XLVII
FairFlordelicewasshe，thestrangerdame；
ThathisownselftoBrandimartmoredear:
WhoinpursuitofhimtoPariscame。
Thatdamsel，after，tellsthecavalier，HowhateandstrifewereblownintoaflameBetweenGradassoandtheTartarpeer，ForRoland\'sfaulchion；fierceGradasso\'sprey，WhenslainincombatMandricardolay。
XLVIII
Byaccident，sostrangeandsad，distrust，Rinaldoisdistraughtwithceaselesswoe:
Hefeelshisheartdissolvewithinhisbreast，Asinthesundissolvestheflakeofsnow；
And，withunchangedresolve，uponthequestOfgoodOrlando，everywherewillgo；
Inhopes，ifhediscoverhim，tofindSomemeansofcureforhisdistemperedmind。
XLIV
Butsincehisbandalreadyhadhedight，(DidhimthehandofHeavenorFortunesway)
HefirsttoputtheSaracenstoflight，AndraisethesiegeofParis，willassay。
But(foritpromisedvantage)hetillnightTheassaultoftheircantonmentswilldelay，Tillthethirdwatchorfourth，whenheavysleepTheirsensesshallinLethe\'swatersteep。
L
Hissquadroninthewoodheplaced，andthere，Ambushed，hemadethemliethedaylightthrough；
Butwhenthesun，leavingthisnetherairIndarkness，tohisancientnursewithdrew；
Andfanglessserpentnow，andgoat，andbear，Withotherbeasts，adornedtheheavensanew，Whichbythegreaterblazehadbeenconcealed，Rinaldomovedhissilenttroopafield。
LI
Amilean-endwithAquilantheprest，Gryphon，Alardo，andVivianofhisrace，GuidoandSansonetto，andtherest，Withoutwordspoken，andwithstealthypace。
TheMoorishguardtheyfindwithsleepopprest:
Theyslaughterall，norgrantonepaynimgrace；
And，eretheywerebyothersseenorheard，Intotheirmidmostcampthesquadronspurred。
LII
Atthefirstchargeonthatunchristenedband，Theirguardandsentries，takenbysurprise，SobrokenarebygoodRinaldo\'sbrand，Nowightisleft，savehewhoslaughteredlies。
Theirfirstpostforced，thepaynimsunderstandNolaughingmatteristhelord\'semprize；
For。sleepinganddismaid，theirnakedswarmsMakesmallresistancetosuchwarriors\'arms。
LIII
TostrikemoredreadintotheMoorishfoe，MountAlban\'schampion，leadingtheassault，Badebeathisdrumsandbadehisbuglesblow，Andwithloudechoingcrieshisnameexalt。
HespursBaiardo，thatisnothingslow；
Heclearstheloftybarriersatavault，Tramplingdownfoot，o\'erturningcavalier，Andscattersboothandtentinhiscareer。
LIV
IsnonesoboldofallthatpaynimryButwhathisstiffenedhairstandsuponend，HearingMountAlban\'sandRinaldo\'scryFromearthintothestarryvaultascend。
HimthetwinhostsofSpainandAfricfly，Nortimeinloadingbaggageidlyspend；
Whowillnotwaitthatdeadlyfurymore，Whichtohaveprovedsodeeplyirksthemsore。
LV
Guidosucceeds；nolesstheirfoepursue，ThevaliantsonsofwarlikeOlivier，Alardo，Richardet，andtheothertwo；
Sansonet\'sswordandhorseapathwayclear；
AndwellisproveduponthatpaynimcrewTheforceofVivianandofAldigier。
Thuseachbestirshimselflikevalorousknight，WhofollowsClermont\'sbannertothefight。
LVI
SevenhundredmenwithgoodRinaldospeed，DrawnfromMountAlbanandthetownshipsnigh——NofiercererstobeyedAchilles\'lead——
Enuredtosummerandtowintersky:
Sostouteachwarrioris，sogoodatneed，Ahundredwouldnotfromathousandfly；
And，betterthansomefamouscavaliers，Manyamidthatsquadroncouchtheirspears。
LVII
IfgoodRinaldogatherssmallsuppliesFromrentsorcities，whichhisruleobey，Sotheseheboundbywordsandcourtesies，Andsharingwhathehadwithhisarray，IsnonethateverfromhisservicebuysDeserterbythebribeofbetterpay。
OfMontalbanotheseareleftincare，Savepressingneeddemandstheiraidelsewhere。
LVIII
ThemnowinsuccourofKingCharleshestirred，Andleftwithlittleguardhiscitadel。
AmongtheAfricansthatsquadronspurred，Thatsquadron，ofwhosedoughtyfeatsItell，DoingbythemwhatwolfonwoollyherdDoeswhereGalesus\'limpidwaterswell，Orlionbythebeardedgoatandrank，ThatfeedsonCinyphus\'sbarbarousbank。
LIX
TidingstoCharlesRinaldohadconveyed，ThatheforPariswithhissquadronsteers，Toassail，bynight，thepaynimsillpurveyed；
Andreadyandinarmsthekingappears。
He，whenhishelpisneeded，comesinaid，Withallhispeerage，and，besidehispeers，BringsMonodantes\'son，amidthatcrew，OfFlordelicetheloverchasteandtrue；
LX
WhombysuchlongandbysuchtediouswayShesoughtthroughouttherealmofFranceinvain；
Herebythecognizance，hisolddisplay，Afar，byherdistinguishedfromthetrain。
Atthefirstsightofherhequitsthefray，Andwearsasemblancelovingandhumane。
Hecliptherroundwithmanyafondcaress，Andkissedathousandtimes，orlittleless。
LXI
TodameanddamselinthatancientageTheytrustedmuch，that，intheirwanderingvein，Roved，unescorted，manyawearystage，Throughforeigncountriesandbyhillandplain；
Whomtheyreturningholdforfairandsage，Noroftheirfaithsuspicionentertain。
HereBrandimartbyFlordelicewastaughtHowRolandwandered，ofhiswitsdistraught。
LXII
HadhesuchstrangeandeviltidingsheardFromotherlips，hescarcehadthesebelieved:
ButcreditedfairFlordelice\'sword，Fromwhommorewondrousthingshehadreceived，Northis，astoldbyother，sheaverred；
Thishadsheseen，andillcouldbedeceived；
ForwellasanysheOrlandoknows；
Andboththewhenandwherethatdamselshows。
LXIII
Shetellshimhowtheperilousbridge\'sfloorFromcavalierskingRodomontdefends；
Where，onapompoussepulchre，theMoorHisprisoners\'ravishedarmsandvestsuspends；
TellshowshesawOrlando，ragingsore，Dofearfuldeeds，andherrelationends，Describinghowthepaynimfellreversed，Tohisgreatperil，inthestreamimmersed。
LXIV
Brandimart，whotheCountrylovesasdearAsmancanloveabrother，friend，orson，DisposedtoseekOrlando，farandnear，Norpainnorperilintheadventureshun，TillsomethingforthecomfortofthatpeerBywizard\'sorbyleech\'sartbedone，Armedasheis，leapslightlyonhissteed，Andtakeshiswaybeneaththelady\'slead。
LXV
ThitherwardwereOrlandoshehadspied，Incompanytheknightandladymade。
Theydailyposttilltothatbridgetheyride，WhichArgier\'skingmaintained，inarmsarraid，Tohimtheguardtheircomingsignified；
Courserandarmshissquiresaswellconveyed；
AndBrandimartnosoonerisathandThanRodomontisarmedandathisstand。
LXVI
WithloftyvoicethesovereignofArgier，Assortingwithhismoodyrage，\'gansay:
“——Whoe\'erthouart，sirknight，andwhencesoe\'er——
Broughtbymistakeofpurposeorofway，Lightfromthinehorseanddoffthywarlikegear，Todeckthissepulchre，eretheeIslay，Anofferingtoitslovelytenant\'sspirit；
Andthouinthyforcedhomagehavenomerit。”
LXVII
Brandimart，atthepaynim\'sprouddiscourse，Hisweaponintherest，foranswer，layed；
HegoodBatoldospurred，hisgentlehorse，Andatthechampionwithsuchfurymade，Asshowedthathe，forcourageandforforce，Withanywarriorintheworldhadweighed。
KingRodomontaswell，withrestedspear，Thunderedalongthebridge，infiercecareer。
LXVIII
Thepaynim\'scourser，everusedtogoUponthatbridge\'sfearfulpass，whereoneFellproneparforceintothestreambelow，Securelytothefierceencounterrun:
While，trembling，andirresoluteinshow，Thatothertotheunwontedcourseisgone。
Quiversthebridgebeneath，asitwouldsink:
Narrowthatpassageis，unfencedthebrink！
LXIX
Withheavyspears，thegrowthofforesthoar，Saplingsrough-hewn，thosemastersofthejust，Upontheperilousbridgeencounteringsore，Exchange，oneitherside，nogentlethrust。
Normuchtheirmightystrengthormanege-loreAvailsthesteeds；for，prostrateinthedust，Crumbleseachknightandchargerinmid-course；
Whelmedinonefate，theriderandhishorse。
LXX
Wheneithersteedwouldnimblyspringfromground，Asthespurgalledandgoredhisbleedingflank，Heonthatlittlebridgenofootingfound；
Foralltonarrowwasthescantyplank。
Hencebothfallheadlong，andthedeafeningsoundRe-echovaultedskiesandgrassybank。
Sorangourstream，whenfromtheheavenlysphereWashurledthesun\'sill-fatedcharioteer。
LXXI
Withalltheirweight，downhurtledfromthesteep，Coursersandcavaliers，whosatethemwell；
Anddivedintotheriver\'sdarksomedeep，Tosearchforbeauteousnymphinsecretcell。
NorthisthefirstnoryetthesecondleapWhichfromthebridgehadmadethatinfidel！
Who，oftenflounderinginitsoozybed，Wellinthesoundingsofthatstreamwasread。
LXXII
Hewhere\'tishandandwhere\'tissofterknows，Whereshallowisthewater，whereprofound:
Withbreastandflanksabovethewavesherose，AndBrandimartassailedonsaferground。
Brandimart，whirlingwiththecurrent，goes，Whilehissteed\'sfeetthefaithlessbottompound。
He，withhislord，standsrootedinthemud，Withrisktobothofdrowningintheflood。
LXXIII
Whelmingthemupside-down，thewatersflow，Andplungethemintheriver\'sdeepestbed；
Thehorseisuppermost，theknightbelow。
Fromthebridgelookshislady，sorebested，Andtearemploys，andprayer，andsuppliantvow:——
“Ah，Rodomont！forloveofher，whomdeadYeworship，donotdeedofsuchdespite！
Permitnot，sir，thedeathofsuchaknight。
LXXIV
“Ah！courteouslord！ife\'eryoulovedwithal，Havepityuponmewholovethispeer；
Letitsufficethathebecomethythrall！
Forifthouonthisstonesuspendhisgear，Amidwhateverspoilsadornthewall，Thebestandworthiestwillhisspoilsappear。”
Sheended，andherprayersowelladdrest，Ittouched，thoughhardtomove，thepaynim\'sbreast。
LXXV
Movedbyherwords，helentherloveraid，Sobyhiscourserinthestreamimmersed；
Andlargelydrank，albeitwithlittlethirst。
ButRodomontawhilehishelpdelayed，Andseizedthewarrior\'sswordandhelmetfirst。
Himhalfexhaustedfromthestreamhedrew，Andprisonedwiththatothercaptivecrew。
LXXVI
Allhappinesswasinthatdamselspent，WhentakensheherBrandimartespied，Althoughtoseehimcaptivemorecontent，Thantobeholdhimperishinthetide。
Nonebutherselfsheblamesfortheevent，Whothitherwardhadbeenthechampion\'sguide，Shehavingtothatfaithfulwarriorshown，HowatthebridgeOrlandoshehadknown。
LXXVII
Sheparts，andhasanewalreadyplannedThitherwithgoodRinaldotoresort；
WithGuido，Sansonetofdoughtyhand，OrothercavalierofPepin\'scourt；
Somewarriorgoodbywaterandbyland，ThatwiththeSaracenwillwellassort。
Who，ifnostrongerthanherbaffledknight，Withbetterfortunemaymaintainthefight。
LXXVIII
Formanydaysthedamselvainlystrayed，EresheencounteredanyonewhoboreSemblanceofknight，thatmightaffordheraid，AndfreeherprisonedloverfromtheMoor；
Aftershelongandfruitlesssearchhadmade，Atlengthawarriorcrostherway，thatworeArichlyornamentedvest，whosegroundWithtrunksofcypresseswasbroideredround。
LXXIX
Whowasthatchampion，shallbesaidelsewhere；
ForItoParismustreturn，andshowHowMalagigiandRinaldoareVictoriouso\'ertheroutedMoorishfoe。
Tocounttheflyerswereauselesscare，OrmanydrownedinStygianstreamsbelow。
ThedarknessrenderedTurpin\'slabourvain，Whotaskedhimselftotellthepagansslain。
LXXX
KingAgramantinhispavilionlies，Fromhisfirstsleepawakenedbyaknight:
Hethatthekingwillbeaprisonercries，Savehewithspeedbetakehimselftoflight，ThemonarchlooksabouthimandespiesHispaynimbandsdispersedinpanicfright。
Naked，theyfarandneardesertthefield；
Nay，neverhalttosnatchthecoveringshield。
LXXXI
Uncounselledandconfused，thekingarrayedHisnakedlimbsinknightlyplateandchain，WhenthitherFalsiron，theSpaniard，madeGrandonio，Balugantes，andtheirtrain:
TheytotheMoorishkingtheriskdisplayedOfbeingtakeninthatpress，orslain；
Andvouchedifthenceheshouldinsafetyfare，HewellmightthankpropitiousFortune\'scare。
LXXXII
Marsiliusso，Sobrinoso，theirfearExpress；so，oneandall，thefriendlyband；
TheywarnhimthatDestructionisasnearAsswiftMountAlban\'slordisnighathand。
Andifagainstsofierceacavalier，Andsuchatroop，heseekstomakeastand，HeandhisfriendsinthatdisastrousstrifeWillsurelyforfeitlibertyorlife。
LXXXIII
ButhetoArlesandNarbonnemayretreat，Withsuchfewsquadronsashisruleobey:
Sinceeitheriswellfortified，andmeetThewarfaretomaintainaboveoneday；
Andhavingsavedhisperson，thedefeatMayvengeuponthefoe，bythisdelay:
Histroopsmayrallyquicklyinthatpost，AndroutinfineKingCharles\'conqueringhost。
LXXXIV
Agramanttothoselords\'opinionbent，Thoughthathardcounselhecouldillendure；
Asifsuppliedwithwings，towardsArleshewent，Byroadswhichofferedpassagemostsecure。
Besidesafeguides，muchfavouredhisintentHissettingout，whenallthingswereobscure。
ScapingthetoilsbygoodRinaldospread，Sometwentythousandofthepaynimsfled。
LXXXV
ThosewhomRinaldo，whomhisbrethrenslew，WhomOliviero\'ssons，thevalianttwain，ThosewhowereslaughteredbyMountAlban\'screw，——Thefiercesevenhundred，goodRinaldo\'strain——
ThosewhomthevaliantSansoneto\'erthrew，AndthosethatintheirflightweredrownedinSeine，Hewhowouldcount，mightcountaswellwhatflowersZephyrandFlorashed，midApril-showers。
LXXXVI
HereoneconjecturesMalagigiboreApartinthealarumofthatnight:
Notthathestainedthemeadwithpaynimgore，Norsplinteredheads；butthatthewizardwight，Infernalangels，byhismagiclore，CalledfromTartareancavernsintolight；
WhosemanyspearsandbannerswavingwideTwokingdomssuchasFrancehadscarcesupplied。
LXXXVII
Andwiththemsuchsonorousmetalbrayed，Somanydrumsandmartialnoisessounded；
Somanysteedsinthatencounterneighed；
Somanycries——withrushoffootconfounded——
Roseallabout，thathill，dale，wood，andglade，Fromdistantparts，thedeafeningdinrebounded；
AndstruckintotheMoorssuchsuddendread，Theyturnedandfromthefieldinpanicfled。
LXXXVIII
Theirkingforgetsno，howRogerolaySorewounded，andasyetinevilcase。
Him，withwhatcaretheycould，hemadeconveyFromthatdreadfield，onhorseofeasypace。
Bornetotheseabythesecurestway，Theyinabarkthesufferingwarriorplace，AndthencecommodiouslytoArlestransport；
Whithertheirwastedsquadronsmakeresort。
LXXXIX
ChasedbyRinaldoandKingCharlemagne，Ahundredthousand，orwellnigh，Iween，Bywood，bymountain，valley，andbyplain，FlyingthefuryoftheFranksareseen；
Morefindthepassageblocked，andwidelystainWithcrimsonwhatbeforewaswhiteandgreen。
NotsoGradasso\'spuissanttroopswasspent，Whofartherfromthefieldhadpitchedhistent。
XC
Nay；whenhehearsitisMountAlban\'sknightBywhomassailedthepaynimquartersare，Heinhisheartexults，withsuchdelight，Thathe，forveryjoy，leapshereandthere。
HethanksandlaudshisGod，whohimthatnightBlestwithsohighafortuneandsorare；
Hopingtowinthehorsewithoutapeer，Baiardo，fromtheChristiancavalier。
XCI
Gradassohaddesiredlongtimebefore(Ithinkyouwillhavereadthetaleelsewhere)
Tobackthatcourser，whichRinaldobore，AndDurindanabyhissidetowear:
HewithahundredthousandmenandmoreToFrance，withthisdesign，hadmaderepair；
Andhaderewhiletobloodyfightdefied，Evenforthatgoodsteed，MountAlban\'spride。
XCII
Hencehadthatkingrepairedtothesea-shore，Theplaceassignedtoendtheirdiscordfell:
ButallwasmarredbyMalagigi\'slore；
Who，cheatinggoodRinaldowithaspell，Toseathechampioninapinnacebore。
Tootediouswerethetaleatlengthtotell。
HenceevermoreGradassohadopined，Thegentlebaronwasofcravenkind。
XCIII
NowthatGradassolearnsMountAlban\'speerIshe，thatstormsthecamp，inhugedelight，Armed，onAlfanaleapsthecavalier，Andthroughthepitchydarknessseekstheknight，O\'erturningallwhocrosshisfiercecareer，HeleavesafflictedandinpiteousplightThebrokenbandsofAfricandofFrance。
All，foodalikeforhiswide-wastinglance。
XCIV
Heseeksthepaladin，nowherenowthere，Echoinghisnameasloudashecanshout；
Andthitherwardinclineshiscourser，whereThebodiesaremostthicklystrownabout。
Atlengthencounter，swordtosword，thepair，Forbrokenarealiketheirlancesstout；
Whichshiveringintheirhands，hadflownupright。
AndsmotethestarrychariotoftheNight。
XCV
WhenKingGradassorecognizedthefoe，Notbytheblazonedbearingofhisshield，ButbyBaiardo——bythathorridblow，Whichmadehimseemsolechampionofthefield，Hetoreproachtheknightwasnothingslow，Andofunworthyactionhimappealed；
Inthathehadnotkepthisgroundandday，Erewhileappointedforthefierceassay。
XCVI
“Belikethouhoped，“(saidheofSericane，)
“Ifforthattimemyvengeancethoucouldstfly，Weshouldnotmeetinthiswideworldagain:
Butwearemet，thouseest，anew；andI，Besure，thoughthoushouldstseektheStygianreign，Orbefromearthtranslatedtothesky，Willhuntthee，savethatcourserthouforego，Beitthroughheavenaboveorhellbelow。
XCVII
“Dostthou，asmatchedwithmemistrustthyforce，(Andthatthouwertillpairedwasseenwhilere，)
Andmoreesteemestlifethanfame，acourseRemains，whichtheemayfromthyperilclear。
Andthou，ifthouinpeaceresignthehorse，May\'stlive，iflifebedeemedsopassingdear；
Butliveafoot，unmeritingasteed，Thatdostbychivalrysuchfoulmisdeed。”
XCVIII
Guidothesavage，ashespake，wasnighWithRichardetto；andthewarliketwainBrandishedaliketheirtrenchantswordsonhigh，ToteachmorewittohimofSericane:
ButthemRinaldostoptwithsuddencry，Norbrookedthatheshouldinjurysustain。
“AmItooweak，“(hecried，)“withoutyouraid，Toanswerhimthatdaresmydeedsupbraid?“
XCIX
Thentothepaganthus:“Gradassohear，Andwiltthoulisten，thoushaltunderstand，AndIwillproveitmanifestandclear，Icametoseektheeoutuponthestrand；
AndafterwardsontheewillmadeappearThetruthofallIsaywitharmsinhand；
Knowthenthouliest，ife\'erwithslanderousspeechThoutaxestmewithaughtinknighthood\'sbreach。
C
“ButwarmlyIbeseechthee，thatbeforeThebattlebe，thoufullycomprehendMyjustexcuses，thatthoumay\'stnomoreMeformyfailurewronglyreprehend:
NextforBaiardo，asagreedofyore，\'Tismydesirethatweafootcontend；
Evenasordainedbythee，indesertplace，Aloneinknightlyduel，facetoface。”
CI
CourteouswasSericana\'scavalier，(Forgenerousbosomsayesuchpractiseuse)
Andiscontenttolistentothepeer，Howhehisbreachofpromisewillexcuse。
Withhimheseekstheriverside，andhereInsimplewordswhatchancedRinaldoshews；
Formthetruehistoryremovestheveil，AndcitesallHeaventowitnesstohistale。
CII
NextcallsuponthesonofBuovo，whoIsofthathistoryinformedaright；
Andnow，frompointtopoint，relatesanew(Normorenorlessrehearsed)themagicsleight。
WhenthusRinaldo:“WhatIwarranttrueBywitness，Iwitharmsinsinglefight，Forbetterproof，willvouchuponthycrest，Bothnowandever，asitlikestheebest。”
CIII
ThekingofSericane，asloathtoleaveThesecondquarrelfortheformerbreach，Thoughdoubtfulhowthattaleheshouldreceive，TakesingoodparttheboldRinaldo\'sspeech。
Not，asupontheformerbattle\'seve，TheychoosetheirgroundonBarcellona\'sbeach:
Butonthemornensuing，and，fastbyAneighbouringfountain，willthequestiontry。
CIV
ThitherRinaldowillthesteedconvey，Theretobeplacedincommon，\'twixtthetwo。
IfgoodGradassotakehisfoeorslay，HewinsBaiardowithoutmoreado。
ButifGradassofailsinthataffray，——Shouldhebeslain，orelseformercysue，AprisonertoMountAlban\'svaliantlord，Rinaldoshallpossessthevirtuoussword。
CV
Withmightymarvelandwithgreaterpain，ThepaladinfromFlordelice(asshown)
Hadheardhowtroubledwashiscousin\'sbrain。
Andfromthedamsel\'slipsaswellhadknownHowhehisarmshadscatteredontheplain；
Andheardthequarrelwhichfromthencehadgrown；
Infine，howKingGradassohadthebrand，WhichwonsuchthousandpalmsinRoland\'shand。
CVI
Whentheysoagreed，GradassomadeThitherwhere，campedapart，hisservantslay，AlbeitwarmlybyRinaldoprayed，Hewouldwithhiminhispavillionstay。
Thepaynimkinginarmourwasarrayed，Andsothepaladin，bybreakofday；
Andtothedestinedfountcameeitherlord，Thefieldofcombatforthehorseandsword。
CVII
ItseemedRinaldo\'sfriendswereallinfear，Anddreadedmuch，beforeitwasbegun，TheissueofthefighttheircavalierShouldwageagainstGradasso，onetoone。
Muchforce，muchdaring，andmuchskillappearInthatfierceking；andsinceofMilo\'ssonThegoodlyswordwastohisgirdletied，AllcheekslookedpaleuponRinaldo\'sside；
CVIII
AndMalagigi，morethanalltherest，Soredoubtedtheeventwhichwouldensue，HewillinglyhimselfwouldhaveaddrestTodisappointthedestinedfightanew；
Butfearsifhethatdeadlystrifearrest，Rinaldo\'sutterenmitytorue，Yetwrothwithhimuponthatotherscore，Whenheconveyedthewarriorfromtheshore。
CIX
Letothersnourishidlegriefandfears！
Rinaldowendsafieldsecureandgay，Hopingthatshame，whichtotheknightappearsToofoultobeendured，towipeaway:
SothatofAltafogliaandPoictiers，Hemayforeversilencethemis-say。
Boldly，andinhisheartsecuretowinThatbattle\'shonour，wendsthepaladin。
CX
Whennowfromeithersidethosewarriorsmeet，Nighatthesametimeatthefountain-side，Soinallpointsthepaireachothergreet，Withcountenance，sokind，sosatisfied，\'TwouldseembykindredandbyfriendshipsweetRinaldoandGradassowereallied。
Buthowtheyafterclosedinfierceaffray，Itillanotherseasonshalldelay。
CANTO32
ARGUMENT
ToherthatdoesforherRogerostay，Tidingsarebroughtwhichirkthedamselsore，ThatfairMarphisacausedtheyouth\'sdelay；
Shebenttoslayher，grievingevermore，Departs，andovertakes，upontheway，Ullaniawiththethreekingswhorodebefore。
Thesesheo\'ercomes，andhado\'ercomethatmaid，Butthatanevillawshedisobeyed。
I
IrecollectthatIwasboundtosing(Ipromisedso，butitescapedmymind)
Ofasuspicion，fraughtwithsufferingToBradamantofmoredispleasingkind，AndmadebykeenerandmorevenomedstingThancausedthatotherwound，wherewithshepined，Which，hearingRichardethisnewsimpart，Hadpiercedherbreastandpreyeduponherheart。
II
SowasIboundtosing，butIbegunAnothersong，Rinaldocrossedmyway，AndthenthosedeedsbysavageGuidodone，Keptmeemployedandcausednosmalldelay；
AndsofromsubjectItosubjectrun，ThatIforgotofBradamanttosay。
Inowremember，andwilltellyou，ereYouofRinaldoorGradassohear。
III
Butitbehoves，eremoreofthesebesaid，IshouldawhileofAgramantdiscourse，Whohadfromthatnight\'sragingfireconveyedToArles，theremnantofhisscatteredforce:
Sincetounitehistroops，andfurnishaidAndvictual，\'twasaplaceofmuchresource，Seateduponariver，nightheshore，WithSpaininfrontandAfricabefore。
IV
Withhorseandfoot，ofgoodorevilsort，MarsiliusthroughoutSpaintheirlossrepairs；
AndeacharmedbackinBarcellona\'sport，Furnishedthroughloveorfear，forseaprepares。
TheMoortocouncildailycallshiscourt；
Norcarenorcostthewatchfulmonarchspares:
Meanwhilesoretaxesandrepeatedcess，AllAfrica\'so\'erburdenedtownsoppress。
V
HeoffersRodomont，iftohissideHewillreturn，butoffershiminvain，RenownedAlmontes\'daughter，asabride；
Hiscousinshe，herportionOran\'sreign。
Heluresnotfromhisbridgethatknightofpride，Whohassomanysells，suchplateandchainCollectedthere，fromcavalierso\'erthrown，Asservetohidethemonumentalstone。
VI
Marphisawouldnotsuchacoursepursue:
Nay，theredoubteddamselhearingsaidThatAgramant，subduedbyCharles\'screw，——Hischoicestwarriorstaken，chased，ordead——
InArleswasshelteredwithhisbrokenfew，Thither，unbiddenbythemonarch，sped，Prompttoassisthimwithherfriendlyblade；
Andprofferedpurseandpersoninhisaid。
VII
AsafreegifttohimthemartialfairBrunellobore，norhadshedonehimwrong。
He，fortendaysandnights，toswinginair，Hadsorelyfeared，fromloftygallowshung:
ButseeinghimunhelpedbyforceorprayerOfanyoneamidthepaynimthrong，ShethoughtfoulscorntostainhergeneroushandsWithsuchbaseblood，andloosedthelosel\'sbands。
VIII
Shepardonedeveryancientinjury，AndhimtoAgramantinArlesconveyed。
WellmayyoufancywithwhatjoyandgleeThemonarchgreetedherwhobroughthimaid；
HeinBrunello\'sfatewillsallshallseeInwhatesteemheholdsthatwarlikemaid；
ForheinearnestdoesuponherfoeWhatfierceMarphisamenacedbutinshow。
IX
Thehangmanhunghiscorpseindesertfield，Thecravingvultureandthecrowtofeed。
Rogero，thaterewhilehadbeenhisshield，Andfromthenoosethatcaitiffwouldhavefreed，Heaven\'sjusticewilled，nowlaywithwoundunhealed，Norcouldassistthecraveninhisneed；
Andwhenthenewswereknown，theknotwastied；
SothatBrunello，unassisted，died。
X
ThiswhiledoesgooddukeAymon\'sdaughtermourn，Becausethosetwentydayssoslowlytrail:——
Whichtermelapsed——Rogeroshouldreturn，Andbereceivedintoherchurch\'spale。
TimehaltsnotmorewithhimtoforeignbourneExiled，withprisonerpentinnoisomejail，Pinesthepoorwretchforlibertyandlight，Orhislovedland，desiredandgladsomesight！
XI
Ayesickwithhopedeferred，theexpectingmaid，ThatPhoebus\'steedswerefounderedonewhiledeemed；
Thenthathiswheelswereoutofframe，sostayed，Beyondthewontedterm，hischariotseemed。
YetlongerthanthatdaywhenFaithdelayedThesun，whichontherighteousHebrewbeamed，OrthanthatnightAlcideswasconceived，Sheeverydayandeverynightbelieved。
XII
Howoftofdormouse，badger，orofbear，Theheavyslumberwouldshefainpartake！
Forshethattimeinsleepwouldwasteandwear；
Norsuchprolongedreposedesiredtobreak；
Norwishedthedamselanysoundtohear，UntilRogero\'svoiceshouldherawake:
Butnotaloneisthisbeyondherpower；
Shecannotclosehereyesonesinglehour。
XIII
Shehereandthere，throughoutthelivelongnight，Tossesandturns，noreverfindsrepose；
Andstill，impatientforthedawnoflight，Fromtimetotimeshetoherwindowgoes，ToseeifTithon\'sspousethelilywhiteYetscattersmingledwiththecrimsonrose。
Norlessdesiresthedamsel，when\'tismorn，Toseethegoldenstarstheheavenadorn。
XIV
When，savingsomefourdays，thetermwasended，Appointedfortheyouthfulwarrior\'sstay，She，fullofhope，themessengerattendedFromhourtohour，thatshouldarrive，andsay，“BeholdRogerocomes“；andoftascendedAturret，fromwhosetopshemightsurveyGaychampaign，wood，and，midthewideexpanse，Aportionoftheroad，thatledtoFrance。
XV
Whenshiningarmsatdistancesheperceives，Oranythingthatspeaksacavalier，\'TisherdesiredRogero，shebelieves；
Andherfaireyesandbrowsareseentoclear。
Iffootman，orunarmed，themaidconceives，Itisacourierfromtheyouthfulpeer；
And，thoughfallaciouseveryhopeshefeeds，Anotherandanotherayesucceeds。
XVI
Andthenshearms，andwillthewarriormeet；
Andfromthehilldescendsintotheplain:
Shefindshimnot，andtoMontalban\'sseatHopeshebyotherroadhiswayhasta\'en。
Inthedesign，wherewithshemovedherfeetFromthence，shetoherfortreturnsinvain；
Norfindshimherenorthere；meanwhileexpiredTheperiodwhoseapproachshesodesired。
XVII——
Theperiodsoprefixto\'erpastbyone，Bytwo，three，six，byeight，bytwentydays——
Sheseeingnotherspouse，andtidingsnoneReceivingoftheyouth，laments\'ganraise，Whichhadfromsnake-hairedFuriespitywon，InthosedarkrealmsthatRhadamanthussways。
Shesmotehereyesdivine，andbosomsfair；
Sherentthetressesofhergoldenhair。
XVIII
“Canitbetrue?“——(shecried)——“ShallIbefainTofollowone，thatstrivestohideandfly?
Esteemamanthathasmeindisdain?
Prayhimthatneverhearsmysuppliantcry?
Sufferwhohatesmeo\'ermyhearttoreign?
Onethathisloftyvirtuesholdssohigh，\'Twereneedsomeheaven-borngoddessshoulddescendFromrealmsabove，hisstubbornhearttobend?
XIX
“Proudyouth！heknowsmyworshipandmylove，Normewillhaveforloverorforslave。
ThecruelstriplingknowswhatpangsIprove，YetwillnotaidmetillIaminmygrave。
Norletmetellmysorrows，lesttheymoveHimhisperverseandevilwilltowave；
Shunningmelikemalignantasp，thatfearsTochangehismood，ifhethecharmerhears。
XX
“Ah！Love，arrestthiswightwhorunssofree，Outstrippingmyslowfeet，ormeinstallIntheconditionwhencethoutookestme，SuchasIwas，erethineorother\'sthrall——
Alas！howvainthehope！thatthoushouldstbeEvertopitymovedbysuppliantcall，Whosport，yeafeedandlive，instreamsthatriseFromthedistractedlover\'sbrimmingeyes。
XXI
“But，woeisme，alas！and，whatcanI
Savemyirrationaldesirelament?
Whichmakesmesoarapitchsopassinghigh，Ireacharegion，wheremyplumesarebrent；
Then，unsustained，fallheadlongfromthesky；
Norendsmywoe；onotherflightintent，AgainIimpmywings，againIsoar；
Toflameandfall，tormentedevermore。
XXII
“Yea；ratherofmyselfshouldIcomplain，Thanthedesire，towhichIbaredmybreastWherebywasReasonhuntedfromherreign，Andallmypowersbystrongerforceopprest。
Thusbornefrombadtoworse，withoutarein，Icannottheunbridledbeastarrest；
WhomakesmeseeItodestructionhaste，ThatImorebitternessindeathmaytaste。
XXIII
“Yet，ah！whyblamemyself?WhereinhaveI
Everoffended，saveinlovingthee?
WhatwonderwasitthenthatsuddenlyAwoman\'sfeeblesenseopprestshouldbe?
Whyfenceandguardmyself，lestbearinghigh，Wisewords，andbeautyrareshouldpleasureme?
MostwretchedisthemortalthatwouldshunTolookuponthevisageofthesun。
XXIV
“Besidesthatmemydestinyentrained，Words，worthycredence，movedmemuch，thatdrewApictureofrarehappiness，ordainedAsmeedofthisfairunlesstoensue。
Ifthesepersuasivewordswerefalseandfeigned，IffamousMerlin\'scounselwasuntrue，WrathatthewizardmayIwellprofess；
ButcannotthereforeloveRogeroless。
XXV
“BothMerlinandMelissahaveIneedToblame，andshallforeverblamethetwain，That，toexhibitsuckersofmyseed，Conjuredupspiritsfrominfernalreign，Whowiththisemptyhopemyfancyfeed，Meinperpetualbondagetodetain。
NorothercauseforthiscanIsuppose，Savethattheygrudgemesafeandsweetrepose。”
XXVI
Sorrowthemaidsowhollyoccupies，Roomhasshenoneforcomfortorforrest。
Yet，maugreheraffliction，Hopewillrise，Andformalodgementinherharassedbreast；
Andtothedamsel\'smemorystillsuppliesRogero\'spartingwordstoheraddrest；
Somakesher，inallseemingfacts\'despite，Awaitfromhourtohourtheyouthfulknight。
XXVII
Foramonth\'sspacebeyondthosetwentydaysThishopeaffordsfairBradamantcontent:
HencesorrownotonhersoheavyweighsAsitwouldelseherharassedsoulhaveshent。
She，onedaythatalongtheroadshestrays，BywhichsheofttomeetRogerowent，Hearstidings，thatofHope——lastcomfortleft——
(Likeeveryothergood)herbreastbereft。
XXVIII
Boundhomewardfromthehostilecamp，wherelayKingAgramant，shemetaGasconknight，Aprisonertothosepaynims，fromtheday，ThatfoughtnighPariswasthefamousfight。
Thedamselpresthimallheknewtosay:
Thentothepointshecovetsledtheknight:
AsksofRogero，onthatthemeabides，Listenstothat，notaughtinquiresbesides。
XXIX
Ofhimafullaccountdidheafford，Aswellacquaintedwiththecourt；hesaidHow，matchedwithMandricardo，strovethatlord，Andlayedthemartialkingincombatdead。
Andhow，sorewoundedbytheTartar\'ssword，Aboveamonththestriplingkepthisbed:
Andhadthestrangerherebutclosedhisnews，Wellmighthistalethemissingknightexcuse。
XXX
ButthensubjoinstheGasconcavalierHowintheMoorishcampadamsellies，BynameMarphisahight，ofbeauteouscheer，Boldandasskilledinarmsofeveryguise，WholovesRogeroandtohimisdear；
Andthenthehostsorarelysunderedspies，Thateveryone，throughoutthepaynimtrain，Deemsthatbetrothedinwedlockarethetwain。
XXXI
Andhope，whenhealedshallbetheyouthfulknight，Themarriageofthoseloverswillsucceed；
(Forsure)withpleasureandsinceredelight，Thosetidingspaynimprinceandmonarchread:
Since，knowingeither\'ssuperhumanmight，Theyaugur，fromtheirloinswillspringabreed，Inlittleseason，whichshallpassinworthThemightiestracethateverwasonearth。
XXXII
Whatherehearsed，theGasconknightbelieved，Norwithoutcausebelievedthenewshebore，ArumouruniversallyreceivedAndbruitedthroughthesquadronsoftheMoor；
WhohadthatnotionoftheirloveconceivedFromsignsofkindnesswitnessedevermore。
For——goodorbad——thoughfromonemouthitflows，Fametoaboundlesstorrentquicklygrows。
XXXIII
ThatshewithhimhadbroughtthePaynimaid，Andne\'erwasseenwithoutthecavalier，Thefirstfoundationoftherumourlayed:
Butwhatconfirmedthatfameineveryear，Was，thatshe，havingfromthecampconveyedThethiefBrunello(asIsangwhilere)
AsifalonetoseeRogerobrought，Hadtothecampreturned，uncalled，unsought。
XXXIV
Shesolelytothecamphadta\'enherway，Tovisithimthatonasick-bedsmarted；
Noroncealone；butoftenallthedayTherepassedthatmaid，andbutatevedeparted:
Whogaveyetgreatercauseofhertosay，That——knownasonesohaughtyandhard-hearted，Whoalltheworlddespised——shenowwasgrownBenignandhumbletotheChildalone。
XXXV
WhenBradamanttheGascon\'sstoryheard，Thatladysufferedsuchtormentingpain，Suchcruelwoeherinmostbosomstirred，Fromfallingshepreservedherselfwithpain。
Sheturnedhercourserround，withoutaword，Inflamedwithjealousyandfiercedisdain:
Fromherallhopethewretcheddamselspurns，Andtoherchamberbreathingwrathreturns。
XXXVI
Turnedonherface，herbodyonthebed，Armedassheis，th4egrievingdamselthrows，Andthatthesadlamentbysorrowbred，Maybeunheardofany，bitestheclothes；
Andso，repeatingwhatthestrangersaid，Tosuchapitcherhersmotheredanguishgrows，Herplaintsnolongerabletorestrain，Soventsthemaidparforceherpiteouspain:
XXXVII
“Whoevercanbetrusted?woeisme！
Allfalseandcruelwellmaybeesteemed，Ifthou，Rogero，falseandcruelbe，ThatIsopiousandsofaithfuldeemed。
Whatfoulandfelonact，whattreachery，Waseveryetbytragicpoetdreamed，Butwillfallshortofthine，ifthouwiltsetThesumofmydesert，againstthydebts?
XXXVIII
“Wherefore，Rogero，sincenocavalierMatestheeinbeauteousformanddaringfeat，Sincethouinmatchlessvalourhastnopeer，Andnonewiththeeingentlenesscompete，Whycannotwe，\'midgodlikegiftsandclear，Allowtheetruth，thygracestocomplete?
Thepraiseofspotlesstruthtotheeallow，Towhichallothervirtuesyieldandbow?
XXXIX
“Knowestthounot，withoutit，worthlessareAllgentlebearingandallmartialmight?
Asthereisnothing，howsoeverfair，Thatcanbeseenwithouttheaidoflight。
Easilymightestthouamaidensnare，Lordasthouwas，andidolinhersight。
Herwiththyhoniedwordsthoumight\'sthavewon，Todeemthatcoldanddarksomewasthesun。
XL
“Cruel，whatsincantroublethee，ifthouDo\'stnothermurderwholovedtheerepent?
Ifheldsolightlybeabreachofvow——
Beneathwhatburdenwillthyheartbebent?
Whattreatmentwillthineadversaryknow，Ifonewholoveslikemethousotorment?
Justiceisnoneinheaven，Iwellmaysay，IfHeavenitsvengeanceformywrongsdelay。
XLI
“IfofallhumansinsofdeepestdyeBefellingratitude；ifdoomedtosmartForthis，thefairestangeloftheskyWasbanishedintofoulanddarksomepart；
Ifmightysinsformightyvengeancecry，Wheredueatonementcleansesnottheheart；
Bewarelestthoubeneathsuchvengeancegroan，Ingrate！thatwouldestnotthysinatone。
XLII
“CruelRogero，Ioftheft，besideAllothersins，mayjustlytheearraign。
Thatthoumyhearthasravishedformmyside，——OfthisoffenceIwillnot，Icomplain——
But，havingmadeitmine，thatthoudefiedAllright，andtookawaythygiftagain。
Restoreit；wellthouknow\'stwhatpainsrequiteHissin，whokeepswhatisanother\'sright。
XLIII
“Thouhastleftme，Rogero；theetoleave，Alas！Ineitherwillnorpowerpossess。
ButwillandpowerhaveImylifetoreave，Toscapefromthiso\'erwhelmingwretchedness。
TodieatstrifewiththeealoneIgrieve:
For，hadthegodssopleasedmylottobless，Astorequiremylife，whenlovedofthee，Neversowelcomehadbeendeathtome。”
XLIV
Resolvedtodie，\'twassothedamselcried；
Andstartingfromherbed，bypassionwarmed，Toherleftbreasthernakedswordapplied；
Thenrecollectedshewaswhollyarmed。
MeanwhileherbetterSpirit，atherside，Withthesepersuasivewordsherfurycharmed:
“Olady，borntosuchillustriousname！
Would\'stthouconcludethylifewithsuchfoulshame?
XLV
“Wereitnotbettertothefieldtogo，Whereayethybreathwithglorymaybespent?
There，shouldRogerochancetolaytheelow，Hetohaveslaintheehaplymayrepent；
But，shouldhisfaulchiondealthemortalblow，Whatdeathcouldeveryieldtheemorecontent?
Reasonitwerethoushould\'stbyhimbeslain，Whodoomstheelivingtosuchpassingpain。
XLVI
“HaplyofthatMarphisa，too，beforeThoudie，thouyetmaydeadlyvengeancetake，WhowithdishonestloveandtreacherousloreDidthybelovedRogero\'sfealtyshake。”
ThisseemedtopleasethemournfulladymoreThanherfirstthought；andsheforthwithbademakeAmantleforherarms，whichshouldimplyHerdesperationanddesiretodie。
XLVII
ThevestisofthatcolourwhichisspiedInleaf，whengrayandyellowareatstrife；
Whenitisgatheredfromthebranch，ordriedIsthegreenblood，thatwasit\'sparent\'slife。
Embroideredisthesurcoat\'soutersideWithstemsofcypresswhichdisdaintheknife；
Whichshootnot，whenbybitingsteellaidlow。
Ahabitwellaccordingwithherwoe。
XLVIII
ShetookthecourserthatwaswonttobearAstolpho，andwithhimthelanceofgold，Bywhosesoletouchunhorsedallchampionswere。
NeedlessanewIdeemittounfoldWhybyAstolphogiven，andwhenandwhere，Orhowthatspearobtainedthewarriorbold。
Theladytookthelance，butnothingguessedOfthestupendousvirtueitpossessed。
XLIX
Withoutattendants，withoutsquire，alone，Thehilldescendingbythenearestway，TowardParisisthemournfuldamselgone，WherecampederewhiletheMoorishforceslay；
Foryettoherthetidingswereunknown，ThatgoodRinaldoandhisboldarrayHadraised，withCharles\'andMalagigi\'said，ThesiegethepaynimshadtoParislaid。
L——
Cadurci，andCahorscityleftbehind——
Bradamantseesthemountain，farandnear，WhenceDordogne\'swaterstothevalleywind；
AndMontferrant\'sandClermont\'stowersappear:
Whenshe，aladyfair，ofsemblancekind，Beholds，bythatsameroad，towardshersteer。
Threeknightswerenigh，and——atthepommelhung——
Abucklerfromthedamsel\'ssaddleswung。
LI
BeforetheladyandbehindherrideMoresquiresandmaids，anumerouscompany。
FairBradamantofonethatpastbesideDemandedwhothestrangerdamemightbe?
“ThatladytothekingofFrance“(repliedThesquire)“issentuponanembassyFromTHELOSTISLE，whichliesmidseasthatrollTheirrestlesswavesbeyondthenorthernpole。
LII
“SomeTHELOSTISLE，someIcelandcallthereignWhereofaroyalladyfillsthethrone；
Whosecharms(beforethosecharmsallbeautieswane)
AresuchasHeavenhaddealttoheralone。
TheshieldyouseeshesendstoCharlemagne，Butwiththepactandpurposeplainlyshown，Heshouldconferitontheknight，whoseworthIs，inhisjudgment，fairestuponearth。
LIII
“She，asshedeemsherself(anditistrueSheisthefairestofallwomankind)，Acavalier，thatshouldinheartandthewSurpassallotherwarriors，fainwouldfind；
Resolved，shouldherahundredthousandwoo，Noneshallunfixthepurposeofhermind；——
Buthe，heldworthiestbytheworld\'saccord，Aloneshallbeherloverandherlord。
LIV
“InFrance，inroyalCharles\'sfamouscourt，Thedamselhopestofindthecavalier，WhoinathousandfeatsofhighreportHasshownthatheexcelseachpuissantpeer。
Allthreearemonarchywhothedameescort，Andwhattheirkingdomsyeaswellshallhear。
OneSwedenrules，oneGothland，Norwayone；
Surpastinmartialpraisebyfewornone。
LV
“Thesethree，whosekingdomsatsomedistancelie，YettheleastdistantliefromtheLOSTISLE，(Becausefewmarinersitsshoredescry，Aslittleknown，thatislandsotheystyle)，Wooedandyetwooherforawife，andvieInvalour，and，towinthelady\'ssmile，Illustriousdeedshavedone，whichFameshallsound，WhileHeavenshallcircleinitswontedround。
LVI
“Yetshenotthesewillwed，norcavalierThatdoesnot，asshedeems，allelseexcell——
`LightlyIholdyourproofofvalourhere，\'
(Thosenorthernmonarchswasshewonttotell)
`Andif，likesunamidthestars，onepeerOutshineshisfellows，himIhonourwell:
Butthereforeholdhimnot，infiercealarms，Oflivingmenthebravestknightatarms。
LVII
“`ToCharlemagne，whomIesteemandholdAswisestamongreigningkings，bymeShallbedispatchedacostlyshieldofgold，Onpactandoncondition，thatitbeBestowedonhim，deemedboldestofthebold，Amidthemartialranksofchivalry。
ServesthekingCharlemagneorotherlord，Iwillbegovernedbythatking\'saward。
LVIII
“`IfwhenKingCharlesthebucklershallreceiveAndgivetoonesostout，thatbestamongAllothershethatwarriorshallbelieve，Dotheytohisorothercourtbelong。
FormethegoldenbucklershallretrieveOneofyouthree，inhisownvirtuestrong；
Myeveryloveandthoughtshallhepossess；
HimformyspouseandlordwillIconfess。\'
LIX
“Movedbythesestirringspeeches，hitherhieFromthatwide-distantsea，thosemonarchsbold，Resolvedtowinthebuckler，ortodieBeneathhishandwhohasthatshieldofgold。”
Bradamantpondersmuchthesquire\'sreply:
Hegivehishorsethehead——hisstorytold——
Andplieshimsowithrestlessheelandhand，Heovertakesthedamsel\'sdistantband。
LX
Afterhimgallopsnot，norhurriesought，Bradamant，whopursuesherroadatease:
MuchevermoreevolvinginherthoughtThingsthatmaychance，shefinallyforeseesThatthroughthebucklerbythatdamselbrought，Willfollowstrifeandboundlessenmities，AmidkingCharles\'speerageandtherest，Ifwiththatshieldheshallrewardthebest。
LXI
Thisgrievedthedamsel\'sheart，butfaraboveThatgrief，theformerfearherhearddidgoad；
ThatyoungRogerohadwithdrawnhisloveFromher，andonthewarlikequeenbestowed。
Soburiedinthethoughtswherewithshestrove，WasBradamant，sheheedednorherroad，Nortookshecarewhere，atthecloseoflight，Tofindbefittingshelterforthenight。
LXII
Aswhenfromsquall，orotherchance，abargeDrivesfromtheriver-side，wherelateitlay，Undernomarinerorpilot\'scharge，Thewindsandwavesatwilltransporttheirprey；
SoRabicanwithBradamant，atlarge，——ShemusingonRogero——wendshisway。
Forthence，bymanymiles，wasdistantwideThatmindwhichshouldhercourser\'sbridleguide。
LXIII
Sheraisedhereyesatlast，andsawthesunHadturnedhisbackonBocchus\'towersandwall；
Then，likeacormorant，hisjourneydone，Intohisnurse\'slapbeheldhimfall，BeyondMarocco；andforhertorunTotree，forshelterfromtherisingsquall，Hadbeenafoolishthought；fornow\'ganblowAblusteringwind，whichthreatenedrainorsnow。
LXIV
TobetterspeedfairBradamantarousedHercourser，yetbutlittlewaydidride，Whenwithhisflock，whichonthechampaignbrowsed，Leavingthefields，ashepherdsheespied。
Tohimwhere，wellorill，shemightbehoused，——Withmanyinstancesthemaidapplied——
Forneverhousecouldsuchillshelteryield，Butthatinrain\'twereworsetolodgeafield。
LXV
Tohertheshepherdsaid，“IknowofnoneWheretoIcoulddirectyou，nearathand。
Atleastsixleaguesaredistantall，butone，NamedTRISTRAM\'STOWER，throughouttheneighbouringland。
Butnottoallmenisthedoorundone；
Foritbehovesthatthey，withlanceinhand，Achievetheirfootingfirstandthedefend，Whotobelodgedwithinitswallspretend。
LXVI
“Ifthereberoomwithin，tostrangerknightThecastellaingiveskindlywelcomethere:
Butisalodgingclaimedbyotherwight，Tojoustwithallnewcomersmakeshimswear:
Ifnone，heneednotmove；butarmsandfightHemustwhatstrangerthithershallrepair；
Andhethatworsthiswarlikearmsshallply，Mustwanderforthbeneaththenakedsky。
LXVII
“Iftwo。three，four，ormore，seekshelter，theyThatfirstarrive，inpeacetheirquarterstake。
Whofollows，hasahardergametoplay；
Forwaruponthosemanymusthemake。
So，ifoneonlyinthatmansionstay，Hewiththosetwo，ormore，alancemustbreak。
Thenwithasmanyothersassucceed:
Thushewhatstrengthhehasshallsorelyneed。
LXVIII
“Aswell，ifwifeormaidseekthatrepair，(Isshealone，issheaccompanied)，Andafterwardsanother，themostfairIshoused；thatothermustwithoutabide。”
BradamantaskedthekindlyshepherdwhereThatcastlestood；andhewithsignsrepliedAswellaswords，andpointedwithhishandWhere，fiveorsixmileswide，thetowerdidstand。
LXIX
ThoughRabican\'sgoodpacesmeritpraise，Tohurryhimthedamselhadnoskill，Bythosesopassingfoulandbrokenways，(Byseasonsomewhatrainyrenderedill)
So，astoreachthetower，ereNighto\'erlaysTheworld，whoseeverynookdarkshadowsfill。
Arrived，thatladyfindstheportalbarred，Andthatsheseeksalodgingtellstheguard。
LXX
HeanswersthattheplaceisoccupiedBydameandknightalreadyhoused，who，metAboutthefire，inthatchillevening-tide，Waittilltheirsupperbebeforethemset。
Tohimthatmaid:“Theboardisnotsupplied，Ideem，forthem，unlessthemealbeeat。
Now，sayIwaittheircoming。”(shepursues，)
Whoknowandwillobserveyourcastle\'suse。”
LXXI
Theguardhismessagebore，whereattheireaseReposedthewearycavaliers；histaleNotoverlikelywasthosekingstoplease；
Forcoldandpeevishblewthewintrygale，Andnowfastfelltherain；yet，forcedtoseizeTheirarms，theyslowlydonthemartialmail。
Therestremainwithin；whiletheyproceedAgainstthedamsel，butwithlittlespeed。
LXXII
Threecavalierstheywere，ofmightsotried，Fewchampionsbuttotheminprowessyield，Thesamethatshethatveryday，besideThecouriermaid，encounteredinthefield，TheythatinIcelandboasted，intheirpride，TobearawayfromFrancethegoldenshield:
Who(fortheyhadthemartialmaidoutrode)
Arrivedbeforeheratthatlord\'sabode。
