XXI.
In solemn measure, sad and slow
The minstrels swell'd the dirge of woe.
It fell on Edward's heart the strain:
He view'd his chieftains in their pride,
Who oft had turn'd the battle tide:
His glory call'd them forth again:
Hope proudly plum'd each warrior's crest,
And valour flam'd from breast to breast.
So Roland from victorious fight
Past, and perish'd in his might.
Treason might lead his warriors on:
Navarre, another Ganelon.
Ronceval, and the territory on each side adjoining, were at that time possessed
by Charles, justly surnamed “le Mauvais,” king of Navarre. His avaricious
bargain with Pedro for the opening of the passes, his treacherous conduct, and
desertion of the Black Prince, (vid. Froissart, passim) brand him in history
with the detestable mark of the false Peer of Charlemain, Ganelon, who “por
“avaricia vendió los Caballeros, los doce Pares de Francia, en quien jamas faltó
“virtud y nobleza.” Hist. de Carl. Mag.
