FOr asmuch as late by the commandment of the right high & noble princess my right redoubted lady/ My lady Margarete by the grace of god Duchess of Bourgoyne Brabant etc. I translated aboke out of french in to Englissh named Recuyel of the histories of Troy in which is comprehended how Troy was thrice destroyed And also the labours & histories of Saturnus Titan/ jupiter Perseus and Hercules/ & other more therein Rehearsed. but as to the history of jason/ touching the conquest of the golden fleece/ mine author hath not set in his book. but briefly and the cause is for asmuch as he had made before aboke of the hole life of jason. which he presented unto the noble Prince in his days Philippe Du● of bourgoyne/ ●nd also the said book should have been to great. if he had se●t the said history in his book. for it containeth three books beside th'history of jason· Thenne 〈…〉 moche as this said book is late new made apart of 〈◊〉 this●ories of the said jason & the history of him 〈◊〉 that Da●es Frigius & Guid● de columpnies wrote 〈◊〉 beginning of their books/ touching the conquest of the said golden flese. by occasion whereof grew the cause of the second destruction of the said cite of Troy. is not 〈◊〉 the said book of Recuyel of th'histories of Troy/ 〈◊〉 under the prote●cion & suff●aunce of the most high puissant & xp̄en king. my most dread natural liege Lord Edward by the grace of god king of england and of France and lord of Island/ I intend to translate the said book of th'histories of jason. following mine author as nigh as I can or may not changing the sentence▪ 〈◊〉 presuming to add ne mynusshe any thing otherwise than mine author hath made in french/ And in so much as the greatest fame & renomee standeth & resteth in the conquest of the flese of gold/ where of is founded an order of knights. whereof our said sovereign lord is one & hath taken the profession the rof/ how well some persons affirm and say that the said order hath taken his original of the flese of Gedeon. where in I will not dispute. But well wot I that the noble Duc Philippe first foundeur of this said order/ did do maken a chamber in the Castle of Hesdyn/ where in was craftyly and curiously depainted the conquest of the golden fleece by the said jason/ in which chamber I have been and seen the said history so depainted. & in remembrance of medea & of her cunning & science· he had do make in the said chamber b● subtle engyn that when be would it should s●me that it 〈◊〉 tend & th●n ● thondre/ snow & rayne· And all within the s●●de chamber as oft times & when it should please him. which 〈◊〉 made for his singular pleaser. Th●n̄e for the honour 〈…〉 of our said most redoubted liege lord which hath taken the said order/ I have under the ●hadewe of ●is 〈◊〉 protection enterprised ●accomplissh this said litil boke· 〈…〉 to present it unto his highness. for as much as I doubt not his good gra●● hath it in fro●sh/ which he w●le understandeth· but no● displesing his most noble grace I ●●●ntende by his licence & ●ongye & by the supportation of our most redoubted liege lady/ most excellent princess the 〈◊〉 to present this said book unto the most fayr· and my ●●ost redoubted young lord. My lord Prince of Wales our ●ocomyng sovayne lorde· whom I pray god save and increase in virtue & bring him unto asmuch worship and good Renomme as ever had any of his noble progenitors To th'intent/ he may begin to learn read Englissh. not for on● beauty or good Endyting of our english tongue that is therein. but for the novelty of the histories which as I suppose hath not be had b●fore the translation hereof most humb●●e beseeking my said most dread sovereign & natural liege lord the king and also the Queen to pdon me so presuming. And my said tocoming sovereign lord/ M● lord the Prince to receive it in gree & thank of me his humble subg●ect & servant. and to pardon● me of this my simple and Rude translation/ and all ●ther that ●use● to read ●r here it/ to correct where as they shall find default  
¶ Here endeth the prologue of the translator   

¶ The prologue of th'author  
THe galley of mine engine floating not long sin in the deepness of the sees of d●uce ancient histories in such wise as I would have brought mine esperite unto the port or haven of rest. Suddenly appeared by me a ship conduited by one man only. This man anon beheld my regard and countenance. Which gave me title & cause of thought & of abasshement· for asmuch as I saw his visage triste-hevy & desolate▪ Whereof symton with compassion of his ennuye & grief. assoon as he conceived that I so beheld h●m by greet desire. he held him still & said to me in this wise/ Man of rude engine what meruail●st then/ Anc●e thy galeye h●re & take thy pene for to write & put in mem●●re my faites & deeds/ The king jupiter of crete wa● mine old● bel● father & he enge●drid 〈◊〉 king of my●●●dene/Th●● Cacus engen●dred my f●der Aeson. I am jason that conquered the flees of gold in the isle of colchos. And that daily labour in sorrow rooted in tristresse for the dishonour that some persons hurt & empesh my glorie· Inposing to me not to have holden my promise anoist med●a. Whereof thou hast Xed the trouh. Thenne I pray the that thou do make a book unto them that daily speak & inpugne my gloire may know their indiscrete jugement. And for ●accomplisshe the same I have chosen the to th'end/ that thou present this present writing unto the father of writ●●● of histories/ which y● unto Phelip father & lover of all virtues in his time ●uc of Bourgoygne and of Brabant etc./ The which hath been in a●● his time inclined and of great affection to here and see read the ancient histories/ And to here told the faytes of the worthy and noble sometime flourisshing in virtues in valyance and prudence for his singular passetemps· these words accomplished the ship & jason vanished away and I abode there pensive/ But in th'end desiring to show the honour and declare the virtues of the said jason I anchored my galley & put in writing his faytes as here after shall be declared plainly & a long/ so than I present my little book unto right high and right redoubted ●u● of Bourgoyne not presuming mine/ Ineloquence/ but presenting mine right humble & indign service ¶ Thus endeth mine Auctor his prolege/ And how well that hi● is said afore this prologue that Aeson was son to Cacus· Yet ●ochace saith in the Genelagye of god●es that he was son to Erictheus the ·xxix· son of jupiter/ As ye may see more plainly in the ·xiij· book of the Genelogy● of gods the. xxiiij· chapter   

ANciently the kings and Princes of high felicity were attendant and awaited when their seed should bring forth generation. But when so was that they might not come thereto. What prosperity they had Their life was traversed in continual bewailing/ and they visited temples and oracles unto the comsummation of their days. or unto thenhaunsement of their ●roysen̄s. The noble king Aeson of Myrmydone whereof is made mention in the prologue. among all other things & worldly prosperities was right nobly regning. Certes he had hi● Royaume m●yntened in peace/ He had in marriage a right fair lady· but they were long together with out having generation/ whereof their days were full of bewailings and of litil pleasure in the goods of fortune. But t●ey were continually in the temples and oracles. And no thing of their desire befell unto them unto the time that the king began to fall and wax old by age. Thenne h●s wife conceived of his seed and multeplied the generation human of a right fair son At the burthe of this son the noble queen deyde/ And when the king Aeson saw his wife so depart from life to death. he bewepte her long time and made her obsequy Right solemnly. And after he reioyed in his son new born. Whom he named jason ¶ jason thenne grew in beauty marvelously. in so much that his father the king Aeson took great pleasure to nourish hym· The time passed jason grew so long that he could g●o and speak. And the noble king his father became ancient in such manner that he might no more help himself/ And on a day called▪ jason his son and said to him·s Fair son jason it is force that I pass out of this world by age which leadeth me to the death/ For it is the dowaire th●t nature hath endowed to me/ & the passage which I must needs make/ how be it I take it well in patience/ But when I behold thy great youth/ & know that thou art not yet purveyed of discretion for to govern thy Royaume/ it is to me a great displeasure/ For it behoveth that I leave the tree that I have planted tofore I see what fruit he shall bring forth/ My dear son thou art the tree. And the fruit that thou shalt bring forth shallbe thy werkes·s Certes my courage is right sore troublid fair son jason that I shall depart fro this world and thou shalt abide unpurveyed of wi●te and discretion & right young of age/ thou beginnest daily to grow and thou sh●lt wax unto the Age of a Man· And than thou shalt rendre the fruit that I desire to see· But in th'end when thou shalt have taken thy full growing thou shalt decline a little and a litil· and after that shalt be shadowed with death like as the day waxeth dark by the night/ And for as much as there shall leave nothing in the world of the· but only the Renommee of thy life/ And that there is nothing so lowable as the virtues I ●omande the that thou be virtuous and that thou flee the vices and synnes·s My deer son keep the· that Covetise blind the not· But In any wise Apply the unto all things virtuous. Hyt is over great damage when a man liveth rich of sins. and Right pour of virtues/ ensue always though men that be wise & well renowned/ Learn whiles thou art young/ & believe no liars Thevis/ joglers/ ne deffamers of women/ ne be not idle ne prodigious of thy tongue. take heed behold & see· and say litil· blame ne hurt not thy neighbour/ do to noman any wrong/ be friendly to thy neighbour. and be good lord and father to thy subjects in time & place/ Thus my fair son put my doctrine to effect. and if thou do thus I doubt not but thou shalst have habondance of all good●s· W●th this the teens came unto the eyen of the ancient & wise king and au●led a down by his visage by such superfluite that he was constrained to cease his speaking. and the damois●a● jason notwithstanding that he was yet a child. began thenne to founder in ●eeris right habondantly. and there were plenty of other that wept for pite/ and diconforted themself right p●etousl●● Among all other the brother of king Aeson named Peleus there being present/ could not hold n● keep his mayntening/ there was none but he wa● troblid & sorry for the ancient & age of the king & not with out cause. Nevertheless among these weepings & ahasshemen●●· the king Aeson became again to himself & lift up his heed/ And after called peleus and said to him  
MY right well beloved b●dder and the most nigh that I have of my blood after my right dear son/ thou art also my secret and right especial friend· And he above all the men of the world in whom I have greatest affiance Take heed and herkene my testament· my ordenance· my commandment and the conclusion of my last will/ first I am ready and content to die when it shall please the gods to send me the death/ Secondly I recomande unto the my deer son jason. Thirdly I Recomande to the and d●liuere the conduit of my people into thy guard & proteccio And constitute the Regent and governor of my Royaume/ unto the time that my son jason shall be of age And finably I pray the that thenne thou wilt corone him with my corone that belongeth & appertaineth to him by right. With this the noble king finished his testament And his brother Peleus took the charge of the gounaunce of the royalme. And fro thenne forthon took the rule of the cite/ and jason that by space of time came to the age of xviij year was a goodly young man fair of visage marvelously/ & well made in all his members/ The noble king Aeson endoctrined him alway· & admonested him ever to do virtuous works ● saying that the heart adorned with virtue rendrith the man noble/ & nothing the noble stock or progeny Tydingis can thenne into mirnridone that the king of Thebes should make a great solemn feast in his cite for the love of a new knight that he would make· and when jason knew that/ he required the king his father that he would give him licence for to go unto this feast for to begin & ensue Arms. The king was right well content/ & ordained that peleus should go with him What shall I make you long count peleus & his nephew put 'em to point in arms & of horses. & sin went to Thebes at the day assigned that the feast should be ordained and kept. And found there many princes/ kings Baronns and knights. of whom they were well received & greatly feasted. and hercules himself for whom the feast was made welcomed 'em highly & with great Reverence  
Thapparail then was at this day in thebes great & somptuoꝰ/ for the king held open court/ & the kings princess' baronns and knights ladies & damoisels eat in the hall/ and after the dinner the tables taken up/ the ladies & damoiselles mounted upon the scaffolds/ And on that other side the knights arrayed them in arms & mounted on their horses. & drew 'em unto a place ꝓpice for the jousts/ & when the king of thebes had given to his son hercules the order of knighthood. thenne one & other couched good spears courageously & began to just in such wise that many were born down to the earth/ & specially all they that encountrid hercules  
THe noise began right great in this place. and there was great number of speeres broken & good sheldes pierced/ Hercules died there great & high prowesses/ And in like wise maintained him jason/ for they met with no knights in recountring what they where but that they bar● 'em out of their arsonns. And at this time the worthy h●●●cules began to love jason of so parfayt love that for thenne forthon he named him his brother. and held him for the most adressid knight in arms that he had seen in his time. In this journey hercules & jason asayed each other many times in the jousts & otherwise/ and new bore that one that other to the earth. whereof all they that saw it had great meruaille· for as much as Hercules was more in members & hygher than jason was/ but jason was so well on horse back/ that noman might unhorsed him· The ladies and damoisels beheld gladly jason for his high vaylliances. and praised and honoured him above all other And so died all other beholding his noble faytes Reseruid peleus which seeing that jason was so much recommended of every man/ delibered and concluded. that by his power he should get anon a great bruit. And that by his valiance he should acquire th'honour of all thassemblee. and conceived a marvelous envy upon the glory that jason gate/ And wisshid that Hercules had persid his heart with his spear ¶ What shall I make you long count/ jason overthrew to the ground the king fokenes The king of mylicene. The king of mydicque & the king of Epydance/ And ·xxx. other good knights/ he had no re●te in himself/ he never refuseth struck of spere· he sought none but the strongest and the most asper & most expert in Arms/ And in troth as to their seeming that beheld him he seemed above all other to be right well used in the faites of Armes·s & that in all his life he had den other style/ but to Ious●e· tournoye & to smite with his sw●rd great strokes and poysannt·s so fierce was his countenance  
SO long dured these jousts that these two worthy Gentilmen· Hercules & jason outhrew their felaw● & gate the field In such wise that there ne abode knight ne esquire in the saddle/ but they fond hem in their way. then when the jousts dallied/ Lady's & Damoisells departed fro the scaffolds & returned unto the palace. The jousters unarmed them/ And put 'em in fair array. & after went them unto the ladies in to the palace/ There thenne began the dances/ the carols. & the feast right noble and joyous unto the time that the tables were covered/ & that every man was set as it appertained to his degree & estate. As of the meats & viand that they were served of/ it needeth not to make m●●cōn· every man wa● served solemnly & there was speaking of the high valian̄ce● of Hercules & of jason. And in especial of the damoys●au jason/ for so moche as he was estranger. The ladies held their devices a part. and said that they had never seen so fair and so goodly a young man/ Pyrithron of Thessaly was there among all other· the which when he apperceived that everich had well eaten and drunken raysonably. he stood up and required all them that were there that on that day a month following they would come and ●e at his wedding ¶ What shall I saye· Some said that they would come and some said nay. And so the s●●pper pass●●●. And jason was feasted there right long and in especial of the kyge Princes and princesses/ And aft●●●ong●e and l●cen●e taken and ●ctroi●d he returned in●o his countre●. And thenne when he cons●derid that time was for to go to the w●dding of Pyrithion/ by the gr● & consenting of his father/ he arrayed himself and put him in point Right nobly/ and thenne he went thither/ and his uncle Peleus with him. And they made such diligence that they came in short time unto the noble city of thessalonycque  
When the king ●xion̄ knew the coming of jason & peleus he went again them & made marvelous there unto Peleus'/ but yet he made right moche more unto jason for th● good loose and high renomee that he had gotten in Thebes·s And made him to descend in his palace/ and after brought him unto Hercules that was there with in a chamber. And required him that he would make and a doube him knight/ saying that it was tyme. & that his pleasure was. that at the wedding of his son he should sit among the knights/ and that it well appart●yned to him ¶ The right worthy hercules herd gladly the king speak & made there jason knight with great honour/ And jason full of right good will opened his mouth & said in this manner ¶ Right noble worthy Choose/ and right wise knight among all other shining in all virtues it hath pleased unto you/ for to call me unworthy and indign to be of the high and commended order of knighthood Whereof I thank you with all mine heart/ and this noble king also from whom in party th'honour is comen to me/ But among all this we'll & worship I pray you that it may please you tassigne me a place where I may do the saytes Chevaulerous & knightly/ unto this end that ye have not employed your time evil so moche to honour & worship me/ And that I may in the days of my young the ensiewe the high & praised virtues of you that are the very and sewer foūdem●nt/ upon which my total espoyr & hope resteth for to come unto the works of Recomendation ¶ Certes fair brother jason/ answered Hercules'/ it is now that I have promoted you unto the dignity of knighnthode/ I have no commandment over you/ And if it be your desire to haunt Arms & to ocupie you therein/ Inquire of the wars of the world/ and if it happen that ye put you in arms/ be ware that ye in the jousts do to no man oppression/ and be ye to all people humble & courteous/ Nature hath begun in you a man garnisshid with vertues·s the gods continued hit  
With these words Peleus came up on Hercules and jason And jason avowed that he should go unto the first war that he should here speak of/ And than one & other began to devise & speak of the prowesses of Hercules ¶ What shall I make you long tarrying/ this day passed And the morn came/ And this day Pyrithyon espoused the fair Ypodame with moche great honour/ and made them so great cheer that Eurichus the heed & Captain of the centaurs was drunken/ And in like wise were their fellows These Centaurs were an ·C· men that always held ●em in Arms for to keep the country of thessaylle/ And they held 'em in one place which was named Molose/ th●y were all great and formed as giants ¶ When than they were so drunken as said is/ And that the win had 〈◊〉 mounted 'em in words and tentions as is a Custom in such a a●as/ and brawlid among 'em self/ In so much that Pyritheon with some other began to Reverse th●re meats and tables fight with hem with pettes & pl●ters right long and by such furor/ that hercules ne jason ne the Ladies might ne could not set any Remedy And this battle dured so long/ that Euricus & many other of the centaurs departed thence/ disposed for to do and commise a great outrage as they dyde· whereof they came to late to repent hem· for they went & Armed them hastily/ And after thus armed Returned unto the wedding· And in this drunkenship they Ravisshed the fair Ypodaine out from all the other Ladies & Damois●lles And Euricus bore her away upon his shoulders  
THan Hercules & jason began to Renne to take their Arms & were soon ready for to departe· And followed after the drunkards that went reling on all sides in the fields/ And so sore siewed them that they overtone them in a green field. And were no more on their side but they two only/ how be it that many siewed them as well knights as ladies and gentilwomen/ but that was not ferre· When the worthy Hercules and the noble prew jason had retained these centaurs. they had each of them a bow which they bend. And sin they escried all the drunken centaurs unto the death/ And shot on them in such fashion/ that Hercules' araught one of them named Grineus between the eyen/ and with his arrow nailed him fast unto a tree which stood by hind him· And the nobl● jason smote another centaur in the neck with a trenchant arrow. and smote him down in the presence of one named Guericus/ which escried right furiously upon Hercules & jason. And with this cry all the centaurs rengid 'em against the two knights and marchid against them so troublid that they soon after recoiled as much o● more as they had gone forward as people replenisshid out of measure of drink & meet/ for jason & hercules persecuted them with their arrows as long as they dured & slew a gre●● nombre. And when her shot failed they drew out good swords and came & fought hand to hand the miserable gluttons by such vigour that their swords were anon died with their blood  
When the centaurs saw the swords of hercules & jason so died in their blood/ & also when they perceived their fellows die so with sorrow tofore them/ feeling also the languisshing & smarting of their wounds/ some there were that put 'em to the flight. & the other deffended them with all their puissance/ Than the noble jason showed his vailliance marvelously for he araught noman with a right struck but he bore him down to the earth/ or made his soul depart fro the body/ And they that abode & saw his sword trenchant wax red of the blood of their fellows were not right well assured/ Certes he defended him as one that doubted nothing/ and so died hercules semblably What shall I make you long process/ jason slew with his own hand four giants of the said Cent●●ures named/ Petreus/ Doillas/ Cillarus/ & Perthones & other more which were not so great/ And the worthy Hercules slew & hew down more than thretty and so much travailed by the aid of jason & other/ that he won the place upon them and came to his above/ This Euri●us & his complices lost the place and supposed to have fled. but jason smote than among them by such ardaunt courage/ in discharging his sword upon the shoulder on the right side of Euricus/ that it cutted a two his heart/ which fill down deed at his feet. wherefore the other seeing that/ were anon so discouraged/ that they sparklid abroad/ that the most part of them suffered & lete hem be slain & hewn in pieces without making or showing any defence/ And the other fled some here & some there Thus was the fair Ypodayne delivered of these villain glotouns and oultrageous by the high vaillyance of the two worthy knights jason and Hercules/ Whom after this noble victory they rendered and delivered unto her parents and friends  
great was the loos & preyssing marvelously that jason gate there with the noble hercules for his high virtue/ certes Hercules brought her again to the palace with great glory/ And all the world recommended jason reseruid peleus which died for sorou/ for the great worship that was made to him in his presence/ Thenne began the ladies to Reioye them silf and to change their sorou into gladness/ The far ypodayne was a●urned & arrayed all new/ she slept that night with her lord. The night passed. and peleus on the morn called jason/ and said that their long s●●●urnyng displaisid him/ and that he would return unto his country. When jason had vnd●rstande peleus/ he answered to him & said that he was ready to depart at his good plaisir. Th●n̄e peleus made for to saddle his horse. And in the mean while he lad jason for to take congee ● leave of the king yxion· of Pirithyon. of Ypodayne/ of Hercules and of many other. And after they returned into their logyse But when they supposed to have taken and ●●●nted on their horses. two esquires came to jason which presented to him two right fair and excellent destriers or horses/ that one from the king yxion. and that other from Ypodayne Certes jason received this present in great gladness/ thanking many time the noble king and Quene· And thenne he mounted on that one of the same horse. and offered that other to his uncle Peleus. but he would never accept it And said that he was not dign ne worthy to receive so noble a present/ and when he had thus said he smote his horse with spurs & departed & jason followed after Certes peleus lied not saying that he was not worthy to receive so noble a present/ as that was which jason presented him For he was a traitre to jason/ which intended to nothing but for to do to him pleasure/ O cursed blood/ certes this peleus might not rest ne sleep he was so pensif/ how he might bring about to make jason his proper nephew to die & to this ●mouid him envy & disloyal detraction whereof he was full  
HA'/ a/ Right Miserable and right disnaturall envy how may these noble men & also other nourish the in their hearts/ They that incline & give them unto these traitorous meanings/ may in no manner have rest day ne night Thou liftest 'em up into high thoughts of glerie/ thou makest 'em to mount unto the highest tap by oultrequydaunce & furquydrye above kings & emperors ꝓmysing to them largely· but when it cometh for tacquyte the ꝓmesses/ thou castest 'em low down: breakest their necks Ha' a/ puerse murdeyer ● how many men & also women have been slain & dead by thy poisons/ it is now no need for to bring forth example of thi● time present for to approve thy covered falseness & how thou abusest & deceivest them that have affiance in ●he but for to continued our matter with this it sufficeth for to see th'end of our history of this said peleus which gaf him to somoch travail for to imagine & ꝓiecte the death of his nevewe jason which so moche affied & trusted in him ¶ how jason went for to serve the queen mirro & how the king of Sklavonye was vaynquishid & chased fro his siege  
PEleus and jason Departed than fro Thessalonyque in a morening that one right triste and sorrowful. And that other right joyeus/ And when they were on the field jason as fresh & lusty began to prove & essay his horse/ & Peleus as sorrowful & trayttre as he was began to abasse & hang down his heed/ & sin said to him self in his evil courage/ shall I never come to my desir/ what is this/ how shall I do/ certes I wot never. shall I murdre jason· nay. & wherefore/ for truly for as much as I should be enfamed/ for murdre can not be hid/ notwithstanding he must be dead certainly/ this is the conclusion. or else I shall be put down & leave the honour's royal· & shall come to mendicite & poute· O what mortal pain shall I make him to die. it is force/ but who shall give him the morsel of death Hit must be thought on·s if I require another to do this. peraventure he shall have pite of jason for as much as he is in the grace of all the world & shall accuse me. if I do ordain any poison & jason be put thereby to death/ they that have made & mixed it/ shall not con keep it secrete· And also that more is jason shall weal keep himself from such poison. O what thoughts have I I see none other moyen but that I must commyse this case with my proper hand. Peleus conspiring in this fashion not knowing how he might exploit for to attain to execute his damnable envy r●d● forth all this day unto the even/ which took loggis. in the house of an ancient lady whom she received with great joy and jason also. & they fond her covering the table for to feast a strange knight which she had logged for charity  
INcontinent thenne as Peleus & jason were alighted from their horse/ the ancient lady mad● hem to wash & sit at table. and the strange knight with them & served hem with such meet as she had. & as they had taken their refection/ jason axid the strange knight after diuce words. what he was & what he sought/ In troth noble gentleman ●nsuerde the knight/ I am of the rich royalme of Olifern● And little servant unto the queen of the country that I have named/ & I certify you that in remnant of all the world is no fairer lady/ and also there is none more desolate & sorrowful/ for the mighty king of sclavony would have her to his wife for her great beauty/ unto whom she will in no wise accord herself/ & for asmuch as she hath plainly refused him/ he is entered into her royalme in arms destroying all to fore him with fire & sword he is comen and hath besiegid her in her city of Oliferne/ to fore which city & during the siege he hath had many fair victories against the aydants & helpars of the queen/ the which in livering diverce battles unto the Esclavons which they have lost been sore dimunisshid of their forces & strength/ for they have slain of the knights of the said lady a great nombre that tho few that yet live dare not now issue out more for to make any sault or scarmusche against their enemies ¶ Wherefore the vaillyant princess willing for to defend herself unto the death/ hath sent into diuce places her messengers/ and me among the other for tassemble for her soldiers and men learned in the war for to do her aid against her enemies as well for her money as for to help to keep th'honour of ladies wherefore I pray you if ye know any in this country that it may please you to address me to them and ye shall do great charity and to me great curtosie  
IN telling the knight this that said is he could not keep himself from weeping/ but wept tenderly/ And when jason had understand & thought a little of the necessity of the lady/ considering also her great beauty/ he wept also for pity/ & adressid his words unto peleus and said Dear uncle ye have well herd this good knight speak/ what seemeth you. To whom peleus answered/ Certes fair nephew Me thinketh in mine advice that the king of Esclavonye doth evil & great sin for to war and destroy the country of one so fair a lady/ and if I had no more charge thenne ye have. without making long sojourn or tarrying I should go unto the socours of one so noble a lady. and I ensure & promise' upon my troth answered jason thenne. that to morn as early as I may shall monnte on horseback and in the company of this good knight I shall go unto this lady/ and shall do to her all the service & pleasure that I shall can do and may/ for to begin & ensue the order of knighthood/ where fore I pray you that ye recomande me unto the good grace of my lord my father. and that ye of your good grace will oft times pray unto the gods for me  
When p●le● had understand the vow of jason/ he was right joyous/ for he was in thopynion that he should newly return f●o this viage/ & that by this moyen he should be quite of him with his worship & honour/ Thenne peleus promised to jason that he should accomplish with good heart all that he had required of him· & sin recommended him to the knight of oliferne/ & thenne it was time to withdraw them wherefore they went to rest unto on the morn & thenne aroos & took leave each of other. and thus went jason with the strange knight unto the noble cite of oliferne/ & peleus returned unto mirmydone praying the gods that jason might be smitten with thunder or through pierced with .v. C. spears or to be buried in the see to th'end that there were new more tidings of him. such or semblable were the prayers that the perverse peleus made for the total destruction of his gentle nephew jason. the most addressed knight that ever was in mirmidone· This notwithstanding the noble jason exploited always his journey/ & went so f●rre he & the knight that he brought him and rendered him in oliferne. & pnsented him unto the queen for to serve her in her war/ This queen was called Mirro/ which is as much to say as mirror in beauty  
When jason saw him to fore the queen/ he beheld her with great intent inclining himself & making to her reverence· And she seeing that he was much fair & a young gentleman well made in all his members/ & having a chiere of a v●iller●us man/ received him into her wages as a soldier/ as she that had great need to have such knights in great nombre/ but this was not only upon his person but also upon his high maintain & behaving iuging in him gre●● courage which was not lyk to any noble man that ever she 〈◊〉 seen/ After the presentation of jason & that the fair m●rro had retained him in her wagrs & soldiers of her ordinance/ The knight that conduyted him brought him fro the palace into the town & delivered for him a good logys'. The fair Myrro had at that time triews with her enemies for xu days Certes these triews annoyed much to jason for he demannded nothing but for to employ him in all faites of arms to that end● that he might do pleasure unto so fair a lady/ the fair mirro/ which newly was out of his mind/ for ye shall understand that sin the time that jason had beholden & seen the great beauty of the lady/ she was written by love in his heart so acertainly that he could new keep him fro thinking on her in allowing & praising/ her yonghte/ her countenance. her wit and all her other virtues/ where with she was endowed & adorned & she had no more but/ xuj/ yet of age also he brought to his mind her fair and fresh colour/ her ladyly maytiene & her noble fashion & corpul●ce/ wherefore he was so esmevid & esprised with love that he wist not what to th●nke what thing was him befall/ & in this estate he was many a day  
AMong these things during these triew●/ the king of sclavony sent his proper messenger unto the far mirro for to require her that she should give audience to one of his knights that he would send unto her/ to whom he had give charge for to say to her certain secret things which audience she agreed/ & than the said messenger departed & reported to the king that the far myrro was conten●e for to here his knight. Of these tidingis the king of sclavony had much great joy & as he that somuch b●●●de in the love of the queen myrro & witted not what thing should befall him/ wherefore he disguised himself the best wise that to him was possible/ & by the i●se of certain herbs he footed h●e visage & changed his colour/ & sin took two of his knights with him whom he trusted/ to whom he declared how he would go unto his lady pamours feigning that he was a simple knight of the kings court & deffended 'em expressly that they should not make to him honour ne reverence/ safe only th'honour of a fellow to a fellow/ & anon as he had adutised of that they should do/ he put him on the way so secretly that he ●ntrid in to oliferne & so exploited that he was brought to for the noble queen Mirro/ whom he had never seen to fore/ where he kneeled down on his knees right humbly to fore her/ & how well as he was all ravished in thinking & beholding her marvelous beaute· for he had newly seen tofore so far a creature/ after the reverences there made he said to her in this manere  
NOble and right renowned princess the king of Esclavonye my sovereign & puissant lord recomandeth him right humbly to your good grace & noble memory. & for so moche as he hath understand that ye be content to here his demand. & that he offrith for the love/ for the weal/ the honour & prouff●●t of you/ & of your royalme/ if it please you ye shall give me audience & good expedition/ With these words the lady commanded the king that he should stand up as she that witted not what he was·s & sin drawn her a litil a part· wherefore the king approached ner h●r & said/ Right virtuous princess/ ye know how by diuce times your right humble servant the king of esclavonye hath required you by his barons & enbassadours/ that it should please you to be his wife & felaw. And always in feet ye h●ue refused him And for cause of which refuse as I am advised he hath ●●trid into your royalme & assailid it by war as ye may perceive/ yet always to put himself in deuoir/ he hath sent me to you for to require your desired grace/ as he that hath more greater pite of you and your country thenne ye have yourself as me semeth· wherefore he requireth you by me that at this time ye have pite of your true lover/ of whom the fortune is such that certes he drieth in languisshing after you. ha' a my right redoubted lady after the judgement of the men ye are the very mirror of all virtues/ of all bounty & noblesse Here thenne the voice of your servant speaking by my mouth & requiring your grace & pite the most humble wise that to him is possible/ the pour and desolate king your right true we'll willare may not be in no place without thenking on you his imagination compryseth nothing but your name & beauty/ his stomach digesteth̄ nothing but your triumphant glory/ his prayers ne suffrages monte not unto the gods but in calling them to the augmentacion of your we'll/ Alas have ye pity & mercy on him· on your people & on your Royaume/ & on me that am his secret messenger of love/ condescend ye in will for to be his lad● & ma●stresse to th'end that he may attain to the chief of his desire & also to th'●nde that your city & your men may dwell in pe●● & rest  
IN pronounsing these or semblable words the dolorous king made many sighs and began to chafe and to sweet in such agony as he had been a prisoner presented to fore a judge for to receive Sentence of gra●● or of death The wise and discrete Myrro suffered him ●ach●e●e all his ꝓposition/ And when he had purposed all that leave ensigned him f●r this tyme. She was not so dispourueyed of ●●uis ne of entendem●nt/ but promptly & me●rly she made to him this answer ¶ Messagyer wh●n I have well understand you I am all abashed how my mort●l enemy can or may require me of love of any alliance w●an by his cultrage and cruelty he i● by great wrong ●●tr●d in to my Royaume with Armed hand pilled & co●●ed my land/ slain my people/ b●ēte my country. & yet 〈…〉 hath besieged me in my city of Oliferne. & when I h●ue well overthought these said things I answer 〈…〉 this time for all/ that I shall rather suffer myself & all my royalme to be destroyed than in any manner shall cōdes●●●de to his requests & to his will/ Certes madame ans●erde the king me thinketh ye be not well concealed· ne considere ye not that your disdain have been cause of the death of fifty thousand men/ And how·s have ye no regard that he is so noble and so puissant a king. & that he loveth you with so parfayt love that all his desire is not but for to mow come to your good grace/ In troth it appeareth by that/ that is said to you·s that he hath more greater pite of your noble person. of your men and of your desolate royalme/ thenne ye have yourself And therefore madame think ye on these things & beware that by your cruelty and default your good lover & friend if it please you/ fall not in despair/ I wot never what may incline you 〈◊〉 to. but if it be that ye will and desire rather the general & total destruction of your ro●a●●● thenne other wise. And by all my gods it is gre●e ou●●age and folly that meuith you thereto  
CErtes messenger answered the wise maid unto the Esclavon king/ the luyte or wrestling of your words is not strong ynouh for to beat down & oucome the constancy of my continence/ I love my men & people naturally And to this end that all the world know that I say trouth· also long as the soul abideth in my body/ I shall newly have love ne alliance unto mine enemy/ & speak no more to me thereof/ With this the king was all vainquisshid & desconforted of socours/ & was so terribly displaisid & angry of asper & mortal anger th●t in a great despair & wanhope he said to her/ O fell lady & most rebel & lest pietous that ever departed out of woman's belly sin that I must acquit me when I ꝑceyu● that your sweet courage will not accord unto me· ne intend unto the continuel supplications of you so true lover/ I me deport from hens forth for to speak any more of this matter/ but I you ensure as soon as the triew● shall fail. ye shallbe guerdoned after your fierté ¶ With th●se words the king of S●lauonye departed thence with a chiere penfyf/ And returned to his Ooste more desiring to come to his entencion ●han ●uer he had been to fore/ And the fair Myrro litil s●●ing by his menaces/ b●gan to devise with some of her gentlewomen in recounting to them the prayers & request ●s that her mortal enemy had made to her ¶ What shall I ●●ye you more/ the t●iews failed at time set & exsp●●ed And when they were thus failed the king of S●lauonye more thenking on the fair Myrro/ than was need to him/ made his men to put 'em in Arms many a day. hoping that they of Oliferne should come out & make him skarmuches/ but he lost his pain/ for there was not in the city any man that durst issue out for to assaylle them/ for asmuch as they had always against 'em the worse/ & than when he knew that they of Oliferne were so crem●use & rebowted & durst not come out/ he chose on a day thirty of his knights/ & said to them/ that for the love of his lady he would Iust● again them all/ one after an other/ & sin b●ought 'em unto a place ꝓpice for to just in/ which was right fair in the sight for them of the city/ & there began they to ●●ste making so marvelous ab●uyt that they of Oliferne heard it and & ran unto the bateillement & lowpes of the walls  
IAson went for to set these jousts with the other & anon as he saw the manner of the sklavonoye h● had great sorou in himself/ & by a marvelous courage he went to the palace to fore the fair Myrro/ And after the reverence made· he said to her/ My right redoubted lady I can not have marvel ynouh of the great sloth & lachenes of your men/ for I have see your mortal enemies devise & just right nigh to your cite with a little company/ in such wise as oliferne were dispourueyed in all points of men & of defence. Ha' a madame what is this· Certes all they that been therein receive great blame. & therefore I pray you for your honour & also mine that ye will delive me ten of your soldiers/ & that it please you that I may conduit them upon your enemies & if ye will so do I suppose that we shall make affray to them as great as they had any long syn· The fair myrro hearing the request of jason allowed much his good will & inquired of him the number of her enemies/ & when ●he was ad●tised that there were no moo but fifty/ she sent for. xij· knights which were newly comen fro the cite of damask to whom she declared the request of jason/ & a●id of them if they would adventure 'em with him. They beheld jason & seeing his maintain & that he was the best ad●esshid knight that ever they had seen. & that his request departed fro a right noble courage/ They answered that they would acompanye him unto the death. Thenne the noble maid he●ring what they said accorded to jason to enteeprise that he had required of her/ When jason perceyvid that his request was accorded to him. he thanked the fair lady with good herte· & after recommended him unto her noble prayers After that he required the twelve knights that they should speed them to put 'em in point ꝓmising them good adventure This don they went & armed them And mounteth upon their horses/ And when their helms and sheldes were laced/ They died do open one of the gates of the city which they held continuelly closed for all doubts and availed the draw brigge/ and they Rood out in to the field/ & joyously Rood against the esclavons/ which as said is were jousting again their king by solace  
When the noble Maid Myrro and the Ladies knew that jason was on his way they monted upon an high tour/ out of the which they might plainly see in the ooste of their enemies/ and they tarried not long when the king of Sclavonye had perceyvid jason & his fellows which came to him ward/ wherefore he left the jousting & called his knights/ to whom he said/ Fair lords ye have made upon my body an esprove of Chyvalerie for the love of my Lady/ But now think ye for to get honour & laud for the love of me/ & proeve you mightily upon this little mombre of knights Olifernoys that come upon us/ we been four against one/ wherefore we shall put 'em to death all so lightly as the lion devoureth the lamb with his teeth & claws ¶ With these words the noble jason and his fellows assewrid on their horses sin took their sheldes which were fast bounden to their breasts brandisshed their spears and es●ryed their enemies/ which broached their horses with their spurs and received them & recountered with the might of their spears & so asperly assailed them that it seemed that they should have confounded them to fore hem· bu● when it came to the tronchoning of their speris/ jason that best was horsid of all the other received the first strooke And with his spear he was attained of the king of sclavony by such a might that he ꝑcid the shield on the right side. And there he broke his spear/ and jason smote him on the sommette of his shield by such a might/ that he made him to reverse his heed and made it to hurtle again the Cruper of his horse by hind so astonied that his feet were lift upward that the rain of his horse brack and fill down from his horse unto the ground/ the which horse than Run astray in to the field/ than passed forth jason right joyous of his good adventure/ And with an other spear that he had taken of his esquire for to fulcome his emprise/ cam and recountered one of the best knights of slilavonye/ to whom he gave so desmesurable a stroke in the mids of his shield/ that he pierced it and the hauberk and haqueton in to the body in such wise that he fill down deed fro the horse to the earth/ And than they smote to guider on both parties by the strength of their spears weal sharped with steel/ And for the great number of thesclavons that were there in Regard of them that recountered them/ Some left the stour and went for to comfort their king which lay on the earth all atoned and as ded· And the other intended for to furnish their enemies/ Thus began the battle fires asper and rigorous as weal with spears that soon were tronchonned as with good trenchant swords/ & they of Damask maintained them so highly by the example of noble jason that with jousting they bore down. uj· of their enemyes·s Of whom four were deed on the field and the other two were so hurt in the falling that they might never help 'em self after  
YOU may well understand that this stour began asper and marvelous/ The Esclavons set their king on horseback again as well as they could upon one of the horses of them that were deed/ and thenne all they se●te hand on their swords and came for to entremedle with jason and them of his company/ smyting on them so dismesurably that jason knew anon that he should be slain/ if he defended him not with all his power. And thenne concluded in his courage that ere he left his life he would make his Renommee grow in oliferne and in Esclavonye. or he would die in the pain/ with that he haunced his clear ●●●nchaūt sword of steel/ And discharged it upon the ●●●me of a Esclavon by such virtue that he cleft his 〈◊〉 unto the brayn. that he fill down deed f●o his horse to 〈◊〉 earth and in passing further he smote an other in the 〈◊〉 of his king. by such force that he cut of a quartre of 〈◊〉 s●●lde and his left arm with all. And when the ●●ng apperceived that jason departed such strokes he h●d doubt of his person/ And that was no great marvel. thenne as worthy and vailliaunt as he was he escried jason to the death. and sin came to him with his trenchunt sword othounsed· And smote him so mightily upon the top of his helm/ that he made the sparklis flee ou●e/ and his heed to incline low doun· whereof he was not little atoned. but escried him saying. Vaissale ye have well showed to me how ye can recounter a man with the spear/ but I shall show to you the sharpness of my sword and how that I am better knight thenne ye. And if ye escape fro my hands without receiving of death. I well well that ye say to my Lady paramours the fair Myrro. that her love and friend of Sklavonye hath neither force ne might  

¶ How the king of Sklavonye was vanquished by jason in the field by battle  
MOche was jason desplaysaunt when he had understand the vauntises of his mortal enemy. But wh●n he knew that he was the king of sclavony he was well joyous for to know him and thus said to him by derision. Ha'/ a right oultrageous fool/ Arte thou he that art aff●yled with the blanch fevers for cause of my right redoubted lady· Now see I well that in the is more of presumption than of vayllyaunce/ and of vauntise than of fayte and truly more of folly than of wisdom. For it is p●rfayte folly to the for to name the better knight than I am. Than la●e us see who is the better ¶ With these worthy began again to smite each other Right asprely· Certes jason proved himself Right fiercely in giving to his enem●e many strokes ter●yble and poysaunt. And so many gaf him in making Reed his sword of the blood of the Esklavon king that the right malerouse king was constrained to cry and to call his knights unto his aid and help. but there came so many that jason was environed & assailed on all sides  
When the Noble jason felt himself so advironned on all sides by his enemies/ He was more reconforted than to fore. And began to smite wyth his good sword of steel on the Right side and on the lift side by such virtue and might/ that the ladies of the city knew him among all other/ and perceived that he skarmusshid with his sword all died with new blood now here/ & now there· And after saw him cut of heeds/ arms and legs and fists/ And made arms at his will and more thenne all the remenamnt· And certes by his maintain he seemed better a thing of that other world thenne an human person/ And fro this time forth on the fair Myrro seeing this that said is/ took jason so in her good grace that unto the death she 〈…〉 above all other knights. as she that setted her l●ue totally in him The noble jason fought th●n̄e vaill●aūtly again the Esclavons/ and right long endured the bat●ylle. And when the twelve knights of damask saw the great prowess and the dangerous stour that was about their master/ Th●● smote in among them that so assailed h●m/ And thenne enforced him jason for to make him s●lf to be of val●ur· truly by such ardeur of courage that he slew their ten of the most hardyest knights of all the ●●oste of his ●●●myes. wherefore the king of esclavonye seeing his ma●ntene: the valeur of jason had such furfur and d●●de. that ●e h●●●ndon̄ed the place and his knights/ that thenne all weary followed him/ And thenne the noble jason followed the chaas and chased 'em unto the great ●ost in such afusion & mortal occ●sion̄/ that of the thirty knights that were at the beginning of the battle there escaped no more but ten. but they were all slain & detrenched or hewn in pieces·s And of the party of jason their bleef no more but twain upon the field. And of the remanannt all were hurt that one more anguisshously thenne that other   

¶ How jason was joyously received of the queen Myrro of Olyferne and how they bewailed each other  
AFter this marvelous battle. and that the worthy jason had rechaced his enemies unto nigh by the ooste as said is he tarried for two reasons/ The first was for as much as he saw his fellows weary & sore pained by their wounds/ and the second was for asmuch as he saw the O●ste move for to come upon them/ & than as wise and discrete he withdrew him saying that more is worth a good retreat/ than a foolish abiding/ and reentrid with great honour & gle●e into the city/ whereof the fair myrro was as Io●ouse as she could be/ & contrary to this was the king of sclavony as sorrowful & angry for the great damage that he had suffered that day/ Every man in oliferne as soon as jason was reentrid s●ewed him & man women & children blessed him saying one to an other that they had newly seen none lyk to him in beauty ne more vaillyaunt knight of his body/ & than all the city began to reioye/ & when the fair mirro thought that jason was unarmed/ she sent for him/ & he came gladly to her/ for that was all his desire/ than when he was comen to fore her he salued her/ & she rendered to him his salewe/ & sin demanded him how he felt himself & how he feared/ Certes madame ●nfuerde jason to god begyve the thanking I ne feel on my body but all good disposition/ & am joyously returned into your city & as to the regard of your enemies/ by that I have felt of them/ me thinketh that they aught not sore to be dread ne doubted & that in short time/ ye shall have of them good reason I have this day made my sword reed in their blood. Whereof their king your mortel enemy hath had great dueyl & sorrow. And I have yet good will that to morn I shall redouble that· and yet that shallbe worse to him & to his/ if the gods be in mine aid and help  
WHilis that jason spack thus to the noble Lady as said is/ she beh●lde him now & now by right great ardaunt love/ & could not abstain herself/ for she was so surmounted with love at this time that for to ●yde her will and to refroide & coal her a little without mo●● speaking to jason/ that she left him with two damois●ll●s for to entretene & tarry him. & she withdrew her into her chamb●● wh●re she began to think on the great virtues that w●re in jason That is to weet on his high prowesse●on 〈…〉 on his laughing eyen on his ●ell mad● body/ and on hy● gracious speaking. And so much she thought on 〈◊〉 that she must come again unto the place where 〈…〉 she fond in the hall of the palace plenty of her 〈◊〉 & of the most noble of the cite· and there was ne●ly arrived a messenger of the king of damask. that certef●ed to her· that that evening should come unto her aid two thousand assyrians. which the king his lord had sent to her in the con●duyte of his brother named Prus●us. which was a Right valiant knight in arms/ Of these tidings was the noble queen much recomforted· & commanded that they should ordain well for 'em to eat & drynke· & died do cover the table● & received this prusius right solemnly/ but when each was set at table/ the fair myrro & jason were in such wise served by the refection of love/ that they took none heed of meet ne of drink/ The messenger of love that is to weet dou●●e Regard was continuelly on the way/ that on was shamefast and changed colour/ & in like wise died that other/ jason could not contain himself/ and myrro perceived well enough his mayntening/ but myrro was much subtle/ for she beheld him raysonably/ & more died by wisdom than her heart desired/ In these regards & in these semblances they passed the supper/ there was no lady ne damoisel that ne employed her eyen for to behold jason for his great beauty what shall I say more/ after the supper it was ordained that on the morn the siriens which were weary & travailed in coming thither should pest them/ but the next day following they should go out under the conduit of jason for t'assail the siege of the king of sclavony/ & than each man took leave & withdrew h●m into their logyse one & other & into her hosteleryes  
Anon as jason was withdrawn into his logys' & laid in his bed for to rest/ The sovenance of his lad● presented her into his memory/ Which enlumyned in him so tereyble a fire in the mids of his heart that him thought he was in a brenning fournayse. He began than first to think on the faith of his lady. And after he began to make castellis in Spaygne as lovers do/ & fina●ly when he had long laboured in these things/ he spack to himself/ & said softly. ha'. a fortune/ knight what shall befall of the & of this noble lady it behoveth that thou pray her of love/ and than am I not hardy enough to do so/ wherefore I will not/ be what reason she is good/ but she compryseth the bruit of all the world/ & that more is she hath refused a king/ certes I am well a fool for to think on her/ ye truly a fool/ & how well that I be a fool yet have I given to her mine heart/ it is hers/ & it shall abide with her/ the gentle damoyseau jason thought the most part of the night in this rederye amorous/ And after slept/ but he dreamed of his lady. for thenforcement of love/ In like wise it must be said that she bleef not all quit/ for incontinent as she was laid in her bed/ her thought that she saw jason flourisshing above all other men/ Thenne she began to covet his love. And desired the day that she might see him again. & so much she desirid him during the night/ that she began to say in this wise/ Ha' a obscure & dark night wherefore endurest thou so long/ it disples●th̄ me oumoche. & not with out cause. for I am in terrible pain be cause that the day tarrieth so long ere he come. Ha' a day where art thou/ if thou were come I should see my love & friend/ my solace & conforte· Certes thou makest long sojourning. by thy tarrying mine eyen may not see my bewailing the desire of my heart/ thaccomplisshement of my wissh●s. the esperance of my ioye· but what enjoy have I/ I may not sleep in stead where I was wont to wish after the night for to withdraw me fro the public affairs/ now I must wish after the day for to come to my singular pleasure in a secret regard & sight  
SVche or semblable were the words of the noble lady esprised of love/ she desired the prew jason. and he coveted her also. And in the same wise failed not the king of Esklavonye. for in the same night. the dolour & pain of his wounds were to him so asper that he might not rest. And thenne for to pass with all more easily his pain. he began to bewaille the grace of his noble lady/ & said in this manner among all other words. Ha' a dear lady shall ye never have pity on my power & desolate heart. the which notwithstanding your refuse and great Rudesse may not put you in oubliance ne out of his desire/ the which more and more you loves/ the which can not travail himself ynowh for to find the manner to get your benevolence and good will. And whether it please you or please you not it is all youris· O my desire if ye will alway remain with out mercy· wherefore were ever ye so habondantly garnisshid so well of excessive and chief of all beaute· your resplendour is clear among the women as the son is among the sterres·s shall ye be without mercy and without compassion. I suppose that ye shall not/ an● my heart jugeth that ye shall have great Regard unto my good will/ The ladies other whilis take pleasure for to make her true servants to languisshe. And their honour accords well thereto/ for in truth a lady to soon abandonned and given over. embraceth not great honour· thenne it is expedient that she suffer her lovers to tarry by prayers and oroisons/ And in this manner I will conclude in myself· not only for one Refuse/ ne for ·xx· of the grace of my lady/ I will not fall in despair/ The verray courage of a true lover may in no wise be known but only by the moyen̄ of many Reffuses. How well the stone is myned and hollowed by continual dropping of water. And thenne shall not the Rigour and the refuse of my noble lady be myned and adoulced by my habondannt prayers and oroisons. yes verily. that shall she be or nature shall fail. And if not/ the gods shall be injust and against me   

¶ How jason befought a marvelous Giant named Corfus and how he slew him in the battle  
IN these or semblable imaginations the Esklavon king passed all this night unto the morn early/ that Corfus a marvelous Geant born in Toscane c●m unto him And demanded how he feared/ and how it stood with him. Certes Corfus answered the king· For so moche as I dream of my loves. And that they occupy me so sore. that they slay me because I occupy ●em so much. & how well that I find in her but refuse & fierst●●. And h●we said Corfus thens●e ye yet on her. ye said the k●ng/ That must needs be. Must it needs said Corfus· You certes said the king. Than said Corfus/ You be a fool and right evil advised· For all thing considered he is not wise that enforceth him to have a wife a 'bove h●s degree/ for as much as there been of other plenty. Right well sa●d the king. ye say Right we'll/ but know not ye that some one is better & more worth than some five ninety. Certainly my lady is the oultrepasse of all other ladies/ aught I to leave h●r for her refuse/ ye said the grant ●f ye do wisely/ by my law said the king that shall newly befall me for to die in the pain as her true servant/ but that I hope to come to thabove of mine enterprise how that it be/ sire sai●● Corfus I report me unto your symplesse· But and ye will believe me ye shall beguy●● her well· You shall leave her for such as she is said the Geant/ and never whiles ye live love new woman but for one night ye may evy day have anew/ there is none so great pleasure as for to change oft. Ha' a Corfus said thenne the king/ a true lover useth never such terms as ye speak of. and when a prince may come to the love of a lady. fair. true. discrete & a of good house. is not that ynouh for him/ if he that cometh to such felicity and goth to change/ certes he is worthy of reproach sire said the Geant Corfus. ne know ye no more thenne y● say and show/ Certes there is well another point/ and what is that said the king/ I shall say you said the Geant▪ Take ye the fairest lady that liveth and be as amorous over her as every can or may. Anon as ye have enjoyed her as little as it may be/ ye shallbe weary and full of her. she shall seem to you fowl/ and yet more I shall say you that soon ye shall wish her burnt. And if ye be a● other men be ye shall leave her and take an other if it be in your pu●ssaū●e  
HA' a Corfus said thenne the king/ if I should believe your council/ I should newly do well/ & as to the Regard of me I ween that ye say to me th●se thing. for to make me return into my country to th'end that ye go not to the field against them that yesterday shed my blood. by my loyalty said thenne Corfus'/ sire all that I have said proceedeth not for any fere ne dread that I have of all your enemies. but I council you to my true power/ for asmuch as me seemeth it covenable for your hell the and profit And to th'end that your weening be founden untrue/ with out more delay/ I shall send your messenger unto the noble Queen Myrro for to signefye her/ that for to maintain the noble mestier of arms/ I offer myself alloh against. viij· the best knights that been in the cite of oliferne For to fight in champ close as it Appertaineth in such as case  
When the king of sclavony had herd th'answer of the Geant & perceived that he was angry/ he held his peace so long/ that the giant went & armed him in his tent/ And sin put him on the way toward the city in the company of a messenger of the kings/ whom he sent unto the queen Myrro right in such wise as afore is said/ and when the messenger had said that he had in charge/ The noble queen called the more part of her knights & declared to them that the Geant had demanded. Anon as they of Oliferne had herd the contenue of this mandment For as much as jason & plenty of other knights straungiers that were there gave the honour for to speak first to them of the same contre for to say their advis of this work/ They said all on hyhe that this giant Corfus was he that by his force & vaillyaunce had put to death the most part of the noblesse of Oliferne/ & that hem seemed it should be great folly for to furnish the battle that he demanded/ but of this answer were all the knights strangers so abashed that they concluded to be conduited by the knights of Oliferne/ Reseruid the noble & preu jason/ the which as he that might not longer hold his noble courage to speak but said with so hyhe a voice that he was weal understonden of all men in this manere  
Fair lords displease you not/ if the virtue of my courage know not now the feblesse of my body/ I know right well that I am not great ne membered as a giant/ neutheles I will well that it be known that there is no giant that hath greater heart thenne I have/ And to this end that it appear evydently· And the noble lady where my heart & all my weal Resteth· may always here good tidings of me/ I enterprise for to go fight against the Geant Corfus man for man. and I shall never rest unto the time that I have proved myself against him/ Thenne the noble lady the queen that though was present having herd th'enterprise of the noble jason/ was so utterly smitten with sorou. that her seemed that she was smeten with a spear a travers the heart/ so moche she loved jason. nevertheless she held good contenamnce· asmuch as to her was possible. And Incontinent as jason had declared there his courage. She said to him/ jason fair sire beware what ye say/ & see that your youth abuse you not For if ye were you twenty armed and in point for to fight know ye for troth that he should never leave but abide you thawh ye had sworn his death  
CErtes dear lady said jason· know ye that if youngth abuse me/ oultrequydance & presumption deceiveth the Geant/ For to slay a man how great or puissant that he be there behoveth but one stroke. well set/ But whether it be of iron or of steel or of any other thing I doubt not but it shall come to point/ When the noble queen Myrro had understand this that jason said. She wist not what to answer ¶ What shall I make you long tale he died do be said to the messenger of the king of Esclavonye. that he would befighte the Geant Corfus/ and thenne when the noble jason was armed with his arms/ he mounted on horseback and his spear on his thy and so departed from the city/ And adressid him toward the Geant which was right subtle in the faith of Arms & of the war/ he had all his harnoys trussid and his horse sadded and baydl●d  
INcontinent as the Geant perceived that the vaillyaunt prince jason came riding unto him/ he start upon his horse & came toward him/ and by great felony said to him/ what seekest thou/ to whom jason said/ Arte thou Corfus/ ye answered corfus/ I am he truly. Than know thou that thou art he that I seek/ Thou said Corfus/ ye truly I said jason/ and what m●uith the so to do said Corfus/ considerest thou not the strength & force of my body and the furor of my sword/ and how I am cause of all the desolation of Oliferne/ if me good seemeth I shall seize the by the heed & back thy neck/ as the neck of a che●en Thou tellest me marvels said jason for to f●re & abash the people/ but for all that my courage changeth not/ our process endureth to long/ go thy way & feche thy spear/ & than show what thou canst do/ thou hast found aman for to furnish the/ litil speaking & well werking/ The g●ant with these words went for to fe●ch● his spear/ And jason covered him with his shield assewring himself in his saddle And when he had so done & saw that the Geant smote his horse with his sporis & cam against him he ro●de toward him so courageously/ that it seemed more lyk thunder descending from heaven than any other thing/ and so smote the most fiercely that they could or might/ & their stroke● were so peysaunt & heavy/ that the sengles of there saddles ●eake in so much that the noble jason wa● born unto the earth/ and the giant was reused with the sad●● under the crupe of his horse/ And of the peysanteur of the two great strokes·s the reins of his horse failed & his two legs behind in such wise as he tumblid the heed under & the feet upward at right great mischief  
MAny knights of sclavony and of Oliferne were greatly abashed when they apperceived that jason had received of the Geant Corfus one so heavy & so great a struck with out death or maim. jason and the Geant so born to the earth & set a foot as said is Relevyd themself anon in their standing and marchid one against that other· Thenne the strong Geant drew his good sword out of his thethes and escried jason saying. Vaissale or fellow thou hast done to me now the most greatest dishonour that ever happened or came to me· And therefore keep thyself from my faytes the best wise thou mayst/ For if the arm with the good sword fail me not at this tyme. I shall confound the in short time/ And after I shall drink thy blood and eat thine heart in despite of the dueyl and sorou that thou hast done to mine heart/ Ha' a tyrannt felonnous & oultrecuydamnt answered the noble prew jason. what evil wouldest thou do. if it held at no man/ but at the· Ce●tes it happeth oft times that such menaces been said of great fere and dread. And all is done for to save his life But to the Regard of the and of all thy menaces I make no count ner doubt the in no thing. And in that thou sayest/ of drinking my blood/ and eting mine heart I shall kep● the Right well by the aid and the help of the goddes·s for to fall in such Inhumanyte or furor. And I hope where I have angered the in thine heart/ that it shall not be long to. but that thou shalt be angrid in heart in body. and in soul/ Than that Corfus the right Cruel giant had understand the words of jason he left up his heed and chin all charged with here/ like a Beer. and after enhanced his trenchant sword with a great Corage right angry and smote jason & gaf him so terrible and poyssaunt stroke that he ha●e a way more than a great quarter of his shield. And when jason felt him so smeton of the Geant. he left up his sword a height where with he araught his mortel enemy upon the cop of his helm in enployeng all his might/ that the Geant was constrained to incline his heed all low. Whereof many had great marvel  
As ye may understand the two champions began to entretaste each other with their trenchant swords all way the giant after that he had received this peysaunt struck/ he haunced his hand with his sword again & supposed to have smeton jason. But jason which was light & deliver and well advised in his feet/ drew him a part in such wise that the stroke of the Geant fill on the earth so depe· that if he had araught him plainly he had confounded him. Than the prew jason which had so wyded him fro the stroke. stepped to the giant And gave him such a stroke upon the right sholdre that he broke his hauberk and made him a great wounde· Than jason withndrewe his sword all bloody. And when Corfus the strong Geant felt that jason had so hurt him. Certainly he wend he should have gone out of his wit for asmuch as he saw the sword of his adversary was died with his blood. and was much angry/ But jason set litil thereby/ Saving he began a little to smile and lawhe/ And if he was glad so were they of Olyferne that beheld the battle of the two champions. But it was not long after but their lawhynges changed into wepynges·s For the giant as all despaired Run upon jason so eygrely that he witted not how to save him/ on that other side he saw his shield all in pieces. And with that he gaf him a wound upon the lift side that the blood ran down fro the wound largely/ Right long fought the two right vayllyant champions that one against that other in so much that by fyn force they detrenched their sheldes by pieces. But than when their sheldes were broken/ it was a good sight to see jason the noble knight how he delivered again the Geant Corfus so marvelous battle giving to him s●moche travail in pursuing him so busily that the Geant began to wax weary in suffering so many strokes/ and began strongly to sweet/ Than for to refresh himself he must needs depart & leave to fight and smite jason/ & to withndrawe him a part/ When the worthy jason apperceived the manyere of the Geant and that he sought for to rest him/ he had great joy. how well he had as gladly Rested him as his adversaire had. when he considered in himself. that he might rest him and ease hym· and that he was not hurt but in one place/ he approached to the Geant and said to him. Ha'/ a right miserable tyrant Approach the toward me and let us perform & make an end of this battle now begun. I perceive now right well that a bed for to rest the on/ should be to the more plaisir thenne should a battle or a stour to be furnisshid. but I advertise the that it behoveth us to come to th'end of our enterprise/ And that there is no Remedy/ And know that my courage hath brought and conduited my body unto this point/ But from hens forth my body shall conduit it by the virtue of love. by which me thinketh that I feel my puissance redouble when that I remember her/ which above all other aught to be best beloved of me. As she that is verily without any exception  
INcontinent that Corfus the crymynell G●ant had understand of the no●le damoiseau jason that he was so am●rous he began to say to him by great mali●e. Certes right gentle. knight/ I perc●yue right well that your heart is prisoner in the mercy of some lady. I Require you in the name of her. a●d by the faith that ye own to her/ that ye come and rest you beside me a little. And we shall devise us together of our adventures/ Ha' a right Recreant and weary rybauld answered thenne the noble damois●au jason. Thou sek●st nothing more but for to rest the. And if I accord to the thy request/ it is to my prejudice for thou mayst no more. Notwithstanding in the name of my right high mistress I am content to do as thou hast required But beware that thou rest not long/ With these words the Geant Corfus and the noble jason sat down upon the grass/ And after they began to devise/ and the Geant Corfus said to him/ Right gentle knight as I understand ye been amorous/ it may well be said jason/ of whom is it said the Geant/ of a lady said jason/ what is she said the Geant/ The most fair of all fair answered jason You said the giant as to your semblant. the world iugeth her so answered jason. Ha. a sir knight said the Geant/ ye be a great sole/ for peradventure ye saw never your lady And ye say & name her for the most fair of all other And yet that worse is. ye hold her for youris/ and it is possible that she is longing to more that an hundred How many been there of them that been not double. I loved not long sin a Lady right fair to mine advise· But she is fowl right terribly/ Men praise and allow much the fair Myrro. But I trow who beheld her well round abeute· there should be founden somewhat of Reprehension H●. a right disloyal traitor answered than jason/ how darest thou by thy great outrage to th●nke evil upon the flower of all ladies. which had so moche/ of bounty of beauty/ of wit/ And which is garnished of so many hyhe and noble virtues/ and is a verray mirror unto all other. wherefore by the fayth that I own unto love ere over I eat or drink thou shalt abye it/ Stand up lightly on thy feet and keep the from me if thou think good  
THe noble and gentle knight jason aroose with these words all inflamed of Ire and maltalent/ And took forwith his sword that lay on the grass all blody· The Geant roose also. but it was not lightly/ For his legs were Royde like a voyager that had all the day to fore/ have voiaged or gone a journey. and than jason came & smote him upon his lift arm and so employed all his puissance that he departed the arm fro the body in such wise that he fill down to the earth. Than the Geant by right asper distress made a marvelous & right horrible crye· After this as one full of a terrible courage haunced his sword swearing by all his gods that he would avenge him. but he wist not how he might sew jason for so moche as he was light & deliver and able well knowing the tower of his strookes in such wise as he alway defended him vaillianntly and distourned the struck of his sword That his enemy sought all way and could never attain to reach him. And in this wise the battle dured long in so much that the son began to devale in to the weste· But the noble prew jason among many strokes enuertued himself by such valiance in smiting upon the Geant Corfus with his trenchant sword that he araught him on the highest of his helm three strokes one after an other in one place that at the third stroke he enfondrid & to frusshid his helm and the coyffe into the heed/ in such wise/ that of the great anguisshe that the giant suffered. that he fill down a swoune upon the sand seeing all they of Oliferne And of that other part the Esclavons which were sorrowful & abashed  
INcontinent as the worthy jason had slain and smitten down the Geant to the earth as said is. he dishelmed him/ but he fond that he was dede· wherefore he left him there lying/ And in sign of victory he seasid his sword. And after went unto his horse/ whom he fond pasturing·· But he had no leisure to saddle him because of many Esclavons that he saw move for to come and ren●e upon him. Thenne he seasid his horse by the bridal and without saddle start upon him· And for all doubts he withdrew in to the city as soon as was possible for him whereof the Esklavons had right great despite. And than when they apperceived that they gate naught in pourfuing of jason for they were all a foot/ they withdrew 'em to Corfus whom they found dead. for whom they were greatly discomforted in so much that hem seemed that all her trust and hoop was lost and gone. And among all other when the king knew the misadventure of his Geant/ he was so sorrowful that of all the even after he spack not one word/ For he had great aff●aunce in his strength/ in his great hardiness. and in his enterprise  
great & meruayllo●s was the sorrow that the ●yng of Esklavonye and his men demeaned for the death of the strong Geant Corfus. And on the contrary the Queen Myrro and all they of the city of Oliferne demeaned great joy and made right joyous chiere for the noble victory of jason. Than the Queen Myrro accompanied of a great number of ladies and of damoysell●s of knights and squires came to the gate against jason esprised with such gladness and consolation that it can not be spoken/ And anon as jason espied her/ he sprang down of his horse and made to her the Reverence/ and after presented to her the sword of the Geant/ And said Madam lo here is the sword that your knights have so much doubted here to fore/ behold it well/ & do with all your pleasure/ Than the noble lady answered to jason/ right excellent knight/ thanked be the gods that by your h●he enterprise and vaillyaunce have this day delivered the city and all the people of Oliferne of a marvelous dread and fere/ And sin that the crymynell Geant Corfus is deed/ Alle the remnant as who saith is as good as vaynquisshid/ and therefore come ye unto our palais. & we shall do visit your wounds by our Surgyens'/ which shall ordain right well and diligently for your health  
THenne was the noble jason brought unto the palace with great loenge and preysinge of the ladies & damoiselles of the knights and of the people of the cite of Oliferne/ The widows bewailled greatly because he was not erst comen for the loss of her husbands/ they that were mari●d rejoiced and were glad of his coming. They that were discomforted and desolate recoured their courage all new/ For in the valiance and in the high virtues of jason rested all their hope. In his strength they took affiance/ In his wit they trusted/ In his vaillyaunce they were Reconforted. And in his good fortune consolate. Certes it seemed to them thenne/ that they were delivered from the pains of hell and brought into paradys' ¶ What shall I more say the fair Myrro thought and dreamed often times of jason/ as of the knight that she loved most of the world. The prew jason was three days long in the palace without any arms bearing/ And during these three days the fair Myrro went oft times v●to him/ hoping that jason should have required her of love/ which he had gladly done. but as cremetous and doubting the recountres of Refuse. durst in no manner touch that matter ne make any semblant to her ne to none other  
ON the fourth day than when the nobles of Oliferne knew that jason was hole of his hurts/ and might well bear Armes/ they assembled and came unto the Queen Myrro and said to her· Madam ye have well cause for to reioye yourself/ if a heart infortunate after grief upon grief may resourdre when fortune will favour and aid/ We and your council have often times behold and seen/ the Right high prowess and discrete conduit of your knight jason. Certes it may weal be said/ that his like was never founden· it seemeth to us/ that fortune hath brought him unto your hands. for to resuscyte and Raise yow· for to take vengeance of the over great evils and meschy●u●s/ that hath been done to you and your men during this war. And for many Raisins we counceylle you. that ye ordain and constitute the said noble jason capitain of this royalme and Chief of your war. For we think so moche noblesse in him. that he shall never have rest in his courage unto the time/ that he have chased away your mortal enemies out of your Royaume/ & brought them to dysconfiture  
HIt is to weet/ whether the noble queen Myrro was right joyous in her heart/ when she herd so highly recommended him that she most loved above all the men of the world. it is no marvel thawh she so were and dehonayrly she accorded the Request that the nobles and her conceyll had made to her. And forthwith she sent for jason/ and in the presence of them that had made the request as afore is said/ she constituted him Capitayne general of all her royalme/ Thenne jason remercyed and thanked the noble Queen Myrro of the honour that she had done to him/ And also the nobles and her council for their good pourchace/ In excusing greatly himself of nonhabilite saying that he was not ꝓpice ne worthy of so high charge and honour to enterprise/ But all they that there were present said. That notwithstanding his excusations. they would have none other Capitayne but him· And that he should be it/ as far as he would not disobey the noble queen Myrro· They showed him so many demonstrances that he enterprised and took upon him the charge/ And that same ou●e the noble Queen Myrro delivered unto the noble damoiseau jason all that was necessary to him and ordained his estate/ And when the noble prew jason felt him in this honour so high set in his estate/ he sent forth with to the king of Esclavonye/ commanding him to depart he and all his ooste from thence. And that anon he should void the royalme of Oliferne. or else on the morn betimes he should dispose him & make him ready to be received by battle  
When the puissant king of Esclavonye understood that jason had so send him his manndement· he had right great meruaille/ how well he answered to the herald that he had not entencion for to dislodge him ne to Raise his siege. and that he would erst have at his commandment the noble Queen Myrro for to do with her his will/ and sent word again unto the noble prew jason. that also dear as he had his life/ he should keep him that he came not in his presence. And if he came in his hands. he should do him die a miserable death  
incontinent as the noble prew jason had understanden this answer. he died to publish in all the quarefours of the Cyte· That all they that were of age to bear arms should be ready on the morn early for to go with him for to enuahye and fight with their enemyes·s And thus passed that day unto the night/ That jason thenne began to think on the great honour and charge that he had receyvid· And thenne when he was withdrawn in to his chamber contynueng in his amorous pensees & thoughtis He began to say by himself in this manner/ Ha' a my dear lady how have ye done to me this great worship/ & given to me more goods thenne appertaineth to mine estate. and how shall it be possible to number the excess of b●unte/ of clearness of beauty with all other virtues that been in you I aught not to marvel if your right excellent beauty draws to your love the courages of strange Princes. for ye be adressid in all bounties/ the most fair creature and the most discrete that God and Nature ever forumed The right most p●rfayt that is ougwher. how should it be thenne but if ye were beloved of all folk/ Certes ye are worthy that the air be replenisshid with callings and of voyses crying after you and requyreng your grace & mercy/ Ha' a ye that be so much excellent and virtuous. That all my thoughts and Imagynations been turned And given to you that are of so much high valour. Not witstanding I shall not abstain me to love your noble person/ For I shall the better prosper and be of the mor● value  
IN such or semblable words the prew jason passed the most part of the night/ and unto morn early The day appeared fair and clear. And anon after in short time after the death of the Geant Corfus/ jason and the syriens adoubed them. And assemblid them of the city to fore the palace of the Queen Myrro. and than when jason saw and knew that his people were set in ordinance/ he went unto the fair Myrro and said to her in this manere. Madame pray ye for your knight/ the which above all thing desireth. that he might do that thing· that might be you right agreeable. and profitable to you and your city/ Certes right excellent and vay●lyaūt knight answered the Queen Myrro/ ye are much praised and highly recommended of my men. And for so much I pray you/ that in this journey ye have good courage for to defend my quarrel which is good and just/ And as to the Regard of myself. I put mine army and my men under the conduit of your preudhommye and your wisdom. praying unto the gods That they will make your fortune to shine clear. and tenhaunse my good quarrel   

¶ how by the high valiance of jason/ the king of sclavony & his ooste were desconfited & himself slain tofore oliferne  
THus as the noble queen spack & admonestid the worthy knight jason & his men to do well & fight vayliantly in defending her just & good quarrel/ jason began to behold her so ardantly that she was ashamed how well that she as wise & discrete held honest manner/ & than the noble jason after the leave and congee taken as well of her as of the ladies and damoisels departed from the palace with great bewailinges·s and mounted on his hers. But there were many of the ladies and damoisels of the court that began to bewep him/ praying unto the gods to give him good adventure/ And they said one unto an other that it should be great damage if to him came any fortune other thenne good/ And that they had never seen none so courtoys ne so gracious. And that he was the veray sourdre and well of noblesse. Anon thenne as the noble prew jason was on horse back he set his men in right fair ordinance. and after set 'em on the way toward the field And the people by all the way that he passed kneeled down tofore him and provoqued the gods unto his aid and help. And thenne when he was comen into the field he assembled all his folk and put 'em in fair ordinance of battle. And thenne when he had required them instantly and amonested them to do well/ he died do march them against their enemies which abode them a foot Rengid and right well ordained/ At the meaning jason died do sown trompettis/ tabours/ and corns sarasins·s business/ and other instruments so melodiously that it seemed that they had gone unto a wedding or marriage or some great feast/ And thus triumphing of one high will medlid with joy desiring to do well. Rejoicing themself singularly in the valiance and good conduit of the right worthy and noble knight jason they approached in such wise their mortal enemies that they began to couch their good spears and begin the stour. And in that same time as the king of Sklavonye held his men in Array a marvelous great Raven came fleeing over his heed crying right horribly  
INcontinent as the king of Esklavonye heard such a cry he began to tremble for Ire & be in a great agony/ & looked after the Raven & said. O ever hard and trembling hope/ This makes me to en●re in to frenesye For this fowl is messager of death or of right evil adventure/ and this is an evil sign/ for I feel my veins all void of blood/ Ha'/ a my dear lady what shall I now do/ ●ertes I sha● never put me to reprouche for to flee/ I had ●euer die and lete here my life/ than ever should be rehearsed to you of me any dishonest tidings/ Certes all they that were thoo about him were sore abashed/ & not without cause. But nevertheless they reconforted themself the best wise they might. and anon was made than on both sides a marvelous cry with which they marched that one against that other. And began by the Archers & arblasters the battle so asper that the Air was darked and obscurid with the quarrels and arrows and stones that flew so thikk. And made with their Cries a great br●●t right marvelous  
THe vayllyaunt knight jason was in the formest front of his people holding his bow in his h●nd where with he lete flow Arrows upon his Enemies largely. But at last the shot lassed·· And when jason saw that/ he start upon his horse and took his shield and his spear In escry●ng O●●ferne by three times/ And smote his horse with his sporis & thrested into mids of his enemies so swiftly. that prusus ne the siriens could not follow him at the beginning/ Thenne when it came to breaking of speris/ the king of Toscane and the king of bongye knew him anon. wherefore they ran against him. saying that they would avenge the death of the strong Geant corfus And both vailliauntly smote him tronchoning their spears upon his shield/ with out endomagyng his shield/ but it is well to believe that the noble prew jason failed net at this first cours· for he smote the king of bongye by such radeur that he left him out of his arsonns/ and bore him there unto the earth. And so passed forth/ and thenne came against him the king of Poulane. but that was to his evil health/ For jasons spear traversid his shield his hauberk & the body all to breaking his spear. And thenne came on unto the battle Prusus acompanyed of his knights That marvelously maintained themself in ensuring the faytes of jason/ and thus began one and other to show themself with right great effusion of blood on both parties. But moche more of them of Esclavonye/ thenne of them of Oliferne  
INcontinent that the noble jason had broken his spear he gripped in his hand his good sword that was clear and trenchannt/ And pretending that men should speak of his faytes and vaillia●̄ces/ he adressid him on that part where he saw the banyer royal of Esclavonye And supposed to have entered there upon his enemyes·s but they held 'em thikke together. and cast & smote upon jason right asperly/ And jason upon them by such virtue that he effoundred plenty of their heeds/ detrenched their sheldes and slew great number of good knights For the vayllyaunt Prusus and his knights aborded than there in suing jason at every stroke bathed his sword in the blood of his enemies/ And died so great feet of Arms on all sides that they that beheld him and his maintain/ called him death and said/ Certes the death assaileth us having the form & habylement of a knight Flee that will his sureur and his trenchant sword/ For whom he arecheth shall never after see fair day  
IAson thus in this while died Arms at his will For he being on his horse made the sklavon knights march a foot and many other with out number/ one and other said that his body was all of steel/ And that he was noman mortal/ but that he was a thing of that other world/ For it seemed to his adversaries that they had no spear ne sword that might entre in to his body ¶ What shall I say unto you/ he died so well that by vive force with his trenchant sword he broke the wards and Array of the Esklavons & came unto the banere of the king Esklavon where he was accompanied with thirty. knights that rengid them for the guard of the banner But incontinent when they saw the sword of jason ready for to smite on them/ The most asseured of them began to tremble/ Nevertheless they set 'em in array and took their sheldes/ haunced their swords/ and attended freely and fast a foot/ the preu jason and his folk that followed him·s And than jason swyming in a new courage by great pleasure and appetite for to get good loos & good renomee smote in among the knights that withstood him with all their puissance/ And thenne in this manner began again the battle and a marvelous stour· in so much that on all sides men might see knights slay each other· sheldes to break & i'll in pieces/ hauberes dismailled/ helms broken & blood spring out of their wounds and fall upon the earth.  
CErtes the noble prew jason had there much to do and suffer as well for to keep his men in array/ as for to enu●ye and assail his enemyes·s for his shield was smitten in many pieces·s his armours were adommaged in many places. This notwithstanding he enuertued himself defending. would never cease. till he came unto the b●nere of the king of Esclavonye/ and to the knight that bore the ban●re he gaf a struck so dismesurably that he cleft his h●de unto the chin. And fill down deed fro his horse to the ground and the banner also in the presence of the king of Esclavonye/ The which anon as he perceived that stroke withdrew him a part/ and one of the knights went for to advance and relieve the banner. but the noble prew jason made of him as he died of that other/ And after that he brack and all to rent the banner in pieces at the horse feet. This done he began to smite on the right side and on the lift side/ And thenne the Esclavons lost courage & valiance. And on the contrary they of Oliferne s●eyng the good conduit of their captain began to grow better and better in such valoir that as many of their enemies as they met/ they slew with their swords. And so in the end it happened that as the noble jason Run here and there he recontred the king & slew him with one struck that he gaf him with his sword. Than the Esklavons all discon●orted & despaired as they that had no more esperance ne hope to obtain the victory escryed saying Late us flee and save ourself. for all is loste· for the king is deed/ with which cry they turned their back & put 'em to flight and dysaroye. how well that they were yet more than .v. M. And than the vaillyaunt captain jason and all his battle poursiewed them chasing and slaying them out of the Royame's of Oliferne. This don the Noble jason and his company Returned unto the place where the Esklavons had hold their siege/ and there they found richesses plenty. & than when they had departed their gain & butin as it appertaineth unto such a ●●as to every man his part after his condition. The right valiant jason commanded to truss the tents and pavileuns of his enemies And than he and his company Returned in to the cite as Vainqueurs with moche great glory and Triumph  
THe fair Myrro cam than to meet with jason garnished with a gracious maintain. And made to him the greatest honour and reverence that was to her possible. leding him unto her palace/ where he entered with great pain. for the people was assemblid there ●n all parts about him in a marvelous number for to see him And cried all with an high voice saying. Now is returned again victorious our defender. our sword/ our health and all our esperaunce· which hath only in himself more of vaisselage than is in all Esklavonye/ and aught to be honoured & Recomanded above all other. Certes the noble jason was feasted this night & recommended of such and semblable loenges of them of Oliferne/ which made in the streets dances & esbatemens' thanking their gods And alway jason was more and more in the grace of the ladies/ For the best born the most fair the best accomplished & the most special fixed their love in him/ Alle were jealous of him/ But jason never thought on none of them/ but only/ upon the seulle & oultrepassed beauty of the virtuous Myrro/ which alway was in his memory And all they had wonder & marvel of the beauty graciousete wit & perfection of jason. And for to abregge this story the vaillyaunt & oultrepreu jason was in this glory & triumph unto midnight which than withdrew him. And when he was withdrawn in his chamber ●●●reentred in to his Reveree of love as he had been to fore accustomed. And set all in oublie and forgetting the poysaunt and dangerous strokes that he had that day received/ in the battle against the Esklavons whereof his body was right sore/ and concluded in himself that on the morn he would declare his courage unto the lady. But when the day was come and when he came to fore her. he felt himself so sore surprised with love that he wist not what to say/ And thus he drof forth long and many a day that he for all his hardiness of Arms/ his sweet speech ne his strength could not avail in giving him hardiesse/ for to discover his courage unto his lady. wherefore on a night he being in his bed began to blame himself. and said softly to himself in this manere  
WHat may prouffiten the continual bewailinges that I make for my lady/ I am not a feared when I find me in a troublous battle of an hundred thousand men/ but when I suppose to speak to my lady/ I tremble for fear & dread & wot not what to say. for tofore her I am as all ravished/ in like wise as a power and shamefast man that suffereth to die for hunger rather thenne for shame he dar beg his breed/ O what vergoigne precedeth of such shamefastness/ I speak to myself alone & I answer/ Oft times I am advised that to morn I shall do marvels & so I conclude right well/ but when it cometh for to be done I have no memory ne remembrance of all my conclusions/ Am I not thenne well simple/ when unto the most fair. the most sage. the most discrete & the most virtuous of all other. I have no hardiness for to say my desire & will/ how well my heart judgeth that I am somewhat in her grace/ but now cometh upon me an other judgement/ & me seemeth that she well new accord to my requests/ O right noble & nonparaille Mirro. she is without peer/ as the rose among thorns. Alas & what shall I do without you/ I have made a present to you of my heart & my will/ if I understood that ye were born in a ꝯstellation enpesshing you of thinfluence of love/ & that love had no power tesprove upon you his virtues I would not employ my time for to think on you· but when me seemeth that so great habondance of thexcesse of beauty naturel as youris is· it may not be but that it is entremedlid of love of pite & of mercy/ it must needs be that your humble friend be ravished in the constellation of your glorious value. desiring your good grace wishing your alliance. & requiring the gods and fortune that of you & me they make one house & one head where we might enbrase the sovereign playsirs of this w●●lde & plainly find amorous felicity  
THe prew jason with these words fill a sleep/ and after he awoke so alumyned with the fire of love that it was to him inpossible to take his rest/ but to turn and wallow & travail in his bed/ And there as love thus assailed him agayn· he determined utterly that he would adventure him to speak to his lady. what that ever happen thereof. And so he died/ for the same day he came unto her and said in this wise. Madam I have served you as well as to me is possible for two causes/ Principally that one for thacquite of chivalry/ And that other not for to disserue the richesses that ye have under the power of fortune/ But allonly that singular thing that nature hath made you lady of and upon which fortune hath puissance/ Madame ye have done to me plenty of curtoysies/ And offered great yefts of monoye. whereof I thank you/ how well I hold them but of litil extime/ for covetise of avarice have not alumed me of their fire/ I demand not the great treasures that been in the abysms of the see· ner them that been enclosed in the montaignes'/ my desir resteth in two singular things/ that one is for to conquer name in arms/ which aught to be th'appetite of the vocation of all noble hearts That other is to obey unto the comaundements & plaisaunces of love that bindeth/ & obligeth me to be youris/ for to think on you/ to attend & abide your benevolence to do thing that may please your eyen & your heart  
Alas my dear lady all good & honour cometh of you/ and if ye be all my deport and fortune. And the gods have suffrid me to have do thing dign of amorous merit in your favour. put not ye your heart in discongnysaunce/ by the which your noble royalme is put in pres/ receive higher to your man true friend & l●uar your knight/ and the right humble & obeissant heart/ of whom the body secheth with all your plaisirs to obey him that hath made all his tr●sour of your beauty/ fro the our that the good fortune brought me hither unto your presence/ I was & have been in all points ready to live & die for you in your service/ in which I took arestance. I submised pres●ly my neck to bear the farthel of your war/ ye know how I have born it/ Ha' a my dear lady have mercy on me/ I supply you humbly for asmuch as never true lovar required his lady with more desire & affection in all honour & curtoisye  
THe prew jason cess thenne his request in beholding the fair Myrro right amorously. the which 〈◊〉 him with a glad will. but this notwithstanding she made no manner semblant/ but for asmuch as to prove it jason was asmuch affected in love as in arms. she answered to him as it followeth saying· Certes fair sire jason I know that ye be he that have discharged my royalme of them that eat & destroyed the substance. & which would by force have occupied & wasted it. And so I will not say but that ye be right dign of great merit. And that your thank and reward aught to be yoleden unto you. But unto the regard for to require me of love. me seemeth ye have moche to far enterprised/ ye know well ye are none other but a knight/ what might say the kings and high Princes of whom I have let made refuse/ If I gafe me to you. how well mine entencion is not in no wise to blame you But unto th'end that ye loose not your time/ I avise to seche oughwher else your party. And than do ye wisely And I require you to be content her with/ for I know no better remedy for your appaysement  
ALas my dear lady answered jason/ Remembre you that my heart is such that can chief by no way none other lady in love but you. Certes that shall not be unto the time that the fishes flee in the air. And that the birds swim in the water. My friend said the lady unto the Regard for tendende to take a thing difficile. is no great prudence. ye be meure in your young age as touching Arms/ Butler beware that ye put you not in so parfounde an error that ye can not easily come out/ Certes I love you more than ye ween. I am ready for to yield you your merit for the great goodness that ye have done to the city of oliferne/ I pray you that ye require me no more from hens forth. And late this suffice you. Ha'/ a madame answered jason then. how may I have suffisance when I may not find grace to fore your noble visage. of which right indigent and not satisfied I remain. ye deign not to condescend to my prayers. it is now your plaisi● that I fall in despair/ but sin it goth so & that ye will have no compassion of a true knight that hath been youris. and the deffendour & the hand that hath obtained the peace for your royame/ & the proper arm that hath taken vengeance of your ancient forfaiteurs & enemies/ all despaired I depart praying unto the gods that will enlumine you with pite & mercy as they know that is needful for you· & unto all our gods I command you   

How that jason after that he had required the queen mirro of love departed all discomforted from oliferne/ & how she went after him  
With this conclusion the prew jason all in a trance & half rebuqued went unto the ladies & damoisels And the fair Myrro & one woman which was secret with her departed fro thence/ but the queen entered alone into her chamber/ thinking moche on jason/ which at that time comen among the ladies as said is with an heart sorrowful & environed with displaisir/ thanked them greatly of the great curtoisie that he had fonden in them/ & in this point took leave recommanding himself in their good grace. After departed thence unto his stable & commanded to saddle his horse And after that he sent for his arms & adouled him/ & forthwith without any more speech how well it was nigh night. he road forth out of the cite. & was so angry & desplaisaunt that he witted new whither to become/ & when the ladies saw that jason departed from the cite so alone & dysconforted thinking on the virtues where in he was endowed they complained him much/ & said one to an other that he had not his heart in ease/ Many of them bewailed him in such wise that the great teres fill down from their eyen/ and among them there was one that knew somewhat of the secrets of the queen/ & she having seen jason taking his horse all armed & depart out fro the cite came unto Myrro all bewept as she was and said to her in this manere  
Madam what aileth your knight or sudden chance may come to him to depart out of your cite armed and alone at this our have ye sent him into any place it seemeth that he hath his heart oppressed with asper dueil and sorowe· Certes bele answered the Queen/ I wot not what him aileth. but I trow right well that he is not all at his ease. for in recompensing of the good services that he hath done to me in this war/ he hath desired & required me of love. and for asmuch as I have not accorded to him his request/ he is departed from me all angry/ & more know not I Madam than said the damoisel. gave ye to him no manner hope ne esperance at his departing. certes I gave to him none said the lady· And how said the damoiselle ● ye have said to me more than a·M· times to fore this time that he was the only desire of your heart/ I confess that to you said the queen/ for yet my love is set on him marvelously/ & bear alway in my sovenance his great beauty & his we'll doings/ Ha'/ a madame answered than the Damoiselle Why have ye than answered him so coldly & refusingly/ certes said the lady/ I wot never why/ but that I was so abashed & so chafed in my blood/ when I understood that he required me of love that I witted not to answer. & also by mine advise mine honour requireth that at this first request/ I should hold me strange & not tabondone myself For they that at the first request of their lovers agreed to them/ ought to be ashamed· For as much as the more part of men have no verity ne loyalty as to the Regard of love. And also there be many that can none otherwise do but serve ladies & gentilwomon with lies & deceits My mother told me and bade me keep this lesson when sh● sent me first to school/ if I have well retained her doctrine me thinketh I have non done moche amys· for the thing that is gotten by great travail & long requests is much more worth & better kept· thenne that is gotten lightly. Certes that lady that of her love is required/ can do no better thenne to hold her strange & be moche required  
Madam answered the Damoiselle I accord moche to that ye say to me/ but their is in all thing manner/ how well that there be many men that pray & require ladies of their love asmuch as they may/ making leasings and false oaths that can not be counted. but certes madame this noble and valiant knight jason is not in mine advice no thing like as to the count of other/ & after that I understand by your words ye have sent him from you all hountouse & shamed/ in so much as I dame that he is gone in such wise as he came hither/ For at his departing he came & took leave of the ladies. wherefore I am in doubt that ye shall never see him more. And is he gone as ye say said thenne the lady. ye certes said the damoisell/ he is certainly gone By what place & by which gate. That wot I not said the damoisell/ but I trow better that he is returned into his country thenne to any other place  
When the noble Queen Myrro understood this that said is/ and that she had a little remembered herself of the departing of her dear love & friend. she fill down to the earth as all through smitten & tronchoned with amorous sorrow & dueil/ she began thenne to wring her hands & to smite with her feet saying not passing lowde· Alas. Ala● Fortune is to me hard Alas & what have I done myself evil avisid when I was required of love of the most renowned knight of all the world. of the most vaillyaunt in arms. of the fairest that lyueth̄. And that I have not humelyed myself with his right great humility/ I have made refuse of my right great weal and of my greatest ewer and hap. Certes I could not keep in mine house the good fortune that the gods of their secret treasure of their grace had sent to me and brought and planted in my hands By my little advise & intendment I have chased out of Oliferne him that hath rescued and brought it again fro mortal encumbrance by the high valiance of his person & the travail of his body with the precious pries of his blood And thenne what have I do. Ha' a my heart what hast thou consented. my month what hast thou voided. my tongue what hast thou preferred·· And mine intendment where were thou/ where was thy force or thy puissance/ or thy will/ that desiring the love & thalyance of him that was abandoned to the which hadst thy month closed for shame· And hast suffered the corporal and bodily mounth to deny that thing. that thou approvedest to seche above all other thing O right power shamefastness/ ye hountouse shamefastnes·s in what ploye or in what press am I now by thy cause. Certes I am ashamed that I have refused thalyance of my friend and of my domycille. But certes I shall amend it to my power/ I shall go after him so far till I shall find him/ And I shall have no shame to put me in his mercy  
When the young damoisell aꝑceyved the great displaisi● where in her· mistress was/ she shit the chamber door to th'end that no person should come upon them/ and begun there to weep till night. and that a lady cam knocking at the door & said that the supper was all ready/ than the queen died do answer her by the damoyselle· that she wlde not souppe/ for so moche as she felt her not well disposed/ and also commanded that no person should come to her that night Which answer so made/ the Queen & the damoisel began to make new bewailinges & tears and after began to bewail jason. and among all other things the Queen said these words. yet may their worse adventure grieve me more/ for after an over moche dangerous inconvenience she sendeth to me the death/ Ha' a late me sorrow/ but what shall I mow do. I wot never what to think. & what aught I to do by your faith. seem ye good that I aught to go after him· or that I send any faithful man after him of my knowleche· Certes I think if I should send a messenger after him that he would not come again/ And if I went myself after him/ that should be to me the greatest dishonour of the world. Madam answered than the damoiselle ye aught to know your caas·s and of two ways to take the best/ If ye have intention that jason be your husband/ it behoveth no longer to sojourn. for ye must go or send unto him with all diligence· and for to say to you mine opinion. if it were so happened to me as it is to you I would send none other messenger. but myself/ And know ye verily that ye may have no dishonour for to go after him understanden & well considered the good & agreeable services that he hath done to you & to your royame· for under the colour for to guerredone & reward him/ ye may take occasion to come into words and to give him some matter yet for to serve you· Certes fair daughter said the queen/ I wot not what to think what me is best to do/ for if I go after him and find him. what shall I say/ My dear lady answered the damoiselle. as I have right now said ye shall present to him the guerredon of the great honour and good service that he hath done to you in your necessity. this thinketh to me litil substance for to entre into speech of my principal cause said the queen/ Certes madame answered thenne the damoiselle. when ye shall come and be to fore the knight/ love shall teach you to speak/ if ye will record the lessons and epistles of love by the space of ten year. it shall but litil prouffite to your advancement/ for there lacketh nothing but th'inspiration of love medlid with hardiness and of human intendment. speaking with the month which is instrument of the discharging and discovering of hearts/ Sin that it is so said thenne the fair myrro queen of Oliferne· All thing considered I had moche liefer to cover a little blame. thenne that I should in all points with out ever to recover again all the hole desire and pleasure of my heart. and the consolation of mine eyen/ thenne I shall say to you mine advise/ that it is need and necessity so to do. and that ye must now go unto my women and say to them. that to morn betimes I shall go in pilgrimage accompanied of you only/ And that they take heed and see well to all things. And ye and I tofore the son rising shall enterprise in the most secret wise that shall be possible our inquest upon the most noble and vailliaunt knight/ the most fair/ & the most addressed that is living· That is jason mine only friend. and we shall do so much that he shall be founden. This advise seemed right good unto the Damoiselle/ the which with all diligence obeyed to the commandment of her mistress/ and after these things about midnight. they made ready her things and on the morn early tofore day. both they took each a good palfroye in habit unknown and road forth on their way. and such was their adventure that they came for to bait in the logging where her friend jason had logged that night. And than she began to demand of the host of thaffaire and countenance of the knight and what cheer he had made the even to fore· and at his departing what way he had taken & hold. And the host answered to the lady. that as to the regard of his cheer and thaffaire of the knight· he had neither eaten ne drunken in all the evening/ And as to the way that he had holden· he enseigned to the lady. which was than moche pensif for jason. that had not that evening taken no Refection of meet ne of drink  
THe noble Queen Myrro & her damoisel tarried than not long at that baiting/ for they took their horses and rood as hastily as to hem was possible & so rood ·iij days long after jason/ hearing in every logise where they descended tidings of him/ but they could not outaken ne find him/ And on the fourth day fuing they came unto a port of the see/ where was showed unto them a ship where in were merchants of athens/ & was told to them that jason was therein & that he would go to athens & furthermore if they would go there was yet a ship of other marchanns that was on the point to depart/ but thenne the fair Myrro was in such a point of displaisir when she knew that jason was departed that she made great sorowe· This notwithstanding she was anon conseylled what she would do/ & concluded sin that she had so much travailed that she would ꝓue dame fortune. & went after jason· with this conclusion all full of asper sighings she went▪ to the ship that should disancre for to go to Athenes & agreed with the maroner which was brought thither by force of tempest & wind and anon they disancred & departed/ & when they saw that it was calm & blue not·s they made ready their oores & rowed by the force of their arms/ for at that time men used not so many sailles as they do now. notwithstanding they exploited in such manner that they came into the high see· where they rowed long tyme· In which time the queen mirro became seek unto the death. & finably when they had been certain space of tyme. a marvelous orage & great wind cast 'em here & there/ in such wise/ that fortune brought 'em to the port of trace· maugre all the mariners/ for they were all adutised that it was perilous to arrive there because of the king of that country which was named Dyomedes  
THe king Dyomedes thenne was a tyrannt right inhuman. And had of long time been accustomed to rob all them that arrived in his royalme were hit by see or by land. he was at that time sojourning in his cite named Bysance. The which was afterward called Constantinople/ & incontinent that this ship was arrived at the port of Bysance Dyomedes died hastily do arm him & brought with him xxx of his tyrants/ and in this manner came unto the port where were arrived the/ ij/ ships of athens. & assoon as he might be herd of the mariners he escried them & said/ vylayns meschants & unhappy come up on high and come out of my ships/ for ye must log in my prisons. or ye shall have as many strokes as ye may suffer  
When the vaillyaunt knight jason ●●d understand the great felony of the tyrant and that he saw that all the mariners tremblid for dread in such wyse· that they durst not sown a word. he enhanced his heed and answ●rde to Dyomedes saying· glutton miserable what demandest thou/ be we not infortunate ynowh as thou seemest let us in peace. Dyomedes he ring this answer was as angry as he might be. wherefore he commanded his complices that incontinent they should avenge him of the Injury that jason had said to him in his presence/ than the complices which were right asper & more ready to do evil than otherwise/ escryed jason to the death & descended from thence that they were till they came to his ship upon the sand/ and when the prew jason saw the manner of these tyrants/ he recomforted himself the best wise he might and his mariners which were so dysconforted/ that they had no power to put 'em to defence. he took his shield and held fast his good sword/ and bad them to take their bastons and armours. & that they should defend 'em vaylliauntly and of good corage· But in this saying the gluttons approached jason & smote upon him with their swords right fiercely/ certes they enuayhed him on all sides by great felony But they could not well areche him for as much as there was between 'em about a vij foot of water/ wherefore some of them went for to fe●che a bridge of tree right strong & propice and wherein were nails of iron. on both sides/ & they died so much as they fastened this bridge unto the ship of jason/ And thenne they that were well asseurid/ three of the most vailliaunt of them mounted thereupon & might go thereon a front/ But when they supposed to have smitten upon the noble prew jason. As vailliaunt and Right asseured knight as he was. he enuertued himself upon them by such conduit that with three strokes of his good sword that he gaf to them he made all three to tumble into the see/ where they drank so moche that they never arose but left there their life  
When the mariners of the ship saw that their lord jason defended him so valiantly. with the trenching of his good sword they took courage. for they seasid their staves and armours. And enterprised the battle against their enemies for to support and help a litil jason/ how well they held 'em gladly be hind as they that fled the strokes to their power·s Certes the noble jason kept right valiantly the passage of the bridge against the tyrants and furnished hem well upon th'entry of the planke· upon which they went up ●ne after an other of whom many were hurt and slayn· There was the tyrannt Dyomedes the which entremedlid him to his power/ to conduit his complices and there brayed as a lion for so much as his men might not mate ne beat down the valiance of the knight jason The which alone resisted their fierste and puissance Notwithnstanding for all his great pride he ne deigned not to make any assault but by the bridge ¶ What shall I say you. Certes the battle dured right long between jason & the Traciens/ in so much that the Queen Myr●o heard tidings thereof/ And was told to her that there was a kmght in the ship of their company that made so many high vayllyaunces upon the tyrants of Trace. that there was never none seen like to him in prowess  
When the Queen Myrro understood these tidings she thought incontinent that it was jason that fought so vaillyauntly for to defend the two ships. she had gladly advanced herself for to have seen his great vasselage/ but she was so right feeble that in no wise she might lift up her heed/ and in like wise was her damoyselle/ And so long dured the terrible battle the ill party of the traciens/ & of jason/ that the Traciens found no more a live but twelve of xxx that were comen thither/ And of these/ xii seeing the death of their fellows/ there was none so hardy that durst present him tofore jason ne couple with him. Than the king Diomedes seeing this that said is·s was so angry that he might no more be/ Than weening to do vaillyaunce & for to give courage to his complices he went up on the plank & presented himself so far that jason salved him/ & welcometh him with such a stroke of his sword upon the highest of his helm/ that he smote him down reversed upon the bridge and sin lift up his arm with the sword/ but the paillards tyrants as weary and recreant fled all trembling and were sore abashed when they saw their king Dyomedes so suddenly smeton down/ than some of his complices drew him by the legs down from the bridge in so much that they took from him his horn that was about his neck/ And blue and swooned it loud for to make assemble there the Cythezeins of the cite/ the which h●ring the sound of the horn assembled them for to come to the rescousse of their lord/ but the tempest of the see cessed then and the mariners casted the bridge into the water And than when they were disan●●ed they departed with their ships out fro the p●rte with all diligence. And began right joyously to row thanking their gods and the high vailliaunces of the no●le knight jasen that they were so escaped of the dangerous parillies of the fellow tyrant. the which on that other side had so great despite & sorrow/ that he seemed better a man out of his wit than otherwise/ for he had not founden to fore the knights that had so moche prowess & valiance as he had founden tho in jason  
THe two shippis than departed from Trace as said is and were four days long upon the see/ And on the fifth day they arrived at Athenes where jason went a lande· and so died the fair Myrro/ the which began to wax hole of her malady. At which descent a land mirro espied where jason took his logging. and she followed accompanied of her damoiselle unto the time that she saw the logging. which was the house of an notable burgeys And than was she in great thoughts & variations for to knowe· whether she would log in the same logging or not Thus in varying in this doubt she approached the l●ggyse And sin returned again and after came again/ and finably. when she saw that jason was n●t in the way she went in/ & required of the bourgoys that for her money she might have a chamber in that house/ Thenne the bourgois seeing that the lady was moche weal adressid of gracious manner of speaking & otherwise. he logged her & her damoisel to her plaisir/ And died do put the two palfreys in a stable by Ias●●●●ors which anon began to neyhe assoon as he smellid them/ for he knew them for asmuch as they had been long to guider in oliferne/ And so made they great cheer each to other. whereof the bourgoys had great marvel But thought nothing but well and gave hem hay and oats/ And after came to serve jason· And found that his chamber was full of marchanns and mariners that were comen with him on the see/ which pnsented him wine and mete· & gave him great yefts of rich jewels & other strange things  
IN this chamber was with jason a man of six score year honest of his person and always strong and habyle. the which seeing this presentation made to jason came unto the host and demanded him. who was this young knight to whom men died so moche honour/ but the bourgoys could not answer. in so much the bourgoys and ancient man asked one of the mariners of this matter. And the mariner said/ that he was/ the best. the most virtuous and the most vailliaunt knight of the world/ And that they gaf to him these presents/ for as much as by his high prowess he had preserved them from the tyranny and danger of the king Dyomedes and of his complices. And so moche said the maroner of jason That they jugged him with his maintain & semblance to be a moche noble knight and vailliaunt. Among these devices the merchants & mariners took their leave of prew jason & offered them to his commandment & after returned unto their houses. & anon after that they were gone. the bourgeys died do cover the table which was covered of the yefts. and jason would that the knight should sit first because of his age & ancient/ for in that time men held the ancient & aaged men in moche great reverence & honour  
But in this present time it goth all otherwise. the young men presume to go & sit above old & ancient men·s & mocque & scorn them that been come to great age Saying/ that they be feeble of their members of their intendment and of nature· And there be many children. that done their father to understand that they be fools. willing to have in governance the pour old men·s not pour but rich. For it is great richesse to a man when that honourably may amass and bring his days unto the degree of old aage· And yet been their children that don worse. for they desire and wish their faders and moders dead. and serve 'em with things contrary to their health & lyf· the which is the greatest treasure that a man may have as to worldly goodes·s Ha' a how many been there of them in these days I see all most non other. for the young people may not here the doctrine of the old men. and ween that they been so wyse· that men need not to show them any wisdom/ & also they been unkind and full of ingratitude/ in so much that if they knew any thing wherewith they might dishonour them they would do it. & they resemble unto the son of no● which by derision showed the secret members of his father Alas what cursed & blind youth was that  
HOr to come again unto our matter the noble jason set him down at the table by the ancient knight. & after that the host & hostess which often time exhorted jason to make good cheer/ but jason might neither eat ne drinke· for certes he died nothing but think & spack not one word but if he were demanded or araisoned. After supper when the table was voided jason & ancient knight werd laid in one chamber where were two beds/ & when jason was laid. he began to sigh in such wise & of so inward sorrow of his heart that it seemed that the fowl should depart from the body· wherefore ancient knight that was logged in that other bed by. might not sleep/ & thought right well in himself that jason was not at his case/ & when he had long hearkened his sighs & herd that they encresid always more & more. he might no longer tarry but he must speak. and said in this manere· Sir knight I have great marvel of you/ wherefore said jason/ for as much said ancient knight/ that your sighs & bewailinges jug to me that ye are in the bed of death/ how well by all that I see & comprise in you/ it seemeth not by the sight of the eye that ye be seek. for your colour is fresh as roose in may. is it not thenne great marvel for to here you so sigh/ yes certain. Ha' a sir knight answered thenne jason/ if ye judge the disposition of my body after the colour of my face ye be greatly abused. for I have a sickness & malady right secret which shall first slay me. ere my face may be stained or discoloured I am all certain. Sir said ancient knight. ye hold a great rame of despair. it is constraint said jason  
CErtes sir knight answered the old knight. If ye will live what some ever sickness ye have or malady Put you in my hands and cure. and I make me strong for to hele and make you hole. I trow sir knight answered jason that it is not in your cunning and power that to do. ner in all the subtilty of all the men mortal. Than answered the ancient knight. be ye seek of the malady of love whereof no man may remedy but your lady. Ha'/ a sir knight answered jason then. who hath told yow· me thinketh that ye oppress me so sore that I must confess to you my case. And so I declare to you/ that I am so much smeten with the pestilence of love that I may not live ne endure ne eat ne drink ne rest night ne day. In good faith answered ancient knight. ye dar not be afeard of death sin that ye have none other infirmity. For the malady that ꝓcedeth of love is so gracious/ that it putteth noman to death/ Certes the sickness is of great ensoigne and pain But it is a malady whereof men recover. Sir said than jason. If I die not of bodily death/ I shall die of sprituel death. for it is in no wise possible that never in this world I shall have pleasure or solace/ And than shall I not be de●e Alas I must needs. ye truly of the most anguisshyst death that any man may endure. Sire answered ancient knight ye tell me right great marvels. I tell you trouth saith jason/ For I am so infortunate in love and so much unhappy and have in myself so litil of valeur/ that I am ashamed and hountouse to live. And would that I were there/ where I shall be .v. ninety year h●re after with out any respite  
When ancient knight understood that jason 〈◊〉 in so much & bitter despair/ he had pite of him & said to him for a little to recomfort him. Certes gentle knight/ I know well myself & understand of this merchandise whereof ye ween to entremete. and I apꝑceyve all plainly that of your love ye have not enjoyed your first desire & will But I would fain know if any man hath done you wrong of your lady·s or elliss if this malady cometh & precedeth by the rigour of her/ Certes gentle knight answered jason· all my mischief precedeth of the great rigour of my lady & by the valour & simpleness of me/ for I have served that far lady in a moche dangerous war that her mortal enemies made to her not long sin in the most diligent wise that I could o●might/ & after when she was at her above of her adusaires I have required her of her grace that she would be my lady in love/ but she hath not willed to see in me so much virtue ne so much valour that she would accord her to my request And thus I have therefore my life in great hate & see none other remedy but that I fall in despair  
Hair sire answered ancient knight have not ye oft times herd say. that one lost and two recovered. if it be so that a woman hath made of you refuse/ by your faith shall ye therefore be such a fool as for to fall in despair/ Considere ye not that there be ynowh of other/ & if ye have not ynowh of one I shall make you to have a dosayne/ there is no great dearth ne scarcete of women· certes if ye remember you well/ ye shall say that they cra●che out men's eyen/ & therefore all this well considered if your lady set litil by you Do the same to her & seche another without long tarrying  
CErtes sir knight said jason· when I have well marked & take heed of your words/ ye speak after your pleasure. These been things that may better be said than exploited/ Certain said the ancient knight I telle to you the secret & the verray history/ I will well that every man be amorous & love. but that he have two strenges on his bow And that noman put him so farforth in love/ but that he may withdraw him in time & in season/ women one and other properly to speak been malicious in her works. & this precedeth that each of them address other of such conceyll exhort & of favour. Men say/ that the most orguilloust & proudest creature that is/ is the devil/ and next after him is the woman. and next after is the fool that is ouquidaunt/ for pride cometh not but of folly & toomuch we●ng. Some women there be that must have one amorous man to whom they keep 'em truly/ Other there be many that been full of words and lean their eeris to all the world. Other love to have a eye and tokenes·s and they make like signs also far as they may not speak to hem. Other they been that will been more prayid & required for to enjoy them & to have their grace/ than the gods been for to have their fair paradys·s For tabregge & shortly to conclude· Certes gentle knight· they be well happy that have not to do with them in any such rec●ptes. & they be fools that have to do moche with 'em/ for he that may pass from them. may do no better than to withdraw him far from hem in fleeing the places & all the circumstaunces·s Sir answered than jason I suppose and think well that ye could say moche better if ye wolde· first as to the regard for to have/ ij/ cords or strenges on his bow That is to understand two ladies/ certes it is not possible that he that so doth may be constant in his works ne in his thoughts. for no man may well serve two masters. for that one corumpeth that other. Thenne it is so that if a noble man for to advance himself in worship may do no better thenne for to cheese an honourable lady which he may love truly secretly & so parfaytly that he fire and dread to do any thing but that it be honest in all things & of Recomandation/ for all ladies desire nothing but honour and high renomee/ it is their proper vocation & their naturel condiconn· thenne how shall he have desire of honour that is no true lover/ for he that is double is to much untrue & falls/ and if any weal or honour happen to come to him/ it is against Reason. right/ and good equity. And if there be any such Certes they be no worthy to live. seen that the ladies been of so parfonnde excellence/ that the least of all is worthy to have the best knight of all the world. And for that cause say no more/ that I take two cords or strenges on my bow. For certainly I had liefer to receive and pass the destrait of death  
When ancient knight had understand th'answer of jason/ he was much abashed & said to him/ that he would never hold that way ne purpose/ wherefore fair sire said jason. for asmuch said the knight that men should mocque him. for I suppose well to know that if right now ye should these of two things one. that is to weet to receive death or else cheese a new lady/ that ye would more soon the lady thenne the death. And for good cause· Certes there been plenty of amoreusis that sustain and swear. that for to save th'honour of their ladies they would attend & take the death/ But I suppose if they saw the death come they would no more abide him thenne the quail abideth the sparrowhawk/ & for all these raisins above said I counceyle you that ye leave this errors & opinions & recomfort yourself the best wise ye can in your malady. for by mine advise I believe not that your pain be mortal. & I have not herd say that ever any man amorous by malady of love lost his life· but if he went out of his mind  
IAson with these words could no more Replicque for he apperceived that he could not make his matter good ner maintain it against the old knight/ & thus ending their parliament he slept unto the time it was nigh day And thenne jason awoke & began to make new sighs in so much that thaunciennt knight heard it again. how well that he was a sleep & was suddenly awaked/ And thenne when jason knew that he was awaked he salued him & gaf him good morrow & said to him. Sir knight because of your great age ye have seen moche thing in your time/ I demand you by your fayth if ye have knowledge in dreams Wherefore axe ye answered the knight/ For asmuch said jason as I have not cessed this night to dreme· By my loyalty fair sire answered the good old knight. if ye have dreamed any thing that have need of exposition or any interpretation. there is noman is grece that shall better answer thereto thenne myself/ and therefore without any doubt Tell me plainly your dream/ and I shall expone to you the substance. Certes sire knight said jason I had a marvelous dream this night· which in manner of a pass temps I shall declare to you for as much as ye are cunning in the science of th'exposition thereof. which dream or vision was this. Me thought that I saw two swans which were right fair in a meadow/ of whom that one was a male and that other a female. The male came unto the female & made semblant for to have acompanyed with her· the female set naught thereby/ but withdrew her aback. And when the male saw that/ he entered unto a river that was by and passed over & came lie with me here in this bedde· and it was not long after but me thought that the female passed the river in like wise· and came unto the chamber door and made many pietous cries after her nature. that the male might not here· for he was a sleep. And so had I much great pite for the sorrowful cheer that she made in so much that I awoke. And no more I sawe· wherefore I wot never what to thnike  
When the ancient knight had well understand a long the dream of the prew jason he said to him in this manere. Sir knight what will ye say if that noble lady for whom ye suffer so moche sorrow be as moche or more Amorous of you as ye be of her. And by this love she be comen in to this house after you. Ha'/ a sir knight answered jason. I have no charge of that stroke. for my lady is so noble and so endowed of so high beauty that she sets naught by any man in the worlde· Alleway fair sir said than ancient knight/ your dream signifieth by these/ ij/ swans/ of whom would make the battle or th'enterprise that desireth conpanye of the female. that ye have willed to be husband to your lady. the which would not here you And nevertheless when she hath known that ye entered on the see/ she entered after in semblable wise & is comen after you into this proper hous· where by adventure she is in moche great pain for the love of you/ In this fashion may I prenostique and divine this work after the nature of your dream  
IAson with these words began to sigh right ardanntly and said. What is this & ●ro whence cometh to me this fantasy that may more grieve me thenne help/ I know well that it is a great abuse to me for to think & have a renovelement of pain & of sorrow. O what pain is to a true lovar infortunate for to be in continual martyr Ha' a my dear lady why have ye not the eyen so clear for to behold with in my heart and know in what matirdom I am. in what sorrow and in what anguisshe/ Certes madame your eyen basilique have hurt me unto the death/ O what distress/ O what guerdon for good seruice· I find me in the hands of right hard death. but yet f●r to pass the sooner my sorrow. I shall pray the gods that I may be eurews after my great unhappiness. Thenne the sage and ancient knight· Mopsius hearing the noble prew jason thus sorrowfully complain himself and lamenting/ in favour of noblesse was greatly enoyed in courage. and for somoch he said to him in this manner. For god's sake sir knight leave and go out of this fantasy. for to much to muse in Infortune is nothing profitable/ A man with great travail and labour brings his days to an end havig his life traversed in many contrary things/ There is no man so ewrous and happy that hath all way his will Certes the time must be taken as it cometh/ is it hard or soft. The heart of a man should not abash in no thing Me seemeth we have spoke enough of love. I pray you that from hens forth we may entre into an other purpose/ And that ye would tell to me your name and the place of your birth. and the name of your house and dwelling place Veritably sir knight answered jason than/ If there be ●ny man that may redress and give comfort to a desolat●●●●t and discomforted ye be he most propice above all other/ I have founden so much goodness in you/ that if ye will tell me your name with out any fault/ I shall tell you mine also· Fair sir answered ancient knight/ your desire is to me agreeable/ in such wise that I shall recount to you my life & all mine astate· more than to any man that I have seen this/ vi/ score year/ know ye than that my name is mopsius· the god Apollo was my father/ I am king of Si●ce I have conquered the country of Pamphile I have had/ ij/ sones·s And when they were come to man's age/ I have made them possessors of my lands. & sin I am departed in such estate as ye me now see/ I have been in the world uj/ score year/ during which time I have seen & have learned plenty of good & strange works/ praying you & require that ye show to no person mine estate ne conditions by no fashion of the world & when so is that ye speak to me/ that ye name ne call me none other name but mopsius openly ne covertly & for diuce cause/ Mopsius answered than the noble jason sin it so pleaseth you to be named & called· I promise you upon my honour that in somuch as toucheth that ye have said/ it shall be holden secret in mine heart also fast & such manner as ye had closed it in the most hard roche of the world/ & to the regard to say to you how I am named. know ye for certain that I am called jason & am borne of the province of thessaile son of the gentle king Aeson of mirmidone that yet liveth as I suppose· but he is moche auncien· With these words mops●us for to make jason for to forget his melancolies/ he began to demand him of the nature of the royalme of Mirmidone & of the countries about And after demanded him of the birth of his age and of his adventures/ and after this he inquired of him many other things unto the time that they began to Rise & make 'em ready. but what thing that jason said or harkened/ he had always his thought on his lady and sighed oftentimes out of measure  
When the two noble knights were risen and clad in point/ jason went straight into the stable to his horse/ whom he loved well. but incontinent when he had been there a little and that he had parceyvid the two palfroyes of the lady and of the damoiselle/ him seemed that he had seen them tofore tyme. Thenne he called the servant of the stable & demanded of him to whom though two horses belonged/ Thenne the servant answered that they appertained to two damoisels that were logged there with mne Truly friend said jason what damoisels that ever they be The two horses belong to my lady best beloved/ & when the good ancient knight understood jason. he said to him/ jason Remember ye of your dream I take it on my life that your lady is in this house/ or else the damoisels been here for her. the which shall say to you good tidings Without any other question or answer jason departed incontinent from the stable. and went unto the hostess. & when he had boden to her good morrow he said to her/ Fair hostesse· know ye the two damoiselles that been logged herein· Certes sir knight answered the hostess/ I know 'em none otherwise but as me seemeth that they been gentle women & comen of a good house/ Is it possible that I may see 'em said jason. I wot never said thostesse but I first demand them· Fair hostess said than jason I require you that I may see them/ And that ye will go say that here is a knight their servant/ that hath great desire to speak with them  
THe good hostess for to do pleasure unto jason/ went unto the two damoiselles and said to them▪ My fair mistresses I come to you in the name and at the request of a gentle knight he saying your servant/ the which requires you/ that of your grace it would please you that he might speak with you. And advise you what it shall please you that I answer to him· But incontinent that the Queen Myrro had herd her hostess speak of the request of the knight· Certes the colour began to change marvelously and her thought/ that all her body was esprised wyth fyre· But this notwithstanding she held her countenance the best wise she might. And how well that she doubted of the coming of the pre● jason. and that she was than in a tr●unce what she should say to her. yet she answered and said. Fair dame. who is that knight that hath sen●e you hither/ Certes said the hostess I saw 〈◊〉 ne●er tofore that I wot of▪ But to my seeming he is the most gentle and the most well made of body and also most curtois that any man may or can find or speak of. Dame said thenne the fair Myrro/ sin that he is so virtuous & so well accomplished as ye say/ do him to come hither/ With these words the good hostess died do jason come unto the chamber/ And thenne assoon as he came in. he beheld the noble queen which was right shamefast/ and having the heart shit & ravished made unto her the Reverence & salued her/ And the fair Myrro welcomed & salued him again much curtoisly· This don they entered into devices/ And thenne after certain words jason said to the queen in this manner  
CErtes my dear lady I had not known that ye had been in this hostelerye ne had been your two palfroys Which I have this morning founden in the stable by my hors·s and yet when I had seen and known them I had not supposed that ye had been in this house. how well when I understood that the two palfroyes belonged to two damoisels/ weening that here had been two of your damoisels. I am comen for to here tidings of you/ Certes sire knight I doubt not the contrary/ and in like wise I had not supposed ner thought to have founden you now here. & I declare to you that I am departed secretly for to go a pilgrimage where I have promised long sin accompanied only wyth this Damoiselle/ And I avowed so to do in the most strength of my war/ And I have great marvel for to see you now here. For without doubt I had supposed that ye had been this our in Oliferne at your rest  
Madam answered jason I have none hope that ever ye shall see me more in Oliferne. Certes jason fair sire ye been hasty & much swift in your works. I have good will & great desire for to reward and content you of the good & agreeable services. that ye to fore this time have done to me during my war in persecuting and delivering of my mortal enemies. and if ye return not to Oliferne. I may not ner can not do reward and content yow· Ha' a my dear lady an●uerde than jason/ As I said you that other day in your palais/ I have not s●ru●d you in such wise as I have could best do/ for menoye or other m●uable goods. but I have employed myself only for to get your love & your good grace· I have paternal richesses largely. and therefore I say to you so moche. that if so be that ye grant not me your l●ue/ ye may not content me. And know ye certainly that after this day ye shall never see me. for as your true lover and humble servant unguerdonned/ I shall go withdraw me into some des●rte bewailing & weeping that part after you/ And unto my death I will do none otherwise. wherefore I you supply with all my heart/ that pity may entre into your noble correge in such wise that on me your power suppliaunt/ ye have pity and mercy. and else of me ye shall never see good  
When the noble lady had understand that said is She answered to the prew jason in this manere/ Certes sir knight there is no heart of lady so hard/ but by the virtue of your requests must needs be softed & molefied/ ye have served me highly & well in all troth & loyalty In all williaunce & diligence. I confess & knowledge it/ ye require me as I understand that I should be your wife and felaw/ a more greater thing ye may not demand me/ ne that more me toucheth· Nevertheless when I apperceive your great & good valoir·s to th'end that ye have no cause for to fall in despair/ I am content for to accord myself unto your prayers & requests. foreseen always that ye shall go into your country/ And there ye shall assemble your most next parents and frendes·s which ye shall bring into my city that in their presence ye shall wed and spouse me solemnly  
THe noble and vaillyaunt knight jason thanked the fair Myrro of this good answere· And promised to her to do and accomplish truly all that she had desired· that is to weet that he should go into Myrmidone for tassemble h●s friends & alyes. and that he should return into Oliferne for to mary and wed her in their presence But when the damoisel that was comen with the queen for to hold her company/ heard such or semblable promesses made by her mistress/ which was so well comen to the point of her desire. she was remplesshed with consolation & joy/ and forthwith she came between the/ ij/ lovers and said to them/ that she called all the gods to witness & thanked them for this alliance. Certes than said the fair Myrro/ sin that ye have done so moche. I would well that we had leisure and place for to make good cheer together/ but as me seemeth it may not now goodly he done. for in no wise I would not been beknowen· but it behoveth for mine honour & worship/ that jason depart from hens incontinent with out ●●●ger tarrying. to th'end that none speak of us but all we'll And we shall go secretly to the poort for to get us some good mariner/ which shall bring us unto our secret pilgrimage  
IAson the noble prince hearing the fair Myrro so ordain & conclude of their sudden departing began to make simple cheer. for he was sore abashed & sorrowful in such wise to leave his lady whom he saw endowed with so high virtues. Certes he had intention to have told to the queen a part of his sorrow & bewailinges that he had made for her sake/ but she would in no wise here him/ but smile she took her leave in somoch that jason embraced & kissed her once or twice/ finably he departed from thence ꝓmitting her that in short time he should return unto her again. & assoon as he was departed & gone his way the fair Myrro & the damoiselle died do saddle their horses. & road to the port where they took their shipping & went to the see ¶ For tabregge our history without any adventure that aught to be remembered their maroner exploited in such wise with help of the good wind that he had/ that in short time he delivered the queen Myrro & her damoiselle in oliferne/ where they tarried after jason right long & in right great annoy & displaisir as it shallbe said along & declared here after. But now I shall rest to speak of the fair myrro & of her faites for this present tyme. & shall recount of the conduit of jason. which departed fro the presence of his lady as said is & returned with all diligence unto mops●us the good old knight right ioy●us & said to him what was happened of his dream evy thing/ & that he had herd of his lady good tidings/ how well he declared not to him that he had spoken to her in her proper person But he made him to understand that two of her damoiselles had promised to him and sworn that if he would go into Oliferne accompanied of his kinsmen and friends/ that they should do so much anent his lady that she should espouse and wed him & that she should crown him king of her country. And for so moche said jason that I have taken affiance in the promise of these two damoiselles. I shall go into my country for tassemble my friends & kinsmen in the most goodly and hasty wise I shall mowe· and I shall not cease unto the time I shall come to the above of my love· wherein I have good hoop   

¶ How Peleus brother of king Aeson of mirmidone & oncle of jason went unto the temple of Apollo. & how he had answer that the first man that he met with an hose on that one foot & none on that other should empesh him of the royalme of mirmidone which he had supposed to have enjoyed  
THus as jason reherceth these tidings unto the good and ancient knight mopsius/ The son of the king of that city named Theseus came unto them there. which was advertised by the merchants that jason had saved by his vayllyaunce. And delivered from the furor and tyranny of the perverse king Dyomedes/ And from as far as he had espied jason he knew him. For he had seen him tofore at the wedding of Perytheon. And thenne he salued him and made him right great cheer. the prew jason rendered again joyously his saluing unto Theseus. And when they had each other welcomed theseus brought jason and Mopsius for the love of jason ●nto the king his father which was named Egeus. and when this said Egeus saw jason/ he died him much great honour & worship for his high renomee/ And feasted him in diverce maners·s and jason desired nothing safe to return unto his countrey· and thanked him of the worship that he had done to him and of his right good cheer. and sin took leave. of the king/ of Theseus. and of Mopsius/ the which knowing that he was right noble and Right valiyant knight said to him. that they would go with him and hold him company unto his country/ whereof the noble prew jason desired them that they should abide and not go with him/ for he would not go the right way●/ But this was for naught. For they said plainly that they would hold their promise. And jason witted not what to say/ but accorded to them that they should go to guider unto Myrmydone  
IAson thenne Theseus and Mopsius departed from Athenes all three. And died so moche by land and by water without any adventure dign of memory. that they came unto the cite of Myrmidone wher● was yet living the noble king Aeson. Peleus came thenne against the noble prew jason and welcomed him with his body/ but not with his heart/ making great sign to be right joyous of his returning. And brought him unto his father the old king/ which was greatly comforted of the coming of his dear son jason/ And when the noble prew jason had made the reverence unto the king his fader· the king demanded him of his tidings. and where he had been/ & what he had done/ jason without taking on him any vain glory of any high and great work that he had done and brought to end. answered to him by great humility saying. Dear sir I come now straight from the service of the noble queen Mirro which is lady of the noble cite of Oliferne. and the most sage· the most fayre· and the most discrete that is in the remnant of all the world. And at such time as I arrived in her court· she was in a marvelous tribulation by the right puissant king of Esklavonie. which made her war of fire and of blood/ for so moche as she would in no wise consent to take him to her husband. But sin my coming to that part and that I had charge as he●d and as conductor of her men·s I enterprised to sustain the quarrel of the noble lady. And in three battles where I was accompanied of her people. the gods have given us victory upon the Esklavons in such manner that the king himself and the most part of his men have been slain and smitten in pieces. And among all other there was in the host of the said king of Esklavonye a marvelous and puissant man. a Geant named Corfus. the which had put to death many a good knight of Oliferne. with whom I fought body against body/ not by any strength that was in me. but by desire to get the worship and honour. and to do that thing that might bring me in to the grace of that noble lady. whom I put to utterance by the virtue of the great beauty of her/ And to her apperteyveth the right worship and honour And sin that I have said to you so moche. and that it is Reason that ye know all/ I declare to you that I come now to you in entencion. that my kins men & friends be assembled for to hold me company to go and wedd● her so hie and so noble a lady. the which is content to be my wife. foreseen that I should espouse and wed her honourably as it appertaineth to the daughter of a king. For by these conditions been the promesses made and accorded  
THe noble & ancient king Aeson hearing these tidings had much more joy at his heart thenne he had afore/ And said/ Certes my dear son I am right joyous of thy weal and worship/ of thy profit & of thine avauncement·s I think well that fortune hath been socourable to the noble lady to whom thou hast been servant/ But wyth right great pain may I believe that thou alone hast vanquished the Geant/ And if it be so I thank the gods. but late it pass forth. & if thou hast gotten the grace of her so fair & so noble lady I have no great marvel there of· for love in such a case beholdeth no person/ And newly the less to th'end that thou know how I desire above all thing of the world to see multiplication in thy seed/ I shall array the as to the son of a king is lawful & apꝑteyning/ and I shall send the so well in point of abillemens' of war and of noble men accompanied/ that by raison she aught have suffisance/ Thenne the prew jason thanked the king his father of this good answer/ And at that time they spack no more of the matter/ but intended to feast Mopsius & Theseus/ whom they prayed to tarry & accompany jason unto the day of his wedding. & the two good knights promised that they should so do/ and so they were greatly feasted of the king & of his nobles & also of Peleus which died it again his heart making a feigned cheer  
AMong many devices Mopsius & Theseus recompted of jason thauenture that he had in Trace against the tyrant king Dyomedes and likened jason for his valiance & ability unto his fellow Herailes·s which was the most strong man and best assured that was under the clouds. And because of his high preysinges and recomendations the bruit of prew jason augmentid and encresid from day to day. And it is not to be unremembered that thenuie of the untrue Peleus grew so terribly that he by no fashion might ne could have no rest day ne night/ in so much that in the coming again of noble jason he was advertised that in the isle of delphos the god Apollo gave answers of things that were to come and ●f all destinees·s wherefore he went himself into that isle and entered into the temple annoyed marvelously and pensif/ And when he had made his orisons by great devotion & conseqently his demand for to know whether ever he should enjoy the Royame's of Mirmidone· The devil which was in the idol that heard him/ answered to him·s that the royalme should be taken from him by the hand of a man that he should meet having-non hose ner shoe on that one foot. Peleus' hearing this hard answer was marvelously abashed· & departed from thence so passing sorrowful/ that he seemed better a man nourished in all his life in sorrow or condemned to cruel death than any other wise as it shall be declared here after a long  
As thenne Peleus was in his returning unto Mirmidone always conspiring the death of the right noble jason. And ymagyning how he might resist his miserable & foolish destiny. A good old knight met him on the way. This knight began to behold him in his plain visage and the salutation of them both given and rendered And knowing that he was moche pensif & full of Melancolies·s he devised to him of many things & marvels of the worlde· And among all other devices he said to him/ that in an isle standing upon the East see/ was a moch rich and noble mutton or sheep having his flees all of fyn gold/ the which was not possible to be conquered· And that many valiant knights had lost there their life. These devices taken an end/ the two knights depart●d ●che from other. And thenne pel●us reentring into his melancolyes thinking much on the answer that he had received of the god Apollo. and concluded in himself that if it happened that he met jason barfoot on that one foot He should find the manners if he might to send him in to the isle/ whereof the knight had told him that the rich mutton or flees of gold was. to th'end that he might be there devoured and never return again ¶ What shall I say more. the perverse and untrue Peleus passed forth on his way in such conspirations against jason. And came so far that he fond his nephew jason in a meadow by Myrmidone  
CErtes the noble jason and Theseus were thenne in a meadow with many noble bachelors of the country passing her time in making plenty of dyuce esbatements & plays in strengthe of body· as wrestling/ l●ping/ running. casting the bar or stone or drawing the bow. and when jason saw his uncle peleus come/ he went to him for to welcome him/ And was unhosed & unshoed on his right foot/ and made to him the reverence. And thenne Peleus. which was in doubt of him apperceived anon his foot bore/ how well he said not a word but showed a right great sign of love unto his nephew jason/ which thought nothing of the malice & fellow courage of his uncle which was garnisshid of ypocresye· of traison/ & of all evil/ And sin passed forth saying to himself that jason should put him out of the royalme but if he fond some remedy/ & that briefly  
As ye may understand peleus returned right sorrowful & dolannt & right desirous for to destroy and do to death his nephew jason. he frowned in this wise & boat on his lip a great while/ after he bethought him and concluded in himself that he would do ordain & make a Rich dinner. to which he would do call all the nobles of the royalme and of the countries by and adjacent. saying that he would show unto his nephew jason all that he had herd recompted of the noble mutton or sheep of gold. to th'end that he should enterprise for to go to conquer it/ And when he had made this deliberation in his courage/ he sent for to pray & to somone the most part of the nobles of the royalme & the countries by. which came gladly unto this feast and assemblee at the day to them signified. Certes this Peleus died do garnish this dinner with all vyandes and noble meats delicious and with bewrages and drinks sumptuous composed with spices·s But when all was ready the most high Baronns were set at the first tables And among all other nobles there was the noble Hercules·s And thenne after sat every man after his astate· & thus after they began on all parties to make great chiere and spack of many things. and inespecial of the high vailliaunces of the prew and noble Hercules. and of the monsters and cruel beasts that he had destroyed and put to death by his valiance and hardiesse. And thus passed the dinner in such or semblable devices unto the end that peleus cam tofore jason· and said to him in the presence of many kings Barons and knights in this manere  
IAson my dear lord & nephew. ye are the man of the world that I love best next after the king Aeson my brother your father. know ye that I have in my heart great joy for to have herd the preysinges and Recomendations of the vailliannt knight Hercules/ whom I see here present For the terrible beasts. for the monsters and for the great and strong giants. of whom he had delivered the world of. by his vaisselage. But when I behold your great puissance corporal and that next after hercules ye be one of the most strongest membrid/ best asseurid and one of most vaillyauntest knights that lyueth̄. it greatly dysplesith me in my heart that fortune hath not give place where your puissance & valoir may be showed. & that your bruit & renomee is not so great as I desire. I would it had cost me the most part of the goods that the gods have sent me in this world/ And that ye were comen to your above of an enterprise and conquest that I know in a place/ the which should be much honourable & recommended for you & for your lineage. Certes fair uncle answered jason· I thank you greatly of your good will toward me. I know right well that often time ye have hyely counseled me to mine honour and worship/ And therefore if ye know any adventure or enterprise to be poursiewed and brought to the end where in I might employ my time/ I require you that ye will ensign me thereto. & I promise you that I shall do asmuch as in me shall be possible to do to come to mine above of honour & worship to me and of our house  
CEertes fair sire jason answered the disloyal & untrue Peleus I take a great pleasure to see your good will/ which ꝓcedeth of an noble corage· & for so moche as I know that ye are a knight of high enterprise/ know ye that in the parties oriental is an isle enclosed round about with the see· In the which there is so noble and rich sheep or mutton of such nature that in stead of flese of wool. he is endowed with a flese all of fyn gold. But he is kept with certain beasts so cruel & so fires. that there hath been no man so hardy or so well assewrid unto this present time that durst approach the noble mutton or sheep of gold· if thenne there be in you so much valour and prowess/ that ye might conquer the rich flees or this sheep/ me thinketh your renomee should grow greatly in honour and worship Which is the thing above all other that every noble heart desireth/ & in trouth me ought desire no thing somoch/ for honour is the principal treasure above all other and the sovereign recomendation that any gentle man may get and ought more to be desired thenne any worldly thing. To this answered jason. by all our gods fair uncle I am much beholden to you in many manners. For I know and am certain verayly. that honour aught to be preferred and put to fore all worldly things. and to th'end that men may see that the great affection and desire to get worship is so mghe mine heart & that the covetous desire of glory and honour be not me reputed faynedly·s I make here a solemn avow unto the gods & promise here in the presence of all the nobles that been here assembled· that I shall never cease to labour to seche the Rich sheep or flese of gold unto the time that I shall have founden it. & that I shall do the v●terist of my power for to conquer it/ what some ever danger or peril fall or happen to me in the conquest  
When Peleus had heard this avow he was much joyous/ & him seemed that the work went well forth in so much that him thought & supposed by this mean for to come to the above of his desire. Certes the noble and prew Hercules & Theseus preysid moche jason of this enterprise And forthwith in fayte they vowed in like wise that if jason achievid not his enterprise that they should put 'em in deuoir for to bring it to an end/ & during this dinner they spack long & devised moche of the manner of the vow of jason/ & above all other peleus wa● so glad and joyous that he prolonged & held solemn feast eight days long And adutised the king Aeson of the right noble enterprise of his son jason/ always Aeson notwithstanding thenterpris was dangerous & mortal· yet was he well content that hi● son should achieve his avow ¶ For tab●egge the mater peleus sent for many workmen for to make a ship/ & among 〈◊〉 other there was one named A●gos the which ordained to him one so fair & so subject a work that newly was seen such. and was called Argyne because of Argos  
CErtes this Argos was a passing wise man and virtuous/ And inespecial he was the most learned & expert maroner that was at that time in all grece. And when this ship was made he adutised peleus & jason also which was as glad & joyous as he might be. for all that ever was necessary for him he fond it ready & the ship arrayed and ready for to depart. Thenne jason took leave of the king his father & of his uncle peleus· And so died the noble Hercules/ Theseus & Mopsius & other unto the number of an hundred knights of grece. which would accompany jason in this wiage· And this licence & congee taken/ with all diligence they entered into the ship the hole. C. knights And when the good patron argoes had disancred from the port where the ship had been made· which port was named Seserre. he died so much diligence that he brought this noble company upon the high see/ where Argos sailed with 'em many days always sailing toward the east after the sighnt of the stars & of the son/ and so long he conduited 'em in this point. that vytailles began to fail them/ & were constrained by force to go a land at the first port that they fond/ that is to weet at the port of frigye named Thenadon· which stands nigh unto troy the grannde/ of whom laomedon was king/ which used great rudesce unto jason and to the knights of his company And this evil fill upon him afterward & upon his subgettes/ he was not greatly to be complained as it shall be declared a long here after in th●i present volume   

¶ How the king Laomedon of Troy would not suffer jason ne his company descend on the londe· And how the Queen Ysiphyle received them  
IN this pace saith one history that Argos the good and subtle mariner made and ordained all things that failed unto the noble ship where the noble knight was in under sail. And the wind blewe there in at their wille· it was about ten of the clock afore none· the fair son shone clear and spread his rays upon the land/ and the weather was soft and well disposed/ And at that t●me moche people were upon the banks of the see which beheld from far the noble ship of the Greeks. which as said is came that time the sail displayed and set upon an hyhe. And failed fast in his course upon the see· whereof they were so sore amarveled/ that they wist not what thing it might be· In so much that some of them were so sore afeard/ that they fled in to Troy And the other abood at the poorte abiding thauenture They that fled to wyth in Troy. went unto the puissant king Laomedon· And said to him all be wept and drowned in teeris proceeding of great fere and dread. that they had apperceived from far in the see a great monster lifting himself marvelously swimming and R●nnyng upon the water more swiftly than an horse could run on the ground or on the londe· And affirmed to the king laomedon by the●r faith that this monster without comparison was more to doubt and fear than the monster that hercules had slain by his high vaillyaūc● Certes in this said country tofore that time Hercules had slain a monster also great as a whale. as it is plainly contained in th'history of hercules  
When the king Laomedon had heard these tidings rehearsed/ he was all abashed/ Thenne he made one of his knights to take an horse as swift as the wynde· and sent him to thenedon for to ask and inquire of the troth What thing it might be that the people were so sore afeard of· And in such wise exploited the knight that he came to the port of thenadon/ & there he fond the prew jason & his knights of Grece/ but first he espied argoes that ankred his ship right nigh to thenedon· & went not into the town for as much as it was no need/ considering that they were nigh the cite of Troy which was so great in magnificence that there was none like in the remenannt of the world/ he inquired first of the habitannts and dwellers of the country if they had seen any such monster on the see. Thenne the men of the country answered to the knight/ that they had seen no such monster upon the see/ & they that had brought such tidings to Troy were greatly abused if they had supposed to have seen any monster/ & that there was none other thing but a ship of Grece sailling on the see in the which by their advise were great number of knights of Grece Right well in point of arms and such things as should be needful and necessary for them to entre into ba●aylle  
When the knight of troy had understand all that said is he descended of his horse and went a foot unto the knights of grece. To whom he demanded what they sought & had to do in that country. Than jason answered to the knight·s that great necessity of vytaille for to traverse into far contrees caused them for to take their port there and none other thing. Incontinent when the knight had understand these tidings he returned and took his horse and rood unto the king his lord. and recounted to him all that he had exploited. Than the king Laomedon thus advertised of the descent of the knights of Grece & understood that they were descended for to vytaille their ships imagined anon. that they were espies. which Hercules had sent thither for tespye the royalme. wherefore he renuoyed & sent again the knight unto the greeks/ and commanded them straightly. that they dispose them with all diligence for to depart out of his lande· and to go elliss where to seek vytailles if they had need. And if they departed not suddenly & disancred & took some other way. he should come with his puissance in Arms upon them so mightily that never after they should have will for tespye royalme cite castle ne country  
THan when jason and his fellowship had herd thexpresse and rude commandment of the trojan king/ they were sore displeased and not without cause. for asmuch as they must needs depart. Than the noble jason for th● better/ answered courteously unto the knight. And showed him that they were not comen thither for to espy the royalme ne the cities/ castel● ne country of the king Laomedon ne of none other. when Hercules heard th'answer of jason which him seemed was to benign considering how Laomedon had commanded them. he might not hold his pee● but took the words from jason and said to the knight in this manere. know thou knight sin that Laomedon as vylayn of heart and banished from all noblesse hath refused to jason of Mirmidone vytailles for his money. that there shall descend in short time at the ports of this country men in the name of jason and that in so great nombre that all his Royame's/ his cities/ towns and castles shall be put in such ruin and perplexite that in thirty year after shall not be founden a stone upon a stone ner no corn shall be eerid ne sown. Fair lords thenne answered the knight ●f Troye· I am sorry that ye are not better content with the king my lord/ and that he hath not received you other wise in his countre· And ye know well. that where curtoisie is showed it bleveth not unrecompensid. ne Rigour in like wise but if it be remembered· And for as much as I am a messenger. I shall gladly make unto king Laomedon report of that I have founden of you/ and with these worde● the knight returned unto Troy  
THenne the prew jason demanded Argos. and said to him/ that they must disancre & depart fro thence but if they would abide the cruelty and furor of the king Laomedon & of all his power. Thenne the good patron Argos and his mariners disancred the noble ship/ & went again to the see/ where soon after the wind began to rise & tempest horrible & impetuose· But the trojan knight which was messenger as soon as he was comen to for his lord & had made his reverence. the king demanded him what was becomen of the gloutons of grece that were come and had descended on his land for respye his royalme and his cities. The knight answered & said. Sire I have done to them your message. They been a great number of knights. and resemble well by their countenance & habyllemens' that they been departed from noble & good house. And know for certain that when I had done your message/ one of them that seemed virtuous & discrete answered me that they were not comen thither but only for vytaille 〈…〉 to pass forth on their way/ and that they were no robbers ne pirates of the see/ but when the young knight which was fair & curtois as a maid had finysshid his purpose/ An other of them/ which had a marvelous & cruel chiere. & better resembled hercules by his visage & countenance thenne any other. said to me in a great anger & fierte in this manere/ know thou knight that sin that laomedon thy master as villain of heart & banisshid from all noblesse hath refused to jason of Myrmydone victuals for his money That in short time shall descend into his countries men in the name of jason & in so great nombre/ that all his royalme his cities towns & castles shallbe put to such ruin & perplexite that within thirty year after· shall not be found one stone upon another·s ner no corn shallbe sown & ered upon the ground/ And forthwith they have disancred & soon after they had sailed by force of wind & rowing of oores so far that I had lost the sight of them  
When the king laomedon had understand the report that his knight made to him/ he was so angry that he seemed better frantic or out of his wit thenne other wise And said well that if he had known tofore what they had been & their intent/ he had 'em all have done die miserably And therewith the messenger departed & laomedon withdrew him into his chambers sore troubled & pens●f for the menaces of the knights of grece· whom he knew not but by raporte of the knight/ which knights being thenne well forth upon the see/ were sore vexed with great winds blowing on all sides/ with thonders· with rains & great orages and tempests/ which roared so hugely & terribly that the air was troubled & the weather was so derk. that the son shone not in four days during that the tempest seced not. in which time their victuals failed in such wise. that the knights of grece had not to ete· & their ship was oft times in moche great peril/ for in th'end a marvelous turbilloun of wind roose in the see that blewe away their sail and all to broke their mast/ that the cords & roopes were broken into pieces. but fortune h●lpe 'em in this need/ For notwithnstanding this great adventure the ship was conduited unto a port named Lennos where he hurtled ag●in the ground in such a random & force/ that it was all to broken & rent that they that were with in were in great danger & had been in worse case than they were to fore/ if they had not set foot a land  
THis poort was called Lennos after the name of a moche puissant city. which was richly set not far thens·s But Incontinent that the Grekyssh knights had taken land seeing the great danger that they had been inn sprang out of the ship. which anon was filled full of water. And when they saw 'em out of that mortal peril and had well supposed/ for to have been in savete/ Suddenly came out of Lennos the rich cite more thenne thirty thousand women armed garnished with pennonns & recognysances which came rengyng●●● in in fair ordinance a long by the cooste of the see/ fast by the port/ and after they sent two of their women messengers for to somene the grekyssh knights for to re-enter into the see with out any long tarrying. But when jason understood the somaconn that the two damoisels made. he was sore abashed and not without cause· for he apperceived tofore so many heads armed that he knew not the nombre· & sin considered how they had been in great danger by the fortun● of the see/ & t●at victuals failed them. and that worse was he saw his ship all to broken. which was on all sides full of water. This notwithstanding by cause he ne would discourage ne abash his fellowship more thenne they were/ he showed well that he had good courage/ and said to one of the two damoisels in answering to her message  
NOble damoisell I have right well understanden your somation I pray you of your grace that it may please you to say to me. into what country fortune hath brought us at this time/ And for what cause I am by you sommenid for to re-enter unto the see/ Certes sir knight answered the damoiselle/ The country that ye be arrived in is not right grete· but it is right fertile and commodious/ & it is named Lennos after the name of this city here by Which is named after the same name. And as to the Regard of the reason and cause. why this somation is made thus to you/ I will well that ye know to th'end that ye hold you the better content. That it happened now late that in this cite of Lennos was a king named Thoas This king had a great war against the Argiens'/ and for to may●●ene this warre· he lad with him all the men young and old. And left this cite without men/ whereof the ladies damoiselles & other of the cite were right evil content. And seeing that they were without men They assembled them together with the daughter of the king which is named Ysiphyle/ And by meure deliberacion sent to the king and to their husbands. that they should return into their cite/ Upon which the king Thoas answered/ that he had besieged his enemies and if his city should be lost he would not depart from his ooste unto the end of his war  
When the ladies and damoiselles of the city had herd this answer/ they took it evil in gree/ And yet they sent again unto the king & to their husbands that they should come and return home unto their cite. but that was for naught/ for they would nothing do after their desire And when the ladies saw this/ they conspired against the king & their husbands/ & put to death all the men children that were in the cite/ after they determined & judged that if their husbands or faders. parents & friends came again from the war or other what somever they were should be slain the first night of their coming assoon as they should be a sleep/ & that new after they should suffer noman to entre in to their cite/ after this conclusion taken they crowned ysiphile queen upon them/ & afterward when the king was returned from the war with his people/ the ladies & damoisels of the cite did with their faders husbands & parents & other in such wise as they had concluded to fore/ in somoch that of all them that returned from this war escaped none from this murdre & pestilence but he was slain & murdrid reserved the king thoas Whom the queen ysiphile would in no wise murdre/ but this notwithstanding she delivered him into the hands of the ladies/ which put him in a boot alone. and sent him to the see in exyling & banisshing him out of his royalme  
When this damoisell as messenger had recompted unto the noble jason this that said is/ That other messenger took the word fro her & said/ lords & knights my fellow hath said & told you now the reason & cause where fore ye may not be received into this cite/ & there fore t● greater mischief befall & come to you· withdraw you unto the see/ for if ye tarry here long the ladies will assail you asperly. and shall deliver to you a marvelous battle jason answered and said. by all my gods fair lady our ship is all to broken & f●rfrusshid as ye may see & is full of water. And on that other side we perish for hunger if we be not shortly socourid. for it is two days passed sin we eat any morsel meet/ And therefore if it must needs be & no remedy/ we had liefer to die by glayu●s & war thenne by famine. how well by your grace ye shall return unto the queen & ladies & recount to them our estate and necessity And that we all together pray them and require instantly if there be in 'em any virtue or noblesse that they will now show it having pite on us. For the fortune of the see that hath traveled us by many days in such wise that we supposed to have perished from our to our hath brought us hither as ye may see against the will of our mariners and of us  
WIth this request the/ ij· damoyselles messagieres returned into their cite unto their queen ysiphyle and other ladyee to whom they recompted from word to word the answer that jason had rendered and what he required Thenne the queen having heard the answer of the/ ij/ messagieres'/ she asked & inquired what people these knights of grece were & of what condition & fashion & of what number they were/ Certes madame answered that one of the/ ij/ damoyselles. I saw new in my days more goodlier men ne better bespoken/ & I suppose there were newly seen so well faring men & great & upright/ so well in point of habiliments so well taught & so curtays in all manners/ & it is to be supposed that they been the choice & picked out of all the human people/ & there may well been of them the number of an/ C· all of one fashion & of lyk clothing/ Thenne the queen hearing the messagiere that so highly recommended the state of these knights of grece/ thinking also of their request/ began to have pity of their misadventure & of their myscases that they have had on the see by tempest/ and forthwith she sent for to fecche four of them for to come & speak with her/ whom she would examine  
When the hundred knights understood these tidynges·s they advised among 'em all which four of them they might best send unto the queen Ysiphile/ And concluded in one that they would send jason/ hercules/ theseus & an other knight named Castor right fair. which came tofore the Queen & great number of her damoiselles And they were not long comen but that the Queen and her damoiselles were terribly esprised of the love of these four knights. For there was neither Queen ne damoisel but desired with all their heart their company for the singular & especial beauty of each of them. Certes ysiphile at thinstannt that her two noble eyen had beholden the great beauty of jason. she was becomen so much amorous as was possible as of the most fair. the most gracious & the most covoytable of the four/ Thenne she spack to hem & demanded them in general. what they sought in her royalme. & whence they came and whither they would go/ and of what country they were. Thenne the noble jason thinking of the demands of the queen considering the great danger where they were in and the necessity of famine & hunger that surmounted· he as captain & chief of the viage answered humbly saying in this manere  
Madam please it you to know that we been the number of an hundred knights all gentle men of one company and of one country we been departed in one ship But we have had upon the see so many infortunes by tempest of winds & of orages that hath holden us so long in great doubt to be perished. that victuals been failed us two days passed/ And for to make short we go to seche victuals for to help our necessite· and sin it plesith you to know from what country we been parted and whither we attend to goo· I declare to you that we come from Grece/ & our intent is to sail so far till we find an isle of the see/ where in is a moche rich mutton or sheep bearing his flese all of fyn gold. the which new knight yet had the power ne hardiness for to conquer ne approach. neither only for to behold & see/ For many marvelous and terrible beasts have it in keeping/ Among the which I have understand there is a right cruel dragon/ how well I have avowed & promised for tauenture myself for to conquer it ere I ever return again into my country/ or I shall die in the pourfuyte thereof/ as many knights have done here tofore whereof is pity/ Wherefore Right high and noble lady I Require you humbly. that ye will have mercy and pity on me and of mine infortunate fellows dying for distress of hunger and famine/ And that we may have victuals for our silver and money. and also grace and leave for to remyse & make our ship again which is broken & rent in taking land upon your seygnourie & lordship  
When the noble jason had made his remonstraunce unto the queen ysiphile as said is. she withdrew her a part with her damoiselles·s and demanded of them what was best to do with these noble men/ They were all of opinion/ that it should be a great sin & mesfeets for to let them there die for famine and hunger/ And at th'end they concluded that they should be received into their city notwithnstanding their ordenances & statutes by them to fore made· in so much that the Queen Ysiphile returned unto jason and said to him. that for the honour of noblesse the ladies would receive him and his fellows in lyk wise. Thenne the noble jason thanked the Queen of this grace right curtoisly. & died do send for his fellows that they should come into the cite. the which incontinent as they knew that they should have victuals were passing joyous & seemed to them properly that god was descended among them. Thenne they came to fore the ladies whom they salued but desired with all their heart their company for the singular & especial beauty of each of them. Certes ysiphile at thinstannt that her two noble eyen had beholden the great beauty of jason. she was becomen so much amorous as was possible as of the most fair. the most gracious & the most covoytable of the four/ Thenne she spack to hem & demanded them in general. what they sought in her royalme. & whence they came and whither they would go/ and of what country they were. Thenne the noble jason thinking of the demands of the queen considering the great danger where they were in and the necessity of famine & hunger that surmounted· he as captain & chief of the viage answered humbly saying in this manere  
Madam please it you to know that we been the number of an hundred knights all gentle men of one company and of one country we been departed in one ship But we have had upon the see so many infortunes by tempest of winds & of orages that hath holden us so long in great doubt to be perished. that victuals been failed us two days passed/ And for to make short we go to seche victuals for to help our necessite· and sin it pleaseth you to know from what country we been parted and whither we attend to goo· I declare to you that we come from Grece/ & our intent is to sail so far till we find an isle of the see/ where in is a moche rich mutton or sheep bearing his flese all of fyn gold. the which new knight yet had the power ne hardiness for to conquer ne approach. neither only for to behold & see/ For many marvelous and terrible beasts have it in keeping/ Among the which I have understand there is a right cruel dragon/ how well I have avowed & promised for tauenture myself for to conquer it ere I ever return again into my country/ or I shall die in the poursuyte thereof/ as many knights have done here tofore whereof is pity/ Wherefore Right high and noble lady I Require you humbly. that ye will have mercy and pity on me and of mine infortunate fellows dying for distress of hunger and famine/ And that we may have victuals for our silver and money. and also grace and leave for to remyse & make our ship again which is broken & rent in taking land upon your seygnourie & lordship  
When the noble jason had made his remonstraunce unto the queen ysiphile as said is. she withdrew her a part with her damoiselles·s and demanded of them what was best to do with these noble men/ They were all of opinion/ that it should be a great sin & mesfeets for to let them there die for famine and hunger/ And at th'end they concluded that they should be received into their city notwithnstanding their ordenances & statutes by them to fore made· in so much that the Queen Ysiphile returned unto jason and said to him. that for the honour of noblesse the ladies would receive him and his fellows in lyk wise. Thenne the noble jason thanked the Queen of this grace right curtoisly. & died do send for his fellows that they should come into the cite. the which incontinent as they knew that they should have victuals were passing joyous & seemed to them properly that god was descended among them. Thenne they came tofore the ladies whom they salued right reverently· And anon as the Queen saw this noble company tofore her in all humility she delivered to an ninety of her ladies the ninety knights of Grece. to each of them one of their own as for the best as her seemed and she retained jason for her part. In so much the greeks entered into the cite with the ladies and with out other difficult. they brought 'em into their houses/ each departed from other. where each lady feasted her knight with good vyandes and meats after their power and with good heart. making to them a chiere in such a wise and fashion that many of the knights found 'em so plainly in the grace of their ladies in asmuch as they might that they were served with the terms of love/ and more I say not at this time present  
INcontinent when the Queen ysiphile saw that she had jason in her bayllye. she was so much joyous as she might be· she had set all her intent to behold the great beauty of the noble prince/ and above all other she desired to have his acquaintance. & in the beholding and advising him she made to him many gracious signs & tokens of love during many days & often times. But the noble jason which had his courage set in other place took none heed. how be it she might no longer dure without she should be dead so much was she esprised wyth his love/ & yet she durst not speak one word· and when jason had sojourned there a certain space & number of days/ he ordained unto his patron money that his ship might be set in point/ & ordained men that should help him/ thenne argos set hand unto the work by right great diligence. & did so moche that in short term the ship was all ready for to help hem· But Incontinent as the Queen Ysiphile was thereof advertised. she died do break it by night by any of her damoiselles/ And she spack with Argos the good patron and died some oche with him that he assemblid all the knights of grece/ and in their presence said to jason the ship might not be made again for to depart thence in viii. months hole/ whereof many of the Greeks were marvelously joyous  
When hercules which had a moche noble courage understood these tidings/ he said unto jason. sin that it is so that they should not depart out of that country/ he would go see the country about/ and counciled jason that he should abide in the cite for to keep together his fellows. & jason accorded thereto with good william. Thenne the Right valiant Hercules went forth on his way/ all reconforted tabide all aventures·s And it happened him that he came unto a place of a king named Furius whom he delivered from the arpies & enchaced them unto the river of sturphale in such wise as it is contained in the history of the faytes of hercules. jason which abode in the cite of l●nnos as said is intended gladly unto the dubbing and making of his ship/ And Ysiphile on that other side alway in her amorous semblants and Regards/ Mopsius was the most part of the time with jason and devised often times of the great beauty of the noble queen mirro/ And as he was one a day set at dinner with jason & ysiphile/ he perceived of the gracious atrayans' regards that she gaf oft times unto the prew jason & apperceived right well that she had set and given to him all her love. And thus passed he the meal with out any word or semblant making. But after the dinner he called jason/ And said to him/ that he would go walk with him unto his ship and so departed out of the hall they two alone. And thenne when they were in the field Mopsius said to jason· Certes sire I would fain ask you a demand if it were your pleasure. Fair sir said thenne jason late not for any thing but declare your courage & desir/ thenne Mopsius demanded him/ if he were any thing amorous of the Queen Ysiphile. jason swore to Mopsius that he was not amorous of her. Certes sir said Mopsius. I am all certain that Ysiphile is terribly amorous of you. And therefore I advertise you to th'end that ye find the means for to speak to her a part. for if ye may attain thereto. it should be to you a right fair pass temps for a space. and we all should far the better  
BY all my gods answered thenne the prew jason. ere I would use any disloyalte against my lady the fair Mirro. I had liefer be condemned to bring to end and adchieve as many perilous adventures/ as ever the worthy hercules achieved ere ever I should return again to Grece ¶ The nobles of this time present been not so disposed to ensue the terms of the right renowned prince jason as it is tofore declared· & therefore I conceyll not the ladies that they give no more affiance than ynowh doubting that by some weigh they be not abused/ Thus as the/ ij/ gentle knights spack of the fair mirro & of ysiphile/ they came where as argos the master patron solicited the work and making of the ship and so passed the time a little in speaking of divorce purposes/ And after that they returned unto their logys'. and the noble Queen Ysiphyle was enamoured in such wise on the noble prew jason. that she thought on none other thing· but for to please him unto her power And he never departed from thence but that she held him company. or else she was alway at a window f●r to look whither he went  
When thenne she apperceived that jason returned unto his logging at this time. She went against him & took him by the hand and lad him into one of her chambres·s where she showed to him great party of her richesses & tresours'/ And after she said to him in this manner Right noble & valiant knight all these richesses been all only at your commandment/ and also my body with all. whereof I make now to you the ghifte and present/ And furthermore I have nothing of valeur/ but that ye shall have at your abandon & will to th'end that I may deserve honourably your grace. Thenne when the prew jason had understand this that said is. he answered to the lady saying My dear lady I thank you right humbly of your curtoysye/ And I declare unto you that in no fashion I have deserved the high honour that ye present to me. Ha. ha' gentle knight said thenne the lady. it is well in your power for to deserve all if it be your plaisir. In good troth madame answered thenne jason if there be any service or plaisire that I may do unto you/ command ye it and I shall accomplish it freely & with good herte· How fair sire said she thenne. will ye accomplissh my commandement. Certes madame said he I shall not fail in no point if it be to me possible And ther fore declare ye to me your good pleasure and desire. And after that ye shall perceive how I shall employ myself thereto  
THe Queen Ysiphyle hearing the courtoys answer that jason answered/ was so much joyous and glad that she might ner could be more· And said to him Certes fair sire your courtoys and humble words have put me in such danger. that in no wise I may no longer hide from you a requ●ste· that weyeth more heavier on my ●●rte. than a miln stone should upon my heed. And t●●t long a fore this time ye should have known/ ne had been dame Esperaunce. which had nourissh d and entertained to hide my faith and courage. which at this our I shall show unto your noble persone· And know ye for troth that I have perceived that ye be of a moche noble & ancient house. above this that ye exceed & pass/ all men in beauty & in valiance. If your semblant lie not. And thenne that I have put in my sovenance all these things/ I have had right great desire for to have your love & aliaunce· For which things it is necessary that I pray you that it shall please you to be my husbonde· and I shall be your wife and espowse/ And thus ye shall be king & lord of this my royalme. My right dear lady answered thenne the noble jason. ye have done to me a pleasure so great in giving to me your gods largely in eting & drinking/ & in like wise to my company & felawes·s that I may never deserve it as well for such good as for the love of the ladies to whom I will obey with all my might & power in all their ꝯmandements And know ye noble princess. that there is no service ne plaisir but that I am content to do for you/ safe only this request. for I may not well goodly accord it unto you my worship saved and kept. for as much as late I have promised unto a noble lady and of a good place for to take her by marriage. wherefore I require you that ye will hold me for excused/ Ha'/ a jason my dear friend for one promise ne more ne lass what will ye make. Men say commonly/ That far is from the eye. Is far from the heart  
When the noble jason saw that the lady oppressed him in such manere· that with great pain he witted not how to answer/ notwithnstanding he said to her/ Certes my dear lady. I knowledge that the heart of a noble man aught to desire nothing so moche as honour with out reproach. Troth it is that I am bounden by promise. the which if I acquit not. I am at all days dishonoured I had liefer be deed or condemned to perpetual exill·s and think not Madam that I refuse your alliance for any disdain/ for in good faith I should hold me right ewrous and well fortunate/ if I had to wife one so fair a Lady So noble and so rich as ye ar. Noble knight answered thenne the lady/ ye know right well. how ye & all your company had been deed for hunger & of distress if I had not recuyellid you in this city & fed you/ And fo● somoch I pray you yet once that ye accord my request/ and with out any reproach me thinketh by many raisins that ye are bound greatly so to do/ I am driven for to require you in this fashion/ & I imagine that the Gods have sent you unto this cite for two causes principally. The first is ●o th'end that ye should be succoured in this cite/ ye & all your company in th'article of the jeopardy of your death where ye were in. And the second. that ye should inhabit this cite to th'end that it should not be diserte· For this cite is inhabited with women without king & have none other pastor but me which am their chief·s And for so much I somene & pray you that ye succour this cite as she hath succoured you. And that ye intend to repeuple all of your seed/ And in verray trouth ye so doing shall accomplish a virtuous work & of greater merit than to maintain a simple promise made unto a lady or damoyselle/ how well oft times they been made lightly & with right little occasion they been enfrainte & broken  
Madam answered thenne jason/ I confess right well that ye and the ladies of your cite have succoured in our right great necessity/ me & my fellowship with victual And in recompensing whereof there is no thing to us possible but that all we will employ us thereto is it in rep●upling this cite or other wise. but to the regard of myself I may not conduit myself thereto. But if I should do directly against mine oath/ ye aught to know/ that mine honour gooth and toucheth ner mine heart than any other thing. And for so moche know ye that under the coverture of this gracious courtesy I have not ●nt●cion̄ to commise one so great an evil. which should be to me and to mine thing over moche reproachable Incontinent as ysiphile understood this answer of jason. and that she apperceived that he was farm in his purpose/ for to abide true unto his lady· she spack no more to him of this matter but took leave of him & departed. and jason in like wise withdrew him into his chamber. And Ysiphyle abode in her chamber sore esprised with love. & on that other side she was so angry that she might not convert jason. that ●on̄ can tell ne write. But when the parfonde darkness of the night was come/ she laid her down in her bed greatly esprised of anger & right pensive. for in her stomach was a great battle between her heart & shame/ her courage was than admonested that she should go & lie with jason· but shame said nay & withstood it/ wherefore the battle was great and dured long. but in th'end therte vaynquisshid all· For shame was put aback in such wise that the fair ys●phyle aroos from her bed & went & laid her down by jason which than slept/ And when she was abed she began to tremble for asmuch as shame followed her. and so trembling she embraced jason & awoke him saying in this manner. My verray friend & love jason your continence & the constance of love have commanded me to come to you/ how well it is to me a moche great shame & villainy. but sith that ye have not willed to be my husband & spouse/ at the lest ye shall be my love & friend. and take ye no disdain of the love of a pour folissh gentle woman  
When the noble knight jason heard the fair Ysiphyle speak and felt her by him all naked· he was sore abashed/ Certes her flesh was right tender and sweet/ always she approached to him & he to her. for he was a man/ & thenne when he was awaked he said to her· In good trouth madame I am right sorrowful & angry that I may not be your husband. ye show well how that above all other it have me in your grace. A ha' & that I now were free and without promise upon my faith I should be your husband and obey you unto my power. And with these words they embraced each other and kysshed to gyder· And more know I not but that they maintained this life the space of four months or more in such wise that Ysiphile was with child and waxy great of a right fair son. of whom she was delivered by space of time/ And during these four monethiss the ladies of Lenos lay with the knights of Grece/ And many of them were conceived with there seed/ And in this wise was the city rep●●●plid of young childed masles What shall I make you long ꝓce● The days that have no rest pass lightly. Maistre argos rendered his ship all repaired & made. And Hercules came again into Lennos/ jason also would depart toward his journeye· and assemblid one a day his fellowship & said to them/ My good brethren & friends ye know well how we have been here and sojourned a moche long space of time/ And yet we have no more knowledge ne have herd speak of the mutton of gold or golden vunese no more thenne we heard tofore we departed from our country. I will that ye know that I live here in great sorrow & in terrible great annoyance/ for I can not take solace ne plaisir in any thing that I see/ for asmuch as I am pricked by continual exhortations proceeding of diuce causes and procuring the expedition entretiening the end of my laboureuse voyage to the which bring us the gods in short time to our helthe honour & glory/ wherefore I pray you all that every man make him ready for to remove and depart. for I have entencion for to depart at th'end of four days without longer abiding  
Hercules'/ Theseus' & Mopsius & all the other knights had great joy when they heard the good disposition of jason/ and they answered him/ that they should be as soon ready as he/ and thenne one & other began to purvey for them victuals & of all such things as were necessary for them/ The queen & the other ladies knew anon of the departement of jason/ wherefore they were much displaysaunt & right desolate/ and sore annoyed them to see the grekysh knights make their preparations for to depart/ and that one complained to that other saying/ Certes these knights of grece abandon us & give us over/ we shall n●u have joy ne solaas· The queen ys●phyle among the other was most anguishous of this departing/ & came to jason & said to him/ Alas/ alas lord jason/ have ●e well the courage for to withdraw you from me & to give me over tofore ye have seen the fruit of your noble person/ which is nourisshid in my blood/ Ha' a my soulace the pleasure of mine eyen/ may it not be that the right amorous prayer of the mother that shall 〈◊〉 of your child may hold you here yet three monethis/ it is a little time of/ iij/ months/ they shallbe anon expired & passed. Alas jason/ alas my comfort prolong ye & tarry your departement at my request/ for I am she that so moche loveth you that I may no more/ Alas behold with pite my womb/ the chamber & mansion of your blood/ & in no wise I require you to depart so hastily  
IN good fayth noble lady answered thenne jason if I might abide with you lawfully·s I assure you that I would so with good heart. but I have avowed & promised for to adventure myself in the conquest of the noble mutton or flees of gold. I know not how long I shall live ner how long it shallbe ere I come there/ it is force and great necessity for my singular were and perdurable honour that I employ my time entirely whilis I may & that I acquit me diligently to thacomplisshement of my said avow  
WIth this answer the queen ysiphile had in her heart such annoy. that she began to weep & right perfoundly to sigh. and after she began to say softly/ Alas/ alas how may mine eyen see the departing of mine evident joy. Alas I was born in an evil constellation when I may not find a little of good fortune in this world. all consolations withdraw them from me/ all honour fleeth from me/ all bountees forsake me. & contrary all sorrow ren̄eth̄ upon me All wealth is against me/ & all evil cometh tofore me in my presence. for certes if there sourde any misery in the ferthest place of the world. that misery departeth from that place for to come to me. A what sorrow/ certes I am not good ynowh ner of so much value that any man shall do any thing at my request  
CErtes madame answered jason· me seemeth that for no thing ye aught to demene ner make so marvelous sorrow/ for ye are in value much more thenne I can exteme And as to the regard of me if there be any thing licite & honest to me possible. require ye it & I shall employ me in such wise that ye shall have cause for to be content/ And me seemeth that ye aught to have me excused in this case seen the vow in which I am bound and if I abode here I should not exploit but loose my tyme. Ha'/ a my dear friend and love answered the lady when shall I have better cause for to complain and lament than now. If anon I had lost all my royalme/ and if I saw all my richesses and chevanche and all that I could fine & chevisshe perish in the abysms & deepness of the see. all that should not be to me so heavy to bear at my heart ner so great displeasure as shallbe to me to see your departing. for the see is to terrible. and the fortunes/ prosperitees·s adversities/ and perils rise and sourde on all sydes·s wherefore I am not certain whether ever ye shall return again or no. And thenne aught not I to have the visage banisshid fro all consolation and joy/ & aught not my heart to lie on the bed of tribulation under the coverture of right mortal distress & between the sheets of bewaylinges·s Alas. alas/ think ye what this doth/ but when I perceive that there is no remedy/ and that your honour had concluded your departing promising to go in your promised voyage/ I shall bear it as patiently as to me is possible. foreseen that ye shall promise me faithfully if ye come to your above in your enterprise of Colchos. that ye shall come again by this city for to tell● me of your tidings  
When the noble knight understood that the lady condescended by such condition to his departing he was right joyous and not without cause. considering the danger where he and all his fellowship were in. And thenne he promised to her & swore right solemnly tofore the representation of the goddess pallas which was there that he should return unto her assoon as he should come to the above of his enterprise. and that if the gods would give him so good fortune that he might a live & hole return/ Thenne the noble Queen Ysiphile some what reconforted and having a great hope in the returning of jason cessed herself of her lamentations ¶ For tabregge the matter the day came that the noble prew jason should go to the see/ on which day the noble Prince and his fellows took l●ue of the noble Queen ysiphile/ of the Ladies and Damoyselles/ and thanked them largely of th●ir go●des & good chiere that they had made to them/ And thenne departed f●o Lennos & went unto the po●te. but when th●● should entre into the shippe· the queen ysiphile presented unto jason the idol of the goddess pallas & many other idols of the gods of the see. and made him to put th●m in his shipp● saying that none evil ne trouble might● come to him in any wise as long as he kept & held 'em in reverence  
When jason apperceived the great largesse of the noble Queen ysiphile & the good love 〈◊〉 with s●e leuid him/ he thanked her moche humbly. and s●n w●●t to the see and made to wind up the sail/ And thus he and his company departed from lennos for to saill● toward the isle of colchos. of whom I will leave to speak for this pesent time & also of jason & of the queen Ysiphile. the which when she had born her fruit by the space of ix months hole/ she was del●uerid of a moche fair son. For to recount well a long of the right fair & noble isle of colchos/ in devising the manner how it wa● first founden by the God Apollo/ And also how the country was first inhabited And by what kings it was governed. which is a right difficile and hard thing to believe for many persons that have not estudied the ancient Cronyques/ of wh●m many been full hard and doubtable to be believed for the strange and marvelous works that been founden in many histories and places   

¶ How Apollo was sent by the god Mars into the country where as was the rich & noble sheep or weather that bore the vl●cse of gold & how he founded there a city  
FOr to give you knowledge of the nobbe I'll of colchos I shall deport & tarry for this present time to speak of the faytes of jason/ and will recount & tell in brief what kings reigned first in colchos and by what manner and fashion it was known that the rich mouton or sheep with the flees of gold was there· and also the two marvelous & terrible booles & the great ●spouentable dragon/ Thenne for to come unto this history I have founden an old auncien̄ cromcle containing/ that whilom was a king in Athenes named jupiter. but this was not that jupiter that was son of saturn that reigned long in Crete which is a moche noble country  
THis jupiter thenne king of athens had/ iij/ sons/ the first was named arropatreus/ that is as much as mars in Latin/ which by the athenians was called god of battle/ for cause of many battles that he had in his time against his neighbours of which he had always the victory/ the second was apis which was king of argys'/ & Apollo that reigned in archade wa● the third/ this apollo was a man of great governement· he introduysed the Archadyens for to live honestly. Certes he conquered many royalmes. he had great number of children. And finably when they were grown to age· he delivered to them his lands to govern. And after that departed right secretly from Archade/ And in the estate of a medicine or a phisicien he went in the most part of the provinces of the world/ he was thus wandering ten yeres·s And at th'end of ten year he arrived at Athenes·s And there found that his brother Mars was newly deed and passed out of this worlde· and that there was made to him a temple which endured after unto the time of the conusion of saint denys. He went into the temple with an heart replemsshed with teres/ & kneeled down to the earth to fore the representation of his brother the god Mars Requiring him that he would show to him that thing that was best for him to do/ & that he would with all his might ensue & accomplish his doctrine & commandment  
Anon as Apollo had finysshid his prayer· a great whirling or tourbillon of wind came suddenly & flapped him on the visage wherewith he was astonied that he witted not what it was/ And being in this ravisnment him thought that the god mars said to him/ Apollo/ Apollo. thy prayers been presented in the heaven to the Gods Thou hast seen many marvels of the worlde· but that is nothing in regard of one that thou shalt see. & it shall not mow be seen but by the/ Thenne it pleseth us that thou go into pyrre for to make an ark unto the semblance & likeness of that ark that Noah made some time for to save him & his famyllie from the deluge & flood/ after that we will ●hat thou do charge it with as great a number of pyrriens as it may receive and that thou & they put you to the see therein/ And when ye have done so. I shall bring you into the best isle the most rich & the most fertile of all the world. which shallbe inhabited by the pyrriens. And thou shalt understand that by this isle is a resort of the see unto an other little isle where in is the noble mutton or sheep with the fleece of gold/ the which not long sin was sent by the goddess juno to frixus and to his sister Helles both enchassed by their stepmother for to make them pass the see which that now is named hellespont by cause that Helles lete her fall into the see  
THe Noble & rich mutton thenne or sheep of gold is the most marvelous best that ever was in the world/ & it must be one's conquered/ but that shallbe with great apparel and well behoveth thereto a marvelous craft & mister And for so much thenne as thou shalt be in the isle habitable in the which I shall conduit & bring the/ beware & kept the also dear as thou hast thy life/ that thou go not into the isle where the no●le mutton of gold is in· for I have therein ordained three beasts. the which by space of time shall cast fire flame fumyer & vemin out of their throats whereof shallbe destroyed all they that shall descend in that isle/ except only one unto a certain term/ with this words Apollo came again to himself & thinking on the voice that he had herd after that he had made his oblations he departed out of the temple & also from athenes'/ & obeying to the will of the god mars he travailed in such wise by his iournees that he came unto the royalme of pirre in the cite of salathie· that whilom had founded salathiel· which was of the lignye of the hebrews. Thenne Apollo logged him in the house of a bourgoys named loth/ and required him much that he would bring him unto the king of that countre· which was called Philitenus. Thenne loth accorded unto the request of Apollo/ and brought him tofore Phylitenus/ And thenne Apollo made to him the reverence and sin said unto the king in this manere  
Right excellent sire I am comen unto you not only by my power volente & auctorite· but I come in thacomplisshing the commandment of the god Mars/ god of batailles·s the which hath chosen me for to lead certain number of thy people into the best I'll of the world. And for thaccomplisshe the same he hath commanded the that thou do make for me an ark in such wise as I shall devise/ And after that thou deliver to me/ iij/ ninety of thy men with their wives & children/ the which shall entre into the ark with me/ & then when all this shallbe done/ the god mars by his gee shall bring us unto the isle foresaid/ first tenhabyte & peuple the said yle· & above that for to show unto men some marvelous works that been there/ & to th'end that thou ne think that I be any deceyvor or abuser I oblige me to die miserably in case that I be found in any fault ꝓceding fro my party  
When the king philitenus had herd apollo & that he had beholden that he was of honourable maintiene. he drew him a part & conjured him that he should declare what he was & of what life. but incontinent when the king so conjured him he began a little to wax ashamed notwithstonding he affirmed to him that he was king of archade & son of jupiter first king of Athenes & brother unto god Mars And after he declared how he had left his royalme & how he had wandered in the world/ & how the god Mars was in the temple & appeared to him· & so much said to him. that the king judged him to be most wise & most discrete man of the world. & after accorded to him all that he had demanded in the favour of the god mars ¶ For tabregge th● matter apollo died do make the ark in such wise as him seemed best at the expensis of the king. And Incontinent when it was all made & ready/ the king died do put there in iij. C. m●n of his royalme & as m●ny women with two knights of his lineage. of whom that one was named zechius & that other zethephius/ & made 'em promise that they should hold the isle where Apollo should bring them to· of his royalme in souerainte/ & when the pyriens had put in the ark their necessities for their vytaill & that they had taken leave of the king & his lords. Apollo shut the ark fast to/ & thenne suddenly coz & was lift a tempest so terrible & so great/ that the cords & cables that held the ark unto the land brake/ & thenne it happened that the ark was with an inpetuous wawe transported into the deepness of the see  
THe king Apollo and all the Pyriens seeing so Inpetuouse tempest and torment supposed that the Ark and all they that were therein should have perished Wherefore they began to cry and demene the greatest sorrow of the world and began to make great bewailings and murmur upon Apollo. but yet that worse is. the tempest continued more and more in such wise that it seemed that incontinent all the world should have finished Thenne the king philitenus and his men being arenged upon the side of the poorte. supposing never more to have seen none of them being in the Ark returned into their houses bewailing them and weeping bitterly/ This tempest dured three days whole. during which time the king Apollo comforted his men the best wise he might and promised them that with out fault they should be delivered from this peril. And so it happened them to be. for on the fourth day after their departing from pyre the tempest cessed at the son rising. And the noble Ark was cast in a marvelous Regorte of the see being between two Iles. of which that one was great and that other lass  
INcontinent that the king Apollo felt that the tempest of the see cessed litil & a little/ and after aperceyvid that the ark was a ground fast. and the wind left his strong blowing·s & on that other side the waves were in rest/ he went up into the highest of the ark & opened a window for to behold & see where they were/ & thenne he apperceived first the air well attemprid & the son shining fair & clear/ after he cast his sight downward. & thenne he saw the/ ij/ noble yles'/ whereof the more isle was next unto the ark Which seemed to him so fair and so delicious that he knew plainly that it was the proper isle that was promised to him And that other isle being next that. was that isle that the habitation was defended to him for the great marvels that there should fall. And thenne he was so glad joyous & reconforted. that he began to sing an high thankinges & lovings unto the god mars/ & incontinent when he had so done he began to call upon the two knights zechius and zeth●phius· And also his host loth/ to whom he said that they aught rendre and yield graces and thankinges unto the God of battles/ And that they arrived into the lan●e of promyssion· Anon as these two noble knights zechyus and zethephius and the other men & women understood these tidings they rose up on her feet/ made clean their visages and clensid their eyen of their tears & weepings looked up an high & required Apollo that he would open the doors & windows of the ark to th'end that they might see that land of promission  
Apollo hearing this Request and considering the right great displaisir in which th●y h●dde been. and the right high gladness that they had recovered· Opened all the entrees of the ark and lete go out the Pyryens showing to them the farm land that they had founden. which they found so noble/ so delectable and so fertile in all goods that them seemed that they were in a verray paradies For the land was right fertile. the pastures·s & the herbs sweet smelling· the trees charged with fruit. the woods & high forests full of wild beasts & venison. when Apollo had visited this noble land and had well comprised & considered the circuit & the places of the same/ he founded in a forest an altar in the name of god Mars and died to him sacrefice· And in the same place the Amazons founded after a temple unto the goddess deane. In which jason and Medea saw e●he o●her first and acqueynted them as it shallbe said here after & declared more a long in his place  
AFter the foundation of this altar when the sacrifice was done Apollo died do call the/ ij/ knights zechyus and zethephius & also loth with the people that he had brought/ and demanded them what they would do & what was their entencion/ And thenne they answered as with one voice/ Certes▪ our entencion & will is to abide here & live & die/ we desire new to depart/ for this shall be the sepulture of all us & of our heirs unto th'end of the world/ the honey that here haboundeth shallbe our meet. & we shall labour and culty●e the earth with good vines/ we shall inhabit with people the low montaignes & the territoires/ and thus we shall live in high felicity if it be your plaisir. If it be my pleasure answered Apollo/ if it had not be only for to have distributed this so noble a land/ know ye for certain that I had not abandoned myself to the tempests & perils of of the see/ ne to the great orages and tourbillons of the impetuous windes·s it pleaseth me right weal that this noble country be your habitation/ but sin your entencion is such/ it is above all things necessary greatly for you and for your weal and recomendation/ that ye rendre and do your pain to edeffye a cite and that ye close it with walls tours & yates to th'end that none may come run upon you pill. rob ne travail you in other manner. and after it behoveth for to comynyque together by good policy in such fashion that the hardy and puissant of body and ●orage/ habylle them with arms for to resist thenterpryses of your enemies if any come for to grieve you/ the sage and wisemen shall induce and teach the rude people and hard of intendment The power shall be holden and bound to labour each man after hi● degree & calling/ And the most subtle shall devise thing ꝓpices for you as towers harnois & other habyllement serving to keep you in time of doubt/ And with this they shall ordain solemn edifices & houses for the cite in the place thereto most propice & covenable  
When the pyriens had understand Apollo/ all they answered freely that they would accomplish to their power all that he would counceyle them/ and that he should be their father. & they his children. Thenne they chose a place covenable to build their cite/ and tarried not long after but that they began to build & house a long by the see side in such wise that by space of time they founded & builded a Right noble cite & closed with walls dichis & yates/ Apollo named this cite jacoynte/ the pyriens edified in the mids thereof a moche sumptuous palace. And on that other side zechius zethephius & loath made also many houses/ & by space of time their generation multeplied greatly & marvelously. whereof Apollo thanked the god Mars & died to him sacrifice. This don he assembled on a day all the people & said to h●m in this manner tofore hem all  
people of god Mars when I considere the weal and the valour of your habitation ye been much holden to the goddes·s wherefore I pray you from hens forward that ye serve him with good heart. And after that I pray you that ye nourish peace & concord together/ And that ye kep● you from all division & rancour. & I pray you to banish from your courages pride/ hate covetise gloutonye & all other vices. & consequently I conceyle you that at this time ye constitute upon you judges the two virtuous knights zechius and zethephyus and that ye to them obey souerai●ly/ & if ye do the●e things certainly all goods shall 〈◊〉 in yow· And if ye do not I declare to you for truth 〈◊〉 in short time in this city shall not abide board ner how● standing ner one stone upon an other. Apollo had not so soon finysshid these words but that all they th●re standing opened her mouths & cried with an high voice saying Truly Apollo thou art the god of sapience as long as we live we will have none other judge but the/ And to the we shall submit us & all our affayres·s And desiring thine holy sacrifices/ manners/ and honest doctrines to ens●ewe to our powers. we will that thou be our pastor or herdman/ and we shall be thy sheep  
When Apollo had understand this that said is he answered to hem and said. Certes fair lords it appertaineth not to me to receive the great honour that ye all offreand present to me. ye know how that zechi●s and zethephyus been of your nacion·s And I am here alone and a stranger. it is among you evident and notoyre. that ye shall not take in patience my corre●●ion as ye should do of zechyus and zethephyus. And for so much I pray you that with so great charge & burden ye leye not on my back. for it is none need. and for to say the verity zechius and zethephyus been two wise knights well attempered and propice to exercise those dygny●●s. And therefore ye ●ught to receive thein· for certes ye been holden so to do and thenne your we'll shall follow & be evident. & ye so doing peace and love shall be ●oted in you. And there shall be no man that shall be so ha●dy to conspire any Rumour. Rancour/ Rebellion/ ne machine any trouble in no 〈◊〉 of the world. And saying these words all the 〈…〉 to murmur. And zechius and his fellow ze●●●phyu● hearing this parliament together with loth & some o●her principals then there that herd. considered the people would in no wise break their opinion/ concluded to make an answer such as followeth. which loth pronounced and ●●yde in this manere  
Apollo in no wise put no doubt in this work for so moche as thou art among us of unknown generation. Thy sapience and wisdom is more playsaunte to the people. that the naissaunce or birth▪ of zechyus & of zethephius. Thou art the right mirror of our doctrine. the patron of our policie· the right oustyll that polisshith and enlumyneth us & our rude ingenyes. Certes the two good knights zechius & zethephius thank the of the right great honour that thou dost to them/ And they being adjoined with the people will. that thou have upon us and the city sovereign signory. and therefore will thou no more se●●e ways so contrepeysed/ but employ thy courage after the taste of our desires. for it is ordained & concluded. that thou shalt be our king. And for to support the shallbe commised zechius & zethephius thy lieutenants/ the which by thy introduction shall have the charge & thought under the of the comyn business & small things. of which they shall have the knowledge for to determine  
INcontinent as loth had finisshid his ꝓposition/ at th'instance of all the people Apollo accorded in all thing unto their will. And thenne forthwith two of the  
INcontinent when Apollo apperceived & understood these thinges·s & among all other he beheld him that was thus come & had put him in the see. Certes he was sore abashed. but for to know all the tidings/ he made to row ner him· & found that the water where he wa● in. boilled by great heat all about his body/ The pour fellow incontinent that he knew the king Apollo his lord/ began passing pietously to escry upon him weeping & saying. Ha' A sire Apollo if it be possible to the/ help & deliver me from this mortal daunger· When Apollo saw the power fellow in such desolation the tears fill down from 〈◊〉 eyen. & f●r asmuch as the water boilled so about him he had great pite/ & demanded of him what ailed him so to cry & weep And from whence that water came that so boilled about him. & asked sin where was zec●●us. Alas answered t●e pour fellow which labourid living there to the death in a dolour & payn● inestymab●●. Pray ye sire for zechius & for his fellows. for I have seen all▪ one after another die in a mortal distress and so anguiss●ously. that uneath that is creature living that could veraily account and tell it to you  
When Apollo he●de speak of the death of zechius and his fellows he was so sorrowful that he witted not what to do/ but answered to the pour fellow and said by great admiration. how may that be fair sire/ for I saw right now zechius and all his fellows that were with him when they took land in colchos in descending from the ship/ Alas dear sire answered thenne the fellow/ Hyt is well Reason that I recount & tell you the trouth & verity of the manner of this cruel adventure. Certes sire it is very trouth that incontinent that zechius & we other entered into the isle/ we apperceived from far in a passing fair meadow a living best feeding all of fyn gold. And was as great as an horse of the fashion & form of a sheep or mutton. Thenne we concluded together with one will/ that we would have taken him/ & thenne we went forth & supposed to have taken it by force or other wise. And for to so do we marched the derward to our evil health/ for anon after & right suddenly sprang out of a temple the most fair and the most rich that I ever saw/ a much marvelous dragon and fearful with three tong●s casting fire and flame wi●h smoke out of his throte· & forthwith incontinent sprang also out of hooles in the earth two moche horrible booles having legs & feet all of copper/ their horns were great and sharp. their eyen greater & more reed then boylling copper or metal/ the which three beasts so dreadful disgorged & cast out fire of their throats & venom upon us in such fashion. that zechius & all the other died there in such pain & dolour that was never like thereto recorded· and of us xxx fellows there is none escaped except myself which was last and ferthest behind/ for when I apperceived the mischief so great I put me to flight/ but I could not so fast flee/ but that the terrible dragon cast upon me a gobbet of the most detestable infection that ever was/ the which doth me so much pain & mischief and holds me in such a brenning in all my body that I must needs take by dolourouse death the end of this world. wherefore I require you that ye go nooner Colchos  
without number floated here and there in the see. & thus by this way they were all lost and spent. of the whiche-aventure all they that were then at the port beholding were sore esbayed and not without cause/ for never tofore was seen so marvelous a tempest/ & thought well that it went not well. and said that one to that other that their gods were angry with them when such tempest came to them there to their great damage and prejudice   

¶ How the knight zethephius conspired against Apollo the king and how they had battle together  
AFter this evil adventure the king Apollo & they that were with him returned unto the palace inclining their heeds adown & showing that annoy had enterprised them when they were come to the palace all they bewayl●d zechius/ & during this sorrow/ the wife of zechius named Mena came thither for to here tidings of her husband. & it was said to her that he was left deed in the isle of colchos/ wherefore she demeaned so marvelous sorrow that she fill to the earth all in a spasme & a swoune/ & after came to herself/ & thenne she rend of her a tire and drew her h●●r out of her heed by moche aspre anger & sorrow/ in such a fashion t●at forthwith she was delivered of a child which she had ꝯceyvid of her lord & husband/ the which died assoon as it was born/ for it had not his full time/ for the death of which child the anger & sorrow was much the more· Apollo then weening to comfort her/ died all that he could/ but it halpe no● ner profited no thing/ & made her to be brought into his house for the better to make her weepings & lamentations at her will And there was none that might comfort her. The women The king. & friends of them that were deed with zechius semblably made great sorrow. during which sorrow. Apollo visited oft times Mena/ & found that she had continuelly the tears in her eyen/ how well she was a moche fair lady/ By haunting from day to day Apollo knew the great & good love that she had to her husband. & that in no manner might forget him began to wax amorous of the lady in so much that he required her to be his wife/ And she agreed and accorded thereto in such wise that the one espoused that other And engendered on her a daughter/ the which was borne in good term & was named fanoles  
Among all other things zethephius began to have envy upon the king Apollo for asmuch as his glory encresid daily/ & more & more. This miserable envy encresid in his courage. & him seemed that if of Apollo & of mena cam a son. that soon should succeed to the royalme after apollo/ for which cause he employed himself with all his power to complaire & please a party of the citezeyns. & when he felt him in their grace/ he assembled hem on a day in his house and said to them in this manner. My brethren and good friends ye know well that I am of your lineage And that all my life I have conused lovingly among you/ and in like wise mine auncetres with yours have had always entire alliance/ this considered my heart iugeth that ye own me good will and desire mine increases and honour And for so much as your power is right great in this cite· I pray and require you. if it so hap that Apollo go fro life to death that ye will have my son for recommended and that he may be king after him as ye know well that he is thereto worthy  
THe friends of zethephius hearing these words. all accorded with good heart to do for him all that they might. Thenne zethephius promised to them many great things in case they would make Feris his son king· & promised so much good that they conjured the death of the king Appollo· And in deed they made covenant that they should slay him if they found him at their advantage  
AFter this coniuroyson thenne that these miserable & perverse traytres were withdrawn into their houses They commoned with their neighbours of the death of the king appollo· & promised them great number ●f money if they might come & obtain their intent/ some there were covetous desiring their singular profit accorded unto this sedition/ but also some there were that in no wise would asente th●rto· but allowed the great p●eudhem̄ye & wisdom of Apollo. & showed well that they had him better in grace than zethephius Thus among them began to move & rise many rancours. discords & debats/ & this rumour rose in so high terms & so plainly/ that zethephyus & his complices cowertly murdered many of them that would not accord unto their trayson. & somo●● multeplied these outrageous sins/ that when some of the welwillars of the king Apollo saw their fellows murdrid/ they drew to the king Apollo & told to him the machination of zethephius/ & the outrageous sins that his fellows died. & required him moch that he would take heed & intend to their faith/ & to find such remedy to keep his life weal/ & honour & the profit of the comyn weal  
THe king Apollo was marvelously troubled & had great sorrow in his courage when he was adutised of these hard tidings/ how well he conduysed him right wisely/ for with all diligence he died take information of these things. & found that they had said to him the ve●●te & trouth. & that zethephius seduysed the people against him by tyranny all evident. & that continuelly he had in his house an. C. men of evil life/ the which comysed all the evil they could think upon them that they found not of their bende· the great trouble & displaisir of king Apollo doubled thenne when he knew for troth that it was true that he was adutised of. Notwithstanding he endured the malice of zethephius & his complices a certain space· but when he apperceived their adust/ and that fro day to day they a paired more thenne amended/ he sent to zehtephius/ that he should do justice on his servants & such as were culpable of the death the which tyrannysed in the cite. & if he would not/ he would seche remedy himself  
When zethephius understood the message of the king Apollo. He answered to him with a mounth full of felony/ that he was wise enough for to correct his servants. and that he would not do but at his plaisir/ And thenne the messenger came & reported this answer to king Apollo/ the which he heard. Apollo delibered in himself that he would suffer a little for to see how his enemies would maintain 'em/ during which time he held him well assured in his palais. but it was not long after but zethephius & his folk commised more outrages & cruelty thenne they died tofore/ in somoch that all the people rose & moved on a day And there were some that came under Apollo. And the other went to the traytres. the which assemblid in this manner by great pride that surmounted on them and sent to Apollo that he should prestly depart out of the palace and go his way out of the cyte· or else they would weal that he knew that they were his mortal enemyes·s Anon as Apollo had received this mandement he understood well that the thing was in evil term if he put not pain to subdue and put under these traytres by arms/ wherefore he called the people them that were of his party and said to them/ Fair sirs ye know well ynow· ye have me constituted king above you/ how well me thinketh zethephius would take from me this dignity. And ●f fayte he is declared mine enemy· what is to be done here to. They answered. Thou art our king· other king than the we will not have during ou●lyf/ and for so moche as every king is bound to keep & defend his people/ And semblably been all people bound to expose body & goods for their king Hit seemeth us expedient that without longer toryeng we aught to go & assail thine enemy & ours/ to th'end to punish him & his complices  
When Apollo had understand this that said is he accorded to the same lightly and put him anon to arms. And so died all they of his party. & assoon as they were all in point/ they went on the way toward the market place. & there comen the king sent one of his knights unto zethephius to signify to him that he should come to Apollo for to amend his mesfaytes of which he & his conplices were charged with/ thenne zethephius answered that he would go unto his enemy but that shallbe said with strength of men of arms so puissant and strong/ that it had been better for him that he had never set foot in this country. And say to him hardily that if he be well counseled that he & his welewillars be not founden to fore my strength/ but that they go so far that of them we here never after tidings/ Assoon as the knight had understand this that said is he returned unto his lord & recounted to him what he had exploited/ And zethephius without lengrr ●arieng marched forth acompanyed of his conplices all armed to the place where he supposed to find Apollo as he that was advertised of th'enterprise of the king. & went so ferforth that they found their adusaires the which were so esmeuved upon them/ that incontinent that they had espied each other. they escried them to the death. & ran upon each other armed one with an bassenet on the heed an other armed the body. one bearing a club. an other a sword evil fourbousshed/ & without other parliament holding they began a battle upon the market felonnous & hard marvelously. In casting terrible cries one & other as it had been thondre comen down from heaven. and with this all the women & little children of the cite cam running & cried weeping so right anguisshously that it was great pite to see 'em make their bewailinges & sorrow  
THus as ye may understand began the battle of the citizens the one against that other/ & in the coming to guider they smote each other cruelly without having regard safe only to slay each other. but the king Apollo fletheris & loath put 'em forth among their enemies so far in giving peasant strokes and terrible on the right side & on the lift side by such virtue that the place was anon died and wet with the blood of the malefactours·s and they died so knightly & chevaulerously/ & in especial Apollo. that there was no traitor but that he tremblid tofore hem/ And every man began to make place to the noble king. Thenne zethephius had such sorrow that he came and put him tofore the beard of the knight Fletheris & of loath And he had with him ten of his best fightars·s and such was their adventure that with one stroke the gentle knight Fletheris smote down zethephius to the earth among the deed bodies and took him· And in this he●te Apollo & loath fought so sore with the other and so eygrely that they slew the most part. And it was not long after that the traitors knew that their capitoyne was sore hurt & taken. wherefore they turned there back and put them in flight in all parties a long by the rive of the cite and so sparklid abroad   

¶ How the king Apollo gaf to his daughter the ●●ll● & manner for to conquer the mutton or sheep of gold· which came after to Medea  
When the gentle king Apollo saw that his morta●● enemy was holden and that his complices put them to flight incontinent cessed the battle. and returned to his palace with great glory. And each man cried. health be given to the king Apollo. Many of the principal of the people came thenne to fore the king & would there ●aue slain the untrue zethephyus. But zethephyu● Required them humbly mercy & confessed his great fault And therewith came there his wife that kneeled to the earth tofore the nobles & the people and required them of grace for her husband so humbly that the king had pity of her. & saved zethephius life. But that same day he accused all them that had commised the great evil· of whom the king Apollo died do justice· And after this gave to Fletheris the office of zethephius/ And from this day forthward the city was nourisshid in peace the space of many years to the loving & praising of Apollo  
ZEth●phius dismissed of his office as said is attemprid his courage and governed him so well and discretely that he recowrid the love and good grace of the king. ye in such wise that by the move of Mena/ the king Apollo gaf in marriage his daughter Phavoles unto the son of zethephius named Pheris. This Pheris was a wise young man. prudent. discrete. attemprid and moche loved the gods. all virtues & good justice. when they had conversed with him a certain space/ he considered two things. the preudomye & wisdom of Pheris was that one And that other was that he would return in to grece. he constituted in this royalme Pheris king. And the people confirmed him· And it was not long after that mena departed fro the life by death. whereof apollo made marvelous sorrow. And thenne when he had long wept the death of his wife. and felt his end to approach he called on an tuyn his daughter Phavoles and said to her. My dear daughter I take leave of the· for I must secretly depart from this country. and alone return into Grece where I was born how well first ere I depart I late the Queen of this isle/ whereof I have in mine heart great joy. And for as much as I know thy wit thy discretion and thy vertues·s I shall deliver to the. the bill that the god Mars hath written containing all the manner how me shall do for to conquer the noble mutton or sheep of gold in the isle of colchiss. and for to destroy all the terrible beasts that been in the same yle· And I command that to no man living ne to no creature of the world thou show it not But if it be in th'end of thy life unto a daughter that shall come of the. unto whom thou shalt make her swear that semblably she shall not show it to no person safe only to her daughter. And so from daughter to daughter Hyt pleaseth the god Mars that this bill be kept upon pain of death unto the time that out ●f Grece shall come a knight in to this palace that shall be worthy to see it And shall conquer the noble mutton or sheep of gold  
With these words the king delivered the bill to his dear daughter/ the which contained in substance the terms that follow. If thou love thy life & wilt adventure thyself for to conquer the mutton or sheep of gold. it is of pure necessity that thou have the habyts that apollo was clad with all at the our that this bill was delivered to him/ After it behoveth that thou have his armours and that thou were his gown above them. And of the other clotheses thou make sacrifice unto the god Mars/ and put there with a bull whereof thou shalt keep the blood/ After this thou shalt take the powldre of the sacrifice and pu●te it in three parties. that is to weet one· with the blood of the bull/ And this myxtion shall have such virtue▪ that if thy body be anointed therewith the fire ne the venom of the dragon and of the two marvelous booles that keep the mutton may not noye the/ Unto the regard of the second part of this powder thou shalt meddle it with glue And with this glue thou shalt anoint the mosels of these two marvelous booles·s to whom thou mayst thenne seurely approach notwithstanding that they cast fire against the dismesurably/ But when their mosels been englued they may then cast no more fire ne venom/ Thenne thou shalt go to the dragon/ whom thou must slay by thy strength and by thy hardiness. And thenne when thou shall have slain him thou shalt return to the two marvelous booles/ and hide their eyen· And thou shalt yoke 'em and make 'em to turn four rod of land. the which thou shalt sow with the tooths of the dragon that then is dead. And after thou shalt make them to harowe it/ And then suddenly shall grow of this earth many giants armed/ which shall arise against the. And when it shall comen to smyting/ caste upon them the th'earth part of the powder And anon they shall fight to gyder· and each of them shall slay that other. And thenne when thou shalt have don● all this that said is·s thenne thou mayst take the noble mutton or sheep of gold and conquer it/ And then thou shalt flee him. & with the body reserved the uliese of gold thou shalt make sacrifice to the god Mars kneeling and humylieng thyself tofore him thou shalt say this oroyson that followeth  
MArs my god that by the sufferance of the God of nature hast puissance for to change the nature of bestes·s And that by thy proper virtue conduytest all battles and bringest them to thy playsire. I thank the wyth all my heart of that thou hast made me to doo· And pray the humbly that thou receive my sacrifice in gree. And that thou wilt conduit me with mine honour and bring me unto my country/ And thus when thou hast finisshid thy prayer/ thou mayst return with glory in to thy country and be seized with the noble fleece of gold  
MY dear daughter said thenne Apollo lo here the writing that I have spoken of/ And after that lo here mine habits that be requisite for to obtain the conquest of the sheep of gold/ And mine armours been in the temple of god Ma●s/ and there shall abide unto the time that this noble conquest shall be done. And therefore keep them well and soyngneusly that no danger come to you/ and that I charge the by the commandment of the gods/ And I pray you for all the pleasure that ye may do to me that no person be advertised of my departing. Thenne Phanoles promised & swore to her father that she should do to her power all that he had required her and charged her with. And thenne they took leave each of other weeping right tenderly. And sin went Phanoles with the king Pherix For it was night and the good king Apollo abode in his chamber unto on the morn early. & thenne departed all alone & entered into a little boot all ꝓpice which he had do make thenne he recommended him in the guard & keeping of the gods And thenne a wind smote on the ship that brought him upon the deep see. and ye shall understand. that the same day the king Pherix was well advertised that his father in law was gone & departed/ he began to demene and make a marvelous sorrow. & so died all the peple· but when they saw that they could not have him again ner recouure him They commanded him to the guard of the god mars. Thenne the king Pherix began to have the governance of the royalme/ & conduysed it in such wise that in short time he gate the love of all the people & of the nobles of the royalme  
THe king Pherix thenne after the departing of the old king Apollo had of his wife Phavoles a daughter named Ortis. This daughter came to age & was married unto a noble man of grece named Oetes/ the which by fortune of the see was brought into this country in the time that the king Pherix was in his old & ancient days/ the ladies of Sychye came thenne into this march. & well supposed to have gotten & taken this city of jacoynte by assault But the inhabitants of the cite bore hem so strongly that this multitude of women were constrained to cease of their enterprise. whereof they had great sorrow & assieged the city And during their siege they made the temple of the goddess deane· of whom is spoken tofore· this temple is like to an other that they made in Ephese  
During their siege Oethes which was strong and chevalerous and much vayllyant in Arms and of great conduyte· scarmusshed wyth 'em many times to his honour. And did so moche· that when the Ladies had performed their temple. & that they considered that the cite was inprenable by assault/ & also that the citezeyns came not out against them in battle. wherefore they lost their time/ they raised their siege & returned unto the see. of whom some other there were that went unto the isle of colchos. but they that so adventured them returned new again. after the departing of this assemble of ladies/ the king Pherix gave his daughter to Oetes·s & made them to wed that one to that other in the temple of diane which was marvelous rich/ Thenne anon after pherix & phanoles deyde/ & Oetes was the third king of this isle by the assent of all the people/ This king Oetes found a mine of gold/ whereof he died do make vaissell & other utensilles necessary & ꝓpice unto his household. this was the most rich king of all the world in that tyme. he died do make an ydole all of fyn gold representing the god Mars. & another repnsenting the god's deane the which were in a wooed ede●fied of gold wherein he had all manner of wild beasts. After he died do make a fair garden of plaisance/ in which he founded a temple unto the goddess venus unto whom he died do make a rich image which was all of fyn gold And about the same were fifty men & as many women that desired & required each other of love. & they were made with so amerous maners· that all they that beheld them/ were lightly & soon moved to luxure/ Hit is not to be unremembered that among all these things the said king Oethes▪ had a daughter by his wife ortis/ This daughter grew & was named Medea. & became passing beautevoꝰ & fair. yet he had another daughter by his wife & a son. the daughter was named Calliope and the son was named abserthius At the burthe of this Abserthius the queen Ortis was so seek that she laid her down in her mortal bed. and called to her/ her daughter Medea. and delivered to her all the things that the king Apollo had delivered to his daughter Phavoles touching the fayte of the conquest of the golden flyese/ And also taught her many enchantements· & with this she gave to her a Ring of gold wherein was a stone of such virtue that it should make them invisible that bore it/ And this done she passed out of this world wherefore Oetes/ Medea/ & Caliopes demeaned marvelous great sorrow/ And there I will rest of this sorrow & shall recount what was the end of the king Apollo   

¶ How the king Apollo arrived at the port of Sta/ rille. And how he departed secretly fro the king Serath and arrived at the isle of Colchos & of his death and how the king Serath confessed Apollo to be a god  
When the king Apollo was alone on the see as said is·s he abandoned him unto the fortune of the winds & of the waters confyeng and trusting in the grace of the gods. And his fortune was such. that he arrived at the port of Starille a cite of the royalme of Pyre And there fond that the king Philitenus lay there passing seek/ And thenne went to him· and after the Reverences made. recounted to him fro point the point all that was befallen to him & his people/ how that they had fond the isle that the gods had promised to him. and how they had made the cite/ & how they had made him king & how zechyus & his fellows deyde in the isle of colchos/ how zethephius had conspired against him. how he had made his son pherix king And how he was departed thence alone. The king Philitenus had much marvel of these things. And made great cheer to Apollo after his power·s but anon after he died & after him succeeded in his royalme a son that he had which was named Serath/ Thenne when Apollo saw that Serath was obeyed king of Pyrre/ he cam to him on a day to take leave for to return into his country. but Serath would not that he should depart/ And required him Instantly that he would use the remnant of his life with him. Apollo excused him and took leave yet ones. but in no wise serath would accord thereto. And when Apoollo saw this & felt that he might not long live/ he departed thence on an even so secretly that no man knew till on the morn. and thenne on the morn they knew it by the report of one of his knights/ which certified him that he had met & recountered him in a place that he named  
incontinent that the king Serath understood these tidings. he was sore troubled/ for he loved parfaitly Apollo/ And forthwith he took his horse and in entencion to bring him again/ he road after him acompany●d of two good knights of his court/ but he could never outake him till that he was come into the isle of colchos where he found him passing seek and labouring in the extreme draughts of death. The annoy of king Serath redoubled when he saw and found Apollo in this estate and wept Thenne the king Apollo defended him that he should go no ferther into the isle of Colchos for to conquer the mutton or sheep of gold. And sin recommended him to the Gods And that done expired his life. for which death the king Serath & his knights were terribly sory· And concluded that they would bear the body into their country/ & make for him a fair and rich sepulture/ and thenne they garnished the body with great foison of candles for to wake that night/ but when it was about midnight & that all the lumynaire brende about the body of Appollo· all went out & quenchid suddenly/ And thenne must the king Serath & his knights wake the remnant of the night without any light or clearness whereof they had great meruaile· And on the morn when the day appeared it happened that they found not the body of king Apollo. but in the place where they had left it the day to fore/ they found an altar of crystal passing c●ere/vpo● which was an image of fyn gold so quickly made after the fashion of Apollo. that it seemed properly his person. wherefore the king Serath seeing this My●racle kneeled down on both his knees to the earth to fore him & worshipped it/ And thenne he heard a voice that said to him. Serath seek not Apollo but among the gods/ he hath prayed for the & for all them that shall come to this sepulchre/ and therefore know thou that thou shalt have good fortune. and all they that shall come hither by good devotion shall have answer of things that they shall demand/ & here with the voice made silence. and the king Serath confessed thenne openly that without error Apollo was a god· after these things he died do make in the honour of him a temple in signefieng all that he had seen & herd to been true/ & fro thenne forthon the greeks were accustomed to come to this temple fro far country to worship him & diligently demand & inquire of their destinees·s And among all other Peleus went thither as said is. And thus endeth the history of Apollo and his faytes. And now I will return for to speak of the faytes and vaillyaunces of the noble & prew jason/ for that is our principal matter   

¶ How the king Oetes received jason into his cite. & how Medea loved jason & brought him to the temple of venus'/ & how the old woman enchanted the bed of jason  
When jason was departed from Lennos. And that he had sacred his ship unto the goddess Pallas & to the goddess of the see/ he failed by many journeys from one coost to an other/ that in the end Argos ruled so his course by the son that on a day he arrived in the isle that he had desired to find by a great storm & impetuous fortune that by force were constrained for to take the regorte or gulf where as the isle of colchos was by/ it was not long after that when argoes had brought his ship in this gulf or arm of the see/ that the son went down/ & thenne as argoes thought where he might best cast anchor & make his ship fast/ it happened that he saw tofore him the cite of jacoynte· & on that one side of the isle of colchos there sprang out suddenly tourbillons of fire so terrible that of fear that he had in beholding it he began to cry. When jason/ hercules/ and Theseus & the other kniyhtes of Grece herd the master thus cry. they sprang up & came to him/ and the master told them the cause of his cry. & sin showed to hem the cite & the isle. & asseured 'em how they were comen to th'end of their vyage· and of this matter they devised so long that speaking thereof their ship came to the port into the proper place where the ark of king Apollo was comen at that time when they came first into the land. Thenne the master of the ship cast his anchors into the see. Thenne jason rendered loving & praising unto the gods. & so died hercules. Thenne they sent theseus unto the king Oetes for to signify to him their coming/ & for tenquere if this was the country that they sought/ Certes theseus went & died his message in such wise. that the king Oetes presented to him his palace and scent unto the noble jason four of his knights that required him on the kings behalf that he would take his herberow in his palais/ & he was to him right welcome· And when jason had understand the will of the king by the faure knights/ he promised them that with a good will he would come theder· and thenne he entered into the cite which was no●le and fayr· & how well it was night at that tyme. yet was the cite as light as it had been day by the clarte & resplendour of torches·s cresettes & other fires·s that the king had do make in the cite right notably acompanyed for to feast these greeks  
YOU may well understand that the right noble jason entered into this cite acompanyed of Hercules and his fellows that were right rich clad and habilled wi●h̄ cloth of gold and of silk/ The street by which they passed for to go to the palace was on two renges high & low peupled of ladies of damoisels/ of knights bourgeys marchanns maidens & young people beholding their coming & ordinance/ And when jason was comen unto thentre● of the palace he fond there the noble king Oetes/ which was set in estate royal for to feast jason and his companye· And received jason right honourably as chief of them all. And thenne when he had welcomed them. he took him by the hand and led him unto his palace And anon as they went upon the steyres for to go up jason looked into a window And beholding he espied the fair Medea among many ladies. to whom he took none other heed as for this tyme. but it was not so on her part For she began to behold him so affectuously for his great beauty. that he was more in her grace than I can tell you ¶ For tabregge the matter jason & all his company passed forth by this window where Medea was & came into an hall where the tables were covered/ And thenne whiles they made ready the souper the king Oetes began to demand the gentle knight jason & after many words he began to say to him in this manner  
IAson fair sire I know for trouth that ye be so●e of king Aeson like as theseus your fellow hath said to me. But I know not whither ye intend to go/ ne what thing ye seek/ wherefore I pray you by manner of a pass time that ye will a litil recount to me of your estate & enterprise if it be possible that ye so do may in any manner And I promise you that if I may be propice in any fashion for the love of your father. whom I have some time known I shall deliver to you aid and comfort in all that in me shall be possible/ Sire answered thenne jason I thank you humbly of the great honour that ye present to me. & sin it must needs be that once ye must know the cause wherefore I am descended into your country/ I declare to you that I have enterprised for to go into the isle of colchos notwythstonding the perils which been moche to doubt and not with out cause/ And with this I have made avow that I shall never return into Grece unto the time that I have conquered and shall bring with me the sheep o● fleece of gold/ And if I may not make an end of this enterprise hercules my fellow shall adventure him/ wherefore I require you that of this enterprise ye will conceylle me to your power/ Certes jason said thenne the king ye have made a litil vow. How sire said jason how so·s for asmuch answered the king as by any adventure or fortune ye entre into this isle of colchos/ it is not possible that ye ever return hither again/ for there be in that isle two great and marvelous bulls ●●●enymed commised to the keeping of the mutton or flees of gold. whereof ye spack. Also th●r is commised for the guard of the same the most terrible and the most crymynel dragon that ever was spoken of or seen The which three beasts cast continuelly fire and venom out of their throats. which shall slay you without remedy incontinent that ye approach them/ the which things considered sin that ye have demanded me conceyle. & also that every noble man is bound to g●ue conceyle to them that been evil informed & conceyled· I pray you & conceyle as my proper soon that ye cease of this your enterprise/ for if ye do other wise all the gold of the world may not save you. & there fore think well what ye have to do before ye put you in such a danger I conceyle you as thaugh ye were mine own son or my brother german/ & herewith they left their words  
THe supper was ready. wyth these words the king sat at the table between jason and Hercules and sent after Medea and Calliope. which were set tofore him/ this done he commanded the other greeks to sit at an other table where they were richly served. But when it came for to eat the noble maid Medea entrowbled at that time her maintain/ and cast her regard upon jason where she rested longer thenne it appertained to her countenance. for jason seemed to her more fair that he was at the first time· & he was so pleasant & agreeable/ that when she heard recount among other devices & things that he was comen for to conquer the mutton or flees of gold/ she judged that this was the knight of grece which was destined for to conquer it & said in herself that she would help him to obtain the same/ with that he would take her to his wife/ such or semblable were the thoughts of the fair medea at souper She beheld oft times jason when she saw her time/ & it annoyed her moche that she might not speak to him privily ¶ what shall I say more/ for when the king & the greeks had right well take their refection the tables were take up/ & after the greeks were brought into divers chambers/ & among all other jason was lodged nigh by the fair medea/ for there was no more between but a little aleye from her chamber to his by which jason went afterward oft times unto medea  
When then jason was withdrawn into his chamber And that he was alone with Mopsius he began to devise with him and said. Mopsius fair sire ● what say ye of mine enterprise of Colchos. By my law sire said Mopsius. I see no way ne know none other thing ●ut matere of dolour & sorrow. for every man ●f this house jugeth you dead if ye go in this perilous isle of colchos where there been so dreadful & terrible beasts as it hath been said to you/ notwithstanding answered jason it behoveth that I acquit mine avow. Certes sire said Mopsius it is now no need for to go any further if it please you & be well conceyled ye aught to be content without going any ferther· for as it is said communly. it is better to leave folly. thenne to maintain folly. Ha' a Mopsius said jason. if I do not my power to perform that I have promised & avowed/ I should use all my life after in reproach. certes yet had I leu finiss●e my days honourably/ & know ye verily that sin I am come thus far abiding the grace of the gods I shall perform mine enterprise & shall abide the adventure/ Sire said mopsius ye shall do that ye good seme· but ye understand not well your case/ for know ye that it is all certain that peleus your uncle hath sent you hither cautelously for to enterprise & achieve this adventure to th'end that he might obtain your royalme. & therefore ye may return from hens in to great without more further enterprise/ ye shall ge●e thereby no reproach/ but ye shallbe holden for wise/ for he is discrete that can i'll from his mysauenture & keep him from damage  
IN verity Mopsius fair sire answered thenne jason. I ne may not adiouste fayth to all that ye have to m● now said/ And for so moche know ye for certain that for peril of death or danger that may befall & come to me/ I shall not depart me but that I shall furnissh mine avow. & therefore if it so hap that I die in this perilous isle I require you to recomande me unto the good grace of the fair Mirro When Mopsius had understand that said is/ he began fore to weep. And jason laid him down in his bed/ and sin changed purposes. and began to devise of the good chiere that the king Oethes and Medea had made to him In recomanding above all other things the great beauty and the fair countenance of Medea· And in continuing this purposes he fill a sleep  
THe fair Medea was at this time at the door of the chamber of jason & heard all the devices of jason & of Mopsius. as she that was esprised of the love of the gentle prince of Grece· that in no wise she might vaynquiss●e her courage. And also long as their devices dured. so long stood she at the door hearkening·· And when they ●●ssed their purposes she retourn●d into her chamber/ where was but one ancient lady her gardyene or mistress which was though a sleep. And thenne the noble maid Medea went and laid her in her bed full of thoughts & imaginations/ that when she would have slept she could not For as much as so many thoughts & imaginations assailed her on all parties by such fashion/ that she turned her often in yielding many a sigh. And thenne by force of a marvelous enbrasing of love she began to say softly to herself/ Alas mine eyen in what labour have ye ●ūcre me. Certes ye be the cause and none other that I am not she that was wont to be. For ye have enuoluped mine heart with an ardant fire of amorous desire. Ha'/ a what shall befall or what shall I mow do being in this pain and sorrow. Certes I can say no more but of verray necessity I yield me all in the subjection and servitude of love· in his servitude shall I be subject it is force. And wherefore For as much as I am smitten to the heart with the great beauty of jason the bruit of all the world. And to my judgement the glory of Grece. O marvelous dart wherewith I feel me smitten to the heart. Certes mine eyen ye been the cause which displeseth me. And for what reason. for as much as ye be coulpable of this folly. how be it· it is no folly/ it is. I believe it not. it must be believed. for it is great folly to desire thing that can not be goten/ I know verily that jason is sore enamoured of a lady in his country. And furthermore his courage is garnished of a great and marvelous constaunce· Thenne may it be said that I may not enjoy him/ And by consequent I may conclude that mine eyen have inclined & submised me unto an over great folly  
HA. a mine eyen why reply not ye to this argument See not ye that I do no thing but think. for the gentle & noble jason thenketh no more on me/ thenne on her that he never saw. Ha'/ a in what jeopardy stand I in. For I may not require jason of love/ for that should redound in me great blame/ & I should go again the honour of love/ And thenne must it needs be that I believe in all my folly. And also I must doubt it for two reasons. The first is. for I should be defamed unto the end of the world ●f it happened me to require this knight of love/ And the s●conde reason is all evident. for jason without contradiction goth into the isle of colchos· there where he shallbe anon devoured of the terrible beasts/ Ha'/ a what sorrow & damage shall that be if such a prince should perish by such manner for he is the chosen of all nature/ the choice of nobles. & the flower of worship/ I have heard his reasons. he had liefer die honourably in accomplisshing his avow thenne to Return with rest to grece. A ha' what noble & excellent corage· O how happy & ewrous should I be & nigh to great felicity if I might be called by him unto his love/ that might he do You as me thinketh/ and how. for to teach & learn him the Industry & admynistre to him the manner for to conquer the noble flees of gold. I have all things ꝓpices for to bring this conquest to an end. if I witted that he would take me to his wife I should deliver them to him with the better will & 'gree of mine heart/ what shall I do. Alas I wot new/ And if I died him this advancement/ & after set naught by me for the love of his first lady in amours To whom he recommended him by Mopsius as I right now heard/ certes I should die for sorrow. & shall I to him adventure to furnissh his avowe· & thenne death shall follow. Alas nay. for if he died there· my death were me right nigh. for asmuch thenne as I love him better thenne my life/ & my heart iugeth that this is he for whom the gods have established this marvelous adventure in the isle of colchos· And furthermore me seemeth that if I do for him so great a thing as for to save his lyf· & that by my moyen he shall come to above of his enterprise honourably. that for the merit & reward of my benefice he shallbe content and joyous to take me to his wife  
MEdea the noble lady with this conclusion fill a sleep & passed the night till the day cam/ & the king rose up more early thenne he was wont to do for to come to jason weening to let and break his enterprise/ how well he went unto him when he knew that he was risen. And fond Hercules with him. They entresalewed each other. After they began to devise of the isle of Colchos. And the king rehearsed of them that had been in Colchos. and how they had been slain & devoured/ And after this counseled Hercules & jason that they should in no wise go thither/ but what remonstrance he showed hem/ jason abood in his purposes for to take th'aduenture and to put his body in jeopardy among the three terrible & crymynel beasts/ & concluded that he would depart thitherward with in four days following/ When the good king apperceived that there was none other remedy/ but that jason was verily delibered & concluded taccomplisshe his avow upon the right marvelous adventure of Colchos/ he deported himself from speaking more thereof. and conceylled jason that for to pass his time he should go to the temple of the goddess Deane. which the ladies of Sychye had newly founded in a forest called Edee. jason thanked him moche of his good conseyl & said that he would go thither with good heart/ & thenne he disposed him to go thither & sent for all the greeks of his conpanye & took with him the representation of the noble goddess pallas which was in his ship/ aftre this he set forth his knights on the way/ & himself bearing the said representation went after with them/ hercules & theseus went beside the prew jason & had tofore hem trumpets/ claryons tabours & other instruments that made so joyous anoise & bruit that they of the cite had marvel. & some there were that followed them For among all other medea & her ●uster & other ladies and damoisels unto the nombrre of ·iij. C. followed & hasted 'em so sore/ that they were at the temple tofore the Greeks  
When jason was come to this temple medea came & met with him by the incitation & admonesshement of love & entresalewed each other curtoisly/ & there were many of the greeks that beheld medea in making their prayers Always jason that thought on nothing but on his devotions entered into the temple. & set the representation of the goddess pallas by & nigh the god's deane. & when he had so done he cast himself down on both his knees to fore the altar/ & there was so long in prayers & oroisons that the far medea was sore grieved and annoyed. for she desired sore to speak with him. as she that was not come thither only but for to speak with him. & was in all determined for to save to him his life in pnseruing him from the fire & venom that the three marvelous beasts cast & rendered  
AT the last jason arose from his prayers & came to the ladies. to whom he made reverence & principally to medea/ the which aroos against him. whom the ladies and damoisels beheld much ententifly/ after she took him by the hand & led him and showed him all the places of the temple. and among all other she showed him there the representation of the god mars weening for to speak to him of certain things the which she desired sore to know the troth But hercules and theseus & other of the greeks ladies and damoiseles followed so nigh that she witted not how thacomplisshe her intention. how well that she lad him long/ & when she saw that she might not have her intent there/ she said to hercules that she would bring them into the temple of venus Thenne the prew jason and Hercules thanked the noble lady of her courtoysye & departed from the temple of deane for to go to the temple of venus. but in going Medea began to sigh as she that had therte inflamed of a meruaillouse ardeur & brenning. & thenne when she could not hide that lay on her heart/ by force she entemed & began to open her matter in this wise saying/ Certes right noble knight I complain much your great beauty/ wherformadame answered jason/ for asmuch said she as I have understand that none may break ne torn you fro th'enterprise that ye have taken but that ye will adventure you in the conquest of the flees or sheep of gold/ which is a thing inpossible to any man living. & know ye for certain that if ye go thither ye shall new retorne· & for as much as ye be comen of so noble extraction of rial lineage/ & that it is so that evy like loves his semblable/ by this veray & naturel reason I complain you above all other/ me thinketh that ye be marvelously abused for to so will loose your lyf· certes I have not herd of a greater simpleness/ for naturrelly every creature fleeth the death & desireth to live/ it hath well been declared & adutised to you of the perils that been in this adventure and that for to bring to effect ye shall loose your life/ and yet always ye will not believe conceyll. Certes jason it is evil done. and ye do against nature when ye be cause of your death which every man aught to flee sovereignly  
When jason had understand this that said is/ he answered to the noble lady in this manner. Madam I have right well understand your words & reasons which been good & wholesome/ but ye count not that evy noble body aught sooner cheese the death thenne to ●o ne consent thing that should be against their honour/ it is well trouth· that in the presence of the greatest princes of grece/ I have avowed to bring to end this enterprise/ how well that it be marvelous and doubteuse. shall I thenne go against my word. Certes there ne is way ne moyen none but that I must needs furnish this adventure. or elliss that I be pointed with the finger a reproach & cowardice. & as a right recreate knight By all my gods I had liefer tabide this adventure. thenne fortune should predestyne me to do thing that I might in any manner be reprehended or reproached  
INcontinent as Medea understood the h●e will of jason she was much joyous/ neutheles she feigned to be dolente and sorrowful. and of fait s●e required hercules that he would show to him the great peril that he would put him in/ but hercules answered to her that he would rather counceyle jason to do it thenne to leave it. for if jason failed to furnish this emprise/ that he himself would take it on hand to bring it to end. Neutheles said thenne Medea if jason believed my council he should go no ferther/ And I shall say to him such reason a part. that me seemeth he shall believe me. And thenne she drew jason a part/ and when she saw that they were so far from the other that they might not understand what she said. she said to him in this wise In verity Right noble knight/ it behoveth that pity of a woman must be excused by your gentleness I have pite of you and of your great beauty. and certes nature hath inclined me thereto/ And trusting if I do any thing for you ye will know it. The hour i● come that it behoveth that I do appear to your eyen the secret not only of my herte· but also that same by the which ye shall obtain and come above to bring to end your marvelous enterprise to your great honour & recomendation by the help of the gods And for as much as if I declare to you by great love things that been high & great/ if ye will further know of them it is of necessity that ye swear to me to keep it secret above all other things of the world▪  
Madam answered thenne jason/ I am a power & true knight sent unto these monsters/ certes it hath pleased you to do me more honour thenne ever it shall lie in my power to deserve/ neutheles when your pietous heart will incline unto my poverty/ I swear to you by the names of all the gods that men worship/ that if ye declare to me any thing that as long as I shall live it shall not depart from my month/ By my law sir knight answered medea I have great confidence in your noblesse· wherefore I am resolewed for to discower to you the secret of the gods/ & after/ that lies on my heart/ which if it be not long on you/ it shall redound to your great honour & ꝓuffit/ Madame answered jason/ it shall not hold on me/ & if ye know any thing ꝓpice to my worship I me submit in all unto your right noble grace/ Ha' a noble knight said thenne medea/ I may no longer feign/ mine eyen have beholden your great beauty/ ye been all the desire of mine heart where there werketh love so ꝑfondly that I have great pity of you/ & in such wise that if ye will promise me to be my true husband/ & bring me into your country after your vow & enterprise brought to an end/ I shall promise you & also show how ye shall mow conquer the mutton or flees of gold without danger of your body & in such wise as ye shall return hole and safe to your glory & honour To the which no mortal man may come but if it be by a secret manner/ coming from the gods. The which not long sin was delivered to me by my mother/ wherefore I pray you that ye will have regard to mine offer abandoned and also to your health  
When jason had understand medea thus speak. he began to frown in himself & sighing with an heavy heart answered. Madame ye constrain me to be beholden more to you thenne to any creature living. & I can not conceive from whence this ewr cometh when I feel me thus fallen in your grace. & I would it pleased the gods that I were dign & worthy thereto/ & that I newly had made vow to lady in the world/ Certes fair sire said medea/ me seemeth that your heart hath attained the mercy of some lady. have ye insured & wedded her/ Madame answered jason I certify you nay. but I have sttte my love in her so ꝑfaitly that in no manner I may forget her/ & I have promised that I shall be hers all my life. Thenne said medea/ what some ever be there of/ it is of necessity that ye leave & put her in oubliance. & that ye intend to complayre me if ye will not receive the deth· f●r but if ye deport you fro your enterprise. wythoute mine aid there is no remedy/ And if I be cause of salvation of your lyf·s as to the regard of me/ I will enjoy you alone with out any other. My dear lady answered thenne jason the pour abandonned body is youris. for to honour & serve you in all that in me shallbe possible/ In good fayth fair sire jason. if ye will give yourself all to me/ I shall give myself to you in like wise  
IN verity jason answered my right dear lady ye do to me right great honour without deserving. Certes sire jason answered the lady love is cause of this we'll ●nd pite hath commanded me to do it. the which cause me to run in so great a shame as for to require you to be my lord. but it seemeth to pite that in favour that I desire to save your life/ ye aught to excuse me/ Madame answered jason I shall newly be so ewrous as to come justly unto the good grace of one so noble lady as ye be/ & would right well that it should mow be. but what shall become & shall mow say she that I have given myself to/ if ye forsake her not. on all parties said thenne medea. I may not help you to do your conquest ne save your lyf· and therefore cheese ye· for I am smitten to the heart with your love sin that I must say all If I should be cause of saving of your life/ & thenne happened an other should enjoy your person/ it should behove me to die for sorrow/ And therefore think ye what ye have to do and be ye advised. With these words jason & medea entered into the garden of plaisance/ in which was set the temple of venus'/ in such wise advironed & set about with flowers & with delicious works that it seemed a verray paradies terrestre/ Thenne Hercules and the other ladies & damoisels approached unto jason and Medea wherefore it behoved 'em to leave & cease their parliament/ & to behold the plaisance & the delights of that place of flowers & all the fashions of vines & trees highly conduyted by compass  
When the Greekish knights had seen & conceived the beauty of this place· they had thereof great marvel & were much esbayed & after they entered into the temple. & there made their orisons & sin beheld the composition & ordonaunces of the images that repnsented the amorous people all about the goddess venus. & when they had long seen & beholden all/ Medea took leave of jason & said that she would abide a little while there· And thenne jason departed fro the temple & returned with the greeks unto the palais. & the fair medea abode in the temple moche pensif & in great pain in so much that after the departing of the greeks she kneeled down humbly tofore the representation of venus & said in this manner/ Right sovereign goddess of lovers which holdest all the faites of nature in thy domination & seignourie I yield me unto thy good mercy/ Ha' a & where may I become for to have good conceyll/ I have required the noble knight jason of love or at jest I have revealed & shewed to him the secret of mine heart and of my thought/ and with that I have offered to say to him and declare th● secret of the gods/ have I done evil/ I wot new/ but at jest I apꝑceyve clearly that I have myself to him abandoned ● given/ Ha' a what shame is this/ ye verily and more if he daigneth̄ not to hear me/ but if I may do somoch that he accord unto my will/ this shallbe to me the most greatest glory that may come to any woman of a noble house/ ha' a right high gods conceyle me/ ensign & teach me/ put your help to this work to your ancell or handmaid/ it is now time or new  
AFter this orison abode there the fair Medea as all ravished. and was so long there till the lady ● that had her in guard cam to her and said that she tarried & made her prayers to long & that it was time to return to the palace Then̄● aroos medea from her comtemplation all esprised of love. as her visage showed it plainly. & returned homeward And when she was comen to the palais/ she found that the king abode her for to go to dinner. but she gaf the king to understand that she was not well disposed· & so the king set him at the table with jason/ the noble hercules & theseus and caliope the second daughter. and medea went unto her chamber & many ladies & damoisels followed her/ how well she made 'em all depart & go out of the chamber. & retained none with her reseruid the lady that had the conduit and charge of her· the which was right sore abashed of the maintain of medea· wherefore incontinent as all the women were withdrawn she came to her & said thus· My dear daughter I have great marvel from whence this malady is comen to you. In good faith answered medea fair moder· it needeth nothing to you to marvel. for there is no creature what that ever they be/ but that they must be subject to receive the maladies & sickness when they come· and when the gods & fortune will sand them/ your reason is good said thenne the lady/ but when the maladies been comen/ it behoveth to seche remedy assoon as is possible· & therefore tell ye to me your necessite· & where the sickness holds & greueth̄ you/ and I shall adutise the medicine or phisicien that he shall pou●ueye for remedy/ A ha' fair mother said Medea Late me in peace It must needs be that ye tell me answered the lady/ it is adventure said medea. wherefore said the lady For asmuch as mine infirmity is ou secret & for so much I dar not discove it/ A ha' my dear lady said she thenne/ I suppose that it been amourettis. that thus travail you and I am in doubt that the beauty & the noble virtues of jason been cause hereof/ for I see you all in other manners thenne ye were wont to be. And if it be so/ telle it to me hardily. for ye be the creature above all other of the world that I love best/ I have unto this time/ the best wise I could governed & nourisshid you. & for so much me seemeth that ye should hide no thing from me. & if ye be any thing smi/ ten with the dart of love. discover it unto me· that shallbe unto your heart great alegement. for every person amorous passeth his pain & grief lightly/ when she findeth to whom she may open her heart & devise clearly/ My far mother said thenne Medea I see well that it behoveth that ye know all mine affayre· certes verily I am amoureuse of jason. & so much that I should jeopardy my life for him· and in d●de I have required him that he take me to his wife/ ● I shall deliver to him the industry and teach him how he shall win the flees of gold & also adaunte the fearful beasts of the isle of Colchos  
When the lady had understand this that said is. she began to weep tenderly saying. Ha'/ a dear daughter what have ye done/ I am all dishonoured by you/ when ye go praying the strange knights of love. Ha'/ a what outrage Certes they shall mocque you/ and if it be known ye shall never be honoured ne called as ye tofore have been. Know ye fair mother answered thenne Medea/ that I have not done so ill as ye wene· and if I have required the noble knight jason of love it shallbe reputed to me virtue and not shame ne dishonour/ for pity hath constrained me so to do/ for as moche as it is in me to save his lyf· & to make him R etorne with glory and victory of his enterprise/ & for so moche know ye that thenne when I have seen so fair and so well adressid knight that his like shall not be seen in a. M. year/ I have had pite of him/ and above this love hath made me enterprise that I have required him considered many things/ and that he would newly have required me· and I have made to him a promise which I will hold and entretiene/ if he will ensure me that I shallbe his wife/ for I have here within/ by writing the manner how the gods will that the mutton or sheep of gold shallbe conquered. wherefore I require and pray you that ye conceyle me and help that by your cunning & conduit I might get and draw him to my love/ and that ye would do somuch for the love of me/ that he have no sovenance of any other lady in the world/ save only on me. for it is force that it so be or else he be deed and perished in the isle of colchos·s where he hath avowed to go & finish th'end of the right perilous adventure of the mutton or flees of gold/ And finably that in bewailing & beweping his death I be homicide of him and of myself  
THenne the lady seeing Medea to be in this point beheld & saw how she was of a marvelous and great courage. and yet she thought that there might come harm of if the maid acomplisshid not party of her desire. and sin brought to her remembrance· that she might bring jason to conquere the mutton or flees of gold/ and when she had put all these things in a balance and fiched in her engine she began to recomfort medea. and in deed promised her that she should so do. that without other moyen she should enjoy the love of jason/ and it was not long after but that she went to the bed of jason/ and there made certain coniurisouns & carectes. for she was all expert in all manners of enchantemens' & of sorceries. and when she had thus done she came again to Medea/ & said to her that she should no more doubt of any thing/ for from after the time that jason be laid & couched in his bed he should never love other woman but her· and so it befell/ for assoon as jason was laid in his bed at the even· all his courage & intendment were ravished in thinking on the great beauty of Medea in such fashion a● he might in no wise sleep  
MOpsius h●dde a custom to speak every night wyth jason. And th●n̄e jason would speak of the beauty of the noble Queen Myrro/ And oft times be spack so moche of h●r that he was we●y/ And thenne when this mopsius saw that in this night he made no mention of his lady he was all abashed & sa●d to him. verily jason I apperceive well that your esperite is traveled with new fantasies/ I have seen that ye have passed the mos● part of the night for tallow & praise the beauty of your lady in love the fair myrro/ & yet ye spoke of her the night precedent/ But in this night the rule faileth. Certes answered jason it is expedient that she be put with the sins in oubliance. for as for Myrro I recche never thaugh I never see ne meet with her/ But say to me freely what seemeth you of Medea. Is she not the passerowte of all the Ladies of the world· Is not she the triumph of all beaute· Is there any man in the world that could or might better wish for his recreation/ Answer to me/ Sir said mopsius I me accord right well to that ye say touching the case of Medea But unto the regard of the fair Mirro that so much have be recommended in your courage I may not believe that ye have put her in oubliance/ By my law my fair friend said thenne jason/ Who is fer fro the eye. fro the heart recueleth Myrro is clear as gold/ but medea flawmeth & shineth as the precious stone. And if I might find myself in her grace I should love her soverainly· A ha' said mopsius I held you for the most loyal & most constant knight that ever gave him to serve love/ & now I apꝑceyve that ye be variable as other be· be ye not remembered of ysiphile whom ye would newly will to love· and that ye said/ if myrro ne had been ye would have espoused her. I am esbayed of you more thenne of any man/ Certes mopsius answered jason if ye will do to me any plaisir/ speak to me no more of Myrro ne of ysiphile. but of the fair medea speak long enough and largely For this is she that I will keep in my conceit and h●r that I shall serve unto the death/ And who that speaketh to me of other shallbe mine enemy  
When Mopsius had understand the will of jason he spack no more but slept. & jason abode all pensif on the fair Medea. And medea that harkened as she had done the night tofore went into her chamber anon as the parliament of the two knights was done/ & came to her mother all reconforted. & said to her & recounted all that she had herd And sin laid her in her bed imagining how she might find herself a part to speak with jason/ & concluded in herself that she would go on pilgrimage unto the temple of the goddess deane. saying if that jason loved her as he had said he would not deport for nothing but come after her Thi●●●●clusion was not taken without abundance of sighs. th●●yght drew over and the day began to shewe· & the fair Medea aroos/ & made the noise run that she was hool/ & that for the recowrance of her health/ she would go thank the goddess deane in her temple  
After this she attired & arrayed her in the fairest wise she could or mighte· and in process she put her on th● way right nobly accompanied of ladies & damoys●lles Whereof jason was right joyous when he knew h●t/ and desired the way assoon as he might. Certes he followed Medea under the coverture of will to go by good devotion to the temple ¶ O fair coverture the human people living at this day hold the same term in many places. & gone to the temples and churches or in the holy places ordo●ned to god by devotion for tesface and put away their sins And yet neuth●les they comyse there their sins and for to come to the love of one & other. they go more to the mass for to behold and look each upon other and for to make their tours and signs thenne for any devotion. O high devotion. O right dampened hypocrisy. men comyse sins where they aught to be in devotion and do virtuous werkes·s they beguile lightly ynowh the world to her charge and damnation. But certes god in no wise may 〈◊〉 abused  
FOr thenne to return to our mater· jason thus comen to the temple where as Medea was. first of all ●e made semblant for to adore and worship the gods. & set him down on his knee tofore the altar of the goddesses Pallas and Deane. but for this time he neither made prayer ne orison/ but thought what manners he might best hold against Medea. And of what purpoos he might make to her his entry. And when he had long advised him he aroos and took his way unto Medea which came against him· But thenne when she saw that he drew him ●oward her and that they had entersalewed and that jason had made the reverence unto the other ladies. Medea entered subtilely in devices with him. And in devising of one and other she drew him a litil a part against the altar of diane whom they began to behold/ And thenne jason making manner as he had spoken of the goddess diane and of the rich wood that here and there advirronned it he said to her in this manner. Madame lo here your power knight/ I yield me unto your mercy and am ready taccomplisshe all your good comandemen. and pray you if I said yesterday any thing that was to your displaisir that it would please you to pardon me. And if ye may help and aid me to bring to a good end my vow & enterprise and succour me in that great work. I swear and promise ●o you in calling to witness of mine oath the high goddess diane & Pallas. that if it please you to be my dear fellow and friend. I shall be yours all my life & shall bring you with me into Grece without making any fault  
IAson Answered thenne Medea I declared to you yesterday my case all privily/ and how I had great pity of you/ I know also that the gods have had pite on you & will not consent that ye should finish your days in Colchos. And that they have inspired you to submit you to my will. for other wise it were not possible but that ye should be there dead and lost. therefore for to go forth and make short/ for we may not long hold parliament after your ordinance and covenant I shall accord me to be your wife. in all such manner as I promised to you yesterday/ And yet I promise you that of your avow and enterprise ye shall come to your above/ to your honour and profit. ye to morn ere the even be derk and obscure. thenne it is expedient that ye lie alone this night in your chamber to th'end that I may the better speak to you and at more leisure. and to introduce you more secretly into such things as shall behove you to hold. & speak no more to me of this matter at this present time that none apperceive of our enterprise or of our love  
WIth this the noble lady began to show to the noble ●reu jason the great richesses of this Representation of the goddess deane. and jason allowed highly the king Oetes that so well had done it to be edified·· With these words Medea took leave of jason & of the other knights of grece which tarried a little there and after returned unto the cite. and after she departed from thence/ And there was jason complained and bewailled of all the people/ saying one to another that it was right great damage of one so gentle a knight and so well adressid that would go & do destroy himself in all points in the mortal adventure of colchos. They spack & said much thing one and other/ And in especial the noble King Oetes the which came to jason as he departed out of the temple of the god's deane/ & moche discounceyled him th'enterprise of colchos· and that for nothing he should descend affirming to him that he should loose his life if he entered/ & that he that had sent him thither did it for to make him die cautelously  
IAson hearing the council that the king Oetes gaf him for his we'll/ thinking how a knight liveth in great reprouche when he goth against his avow & promise And considering the conclusion & promise that he had made with Medea. abode ferme and stable in his first purpoos saying unto the king Oetes that for death ne for any other peril that might come to him he would not deport him but bring it to an end/ and in deed concluded that on the morn without any longer tarrying he would make an end thereof/ wherefore the king Oetes demeaned much great sorow·s & in like wise did all the knights of grece reseruid hercules & Theseus/ & so passed that day speaking of this marvelous work unto the even that every man withdrew him unto his place/ & the valiant knight jason took leave of every man for to withdraw him into his chamber/ & gave Mopsius to understand/ that he would pass that night in orisons & all devotion & constellation/ & that he would have no man with him at that time/ whereof diuse had great marvel for asmuch as he had not be accustomed so to do/ & some sai●● that men should not suffer him to take so mortal an enterprise· from whence he shield never return/ Considering the high and recommended virtues where with he was endowed  
¶ How the promesses between jason & Medea were rateffied/ And how medea delivered to him all the mestier & craft that he aught to have to conquer the noble mutton or flees of gold/ & how he gate hit  
AT the point thenne when the stars rendered there clearness & clarte. and that the moan began tenlumyne the night/ jason withndrew him into his chamber. & Medea slept not. she espied and seeing that he was withdrawn all alone as she had charged him/ she opened the door of the steyre by which descended down from the chamber of jason into hers. And called down jason which was right pensif/ And when jason saw the door open & Medea that called him. he went unto her moche joyously and salewed her·s and after approached to her for to have kys●e & embraced her/ but Medea said to him that he should cease. & taking him by the hand brought him into h●r chamber where they sat upon a moche rich tapyte/ The mistress of medea came thenne between them/ And when sir was comen Medea began to speak & saye· jason my lord & my friend ye know well the promess●s that been between you & me/ I w●ll well that in the presence of my good ●●der that here is/ that we make recognytion & ratefye them to th'end that they be hole & permanent. and after that w● sh●l intend to your conquest/ And thenne jason & Medea swore & creanced that they should take each other by marriage. & there made solemn ꝓmesses/ whereof Medea was right joyous & so also was her mistress/ Thenne medea opened a coffer which she had made ready where out she drew a sh●rte with the bill containing thord●naūces which were requise and ꝓpice for to go into the isle of colchos to make the conquest of the flees of gold  
When Medea had drawn out the letter. She died it to be red to her friend jason/ And after she said to him in this manere. jason my dear friend for to return whole & with your worship from the isle of Colchos. from whence never man returned. it is of necessity that to fore all other things ye accomplisshe all though things that been contained in this writing. which the G●d Mars sent to the king Appollo· And for so moche first to fore all other thing ye shall go unto the temple of the goddess diane at this hour/ And thenne ye shall address you unto the priest. to whom ye shall give thirty bezants for your offering & demand of him a bull/ of whom ye shall make sacr●fice unto the god Mars with this shirt with which the king Apollo was clad when this writing was delivered to him ● and ye must put in your box the blood of this bull with part of the ashen of your sacrifice/ & with this blood & ashes ye shall anoint there all your body. & this shall preserve you from fire & venom of the right marvelous beasts. After of the residue of these ashes ye shall deal them in two parties. whereof that even part ye shall keep clean and pure· And ye shall meddle that other with glue in a bo●e which I shall give you. And this glue shall serve for to dompte the two horrible bulls/ This done ye shall take the Arms of the king Apollo which been on that one side of the altar of the god Mars. And ye shall adoube you with them. And thenne when ye have accomplished all these things/ ye shall return hither again to me/ And I shall furnish you of the residue of that shallbe behoveful to bring your conquest to an end  
CErtes the prew jason was moch esmeruailled thenne when he understood the high mysteries that him behoved to make for to come to above of his conquest. & when he had herd thensignements of Medea. he thanked her often times. And thenne took the bill. the shirt. the box with glue and that which was necessary to him And sin departed from thence secretly/ and went him in to the forest where as was the temple of the goddess deane. And died so moche that he came to the temple where he found the priest sleeping wherefore he awaked him/ Thenne the priest demanded him what he was & what he sought Sire answered thenne jason/ I am a knight that come hither for to sacrefie unto the god Mars. I pray you that ye would deliver me incontinent a bull with the fire and I shall give you for mine offering thirty besannts/ When the priest had understand jason/ that he promised so good an offrande/ he rose up hastily/ And in like wise done all the priests and curates at this day when they feel and understand that there shall a good offrand come to their singular profit anon they put their hand to the cause. Thenne when this master priest was risen he came tofore jason & died him great reverence/ & after said to him that diligently he should be served of all that he demanded· as he died. for he prepared & made ready the fire & bull which he brought into the temple· Thenne the noble jason made his oroison unto god mars and unto god Apollo. he took after this the bull & made his sacrifice & put the shirt therto· & when all was turned into ashes he distributed it into three parties. one part with the blood of the bull which he retained & anointed his body with all by the priest/ The second party he medlid with the glue that was in the box And the third part he put in a little sack of silk which he reseruid & kept clean  
THese things done and accomplished as said is/ jason kneeled down & made his prayers the second time And when he had made all his devotions/ he delivered to the priest thirty bezants that he had promised to him. and with that he presented & gave him a rich mantle of cloth of gold which he brought with him. and made the priest to a doube him with the arms of god Apollo which was there. ꝓmising him to bring them again/ & when the priest had armed jason at all points/ jason recommended him unto god mars/ & Apollo/ & to the goddesses/ diane/ pallas & venus. and sin took leave of the priest & died somuch that he returned secretly into his chamber/ by the which he descended into the chamber of medea whom he fond sleeping When jason saw Medea in this point/ and also saw her masters a sleep/ he was terribly esprised with lou● and chauffid in so much that the blood began to boylle in his body. & his heart began to desire so sore & in such fashion that he approchid to Medea and kysshed her mouth. but with the kysshing she awoke. And had much great joy thenne when she had seen and espied him so armed wyth the Arms of the king Appollo· Thenne jason made the reverence to Medea & after said to her in this manner/ Madame I have done all that ye have enseigned me also nigh as I might. and am anointed with the blood of the bull of whom I have made sacrifice to the gods/ & lo here the glue medlid with a part of the ashes/ command me now that shall please you what I shall do/ & speed you for it is nyghe day My friend answered Medea welcome be the day/ & anon with the aid of the gods ye shall get the greatest glory that ever knight living gate. And know ye in the recomendation of you & great preysing it shallbe spoken of unto the end of the world  
WIth these words she took a vestiment which was rich and gave it to him saying/ My fair love ye be purveyed of all that is behoveful for you so that ye have this vestiment upon your arms/ see that ye work freely & courageously with this that ye have· ye must be purveyed with hardiness & valiance. keep well your bill●/ and be diligent to do and accomplish all that 〈◊〉 cont●eneth. and by the pleasure of the gods/ I shall have you here at euen● with more greater consolation. Thenne jason clad him above his harnoys with the proper ves●yment that apollo was clad at the hour when he received the bill afore said With that the day appeared fair and cl●re/ wh●●fore Iason took leave of Medea which was all 〈◊〉 with love/ At leave taking they kissed each other man● 〈◊〉. finably Medea conveyed jason unto his chamber door/ and their begins there amorous b●isiers & kyssinges unto the time that it was force that medea must withdraw h●r/ & thenne she recommended jason in the guard of the gods/ and shut fast the door. It was not long after that Mopsius and Hercules came & knokked at the chamber door of jason. And with them the good knight Theseus & many other all of Gre●e/ which salued jason & gafe him the good morrow/ but when they espied that he was tho armed and in point. they were much esbayed. and would hau● axed of him who had so armed him &. adowbed. But the king Oethes & other of his knights came also to him & salewed jason. And the king seeing jason in point. took the words & said/ A ha' s●re knight what will ye do/ ye seek your destruction/ when so early ye begin to put you forth/ I conceyle you that ye deport you of this enterprise And I declare you elliss homycide of yourself. For he is of himself homicide/ that knoweth his death in a place and voluntarily ●e put himself therein. Sire king answered thenne jason· I confess that ye conceyle me Right wisely But n●utheles in hope for to live I have well intention to achieve mine enterprise without longer delay/ I thank you of the great honour that ye have made me unto this time Mopsius took the word & said  
CErtes jason fa●r s●re I have this night had a marvelous vision/ the which comforteth me in your victory. For me seemed in my first dream/ that I saw a sperhauke· the which seeking his pray/ put himself among many other terrible birds & of strange nature/ the which in a little while he had all oucome & put to death/ & so I compare though same birds terrible & of strange nature unto the two bulls and to the serpent being in the isle of Colchos·s which every night cast fire and fumyer. & as touching the sperhauke· I understand you that seching his pray/ that is to say your adventure on this day/ by the aid of the Goddes·s ye shall be made vaynqueure of the horrible monsters and possessor of Right glorious Renomce  
When jason had understonden this that said is He answered to Mopsius saying. Certes fair s●re the gods shall do their will of me. And if it be their good playsir·s your vision shall be holden for certain a prophecy And wyth that he adressid his words to Hercules and said. My loyal brother and well-beloved felawe· make good cheer and pray for me. I have no manner doubtance that I ne shall soup at even with you· and that I shall affranchyse you of your vow semblable to mine/ with these words many began to weep. Thenne the noble prew jason took leave of one & other/ And sin required of the king that he might go unto the ladies & damoiselles. The king died do assemble them. And when they were comen in to the hall he brought jason which made to them the reverence and principally to Medea and Calliope/ & sin recommended him unto their prayers/ and when he had done this by space of time he put him unto the way unto the rivage of the see/ where his master maroner was/ that abode & awaited upon him in a litil boat that he had made ready the day to fore· Into the which he entered/ and in recomanding himself to all the world. he departed from the port for to descend into the isle of Colchos  
THis morning was fair and clear/ & clean from all clouds. And the son casted his clear rays and beams upon the erthe· The ladies and damoiselles mounted & went upon the high stages of the palace. And the burgesses and merchants wyth the comyn people of the cite ran some to the creueaulx and batillements of the walls/ and other to the rivage of the see for to behold the adventure of the noble knight of grece/ jason that joyously went with Argos his master maronner that broughnte him into a right good entry of the marvelous isle adressid him and set foot a ground upon the gravel And took his glue and his ashes and entered into the isle by great desire and hardynesse· And he had not far gone when he espied the rich mutton or sheep of gold which was so resplendisannt that it rejoiced all the isle/ After he espied the two bulls leaping out of their holes. so great. so dreadful. so right fires & hidouse/ that only for to look on them it was enough for to loose wit and understanding/ and when he had well beholden them. He kneeled down on the earth against the east where he saw a temple all of gold of the greatness of xuj foot in eight squares founded on viij small pylers'/ thretty foot of heyght· in the mids where of was an altar upon which was an image repnsenting the god Mars  
THenne there jason worshipped the god Mars· and there was in contemplation unto the time he saw the cruel & terrible dragon spring out of the temple/ For he was great as an horse/ And was thretty foot long the which incontinent assoon as he was out of the temple he began to raise his neck/ set up his eeris. stracche himself Opened his throat and cast out brenning flawme and smoke by a marvelous voiding which departed out of his stomach. Thenne saw jason all these. iij· beasts with whom he must have to do. he took and beheld his bill for to know what he had to do. he found that first he must adaunte the two bulls. wherefore he aroos from his contemplation & made ready the box with glue. After he marched promptly in great hardiness toward the two bulls which beheld him right fiercely and asperly with her eyen sparkking and brenning as fire grekyssh. And they began to desgorge fire and flame out of their throats against the knight so des measurably that all the region of the air and all the country seemed burn with wild and grekyssh fyre· But this notwithstanding they might never travail ne do harm unto the noble prew jason· But he by great hardiness approached by the fire the flame & venom that they casted And died so moche that anointed the mosels of both two And cast into their throats the glue that was mixed and medlid with ashes which he brought with him as said is. But assoon as these bulls felt the glue & ●endres to guider medlid certes they closed their throats and mosels in such wise as they might n●u open after ne cast more fyre· whereof the noble knight was so joyous as he might be seeing thexperiment to be of so h●gh̄ recommendation Thenne he thought on Medea & said well in himself that she had delivered to him a good & verray succour ● for certain he had lost his life in this adventure ne had she have been  
AFter this consideration Incontinent as the no●le prew jason apperceived that these two marvelous bulls were oucomen & adaunted/ thenne he beheld the contenu of his bill/ and fond that thenne him behoved anon to go fight against the marvelous dragon & terrible without comparison/ Thenne he drew out his good sword of the sheathe & went unto the temple where the dragon held him/ anon as the monster had apꝑceyved jason he enfeloned himself/ & by great Ire opened his throat right terrible in greatness out of whom sprang out three tongues casting fire flame and venom in such wise that the good knight had all his body advironed there with/ how well that the fire ne the vemym had no power upon him. but passed by jason like as it had be the clearness of the son. and he came and gaf the monster so great a stroke with his sword between the two eyen that he made his heed hurtle against his crowpe right sore & durely/ And when the dragon felt this streok/ he relieved himself & sin opened again his throat & disgorged upon jason a fumee so thikke of venom that the noble knight saw nothing about him· but this not withstanding he haunced his sword & discharged it upon the dragon where he thought his heed was/ & smote so well the monster that he cut of his three tongues even by the mosel as nigh as they might be. whereof the serpent felt so meruaillouse pa●ne & dolour that he began to frote & rub his heed. And turned on that one side so suddenly. that with his tail he smote the valiant knight on the back that he fill down on the sand  
When jason felt him so smitten down to the earth he was so sore astonied that he witted not what was befall him/ And with this he had great shame/ He relieved him & stood up anon. but at his relieving the fumee of the dragon was vanisshed/ & in seeing about him he apperceived the three tongues of the serpent which he had smitten of & sin he beheld the dragon which frotted his mosel on an herb/ and thenne he ran upon him again & smote in the mids of the tail. in exploiting the most part of all his strength & also his trenchant sword in such manere/ that he cut of a piece which was seven foot long Thenne the dragon by the great pain that he felt haunced his heed and came right fiercely and recountered jason wyth all his pesaunteur and might. in such a fashion that jason was beaten down to the ground. And the dragon passed over him. But thenne the prew jason took his sword & roof into the paunch of the dragon up to the cross & smote him to the heart/ & the dragon feeling that he was smitten to the death began to run with the sword of jason in his body weening to hide himself in his cavern. But his life departed out of the body even as he should have entered into the temple/ And there he overthrew all to stracched and fowlid of his blood and of his humeurs full of venom In such wise as it seemed that it had been a source or a spring running out of his body longer thenne a great hour  
INcontinent that jason was relieved & that he apperceived the dragon reversed and deed at th●ntre of the temple/ with an heart recomforted he went thither and drew out his sword of his body/ and put him agyn in his sheath or skabarde/ and thenne he went & seized the bulls by the horns/ & yoked them in a plough that there was by And made them to ere four mesures of land. enclosing their eyen. And thenne when he had so done he returned to the dragon and esrachd out of his heed twelve tooths/ after that he sowed them in the earth that he plowed· & that done he died the bulls do harowe it. And thenne the bulls fill down to the earth and lost the spirit of life/ and out of the land that jason had sown with the tooths of the dragon grew and sprang up in an instant twelve giants of a terrible maintene· the which were all armed after the manner at that time/ And assoon as they were comen out of the earth drew their swords & without delaing came & supposed to have smitten upon jason/ but jason took the cendres or ashes pure that he had kept of his sacrifice. & cast it into the air. & thenne suddenly though same twelve giants assailled that one that other by such asprete & sharpness that in a little while each slew other· whereof jason was right joyous and rendered thankinges & lovings to the gods  
When these ·xijs. giants had slain each other. as I have rehearsed unto you jason drew out his sword which was yet all bloody. and came to the Rich mutton or sheep whom he found in the right noble meadow. & took him by the horns and brought him into the temple tofore the altar of the god mars. And there he slew him with moche great payne· and sin flew him and took the fl●es that had the wool all of fyn gold and laid it a part And the body he dispieced by members. and bore it up on an altar which stood without the temple· & put thereto largely straw & dry wood/ And when he had done this he took fire at a lamp brenning to fore the representation of god Mars/ And sin kneeled down on his knees on the earth by devotion tofore the idol saying the orison tofore written. after the contenu. whereof he thanked the god mars And recommended him moche into his grace/ After this he put fire into the sacrifice which anon was consumed and turned into cendres or ashes/ This done he put himself to prayer. & after he took the three tongues of the marvelous dragon. two of the feet of the bulls which were of metal of laton/ And two of their horns which were of iron. and enuolupped and wrapped it all in the flees of gold. which he charged & laid it on his shoulders And afterward he returned unto the rivage of the see where his master maroner named argoes which had guided his boot over the braas or arm of the see as said is had abiden there in moche great doubt  
ARgos the good shipman was sore abashed of that That jason was so long there· ere he returned to him and thought for tabyde no longer/ for he had seen the fire and the fumee great & thikke lift up into the air. And also he had seen many evil appearances/ voyses. and right strange bruyts/ for which causes he supposed that his master jason had been devoured of the terrible beasts/ And began to weep & bewail him right tenderly. but incontinent when he espied the vaillyaunt knight jason with the flees of gold on his neck. his teres & weepings cessed. For sorow·s craynte/ and doubt departed from his heart/ and all joy advironed him in such manner. that smiling he kneeled down on his knee to fore him and sayde· Sire knight mirror of all valiance and of all enterprise/ ye be right well returned. Ha'/ a what consolation & gladness shall be in Myr●●done and with my lord your father Men have murmured upon Peleus your uncle. and every man said. that he had sent you hither for to be quite of you. thinking that ye should never have returned. but to that I can apperceyve· he desireth above all other thing your glory & honour. Certes Argos fair sire answered thenne jason/ Fortune hath so moche aid and helped me/ that I am returned hole of body and of members fro the most terrible· dangerous/ & mortal peril that ever shall befall and come upon the earth during the world. whereof I yield lovings & thankings unto the god Mars pryncypally· but now let us think to return unto our fellows For it is more thenne time to eat  
With these words the good shipman began to row with a frank courage. And the Greeks that were standing upon the rivage of the see began thenne a great strife. For some said that jason was re-entered in to the barque· and that they had seen the resplendisshour of the noble flees of gold/ which wa● with great pain creable for as much as from this rivage unto the isle of colchos was four good miles. And the other said. that jason was long agone deed. and that he should never be seen. but thus as each man was sustaining his argument·s therewith was the boot seen approaching much radely the rivage/ And was about a mile nigh to the port/ jason took his flees & lift it up a little in the air. ye as high as he might And held it so high/ that they that were at the rivage and on the walls of the city beheld it and apperceived it and showed it one to an other by great admiration & wo●dre  
MAny there were that demeaned great joy and thanked the gods with good heart when they had perceyvid the noble & rich flees. whereof the prew jason made the muster fro far/ and some ran for to gather of the green herbs & verdure for to cast a long on the way where as jason should pass for to go to the palace saying to every man that they were certain of his returning/ & that all honour ought to be maked to him for one so noble & glorious conquest/ Medea among all other was so right joyous when she espied the lighnt and shining of the flees of gold that her seemed that she should entre in to a paradise terrestre. And commanded that her ladies & damoisels should put on the fair front in entencion to make feast solemn for the honour of this right excellent victory. & f●r to come to a conclusion. trumps tabours. menestrels. horns sarasinois & business began to blow up & sown melodiously after that time used/ The maroner Argos Rowed in such wise that he broughnt jason to the port whole & sauf· where he was feasted of the king Oetes/ of the worthy Hercules·s & of theseus. & generally of all the Greeks. Hercules took the rich flees when jason was descended upon the land/ & bore it tofore the valiant knigh̄t jason which went first into the temple of the goddess deane. & there thanked much hyghely the god mars/ and the goddesses pallas & Deane. After he made him to be disarmed And there he yielded again the arms of the god Appollo· and sin made his oblation of one of the feet of the bulle● and of one of their horns with one of the tongues of the dragon. and when he had done all this solemnly. he returned to the palace where he was Righnt honourably received of Medea above all other and of her Ladies and Damoiselles which beheld jason marvelously. & in especial the noble & rich flees of gold which hercules bore ●n high tofore him  
CErtes there is noman so eloquent ne so well can indite by writing that could descrive to you how great pleasure the eyen of the prew jason and the eyen of the fair Medea took on thenne when they began to behold each other/ And all the world there demeaned joy & gladness/ And when jason was gone up in to the hall. Hercules set the noble flees of gold upon a cupberd richly arrayed. And anon after the knights/ ladies & damoiselles began the dances/ and the feast was fair & great unto the hour of the souper that the tables were covered and that the king and jason was set. and with them the noble lady Medea/ hercules Theseus & mopsius· At this table was jason and Medea set one tofore that other. but in no wise they durst not speak one word/ how well they made many secret signs of love that could not be apperceived/ but they entremarched with their feet under the table while that jason rehearsed in grows the great perils where he had been in. without making of any mention of ordinances miners and cerimonyes that he had holden  
OF this meruaillouse adventure were the king Oetes/ Hercules and the other Baron's knights and noble men that sat & served at this supper moche abashed and greatly marveled. And how the noble prew jason was escaped of so great & perilous adventure/ And highly recommended this enterprise and valiance. Hercules and Theseus that a fore time had slain many monsters/ confessed there that all their fayttes passed were nothing to the regard of the adventure that jason had enterprised and brought to an end ¶ What shall we make long count this souper passed· and the hour came that the king Oetes & jason withdrew 'em into her chambers/ And thenne was jason conveyed into his chamber with many noble men one & other. and thither was broughnt the noble & rich flees of golde· but at this time they might not devise ne play there as they had been accustomed/ but sent hem in to her chambers & mopsius with the other saying that all that night he would wake in oroisons & prayers unto the gods for asmuch as they had done to him so great aid comfort & honour in his works  
Anon thenne as the prew jason was left in his chamber as said is/ the mistress of medea came & opened the door of the chamber. and demanded jason if he would come unto her daughter/ jason answered ye with Right good will/ Th●n̄e he went down into the chamber of his lady which had made ready a right fair baygne· Thenne he salued her & after said to her in this manner/ My dear lady know ye that I have had much great desire to see you secretly & in our pryvaulte. for to thank you of the right great honour that by your cause is comen to me/ and also of the mortal peril and danger that ye have delivered me fro/ wherefore I thank you right humbly of all these benefetes/ and furthermore I present you the body that ye have preserved fro death. Ready to obey all your comandements and pleasures/ Certes jason my dear love & friend answered the fair Medea· if your desire have been great and such as ye say yet hath mine be more as I ween. I have done the best that in me hath be possible. and I have right great joy and gladness of the knowledge that ye have. all my courage is nothing save to please yow· ye be right welcome and with great worship returned for you and for me/ And make good chiere hardyly I have ordained for you a bain for to wassh you from the blood wherewith ye have been anointed/ and therefore dispoylle you & entre in to this bath/ and thenne we shall devise at our leisure of all your works  
When the prew jason had understand this that said is he died of his clotheses right glad of this adventure and sin entered into the baygne/ and the fair Medea in her corse●t which had no sleeves terned up her smock sleeves and in this point came & frotted & weesshed her friend jason. And thenne when the gentle bachelor apperceived so gentle corpse & body of Medea· her fair and ronde tetes the whiteness of her flesh. And that he felt her hands marvelously soft/ him seemed that his heart & his body slew He was so much esprised of an ardant desir of love. he began thenne tenbrase the lady by the body/ and sin beheld her great beauty/ and thus doing he kysshed her many times. And thenne when he had been well eased & washed Medea made him to lie in her bed beholding his members well formed shapen & made & his colour fair & quik. and could not turn her sight from him. They were thus beholding and avysing each other with out saying any word. But at last the noble prew jason took the word & said. My dear lady. ye know well how I have promised to be your husband/ & also in like wise ye have promised to be my wife/ thenne may I say I am yours & ye are mine/ & of us two is but one thing/ thenne I require you so affectuelly as I can or may· and for all the pleasure that ye may do to me. that ye will come & lie by me here in your bed/ A ha' jason answered thenne Medea/ for god's sake save mine honour. Madam answered jason. there is no man in the world that shall keep it more thenne I shal· I am your husband. & if ye come & lie in your bed by me ye do nothing but honour/ My dear friend said medea· there is no pleasure but that I shall gladly do to you/ but for this night ye shall have patience of your request. & I pray you that to morn be time ye desire of my father the king that he would give me to you in marriage. & thenne do ye your deuoir. & if he be content we shall make our wedding & spousailles here within honourably. and if he will not/ I somone you here to morn at night at h●ure accustomed/ & know ye for certain that I shall do all that ye will command me to do as reason is. for I am bound thereto by virtue of the promesses made between you and me/ And allway I recommande to you mine honour  
When jason had understand the good will of medea. he said in his courage that she had wisely answered/ And that he was content for t'obey to her request ¶ What shall I say more the night drew over in such terms as said is. how well jason lay there till it was day And on the morn when he was Risen and saw his time he made his Request unto the noble king Oetes that he would give his daughter Medea to him in marriage/ but he found the king Oetes triste & much pens●f and all other wise thenne he was accustomed to be. & made him an answer in this manner/ jason ye bear with you out of my domination the most rich treasure that is in all the world Which greviths me greatly. And if I had known that I now know/ ye had not comen in time thereto/ and now ye demand me my daughter Medea which is most cunning and the most dear thing that I have. Suffice you with that ye have. And never speak to me more thereof also dear as ye have your life. With these or semblable words the king Oetes went on oon part. And the noble prew jason went on an other side much abashed of the fires & hard answer of the king Oetes. Hercules/ Theseus. and Mopsius cam thenne unto jason. which told them how he had been with the king Oetes. & how he had required to have to his wife his daughter Medea. and how the king had answered him fiercely/ But when they had understanden all this/ they concluded among the● that they would depart from thence on the morn· After this done they went and took leave of the king & thanked him of the great honour that it had pleased him to do to jason/ And after they went & visited their ship. and passed this day with litil plaisir. for the king Oetes made 'em no cheer/ This notwithstanding when the night was come jason went unto the fair Medea and told to her how he had made his Requests to the king Oetes her father. And how he had answered to the regard of their marriage. And how he was departed from him. Whereof the fair Medea was marvelously sorrowful and sore troubled thinking on many things. But when she had well bethought her considering her cas & her affair/ she made right good cheer to jason as she that abandoned her all unto his pleasure. And so it is to be supposed that this night they lay to geder· & more say I not for this present as touching their faytes of love  
IN this night the fair medea took all the most richest jewels and bagnes portatif that the king oetes her father had/ And she put and trussed them in a sardell/ And when it came a litil to fore day she made jason to Rise. which was anon ready. And thenne when she was all ready she took with her all the richesses/ and also her young brother absirthius of the age of xuj months/ whom she took secretly in a chamber from the nourice And made her mistress to cut his throat privily for certain causes which shall here after be declared/ After this the fair Medea and her mistress. clad hem and disguised them in man's habit. And by the noble prew jason they were brought unto the shippe· And assoon as jason had delivered them in guard unto master maroner Argos, he returned into his chamber till it was day abiding his fellowship Hercules/ Theseus Mopsius & many other knights that came with him at the blowing of an horn· And with that he took his flee● of gold and said to them that he would depart from thence with all diligence for certain causes/ And without more saying at this time he took his way to th'end that the other knights of Grece should follow. And went so far that he entered in to his ship so well at point that all his men entered with him/ And thenne the mariners disancred and began to row by force of oores for as much as it blewe not/ and the wind helped 'em not be cause it was calm. And thus in this point they put them on the way unto the son Rising. And at that proper hour when they were not withdrawn past a mile from the port/ it happened by adventure that Argos the master maronner began to look toward the port. and he saw that on all sides it was full of people. After this he saw anon and apperceived that four litil ships at fashion of balingers or Galeyes subtle departed to gydre from the port from whence they came. whereof the good patron Argos had much great marvel. And he wist not what to think. he was so emcombred. For he had well seen that when the Noble prew jason and his company entered into his ship/ that the king/ his baronns ne the ladies had not conveyed him He had great marvel. but he said not one word   

¶ How the king Oetes father of Medea advertised of the departing of jason and of his daughter Medea followed And how Medea cast her brother Absirthius by pieces in to the see doubting her father the king Oetes/ And how the noble Queen ysiphile fill down from an high montayn into the see  
WHo that demandeth of these four litil galeyes subtle for what cause they moved fro the poort. And what people were there inn/ the history answerth/ that their entencion was to come after the knights of grece And the king Oetes was in one of them accompanied of four ninety men/ which were all burgesses of the town that he had made to be armed· For as much as he was ascertained that his daughter Medea was gone with jason/ and I shall tell you how. This king Oetes as said is had been sorrowful & annoyed all the day precedent fond himself so full of melancholy that he could not sleep ne reste· Allewaye after many thoughts and precogitations he concluded in himself that he would go & convey jason at his departing to this end/ that he comen in to Grece should praise him and saye· that he had made him good cheer/ For to bring to an end this conclusion/ he aroos and willing to entre fro chamber to chamber till he came to jason. he entered in to the chamber of the nourice of his son Absirthius/ whom he fond not wyth his norice that slept/ whereof he was sore abashed & awaked the nourice. And after demanded her. where was his dear son Absirthius/ And thenne the nourice began to look about her/ But that was for naught for she fond him not. wherefore all effrayed she sprang out of her bed and began to seche him diligently all abouts. And the king Oetes entered in to the chamber of Medra/ and there he fond no person ne his daughter ne her that had governed her long time  
When the king Oetes fond not his daughter Medea he was so angry that his blood changed·· and without speaking any word/ he went up into the chamber where the noble jason was logged/ but he fond neither jason ne Medea ne person to whom he might speak/ & for so much he departed suddenly & went unto the port where he fond many of his citezeyns that showed him the ship where the greeks were in/ which was at that time from the port more thenne a quater of a mile/ Thenne the king weeping tenderly demanded them if they had seen his daughter medea. And they answered nay. A ha' fair sirs said thenne the king. the traitress of grece have withdrawn her with words traitorously in so much as they have deceived her & brought her into their ship/ and yet that more is have so evil counceyled her that she hath born with her my son absirthius. O evil daughter. O the evil fortuned child Certes medea thy great disloyaulte constraineth me that with force of people I will go incontinent fecche the for to wete who hath moved the thus to do. & with this I shall take vengeance of the desloyal knight jason which to his power rendereth to me evil for good  
When the king had said thus he returned into his palace crying that every man should arm him/ And thenne all the people purveyed them of staves & armours▪ & sin demanded whereof proceeded the cause of this alarome/ the which anon was all common/ Thenne they put them on the way for to go unto the king. which came and issued out of his palace armed and in point for tentre into battle. Thenne he went unto the port & cheese out four ninety of the best in point for to put into the said four galeyes/ And finably when he had done all this he moved fro the pornte as said is/ and with all haste made his galeyes to be rowed after the knights of grece/ in such wise as the master maronner apperceived that though galeyes came swiftly after them for to fecche again the fair Medea· & called jason that japed & played with medea/ present his fellow hercules. & showed to him the four galeyes armed where in was the king Oetes and his men well in point which approached fast/ For the galeyes were light· and jason seeing his encumbrance approach/ called Hercules which knew nothing hereof and demanded him council Thenne Hercules answered to him that he knew none other remedy but that every man should put him to arms and be ready tabyde the battle if it were nede· And avowed unto the gods that if the king Oetes made any enterprise upon them that he would put to death as many as he might areche  
With these words and with out longer tarrying the noble knight Hercules and jason put them in arms. and in like wise died their fellows/ Thenne Medea and her mistress sprang upon the plank of the ship for to behold the king and his galeyes/ And anon after jason & Hercules all in arms came up on high by Medea and each with a sword in his fist. And Medea began to tremble for fere. when she had espied her father to approach so nigh. at th'end the king Oetes poursiewed so sore the ship of the noble prew jason by force of oores/ that ere they were out of the gulf or braas of the see/ that there was no more distance fro on to an other but two bow shoot Thenne the fair Medea seeing that it was time to bring to end that she had begun tofore· said to her masters in weeping tenderly/ My good mother where is my little brother absirthyus/ give him to me/ Thenne the evil old woman opened her lap and unwonde the body of the child. whom she had smitten into pieces/ Medea took the heed & lift it an high whereof hercules/ jason/ & other seeing this had great horror of this cruelty & were sore abashed. neutheles when the preu jason apperceived this he would know fro whence came this creature so deed. & said to medea in this manere/ My dear love what have ye in your thoughnt/ & what will ye done with this so malerous & pyteus child  
MY dear love answered thenne Medea/ Thexperience of my work enseigneth to you the thought of my heart Madam answered thenne the noble prew jason. what is this child that I see here thus detrenched and smitten in pieces/ certes he is in an evil hour born/ that thus miserably hath finished his days. My dear love answered thenne the fair Medea. this is Absirthius my young brother. know ye that he is not malerouse/ but is ewrous and happy/ for this day he shall be cause of the salvation of the life of his father and of his m●n. & thenne he is much ewrous and in a good our born. when he in his tender youngth may be cause of the health of so much people & specially of his father naturel. Certes Medea said thenne jason/ I see none other fashion ne moyen but that ye be of all points dishonoured when ye have commised so right pietous a case. as for to have murdrid ●our ꝓpre brother innocent of all thinges·s A ha' what horrible cruelty. My dear love answered thenne Medea ne trouble you other wise thenne by reason. For if it be your pleasure ye shall here what I shall say/ and after of the case I mak● you judge. ye know how I am by you brought from the house of my father against his will· I have considered what my departing is/ & furthermore I have thought & have had regard unto the great & marvelous courage of my father. & all thing ou thought & considered that I could not withdraw me far but he should be adutised/ for he hath of custom that every morning. ere he go down he will see his son and me also· I have imagined that anon as he finds not me nor his son/ that without fault he will come after me in Arms like as ye see he doth/ and thus when I have all these things considered and the great danger that might ensue to us that for me should be the battle mortal between you and him in which without Remedy he should be slain or taken by his high williaunce seen that unto death he would abandonne himself for to recover me. and to th'end t'eschew more great peril and damage for him. I have taken his owen son/ which is my brother and have commanded to put him in the state as ye see for to cast at this time abroad in to the course of the see here and there. And to give empechement unto the ship of my father. which thenne shall tarry whan he shall see his son Absirthius thus desmembrid floating upon the water for to gather and recuyelle the pieces/ as ye shall seen plainly anon  
WIth thachievement of these devices the king Oetes approached in such manner the ship of the Greeks that there was no more distance but a stone caste· Thenne the fair Medea and the old woman filled there hands with the members of the noble child Absirthius in showing them to the king Oetes & his men. For assoon a● the old Queen espied the king she escried these words following and said thus/ King in no wise come no near weening to recouure thy son ne thy daughter/ As to the regard of thy daughter. thou losest thy tyme. for she is married unto jason. But at l●st we shall render to the thy son slain and detrenched by pieces/ the which we cast into the see to th'end that thou mayst have thy life saved. for but if he caused the to have occupation for to recuyelle his proper members for to do bury them as it appertaineth to the son of a king. know thou that thou shouldest have the battle against the knights of Grece which been of so high valiances. that there ne is anymal monster serpent. ne tyrannt but that they bring to destruction/ thenne it ought to be believed/ that the victory of the battle should abide with them. and certes thou shouldest receive thy death So all thing well overseen it is better to the that thou return unto thy cite thenne tapproche more ner for to receive thy deth·s And well oughtest thou to have great joy for to see thy happy son be dead and detrenchid by pieces By the which thy life is despited. for thou art not very ne naturel father if thou take not his members out of the see· & if thou so do thy life shallbe saved and all they of thy company  
WIth these words the old woman & Medea cast in the see the members of the young child Absirthius/ And the king Oetes and his people hearing and seeing the great inhumanyte & cruelty began to escry right pietously & dolourously/ And were so sore vexed & troubled of this marvelous adventure. that they witted not what to do. some there were that began to weep tenderly/ the other smote themself on the breasts/ & some began to array 'em to go to battle & escried to death the knights of grece shooting on them arrows & other trait by great courage for t'avenge them/ but when the king saw that in no wise he might recouure the death of his dear sone· he made to cease the esca●musshe and said to his citizens. Certes fair sires I pray you to travail you no more for to recouure Medea/ she hath murdrid her proper brother Absirthius/ which was my son/ and he that in time to come should have been your naturel lord/ Certes I have loved with all my heart her all her life that with her disloyal will hath brought to me one so dolourouse guerdon or reward. Ha' a Medea said the king all on high I shall never seche ne desire to meet with the for cause of so cruel and disnaturell a deed/ that thou hast commised to thy proper blood/ And therefore fair lords late her & all them that been with her go where the gods will suffer 'em. But know ye for certain that if I now had her at my liberty I should make her to die a cruel death. how weal that should sourdre thereof to me a new sorrow wherefore it is better that she go/ & that we intend to reassemble the members of my son which floten as ye may see upon the waves of the see to th'end that his flesh be not pasture to the birds  
When thenne the nobles & burgesses of the city understood their king/ all they began to seche the members of Absirthius in demeaning the most great sorrow of the world. And thus they disposed them to complayre the king & no more tassaile their enemies. And when they had fysshed the members of the child they returned unto the cite by space of time right sorrowful & discomforted for the death of Absirthius/ And for as much as Medea also was gone with jason. Medea was thenne well joyous & more assured thenne tofore/ when she apꝑceyvid that her father & his men tarried for to fish the members of his son. Certes jason seeing this that said is witted not what to think/ And Argos the good mariner rowed allway in withdrawing from the port and the isle of Colchos as much as he might in so much that in a little while he had lost the sight of the king Oetes & of his galeyes. and that he came into the hyhe see. where the wind blue & aroose that anon they desployed their sail which they wound up an high. wherefore the ship made good way. whereof Argos was much joyous/ and thenne he said that every man might leye down his harnoys freely promising them to be out of all perils for that time· jason at this time was right pensif for the cruelty & inhumanyte that he had seen this day and spack not one word/ and seemed by comparison more triste thenne joyous & not with out cause. When Medea had understand that Argos assewrid all the company for that time from all perils that they had been in/ was those comforted greatly. but she beheld her hands that yet were all fowl of the blood of her brother Absirthius. she went & washed 'em & made 'em clean/ & after she came & set her down by jason/ And seeing that he was moche pensif. said to him by a gracious & curtays manere· My dear love whereon think you/ Certes jason answered not one word. And when she saw that/ She said to him again the same words/ My dear love jason whereon think you/ Thenne jason answered to her thus/ lady sin that ye desire to know whereon I thinke· know ye for troth that if it were not for the great love that I have in you and for that I have promised to wed you and bring you into grece. I would not do it/ wherefore keep from hensforward that ye do no such thing as dear as ye will have pres between you & me/ Upon these words Medea excused her the fairest wise she could and was to her possible saying that all this that she had done was of very good will in so much as she so doing supposed not to have used cruelty ne humanity ne of hayne or hate pcedent/ & that in the night tofore the goddess deane had showed & made Revelation to her that king Oetes must needs die or Absirthius his son for him/ And by such words in colouring her case she travailed so sore that she found herself in the good grace of jason  
During this voyage when they had been certain days on the see· mopsius cam on a time to jason and thenne brought to his remembrance how he had promised to ysiphile to return by the cite of lenos. upon which jason answered that he said troth/ And that he would hold his ꝓm●sse. So he spack to hercules. to theseus & to the master Argos which were glad hoping to make good chiere in that cite. but when Medea knew that jason had promised & would go thither for to see the queen ysiphile as him behoved. she and her mistress ordained their sorts and their enchantements in a secret place which were of such virtue. that when Argos wend to take his way by an arm of the see which gooth straight to lenos. his gounaile brack in more thenne a thousand pieces/ & by a wind much subtle the ship was incontinent turned & brought all in thopposite to thintention of the noble knight & his company. wherefore all they that were in the ship were right sorrowful reseru●● Medea and her old mistress which were at their ease  
THe Queen Ysiphile was upon an high roche being upon the see side not far from Le●nos at the point when the nobl● prew jason passed forthmby as said is/ and she was accustomed daily to hold her & await there right sore desiring to see jason on whom was all her thought and desire. And so much loved him that she bewailed him from the morn unto the even upon this roche and said oft times these proper words that follow. Ha'/ a Neptunus' god of the see & of the winds where is my dear love jason Bring him again to me. Rendre him again to her that day & night weepeth and sygheth after him dead or a live I will have him/ And I pray you that ye will send me this grace and ewer liefer this day thenne to morn/ Thus thenne as she was all discomforted one day among all other she looked into the see toward the east. and saw fr●m far the ship much desired that failed by a great radour and a full sail where jason was in/ Certes she knew it anon as well by the greatness as by the banners & ensigns that were displayed with the wind. whereof she had so great gladness that she began to make the best cheer of the world. But as she was thus ravished in great joy & that her seemed that jason came severely unto her· With that the old mistress and the fa●r Medea put their sorceries to work and their enchantements. whereof thauenture of the ship sorted as said is·s For she turned all suddenly at that other cost/ whereof the pour Ysiphile was all abashed and sore dismayed. In stead to make joy she was constrained to weep great tears/ And in stead of singing she was enforced to complain What shall I say More· as suddenly as the ship turned/ so suddenly changed the manner of ysiphile. she abode there & passed that night/ & died do make fires & lighnt of many faggots for to redress jason and Argos to herward. thinking that without faute jason would come unto her. And she abode in this place by the space of six weeks/ weeping. waking and continuelly bewailing jason whom she loved more thenne her proper heart  
When the six weeks were past and that the fair ysiphile apperceived that she should have no tidings of her love jason/ for thenchantementes of medea & of her mistress made that the ship of jason might not approach the isle of lennos. The right discomforted ysiphyle seeing that said is·s as upon the point as full of despair She departed from the roche. where she had been long abiding/ & in a marvelous appinyon she returned to lenos And thenne when she was entered into her chamber she made her son to be broughnt to her whom she kissed many times for the love of jason. & after began to think & contrepeyse in her mind in dyuce manners/ & thenne when she had long thoughnt by great habondance of melancholy/ she said in beholding her child & crossing her arms with a sigh coming from the bottom of her heart/ Alas my dear son Alas that thou canst not speak for to demand me tidings of thy father. which is the most fair knight the most vertuous· & the most valiant in arms that the gods ever formed. If thou couldst speak & demand me of him I might weal answer to the/ but how/ Alas I wot never· for at all adventure he daigneth̄ not to come/ and at adventure when he weneth to come as that other day. me seemed when I knew his ship/ whom the wind & tempest constrained to return & to sail all at thopposite in showing me his back/ and in traversing the waves & floats of the see so impeutously that I think better that he is perished thenne not· For in forty days that I have sin sojourned on the roche/ I ne could never see him again. whereof I am Right displaisant in my heart  
MY deer son thenne where is now nature which should ensign the to weep/ & me more thenne the/ after the loss of one so desired prince. aught I more desire to live. what may it avail me to live/ Certes if I should live. my life should be from hens forth full of continual bewaillinges/ of dolours/ of wepinge/ and of sighs/ O what sorow· I wot no more to say/ I have so moche loved jason that perdurably I am constrained to weep after him/ how be it allway the creatures ne desire to live but for to enjoy the worldly plaisaunces/ and thenne when all mondayn pleasure failleth. what aught I desire/ Is this a lyf· Certes nay And what thenne/ it is a life that lives dying. and a death that lives in languisshinge. O marvelous and Right terrible desire. I shall die verily in this journey. it is concluded. For what some ever shall or may come thereof/ I shall springe in to the high see/ to th'end that if the noble prew jason be there buried. that I may be wyth him in sepulture. And to th'end also/ that if he be not dead. that the see that brought him hither a live may bring me to him a live or deed. but first ere I comyse this marvelous & dolorous case. I shall compile an epistle which shallbe sewed unto my vestyments or clotheses. To this entencion. that if jason live yet I have an hope that the gods shall do me be presented tofore him. & thenne by this mine epistle he shall know of what excellent love and courage I have loved him  
MAny ladies and damoisels were in the company of ysiphile thenne when she had thus bewailled her dear love jason. And also the conclusion as she that was desperate should leap & springe into the see. All they began to demene great sorrow marvelously and not with out cause. Some there were that were july sorrowful that they could not speak oh word/ other were there drowned in teeris/ that enforced hem to recomfort her/ and for to let & distourne her fro this damnable will· but that was for naught. for they lost her pain/ for as much as ysiphyle wrote her epistle which she wrapped in a cered cloth and sin sewed it unto her rob of cloth of gold which she clad her with/ and when she had so do. she took her crown and set it on her heed firmly. and after took her sceptre/ And thenne when she had done all this. she came to her son and kissed him many times and recommended him unto the ladies and damoisels/ And at last when she had taken leave of all the women she departed from Lennos the cite weeping tenderly/ & took with her one of her damoisels by whom were known afterward all her bewailingis. lam●ntacōns & all her manners that she held tofore she cast herself into the see  
When she was comen nigh unto the see/ she approached unto an high roche to whom the see touched beneath a far low down/ she began to behold a low and see the see And after she stra●●hed herself on the earth in beholding the heaven & the see/ and said/ Veray god lord of the see. of winds/ of tourbillons and of fortunes/ of rains & of tempests/ ye brought into this country & into this place the right parfayt knight. in beauty/ in valiance● & in all virtues jason/ and after ye sent him into colchos/ & consequently ye have showed me from far his ship. and sin ye have drowned him/ or at lest lad him into an other country. & when it is so that I may by no way have none other thing of him/ I you require that ye will make my sepulture by him if he have made the passage out of this world/ and if he be on live that ye will conduit me into his presence/ for it must needs be. and other thing I demand not of you And when the Queen Ysiphile had said these words she returned her unto the cite and said in this manner all in high & clear voice  
ADieu my dear child/ adieu lennos the noble cite· adieu ladies and damoisels. And sin she returned her unto the see· And crying/ jason· jason/ she sprang fro the somet or top of the roche into the high see. And there drowned herself in sorrow. whereof was great pity/ But her fortune was such that on that same day the see bore the body unto the ship of the noble prew jason abiding yet in the see in a Rood. where they were anchored for to rest there that night/ At this our when the pour Ysiphile was cast against the ship. Hercules and jason went up on high for to take the air. Thenne they apperceived the desolate body so richly arrayed that the cloth of gold shone by the disgorgements of the water. anon as they had seen this they called Argos their master maroner and showed to him. Anon argoes called some of his folk and made them to fish and draw out of the see & to bring in to the ship that pour creature habilled with Ryall atours And when she was drawn on high all they in the ship went up for to see the body of this noble lady/ and medea failed not to come with the other for to behold this pity Certes the deed lady had her visage swollen and pale that none in the ship knew her/ but at the coming & for the presence of the old woman she voided blood by the conduit of her mouth as it had been a little running water departing from a fountain or a spring/ whereof all they had great marvel  
When Argos the good maroner saw the marvel he▪ stooped down for to put upon her Roobe a cloth for to keep it from the fowling of the blood that departed from her mouth· And as he put the cloth about her neck he apperceived the cered cloth that kept the water from the pistle that she had compiled/ wherefore for to know what it was he distached or ript it of & delivered it to jason Thenne the knighnt received the cloth & opened it & found the epistle/ and disployed it & as he Read it and understood the contenu of the same his blood began to change & he wax red as a rose/ & after became pale & deed as ashes And sin began to weep & to demean a sorrow moche aygre and sharp/ Certes the fair Medea. Hercules/ & Theseus and the other knights of grece were sore abashed so were Argos & the mariners when they apperceived that jason demeaned so great a duyel & sorow· Thenne it was demanded from whence this sorrow came & what tidings he found & had by the contenu of the lettre/ but it was for naught For he might not speak ner answer his heart was so closed & strained with anguissh & sorrow/ notwithstanding when he had red it & seen the contenu of the pistle/ He delivid it to medea & the containing thereof was this that followeth  
IAson/ jason the chosen of grece in prowess. in beauty. and in virtues where art thou· and when shall thou hold thy promise unto her that always hath her eyen planted on the see after the. desiring to see again the body by amorous desires and by more bewaillings than the heaven containeth sterres·s A ha' my dear love/ hast thou put in no re●ching ner no challoir the promise that thou me madest at that time when thou goest to Colchos/ knowest not thou well that every man of noble name or vocation is holden & bound to pay and hold his promise. upon pain of Reproach. Thou hast promised to me/ the day of thy promise is passed/ thou acquitest the not. O so grievous a shame & large reproach/ ye if thou have not lawful excusation Sin the day of thy promise expired/ I newly entered into house for to take plaisir ne to cover me to be dry. I have not laid on bed to take my rest. I have not seten at table for to eat. Ne I have not been in pretoire for to judge the causes of my women. but I have by the space of xl days awaited upon a roch̄ where I was when thou entredest into my royalme. And that famine constrained the to take londe· There have I hold me day and night/ in the rayn· in the wind. in the cold of the moan and in the heat of the son/ In fastings/ in prayers & orisons. in souffrages. in thoughts. in Imaginations/ in desires. in hope/ and finably in despair and in death anguisshous/ For when I have apperceived that thou camest not again to me. in forty days after the day of thy promise. all despaired I have compiled & wreton this epistle with my hand and with thine/ and all in such wise and fashion as she that might no longer abide thy coming & return. I have cast myself into the see praying the gods. that they bring me quick or dead into that place there thou art quik or dead. by great default of thy promise. & to that end that thou see what terrible affection & love I have had to 〈◊〉 person  
IN reading this epistle· the prew jason wept so pietously that he might no more. And as to the Regard of Hercules Theseus & Mops●us they failed not to be of the livery of jason. And when Medea had read all the contenu of the pistle. jason began to complain this so miserable lady that was dead by his cause as she declared in her epistle/ And thenne when he had complained & bewailed her long/ he excused him tofore them all of the promise that he had made to her for to return by the city of Lennos/ saying that it was not his default/ but that the God of wind was culpable And thereof he took witness of hercules th●seus & Mopsius· Argos the good/ maroner & of many other/ the which knew right well how he had purposed to have gone into lenos in returning from his enterprise from colchos for to see this noble lady and how the· tourbillonns of wind had destourned 'em against his wil but finably when Medea apperceived the manner of jason She began to demand him·s what prouffited him his weepings & such excusations & sin said to him/ Certes jason me seemeth that ye have better the courage of a woman thenne of a man/ & that is no need to weep ne so bewaille a lady that was so despaired. but right well for your honour & for the goodness that she hath done for you & in compassion of noblesse/ ye shall do her to be adouled for to bring her in to your country & there ye shall do her richly & honourably be put in sepulture as in such a case appertaineth  
BY the words & remonstrances of the fair Medea/ the duiel & sorrow of her love jason cess a litil & a little/ And Medea with her mistress when they saw her time took the body of the Queen ysiphile and laid it a part with the atours' rial ¶ What shall I make long ꝓces on the morn jason commanded to disancre from thence And was sin sailing certain journeys on the see/ but in th'end without making mention of any adventure dign of memoire· Argos the good master failed so far by gouffces & by floats that at the twentyest month after their departing of mirmydone. he arrived at the port from whence he was departed. for whose coming the dwellers and inhabytants of that country of grece were as joyous as they might be· & on that other side jason & all they of his ship incontinent as they had espied & known that it was the port that they were departed fro·s began to sing all on high in praising & thanking the gods of that. that they were comen home & had escaped so many dangiers & perils to their worship & profit with right great triumph of victory  
AT that time when argoes arrived in this poort/ the stars appeared largely on the heaven/ the night was fair & the see paysible/ And therefore the knights of Grece abode in the ship all night without going a land. & on the morn betime jason sent Theseus for to signify his coming unto Peleus· Theseus went & fond peleus in a cite named Elsebee. where he was merry & passed the time with his wife whose name was Cypriant/ & supposed never to have herd tidings of jason/ & when peleus saw & knew theseus he went against him & made to him great Reverence and worship/ and sin demanded him of all tidings. Thenne Theseus began to tell a part of the tidings of jason. & in especial recounted to him thauenture that he had done in colchos/ & how he had brought the rich & noble flees of gold And that he was arrived at the port of sese●re. & that he had with him the flees which was the most fair and the most noble jewell· that ever was seen/ & after told him that he had conquered in his viage the greatest honour that ever knight might get. & also he told how he brought with him the daughter of the king of Colchos which was most wise· fair/ and exellente. which in all qualities after reason might be holden for the best accomplished lady of the worlde· The noble knight peleus hearing these tidings thus told. was so pressid at the heart/ that all the blood changed by all the veins of his body·s how well he made semblant as he had been marvelously joyous. for he sent unto the king Aeson for to show to him these good tidings. and sin assembled the nobles/ the bourgeys/ the merchants/ the ladies & damoisels of the cite. & brought them in fair ordinance for to meet with jason  
When the coming of jason was known in the cite & in the country/ each man began to make great chiere At coming out of the ship/ jason and Hercules were the first that issued out. and after them cam Mopsius & an other knight of Grece. which bore tofore jason the rich flees of gold in sign of triumph & of victory/ The three tongues of the marvelous dragon/ the legs & horns of the two dreadful bulls. & they led by the arm the noble lady Medea/ which was richly arrayed & fair as the fair day/ & after them followed the other knights & noble men of Grece· Incontinent as Peleus & the gentle men of his rout saw the noble ●lees that was so rich. And the great beauty of Medea/ they were all ameruailed/ they made to them the Reverence first/ And with great honour and glory they brought jason to elsebee the cite where they sojourned that mghnt/ & on the morn they departed thence and went to pintaquo where the king Aeson sojourned at that time. for as much as that place was set in a good air/ and all about had great deduyt of chaas and hounting marvelously of venery  
Pyntaquo was a fair strong castle standing upon a great river and broad which ran swiftly round about the place· and wyth this it was environed with fair and parfounde forestes·s of good land arable and fair meadows plente. Certes the good king was much reioyed and not with out cause when he apperceived and saw his noble son jason and the fair Medea his lady. the rich flees of gold. the three tongues of the marvelous dragon/ & the horns and legs of the two meruayllouse bulls/ for to content each man· when he had made the reverence unto the king his father and to the other nobles/ he declared all plainly in the hall/ that he had never comen to the chief of this conquest. ne had been the council. the aid and address of Medea which was there present/ and therefore said he. I have renonced the love of my lady Mirro/ and have promised to this lady that she shallbe my wife and felaw/ and thus I will espouse & wed her at the third day. wherefore I pray all noble men and other. ladies and damoiselles. that each person do to her honour as it appertaineth to do unto a noble lady  
When Peleus had understanden that the fair Medea had been cause that jason was comen to the above of his enterprise without danger of deth· & that without the aid of her he had been devoured/ he changed colour & became all deed. & as well advised said naught thereto/ but always for to hold jason in love he said to him/ that he would take the charge for to prepare all that should be ꝓpice & necessary for to make the fist/ & furthermore he would send for to pray his parentis & friends for to be thereat/ Among these things the prew jason sent Theseus & Mopsius unto the port of descire & charged them expressly/ that they should ● go & bury with all solemnity & Reverence the body of the noble Queen ysiphile/ The two knights went with good heart And acquitted them of this charge ¶ For tabregge the history Cypryane had in guard the fair Medea unto the day that jason had set for tespouse her. Castor/ polus & Nestor with many rich Dukes came thenne to Pyntaquo What shall I make long resersaill jason espoused the fair Medea after the law that time used in Grece with moche great honour & Reverence. For he died to her asmuch great honour as lady might receive/ The feast was noble and fair. and it was full & plenteously served of all things/ But of the meats & entremetes and with how many course & how many dishes at every course there were served I will make no mention at this time· But thus moche will I say that peleus Cyprian & her daughters made right great pomps/ and Peleus ordained this feast much sumptuous & costlewe of Rich meats and bewrages or drinks. The day passed & the feast in dances/ carolles & esbatements/ the even came & after the night that jason and Medea lay together. Always this feast endured ·xv. days hole/ And during this feast/ the noble & rich flees of gold was ordinately hanged up in the hall in the sight of all the world. and there might come every man that would to behold it by great admiration. And there came people fro far & nigh in such multitude that it seemed a very procession. for which cause jason was marvelously renowned in many a country for his high vasselage & for this so glorious conquest  
AT th'end of ·xv. days & of the high solemnity of these espousailles as the noble princes barons and noble men were upon the point for to return to their countries jason and hercules assembled them and ●●ere recounted to them the ●idesse that the king Laomedon had done to jason & to the knights of this company/ in reffusing to them fressh water and victual for their money/ For the which cause they had been in danger & peril of death/ Thenne the Princes & Barons of Grece hearing the great doleance of jason and Hercules·s promised prestly & swore that th●● would avenge this default & miurie/ They were asper/ hoo● and hasty in vengeance/ And after these couenaunte● thus made/ they gave charge to Argos to make and sett● up an ninety ships of war for to bring thirty thousand men tofore Troy/ or at jest forty thousand/ Argos that was well cunning in that work enterprised the charge/ And promised that with in three year all these ships should be ready to help 'em. And when they had take a conclusion upon all these things/ And that they had made to Medea all the honour and Reverence of the world/ by space of time they departed all thence/ And every man returned into his country leaving jason and Medea in their rest  
PEleus went unto Elsebee and bore dueyll and Rancour in his courage more thenne need was/ for so moche as he saw jason so triumph/ and that he knew not how he might make him to die/ And jason which intended to nothing saving to make his plaisir/ lete him yet govern his royalme. & so acquit him in the de●te of marriage against the fair Medea in such fashion. that she conceyvid of him a right fair son/ which at th'end of ix months was delivered· And was named jason after h●●●ader/ The king Oetes father of Medea came thenne to Pintaquo wyth a prive main and litil company. as he that loved Medea like as the father loves the child●. And when he understood & knew the great honour that the prew jason had done to her. he was content with him and with hi● daughter/ And without exploititing of any other t●ing he returned into his country much joyous. And it was not long after these things thus befallen/ that the old mistress of Medea departed out of this world and died. But when it came unto the article of death she taught Medea a great part ●f the art of necromancy & of many other sciences where in she was expert/ And also she taught her among other sciences an art and craft for to make old people to become young of the age of· xxxij year. But the life & destynee for to die might not be lengthid unto such persons by the virtue of the science ne other wise· for asmuch as it is predestination naturel   

¶ How Medea changed the king Aeson into young age And of the death of Peleus  
After the death of the mistress of the fair Medea jason demanded Medea/ what she thought best to do She answered to him/ that she had lost great fellowship & privaulte by the death of her mistress. To whom the noble prew jason answered and said. that there was nothing so certain for every creature as the death. And that the gods would take her soul. After many days Medea took heed that among all other sciences she had one for to make old people to become young and specially men. And Sin she beheld also that the good king Aeson was passing ancient & old. for which cause she considered that she might get a great loose & an high Renommed. if she renewed his age/ wherefore she called on a day her lord jason & said to him that by her sciences she could do so much that his father Aeson should retouure new youngth in such wise as he should seem none older but. xxxij· year old/ when jason understood this that said is he was marvelously abashed & not without cause/ but how well that him seemed a thing inpossible whereto he gaf no faith yet he answered and said to her/ Certes fair lady I know for troth that ye are right wise & well experimented in plenty of hy● sciences/ ye can much mere thenne all other ladies & damoiselles/ but yet this seemeth a moche & a great thing to do so as ye say to me· & I would it pleased the Gods now that your science might stratche into so buy a matter for so much as that should be to me a right great weal. for I would that my father might live so long that 〈◊〉 should put me in my sepulture without alleging or shorting of my time. ye know well that every man desireth to l●u●  
By all my god's sire answered the lady ye shall well know that for nothing I will abuse ne deceive you But I declare you for troth. that for to length the life of your father the king l●nger thenne the gods and nature hath ordained by limitation of time/ as touching that I will not touch/ for my science may not furnissh that. But as to the regard for to reduce hi● yongth in such wise as he shall seem to you & all other in the age of xxxij year I will make me strong so to do if it be your pleasure and his Madam answered thenne jason I am as for myself more thenne content/ and pray you thereof with all my heart/ but we must go unto the king my father and declare to him all the fayte for to here his opinion. With these words jason brought the fair Medea unto the king Aeson his father. And declared to him the good will that Medea had toward him. saying that if he would consent thereto and aid himself that she should make him young again and bring him from his old age unto the age of xxxij year But as to the regard of the lengthing of your life other wise thenne god and nature hath ordained/ as to that she will nothing touch  
When the noble & ancient king Aeson had understand th●s that said is he being set upon a touch/ & resting his heed upon his arm which was white & lulled he said unto Medea/ My fair daughter ye have been cause as I understand that jason my son is comen to his honour and profit and to his above of his enterprise/ and that without your council/ moyen & aid he had been deed & devoured by the dreadful & horrible beasts that kept the noble and rich mutton or sheep of gold in the isle of Colchos. & as ye have kept & saved his life in his young age flourisshing in virtues & valeur/ will ye also save mine in my last days. For certes after the course of nature I am at the brink of my pit or sepulture. and thus lying a long time in the umbre or shadow of death. I had liefer to be and dwell in the world thenne to part out thereof/ for there is no thing that I desire so much/ when it shallbe to you possible as for to return me into the prosperity of iongthe/ & therefore my Sin she beheld also that the good king Aeson was passing ancient & old. for which cause she considered that she might get a great loose & an high renomee. if she renewed his age/ wherefore she called on a day her lord jason & said to him that by her sciences she could do so much that his father Aeson should recouure new yongth in such wise as he should seem none older but. xxxij· year old/ when jason understood this that said is he was marvelously abashed & not without cause/ but how well that him seemed a thing inpossible whereto he gaf no faith yet he answered and said to her/ Certes fair lady I know for troth that ye are right wise & well experimented in plenty of hy● sciences/ ye can much more thenne all other ladies & damoiselles/ but yet this seemeth a moche & a great thing to do so as ye say to me· & I would it pleased the Gods now that your science might stracche into so high a matter for so much as that should be to me a right great weal. for I would that my father might live so long that he should put me in my sepulture without abreging or shorting of my time. ye know well that every man desireth to live  
By all my god's sire ansu●●de the lady ye shall well know that for nothing I will abuse ne deceive you But I declare you for trouth. that for to length the life of your ●●der the king longer thenne the gods and nature hath ordained by limitation of time/ as touching that I will not touch/ for my science may not furnissh that. But as to the regard for to reduce his yongth in such wise as he shall seem to you & all other in the age of xxxij year I will make me strong so to do if it be your pleasure and his Madam answered thenne jason I am as for myself more thenne content/ and pray you thereof with all my heart/ but we must go unto the king my father and declare to him all the fayte for to here his opinion. With these words jason brought the fair Medea unto the king Aeson his father. And declared to him the good will that Medea had toward him. saying that if he would consent thereto and aid himself that she should make him young again and bring him from his old age unto the age of xxxij year But as to the regard of the lengthing of your life other wise thenne god and nature hath ordained/ as to that she will nothing touch  
When the noble & ancient king Aeson had understand this that said is he being set upon a touch/ & resting his heed upon his arm which was white & bald he said unto Medea/ My fair daughter ye have been cause as I understand that jason my son is comen to his honour and profit and to his above of his enterprise/ and that without your council/ moyen & aid he had been deed & devoured by the dreadful & horrible beasts that kept the noble and rich mutton or sheep of gold in the isle of Colchos. & as ye have kept & saved his life in his young age flourisshing in virtues & valeur/ will ye also save mine in my last days. For certes after the course of nature I am at the brink of my pit or sepulture. and thus lying a long time in the umbre or shadow of death. I had liefer to be and dwell in the world thenne to part out thereof/ for there is no thing that I desire so much/ when it shallbe to you possible as for to return me into the prosperity of iongthe/ & therefore my fair doughter·s if it be in you or in your science to do this that ye have put in terms by your moeving and after by your word. I should be greatly holden unto you. and if it please you to take the crown of my royalme. I shall give it unto you. without claiming it ever after. My dear father answered medea it is well known that ye are an high prince garnished with good renomee. of noble conusation dign to bear the crown. wherefore as Reason is your dignity shall abide with you all your life/ and in favour of your seignoureuse gentleness. ye yet ere ix days been past I shall renew you as said is unto the age of ·xxxij. year. and I shall not labour on none other mater unto the time that I am come to the above of mine enterprise/ which is no little thing  
Without making of any delay the fair medea took leave of her lord jason for eight days hole/ & thenne she departed fro the palais/ and went the most secretly that she could all all one unto a great wood/ And when the night was comen· & that the moan shone brighnt & clear/ she kneeled down thrice on her knees/ studying at each time her science/ sin lift up her visage unto the heaven & made this oroison that followeth/ moon reposing in the mids of the stars that shinest and confirmest the charms and ye the gods of montaignes. of the valleys. of woods/ of deserts. of the fountains/ of sees/ of herbs/ and of trees/ beye in my beginning and give me aid in my work for the salute & health of king Eson· when she had said this she made certain signs about her/ and after she made some secret Invocations. And thenne she was lift up into the air and born into all the regions of the world Where she gathered and took many herbs of dyuce fashions and conditions/ & many precious stones. And was thus in point labouring· by the space of eight days. And on the ix day she was resta●lisshid in the same wood and in the proper place from whence she was lift up in to the air/ And there she fond her silf tofore a moche ric●e temple that was there dedyed unto the goddess Hebe & to the goddess H●kates  
HIt was on the point of the day early when Medea fond herself tofore the temple. And thenne Medea abode there all ravished unto the son rising. & thenne she entered into the temple & made sacrifice unto the goddesses hebe and hekates. hebe was called goddess of youngth & hekates of charmerye/ When she had done thus she issued cu●e of the temple/ and died make a picte in the earth & in this pit which was deep she sacrefied a black sheep unto the gods of hell. of whom she held and kept the blood & medlid it with the herbs. And after that she was garnished of all that was needful for her/ returned unto the old ancient king Aeson. And did do make for him a fair bayne/ wherein she put these herbs/ & milk and honey And when she had prepared & made ready all that was for him necessary In the presence of jason she put the king into the bain where the herbs begun to smell right sweet And ever more & more gave good odour. And anon after that he was therin· and that she had rubbed and frotted him with the herbs/ he fill a sleep by her art. & when he was a sleep she made him a little wound· where out ●he drew his old blood/ And left him in this point by the space of. vij· hours/ After this she awoke him and made him to issue out of the bain all naked hole & sound of all his members as he had been in the age of two an thretty year  
When the prew jason and the King his father himself saw th'experience of this craft and mysiere. certes they had great marvel and not without cause. for this was a work that never was seen ne happened tofore And so much praised the wit/ the cunning· and the virtues of the fair Medea. that they judged her to be inspired of the Goddes·s Thenne the noble king Aeson when he fond himself in this estate/ he sent for the best tailors and makers of garnements. And died do make for his body all new habiliments after the fashion that the young men beware at that time/ after this he went & put him to the chaas or hunting & to the deduyt of 〈◊〉 & ha●●kes to make esbatements/ fes●es. dances & tourneys ●oustes and other plays. And for to short our matter he so conduysed himself as a man made all new/ Hit was not l●ng after this that Peleus and all the nob●● of the country and other were advertised herof· Wherefore great number of people came to Pintaquo only for to see the king Aeson that was strongly inclined to sing. daū●e and to do all joyous things. And yet that more is he saw gladly the fair Damoiselles/ And for to make short he held himself as a young Prince that had no Regard save only to make good cheer and to pass the time joyously  
PEleus. his wife Cyprian. & his daughters came unto the king in the renovellite of this noble respyrement/ Medea lay with jason & conceived of him a right fair son of whom she was delivered in good time. And anon after the burth of this second son/ Cyprian came on a day to Medea & required much instantly that of her grace she would make young again Peleus/ which began strongly to were ancient & old. Certes the fair medea was right joyous when she saw her so required. and thinking in herself that she would be avenged of the disloyal Peleus the which intended to have made jason be dead. She accorded to her this request and took day for to do it. & when the day was comen/ Medea commanded to Cypryane that she should make ready a moche noble bain. After she sent for to fe●che peleus which was moche joyeus/ for so moche as he supposed to become young again lyk as he had been tofore. And thenne when all was ready/ peleus dispeilled him of his clotheses & entered into the bain/ Medea made him to sleep there/ And when he was a sleep she took to his two daughters to each a sword well trenchant in her hands/ and made 'em to make on the body of Peleus their father more thenne fifty wounds mortal. saying that they must needs do so/ And thenne when peleus was adoubed and h●r● & that of his life was no remedye· medea awoke him & said in this manner. Ha'/ a right unhappy trayttre thou sendest late jason into Colchos weening for to have made him die there without any respite/ wherefore thou hast deserved the death that shall be now this our inhumayn & by the hands of thy proper doughters·s & therewith Medea departed from the chamber. And peleus thus miserably finished his life & his days  
When Cypryane & his two daughters were adutised of these tidings. they escried much sorrowfully. & in weeping great tears in great anguissh drew out of the marvelous bain the power body of peleus. and laid it a long upon a table· but Cypryane had the heart so straight shut that she might not speak. and not without cause For assoon as she had laid peleus upon the table. she fill down reussed all a swoune/ and thenne the doughtery considering the great mischief that was befall to them. took the two swords yet all bloody with which they had put th●ir father to death & smote themself to the h●rt in such wise that they fill down deed & despaired upon the ●●dy of the●● sorrowful moder· which thenne revived out of her swoune. A 〈◊〉 right piteous & dolorous case. Cypryane comen again to herself & seeing in her presence this myschi●f & redoublement of sorrow/ could hold none other maintain safe for to cry with all her puissance also high & ferdfully ●hat the king Aeson and his son being not f●r fro thence in a tour by the chamber. were greatly afraid with this cry. And in especial when they beheld first the body of peleus put upon the table all environed with wounds. Secondly when they saw and apperceived the two young damoisels daughters of peleus having styked in their bodies unto their hearts the swords where with they were slain/ And thirdly seeing cypryane lying upon the pament/ her heart faylling cra●ching her face & drawing her here by great asprete of sorrow  
THe king Aeson & his son jason seeing this that said is came thenne unto the lady & in approaching relieved her & laid her on a bed that was there. Thenne jason began to doubt of medea for asmuch as oftentimes she had required him that he would put to death peleus because he had sent him into the isle of colchos/ when they had brought the lady on the bed. Aeson the noble king & his son jason began to recomfort her the best wise that they might/ and weeping tenderly they demanded her who had commised this dolorous murdre/ Thenne the lady answered with much great pain that medea was culpable/ & rehearsed to hem all the manner how she had made peleus to die by the hands of his two daughters/ & how they seeing the shameful feet commised by them were despate & sl●we 'em self in great sorow·s & telling this her heart failed. the king intended to h●r & jason departed thence & went to medea which was in her chamber & said to her/ A ha' dame whereto were ye ever born into this world/ the merits of your benefits been great & dign of glory/ but your puers demerits been somoch horrible & foul that they stain all your virtues. My dear lord said thenne medea. Ne know ye not how peleus sent you into colchos by his enhortement for so much as he supposed that ye newly should have returned/ & also ye had been deed without remedie· ne had been that ye escaped the danger by my council as it is well known. These things considered & seen that he had no cause to purchase to you such a danger for ye new deserved it/ wherefore I have many times desired you to take punition upon the desloial peleus to which ye would newly intend/ so it happened that peleus had a will for to be Reduyte in to young age as the king your father is by mine Introduction & style but his two daughters have put him to death whereof ye aught to be right joyous/ Certes dame answered jason ye say that pleseth you/ but ye have do so now and also other times that ye shall ever be holden in reproach. & therefore that now & other times ye have commised & done to be commised· many enorm inhuman & hydouse feats. I renonce you in all points & your company/ and command you unto the gods. After these words jason departed fro the chamber sore discomforted/ and without taking leave of the king his father ne of other person he departed alone upon his hers fro the castle of Pyntaquo  
When Medea had understand that jason/ to whom she had do so much as her seemed of honour & other things. Renonced her company/ And that she apperceived that he had taken his horse. & was alone departed out of the castell· She took her youngest son in her arms and two of her damoisels in her company. And in this wise went after jason thinking to repease him by fair words/ but the prew jason that was in over great trouble and anger road all way forth tofore him so long that he entered into a forest· And continuelly had his beu & sight toward the earth. thinking on the malefetes of Medea & of her Inhumanytes & murders/ And he went so far in to the wood that Medea knew not where he became how weal she returned not to Pintaquo but sought always jason as long as the day endured. And at night. she/ her child & the two damoisels lay under a tree for the better wyth sore bewailling  
THe king Aeson died do bury this night his brother peleus & his two daughters honourably & made a marvelous sorrow for their death/ but when it came at the even and that medea ne jason his son came not to him as they were accustomed. his sorrow doublid in great anguissh and in great displaisir/ & cess not all the night to be in great thought & melancholy. when the morning was comen he sent out his men into the wood for to seche jason & Medea/ but they that so were sent could not find them ne here no tidings of them And the prew jason went alway forth also pensif as he might be. & his adventure was such that after many journeys & many ways & champaynes trausid as he that road by day & in the night rested & lete his horse bait & pasture in the fields & meadows/ he arrived in the cite of Corinthe where as was the king of that country named Creante. the which had thenne a fair daughter named Creusa. jason went unto this creante & gaf him to knowlech what he was. but creante assoon as he had knowlech of him died him much great honour for the loos & good renomee that he had gotten by his Right high valiance in many a royalme & country  
IN corinth thenne jason dwelled & abode a certain space of tyme. Creusa that was a right fair lady/ beheld oft times jason/ And desired with good will to be acompanyed with him· but jason was so empesshid with sorrow & of melancolye· that he might take none heed of it And furthermore he was so charmed that in no wise/ he might love none except Medea· When the king Creante apꝑceyvid the maintain of jason & that he made no joy by continuance of time. he came to him on a day & conjured him that he should tell him the cause of his annoy and grief/ And how well that jason excused him. allway the king oppressed him more and more & did so moche by fair wordes·s that jason confessed to him the adventures that were befallen between him and Medea and said to him also how he was departed fro his country/ more for to withdraw him fro Medea and to forget h●r thenne for any other cause/ But he could not find the manner ne mean for to come to his above  
THe king Creante which was a wise prince knowing the case of jason by this that he gaf him knowledge would be his cordial frende· for he counciled him that assoon as he might he should take & wed a new wyf·s saying that the love & new acquaintance of a new wife should make him lightly to loose & forget the thoughts & Imagynations of love and the plaisirs that he hath had in the first. when jason had understand that the king conceylled him wisely/ & that he said to him the secret of the case. he thanked him moche. and said that he would marry him if he could find a wife after his estate· And therewith he took leave of the king. and withdrew him into his logys' And it was not long after that he ne returned unto the palace of the king for to see the ladies/ And among all other he began to behold the fair Creusa. And approached to her weening to require her of love/ but when it came to the opening of his month. certes the sowenaunce of medea came tofore him that took away all his entendements in all points/ when jason saw this that said is. he arose up from thence and entered into a garden where he fond himself so melancolious and troubled in his courage that he knew not what he might do best/ Thenne it happened that the king anon after came into this garden for to reclaim a sperhawke of his· but he found jason set under the tree/ Thenne he went to him for to reason with him. And jason arose incontinent as he saw him come And thenne the king axed him how it was·s & how he felt him· Certes sire answered thenne jason/ me seemeth that I am alway in one point/ & after said to him in this wise Sire I remember well how ye have counseled me for to abstain me to think on Medea. the which is continuelly in mine intendment for to take to wife some new Lady Wherefore I require you and pray with all my heart that ye will give to me Causa your daughter to spouse and fellow. & ye so doing shall do to me the greatest honour and pleasure that may come to me· for if it be other wise I am the most evil fortuned knighnt that is in the remenannt of the world  
INcontinent as the gentle king had understonden the Request of jason/ as a prince right joyous answered to him & said/ Certes jason ye do to me & to all our house great honour when ye require for your fellow & wife my doughnter/ I give to you my doughnter. and she is well destyneed and comen into this world for you. Certes I accord your Request and give her to you. With these words the king sent for the Queen/ his daughter/ and for the Baronns and knights/ of his court·s the Ladies and Damoiselees as well of his palace as of his city 〈◊〉 sen●e 〈◊〉· and in the 〈◊〉 of all them that 〈◊〉 were he made jason and his d●ughter to promise' that they should wedee and espouse each other/ within a certain term that was tho said. and after these things by the 〈◊〉 of his barons knights & the ladies the day of th●re espousailles was ordained/ and did do make there a feast so far and notable. that like was never seen in all that country For the king & the Queen were so joyous of this noll. alliance as possible was for 'em to be/ There were dances and carolles begun instruments of all fashions set a work/ songs & fair dities songen in the best wise· wine and meet were plenteously arrayed & dressed for all them that would take. And thus endured this great & notable feast unto the night/ that the king· the queen/ jason. creusa the Barons/ knights ladies & damoiselles departed fro this garden with moche great joy. for each man enforced him to make great cheer for the noble alliance of the prew jason and of the fair Creusa/ but who that ever was joyous or sorrowful the young lady was moche comforted and not without cause thinking on the high virtues that were in the person of the valiant prince jason   

¶ How jason espoused the fair Creusa the kings daughter of Corinthe· & of her death by Medea  
THe renomee of this wedding of jason & of the fair Creusa was anon sprad in all the royalme of corinthe· The king concluded that he would make a solemn feast/ and sent his messengers into many & dyuce countries for to assemble the Princes of the countries his friends and 〈◊〉 to seek clo●●e● of gold of silk and other sump●●ous & rich things/ Always for to ●●siewe the ver●● and true narracion of our matter. during the 〈◊〉 an● trouthmplighting of jason & of Creusa Medea that lef●● not night ne day for to seek her husband jason as said 〈◊〉 She erred & laboured in such wise as she came unto the meats & marches of corinth/ & well concluded in her s●lfe that she would go unto corinth. And as she w●●te in h●r way she found a moche fair fontaine or well. where abou● sat & were many labourers that at this spring refreshed them. when they apperceived the lady & the two damoisele● come unto the fountain. certes they were sore ameruail●d to see three so fair women. how well they axed 'em whither they went· wherefore demand ye said medea/ for as much far dame answered one of the labourers that we will go unto the cite of corinth/ & if it please you to go thither that our company● may plaise you/ we shall gladly hold you company. My friend answered medea/ know ye that our entencion is for to go into the cite that ye speak of. and that right well pleseth us your company  
WIth that the noble lady damoisels and though labourers went on her way/ and so going one of them began to behold the little child son of Medea that one of the damoisels bore in her arms/ and when he had a litil behold the child he said all on high in this manere/ Certes I would that it pleased all our gods that my Lady Creusa that to morrow come ix months might have one so fair a son by her lord/ Fair friend said thenne Medea What is that Creusa that ye now speak of/ what is she 〈◊〉 the labourer. And why know ye her 〈…〉 so long. Cer●●● she is daughter of the king of ●●●rinthe whom shall Bed to morn the most fair 〈◊〉 of the world and the most vailliaunt in 〈◊〉. For it is he that had conquered I 〈…〉 of gold that men say is passing 〈…〉 we all go together for to see what 〈…〉 shall be/ and each of us bear thither of our goods for to 〈…〉 the wedding. The custom at that time was such wh●n that a king died do marry his son or daughter/ that all the men of the royalme were ●ounden each by himself for to make a present of victuals. And the merchants and burgesses of the cities made to him an 〈◊〉 of a certain some of money and of other goods wherewith th●● were discharged  
Anon thenne as Medea understood this that the labourer spac● of the knight that was so fair and so v●●liaūt & that had conquered the fl●●● of gold. 〈…〉 well that it was her lord jason that 〈…〉 the morn the fair Creusa. wherefore she was sore 〈◊〉 and not without cause. 〈…〉 se● jason. She looked so long that she espied him. but her 〈◊〉 that he had an heavy cheer and was sorrowful· then̄● was Medea sewer that it was jason that should wed Creusa. Thenne began her heart to melt in such wise that there departed from thence many & great plenty of sighs. & many tears devaled and fill down from her eyen upon her breast/ And thus doing she thought & again thought what was to do for the best/ And thenne she returned unto the two damoiselles. and sent one of them well disguised unto jason for to require him that he would come & speak to a lady that was there  
THenne the noble prew jason nothing thinking on the ●ayr Medea hearing the Request of the Damoiselle ●oose up and went wyth her· and she brought him unto Medea which was withdrawn a little a part holding 〈◊〉 little son in her arms/ But Incontinent as jason apperc●yued her there in that point he was marvelously of mayed. And after that Medea had made to him the 〈◊〉 in sal●wyng him by all their gods. She said ●o him in thi● manner. Al●● my dear lo●d jason. what 〈…〉 so that 〈◊〉 morn without 〈…〉 ye will take for your wife Creusa whom ye 〈…〉 a● I am certified. And how my only 〈◊〉 love & 〈◊〉 shall I be sallaryed of such 〈…〉 of the salvation of your life/ of 〈…〉 had been/ ●f ●t had not been saved by my moyen 〈…〉 know. Is th●s the merit that ye rendee to me 〈…〉 love I have abandonned the king my 〈◊〉 and 〈…〉. Is this the guerdon that I have awaited after that I have reduysed by so great labour and travail my lord your father the king from his ancient age unto the yongth of xxxij year as ye well know A ha' jason right noble and valiant knight· I suppose ye hold well in your remembrance all that ye have promised to me. for god's sake forget it not & put it not in oubliance/ And if it be so that ye will take and have any other lady then me/ Certes I had liefer now to loose my life then to live any longer/ sle me. my death be pardoned unto you  
DAme answered thenne jason. what as to the regard of the wedding now begone· if it please the Gods they shallbe ꝑfaited & fulfilled as it is ordained not with standing any promise that hath been made between you & me When medea heard this answer she fill down to the earth all a swoune or in a trance saying/ A ha' mine only & sovayn we'll thenne shall ye be perjured/ Certes dame answered jason Saw your honour/ I have acquytte unto you all that I have promised unto you· for I have broughnt you into my country & solemnly have espoused you. & sin I have be true in marriage unto the death of mine uncle peleus/ where as ye well know hath been commised by you a great defaute. Not withstanding this that is past I intend not that by me ye should be slandered But know ye that I had moche liefer live in honour and ensue the terms and works of noblesse thenne for to hold me longer in your company/ I telle you these things for so moche as if I held me longer by you/ And of you ne were done good justice· it mighnte be said that I should be culpable of one so cruel a ●urdre. whereof is ensiewed the death of two so fair & noble maidens and pucelles daughters of Peleus. And for this cause & other cruelties by you comysed. I shall hold that I have said. And so I may do & aught to do lawfully in keeping mine honour & the terms & comandements of our law  
When the fair Medea had understanden all the will and conclusion of the noble prew jason. if she had been to fore sorrowful and over angry. yet was she thenne much more. For she began to weep wyth these words & to sigh fro her heart so parfondly that it seemed that there departed from her two fair eyen two ruysseauls or two springs of a fontayne· This notwithnstanding after many sighs from the heart so ꝑfondly she repliqued unto th'answer of jason and said. Ha'/ a sir knight I know well now that it is destiny that I own to be the most infortunate lady of the world/ if I have consented or counciled the death of the disloyal Peleus'/ it hath been for the great love & right true that I have had for t'avenge you of this that he by his falls council sent you into Colchos to make the conquest upon the flees of golde· knowing that it was a thing inpossible ever to return wythoute to be devoured and dead if it had not be my pourueyance/ and when I have done all these things wyth good entencion and for to get your grace. ye will now leave and repudye me in all points/ wherefore I may well say that under the firmament is no more infortunate creature in all tribulation thenne I am/ Ha'/ a my dear love and friend jason shall I have none other salaire ne other guerdon for all my merits  
CErtes dame answered then jason ye have moch more thenne ye have deserved for such trespaas. such Reward. for the converture of the trespaas by you done can not excuse you. do the best ye can or may & your children also. withdraw you with your children into some country & so shall ye do wisely & also your prouffit· My dear lord said thenne Medea/ sin it is your pleasure that it so be. it must needs be that it please me. And so be it always that your plaisirs been fulfilled· yet at the jest for to reioye me a litil. ye shall do to me so much grace that of your curtoisye I may be logged here within unto to morrow to th'end that I may see the sollempnyte of t●e weddings if ye will thus accord to me I ꝓmette you that to 〈◊〉 at d●●er for 〈◊〉 love of you. I shall make appear visibly one of the great marvels that ever was seen at wedding of a ●ynge● d●ughter or of a prince  
When jason 〈◊〉 vnd●rstande the request of the lady not thinking that she pretended but unto all well & good and also for to be quytt of her/ accorded her request And was delivered to her a right fair chamber within th● palais/ And when the lady was in this chamber she sent her two damoisels for to be logged in the town/ So it happened when she was there alone she began to study in many of her sciences/ and when it came about midnight she died her to be transported into the air/ & she brought into her chamber with her plenty of works Ryghnt secret Whereof she composed four great and horrible dragons whom she knetted to guider by their taylles/ and maad ●s it had been a chain. And thenne this done she passed in this point that night so sore passioned with jealousy of love that her seemed that her heart and all her body were all esprised with fire & flambe· So it happened on the morn when jason had espoused the fair Creusa & that he was set at dinner with her & with the king father of t●e lad● and with the knights ladies and damoiselles of 〈…〉. Then̄● Medea departed from her chamber 〈…〉 the m●ddes of the four dragons holding her youngest son all naked in her hands. And in this point she made her to be brought to fore the table where as the nob●e prew jason w●s  
C●rte●●ut i● well lightly to believe that the king ● the no●le prew jason/ and also all they that were the● Were greatly ●sma●ed and fir when they apperceived 〈…〉 entre in to the hall sitting ●ytwene four 〈◊〉 so terrible to behold by semblant/ And some there were 〈◊〉 fled. And some abode to see thauenture seeing that she held between her hands the young child But when M●dea saw that she was afore jason. She escried him in this manere. jason/ jason thou knowest that I am thy wife/ thou leavest me for another/ & weenest thyself not to have mesprised to me. I have saved thy life And thou dost to me great wrong and overmuch great blame. And this procedeth̄ fro the of all desloyalte and of all mavastie. whereof thou art chief and head· And such wilt thou be and abide. but I shall keep the from it if my cunning fail not. For certainly I promise' the that thy new wife Creusa and the king her father and all they that been here within shall loose their life. Reserved thyself. & by consequent thy proper soon that I hold in my proper arms shallbe the first that shall begin the feast  
When the desolate lady had said these words she holding her young child which was much tendre· took him by the two legs & by the force of her arms Rent him in two pieces. & in that point cast him in the platter tofore jason and Creusa/ And with that the four terrible dragons on whom she sat opened their throats in disgorging fire & venym· so much & so horribly that all they that were there deyde miserably & in great torment reserved Ias●n which might not receive any grief by no venom because of the blood of the ●ole medlid with the ashes where with he had been anointed as it is said all a long in the chapitre making mention of the conquest of the noble flows of gold  
THenne when the prew jason apperceived the young child so inhumaynly slain. & after saw in his presence die miserably and in sorrow his lady Creusa/ the king the queen his baronns' knights ladies & damoisels squires and other by the sorts and enchantements of Medea. he was so over angry and wroth that he might no more be without he had been out of his mind/ Thenne he aroos from the table all confuse and escried upon medea saying/ A ha' right evil enchanteresse replenished with all evil/ certes it is over great damage that the earth beareth and susteyneth you. ye have with your two hands murdrid your own son and mine. And sin by your enchantementes falls & unresonabbe ye have maked to die miserably and with dolour so many high princes. vaillyaunt knights ladies and damoisels and gentle esquires here assembled for to do to me honour & company. the which did to you never trespaas ne grief. Ha' a what horrible cruelty is by you comysed. Certes ye have not the courage of a woman human/ but of a best or serpent devouring all creatures or elliss of a cruel tyrant wyth out pite/ Ha'▪ a Right perverse and felon' courage/ what hast thou done by thy great outrage or cruelty. what aught I now to do or where shall I become after that this evil is befallen. If thou were a man like as thou art a woman perverse and mirror or chief of all evil· with out longer 〈◊〉 I should take vengeance of this trespaas and grief. but for as much as thou art a woman. it shall never happen that my hand employ him upon thy body. Considering that a noble man that for any anger or trespaas smitest a woman or set hand on her/ he leseth his honour 〈◊〉 wyth good cause  
When the lady had understand the complaint of her lord jason/ She answered him and said in this manere. Certes my dear love know ye for trouth/ that I had liefer see all the world die. thenne I knew that ye should have habitation with any other woman thenne with me/ ye know how I have employed me for to preserve you from danger of death/ where many a knight hath lost his life tofore· Also ye know what honour ye have by my feat gotten perpetuelly. and all this have I done gladly to th'intent that ye should be my husband and espouse all your life during. And now I apperceive that ye will leave and abandonne me for one other in all estate lass thenne I am/ her malefices & her cruelties overmuch inhuman/ and in riding from one place to another he was in so great perplexite & sorrow that he might no more but if he had deyde And for this cause he had his intendment so travailed that he witted not what to do. In this manner trist & pensive drawing from one country to an other it was told him on a day that the king Tollus of Elsebee that was his parent and of his kin should wed for hi● wife the king's daughter of Thessale named Anestor. And for some w●at to refress●e himself he concluded that he would go to ●his wedding. which should be solempnel without 〈◊〉/ for be thought well th●t there should be kings/ Duke's 〈◊〉 Queens and noble ladies in great nomb●●· The 〈◊〉 Mirro was comen thither with other ●●incess●● 〈◊〉 that the king Tollus was h●r nigh 〈◊〉. But incontinent as the kings & princes knew jason they welcomed him on all sides much honourably. As●ay the 〈◊〉 Mir●o made no semblannt to know him. for wh●n jason had been feasted of one & other and that he app●o●●ed t●e qu●ne Myrro which was thoo pensif· drew her a 〈◊〉 behind the other ladies & escried him with an open 〈◊〉 which was well h●rd saying thus  
〈◊〉/ a right evil knight withdraw you Incontinent from me/ have ye forgotten that ye long sin promised me in Athenes that ye should be my husband/ And yet ye have do nothing thereto/ but have espoused another lady as it hath been recompted and certified to me/ O disloyal and untrue false liar where as ye have not holden ne fayth ne trouth. Approach thou in no wise unto me depart out of my presence. And be never founden in my way. But notwithstanding that the Queen had achieved this reprouchable answer/ yet he said to her in thi● manner/ My dear lady I am so mo●he malewrous & unhappy/ that I am not dign to be founden to fore your noble ●●●sence. I know plainly that I have made faute/ And I can not think how my courage is thus corumped and 〈◊〉 cou●cylled. for sin I took leave the last time of you and when I parted I remember right well that in my vo●ag● to colchos I had you always in continual remembrance wreton within my ●●rte hoping at my returning to 〈◊〉 taken you to my wife/ unto the time that 〈…〉 I was sodemly es●rised with the 〈◊〉 of medea· 〈…〉 required me to be h●r ●us●ond. always I 〈…〉 virtue of the sovenance & m●n●e th●t I 〈◊〉 of you. Not●ithstondin● that· she made to me 〈◊〉 to make me conqu●re the noble & rich moten with the 〈◊〉 of golde· where 〈◊〉 knight went tofore to conquer but 〈◊〉 he l●fte and l●●te there his l●ff/ I know well that when she made me this promise all that day I changed neu●● my purpose ne courage. But assoon as I was laid in my bed an evil volente or will surprised me which was such in all po●ntes that I left your love and concluded that I would make of Medea my Lady paramours as I died. and for this cause she gafe to me the Introduction and the manner to conquer the noble and Rich mutton. of whom I have brought the noble Flees on this side the see And also I have brought with me in to Myrmydone Medea no more thinking on you. ner on that. that For certainly sin it had been on my finger I have f●und and felt myself eslonged & alleged of all my sorrows and me seemeth that I love none other lady but you/ and therefore I require you right humbly if in any manner I have trespassed or misprised against you that ye will pardon me. And that it please ●ou that our compromise long sin made may now sort good effects  
CErtes s●r knight answered thenne the noble lady/ I have here tofore so much loved you that none infortune may in any wise make me to conceive hate unto you. and 〈…〉 what is your intention. My dear lady answered jason my desire ● intention is nothing but to come to that I may be your husband if it be to me possib●● a● I have sin long ꝓmised· But 〈◊〉 is of necessity for to condu●te this work secretly/ to th'end that medea be not 〈◊〉 thereof For if she knew that ye were mine espouse. she shield not ●esse day ne night unto the time that she ha● made ●ow to die. Certes sir knight answered the lady we shall do right well if the default be not in you. and shall tell ●ou how ye shall come with me after this weddingis● ye shall put you in guise of a servant in disfiguring yourself as moch as is in you possible. & ye shall serve me as a servant. but when we shallbe in Oliferne▪ ye may have me secretly to your wife/ & thus Medea shall nothing know ne none other person of you & of me. And will she or not the strong enchanteresse that so long hath holden you in her sorts & in dangeres of her arts. from hens forth we shall enjoy the loves of us each other. Thenne the prew jason was content for to conduit himself in this manner in all such wise as the queen myrro had ordained whereof she was right joyous ¶ For tabregge the matter during these weddings jason and myrro oft times spack to guider of their amorette● & jason received there many fair preysinges which were to long to rehearse/ In th'end the weddings finisshid & one & other took leave and went home into their countries. and so it aught not to be forgotten that jason went to ●lifern● with the fair myrro in lubite disguised as a yeoman 〈◊〉 a servant & named himself Sambor  
When the●̄e the lover & the lady had so exploited that 〈◊〉 were in Oliferne/ the lady logid h●r lover in a litil cham●●e not 〈◊〉 from her and g●● him th●●● 〈…〉 be her 〈◊〉 & held thenne with her person but one 〈◊〉 that 〈…〉 most part of her secrets how well she was 〈◊〉 always to have in h●r chamber four 〈◊〉. the ●●denaūces & conclusions made the same day 〈◊〉 they were comen. when the night was comen & every 〈◊〉 withdrawn in his place for to rest. the queen whom desire 〈◊〉 long chased sent secretly to s●●che the pressed of their la●e an● sambor also. And with little noise and bruyt she mari●● sam●●r and after sent the priest away. and to th'end that he shield be secret she gafe him a purse fu● of gold. She held her spouse in her chambre· And thenne when the pressed was gone. and that they were both to guider/ they began in good earnest the deduyte that is used in the amorous life. And Righnt joyously they comforted each other. And demeaned this amorous life all the long winter·s & so ye aught to believe that on the day the prew jason served in his office. and in the night he entremeted well fro the art & enchantements of Medea. Thenne jaso promised to her that he so would do. & concluded there the day of his depting  
ANd when jason & the queen myrro had cessed of speaking of this matter the damoiselle that had declared the feet to her brother brutorus was awaiting & aspyeng at the hole· & understood all that the lady & jason had devised/ said & concluded. Thenne she adutised her brother and told to him all that she had understonden & the day tha● he should depart into his country/ This brutorus was right joyous when he understood these tidings/ & concluded in himself that he would lie in a wa●te of jason in a wood by a way by which he must needs 〈…〉 he call●d to him twelve gentlemen of his knowleche· and tol● th●m that sa●●lor had trespassed to him & that he would slay him on s●●he a day as he should depart unto his country ¶ For ta●rege the mater when the day was comen the noble punice departed with moche bewailling of his lady. & wo●t himself all one by that wood. & he had not long erred & ridden in the wood when brutorus & his twelve fellows without eserieng or swooning of any word smote upon him great stookes & mortel if he had not well be armed at his depting as his adventure was he had be deed/ and among all other brutorus gaf him a marvelous stroke upon the heed that whether he would or not he made him bow on the lift side  
When jason felt him so advironed & assailed of these traitress and that they smote upon him on all sides he was all abashed/ Nevertheless he set him at defence. and thenne he drew out his good sword· with which he befought his enemies right vayllyauntly and as a noble knight as he was. But the place where Brutorus assailed him over asperly/ was in hollow and straight passage. in such wise as jason might not but wyth great pain help himself/ for the disloyal tra●ttre & his conplices were on both sides. six on that one side/ and six on that other mounted upon high territories that hinge over the hollow way. and casted great stones upon him. in such wise that they slew & murdered his horse under him. and in feat they frussled his helm & made him a marvelous wound in his heed/ The●̄e when jason saw his horse deed & that he felt the smart of the sore in his heed. he set him a foot all astonied. but brutorus & his fellows assailed him again & cast on him stones. glayves'/ & swords/ where wyth they bruysed & wounded him in many places/ for the horions & strokes came from above. Nevertheless jason as a valiant knight marchid out over the passage & did so moche that he came into a right fair land. Thenne Brutorus and his folk s●ewed him so far/ that they came to fight hand a hand. And among all other Brutorus approached unto his evil adventure. For jason smote him upon the top of his helm by such fierste that he cleft the helm and the heed unto the teeth that he fill down dead at his fe●●  
THus as ye may understand was the disloyal brutorus miserably slain. And thenne when his complices apperceived that he was put to utterance they escried all upon jason & assailed him on a new right anguisshously in renewing to him the dolour and great pain of his wounds & frousshures' that they made to him in the hollow way as said is/ and so began the stoure aspre & terrible How well that jason had more courage thenne puissance Always he defended him by right great vigour in bathing his trenchant sword in such wise in the blood of these xij murderers that he put seven of them to death with Brutorus And after foughnt long with the remenannt/ and it fortuned him that in scarmusshing that he hurt the Remenannt unto the death/ as he that escaped not net but was hurt in so many places that by th'effusion of blood that fill from his heed/ his heart failed him in th'end and fill down among the deed men· The four last that were left were but litil better thenne deed. But what marvel  
When the two murdriers had born to ground the prew jason/ they wend that he had been deed. and sat deun by for to rest them·s and after soft and fair they withndrewe 'em into the cite as they that with moche great pain might unneath sousteyne 'em self. but for to go unto their houses they must pass tofore the palais. the Queen than espied them from far. & apperceived anon that they were all bespreynt with blood whereof she was moche esmayed She died do 'em to be called and sin demanded them from whence they came. Alas my dear lady said one of them We come from an evil journee/ for sambor and▪ viii. of our next kin & friends been lying deed in the wood with brutorus/ which broughnt us thither for to lie in a wait for to slay sambor/ the which as he hath said to us/ hath done to him displaisir/ but sambor hath put us all to death reseruid us four which been so pitously hurt. that but if the gods inparte to us of their grace we been in great danger of ou●e lives  
IN saying these words two of these four knights deyde there suddenly. whereof the noble queen was so sore abashed that her heart failed & fill down in swounne· that she was born into her chamber by her damoisels/ And the two malerous knights were born f●r to be buried after the custom of the country. When the lady was a litil comen to herself/ by thefforce of the great sorou that she had in her heart she escried passing high and said. jason/ Alas my love jason and my lorde· But srowhens sourdeth one so great maleurte or mishap that ye have thus been slain in the wood/ The terrible cruelty of thenuenymed & so horrible beasts of Colchos had no power to grieve thy person/ Ne the sudden perils of the see ne also the great hardiness of the Esclavons. Ha· a the right evil Brutorus ye have slain him and he hath slain you. Alas what great loss must I suffer this day. I am born in an unhappy our When it must be that I have nourisshid the murdrere that traitorously hath put to death the noble knight jason which is my lord and husband. Ha· a noble & worthy of all worthy· the vaillyaunt of all vaillianns. and he in whom all virtues haboun den· the gods have mercy of thy soul. And if thou be not over dede· that they will hold the so long a live that I might yet once speak wyth the And I shallbe moche the more comforted that I shall die more eysyly. And thenne I desire no longer to live in this world after the  
When the ladies & damoisels there being had herd & understonden of the queen by her lamentations that he that was named sambor was jason that so much was recommended in valiances & in virtues marveled strongly for asmuch as he served as a yeoman. & at last comforted the lady the fairest wise they might. And thenne she declared all openly that sambor was jason the noble knighnte and none other but he had wedded her. and furthermore she declared for what cause jason had changed his name & wh● he maintained him as a yeoman or servant. After this declaration & lamentacion● 〈…〉 ●ide do assemble all the nobles of the cite as well ●en as women. & thus she sent solemnly for to f●oche the bod● of the v●●llian̄t prince jason. And commanded that b●utorus & his fellows should be quartered & h●ng●d on the gal●●●es as traitors/ And th●y that were com̄●sed to the●s●a●sion of the justice accomplissh●d 〈◊〉 th●ir charge ● commission and the company that had charge for to go 〈◊〉 the body of jason went unto the place wirie the disloyal murdre was comysed/ But when they were there comen they found that jason was not yet deed/ but he sact up & leaned unto one of the traitress. Thus this noble company seeing that he was yet a live/ made to him right great cheer and called him by his name. Saying that the Queen Myrro and they all were so Right displaisannt of his inconvenient that they might no more be. And without long sojourning there· they layed the nobbe and vailliannt knight jason upon a shield which they found there lying upon th'earth and bore him unto the city. And the noble Queen came against him for she had been adutised by her men that he was not yet deed/ how well she wept sore tenderly  
When the fair Mirro was comen nigh unto her lord And that she apperceived that he was so frusshid & brusshid with stones & staves/ certes her heart failed. & they that bore jason rested unto that she was comen again to herself· And thenne she ne jason might not speak/ jason for the anguissh that he suffered. and she for the great displaisir that she had at her heart/ But it was not long after that jason was born unto the chamber of his espouse & fellow. where the best Cirurgyens of the cite came that anon visited & searched his wounds. & fond him in such terms that they undertook to rendre him hole and sound of all his hurts & wounds in short time. whereof the queen was all recomforted. they failed not of their promise/ for they so wrought about him by such fashion that in the space of six months they delivered him hole and out of danger of all his hurts & wounds. During which time of six months that the noble prew jason kept his chamber/ asson as he might speak & have intendment he began to bewaille the loss of his time for asmuch as he might not be at the destruction of the king Laomedon and of the Troyans' Wherefore he had much great displeasure at his heart. For he had not been accustomed gladly to keep/ the chambers ma●ted ne strewed with herbs and flowers/ ne the beds encurtained·· the halls hanged wyth rich tapesseryes Ne the places magnyficque ne somptuouse as by bies feats appereth· but he might not amend it. For the noble queen recomforted him alway/ And moche required him that he should take no melancholy for no thing/ And that he ne should intend save only to his garisshing and heeling/ and as for the war of Troy he might in no wise be there   

¶ How the king Aeson of Mirmidone asseged his son jason in the cite of Oliferne/ And how Medea spack to jason/ & how she slew his oldest son named jason  
As ye may understand by thin●onuenyent afore said the prew jason was distourned for tacompanye hercules and the chivalry of Grece that should go lay siege tofore the puissant cite of Troy/ wherefore the king Aeson and hercules were right sorrowful & abode xu days longer thenne the term that they had set for to go to the see/ when the ·xv. days were past and apperceived that they had no tidings of the coming of jason/ they departed fro the port where they had tarried· And sailed so far that they arrived tofore Troy with so great number of people that notwithstanding the resistance of laomedon· of all the cite & country about. they besieged it. and so long abode and died marvelous assaults/ that they took it and destroyed it in the form and manner as is well declared in the history of the twelve labours of the noble and prew Hercules/ And when they had broughnt this enterprise to an end each of them departed from thence and returned into his country  
IN the novelty thenne that the noble king Aeson of mirmidone was returned fro the conquest of Troy sore troubled for his son jason that was failed to have been at this high honour. Medea that was not yet comen again into Mirmidone after that she was departed the same day that she had made to die the disloyal peleus as said is Returned thenne unto the king Aeson all destayned and discoloured. y clad with clotheses all to rent and lapped Thenne she set her down on both her knees tofore the king Aeson and after said to him in this manner/ Sire lo here Medea the most pour and the most infortunate lady that ever was or shall be· Thou knowest and mayst not deny that I ne am the propre wife of thy son jason/ whom I made not long sin Return gloriously fro the mortal peril where his uncle Peleus had sent him to by his malice· This notwithstonding incontinent & in feat he hath abandonned me sin the day that I was consenting to the death of the disloyal Peleus'/ And I died it for to take vengeance of this that he sent him traitorously under the shadow of the conquest of the Rich mutton with the flees of gold which was a thing inpossible to any creature human without mine adressement/ and well supposed he that he never should have returned but have advanced his death. And he would excuse him under the colour of this death. the which allway I died for his love· and for t'avenge him  
Sire said yet the lady ye know that the day that peleus died. your son departed from hens much hastyly· & how I went after/ and it was so our adventure that I found him on a day in the cite of Corinthe. where he had fianced the kings doughnter/ And there I spack long with him. And among many Remonstrances I required him right instantly that he would be true according to his promise that he had made in acquyting his faith But I laboured in vain. for he would in no wise intend thereto/ And when I apperceived that I could have none other thing of him/ I made by the virtue of some enchanments die suddenly the espouse/ whom he had supposed to have enjoyed· And with her died her father and by consequent all they that were in the hall set at dyner/ reseruid jason whom in no manner I would touch/ & after I departed from thence & have gone at the adventure of the gods/ not thinking that ever I should return unto you/ thus hath fortune be to me of such condition that she hath s●th two months brought me into the cite of Oliferne. & there I have founden & seen jason with the queen Mirro/ & it hath been certified to me that he hath espoused her/ whereof I have at my heart such dolour & sorou/ that for nothing I might ner could speak with him/ but yet am departed from thence and am come unto you for to require reffuge that in the favour of ladies it may please you to have pite of me so desolate a lady/ & that in recognoissaunce of the merit that I might have deserved in reduysing your ancient age in the being of xxxij year that ye of your son jason will do me right without Rigour  
When the king Aeson of Myrmidone had understand the doleance and the Request of Medea· and that he saw her in so pour estate of habiliments that she seemed all another woman/ For she was so discoloured ●●ne/ and evil arrayed. Certes he had great pity of her Thenne he began to recomfort her & thinking on the good services that she had done unto his son whereof all his weal and Renomme was comen. And in like wise of the great pleasure that she had done to him. also how she had abandonned the king her father & her country upon the promise of his son. Among other words in recomforting her. he said & promised her that he should punish jason of that so great offence/ and also he had taken him in disdain for so much as he had failed at the business & destruxion of Troy where the chevalerie of Grece had gotten great honour· certes/ he loved medea marvelousy/ & anon he died do cloth her new right honourably/ & tamynisire to her all that was needful & necessary for her. And when he had so do/ he sent into o●iferne unto jason & commanded him that Incontinent he should come unto his court/ but jason excused him to the messenger the most curtoisly that he might for cause of his wounds that he had received in the wood not long sin as said is. & in feat he answered that at that present he might go ner yet ride on an horse  
INcontinent as the king Aeson had understand th'answer of his son jason. he took it evil in gre● and swore that he would go unto him· but that should be in arms/ Thenne he sent into all parties for his friends and alyes/ And said to him and showed how he would punish his son jason for the lavesshenes of his body & that by good cause/ for because of his luxury he had failed at the conquest of troye· & under this couture he assembled unto the number of ten. M. greeks whom he brought tofore oliferne the cite/ & so much died by see and by land that with out adventure dign of memory he came on the champagne/ where the king of Esclavonye & his ooste tofore had holden their siege to their unhelthe as it is said tofore in his place. Always Medea was comen in tharmee of the king Aeson as she that had in him all her affiance and her so●oure/ as half garisshed or easid  
When the king Aeson fond himself tofore Oliferne He died do set his tents & pavyllonns/ And sent unto his son jason that he should comen unto him for to receive the punition of his disobeysaunce/ Certes jason was sore abashed & not without cause/ when he had understand that his father scent for him to come to him upon this condition/ And thenne when he apperceived that his father had besieged the cite with armed hand/ he was at that time all helid of his wounds & froussures. & seeing that said is him seemed that the king his father was angry with him & that he was comen thither all replenisshid with great furor Notwithstanding that in no manner he supposed to have deserved it. And considering all these things/ & also by the council of his friends for to answer the messenger of his father/ he called him & said to him in this manner/ Sir messenger I have understand & thought for tanswere upon that my father hath sent me by you/ on that other side I see how he is here comen with puissance in arms. These things considered I wot not what is his intention ne will Wherefore I am not for this present conseyled to put me in his hands/ how well that I am always bound by all right & holden to serve him & obey his comandements. & that out of furor he shall not find me other wise disposed  
The messenger hearing the discreet answer that Ias●n gave him· he acertained him & thereof would abide in hostage. that if jason would take again Medea as by virtue of his faith he was holden & by the ꝓmesses that they had made one to that other that he should found his traittye & peace with the king his father. Thenne jason answered to the messenger that if the king his father were common thither ther fore in such ordnance & upon that intention. he abused him greatly/ and that medea by her enchantements should never deceive him more during her lyf· When the messenger had understand the will & answer of jason. he took leave of him & departed from the palais. & returned unto the king his lord/ which abood him at foot of his tent/ and told to him and to medea all this that he had exploited with his son jason/ The king and the lady Medea h●ering his volente & will/ and that he was not a man to be moved & turned from his courage had a marvelous sorrow Thenne the king Aeson swore that he ne his siege should never depart from thence for cold ne for heat for froste· ne snow/ for rain ne for tempest that might comen upon him unto the time that he had subjuged the cite of Oliferne. with that medea when she had herd these words she took leave of the king & returned into her tent/ & than she bega● to study in her enchantements and sorts where in she was much learned. and in such wise exploited that in a moment she made her to be born within oliferne/ and died her to be set in the proper hall where jason & mirro the Queen were at a window speaking to gydre of their works and in especial of th'enterprise that the king eson made upon them of which they had great meruaille· And so they witted not what to think saving that it were need for tentende to fortify the muraille and walls of the cite/ the tours and yates to garnish with stones & wyth shot and to defend their strength with all their power But jason and Myrro had the greatest marvel of the worlde· And not with out cause. when so suddenly they saw Medea there appear in their presence. Thenne Medea opened this that she had in will to say & declare plainly & said in this man●r  
HA' a Alas sir jason have ye not entencion tamende your lyf·s which is so much reprochable to fore the gods & the world. And cursed be the our & the day that I saved & waranted you fro the death/ when for my Reward and guerdon I must suffer so much & in so many manners as I doo· and that in time & in place ye know not her to whom ye be so greatly bounden & holden. Dame answered thenne jason shall your sorts ne enchantementes never cease/ I can not think how ye have the hardiness to come to fore mine eyen/ seen that in my presence ye have murdered one of my proper sons. And how answered thenne Medea/ am I a lady born in so unhappy an our and so infortunate that in no manner I dare be founden tofore mine espouse & husband/ and him that holdeth his life of any other but by me. A jason said yet the lady. the great goodness that I have done for you to fore this time is little remembered and known by you. which I did all of good heart/ And if I have slain your child/ ye be only culpa●●●/ for ye do to me so many displaisirs & annoyance. that I can not think how the heart of any lady so desolate as I am may so long endure  
CErtes dame answered thenne jason I hold no thing that I have done to you displeisir ne annoy in no wise You have commised & made many enorm and right evil case. for which I may lawfully repudie and abandon you in all pointes·s how well that for the love of me ye have done that I ne maintene not/ & of that other side speak no more to me/ lo here the noble lady that I had promised tofore that I arrived in your countrey· and during the time that I have been with you & ye with me ye put me by your enchauntements in such point that I had all forgotten her & thought on none other but on you·s whether ye were f●r or nigh/ & in this estate was I a long space of time/ and till that the gods have resemblid this lady & me by your great default The which I have now espoused. this is my lady and I am her lord and husband/ & as long as the soul shall abide in my body I shallbe hers. & I shall not withdraw me from her ner shall take other than her for nothing that may befall me/ & otherwise ye shall not find it. & therefore abide no longer here/ for if ye died. it should be all time lost for more to poursiewe this inquest. Medea with this conclusion made her to be born from thence also suddenly as she was comen· And in that same night she was delivid and rendered at Pintaquo in the chamber where her son jason was nourished/ And there she being full of a Right evil will took the noble child that the king Aeson made soignously to be kept by two norices/ The noble child slept and was all naked at the our/ when she took him/ wyth the taking he awoke. and seeing his mother he began to lawhe sore. Thenne medea wept and said/ Ha· a jason my deer son thy figure & semblannt. and thy faders entresemble & been like. Thou art much fair if thou mightest come to thaage of a man/ certes thou shouldest ensue and follow the manners of thy father the most dou●le & least true knight of the world. it is moche better that thou die an angel in thy yongth/ thenne a devil in thy old age/ and wythoute more speaking or other bewailling she drew out a sharp knife in the presence of the two norices that wist not what to say. and smote him with the knife unto the herte· And after departed thence at that our that men might not see her· And put herself in a wood all desperate weeping & making a passing great sorrow. And her adventure was such that afterward she was in Athenes/ and went not unto the king Aeson father of jason/ but went unto the king Eseus that was yet strong & puissant And gave him in knowledge what she was and of all her fortunes/ ye by such fashion that the king Eseus took her in marriage and engendered on her a son the which was called Medeus/ But fortune that alway argued her made her to be accused that she would have enpoysonned Theseus the noble knight and son of her husband Egeus· & furthermore made her to be banished fro Athenes·s where fore she was sore troubled and not wyth out cause· For she was constrained by pure necessity that she must depart fro the royalme of Corinthe/ also pour and evil fortunate that she witted not where to withdraw her/ Alway she went on the day by a great wood in Thessayll where she lived much solitarily & in great bitterness/ And had there so great & fair repentance of her sins & of her evil life that she might no more have but if she should have received the death/ And thus I shall tarry for this present time of the lady and of her life/ And recount you of the noble Queen Myrro of Oliferne and of the conclusion of this present book   

¶ How a knight named Patroclus slew the queen Mirro. How jason departed secretly from oliferne. How the city was yelden unto the king Aeson. And how jason & Medea were Reconcilled to guider  
FOr to come to th'end and conclusion of this matter thenne rests now to know that on the morrow when Medea was departed fro the host of the king Aeson and fro the presence of Myrro and of jason as it contained all in the chapitre precedent. The king Aeson went for to see Medea in the tent that he had ordained for her. For he loved her as his proper doughtrr·s but he found her not. Ne there was neither man ne woman that could certify him where she was become· whereof he had great marvel And did do seek her in many places·s but he could not have tidings of her unto th'end of three months that there came a messenger unto him that advertised him of the death of the young child jason son of Medea and of the prew jason/ And declared him all the manner how that Medea had smitten him with a knife into his herte· And how there was no person that knew where she was become sin the case happened  
INcontiment that the king Aeson understood these tidings he was so angry that by thasprete of his Ire he rent his vestymen & wept by great pite. for he loved the young child & Medea with all his heart. he said thenne that his son jason should abye it. & that he should be punished as he that was cause of all these mischiefs. & anon he sent to them of Oliferne that they should issue to battle against him. Upon which jason ansuerde· that for nothing he would fight against his father ne his people. but required that he would leave them in peace/ And when the king Aeson had understand this answer/ he commanded to assail the cite as he dide· But his men were put a back right asperly by them that were within that defended 'em that day right valianntly/ and so by many journeys the king made the cite to be assailled to their little profit/ for as much as the cite was garnished with a great number of young people & valiant men that were there in age competent for tencharge th'arms sin the war of the puissant king of Esklavonye  
As ye may understand the king Aeson held long his siege tofore the strong and rich cite of Olyferne without giving or receiving of other battles of that one party or of that other/ And during this tyme. jason and the fair Myrro accustomed them to come oftentimes into a passing fair and strong tour standing on the muraille of the city of Oliferne. and they came thither for to pass the time in beholding in the champagne the tents and pavillons of king Aeson & the nobles of his royalme/ and so oft went and came that they were known Incontinent when the king was advertised/ he sent on a day among all other one of his knighbes named Patroclus that could sheet with the hand bow so readily and nigh the mark that none was like unto him· And said to him that he should garnish him of his bow & arowes·s & that he should early tofore day hide him in a bush not far from the muraille and tour/ promising to him great yefts if he might with one of his arrows slay the Queen Myrro. when he saw her looking out of the window of this tour  
THis bush was even against the tour where the noble prew jason and Myrro th● fair queen came as said is. The knight named Patroclus of whom now is made mention in this history was he that after was cause and moyen of the death of the Right worthy knight Hector of Troy. And thenne when Patroclus was hid with in the bush/ he held him there with his bow bent right secretly/ And so long that dame fortune which oftime pleyeth with worldly things at her volente and will brought jason and Myrro into the great tower where as th●y leaned in the window. But they had not long been there when patroclus the just archier loosed an arrow upon the noble lady the Queen Myrro/ ye so Right that he smote and pierced her in her throte· in such wise that she fill down deed even by the noble prew jason/ And after this done he departed from the bush right joyous. And contrary jason was right sorrowful & angry when he apꝑceyvid his lady thus fall down deed. he supposed to have relieved her/ but the soul was departed from the body/ Thenne great tears in great number began to fall from his eyen in marvelous habondance· and was so displaisannt of this mischief. so desolate and so angry that it is not to any creature possible for to writ or reher●e· The barons/ the knights the ladies & damoiseles semblably in the cite were greatly discomforted. & gave hem to weep so right anguisshously in cries In bewaillinges & in such lamentations that none other sorrow was like unto this  
WHat is to do upon this matter how may I number the teeris or writ the bewaillinges & lamentations of prew jason by especial/ and of the knights ladies and damoisels of the cite/ Certes in a full see of teeris & in a mine of sighs & in a source or a springe of an inestimable sorrow/ the pour infortunate lady yielded her spirit by the hole of the arrow of the knight partroclus. that was there cursed and banned as he that they had above all other in great hate· certes jason might not speak in a great while or space/ neither he could not think. what he might best do. but at th'end he deported him a little of his sorrow/ And thenne he commanded that the Lady should be borne to her chamber into the palais/ And thenne the ladies and damoiselles took her in Renewing of weepings and of bewaillinges and bore her into her chamber for to ordain for her sepulture/ This evil adventure was anon known by all the city/ all the world demeaned a marvelous sorrow. men women and children·s finably she was buried in her sepulture. for whom was made a rial obsequy/ And when they had done all the cerimonyes that appertained/ In the same nyghnt thenne when jason was withdrawn to go to rest jason departed out of the cite all alone. And had new the power to take leave of man ne of woman. he had his heart so sorrowful and angry for the death of the noble lady the queen Myrro. And for thanger that the king his father had against him  
ON the morn by time the king Aeson acerterned that Patroclus had slain the queen Myrro of an arrow as he had required him/ commanded tassel the cite/ And when they of Oliferne apperceived that their enemies approached the walls of their cite they sent unto jason whom they had supposed to have founden in his chamber for tadutise him of these tidings. but they fond him not. Thenne as sore abashed they went & sought him with in forth. & in the temple and many other places·s And thenne when they saw that noman could tell of him they sent unto the portiers and demanded them if they had seen him. And there was one that answered for certain that at the our of midnight jason was issued out all one by that gate· and more he knew not/ When the nobles of oliferne knew these tidings they were sore troubled & not with out cause. for they beheld that they had no lord ne lady· And that ther fore ones they must submyse them unto the king Aeson And took their conceyll to guider and concluded to yield them & the town safe there lives & their goods/ Thenne they cheese twain of the most noble knights of the cite & moste propice to the erande. And sent 'em unto the noble king Aeson/ that made with all diligence his things ready for tassaile the cite in many places. & when they were comen to fore him & salutation made/ they told him first that the queen her lady was deed and put in sepulture. Secondly they said to him that jason was gone out of the cite & wist not into what place/ Thirdly that the cite was without lorde· And finably they said to him/ that fortune was such to them that they of the cite demanded but peace/ and that they were content to constitute him king upon them by condition that he should not touch their lives ne movable goods what some ever they were  
When the noble king Aeson of myrmidone understood that his son jason was so departed/ he was right sorrowful in his courage. but touching thoffres of the Inhabitanns and dwellers of the city of Oliferne· he had Regard and used to hem his mercy/ For in feat he accorded to them of Oliferne all that they had put in terms Thenne he made to cease th'assault. And sin disposed him for tentre honourably into the cite of Oliferne· And it was not long after when they of the city received him into their city and in the palace as their king and gaf him the crown upon his heed. and made all to him homage and fault. And by this way was king Aeson king of Oliferne and of Myrmidone/ After these things done and accomplished. he sent many knights after his son jason for to seche & find him. but they lost their time/ for they returned unto their lord without reporting tidings of him. for jason went riding fro country to country by many journeys where he had plenty of marvelous adventures. which were to long to rehearse Of whom th'end was such when he had long time erred ● traveled in the world he was in great desire to come & see the king his father & cry him mercy. for asmuch as he had disobeyed his commandment and mesprised against him/ whereof he was right sore repentannt  
Upon this conclusion the noble & valiannt prince jason put him on the way so far that he came in to Thessaille. But that more is. fortune made him entre in to the wood where as Medea had long been & sojourned How well she eat nothing but akehornes and notes·s herbs and roots. And he was constrained one night to log himself in the little log where medea abode & made her Residence/ And so he found her on a day in his way at the son going down. Anon as jason and medea saw each other forthwith they knew each other. With that medea began strongly to wepe· and sin kneeled down on both her knees in great humility tofore jason requiring & crying him mercy. Thenne the knight had pity on her & relieved & took her up by the handes·s and sin demanded her if she had any thing to eat or drink/ saying that he had hunger and that he had not that day eaten ne drunken/ Thenne Medea made him sit upon the earth for to rest him a little. and sin went and fet him of the notes akehornes and roots and other small fruits that she had gathered in the wood. and said to him that he should make good cheer with such as he found. And that sith a certain time that she had been there/ she had eaten none other meet  
When jason which was a moche virtuous prince had understand the lady and knew her great poute/ he began to remember of the innumerable good deeds that she had done for him tofore· and how she had for his love abandonned her father & her nation for to go with him/ And also that she was of a noble house as daughter of a king/ he took her by the hand & said that he pardoned her of all thing that she had trespassed or mesprised against him. And in feat said that his pleasure was that she should be his wife again as she had been tofore/ Certes Medea incontinent as she understood the good will of her lord/ she was more joyous in her courage thenne if he had given to her the best and the most noble royalme of the world. And thenne she swore to him & avowed that she should never meddle more with sorts ne enchantements ne none other malefices ne of any thing but first he should have the cognoissaunce and knowlech/ & in such wise she conduysed herself anent jason that in that same time they reconcilled 'em self to guider. And on the morn early Medea abandonned her lytill log/ And went both on their way. And so far erred by their journeys that they came unto the court of the king Aeson of Myrmidone that was newly comen in his royalme. Thenne the king Aeson knowing their reconciliation contented himself with jason in pardoning him all old Rancour and maletalents/ And it was not long after that the king Aeson resigned in the hands of his son the royalme of Myrmidone· for the great love that he had unto the fair Medea as he well showed. For Incontinent that he knew that she was arrived in his palace. he received her the most honourably that was in ●im possible to do/ And thus the prew jason & Medea reg●ed & gouned their Royame's hy●ly long time/ During the which they lived to guider in great love & concord and had many fair children to guider that reigned after 'em of whom I have found none history o●●entence. and therefore I shall finish this history in this ●ise/ praying my foresaid right redoubted young lor● and all them that shall read the contenu of this present 〈◊〉. or here it read that it may please them of their 〈◊〉 excuse me for so much as my little & rude engine hath 〈◊〉 touch ne comprise the matter no better etc/ & here end 〈◊〉 author his bock·..·.  
ANd how be it that my ●uctor writeth that he hath found no more of thistorie of jason/ yet have I founden & read in the book that bochace 〈◊〉 of the genelagie of gods in his xiij book/ that when 〈◊〉 was that jason & medea were reconciled again together 〈◊〉 that she fled from egeon that he went with her into 〈◊〉 again/ & when he was comen thither. he found the old king oetes father unto medea banissed & exiled out of his royalme/ whom he restored & 〈◊〉 him by his valiance & puissant 〈◊〉 his kingdom again/ & after went into as●e/ where he had sectorie in many batail●s And made so many conquests with great magnificence in so much that he was honoured & worshipped for a god/ & were made & edified diuce temples in his name which after were destroyed by the comandment of king Alexander of macedone/ who peradventure had envy of his glory & also he saith that thoant & euneus where his sons whom he begat on ysiphile as he went to colchos where as Stacius saith Which were born at ones. And for as much as it was not the custom in lenos to feed & nourish the men children they were sent into an other country for to be nourished ●herfore the mother was put out of her royalme. & taken with pirates & thieves. & after sold unto Lygurgis king of nemee. and after when the said sons wax men they went with king Adrastus unto the battle of Thebes/ & as they went in the wood of nemee they heard of the said king Adrastus rehearse her burth & the case of her mother/ by which rehearsal they knew that she was their mother/ & in king Lygurgis court they fond her/ when Opheltes his so●● was found deed in the garden/ what time the lady that had charge of him went with the greeks to show him the water as in the siege of thebes it is more plainly showed/ but what came afterward of these two sons it is incertayn this saith bochace in the xiij book of the geneolag●e of good●●. And he saith he had an other son● whose name was philem●s●●s/ and more have I not read of the noble jason/ but this have I founden more then mine author rehearseth in his book/ & therefore I make here an end of this story of jason. whom diuce men blame because that he left & repudied Medea/ but in this present book ye may see the evident causes/ why he so did. praying my said lord Prince ta●cepte & take it in gree of me his indign seruiteur. whom I beseech god almighty to save & encre●e in vert● now in his tendee ●ongth̄ that he may come unto his parfait eage to his honour and worship that his renomee may perpetuelly be remembered among the most worthy· And after this present life eulastinglife in heaven who grant him & us that bought us with his blood blessed Thus 〈◊〉