my power and strength by thee given, and seeing it came down from thy imperial seat, show me now some favour, and do not consent that I and my company do perish here with hunger and lack of victuals: Oh Lord, do not make any delay in putting remedy in this my necessity, except it be thy will that we be all meat to the Birds, and if it be so that my deeds do deserve it, and thou dost give thy consentment, wherefore didst thou put me in such estate, and wherefore didst thou appoint me amongst other knights, to be the defender and upholder of afflicted Ladies and Damosels, & if it be so that I must needs die, let me die by the hands of the most strongest warrior in all the world, and not to die with hunger. These and such like reasons uttered this good Greekish knight till such time as the day drew on, and coming unto the place whereas his company were, he found them that they were very weak and feeble, but encouraging them in the best wise he could he caused them● to take their horses, and so did he and also Alibernio the old Squire, and travailed on their way with so great feebleness that they thought verily that the Ladies would die by the way. This worthy Greek was in a great confusion, yet he did not let to go first to one and then to another, comforting them, and made them to ride a pace, which they might do very well, for that their their horses were not so unprovided as the masters, by reason of the goodly grass that was there in those woods, wherewith they filled themselves every night. The Sun had well passed two parts of her journey when they came into a great field very plain, and in the midst of it was a little mountain, out of the which there appeared smoke to come forth, which gave them to understand that there should be fire in that place. Then the Prince said unto Alibernio, procure to comfort and encourage forwards these Ladies, and come by little and little, for that I will ride before for to see who shall be our host this night, and of this thou shalt be assured, that whosoever it is, whether he be pleased or not, he shall give us lodging, and therewith he set spurs unto his horse, and in great hast he road towards the mountain, and at the fury and rushing of the horse in his running, thei● arose up from the ground a mighty Giant, of so great height, that he seemed to be a great tree, and when he saw the knight he laid hand on a mighty great club which he had by him, and with great lightness he went towards him, and said in the Chaldaean tongue. O unhappy travailer, what didst think, that here was no body for to defend thee this way? What was it the smell of the roasted Deer in thy nose, which caused thee to make so great haste hither. The Prince when he saw him stayed his horse and said: Hold thy hand thou furious Giant and stay, for that I have not procured thee any evil, but rather I do desire thee that of thine own free will thou wouldst give us whatsoever thy pleasure is to bestow upon us: O man of small valour, answered the Giant, what dost thou think by craft and subtlety to advantage thyself of me: Well, for that thou shalt see how little I do esteem thee, tarry a while, for with my fists and buffets I will beat out thy brains, without the help of my club. And in saying these words he threw his heavy club from him, and came towards the Prince with his fist bend for to strike him, in the like sort did this noble warrior, and for to strike him at his ease he was constrained to raise up himself in his stirops, otherwise he could not reach his head, but yet he lent him so terrible a blow upon the forehad, that he drove the bone to the brains, and being therewith amazed he fell down to the ground, and with the great force and strength that he put to strike that blow, it lacked little that he fell not from his horse, but incontinent he struck him again the second blow, wherewith he made an end to beat out his brains, and there remained dead. The Prince was greatly amazed in beholding him, for as he lay along upon the ground he seemed to be a great Oak blown down with the wind, the knight could not refrain himself but that he must needs laugh, and said: Of truth I am a notable guest, for that before I do enter into my lodging, I do pay the shot. At this instant the Ladies came to that place, with as much joy at that present, as before they were sad and sorrowful. When the Princes Antemisca did see the greatness of the Giant, and the deformity of his body, she said unto the Prince: If thou shouldest give like payment (worthy Trapobanian) unto all them that should receive thee for guest, I do not know, nor I cannot believe, that they would take the pain to serve them that should come after thee. I know not what will happen answered Claridiano, but I am sure that I have given this his payment according unto the entertainment he gave me, & somewhat better cheap than that Giant which was in the mountain, who thought with his own body to have quéesed me to the death: but yet I do certify you, that after his death, I received greater battle, then when he was alive. Then said the Gentlewoman that was released out of prison, if I had not feared a farther peril, with the great joy which I received when I saw him fall down, I promise you I could have laughed heartily, to see how he travailed to catch hold of you. Tush, all this was nothing said Antemisca, neither did I esteem of it: but had it not been for the great sorrow which I received, when I saw him fast in his claws tumbling and tossing from one place to another, I promise you if the peril had not been so great, I could not but have rejoiced joy to see how he rolled him up & down, and by reason that the armour was very just unto his body, and likewise very hard, it was a pleasure to see him biting at it with his teeth: and when he saw that all his great labour was lost, he turned unto his first office, rolling and tumbling our Knight, as though he would have rocked him a sleep. I do promise you of my faith Ladies said Libernio, with great fear that I had, to have received some knock or blow, I neither received pleasure in the one, nor grief in the other. Then the Princess said unto the Gentlewoman her companion, it shall be better for us to go and see, what victuals, our host hath prepared for us to eat, for the good hope that I have to prove of that which he hath ordained for us, hath taken from me the great care and sorrow which I had, as you may see, and in this sort as they were they went towards their hosts house the Giant, and they saw that it was a great barn cut out of the hard stone and wrought of the rock. And entering therein they saw that he had put to roast a whole Dear, which was a very great one, and seeing that which should give them comfort, every one of them fell to work, hoping for their travail to eat part of that dear. The old Squire turned the spit, and the Ladies made the fire, and the Prince pulled out coals, so that there was none idle, in hope of the benefit to come: and with the great hunger they had, and desire to eat, that when the dear was scant hot on the spit, they thought it over roasted and half burned, likewise they procured to see if they could find any bread. Claridiano descended into a room, he had under the cave, whereas he found two great loves, so great in compass as the cyrbe of a well, and two great flagons full of beer, with great joy and pleasure the Prince came forth out of the cave, and for to give contentment unto the Ladies, he brought it forth, & showed them what he had found. And when the Ladies saw so good provision, they made haste of the dear, and having nothing wherewith to cut their victuals, the Prince used his sword at that time in steed of a knife. So the Prince and the Ladies began to cut and to eat at their will: but Libernio by reason that he was occupied in turning and roasting, he could not profit himself with his hands for to eat, and when he saw, that the deer was almost half eaten, he said. Of truth if I make long tarrying, I shallbe made Lord over the bones, and not of any flesh, if you go forwards in eating as you do begin. Tarry a while longer said Antemisca, and then you shall see how it will fall out, for that now in this time of hunger, we do not remember any courtesy, therefore procure to catch and eat whereas thou canst or mayst, for thou didst very well shift to hide thyself amongst the bushes when as thou didst see the Giant: to whom▪ Libernio, said.  
I would this morning you had given us some counsel, and not now, that you are so lively and liberal in eating. Then Claridiano said, Good old man, it shall be better that thou dost put thy jaws to work and let thy tongue be in quiet: I will believe your highness said the old man, for that you do give me good counsel, and therewith he took the rest of the Dear from the fire, and began to cut and to eat with great haste, such hast they made that in a small time they had bestowed all the Dear and the bread, and a great part of the Beer, which gave occasion unto Antemisca to say as followeth. Oh how kings and Princes be marvelously deceived, believing that with their delicate meats & drinks they shall bring to themselves n●w and better complexions, and expel all gross humours, and maintain unto themselves a great state of health, and to obtain thereby a better disgesture and taste, than they which do live in poor and miserable estate, we do see that the simple pastor or shepherd keeping of his sheep, is better content with a piece of brown bread and an Onion, then mighty kings and Princes with all their delicate fare, and I do certify you that the Shepherds are more fortunate than kings. It is a vale of miseries to be a king, and great ease and security to be a Shepherd, for that the king must foresee to put good government in his kingdom and minister justice, and the shepherd only to his sheep: Oh what great contentment shouldest thou receive, Princess Antemisca, if it had pleased the Gods to have made thee the poorest Pastora in all the world, and not to have put thee in so high estate, whereas thy fortune hath brought thee to travail, & to see the experience of such proofs as these be, & that thou which dost pretend, for if thou wert of a base lineage, & that they had imputed unto thee this fault, (with which without all truth I am charged) I should not esteem more of my honour then as a Pastora, but now being daughter unto him whom I am, I must make of it according unto my estate, therefore now I do say that a shepherds estate is better than to be Queen of Mesopotamia: Oh my evil fortune and destiny, I cannot but needs I must complain and cry out with a loud voice against thee, for that thou dost not give me the contentment that the silly Pastora hath, in following her sheep and lambs, and not so high estate and Lordship. With shedding of many tears did Antemisca in this sort complain against fortune. Libernio who was very attentive unto the words of the Princess, said with a smiling ● laughter: Mistress, at such time as you were with your fingers pinching & pulling at the roasted Dear, I would you had put yourself in this disputation, & not now, for when the belly is full, every one of us is a good preacher. Ah Libernio, answered Antemisca, at that time I did not remember that which I now feel, for if I did I should have received the self same sorrow which I now do. Then the old man said: Well, let all pass, and let us consider of that which is most convenient for us, and let us depart from hence out of this place, and procure to come to some town or dwelling place, for that it cannot be without danger to remain here with this dead Giant, and that there is more of his fraternity nigh this his habitation, and again, I would be very loath that we should fall into so great danger as that which is past, for lack of victuals, for peradventure we shall not meet with another host as good as this for to satisfy our hunger, the Prince was very quiet and held his peace at all that he heard betwixt the Princess and Libernio, and did very much rejoice to hear the discreet reasons of Antemisca, and seeing that Libernio his counsel was the best, he made haste that the Ladies should take their palfrey, and leapt on his horse, and took the way and travailed through a narrow path which seemed to be used by the Giant, and so with great diligence they travailed all the rest of that day till it was night, at which time they had won the top of that mountain, from whence they did discover marvelous great and fair plains, the which were inhabited with very fair Cities and towns, at which sight these travailers received great contentment and joy, and without any staying they made hast onwards on their journey, till such time as they came unto a castle which was in the midst of the way, half the hill downwards, it was one a clock at mid night before they came thither, and their horses waxed very weary, and by reason that it was night, all the gates and doors of the Castle were shut. Then Libernio took hold of the ring of the gate and began to knock with great fury, as though he would have beaten the gate down, at which knocking, a man of the Castle looked out of a window, and said. Who is that, which calleth and knocketh at the gate with so great rigour, at this time of the night? To whom Claridiano answered. A Knight, and two fair damosels, whom fortune hath brought hither, and would if it were so your pleasure, enter in, and take some rest, for that we do come very weary and troubled with this our long & solitary journey. Tarry a little, answered the man, for that I will give the Lord of this Castle to understand thereof, and therewith he withdrew himself from the window, and went in: but he tarried not long, when that the same man opened another window somewhat lower, and put out thereat a light torch, and strait way there looked out an old Knight, whose head was all grey, which said. Who be you that do say, that you have passed the Mountains Nabateos, without any peril to your persons. To whom Claridiano said, We are strangers, whose fortune hath brought us hither, and we do desire thee to do us to much pleasure as to receive us into your castle this night, that we may take some rest: Friends, answered the knight of the Castle, we are here so feared with a great devil, whose habitation is in the height of the mountain, that not only in the night, we dare not open our gates, but also we keep them shut all day. Who is this that so much trouble and vex you, said Libernio. The Knight said. A mighty great Giant, and of a marvelous height, & form like unto a devil. I do swear unto thee by jupiter said Libernio, that from this day forwards thou needest not to fear him, for that this day very much against his will we were his guests, & did eat of that which he ordained for himself, paying first for our victuals with two buffets, wherewith he lost his life. When the Lord of the Castle heard this he commanded the gates to be opened, although with some fear, for that he was not certain of that he had heard spoken. But when the knight & his company were within the Castle, he commanded that the gate should be shut again: so they altogether entered into a fair & large court, & were by the Lord of the Castle received with great love, & when he saw that Claridiano was of so goodly proportion, he greatly marveled. To whom Libernio said: Lord & friend, from this day forwards thou shalt not need to have any fear of this thy enemy, for that he will no more return to trouble you, for this knight whom thou seest before thee hath slain him & made an end of his days, & not this giant alone, but also those furious giants Tartaros. Oh sovereign Gods said the old knight of the Castle, is this possible to be true which I do hear, and that my fortune is so good to receive into my house the Knight that hath done so valiant acts. We shall quickly see whether it be true or not, for the every night this devil cometh▪ giving terrible shrieks, & for that he should quickly departed, I do command to throw him provision, out at the highest window of this Castle, and yet he is not content therewith by reason of his great pride, but he is so evil inclined, that if he meet any of our people he pardoneth none, but killeth them. You may from hence forth cease your fear, said Claridiano, for I promise you that he will never more trouble nor grée●e you. So with such reasonings they went up into the castle where they were marvelously well received by a Gentlewoman wife unto the knight of the Castle, whose name was Marmariton, & likewise of two sons, which he had, proper young men. So strait way the ●able was commanded to be covered, and that they should sit down to supper, whereas they were served very abundantly, for the Knight of the Castle was a very rich man, none richer in all the kingdom of Nabatea, who could not satisfy himself in beholding the great gravity and severe countenance of the Prince, and his fair and well proportioned body. So when they had made an end of their supper, for to pass away the time, till they should go to take their rest, The Prince said unto the Lady which he released out of prison: It shall be good fair Lady now that you are at liberty and out of all danger, that you do tell us the occasion of your imprisonment, and how it hath been, if so be that the declaring doth not trouble you. The Damsel answered: Of truth my Lord, this will I do with a very good will, and if it were but only for to give you contentment, and it is great reason and justice, for that you did put your person in great danger for my deliverance: You shall understand, gentle knight, that along the huge and mighty river of Euphrates, towards the Oriental parts, there is a mighty City called jerosolima, the which is not far from the head of the said river, on the other side of the river towards the Sun setting is there another City called Sabiosa, of these and of other cities and towns there about, my Father is king and Lord ever. The Gods who were so pleased for to enrich me, not only of goods, but also of beauty & fairness, more than any other in all the kingdom, or in a great part there abouts, the fame of my great beauty was published in all places, which was the occasion that there repaired unto my father's Court many Lords & knights of great estimation, amongst whom there came one young knight and a stranger, who was natural of the kingdom of Tigliafa, and Lord of the City of Zina, and he being in love with me and I likewise of him, and before that either of us could manifest our love the one unto the other, there passed a long time, but only by our outwards shows, we did declare each to other the abundance of our hearts and signs of love, the which endured many days. So it happened upon a day going to recreate myself in a Forest there by, amongst the sweet herbs and odoriferous flowers, hard by the river side of Euphrates, which caused in my mind all kind of amorous thoughts, and I caring my yellow gold hair, all dispersed behind my cares covering my back, upon a sudden amongst the thick trees I saw a very fair Pastora, which was combing of her hair, sitting under a fair and green Myrtle tree. And here my Lord I do certify you of a truth, that in all the world hath not been seen the like, she had feeding by h●r a few sheep, & by her lay her shepherds hook, and her bag hung upon the Myrtle tree, I know not what to say, but that the trees and herbs did rejoice to see her beauty, I could not but stay and rejoice myself in beholding so goodly a creature, with her yellow golden hair dispersed all abroad, which did reach unto her feet, & for that she was set down, her golden hair did cover all the sweet herbs there about her, & by reason of the great heat of the Sun, she had her neckenger turned down upon her shoulders, whereout did appear her very white and crystalline neck, my Ladies and damsels were no less amazed to see her great beauty, believing that she should be daughter unto the Gods, & no earthly creature, but fortune who is so mutable would not suffer me to enjoy long so beautiful and joyful a sight, but being without fear in this sort as I have told you, upon a sudden there came behind me the Prince of Nicaea, & before that I could make any means for to disturb him, in great hast he took me fast by the arm, and with a trice he lift me up and set me before him on the saddle bow of his horse, and in great hast he put himself into the thickest of the Forest, my Gentlewomen and maidens remained giving great shrieks, but it little profited, for that the prince of Nicaea made such diligent haste, that in a very short time he entered with me into a bark in the river of Euphrates, who carried us so far, as we came whereas he joined unto the river Tigris, whereas we went a land, and crossed over the mountains of Libanos, whereas we were taken of that furious Giant which was first slain, & at one terrible blow he slew the Prince, and me he carried unto the prison, whereas you (gentle knight) did find me, & herewith she held her peace, giving a great sigh, in remembering her evil fortune, and all the rest remained which great sorrow & grief to hear this lamentable discourse, but Claridiano was more attentive unto the report of the fairness & beauty of the Pastora, then unto all the rest. At this time was the hour of the giants coming past, which made the Lord of the castle believe the death of his cruel enemy to be true, & receiving great contentment thereat, he declared unto them of marvelous and great feasts & triumphs that were preparing to be made in the city of Nabatea, at the marriage of the prince of Nabatea, with the Princess of the mount Libano, to the which there were come many Lords & knights of all the kingdom, and from most parts of all the kingdoms héerabouts, but in especial from Phoenicia, Camogenia, Palestina, and Syria, therefore gentle knight, let your coming be to see these feasts, for that you shall understand that there is put for the price to him who doth best, a marvelous fair & great horse, such a one as is supposed in all the world not to be the like. Claridiano had a great desire to go thither, & he told it unto the Ladies, who were not discontent therewith. So with that determination they went to bed into very fair and well dressed chambers, whereas they took their rest and ease for that they had great need thereof, so they sojourned & rested themselves in this castle eight days, whereas the old knight Marmariton did make much of them, and gave unto the Ladies all things that was necessary for to apparel themselves, and likewise very fair Palfrays, also he did desire the Prince to take one of his sons to serve him, that he might learn of him his good manners and accustomed conditions, which were passing above all other, the Prince did accept the offer, with a very good will, his sons name was Fidelio▪ whose doings were conformable and agreeable thereunto in all fidelity and truth, he had a very good countenance and modest disposition, & very gentle of speech, and when they saw that it was time to departed for Nabatea, very much against the will of Marmariton, they took their leave and went the way towards Nabatea, and what happened to them in the said journey, shall be declared unto you in the next Chapter following.   

¶ How Claridiano and his company went unto the triumph of Nabatea, and of all that happened unto them in the way. Cap. 11.  
THE valiant and heroical Prince after that he had taken leave of the knight of the castle, which all his company they departed their way toward the city of Nabatea, for to see the great feasts and triumphs, for that Claridiano had a great desire to find himself therein. So they travailed through a narrow and strait way, which brought them into a broad & common beaten way which led them strait unto one of the gates of the city, wherein much people & many knights travailed, and they thus travailing, saw come forth of a narrow way which entered into that broad way, a company of Knights to the number of twenty, who were all armed with very fair and ri●che armour, and in their company came a Lady somewhat in years, and with her a very fair damosel, and very well appareled, who brought with them six Gentlewomen to bear them company, who were all appareled in purple velvet, all to be spotted with these two letters, F.F. all of gold, which did show and shine marvelous fair: & it did appear that this ancient Lady was Lady & mistress over all the company, & it was true, for that she was the Duchess of the valley, and the Damsel was her daughter, who went to the feasts and triumphs in company of those knights, and amongst them there was one a very young man, who was Earl of the Lake, who was very desirous to show his valiantness, this young knight was very much in love with the young damsel that came in their company, his desire was to enter into the city of Nabatea, with only four knights, who pretended and believed to do such feats of arms, that the young Lady should have great reason to requite him his love. Don Claridiano when he saw them so well appareled & proportioned he put himself apart to give them way that they might pass by: but yet he could not do it so secretly, but that he must needs be seen of y● other, & for the Claridiano was well proportioned, & armed with purple armour, having also in his company two fair ladies, all the other company did much behold him, marveling much who it should be, the like did the Duchess and her daughter. And when they were all past by, the prince Claridiano turned unto his former journey, it was not long after that there came a Damsel towards him with as great hast as ever she could make her palfrey to go, and when she came nigh unto him, she did salute him very courteously, saying: Knight of the Ladies, Don Petildo Earl of the deep Lake doth send me unto thee, to ask thee what was the occasion that thou didst apart thyself out of the way, considering they were men which did pass by, whether thou didst it for that thou wouldst not just with them, he saith that thou mayst go whether thy pleasure is, nevertheless if that there be in thee so much valour as doth appear by thy disposition, he would be very glad to break a spear with thee in the service of his Lady. To whom the Prince said: Fair Damsel and friend, I would be very glad to satisfy this his request, if that I did find myself subject to love, as it doth appear that he is, therefore tell unto this knight that I have no will to just neither to be in love. Then the damosel said: I do well believe, that it is more thy will to take thy ease and rest, then to take any pains, and this is the cause that thou wilt be clear from amorous delights, and so she returned with this answer, and when she had told them, there was a great laughter amongst them, in mocking of Claridiano, & determined amongst themselves to send the damosel back again, to tell him, for that he was not determined to just in the service of his Ladies, that he would just with one of those knights, for that it doth touch much the order of knighthood, and is also his duty, with condition that if he be overthrown, only to lose his armour, for that it seemeth unto us to be very good, & if the other be overcome, likewise to lose his armour, & when the damsel had declared her message, Claridiano answered: Fair damsel, tell those knights that I am not determined to just, neither with condition nor without, for if I should lose my armour, I should not so quickly get other, & if they have such a desire to just, in Nabatea they shall find them that will accomplish their desire by justice: Cursed be these thy excuses, said the damsel, which are so much to thy dishonour, how ill is the rich armour bestowed on thee, it is not without cause I perceive, that they are so whole upon thy body, for thou dost show that thy war is more with words then with arms and feats of knighthood. Let it be what it will be, said Claridiano, for I will not meddle in this just. Well, adieu knight of small reputation, said the Damsel, happy be those Ladies that doth travail with such a keeper and defender, and therewith she returned back to her company, but the Ladies that were with Claridiano made great laughter, for that they were certified of the valour of their knight, what he was, but Fidelio when he heard the excuses of his master, thought verily that he did it for fear, and for this cause he was very heavy and sad, and the Ladies perceiving, had thereat great pleasure and sport. So travailing forwards, they came unto a bridge which was over the river Tigris, & on the other side there was a Tent armed which was very rich, wherein was a knight armed which did defend that passage, and there were set up against a tree a great number of Spears, and when the duchess with all her knights & company entered the bridge, there appeared unto them a knight of a gentle disposition, who with great lightness leapt upon his horse, and sent a Squire unto them to tell them that they could not pass that way, but first they should confess themselves to be overcome by the best knight of all the world, but if they will stand unto the just, he that receiveth the foil to lose both his horse and armour, so in a trice they put themselves in order, at which time the Prince Claridiano came unto that place, and when he saw that they did make ready and address themselves unto the just, he stayed on the one side whereas he might very well at his pleasure see them. It so fell out, that in twenty justs all these twenty knights were overthrown and failed, at which the Duchess received great sorrow and grief, and sent the same damsel (which the other had sent before) unto the Prince, and when she came unto him, she said: Knight, enemy unto justs and travail, my Lady, the duchess of the valley doth desire thee, for that it was not thy pleasure for her knights to show thy bounty, that now at her request thou wouldst make free this passage, & do that which her knights could not. Friend said Claridiano, go and tell unto thy Lady the Duchess, that I will procure to make the way sure for me and my company, and will her highness likewise to bring knights that can defend her, as well as they can with their scoffs know how to make a jest at one they know not. The damsel said: Cursed be the reasons & excuses of so evil a knight, that neither for Lady of estimation, nor knight of prowess, will be moved to virtue, and herewith she returned to give her Lady the answer. So strait way came forth many men for to pull off the armour of those overcome Knights, the which when Claridiano saw, he spurred forwards his horse with his spear in his hand, ready at all assays to the just, and went towards the Duchess saying. Lady, now will I show unto you, whether I can better keep my whole armour, than your Knights their broken, and therewith he called unto that Knight which kept the passage, that he should make himself ready & come to him, and being both set in their places, they moved their horses the one against the other with great fury, and in the midst of their course they met together, and neither of them did miss his blow, but met with so great force, that the spear of the Knight of the Passage was shivered all to pieces, and made the Prince to incline his body upon the saddle, but the Knight of the Passage received the blow in such sort, that neither his shield, nor his armour could make any resistance, but that the head of the spear showed itself at his back, wherewith he fell from his horse dead to the ground. The Duchess when she saw it, received great joy, although the folly of her Knights was a grief unto her, in such sort that she said. Oh what do they deserve, that without knowing the valour of a person will have him in derision, for we may well consider that the Gods can bestow their gifts on persons of small valour, at the least on them that have small capacity for to use it, for here you may see this knight, that those knights which did bear me company, deemed that he did refuse the just with them of very cowardness, & yet he is the party that delivereth them, that they might not altogether be shamed: Oh disordinate pride, enemy to all virtue, such is it that doth remain in our estates, that altogether it doth make us to forget all goodness, yet in our subjects meaner persons we may learn that which is requisite for our commodity and honour, and yet we do think that all which the Gods doth give us, we do deserve, and yet we find not ourselves satisfied. At which reasons of the Duchess, Claridiano was very attentive, & thought well of her repentance, for that which her knights had done against him, and was very well content, & had her in reputation to be very honourable, & drawing nigh unto her he said: Fair Lady, here you do see that with great reason the horse & armour of these your knights is mine, & doth pertain unto me, for that their experience was such to be launched out of their saddles, as also to mock and jest at travailing and venturous knights, therefore your pleasure may be to command them to be delivered unto me▪ for that they knew not how to defend them. The Duchess was cut off from her answer by reason of the coming of a knight with great pride that said: The horse and armour is none of thine, first I do give thee to understand that we will defend them with the loss of thy life. And in saying these words he drew out his sword, & before that the Prince could make any resistance, he cut off one of his horse legs, and the Prince perceiving it, before his horse did fall, with great lightness he cleared himself from the saddle, and like unto the wind he went against that uncourteous Knight, with his sword in his hand, he struck him such a blow upon the head, that he cut it in two parts, and he fell dead to the earth. The rest of the Knights which saw this, came unto him with their swords in their hands, and for all the crying out of the Duchess & her daughter to withdraw them, they did compass him about altogether, striking him with terrible blows on every side: but yet they found him not so weak and without courage as they thought, but rather with a valiant heart he made his defence, & did entreat them in such sort, that afterward it grieved them to have beg●n that enterprise, for the Prince so behaved himself, that at three blows he brought three of them dead to the ground, and for that they were all chosen knights, for the loss of those that were slain, they would not leave to persever against the mighty warrior. The Prince when he perceived that they did still procure to entreat him evil, with great ire and wrath he began a new to plague them with his strong and furious arm, in such sort, that in a small time he made that the half of them had lost their strength for to strike at him, the rest which remained when they saw that there they should look for no other but death, except they made their defence better, or else procure to kill him, that which strait way they did put in ure. Then the Prince when he perceived that still with great fury they did persecute him, he let slip his shield and threw it on his back, and took fast hold of his sword in both his hands, and stroke so terrible a blow at him which came first to hand, that hitting him on the shoulder, he cut him down unto the waist and he fell dead to the ground, then casting his sword about, with an overthwart blow he struck another on the throat, that he made his head to fly from his shoulders, & in that fury he brought other two dead to the ground, the other six which remained seeing his devilish fury began to withdraw themselves. Then the daughter of the Duchess seeing the other knights to retire, came unto the Prince, and with great grace and courtesy she said: Valiant knight of the Ladies, I do desire thee for courtesies sake to cease thy fury, & let not the force of thy strong arm proceed farther, but let this my desire and request move thee to that which twenty knights of valour could not obtain. This noble warrior although he was blind and overcome with anger and wrath, yet could he not but pacify himself, seeing with what humility this fair Gentlewoman did desire him, and without any more replying he did withdraw himself, and leapt upon the horse of the knight of the passage, for that Fidelio did take and brought after that the horse of his master was slain, and therewith he passed over the bridge, and began to take his journey forwards, leaving all them which saw the battle, very much amazed at his great prowess. So they travailed with great haste, because they would come unto their lodging before night, & making haste, they came unto a man's house, who did lodge them, being in great fear, the occasion shall be told you in the next chapter following.   

¶ How that Claridiano was assaulted with two furious Giants, and with xv. Knights that came with them, and of the battle that he had with them all. Cap. 12.  
AT such time as the bright Apollo, would spread abroad his beams upon the cold and moist earth, was that valiant knight Claridiano on horseback, with all his company, for to prosecute his journey, and upon a sudden, he heard with a great noise & rushing, that they shut the gates of the house. Then the Prince asked what was the occasion of that great noise, and it was told him by his host, how that it was for to keep out two great Giants, which of late days did use all those ways & fields, doing all the harm possible, in taking and killing all that ever they might, and they do carry with them fifteen Knights, for to help them to do all this evil, for which cause all this Country standeth in great fear, and dare not travail by the ways, and understanding that many do come this way, to go see the triumphs and feasts at Nabatea, they do use here great pride and arrogancy, carrying away with them many prisoners, as well men as women. So when the Prince heard this, as one that did procure no other thing, but to augment his honour, and increase his fame, he said. Command that the gates may be open, for that I will never account myself in the number of Knights, but that I will cause them to leave off doing such harm, and also set them at liberty, whom they do carry captives, and ease thee of this great fear in the which thou art. O for the love thou dost bear unto the Gods, gentle Knight, said the Host of the house, do not put these thy tender years in peril to be slain, or carried away prisoner by those furious beasts. To whom Claridiano answered. It will be rather a shameful reproach unto my fame, if there should lack in me, that which I am bound by the order of Knighthood to perform. Therefore my good Host, let this suffice, that neither your request nor any others petitions, shall persuade me to the contrary, but that I will go forth and procure to abate so great pride and harm, for that in making an end of my days, in defence against these cruel people, then have I performed that I am bound to, & have promised to do, therefore I pray thee comnaund that the gates may be opened. When the Host saw his determined purpose and will, he commanded the gates to be opened. The two Ladies received great sorrow and grief, for that which the Knight did: but much more was the grief of Fidelio, although he was throughlie certified of the valour of his Lord, yet he letted not but greatly to fear his return, for that the enterprise was very dangerous and doubtful, and would very feign have gone with his Lord, but he would in no case consent thereunto, but would alone go forth upon this enterprise. So this noble warrior road forth with the visor of his helm up, and his shield on his arm, and a mighty cutting sword in his hand, and put himself in the midst of the high way, and in a small time after, he saw a chariot which was drawn with six ●orses, in the which they brought the Duchess of the Ualley, and all the company that remained with her, who by reason that they were evil entreated in the battle before, ●hey ●ad not strength to make resistance, but that they were taken prisoners by the Giants, and bound very fast, and put into that Chariot. The Prince at that time did greatly rejoice, for that he had so good opportunity for to make satisfaction unto the Duchess and her knights of the great harm the which by him they had received, and being ready to the battle, he put himself in the high way, tarrying their coming.  
When the Giants saw his great hardiness, one of them, which by reason of his deformed members, travailed on a mighty great horse, came forth before all the rest, whereas this Greek was: and when he came nigh him, he said in the Chaldean tongue. Thou Knight, what devil hath caused thee to commit so great folly, for to abide my fury, art thou so certified of thy great valour, that thou wilt see the proof thereof. Then the valiant son of the great Alphebo answered. Neither my folly, nor yet the trust which thou sayst I have, hath moved me, but only this thy cruelty & evil customs which thou dost use, for that the immortal Gods are very angry, that they have endued you with so mighty members and strength, and you thus employ them, exercising nothing but vileness and cruelty, and therefore they do send me, as their messenger, to make manifest unto you their great anger and wrath, promising great punishment, if you do not leave to follow these perverse customs which you do use, & if it be so that you are determined not to leave this evil custom and amend your life, here in their names I do defy you in mortal battle. The Giant with the great pride he had, and with the anger that he received, when he heard the speech of the Prince, the words doubled so in his mouth, that he could not make any answer, but threw out from his mouth and nose great abundance of smoke, which almost took away their sights like a mist, and spurring forwards his great beast, who was very light, that with a trice he was with the Prince, and before he could make any resistance, he struck him so terrible a blow with both his hands with his heavy club upon his fine and hard steeled helm that it made him to stagger, and to fall down upon his horse neck, and his spears fell out of his hand, and his arms hanged down, as though he had been dead and out of his nose and mouth proceeded great quantity of blood.  
His horse who was very swift and strong, gave a spring in the air, and turned about, carrying his master a long time about the field, sprinkling with blood all the way whereas he went.  
The Giant did not remain content after that he had given him this blow, but did follow him for to double it, with the which he thought to make an end of that work: but this thought lasted not long, for that this Greek Knight was come again to himself, and as he was settling himself in his saddle, he perceived very well the great danger, wherein ●e was lodged that he thought verily that he had been slain with that terrible blow, which he received: there was never Serpent went out of the Lydian sea, to seek their prey, with more ire and fury, than this Greek warrior did at this time against his enemies to see himself so ill entreated, and that with one only blow, and therewith drew out his s●ord, and went towards the Giant saying. Tarry, tarry thou furious beast, for here I swear unto thee by the immortal Gods, that very quickly I mean to give thee thy payment, which thy terrible blow doth deserve. The Prince at that time was so full of wrath, that he might well have been counted hardy, that durst at that time come to him face to face. And when he came whereas the Giant was, he stretched himself upon his stirrups, and stroke so terrible a blow upon the giant's shoulder, which was with so great strength, that all that quarter he cut clean away, and threw him dead to the ground: which caused great contentment unto all those, that were in the house beholding them. The other Giant when he saw his companion dead, with great wrath he commanded the fifteen Knights, that altogether they should assault that mortal enemy, who were not slack in accomplishing his commandment. Oh unhappy people, if you had considered, how that this young Knight had lost the reins of his patience, you would not have been so hardy to assault him, for that strong mountains were not sufficient to make resistance against him, neither would ye have been so bold, to give him any occasion of offence. This worthy warrior when he saw this his shameful assault, without losing any part of his courage, he went and encountered them, laying about him, striking on the right hand, and on the left hand, with so much fury, as a Lion, when he is compassed about with expert hunters, even so be used himself. These knights were all stout and chosen knights, and of the lineal descent of Giants, and did not let to strike him many and furious blows, which made him many times almost to lose his wits, which was caused by his great ire and wrath, for it was such, that he felt in himself no increasing of force: yet for all that, he did so employ his blows, that ten of them, some with their heads cloven in pieces, and other some with their arms cut off, he overthrew dead to the ground. The other Giant was marvelously amazed to see so incredible a thing, but puffing and blowing like to a Bull, he set hand to his mighty and great cutting sword, and with great fury he likewise assaulted the valiant Knight on the one side, and stroke at him such a blow, that he made him to stoop & incline his body to his horse neck, but quickly he raised himself up again, and with great lightness he cleared himself from the second blow, which he saw descending upon him, and therewith he struck two blows at two of those five Knights which remained, so that he brought them both dead to the ground. The Giant when he saw so much strength in one Knight, being very much kindled in wrath, he commanded the three Knights which remained, to withdraw themselves a part, so that the Giant and the Knight made their assault together with such terrible blows, that it was wonderful to see. The Knight with both his hands stroke at the Giant, so that both their blows descended together, with so great strength and noise, that it made a marvelous sound throughout all the mountaints. The Giant was he which receceived the most harm, by reason that his armour made but small resistance against the terrible blows of the Knight, which was the occasion that he was hurt and wounded in many places. The Giant seeing his great resistance roared like a baighted Bul, procuring withal the power he had to hurt the Prince. In this sort they endured more than an hour without taking any rest, at which time the Giant did feel in himself some weariness, and would with one blow make an end of this battle, or put his life in jeopardy, and therewith he struck with all his force so terrible a blow at the prince, that he made him to fall upon his horse crupper, but strait way he was settled again in his saddle, and striking his horse with the spurs, he came unto the Giant, at such time as he had his sword aloft, to discharge it upon the Prince, but he thrust at him a foin at the sight of his helm, which was very large, in such sort, that he struck him betwixt both his eyes, and the sword passed through to his neck, so that the Giant fell down dead to the ground, which was no small joy unto all the Prisoners that were in the Chariot. The other three Knights when they saw all things to go so ill on their parts, they let loose their horse bridles, and with great hast they procured to hide themselves in the thickest of the forest. The Prince made no reckoning of them, but let them go, and went strait way unto the Chariot, and lighted from his horse, and went up into it for to unloose those prisoners which were bound, and said unto those Ladies. Receive this service of me, not for any courtesy that I found in your Knights, but for the great bounty and virtue, which is in the Duchess and her daughter. The Earl of the deep lake answered and said. Of truth, gentle Knight, it had been better that you had accepted our demand, which we asked in the service of the Ladies: for that being subdued by your great valour, we had not come into so great misery and trouble in the which we have seen ourselves. Sir Earl answered the prince Claridiano, my heart is so clean void of the subjection of love, (putting apart my bounden duty towards them) that by the oath that I have sworn to the order of Knighthood, that it is not to be marveled if I did deny your demand, putting for intercessor that, which my heart was never subject unto. Then the Duchess with a goodly grace said: Yet I do certify you gentle Knight, that at this time you shall not remain so much at your own liberty, but that by me you shall be constrained to be my guide to the City of Nabatea. With condition said the Prince, that the day of the justing, you do not manifest my person, unto any creature. I do accept to be your keeper and defender. The condition answered the Duchess daughter, is granted and accepted, but yet I must needs charge you with another request, which I will ask of you, and it is, that in my name, and as my Knight, you will carry with you a jewel of mine, and enter into the justing at Nabatea, with the Earl in your company. I cannot deny anything that you do ask of me, said Claridiano, for that you have power to command me, and therefore I do accept, and grant unto all things that your highness shall demand. And being in this communication, the Princesses thet remained at their Hosts, came whereas they were, and in their company the Knight of the house, who was almost in an ecstasy with the great joy and pleasure he had, to see the two Giants and his company dead, and requested them instantly, that they would go unto his Castle to take their rest: to the which they did grant, for the necessity which did move them. Galtenor did declare unto us what should be done unto these Giants, and said that they were Lords of the fair islands, enemies unto the King of the Nabateos, and as they had understanding of the great triumphs and feasts which was proclaimed in Nabatea, three of those Giants, which were all brethren, went forth to do all the harm they might, in company with their mother who was a great enchanter. The one of the Giants who was more furious and of a mightier strength than the other two, would go alone, and these two came together of whom were have told you. The Knights of the Duchess were marvelously ill entreated in the battle which they had with Claridiano, and it was requisite that they should remain a few days in the castle, for to ease & comfort themselves: but the Prince his heart could not in any wise suffer to tarry so long to ease himself, but took his leave of the Duchess for to departed, who did grant it unto him with a very good will, for that she would remain in the Castle, till such time as her knights were better comforted & amended. So the Prince & his company took the way which they thought best, whereas they travailed eight days, in which time he did wonders in arms, punishing rapes and extremities offered, in such sort, and so many, that his fame was exalted unto the clouds, some called him the Knight of the Ladies, and other some the Knight with the Purple armour. And when they understood that the time of the Triumphs drew near, they took the way which led them strait unto the City of Nabatea: and for to go thither, they must needs pass through a wood of eight miles long, in the which they travailed till it was noon time, and therein they discovered a very fair castle, and feeling themselves somewhat weary, they went thither for to refresh themselves, the which chanced unto them otherwise, as in the chapter following you shall understand.   

¶ How the Knight of the Ladies went unto the Castle, and of the great treason which was there ordained by Art Magic, and of the success thereof. Cap. 13.  
THe Greek Prince for to take some refreshing, took his way towards the Castle, that he saw in the wood with all his company, but yet it fell not out with them as they hoped, for that when they came thither they found the ga●es fast shut, & for all that they gave mighty blows thereat, and called, yet there was no body that made them any answer, and seeing this, they determined to go round about the Castle, to see if there were any other part whereas they might call that they might be heard, but in all parts they found it a like, for the which the Prince was very sorrowful, and pretended to depart some other way: and turning about with his horse, he saw a pillar, which was made of stone, on the which was written in the Chaldean tongue, these words. Let none be so hardy as to enter into this Castle, except he will for his boldness die the death. The Prince when he had read this title, laughed thereat and said. I know none that is so hardy to enter into the Castle, seeing before his eyes the inconveniences and harm that will thereof proceed▪ and again, having the gates shut, in such sort, that unto no body they will open them, nevertheless although the peril be great, yet if they would open the gates, I know not whether I should fear the entry or not, & if it were but only to know what he is that is of so great power: & nigh unto the said pillar was there another of the same making, at the which there hung a Bugle horn, and thereby was written these words, which said: He which is of so great hardiness, & hath confidence in his power and strength, and will enter into the height of this castle, let him blow this horn, and the entry therein shall be in safety, but the coming forth shall be doubtful. If I were once within said the knight, I would procure that my coming forth should be without trouble, and therewith he took the horn in his hand, and before that he began to sound it he said unto the damsels: Fair Ladies I am determined to procure the entry of this fortress, to see what there is within, and likewise him that doth proclaim so great fear, in the mean time I desire you to tarry for me amongst these green trees, for that the castle is small and will quickly be looked over, so that in short time we shall know who & what there is within, and making an end of desiring them to tarry, he blew the horn, and made it to sound very strongly, in such sort, that it might be heard very far. There was no long tarrying after when that out of a window from the highest part of the castle, there was let down a basket which was made very fast above with a strong rope. The Prince did well understand that if he would go in, he must enter in by that basket, and so without any tarrying he put himself therein, he was not as yet scarce settled when that with great swiftness he was drawn up, and when he was at the highest, with a trice he left the basket and put himself in at the window, and could see no body, neither those which did help to pull him up in the Basket, at the which he neither marveled nor had any fear, but looking about he saw a pair of winding stairs, whereat he descended, and he had not descended many steps, when as there was so great darkness, that scarce he could discern any light: and so groping by the walls, he did keep his going down that narrow and turning stairs, which were very long, and of such length, that he thought he descended into the midst of the earth. He spent a great time in descending those stairs: but in the end he came into a very fair and large Cour●e, all compassed about with iron grates, very fair & well wrought, and at the one of them there was a Pastora leaning on her breast, who seemed to be of a marvelous and fair beauty: who leaned her fair face upon her white hand, being very pensive, and distilled from her Crystalline eyes great abundance of tears. When this Greek knight saw this beautiful creature, he remained in great admiration, considering with himself, if that by adventure she should be the same Pastora, which the princes of jerosolima had told him of. Then this Pastora did open her fair and christalyne eyes, looking earnestly upon the knight, and giving a grievous and sorrowful sigh, she withdrew herself from the grate, which caused the Greek knight to have great desire to know who it should be, suspecting that by force of some enchantment, she should be put therein, wherewith there kindled in his heart a new Fire of love: And casting up his eyes again to see if he might see her, he could not, but saw in the very same place, a woman, of a very great stature, who was all armed, with a sword girt at her waist, & had hanging at her neck a bow, and a guilt Quiver, this lady was of so great beauty, that she seemed almost to excel the Pastora, so that the Prince, with the sight which he had before him, forgot that which was past, and fixed his eyes on her. But in the same sort upon a sudden, she went away as the first did, leving the knight with no less trouble in his thought, then before he was. This knight had not much time to bewail the absence of that Lady, for that without seeing any body, he was strooken such a blow with so great fury upon his back, that he was constrained to stoop with one knee to the ground. Yet with a trice he arose up again: and looking about him to see who it was that stroke him, he perceived that it was a knight, which with great haste ran in at a door which was at one of the corners of the court. And with the great anger which the Prince reseived, to see himself in such sort so ill entreated, he followed him with his accustomed lightness, following after that Knight in at the door. He was not two steps in at the door, when that he fell down into a deep cave, which was covered over in such subtle sort, that whosoever did tread on it, he straightway fell down into the cave, except he were advertised thereof. And within the cave it was very dark, and no light appeared. The Knight seeing himself so betrayed in that trap, he feared to receive some harm in the fall. But yet very lightly he put himself on foot, with his Sword drawn in his hand, for to make his defence, against whatsoever should happen. But by reason of the great darkness, he could not see any thing, neither discover wherein he was fallen, but determined to settle himself against somewhat, if he might find where, groping to see if he might find any other door of entry into that dark Den.  
And as the knight went groping and feeling, he found that he trod on no other thing but dead men's bones, which caused him to stand still. And not long after there was open a lover hole, at the which entered much clearness, and gave great light into the place whereas he was: whereat appeared a very old woman, who was so lean & so full of wrinkles, that it seemed she had nothing but skin and bones on her, who said unto the Prince, in an evil hour thou camest hither, & so shall thy lodging be, and thine entertainment, for that thou art now in place, that thou mayst look for no other thing, but to be meat unto a furious beast. And thy surmounted strength shall not be able to make any defence. The prince who was very wrath, answered, Oh false & cursed Witch, whom the gods confound, who hath taught thee to use so great deceit, that with thy false & devilish understanding, thou dost work so much evil against all traveling & venturous knights. I hope to come forth out of this cave, in spite of all thy mischief, & with my strong arm to break all thy bones a sunder. All that thou dost and wilt do said the old woman, I will suffer at thy hands, only for the revengement I will take of thee, and that very quickly, and therewith she went from that window and shut it fast again. So not long after at his back he heard a noise, as though they were opening of a door little and little, whereas there appeared a little light, the Prince procuring to go thither, saw that the bones whereon he trod were of two human bodies, which appeared not to be very long since their flesh was torn of with hard and cruel teeth, but this consideration could not endure long with him, for that he heard a great rumour, & looking what it should be, he saw that there was coming forth of another den a mighty Serpent with wings, as great in body as an Elephant, which had only two feet which appeared out of that monstrous body but a span in length, and each foot had three claws of three spans in length, she came with her mouth open of so monstrous and huge bigness, and so deformed, that a whole armed knight might enter in thereat, and she had on her ●●wes two tusks, which seemed to be of two palms, as sh●rpe as any needles, and all her body was covered with hard shells of diverse colours, and with great fury she came forth with her wings all abroad, the Prince could not but receive some fear in seeing so furious a beast, but seeing it was then time and great need to have courage and to be expert and valiant for to make his defence, he took his good cutting sword in his hand, and shrouded himself with his hard and strong shield, and tarried the coming of that ugly monster, and when the furious beast saw that there was whereon she might employ her sharp teeth, she struck with her wings, and with her claws she gripped and laid fast hold upon his hard shield, pretending to have swallowed whole this courageous warrior, & fastening her sharp tusks upon his helm, which when she found so hard, she let go her hold, & pulled at his shield with so great strength that she pulled it from his arm, but the knight stroke at her a mighty blow upon the head with his sword, but could not hurt her by reason of the the hard shells wherewith it was armed, & though he gave her no wound, yet for all that she felt the blow in such sort, that it made her to recoil to the ground, & to fall upon her long tail. This oppressed Knight made great haste to strike her another blow, but he coul● not, for that she stretched herself of so great height before him. But fortune was so favourable unto him, that he might strike her on the belly, whereas she had no defence with shells nor any other thing but feathers, whereas he gave her a great wound: but if the blow had been overthwart as it was right down, he had surely slain her at that time, but yet it was not so little, but that it was mortal, whereout issued much blood. This great Serpent when she felt herself wounded, stroke at the Knight with her tail so terrible a blow, that if he had not seen it coming, it had been sufficient to have parted him in pieces, and by reason of the narrowness of that place, they could not a part themselves the one from the other, but she leapt in the air with so great lightness, that it seemed to be ten paces from the ground, which was the occasion that her furious blow did not hurt him. She was scant descended to the ground, when that with bot● his hands he struck her so terrible a blow upon those hard shells, that it made her to fall with her breast to the ground: but strait way she raised herself up again, and would have strooken the Knight again with her unmerciful tail. The Knight for to clear himself thereof, fell down flat on the ground, for that he had no time to make any other defence. But that terrible blow was not so soon passed over him, but strait ways he was on his feet, at such time as the furious beast came towards him. Here the Prince having a great confidence in his own strength, did so high and valiant prowess, that you may put in oblivion, all the valiantness that ever was done by his predecessors, and put this in perpetual memory. For that he threw his sword out of his hand, and went unto this monster, and embraced himself with her, & did so quease her betwixt his mighty arms, with so much strength that the furious beast could not profit herself of her sharp claws, but only with her wings, she beat him on every side, this valiant warrior would never let her lose, but still remained holding her fast between his arms, continuing this perilous wrestling, being all imbrued with her bestial blood that issued out of the wound, which was a great help unto him against the furious fiend, which was the occasion that she lost a great part of her strength. Long time endured this great & dangerous wrestling, & that infernal beast fast unto the noble and valiant breast of the Greek Prince, till such time as he plainly perceived that this monster began to wax faint & to lose her strength: likewise it could not be otherwise but that the prince waxed somewhat weary, notwithstanding he did animate himself seeing the great weakness of the Serpent, which was by reason of the great quantity of blood which came from her wound, & having opportunity he took his sword wherewith he thrust her into the heart with so great strength that he clove it in two pieces, and so this infernal monster fell down dead to the ground, and carried the Prince with her, for that they were still fast together, and by reason that she lacked her strength to make her defence he quickly cleared himself out of her claws, and recovered his sword, and when he saw certainly that he was clear from the cruel monster, he kneeled down and gave great thanks unto his Gods, the poison was great which this monster threw out for to infect the knight, but by reason of the great virtue which was in the armour that Galtenor gave him, there was nothing that could hurt him, although he remained very weary & unquiet, and was constrained to sit & cool and refresh himself by a well which was full of water there hard by, whereas the furious beast came forth, & when he found himself somewhat refreshed he looked about him and saw a pair of stairs, whereat he determined to go up: he had not ascended many steps, but at the cleft of a door which he found, he saw sitting at a great table many people eating and drinking, and at the upper end there sat the gyantesse, and next unto her by her side a mighty great & furious Giant, such a one as he had never seen the like, & hearkening what they did say, he heard that the giantess said: Now hath our revenger his dinner between his claws, for that he is so quiet, although he hath been a great while in making of it ready, then the giant asked & said: Was there any of you which saw what armour this knight brought & what recognices he had, than one which was there eating said: I did see what recognices he had, than the old magical witch said unto her son, now that you certainly know he is dead, I will tell you who it was: You shall understand that it was the knight that slew my two sons & thy brothers. The giant when he heard this, stroke with his hand a great blow upon the table, saying: Oh Gods, & wherefore did you not tell me thereof before, that I with my own hands might have taken the revengement, cursed be thine enchantments, for that they are the occasion that the mighty force of my arms do lose the glory that they do deserve. All this which was spoken the knight heard, & by their reasons he knew that they were all of the lineal descent of those giants which he slew, for to set at liberty the Princess of the valley, & hearing himself so vilely spoken of he could not endure to stand there long, for his choler did so overcome him, that he could not longer refrain, but set his shoulder unto the door with so terrible strength, that he threw it down to the ground, at which fall it made a terrible noise, which caused all them that were there to be greatly amazed, but yet their wonder was much more to see that the knight was at liberty & clear from that ugly beast, who they thought had been dead and devoured by her, but when they saw him they all procured to hide themselves and to run away, so that the Giant remained all alone in that place, & rising up from the board, stretching himself on his feet, he said: O my Gods I do give thanks for that you have delivered this vile knight from the power of that furious beast, that I with my hands may take revengement of him. And in saying these words he drew out a mighty sword which he had hanging at his side, & went towards the prince striking at him a terrible blow, from that which this Greek did clear himself with his accustomed lightness, & being passed that blow he said: Giant, go & arm thyself, and here I will tarry for thee, by which means thou mayst defend thyself, and make thy revengement as thy heart desireth, and do not thou think that I will glory in the abating of thy courage, but with the great valour the which my high mind doth demand. The Giant when he saw himself derided and that the knight made little account of him, was with the great anger which he received almost beside himself, and said: Oh vile and miserable creature, is it possible that the Gods will do me so great outrage, as to consent that I shall take armour against thee, and that thou hast so much force, as to drive me unto that necessity. And in saying these words, he lift up again his broad & mighty sword against the prince, who likewise cleared himself of that blow as he did of the first. Then the Prince said unto him: Thou deformed beast without any human reason, do not procure by thy great pride to spot or stain the nobility of my person, to cause me to strike thee, without having any armour, to make thy defence. The Giant made little account of the counsel he gave him, but rather assaulted him with more terrible blows. But all that ever he did was in vain, for that the Prince with great experience and lightness cleared himself from them, and tarried the time, that he might have opportunity to close with him, for to show him the fruits of his fists, for at that time he had not drawn his sword. A good while they were in this contention, till such time as those Knights which ran away (which was to the number of ten) had time to arm themselves, and to return again into that place whereas they were eating, who came all in a readiness with their swords in their hands. When the Prince saw the great peril which was towards him, he was constrained to draw out his sword for to make his defence against that wicked company. The old Witch called with a mighty voice unto her son, that he should enter in and arm himself, for that she suspected as a Divine, what should happen. (O cursed heart, that is so great a friend unto cruel revengement: how dost thou procure to heap upon thyself such shame & reproach, seeking without all justice to do that, which it were better for thee to have left undone.) Full little did it profit this old Witch her great crying out, and enchantments, for that the Giant would not hearken unto her, but followed his pretence unarmed as he was, against him, who although he had been armed, his fury would little have profited him, so by reason that the other armed Knights did so much trouble him with their blows, it was the occasion that the Giant did the more molest him, causing him many times with the fury of their blows to bow his knees to the ground, the which did constrain him to use all his power against them, striking about him on the one side and on the other, that in a small time he overthrew five of them dead to the ground, yet for all that the other five which remained did not let to use all the extremity they could against the Greek, and likewise that furious Giant whom the knight would never offer to strike with his cutting sword, but always waiting opportunity that he might close with him, for to give him one blow with the pommel thereof, and when time did serve, he would not lose it, but being very nigh him, he struck him so mighty a blow with the pommel of his sword under his ear, that he drove it into his brains, wherewith the Giant fell dead to the ground. The other five knights when they saw that terrible blow, they threw their swords unto the ground, and yielded themselves unto the courtesy of the Greek knight. The old Gyantesse when she saw her son dead, and those knights yielded, with a great fury and terrible shrieking she put herself before the knight and said: O cruel Butcher, the destroyer of my well-beloved sons, make now an end of her who doth more deserve the death than they, and do not think that thou shalt obtain so much victory as to carry me away with thee alive, and if that with thy cruel hand thou wilt not make an end of her that is without all good fortune, I promise thee that I will procure to give it myself with my own hands. And in saying these words she went unto the place whereas he son lay dead, and laid hold on his sharp sword, and with a trice she thrust it into her body, that none that were there present had any time to withdraw her from doing it, which being done, her miserable soul was scant out of the unhappy body when that all the Castle began to shake, and with the noise of a terrible thunder clap it vanished away, in such sort that all those that were there present remained in the plain field without any sign or token of castle to be there or any other kind of buildings, for that you shall understand, that this Castle was made by Art of enchantment by that old Witch. Surely it caused great admiration to all them that remained alive: but much more was the grief of the Ladies which tarried for the coming of the Prince, when they saw that he tarried so long, & also afterward when they heard that great noise of thunder, at the breaking up of that enchanted Castle. It was no less to be wondered at, to see the huge and mighty Serpent, & the great giant with his mother, and the five knights that were slain, understanding that the Prince had made all that destruction. So the five Knights which yielded themselves, gave the Prince to understand who the Giants were, and how the old Giantess had ordained that Castle for to take revengement on him, for the death of her two sons. The Greek Prince gave thanks unto his Gods, for that they had delivered him out of that terrible snare, and gave the Knights free liberty to depart, and go whether they would.  
Then the Prince and his company returned onwards to their journey, making great haste in their travailing, that they might get out of that great Wood, before that the night should come upon them, whereby they might get to some town nigh at hand. And at such time as the glistering Apollo began to hide his face, and to cover himself, according to his accustomed order, they came unto a fair Castle, which was a little without the wood, whereas of the Lord thereof, they were very well received: yet much more royal was their entertainment, and far greater was his affection towards them, when he knew of the destruction of that enchanted Castle, for that he had felt and known the inconvenience of that ill neighbour.   

¶ How that the king of Nabatea had understanding of the great destruction that the Greek Prince made in the castle, and how he commanded that the serpent and the heads of the Giants should be set at the entry of the gate of the Palace for a perpetual memory, and how that the triumph began that was ordained, and of all that passed in the time of the feasts. Cap. 14.  
THE fame of the valiant knight Claridiano, with his accustomed gentility was noised throughout all those Provinces of Nabatea, publishing his heroical acts and feats of arms, naming him to be the knight of the damsels, and when he drew nigh unto Nabatea, there did not lack them which gave the king to understand of all that passed. When the king heard of so mighty and valiant deeds, and in special of that which was done in the enchanted castle, and of the furiousness of the serpent, he commanded strait that men should be sent thither, for to bring them unto his presence which strait way was accomplished, and when the King saw, so great worthiness, he commanded that forthwith for a perpetual memory of the knight, they should be hanged at the palace gate, desirous to know the knight, & to have him in his court for to do him honour: but they which had more desire to see him, were the Duchess of the valley and her Daughter. Who were at that time come so the Court, and declared the great prowess of the Prince, and thought long for the day of the Triumphs, for as then he promised without fail to be at Nabatea, so the day of the feasts were come, at the fame whereof, resorted thither a great number of great valour and strength. Amongst whom was the prince of Phoenicia with a goodly company of noble person, and the Prince of Camogenia with many and very well proprtioned Knights. Likewise came thither the King of Arabia, with great majesty, and with no less majesty came the king of Silicia, and a brother of his, who were both Giants. So likewise came thither the king of Cappadocia, all these be Provinces that doth border the one with the other, & the most part of these Princes are vassals unto the Prince of Palestino, all these Princes came thither for to honour that good king of Nabatea, for that he was very well esteemed of them all: and as they came to honour the King, so likewise they came to prove themselves, and to get fame and name, & the praise that belongeth thereunto. It was supposed of all the company the king of Silicia would have the prowess and praise of all the rest, for that he was a giant of very big members, although his brother was taken to be more furious, who determined not to just, for that his brother should get the honour & praise, but it fell out otherwise, as hereafter you shall understand. So when the day was come all the Ladies and Damsels put themselves in places for to behold the feasts, and every one procured to set out herself with the greatest bravery that might be, and the great court full of people which came thither for to see the feasts and triumphs. What shall I say here of the daughter of the Duchess of the valley, who was of so great beauty that she was noted amongst them all. So the knights began to enter into the place of just, and he which was the first that entered was the Prince of Camogenia, who was mounted upon a very fair and well adorned courser, he was armed with black armour all to be spotted full of Martin's, & brought with him fifty knights all appareled with the same livery, and with great● majesty he went round about the place, making obedience unto all the Ladies and Damsels: after him entered a Pagan knight, who was Lord of Syria, and armed with armour of a lions colour, accompanied with an hundredth knights, all appareled in velvet of the same colour, and passed round about the place, showing great courtesy as the other did, which being done, he saw that the Prince of Camogenia was tarrying to receive him at the just, and strait way they began to sound the instruments, giving to understand, that they must make themselves ready. These Knights were nothing unwilling, but spurred their coursers with great fury. The Prince of Camogenia made his encounter whole, & struck the Pagan without missing any point: but the pagan stroke the other in such sort that he heaved him out of the saddle, & he fell to the ground, wherewith the Pagan Knight remained with great pride and gladness. In the mean time that these two were in the Just, there entered in a Knight of Phenicia, who entered in with great pomp and pride, who when he saw that the Prince of Camogenia was overthrown, he put himself unto the just. Little did profit him his great pride and arrogancy, & outward show to be a strong knight against him of Syria, for that at the first encounter he overthrew him to the ground: in like sort did he use other fifteen Knights of divers Provinces. So strait way entered the Prince of Phoenicia, who was a marvelous well proportioned knight, armed all in white armour, wrought with excellent knots of gold, and he brought in his company an hundred Knights, all appareled in white satin, and riding about the place, he showed his obedience unto the King and all the Ladies. Then he put himself at his standing, for at that time there was not a knight to just withal. So strait way they sounded the trumpets, at which noise the Knights moved themselves to the Just with their horses, and made their encounter so strong, & with so great fury, that the strong Pagan was cast to the ground, and the like he did to other six venturous Knights, which entered into the place. Strait way entered the brave King of Silicia, who was armed with glistering armour of very fine steel, and was mounted upon a very mighty and rich courser, and brought in his company two hundred Knights all appareled with rich cloth of gold, accompanied with great music of minstrels which was a pleasant noise to be heard, and after that he had made the accustomed compass and courtesy in the place, he put himself at the just. So when signs were made, they spurred their●horses, and made their encounter so strong, that it was great grief unto him, to put himself upright again, but the prince was carried over his horse buttocks, & carried the saddle with him betwixt his legs, which was a great grief unto all them that did see him, for that he was well-beloved of them all. This arrogant giant was so encouraged, & so furious that in a small time he left not a knight remaining in their saddles on horseback. And being in this great pride, there was hard a great noise and rushing, in manner of a tumult in the place. And looking what it should be, they saw that it was the knight of the Damsels which entered, who was armed with his rich and strong Armour, all of Purple, full of golden Stars. And before him came the two Damsels, which always were in his company. The Princes of jerosolima, carried his shield, & the Princes of Mesopotamia▪ his Spear. Showing by his person the highness of his descent. Who passed by the royal seat whereas the good King was, in whose company was his son the prince, armed with very rich armour, also the lord of mount Libano, a very ancient knight and of great authority. So on the other side was the princes, the daughter of the King of Nabatea, who was the bride, a very fair and comely gentlewoman, and with her the Duchess of the valley and her Daughter. And behind them, was the Earl of the deep Lake, who was still very weak of the passed battle, and was richly appareled with blue cloth of Gold. And as this knight passed by, the knight arose up and showed him courtesy. The Duchess of the Ualley could not refrain herself but that with a high voice she said unto the King. Mighty king, this is the knight in whom the gods hath put all their power & strength, that his valour may be more than theirs. This warlike knight, although he heard very well what the Duchess had said, passed on, and descembled as though he had hard nothing. And when he came to the Just, he took his shield and his spear, and prepared himself ready to the just. So straight ways being in a readiness, they swooned the Trumpets, where at which great fury, they moved their Coursers, & neither of them miss their blow at their encounter, but by reason that the Greek had great good will to extol his fame, he struck the giant so mighty a blow, that he overthrew him to the ground. So the prince passed alongst, with great majesty, without any show of disdain. The people with a great shout said. The great mighty & royal Agilao is overthrown to the ground, so that his mighty strength hath little availed him. Then the prince of Fenicia, would prove his adventure with the Greek, but with great ease he was turned to the ground. So all the rest of the knights that were of any estimation, made their just, but they were all with great ease overthrown to the ground, in less than the space of two hours. So at such time as the bright Febus would make an end of his long journey, there appeared to enter in to the place the brave and mighty Giant, brother unto the king of Silicia, which a mighty great spear in his hand, whose glistering point of Steel showed through all the field. He brought with him but one only squire, which brought with him another spear, and without any care of courtesy due, he put himself into the place. And the Squire which brought his other Spear, went unto Claridiano, & said: Knight, yonder valiant giant doth send unto thee this Spear, and willeth thee that thou dost procure to do the uttermost of thy power before that the Sun doth set, for that he will do the like: & likewise he saith, that he doth not only defy thee in the Just, but also to mortal battle. To whom Claridiano, said: Friend, go thy ways & tell this giant that sent thee, that I do accept his demand, although it doth grieve me very much, for that without any occasion he maketh this defiance in time of so great joy and pleasure, which is done in the honour of so mighty a king, but seeing his will is moved with so great pride, tell him that I am ready to make my defence, & also the shortly he shall repent him of this enterprise, & in saying these words he took the spear of the squire, & put himself in the standing: at the time he was very nigh the place where the king was, who heard the answer which the Greek made, for that which he received great anger, for that the Giant in such sort should defy the Knight without any occasion: but it was no time as then to speak, but to hold his peace, & prayed unto his Gods for to take away his great pride and arrogancy. At this time the two warriors tarried the sign to be made by the trumpets: which being given, these Knights moved their coursers, with their spears in their rests, with so great ire and desire the one to hurt the other, that they both failed in their encounter. The Giant who was very proud, when he saw that he had erred his blow, he returned against Claridiano, caring his spear upon his shoulder, and coming nigh him, upon a sudden and with great fury he took it from his shoulder, and before the Greek could clear himself, he struck him a mighty blow upon the armour, so that his staff broke by reason of the fineness of the armour, and made the good warrior to double his body backwards upon the Horse crupper. But when he saw the great villainy which the Giant used with him, his anger increased very much, & taking his spear in the same sort, he went towards the Giant and said. Thou furious and proud beast, what didst thou think to gore me like as thou wouldst do a wild Boar, tarry, and I will make thee to understand, if I can make my knotty spear to fly in the air, and therewith he threw his spear at him with so great fury, that he struck him on the breast in such sort, that the spear passed through his body, and showed itself at his back, so that this Giant fell down dead to the ground, and all that were there present, were very much amazed at the greatstrength and force of this Knight. At this time the Sun had finished his course, having nothing above the Horizon but his glistering beams, than the judges of the feasts commanded with sound of trumpets that the justs should cease, & make an end of the day. So the King descended from the place where he was into the Court with all his Knights for to receive ●hat good warrior, and desired him that he would go with them unto his palace, to the which he could not make denial. And when he should enter into the great gate of the Palace, he saw the Serpent, and the heads of the Giants, and when the King perceived that he did behold them, he said.  
This remembrance (good knight) I commanded to be put here in thy name, for to be a perpetual memory of thy high and mighty Chivalry. The Prince there at would not answer making as though he did not esteem it much, for that he had with himself no pride. And therewith they assendid up into the great hall, where as they were marvelously well received of the Ladies and damsels. And leaving Antemisca, and Belia, with the Bride, and with the Queen her mother in law, he returned and went with the King, whereas they did entreat him with great majesty. So he remained eight days in company with the King in his court, for to take his ease, in which time the most part of the kings, princes and knights were departed, and the King of Silicia, with the dead body of his brother. These eight days past this Greek prince did take his leave of the King, for that the time to make defence in the quarrel of the Princess draw on, the which he had great care thereof. It grieved the king very much for his departure, but seeing that he was constrained thereunto, he would not hinder him, but offered him very great and rich gifts, but the prince would not receive any. Likewise he took his leave of the Queen, and of the Duchess and her daughter, who with great sorrow did solemnize his departure. The King brought him unto the foot of the stair, whereas Fidelio was tarrying for him, with a mighty and rich Horse, one of the furious that was to be found in all the country. He was a Rone coloured, without any kind of mark, and trapped with very rich trapping of Gold and precious stones of great price. There came forth of the ●orse mouth two tusks like unto an Elophant, his nostrils were very large and great, his head very little, his breast very broad, well pitched and so hard, that no sword were it never so sharp, was able to enter in thereat. So when he came unto the foot of the stairs, without letting foot in his stirrup, he leapt upon the best Horse that ever was. The horse was called Zefiro, for his great lightness. When he had taken his leave of all, they departed, determining ●ot to stay in any place, till they came unto jerosolima, & so strait way to Mesopotamia, for that it was all one way. Then they followed on their journey, till they had passed all the kingdom of Nabatea, without any adventure worth the telling. Likewise they passed all the mount Libano, where as they found many great and fair Cities. Also they passed over the river jordan, leaving behind them part of Syria, travailing a longest by part of the edge of Pallestina, which bordereth upon Arabia. And passed through Fenicia, without any question or demand asked of them. So they came unto the populus river of Eufrates, and travailed a longest the rivers side, till such time as they were constrained to go upon a high & mighty mountain, from whence they might discover jerosolima. All these country's aforesaid, they passed & travailed, in little more than two months, and at that time there lacked little more than two months unto the time appointed, for Antemisca to make her defence. In all this journey there chanced some adventures, but for that they were not of any great importance, I let them pass, & make no mention of them. Although the fame of his heroical deeds, was hard into Grecia. And for that my author will not seem to be tedious, he doth let pass many, although they are worthy to be hard, and to give good example unto all those that do wear armour, to make them hardy & courageous in their deeds.   

¶ How the heroical Greek was taken prisoner, by the dart of Cupid, in beholding the beauty of a very fair Pastora, and of the great anguish and grief that he sustained. Cap. 15.  
THat adulteress Venus, the key of all liberty, not having forgotten her old mischief and ill will, which she took upon the mountain Citareo, came to take counsel of her son Cupid, to determine what order she might use for to subject & bring under her amorous yoke, the stiff neck of that stout & untamed Greek. And the better for to forge & to bring to pass to her content, the work which she had ordained, she showed herself very friendly & lovingly unto the glister Apollo, for that at her request he should with more clearness spread abroad his bright beams over the green fields, nigh unto the river Eufrates. Who being moved by the deceitful words of Venus, did disperse abroad his burning beams: showing forth marvelous enameled colours, upon the flowered harbes, being filled with the clear dew, such as seldom hath been seen in the field. And the mighty river with mild & quiet running, did pass his accustomed journey, making a fine noise, with the delicate breaking of his streams. Then this false & crafty Cupid, seeing opportunity, by the good disposition of the place: & being advertised by his deceitful mother, took his way with his accustomed lightness, unto the river where as the mighty Claridiano was refreshing himself under a company of very fair & green Mertil trees, with the rest of his company, tarrying the coming of the night, where as with out all fear, they rejoiced & sported themselves, the fair, peaceable & quiet day. And for to be more at his ease, he pulled of his strong helm, & slacked the buckles of his armour. And for that the damsels might the better recreate themselves, he put himself out of the way, somewhat apart from them, for that he was very courteous & honest. And aparting himself, he came into a place where as he heard the noise of a Flute, which did sound very sweetly: & for that it was very pleasant, and gave him great contentment in the hearing, the better to delight himself, he drew near where as it was, in such sort, that he might delight himself of the song & music, without being spied of any. He approached so nigh, that he might well discern who it was that made that Flute so sweetly to sound. And he saw that it was a shepherd which lay a longest under a green willow tree, who being weary in playing on the Flute, laid it down by him, & took a Rebick & began to play on it with very sweet harmony, accompanying it with delicate & amorous songs. At the which the Prince received great contentment, being attentive, he heard him sing as followeth.  

SInce by thy sight, O Pastora so sweet,  
My former freedom and my life doth fail:  
Repay me love, for that it is most meet,  
And let not rigour in thy heart prevail.  
Behold mine eyes, with floods of tears that flow,  
Forced by the grief that from my heart doth grow.   

Make soft thy heart, and do not him disdain,  
That doth adore thy beauty so divine:  
Pity my plaints, abate my grievous pain,  
With scoffs and scorns constrain me not to pine.  
Either grant grace, else flatly nay reply,  
That I may know if I shall live or die.   
When he had made an end of this song, he let the Rebeck fall out of his hand, & stretching himself on the green grass, crossing his hands, he put them to his mouth as a man full of passions & griefs, & began to say with a weeping voice, O my Pastora, let thy cruelty now suffice thee, it is now time that thou helpest thy Pastor out of so long and great sorrow. Consider mistress, that thou dost entreat me very evil, for that thou dost well understand that I am wholly thine, & not mine own, & as thine own thou mayst ordain & dispose me. I am wholly subject unto thy will, whether it be good or ill, what so ever thy pleasure is, unto either of them I am agreeable, for that I am wholly thine. The Prince saw that with this shepherd was an other in his company, who when he saw that the other held his peace, he took an other Rebeke which he had, & which no less music than the other, he began to play & sing, as followeth, by the which he did show to be clear & at liberty of the pains of love.  
That tyrant Love shall never wound my breast,  
I will not love, nor yet beloved be:  
The lovers life I do in heart detest,  
which now in mirth, are strait in misery.  
¶ I being free do Cupid's customs scorn,  
Reject his laws, disdain his wounding dart:  
And let who will, be with his passions torn,  
He neither can nor shall possess my heart.  
This shepherd left off his song & playing all at one time, as one that made no reckoning nor esteemed love, but the amorous shepherd gave so terrible a sigh that it sounded throughout all the field. Then making a heavy sound, he said: O happy shepherd, that love hath given so much liberty unto, great is thy good fortune, that thou mayst freely publish thy liberty and blame my captivity. Let the Gods understand, & let it be published, that I am brought unto that estate, that in my songs & sonnets I do delight to utter the sweet conversation that I have with my love. But how much more joy should I receive, if I could sing as thou dost, in seeing myself at liberty. Oh mighty jupiter, do not take away this excellent joy, which I do feel in loving, like wise I do desire thee, that thou wouldst give me strength for to pass over my pain and grief, & therewith he took again the Rebick, and sung this song as followeth.  
EXcept I love I cannot have delight,  
It is a care that doth to life belong:  
For why, I hold that life in great despite,  
That hath not sour mixed with sweet among.  
And though the torments which I feel be strong:  
Yet had I rather thus for to remain,  
Then laugh, and live, not feeling lovers pain.  
This Shepherd was troubled in his song, & could not proceed any farther, for that he hard a great rushing & noise amongst the bushes and trees. And looking who it should be he saw that it was a Pastora, who was apparaled with a white petticoat of very course cloth. She had her golden hair dispersed abroad on her back, behind her ears, and had in her hand a shepherds hook, very well wrought, with the which she governed a few sheep, that she had the charge of. Her face seemed so fair as Diana, at such time as her beams hath most force. And when the Shepherd saw her, he began a new to make unto her pitiful lamentations. But for all that the Pastora made no reckoning to give any ear unto him, nor to his complaints, but rather with a smiling laughter, made of it as a jest, which caused unto the Shepehard more torment. Then Cupid who was tarrying his time & opportunity, at that time discharged his golden Arrow, with great fury, in such sort, that the heart of the Prince, who aforetime was void & at liberty, was now brought in subjection & made subject unto his laws & customs. For so soon as he had seen this Pastora, he strait way remembered the Pastora which the Princes of jerosolima had told him of, & also of that which he saw in the enchanted Castle, leaning on her breast at the Iron grate. And remembering himself, he cast his head a side to behold her that was the occasion of his new harm, but for that she was passed alongst with her sheep, he could not see her. Then he began to complain against his unhappy fortune, saying, Ah heavy heart, that in the time that thou wert a knight & at liberty, thou didst subdue and hadst power to overcome so many strong warriors: where is now thy strength become, wherewith thou didst overcome them. Art not thou he who did overcome those two mighty giants in Trapobana? Art not thou he which with thy fury didst abate the strength & courage of the mighty Geredion? what is become of thy potensie, wherewith thou didst bring down the pride of the two Tartaros? what is become of the fury where with thy fists thou slewest the great giant of the mountains Nabatea? where is thy strength wherewith thou didst win thy mighty horse Zefiro. I do see that it is all yielded unto a poor & simple Pastora. Oh heart, it doth not grieve me, for that thou art brought in subjection, but only for that thou art at the will & power of a Pastora. It is a sign that my lineage is not of such valour & estimation, as I was persuaded by my friend Galtenor. But what do I say, do I find fault in the desert of my Pastora. And although I were of the most highest lineage in the world, yet that fair face is more than any humane creature doth deserve. And in saying these words, he fell in a sound to the ground. And forsomuch as he was absent & tarried a long time, & the ladies saw he came not, they went out to seek him, & found him in the sort as I have told you, which caused great disturbance unto them. Notwithstanding in the best manner they could, with bowing of his finger, & other diligences, they brought him again to his remembrance, but not in so perfect sort, that he knew who was with him in presence. And therewith he gave a grievous sigh, & said: Oh merciful jupiter, show upon me thy power, & do not permit that Cupid, may have so much might against this sorrowful knight. And therewith a new he fell down in a sound, as at the first. Both the princes were greatly amazed, not knowing what it should be, which hath caused so much alteration. And therewith Fidelio ran unto the river for water, wherewith they all to be bathed his face, that he came again to himself. The Ladies musing between themselves, from whence should proceed this his grief. Strait way they suspected that he had seen that fair Pastora, which a little before they saw pass amongst those green trees. Antemisca who had more care of the prince's grief then the other, when she saw him somewhat come to himself, she said: What is this worthy knight, is it now time to leave me afflicted, the time being so nigh at hand to make my defence, & almost at the gates of the city, pull up your heart, & let not your valiant courage at this time faint. The knight when he perceived that the ladies were there, he procured to raise up his body, & to sit down, for that before he was laid all a long. And dissembling in the best wise he could, he said. I do not know what should be the occasion of a marvelous great grief which struck me to the heart, that without any power to make resistance, it overthrew me to the ground, in such sort as you found me. I do well believe, said Antemisca, that the occasion of this grief is in the heart, & the eyes are in most fault. For if thou hadst not seen the fair Pastora, thy heart should not have felt the passed pain. To this Claridiano answered nothing at all, seeing that they understood the occasion of his grief. But he made haste to make all things in a readiness to go onwards on their journey, & being all on horseback they hasted towards jerosolima, where they were received with great triumph, meet for such worthy Princes. The old king & Queen gave great thanks unto their gods for the return of their lost daughter. Claridiano remained there in the city of jerosolima, six days, greatly against his wil For that the new wound would not suffer him to take any rest, which caused him to take his leave of the king and his daughter, and departed, and took the way towards Mesopotamia, with great desire to be there. So travailing, they left behind them the City of Damascus, & passed by the one side of Armenia the great, and so entered into the great plain of Mesopotamia, and from thence without taking any rest, they came within ten miles of the city of Mesos. From which place they sent the old Squire, which was with them, to give the king to understand of the coming of the Princes, who with great care travailed in such sort, that he entered into the pallas, at such time as the king was accompanied with all his knights, not with little sorrow for the absence of his daughter, for that the time appointed for her defence, drew on. On his one side was the prince of Palestina, who was as merry and glad, as the King heavy and sorrowful. But when Libernio entered into the great hall, the king knew him to be a man of great estimation in his kingdom. And having no power to dissemble his great joy, in seeing him, he forgot his royal authority, and rose up against him, & said: Ah my friend where hast thou left my daughter Antemisca, tell me quickly, as thou wouldst that the Gods should favour thee. Then Libernio with a cheerful countenance said, mighty King and Lord▪ thy daughter the Princes is very well, although very weary of 〈◊〉 long and troublesome journey, and misfortunes which hath happened, but yet now with great delight, for that she doth bring with her a knight for to defend her honour. And if it be so that your highness doth accept thereof, and give them licence, he will come hither, and defend her right. The prince of Palestina when he hard that which was spoken, with great laughter, although not very well content, said. And who is he that is so simple & foolhardy, to come, and gainesaye my fury, the truth being on my side. Libernio said, it is he that will make thee to acknowledge thy falsehood, and will make thee forget thy fury & mighty strength, by using of his valiant prows. Whereat Brandemoran was so full of wrath, and his eyes sparkling like fire, he said: If it were not for that I am before the royal presence of the King, I would give thee to understand, that thy grey hairs had not spoke with the discretion, which thou oughtest to have. Then the King said, prince pacify your courage, & be quiet, and thou Libernio return, & tell them that they may come when their pleasure is. And for the right of my daughter, (if she have any) he shall have safe conduct to come and make her defence. And if it be so that they have need of any thing, speak that they may have all furnished that is requisite. Go thy ways and tarry not, for that I have great desire to see either my shame or honour. For I am in such a stay, to see myself so dishonoured, that I think it better that I were dead. Ah what a goodly thing is it for a man to die when he is in so great troubles. So Libernio put in order his departure out of hand, leaving the king somewhat content, & almost without suspection of any evil, seeing that his daughter was returned to defend her right. Libernio when he had got mourning apparel for the Princes, departed to the place whereas he left them, declaring unto her all that her father had said, and what passed in his presence. So therewith they procured and made haste, to finish their journey. And they made so much haste, that before it was night they came within two miles of the city where as they rested all that night, with great desire that the morning were come. So very early in the morning at the break of the day, they put themselves on horseback, and went forwards on their journey. So that one hour after the Sun had stretched forth his golden beams upon the moist earth and fragrant flowers, this Greek knight and the Princes entered into the city of Mesos, not resting in any place, till they came unto the kings palace, whereas they alighted and went up into the great hall. Claridiano led Antemisca by the hand, his Helm fast upon his head, and his purple Shield on his shoulder, but the visor of his Helm was up, so that all people might see his fair & great visage, and all that saw him, did judge him to be of a high lineage. Then the King was advertised of their coming, and did abide their coming in the chamber of presence, accompanied with all his nobles & knights of prows. And when he saw his daughter to enter all covered with mourning apparel, his royal highness could not show the great love he had unto his daughter, but made shows of great sorrow, shedding many tears from his eyes, which ran down upon his cheeks, & all to be washed his grey hairs. This faultless lady did prostrate herself at her father's f●●te, but Claridiano remained a foot, with so great majesty, as though he had known whose son he was. This painful & wearied lady, did ask her father's hands to kiss them, but neither the king nor his daughter could speak any word more. They remained so a great while, till such time as the king constraining his princely courage, said. I know not what will fall out, for that I see before me, that which of long time I have desired, & yet I do not know it to be mine. The lady understood the words of her father, gathered stomach unto herself & said: I am Antemisca, your well-beloved daughter, although at this time I am abhorred, I am she who unjustly hath gone wandering, paying such debts as I never made, for that I did never let but to be the lady I ought to be. I am she that by the valour of this mighty & worthy warrior, do live, and not by the compassion that thou hast had of thine own proper daughter. And I do thank my Gods, that they have so much favoured me, in giving me his mighty & strong arm, for to defend my truth, and for to punish that evil, the which that traitor Brandemoran, hath laid and raised upon me. The brave Palestina, who was present at the words which the Princes said, was so full of pride and ire, that without any respect unto the king's highness, he said: Oh false adulteress, wherefore wilt thou deny that the prince of Chaldea, had thy virginity, and that with thy consent. And what knight is he that is so hardy & hath so much courage, to say unto the contrary. The Greek did very much behold the Palestinian, perceiving by his words, that to be he that had procured all this harm against Antemisca. And although his proud words did move his patience, yet would he not make any outward show, neither answer unto him, but rather with great severity, he turned unto the King and said: High and mighty Lord, in this controversy there is no need of disputation, neither farther rehearsal. But may it please your highness to command, that the Prince of Chaldea may come in presence, and to know of him, if he be content, to refer all his right into my hands. The King who (was considering and beholding his mighty prowess, in the demonstration of his person) strait ways commanded to be brought thither the Chaldean, with sufficient keepers with him, which was strait ways done.  
And when he came in presence, the King said unto him: prince Gelerosio, my daughter hath brought hither this knight, for to defend her and thy right, (if thou have any.) Here would I know of thee, if that thou art content to refer all thy right and justice into his hands. The prince Gelerosio somewhat heavy, answered the king and said, Unto the sovereign Gods and unto him, I do commit all my right although I had rather with the strength of mine own arms make my defence: and turning unto the Greek, he said. And for that gentle Knight, thou shalt be certified that thou defend the truth: Here I do swear unto thee by the high & mighty jupiter, that the Prince of Chaldea, did never commit that which with great falsehood he is accused. Then Brandemoran did reply, and said. All that ever thou dost say, I will suffer, for that I do think before the Sun hath made an end of his accustomed course, to have satisfaction. And likewise to punish the pride of this fool, who by ignorance or rather foolish hardienesse, cometh to seek his own death.  
This valiant and courageous Greek could no longer suffer his proud and slanderous speeches, but said unto him: jupiter hath power to give the death unto whom he pleaseth, and I do think that which thou dost pretend unto me, will fall upon thyself, for to punish thee for this thy false and surmised treason which thou most dispightfully hast raised, against this noble Princes, who is guiltless of this crime.  
And for that this must be concluded by arms, and not by words, see that thou dost make no tarrying, but arm thyself and come forth unto the battle, & then thou shalt see how I will make thee to understand in the field, that I am none of them of whom thou hast hitherto gotten honour. I will not make thee any answer said Brandemoran, for that I think very quickly to revenge myself of thee, and to pluck out the tongue which hath been so bold to speak these words unto me. And therewith he went strait out of the palace, and went unto his lodging for to arm himself unto the battle. The Greek at his answer was somewhat ireful, but returning unto the king he said, mighty king and Lord, I do desire your highness that you would command, that your daughter may be set in a place, where as she may well see the restoring of her honour. The King said this shallbe done with a very good will, without any tarrying. The Greek did take his leave of the King and of the Ladies that were in the great hall. And went down the stairs where as he left his page and his horse, and without the help of his stirrup, he leapt into the saddle, & having his helm on, and his spear in his hand, he commanded his page to tarry, and not to go with him. So he went strait unto the place appointed for the battle, with so gentle a grace and good disposition, that all who did behold him, received great contentment. There was appointed a scaffold for two judges, for to judge the right of this controversy, and did appoint the place convenient for their battle. They tarried not long, when that B●●ndemoran entered the place, accompanied with many knights, at whic● time the judges put themselves on their Scaffold. And being all ready and the people in quiet, there was commanded a Trumpet to be sounded, to give them to understand, that they must prepare themselves to the battle. At which sound they moved their cour●●●s, the one against the other, with so great swiftness, 〈…〉 that they flew in the Air, whereas I will leave 〈…〉 time do serve, for that at the same present, the wind Borias did blow in my ea●e, constraining me to speak of the mighty deeds of that valiant Rosicleer. You do well remember, that for to secure his Horse, he leapt into his bark, & was not so soon therein, but that it sailed and made such way as the arrow which is forced out of the bow. And one of the two knights which entered the bark, leapt into the Sea for fear, and the other remained, and yielded himself unto the mercy of the Knight, which afterward did serve him for Squire, and very faithfully used his office, who was called Argolio. Rosicler went travailing to sea-wards, in his Bark, very heavy and sorrowful, for that he was departed from his cousin so quickly. In this sort they travailed six days, & the seventh they discovered land very far of, but the swiftness of the Bark was such, that in a short time it brought them to the waters side. And being a land, he saw that it was an Island, and very fragrant, for that towards the Occident, there appeared but little plain ground, and towards the Orient, a very high & sharp Mountain. So when the Bark had fixed itself a shore, he understood, that there he must go a land, and taking his horse, with great lightness, he leapt into the saddle, and Argolio followed him. And they travailed into a narrow way which led them up unto that crooked Mountain, & followed that way till they came to the height thereof, whereas they alighted for to refresh themselves, with that which the squire brought. And for that I have great need of favour & help, to go forwards with this history, here I do desire the Muses to grant it unto me, that I may with more courage, declare that which followeth in the other Chapter.   

¶ How that Rosicler found in that Island, the son of Ali●andro, leading a troublesome life, with his fair and well-beloved wife, who was set at liberty by Rosicler. Cap. 16.  
AFter the noble Rosicleer had somewhat refreshed himself, he took his horse, and by little and little, he began to go up that fragrant hill, till such time as night came upon them, and for the great darkness thereof, they were constrained to stay, & not to travail any farther. But in a little plain place that they found, they alighted, whereas they found a cave, and in it the manner of a bed, declaring that some body had been there, so there they remained all the night, till the morning. The day being come, they returned to prosecute their new begun journey, & never rested till such time as they came to the top of the mountain: from whence they did discover a very great & delectable plain: & in the midst thereof, there was two great an high Pine trees, towards which place they went. But they had not gone far, where they saw a pillar, in the which was graven certain letters, which said. The glory of Fangamadan, upon the subjection of the Prince, son unto the mighty Emperor of the Scitas, & of the courageous Trojan: Let none be so hardy as to look upon it, for that for so doing, he shall lose his life. Rosicler, was in a great confusion, not understanding what should be meant thereby, but travailing in the path forwards, he had scant passed the place, when that he heard a terrible & fearful shriek of a beast, such, that his horse was scared, & began to struggle in such sort, that he was constrained to return again and to light on foot, & gave him unto Argolio, & the knight did prosecute his way on foot. Within a small while after, he heard that they turned & gave such an other shriek, that it made him for to stay. And as you do see the fearful Hart, when he doth hear the noise of the hunters, doth hold up his head, devising on every side to hear from which part the noise should come: even so did this knight, but he could not devise nor see any creature, but went forwards on his way in the same path, till he came unto a little mountain, whereas he found an other pillar, such a one as the same before, in the which was written a title with these words. He who doth find himself of so great courage & strength, & doth procure to pass forwards, for to deliver the worthy Meridian, & the mighty Trojan: understand, that in payment of his folly & hardiness, he shall lose his life. Let their chance what will happen, said Rosicleer, for this fear shall not cause me to stay the using of all my power & strength, for so high a prince. And so without any staying, he went forwards. He had not gone far, when he came to the sight of a thing of great compassion & grief, where as was done the greatest cruelty that ever was hard done to any person: which was, that in the midst of the plain, there was two high & mighty trees, a little distance the one from the other: & in the midst between them, there was hanged a man, having each arm tied unto one of the trees, by the wrists, and the cords wherewith he was bound, was two long & small serpents, the which did not only serve for to tie his wrists, but also with their heads they reached unto his neck & breasts, whereas they did bite him in such sort, that they made him full of holes. His feet likewise was tied unto those trees, which other two serpents, who entreated him as the others did. Likewise there was upon one of those trees, a Uulter, who at sundry times descended down, & with her sharp & hard bill, she picked his belly, & opened it unto the guts, whereon she fed, which was the occasion that this unhappy man gave this terrible shrieks, which out resting. At the foot of those trees there was a fierce serpent with wings, who was the keeper of the tormented man. The which serpent was of more than xu foot of length, & had but two feet, which was in the midst of her body, & each foot had five claws, which were great & sharp. She had on her head two great horns & sharp, & gored with them as a Bull doth, & out of her mouth she had two great tusks, her wings showed her to be of great lightness. And about xxx paces from her was an armed knight, of a large & high stature, he lacked no armour from the head unto the foot. He had hanging at his neck by a string of gold, a very rich and well garnished sword, who when he saw Rosicler, with a hasty & large pace, he came towards him, and when he came nigh him he said: Tell me gentle knight, what dost thou seek here in this place of great harm and danger: therefore return back again, for that thou canst not find here any other thing but death. Rosicler in the mean time that he was saying these words, he was beholding his face, for by reason that he brought the visor of his Helm up, he might well perceive, and did plainly see and perfectly know him, to be the courageous Prince, Oristedes, and Rosicler answered him & said: Thy words are not agreeable unto thy person and estate, worthy Trojan, neither is it for such a knight as thou art, to persuade me to ●ake this counsel, and to leave to show myself of what lineage and blood I do defend, & likewise what I am bound by order of Knighthood to do. The fear of death shall not cause me to move back one foot. This Trojan did laugh at that which Rosicleer did say, & said, well seeing that thou dost esteem thyself of so great valour, procure to overcome me. And in saying these words, with great lightness this Trojan leapt in with Rosicleer, and with his strong arms, he clasped him about the middle, and procured by casting him about to overthrow him, in such sort, that he had almost over thrown himself, but the Prince laid such hold with his hands, embracing the Trojan, that betwixt them there began a terrible wrestling, each one procuring by policy to overthrow the other. The Trojan did force himself by little & little to carry Rosicleer towards the place whereas the Serpent was, but Rosicler perseving it, did procure to make resistance, using policies for to clear himself from that peril. But always he found that the Trojans strength did not increase. And by reason that the mighty strength of Rosicler was such, the Trojan could not by his force make any resistance, but that he must needs be carried out of a compass that was marked, of just thirty paces from the place where as the Serpent was. And when that he had brought him out of that compass, not being able to make resistance, the Trojan fell to the ground without any feeling, leaving Rosicleer somewhat discomforted. But yet he saw that for to go forwards in his enterprise, it was requisite to join battle with that flying Serpent. And without resting himself, he straight ways took a great and mighty spear, and with a valiant courage he went towards the place whereas the Serpent was, who seeing him coming, and that he was within the compass, she put herself on foot, and beating with her wings, she gave two wonderful shrykes, and with great lightness like a bird, she came towards Rosicleer, puffing out of that terrible mouth a mighty thick smoke like unto a mist. This valiant and courageous knight when he saw her coming he put the great end of his spear unto the ground, and firming it fast with both his hands, the point forwards, he tarried her coming. This furious Serpent without making any account of the spear, with the great desire she had to lay hold on the knight, put herself forwards with great fury, so that the spear chanced into one of her great & wide nostrils, that almost it ran up into her brains, but if he had held the point of the Spear a little lower, he had given the most worthiest blow in all the world, but yet for all that it did not let to make a mortal wound. This furious serpent with the great fierceness she had she broke the spear, so that there remained in her head more than two spans thereof, and therewith she struck at the knight with her nails so terrible a blow, that she overthrew him, in such sort, that he tumbled on the ground. The beast who was troubled and astonished with that cruel wound, & again by reason of the great swiftness and fury she could not take any hold of his armour, but passed forwards on, insomuch that the knight had time to arise and put himself on foot, and finding by him the tronchon that remained of the spear, he turned and firmed himself therewith, procuring as he did at the first to receive the blow, which he saw coming with great swiftness, and fortune was so favourable unto him, that he chanced with the tronchon of her Spear upon one of his strong horns, and by reason that his spear was strong and full of knots, it was fast upon one of them, and by her great swiftness broke it clean from her head, wherewith she remained with that great blow astonished and amazed with the terrible pain. The tronchon of the Spear was driven out of his hand, so that he was costrained to lay hand on his sword, and to shroud himself under his hard and steel shield, to make his defence against the blows that might come. This cruel Serpent being very much troubled with the great pain of the wounds, with double fury giving wonderful shrieks and groans she assaulted this knight. The courageous Knight who was not without great care of his defence, did abide her coming, and stood still, and the wounded Serpent seeing herself nigh unto the Knight, with great beating of her wings arose up in the air, thinking thereby to gripe fast hold with her sharp nails, and to carry him into the air, and from thence to let him fall down to the ground to destroy him. The courage of this Knight was very much, and likewise his judgement, for that this Serpent had not so soon began to beat with his wings when that he suspected in what order she would assault him, but he lifted up the point of his sword on high, and likewise his strong shield, that she might thereof make her pray. This furious serpent assaulted him to take her hold in such sort, that the sharp sword ran into her belly and guts, and so the heart: but if that wound had not chanced in the same place, at that time the Knight had been marvelous ill entreated, for that the serpent took her hold with her long claws in the midst of his body in such sort, that by her great strength she made his bones to crack: but by reason of the sharpness of the sword which opened the wound wide, and clove her heart asunder, the Serpent fell down dead to the ground, leaving the Greek very sore troubled and amazed. When the Knight saw that she was dead, he gave great thanks unto God, for his aid and secure herein. So strait way he went to see who was the Knight that was bound at the tree with the Snakes, & coming nigh him, he knew him to be the Prince Meridian, for the which he received great sorrow. There he remained a while thinking how he might unloose him and set him at liberty, and coming unto the serpents, with his Herculine hand, he laid hold on the neck of them that were at his feet, in such sort that he made him to lose his strength, & to forget the use of his cruel office, leaving the others feet & winding about his arm, that he was constrained to procure to clear himself: but all was in vain, for that it was so firmly fastened about him, that of necessity he must unloose it as he would undo a company of knots, and the more he undid, the more it wound about with such wreathe from one place unto another, that it was very strange, that if it had not been by the great strength he used in quéesing of the serpent, he could never have cleared himself thereof, but in the end it fell down dead to the ground. Then he laid hold of the other, having no less trouble with it, than he had with the first, and slew it likewise, so that the feet of this tormented Barbarian were at liberty of his great pain, who gave marvelous and grievous shrieks. Then that cruel vulture which was upon one of those trees, seeing what the knight was a doing, with great hast she descended down for to strike and wound the knight unbewares, which was executed with such fury, striking him with her sharp bill so terrible a blow, at such time as he went to lay hold on the Serpents that were at the wrists of the tormented Prince, that almost it made him to fall backwards: then the Greek incensed with fury ●ooke hold on his sword and would have struck the vulture, but he could not for that she was ascended into the air. Then the Knight let go his shield, and with his left hands he laid hold on one of those Serpents (having always his eye to the vulture) and by reason the he did quease the Serpent so hard, he was constrained by the great pain which he received to let lose his hold, and in the end he slew it, wherewith the Barbarian Prince did hang but by his right arm, giving great and sorrowful shrieks and groans, the vulture would have descended to have struck the Knight, but for that she saw the sword put with the point unwards for a defence, she durst not give the enterprise, but flying round about from one place unto another, to see if she could find any place whereas she might enter for to strike him, without being hurt herself. In this space he had time for to lay hold with his left hand upon the other Serpent, and in the same sort as with the other he did kill her, wherewith the Pagan fell down to the ground without any remembrance.  
and the Uulter giving great and terrible shrieks went away and was never seen after. This Greek did procure to cover his naked body with certain leaves which he cut from the trees, lamentably beholding his lean face, which did well show the great sorrow & pain that he had received. At this time the Greek Prince's Squire came whereas they were, forasmuch as the enchantment was ended by the death of the last serpent, and pulling from his back the cloak which he ware, he put it on the Pagan, therewith the better to cover himself. Also the valiant Trojan was come again unto himself, and cast his eyes towards the place whereas the Prince was hanged, to see if he were still in the same torment, who when he saw him not, he looked whether he was fallen down to the ground, supposing that he had ended his life with that torment, but when he saw the furious monster dead, and how the Greek was contemplating himself upon the Pagan, then with great joy he went towards them, but much more pleasure he received when he knew him to be the son of Trebatio, nevertheless all his mirth was mitigated when he saw the deadly force of this Prince Meridian, and seeing him in that plight, he could not but lament his heavy & cruel fortune. The Greek did comfort him, praying him to leave off his sorrowful lamentation, giving him to understand that he was not dead: Orgalio took his master's helm and ran unto the water side which was there at hand, and brought it full of water, & when he came unto them, he threw thereof upon the Pagan's face, and being therewith refreshed he came somewhat unto himself, & opening his eyes he saw there his friend Oristedes, & looking about he beheld another knight, who he likewise knew to be Rosicleer, & strait way he understood that he was the occasion of his liberty, & with a grievous groan he said: O renowned son of the worthy Trebatio, how God doth in all things exalt thy fame, & now seeing that thou hast succoured me in this torment, likewise I beseech thee aid and secure me in one other thing, that I may receive my full delight, which is, that my loving spouse may likewise be set at liberty, who is captive in this Island. The Greek answered: worthy Prince, my power & strength is ready at your commandment, & I will employ all my force and polefie in your service, or lose my life in it. Therefore let us procure to departed from hence, & give me to understand the occasion of all this your sorrow and torment: and when that my strong arm cannot satisfy your will, my life shall remain in recompense of my large promise. So strait way they put the Pagan upon the Squire's Horse, & covered him with the same cloak, that first he had, and took the Squire behind him for to hold him up, for that he was so lean, that he could not keep himself upright in the saddle. And therewith they returned, & took the way wherein Rosicler came, & following an other path under the hills side which brought them unto a fair Castle. And in travailing by the way, Rosicler did demand of Oristedes the cause and increasing of all his sorrow, to whom he began to tell as followeth.  
You shall understand, worthy Prince, that this Island belonged unto a very great and monstrous Giant, whom the Prince slew, for to set at liberty certain Ladies, the which he carried captive. So a son of this Giant many days after, did procure to be revenged of the death of his father, and followed it so hard, that in the end he found such occasion, that he met with the Prince, having no other defence but his sword, without any armour, for that he was sporting himself at the sea side, and in his company was I, & a few other knights, the Giant with them that were with him, assaulted us with so great power and strength, that in spite of all that ever we could do to make our defence, they brought us unto this Ilainde, wherein we were a great time prisoners. So one morn●ng, not knowing how and which way, we found ourselves in such order as you did find us, enchanted. He did not only make this enchantment to be of great strength, but also he laboured for no other thing, but to make defence, that the prince might not be set at liberty. The ordainer of this enchantment, was a sister unto Fangomadan, and for to punish him with more torment, she put him in this sort as you have seen, leaving the Princes in the castle, in fast prison, being kept by two sons of the Giant, & other knights, believing that the Prince should never be delivered out of that terrible torment, and herewith they drew nigh unto the foot of the Castle, whereas they unhorsed the Prince Meridian, and determined there to take their ease and rest. Orgalio went unto their bark for to bring provision, for that they had there great store, at whose return they did eat & refreshed themselves, & Meridian recovered somewhat more strength, as one that had his stomach clean void of victuals, the like did his companion Oristedes. So all that night they remained there, resting themselves, and communed of all things what was best to be done in their enterprise. So they determined that the next day the Greek should go alone to the castle, for if the Trojan should go with him, it would possible be the occasion that they would not open the gates, because they knew the Trojan. So with this determination when the morning was come, the Greek arose up and trimmed his armour, & laced on his helm, & put his shield on his shoulder, and took his leave of the knights, & took a narrow way which lead him up the hill unto the castle, he would not that his Squire should bear him company, but commanded him to remain in the service of the Pagan Prince. Not long after the Trojan being moved of compassion, his heart could not suffer but needs he must follow the Prince. And being in this determination he laced on his helm and took his shield, and with great travail for that he was a foot, he began to follow, and took the way which the Greek went.   

¶ How that Rosicler entered into the castle, and of the battle he had therein, for to bring out of prison the princess, spouse unto the Prince Meridian who was in great torment. Cap. 17.  
ROsicleer was a great while going up that little hill, yet at length, although with great travail, one hour before that the Sun did show forth her shining beams, he got to the top of that hill, from whence he discerned a great and mighty broad plain, and in it there was a fair castle, wrought with very many towers, whose battlements were of so great fairness, that with the Sun they showed a very fair sight, on the one side the main sea did beat on it, whose waters striking upon the rocks did make a marvelous noise, which was caused by that hasty & furious wind Borias, and on that side whereas the Prince was, it was all compassed about with a very broad & deep ditch or moat, and had in it but one entering, and that was very narrow. The sight of that Castle did give great contentment unto them which beheld it, by reason it was so fair, and being so early in the morning, the windows were not open. The Greek being all alone musing to himself, upon a sudden he heard over the gate of the Castle a window to be open, whereat looked out a Giant of so great height as he had not seen the like, he was in this shirt, and covered with a night gown of black velvet, and seeing Rosicleer, he knew by his device that he was none of them of the castle, and when he saw and was certified that he was none of his knights, he said: Knight, what dost thou seek in this country, for as it doth appear by thy strange demeanour, thou shouldest be a stranger. To whom the Greek answered and said: Thou sayest truth Giant I am a stranger, for I never dwelled in it, but my fortune hath brought me hither, being driven by the great fury and tempests of the sea, and being a shore I found in it a very strange adventure, which hath given me occasion to come and speak with thee, if it be thy pleasure to hear me, either within the Castle or without it. At such time as this valiant Rosicleer was saying these words, he had a sight of his face, his helm being up, whereat might be seen his fair face, on whom the Giant did very much behold, and answered.  
If thou dost seek me I will hear thee in what sort thou wilt, but if thou dost ask for the King my father, thou shalt understand that he is not in the Island, but is a broad about business, forced of necessity touching his kingdom. I would have been very glad, said Rosicleer, to have found the king thy Father, for that I do understand, that it should be he, who did assault and take the Prince of the Scitas, & the worthy Trojan. And I am come to give him to understand, how he should entertain and entreat, such knights as they are, and not with so great pride to put them unto such sorrow and pain, & keep the princes in prison, using them as though they were his vassals, who had done some cruel & heinous offence against his own person, or as rebels against their natural Lord and Prince, but he hath been the bolder, for that he doth know they are a great way from their own countries. And I do much marvel, that such a person as thou art, wilt consent to the doing of such cruelty, for that it doth appear, thou art sufficiently furnished with stature and strength. And thou seemest unto me, to be a very good knight, which doth bind thee to acknowledge great modesty, & not to minister or consent unto such cruelty. But I do see that thou art void of all, and that thou hast no knowledge of the goodness whereunto thou art bound. Therefore if thou dost maintain that which thy Father doth uphold and sustain in this Castle and Island, is not evil: I will make thee to say the contrary, both of us being together, therefore choose whether thou wilt grant me free entry into the Castle, or whether thou wilt come forth where as I am. The Giant did not show any kind of alteration in his countenance, neither did he answer with any proud words, but rather mitigating his ire, he said. Do not believe knight, that I am so blind and so void of knowledge, that I do not know what is good and what is evil. Neither will I consent that thou shalt speak evil of that which my father hath done, but rather I tell thee, that I will venture my person in his defence: therefore I bid thee to abide, & thou shalt see how I am not afraid of the peril, for it shallbe more death unto me to remain alive, with my honour blemished, then to die in his quarrel and defence. And I will command that the gates of the castle shallbe open, and I do warrant that so long as our battle shall endure, thou shalt not receive any harm. And if it be so that fortune doth run on thy side, then can I not assure the any farther, for that I have a brother, who is not so great a friend unto courtesy as I am. cause the gates to be open, said Rosicler, and with the help of God I will make my part good with all. But yet certes Giant believe me, it doth greatly grieve me to see thee maintain such evil, as it doth appear in these thy words. And therewith he withdrew himself from the window, & called for his apparel, & likewise for his armour. His brother when he heard him speak with so great alterasion, he looked out at the same window, for to see who he was that gave the occasion. This Giant looked out with a devilish semblance, an seeing the knight he said. Art thou he that hast defied my brother, wherefore hast thou accused my Father for a traitor, and an evil and naughty knight. I am he, said Rosicleer, who do pretend to revenge the wrong and force done unto the Prince Meridian. O vile coward, said the Giant, what devil hath made thee so hardy to make an enterprise, that Mars himself durst not give the like attempt. Oh ye Gods, how do you consent the one poor knight should have so much boldness, to put himself before me, with such a demand. It grieved Rosicleer very much, to see himself to entreated, of a proud Giant, & answering him he said. In truth I have defied thy brother, who seemeth to have more discretion than thou hast. And in the same demand I do defy thee to mortal battle. In the which I think to make thee know, the vileness of thy reasons, & the baseness used in thy words. And take from that huge membered body, thy head, with the force of this my strong arm. At which words the Giant who first appeared, and was putting on his armour, said unto his brother: This knight of his own virtue and bounty doth come to be slain, or else procure liberty to the Princes, and he seemeth to have sovereign hardiness and strength, and there is no reason, to show thy valour in speaking so proudly & unseemly words, but with the fury of thy untamed arm. And if the Gods do grant unto him to have the victory over me, there shall remain time for thee to show thy valour. And there with he made him to withdraw himself from the window, leaving Rosicleer very well satisfied with his courtesy. So within a little while after he heard them opening the gates of the Castle, & letting down the draw bridge. Then the courageous Greek took the bridge and put himself within the castle into a very fair & large court, all adorned round about with rich windows, and on the one side a very fair Orchard, accompanied with very sweet & odoriferous flowers, & all manner of sweet herbs, in the which were many that were drossing those trees and herbs, & putting them in order, some were occupied in making of fine hedges and arbours, & others in husbanding the trees and cutting of them, others in digging of the ground, & others in setting of herbs, who when they saw Rosicleer, they all stayed from their work, & imputed that knight to be very unwise to give that enterprise, and amongst them was the Giant who last of all spoke unto Rosicleer at the window, with a mighty great club in his hand, and for the defence of his body a simple harness, who said unto Rosicler: Come in, come in, thou hardy fool, for that thou shalt receive the payment of thy undiscreet & foolish boldness. The Prince without making any answer went on forwards, & entering in at the other gate, he came into a very fair and paved Court, the which was compassed about with three fair galleries one above another, the Prince received great delight to see the excellent work of them. So not long after there descended down a pair of stairs the first giant, armed with strong armour, his shield on his arm, and a great broad cutting sword in his hand, who without speaking any word assaulted him with mortal battle. The worthy Greek was in a readiness for to make his defence with his sword in his hand. The Giant stroke at him a terrible blow right down, but the Greek with a light leap made him to miss his blow, and his sword fell down upon the pavement, in such sort, that it made a great number of sparks of fire to fly out, as soon as the blow was passed, the Greek stroke him upon the arm, which blow was not very great, for that he could not very well reach him unto his contentment, yet for all that it did not let to cut his armour, flesh and all unto the hard bone, and although the Giant did feel the wound somewhat grievous, yet did he procure to dissemble the feeling of the pain and grief, and with the great anger he had to feel himself hurt, he threw his shield from him to the ground, and took his great sword fast in both his hands, and returned thinking to have struck the Greek with double force more than before, but he did procure to clear himself as he did at the first, striking a blow at the Giant, thinking to have struck him again on his arms, but he could not reach him, but it lighted upon the giants sword, and the blow was such, that the force of the steely blade was not sufficient to make resistance, but that the sword of the Greek did enter in and made a great gap, but the Giants third blow was such, that without resistance it chanced upon the Greeks shield, and all that ever it hit it carried to the ground, and part of it lighted on his helm, in such sort that Rosicler was constrained to stoop with his knees to the ground, but with great lightness he arose up again, and being very wrathful that he had received such a blow, he let loose his shield, and stepped to the Giant with his sword in both his hands, and struck him upon his left shoulder, and the blow glanced, but if it had chanced to have struck him full, at that blow he had made an end of the battle, but for all that he remained very sore hurt, and his sword fell to the ground, and raised many sparks of fire. The Giant was very much amazed at the power and strength of his enemy, but not in such sort, that it should cause in him any weakness, but rather with a new courage he returned unto his begun battle, with so great courage as though he had received no hurt at all, at that time both of them stroke the one at the other with great strength & power, although the Giant was very much disturbed by reason of his wounds, but yet for all that he showed great prowess. This battle and contention between them continued more than two long hours, in which time there went from his wounds great abundance of blood, so in the end, whether with weariness of the long contempt, or with the loss of so much blood, the Giant could not keep himself on foot, but fell down unto the ground, as one that were dead. The prince who had thought he had been dead, did not receive much delight, for that he was a reasonable Giant, and of much virtue and courtesy. But yet in great hast he went to pull of his helm, and then he hard that out of the castle they began to cry out and said, hold thy hand evil knight, and do not make an end to kill our natural Lord, for in doing it thou shalt die the death. And looking about him to see who it was that spoke unto him those threatening words, he saw descending down at a broad pair of stairs to the number of fifteen knights, who with a great rushing and noise, being all very well armed, and seemed to be very good knights, for that they were of a good disposition. And as he saw them coming, with a furious courage, he encountered them and said. The name which you have given me, I will make that hereafter you shall use it no more, or else I will lose my life. And therewith he put himself amongst them, with so great fury, as the cruel and hongery Wolf doth amongst a company of simple sheep, and struck the first with so great strength, that with the fury of his arm, he clove his head a sunder in the midst, but yet he could not let but receive great hurt of his person, for that he was assaulted by them, who desired to revenge the death of their Lord. The other Giant cried out against them, reviling them with marvelous foul words, for that one alone knight should so long endure alive in their hands. But this miserable people did not know with whom they made this contention, for if they had known & understood who was before them, they would not have held this battle, for they did not know how they had to do with the son of the Emperor Trebatio, against whom the Diamant Rocks do seem weak, as it appeared by the great strength he had in wounding of them. For some he slew out right, and some were very sore hurt, but notwithstanding of those which did remain, he was assaulted very desperately, but this Greek seeing still their contention, his courage the more increased, and took his sword in both his hands, & struck one of them so terrible a blow upon the shoulder, that his sword passed down unto his waist: so there remained but five of them, who altogether did strike at him such five blows, that it made him to stoop with both his knees to the ground, the which the Prince did feel very much, nevertheless with great strength he arose up again, in spite of all them that struck him, and it was unto their harm, for that he was not so soon up, when he struck him that was next hand so terrible a blow upon his helm, that he cut him down unto the stomach in two pieces, and casting about his sword over his head, he struck another on the neck, that he made his head fly from his shoulders, to the ground, the other three which remained, seeing the great slaughter that was made on their companions, and likewise themselves to be hurt and weary, they procured to run away up the stairs, and they thinking to fly from their death, fell into the like danger, and rather worse, for that at the head of the stairs, they met with the other Giant who was descending down, giving terrible shrieks, and meeting them with his mighty cutting sword, he cut them all to pieces saying. Take the payment that such cowards do deserve. So leaving them dead, he descended down the stairs, and found this strong Rosicleer, leaning with his breast upon the pommel of his sword, easing himself somewhat of the great travail passed, but it endured with him but a small time, for that the Giant lift up his broad and mighty sword, and went toward him to strike him, but the Prince stood still tarrying his coming, and was determined to make the battle more by policy then by strength, fearing that the weariness which he had received should be the occasion that his force should fail him and his courage abate, if that peradventure he should have to do with more than he had at that present before him. So when the Giant came whereas the Prince was, he discharged his mighty stroke for to wound the Greek, but he with a light leap cleared himself from the fury of that blow, and closing with him in great haste, he struck him upon one of his legs, that his harness deceived him, and he wounded him unto the bone, but for all that the giant did not leave to lay upon him very thick blows, as one that was very expert in that exercise. It was great delight to see how the Greek did clear himself with great lightness from his blows without feeling any weariness. The Giant with the great fury that he had, made great haste in striking at the Prince, which was the occasion that he waxed weary, and was very sore vexed and troubled, and when the Greek perceived his faint and troubled stomach, he entered in & out with him with great lightness, procuring for to hurt the Giant, and did it with great ease, although the Giant did not let likewise with great has● to strike mighty and terrible blows at him. This Prince procured still to see if he could find time, that alonely with one blow he might make an end of the battle without any peril to himself, notwithstanding he did not let to wound him where he might, in many places the Giant was all imbrued with blood which issued out of the wounds he had, and although they were not great, yet they were troublesome. This battle endured a long time, for which cause, and the great loss of blood, this Giant began to wax feeble and weak. When the Greek perceived this, and seeing that he did not make his assault with so great haste as before, and although he was weary with striking so many blows, which brought him almost to an end, yet now again with great hast he struck the Giant many and terrible blows, than the Giant seeing himself so ill entreated, and knowing his end to be at hand, he cried out making a great noise, which range through the air, blaspheming against his Gods, and called all his Pages and household servants, and said: O you lost creatures why do you not come and help me? At whose noise and calling there came together above thirty servants, some with clubs and staves, and some with stones, and compassed him round about, throwing stones at him so thick, that he could not approach unto them, for they durst not come nigh unto him, the stones rained more thicker upon the Greek; then the froson hail stones doth in the month of March, thrown down by force out of obscure and tempestuous clouds, and although his armour were very strong, yet for all that he did not let to receive great trouble by reason of those thick blows. The Greek went towards them for to hurt them, but they ran in at the doors to save themselves, as commonly they who doth bait a Bull with darts in a trenched place, after they have gored him, they hide themselves in corners to save them from the fury of his horns, and turning himself they strait way torment him behind: in this sort did his servants entreat this Greek, till such time that he was constrained by his ire to go against them, shaking off his sword, then as before they ran away. So the Greek  whereas the Giant was, who was so weary, that he could not remove out of the place where he had left him, who clearing himself from one terrible blow which the furious Giant stroke at him, presently returned the like blow, which lighted upon his left shoulder, that he opened the hard harness and the flesh unto the bone. This blow was not so soon given him, when that with great hast he struck him with both his hands on his breast, and by reason that he was weak and weary, he needed not much strength to overthrow him to the ground, who received on his back a terrible fall. The Greek likewise with the great strength that he put to overthrow him, fell to the ground, but it fell out better with him than he thought, for that falling, he rolled a good way from the place whereas the Giant fell, and strait way with a trice he arose up again, and found himself all to be compassed again with the servants, who battered at him with staves and stones, as many times a wall is battered with Artillery. Some of them would have run and embraced themselves with him, thinking that he had not been so nimble as he was, but when they saw him on foot, they retired back again with great fear. At this time the Giant began to arise, although it was with great trouble, but the Greek who was very angry to see himself so entreated with boys and servants, with a trice he was with the Giant, and before that he could put himself on foot, he struck him so terrible a blow with both his hands upon the head, that he cut it in two pieces, and he fell dead to the ground. These servants when they saw that their Lord was slain, they all ran away making a great noise. This worthy Greek when he saw that the fierce giant was dead, and that he was clear from that conflict, he went towards that place whereas he left the first Giant, & when he came unto him he pulled off his helm, at which time he heard one which from 〈◊〉 windows made a great noise and said: O cruel knight, let this suffice thee, cease thy fury, with the great harm which thou hast done, and do not show thy wrath upon that Giant, who hath no power for to make his defence, and if that his valour is not sufficient for to abate thy ire, let this sorrowful infant move thee to compassion, whom thou hast caused to suffer great pain & grief: The Prince looked up and procured to see who it was that spoke unto him, and he perceived that it was a maid of a marvelous great disposition of body and very fair of face, and weeping, unto whom he said: Fair Gentlewoman, the cause of my cruelty hath been for to disturb the great cruelty which you have used with the sons of the Emperor Alicandro within this Castle, and touching this knight, you may believe me, that his death will be as much grief unto me as unto you, for the great courtesy which I have seen in him. At that time the Giant was somewhat come to himself, for by reason that the air had catched him, he had some remembrance, of the which the Prince was very glad, and turning unto the Lady he said. Fair Gentlewoman, if there be any servants in this castle, command them to put this knight into some place that he may be cured of his wounds, and therewith he heard great knocking at the gate, and for to see who it was, he left the Giant and went thither, and ask who was there that with such haste did call, he did understand by his words that it was Orislides the Trojan, who could not come thither any sooner, for that ●ée went a foot. To whom the Greek did open the gate with great rejoicing, and shutting the gat● again they 〈…〉 〈◊〉 the Cou●t. When the Trojan saw●●o great ●●aughter which was done there, he strait way understood that the knight was not come thither for nothing. This Gentlewoman was with her brother, and did greatly weep▪ & bewail his unhappy misfortune, who although he was somewhat come to his remembrance, 〈…〉 to arise upon his 〈◊〉. The Prince commanded that with great discretion, ●e s●old ●e taken up by 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉▪ and so carried unto his chamber, whereas without causing him for to receive grief, he s●uld be unarmed, that which was done with great diligence, and he was cured by the hands of his sister who made great lamentation 〈◊〉 him, whom Brand●fidel (for so was the Giant called) did comfort with ●●●ye sweet and amorous words, the which caused the Prince to have a great affection towards him, and it was with great reason, for that the giant was adorned with very much virtue. Oristides seeing all things in so good order, left the Prince who was seeking of the Princess, and took a horse of the Giants, and a palfrey, and returned to fetch Meridian. So after that Brandafidel was ●●red, the Prince demanded in great haste for the Princess, and the Giants sister was constrained to go with him to bring him whereas she was. So they entered into a fair large hall, which led them into a parlour, whereas was an old giantess of a marvelous good proportion, who made great lamentation, for that it was told her of all that had passed in the Castle, who had in her company more than thirty Ladies and Gentlewomen, which did comfort her: to whom the sister of the Giant said, Lady, this Knight, to whom the Gods hath given so much power, doth demand the Princess of the Scitas our prisoner, for whose cause, all this harm and evil happened unto us. This Lady with a grievous sigh beholding the Prince said. O cruel murderer of my well-beloved sons, and faithful servants: make an end to execute thy cruelty, showing the same and like upon this unfortunate Queen; whose power hath profited her very little. This good Greek being tender hearted, when he heard so great lamentation he said: Queen, do not marvel, for those which do offend God, do hope of no other thing, but punishment for their sins, & so those that live with pride, cannot let but to be paid with the like. I do desire thee to command the Princess to be given unto me, whom thou hast in prison, for that she doth not deserve to be entreated amongst you as a prisoner, but as a Lady. The Queen without giving him any answer, threw unto him two keys which she had tied at her girdle, and afterward said unto him: Under these thou shalt find that which thou seekest, and enjoy the glory which thou hast got by this occasion, till such time as he doth come, who with his mighty arm, will revenge the great wrong, which thy good fortune hath brought to pass. The Greek took the keys, and being led by that Gentlewoman (who would never leave him) they went out of that parlour, and went up a pair of stairs, which brought them unto another hall of no less bigness than the first, and with the key she opened a door, and said: Enter O Knight, which hast as much cruelty as prowess and strength, and there thou shalt find her whom thou seekest. Fair Gentlewoman said Rosicleer, I do not determine to enter, but that your highness shall go before. This Princess giving a grievous sigh entered in first, and brought him into a fair chamber, and then opened another door, wherein they entered into another hall, very well garnished with many and fair windows, which was towards the Sea: at one of the which, there sat the Princess, who was combing of her fair hair, and with her there was a Damsel, the which held the glass in her hands before her. When Rosicler saw her, he received great pleasure and delight, and for that the Princess should know him, he pulled off his helm, and strait way she knew him, and with great alteration she arose up against him, and said. Oh Greek Prince, the flower of all Knighthood in the world, hath Fortune so much favoured me, that all my griefs and sorrows be finished, and likewise those of the prince my spouse, to whom the Prince answered with great rejoicing and said. Most mighty Princess, God of his bountiful mercy, hath delivered thee from so great care and trouble: wherefore know that you are clear of all thraldom for this present. The sister of the Giant, when she heard that the Knight was one of the Greek Princes, whose valour was blazed throughout all the world, her pain & grief was so much the more, having before her so worthy an adversary, greatly fearing the coming of her father, lest there should happen unto him some inconvenience. So Rosicler and the Princesses went out of that chamber, & the fair Giantess followed them, the Princess had great desire to see Meridian, but it was not long after, that in the case as before was told you he came. I cannot here declare ●he great delight which the two received when they saw themselves together. Wherefore I do leave the consideration thereof unto them, that firmly and truly do love, and hath been absent with like succession of troubles and sorrow. The Greek was not forgetful, to command that the Prince Meridian, should be put into a fair bed, and when he had ordained that which was necessary for all things, he asked for somewhat to eat, the which strait way was done, and the Tables laid in the chamber, where, Meridian lay, and all them of the Castle, were very much amazed, at the liberty of Meridian, far much more than of all that which happened before in the Castle.  
The Greek Prince with amorous words and sweet persuasions, caused the Queen and her Daughter to sit down at the Table to eat, being somewhat comforted, for that they knew how that Brandafidel was without danger of death, for that of them and of all the rest that were in the Castle, he was very well beloved for his great virtue.   

¶ How the King Fangomadan came without knowing of any thing that had happened in the Castle, and how he found the entry closed, & of the battle that was between him & Rosicleer. Cap. 18.  
exceeding was the sorrow & care the Queen and her daughter passed that night, always looking for the coming of the king Fangomadan, the Princess likewise was not with out some fear, mistrusting some other inconvenience. The Greek alone was he, that took no care of those matters. The next day following, when they were at dinner, there came unto them, one of the servants that were in the Castle, and said unto the Prince. Famous Knight, the King Fangomadan is at the Castle gate, show unto us thy pleasure what we do. There was not one that were there present but lost their colours at those words, saving only the Greek and the Trojan, who rising up from the table, they commanded that the draw bridge should be let down, and Argolio to bring them their armour, which with a trice was brought unto them, and they armed themselves. The Greek Prince looked out at one of the windows which was over the gate of the Castle, to see how 〈◊〉 people he brought with him, and he saw that he had with him but twenty Knights, and certain foot men. And the King was mounted upon a mighty Elephant, who seeing that the bridge was not let down, neither the gates open, he began to tell out aloud, making a marvelous noise, and commanded his people to knock very hard at the ring of the gate.  
The Greek Prince, although his monstrous greatness did seem to him terrible, yet he esteemed no more his fury, then as though he had been very humble and mild, neither forced 〈◊〉 any thing of his great pride, but with a high voice he said. What a knocking makest thou there, thou monstrous Giant? What haste hast thou to revenge thy anger upon the ring of the gate, thou must understand that thou canst not enter in here, but thou must make thy conquest of the entry with the force of thy strong arm. The Giant being greatly amazed of that he heard, ca●t up his eyes to see who he was that was so bold, and without courtesy spoke unto him those words, and he saw that he was a well set knight, of him unknown, and said unto him: What is this that thou sayest, am not I king of this Island and over all this land? Thou wert (said Rosicler) but now for thy great pride and foolish hardiness thou hast lost it, and it is now in my power: Where be my sons that kept it, said the Giant, what is become of them? The Grake said, one of them is slain by the strength of my arm, & the other yielded, fulfilling that which he doth owe unto the order of knighthood, as it becometh a good knight. Oh immortal Gods, said the king, is it possible to be true that I do bear, that so vile a wretch as thou art should be the occasion of so much harm? O thou traitor and false knight, command the gates to be opened, for that thy great strength shall little avail thee, if they be opened unto me. And if thou dost not command them to be open, I will so use the matter, that neither the depth of the meat, nor towers of the castle, shall be able to make any resistance against me for thy defence. And with the great madness which he had, he drew out his great and broad cutting sword, and with both his hands be stroke at the gate, as though he would cut it in pieces, but all his labour was in vain, for that the gates were very strong, and therewith the Prince Rosicler determined to descend down into the Court, and commanded the Trojan that in the mean time that the battle endured, that he should have great care of the keeping of the gate, and took his helm of Argolio and laced it on, and also a strong and well steeled shield, and when he came unto the gate, he saw that the king was a foot, & beating at the gate with all his strength, to whom the Prince said.  
Tarry a while and I will open the gate unto thee, make not so much haste. And in saying these words he opened a wicket, the Giant when he saw it, with an earnest fury he thrust himself in thereat. The worthy Prince seeing him so hasty, with both his hands he thrust at him, and made him to recoil back a good way, and said. Keep thee back thou furious beast, for here thou hast no entering without my license. To whom the Giant said: What dost thou think or pretend to do? To make battle with thee said the prince, therefore if thou wilt enter into the battle, thou must come in alone. I am very well content said the King, the which he spoke with a great deal more meekness, than his great pride did give him licence, or could suffer, and all to see him within the castle: for that he was persuaded with himself, that if he were once within, there were not in all the world one Knight that could overcome him, neither make any resistance against his power. So Rosicler commanded that the gate might be open, whereat the Giant entered, and also his great Elephant. When the King was entered, the Trojan had great care and diligence to shut the gate again, whom when the King knew, the more was his grief: but which the great anger that he had, he made no stay, till such time as he came into the great Court, and there he mounted upon his furious and great beast, and Argolio brought unto his Lord his horse, and without profiting himself of the stirrup, he leped into the saddle. So when he was on horse back, he laid hand on his sword, and the Giant on his great cutting falchion, & either of them assaulted the other, with mortal blows. Here it is requisite & necessary to leave these two warriors in their battle till time shall serve, and I will tell you of the Emperor of Trapisond, the great and mighty Alfebo, who as you have heard, when he understood how the proud Brufaldoro without all fear of his Epitaph, had armed himself with the armour of Bramarant, he was strait taken in two extremities, the one for to accomplish that which he had promised, and the other for that he would not leave his Imperial Empire, but calling to remembrance, how that the Empress had a great delight in hunting, one morning betimes before that they did arise, he said. My Lady & Empress, it is not unknown unto you, the duty we own unto our noble courages, and how much we are bound by our high estates, to maintain our foregotten honour, that which with great loss of our blood and sweatings of our bodies we have obtained. And this is of a certainty, that he is more to be commended, that doth sustain that which he hath gotten, than he which now doth win it, although the fortune doth favour him: for many times when a man is in the top of his highness, he granteth things, that although he be in the best of his quietness & rest, taking his case, yet he is bound to accomplish & perform his promise. It is well known that the armour of Brama●ant was put for a Tropheo or memory, upon a high and mighty Pine tree, with an Epitaph written, in the which my brother did promise & give his word, to make defence, against whosoever would take them away, and I likewise did make the same promise. It is come now unto my knowledge, that a Moor with his bold courage, hath not only made little account of that which we have promised, but also with the force of his arm, he hath slain my very great friend Zoylo the Prince of Tartary, for the which I am bound to seek out this Moor, for that I cannot say against the will of my brother: this is my pretence, (my good Lady and Empress) and I would be very glad that it might be with your good will. The Empress who was very attentive unto the words which the Emperor Alfebo had spoken, she said. My Lord and Emperor, from the first time that I heard these news which you now speak off, I did imagine that which now I have heard, and I cannot deny that in seeing myself without you, it will be well-near my death, for that the heart with the which I do sustain my life will be absent: but for all that, considering that it is a thing that doth concern your honour, I will rather suffer the death in your absence, then disturb you in that, which you are so much bound to fulfil. Therefore you may ordain your departure when your pleasure is, and I do desire you, that your return may be with as much brevity as may be, and carry with you in your company the King Bramidoro.  
The Emperor finding the answer of the Empress so much to his contentment, he embraced and kissed her with great love, and strait he arose and procured to put in order his departure. And arming himself with the armour of Meridia, and mounted upon his great horse, he commanded to call the King, for to make himself ready to bear him company, at the which he received great delight: and being in a readiness, there was brought unto him an Elephant, upon the which he mounted. And so taking his leave of his vassals and subjects, the Emperor gave them great charge to have respect of obedience unto their natural Lady. Then the Emperor and Bramidoro departed from the City, & took with them in their company but one young gentleman, who was son unto the Duke of Alafonte, whose name was called Victorando, and he was of a very good disposition: so they travailed six days, without finding any adventure worth the telling, but the seventh day they chanced into a great Forest, full of marvelous mighty and thick Trees, and by reason that the way was very narrow and not much used, they strayed and lost their right way, & unawares they were so enclosed amongst the trees and bushes that they could not by any means find, where they had lost their way. So all the rest of the day, they did no other thing but ride here and there in the Forest amongst the trees, but it was great ease unto them, for that the wilderness was very plain ground although full of trees. The night came so upon them, that they were constrained to alight from their horses, and amongst those trees, did eat of such victuals as Victorando had brought with him: and the Emperor and the King did pass the time in such communication as they thought best to their contentment. In this order they passed the time till sleep came upon them, whereas they rested till next morning, the which being come, the Emperor mounted upon his horse, and the King upon his Elephant, and they returned to seek the way, and going this way and that way, to see if they could happen on the way which should carry them out of that Forest, they ha●●●ed to come unto a little mountain all of hard stone, in the which was a great cave, and thither they went, and alighting from their horses, they entered into the cave, & found that on the one part it was fall of ●aye, and upon the walls was hanged many quarters of vē●on, & of other wild beasts, & found no other thing at all. & therewith they returned out again, & went unto the top of that rock over the cave, & looked about them on every side to see if there were any person thereabouts, but they could see no body. Then the King Bramidoro said, it shall be good seeing that we have flesh to see if there be any fire, that we may roast thereof for to eat, for that I promise you I am so hungry, that if they tarry long, they shall see that there hath been in their lodging those, that have had good will to eat. Then the Emperor laughed and said, I do promise you of truth that I do find myself with no less desire to eat than you, and your counsel doth like me well, and me think that our fortune should be the better if we could find bread. The king said, I care not, for that I have seen flesh, & therewith I do think to fill my stomach, and for any other thing, we shall see what is to be found therein. Well let us go in said the Emperor, for I fear me, that we shall be made to pay the shot. Therefore let us be well advised & look unto yourselves. Let me have my body and stomach satisfied, said the king, which now with hunger is somewhat troubled, & afterward at the paying of the reckoning they shall see what money I have, & alighting again from their horse, they entered into the cave, & seeking if there were any fire, they found some raked up in the ashes, at that which the king received great joy, so strait way they made a fire with wood, that they found there, & put to roast half a dear, which they thought to be the fairest amongst all the rest that were there, & looking about they found in another hole which was in the wall of the cave good store of bread, although it was somewhat brown, & took thereof that which they thought sufficient. And when their venison was roasted, they took it out of the ca●e, & sat down under certain trees, which were hard by a little river thereby, & did eat so savourly & with so good a taste, as though they had been furnished with their accustomed dainties in their palaces, but they always had a care unto the main chance, to see if their host did come. Victorando who also was eating of the venison, with a very good grace he said: I do believe that our host will not like of our overmuch diligence herein, when he shall find lacking some of his flesh, I believe they will demand the more of us for our shot: One for one said the king, my stomach being satisfied, then will I hear them all, & let them demand for their reckoning what they please: I am afraid said the Emperor that it must be paid with sists, for that we have been so bold to eat their victuals without licence. Yet in one thing I do comfort myself said the king, for I have nothing to lose, & again I am in company with the power of the best knight in the world, & in saying this they held their peace, for that they heard a rushing amongst the bushes, which made them to leave of their talk, & to put themselves in a readiness, whatsoever should happen, so they arose up & laced on their helms, & beholding what it should be the caused that great noise, they saw that it were two great giants as big as two mighty Pine trees, who without seeing their guests went into their cave, the one of them brought upon his back a mighty great heart, & the other a great bristled Boar, & when they found fire in the cave & the lack of their flesh, they gave great shrieks & returned out of their cave. Then the king with laughing said: In good faith I do believe that they come to demand of us the reckoning & to pay the shot. And being in this speech the giants came forth of the cave & put themselves in place whereas they might see them, & like beasts, without saying any word each of them assaulted his contrary. The valiant king drew out his broad cutting sword, & went forth to receive him in the way that was coming towards him, the Emperor did the like with his precious sword in his hand, the Giants both together discharged their heavy & mighty blows, the Emperor with his accustomed discretion caused the Giant to lose his blow, & therewith entered into him with great lightness, & struck him under the side with the point of his sword, & by reason of his ill armour, it appeared on the other part of his body, causing him to fall dead to the ground, & looking aside for his companion the king, he saw that at one blow he cut of the giants leg, who with no less noise than the other fell to the ground, but when they saw this resistance to be so quickly finished, that king laughing said: In good faith, seeing it hath pleased God to help us so quickly to pay our reckoning, I do not mean to departed but to carry with us some provision, & therewith commanded Victorando to take that venison which they brought, & the bread which remained, & to carry it with him, so they returned their way, not knowing whether they went, for that the more they travailed the more they put themselves into the forest, till night drew on, at which time they found themselves amongst a company of thick trees, there they were constrained to alight and lodge themselves under those thick trees, & commanded to take out of that which they brought for their supper, which being done they took their rest till the next morning, which appeared unto them very fair & clear, & at such time as the Sun had spread abroad his beams upon those high & mighty trees they returned unto their unknown way, till at the last they chanced into a narrow path, not much used, the which they followed, the Emperor road before, & the king next, & Victorando came after them, and in this order they travailed a good while without mistrusting of any thing that should happen, & travaillng in this sort, upon a sudden (without knowing the occasion) Cornerino started, and rose up with his fore feet, & gave a turn in the air backward, likewise the heavy Elephant stretched out his long & broad snout, & began to make a hoarse noise, the horse of Victorando being afraid, had almost thrown his master under feet, wherewith the Emperor and the king looked round about them on every side, to see who or what it was that caused so much fear, but they saw nothing, and it was the occasion that they were somewhat troubled. Then the king said, what a devil should this be that hath caused so great alteration in our horses, hath here passed by any fiend, or doth there any devil remain lodged amongst these bushes, well let it be what it shall be, for with the favour of God, if I do meet him I will give him his payment, for scarring of our horses, for that I do not fear him, and I thank God I never feared neither devil nor man. These words he spoke with great courage and majesty. The Emperor in hearing him speak these words, he could not refrain himself but he must needs laugh. So strait way they came out of the thickest of that wood, and came unto a river side which was very deep, and was known by the Emperor to be that which ran through all the Forests and wildernesses of Grecia, and travailing alongst by the river, within a little while their horses began again to stagger and to be afraid, and looking about them to see if they could perceive what it should be that made their beasts so afraid, strait way they might see a terrible monster which did cross over the forest, of a very great & strange making, who was as great as a Giant, and was so broad that he was almost four square, his face was three spans long, and had but one eye, and that was in his forehead, and all his body was covered with very long hair, and in his breast there was as though it had been a glass, out of the which there was a great shining light, this monster directed his way towards certain houses which were in the forest, but by reason of the straggling & the great noise which the horses made, he cast his head aside, and when he saw them, with a devilish fury he came towards them, and had in his hand in steed of a club a mighty great and knotted Pine tree. This valiant Greek who was never dismayed at the sight of any such monster, when he saw so deformed a beast coming towards him, he chéered up his horse, & pricked him with his spurs, and giving a great shout he drew out his mighty cutting sword and did abide the fury of the monster, who came roaring like a Bull, and discharged his great club upon the Greek, who with a light leap caused by pricking of his horse, he cleared himself of that blow, that his club fell down to the ground, and as well as he could he chéered his horse again, and entered in with the monster on the one side, and gave him so terrible an encounter, that he made him to fall flat to the ground, and by reason that the strength of the monster was terrible, it could not be but that the horse must receive some harm, and in passing by he tumbled upon the monster, that he was forced to fall with his master to the ground, but when the Emperor perceived that his horse must needs fall, with great lightness he left the saddle, leaping on the one side, and saved himself from the danger that might happen, the horse when he saw himself embraced with the monster, was so scared and amazed, that with great lightness he rose up and ran from him as an a●●ow out of a vow. The Emperor looked to see where the king was, and he saw him beholding the terrible battle, and also how Victorando was on foot thrown down by his horse with the great fear he had, but this looking about of the Emperor was quickly forgotten, for that the monster arose and came against him again with his great tree aloft, ready to discharge it upon him, but he determined to let it slip by, as before, and therewith to enter in with him and to strike him, and so he did, for the blow was not so soon past as he stepped in, and struck a full blow at his thigh, but he made but a small wound, by reason of the hardness of hair that made great defence, which caused the Emperor to marvel much thereat. This devilish monster when he saw his own blood, in a mad rage he laid about him with his great club, procuring with his terrible and thick blows to destroy the Emperor. The great haste which the monster made to strike the Emperor was such, that he was constrained to use all his policy and lightness for to clear himself from those terrible blows, he struck them so fast, and never lost any time of dauntage when that he might hurt him, but still continually struck and cut him on those hairy legs, that he made more than six wounds, in such sort, that the ground whereas they were was covered with the blood of the monster, the monster seeing himself so troubled, and only with one knight, he began to double his blows in so great haste, that the Emperor was not able to clear himself from them, but that needs he must receive one of them, and if it had not been but that the Emperor did ward it with the edge of his sword and with his st●●●ye shield, it had fallen out worse with him than it did, but it was not so little but that it overthrew him to the ground, as one that had been dead, but so much of the club as touched the edge of his sword was cut a sunder, the king Bramidoro when he saw the Greek so fallen down to the ground, he pressed with his Elephant towards the monster, for to revenge that terrible blow, who when he saw him come towards him, like unto a whirl wind he made towards the houses that were thereby, and in great hast he threw himself into a cave, throwing down after him a great rock which did shut up the entry, the which was done with so great lightness, that the king had no power to strike him, and blessing himself to see so sudden and so strange a thing, he returned unto the place whereas the emperor was, whom he found come unto himself again and on foot, and was mounting on horse back, and when he saw the king coming, he said: Have you seen so ugly a thing as that is so quickly overthrown, with that little blow which I gave him, and overthrown as one would overthrow a bird to the ground. Do you account that a little blow said the king, then do not I know what is a great and a mighty blow. Then the Emperor said: where is that devilish monster become, tell me if you can, or if you have seen him go away: he hath thrown himself into hell said the king, for hard by yonder houses he put himself into a cave whereas I could not follow him, and of truth I do tell you, if I could enter in where he entered, I would not, for that I think he is amongst and in company with the devils, & therewith the Emperor was mounted a horse back, and was so furious & so full of choler, that rocks and mountains were not sufficient to make resistance against his strength, and so with a trice he road unto the place whereas the monster entered in, and without any foresight he alighted from his horse, and procured to take away that great stone that was at the mouth of the cave, the which he did without any difficultness, but yet for all that he could not find which way he might enter in thereat, but like unto a Lion with great anger, fretting and chafing, he went round about that rock to see if he could find any entry, at the last he found a great cleft in the rock, and looking in thereat, he saw that great monster, whereas he lay all along on the floor, and seeing him he said: Oh traitor and a destroyer by the high ways, oh thou infernal devil, the strong and fast shutting in this rock shall little avail thee, and think that thou shalt not lie long there at thine ease. So he began with his hands to prove if he could tear that rock to make way where he might enter, and put so much strength unto it, and again with his rage, that he tore a great part of it away, in such sort that the king was very much amazed at the great force & strength that he showed, and when he had done this, he looked again at the monster and said: Oh evil and devilish creature, what dost thou think (although thou art in hell) to escape my hands, & going from thence he went round about the rock again, to see if he could find where with less difficultness he might enter, but he could not find any, in the mean time by reason that there was no noise, the monster had thought that the Emperor had been gone, and came unto the cleft of the rock to see if he could hear or see him. The Emperor who returned unto that same place again, & saw the monster in such sort at the cleft that he might strike him with his sword, with great haste & good diligence he cast at him so terrible a thrust in at the cleft, which chanced upon his unarmed head, that it passed through down to his threat, in such sort that the great monster fell down dead to the ground. The Emperor did well know that he had wounded the monster, but he believed it was not with so great strength as to overthrow him, for that the cleft was very narrow whereas he thrust the foin, and for to see what succeeded of that blow, he kneeled down and looked in, and saw the monster lie all along on the floor stark dead, the Emperor seeing him in that sort, said: What did this devil think that he should not pay me that villainous blow which he gave me. When the King heard him say these words he alighted from his Elephant to see what had happened, and he saw him lie all along dead upon the ground, & of his strange and great stature he very much marveled, then with a great and loud voice he said: O God how much hath it pleased thy divine majesty to furnish this good knight with all strength and prowess, more than any in all the world. It could not choose but that this good Emperor was very weary of this his great travail, the which was the occasion that he did withdraw himself and sat down in the shadow under a great Pine tree, and had Victorando to give him of that which he brought to eat, the which was done with a trice. Likewise he brought him fresh water from the River, wherewith he did 〈◊〉 himself very much. So when the Emperor had satisfied himself of that which was needful, he arose up, and went towards those houses to behold them, and he saw that they were all wrought with black stone. Likewise he saw upon the said Pine tree, under which he sat, an Epitaph written, and when he had read it, he knew it to be the place where as Bramarant did kill himself, and how that was the Epitaph which his brother had put there, for a remembrance of the moors armour, at all the which when he saw, he found in himself a great confusion.   

¶ Of the battle which Claridiano had with the Prince of Palestina, and how he had the victory, giving liberty unto Antimisca, and unto all the rest. Cap. 19  
WHen this mighty Emperor understood that to be the place and the house which the princess Tigliafa had made, without any more tarrying, finding the door open he entered in thereat, till he came into a very fair court, in the midst whereof stood a stage, wrought and laid upon four pillars, which were likewise of black stone, which from the foot to the top went in proportion less and less, and upon it there was a tomb, the which was covered all with black cloth, and upon the tomb was there an armed knight all save the head, the which seemed to be broken and torn in many places. The Emperor procuring to know who it should be, he saw that it was Zoilo the Tartarian, at which sight he could not let to receive great sorrow to see his friend dead, and being in this wise he saw a door opened on the one side of the Court, out of the which came forth the unfortunate Princess of Tigliafa all in mourning apparel, and her face covered with a black Lawn, and after her came six Gentlewomen in the same manner, who never stayed till they came unto the scaffold. The Princess stayed not but went up the stairs (without seeing who was within the court,) but with great sighs and tears, with her countenance very heavy▪ ●●dde, and sorrowful, in such lamentable wise that it would have moved any heart to have had compassion, who began to speak certain words which in their places shall be rehearsed, for that I am now constrained to declare of the battle that was begun between the light of all knighthood and the furious Palestinian. You have heard how that these two knights were in a readiness unto the battle, and how that with their Spears in their rests the one ran against the other, and in the midst of their course they met the one with the other, neither of them missing his blow, but it was with so great fury and strength, that their knotted Spears flew all to shéevers in the air, and they passed the one by the other without moving, or any hurt done, and returning their horses, the Palestinian began first to strike at this noble warrior, giving him terrible blows upon his strong and steely helm, with so great fury, that he made abundance of sparks to fly out thereat. Here the Prince understood and felt the great and mighty strength of the Moor, but quickly he gave him his payment, with a more furious blow than he received, in such sort that he made all the members of the Palestinian to tremble and shake, and his teeth to chatter in his head, this blow made this barbarous Prince very much amazed, but by reason that he was of great valour he returned and lifted up his sword, and began with the like fury to lay upon his enemy, in such sort that the battle began to be very terrible, and with great strength and haste, they struck the one the other, in such sort, that those which were looking on many times lost their sight with the great brightness and flame of fire that flew out of their armour and steely helms. This battle betwixt them continued a great while without knowing any advantage, or who was the better of them, the which caused either of them to have the more fury and anger. The Palestinian seeing the great resistance of his enemy, roaring like a baited Bull, threw his shield at his back, and took his sword in both his hands, and stroke so terrible a blow upon the fine Magical armour of the Prince, that he made him to fall forwards, and lean his forehead upon the horse ears, causing his eyes to dazzle in his head, and strait way upon the same he struck him another blow upon the back, which did make a sound through all the castle. The Prince recovered himself again, and seeing him with his Sword aloft for to discharge the third blow, he procured to clear himself from the same and from the fury wherewith it did descend, the which he did with great lightness in spurring his horse, he had not so soon passed the blow when that he returned his horse very swiftly and joined with the Pagan, having his sword aloft, discharging it upon his helm with so great fury, that he made him to fall backwards upon his horse crupper clean without any remembrance, their horses at that terrible blow were marvelously scared, in such sort, that they were separated the one from the other a great space, which was the occasion that the Pagan had time to remember himself, and to settle himself again in his saddle, and to recover his sword again, which was fallen out of his hand and hung by the chain at his wrist. The Prince with double fury and force pricked his horse and joined with the Pagan, and struck him a mighty blow upon his helm, which glanced and fell upon his left shoulder, putting him to so great pain, that it made him to shrink and double his body forwards down to his horse neck, the Pagan strait way was upright again, and stroke at his adversary so terrible a blow, that he nothing advanced himself of that which was past, wherewith the Prince firming himself in his stirops, stroke at the Pagan a mighty blow, at such time as his horse somewhat started, which was the occasion that he could not have his full thereof, but with the point of his sword he hit him on the Beaver of his helm, that many sparkles flew out and so descended unto his breast, till it came and lighted upon his horse head, cutting it in two pieces that he fell dead to the ground, so that the Pagan remained on foot without a horse, and by reason that he was a valiant knight, he cleared himself from his dead horse with a trice and said. Villain, do not thou think that the kill of my horse shall avail thee any thing, but that with the strength of my arm I will tear thee in pieces. I do swear unto thee by the warlike Mars, said Claridiano, that it doth grée●e me of that which is done, & that I should receive more contentment to see thy head in the sort that thy horse's head is, and understand, that I am not accustomed to show my valiantness against a beast, and because thou shalt not account me for a villain but change my name, tarry a while & I will alight from my horse. And saying these words with great lightness he left the saddle and put himself on foot, and therewith the one pressed to the other with great fury, that the battle began a new, and with more rigour than before, for that the one stroke the other in such great haste that it was a wonder to see. And being both inflamed and overcome with anger, they could not use any policy, but all was by force & strength, being so terrible, that each one feared the worthiness of his enemy. This they continued a great time, till in the end it was perceived the advantage that the Prince had in striking his adversary, & the great lightness which he used in entering in to the Pagan, & clearing himself again still continuing his terrible assaults & mighty thick blows, notwithstanding the Palestinian in this time was not idle nor void of ●are, but valiantly did make his defence against his enemy, and did such deeds as it was strange and worthy of great honour. So in this contention they endured more than two hours, in which time these knights had no patience to lose, for that they were clean void thereof. But oh miserable Pagan, what doth profit thee thy fury, strength, and lightness, for that thou dost deal with the worthy Claridiano, when as no strength nor force is to be compared unto his. The Greek seeing that with one alone knight the battle endured so long, being more kindled in ire and wrath, he took fast hold of his sword in his hand, and struck the Pagan with such surmounted fury and strength upon the helm, that he clove it and the head in two pieces that he fell dead to the ground, when the king saw that terrible blow, he received great contentment thereat. Likewise the Prince of Chaldaea and the fair Antemisca, who with great haste went to embrace him, and almost beside themselves with joy to be clear from their captivity. Then Claridiano asked of them if there were any more to be done to give them free liberty, the king newly embraced him with the great delight which he had and said. Oh the sustainer of all the glory and honour of Mesapotamia, what service may I do unto the Gods to gratify this goodness which they have used with me, that in the end of so many travails and troubles I do recover my liberty by the hands of him which is taken here on earth for one of the Gods. The Prince Claridiano answered and said: Sovereign king, the Gods did consent unto thy justice and right, for that they could help thee, jupiter being so upright would do justice, and in especial in a thing so apparent as this was, and therefore thou mayst attribute the same unto him, and gratify him, and likewise the great virtue of Antemisca. And with these and such like reasons they went towards the Palace, and lead the fair Antemisca by the hand, who was very joyful, & strait way they unarmed Claridiano, and gave him Suckets and conserves, for to comfort him of the great travail and trouble which he had passed, and served him with so great majesty as though they had known him to be the son of high and mighty parents.  
Antemisca thanking him for all that he had done for them, said: O flower of knighthood, & defender of my royal fame and honesty, what power is sufficient to make satisfaction of so great a benefit, and in especial where all power doth lack. Fair Lady, said Claridiano, your great virtue & honesty caused me to have the more power and force, for to frustrate this false accusation laid against you, and now being at liberty (noble Lady) let not these angers and wrongs past be any occasion of disturbance, but rather permit that the body of this unhappy king may be buried according unto his estate, and in so doing thou shalt show the great virtue which doth remain in thee, to frustrate all injuries past. This I do desire you to consent unto, in that you are bound unto it by your high estate, and not for any desert, dew unto such a poor knight as I am. Poor, said Antemisca, here I do swear unto you by that which I own unto all virtue due unto mine own person, that I do determine in serving of you to do as much as in the service of jupiter, for that I take thee to be one of the Gods, as it hath appeared by the great valour which I have seen showed by thee. And whatsoever your pleasure is to command to be d●o● unto this dead body (although he doth not deserve it) it shall be wholly accomplished, and strait way it was put in ure. This valiant knight remained there certain days whereas he was served with great majesty, in which time the two lovers we●e married, whereas was made marvelous great 〈◊〉 and triumphs, the which for avoiding tediousness I do on it a●d will make no mention thereof, & for that this valiant knight was prisoner to the Pastora he neither received contentment nor joy in his heart in so long ●arrying, which was the occasion that Claridiano took his leave for to departed of the Princess of Chaldea▪ which was clean contrary ●●to the goodwill of Antemisca, for that she loved him mer●ailous●y for his great virtue, and with many tears she took her leau● of him, giving him certain presents and gifts necessary for his travail, so he departed taking his journey, only with Fidelio, his squire, towards the plains of jerosolima, and p●s●ed by Armenia the great, whereas happened unto him many & strange adventures.   

¶ How that Claridiano travailed by Armenia, and of the strange adventures which happened him in that country. Cap. 20.  
THE valiant Greek Claridiano travailed through Armenia the great, with no company but his Squire, although his thought was not solitary, but always represented in his heart the cause of all his grief and sorrow. So in this sort he travailed a while till it chanced one morning at such time as the Sun began his accustomed journey, that he must pass a great & mighty river over a bridge, and at the end thereof there was a fortress wrought after the fashion of a Bulwark, for that below at the beginning it was very big, having in the midst of it a great tower, with a lover hole, and upon the same was put a standard, which with the wind was moved from the one side to the other. The Prince following his journey over the bridge, without any impediment would have passed forwards on his way, but by any means he could not, by reason of a great, broad, and deep ditch, which was made on the other side, beginning from the River, and making a compass like a whoop, which environed all the whole fortress, and came again and joined unto the said River, on the one side, so that the fortress remained in the middiest, and there was no other way to take, but that they must needs pass through the fortress. So when the Prince came unto a very strong gate of iron, he took the King in his hand and gave three great blows, at the noise whereof there was a window opened, whereat there appeared a Gentlewoman of a middle age, who seemed to have her eyes swollen with weepings, who said.  
Knight, what is it that thou dost seek here in this infernal Castle, if thou wilt have passage seek it by some other way, and it shall be better for thee, for in procuring to pass this way thou shalt get no other thing but death, but and if thou wilt not turn back by reason of the good opinion which thou hast in thy great valour and strength, take and ●ound that horn which hangeth there upon that pillar on the right hand, which being heard, the entry shall be freely given unto thee, but the going out is unpossible. And in saying those words she shut the window in great haste and went in. The Prince cast about his horse towards the right hand whereas he saw a pillar of the height of a man, & thereat hanged a rich horn, and by it a péech of parchment rolled up, and laying hand upon the horn he could not move it, although he did strive mightily to do it, and understanding the first he must undo the Parchment and read that which was written in it, he took it and unrowled it, and saw that it constained that which followeth.  
At this present reigneth a King in Arabia, and although he be a Pagan, yet he is adorned with noble and virtuous customs, and had only one daughter that was very fair, humble, and chaste, and was beloved of the Duke of Fedra, vassal unto the same king, the Duke's name was Velegrato, a young man, with a severe and grave countenance, who deserved better the government than any other Pagan, he was very well esteemed in all the Kingdom, almost equally with the king, for the which there engendered in the king's heart a secret rancour and hatred. This Duke did love the Princess who was called Damelis, and it was the God's will that she should repay him with the same love, ●o that both their hearts being wounded with love, the one to the other, the fire kindled daily more and more, in such sort, that neither the one nor the other had any imagination but only to love, and not knowing how to manifest their griefs, they endured sundry great passions. Then love which continually seeketh occasions, did on a time set before this duke a Gentlewoman, which thing seemed to be wrought by the order of the Goddess Venus. Oh what great fear this knight had for to discover unto her all his heart: but in the end, by the great industry of this Gentlewoman, there was order given that these two lovers should meet together. Hear I will not detain them that shall read this, in telling of the great delight which both of them received to see themselves together, but such it was that she was made a Lady. This fair Damelis, for that she could not at her ease enjoy her Velegrato, she did determine to leave her own natural country & father, and with this intention, one night being with her lover, she cast her arms about his neck and said. Oh my sweet and well-beloved friend, seeing that the sovereign Gods have been to me so grateful, that I do deserve to have a lover, let me not find in thee ingratitude, for that I cannot pass my time, except continually I enjoy thy fight, and do not muse my Lord at this that I do say, for that the overmuch love that I have to you, doth constrain me to make it manifest, and this believe of a certainty, that if thy sight be absent from me, if will be the occasion, that my heart shall lack his vital recreation. And you do well know how that the King my father doth bear you no good will, which will be the occasion, that we cannot enjoy the one the other, as my heart desireth: for the which, I have determined (if you do think well thereof) to leave both my father and Country, and to go and live with you alone in a strange Country. And if you do deny me this, very quickly you shall see your well-beloved Lady without life: but I do believe you will not deny me this thing, the which I do so much desire, and in whom doth consist so much virtue, and therewith shedding a few tears from her eyes, she held her peace. The Duke being half amazed, answered and said: Oh my love and sweet Mistress, wherefore have you any doubt that I will not fulfil & accomplish your desire in all things, therefore out of hand put all things in order, that your will is to have done: for what more benefit and contentment can I receive, then to enjoy you continually, in such sort, that neither of us may departed the one from the other: and if it so fall out, that Fortune will be so contrary against us, that we be spied, and we be taken, and suffer death together, what more glory can there be unto me, then to die with th●●▪ Therefore do not trouble yourself my sweet Lady & Mistress, but give me time that I may go into my Country, and to give order in such sort that your whole will may be accomplished, and in the mean time make yourself in a readiness for your departure: and so with this conclusion they took their leave the one of the other, and the Duke went into his Country, giving order for to accomplish his determined thought. So when that all thing was put in good order, the Duke with as much secrecy as might be, returned unto the place whereas Damelis was, very well armed, advertising her, how he was come for to carry her away, who was in a readiness for to accomplish her desire, and had in her company the Gentlewoman her secretary that was called Floria, and so in great secret and without making any noise, they departed out of the King's Palace her father, & went unto the place whereas the Duke was tarrying their coming, who when he saw them without any more tarrying, he mounted her upon an ambling Palfrey, and her gentlewoman upon another, and took the way towards Mesapotamia with all hast possible. They used such diligence, that without being perceived, they went out of the kingdom, & came to a place whereas the Duke had left certain damsels and squires, for to bear Damelis company, whom they found all in a readiness for to take their journey, and for that they were mistrustful they would not tarry there, but passed through Mesapotamia till they came unto Armenia, whereas without any misfortune they came unto the river Derraus, unto a place whereas the deep and clear waters do strike continually upon a mighty Rock, upon the which was an old and ancient building, and in some parts it was very strong, and in other parts by reason of the antiquity it was fallen down.  
And for to enter into it, they must of force go up certain stairs, and being aloft, they thought it a convenient place for their dwelling, whereas they might without all fear of being found, live peaceably, enjoying the one y● others love, & not far from that place there was a small village, from whence they might make their provision of all that was nessarie, for the maintaining of their bodies. Great joy and pleasure these two lovers received, when they found themselves in such a place whereas they might take their ease, & enjoy their loves. The Duke delighted in no other thing, but to go a hunting with his Squires and Pages, leaving his sweet Damelis, accompanied with her damosels in that strong house, advising them always not to open the gates, except they should answer unto a watch word, and many times for her contentment▪ Damelis would go and meet with the Duke at the gates. So in this order they lived together four years: but in the end, Time who never resteth in one degree, did take from them their rest, giving them double travail and sorrow. For that when the King her father found her missing, the sorrow and grief was so much that he received, that he kept his chamber a long time, and would not come forth of it, and if it had not been for special business, necessary for his kingdom, he would (as I say) never have come forth: and although he was occupied very much therein, yet could he not forget his great grief, calling many times upon his well-beloved daughter. All this four years he passed the time in great heaviness, which every day increased more his sorrow and grief. Of all which sorrow, a great Magician whose name was Demofronte, by his learning came to the knowledge off, and straight way by his science he made a chariot to be brought, that was governed by two flying Dragons, and put himself therein, who in a very short space, was carried whereas this sorrowful King dwelled, and he chanced to come at such time as he was alone in his chamber with his accustomed sorrow, and lamenting the loss of his Daughter: and without being seen of any person, he entered whereas this afflicted King was, and said.  
King, leave off this sorrow and great lamentation, and prepare thyself to seek some other remedy: and if thou wilt do that which I will tell thee, I will not delay but bring thee into the place whereas thy daughter is, with this condition, that thou shalt not give her nor hers any punishment, for that she hath not offended in any other thing, but in lack of acknowledging her duty.  
The King being greatly troubled when he saw him, arose from the chair wherein he was set, and said. If I might see my Daughter, I could not but use the clemency of a father. This word only doth suffice me said Demofionte, & without speaking any more words, using of his learning & Art, he put the King into his Chariot governed by those pliing Dragons, and in a small time he was carried, and put in to the place whereas his daughter was, at such time as the Duke was about his accustomed hunting. This Magician called at the gate, and gave the watch word that the Duke was accustomed to give, and when Damelis heard it, she herself went unto the gate and did open it: and when she went to embrace him, thinking it to be her lover, she saw that it was her father, & with a sudden alteration she gave a great shriek and returned and put herself within the house. The King her father somewhat angry did follow her saying, It doth little avail thee Damelis to run away, for that thou shalt die in my power, paying me with thy death, the great dishonour which my royal crown hath received. So he fofollowed her till he came unto the chamber whereas her damosels were, amongst whom this fearful Lady did hide herself, who seeing her to enter in that sort, they arose to see what was the occasion of so great change and trouble. Floria, strait way did know the King, who had a wrathful countenance, & she fearing the harm which should happen unto her Lady put herself over her & gave terrible and loud shrieks. The King as one kindled in great wrath forgetting that which he had promised unto the Magician, laid hand on his sword, saying: It doth not profit thee Damelis to fly from the death, for thy desert is such, that thou canst not escape it, for here my own arm shall be the killer of mine own flesh. Then Damelis answered and said: Ah my Lord and father, will you be now as cruel unto me, as you were wont to be pitiful, appease your wrath, and withdraw your unmerciful sword, and hearken unto this which I will say, in discharging myself in that you charge me with all: You shall understand my Lord and father, that I was overcome and constrained by love for to love, forgetting thy fatherly love, and my duty, yet for all that having power to accomplish the same, it was not unto your dishonour, for that therewith I do live honourably with my husband. Then the king said, oh false traitor and without faith, hold thy peace, what reason hast thou to make this excuse, having committed so great an error. And in saying this he lift up his sword for to strike her, the four damsels that were there, with terrible shrieks they threw themselves upon that unhappy Damelis, offering their bodies unto the fury of that cut●ing sword, for to set at liberty their Lady & mistress. The king who saw them in this sort make her defence, with his left hand he pulled them off from her, some by the hair of the head, and some by the shoulders, for to make way that he might execute his determined purpose, and none to make any resistance against him. Floria when she saw the King determined to kill his daughter, like unto a Lioness she hung about his neck and said: Oh mad dog, what determination is this that thou dost bring for to do evil unto the most chaste and loyal Lady in all the world, is it a new thing for love to use such like deeds: unto thyself may be attributed the occasion of all this evil, and thou art in the fault thereof, for that thou wert so malicious and so full of mischief, that she durst not give thee to understand of her sudden love. The words and tears of Floria did little profit with the king, but rather like a wild Boar in the wilderness, being compassed with a company of dogs doth shake himself: even so the king did shake his members, and threw Floria from him, and with double wrath he did procure to execute his fury, out the damsels with terrible shrieks, sometimes one and sometimes another did disturb him, till such time as with his cruel hand between the Damosels, he thrust in the point of his sharp sword, and with the force of his wretched arm he thrust it, till it passed through her breast, & came forth at her back. (The wise Democrites when that he received the greatest contentment in his heart, would weep to think upon the great unquietness and discontentment that should follow: even so this unhappy Damelis, when she was most at quiet and delight with her prosperous life, than fortune did turn it unto her sudden death.) At this time the Magician came into the chamber, and when he saw the king contrary unto that which he promised him, had done the wilful act, he began to blaspheme against himself, for that he had been the occasion of all that evil, and with an ireful voice he said. O cruel murderer that in this sort hast deceived me, I will give thee thy payment according unto thy deserts, in placing thy cruel body, whereas thou shalt continually lament this thy daughter's death, leaving a live the fame of her with thy lamentation. And in saying these words he drew a book out of his bosom, and reading on it, he made a great cloud to appear in the skies very black, which was brought by terrible and hasty winds, the which came with a very great tempest and storm: and when the skies waxed clear, than was there seen here this fortress, where in this cruel King of Arabia is enchanted, and this sorrowful Velegrato and his Damsels: and he that is desirous to see how and in what sort, let him blow this horn, and strait way the gates shall be open, but here I do advertise him, that the going out will be doubtful.  
And herewith be made an end of this lamentable History: the rest you shall understand in the chapter that followeth.   

¶ How that Claridiano after he had read the history in the parchment, blew the horn, wherewith the gates were opened: and how resistance was made at the entry, & of all that passed about the same. Cap. 21.  
THe Greek with great strength did blow the enchanted horn, in such sort, that all along the river the sound was hard. At the very same instant they began to open the gate with so great noise as when they opened the hundred gates of the Temple of Apollo, at the sight of the courageous Trojan. So when this valiant Claridiano saw the gate open, he looked in thereat to see if he could see any thing, and he saw that it was very dark, and for to enter in thereat, he saw that it was requisite to leave his horse, and with great lightness he left the saddle, and delivered him unto Fidelio for to keep him, and without any care whatsoever should happen, he shrouded himself with his shield, and his sword in his hand, he thrust himself into that darkness, and when he was ten paces within, without seeing of any, he received a blow, the thing that struck him howling like unto a Wolf which is all night alone in the wilderness, and with the blow which he received, it was so furious, that it made him almost recoil so far back, as he had entered, which caused in the Prince a great deal more courage, and as a man beside himself, he began to lay about him, striking on the one side, and on the other, not knowing where he did strike, and in this sort he went forwards his way through that great darkness, till such time as he saw light, and going farther in, he came into a great court, in the which he could see but one little door, towards the which he went, but he could not come nigh it, for that he was disturbed by a furious beast which arose out of the court, & went towards the door, whether the Prince went with great swiftness. This courageous Greek did not let to feel some alteration, to see a beast so deformed. It was of body bigger than an Elephant, and was all covered with hard party coloured shells and scales: the tail was very long, and somewhat big, and it had four feet, and each of them had two long claws with very sharp nails: the neck was a yard long, and it had the face of a woman, and out of her head, proceeded two mighty great and huge horns very sharp. Her speech was very perfect and clear, and made answer in any language that was spoken unto her. She would make battle with none, but it should proceed of questions and answers, and as Galtenor doth affirm and say, that the enchanted Merlin was shut up in that beast. This furious beast when she saw that the Prince went towards that little door she put herself before him, and disturbed his going: this courageous Knight shrouded under his shield, did abide her coming. Then the beast said. Stay thyself and stand still Claridiano, and do not trouble thyself so much, for a thing, that for all the dominions and Empires of thy father thou wouldest not have begun, neither have given the enterprise. Let me first know what did move thee to enter into this infernal house, whether thou wert moved by thy great courage and strength, or pretence to set at liberty those that are here detained, or for to know somewhat of thy lineage. The Greek marveled very much when he heard himself named, and of the great reasons which the beast spoke unto him. To whom he said: All that thou hast said and spoken of I would be very glad to achieve and go forwards with, for that thereof I should get unto myself great honour, notwithstanding if thou dost know any thing of my lineage, I do desire thee to tell me. This furious beast said: Desires and prayings can do very little with me, neither move me, except it come of mine own good will for to tell thee: but for that I do know after that I have told thee, it shall profit thee very little by the knowledge thereof, for that if thou dost move battle with me, thou shalt remain broken all to pieces, therefore for this cause I will tell thee.  
Give me herein my desire said this courageous knight, and for the rest, let each one as it behoveth him procure to defend himself. Then the beast with a smiling laughter, and as one that did make a jest of all that which was spoken, said: Although it will profit thee very little in giving to understand thereof, yet will I tell thee thy generation.  
Thou art son and nephew to the two mightiest Emperors in all the world, and the most adorned with all virtues. Thy mother is the most worthiest Matron that ever hath been, and none like, but she which was kept for thee, if thou hadst not entered into this Fortress. Thus in few words, I have told thee of thy descent, and from whence thou dost proceed if thou wilt understand it: and more I do say unto thee, that thou art not worthy to account thyself of such a lineage, for that they be Christians, and thou art a Pagan, therefore ask me no more, for I have told thee enough. And now seeing I have accomplished thy will and desire, have a respect what thou wilt do with thine own person, for if thou wilt return without making any battle with me, thou must of two things choose to do one of them, which is to return back again that way which thou camest, or else to declare unto me the resolution of a question, which I will demand of thee. The courageous Greek said, For the one, which is to return back again the way which I came, thou shalt understand that I will not grant unto, and touching the second, say on whatsoever it be thy pleasure that I shall declare, and I will make thee answer thereof if I can and when I cannot with my tongue, here is my sword that doth know how to make relation of questions, be they never so obscure and hard.  
Thy sword Claridiano, said the beast, will do as all other have done heretofore, that have taken upon them the same enterprise, their masters remaining dead, in recompense of their bold hardiness. Leave off these reasons said Claridiano, and demand what thy pleasure is, or else suffer me to go forwards on my journey, and if of necessity for to make an end hereof, I must have battle with thee, come on let us begin without any more tarrying. Hast thou so much hast said the beast, I do promise thee that quickly thou shalt see thyself in that perplexity, that thou shalt repent thy speed. Tell me Claridiano, what beast is that when it is first borne that goeth on four feet, and afterward on two, and in the end on three. If thou declare unto me my question, I am content to let thee pass and to follow thy journey. This question did put this valiant warrior in great thought in himself, his eyes ●ixed on the ground, searching all his memory and understanding, but yet he could not hap to know what thing it should be that was demanded, and lifting up his eyes he said: I do not know with my small understanding what to answer thee, therefore my sword shall accomplish that which in my wit doth lack. And in saying these words he embraced his shield, and firming his sword in his hand, he began his terrible and timorous battle. The furious beast hissing like unto a Snake, did withdraw himself somewhat backwards, and with great violence did stretch out her long neck, and bearing her head somewhat low, she pretended with her horns to make her encounter, the Prince stood still till that the beast drew somewhat nigher him, and would not at that time abide the furiousness of the blow, but rather clearing himself from it by stepping on the one side, with a light leap towards the left hand, and passing this furious beast by missing her blow, he struck an overthwart blow at her with so great fury and force, which lighted upon the midst of her tail (that although she carried it very low for her most advantage, for that therewith she did most offend and defend) yet for all that the Prince's fortune was such, that the blow chanced between two scales, & with a trice it was cut a sunder in the midst: Oh how furious and outrageous was this deformed beast when she felt herself so sore wounded, and turning herself as the wind against the Prince before he could make his defence, that needs he must receive upon his strong armour a blow with those long and sharp horns, the blow was given him with so great force, that it overthrew him to the ground, and seeing him in this sort, with a devilish rage and ire she ran towards him procuring to clasp him betwixt her sharp claws, and by reason of her great fury and rage, she had not so much time, but passed by and could not fasten any hold on him. The Greek was marvelously troubled at that mighty blow which he received, the beast with double fury returned unto the knight to strike him as she did before, the Greek did abide his coming, with his sword very firm in his hand, and at such time as the beast would strike her blow, bearing her head very low. The Prince at that present was not idle, but discharged his mighty blow with great strength, and struck the beast betwixt both the horns, but by reason of the great hardness his sword could not enter, yet he made her to decline her head to the ground spite of her teeth. This furious beast seeing that she had miss her blow, iourn that which remained of her tail and stroke him in the midst of his body a terrible blow, in such sort that if she had had the rest, she had parted him a sunder with the furiousness thereof, but for all that it made him fall to the ground, he was not so soon fallen down, when that the monster struck him with her sharp horns very strongly, yet for all that there was no sign made on his armour by reason of the great hardness, but all the harm was by the strength of the blow, his body was somewhat bruised. Oh holy God, & with what ire was this Greek brought in subjection, at that time if a mighty and hard mountain had been before him, he would have torn it in pieces. Now was there no resistance to be made against his mighty cutting sword, he threw his shield from him to the ground, and took his sword fast in both his hands, and abode the coming of this beast, who returned to strike him again, very much marveling to see how little her blows did profit her. The knight stood still very firmly in his place, and when the beast put down her head, he discharged his blow on her, and chanced upon the one side of her head, that her hard skull and strong skin was insufficient to withstand the sharpness of his sword, but that it cut the flesh and carried away one of her horns, wherewith this beast remained very sore hurt and wounded, who feeling herself in that perplexity, she withdrew herself back and said.  
O Claridiano and Pagan dog, do not trust too much much in thy great strength, neither in that thou hast done me so much harm, for I will do so much that thou shalt not return unto Grecia, thy natural Country, and less shalt thou enjoy the Pastora, for that as yet thou hast not proved of my sharp claws and nails, nor of their fury. The Prince answered and said: Devil make thy defence by all the means thou canst, and all shall be little enough. And in saying these words he firmed his sword in his hand, than this furious monster began to make a new noise in hissing, and approached towards the Prince, making as though she would strike him with her horn that remained, and when she came nigh him, upon a sudden she turned her tail with so great lightness, that the Prince could not make his defence, and struck him upon the helm in such sort that she overthrew him to the ground almost without any remembrance, the Prince was not so soon fallen but this monster leapt unto him with her hard and sharp nails, and gripped his hard harness, thinking with them to tear him all to pieces, but she did him no more harm but only wearied him, in tumbling him up and down, yet this invincible Knight was not without great care to provide for himself and did not lose one jot of his strength and courage, but rather with a double stomach and furious courage procured to clear himself out of the beasts nails, and with the great strength and policy that he used, in spite of the monster he cleared himself, and being at liberty, with great lightness he arose on his feet, he was not so soon up when the beast struck him with his one horn which remained, in such sort that he was constrained to fall down again to the ground, the beast procured to catch him again in her claws, but she could not, for that the Prince with great lightness rose up again, and having his sword in his hand he tarried her coming, the beast made a show as though he would strike at the Prince with his horn, but when she saw him with his sword aloft, she raised herself up on her hinder feet, and fell upon the Prince, embracing him with her nails about his back scratching and pinching his armour, but it did little profit him by reason of the great hardness. The Prince seeing himself so bewrapt with this monster, with great strength and policy brought his sword down under the beast, and thrust the point into her belly up to the hard hil●es. The furious monster when she felt herself so sore wounded, queased the Prince so hard between her claws, that he thought verily she would have broken all his bones in his body, and if it should have endured long in this order, it had not been possible to have escaped the death, but that mortal wound did so trouble the beast, & was so grievous unto her, that she was constrained to let him lose, and to withdraw herself back, for to put some remedy therein, and said unto the Prince: Oh thou Infidel without all faith, thou hast slain me, but tarry yet there doth remain in me courage for to make thee that thou shalt not go advancing of thyself, and bearing her head very low she pressed unto the Prince, thinking to take him with her horn and to overthrow him, with pretence to get him again betwixt her claws and nails, and although she was dying yet not to leave him till she had torn him all too pieces. This courageous knight did abide her coming, and perceiving her deceit, when he thought that she would strike him he stepped on the one side, and in the passing the Prince struck her so mighty a blow upon the neck, that it cut the lame a sunder, so that that horrible and wonderful monster fell down dead to the ground. The Knight with the long travail and wrestling remained very weary, in such sort, that he was constrained to sit down to ease himself upon a bank that was there made against a wall, giving great thanks unto his Gods for the victory which they had given him. A good while after when that he had somewhat eased himself of his former travail, his courageous heart would not suffer him to remain long there, but strait ways he arose up and went towards the little door which was in the wall, and when he came to it he saw that it was made all of very 〈…〉 ●nd in the key hole thereof was a key, with the 〈◊〉 upon it. The knight entered in thereat, and saw that it was very dark, and it seemed unto him that it should be a very great hall, and therein he heard very fearful howlings, yet for all this the valiant Greek did not lose any of his accustomed courage, but entered in farther, and took off his gauntlet from his left hand, whereon he wore a marvelous great and fin● Diamond, the which he had in a ring, that gave so much light that he might plainly see all that was in the hall, the which was very great and wide, and upon the walls were painted the figures of many fiends and devils, and on the one side of the hall he saw a tomb all covered with black, and upon it there lay a man with a pale colour, who at certain times gave a marvelous and grievous sigh, caused by the burning flames that proceeded from under the tomb, being such, that it seemed his body should be converted therewith into burning coals, the flame was so stinking that it made the Prince somewhat to retire himself from the place where he saw that horrible spectacle. He which lay upon the tomb, casting his eyes a side, saw the Prince, and knowing him to be an human creature, with an afflicted voice he said: Who art thou sir knight, that art come unto so sorrowful a dwelling, for that thou canst see nothing in it but great torments. Then the knight said, but tell me who art thou that with so m●ch grief dost demand of me that which I stand in doubt to tell thee. I am a king of Arabia (answered he) which without all consideration, with my cruel hand did pierce through the white breast of my well-beloved daughter, woe be to me, for that she at once did pay her offence by death, but I a miserable wretch with many torments do live dying. When this worthy knight was about to answer him, he saw come forth from under the tomb a damsel, who had a very yellow and wan colour, and by her face it seemed that she should be very sore afflicted, and with a sorrowful voice she said. O Claridiano unfortunate, what dost thou seek in this infernal lodging, whereas cannot be given thee any other pleasure but mortal torments, for that thou wert so bold as to kill my keeper of the door, & there is but one thing that can clear thee from it, & this cannot be told thee by any other but by me, and yet I will not tell thee except thou dost grant me one thing that I will ask of thee. The Prince who was greatly amazed of all that he had seen, and very much beholding the countenance of the damsel that was very lean and feeble, answered and said: The Gods who are governors of my liberty will do their pleasures, but in that touching the grant of thy request, I never to Lady nor Gentlewoman denied any thing that they would demand of me, being a thing that I could put remedy in, but with all my power and strength I was ready to fulfil the same, therefore demand what thy pleasure is, for that I am ready in all things that toucheth thy remedy. Then she said, Claridiano look well and have a respect unto that which thou dost promise, and see that thou dost perform thy promise, for thou shalt understand that thou fulfilling the same dost give liberty unto thyself and unto me. Gentlewoman, ask what thy pleasure is said the knight: that which I demand said the damsel is, that thou givest me the ring which thou hast upon thy finger, for thou shalt understand that in it is my remedy. In demanding of that said the Prince, thou dost rather procure my harm, & therefore it doth not behove me to give it thee. To whom she said: O evil and false knight that dost not perform that which thou hast promised, see that thou dost accomplish the same, or else to the contrary thou shalt live dying. Oh false Magician & cursed witch said Claridiano, dost thou think by thy deceitful threatenings to deceive me? It is not thy enchantments neither thy feigned words that shall get the ring from my finger. Then she said, thou shalt see how little thy great strength shall profit & avail thee against me, if thou wilt tarry a while, and therewith upon a sudden she laid hold upon his hand with so great strength, that it lacked but little of pulling the ring from his finger, but this politic Greek helped his left hand with his right, with so great strength, that he put away that Magician that she could not pull it off. This false enchanter did still stand in this contention to get the ring from him, and contended in such sort that he forgot the respect that he should have unto Ladies and Gentlewomen, and struck her with his right hand that was armed such a buffet upon the cheek, that her fantastical body gave a great fall unto the ground, she was not so soon fallen, when that with a timorous noise she threw herself into that doleful Sepulchre, making a terrible and wonderful howling within, and this unhappy king bore her company with his grievous lamentations, of the which the Prince had great compassion, and it seemed unto him that he heard a voice which came forth of the tomb, which did offer to talk unto him, & that he might understand his reasons he drew nigh unto the tomb, & heard that he said these words: Oh knight borne in Grecia, & nursed and brought up in Trapobana, if thou wilt go out of this place and make an end of my continual torments, procure to give three blows upon this my Sepulchar, with the which thou shalt deliver thyself and me likewise, and all those that are here put in this infernal lodging. This invincible young man said: There is so little truth in this house, that I stand in doubt whether I may believe thy words or not, notwithstanding tell me who thou art, then shall I know whether I may give credit unto thy words. Then he said: I am that unhappy Merlin, borne in Gallia, and deceived by her who would have deceived thee, therefore thou ●●ist believe me, for that I do tell thee the truth, and if thou dost as I do tell thee there will come unto both us great profit. Tell me Merlin, said the Prince, how dost thou know that I was borne in Grecia, and brought up in Trapobana, if thou dost know I pray thee tell me who was my father, and of what Empire or kingdom he is Lord. To whom Merlin said: Trebatio is thy grandfather, and thy father is the great Alfebo, & the excellent Claridiano is thy mother, from whom Galtenor did steal thee, in company with thy sister, the most fairest creature in all the world. And in saying these words he held his peace, and with dolorous groans he began to curse himself, and it was so grievous that the Prince withdrew himself because he would not hear it, & without any more tarrying he embraced his shield and laid hand upon his good sword, and with great violence he went unto the Sepulchre, and as he would have struck thereat, there appeared before him a giant, the which the Prince took to be the giant that he slew in the mountain Nabateos, who struck the Prince upon the breast with both his hands that he made him to recoil back a great way, whether he would or not: notwithstanding with great discretion he kept himself upright, & with wonderful lightness, accompanied with no less anger, he threw his shield at his back, & took his sword in both his hands, & went to strike the giant a mortal blow, at which time there appeared before him a whole legion of devils, with flesh hooks in their hands, with the which they did torment him. The valiant Greek with great wrath and double force put himself amongst them, striking on every side such terrible blows, that in spite of them he came unto the tomb, and with great lightness he struck on it two blows, but he had no time to strike the third, for that this devilish company did put him from it with their terrible assaults and striking of him. Oh in what great travail and perplexity this knight found himself amongst this wicked and devilish generation, for to defend himself, that they might not drive him from the Tomb, and took great courage, and stretching forth his mighty and strong arm, he so flourished about him and kept such a stir amongst them, that he might strike the third blow upon the Tomb, which was with so great noise and rumbling, that he was constrained to fall to the ground without any remembrance, he lay not long in this trance, but coming again to his remembrance, he found himself by the rivers side, and nigh unto him was his horse and his Squire with him, without seeing any fortress or ditch, nor any sign thereof, but the most they saw was two great lumps very dark which flew in the air, giving very grievous shrieks, and beholding well what it should be, they saw that one was the unhappy Merlin, and with him a legion of Devils, that went tormenting him, and the other was a Chariot, carried by two Dragons, and before it was that furious beast which he slew, and he saw that there was in the Chariot certain Knights, Ladies and Gentlewomen deprived of their understanding. Likewise he saw a man with a whip in his hand, who did govern the Dragons and that furious monster, who with a loud voice said. Nephew unto Trebatio, do not thou think that thy strength is sufficient, for to set at liberty, and to clear out of pain this unnatural and cruel King, and in saying these words, he whipped forwards those terrible Dragons, and with a trice they vanished out of the Prince's sight, leaving him somewhat troubled, and not without great reason.   

¶ How Claridiano being overcome with the love of the Pastora, did put himself in shepherds apparel, the better to comfort himself with her delicate presence, and of all that happened therein. Chap. 22.  
THe Prince remained marvelously amazed of all that had passed, and with some grief, for that he saw that all his labour and travail was to little effect. His squire did not look for his return so quickly, but laid him down upon the grass and fell a sleep. The Prince with his foot awaked him, who so soon as he had opened his eyes, he looked as one that had been scared. The warlike Greek demanded his horse, and mounting on him, he took his way towards jerosolima, and continually had in his imagination the names of his grandfather, father and mother, with intent to go towards Greece, with all hast possible. So he travailed in a great confusion whether it should be true or not, which they told him, that the two Emperors should be his grandfather and father. Likewise he had grief to see himself subject unto Cupid. So with these and such like thoughts, he came unto jerosolima, whereas he was marvelously well received of the King and Queen, likewise of the Princess the King's daughter, who did him great honour. The Princess strait way understood wherefore he came thither, and who was the occasion thereof: and when she knew that he was in his chamber in quiet, in the company of two of her Gentlewomen she went to visit him. The Greek received great contentment at her coming, and the Princess with amorous and sweet words procured to know of him, if that were true which she had in her thought, in such sort that Claridiano did discover unto her, all his whole heart and pretence, saying: that he was determined in shepherds apparel, to go and see that Pastora, the causer of all his grief. The Princess when she saw that all was true she had conceived, she had not so much discretion as to declare unto him the grief of her heart, but with a dissembling sigh she said. Oh love, what great falsehood is in thee: and without saying any more she remained very pensive, with her eyes looking downwards to the ground, & dissembling her grief, she did offer unto him, all favour and diligence, such as her royal estate was able to give, which was not a little, for that she was Lady of all that river and lands thereabouts, the Greek did give her great thanks for her gentle offer, and with this determination, the Princess returned unto her chamber, whereas with many troublesome and grievous thoughts, she passed away the night. So when the morning was come, she was not unmindful of that which she had promised, but commanded to be made shepherds apparel very rich, and commanded to call unto her the head governor of all the cattle of her father the King, whom she commanded that the shepherd which she would give unto him, should be well looked unto, and served in such sort, as though it were her Fathers own royal person.  
The shepherds apparel was quickly made, and the Princess one night turning into the chamber of the Greek, asked of him, if he had determined any other thing then that which he had told her, to whom he said, that he was still in that determination. Then the Princess said, that all which he had commanded was in a readiness, and in that order as his pleasure was. The Greek gave her great thanks, with such amorous words as her love did deserve, and the Greek did strait way apparel himself in that shepherds apparel.  
The Princess when she saw him in that order, with a sorrowful countenance she said: Knight, I cannot judge what will come of this: but yet I am sure, that thou goest captive only to one, and thou dost leave captive more than a thousand, who are in no fault of all this thy grief. Oh happy Pastora, whose beauty hath so much force, to subject and bring down him, whom the Tartarian Giants could not conquer. Oh Gods, why do not I leave to be a Princess, for to be a Pastora by the River of Euphrates, seeing that my highness hath not so much power to achieve that, which the baseness of this Pastora hath brought into subjection. The great desire which this new shepherd had to see his: Pastora, was the occasion that he would not make any answer unto the Princess, but rather dissembled and made as though he had heard nothing. And strait way he put in ure his departure, and taking a man with him to be his guide, he took his leave of the Princess, & did commend Fidelio unto her keeping.  
So he departed out of the City without any tarrying, till he came unto the principal house of the King's cattle, whereas he was received of all the shepherds that were there present, who showed him great courtesy, and the baseness of the apparel wherewith he was clad, was not sufficient to take away the jealousy that they had in him to be of some noble blood, as appeared by his person, stature and grave countenance: and although they had not been commanded by the Princess to respect him, yet they could not but do all reverence and courtesy unto him. This new shepherd, after that he had given them thanks for the entertainment which they gave him, he went forth all alone ranging the fields, and in his hand a shepherds crook. Also he carried with him a little lute, which he used at times for to ease and recreate himself.  
This new shepherd never took any rest till such time as he came unto the clear running river. Where under a great and mighty Myrtle tree, he laid himself down, and remembering his well-beloved Pastora, he lifted up his eyes towards the heavens, and giving a great sigh, he said. Oh Venus, seeing that it is thy pleasure, that this thy new vassal should take his first sitting place under a Myrtle tree, so much of thee esteemed and made of, let thy sweet voice so occupy the ears of thy son Cupid, that he may understand how that in his blindness he had little respect unto the highness of my person in causing me to place my affection so basely. Oh Gods, is it possible that any base attempt should come unto light, but with the authority that belongeth unto your highness: upon you I do call, and unto you I do offer this my wounded breast, that you make sacrifice thereof, for this my boldness, if therein I have offended, and therewith he leaned his back unto the Myrtle tree, and took his Lute, and began to play as sweetly as ever did Orpheus, when with his lute he made the infernal furies to sleep. Claridiano with his lute did not only bring the furies, but also the Queen Proserpina, and the ancient Pluto, he brought into a great perplexity. So likewise at times he uttered his sweet voice that they which did hear it, did judge it to be some celestial thing, and not terrenal, and by reason that his songs did proceed from his heart, it did in double wise seem the better. This new shepherd thought no body had heard him: but there were other two shepherds, who were very attentive and heard, that he sung this song which hereafter followeth.  

O Yielded heart, how free and void of care  
wert thou of late from this oppressing pain?  
What luckless fate allotted thee this share?  
that hopeless thou dost void of help remain:  
Yea, so past hope, that might may nought avail,  
The burning flames of Cupid's coals to quail.   

But fie (fond fool) thou dost complain of ease,  
and faultless Fortune thou beginst to blame:  
Venus herself doth seek thy heart to please,  
in that she moves thee love so rare a Dame,  
Oh Pastora if I enjoy thy sight,  
My very death will bring to me delight.   

Disdain not then beloved for to be  
of him, that needs thy beauty must adore  
So long as Fates afford my life to me,  
which ended once, I can lament no more:  
And then will chance a joyful death to me,  
If so I hap to die by hand of thee.   
And when he had made an end of his song, he held his peace, for that his weary voice could not give him any more time, but he let his lute fall out of his hands, and crossing his fingers the one with the other, he was very pensive, till such time as he heard a shepherds voice accompanied with a Rebecke, sweetly sounding, whom he heard sing this song as followeth.  

WIthin this vale there doth a Pastor dwell,  
that bringeth up a Pastora full brave,  
Which from her breast doth love all times expel,  
she no regard of lovers pains will have.   

Nature her like, as yet did never form,  
Venus herself is dashed at her view:  
Her breast like snow thrown down by Hiems storm,  
her heart stone hard for all her gallant hue.   

Great is his grief that unto her is thrall,  
and hard his hap that sues to win her grace,  
'Gainst him she useth greatest hate of all,  
for as I said, love hath in her no place.   

Cupid himself within his snare is caught,  
yet void of help for all her subtle shifts:  
His words his wiles, his wrath, avail him nought,  
she scorns his darts, and all his double drifts.   

And thus she shuns the thing that sundry seek,  
and escapes unscorched, where others burned be:  
Her beauty shows her humble, mild and meek,  
but yet her heart is stained with cruelty.   
This new shepherd was very attentive unto that gracious song of the other shepherd, and when he heard that he held his peace, he would have returned and sung again, but he was disturbed by hearing a noise of people. This gentle shepherd when he heard it, arose up upon his feet, and went out from under the shadow of the Tree farther into the Sun, and saw that it was a shepherd and a Pastora, which were coming into the place whereas he was, and when they came unto him, they did salute him very courteously. So they sat down altogether, and put the new shepherd in the midst, very much marveling at his gracious countenance: and with a very good grace & gentle disposition, the Pastora began first to speak, and said: Your sweet Music (brother shepherd) did awake me and my brother Coridon out of our sleep and we do rather choose to lose our natural rest, than thy conversation, accompanied with thy delicate song. We do not know, whether that the fair beauty of Cayserlinga a Pastora, brought up by this delightful river, hath been the occasion thereof, or any other grief, which doth reign in thy heart: but if it be so gentle shepherd, that your eyes have not beheld nor seen the beauty of our Pastora, do you procure not to see her, that your heart be not taken captive with the sight of her: for you shall understand, that there is nothing to be hoped for at her hands but death, her disdain is such This sorrowful brother of mine, one day did sing before her with his Rebecke, and remained so imprisoned with her, as ever was shepherd with Pastora. And if it be thy Fortune to abide long time in these parts, thou shalt know the great power that her face and countenance hath, and the great cruelty that she useth. Thou shalt see no other thing alongst all this river, but shepherds who have forgot to govern and feed their sheep, sitting under trees wounded with her great beauty and fairness, and having more care to make their Rebecks fair and trim, then to call together their cattle, and to deliver them from the ravening Wolves. And by reason that she doth know that her beauty is so great, she is so proud, that she doth make them all equal in her estimation, although not all equal in suffering. I do promise thee of a truth (gallant shepherd) that this River doth seem to be no other thing, but the habitation of Venus and Cupid. Coridon did cut off the words of Galismena, and said.  
Ah sister Galismena, the little account that thou dost make of love, doth cause thee to speak of that, which thy sorrowful brother doth feel. What dost thou think Galismena, that of this my contentious passion, I shall reap any other benefit, but that I have put my love upon the most excellentest Pastora, that ever Nature did form. Tell me I pray thee Pastora, what shepherd have you belonging unto this River of Euphrates, unto whom she doth extend her thought more than unto me. Hold thy peace Coridon said Galismena, do not exalt Cayserlinga so much: for in her respect thou dost not only put from thee all other Pastoras, but thou dost likewise disable all shepherds alongst this River. Truth it is although that Cayserlinga doth deserve much: yet for that she is a woman, she doth not deserve so much, as the worst shepherd in all this our habitation, for that this only is sufficient, that he is a man.  
Then said Coridon with great anger: I would it were not thyself, but some other that should speak such words, for that I promise thee with the force of my arm, I would make him to know, that his words were not true, but very false. Then Claridiano did interrupt their communication, and said. Gentle shepherds, let these your contentions cease, for that there cometh nothing of them but anger and falling out: but I do desire you that you would show unto me this Pastora, for that her fame doth give me a desire to see her. Here by the river of Euphrates said Coridon, in an arbour which is made of very fair and green sallows, gallantly wrought, there every morning she doth comb her yellow golden hair, thither mayst thou go very early in the morning, whereas thou mayst recreate thyself of that new sight. And in the mean tune before that thou dost departed, we do desire thee to tell us thy name, and what countryman thou art. This new shepherd answered and said, My name is Filipensio, and am naturally of Syria, and of the plains of Caniphia, a kingdom of Chaldea, and the great desire of these green fields and fresh feeding which is here growing about this clear river, hath brought me hither, for to feed a little Cattle, the which the Gods hath made me Lord and governor of. Ah shepherd said Coridon, (with a dolorous sigh) dost thou come to feed thy sheep in fresh & green meadows, and dost not know that in seeing that Pastora, thou shalt feed love within thy delicate and tender breast.  
So with this, and other such like pleasant communication, they passed all that night till the next morning, and when it was time for to depart, they took their way to the accustomed abiding of the beautiful Pastora, and they met in the way many shepherds, who complained very much against the fury of love. So under a great Sallow Tree, they saw two shepherds, the one did complain of love very grievously, and lay all alongst upon the ground, and the other was playing upon a Rebecke, and sung very swéetelye, wherewith Filipensio did stay▪ and heard that he sung as followeth.  

Strange is my grief, yet count I it a gain:  
and great my smart, but small I it esteem:  
In that for her I suffer all this pain,  
whose beauty rare celestial I do deem.   

The pangs I feel oppress my fainting heart,  
the hope I have revives the same again,  
Tormenting love afflicts me still with smart,  
yet for her sake I force not to be slain.   

My cause is good, whereby my care is great,  
both cause and care I unto thee reply:  
And though with rigour still thou me entreat,  
yet will I joy that I for thee must die   
And giving a dolorous sigh, he ended his song. The shepherd Filipensio and his company went forwards on their way, and passed the time in amorous and sweet communications, not staying in any place, till they came whereas this Pastora had her abiding, and there they put themselves amongst a company of thick trees, under one of the which, they saw where was a shepherd of a marvelous disposition, so that Filipensio did very much behold him, and thought in his imagination by the demeanour of that shepherd, that he should not seem to be of the lineage of shepherds, and turning unto Coridon, he asked him what he was. They all safe themselves down under a high & mighty sallow tree, nigh unto the place whereas the other shepherd was at his rest, and Coridon answering unto that which was asked him, said. This is a shepherd of Babylonia, who for to feed his cattle, in the company of other well proportioned shepherds came ●ether, and with the sight of that Pastora he felt himself full of passions and griefs, by the sight of her beauty. The companion of this, who is called Tarsides, was he which did most follow and importunate the Pastora: but she, who is the honestest in all the world, not only with sharp and bitter words did put him from it, but also with public disdain and hatred: for the which a● one hated & not set by, he did determine to leave this valley, reporting that his departure would shorten his days. Alphesiveo, for so is this shepherd called, as one that was more stronglier wounded with love, determined to remain and to persever in his suit. At this time, Alphesiveo did awake, and took an instrument in his hand which he had, and began to play on it very sweetly, singing these verses following.  
THe drops of rain in time the Marble pierce,  
Submission makes the lions heart relent:  
But Love thy cruel torments are so fierce,  
That mischiefs new thou daily dost invent.  
For she, whose sight my heart in sunder rend.  
Regardeth neither of my faith, nor grief,  
Nor yet yields death, which is my sole relief.  
This song he sung so dolefully, that it gave plainly to understand his grievous pain: and by his words that he was not of the lineage of shepherds. At this time the son of Tona did begin to appear out of his golden Horizon, & to show himself upon the face of the earth, glistering with his beams upon the clear waters of Euphrates, likewise Favonius and Zephyrus did very sweetly and softly blow upon the gr●en leaves, and made a delicate harmony, at such time as the most fairest Cayserlinga, accompanied with high thoughts, and with her sheep that she had in charge, for her recreation came forth, and a great company of shepherds following her, who were as full of sorrows and thoughts for her love, as she clean void and without regard of them, and when she had left her sheep in a green place feeding, she went and sat down in a place not very far from thence, where Filipensio and his company were, and when she was set down, she pulled off a knit call from her head, where in was wrapped her hair, letting it fall and disperse itself all abroad her back, and taking out from her white & crystalline breast a comb, she began to comb her hair, her hands and fingers seeming to be of white ivory. All this did this unknown Filipensio behold, and was in that perplexity, that he did occupy his understanding on no other thing, but in beholding of her. The discreet Pastora Galismena did well perceive it, for that he was in a dump & said never a word. Then she with her hands struck him upon the breast to call him to remembrance, and said: Gentle shepherd, hearken and give attentive ear unto the sweet verses, which the amorous shepherds will sing, and let not this new sight so trouble thee. And therewith Coridon took his Rebecke, and began to play very sweetly, and song these verses as followeth.  

Fair Pastora cease off delay,  
with speed declare the certainty,  
Whether thou wilt my love repay▪  
if not, then know that I must die.   

I Wish for life that I might thee adore,  
and largely show the love to thee I bear:  
And if that thou offended seem therefore,  
with speed by speech let it to me appear.  
Which done, then know that for a certainty,  
thy sentence given I am prepared to die:   

Thou well dost see, or plainly mayst perceive.  
that long time since I had thee in regard:  
Frame not thy lips thy lover to deceive,  
with scoffs and scorns return not thy reward:  
Which if thou do, I never will reply,  
But meekly yield, as ready priest to die.   
And herewith he made an end of his sorrowful and grievous song: and then another Shepherd began to sing with a marvelous and sweet voice, those verses following.  

Reward not him that loves thee, with disdain:  
Lest Love at length, repay the like again.   

EXtend not force against the yielded wight,  
shun not his sight that seeketh thee to serve,  
Thy willer well reward not with despite,  
forget him not that favour doth deserve,  
Neither triumph in his tormenting pain:  
Lest as thou meatst, Love measure thee again.   

Redress my pains O Pastora full fair▪  
the heavens, my heart, thy sight may them perceive.  
Let not my hope be dashed with despair:  
for than thou wilt my corpse of life bereave.  
Offend not Love by laughing at my pain,  
Lest like for like, he render thee again.   
With great grief this sorrowful Menalcas made an end of his song, and after him there were other shepherds that sung many songs full of sweet & amorous verses, that which for that I will not seem tedious, I do let pass: but the last shepherd of all, called Alphesiveo, sung these verses following.  

WHat needeth threats 'gainst him that is a thrall  
O rural Nymph? (whose rigour doth excel)  
Ponder my fault, and thou shalt find it small,  
Yea nought but this, that I do love thee well.   

Hard breasts they say do tender hearts enclose,  
I know it true, and find it to my smart.  
Ah Pastora, thyself art none of those,  
thy breasts are soft, but stony is thy heart▪   
The shepherds did well understand, for that always Alphesiveo was the last of all the company that did sing, that the Music was wholly ended.  
But yet the slower of all shepherds had not used his amorous exercise, but so soon as Alphesineo had made an end of his song, Filipensio took his Lute and played so swéeltly on it, that all the shepherds of the river were amazed, not knowing who it should be that newly was come to wrestle with Cupid, and when they heard him play, they all resorted unto that place where he was, and put themselves round about him for to hear the better, Caiserlinga had strait way in her ears that new and unaccustomed music, who turning herself unto Galismena said: Methinks that to be a new shepherd that doth begin to play. It is truth said the Pastora, for that yester night somewhat a part whereas he was we heard him play, and the better for to rejoice ourselves of his sweet melody, my brother and I went unto the place where he was taking his rest, but if at his music you have admiration, you will much more marvel at his gentle disposition and grave countenance, I neither know nor can declare it unto you fair Pastora, but the Gods have used in his body and proportion all their knowledge and power. Whereat the fair Pastora arose up, and taking Galismena by the hand, she said: Come sister and let us go and recreate ourselves at his music and fair countenance, and so they both together went whereas this new Shepherd was, the other shepherds when they saw her come, they all arose and put themselves a part, and gave her place, with so great reverence as unto a divine creature. This new shepherd at that time had need of all his force to uphold him, and not to leave his begun music, the which when he saw the Pastora was much increased in delicate sweetness, and they being in this conversation, there chanced so high matters as well in Tinacria as in Grecia, that I am constrained to leave the pleasures of Venus, and turn unto the furious force of Mars.   

¶ How that Polifebo because his mother the Queen of Tinacria would not give him the order of knighthood went secretly from the court, and of all that happened in his journey. Chap. 23.  
THE valiant Eleno we left in Tinacria with great joy to have set at liberty so excellent a Queen, and with no less sorrow for the sudden departure of his cousin, who did no more but put Brenio in his Sepulchre, in such sort as in the third part of this history shall be told you. So strait way he entered into a Bark, the which in short time was put into the main and wide sea, whereas they were suddenly taken with a storm, and by the force thereof they were driven upon the coast of France, where he was constrained to take land, and taking a narrow and strait path which he saw, he followed the same, which brought him into the wilderness of Ardenia, nigh unto the fountain Disamore, who seeing the clearness of the water, alighted from his enchanted horse, and washed his hands and refreshed his face with that water, and drunk thereof till such time as he had satisfied his desire, and when he had drunk and well refreshed himself, he sat down upon an old root of a tree that had been cut down, and felt within his breast an alteration of new desires, as shall be told you hereafter, and for that I am constrained to return unto Tinacria, I do leave him in this order. Poliphebo seeing himself a man of sixteen years of age with so stout an heart and manly a courage, requested his mother that she would command the order of knighthood to be given him, the which the Queen did refuse very much to do, as one which thought that if he were once made knight, that he would absent himself, seeking whereas he might exercise his strength for to get him fame. This young Prince did continually importunate the Queen, and every day his desire did increase more and more, the occasion was, for that he did see so great knighthood at that time used in Tinacria, and all for the love and sight of the fair Princess his sister, so that the knights did not occupy themselves in any other exercise but in jousts and tourneys. The Queen did continually persuade her son with gentle and loving words to tarry and not to take the order upon him till such time as he came to more years, laying before him the great inconveniences which might happen for lack of his full growth and strength, but this delaying of the Queen did cause the Prince to be very sad and pensive, and also caused that all the feasts and sports that the knights did daily use, waxed altogether cold, in seeing the Prince to be in that heavy case, and upon a day as he was imagining with himself, seeing the small comfort and good will which he received in his mother for the fulfilling of his desire, he determined in great secret as soon as was possible to departed the court, the which he strait ways put in ure, and took out of the armoury very secretly an exceeding good armour, the which was all russet, and enamelled with black, and imbroudered round about with graven work all guilt: also he took out a shield of the same making, saving that it was not graved as his armour was, and commanded a young Gentleman that was son unto Rubio, of a good disposition and hardy, that he should keep themselves, & gave him to understand of all his determined pretence, and although it did grieve this young man very much, yet for all that, seeing the great friendship which he used with him in uttering his secret unto him before any other, without replying to the contrary, he very diligently took the armour and hid it, till he found convenient time to put it into a ship● very secretly. So likewise he put into the said Ship two of the best horses which the Prince had, and forthwith he gave his Lord understanding how that all things were then in a readiness and in good order. The Prince dissembling with the accustomed heaviness he used, withdrew himself into his chamber till such time as the night came, which when it was come, he made himself ready with his apparel, and when that all the people of the Court were at their rest and a sleep, he alone with his page, who was named Macedonio, went out of the palace, and went unto the sea side. His page did call the mariners of the ship, who strait way brought unto them their boat, in the which they entered, and went strait a board the ship, and being therein for that the wind was very fair, he commanded to way their anchors, and to spread their sails, and to take their way towards Grecia, and as he commanded all was done, and in a short time they found themselves engulfed into the sea, far from the land. This excellent Prince went very much to his contentment: but when the Queen understood of his departure, the lamentation which she made was very much, and commanded to go unto the sea side, to know if there were any ship that departed that night, and it was told them that there was a ship of Grecia, which that night haled up their anchors, & hoist sail, and went to sea: so strait way they understood that the Prince was gone in her. I cannot here declare the great grief and sorrow which the Queen felt in her sorrowful heart, for the absence of the Prince, which she always suspected & feared. But when the absence of Poliphebo was knowwen in Tinacria, all feasts & sports ceased, for that you shall understand, of all his vassals he was very well beloved. The Queen did procure to dissemble all her grief, for the great sorrow which her vassals had, showing herself more joyful in her face, more than any contentment she had in her heart, giving them to understand, that he had done it, for that which he did owe unto his high lineage, and the great allygation he had to procure his honour and fame: and that he had done that, which she and all them should have desired, & that they should not be sorrowful for that, which hereafter would be the occasion of great joy and pleasure. With these and such like reasons, she did quiet all her vassals and kingdom, and caused them to return unto their accustomed pastime and sports. So Poliphebo sailed forwards on his journey, through the deep sea, with great delight to see how he had fulfilled his desire. And he sailed three days with a very fair and prosperous wind, and the fourth day in the evening it was very calm, and no wind at all, so that the Mariners went to take their rest, some on the poop, & some in the foreships, for to ease their wearied bodies. The prince who sat upon the poop of the ship, asked for his lute of his page, the which strait way was given him, and when he had it in his hands, he played and sung so sweetly, that it seemed to be a heavenly melody. And being in this sweet music, he heard a very lamentable cry as it were of a woman, and leaving his music, he gave attentive ear to hearken what she said, and he heard the voice say: It will little profit thee thou cruel tyrant, this thy bold hardiness, for thou dost well know, that I am of a lineage, that will revenge it of thee to thy cost. Then he heard another voice which said: Now I have thee in my power, there is no human power able to deliver thee from me▪ Poliphebo could hear no more by reason that the bark wherein they were, passed by in so great haste. This heroical Prince by the words he heard, understood that she was carried by force away, and putting the lute away, he began to fall into a great thought, and was very heavy and sorrowful, for that he had not received the order of Knighthood, for to give the enterprise of this adventure: but yet his stout stomach could not suffer, that such compulsion and violence should pass without being punished. And returning unto his Page Masedonio, which was a sleep, he struck him with his foot and awaked him, saying: What, didst not thou hear the great lamentation, and sorrowful complaint, which a Lady made (as it seemed) in a small bark that is passed by, and is gone forwards along the sea, (to the which Masedonio answered nothing, for that he was still a sleep,) what counsel dost thou give me, that I may do in so great outrage which is done before mine eyes, that I may receive no shame thereof. Thou art bound unto nothing, said Masedonio, for that thou hast not received the order of knighthood, and thou dost well understand that without it thou cannot not put forth thy hand to make defence against any knight.  
Then Poliphebo said, He is not a Knight which doth set his force against a woman, and doth break the law & oath made unto Knighthood. Therefore bring me forth my armour, and call the mariners, that they may launch their boat, into the sea: for by the omnipotent jupiter I do swear, that I will not be called the son of my father, if I do suffer such force to be done before me, and not procure with all my strength to amend and correct the same. Masedonio would have replied unto him, but the furious countenance of the Prince would not give him leave, no not once to look upon him. So he brought forth his armour, and armed himself therewith. In the mean time the mariners had launched the boat into the sea, wherein he leapt with a hasty fury, and carried with him four mariners for to row the bark●, and he commanded for to take the way towards the other that passed by. All that remained in the ship greatly marveled at his hardiness. This Prince of Tinacria caused the mariners to make great haste with their oars, for that they would not lose the way which they had. So they travailed all that night, till such time as the clear Phoebus with his glittering beams gave unto them such light, that they might discover and see the other bark, although somewhat a far off. The Tinacrian had great contentment thereat, hoping that very quickly they should overtake them, but it did little profit them: for if that he did make haste to over take them, they were not idle, but did make as much hast to go from them. So in this contention they travailed till two parts of the day was spent, at which time they saw come after them a galley which was governed with eighteen oars on a side, and it made so great way, that with a trice they were with them, and he saw that there was in her a Knight all armed with black armour, and was of a gentle disposition and well proportioned body, who made great haste unto the mariners to row forwards. And as they passed by, the Tinacrian said unto them with a loud voice: Knight I do request thee, that you will take me into your Galley, that being in her, I may the better accomplish my desire. The Knight of the galley passed by, without making any answer, but rather showed that he made little account of him, but made haste unto them that did row. The Tinacrian seeing the little account he made of him, with the great anger and fury he received, he took an oar in one ●and, and another in the other, and with so great fury & strength he struck the water, that he made the slothful bark to fly, and laboured so much with his oars, that with a trice they were equal with the galley, and leaving the oars, with a light leap he put himself into the galley, and had his helm on, and his shield at his shoulder, and being within he said. Now thou shalt do by force that, which before I using great courtesy, thou wouldst not do. Those that were at the oars, marveling at the great boldness of the Knight, did cease their exercise and work of rowing. The black Knight being full of anger, as he which was one of the best in all the world, drew out his sword, and went towards that bold Knight. This furious Tinacrian seeing himself without the order of knighthood, would not lay hands on his sword, but laid hold of one of those long and heavy oars, and went and stroke at the black Knight, who did defend it and said: What dost thou pretend to do, thou fool and without wit, what dost thou think with staves as a country clown or villain to make battle with me? I can do no otherwise said the Tinacrian, and it is thy small courtesy which doth make me to do this: for thou shalt understand that I am a Donzel, & as yet have no licence to strike a knight, but if thou wouldst do so much, as give me the order of knighthood, I will afterward make thee to know, that thou didst great villainy in not answering me.  
Oh Gods said the black knight, is it possible that you consent that a boy should have such boldness: now I do well perceive that you do begin to use me as you were wont, neglecting my oblations, & paying with so great ingratitude one good thing which you have done for me, in giving me such a Lady for my wife, it doth appear that you have repent yourselves, for that you do not alonely procure to take her from me, but also to rob me of my honour. I will dame you●●●ith and laws, or else recover my Lady and mistress, and punish this fool in spite of your power: Come on thou unfortunate youth and receive the order of knighthood, that thou dost ask of me, come and receive it by the hands of him which will quickly take it away from thee again & also thy life. Give it me once said the Tinacrian, and afterward come what shall, and therewith he came unto him without any fear, and this brave knight did give him the order of knighthood, of him so much desired, and when that he had given it unto him, without saying ever a word he laid hand on his sword, at such time as the Tinacrian was well advised of the harm coming, & being both with their swords aloft, they made their encounter with a devilish fury, the black knight did strike the russet knight first, and struck him so furious a blow that he made him to decline his head to his breast, and forced him to recoil backwards two or three steps, so that he lost the blow he had ready to discharge upon him, but he came quickly again to himself, and lifting up his sword he struck the Pagan so mighty a blow upon his helm, that he made all the teeth in his head to chatter, the knight with the black armour did very much marvel at that mighty blow, but yet it caused not in him any trouble, but rather with great lightness he settled himself upright again, so then betwixt them began a marvelous terririble and well fought battle, that whosoever did behold it, it caused them to have great fear, the blows were so terrible that were between them, & the great noise which they made, procuring either of them to hurt his▪ enemy with as much policy and strength as might be, but yet for all that, it did pro●it little to any of them both, for that either of them had to do with a strong adversary. The ire of the black knight was such, that out of his Beaver proceeded great quantity of thick smoke, to see that one alone young knight did so strongly defend himself, and with so great fury offend his enemy, this new knight had no less wrath to see that the first with whom he made his trial should entreat him so evil, judging himself to be weak and of little valour, not knowing that he dealt with the flower of all knighthood amongst the Pagans, and with like fury he thickened his blows, in such sort, that many times he was amazed. In this sort they endured all that day, and when they saw that the dark and tenebrous night came upon them, they did procure with more courage and strength for to finish their battle. This strong and stout knight with the black armour, puffing and blowing like a bull, lifting up his sword with both his hands, did discharge it upon the new knight, who did receive that blow upon his shield, and cutting it in two parts, the sword descended upon his helm with so great fury, that he made him to bow his knees to the ground, and was feign to help himself with his left hand because he should not fall, when the black knight saw him in that order he would have laid hold on his helm for to have pulled it off from his head, but this new warrior was not so far from himself, but that he put for his defence the point of his sword unto his breast, with so great strength, that he made him to recoil back, and for lack of sight he put his foot under the end of an Oar, that without any remedy to save himself he fell upon his back, but with great lightness he arose again, in which space the new knight had time to settle himself, and to take his sword in both his hands and struck him such a blow, that being constrained by the great force thereof to retire back two steps, he had fallen down if he had not laid hold upon one of the banks of the Galley, by the which he did sustain himself, & therewith this new knight entered in with him, and with his hands he struck him on the breast, that perforce be made him to fall down, and in the fall of the Moor he reached forth his arm and laid hold upon his shirt of mail, and caused him by force to fall down with him, and when he saw himself in that sort, he threw his shield from him, and very strongly he threw his arms over his neck and held him fast, here the new knight was constrained to do the like, so that between them began a mighty and terrible wrestling, tumbling and wallowing up and down the galley, breaking their banks and oars, that it was strange to see. They endured long in this contention without knowing any advantage either of the one part or of the other, in such sort, that for very weariness they were constrained to leave the wrestling, & arose up again, & betook themselves again unto their swords, at that time the night was very dark, but the black knight with a loud voice called for lights, which presently we● brought them by the mariners, in the mean time these knights did somewhat breath themselves, although it was not much▪ So when the lights were brought, they returned unto their late contention with new force and strength: Oh Gods of little valour, said the Pagan, I cannot believe to the contrary but that this is Mars that doth contend in battle with me, & for the great envy that he hath at me, he goeth about to dishonour me. Let it be who it may be of all you, for that I will hear give you to understand that you have brought up one that will make you know that he is of more force & strength then all you together, and with these thoughts he thickened his blows with great desperateness, & although 〈◊〉 this last assault they were more than two hours in their battle, yet neither of them did faint, but with new force both together they lift up their swords, & discharged them together the one upon the others helm with so great strength, that both of them together fell down upon the hatches of the galley without any remembrance, & those which did look upon them did believe verily that they were both dead, by reason of the great abundance of blood which came forth of the beavers of their helms, but quickly it was perceived that theridamas was life in them, than was there an agreement made betwixt the mariners of the galley & the bark, that they should take Poliphebo into his Bark, and either of them to prosecute his journey, & not to tarry till such time as they came to themselves, suspecting that the contention would not be ended without the death of one of them, which would be great pity. So strait way they put their device in ure, Macedonio with the help of the mariners got his Lord into their bark, & they of the galley strait way began to follow their voyage, striking the water with their long oars with great violence, & so either of them departed and followed his voyage.   

¶ How the worthy Tinacrian did prosecute his voyage, and chanced whereas he found the Queen of Mauritania evil entreated of a giant, and of the battle he had with him. Chap. 24.  
IN the order as you have heard they carried the new knight without any remembrance, and when he came unto himself and found himself in the order, with a loud voice he said: Oh Gods, is it possible to be true that I am overcome in the first encounter and assault of my knighthood, & that you have consented thereunto, here I do curse the day in which I began to honour you, seeing that my sacrifices doth so little profit me. Then Macedonio did 〈◊〉 of his sayings and said: My Lord, thou wert not overcome, neither had thy contrary so much power, for that he was rather more worse entreated than you, in such sort, that I know not whether he be alive or dead. This new knight turned his head, & looked on him with so much wrath & anger, that Macedonio durst not look him in the face, and with great ire he said: Oh traitor, was it so, & why didst thou consent to bring me from thence, till such time as fortune had been favourable unto me: Oh vile creature, thou dost not show thyself to be the son of noble parents, in doing so base a deed, I know not how I have patience, that I throw thee not into the sea, for this great dishonour which thou hast done unto me: Ah heavy knight of Tinacria & of little valour, I know not how thou canst name thyself to be the son of the most mightiest knight in the world, for that thou hast made so ill a proof of thyself in thy first assault: Oh Gods how have you suffered so villainous an act, it is not possible but the knight with whom I had combat is of more power than all you, descend into this bark & I will make you to know the same, here I do deny all your powers, & I do determine to honour the God my father doth, who will not reward me so ill as you do, and I do acknowledge and confess him to be the true God, and you all full of mockings, liberal in promising, and slow in giving, from this day forwards be assured that I will not ask you of any thing, neither will I accept any thing from your vile hands. These and such like words said this new knight, & was in such anger, that neither Page nor Mariners durst speak unto him, but to give him contentment they rowed a pace towards the bark whereas that dolorous woman went. So in this ●ort they travailed all the rest of the night that remained, till such time as the day began to be clear, and strait way they descried land, to which place with great hast they rowed, till such time as the bark was a ground, so this angry young knight presently leapt a shore, & Masedonio carried his helm, but he took neither spear nor shield with him, the Mariners folfowed him & carried such victuals as they had, & they found no used way, but one narrow path, the which they kept, and it brought them unto a mighty great & deep river, whereas he sat down & did refresh himself, & washed his hands & face, & called for to eat of that which they had brought, & when he had eaten, without any more tarrying he begun to travail alongst the river side: he had not travailed long when that they met with a poor country man, with a great hatchet in his hand, he was going to cut fire wood from those high & mighty trees: of whom they asked what country & land it was, & he told them that it was the land of Almania, but yet sir knight thou must pardon me, for that I do request thee to return again & proceed no farther this way if thou dost esteem thy life, for in going on this way there is nothing to be had but death, for that the Lord of this river is a furious giant, & is called Marmoraton, & the rivers name is Ospriz, this giant is the most furious in all the world, & is of such might that our Emperor doth fear him, he hath also two sons who are no less furious than he is, although they are now very sad for certain news which were brought them, how that a brother of his who was Lord of an Island in Spain called Corsa, was destroyed, and all his people slain by sword, & none left alive by force of cruel war: and in part of revengement of all this harm done, no longer than yesterday, he brought hither a Lady prisoner, and they say that she was the occasion of the death of them all as I have told you, and strait way when he came a shore, with a devilish cruelty, he did all to bewhip and beat her, that it was very pitiful to behold, swearing that every day he would so torment her, till such time as her life and body did make their separation, and he hath all his Castle compassed round about, with mighty strong and armed Knights, and with them his two sons, who doth keep watch and ward for to defend the Castle: for that they say, that the King of Mauritania doth follow and pursue them in a galley, for to clear and set at liberty this Lady. This new Knight was very attentive unto the words which the countryman told him, and although he spoke in the Tuscan tongue, yet he did understand him, for that he was brought up to understand and speak all languages, and thought verily, that he with whom he had battle in the galley, was the King of Mruritania, and thinking thereon, it caused him to be more furious in his heart, for that as you have heard, he had the experience of his force and strength, and thought by him he was overcome, and without saying any word, he followed on his way, and did determine, that if fortune did so favour him to rescue and set at liberty this Lady, not for to let her pass, till such time, as the King did come in her demand, (and if it were he with whom he had the battle) he would not deliver her but with mortal battle. So travailing with this thought, the night came on, & it was so dark, that he was constrained to se●ke some place to take his rest, and laying himself down under a mighty Pine tree, he passed that night, speaking a thousand blasphemies against the Gods.  
Artemidoro declaring the acts and deeds of this Knight, saith, that he was the most furious in all the world, and a very friend to aid and secure all those, that could do little for themselves: and if he chanced at any time to begin an enterprise that he could not well compass, with double force he would prosecute it. In such sort, that many times he made resistance against enchantments, for that he had more strength and force, than ever Knight or Giant had, at any time before, and did surmount very much his brethren and Cousins. He made no reckoning of love in his youth, by which he was judged to be the emperors son, as in the third part of this book shall be told you. So when the morning was come, this young Mars was not slothful, but arose up and followed his journey, and his Page followed him with his helm: he had not travailed scarce half a mile, when that he heard a pitiful lamentation of a woman, who by reason of her great weeping, her voice was very hoarse. So he stayed to hear from whence that lamentable noise should come, and went towards that place whereas it was, and saw a far off a high pillar of stone, out of the which, there came forth a spout of very fair and clear water, and thereat was bound a woman all naked, her back fastened to the pillar, and her arms backward embracing the pillar, and there her hands fast bound. Her skin was so fair and white, that if it had not been that he heard her lamentation, he would have judged her to have been an image made artificially of Alabaster joined unto the pillar. This warlike young Knight laced on his helm, and came unto the place whereas she was: and when he saw her, he thought verily that it was the Queen of Mauritania of whom the country man told him, and by reason of the coldness of the dark night, and with her great lamentation and weepings, she was so full of sorrow and affliction, that she could scarce speak. Likewise the knights heart so yearned at the sight of that unhappy Lady, that almost he could not look on her for weeping: but with a sorrowful sigh he said. O cruel hands, is it possible, that there should remain in you so much mischief, that whereas there is ●o great beauty and fairness, you should use such baseness and villainy, she doth more deserve to be beloved and served, then to be in this sort so evil entreated.  
This Knight did very much, and with great sorrow behold her white skin and back, all to be spotted with her red blood. And taking a cloak from one of the mariners, he threw it upon her, for to cover her body, and took her in his arms and commanded Macedonio for to unlose her. This unhappy Lady never felt nor knew what was done unto her, till such time as she was unbound out of those bands, and in the Knight's arms: and giving a terrible sigh, she thought that she had been in the arms of that furious Giant, saying. Oh Brufaldoro my Lord and husband. The Knight hearing those words, was fully certified, that it was he with whom he had had battle: and so it was true as hath been told you. This new Knight would have answered her, but he was disturbed by hearing of a great noise of a horse, which seemed to be in the wood amongst the trees, and for to see what it should be, he left the Lady lying along upon the ground, in the keeping of his Page and the mariners, and went towards that place, whereas he heard that rushing noise, and saw that it was a mighty great & monstrous Giant mounted upon a great beast, the which was Marmoraton, who returned to see if the Lady were alive, for to torment her a new. And when he came unto the pillar, and saw not the Lady, with an ireful look he cast his eyes, looking about on every side, and at last he saw the Knight, who was coming towards him with a reasonable and quiet pace, and how that the Lady was untied, making her sorrowful complaint. And seeing them in this order, with great fury upon his terrible beast he came towards them, and when he was nigh them, he stayed and did behold the great proportion and gentle disposition of the Knight, hnd asked him saying. Art thou by fortune the King of Mauritania that traitorously hath slain in the field my brother and his children. I am not he that thou dost ask for said the Tinacrian, but rather I do give thee to understand, that he is the Knight that I d●e most hate, and I am a knight that at the sorrowful complaint of this Lady am come hither, and seeing her to be a very fair woman, and without any desert to be thus so evil entreated, it moveth me to put my person in adventure against them, that will seem farther to misuse her. In the mean time whiles the Knight was saying these words, the Giant was beholding him very precisely, and knit his brows with the great anger he received to hear these words, and with great fury he spurred his monstrous beast, that he made him give so mighty a leap, that he reached unto the place whereas the knight was, and it lacked little, that he had not fallen upon this new knight, who with great lightness did apart himself from him, and drew out his sword, and would have struck him: but the beast passed by with so great fury that he could not reach him. The Giant strait way returned his great beast, & with his broad ●auchon in his hand he came against the Prince, and would have stroke at him. This invincible Tinacrian did abide his coming, and at the discharging of the Giants blow, he stepped on the one side towards his left hand, and struck an overthwart blow with so great strength upon his knee, that by reason his armour was not very good, he cut it a sunder, so that leg and all fell down to the ground, and the monstrous Giant fell on the other side likewise to the earth, and with great roaring began to blaspheme against the heavens for this his sudden mishap. There was a man that came with the Giant, who when he saw all that had passed, with great fear returned the way from whence he came. The Prince when he saw that with so great ease he was clear of the Giant, with a loud voice he said. Oh God whom the Christians do worship, I do give thee thanks, and I do acknowledge that all this my good success doth proceed from thee, and here I do promise and vow, that once coming unto my father, to accomplish and perform all that I am bound to do, for to be a true Christian. The great beast whereon the Giant lately road, did very well please and gave great contentment unto the Knight, for that he was of a big stature, and of a very good hair, because the half part forwards was was of the colour of a Wolf, and the other half was all black, saving that here and there it was spotted with little white spots. His feet were cloven, so that he needed not at any time to be shod, his neck was somewhat long, and a little head, with great cares hanging down like a hound, his pace was with great majesty, and he doubled his neck that his mouth touched his breast, there came forth of his mouth two great tusks, and he did exceed all beasts in the world in lightness, and did run with a very good grace. The young knight received so great delight in him, that he did determine to take and keep him for himself, & not to use any other horse so long as this beast would endure, and without the help of stirrup or any other thing he leapt into the saddle, and commanded his Page and the Mariners, that in the thickest of the forest they should abide his coming, and to have great care of that Lady, and not to remove from thence till such time as they did hear the sound of his horn, and when he had advertised them what they should do, he took the narrow path by which the Giant came, in the which he had not travailed long, when that upon a sudden (not knowing what it should be) there came a damsel and put herself before him, who brought unto him a shield very rich, in the which was painted a tree, the one half was of silver and had a branch broken which hung down, out of the which ran streams of red blood, and the other ha●●e was of gold, and by it a knight who did contend to break one of the branches, and on the shield were certain letters which said: Contention oft times doth overcome fortune. Then the damsel said: Poliphebo, they which do wish and desire all good unto thee, doth send thee this shield with the device which thou dost see, & understand, that thou hast thereof great need, & I desire thee to note well ●he device which it hath, for that in the time as the brave bastard Lion with his surmounted contention shall overcome all enchantments, in tearing the golden branch, although it is not ordained for him. The son of Garrofilea shall lose all his liberty. And in saying these words she put the shield about his neck, and without any more tarrying▪ she vanished away, without being any more seek, at the which this new knight was very much amazed and troubled, & considering the devise which the shield had, he did imagine to what end it should apply, and likewise of the words which the damosel had said. And being troubled with these thoughts and such like, he prosecuted his way: and when he came forth of that narrow and strait way, he came into a great plain, in the which he saw a Castle, situated upon a rock, and a mile from that place there was another Castle, which seemed to be very strong. And in the Castle that was in the plain, there was a great noise, and straight way there issued out a company of Knights, and amongst them a valiant Giant, who with great pride came towards the Knight, and when they came nigh, and saw that he was mounted upon the giants beast, with great anger and fury they assaulted him, & they were to the number of twenty Knights. This courageous young Knight was nothing troubled to see them, but rather did abide their coming with his sword in his hand, and with as much courage, as though he had had as many more in his company to help him. And when they had made their encounter upon him, yet he remained as firm in the saddle, as a strong and hard Rock: but yet at their passing by, he struck one of them such a blow upon the shoulder, that cutting it in two pieces, he overthrew him to the ground. At that time approached the Giant, who by reason of his deformity in bigness, his horse could not travail so fast as the others did. He brought in his hand a strong spear, wherewith he made his encounter against the young Knight, that he made him to lean on the one side in the saddle: but with a trice he settled himself again, and throwing his shield at his back, he took his sword strongly in both his hands, & struck his beast with the spurs, who with a light leap was with his enemy, and discharged his blow upon the giants shield with so great fury, that he cut it in two pieces, and it descended from thence upon his hard and steely helm with so great strength, that he made him to fall upon his Horse neck without any remembrance, and returned with his sword, thinking to give him the second blow, which by no means he could, for that the Knights did so assault him on every side: but it did little profit them all that ever they did or could do, for returning against them with his light beast, he entreated them in such sort, that when the astonished Giant came unto himself, there were fifteen of his Knights overthrown to the ground. Oh how angry and wrathful was this Giant when he saw so great slaughter, who with a furious rage drew out his falchion, & with both his hands he struck him such a blow upon his fine and hard helm, that he did deprive him of his understanding. His furious beast being scared with that terrible blow, began to run about the field, in such sort, that if the knight had not quickly come to himself, he had carried him into the Castle: but remembering himself, he rained the bridle of the beast, and came against his enemy with such fury, and with his sword all aloft, he struck him such a blow upon his helm, that cleaving it in pieces with the head down to the shoulders, he fell down dead to the ground. The rest of the Knights which remained, when they saw that terrible blow would have run away: but suddenly they saw come forth out of the other Castle, as many more knights, as came at the first, and with the like pride and fury as the others did, they assaulted Poliphebo, who seeing that new assault, and that there came another Giant in their company, he made himself ready for his defence, and procured to do his best to deliver himself from them, and taking a spear which was one of the dead knights, and being shrouded under his shield, he went forth to mtéee the Giant, who when he saw him come, addressed himself. They made their encounter very strongly upon their shields, and the Giant did no more but break his spear in small pieces, but he never moved the Tinacrian in his saddle, who made his encounter so strongly, and struck him with so great fury upon his shield, that by reason of the great sharpness of his spear it rested not there, but piercing it through and also his armour, it appeared behind him at his back, in such sort, that he overthrew him dead to the ground.  
Oh marvelous and valiant deeds done by one Knight, that in one day, by three blows, he overthrew and slew three great and strong Giants. The knights that came forth of the Castle, when they saw that mighty deed, with great shouts and shrieks they compassed him round about, striking upon him many a furious blow, and although they thought that of the last battle he remained very weary, they were greatly deceived, for that he began with greater wrath to strike and wound them then at the first. In such sort he behaved himself amongst them, overthrowing and wounding on every side, that in short time they left him at his liberty, & the like he would have done, if there had been as many more before him, his anger and fury was such, the rest which remained, being about the number of six knights, put themselves unto flight. The Tinacrian would not follow them, neither made he any reckoning of them, but entered into the Castle, and did alight from his great beast, and went into a broad Court, whereas were all the Giants household servants, and when they saw him, they began to run away, and to hide themselves, as from their sudden death. The knight did call them again, and bade them be in quiet, and not to fear, for that he would not hurt them, if they would show him where the prisoners were in the castle. Then one of them said: Prisoners there are, but what shall it profit to show thee the place, when thou canst not deliver them, for that there be such keepers to keep them. Let it be what it will be said the Knight, for once thou shalt show me where they are. As for their keepers they have but small defence, neither have you any occasion to fear, for that this day they have made account and paid all the evils & harms that they have done. The man when he heard this, without any replying took a bundle of keys, and came out of the kitchen into the Court, whereas he opened a door, and entered therein, they descended down a pair of stairs into a deep dungeon, whereas they heard a very sorrowful and lamentable noise. The knight spoke with a loud voice & said. Who is it that lieth so lamenting within this dark dungeon. To whom was answered with a very dolorous voice: Here lieth the most grievous and afflicted knight that may be found in all the world, & in his company other Knights, brought unto this place by forcible violence, why I do not know, for that we have not seen one another, by reason of the great and terrible darkness that is here. Well said the Prince, come forth, if hereafter you can defend and keep yourselves from other prisons, so it is, for of this, from this day forwards you are clear: and in saying these words, he ascended up the stairs, and after him the man which opened the door. Then the prisoners in great haste came up the stairs, and coming forth whereas the Knight was, they all fell down on their knees, giving thanks unto God for that he had given them liberty: and afterward they kissed the Knight's hands, desiring God to increase his powers and honour, who with a very good grace gave them such answer, that they were all very well content. Amongst them there was one prisoner of a very goodly disposition and fair face, and of a double stature, more than the others, who with a severe countenance and well placed words, did surrender unto the Knight great thanks for that good turn which he received at his hands: he spoke to him in the Tuscan tongue. It seemed unto the Prince that he should be a person of estimation, and asked of him his name, and what countryman he was? To whom the prisoner said: My name (sir knight) is Florisarte, son unto the Duke of Baviera, brother unto the good Emperor Ladislao of Almania, who was taken prisoner villainously by these evil Giants. The Tinacrian received great contentment, for that he had done so great service unto so mighty a Knight and Lord, and with a merry countenance he took him by the hand, & went up a pair of stairs, & after him went all those that were delivered out of prison, which were to the number of forty knights, & of squires, pages & other servants, to the number of an hundred. So when they were above in a great hall, the knight commanded that there should be brought them somewhat to eat, for that they had great need thereof. This new knight was walking up and down with Florisarte of Baviera in that hall, and went unto a window which opened towards that place whereas he left his company, and blewe his horn with so great strength that they heard it, and knew the sound: and being thereof very glad and joyful, they arose up, and went unto the Castle. In the way▪ whereas they went, they saw the Knights that were slain and the Giants, and were very much amazed at so great slaughter, and went forwards, till they came unto the Castle, whereas they found the prince, who was very glad and rejoiced much of that which was done, and commanded strait way that the Lady should be very well looked unto, and healed of her harm received.   

¶ How Poliphebo did prosecute his journey for to go into Grecia, & how in the way he met by adventure with certain Clowns forcing of a Lady, and would have slain her, and of all that happened of that Lady. Cap. 25.  
THe space of three days was Poliphebo in the Castle of the giant, in which time he did procure all kind of remedies that was possible, to bring the Queen again unto her health, & to be healed of her evil. So with the great care be had, and the good diligence which was used, she recovered her health, & receiving the castle for his own, he put good order therein for their government. The fourth day he determined to departed, & to prosecute his journey, & to carry in his company the queen Espinela, & the gentle knight Florisarte. His pretence was, to pass through all Almania & Hungaria, till he came into Grecia, for to see his father, & make himself known unto him, & did procure to do such deeds, that with great honour he might name himself to be son unto so noble a father. The occasion why he did carry the queen Espinela with him, was, for that he understood, that the king of Mauritania would come to seek her: & to perform his promise, not to deliver her without mortal battle, he would not lose her company. And so leaving the castle in the keeping of a knight of Almain, & in the name of the Emperor Ladislao, he took his journey towards Espira, whereas at that time the Emperor kept his parliament, & commanded the mariners to return unto their bark, & he in company with the Queen & Florisarte, & his Page Macedonio took their journey as aforesaid. When the queen saw the knight's determination, & understood his pretence, with sorrowful tears she called for her king: but all her sorrows & grief did little avail, for that the knight would not by any means change his pretence: & by reason of the great sorrow, grief & heavy cheer of the queen, it was the occasion that all travailing & venturous knights, which saw her, did procure battle with the new knight, for to set her at liberty. So they travailed viii. days, wherein they passed the Alps, & went through all the dukedom of Baviera, by Minique & Aspruch, & being overtaken by the night, they were constrained to take their rest, by a very fair & clear fountain, whereas they did alight & refresh themselves, likewise they did eat of such meat as they had. And when they had satisfied themselves, every one prepared himself to take his rest, & being weary of their journey, they fell all a sleep, saving only Poliphebo, who was awake, having in remembrance such things, as ministered him most care: & being in this thought, he heard a certain lamentation, which seemed to be a far off, & the better to hear what it was, he arose up on his feet, & being very attentive, he plainly heard & perceived that it was a woman, & as a knight that always did procure to help & succour those which could do little, he laced on his helm, & threw his shield at his neck, & with a reasonable pace he went towards the place whereas he heard the lamentation, & the more he went, the plainer he heard the lamentation, he had not gone far when that he saw two clowns had bound a Lady all naked unto a tree, & one of them had a sharp knife in his hand ready to murder her. The prince seeing them, with a loud voice said. Oh vile villains, hold your hands, for if you do not, it shall cost you your lives. And with these words, he lay●● hand on his sword, and with great lightness he ran where those villains were, these miserable clowns with two torches which they had in their hands did abide his coming, & stroke with them upon his hard shield each of them a blow, but this knight with other two blows did overthrow them dead to the ground, and went unto the Gentlewoman, & cut the cords wherewith she was bound, & did help to cover her with her own clothes. This heavy Gentlewoman though she did see herself free from the villains & at liberty, yet did she not let to persever in her sorrowful lamentation, & said: Ah knight, the defender of my corporal death, whereby living I do pass a thousand deaths, I say that my sorrow and evil was such, that with more reason I may bewail the life which thou hast given me, than the death which I am delivered from. And in saying these words she all to tore & rend her golden hair which she had. This pitiful knight did procure to disturb her from doing to herself such violence, in offering unto her all his power and strength for to remedy her evil, if it were possible to be remedied. This sorrowful lady said: If thou wert such a knight, that with they great valour and strength couldst set at liberty my heart from sorrow, as thou hast delivered my body from death, I would declare unto thee the greatest mishap that ever happened unto woman, & thereby thou shouldest understand whether I have reason rather to desire the death, then to live, therefore gentle knight, I do desire thee to sit down and to hearken unto me with attentive ear, for that my justice will move and constrain thee to take my defence as thine own, & so they sat down under a great Pine tree which was hard by whereas she was bound, and with great abundance of tears she said.  
After the loss of the Princess Gravalesa, they took out of the monastery of Basilea, the Princess Dondelaria, and amongst all them that were chosen to be at her service & commandment, I was taken for one, for that I was daughter unto parents, of whom they made great reckoning, and again, for that I was very diligent in my service, & my father is the Earl of Bura, so it fell out (that it had been better to the contrary) There came to the court the daughter of the Earl of Tirol, who was of a marvelous and extreme beauty, who was at her entry accompanied with many worthy Knights, for that all did respect the Earl very much, because he was a very noble man. At the great fame and report of this daughter of the Earl of Tirol, for that she was of so excellent beauty, came many young Knights out of divers countries to see her, amongst whom came two brethren, jolly young gentlemen, and sons unto the Earl of Olanda, and a cousin of theirs, a valiant Knight, son unto the Duke of Brabant. There was no great friendship betwixt these two brethren as it appeared, because they were of different condition the one from the other, & likewise great difference in their persons: for that the eldest had a very fierce countenance, and ill favoured, and of great pride: and the youngest of a severe and gentle countenance, and very humble of person, and was well beloved of all them in the Court. Both of them set their eyes upon Clarentina, daughter unto the Earl of Tirol, and for a farther evil, that false Cupid would not, but that she should likewise set her eyes on one of them, bringing her heart into captivity with the love of Pinorante, the youngest of the two brethren. Firidefonte who was the eldest having understanding thereof, (being governed by his great pride) and seeing the small account that Clarentina made of him, the devil strait ways put into his head, (with the great ieelousie that he had) for to kill his brother: but many days after, he went marvelously troubled, with great alterations in his thought, about the doing of the wicked deed, sometimes overcome by brotherly love to leave that enterprise, and at other times counseled by his own choler to the contrary. And in this sort he continued a long time, till in the end, Clarentina did utter more at large her good will unto his brother, and upon a time he saw them talking together, which was the occasion to confirm in him that damnable intent. Wherefore upon a night as Pinorante was walking on the back side of the Court, his evil brother did kill him with great cruelty, & leaving him upon the ground, he returned unto his lodging, and it was never known, who was the murderer of him, and for that the fraternal blood could not let but to wound very much his heart, considering the evil fact which he had done, he strait way repent himself thereof, which was afterward a farther evil, and forsomuch as the devil was lodged in his heart, this his evil pretence did not rest with the death of his brother, but gathered in his thought to do a fact far worser, and the occasion was, for that Clarentina made so great lamentation for the death of that unhappy Pinaronte, and this was the presumption that he would use, ordained by the devil, and it so fell out, that I was wounded by that false Cupid with the love of Firidefonte, not having any respect unto the ill favorednesse of his face, and being constrained by the grievousness of my wound, I gave him clearly to understand thereof, which was the occasion that he was the bolder to do that which he did, & seeing me so captive in love of him, he was in no doubt to discover unto me his whole heart, all the which he told me, being in place where boldly he might speak. And he said: Ah Clarentina my very friend, I have had great desire to have had this opportunity for to talk with thee, and to discover my whole heart. Thou hast well seen this unhappy and cruel death of my unfortunate brother, thou shalt understand that Clarentina was the occasion of his death, but and if thou wilt do that which now I will desire thee, I do here swear unto thee by the high and mighty God, that there shall none be Lady of my heart but alonely thy beauty, than I (unhappy and without all good fortune) being wholly yielded and so overcome with his love, did offer myself to do all that which his pleasure was to command me. Then this traitor with dissembling words said: I always had this good opinion in you my love, that you would accomplish my request. Well, thou shalt now understand that I do pretend to accuse Clarentina for the murder of my brother, and the better to bring to pass my desire, I will say that thou art witness thereunto, and dost know the certainty thereof. Then I thinking to obtain that which so long time I had desired, did promise him to do it, as by the proof it should plainly appear. And with this conclusion he departed from me, and went and gave his cousin Rodelando to understand of it, who is one of the strongest and valiantest knights in all this Country, and Rodelando believing that it should be true, did offer himself to be the second in the defence in helping of his cousin, and so both of them went and made their accusation before the Emperor, the Emperor commanded me to be called before him, for to declare what I did know therein, and did accomplish and perform all that I had promised. Then this faultless Lady seeing herself so falsely accused, did weep very grievously, desiring the Emperor to appoint a time that she might seek one for to make answer in her defence, and for to prove that it was all false that was laid against her. So it was agreed, that in the space of two months she should bring a knight that should defend her honour, and if so be that she could not, that then she should be condemned according unto the law, that is, to burn her quick, and in the mean time that she should be put into a tower, and there well and strongly kept, not forbidding any, whosoever he were, natural or stranger, but that he might lawfully make battle in her defence. So likewise they commanded that I should be put in another tower, that if it were so that I should be found a liar, that I should be punished with her provided death. So I when I understood it was in a great fear, and went privily unto the lodging of Firidefonte, of whom I was very well received, and feigning that he would send me into his Country, he put all things in order for my journey, and gave me these two villains whom thou hast slain to be my keepers, who brought me hither, and brought me unto the point as you found me. And as I do believe it came determined from thence, for that his evil pretence should not be discovered. Hear you may understand sir knight, wherefore I said that it had been better to have let me been slain then to live with so great grief. And now that I have told you all the matter, and the truth, here I do desire you, that if there be in you any bounty, (as it doth appear and show by your presence) that thou wilt take upon thy own charge this battle and defence, for that I would (seeing that I have been the occasion of all this evil and trouble happened unto this guiltless Lady, in giving false evidence) be the means whereby she might receive remedy for the same. This Tinacrian was very much amazed to hear of such an entangled and false forged matter: and for that he was one that did procure to aid and help the afflicted, he did very freely offer himself, to procure to make her defence. At this instant the dawning of the day appeared, and the Prince took the Gentlewoman, and went whereas the Knight of Bavier was, and did awake him, and gave him to understand, of all that the Gentlewoman had told him, who incontinent did offer himself to be the second in the battle for her defence. When the Queen was all in a readiness to travail on their journey and all the rest, they made great haste, and took the way which led them unto Espira, and carried the Gentlewoman with her face covered, that she might not be known. So when they came with in a mile of the City of Espira, they must needs pass a great and mighty broad river, whereas they left Candisea in a dairy house, giving great charge that she should be well looked unto, and the Queen and all the rest passed the River in a bark, and never stayed till they entered into the city, and had their helms on, and their shields at their backs. This strong and stout Tinacrian road mounted upon his temerous beast, with so great and goodly a demeanour, that all which did behold him, greatly marveled what knight it should be, of so great and comely stature, and when they saw the devise of the tree and broken branch on his shield, they strait ways know that he was the Knight that had slain the Giants, for that they had heard the news there of in the Court, which was the occasion that much people, did follow him to behold his face, if he did put off his helm, to see if they could know him. So these two knights and the Queen (with all the people that followed him) came unto the emperors palace, whereas the Prince did alight, & taking the Queen in his arms, he took her from her palfrey and lead her by the right hand, so with a very gentle & comely grace they went up into a royal hall, and Macedonio remained below and kept their horses. When they entered they found the Emperor accompanied with all his nobility, & the knight was known unto them all by the device of his shield, & therefore all people did approach to know wherefore his coming was, & greatly marveled at his big stature & gentle disposition, and they all kept silence to hear what the knight of the Branch would say, who when he was before the Emperor made a show of his high lineage from whence he did descend, in making of his dutiful reverence. The Emperor having knowledge of his person by the report which he had heard, did return his salutation in equal manner, & when the Emperor would have spoken, the valiant knight of the branch did disturb him and said.  
High & mighty Lord, the fame which I have heard of your great virtue hath encouraged me to come into thy kingdom, with intent to yield myself into your service, if that your highness be content therewith, which if you will not permit, yet at least to suffer me according to equity, to show the strength of my arm upon certain thy subjects, at the which I do desire thee not to receive any displeasure, for that thou art accounted to be very right & just, for such is the fame that is reported of thee through the world, & I understanding that th●u wilt rejoice in all that which is true, & also for that the truth might be justified, as it is reason, although the one part hath showed with witness & words his matter to be of truth yet for all that at all times they ought not to be believed, but that the contrary party must likewise be heard, for that thereby rightly may be showed and declared the equity of justice, I do not speak this for that your highness hath determined any thing without hearing of both parties, but for that it is brought unto another trial, and referred by your majesty to the trial of arms, to justify the right of either part, and named a space, in the which that faultless Gentlewoman, daughter unto the Duke of Tirol, should seek one for to defend her honour and right, being falsely accused for a murderer, partly for this thing also am I come before thy high presence, to make them understand their wicked pretence & false accusation which they have raised on her without desert, and if they be here present, let them mark what I say, and if not, let your highness command that they may be advertised hereof, for that I will make them to know that it is great falsehood and treason in that they have accused Clarentina.  
These two cousins were there present and heard very well his words, and Rodelando without any respect unto the emperor, taking his cousin Firidefonte by the hand, stepped forth with a furious countenance and said: Here thou hast before thee they whom thou dost demand for, behold us well, and let not thy youthful courage deceive thee, giving enterprise upon that, of which the sons of the Emperor Trebatio would make doubtful, therefore look what thou dost determine, and give us our answer, and that quickly. The Knight of the Branch in the mean time that Rodelando was saying these words, did very much behold and view him, and it seemed unto him that he was a Knight of great valour, but yet for all that his strong members did not dismay him, but with a grave speech and severe countenance he answered: If thou hast so much haste to know my determination, here I do say that in the accusation that thou hast put against Clarentina, thou dost lie like a false Knight, and that thy cousin like a cruel murderer doth deserve the death for killing of his own Brother, committed by his own hands, who was more worthy in all respects than he is. Then Firidefonte with great fury answered and said.  
O vile ribald, how can I suffer so great evil, to be charged with that which that naughty woman hath committed and caused to be done, if thou wert not before the Emperor it should cost th●e full dear, and out of hand thou shouldest have thy payment for this great lie, but yet I do comfort myself, for that very quickly I will be revenged on thee. I cannot declare the great anger which the knight of the Branch received, for that he turned up the white of his eyes, and all his face waxed wan and black, and trembling with very anger moving his pace he said. I do promise thee thou traitor, that I will make thee with thy own mouth confess this great treason which thou hast committed, and if it were not but that I am before so high an Emperor, here in this place without going any farther, with my fists like a vile traitor I would make thee to confess it. Here Firidefonte had no patience to hear these things spoken to his face, but like a tiger he leapt unto him and wrapped his cloak about his arm and drew out his sword, and went against the knight of the Branch. This worthy warrior thereat made no kind of moving, but did abide his coming, making an outward show of the great valour of his heart, Firidefonte did strike at him with his sword, but the knight of the Branch stepped on the one side, and made him to lose his blow, so that his sword stroke on the ground, and like unto the wind he closed with him, and struck him with his hands on the breast with so great fury and strength, that without having any power to save himself, he gave a great fall backwards to the ground, Rodelando seeing that on the best side entered to him, and did embrace him, and held him very strongly between his arms. Then this gentle knight drew out his sword, and having his arm aloft he struck a blow, the which chanced upon a young man called Polio, of Velduque, son unto the Duke of Velduque, and that cruel sword did light upon his head, and cutting it in two parts, the young man fell down dead to the ground. Now was it not requisite that the Tinacrian should remain in the arms of Rodelando, but with great strength he did rust himself, & threw him from him. At that time the whole Court was in a tumult for the death of Polio, and every one drew out his sword and did very sore assault the knight of the Branch, but he with his sword made such a slaughter amongst them, that they did very well feel and understand the valiantness of his heart, & the great noise & crying out of the Emperor, neither his imperial presence was sufficient to appease them. At this time the emperors guard came into the hall, who were commanded that with their halberds they should endeavour to part them, than the Emperor went to lay hand on Firidefonte, the beginner of all this tumult, but he putting himself in defence went forth of the hall, so likewise did Rodelando, the Emperor seeing that, laid hand on the Baviero, who with great humility did obey his Lord, he would have done that like unto Poliphebo, but he put the point of his sword before him & said: Keep your highness back, for that I am none of them that so lightly will be taken prisoner, take & put in prison thy own vassals, such as hath had little respect unto thy presence, & let not them which are not of thy kingdom pay for this thy anger. The emperor very angry said: If my vassals are in the fault, they shall have their punishment, & thou also if thou dost deserve it, therefore yield thyself to prison, if not, understand that it will be to thy cost. I know not what will fall out herein, said the Tinacrian, but which my good will neither you nor all yours shall triumph of my imprisonment, & before that this doth come to pass, I will make more than one thousand of them that do pretend to take me prisoner lose their lives. Then the Emperor with a loud voice commanded to fake him, at which words all the whole guard together pressed at him, but this valiant knight did determine that in spite of them all he would clear and set himself at liberty, there did he begin to do wonderful feats of arms, breaking and cutting a sunder those sharp Halberds, and killing and wounding that it was terrible to behold. All the people feeling and seeing the effect of his rigorous arm, did give him way and let him go till he came to the stairs, there they began to assault him a new with very much people, and amongst them some armed knights. The Knight when he saw that he could not pass in quiet, he was clean without any patience, and not fearing death but forgetting policy, he firmed himself, and throwing his shield at his back, he took his sword in both his hands, and laid about him on every side, & like unto a furious Lion he pressed amongst the people, cutting, killing and wounding, for to have way to descend the stairs. At that time was the Knight in great peril, for that those which were before him, did persecute him with the sharp points of their halberds, and likewise those which were behind him did the like: in such sort, that the Knight being on the stairs, could not turn himself at his pleasure: but yet all that ever they did, did little avail or profit them, for that with the great fury which he had, he pressed upon them that were before him, and what with killing and wounding, he forced them to give him way to descend down the stairs, where he found many people fallen down with the great hast they had to fly from him. And when he saw that he could not pass by reason of the people, he gave a great leap, & with wonderful lightness he passed over the people that were fallen, and went unto the place whereas Macedonio did abide his coming, with his great beast, & with strange lightness he leapt upon his back, and road into the great court, whereas he was assaulted of very much people, for that the Emperor at the windows cried out upon them to take him. The knight of the branch, when he found himself mounted upon his great and light beast, than he feared nothing, and pricking him with the spurs, encouraging him with a shout, he passed down the street, and never stayed, till he came unto the rivers side, and passed in the bark unto the other side, and determined not to departed from thence, till such time as he had seen an end of that which touched the justice of Clarentina, and also to recover again his Lady the queen, who with great affliction, as a woman all alone, put herself out of the press of Knights, and abode in a corner of the great Hall, to keep herself from harm. The people of the Emperor, which followed the Knight of the Branch, when they saw him pass with his great beast so swiftly, they returned back again whereas the Emperor was, whom they found very much amazed at the great prowess of this knight. The Earl of Maguntia who likewise followed the knight, at his returning again he found Macedonio, & took him and carried him before the Emperor and said: This is Page unto that devil, who to our cost and spite of our teeth is gone away. The Emperor did behold him and saw that he was of a good disposition & had a fair face, he asked of him and said: Tell me my friend, how dost thou call thy Lord, is he by fortune some devil, for that according as he hath showed himself unto us, it cannot be but that he is some infernal creature. This young Gentleman with great deliberation said: My Lord is a human creature and son unto a human man, and more mightier than your highness, for you shall understand that he is son unto the Emperor Trebatio, Emperor of Grecia, and his mother is the queen Garrofilea Queen of Tinacria, and your highness shall understand that he is a knight that will reward (and that very well) all the harm and grief which is done unto him, with whatsoever knight he be in all the world, the Lady which he brought with him is of high estate, for you shall understand that she is a great Lady and a queen. The Emperor when he heard this, he looked about for her, and saw her in a corner of the hall very sore afflicted, and commanded that she should be carried with great honour and reverence whereas the Empress was, & with great anger he returned unto Macedonio and said: I will see how far the power will, extend of this devil, for that he shall not have thee, neither his Lady, till such time as I have him in my power. All that the Emperor said was heard by a brother of Clarentinas, who was called Laurentino, that came unto the court that present day, & being very much moved, he said: Your highness doth very ill in entreating my sister so evil, is this the reward for the great service which I & my father have done for you, to procure for to destroy & kill him, who respecting our honour, doth put his person in adventure to deliver my sister from that false accusation laid against her, and the other which came in his company thou hast put in prison, and not content herewith, but dost keep in thy power from him a Lady and his Page, it should suffice thee to know who they are, and the highness of their lineage, and not in such sort to do them wrong, my Lord, moderate yourself and do justice, for that hitherto you have been a friend in doing justice and right, & do not blemish this day with thy great pride the high fame which in so many years thou hast gotten. The Emperor who was blind & overcome with anger, & very wrathful he said: Get thee hence in an evil hour unto thy lodging, for that thy sister shall neither win nor lose for thy speech. This valiant young man did answer: For that you are my Emperor & Lord you may entreat me in this order, but if that reason did now govern your breast, you would do more justice then by your outward show you do mean to do, therefore now I do say, let them take heed who is in the fault, for that with my person and goods I do determine to make my defence, and to aid and secure him, who for my sister doth put his life in adventure. And in saying these words he departed out of the great hall, leaving the Emperor full of choler and wrath, who commanded to bury the dead bodies, and Polio with great honour. His death was very sore lamented of many, for that he was well beloved of all the court. Then they gave the Emperor to understand how that the knight whom he had in prison was son unto the Duke of Baviera, for the which he received great grief, for that he was son unto one of the mightiest Lords that was in all Almain, his power was so great, that he and the power of Laurentino were able to maintain wars against the Emperor. So considering all things, the Emperor in his own person went and took the Knight out of prison, of whom he understood all that happened in the Castle of the Rock, and likewise the truth of the treason of Firidefonte, and being in this communication, they heard in the Court a great rumour, and going to see what was the occasion thereof, they saw that there was brought two dead Knights upon two horses, and had on either of them a marvelous great and cruel wound●, which was as it appeared the occasion of their deaths, whereas we will leave them, for that the fury of this Tinacrian doth compel me to declare the end of this conflict, as in the Chapter following you shall understand.   

¶ How the Tinacrian was tarrying to see if any would come forth against him, for that which was past, and how that Rodelando and his cousin made battle with him, and how he overcame them both. Chap. 26.  
Even as the furious Faunus in the mountains of Tartary, doth cover his great & brutal members with the branches of the mighty Pine trees, working policies to get his pray, for that he cannot find whereon to execute his anger, for to satisfy his capital enemy, hunger: even so & rather more furious was this Tinacrian, abiding the coming of Macedonio, or any other that peradventure might follow him, he blasphemed against the Gods & looked up unto the heavens, & said: So long as I believe in them, there will nothing prosper with me, nor in any thing will my honour increase. And being in this speech he saw coming the way which he came, two well proportioned knights, mounted upon two mighty horses, who when the came unto the water's side, in great haste they called for the bark, & looking round about them to see if they could espy their enemy, they saw him on the other side of the river, unto whom with a loud voice they called, & did defy him to mortal battle, the knight of the branch when he heard them call, he made himself ready, & entering into the bark he said: Tarry there & I will come over to see if you do seek me or not, and therewith he made great haste with the bark, & when he came nigh unto the shore he mounted upon his mighty beast, & with a light leap he was a land. Then one of those knights with an high voice said: Now sir traitor, thou shalt pay the great offence which thou didst unto me before the Emperor, for thou shalt understand that I am Rodelando, & this other is my cousin Firidefonte. When the Tinacrian herd this, without tarrying for any more words, he set hand unto his sword & said: Oh traitors, how your faults hath brought you to receive the payment for your treason at my hands, & now in place where your treasons shall not profit you, and in saying these words he struck Rodelando such a blow that he made him to fall backwards upon the horse crupper. Then Firidefonte entered in to him on the one side, & struck the Tinacrian such a blow upon the helm that it made a sound as though he had stroke upon a bell, & made him decline his head unto his breast, but quickly he settled himself again, & lift up his rigorous arm & struck him such a blow upon his shoulder, that it made him to shrink in his body with the great pain he felt: at the time Rodelando was come unto himself & settled again, very much troubled at the great valour of the knight, & throwing his shield unto the ground he struck the knight such a blow on the one side of his helm, that he made him to decline his head upon his beasts neck, who being scared with the blow, gave a great leap from them, which did not a little vantage the Tinacrian, for that Firidefonte came to discharge his blow upon him, & by reason that the beast did leap on the one side, he could not execute that blow: in which time without receiving any other blow, the prince settled himself again in his saddle, & found nigh unto him Firidefonte, who followed to strike him, to whom he gave such an overthwart blow upon his b●uer, that with the sparkles of fire which flew out thereof, he singed his brows & eye lids, & made him to fall backwards upon his horse crupper without any remembrance, & therewith Rodelando pressed unto the Tinacrian, whereas began a great & perilous battle, this Tinacrian with great lightness entered in & out with his enemies, without receiving any harm, & struck them with so great fury, that they witted not what to do, & it could not be chosen but that he must needs receive some harm, for that he dealt with two of the best knights in all Almain. In this sort they endured two hours & he had brought these two knights into great weariness, & all their bodies were covered with blood, and feeling themselves so troubled, Firidefonte hallowed with a loud voice, At which call there came forth out of a little grove ten armed knights with their spears on their rests, and made their way against the Tinacrian, who seeing them coming, was nothing afraid, but pricking his great beast with the spurs he put himself betwixt the two cousins, which was the occasion that these ten Knights could not execute there furious blows. The Tinacrian did throw his shield at his back, & took his sword fast in both his hands, and firmed himself in his stirrups, and stroke Feridefonte, such a blow upon the helm, that although it had been of a fine Diamond, he had broken it all to pieces, for the fury of his blow was such, that he clove the hea●me and head of that furious Firidefonte down to the breast, so that he fell down dead to the ground, and having done this he found himself compassed about with all the other knights, upon whom he began to strike marvelous great and furious blows, in such sort, that in a small time he brought six of them to the ground, Rodelando having opportunity, with both his hands struck him so terrible a blow, that he made him with his beaver to touch the ears of his beast, them all the rest laid upon him, but they did no more harm than if they had stroke upon an Anfield, but when the Tinacrian was come unto himself finding Rodelando by him, who without all pity laid upon him, he tu●ned his sword about his head, & struck him such a blow upon his left arm, his sword being governed by the force of his worthy hand, that he broke the steely armour, and cut flesh & bone with so great fury, that the head with the right shoulder blade was divided from the body, and he fell down dead to the ground.  
Then all the rest which remained, when they saw so great slaughter, trusting more unto the lightness of their Horses, then unto the strength of their arms, determined to fly. But the Knight of the Branch perceiving it, and having a very light beast, put himself betwixt them and their way, saying: If you will not receive the death, stay, and do that which I will tell you, and I will let you go at liberty: and they seeing that if they did it not with a good will, they should do it spite of their hearts, they did straight way consent, unto whatsoever he would command, and returning them all, he did command them to take the bodies of Feridefonte and Rodelando, and to put them upon two horses, and that from him they should carry them unto the Emperor, and tell him all that which he should say unto them. So they did accomplish his commandment, and they came unto the Court, at such time as the night began to appear.  
These were the two dead bodies which the Emperor saw brought into the Court, at such time as they had little care of any such matter: So they that brought these dead bodies, went up into the great hall, and when they were before the Emperor, they said: High and mighty Emperor, the Knight of the Branch doth send unto your highness, two furious Knights, Rodelando and Fe●●●efonte, in this sort as you do see them, desiring your ●●ghnesse to send unto him, his Lady and his Page, and likewise to clear and deliver out of prison his companion, and that fair Clarentina, for that it is very apparent that she was falsely accused, as he, and the Duke's son of Baviero, do well know, of whom your Highness may very well certify yourself. Likewise if there be any Knight in all your Court, that will stand in contention, and defend the contrary, being one, or ten, that he alone with his person will defend it. And if so be that your highness will not do this right and justice, he is determined to do unto you all the harm and damage that he may. And to conclude, in defence of this right, he doth defy thy Imperial Crown and all thy royal estate: and the better to satisfy thy mind, he will deliver unto thee Candisea, for that of her thou shalt understand all the whole truth of the matter, with condition that she receive no hurt nor harm unto her person, for that she hath repent herself of the fact done.  
The Emperor, who was very attentive, and harkened unto the Embassage sent with so great pride, was in a maze, and greatly marveled in such sort that he could not speak, but when he came unto himself, he said. Oh God, and what may this be, that there is so much power and strength in this one Knight, that within my kingdom, yea, within my palace, he doth these acts without fear, and with this ire he took Florisarte, by the hand and entered into his chamber whereas betwixt them there was very much a do, withhold and keep. So when he was well advertised who the knight and the Lady were, he was fully determined to set at liberty Clarentina, and Macedonio, and to send them unto the Knight, jointly with the Lady, & that Florisarte should bear them company, till such time as they had delivered them unto the Knight, and that they should of his part request him to remain in the Court, for that therewith he should receive great contentment: so according unto the emperors commandment Florisarte went, and in his company Laurentino, who when he saw his sister clear of so great evil was very ioyfufull. So they stayed not in any place, till such time as they came unto the passage, whereas they found that invincible knight, who when he saw them, he was right joyful and received marvelous delight, and much more when they told him that Clarentina was at her liberty: and when he heard the message of the Emperor in requesting him to remain in his Court, he surrendered unto him great thanks for the same, and sent to request him to pardon and forgive Candisea. There Florisarte and Laurentino did promise him on their parts to importunate the Emperor thereunto, and herewith they took their leave the one of the other, the Tinacrian did pass over the river, and the rest returned unto the City with the knights answer, the which 〈…〉 unto the Emperor, and when he saw that he 〈◊〉 not tarry and remain with him, he was very sorrowful. Laurentino when he saw the emperors sorrow said: High & mighty Lord, he was by us very much persuaded, who doth kiss your highness hands, and said that he could not in any wise stay longer, for that he had other great matters in charge, which needs must be accomplished: and doth most heartily request your highness, to make reckoning of him as of your own, where, and in whatsoever your highness will or shall command him, and for a recompense of the same, he doth request your highness for to pardon & forgive Candisea all her fault & offence, for that she was blinded by love, and again her fault doth deserve pardon, for that she sought remedy, against that false accusation. Likewise we do pray and desire your highness of our part to perform the same. The Emperor did strait grant unto all their request, & as the ire and wrath did lose their superiority over him, he showed himself to be very sorrowful, to have lost out of his court so valiant a Knight. Then Laurentino did importunate his sister for to ask licence of the Emperor for to return unto Tirol, the which was granted them: so they carried in their company the Baviero, and passing through Augusta, they came unto Minique, whereas they remained a time with great feasts and triumphs. And when they saw that it was time to departed, they took their way to Espruch, a City of the Earldom of Tirol: and passing over the Alps, they were taken prisoners by a mighty Giant, and twenty armed knights upon such a sudden, that they could not make any defence: but all their company were slain▪ & the rest prisoners, as the two knights. Florisarte and Laurentino, and the Lady his sister. The Giant and his company took their way through the mountains, towards the land of Esguizaros: but the third day of their captivity and imprisonment, they saw coming down by the rivers side, a knight armed with very rich armour, his stature was such, that he seemed to be a very good Knight, and in his company he had two very fair Ladies. This Knight came all ready to the battle, his shield in good order, and his spear in his hand, put upon his right thigh with a very good grace and demeanour. But before I do tell you who this Knight is, I must first show you of all that happened unto the Tinacrian, after that he departed from the Emperor.   

¶ How the Emperor Alphebo would have persuaded the Princess Tigliafa to leave that lamentable life, and how she refused to do it, and went from them, & how the two Knights departed, and of all that happened unto them in their igurney. Cap. 27.  
THis valiant Tinacrian travailed so fast over the Mountains, that in a short space he left them behind him. So likewise he did through Hungaria & Samaria, and passed through Thracia, Misia, Dardenia, and Macedonia, and came unto the principal part of all Grecia unto Constantinople. This Tinacrian chanced upon many adventures in this his journey, as recompensing of griefs, and rightening of wrongs, and setting at liberty of compulsions, as well unto knights as unto Ladies and Gentlewomen: but in especial against Giants in battle, killing and destroying. In such sort, that the fame of the Knight of the Branch was in all parts, and especially amongst the Knights of Grecia: insomuch, that they did not talk of any acts and deeds passed of Emperors and Princes, but all was of this valiant Tinacrian. Likewise the fame of the Purple Knight was there amongst them, which was no less, then that of the Tinacrian. And if it be so, that I do tell you no more of this good Tinacrian, it is not for the Artemidoro hath not declared it: but considering the great antiquity of the time, it was because he that did write this, could not read it, therefore he doth declare that which he could read. This History saith, that when this Tinacrian came within a mile of Constantinople, the night came upon them, & he did determine to pass it away in a thick Orchard that was there nigh the high way, and hanged his shield upon the bough of a tree: and by reason of the weariness of his journey, he slept as one that was without all care. The Lady put herself farther into the orchard, and in this sort, they passed away the night, till the morning came. At which time there chanced an adventure, which for to declare in order, I must return unto the Knight of the Sun, whereas we left him, and as you have heard, he was beholding the ceremonies of the Princes Tigliafa, which she used over the body of Zoylo, upon her knees with a sorrowful lamentation. The Knight of the Sun the better to understand what she said, pulled off his helm, and then he heard that she said as followeth.  
I do not know wherefore I do lose so much time in this sorrowful lamentation, for that it is not sufficient for to deliver me from the sorrow and grief, which continually I am afflicted with. Very heavy I am for thee my Zoylo, & being without thy company, I knew not how I live. It were better for me at once to end my sorrow, procuring with my own hands, to go and bear thee company. Oh sorrowful Lady, how dost thou live without thy well-beloved? How dost thou sustain thyself, without thy life? That day in the which thou didst lose him, that day it had happened well unto thee, if thou hadst lost thine own life: but in the end will come an end, that thou shalt go to seek him, in giving thyself cruel death.  
And with this she made an end of her lamentation, for that lifting up her eyes, she saw how the two knights were very attentive unto that which she said. And giving a terrible and grievous sigh, she arose up in great haste, and entered into the chamber whereas she came forth, and with great wrath she shut the door, making within the chamber, marvelous lamentations. The Emperor Alphebo went thither, to see if he could open the door, but he found it very fast shut, as one who had the Fortress made by the wise Lyrgandeo and so likewise did he bring that monster for to keep her, that she might be troubled of no body. The Emperor Alphebo seeing that his calling was in vain, departed and went out with his company, and mounting upon their Beasts they did prosecute their journey. So all the rest of the day almost they travailed in the same Forest, And when it was towards night, they found themselves in the broad and beaten way of Pyreo, which went unto Constantinople, of the which they were very joyful: and he did determine to go unto the Emperor his father for to kiss his hands, and so they directed their way unto Constantinople. They had not ridden long, when that they heard a great noise of hunters which followed their game, and they came towards the place where as they were, for that the night drew on: and they understood by some of the huntsmen, that the Emperor was in that hunt, who for his recreation at that time came forth, and had in his company the Empress, and the fair Olivia, who was very sorrowful for the absence of Rosicler. When the Emperor Alphebo knew that they were there, he went unto their tents, and there did not lack them which did advertise the Emperor and the Empress, who with much joy went out to receive him, as he would have entered. And when Alphebo was before her, he fell down upon his knees: then the Empress with tears of great joy did embrace him, and spoke words of maternal love. Then was he received of the fair Olivia, and of all the Princes & Ladies that were there. Likewise they received and gave great entertainment unto the King of Sardenia, for that he was well-beloved of them all, from the time that he made battle with the Giant in the Imperial Palace. And being in this pleasure the Emperor came with as much speed as he could, and there began a new the welcoming of Alphebo and the king, with so much joy and pleasure unto all, that I cannot express it. So there they passed that night till the morning, and when all things was put in order, they heard divine service, and went to breakfast, with pretence to return again unto their hunting. So when they were a taking up of the tables, they heard a great rumour of Servants, and of the running and coursing of horses. The Emperor Alphebo arose from the Table, and putting on his helm, he went out of the Tent, whereas he found in a readiness his horse, and with great lightness he mounted on him, and road towards the place from whence the noise came, and upon a sudden he saw come riding two knights, and after them followed one knight of a marvelous disposition, with Purple armour all to be spotted with stars of gold, likewise his shield was purple, upon the which was put for the device a knight who seemed to have the same device, his eyes shut by reason that certain Sun beams did strike on them, the which seemed to proceed out of the face of another knight. This Purple knight brought his sword in his hand all naked, in manner as though he would strike the other two which ran away. The Emperor Alfebo did reprehend the two knights for their running away, and put himself before them. At this instant we must leave the Emperor and his knights, for to return unto the Pastor Claridiano, whom we left with his sweet music, and his Lute in his hand, compassed round about with a company of shepherds, having her before him, whose beauty did make him to disguise himself in that base apparel, and she was set upon the green grass, whereas she might with good attention hear the delicate sweetness of this new shepherds music. Also all the rest of the shepherds had no small admiration as well thereat, as at the sweet melody he used in singing, and at sundrie-times he sent forth deep sighs, so that it made all the shepherds hearts to melt, and the very birds which did fly in the forest did stay & were astonished at his sweet music. So when he was weary of playing & singing, the amorous sight of the Pastora did grant him no farther licence, but that with a few tears he cast down his humbled eyes, and began to wring his hands. The Pastora did very much behold him, & it seemed unto her that in all her life she had not seen so much fairness in a man imagining with herself that he was some worthy knight. So strait way she took Galismena by the hand, and arose up from the place whereas she was set, and did ●ooke upon the shepherd, giving him to understand, that her sight should be unto him more at commandment, then to all the rest of the shepherds there a long the river, and with great majesty she turned her back, as though she had perfectly known whose daughter she had been, leaving all them in a great confusion at the first, who did separate themselves every one to his way, for when they saw that they could have no longer sight of that fair Pastora, ●hey all departed, and none remained but Filepensio, Coridon, and Alphesivio. This Filepensio was brought into that perplexity, (that although he had the vantage of all the campanie in bravery & stomach) yet he could not persuade himself to the contrary, but he waxed so lean and feeble, in such sort, that it appeared in his face his great affliction. Coridon which did well perceive his grief, & wring both his hands, he said: Ah fair and gentle shepherd, very apparent thou dost give to understand thy sorrow and grief, and likewise by my sonnets thou dost understand my pain. This is the Pastora that hath all these valleys full of the amorous fire of love, and look in how so much Nature hath endued her with beauty and fairness: even so great a majesty hath she accompanied with her cruelty, that there is no shepherd that can suffer it. This is the Pastora for whom the name of this flowered field is lost, whether as all Shepherds doth resort to keep and feed their sheep, but once having a sight of her, than all their care is lost, their sheep goeth a stray, and they give place unto cruel love to enter into their hearts, and there he doth satisfy his cruel appetite, in such sort, that all their delight is to paint and set forth their amorous songs, believing thereby to abate the cruelty of her stony heart, and yet there is no more show of remorse, then is in the hard rock beaten with a mighty storm of hail.  
Ah Filepensio, I see now that thou art a new lover, and yet by beholding thee thou seemest to be an old lover. This new shepherd would have made him answer, but he was cut off by a heavy noise which he heard amongst the trees, which seemed to be of the Pastora, and crying out with more vehemency, he heard that it were shrieks of the Pastora, and Galismena, which being heard by the shepherds, with great alteration they ran that way whereas the noise was, & by reason that in lightness and love this new shepherd did exceed all the rest, he was the first that came unto the place, and saw that there was a Giant, and with him a well proportioned knight, who had fast hold of the Pastora, and with the point of his sword pricked the hands of Galismena to make her let go her hold, for that she embraced the Pastora in her arms with great strength. At that time came Filepensio, and with a great noise he said.  
Thou vile knight and false traitor, I charge thee stand still, and not lay hands upon the delicate Pastora, and taking his shepherds crook in his hand, which was both knotty and hard, with the same hardiness as though he had been armed with complete armour, he pressed towards them. The knight with great anger for that which the shepherd had said, drew out his sword, pretending with one blow to return those words of the shepherd, but he that knew very well how to use himself, stepped on the one side & made him to strike his blow in vain, at which time the shepherd entered in to him by the one side, and struck him so terrible a blow with his crook upon the left shoulder, that he overthrew him to the ground without any remembrance. The Giant being greatly amazed at the power of the shepherd, believing that the knight had been slain, with a great shriek let go the Pastora, and set spurs unto his horse, thinking to overrun him, but it chanced not with him as he thought, for that the shepherd was not idle, but had recovered the sword of the overthrown knight, and having it in his hand with great discretion he did a part himself from the fury of the horse, and in passing by stroke him on the hinder legs with so great strength that he cut them both a sunder, and he fell down with his master to the ground, but in such sort, that the Giant might well clear himself from his horse without receiving any harm at all, and being on foot he presently laid hand upon his great and broad Falchion, and being void of all patience, with a devilish fury he discharged his blow at the unarmed head of Filepensio, but the shepherd did not determine with himself for to abide the coming of that unmeasurable blow, but with great lightness he put himself on the one side, so that he struck his blow in vain, and because his Pastora should see the great strength and force of his arms, he took the sword fast in his hand and firmed himself on the ground and struck the Giant on the waist on his left side, that although his armour had been made of hard and fine Diamonds, it had not been able to have made resistance against the fury of that great and mighty blow, which was in such sort, that the Giant was cut a sunder in the midst, so that the one half fell on the one side and the other on the other side. All the Shepherds that were there present were very much amazed, and likewise the Pastoras, to see how the new shepherd at two blows had overthrown two such knights as they were. The Pastora when she saw herself clear from that peril, went unto Filipensio for to embrace him, and with amorous words she said. What reward can I ●oore Pastora give, for to make satisfaction and gratify the great good which at this present you have done me: surely I have no other thing but to put myself into your hands, that with me you may do your pleasure, having a respect unto my honour. Oh happy Pastora, that hath deserved by thy beauty that such a shepherd should yield himself unto thee. Who could declare the great contentment that Filipensio received when he saw himself embraced with the thing that in all the world he best loved, and with that contentment he said.  
Oh Goddess of all beauty and fairness, wherewith can I gratify the God Pan, for the great force and strength which he gave me at this present? What sacrifice can I make, to pay this benefit and joy that I do feel, in having this my shepherds body embraced and compassed about, with these delicate arms. This great force and strength I may attribute unto you my sweet Pastora, for that by your fair sight my small strength did the more augment, which was the occasion that I deserve so great favour. Fair Pastora, I desire no other thing of you, but only to accept this which I have done in part of a recompense of the great service which this shepherd doth desire to do unto me. At this time the knight that was without remembrance was come unto himself again, & put himself on foot, the which when Filepensio saw, he ceased his communication, & ran unto him with a wrathful fury, and before that he could well settle himself, he laid hold upon his helm with so great strength, that he pulled it from his head, breaking all the buckles and lacings, and when they saw the knight without his helm, he was known of all the shepherds to be the shepherd called Tarsides. Then Alphesivio went unto Filepensio, and requested that he would mitigate his ire, the which this new shepherd did at his request, leaving to execute a terrible blow which he had all aloft for to strike him. What shall I say unto you of this Knight, when he saw himself overcome of one alone shepherd, believing that twenty Knights had not been able to have done it, but looking about to see where his companion was, and saw him dead with so terrible a blow, he could not but with great sorrow say: Oh ye Gods come down all together and do obedience unto this Pastora, for that she doth better deserve it then all you, whose beauty hath so much force, that it encouraged one shepherd to do that which a thousand knights durst not have given the enterprise off. Oh God Pan how hath thy power extended this day far beyond the power of all other Gods, that thou didst permit thus to be slain so mighty a king. Ah Cayserlinga, no Pastora, but a Goddess, that only dost not bring in subjection the shepherds, but also the high and mighty kings. Thou shalt understand Pastora, that amongst them which doth bear thee company is the Prince of Britania in disguised apparel, and I am that unhappy prince of Polismago, and he most unfortunate whom this shepherd hath slain, was the King of Silycia, against whom the Gods hath showed themselves contrary. All this he said with great tears which came from his heart, accompanied with terrible sighs. The Pastora without any show of pity she had of that Knight, arose from the place whereas she was, and with a gracious countenance she cast her eyes upon Filipensio, she went unto her sheep, and in her company the Pastora Galismena & Coridon, and Filipensio and Alphesivio remained with the sorrowful Prince, comforting him with many good persuasions, but all did profit little, for that without saying any word with a terrible sigh he arose up, and took his horse & put himself in amongst the thickest of the trees, with pretence to do that which in the next chapter shall be told you.   

¶ How the Prince of Polismago returned and took prisoner the Pastora Cayserlynga, and how that Filipensio followed after him till such time as he took her out of his power. Cap. 28.  
AFter the departure of the Prince, the three shepherds remained under those high Pine trees, till such time as the dark night came upon them, and there did determine to pass the night away with music and amorous songs, and in this conversation Filipensio received great pleasure, but they heard upon a sudden a great noise, which seemed to be of a woman, and likewise a rumour of the running of horses. These shepherds speedily arose up and went to see what it was, and they found Galismena who cried out unto the Gods, and when she saw Filipensio she said: Ah good shepherd minne and give succour, for that the Pastora is carried away prisoner by the Prince of Polismago against her will. O that I were able to signify unto you here the great anger of Filepensio, it was so much that almost he was beside himself, but when Galismena saw him in that trance, she called unto him with a loud voice and said: Ah gentle shepherd is it now time to lack courage, dost thou not see the great peril which may happen unto Cayserlinga, and all by thy detracting of time. These high words was the occasion that the shepherd came unto himself again, & like unto an arrow out of a bow he followed the way after them, till such time as he came into a broad high way, whereas he did discover the new foot steps of his horse, by which he knew that he was road that way, and with great lightness he did prosecute his journey, till such time as he came to jerosolima, and when he saw the small remedy that he had to go forwards, for that he was on foot, he determined to enter into the city, and looked back to see if any of the shepherds did follow him, and he saw none but Coridon that did follow him, and tarrying for him he said: Ah shepherd what shall we do without our delight, follow me if it be thy pleasure, and let us procure to restore again our loss, which is our Pastora. For here I do swear unto thee by the Omnipotent jupiter, never to return unto the river of Euphrates, without the fair Pastora, and without any more tarrying they entered into jerosolima, not staying till they came unto the Palace, and the first that he met with was with Fidelio, whom he commanded to go and declare unto the Princess of his coming, who did very much marvel when that Fidelio did tell her, for that he returned in so short time, and she went out of her chamber and did receive him with great joy and pleasure, saying: What quick return is this that you have made, valiant and excellent knight: Very heavy and sorrowful said the Prince, for that good Lady you shall understand, my Pastora is rob and carried away from me, and I am not able to make any defence. And being cut off by the great abundance of tears that proceeded from his dolorous heart, he could not speak a word more. And without any tarrying he deprived himself of his shepherds apparel, and put on his own garments, and with a trice he was armed, and returning unto Coridon he said: Friend Coridon this is mine accustomed wearing, for that which hitherto thou hast seen me wear, was lent me, that I might the better rejoice myself with the sight of my love, & now seeing that fortune hath frowned on me, here I swear unto thee not to take any rest till such time as I set her at liberty. The shepherd merua●●ed to see the which he did see, and said unto the knight: Ah Filipensio how dost thou pretend to leave the body without a soul, dost thou not believe that Coridon can remain alive only with his body, for that my soul is absented and gone after my Pastora. With many tears the shepherd said these words. The Prince seeing that the detracting of time was perilous, took his leave of the Princess, and found his horse in a readiness, and with great lightness he mounted upon him, so likewise his Squire and Coridon mounted upon very good horses, which the Princess commanded to be given them, & with great hast they departed out of the city, and took their journey into a broad high way, and at such time as the Sun had covered all the earth, they met with a labouring man who was coming from his accustomed work in the field, of whom thy asked news of their Pastora, but he could tell them none, but he said, that about midnight he heard certain lamentations made by a woman, but he knew not the occasion wherefore. So strait way he thought what it might be, which was the occasion that they made the more haste in travailing, with great fear lest they should lose her: So all that day they travailed, and road through Damascus, and left the river of Euphrates, this knight travailed with great sorrow for the small news that he heard of his Pastora, and the anger was very great of the Prince, for that he was so careless, in such sort, that neither Coridon nor Fidelio durst speak a word unto him, and diverse times lifting up his eyes unto heaven, with an heavy voice he said: Oh high and mighty God jupiter, how is it possible that I having done my duty unto thy Deity in all respects, and almost using a quotidian sacrifice, thou dost yet suffer thy power to be contrary unto me in this, give me now some light to hap on that way by which that traitor and disloyal knight doth carry the Goddess of all shepherds, that I may deliver her, that she be not scorned nor ill entreated of that false knight: Oh Diana, chaste Goddess, hide thy breast, and send some keeper of thine to defend her, let that revenger Camilia be her guard, and with her Bow send a sharp arrow to pass through the heart of him that doth all this evil. In this sort with great anger the Prince travailed, and the third day of his journey, somewhat early in the morning he saw upon a rock a very fair and great castle which seemed to be very strong. The Prince determined to go thither, he had not travailed long when he came into another great and broad way, in the which there was a man which came towards them, & when he drew nigh, they asked of him if he could tell any news of the Pastora. The man lift up his eyes and seeing the proportion of him that demanded the question, he said: For thy profit sir knight, for that thou seemest unto me to be of estimation, I will not tell thee thy demand. The valiant knight with more humility than his passionate heart would abide, desired him to give him to understand if he knew any thing of her. The man said: Sir knight, I know not wherefore you will know of that thing, that by seeking of remedy for her delivery, will procure thyself death. Notwithstanding seeing that with so great courtesy you do request me, I will tell you, although it were better for you not to know it, nevertheless you shall understand that yesternight a knight brought her unto yonder Castle which you see before you, & put her under so strong keeping, that there is no power able to deliver her, except the power of the high Gods. The contentment was great that the Prince received when he heard news of her, the which he so much desired, and giving great thanks unto the man, he went towards the Castle, & when he came thither, he found the draw bridge down, and the gate open, and no guard there to keep it. And without all fear, he entered in at the gate, and left Coridon and Fidelio without. And being within, he came into a very great and broad Court, the which was paved with very fair and well wrought stones, and the walls were full of windows with iron grates very fair, but he saw no body: and discovering a broad and well made pair of stairs, he alighted from his horse, and went up, and being half way up, there was a door open, and looking in thereat, he saw it was a great Hall, and that very dark, saving at the farther end thereof, there was a little lover hole, which gave a small light, where by he perceived a little door, which seemed to be at the foot of a pair of winding stairs, at which door the knight entered and went up the stairs. And when he came aloft, he entered into very great and broad chambers all furnished with beds, and it seemed to be a place for the household servants, and going from thence he entered into a very fair hall, in the which was a well wrought window, and looking out thereat he saw that it was over the gate of that ill kept Castle, by which he entered, and looking for Coridon and Fidelio, he could not see them, but believed that they had put themselves apart in some place because they would not be seen. Then this valiant knight looking down again to the gate, saw a mighty great Giant of a huge stature, who called with a great loud voice and said: Run quickly and seek out that bold knight, who without any licence entered into the Castle, and put him into the most cruelest prison in all the house. These words caused little fear in the knight, but rather going from the window he went out of the hall, where was a pair of stairs, and as he began to descend down by them, he saw coming up thereat in great haste five armed knights, and after them eight clowns, who séing him to be the knight they sought, with their sword drawn very rigorously they did assault him. This valiant warrior drew out his sword, and struck two of them two such terrible blows, that he made their heads to tumble down the stairs, and in the fall of them they chanced to hit two of the clowns, that they made them to fall backwards upon the stairs, but his fury stayed not in this, but he struck another knight such a blow, that he overthrew him dead the same way, the other two knights which remained seeing that slaughter so quickly done, they put themselves the one on the one side of the stairs, and the other on the other, and having their shields before them they laid on the Knight with great and thick blows, but by reason of the desire which the knight had to see his Pastora, and being very much troubled therewith, he determined with speed to clear himself of those two knights, and therewith he struck at each of them a mighty blow and sent them with the rest down the stairs, the like did he unto four of the clowns that were so hardy as to assault him, the other with a great noise ran down the stairs, this valiant knight hasted down the stairs after them till he came into a great court, whereas he found the Giant unarmed, with a shield on his arm, and a great broad fauchen in his hand. The knight made show unto him that he would not fight nor strike him, but put his sword up into his sheath, and said: Hold thy hand Giant and strike not, but put on thy armour for to make thy defence, for this understand of a truth, that I will not draw out my sword so long as thou art unarmed. The Giant when he saw how little he did esteem him, stood still and did behold him, and noted the great riches of his armour, and by the device of his shield he knew him to be the knight that won the prize and honour in the jousts at Nabatea, for you shall understand that all these Giants were of the kingdom of Cilicia, and the king thereof if you remember was the first with whom the knight did just, which in that triumph was overthrown, when that to revenge that quarrel came forth a brother of his, who by the strength of the arm of this knight was slain, and the Giant which he slew by the river of Euphrates was the king of Cilicia himself (the occasion of his coming and who all the rest were shall more at large appear in the process of the history.) When the Giant knew him, with a devilish countenance he said: Tell me knight, by fortune art thou that famous warrior, who in the jousts of Nabatea (as hath been told me) carried away all the honour and praise, and overthrew the king of Cilicia, to whom the Gods did show themselves enemies, and the same which likewise slew his brother, if there be any courtesy in thee I desire thee to tell me.  
This valiant Prince answered and said: I do not know to what end thou dost ask it of me, but let it be for what it shall be, thou shalt understand that I am the same that thou didst speak off. And for that thou shalt be the better certified of this, thou shalt understand that I am he, who in shepherds apparel, only with my shepherds crook, at one blow brought that traitor the Prince of Polismago to the ground without remembrance, and likewise with another blow with the sword of the said Prince, I slew the King of Cilicia: and am the same who will do the like with thee, if thou dost not deliver unto me that fair Pastora, who was brought hither by force, by that naughty Prince of Polismago. The Giant was very sorrowful for that which he heard, and showed by his countenance to be very wrathful. At that time there descended down the stairs another Giant, who with a furious voice said unto the first Giant: Brother put thyself apart on the one side, and let me take revengement of this vile Knight, that is before thee: & without speaking any more words, he lift up his great and heavy falchion, and struck a mighty blow at the Knight, but this politic Knight stepped with great lightness on the one side, which was the occasion that his blow fell down upon the pavement in vain: this terrible blow was no sooner down, when the Knight closed with him, and struck him with his sword so mighty a blow upon the right arm, that he cut it clean a sunder, and it fell down to the ground, sword and al. The Giant when he saw himself so wounded, gave a terrible shriek, and threw his shield from him, and would have taken the sword in his other hand: but the Prince would not suffer it, but struck him another blow on the same arm, and even as he did by the other, he cut it a sunder by the elbow: so that he was lame of both his arms. Yet for all this, the giant did not lose his fury, but roaring like a Lion, he opened the stumps of his arms which did remain, thinking with them to embrace the Knight, and by his great force to overthrow him. As he he laboured to enter in, the Knight put the point of his sword before him, in such sort, that what with the strength and fury of the Giant, and the force that he put thereunto, the sword passed through his body, that he fell down dead to the ground.  
At this time, there descended down the stairs in great haste a Knight of a mighty proportion, whom Claridiano knew to be the Prince of Polismago. This Greek Knight received great delight at the sight of him. Then the Prince of Polismago said: Thou perverse dog, come and take revengeme, for the grief and wrong which thou dost publish here to have received: for I am the Prince whom thou dost seek for: and in saying these words, he did assault him with terrible blows. Then Claridiano did return unto him the like, but not in so terrible a sort as he might, for the great compassion that he had of him, considering that the pangs of love cause a man to do that sometimes, which afterward he doth repent himself off. So here betwixt them began a mighty and well fought battle, the one striking the other, on all parts, great and terrible blows. In this sort they endured a while without knowing any advavauntage betwixt them, the occasion was, for that the Greek would not use the rigour of all his strength. And being in this controversy, the Greek lift up his eyes, and saw at a window the fair Pastora, who was beholding them in their battle: at which sight he received so great pleasure and delight, that the strength of his arms did fail him, and he had no more power to lift them up. When the Pagan saw that, he did assault him with more courage: the Greek had no power, but only to bear off the blows, and recoiled till such time as he came right under the window: which made the Pagan to think that he was overcome, and that he had got the victory. At that time the other Giant was very well armed, & went unto the Pastora, and took her by the hair of the head, and pulled her from the window, and said: Apart thyself from that place, thou which art the cause of all this evil, for that thou shalt not content thyself in seeing him, who doth procure thy liberty, although it be impossible: and I do swear unto thee by my Gods, that the great damage which thy niceness hath caused, thy head shall pay for. Oh how wrathful this Greek was, when he saw the Giant entreat her so evil, for a giving a terrible shriek he lift up his right arm with his sword, and stroke at the Pagan so mighty a blow upon his helm (so that if it had not been enchanted) he had cut it in two pieces, and put the head in great peril, but yet he escaped not but he sell down to the ground without any remembrance, and there ran out of his mouth great abundance of blood. When Claridiano saw him in this plight, he made no more reckoning of him, but with a furious hast he went to go up the stairs, at such time as the Giant came down with great violence, but when the son of Gran Alfebo saw him he returned and did abide his coming in the court, and said: Make an end thou great beast, and descend down that I may give thee thy payment for thy boldness which thou hast used against the goddess of Pastoras. The Giant with the great fury which he had understood not what the knight had said, and therefore he made him no answer, and if that he would have done it, yet his great wrath would not consent unto it, but with his Falchion all aloft he went towards the Greek, assalting him with mortal battle. The like did this strong knight, making betwixt them a terrible battle, and striking the one the other where they thought to do most hurt. Who had then seen the great lightness of the Greek in bestirring himself, would have well judged that the worst part should not be his, for that he so handled his enemy in breaking of his harness in many places, and wounding him, in such sort, that he was all to be bathed in blood, yet for all that the great anger which he had, neither the rigorous battle could cause him to withdraw the casting up of his eyes unto the place whereas he saw his well-beloved Pastora, and he beheld her making her great lamentation for that which the Giant had done unto her, which was the occasion that he had a greater desire to give him (who was the occasion of her tears) his payment. At this time the Prince Polismago was come again unto himself, and arose upon his feet, and saw the cruel battle which was between the Giant and the Knight, and how that the knight almost overcome the Giant, he did determine to forget that which he was bound unto being a Prince, and recovering his sword which hung by the wrist band, he went and joined with the Giant, so that both of them together did assault him, which did nothing grieve the Giant for that he was somewhat weary. The villainy which he saw them use did increase his wrath, and double his strength in such sort, that it fell out worse for them being both together then before, for that the vileness of their assaulting made him to double his blows, striking now mightily at the one, and then as terribly on the other, with very great power & strength, procuring to endamage them And for that he dealt with two such valiant knights, it stood him in hand to use all kind of policy: but yet he could not so at liberty defend himself, but that the giant watched his time, and struck him so furious a blow upon his steely helm, that he made him to bow with both his knees to the ground The Prince of Polismago seeing him at that point, doubled his blows upon him very terribly: but in spite of them, he arose up again with more fury than a baighted bull, & with his sword fast in his hand, he pressed to the Giant, & struck him so mortal a blow upon his shoulder, that he clove him down to the waste, cutting harness and bones, and with great facility overthrew him dead to the ground. He had not so soon given that wonderful blow, but he returned another at the Pagan, upon his enchanted helm, that he made it sound like unto a Bell. The which blow was so mighty that it overthrew him down to the ground, throwing out at his Beaver very great abundance of blood  
Who could here declare the great joy which the Pastora received when she saw her enemies in that plight, I I cannot judge which had the greater joy, the knight in that he had set her at liberty, or the Pastora so see herself at liberty. So when the knight saw the Pagan on the ground without remembrance, he made no more tarrying, but went up the stairs, and stayed not till he came whereas the Pastora was. And when he saw her, he fell down upon his knees, and lift up his beaver, which was the occasion that the Pastora did know him, and not suffering him to speak, with an excellent grace she said. Ah Filipensio how much am I bound unto the Gods, that have delivered me from two so great dangers, and set me at liberty from the troubles thereof. Where hast thou left thy shepherds apparel? Who hath changed them, for this fair & strong armour, where hast thou left thy shepherds crook. Ah Filipensio, give me to understand of thy high estate, that my small understanding be not the occasion that I fall in some error. The valiant Knight being subject to her beauty, said unto her: I am yours fair Pastora, whether I be a shepherd or a Knight, your beauty hath brought me in subection, and it is great glory unto me to be yielded unto you.  
Then the fair Pastora at these words took him fast by both the hands, and not giving him place to any more reasoning, she said. I will now see, whether you are as valiant in deeds as in words, seeing that fortune hath brought us hither: and here I do ask of thee two things to be granted unto me, and it is the first that ever I asked of any person in all the world. The amorous Prince answered. Ah my sweet Mistress, is it possible that I have deserved to receive at your hands so much favour, in that you do ask of me any thing, wherein I may or can do you service, & knowing that I am yours, you need not to ask but command me as your own, for that I am bound to whatsoever you will. The fair Pastora said. Well gentle knight, seeing that thou dost show thyself to be so subject and bound to do me pleasure, the first thing that I do request thee to grant me, is, that thou carry me unto Grecia unto the Emperor's court, and there for the space of one month to make my defence, & affirm, that my beauty doth surmount all others in the world. Now mayst thou go and set at liberty Coridon and thy servant, who are both in prison. The Greek had great contentment of that which the Pastora did ask of him: and for to perform that which she had commanded, he went & sought throughout all the Castle, to see if he could find any that could give any knowledge where his company was, & coming unto a door he heard a great noise of much people, the Prince knocked at the door and bade them open it, & promised to do them no harm if they would open the door. So strait way it was open, whereas he demanded for Coridon and his Squire, they were strait way brought unto him by one of them which opened the door, and in the mean time it was told him who the Giants were, you shall understand that they were nephews unto the king of Cilicia, and unto the Prince of Polismago, who being in love with the Pastora, and being of her cast off, he went and told it unto the king of Cilicia, than they consented together to do all that you have heard, and had gone through with their intent if it had not been for the valour of the Prince Claridiano. So when Coridon came before the Pastora he could not refrain from weeping, with the great joy which he received at the sight of her, and the Pastora was no less joyful. Then Claridiano remembered the Prince Polismago, & commanded Fidelio to see whether he were alive or dead, who went, and when he came unto him, he pulled off his helm and saw that he was dead, for the which it greatly grieved the knight, but the fear was so great of Cayserlinga for remaining in the castle, that she made great haste to the Prince to departed from thence. The which he was constrained to do for to give her contentment, and commanded to make ready their horses and likewise a palfrey which they found in the castle. So the next day in the morning they took their way towards Grecia, passing through all the kingdom of Media, and the kingdom of Prisopoli, and all the way that he travailed he left behind great fame of wonderful adventures which happened. They travailed in a skirt of Armenia, whereas chanced unto him that which in the next chapter shall be told you.   

¶ How Claridiano by chance had battle with his own father, which being known unto Galtenor, and fearing the great harm that would come thereof, he remedied the same. Chap. 29.  
BY a Mountain of Armenia very much inhabited, this warlike knight travailed in company with his fair Pastora, with so great delight and pleasure, that I cannot here signify it unto you, and with Coridon they had good pastime, for that he was very pleasant, who again seeing that he might so at quiet and familiarly talk with the Pastora, was almost in an ecstasy for joy. So the second day that they travailed by that mountain, by reason that it was so fragrant, they lost their way, in such sort, that when they remembered themselves, they were entered into the thickest of the wilderness, and procured to find the way again, which by no means they could, for that they were so far entered into the thicket. So with great trouble they travailed till mid day, at which time they heard a noise of the running of water, the which they followed, & it was the occasion that they brought themselves out of the thick wood, and came into a mighty great plain, through the midst of the which there passed a deep river. There they looked about them to see if they could discover any town, village, or dwelling places, but they could see no other thing but high and mighty Pine trees, the which grieved much the Pastora, & much more the Greek, for that the Pastora should be so sorrowful, & again, for that they had no victuals to comfort her. So they stayed a while not knowing which way they might take to bring themselves out of the distress, but upon a sudden they espied towards their right hand a man who travailed a foot, being somewhat far off from them, that they could not discern what he should be. So in great haste they went towards him, and coming nigh him, they saw that it was an old man, who had his head and beard very white, by reason of his great age, and the better for to travail, he had a staff whereon he might leave, showing that he travailed with great pain, in that he moved himself so heavily. Then came unto the Prince's remembrance the question that the furious beast did ask him in the enchanted castle of the king of Arabia. So when they came unto the old man, they saluted him, the old man returned their salutation with a faint and weary voice. The Prince asked him what adventure had brought him into that solitary place. This old man for to make him answer, was constrained to sit down upon the ground and said: Gentle knight, I know not what to say, nor what I shall tell you, but only my destiny hath brought me into this misfortune, being mocked with great falsehood by a Page that I brought with me, who left me all alone and on foot in this solitary wilderness. These two days have I not eaten any thing, but only drunk of the water of Euphrates, with the which I have borne out my hunger, the head of which river is not far from hence. And here I do desire thee gentle knight, if thou hast any pity of this my weary age, for to secure me, in carrying me upon thy horse, or upon the horse of any of thy servants. The Prince taking great pity on the old man, said: Fear not good Father of this thy misfortune, for seeing the fortune hath brought us hither, I will not leave thee alone in this solitary place. The Prince leapt from his horse and took the old man in his arms, and put him in the saddle, and helped to settle him well, that by reason of his weakness he might not fall, & that he being well set he himself might the better without all fear leap up behind him. This false old man seeing himself master of the horse, struck him with his heels, in so great haste, that he made the horse to fly: Oh how the knight was amazed at this act, although he believed that he did it to make him go a little on foot, but when he saw that his mocking proceeded forwards on, he returned that way which his Squire came, calling out unto him to bring his horse on the which he travailed, who in great haste accomplished his demand. When the knight was on horseback, he began to call unto the old man for to tarry. The which the old man did till such time as he came nigh him, and with a great laughter he said. Pitiful knight, what dost thou think to recover thy horse, and to give me my payment for that I have mocked thee? wouldst thou so quickly lose the name to be pitiful. I do not mean to lose it said the Knight, neither did I give thee my horse for to carry thee alone, but both of us, for it is a horse which can do it very well. I shall be counted for a more fool than thou said the old man, having now opportunity to go whether I list all alone, and being in thy company I shall be constrained to go whether thy pleasure is. The Prince hearing these words went by little and little towards the old man, but he with a quick course did apart himself from him, making with his mouth and eyes a thousand gestures, for to make him to be angry. The Prince being astonished said: Thou false old villain, more worse than the stinking Fox, tarry thou mocker of knights, and do not think that the lightness of thy horse shall deliver thee out of my hands. The old man showed as though he esteemed little his words and threatenings, but ran with the horse from one place unto another, making a thousand gestures and faces with his mouth and eyes, which was even death unto the Prince, who said: Oh Gods is it possible that you do permit that this naughty old man should thus scorn me with his gestures. Coridon and the Pastora came behind, & had great pastime to see how the knight was mocked and beguiled of an old man, who seemed as though he could not move himself with age. With the great anger and rage that the prince had to see himself so mocked, he pricked his horse with the spurs for to overtake the old man, who was a good way● off from him, and made his horse to run so swift a course, that it seemed he flew, and the old man with the like light course came running towards and against the Prince, & coming nigh unto him he said. What is this my son, wherefore is all this fury, for thou dost well know that I came not for to cause in you any anger. The Prince hearing this stayed his horse and did behold him, and knew him very perfectly to be the king of Arginaria, and with great haste he alighted from his horse, and the old man did the like, and with great contentment they lovingly embraced one another. Then the knight said.  
Is it possible loving father that you do thus misuse him that hath no other desire but to serve you, I do promise you that before I let you go out of mine arms, to make you promise me to bring me out of this solitary place, in recompense of this trouble and anger which you have caused me to have. I came for no other thing said Galtenor, for knowing the great travail which may happen in this place, & again, the grief which thou hast for the trouble of a fair Pastora, which thou bringest in thy company, and knowing the great love which bearest unto her I did ordain my coming hither, & determined first to give thee this entertainment, for that afterward I might of thee with more joy be received. At this time drew near the Pastora and Coridon, and Fidelio, and seeing them embracing one an other they made the more haste on their way, very much marveling to see a crook back and lean old man to be turned unto a great and fair Giant, with a goodly long white beard, appareled with rich apparel. The Prince turning unto the Pastora, said: Fair Pastora, this noble king who is here present is king of the Island Arginaria, my Lord and father, who understanding by his art the great necessity in the which we are, is come to put remedy therein. The king of Arginaria with an amorous heart and steadfast eyes without moving them, he did behold the Pastora, remembering himself at that time of the young child that he lost by the river of Euphrates, & strait way he knew her to be the same, of the which he did not a little rejoice, but seeing that it was convenient at that time to hold his peace, he did dissemble it, and kept the great joy which he received for the finding of her in his heart, and returning unto the Prince, he said: I do not now much marvel fair knight, that thy heart is subject to so fair a creature, and I do think my labour very well bestowed, because that by my coming hither shall be taken away a great part of your trouble, which without all doubt you should have had, & being in this manner talking, there appeared before them a horse laden with victuals, and strait way they took order that they might eat, for that they had great need thereof. Likewise there was raised a very fair & rich tent for to ease themselves, and they knew not which way nor how it was made, and there they rested all that night, for that the king would not that they should so soon depart from him, because he would for a time recreate himself in their conversation, & told them of some things that should happen unto them. So when the morning was come the Tent was taken away, & they began to travail by a very strait and narrow path. The King of Arginaria did lead them the way, and commanded them to follow him, who would set them out of that wilderness, and bring them unto the sea of Hyrcania, whereas they shall find all things necessary for their new begun voyage, and bade them that they should have very great care, for being once in Grecia, there shall be joined together the nails and paws of two of the most furious Lions that be in all the world, the one bringing the other in so great affliction, that the better of them both cannot be judged, neither acknowledge any vantage till such time as with their outrageous fury be taken away the locks which be upon their crowned heads, and shall at that instant in a moment be set at liberty by the robber of his first joy, making restitution of that which a long time hath been usurped, remaining one of them without grief of the young Hind, that he bringeth with him. When all this shall come to pass I will return my son and see you. And in saying these words he vanished away, not seeing any other thing but the horse which was laden with their victuals, which caused them to remain amazed at his sudden departure, and yet very much comforted in that he had seen him: So they travailed all that day by a narrow path. When night was come, without knowing by whom, the Tent was armed again that they might rest themselves therein, when they were within and had commanded their horses to be put in, the door of the tent did shut of itself with so great strength, that they could not open it, although they did make a proof, for that Galtenor had so made it, because of a great number of wild beasts which were in those parts, and in the night time rangeth abroad for to seek their prays. So they passed that night with great rest and ease, till the morning that the Tent door did open, the Tent was taken up and put upon the horse, and all the rest, took their journey presently following still that narrow path till it was noon, at which time they came unto the sea side, and hard by the place whereas they arrived, they saw at an Anchor a Bark marvelously well cauked and trimmed, made after the manner of a Serpent, with mighty wings and a long tail. The Prince when he saw the Bark made after that sort, strait way he understood that that was the Bark which the king of Arginaria had spoken of, and without any more tarrying he commanded his horse to be put in and all the rest, and he took the Pastora in his arms and put her into the Bark, they were no sooner within, but that with great swiftness she began to move herself, in such sort that in a small time they were far from the shore. Thus they travailed with great contentment for the space of six days, and the seventh day very early in the morning they were at the shore very nigh Constantinople, whereas with great joy and pleasure they went a land, and mounting upon their horses they entered into a very geéene and delightful Forest, which stood in their way, and within a while they heard a great noise of hunters, and towards that way the Prince and his company went, and in the way they travailed, they road by a fountain, in the which there was to the number of eight knights very well armed, and they were refreshing of themselves. The Prince for that they passed by somewhat out of the way did not salute them, but passing on his way with the fair Pastora, who followed him, using betwixt themselves very sweet and amorous conversation. The eight knights when they saw them so pass by, they found themselves aggrieved for the small reckoning he made of them, but in especial one of them who was more proud and presumptuous than the rest, without speaking any word at all, laced on his helm, and cast his shield at his neck, and being ready he mounted upon his horse, and took his Spear in his hand, which stood hard by leaning against a free, and with a very reasonable pace he followed after him, and when he was nigh unto the Prince, he said: Knight, with more pride and better adorned with rich armour, then with good manners or courtesy, you must just with me, for that making thee to kiss the ground, constrained by my terrible encounter, thou shalt learn in another place to use courtesy. The heroical Prince with his accustomed meekness, answered. If my salutation gentle knight, was not as it becometh a traveling knight, the distance of the way was the occasion thereof: and this being true which I have said, then have you no reason to blame me. Thou hast less reason said the Knight of the fountain, for to excuse thyself from the just, which I do ask of thee, therefore take thy choice of the field, and procure to settle and firm thyself well in the saddle. The Greek seeing his pride, asked of Coridon his shield, and a spear which they brought with them: and having it in his hand, he saw that the field was all purple very smooth, and a knight made in it, armed with purple armour, striking another Knight, armed likewise in purple armour overthwart the eyes, and it was all full of stars of gold. The Prince was marvelously amazed and troubled at the great clearness thereof, so that he was constrained to hide his eyes with his own hands: but the calling out of the Knight of the fountain did cause him to change his purpose, and called for his spear, and with a furious course, he went forth unto the encounter. The Knight of the fountain did break his spear, not making the Prince to move any more than he had stroke upon a hard Rock: but the Prince's encounter was such, that he overthrew him to the ground, & with the fall he broke his arm in two parts, who having no power to move himself, and with the great pain & grief he felt, made a pitiful complaint. The Greek seeing him in that case said: Knight, it had been better thou hadst remained without any salutation quietly, then now quarreling thereupon, thou hast thy arm broken, and remainest unable to help thyself, and without saying any other thing, he did depart, determining to prosecute his former journey. So within a while after, he heard a great noise of calling, and looking about to see who called him, he saw that it was the rest of the Knights, which followed with great speed. There he determined to stay their coming, and made himself ready unto the battle, if they would demand it of him. These seven knights came with great ire, to see the other knight in that perplexity, (and forgetting the custom of Grecia, of long time observed and kept amongst the Knights) they all seven together with their spears on their rests, they made their encounter upon him, and struck the Greek with their firmed blows, some on the sides, and some on the breast with great fury: yet the Prince remained more firm than an Anfield of iron. They all broke their spears on him, but at their passing by, he struck one of them such a blow upon the helm, that he overthrew him dead to the ground. The rest which remained, returned unto him with their swords in their hand, laying upon him very terribly like knights that were both valiant and courageous: but the Prince moved his horse amongst them, with so great lightness and strength, that quickly his power and force was known unto them, he did so torment them with his mighty blows. And the more they did grieve him, the worse it was for them: for having lost all patience, he threw his shield at his back, and did assault them with such fury, that in a short time he remained with only two of them in the field, who seeing the other of their companions dead, procured to save their lives, turning their backs unto the Greek, & pricking their horse with the spurs, they put themselves into a broad way.  
This furious Knight followed after them, procuring to overtake them, and to make that not one of them shall bear news of the success of the battle: but by reason they had some vantage of the way, and again their horses were very good, for all the haste that he could make, he could not overtake them, till such time as they came whereas were many tents armed in the field, and at that place there was a knight the stepped before him to defend the other two which ran away, who were armed with very strong and strange armour. Who, if you do remember was the Emperor Alphebo, and our Knight was his son, who with his sword in his hand all bloody, followed the other two knights. The Emperor Alphebo seeing them come running from the one alone Knight, called unto them and said: Tell me wherefore do you run away you cowards and dishonourers of the Greekish genealogy, of whom are you afraid, of one alone Knight? Sovereign Lord said one of the Knights, he that doth follow us, is no Knight, but a devil, and thy surmounted strength is needful to make resistance against his. So at that time the Prince approached as I have told you, and likewise the Emperor Alphebo, who did very much behold his goodly stature and disposition: the Prince did likewise behold the Emperor, and the straungenesie of his armour. The Emperor was the first that began to speak and said: Tell me knight, what hath my Knights, done unto you, to cause you to use & entreat them so straightly. Then the Prince who had lost all patience, said. Procure to make their revengement, and do not ask me the cause of their cowardness. For that it is very apparent, that they themselves are in fault of their ill entreating. This good Emperor, as one that made little reckoning of his words, very meekly said. If they are in the fault it liketh me very well, therefore I do desire to know the occasion if it be thy pleasure to tell me, that I may altogether lay the fault upon them. The Prince with a high voice said. By the Gods I do swear unto thee, that it is true that I have told thee. The Emperor when he heard him name those false Gods, without any more tarrying drew out his sword and said. Defend thyself Pagan, for it shall cost thee thy life, for laying hands upon Christians, who are more worth than thou art. Now do I not desire to know the occasion, for that they are Christians and thou art a Moor. And I say, that they are in no fault. So there they assaulted one another, with most terrible and mortal battle.  
Oh Nymphs borne in the Hill of Helicon, and whose habitation is in the Mountain Olympus, and ye Ladies of the sacred Cabolino, unto all you I do invocate to ground in me wisdom and understanding, as you did into him, who did make the Greek dedicated upon the great deeds of that mighty Achilles, for that I may particularly declare the furious & well fought battle of these two invincible knights, without knowing to be the father and the son, who having their swords in the air, they both together discharged the one upon the others helm, in such sort, that either of them were constrained spite of their hearts to make obedience, as unto such high & mighty Princes as they were aught to be done, and both together & at one time they returned their swords about their heads, striking one another such blows upon their beavers, that they made a great number of sparks of fire to fly in the air, which was the occasion that it took away somewhat the sight of their eyes. Oh how ireful was this nephew of Trebatio, and being overcome therewith, his strong and mighty blows were incorportable, and taking his sword in both his hands, with that wrath & great lightness, he struck the Emperor such a blow upon the helm, that the sound thereof made an Echo throughout all the mountains and plains, and he fell backwards upon the crupper of his horse Cornerino, who being scared with the noise of the blow, ran round about the fields with his master. The Emperor came strait way again to himself, and considering the strong blow which he had received, he said: jesus help me, and likewise with his sword in both his hands, he struck him upon the helm, that in spite of our knight he fell backwards upon the crupper of his horse, who being scared with the blow, flinging and kicking, he did apart and carry his master from his enemy. And coming again unto himself, he did acknowledge his strong adversary which he had before him, and likewise he did consider, how that he called for secure upon the name of jesus.  
But his fury was so much that without any farther consideration, blaspheming & denying his Gods, he set spurs unto his horse and returned unto the Emperor who came towards him, where was joined such a battle as never in Grecia had been seen the like, either causing other by their disordinate blows many times to be without remembrance, sometimes inclining their heads unto their breasts, and at other time upon their horse crupper, in such sort, that there was enough to do between them for to settle themselves upright in their saddles, all their faces under their helms being bewrayed with blood, and often giving grievous groans. At this time was all ire and wrath wholly kindled, and all patience lost, policy and experience was forgotten, so that they made their battle as men without wit or reason, procuring each of them to bring his enemy to death, and either of them accounting himself of small prowess and valour, that one alone knight should endure so long before them, and he who was the most grieved hereat was the strong Prince, not knowing that he dealt with his Father the mighty Alfebo, for neither furious knights nor fierce Giants could at anya time bring him unto that extremity as at this time he was, so with this ire and wrath they endured two hours with their mighty blow, being then present the Emperor Trebatio, and the two Princes of Rodamonte and Rodefo, and the king of Macedonia, and the great Duke of Atenas, and Magecia, and the Earl of Acaya, all the which were in a great admiration to see the great resistance that the Emperor Alfebo had found, who at that time did stretch up himself upon his stirops, discharging his sword upon the head of our Prince, the blow was so terrible that the air was filled with sparks and flames of fire, and made an eckoe to sound in the hidden caves, and Claridiano fell backwards upon the crupper of his horse without any remembrance, & his arms hanging down as though he had been dead, and voided at his mouth great abundance of blood. The fair Pastora very much marveled to see this rigorous battle, who sat with her face covered beholding the same, the like did Fidelio, and it was unto them a great grief to see how how the Emperor did mightily assault him, procuring to kill him. At this time the knight was come to his remembrance and settled himself again in his saddle, and with an high voice he said. Oh Gods of small valour, cursed be service that I have done unto you, because you do so ill reward me, who hath so much honoured you. Now do I well understand that your power is very small: for that you have deceived me, this being the first christian Knight that I have been in battle with, in all my life. I do believe that you did all run away, when you heard this knight name the name of jesus. Here I do renounce all your deity and potency, for it is all as nothing, and again I do call you vile, and of small estimation and power. And in saying these words, he ran against the Emperor with so great fury, that he made the ground to tremble under him, and when he came nigh unto the Emperor, he struck him an overthwart blow with so great strength and might, that he made him to fall forwards upon his horse cares without any remembrance, in such sort that it seemed he had been dead, for that there proceeded out of his helm so much blood. And by the great strength of that blow, his horse was constrained to stoop with his forefeet. This mighty Prince with double fury turned with his sword to strike him the second blow, but it was in such sort, that the reins of his horse bridle was fast in the buckle of his armour, and was constrained by the force he put to strike his blow to pull the bridle, which made the horse to rise up before, standing upon his hinder feet, which was very perilous unto the Knight: and being in that sort, he lost the strength of his blow for to secure himself, and to govern his horse. In which time the Emperor came again to his former senses, and settled himself in his saddle, who seeing the great peril in the which he was brought, did marvel much thereat, and being full of wrath, like unto a Lion he recovered his sword, and set spurs unto his horse, and made him to move like unto the wind, throwing out at his beaver a thick smoke with very anger, and gave his assault with so great fury, that the knight could not but somewhat to fear him, and making his defence with his shield, he did abide the coming of the blow, which cutting the air did descend upon his shield with so great strength, that in spite of the force of his arm it chanced upon his helm, in such sort, that it made him perforce decline his head and all his body unto the pommel of his saddle, and his teeth to chatter in his head, but he remained in that order, but a small time, and roaring like a Bull, exclaiming against▪ Fortune, he lift up his sword and gave him the like payment. At this time the battle began a new to be very terrible, increasing double their fury, and likewise augmenting their blows, in such sort, that with the least blow that was strooken, it seemed to have cut the other all to pieces, which made all them that did behold the battle very much to marvel. At this time there appeared to come forth out of the Forest, a Knight, all armed in white armour, edged and wrought about with an excellent work of fine gold, his helm on his head, and his shield at his neck, and girt with a very rich sword, and of so gentle a disposition, that there was none equal unto him, and seeing the battle betwixt the two Knights, he did stand and behold them: and strait ways he knew the Emperor, but he could not judge who the other should be, but greatly marveled at their strength, and with the great desire he had to know who it was, he demanded of an old Knight that stood by him, the occasion of their controversy, and who the Knights were. The old Knight, for that he seemed to be a Knight of high estate, said. The name of one of them, I can tell thee, the which is the knight with the strange and rich armour, who is the excellent and mighty Emperor Alphebo of Trapisond, but the Knight with the Sun, here is not one that doth know him. This Knight began the controversy first, with certain knights of Grecia, who killing of some of them, and other some, very sore wounded, and following other two which ran away, the Emperor put himself before him, for to know the occasion of his great fury, and that Knight did answer him with great pride and arrogancy, which was the occasion of this their controversy: and it is more than six hours, since they have been martring one another's flesh without all pity, and this is all which I can tell you, of that which you have demanded of me. The Knight with the white armour was very much amazed, when he knew that the controversy endured so long, and could not judge who it should be, of so great power and strength, that was able to resist the fury of the mighty Alphebo.  
In all this time these two valiant warriors were not idle, but still their battle went forwards, in such sort, that either of them did doubt of the victory, finding their adversary so mighty and strong▪ So in this extremity they endured more than six hours not resting one moment, but still plagning the due the other, making of their bodies even Anfields', which continually: are beaten on with hammers, and as the travail was great, and could not be chosen but that they must 〈…〉 be weary, and show some kind of faintness: upon a sudden both at one time did withdraw themselves to take some rest, either of them very much marveling at the great power and strength of his adversary. This invincible Emperor could not by any means judge who the Knight should be that had brought him into that extremity, for until that day was there never knight that ever before that time did the like, and being full of ire & wrath he said.  
What is now become of thee Alphebo? Where is now thy great valour, that hath been so much spoken of in all the worl●? What is become of thy surmounted strength, wherewith thou didst quail the power of Lindaraza, and that with which thou didst break those enchanted helms? What is become of thy terrible ire, wherewith thou didst subdue mountains, new in sunder Diamond armour, and brought all thing under thy subjection, now I see that all is forgotten, and nothing worth, for that one alone knight and a Pagan, hath brought thee in●o this extremity. O holy God, to thee I invocate, and desire thee to help me; & do not permit that my fame be rob and taken away by a Pagan and an enemy unto our Christian law. These and such like reasons pronounced this ●holarick Mars, and neither more nor less, the mighty and strong Prince, casting up his eyes, and looking unto the heavens, and reprehending his Gods, he said, Why are you so contrary unto me, for that as yet I never had victory, but it hath been by the strength of mine own arms. What recompense have I received for all that I have done? as yet I never had any favour at your hands, for my own power hitherto hath been valuable unto me, and not yours, for that I do believe is nothing as it doth appear very plainly, in the little favour that you show me against this furious Christian. What are you angry, that I am come into this Country: and are any of you come down to take revengement of me therefore? Well, seeing it is so, let it be jupiter, or Mars, or whosoever it be of you, be it a God or a Devil, first before I receive the death, I will make you to call for aid of all the rest of the Gods: and if it be a devil, to call likewie for aid of the rest of the devils. And without any more tarrying, he returned again unto the battle the like did the Emperor, & made their assault with so great fury, that they onely●punc; which did behold them were not a little amazed, but also the heaven and earth did marvel at their force, & the Echo was weary in answering of their terrible blows, so that there was almost no hope of remedy in their controversy, for that each one feared his adversary, & there was not any advantage of either part. This conflict continued so long between them, that they were almost out of breath, at the time bath together they lifted up their Herculean arms, & having them aloft they joined together with such fury that their horses met, and struck their heads the one against the other, in such sort, that although they were both good, yet they fell down to the ground with their Knights: but they were not so soon fallen, as they were strait on foot again, without receiving any harm, and there began betwixt them a new contention. There was showed the great lightness of the Prince, and likewise that of the Emperor was apparent, in that either of them did so valiantly defend himself from his contrary, although at that time their strong arms were more governed with ire and wrath, then with policy or experience, which was the occasion that the battle was the more perilous & terrible. This mighty Alphebo thought much, that in the presence of the Emperor his Father the battle should so long endure, and that with one alone knight, and not being his brother. The like did the Prince consider of that, by reason that the great reverence and respect that the people had, he knew that there should be present the Emperor of Grecia, who took him for his grandfather, as the fury of Merlin had told him. All these considerations did cause betwixt the two warriors the more wrath, yet for all that, they which did behold them could judge no advantage of either part, at the which they greatly marveled, but in especially above all the rest the king of Sardenia was most amazed, who from the beginning of their controversy was beholding of them, and saw in what great peril and danger both of them were, and the great resistance which the unknown knight made against the Emperor Alphebo, wherefore he returned unto the Emperor of Grecia, and with a light voice he said: O holy God, is it possible that this knight doth resist so long against him, that a Porter of hell within a rock hidden, could not make his defence against. The Emperor of Grecia would have made him answer, but that he was disturbed by a mighty and terrible blow which he saw given his son upon his helm, that it made him to boowe both his knees to the ground, and by reason that the sword did lay no hold on the hard steel, it descended down upon his left shoulder, and cutting a sunder all the buckles and lacing of his helm, he made it to fly from his head, discovering that fair and magnanimous countenance, adorned with great majesty. The Knight when he saw him in that sort, would have struck him again, but yet this warlike Mars although he saw himself in that great perplexity, he wanted nothing of the accustomed courage which he was used to have at other times in such like necessities, but with a light leap he cleared himself from that blow, and 〈◊〉 his contrary another with so great fury, that he 〈…〉 and put one of his hands to the ground to stay 〈◊〉 that he might not fall, and with an incredible 〈…〉 hold on his helm, & pulled at it with so 〈…〉 he pulled it from his head, and did discover 〈…〉 and fair face, so that all they who did 〈…〉 to he the very ●igure of the 〈…〉. This valiant young knight seeing 〈…〉 unto the Emperor, caught 〈…〉 like did the Emperor unto him, 〈…〉 a dangerous & p●rilious wrestling, 〈…〉 upon a sudden all the heaven 〈…〉 and thick cloud, which fell 〈…〉 for a space, that they 〈…〉 but it ●●●ished 〈…〉 who before were 〈…〉 now put a part the one from the 〈…〉 betwixt them was there an old● 〈…〉 stature and gentle dispositiost, adorned with garments of great estate, the which were wrought with 〈…〉, and pearl, that never Emperor nor king had 〈…〉, and upon his head he had a crown of gold of such marvelous ma●●ing, that no human tongue is able to declare the riches thereof, and on the one side of him there was a mighty Giant, adorned in the same manner & guise. And Claridiano did strait ways know them, who kneeling down before them he said: Excellent king Delfo my Lord, what sudden coming is this, in leaving your majesties kingdom. The king went towards him with his arms abroad, and said: Ah my son, wherefore should my coming be but to recreate and rejoice myself in seeing of thee, and to disturb this cruel battle that thou hast with him whom thou oughtest to honour and reverence, as it is thy duty. Then Galtenor did cause them to hold their pe●ce, for that with a l●●de voice he began to speak unto the Emperor Trebatio, and said.  
Sovereign Emperor, long time passed without any knowledge unto thee I came into thy Empire, and my coming was the occasion of great heaviness and sorrow unto the Empress Claridiana, whom I do see there armed with that white armour. The Emperor when he heard that would not stay any more reasonings, but went towards her, who pulling off her helm likewise came towards him to kiss his hands, so there the one embraced and received the other with great love. The king Galtenor did cut of their talk and addressed his words unto the Empress Claridiana, and said: Sovereign Lady, do you remember when that you did contemplate yourself upon the beauty of your children which you were delivered off, begotten by the Emperor Alphebo, at which time a wall did open, whereat did enter a Serpent, who at two mouthfuls did bury them in his bowels. You shall understand, Empress and Lady, that I was the Serpent, being compelled and constrained by great necessity of the strong arm of your mighty son, to do that which at that time I did, and I did bring them up in the majesty as unto such persons was necessary and dutiful. In the end of six years, when I determined to make an end of my journey, resting ourselves by the rivers side of Euphrates, I lost the maiden child, where all the time passed unto this present, she hath been publishing abroad her extreme beauty, till such time as the valour of her brother did bring her from thence, who is the same that is talking with the king Delfo of Trapobana, and know this of a certainty Lady, that it is thy son Claridiano of the Spear. Thou didst give him that name by reason of a Spear that he hath on his breast from his birth, and that fair Pastora whom you do see there, is your proper daughter, and I am he that did rob and take them from you, and here I do make restitution of them again, so that I do deserve pardon of all the sorrow and grief which I have been the occasion of, only with this present which I do present you withal. And likewise of you Emperor of Trabisond, I do desire the same pardon, and jointly therewith to forget the anger that you have against your own son. Great was the joy & contentment of the Empress, being almost beside herself, to see that she had recovered her two children, which she thought had been lost long ago, and going to embrace Claridiano, she found him upon his knees, ask pardon of his Father of all that before had passed. What shall I here say of the good Trebatio, who when he knew that the Pastora was his nephew (& that his desire was of a daughter, and never had any) with his arms all abroad he went unto her, who understanding their communication, did alight from her palfrey, at which time the Emperor came and took her in his arms, almost weeping for joy, and with very amorous words he did embrace her, & received so great contentment of their recovery as ever he did in all his life for any thing.   

¶ How the Emperor did very much rejoice himself with his nephews, but in especial with the Pastora, & of the great tempest which came upon them at supper time, and of all that happened afterward. Chap. 30.  
WIth this great joy and pleasure which I have told you they returned unto Constantinople, the Emperor Trebatio carried with him the Pastora, and would not one moment a part himself from her, and the Empress went talking with Claridiano. The Emperor Alphebo was not a little joyful, who went in the company of the king Delfo,, and Galtenor went beside the Empress, who knew not how to give him sufficient thanks for his coming. And at that instant being all present, they alighted at the Palace, and the Emperor Trebatio carried the Pastora unto her grandmother, committing her unto her custody for to make much of her. And he took the king of Trapobana by the hand, and rendered unto him very much courtesy, and therewith entered into a fair hall, whereas they found the Tables covered, and sat down to supper, whereas they were with great joy and pleasure, such as never was seen the like in the Court. The Emperor & the two Kings were set together, than the Emperor Alphebo and the Empresses, and by them Claridiano and the Pastora, who was beheld of all them that were there present, much marveling at her great beauty. Coridon did serve them at the table, very much delighted with that he had seen. The Supper endured so long, that Diana did extend her beams: at this time they took up the tables, and Galtenor with a loud voice said: One of the high glories of my Esclarisido, son Claridiano, shall appear in this great City, before the day do come. He had no sooner made an end of these words, when that the heavens began to wax dark with a very thick cloud, and it came with great thunderings and lightnings, & with so terrible a noise, as though the earth would have sunk, and the longer it endured, the more was the fury thereof: in such sort, that they all fell upon their knees, and with great humility, they desired god to deliver them from the fury of that great tempest. So with this sudden chance, they passed away the night till the morning, and although the tempest in some part ceased, yet the heavens remained all cloudy. When the morning was come, there appeared before the palace nigh unto the enchantment of Lindabrides, a very strange adventure, which made them all to marvel, and strait way they gave the Emperor to understand thereof, who went out of the Palace with all his Knights, with great desire to know what it was, so likewise went forth his sons and nephews. And when they came into the Court, they saw that there was fi●ed four pillars, every one of a very fine Ruby, upon the which was placed a Sepulchar of Crystal, and within the sepulchre there seemed to be a very fair Lady, her breast pierced through with a sword, and upon the Sepulchre there ●aye a man all a long, with his face looking up to the heavens, and appareled with robes of estate, with a Crown of gold upon his head.  
And under the Sepulchre was there spread abroad a great Carpet a cloth of gold, and upon it two pillows of the same, and upon them lay a knight armed with very rich armour, and his sword lay at his feet, his eyes were shut, and out of them distilled very great tears, at every pillar there was a Gentlewoman which seemed to be without any remembrance, although they wept very bitterly, and nigh unto the Sepulchre there ●aie a terrible great beast, of the very same making of that which Claridiano slew, for to set at liberty the king of Arabia Lapetra. (This was the spectacle that Claridiano saw coming in the air.) The Sepulchre was compassed round about with a strong wall, with four gates for to enter in thereat, the gates were after the manner and colour of fine Diamonds: near unto the gate which was over against the Palace, was there a Marble pillar, at the which hung a Bugle horn, and an Epitaph written with red Letters, the which the Prince Rodolpho did read with a high voice, that all that were there might hear him, and it said as followeth. At such time as the cruelty of the king of Arabia, Lepetra shall be at liberiie, and the valour of that worthy Claridiano known, than they which hath not been wounded with love, shall know both the reason & the rage of love, for the which cause I do advise him that doth not know what love is, not to prove this adventure if he will not fall into great misfortune, for that cause he must pass by pure force, all the force that Claridiano made plain. And this shall endure till such time as the bastard Lion, son unto the Imperial lion, be borne of the ravening Ounce. Then he who hath love in his breast, and passed through that unhappy Lady, daughter unto the king of Arabia, shall see the great rage without reason of love. The Emperor when he heard that it were things which touched his nephew, said: Oh excellent adventure of my Claridiano, this day is showed unto us his great valour, Galtenor told unto those knights all that had passed in the adventure until that day, which caused in them great admiration, and more, at the making of that strange beast who they did behold very atentively, & with this they passed away all that day, & the Pastora did change her accustomed apparel into robes of silk, & cloth of gold, showing the great estate & beauty in all points which was in her. All the whole court received great pleasure, saving only the Princess Olivia, who for the absence of her Rosicleer, all things did seem contrary unto her, far different from the judgements of all other. So the time drew on for to go to rest. Then Galtenor took Claridiano by the hand and lead him a part on the one side of the hall, and said unto him: I will carry thee with me into a place, whereas thy heart a new shall be wounded, and shall forget the love which before thou hast had, and therewith he commanded him to arm himself in great secret, the success of the same shall be told you hereafter. The next day in the morning, when they were all ready to go to hear service with the Emperor, there entered into the hall a knight of a great stature and proportion of his members, and was armed with very rich armour, his face and his hands were unarmed, and showed by his demeanour a great majesty and severe countenance, he was of his face somewhat brown of colour, but the proportion thereof was very well favoured, & his beard began to bud, he brought after him three squires and Pages, the one of them brought his Spear which was big and short, and the other brought his helm, & the third brought his shield with an Imperial device, & strait way it was known wherefore his coming was, and although conformable to reason we have not spoken any thing of the fair matron the queen of Lyra, who with prosperous weather and great pleasure did navigate by the sea, helped by the fury of Borias, which with a fresh wind did continually fill those stiff sails, and cutting the seas with that sharp esteem, leaving behind them the token of their great & swift way, by the froth of the water, and in short time discovering land, they took port upon the shore of Almain, whereas this fair Lady went a land, and with her two Nymphs took their journey towards the Court of Almain. So she travailed two days, and nothing chanced worth the telling.  
The third day entering in amongst the thick and craggy mountains, she lost her way amongst a company of high and thick Pine trees, amongst the which she gave a thousand turns, not knowing which way to take to bring herself out thereof. So with this sorrow and grief she passed all that day till night came upon them, at such time as they had found a very narrow and not much used way, which lead them up to a high and mighty steep mountain, in which place they determined to rest themselves, till such time as Phoebus should make her return, passing away the night in very goo● communication with her Gentlewomen, and did sup with that which they continually were provided off. So when the break of the day was come, the Queen did very well peruse her armour, and put herself on horseback, and for that the way seemed to be somewhat dangerous, she put on her helm and carried her Spear in her hand, and with great travail they followed that way, when they had well near spent the third part of the day, and had made an end of the going up that mountain, being upon the top thereof, they looked about them on all parts, and towards the right hand on the foot of that high mountain they saw a company of armed men, and by reason that they were so far of, they could not discern what it should be. So strait way they descended down the mountain, and when they came at the foot thereof, they looked round about to see if they could discover that which they had seen from the top of the same, and saw that there were to the number of twenty knights very well armed, and amongst them a Giant, who brought with them two knights prisoners, armed with very rich armour, all saving their heads, & with them a Lady who was as sad and sorrowful, as fair and beautiful, and with her certain Gentlewomen which did bear her company. These were the unhappy Earl of Tirol, and his sister, and Don Florisarte of Baviera, who as I have told you were taken prisoners in the way going towards Esprich, whom this valiant matron did see coming down the Mountain, & when this worthy Gentlewoman did see this great force & wrong done, she was very desirous to know the occasion what should move them to do that outrage, or else to procure to set them at liberty, & hasting on her way, larging her pace more than she did before, she in a short space came and overtook them, and by reason that the Queen made great haste, and the noise of her coming was great, the Giant was constrained to look back, to see what it was that caused so great a noise, and when he saw that it was a knight that came after him, he determined to stay and abide his coming. And when she was come nigh him, this courageous Lady with a manly voice said: Tell me Giant what evil hath these prisoners committed, that so without all reason thou dost carry them so manakled and bound. The Giant did stay and behold her with great frowning, and answered her with a wrathful voice and said. What honour and prowess is it to thee, for that thou art so desirous to know, and with so great pride dost ask the question? No other thing said this unknown Gentlewoman, but to make friendship where none is, and again if of thee they do receive any grief or wrong, to amend the same, for that I do know that the condition of all Giants, is nothing, but procuring to do all wrong, therefore determine to tell me, or make thyself ready to thy defence. The fury of the Giant was very great when that he heard these words, in such sort, that it seemed fire flew out of his eyes, and with that fury he spurred forwards his horse. The like did that worthy matron, at that time they set spurs to their horses, and with a swift course they made their encounter, and struck their Spears upon their steely shields, the Spear of the Giant made his stay upon the fineness of the enchanted shield, but this Lady did not only pierce through his armour, but also through his breast and body, overthrowing him dead with great fury to the ground, whereas he gave a terrible fall that he made the earth to tremble, and the Queen passed a long so quietly as though she had done nothing, and with great lightness she turned about her horse, with her naked sword in her hand, and saw that the Giant lay a long on the ground dead. When the Knights of the Giant saw that furious encounter, and that their principal refuge was dead, without any more tarrying, they altogether did assault her, and this worthy matron put herself against them, who was with them encountered on all sides round about, but yet they did not move her from her saddle little nor much: but she returned against them in such sort, that she with her mighty blows, made their harness and red blood 〈◊〉 round about the field. These Knights were all chosen Knights, and did trouble her very much, making her sundry times to lose the sight of her eyes, that which did bring her very much in choler, in such sort that she threw her shield at her back, and taking her sword in both her hands, she bestarred herself on the one side and on the other, about their heads, and wounding of knights, overthrowing of them to the ground dead, in such sort, that when she remembered herself, there was no more but five of the Knights left alive, who when they saw so great slaughter in so short time, they determined the separation of the controversy, and to put more confidence in their horse feet, than in their own defence and putting it in ure, they ran away. This Lady made no reckoning to follow them, but went strait way and did unloose the Prisoners. Unto whom Don Florisarte of Baviera did give thanks for all the rest, desiring him that he would declare unto them his name for that they might know unto whom they were bound, for that great benefit done unto them. The Lady did answer them with great courtesy and said: Gentle Knights, my name is of so small valour, that I cannot be known by it: but that which I may do to give you contentment, is to pull off my helm, and in seeing my face, you shall see if that at any time you have heard any mention of me: and in saying these words, she herself did unlace and took off her helm, And look with what beauty the Radiaunt Sun doth show himself upon a sudden when all his beams hath been hidden with a dark cloud: even so, and rather more, did this excellent and beautiful face show itself, after that she had pulled off her helm, the which before did cover the same.  
The Knights when they saw her great beauty, they very much marveled, and believed that in the proportion of his great beauty, it should be Poliphebo of Tinacria. Then Don Florisarte said: Your excellent and beautiful face, and your high and mighty deeds, gentle Knight, death make us believe two things: the one, that thou wer● borne to remedy and aid those that can do little: the other, we do believe that thou art brother, or some kinsman, unto that ●aire Poliphebo Prince of Tinacria, son unto the Emperor Trebatio, who now is called the Knight of the Branch, by reason of a gold Branch that he carrieth on his shield for his device, as you do upon your helm: and here I do desire you, to tell us whether you are his brother or not, for that we are much bound unto him, and there they declared unto her, all that was done for them, as before you have heard. The which was the occasion, that there kindled in the queen, a great desire to know him, and informing herself how that he was gone towards Grecia, she did determine to follow him, to see if she might meet with him, to prove herself on him.  
And being in this thought she made answer unto that they demanded, and said: This Knight whom you do speak off, I do not know him, neither have I seen him at any time, but have heard news of his heroical deeds of arms: and I am very glad that you have taken this service as a deed done by him. Then the fair Clarentina said. Ah flower of all Knighthood, wherefore will you thus hide yourself from them, who are so much bound unto your service. I know not unto whom I should attribute it, but unto my unhappy and ill fortune, for that I do well see that thou art Poliphebo, the flower of all those that do wear armour: do not deny me, being so well known. Gentle Lady said the Queen, by that which I own unto my highness, I protest unto you, that I am not the party that you do speak off: and here I do swear unto you, that I am a woman as you are, and I am called Archisilora Queen of Lyra: and this Prince whom you have in so great price, I never saw. Then Clarentina did believe that which the queen had said, and in beholding her, she did plainly perceive by the delicateness of her face that she was a woman. There the Queen of Lira did take her leave of them, and returned the way from whence she came, and came into a village in the county of Tirol, whereas she did take her rest all that night. When the morning was come, and she in a readiness to travail, she took her way towards Hungary, with determination, not to make any stay, till she came into Grecia, whether as she came in the end of her great travail, without any other adventure happening, and always having in remembrance the Knight of the Branch. So one day very early in the morning at the break of the day, she entered into a very fair forest, very nigh unto Constantinople, and at such time as the Sun would extend his golden beams, she saw lying under a tree, a very big and well made knight, who was a sl●epe, and his shield did hang upon a tree, and thereon she saw the devise of the knight of the Branch, the which b●eing well marked by the Queen, she understood, that he which lay there a sleep, was the owner of that shield and the Knight whom she sought for. And nigh unto the shield was his spear, set up against a tree: and looking about her to see if he had any company, she saw within a small distance from him a Lady likewise a sleep, and by her a Page, and therewith she was fully certified, that he was the same Knight that she looked for. So there she was a good while, beholding his gentle disposition and stature, and grave countenance, till such time as she did determine to do that, which in the chapter following shall be told you.   

¶ How the Knight Poliphebo and the Queen of Lira had cruel battle, and of all that happened therein. Cap. 31.  
AFter that this fair Matron had with great deliberation beheld this warlike Tinacrian upon the green grass a sleep, she determined with the great end of her spear, to touch him upon his armed breast, that which was no sooner done, but he awaked & started with the sudden calling of him out of his sleep: but opening his eyes, and seeing before him that big and well set Knight, with a trice he arose upon his feet, and in great hast he laced on his helm, and took his shield from the place whereas it hung, he did well show in the great hast he made in bestirring himself, the great liveliness of his courage. The Queen when she saw him all in a readiness to the battle, with a gracious laughter said. I would never have thought that there had been so great an oversight in a knight and especially of such fame, that so without all fear of a great number that cannot abide them, but procure all evil possible against them, that without all care in the high way doth put himself to sleep. The Tinacrian answered, and said: There was not in me so great oversight, as in you care, to venture yourself, whereas you shall receive little profit of the same. And doth it seem unto thee, that I was overseen therein? Possibly thou wilt judge the contrary, if thou wilt prove the strength of my arm. It cannot but be very much, if it be conformable unto thy oversight, said this fair Lady, and believe me that it would grieve me to make any proof, if there be in thee so great virtue, as thy fame doth bear the report. Therefore take to thee thy horse, and let either of us procure to make his defence, and here I do advise thee, that I am none of the Knights that hitherto thou hast proved in Grecia. In the mean time that she was saying these words, the Tinacrian did very much behold her, and although he was very angry at the words which she had spoken▪ yet he said. Well seeing it is so, that thy folly doth so much constrain thee to make a controversy without any occasion, tarry, and thou shalt see, how I was wont to punish such foolish people as thou art, and so in great hast he called for his horse, which was strait way brought unto him by Macedonio, and without putting foot into the stirrup, he leapt into the saddle, and took his spear in his hand, & without replying any other thing, that valiant Tinacrian presently withdrew himself back, and took of the field that part which was needful for him. The like did the Queen, and at one time returned their light horses, and in great hast they struck their horses with the spurs, without all pity, and with extreme fury, they made the encounter upon their shields, that their spears shivered all to pieces, and passed along with their course without any stay of their bodies, or moving in their saddles, and turned about their horse with great lightness with their swords in their hands. The Queen struck the first blow at the Prince, that she made the sparks to fly out of his helm, and the Prince to decline his head to the saddle bow, who with great lightness did settle himself again in the saddle, and did clear himself from the second blow, which was ready to be discharged upon him: & putting himself on the one side, he struck her such a blow upon the helm, that it made a great sounds throughout all the fields and craggy mountains, and she fell backwards upon the horse crupper with her head: but very quickly she arose up again, and settled herself, and with great ire she laid fast hold upon her sword, to strike her enemy, whom she did not find idle, but rather began to assault her with blows of mortal battle. Such blows was stroke betwixt them, that with the least they thought either of them to make an end of that controversy. At this time, there came that way a Knight, who was armed with very rich armour. This was that strong and mighty Brufaldoro, who if you do remember, with the mighty & strong blow given by the Tinacrian, remained all alongst the floor in his galley without remembrance. And when he came unto himself, with his accustomed bravery, he would follow that way which the bark went: but calling to remembrance the great travail and sorrow in the which his Lady was, love did there constrain him to follow his own journey. And when he came thither, he understood that Poliphebo had set her at liberty, and carried her with him, towards the Almain Court: & by the way that he travailed, he met with people which did tell him of all that had happened, and all signs and tokens of the Knight that carried away his Lady, and by them he did understand that he was his enemy: then he left his own armour, and armed himself with that which was Bramarants, and followed that way which was told him he went. The fame was such, that this Tinacrian left behind him, that wheresoever he came, or wheresoever he went, he always had news which way he travailed, until that time, that he came & found him in battle with that worthy Queen, where he stayed to behold a battle so well fought. At length he knew him very well to be the Knight that brought him into so great extremity: and looking about him on them that were beholding the battle, amongst the rest he knew his loving wife: and although his joy was very great in seeing of her, yet the wrath and ire that he had against the Knight was so much, that without saying any word unto the Queen his wife, he went toward them that were in battle, and with his sword drawn in his hand, he put himself before the Queen and said. I do desire thee gentle Knight that thou wouldst rest and take thine ease, and let me alone with my strong arm take revengement of this knight, usurper of my loving wife, and a robber of my fame and honour, and without any other detainment, he went against him for to strike at him mortal blows. But then that worthy Gentlewoman with great anger said.  
Stand away Knight, and let me make an end of that I have begun, and offer no wrong unto them that do know how to make their their demand unto thy cost: and therewith she put herself before him. But this furious Pagan with the great desire he had to make his revengement turned and put himself before the Queen striking at the Tinacrian mighty & strong blows, who did not much marvel neither at the one nor at the other, but assaulted the Pagan with a marvelous mighty blow. The Queen at that time did put herself before him again, and upon her was executed that blow upon the left shoulder, which did grieve her very much, as it appeared by her outward countenance. At this time the Pagan put himself again foremost: then this furious Lady with her sword all aloft, said. Keep thyself back, thou vile Knight, and of base lineage, and let me make an end of this that I have begun, before that the potency of my arm, do overthrow thy great pride. Stand thou back said the Pagan, for it is my right to take vengeance on this evil Knight, for that he doth carry my Lady rob from me. In these words which was spoken, the Tinacrian did know the other to be the king of Mauritania, who brought him in so great extremity at the beginning of his Knighthood, for the which he was very full of ire and wrath, insomuch that a thick smoke came forth at his beaver. At this time came unto that place Don Claridiano of the spear, the light of all Knighthood, who was armed with his purple armour, and as I have told you, he departed out of the Emperor's palace in great secret. And when he saw the great contention that was betwixt those knights, being very desirous to know the occasion, he put himself between them, and desired them to leave off that battle. The furious Pagan answered: thou knight, put not thyself to understand any matter before thou art called: for if thou dost, possibly thou shalt bear part of that, which this unfortunate knight doth owe me. Then Claridiano said: I know not wherein he should be indebted unto thee, but rather I do understand that thou art he that hath least reason, for that the other knight of the branch, was the first that begun this battle. First he did to me the grief, said the Pagan, before the other. For that I gave unto him the order of knighthood, and after that I had given it him, he did defy me in mortal battle: & not content herewith, he hath rob me of my Lady which thou dost see yonder. To these words the Tinacrian answered and said. Thou liest like an evil knight, for that I have not rob her, but I have delivered her from that place, from whence thou with all thy power wert not sufficient to deliver her: & for thy falsehood, thou shalt not carry her away without mortal battle. This furious pagan when he heard himself so ill spoken off, like a Lion he went against him: but that stout Dame did put herself before him, and said. Stand back then Pagan & importunate devil, for first thou shalt have to do with me, or else thou shalt let me make an end of my pretence. This brave Tinacrian like a furious Lion, said unto the Greek Prince: Courteous knight, I pray you to stand back somewhat and let me alone with them both, for that I do esteem both of them but a little. And with loud voice he said: Come, come against me thou Pagan king, & of little valour, & take in company with thee that other arrogant fool as thou art, for that of both you together I do mean to set an agreement with the strength and force of my indomable arm. Then Claridiano said, it shall not be so, but first procure to clear thyself of him with the branch, and I will set thee at liberty of the pagan. And therewith he drew out his sword, and struck him such a blow, that he made him to tremble & remain as one amazed: and seeing him in the case, he struck him another blow upon the beaver, that he made the pagan to gripe fast about his horse neck to keep himself from falling. But this Moor came quickly again to himself, and with a furious courage he struck him upon the left shoulder such a blow that it made the Greek to shrink in his body, and to stoop down to his saddle bow, with the great grief that he fell, & giving a terrible groan, he lift up his sword, & struck the pagan a blow upon the helm, that the sparks of fire flew into the air, and almost without remembrance, he fell down upon his horse crupper. The pagan coming again unto himself, puffed out at his beaver a thick smoke, & threw his shield at his back, and struck the Greek so terrible a blow, that without all remembrance, he fell forwards upon his horses ears, who carried him a while up & down the field: but presently he came again unto himself, & seeing that he was so ill entreated, he took his sword in both his hands, & set spurs to his horse side, that he made him to run like unto the wind, so that he was strait with the Pagan, and struck him such a blow, that it seemed a whole tower had fallen upon him, and having no power to the contrary, he fell upon his horse neck without any feeling: who being scared with that terrible blow, with a swift course carried his master from his enemy. In all this time was not the Tinacrian nor that fair dame idle: but when they saw the battle begun betwixt the two Knights, with great fury they returned unto their battle, and for that the Tinacrian was full of anger, he threw his shield at his back, and stroke at the Queen so mighty a blow & with so great fury that he made her to fall down upon the buttock of her horse without any remembrance, who carried her a while round about the field. The Queen came quickly again unto herself, so wrathful, that she had no other thought, but to take revengement on her enemy, and throwing her shield to the ground, she took her sword in both her hands, & struck her horse with the spurs, that she made him run like unto the wind, & with a trice she was with the Tinacrian, and struck him so upon the helm that with the fire which slew out thereat, he lost his sight, & this valiant young Knight fell backwards upon his horse crupper without any feeling, who carried him up and down the field, which when the Lady saw, she would have finished the battle, with another rigorous blow. At this time it so fell out that the horse of that valiant African with his master, did likewise run about the field, the which was the occasion, that the Greek might behold all that passed, and with a trice he was with them & said. Withdraw thyself for that it is not the part of heroical Knights to pursue and follow them that are without remembrance. The Lady who was very angry, gave the Greek for answer, a furious blow, but strait way she was paid again with the like: where betwixt them began a new battle. In the mean time the Tinacrian & the Pagan were come again unto themselves, & settled in their saddles, & either of them looked about for his adversary, whom they beheld in mortal battle. And they two being together, which did hate each other deadly, made no reckoning of their late enemies, but assaulted one another very furiously and strongly. All this was great profit unto the Queen of Lira, for that the Tinacrian was so mighty & furious, that she should have been in great peril. I cannot tell you who was more furious of these two warriors, but I can say this, that Claridiano was very sore wounded and overcome, as hereafter shall be told you, in such sort, that no medicine might avail to help him. Thus they endured four hours without taking any rest, fight more fiercely then at the beginning. And being in this controversy, towards the parts next the sea side, they saw coming Rosicleer, and that stout Trojan, and the Prince Meridian, who seeing the battle, did stay to behold them. Rosicler knew strait ways the armour of Bramarant, who seeing them in the power of another, was very full of wrath, and without any more tarrying, he put himself in the midst among them, and with a furious voice he said. Tell me knight, who made thee so bold to take this armour, from the place whereas I put them for a Tropheo and remembrance. The Pagan answered him and said: Superbious and proud knight, art thou by fortune one of those Greek Princes, who with great threatenings dost defend this armour. I am one of them said Rosicleer, and he that will take away thy life for thy boldness, and therewith he drew out his sword for to assault him: but the Tinacrian did put himself before him & said with great courtesy as unto his elder brother. Knight & prince of Grecia, let not your highness do me so much wrong, to hinder me from being revenged on this Knight, let me alone with him, for that I have so much hope in the strength of my arm, to give a good account of him. Therefore I do desire thee to stand a little a side. Rosicler would have answered him, but upon a sudden he saw coming from the part of Pireo, a Knight; armed with russet armour, garnished with stripes and bars of gold, his shield was likewise Russet and there was painted on it, the God Cupid with two faces.  
This was that valiant Eleno prince of Dacia, who seeing the controversy betwixt those three knights, passed forwards on his way, saying unto Rosicleer without looking upon his armour and device: Knight thou dost wrong to disturb them them that first began the battle. But Rosicleer with the great anger and wrath he had to see that armour in a stranger's power, did not behold the device of his Cousin, and so being both blind, without any consideration, they assaulted one another in mortal battle. This Dacian was not slothful in drawing out of his sword, and to return his salutation. At such time as from that part of Grecia, there appeared a great number of Knights. But now my pen waxeth weary, and my afflicted spirits doth constrain me to make an end of the second part of this history: for that with a new courage, I may have time to translate the third part, which is full of prowess and valiant deeds. Beginning from the battle whereas we left Rosicler, in the Island whereas he set Meridian at liberty from a furious Giant, as hath been told you. And in the second of Don Eleno of Dacia, and by what adventure he came into this place, whereas he shall end this his new begun battle. Therefore I do request thee gentle Reader, that if in these two books thou hast received any contentment to desire thee Muses to aid, help and secure me, and not to leave me, that I may bring unto light ●he deeds and glorious end of these Princes and Knights, with the love of Claridiano, and Rosaluira. O Calliope with thy aid and help, I will not stay my hand, till such time as I have declared all the whole deeds and policy used in these their feats of arms, for that by all reason I am bound to conclude the same.   
FINIS.   


THe cruel battle that passed between the Knight of the sun, and the fierce Giant Bramarant, in which bickering, the Giant perceiving that he must needs have the worst, murdered himself. Cap, 1. 
fol. 1. a.  The worthy knight Rosicler finding Bramarant giving up the ghost, after he was dead, did entomb his corpses near unto a Pine apple tree, wherein he did engrave an Epitaph. Cap. 2. 
fol. 4. b.  Prince Rosicler travailing on his way, having already taken leave of the Princess' Ladies, did chance upon a certain adventure, and of the success he had therein. Cap. 3. 
fol. 1●. a  The great sorrow that the knight of the Sun received▪ in thinking of his own disloyalty, & that which happened unto him. Cap. 4. 
fol. 23. b  How the Grecian knight persuaded his uncle the Prince of Dacia, to accompany him, and leave that sorrowful and desolate life, and of that which after happened to him. Cap. 5. 
fol. 26. b.  Of the terrible battle that this Grecian Prince had with the Giant, and of all the adventures that chanced in the said battle. Cap. 6. 
fol. 32. a.  How the knight Eleno had battle with Tefereo the giant's cousin, and the success that was therein, and how the Prince Eleno by a strange adventure was separated from his cousin and Tefereo. Chap. 7. 
fol. 37. a.  By what adventure ●loramont was delivered from the peril he was in, and how the Princess Claridiana was delivered of child, and how she was comforted in all her trouble by the wise Artemidoro. Chap ●. 
fol. 44. a  How that when the king of Hungary was taking his leave to depart, there came a Giant, having a cruel and furious countenance, who defied the Emperor and his sons, & of all that chanced therein. Chap. 9 
fol. 49. a  How the king of tire gave an assalt to rob the ship where Rosicler was, & how the same king was come. Ca 10. 
fo. 53. b  How the king of Sardenia was baptized, and how a Lady demanded a promise of the Emperor, which he granted, for the which all the court was very sad. Chap. 11. 
fol. 58. b.  How the Emperor undid a scroll of parchment, & therein read the cause why a certain dead Lady was slain with cruel tyranny, and of the great sorrow he received for the same. Cap. 12. 
fo. 65. b  How the Emperor Trebatio did land at the Island Citarea, & of all that happened there. Chap. 13. 
fo. 71. a.  How the Lady Lydia talked with her knight Brenio, demanding the cause of his discontinent, and of other accidents. Chap. 14. 
fol. 74. a.  How the Emperor when he was recovered of the weariness which he received at the sea, travailed in the same Island where he was cast a land, and how he met with certain knights, with whom he had battle. Chap 1●. 
fol. 81. b.  How the two children of the great Alphebo were stolen away by the Giant Galtenor, and what succeeded of the same. Chap 16. 
foe 87. a.  Of the great pain that the Prince sustained for the absence of his cousin, and how he had battle with a certain knight that was afflicted with love, and of all that chanced therein Chap. 17. 
fo. 90. b.  How the Prince met in Paris with the knight of the Images, and of the battle he had with him, & how they overcame the three knights that did accuse the Princess, and of all that happened beside. Chap. 18. 
fol. 99 a.  Of all that happened unto the far Lydia, and to the Prince Eleno, after they departed the mountain where as they met. Chap. 19 
fol. 105.  〈◊〉, and of that which passed in the battle which he had with the Earl of Modique. Chap. 20. 
fol. 111. a.  How the queen being in love with the Emperor, and seeing that he would give her no remedy, would have slain herself, and how the Emperor was constrained to consent unto her will. Cap. 21 
fol. 123. b.  How the Emperor went into the field against the Pagan Bramarandus, and of all that happened in the battle between them. Chap. 22. 
fol 125. a.  How the fair Queen Garrofilea made great lamentation for the departure of the Emperor, and how at their last being together, she remained with child by him. Chap. 23. 
fol. 130. a  How the knight of the Sun would have tarried for Tefereo in the place where as he appointed him, and how he lost his way in a thick mountain, and of all that happened after that. Chap. 24. 
fo. 132. b.  How the Greek Emperor did disembark himself at the City of Cimarra, and what happened unto him there. Chap. 25. 
fo. 139. a.  How Eleno before he would go into the field, would see the Sepulchre of Lydia, and what chanced in the battle appointed with the Emperor, his kinsmen & friends. Chap. 26. 
fol. 146. a.  How the two Empresses went to recreate themselves unto a house of pleasure, and how the king of Mauritania found them in their pastimes, and knowing who they were, would have laid hold upon the Empress Briana. Chap. 27. 
fol 151.  How the worthy Queen Archisilora went to pursue the Pagan, & what happened to her in the way. cap. 28. 
fo. 158. b  How the famous Rosicleer and Brandimardo went to the kingdom of Lyra, and of all which passed in the battle 
fol▪ 164. b.   
The end of the Table of the first book.   


The Table of the second book.  OF the Prince Claridiano, and how the king of Arginaria sent to the king of Trapobana, and of all that happened to the messenger. Chap. 1. 
fol. 169.  How Claridiano went unto the camp of the king of Arginaria, and demanded of him battle, and of all that succeeded in the same. Chap. 2. 
fol. 174. b.  How a Damsel messenger from the queen of Tinacria, and came brought a Letter unto the Emperor of Grecia, and of all that passed about the same. Chap. 3. 
fol. ●81. a.  How the Dacian Prince did meet with Brenio, to whom he gave the Letter of Lydia, and of Brenios' death. Chap. 4. 
fo. 186. b  How Eleno went out of the forest to see the adventure of those knights which passed by, & of the battle he had with them. Chap. 5. 
fol 193▪ a.  How when the valiant Mauritanian had slain the Tartarian Zoylo, he put on the armour of Bramarant for that he would not be known, and of all that happened therein. Chap. 6. 
fo. 199. a.  How the fierce Brufaldoro having spoken evil of women, and of all lovers, was taken in the snares of love with a Lady that he met after he had finished the battle with Zoylo Chap 7. 
fo. 202. b.  How Claridiano was very sad to see that he was an armed knight, only for one worthy feat of arms, and how he departed from the king Delfo. Chap. 8. 
fol. 209. a.  Of the battle that Claridiano had with the fierce and timorous Giant, son unto the other Giant which he had slain, and of all that happened in the same. Chap 9 
fo. 217. a.  Of the great travail that the Greek knight and the Ladies had for lack of victuals by reason of their long journey, and how they found a Giant whom the Prince si●e, & what order they had to help themselves to victuals▪ cap. 10. 
fol. 219.  How Claridiano and his company went unto the triumph of Nabatca, and of all that happened unto them by the way. Chap. 11. 
fol. 225. b,  How Claridiano was assaulted with two furious giants and fifteen knights that came with them, and of the battle that he had with them all. Chap. 12. 
fol. 229. a.  How the knight and the Ladies went unto a Castle, and of the great treason that was there ordained by art Magic, Chap. 13. 
fol. 232 b.  How the king of Nabatea had understanding what the Greek Prince had done in the castle, and how he commanded that the Serpent and the heads of the Giants should be set at the entry of the gate of the Palace: and how the triumph began, and of all that passed in the time of the feasts, Chapter. 14. 
fol. 238. a.  How the heroical Greek was wounded with the part of Cupid, in beholding the beauty of a very fair Pastora, and of the great grief that he sustained. Chap. 15. 
fol. 241. b.  How Rosicler found in an Island the son of Alicandro, leading a troublesome life, with his fair and well-beloved wife, whom he set at liberty▪ Chap 16. 
fol. 247.  How Rosicleer entered into the Castle, and of the battle he had therein, for to bring out of prison the Prince's spouse unto the Prince Meridian, being there kept. Chap. 17. 
fol. 251. b.  How the king Fangomadan came with out knowing of any thing that happened in the Castle, and found the entry closed, and of the battle that was between him and Rosicleer. Chap. 18. 
fol. 256. b.  Of the battle which Claridiano ha● with the Prince of Palestina, and how he had the victory, giving liberty unto Antemisca, and the rest. Chap. 19 
fo. 258. b.  How Claridiano travailed by Armenia, and of the strange adventures that happened in that Country. Chap. 20. 
fol. 266. b.  How Claridiano after he had read the history in the parchment, blew the horn, and the gatts were opened, and how resistance was made at the entry, and of all that passed about the same. Cap. 21. 
fol. 26●. a.  How Claridiano being overcome with the love of the Pastora disguised himself in shepherds apparel, the beteer to enjoy her sight, & of all that happened therein. Chap. 22. 
fo. 281. a.  How Poliphebo because his mother would not give him the order of knighthood, went secretly from the court, and of all that happened to him. Chap. 23. 
fol. 287. a.  How the worthy Tinacrian prosecuted his voyage, and chanced whereas he found the Queen of Mauritania evil entreated of a Giant, and of the battle he had with him. Chap. 24. 
fol. 292. a.  How Poliphebo prosecuted his journey for to go into Grecia, and how in the way he met by adventure with certain Clowns forcing of a Lady, and would have slain her, and what happened roaching that Lady. Chap. 25. 
fol. 295.  〈…〉 if any would come forth against him▪ ●nd how Rodelando and his cousin made battle with him, and how he overcame them both. Chap. 26. 
fol. 301. b.  How the emperor Alphebo would have persuaded the Princess Tigliafa to leave that lamentable life, which she refused to do, and how the two knights departed, & of all that happened in their journey. Chap. 27. 
fol. 305. b.  How the Prince of Polismago took the Pastora captive, and how Filipensio 〈…〉. Chap. 2●. 
fol. 311. b.  How Claridiano fought with his own father, and how Galtenor knowing the ●arme that would come thereof remedied it. Chap. 29. 
fol. 317. a  How the Emperor Trebatio was rejoiced with his nephew the Pastora, and of a great tempest, with other accidents. Chap. 50. 
fol. 326. b.  How Poliphebo and the queen of Lira had cruel battle, and what happened therein. Chap. 31. 
fol 330. b.   
FINIS.    

¶ IMPRINTED AT LONdon by Thomas East, dwelling between Paul's Wharfe and Baynard's Castle. 1583.