ORLANDO INAMORATO The three first Books of that famous Noble Gentleman and learned Poet, Matthew Maria Boiardo Earl of Scandiano in Lombardie.  
Done into English Heroical Verse, By R. T. Gentleman.  

Parendo impero.  
Imperando pereo.   
Printed at London by Valentine Sims, dwelling on Adling hill at the sign of the white Swan. 1598.   


As glorious Pearl the MArgaRITe  
At shine of Sun doth show:  
So doth she look, or very like,  
To whom I duty owe.   
R. T.   

TO THE RIGHT Virtuous and worshipful Lady, the Lady MARGARITE MORGAN, wife unto Sir JOHN MORGAN of Chilworth in the County of SURREY Knight, and Captain of her majesties horsemen in the same Shire.  
GOOD Madam, the manifold courtesies, and exceeding great favours, which not only mine elder brother, but also mine own poor self, have received and found at Chilworth, is the occasion and cause we are so much bound and beholding unto you: In sign whereof, I shall desire you to accept this small testimony of my duetious good will, towards your worthy House, until better satisfaction shall follow to make some amends for the same: It is a Novel Matter, & therefore I send it unto you as a Newyears gift these Holidays, resembling herein the fashion of some cunning Drapers, who when they would utter a bad piece of doth, carry the same unto the falsest & darkest window they have, thereby to make the bad colour show thee better: So I, desirous that this my simple Translation might pass the safer, have sent it unto you these short days in Christmas, that reading the same by candle light, you may the less perceive the faults thereof: yet howsoever it is, I doubt not but your Ladyship will accept favourably of it, and at some idle hour or other, read it over. And thus (good Madam) craving pardon for my boldness, and favour for such faults as may be committed in the same, I wish unto you, all such happy contentment, as either your worthy selfedoth desire, or your virtuous Thoughts any way deserve: and so I humbly take my leave.  
Your ladyships most devoted. R. T.   

THE FIRST BOOK OF Orlando Inamorato.  
THE ARGUMENT.  

Charles doth a Royal Feast, and joust proclaim,  
Where (with Argalia) comes Angelica,  
Dares all to fight, and Malagigi's ta'en;  
Being sent as Prisoner to Cataia,  
Astolfo runs, (but vanquished doth remain)  
And (as th'agreement was) doth lose the day,  
Ferraw doth joust, and falls, yet will not yield,  
And at the last, kills Giants four in field.   

I Sing of Him that Wonders wrought through Love,  
That Monsters, Fiends, and Giants huge did tame,  
And many a weary jorny oft did prove,  
To seek, to find what lost had been his gain,  
A cruel Heart with pity mild to move  
(Which he too faithless found unto his pain:)  
So near and dear he loud her, and so well,  
As (for her sake) distraught of wit he fell,   

Famous ORLANDO was the Man I mean,  
And fair ANGELICA that used him so,  
These two must be the subject of my Theme,  
If my Dear ALBA so much favour show,  
Who in her hate to me is too extreme,  
(Like sea that never ebbs, but still doth flow)  
My comfort's this, though high my Thoughts be placed,  
If I obtain not, None shall she's so chaste.   

ANd thou fair BROOK, whence springs each sweet Conceit,  
Where Beauty bides in her perfection,  
Thy Gracious Aspect humbly I entreat,  
(As happy Planet) me to shine upon,  
Whilst I in Others, of thyself repeat,  
Volumes of Praise due to thee long agone:  
Help BRADAMANTA, whilst I writ the praise  
Of stout RUGIERO forth a broad to blaze.   

Long since did sway the Sceptre in the East,  
A mighty King, and he Gradasso hight,  
Whose dreadful name, from most unto the least,  
Throughout the world with terror did affright,  
This Prince by force, meant for to be possessed  
Of Baiardo and Durindana bright,  
As Monarch's use, who oft in mind aspire,  
" Things that are hardly got for to desire.   

And to this end he through his kingdoms great,  
An hundred fifty thousand Knights most bold,  
Doth muster up, to bring to pass this feat,  
Who expert were in martial points of old,  
Yet meant not this proud King them to entreat,  
To try their valour, though full feign they would,  
For he (alone) himself thought with his lance,  
Able great Charles to conquer, and all France▪   

Now whilst Gradasso, thrice invincible,  
Conducts his huge Army on the way:  
Carlmagnus, that for curtsy doth excel,  
Proclaims most solemn jousts for many a day,  
In Paris to be kept as Heralds tell,  
Where, any Knight (what ere) come thither may,  
And of his valour show some perfect proof,  
Mounted in Armour, best for his behoof,   

By chance there were assembled at that time,  
Within the royal City, and the Court,  
The twelve chief Peers of France called Paladine,  
With divers neighbouring Princes of great port,  
To show of virtue theirs, some worthy sign:  
Pagans, aswell as Christians there resort,  
For all might safely come withouten fear,  
Unless a Traitor false to the State he were▪   

This caused a number to arrive from Spain,  
All valiant Soldiers, and of worthy prize,  
No Cavalire did then behind remain,  
But richly did appear in sumptuous wise:  
Amongst this martial crew that was of Fame,  
Were these (whose Prowess sounds unto the Skies:)  
Serpentine, Balugant and Isol●re,  
With other Knights for Honour that aspire.   

Paris resounds with Musics Harmony,  
With Trumpets, Drums, with Fiffes, and Bells for joy,  
The barbed Steeds are trapped most gorgeously,  
Each one hath his Device and several Toy,  
With Gold and Pearl, to please his Mistress eye,  
As to rehearse the same your ears would cloy:  
For all did seek (their Emperor for to grace,)  
Who should as then, most Pomp show in that place.   

And now is come the day, in which begin  
They should their Solemn jousts; when Charlemagne,  
Attired in Robes of powdered Etmiline  
Invites each Lord and Knight, that thither came,  
In his great Hall to feast and feed with him,  
Since they to honour him had took such pain:  
The number of which Guests, were as I guess,  
Twenty two thousand and thirty, and no less.   

King Charles himself with cheer 〈…〉  
In Throne of Gold sat at his Table round  
Amongst his Peers, who blithe and merry were:  
And over against him right, the Saracens on ground,  
Who did on board or bench to sit forbear,  
But lay along as Mastiffs oft are found:  
On Carpets sat they (as their fashion is)  
And I dare say, no small pride took in this.   

Hard by his right side, and on his left hand  
Tables were placed and set in fit degree:  
At first sat none but such as did command  
O'er England, Britain, and o'er Lombardie,  
Three famous Kings (as then) of christian Land:  
Otton, Solomon, and Desideri● free:  
The rest vnnam'de in order took their place,  
As cu'ry Monarch doth in such a case.   

Dukes sat at second Board, and Marquises,  
Earls (only) at the third, and Cavalires;  
Much graced were as then the Maganses,  
And chiefly Gano, who himself proud bears,  
Rinaldo storms, much it doth him displease  
Because he spies by signs those traitorous Peers,  
Amongst themselves do scoff and jest at him,  
For that as they he is not half so trim.   

These Magansesis were noble House,  
And next to Charles, 'mongst Peers the chiefst of all:  
Yet were they Cowards, base, and timorous,  
Traitors, and pickthanks, envious, full of gall,  
Few was there of them counted vallerous,  
Or held for courage-worthy Knights and tall:  
Yet Charles, them more then they deserved held dear,  
Because of kin to him so nigh they were.   

〈…〉 he did smile,  
Concealing inwardly his wrath in show,  
But to himself he said; Base Rascals vile,  
Ere long your Betters I will make you know,  
I'll see how you can fit your horse the while  
I charge against you, as your deadly foe:  
For I not doubt (though now so proud you are found)  
When we shall meet, to make you kiss the ground.   

King Balugant, who saw his colour oft  
To come and go, his meaning did divine:  
And therefore by a Trunchman, of him sought  
If that in Court, ('mongst Christians, Chief and prime)  
Men were for wealth or merit raised aloft:  
Because he being a stranger at that time  
Desired to know the custom, lest he swerver  
In honouring any, as they should deserve.   

Rinaldo smiles, and with a cheerful look,  
To Balugant his Messenger thus said,  
Friend, tell thy Master, since that he can brook,  
Christians by him with Honour should be paid,  
Base Gulls at table, Queans in bed are took  
(For sport) oft 'mongst us, and are much of made:  
But where we come our valour for to try,  
Each one receives his Honour orderly.   

Whilst thus this Message is delivered,  
Sweet music sounds throughout the royal Hall:  
The Emperor wills each Board be furnished  
With dainty Cates to feast these Barons tall,  
Carousing unto them whilst that they fed,  
In cups of gold wrought richly over all▪  
Each one he honoureth with this Gift or that,  
Showing thereby, he them hath not forgot▪   

They frolic, and are merry as may be,  
Discoursing 'mongst themselves in voice but low:  
King Pippins son, that now himself doth see  
Attended on with such a royal Show  
Of Kings, of Dukes, of Knights in their degree:  
The Pagan's steams as dust that wind doth blow▪  
But see, a chance unlooked for did appear,  
That made both him and all the rest to fear.   

For on the sudden did appear in sight  
Four Giants great and strong of limb and bone,  
And in the midst of them a Damsel bright  
Attended on with one sole Knight alone,  
A star she seemed, so glorious was this Wight,  
Like her no flower on earth hath ever grown:  
In brief the truth to tell, she all did pass,  
Never before her, like for Beauty was.   

Yet was sweet Galerana in that place,  
And Alda wife unto Orlando bold:  
Clarice, and Armelina fair in face,  
And divers other Ladies left untold,  
Who beauteous were and full of lovely grace:  
Beauteous indeed, framed right in Nature's mould▪  
But when 'mongst them appeared this Flower so gay,  
The prize of Beauty strait she reft away.   

Each Baron brave, and Prince of Christendom,  
On that rare Object do their eyes still cast,  
The barbarous Pagans rise from ground and run  
To honour her, who makes them all aghast,  
Whilst with so sweet a smile shines this clear Sun▪  
As she is able, a stony heart at last  
To melt for love, and to herself to win,  
And thus to speak she smiling doth begin.   

Most mighty Lord, thy virtue more than great,  
And wondrous valour of thy Peers of fame,  
Whose prowess so far throughout the world doth beat,  
As any seas their utmost bounds contain,  
Give me some hope; the travel, and the sweat  
Of us poor Pilgrims shall not be in vain:  
Since both thy Court and thee we comen are  
To honour from the world his end affair.   

And that I may not hold thee over long,  
Know this the reason is I came to thee,  
This is Vberto (surnamed Leo) strong,  
A Noble borne and Knight of chivalry,  
Expulsed from out his kingdom by much wrong,  
(Wronged like him could never any be:)  
And I that was banished with him that day,  
His sister am, and called Angelica.   

From hence 200 days journey at least,  
At Tana (where our Country is) we have  
Herd much of this thy royal jousts, and Feast  
And of th'assembly of these Gallants brave,  
And that who best deserves, is not possessed  
Of gold or pearl, (gifts for a servile slave)  
But to enhance his virtuous honour more,  
The Conqueror, a crown of roses wore.   

This is the cause Vberto brother mine  
Means for to try his force and valour here,  
'mongst all the flower of Barons of this time:  
All will be try, although he buy it dear,  
Be he a Christian or a Saracin,  
Without the City gates he will appear,  
Hard at the Pine within the meadow green,  
Which Merlin's tomb is called as I ween.   

But yet with this condition will he joust  
As I'll repeat, that all may know the same;  
Who shall unhorsed be, and from saddle thrust,  
No more shall run his honour to regain,  
But yield himself as prisoner to him must;  
And who Vberto lays on sandy plain,  
My person shall enjoy to him for pray,  
And he with Giants his shall wend their way.   

Thus having said, fore Charles she knelt on ground,  
Expecting his short answer speedily,  
Her feature rare doth make them all astounded,  
And chief stout Orlando who draws nigh  
To her with trembling heart, through loves deep wound,  
Although it to conceal he had an eye:  
Casting his looks oft times on th'earth below  
As one ashamed thereof he well did show.   

Alas fond man, he to himself then said,  
Why giv'st thou so large rain unto thy will?  
Perceivest thou not in errors thou dost wade?  
And 'gainst thy God (as perverse) sinnest still?  
Ah how am I by Fortune overlaid!  
I see my fault, ●e cannot mend this ill:  
I that the worlds great'st force did set at nought,  
Am by a silly girl o'ercome and caught.   

To part from her sweet face I have no power,  
My life upon her lovely looks doth stay,  
Withouten her I languish every hour,  
And soul from out this body wends her way:  
Now see I well no force, nor frowning shower  
Can love withstand, whom I must now obey:  
" Wisdom helps not, nor good advise to choose,  
" What's best I know, yet best I do refuse.   

She is a Heathen, I a Christian borne,  
Nor know I if she me will ever like,  
May be she'll other love, and me will scorn,  
(And yet for him she is, that best can fight;)  
I know not if my fortune be forlorn,  
Yet for her sake, I'll try her brother's might:  
My hop's that soon shall ended be this strife,  
Either I'll win her, or I'll lose my life▪   

Thus to himself laments this Baron bold,  
Of his new Love, uncertain of her grace;  
The like Duke Namo did though he were old,  
(" Wood old and dry burns soon in such a case,)  
He shakes as one troubled with ague cold,  
And all his blood doth run from out his face:  
In brief, her pleasing beauty rare was such,  
As Charles himself (with each one) liked her much.   

All stood stone still as they were in a maze,  
Staring upon her with no small delight,  
But youthful Ferraw, whose heat was no blaze  
But sparkling fire, thrice meant by force of might,  
To take her from the Giants, and thrice stays,  
As ●oth the rest of Barons to despite.  
Therefore his first intent he soon let fall,  
Lest he should be condemned of them all.   

He stamps and leaps as if he trod on brier,  
He shakes his head, nor knows he what to do,  
Rinaldo with the rest his heart's on fire,  
Assoon as he began her for to view,  
But Malagis that knew her, coming nigh her,  
(Quoth he unto himself) I'll make thee rue  
That here thou camest enchantress false and vile,  
" For to deceive deceivers 'tis no guile.   

King Charles a long discourse makes pleasantly,  
Unto this Damsel whom he doth adore,  
The longer for to have her company,  
He wondering talks, and talking wonders more,  
Nor dares he (what she doth request) deny,  
But all confirms, though he repent therefore,  
Swearing to keep what he fore her doth say,  
Wherewith she pleased wends with her troop away.   

Scarce were they passed through the City wall,  
But Malagigi takes his Book in hand,  
Four devils from depth of hell he forth doth call,  
Whom (what shall hap) to tell he doth command,  
But soon his frightful mind they did appall,  
When he by them was given to understand,  
King Charles no better was than one that's dead,  
And all his court undone dishonoured.   

For this young maid surpassing beauty fair,  
Sole daughter was unto King Galafron,  
Full of deceit, in falsehood passing rare,  
And of enchanted spells knew every one,  
Come was she hither for to bring much care,  
To Christian Knights, and sent by that old crone,  
With her brother, who Argalia had to name,  
(And not Vberto) as she false did feign.   

A wondrous horse this old man gave his son,  
As black as coal, more swift than whirling wind,  
A target and a breastplate fair that shun,  
With helmet such, and sword he him assigned,  
All which by magic art were wrought and done,  
(For dear he loud him, and to him was kind:)  
Withal a launs he had of glittering gold,  
Most rich and strangely wrought for to behold.   

His Father sent him with this armour brave,  
Thinking (through this) he was invincible,  
Besides a precious Ring he to him gave,  
Though he it used not, yet it did excel;  
For being in one's mouth, it men did save  
Unseen, and kept them as invisible;  
Holding it on the left side, without harm,  
And worn on hand, all witchcrafts did uncharm.   

But chiefly that Angelica should go  
With him in company was his devise,  
Because he knew her flattering face as tho,  
Each Baron bold to combat would entice,  
Whom, when she could by witchcraft overthrow,  
She should bring with her, as her beauty's prize:  
Bound fast in chains to Galafron, where he  
Would use them worse than curs or manstives be.   

Thus do the spirits of Malagigi sane,  
Whom we will leave his business to mine,  
And to Argalia we will come again,  
Who is to Merlin's tomb come by this time,  
Pitching a rich pavilion on the plain,  
(Within the meadow) wrought with cunning fine:  
Whereunder he himself doth strait repose,  
For great desire to rest himself he shows.   

Angelica not far from him doth keep,  
Upon the ground her golden tresses lay,  
Under the Pine she by a spring doth sleep,  
The Giants four as Gardiants 'bout her stay,  
An Angel, and no earthly creature leek,  
Whilst in a slumber sweet she smiling lay:  
Her brother's ring whereof we spoke before,  
Of precious virtue, she on finger wore.   

Now Malagigi doth a Devil bestride,  
And softly in the Air doth thither come,  
Where he the Maid how she doth lie hath spied,  
Hard by the Fountain that doth trickling run:  
The watchful Giants four he hath descried,  
Who (to their Charge to look) no labour shun.  
Fowl ugly Beasts (saith he) ill you befall,  
I'll catch you strait, sans striking struck at all.   

Your threatenings proud, your grim and ghastly look  
Shall small avail, your darts not weapons strong:  
I'll plague you all, you (sleeping) shall be took,  
As Rascals base, that meant us thus to wrong▪  
And saying so, he forth doth take his Book,  
With other Tools, nor thus he stayed long:  
But ere that he one leaf had well nigh read,  
They all fell sound asleep as they were dead.   

That done, he to the Virgin nigh doth draw,  
His sword vnsheathing softly her to kill,  
But when so sweet a dainty face he saw,  
To murder her he had but little will:  
To use her so, he thinks 'tis too hard Law,  
At last he saith, My mind I'll thus fulfil,  
By Magic art to sleep I will her make,  
And so my pleasure on her sweetly take.   

Upon the grass he flings his naked sword,  
And takes his boeke unto him once again,  
Before he leaves, he readeth every word,  
But to what end? his charming is in vain:  
The virtue of her Ring the same procured,  
But Malagigi who knew not the same,  
Thinking she could not stir once in that place,  
Gins her in his arms for to embrace,   

She skriching out, a fearful noise doth make,  
Wretch that I am (cries she) I am betrayed:  
Poor Malagigi well nigh dead for fear doth quake,  
When he perceives his cunning so to vade.  
Argalia with her cry as then did wake,  
When she was like strange sport to have assayed.  
Who half awake, half sleeping as he was,)  
Unarmed and nakte, out of his Tent did pass.   

And seeing on the sudden in that place,  
A fellow tumbling his fair Sister by,  
He so amazed was at this uncouth case,  
As he at first durst not approach them nigh.  
But after coming to himself within a space,  
He thought with cudgel to kill him presently:  
Crying to him: Villain thou art but dead,  
That hast my Sister thus dishonoured.   

Nay, bind him first (cried she) good Brother mine  
Fore him I let go, for a conjuror  
He ●s; and wer● not for this Ring of thine,  
Thy force (as now) too weak against him were:  
This said, the young man runs, and staithe no time,  
Where as the Giants lay, but near the near,  
For though he cried, and pains therein did take,  
Th'enchantment was so strong, they could not wake.   

He shakes and tugs and pulls them to and fro:  
But to no end, which when he doth it see,  
From out his Club he pulls a chain as tho,  
And doth return where as the other be,  
Sad Malagigi binding, full of woe;  
And fore he could do so, much pain had he,  
His neck, his arms, his legs no chain did miss,  
No part from head to foot, but fettered is.   

As soon as he was back and belly bound,  
The Damsel searcheth forth with in his breast,  
And there the damned Book she straightway found:  
Which Circles strange, and shapes of Fiends expressed.  
No sooner she some words therein did sound,  
And opened had those damned leaves unblessed,  
But Spirits of th'air, earth, sea, came out of hand  
Crying aloud, What is't you us command?   

I will (quoth she) this prisoner you convey  
Twixt India, and Tartary, and him bring  
Into that City called Cataia:  
Where Galafron my father reigns as King,  
That I him sent as Prisoner, to him say,  
And that I cause was of his prisoning,  
Tell him, now I this man in Bonds have caught,  
Charles other Barons I esteem as nought.   

No sooner said she so, but that in th'air  
Carried was Malagi, fore Galafron,  
Who under Sea, a prison did prepare  
For him, within a rock of flinty stone.  
And now through Ring the Giants wakened are  
By fair Angelica through virtue shown,  
They wondering at the same, do marvel much,  
How they escaped unkild from danger such.   

Whilst thus abroad, this busy business goes,  
Contention great in Paris doth arise,  
Because Orlando doth himself dispose,  
To be the first to tilt in martial wise:  
But pipin's son unwilling hereof shows,  
And as a thing 'gainst reason him denies:  
So do the Paladines, so do the rest,  
Each will go first, each man himself thinks best.   

Orlando doubts lest that some other man  
Should win his Mistress, whom he holds so dear:  
For who unhorsed her Brother (bravely) can,  
May her (as Conquerors prise) home with him bear.  
Now he that his own strength did rightly skan,  
Thought her his own, (as if he conquered were)  
Only it grieves him over long to stay:  
" For Lovers think a year the shortest day.   

A Counsel hereupon in Court they call,  
And every thing is right examined:  
Where every one to end this martial Brawl,  
What best he can for his behoof hath said:  
But in the end this is agreed of all:  
That they by Fortune shall be ordered,  
And he on whom the Lot shall first alight,  
Shall have the honour first to go and fight.   

Forth with the names of Every Palatine  
Were taken, writ and placed secretly:  
Each Christian Knight, and Baron's Saracine,  
And in a pot of gold put by and by:  
Which done they call a little boy that time,  
Who (one by one) doth draw them orderly,  
As to his hand chance, and the first that came,  
Astolfo hight of England he did name.   

Next unto him was Ferraw read aloud,  
Rinaldo third, the fourth was Dudon bold,  
Crandonio then, a Giant huge and proud,  
Then Berlinger, and then King Otton old,  
The paper next King Charles his name did shroud,  
And that I may you here no longer hold,  
Thirty were drawn before Orlanaoes' turn;  
Imagine then, how he did grieve and mourn.   

Fore all was done, it grew near to be night,  
Duke Aastolff with a bold and dauntless cheer,  
Calls for his weapons and his Armour bright,  
And though small time for to provide him were,  
Considering that next morning he must fight,  
Yet speaks he bravely; for nought did he fear:  
Saying he quickly end would this proud war,  
And at the first take Vbert prisoner.   

One thing I now must tell you by the way:  
No Baron was as English Astolfe fair  
Courtlike and kind, and rich in his array▪  
But somewhat wanton himself he bore,  
Commend his valour yet not much I may,  
For many times ill luck happed to his share;  
Yet would he say, 'twas chance, not want of skill,  
He was unhorsed; such his excuse was still.   

But for to come again unto my Tale:  
By this time is he armed at his pleasure,  
Bright Orient Pearl his Target doth empale,  
His Armour countervails a good King's Treasure,  
And all of Gold is wrought his shirt of male,  
His Helmet costly is beyond all measure,  
By reason of a Ruby therein put,  
A rich one 'twas, as big as any Nut.   

His brave Caparisons with Leopards  
Embossed were, sumptuously with glittering gold,  
Alone he rides, nor company regards:  
But like a Champion stout, his way doth hold,  
'Twas early, therefore he stays afterwards,  
When Merlin's tomb he came unto most bold:  
Where he his horn puts to his mouth and blows,  
And warning of his coming thereby shows.   

Argalia hears the noise, and strait doth rise,  
For he did lie hard by the foresaid Spring,  
To arm himself, he straightway doth devise,  
From top to foot, nor wants he any thing,  
And 'gainst Astolfo goeth in warlike wise,  
He and his horse in white show glistering:  
His shield on arm, his golden lance in hand,  
Which many Knights hath east down on the sand.   

Each one the other kindly doth salute,  
Their first conditions they again renew,  
Angelica stands by with smiling look,  
Whilst they to th'end of Lists themselves withdrew,  
Which done, they run with lance in wrist, that shook,  
Striving who shall by force of stroke subdue:  
But brave Astolfo at th'encounter furst,  
Was straight unhorsed and on the ground was thrust.   

Upon the sand tumbling he lies along,  
And chafing saith, ah fortune false and sly,  
Too partial still to do me much wrong,  
My saddle was the cause I fell, not I,  
For had I been to keep my seat so strong,  
The Dame had mine been, and that presently:  
Thou mad'st me fall, because I Christian am,  
The more to raise this Pagans glorious fame.   

The Giants straight as prisoner take this Knight,  
Conducting him to a Pavilion fair,  
And when he was of armour spoiled quite,  
To view him well the Damsel doth not spare,  
For he was comely, and a goodly wight,  
Which was the cause she had of him some care:  
As pitying him, commanding he should be,  
Honoured far more than with his state did 'gree.   

He was not bound, nor any did him guard,  
But at the fountain for his pleasure staid,  
Angelica still looks upon him hard,  
(Yet unperceiude) for light the Moon displayed,  
But when the gloomy night her seeing barred,  
He, in a stately bed to rest was laid:  
Whilst with her brother, she, and Giants stout,  
Kept watch their rich Pavilion without.   

Now Ferraw comes when scarce 'tis break of day,  
In complete armour bravely to contend,  
And with his horn doth sound so strange a say,  
As if the world should at that blast have end,  
The voice was such, as all men there did fray,  
Who from that sound themselves sought to defend:  
Only Argalia for it doth not pass,  
Quickly he rose, and soon he armed was.   

On head th'enchanted helmet he puts on,  
And mounteth on his wooundrous flying steed,  
His sword he places his right side upon,  
And takes his shield, and lance, as he had need,  
Nor flow in pace seems startling Rabicon,  
But treads so light, and with such winged speed,  
As in the gravel where he trampling goes,  
No sign of any print of feet he shows.   

Ferraw doth long until Argalia come,  
" For every Lover long delays doth hate,  
And seeing him, his talk with him's av done,  
He staith not much with him to parl and prate,  
In steed of him saluting, he doth run,  
'Gainst him with spear his foes best force to bate,  
For he makes sure account, and durst to swear,  
That he the Lady fair away shall bear.   

But he no sooner with his enemies lance  
Was touched, but he was amazed in wondrous wise,  
No more with force he could himself advance,  
For all his amorous heat on sudden dies,  
Neu●● before was heard of such a chance,  
For down he falls on ground: and there he lies:  
Yet he not scarce so soon had touched the grass,  
But that he straight revived, and lusty was.   

" Love, heat of youth, the nature of some man,  
Hath many, oft, through too much ire o'erthrown,  
And Ferraw loving much, as many can,  
Was young, and proud, and over hasty grown,  
And who with such converse, in danger stan,  
He on his friend, for nothing would have flown:  
He was so froward and of so savage mind,  
As for a feather to fight you should him find.   

Anger and shame soon made him rise from ground,  
He gets him up, and now revenged he'll be,  
Forgot he hath how he by oath is bound  
To yield himself, his sword now draweth he,  
And towards Argalia running comes he round,  
Who when to break his word he doth him see,  
Saith thus to him, thou art my prisoner,  
And both thyself and me wrong'st thus to jar.   

Ferraw hears not what he to him doth say,  
But means by force therewith for to dispense,  
Which when the Giants see, hard by that stay,  
They all come towards Argalia for defence,  
And forth so great a cry aloud they bray,  
As if it were some thunder's violence,  
So great a cry these roaring Giants make,  
As two miles off the ground was found to shake.   

This made Ferraw look back, but not to fear:  
Argosto was the Giant first that came,  
Monstrous in growth, Lampordo did appear  
Next, cleped Velluto, (so was his surname)  
Because his body's all ore'growne with hea●e:  
Vrgano was the third (for strength) of fame,  
Turlone was the fourth, who was in heig●…  
Just thirty foot, when he stood bolt vp●●●…   

Lampordo first did greet him with a dart,  
And haded not been his body woundless was  
By Dest'nie, struck he had been at the heart,  
With such great force it on his breast did pa●●  
But never played a●ray-hound swifter part,  
Nor whirlwind whisks in troubled seas with 〈◊〉  
Nor thunderbolt comes half so soon from heaven▪  
As Ferraw for revenge sought to be even.   

He hits Lampordo on the rightest side,  
And pates him off in midst hard at the thighs,  
The mortal wound cuts through his Navel wide,  
Nor thinks he this brave blow must him suffice,  
His sword each where about him he doth glide,  
For th'other three beset him in sore wise:  
Worthy Argalia vantage will not take,  
But looketh on to see what end they'll make.   

Ferraw leaps up full twenty feet at least,  
To reach to the Grants, who were monstrous high,  
His sword by chance is on Vrgano seast,  
Cleaveing his head to's teeth most furiously,  
But whilst he bids them to this bitter feast,  
Argosto doth his iron club let fly:  
And such a dangerous blow he doth him give,  
As blood from forth his nose and mouth doth drive.   

This made him fiercer than he was before,  
As one that nothing feared in such a case,  
So as with strokes, that Giant down he bore,  
Cutting his shoulders off to'th girdling place,  
But now he grew to be in danger sore,  
For Turbon who was strongest of that race,  
Caught him within his arms, though he did strive,  
Meaning to carry him away alive.   

But was it force, or fortune of the Knight?  
I know not which, but soon from him he got:  
The Giant then with iron Club doth fight:  
And Ferraw with his sword, who ways him not:  
Seldom they miss, hitting each other right,  
And now the Fray gins afresh most hot,  
And each of other, now his hands full hath,  
Striving to give each other harm and scathe.   

No dallying is there twixt themselves as now,  
The Giant with all force that he can make,  
Striking the Baron's helmet off, doth wound his brow:  
Disarming quite his head he makes him quake:  
But Ferraw makes him like an Ox to low,  
So great a blow he doth him rightly take  
Upon the legs (though they in male were shut,)  
As off from body his, he them doth cut.   

Th'one dying, th'other falling in a sound,  
Both (at one instant) fell as dead they were:  
Argalia lights from horse, and from the ground,  
The Knight doth to the Spring most kindly bear:  
And with fresh water which did there abound,  
He him revives again, and doth him cheer.  
That done, he lead him would unto his Tent:  
But Ferraw to be prisoner, nill consent.   

For what care I (saith he) though Th'emperor  
Promised that such Conditions firm should stand;  
Am I his Vassal or his Servitor,  
That he unto my loss may me command?  
I came to fight for Love (like Conqueror)  
With thee, thy Sister fair for to have gained:  
And her I'll have (or else I here will die)  
Less I have lost my wont Chivalry.   

Astolfo hearing such a noise and din,  
Begun out of his heavy sleep to come:  
Besides the giants shout had waked him,  
Whose Echo to his ears from Meade did run:  
And seeing these two Champions to begin  
A fresh to brawl (which he would have them shun)  
Sought all the means, as friends to make them 'gree;  
But Ferraw to it would not persuaded be.   

Alas poor man, said then Argalia,  
Perceiv'st thou not how thou unarmed art?  
Perhaps thou thinkest thy Helmet still doth stay  
Upon thy head, which broke's in many a part,  
Then choose, if Prisoner thou wilt be, or slay  
I shall thee, (though to do so grieves my heart:)  
For if thou fightest and nothing hast on head,  
Thou canst not scape, but soon thou must be dead.   

Ferraw replied, and yet my mind me tells,  
Withouten helmet, armour or with sword,  
I shall thee conquer, though I nought have else,  
Naked with thee to fight I can afford  
For my dear Love (despite of charming Spells:)  
Thus braved this Baron, not one foot thence stirred:  
For Love had him so heated with desire,  
He would for her have leapt into the fire.   

Argalia now began to swear and stare,  
Seeing so basely he of him did steam,  
As being nakte, (to combat) durst him dare,  
And that being twice o'ercome before, doth seem  
Still prouder, nor for him at all doth care,  
But better then at first his strength doth deem:  
Well Knight (quoth he) I see thou seek'st thy Bane,  
And since thou dost, I'll soon give thee the same.   

Now do thy worst, and quickly take thy horse,  
For I have used thee too too over-well:  
Nor think once more in me to find remorse  
For Helmet lost, which from thy head late fell:  
thoust offered wrong, and find shalt hardest force:  
" Pity to thankless men I will not fell;  
Look to thyself, and that full warily,  
No way there is but one, thou needs must die.   

Hereat did Ferraw smile, his words he weighed  
As nothing, but to his horse himself did take:  
That done, (Sir Knight, a word with you) he said,  
Give me thy sister fair, and for her sake  
Command me, and thou shalt be strait obeyed.  
I will be friends with thee, and hands will shake:  
But if to grant this: thou deny me now,  
I'll send thee to another world, I make a vow.   

Argalia was with anger so o'ercome,  
To hear these speeches arrogant and proud,  
As to his horse, he in a rage doth run,  
Threatening he speaks he knoweth not what aloud,  
So fast it comes out of his rolling tongue:  
He draws his sword, and fiercely towards him bowed▪  
Forgetting (to his cost) his golden lance,  
Which at the Pine tree he had left by chance.   

Both storming thus, they meet with sword in hand,  
And each doth other turn from off his steed,  
Stronger than these the world cannot command,  
Nor lives there, that in valour them exceed,  
Did here Orlando or Rinaldo stand,  
Yet who would prove most valiant, doubt 'twould breed,  
As by the sequel of the second song,  
You hear shall, for this first hath been too long.    

THE SECOND BOOK of Orlando Inamorato.  
THE ARGUMENT.  

Angelica from combat takes her flight,  
Whilst Ferraw with her brother doth contend,  
Who followeth after her on Courser light;  
Ferraw, Rinaldo, and Orlando wend  
To find her on't, with all their force and might,  
And her to seek, in vain their labour spend:  
Charles Jousts begin, where Pagans passing brave  
Cary themselves: the ●oile the Christians have.   

HOnour and Love together here do fight,  
Argalia his fair sister to defend,  
Ferraw for sweet Angelica, his might  
Doth show; 'gainst Love, for love he doth contend,  
Of valour ne'er was seen so rare a sight,  
Thrice happy they that so their lives do end:  
None honours, loves his Mistress more than I,  
Yet I cashiered am most disdainfully.   

I honour her and tender her good name,  
More than the dearest apples of mine eine,  
So much I love her, as her love to gain,  
Gladly I would dispend this life of mine,  
Yet she my chaste request quits with disdain,  
Showing of pity not so much as sign:  
My heart she seeks to tyrannize and kill,  
She borne to punish, I to suffer still.   

(Before) I told you how our Champions were  
Buckling together with despite and ire,  
Argalia doth revenge on Ferraw swear,  
And Ferraw burns 'gainst him with like desire,  
The one enchanted armour strong doth bear,  
The others death by wound none can conspire,  
Save in one place, with steel that covered was,  
As hardly any weapon through could pass.   

Who hath two Lions seen combat in Wood,  
When they together meet most furiously,  
Or who two thundercraks to hear hath stood,  
Which flashing lightning doth before descry,  
(Compared to this strange fight) see nothing s●ud,  
So desperate are they whilst their force they try:  
Heaven seems to burn, and all the world to quake,  
Whenas their sparkling blades encounter make.   

They lay on load, with blows themselves to smother,  
Frowning with sdainfull looks, and colour great,  
Th'one thinking to be stronger than the other  
Trembles for rage, and doth with labour sweat,  
And now Argalia o'er his foe doth hover,  
And on his naked head his sword doth seat,  
Thinking, that with that stroke he him had given,  
His soul from out his body he had driven.   

But when he saw upon his sword most plain,  
No blood to be, he was amazed so,  
As hair on head upright 'gan to remain,  
It seemed to him to be so strange a show,  
But Ferraw means to show to him like game,  
Thinking to cleave his armour brave as tho,  
Crying to Macon now I thee commend,  
For with this blow I thee to him will send.   

And saying so, his force he gathereth round,  
With both his hands at him he hard doth strike,  
As had it been a rock of diamond,  
He at that stroke in twain had cleude it quite,  
The well wrought Helm that was enchanted found,  
Was cause withouten hurt it there did light:  
If Ferraw thereat wondered, judge but you,  
He was so amazed, scarce what he did he knew.   

But after they had breathed for a space,  
(Pausing a while) withouten striking stroke,  
One wondering at the other in this case,  
(For not one word as yet tween them was spoke,)  
Argalia first to Ferraw turns his face,  
Baron quoth he (for now he silence broke)  
This armour which I wear, I will thou know,  
Is by enchantment made from top to toe.   

Then leave off with me, more thy force to try,  
For nought hereby but danger thou canst have:  
So help me Macon, as I do not lie  
(Saith Ferraw) I no armour need, to save  
Myself, for what thou seest on me with eye,  
I carry but for show and flourish brave,  
And not for need, for I unto the bone,  
All o'er am woundless, save one side alone.   

Therefore Let me this council to thee give,  
For, for thy good I now speak as a friend,  
Seek not (as wilful) death, when thou mayst live,  
For if thou wilt, this quarrel soon shall end:  
Thy sister grant to me for whom I grieve,  
Else thee the world from death cannot defend:  
But if thou shalt be found so kind to me,  
I shall be bound for ever unto thee.   

Courageous Baron than Argalia said,  
Thy▪ oft moved motion well I understand:  
I, for thy love, (not fear) am well paid,  
To have with thee a friendly kinsman's band.  
But I will know before I further wade,  
If with her liking good this bargain stand,  
Else I'll do nought; Ferraw replies, Content:  
Go, talk with her, to know if she'll consent.   

Ferraw, (though young,) hard favoured was, not fair,  
With morphew tanned, his speech was full of pride,  
A countenance grim and terrible he bore,  
His eyelids quick, and like a Ferret eyed:  
To keep his body clean he ne'er did care,  
For on his face great store of dust did bide.  
His head like to a sugar loaf was sharp,  
His hear coal-black, by nature curled, not Art.   

Angelica mislikes him for this cause,  
For she did love the Flaxen yellowish hear,  
And to Argalia saith, when he did pause:  
Kind Brother, well I know you hold me dear,  
Yet first I'll cast myself in swallowing jaws  
Of these deep waters, or beg every where,  
Then take for husband such a man as he,  
" Better be dead, then with a madman be.   

Therefore I pray thee for God Macon sake,  
That thou be pleased, although I can not like:  
Once more thy weapons 'gainst that Baron take,  
Mean while by magic Art I'll work the slight,  
Myself to be conveyed home to make:  
Fellow me after thou mayst, by some feigned flight.  
I by Ardennas' wood will take my way,  
And there for thee until thou come will stay.   

To th'end we both may glad our ancient Sire,  
Who longs for us: but if within three days  
You come not to me, as I you require,  
I through the winds as then will go my ways,  
Through help of conjuring Book of that Dogde Squire,  
Who (for he would have ravished me) dear pays:  
And after you may come by land with ease  
To me; the way you know if so you please.   

Argalia back comes, nor to tell doth miss,  
How he his Sister cannot make consent:  
Ferraw give over will not for all this,  
But still to combat with him is he bend,  
To win her, or to die, his mind it is,  
And whilst to hold him still in fight he meant:  
The Maid doth vanish from them suddenly,  
Which soon the jealous Lover doth espy.   

For as he fought, he oft looked her upon,  
Thinking his force did double and not lack,  
But after that he saw that she was gone,  
He had small mind to keep him longer tack:  
Mean space Argalia with his horse is flown  
Like wind away, and from him turns his back,  
Out of the Meadow he doth spur apace,  
Leaving the fight, and Ferraw in that place.   

Th'enamoured youth, gulled seeing himself to be,  
(As mad) out of the Mead doth run amain,  
Into the Wood he goeth to search and see,  
Whilst in his face he red looks like the flame:  
To think how he is mocked, grieved is he,  
Vowing to be revenged for the same:  
And still he runs, and pries, but all in waste,  
For what he seeks, he cannot find in haste.   

Now let us to Astolfo turn (that Knight)  
Who as you know, alone stayed at the Spring,  
Viewing with pleasure how those twain did fight:  
And at their matchless Valour wondering;  
He now is free, maugre all Fortune's spite:  
And thanketh God that so released him:  
And lest delay with danger should him cross,  
He being armed, betakes him to his horse.   

But now a Spear wanteth our Palatine;  
For in his fall, his brake unhappily:  
He looks about, and at foot of the Pine,  
(Whereas Argalia's was) he doth espy;  
A fair one 'twas, set out with gold most fine,  
And all enameled over curiously:  
With this rich Lance furnished, he homewards makes,  
Nor any other thing with him he takes.   

Thus as he forwards on his journey set,  
Merry and blithe to think he scaped such Thrall:  
Hard by the Wood side he Rinaldo met,  
Reporting unto him what had befall.  
Duke Aymons Sons stomach Love so had whet,  
As in no place he rest him could at all:  
Therefore he forth of Paris walls was come,  
That he might know what Ferraw now had done.   

But when he heard, the Knights into the Wood  
Were run together, he no more doth say,  
But turns his horse, and spurs till forth comes blood,  
And on Rayardos' slowness fault doth lay:  
His lords impatience bears this Gelding good;  
As if like tired jade he led the way.  
This Gelding good which with such haste doth go,  
As scarce doth shaft when out it flies from bow.   

But leave we now Rinaldo his love about,  
And turn we to Astolf, who is to Paris come:  
Whom soon pensive Orlando findeth out,  
And cunningly (Suspicion for to shun)  
Demands of him the Battle that was fought,  
But of Angelica he nothing said but Mum,  
To talk with him of her he did refrain,  
Because he knew he was a Prattler vain.   

But when he heard the Lady with the rest,  
Into the Wood one after other ran,  
And that Rinaldo followed them in Quest,  
He went his way, with countenance pale and wan,  
Flinging himself on Bed with grief oppressed,  
As he no longer live for sorrow can,  
This valiant Knight, true valours chiefest joy,  
Weeps on his Pallet like a peevish Boy.   

Woe's me (saith he) that in this weakened corpse,  
I no defence against my foe can prove:  
Why should not Durindana be of force?  
Battle to wage against this Tyrant Love,  
Since it my Soul torments without remorse,  
As no such grief so much my sense can move:  
What plague (compared to mine) can rightly be,  
Who burn in Love, and freeze in jealousy.   

I know not if that favour Angelic,  
To me unworthy, so great grace will show,  
For more than triple blessed is that Wight,  
On whom she'll deign such kindness to bestow,  
And fore all Creatures he may vaunt aright,  
Who can in credit with so sweet Saint grow▪  
But if in s'dainfull terms 'gainst me she stands▪  
I murder will myself with mine own hands.   

Ah should Rinaldo in the wood by chance,  
Meet with this lovely virgin secretly,  
He would (his beastly hot desire to staunch)  
Her maiden head enjoy, or he would die,  
And now perhaps he leads her such a dance,  
The whilst like to a puling woman I,  
Lean with my hand upon my face with grief,  
Easing myself with tears without relief.   

May be, I think, if I conceal the same,  
I cover may the heat which burns my heart,  
But never Isle die for a little shame,  
For by God's grace from hence at night I'll part,  
From forth of Paris for to find this Dame,  
This Dame that doth procure my deadly smart:  
Whom (both by heat and cold) until I meet,  
In earth, in sea, in heaven, in hell I'll seek.   

So saying, up he leapeth from his bed,  
Where he long time wailing his hap had lain,  
He longs for night and with that hope is fed,  
Now here, now there, doth run his troubled brain,  
To stay so long great grief within him bred,  
And now he'll take this course, and now that same,  
But th'evening had no sooner banished light,  
But secretly in arms himself he dight.   

He had not then his usual colours on,  
For now in blackish purple he is clad,  
Brave Briliadoro he doth ride upon,  
Whilst forth alone from Paris he goeth sad,  
Unknown to all that he away is gone,  
For, for the nonce his flight concealed he had:  
Heavy he went, oft sighing with pale look,  
And towards Ardenna, he his journey took.   

A worthy Knight, as first Defendant came,  
His sky coloured shield a Moon of silver bore,  
Lord of Bordello, Angelin by name,  
A Peer of France, and one well tried before,  
Whom Serpentine himself to meet doth frame▪  
And that so swiftly as no wind is more:  
On th'other side, stout Angelino's priest,  
Him to encounter with his spear in wrist.   

On breast plate the Defendant Serpentine  
Doth hit, but yet he is not strucken down,  
Stooping low, himself whilst he saveth fine,  
Running against his foe with furious frown,  
And on the face so strikes the Paladine,  
As up his heels fly, and he falls on groun:  
Whereat the people shout aloud and far,  
Saying the conqueror is the Knight with Star.   

Riccardo next pricked forward full of might,  
And Duke he was of fruitful Normandy,  
A golden Lion bore this warlike Knight  
In bloody field, and runs as he would fly,  
But Serpentine at shock did hit him right,  
(As he half way to meet him fast did high,)  
Giving to him so shrewd and dry a blow,  
That he his head on gravel pitched below.   

This, Balugant made not a little proud,  
To see his son so bravely him besteares,  
Now cometh he whose target Chess doth shroud,  
And on his Crest a golden crown he wears,  
King Solomon rushing from forth the crowd,  
Seeking his Rival whom he nothing fears:  
But Serpentine a counterbuff him gives,  
As to the ground both horse and man he drives.   

Astolfo then doth take the golden Lance,  
Which late Argalia left in Meadow green,  
Three golden Leopards in Shield he doth advance  
In a Vermilion field, fair to be seen:  
Well ran he, yet unhappy was his chance:  
Under his Courser he o'erthrown was clean,  
He lay for dead, nor could he see the light,  
Besides struck out of joint was his leg right.   

Sorry were all for this his Fortune hard,  
And Serpentine as much grieved as the rest:  
For in the shock he thought him to have spared,  
But could not: so his horse him forward priest:  
The Duke (to his lodging borne) but badly fared,  
Yet soon revived, for quickly he was dressed,  
And ere 'twas long, so well he tended was,  
His leg was well, himself too in good case.   

Though Serpentine the Devil thus doth play,  
Yet will Ogier the Dane buckle with him:  
He flies on horseback like the winds away,  
When from the Sea it cometh with a swing:  
A Target blew he had displaying gay,  
Whereon a Wedge of gold was painted trim,  
A Basilisk like Serpent he did bear  
Upon his Crest, in sign he nought did fear.   

The Trumpets sound, the Knights set spurs to horse,  
Th'one meeting th'other with strange fury fierce:  
Two claps of Thunder join not with such force:  
Ogier his enemies saddle through doth pierce,  
That longer it could not uphold his corpse,  
The stroke was monstrous truth for to rehearse,  
So as he backward from his horse doth fall,  
Down tumbles he on th'earth with head and all.   

Thus Conqueror of the Field Ogier became,  
Which he against all Comers must defend:  
King Ballugant looked red as fiery flame,  
Because his Son had made so bad an end,  
And he will try if he can take like shame;  
And him the Dane likewise to ground doth send:  
His place then takes the youthful Isolere,  
Strong made he was, and stout himself did bear.   

Brother he was to Ferraw, his green Shield  
Three golden Moons did show, which there did stand:  
Forward he pricks to make Ogier to yield,  
But is in midst of Course by countermand  
Most rudely thrown down flat upon the Field,  
Ogier against him had so shrewd a hand:  
So sore the stroke was, that for seven whole hours  
He lay stark dead, bereft of vital powers.   

Then Gu●lter of Mount-Leon took his place,  
And to the ground (as th'other were,) was sent:  
A Dragon did his purple Target grace,  
And in a golden Field the same was penned:  
Brave Christian Barons (than Ogier strait says)  
Let not our force against ourselves be bend:  
Let us encounter 'gainst the Saracins,  
Else who so triumphs, little honour wins.   

Spinello (D'Alta Monte) was a Pagan,  
And to King Charles his Court came for to try  
His prowess, and his azured Shield was plain,  
In which a golden Crown you might espy:  
Who soon unhorsed was by this worthy Dane:  
Whom Mattalista followeth suddenly;  
Brother he was to Fiordispina fair,  
And on his horse, himself he stoutly bare.   

His Shield was party gold, and party black,  
And on his Crest a Dragon green he gave:  
Down from his Saddle fell he on his back,  
For he no way himself as then could save.  
Now comes Grandonio (who no force doth lack)  
God and Saint George help Ogier wield his Stave,  
Great need he hath, for 'mongst the Pagans all,  
Than he, there's none more valiant, or more tall.   

This King in height most Giants huge did pass,  
Armed upon a Steed of monstrous size,  
Black as a Coal his Sable Target was,  
Wherein Macon his God, was drawn in curious wise:  
No Christian Knight durst once to be so rash,  
Scarce for to look on him with open eyes.  
Gano of Pontiers him no sooner saw,  
But from the Field himself he doth withdraw.   

Macario of Vsana did the like:  
So Pinabel, so Th'earl of Alta foglia:  
Falcon amongst the rest doth shun his sight,  
And longs till he is from him got away:  
Only remains behind Griffon that Knight,  
And he (perhaps too) 'gainst his will did stay,  
His Honour or his Shame withheld him so,  
Or else he saw not when the rest did go.   

Mean time in Field this Pagan terrible  
Takes on, as he a whirling Tempest were,  
His Spear, for greatness doth a Mast excel,  
So great a force he able is to bear,  
His Courser is as monstrous (truth to tell)  
Which with his foot the hardest ground doth tear,  
He breaks the hardest stones, and as he praunceth,  
He goeth so swift, as th'earth doth shake and danceth.   

With fury thus against the Dane he blows,  
Whose Target he in midst just doth split:  
Ogiers great fall, his wondrous might, well shows,  
For horse and man he to the ground doth hit.  
Forth of the Field Duke Namo with him goes,  
Carried in arms, (on horse he can not sit,)  
Keeping his bed, till that a Month did pass,  
Before his arm and breast well cured was.   

Great was his hurt, and All full sorry are,  
Except the Saracins, who did not grieve:  
Granaonio threatening stands, and nought doth care▪  
Turpin of Rana, yet at him doth drive,  
But is in midst of his Course down bare,  
And doubtful 'twas, if he would die or live:  
(Good Bishop) be from saddle his was thrust  
So rudely, as he sore was bruised and crushed.   

Astolfo now was from the Ladies come,  
And did bestride a palfrey white as snow,  
To court them pleasantly he did not shun,  
And (save his sword) unarmed he did go,  
Amongst those Dames that glisteren like the Sun,  
So blithe and sportful he himself did show:  
But whilst he trifling with them standeth thus:  
Grandonio doth Griffon from horseback push.   

Griffon was of the Maganseses House,  
His bluish Shield a Falcon white did hold:  
The Giant now his plumes begins'to rouse,  
What? Christians is your courage now so cold?  
Dares none of you 'gainst me be venturous.  
Guydo (this hearing) comes resolved most bold:  
A Burgon was he, Lion black he gave  
In golden Shield, and from his horse was drove.   

So Angelero falls unhappily,  
He gives a Dragon with a maiden's head,  
Auin, Auolio, Otton, B●rlingero be  
One after th'other from their horses sped,  
An Eagle black they give in Crest to see,  
I mean those first four Princes vanquished:)  
But he that doth this shield in azure wear,  
With chest of gold, is Duke of rich Bavere.   

Grandonio still increaseth in his might,  
And Hugo of Marcelleis he doth meet,  
Whom dead he strikes, he him doth hit so right,  
Ricciardet and Alardo at his feet  
He layeth along; 'gainst Charles he rails with spite,  
Christians with name of Cowards he doth greet:  
To hear him rail thus Charles it much astouns,  
But see, now Oliuere the Marquis comes.   

The sun then clear did show again to shine,  
And all seemed joyful of his entering,  
The Marquis came in show gallant and fine,  
Whom Charles went forth to meet, and welcome him,  
The people cry, live long, a happy time,  
(While all the field with trumpets tantara ring)  
Viennas Marks Oliver the good,  
Grandonio takes his mast, and laughing stood.   

And now with fury both together run,  
Whilst the beholders be as in a maze,  
To see th'event that hereof's like to come,  
So earnestly they on the Tiltters gaze,  
In field amazed stand both all and some,  
And who doth best, each one to mark assays:  
When in th'encounter Oliver doth show,  
Like Paladine, that he his play doth know.   

Nine plates of steel thick was Grandonios' shield,  
Which he did pierce and break by force insunder,  
He burst his breastplate through though surely steeled,  
The spears point into his body struck like thunder,  
The Giant then his spear so sore doth wield,  
As (that good Oliver slain was not) 'twas a wonder:  
Seven yards he from his saddle at the least,  
With furious stroke from horse was dispossessed.   

There's none that sees him, but thinks he is dead,  
For in the midst his helmet cloven was,  
None wistly looks upon his face, or head,  
But swears that life out of his Corpse doth pass,  
O how with this was Charles daunted, and sed,  
Ah worthy Baron gone art thou alas,  
Chief honour of my Court, dear as my son,  
Why suffers God such mischief to be done?   

If insolent this Pagan was before,  
He's now so proud that scarce on feet he goes,  
Now Peacock like he calls and threateneth sore,  
Where are these braving Palatines our foes?  
White hearted liuered Knights, base cowards more,  
More than to bib and quaff my cunning shows:  
Valiant no doubt is this their TABLE ROUND,  
It threatens much, yet none to fight are found▪   

King Pipins son, heating this foul disgrace,  
And that his Court was made a scoff and play,  
Is much incensed and troubled in his face,  
And looking angry 'bout him, thus doth say,  
Where are they that should homage in this place  
Do to me now? they now are gone away:  
Where's 'Gan of Pontiers now? Rinaldo where?  
Orlando stout? All Traitors, none appear.   

Son of a Quean base got, I promise thee,  
If ever I do meet with thee again,  
With mine own hands soon strangled shalt thou be,  
Thus, and much more said angry Charlemagne,  
Astolfo being behind him, this doth see,  
Unseen on horseback he goeth back amain:  
Saying unto himself, what though I die,  
Yet I'll appear in field most valiantly.   

Nor doth he think that ever he shall find,  
The luck to ding the Giant on the ground,  
But for to show his good and honest mind  
To his utmost power as he to Charles was bound,  
(He bravely mounted) turns, his armour shined  
As venturous Knight at all points at that stound:  
Yet those that knew him cried, now God us save,  
If we than this, no better Champion have.   

He bows himself fore Charles in lowly guise,  
My gracious Lord (saith he) before them all,  
To unhorsed this Pagan proud in valiant wise  
I venture will, if so you please I shall,  
The King knitting his brows▪ with angry eyes  
Saith, go thy ways, no doubt a fray most tall  
Thou'lt make; then turning to them that stood by,  
Now quoth he, we shall shamed be presently.   

Astolfo threats, the Pagan at first sight  
To take prisuer, and as his Galley slave  
To use him; and these words so much him spite,  
As he is mad for fury, and doth rave,  
And in the next song I'll describe the●t fight,  
If so your wont patience I may have,  
To deign to listen with your gentle ear,  
Where wonders strange near heard of you shall hear    

THE THIRD BOOK OF Orlando Inamorato.  
THE ARGUMENT.  

Astolfo wins in field the Prize at last,  
Yet he (through treason) is in prison laid,  
Rinaldo Merlin's Fountain strange doth taste,  
Where love he bore Angelica doth fade,  
Ferraw once more Angelica hath out traced,  
Kills him, and drowns him, (for such suit he made)  
That done he meets Orlando and doth fight,  
With him for fair Angelica the bright.   

LIGHT of mine eyes, LIFE'S spirit unto my heart,  
That mak'st my fearful Muse, to mount so high,  
Thy sunshine beams, a while on me revart,  
Whilst I thy praises sing most worthily,  
For thou alone true honour dost impart,  
Unto my Verse by virtue of thine eye:  
Since, who of such a worthy story writes  
As is thyself? LOVE (Poet-like) indites.   

LOVE framed the Heavens, and Harmonies sweet ground,  
Love made the world, of savage to be mild,  
Love, first delightful Poetry out found,  
Love, peace did breed, and bloody wars exiled;  
Ah then, where first thou hurtst, heal thou the wound,  
DAIZIE of CHESSHIRE, view my heavy plight,  
Who am loves Martyr, tortured day and night.   

(If you remember) but even now I told,  
How brave Astolfo in most scornful wise  
Taunted the Pagan, saying (Sitra) be not so bold,  
Left I thee send, where ne'er more thou shalt rise:  
What though thy strength our Barons hath controlled▪  
Yet (Rascal) I'll thee learn another guise  
When thou'rt in galley, and Giant, since I see  
Thou art so strong, my chief Slave thou shalt be.   

Grandonio, who used others for to brave,  
But never for to take such words of scorn,  
Began to swell for anger and to rave  
As troubled Sea, that swelleth high through storm  
When winds do force the mounting billows wave,  
And every Ship, by waters underborne:  
Grandonio so doth rage with fury lead,  
Gnashing his teeth, and shaking of his head.   

Like to a Snake, for anger he doth hiss,  
And with Astolfo longs to grapple feign,  
His monstrous Club to take he doth not miss,  
Thinking most sure, therewith to be his bane,  
Either to make him dead, the ground to kiss,  
Or for to strike him through the midst in twain,  
Or for to pull him from his Steed perforce,  
And quarter him in four without remorse.   

Thus comes the Pagan with this furious mind:  
Astolfo turns to mere him in the face,  
Pale looks he, and fearful his heart doth find,  
Yet willing more to die, then take disgrace:  
And both incensed run swifter than the wind,  
Meeeting in fury with a desperate pace:  
Grandonio falls, but judge you if you please,  
If such a violent Fall was with his ease.   

The People shout, making a Noise and cry,  
As if the earth were fired, or Heaven should fall:  
There's none that this hath marked with his eye,  
But whoops for joy, as well the great as small:  
Each one commends him, and that worthily,  
Whilst that the Saracens are daunted all:  
Th'emperor seeing the Pagan where he lies,  
Though he it seethe, believes not his own eyes.   

The Giant falling, fell on his left side,  
Which was the cause the wound he had before  
took, through Vienna's marquess valour tried,  
Was hurt far worse, and opened now far more:  
So as half dead, he on the ground did bide,  
The English Duke had wounded him so sore:  
Pouring out blood from out his corpse so fast,  
As scarce a fountain doth forth water cast,   

Some say Astolfo's valour made him bleed  
With Counterbuff, and therefore him they praise▪  
Other report the truth thereof indeed,  
Some I, some no, each as him liketh, says,  
Grandonio was conveyed away on Steed,  
And Astolf for this Blow full dearly pays:  
For (in the end) the Paynim did him give  
His death's wound, nor himself did after live.   

Astolfo in the Lists as Conqueror  
Standeth, and yet he doubts if he be so:  
Two Knights there were yet of the Pagans power  
Only, that had not tried their force as tho,  
kings Sons they were of Chivalry the Flowe●  
Giasart as Browne, Pyliaz Flaxen did show:  
Giasarts Father all Arabia won,  
Through force of Army his, which he o'ercome.   

The Sire of Pyliaz, all Russia  
Had seizde upon and got into his hand,  
Besides he held much of Tartary,  
And unto Tana's Confines did command:  
These twain (no longer hereon for to stay)  
Ran with Astolfo, him for to withstand:  
And to be brief, so fiercely he them met,  
That both of them from off their horse he fet.   

Mean time, one went to Gano, and him told,  
Astolf, Grandonio had discomfited,  
But that by him so brave a Pagan bold  
Should foiled be, 'twill ne'er sink in his head,  
He rather doth in his opinion hold,  
That some ill chance to the giant's happened,  
Never believes he that Astolfo's able  
Him to unhorsed, he thinks, 'tis but a fable.   

Herewith, he hopes the Honour of the day  
To get, and of the joust the royal prize,  
And for to show more brave in his array,  
That greater Glory unto him might rise,  
Seven Armed Earls with him he brings away:  
With these (All of his House) towards Charles he hies,  
Whom for to pardon him in humble speech,  
For his so late coming, he doth beseech.   

The Emperor little said, but what he meant  
I know not, yet he showed to him good cheer:  
This done, strait Gano to Astolfo sent,  
That (since no Saracin more did appear)  
To run with him, hee'lde not be discontent:  
And since his Courage known was every where,  
He should deny none, for more Honour grew  
Still unto him, the more he did subdue.   

Astolf, who of this speech conceived the sense,  
Said to the man that brought the Message had:  
Tell Gano, that I make no difference  
betwixt Saracen and him, he is so bad  
A foe to God and to man's excellence:  
A Traitorous Lolard, Villain fit for stab:  
Come when he dare, no more I him esteem,  
Then of a filthy doung-cart I would deem.   

Gano the Earl hearing him brave him so,  
Said little, but with choler burnt like fire,  
In haste to meet Astolfo he doth go,  
And to himself saith, I'll pay thee thy hire  
Dogbolt; whom I am, I will make thee know,  
When I shall thee unhorsed and cast in mire.  
And truth to say, he thought so to have done,  
For he (before times) better than he had run.   

Yet now he reckon did without his Host,  
For Gano was unhorsed presently:  
Macario, than Astolfo doth accost,  
And he (falling) bears Gano company:  
Wound●s, may it be, this Dolt o'er us should boast  
And shame us thus? then Pinabell did cry,  
Shall be Magansa's Princelike House thus foil?  
And us of Honour and of Valour spoil?   

Yet he's from saddle thrown about that place:  
Nor think not, but Astolfo lays about,  
Crying aloud, Where is this damned Race?  
Flat on the ground I'll lay that cursed Rout,  
County Smerilio comes with Spear apace,  
But Astolf flings him groveling on his snout:  
Sore was he hurt, and forth from thence was led,  
For which Gano was much discomfited.   

Then Falcon said, can fortune be so blind,  
That such an Ass as this and scoffing fool,  
Should dare to have so brave resolved mind,  
So many Knights by force to beat and school?  
So saying, he himself most fast doth bind  
Within his saddle, nor can he recoil,  
This done, to find Astolff apace he comes,  
Unhorsed he cannot be, whilst that he runs.   

The Duke just in the face encounters him,  
And with such force his spear 'gainst him doth wield,  
As he doth bow from horse, now out now in,  
As though he straight should dead his Ghost forth yield,  
All look when he from horse would topple trim,  
Whilst some espy how bound he came to'th field:  
Wherewith they with a noise the air do fill,  
Crying, the Traitors bound, the Dastard kill.   

Away his friends him carry with great shame,  
Yet greater is his wound an hundred fold,  
Astolfo knoweth not how this courage came,  
Yet doth he say with dauntless visage bold,  
Come who so list, I'll learn him losers game,  
Though he be bound, his seat surer to hold,  
A Coward I will chastise being bound,  
Better than if he loosed should be found.   

Anselmo della Ripa, County vile,  
Thinks (in himself) revengement for to take,  
For his friend's shame, by some deceitful guile,  
Which was assoon as Astolf forth did make,  
To any one (on sudden) he the while  
Unwares would set on him: Rinard doth shake  
His spear first 'gainst him, Anselm comes behind,  
And Astolff on his feet to set doth mind.   

Astolf meets Rinard, whom from saddle bow,  
He with his legs wide open, strikes on grass,  
And being not yet well settled through the blow  
He gave Rinard; Anselmo strait doth pass  
To him, and traitorously him down doth throw,  
Giving no warning that he coming was,  
Persuading him 'twas chance, and not his will,  
That he had proffered unto him this ill.   

Glorious Astolfo lieth all along  
Upon the gravel, and imagine you,  
If heavy he took not this monstrous wrong;  
He starteth up, his sword from side he drew,  
And laid about him 'mongst that traitorous throng,  
Thinking to make some for their fault to rue:  
'Gainst Gano and his kin, he bravely fights,  
And meeting Griffon, on the head him strikes.   

And died he had, had not his helmet fine  
Saved him as then, and now they all take heart,  
For Gano now, Macario, Vgoline,  
Think for that blow to make Astolfo smart,  
But Namo, Turpin, and Ricardo at that time  
Seeing the odds, begin to take his part:  
Together now one 'gainst another runs,  
Mean space King Pippins son amongst them comes.   

All those he meets, he stiikes, now here, now there,  
(For thirty pates he broken had at least,)  
Quoth he, where is this Traitorous rebel? where?  
That to disturb presumes my Royal Feast?  
He rides amongst the thickst with truncheon spear,  
Nor though his sword were drawn, his fury ceased:  
And now each maketh place forth'Emperer,  
Either for honour, or that they him fear.   

To Gano and Astolfo thus he spoke,  
What coil is this? think you you use me well?  
But Griffon, whose sconce was well knocked and broke,  
Before King Charles for justice crying fell,  
Sending forth scalding sighs from breast like smoke,  
And justice still, he forth aloud doth yell:  
justice (my Liege) for in thy presence, I  
Am set upon, and spoiled most traitorously.   

My Gracious Lord, to me be but thus kind,  
To know of these, who first began the fray,  
And if by me this English man you find  
Assailed to be first in any way,  
I yield that Traitorlike you me shall bind,  
And in this field that quartered be I may:  
But if this ill I do endure (sans cause)  
Let him be punished, that thus breaks your laws.   

Astolfo was so angry at this tale,  
That he forgot Charles presence, and his Grace,  
Villain quoth he, this shall thee small avail,  
Thou art a Spawn sprung from that damned race,  
Thy heart I'll have, else of my will I'll fail,  
Before that thou shalt get from forth this place:  
Griffon saith, do thy worst and do not spare,  
Were I from hence, for thee small would I care.   

But now myself to reason I submit,  
Not to disgrace my Sovereign Prince at all,  
The Duke replies, base Rascal thinkest by wit,  
And by device, that I thee suffer shall?  
Charles hearing this, scarce on his horse could sit  
He was so chafed, and thus to him doth call:  
By heaven, if better speech thou dost not give,  
I'll make the to repent whilst thou shalt live.   

Astolfo to these words lends little heed,  
But useth him in terms most spitefully,  
(As one that wronged was in very deed,  
Though not the rest thereof could right descry)  
At last comes in treacherous Anselmo sly,  
Whose sight in Astolff doth fresh collar breed:  
The English Dukt no sooner doth him see,  
But that he with his blade at him doth flee.   

And doubtless with that blow he had been slain,  
Had not he saved been by the Emperur:  
But every one doth now Astolfo blame,  
And apprehended is he for this stur,  
To prison by the furious rout he's ta'en,  
Since he Charles Royal anger durst incur:  
There, for his rashness did he dearly pay,  
Kept longer than he thought by many a day.   

Where we will leave him since he liveth well,  
And better's than those wretched Lovers are,  
Which for Angelica feel second hell,  
And night and day (to find her) travel far,  
Each took his severallway (by chance as fell)  
And now be to Ardenna come with care,  
The first that there arrived was Aymons son,  
Thanks to his spurs, Baiardo well did run.   

No sooner was this Baron in the wood,  
But he about him looketh every where,  
Where he espies a Grove that shadowed stood,  
Environed with a Crystal River clear,  
The sight whereof to him did much good,  
And therefore to the same he enters near,  
Where, in the midst he found a fountain fair,  
As never wit of man framed one so rare.   

This Fountain more than wondrous for delight,  
Was carude with Alabaster passing fine,  
Set out with gold, adorning it so bright,  
As all the Meadow Sunlike made to shine:  
MERLIN it built, (a famous conjuring Wight)  
Because worthy Sir Tristram at that time  
Drinking thereof, should leave that lovely Queen,  
Who was in th'end his utter ruin seen.   

But luckless Tristram (his chance was so bad)  
ne'er to that Fountain could arrive (alas)  
Though oft to find it he did venture sad,  
And 'bout the Country, for the same did pass.  
Now this same Fountain such strange Nature had,  
That whatsoever Knight ennamored was,  
Drinking thereof, should Love from thought exile,  
Forcing him hate whom he had loud ere while.   

The Sun was at the highest, the day was hot,  
When Prince Rinaldo hies unto this place,  
(Sweeting through travel, and great thirst had got)  
When as longing to drink in such a case,  
He lights from horse, and drinking, 'tis his lot,  
His Love, and dryness both away to chase:  
For when he tasted had this water cold,  
He strait forgot the Dame he loud of old,   

And now he thinks, what base a thing it is,  
A woman vain to follow and esteem:  
Nor now, that Beauty, counts he such a Bliss,  
Which whilom, more than human he did deem:  
He doth Recant; his mind is far from this,  
Such force in this so wondrous Water's seen:  
And now his Thoughts so changed are of late,  
He worse than Toad Angelica doth hate.   

Forth of this Wood he comes with s'dainfull mind,  
Shaming to think upon his Follies past:  
Whilst musing thus, a River he doth find,  
Whose crystal Stream runs smoothly, trickling fast,  
Alongst whose banks all flowers by Nature's kind  
(As if the Spring had been in prime) were placed,  
And o'er the Ford for shadow there was seen,  
The Beechen tree, the Pine, and Olive green.   

This River called was the BROOK of LOVE,  
Merlin had not enchanted this (as yet)  
Who drinks hereof, to Love it doth him move,  
His Heart must subject be to Fancies fit.  
Many brave Knights, (unstaking) this did prove,  
And many have been quite undone with it.  
Rinaldo tasted not of this, for why?  
He at the other Fountain drank before being dry.   

Yet he so well this pleasant place doth like,  
As here a while he meaneth to repose:  
From horse he lights, and him unbridles quite,  
(And for to feed Bayardo) lets him lose:  
Mean time in thickest shade this wearied Knight  
(Not thinking any thing) to slumber goes:  
Sleep doth our Baron, and doth take a nap:  
But now behold what Fortune did him hap.   

After Angelica away did fly,  
Where Ferraw with her Brother fought at furst,  
She on this River chanced, and being dry,  
Did light and drank thereof to staunch her thirst:  
But now (sweet Ladies) mark how worthily,  
LOVE tamed that proud heart of hers so cursed:  
No sooner she this Knight saw on the grass,  
But that ennamored strait of him she was.   

Her palfrey white she to the Pine doth rain,  
And to Rinaldo stealing, cometh near,  
Gazing on him whose sight did breed her pain,  
Nor hath she power, one foot from thence to steer:  
Within this Meadow did there store remain  
Of Lilies, and of Roses every where;  
These with her snowy hands she plucks apace,  
Flinging them all upon Mount Albon's face.   

Wherewith he wakes, and she perceiving this,  
Smiling, salutes him in most lovely wise,  
Yet he her thanketh not, nor her doth kiss,  
But takes his horse, and quickly from her flies,  
Her wooing words, deserved favour miss:  
She him entreats to stay, but he dentes;  
As he were mad, he flings from out the Wood:  
And after him she spurs with gallop good.   

She followeth him, and after him doth cry;  
Ah stay sweet Knight, a little while but stay:  
Why dost thou from me (who thee followeth) fly?  
Ah do not her, that holds thee dear, thus slay:  
I am not Ginamon of Baion I,  
Who thee to kill in Forrest did assay:  
No Gano, nor Macario false that be,  
Them and their Race I hate, so, love I thee.   

More than my soul I swear that I thee love:  
Yet do sthou fly from me with scornful hate:  
Look but once back, may be, I may thee move:  
See if my face can thee so fearful make.  
To hurt thyself, through fury do not prove:  
This Wood is dangerous, and thou harm mayst take:  
Ah, if thou love me, go a little safter:  
And thee to please, I'll not so fast come after.   

For 〈◊〉 to thee any mischance should come,  
Whilst thus thou headlong rid'st, or to thy Steed,  
Small should I joy, my life as then were done,  
And for thy hurt, my heart to death would bleed:  
Turn back at last, my sight still do not shun:  
Think whom I am, I merit better meed:  
My beauty's such, as none ought for to flee:  
Rather if I fled, thou shouldst follow me.   

Thou hast not slept enough, then light on grown,  
And for thee I'll provide a Princely Bed,  
My dainty Corpse shall be thy Couch of down,  
My Skin shall serve for finest sheets in stead:  
Where thou, o'er ears, thyself with joy mayst drown,  
My soft Breasts, pillows shall be for thy head:  
Whilst Nymphs and Graces shall about thee keep,  
With heavenly Music lulling thee asleep.   

With such sweet sugared words the Maid entreats,  
Running still after him, but all in vain:  
Bayardo swift, the way like wind forth breaks,  
Carrying his Master out from Woddie plain:  
The Lady wearied, now herself down seats,  
Wring her hands, and crying out amain,  
Upon the Heavens and stars she oft doth call;  
Cruel she terms them, and unlucky all.   

But she Rina'do doth above the rest  
More cruel call, and that in piteous wise:  
Who would once think (saith she) that in that breast?  
In those fair looks of his no kindness lies?  
Yet I of wit am not so dispossessed,  
But that I know for him I am no Prize:  
I have not worth enough him for to move:  
Yet ought he not hate me, though he'll not love.   

At least he might have given me some leave,  
For to have gazed upon his manly face,  
And so perhaps I less than shoulden grieve,  
If he had showed me this small tiny grace,  
I see by loving I my woes thread weave,  
" But where Love is, there Reason takes no place:  
Cruel he is, a Cho●le, hard hearted still,  
Yet what so ere he is, I love him will.   

Thus wailing she tears some her eyes forth powers,  
And turning to the Beech where (fore) he lay,  
Thrice happy Herbs, and triple blessed Flowers,  
That touched so sweet a Countenance she doth say,  
Far better is your fortune then is ours,  
Since you have kissed whom not once touch I may,  
Ah might I (as you had) such favour found,  
I willing would be dead, low in the ground.   

So saying, from her Palfrey passing white  
The Lady doth dismount, and comes on ground,  
And for to kiss those flowers she takes delight,  
Which by the place where Rinaldo lay she found,  
Thinking her heat to lessen by that sight,  
When she therewith more deadly makes her wound:  
She thinks being there less sorrows will her cumber,  
Wherewith she layeth her down and there doth slumber,   

So sweetly sleeps she, as she seems to smile,  
And in her dream Rinaldo oft doth call  
Whilst to embrace him, she her arms the while,  
Stretcheth out wide, and sudden wakes withal;  
But when she sees how fancies her beguile,  
She piteous weeps, and tears like pearl let's fall,  
Sighing, her stainles womb doth pant and move,  
Period of joy, round Centre of sweet love.   

(CHASTE CRVEL CHOICE) I know to you 'tis geason,  
That yet Gradasso's not on Charles his Coast  
In all this while, you marvel what's the reason,  
But not above three days he'll stay at most,  
And now to Spain, his ships are come in season,  
But I must yet leave him and all his Host:  
First will I tell you of our wandering Knights,  
And first of Ferraw and his dangerous fights,   

He walketh searching up and down the Wood,  
And mad for anger wellnie doth appear,  
Anger and Lovelo heaten have his blood,  
As he his life no more steams than a hear,  
Less he Argalia with his Armour good,  
Or his fair Sister find a way to bear,  
Might he but of her Brother be revenged,  
He thinks his grief the sooner would be ended.   

And whilst his way on horseback he doth keep,  
Thus thinking, and doth watch him to espy,  
He seethe whereas in shade a Knight doth sleep,  
And that Argalia tis doth soon descry,  
Unto whose Steed Ferraw doth softlly creep,  
Being tied to a tree, him losing presently:  
Then with a Bough he keepeth revel rout,  
Coursing the Gelding all the wood throughout.   

That done, he to a Bay his own horse ties,  
Under the shade of which he sits him down,  
Expecting when Argalia would arise,  
And hardly he forbears with fretful frown,  
From taking sweet revenge in wrathful wise,  
Yet he so much tenders his own Renown,  
Although he might, he will no vantage take,  
No not so much, as him from sleep to wake.   

And long it was not, but wake did the Knight,  
Who missing straight his palfrey, chaseth sore,  
You may imagine how it did him spite,  
Since he upon his feet must go therefore:  
But Ferraw soon appeareth in his sight,  
Saying (Sir) 'tis in Vain, then grieve no more:  
For thou or I must die here at this time,  
Who escapes of us, shall have this horse of mine.   

I let thine lose, lest thou shouldst run thy way,  
Again, and so escape from hence, and flee,  
Therefore thy utmost force 'gainst me aslay;  
Once, 'gainst all honesty thou got'st from me,  
But for thy falseness now I will thee pay,  
Not on thy word, I more will credit thee:  
Need hast thou to bestir thyself then brave,  
If thou dost mean thy life (condemned) to save.   

I'll not deny (replied Argalia) here,  
But that in flying, I myself forgot,  
But by this Arm and Heart of mine I swear,  
For wound or shame, the fight I shunned not,  
Nor that I wearied was, or thee did fear,  
Only my Sister's love did make this blot,  
Against my Promise from thee then to go,  
My dearest Sister, me entreated so.   

Then take it as thou list, and as thou please,  
I nothing doubt but thou thy match shalt miss,  
'tis in thy Choice, if thou wilt war or peace,  
Thou know'st ● thee have tried before ere this,  
And saying so, Argalia bold did cease,  
But Ferraw resolute to combat is:  
Fiercely he cries, come leave thy foolish charming,  
Look to thyself, and say I give thee warning.   

Together than they fly like Dragons fierce,  
With fury great, and with a furious force,  
Their huge strokes the truth for to rehearse,  
More than a mile were heard without remorse,  
Argalia though he Ferraws body pierce  
Cannot, yet hopes to bombast well his corpse,  
Saying, I doubt me him I cannot kill,  
Yet on the ground for dead, I lay him will.   

Thus thinking, he with his ore-heavie wait,  
To load his bones, with fury towards him came,  
But Ferraw first into him leapeth straight,  
And so to grapple they begin amain,  
Argalia is the stronger, but in slaight  
And quickness Ferraw best is of the twain:  
But in the end, though long it were before,  
Ferraw, hath under him Argalia bore.   

Yet he as one that was surpassing strong,  
So hard gripes Ferraw that he cannot get  
Away from him, whilst (tumbling him along,)  
He with his Gauntlet, all his face sore beat,  
Ferraw this feeling, his Dag placed not wrong,  
For where he was vnarmde, there it he set,  
Into his groin it passed through guts and all,  
(Alack that such hard hap should him befall.)   

For whilst this young man lived, a braver knight,  
Nor courteous more did ever live on earth,  
Only the Christian faith he wanted right,  
And now he sees he scarce can draw his breath,  
Wherefore he turns in heavy dying plight,  
And speaks to Ferraw thus before his death:  
One only Boon let me entreat of thee,  
Since now my soul, is fleeting hence from me.   

This which I crave, I beg (for Knightship thine,)  
(As thou a brave and courteous Baron art)  
That me with all this Armour that is mine,  
Thou wilt in deep'st of River next impart,  
Lest any chancing on this Armour fine  
Should say, (as if I wanted force or heart,)  
Worse then a Coward was this Knight in field,  
That (armed thus) himself would let be killed.   

Ferraw hereat, for pity mild doth weep,  
Like thawing Ice that meltes against warm Sun,  
And to Argalia saith: dear Baron sweet,  
Heavens know how I do grieve at this is done:  
And how I for the same do sorrow deep,  
'Twas Fate (not want of force) thou couldst not shun:  
Only for Honour, I with thee did try,  
'Twas not thy Death I sought, but Victory.   

Let this suffice, I'll yield to thy demand,  
And on my faith to keep the same I swear:  
In sign whereof, I give to thee my hand:  
Then nothing doubt hereof, (most valiant Peer)  
But since now my abodes in Christian Land,  
And that to be endangered I do fear  
Being a stranger, if they should me know,  
(Kind Baron) but this favour to me show.   

Lend me thy Helm, which may stand me in stead,  
(But for four days,) and then I'll drown the same,  
Argalia dying, listeth up his head,  
Showing, he this request to grant did deign:  
Ferraw stands by him till his breath's forth fled,  
Weeping upon his lifeless Corpse amain;  
And seeing him as cold as any stone,  
He him embraceth, making piteous moan.   

That done, he (sighing) doth him soon unarm,  
And on his own head quickly putteth on  
The trusty Helmet, made by cunning Charm,  
The Crest he leaves that was the same upon,  
Because he (as unknown) would ride sans harm;  
He takes the Corpse up, and away is gone  
With it, which he unto next River brings,  
Where into the midst, Argalia deep he flings.   

And looking after him a pretty while,  
Heavy and sad, from thence he forward wends:  
But to Orlando now I'll turn my style,  
Who searching in that Desert his time spends,  
And yet Angelica doth him beguile,  
For which as wondrous wrath, he sighs forth sends:  
And whilst he sought this Damsel with great care,  
He comes upon her ere he is aware.   

So sweetly lay she sleeping on the ground,  
So lovely, and with such a pleasing grace,  
As if the flowers had sprung about her round,  
And that clear Brook had parlde of Love apace▪  
So fair a Creature waking ne'er was found,  
Never was any borne with such a face:  
The glorious Sun, to her, seemed but a star:  
She peerless was, All came behind her far.   

The staring County pleasure great doth take,  
Standing as if he were deep in a maze,  
Nor, for his life, once dareth her to wake:  
Whilst earnestly he on her still doth gaze,  
And to himself he whispering softly spoke:  
Am I here, or in Paradise, he shyes?  
Sure I her see, Oh no, I dream, Alas?  
This is a Dream, and for a Dream must pass.   

Thus looking on her, spends 〈…〉  
And to no end stands whispering all in vain:  
(Poor Soul) he better far knows how to fight,  
Then Ladies fair with Love to entertain.  
" For who finds Time and cannot take it right,  
Vnworthie's of such fortune and such game,  
As to him happed, who much himself did wrong,  
Losing sweet sport with gazing overlong.   

" The Eye was made, rare Beauty to admire,  
And (as an Object sweet) presents the same  
To Fancy, Fancy strait the Heart on fire  
" Doth set, which seeks by means it to obtain:  
The Fruits of Beauty to enjoy, more doth reqwire  
Then looking on: To look on is small gain;  
Unworthy he, to tread loves dainty Maze,  
That might be dallying, and yet idly stays.   

Now Ferraw chanced by hap to come that way,  
Stumbling upon that River and the Mead,  
And seeing there Orlando for to stay,  
(Although Orlando he knew not indeed)  
He wondered why he stood so at a Bay:  
But when he of the Lady had took heed,  
He presently did call her to his mind,  
And glad he was, that he her so did find.   

He surely thought, and did for certain hold,  
This Knight (as Guardian) for to watch her was,  
Wherewith, he with audacious voice and bold,  
Turning to him, speaks thus to him o'er rash:  
This is my Wench, already bought and sold,  
If thou be wise, away from hence soon pass:  
Leave me the Lady, or else lose thy life.  
Else shalt thou win her from me by mere strife.   

〈◊〉 now too late gins to fret,  
Seeing how he was troubled in his joy:  
Knight, quoth he, Hence away I pray thee get,  
And seek not wilfully thine own annoy,  
For I swear, ne'er my mind was willing set  
To iniute any, no, not the least boy:  
But if thou here dost bide, then 'gainst my will  
Thou'lt urge me so, as needs I must thee kill.   

Why then I see, or thou or I must part  
(As by thy speech I gather) now from hence,  
But I'll assure thee once more, I'll not start,  
And thou too weak art for me in defence,  
For were a fire here, I (spite of thy heart)  
Would throw thee in, before thou have my Wench:  
Get thee then gone, whilst that thy bones be whole:  
Thus Ferraw (Brave like) doth deal his dole.   

Herewith the Earl incensed, waxed pale and wan,  
His face did look as red as crimson blood:  
I am Orlando (saith he) nor for any man  
I care; although a World against me stood:  
And thou as able art me to withstan,  
As is a child new borne, or stock of Wood:  
Base Ribald, son to a whore, unfit to breath:  
So saying, he Durindana doth unsheathe.   

And now gins the greatest Battle fierce,  
That ever fought was twixt two Knights of yore:  
Their trenchant blades, their strongest armour pierce,  
Haste to dispatch doth make them strive the more,  
One 'gainst th'other, doth their force reverse,  
And well they saw it did import them sore:  
For should the Damsel once awake from sleep,  
It was in vain for them this stir to keep.   

And too too soon she waked for their ill,  
Greatly amazed these strange sights to see,  
hewn harness all the meadow over to fill,  
And in so dangerous a fight to be,  
Her Courser she leaps on with great good will,  
Leaving them as they would for to agree:  
Out of the wood from them she takes her flight,  
Which when Orlando sees, he stays to fight.   

Brave Knight, quoth he, vouchsafe now for this time,  
This battle to defer in courtesy,  
That I may follow after Lady mine,  
And bound to thee I shall be wondrously,  
For 'tis of folly great no little sign  
For us to buckle thus, and know not why:  
She's gone for whom this quarrel we maintain,  
Then truce, that I may after her amain.   

Not so, saith Ferraw bold, shaking his head,  
For if of fight now thou weary art,  
The Dame by thee must be abandoned,  
For this for certain I to thee impart,  
Only of one she must be followed;  
As long as I have any power in heart,  
And if I thee o'ercome, then I'll be he,  
If me thou kill'st I'll leave my right to thee.   

By Christ than I swear Orlando then doth say,  
By coping thus with me, thou small shalt get:  
Never was fought on earth so strange a fray,  
As in the Canto following down I'll set,  
Still are they bend their valour to assay,  
Orlando that he thus is crossed doth fret,  
And think not but hot Ferraw chafes as fast:  
But here a while my ship shall Anchor cast.    

The Conclusion.  

Fair Shadow of a Substance passing Fair,  
The Picture of my Mistress Excellence,  
Receive these lines impolished and bare,  
For unto thee, and none else are they meant,  
Deign to accept them what so e'er they are,  
Since for thy sake, few idle hours I spent:  
So cristall-like still clear may run thy BROOK,  
Worthy on whom, all eyes may gaze and look.   

The time may come (Ah that t'wold not be long)  
If my dread ALBA, leave in cruel wise,  
My harmless heart (ne'er stained for faith) to wrong,  
My Muse now dead, again to life shall rise,  
Singing anew, ORLADOS lovely song,  
Through virtue of those Diamond sparks, her eyes,  
When her and thee LOVES TWINS borne of Delight,  
I'll (Herrald-like) display, in Colours right.   
Il Disgratiato. R. T. G.  
FINIS.