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The Works of John Hookham Frere In Verse and Prose

Now First Collected with a Prefatory Memoir by his Nephews W. E. and Sir Bartle Frere

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TRANSLATIONS FROM “THE POEM OF THE CID.”
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409

TRANSLATIONS FROM “THE POEM OF THE CID.”


411

[They fain would sally forth, but he, the noble Cid]

I.

ARGUMENT.

The Cid being driven into banishment by the intrigues of his enemies, is accompanied by several of his friends and followers, for whom he undertakes to provide by carrying on a predatory war against the Moors. In the course of their adventures they surprise the Castle of Alcocer, but are soon after surrounded and besieged by a superior army. After some difference of opinion, the Cid yields to the wishes of his followers, and determines upon a sally, which is successful.

[_]

From line 670 to 772.

They fain would sally forth, but he, the noble Cid,
Accounted it as rashness, and constantly forbid.
The fourth week was beginning, the third already past,
The Cid and his companions they are now agreed at last.
“The water is cut off, the bread is well nigh spent,
“To allow us to depart by night the Moors will not consent.
“To combat with them in the field our numbers are but few,
“Gentlemen, tell me your minds, what do you think to do?”
Minaya Alvar Fañez answer'd him again,
“We are come here from fair Castile to live like banish'd men.
“There are here six hundred of us, beside some nine or ten;
“It is by fighting with the Moors that we have earn'd our bread,
“In the name of God that made us, let nothing more be said,

412

“Let us sally forth upon them by the dawn of day.”
The Cid replied, “Minaya, I approve of what you say,
“You have spoken for the best, and had done so without doubt.”
The Moors that were within the town they took and turn'd them out,
That none should know their secret; they labour'd all that night,
They were ready for the combat with the morning light.
The Cid was in his armour mounted at their head,
He spoke aloud amongst them, you shall hear the words he said:
“We must all sally forth! There can not a man be spared,
“Two footmen only at the gates to close them and keep guard;
“If we are slain in battle, they will bury us here in peace,
“If we survive and conquer, our riches will increase.
“And you, Pero Bermuez, the standard you must bear,
“Advance it like a valiant man, evenly and fair;
“But do not venture forward before I give command.”
Bermuez took the standard, he went and kiss'd his hand.
The gates were then thrown open, and forth at once they rush'd,
The outposts of the Moorish host back to the camp were push'd;
The camp was all in tumult, and there was such a thunder
Of cymbals and of drums, as if earth would cleave in sunder.
There you might see the Moors arming themselves in haste,
And the two main battles how they were forming fast;
Horsemen and footmen mix'd, a countless troop and vast.
The Moors are moving forward, the battle soon must join,
“My men, stand here in order, ranged upon a line!
“Let not a man move from his rank before I give the sign.”
Pero Bermuez heard the word, but he could not refrain.
He held the banner in his hand, he gave his horse the rein;
“You see yon foremost squadron there, the thickest of the foes,
“Noble Cid, God be your aid, for there your banner goes!
“Let him that serves and honours it show the duty that he owes.”
Earnestly the Cid call'd out, “For heaven's sake, be still!”
Bermuez cried, “I cannot hold,” so eager was his will.
He spurr'd his horse, and drove him on amid the Moorish rout;
They strove to win the banner, and compass'd him about.
Had not his armour been so true he had lost either life or limb;
The Cid call'd out again, “For heaven's sake, succour him!”
Their shields before their breasts, forth at once they go,
Their lances in the rest levell'd fair and low;
Their banners and their crests waving in a row,

413

Their heads all stooping down toward the saddle bow.
The Cid was in the midst, his shout was heard afar,
“I am Ruy Diaz, the Champion of Bivar;
“Strike amongst them, gentlemen, for sweet mercy's sake!”
There where Bermuez fought, amidst the foe they brake,
Three hundred banner'd knights, it was a gallant show:
Three hundred Moors they kill'd, a man with every blow;
When they wheel'd and turn'd, as many more lay slain,
You might see them raise their lances and level them again.
There you might see the breastplates, how they were cleft in twain,
And many a Moorish shield lie shatter'd on the plain.
The pennons that were white mark'd with a crimson stain,
The horses running wild whose riders had been slain.
The Christians call upon Saint James, the Moors upon Mahound,
There were thirteen hundred of them slain on a little spot of ground.
Minaya Alvar Fañez smote with all his might,
He went as he was wont, and was foremost in the fight.
There was Galin Garcia, of courage firm and clear,
Felez Munioz, the Cid's own cousin dear;
Antolinez of Burgos, a hardy knight and keen,
Munio Gustioz, his pupil that had been.
The Cid on his gilded saddle above them all was seen.
There was Martin Munioz, that ruled in Montmayor,
There were Alvar Fañez and Alvar Salvador:
These were the followers of the Cid, with many others more,
In rescue of Bermuez and the standard that he bore.
Minaya is dismounted, his courser has been slain,
He fights upon his feet, and smites with might and main.
The Cid came all in haste to help him to horse again;
He saw a Moor well mounted, thereof he was full fain,
Through the girdle at a stroke he cast him to the plain:
He call'd to Minaya Fañez and reach'd him out the rein,
“Mount and ride, Minaya, you are my right hand,
“We shall have need of you to-day, these Moors will not disband!”
Minaya leapt upon the horse, his sword was in his hand;
Nothing that came near him could resist him or withstand;
All that fall within his reach he despatches as he goes.
The Cid rode to King Fariz, and struck at him three blows;

414

The third was far the best, it forced the blood to flow:
The stream ran from his side, and stain'd his arms below;
The King caught round the rein, and turn'd his back to go,
The Cid has won the battle with that single blow.

II.

ARGUMENT.

On the death of King Almudafar, his sons Zulema and Abenalfange divided his dominions; the former had the kingdom of Zaragosa, and put it under the protection of the Cid. The latter had the kingdom of Denia; and, as there began to be great enmity between the brothers, Abenalfange was helped by Don Pedro king of Aragon and Count Don Ramon Berenger of Barcelona, who thereby became enemies of the Cid. The Cid with 200 horsemen attacked the lands of Alcaniz, and after that infested Huesca and Montalban. Of this tidings were taken to the king of Denia, and to the Count of Barcelona, who attack the Cid in a valley near the Pine-wood of Thebar, are routed, the Count taken prisoner, and his sword Colada taken by the Cid. The Count refuses all food, and starves himself for three days, till the Cid promises him and two of his followers their freedom if he eats a hearty dinner, which he does, and obtains his freedom.

[_]

From line 965 to 1089.

The news spread wide and far, it reached Count Ramon's ear,
The Count of Barcelona Don Ramon Berenger,
How the Cid Ruy Diaz was riding far and near,
Plundering all the country. The Count was bold and hot,
A proud and angry word was spoken on the spot:
“Ruy Diaz has offended us and evermore offends;
“He smote my kinsman in the court and never made amends;
“And here he comes to rob the Moors, my neighbours and my friends,
“That pay me for protection, and live within my league.
“I never join'd against him with faction or intrigue,
“Or was his secret enemy, or defied him as a foe,
“Or wrong'd him or attack'd him; but since he wills it so,
“Since he comes against us, against him we must go.”

415

The Count with all his vassals is mustering strong and fast—
They throng in troops together and follow forth in haste,
Christian Knights and Franks, and Moors of every caste,
Riding in hot pursuit of the Champion of Bivar,
And there at length they found him, at the Pine-wood of Thebar;
It was a three days' march before they reach'd so far.
The Cid came with his plunder, a convoy large and good,
Descending from the mountain to a vale beside the wood;
A summons there was sent him from the Count Berenger,
The Cid, when he received it, returned a messenger—
“Tell the Count Berenger we mean to part from hence;
“We wish to part in peace, we never meant offence;
“Whatever gain we made was not at his expense.”
The Count, in haste and anger, replied—“it is not true;
“He shall now pay me for the past, and for the present too;
“I shall teach this outlaw the respect that is my due.”
Wi' that the messenger returned; the Cid might fairly see
That he must risk a battle, it might no better be.
“Look to your baggage, gentlemen, set all the gear apart,
“And arm yourselves for battle, we fight before we part.
“Our enemies are here at hand with a mighty threat and boast,
“The Count of Barcelona forsooth with all his host!—
“Franks and Moors together I know not which are most:
“But since they come pursuing, and their intent is clear
“To attack us as they find us, we'll fight our battle here:
“They will be riding down the slope with a broken pace;
“Our saddles are all firm and deep, well girded in their place,
“And theirs are easy surcingles and saddles for a race.
“You will not find among them one well arm'd cavalier;
“A hundred of our number might fight them without fear:
“Before they reach the valley let us meet them with the spear;
“For one man that you strike three saddles will be clear.
“We shall teach the Count Don Ramon Berenger,
“With knighthood and with practice and proof of manhood shear,
“What kind of knights and what a chief he comes pursuing here,
“To take our booty from us, the spoil we bought so dear!”
And now the noble Cid had finish'd his discourse;
His knights are rang'd in order, each upon his horse.
The Franks come down the hill with a random course.
Just where the mountain ended, at the valley's source,
The Cid gave orders to his men to charge with all their force:

416

That order they perform'd with all their soul and heart,
With pennons and with lances so well they play'd their part,
Some are pierc'd and wounded, others beaten down,
The Count is taken captive, his host is overthrown,
His sword that was worth a thousand marks, the Cid has made his own,
The noble sword Colada that through the world was known.
He has adorn'd that mighty beard with honour and renown,
His beard, that as a banish'd man was left all overgrown—
The Count is taken with the Cid in close and steady ward
A surety for his creditors for them to watch and guard—
The Cid came from his tent, and at the door he stood,
His knights are crowding round him, all in a merry mood,
Right merry was the Cid, the spoil was rich and good.—
For the service of the Cid a banquet was prepar'd,
Count Ramon would not eat of it, or pay the least regard;
They serv'd the meat before him. He laugh'd at them again—
“I would not eat a morsel for all the wealth of Spain;
“I would rather lose my life, and perish here outright,
“Since such a set of ragged knaves have conquer'd me in fight.”
The good Cid Ruy Diaz, these were the words he said:
“Eat and drink, Sir Count, of the wine and of the bread,
“If you do as I advise you shortly may be free,
“Else you can never hope a Christian land to see—
“Be merry, Don Rodrigo—feast and make good cheer.”
“I shall not eat a morsel; I mean to perish here.”—
They shar'd and pack'd the booty; till the third day was past,
The Count continued still to famish and to fast.
They could not make him eat a morsel nor a crumb:
At length the worthy Cid said, “Come, Sir Ramon, come!
“If ever you design to return to Christendom,
“You needs must break your fast; therefore if you'll agree
“To eat a goodly dinner fairly and lustily,
“With two companions of your choice, I promise all the three
“To quit you from your prison, and leave you ransom-free.”
The Count was joyful at the word, and answer'd cheerfully:
“Cid, if you mean it as you say, this way to ransom me,
“As long as I shall live a marvel it will be.”—
“Then come to dinner, Count, and when you've eat your fill,
“You with your two companions may go whene'er you will;
“But for the booty that I gain'd, I mean to keep it still:

417

“No not a farthing will I give of all the wealth you lost,
“Your plea was overthrown in fight, and you must pay the cost;
“Besides, I want the goods myself, for the service of my host,
“My ragged hearty followers, my safeguard and my boast;
“Thus we must live, till Heaven above has otherwise disposed,
“Standing in anger of the king, with all the best and most
“Of our inheritance and lands sequester'd and foreclosed;
“As is the wont of banish'd men, we needs must think it fair
“To keep our troop together, with plundering here and there.”
The Count was pleased, and call'd for water for his hands,
A bason with the banquet was brought at his commands;
Two knights were with him, that the Cid released him ransomless;
I warrant all the three were joyous at the mess.
Then spoke the noble Cid—“Sir Count, before we part,
“You must perform your promise, and eat with all your heart,
“Else I must keep you with me to whet your appetite.”
The Count replied—“The contract shall be fulfill'd aright;
“I promise you to do my part, and do it with delight.”
The noble-minded Cid stood smiling there beside
To see the Count at meat, so fast his hands he plied.
“An' if it be your pleasure, Cid, now that our dinner's done,
“Give order for our horses, and let us hence be gone;
“Of all the meals I ever made this is the heartiest one.”—
Three palfreys were brought up to them, with saddles rich and fair,
With mantles and with housings of cloth and peltry rare.
The Count was in the midst, his knights on either side,
The Cid for half a stage would escort him on his ride;—
“Farewell Sir Count! you leave me ransomless and frank;
“I quit you with all courtesies; and furthermore I thank
“Your bounty for the booty you left with me behind;
“And if you should repent of it, or chance to change your mind,
“And wish to mend your luck, whenever you're inclined,
“Myself and my companions are easy folks to find:—
“But if you leave me quiet, (as well, methinks, you may)
“Your lands will fare the better; and on a future day
“With your own goods or others perhaps I may repay.”—
“Cid, you may fairly boast, you're safe upon that head;
“For this year and the next my score is fully paid;
“And as for coming after you let nothing more be said.”
The Count went crowding on his pace, and looking fast behind

418

Pressing and urging onward, he doubted in his mind
The Cid might change his purpose. He little knew the Cid;
That would have been a treason,—a thing he never did;
He never would have done so base an act—not even
To purchase all the gold and treasure under heaven.

III.

ARGUMENT.

The Cid—after various successes, having won the city of Valencia, and having overthrown the king of Seville (who was sent with 30,000 men to besiege him) in the battle of Villa Nueva, in which every footsoldier shared 100 marks of silver—fearing lest his people who were now rich should return to their own country, took counsel with Alvar Fanez and others, when Minaya advised that proclamation should be made that no man should leave the city without permission of the Cid, on pain of losing all he had and being impaled. With this view the Cid orders an account to be taken of all his vassals, sends Alvar Fanez and Martin Antolinez with presents to the king, Don Alphonso, beseeching him to let his wife and daughters join him,—re-makes Valencia into a bishoprick, and makes the pilgrim Don Jerom bishop. The king receives the messengers favourably, and orders that the ladies have a guard to escort them throughout his dominions, and restores the Cid and his followers to favour.

[_]

From line 1263 to 1379.

I wish for an account
“Of all my vassals here, their number and amount,
“Their grants of tenements and lands, Minaya, will you look
“To mark their names in writing, and count them in a book—
—“For the service of Valencia this shall be the law—
“If any man shall leave it, to desert us and withdraw,
“He shall resign and vacate his tenure, to divide
“Among my followers here, that in the town abide,
“That watch the city walls, and keep the country side.”
Minaya said—“The thing can easily be done.”
He summon'd them to Court, they came there every one;
He wrote their names in order, and made a fair account,
Three thousand and six hundred was the complete amount.

419

“Thanks be to God, Minaya, the troop was thinner far
“When we rode forth as exiles from my manor at Bivar:
“As we have prosper'd hitherto so shall we prosper still;
“Yet farther, if you like it, and if it suits your will,
“I fain would send you forth for a message into Spain,
“To see my Lord Alphonso my lawful king again.
“A hundred goodly steeds for a present you shall bring,
“A portion of the booty, to present them to the king.
“Then you shall kiss his hands intreating earnestly
“That he will condescend to set my wife and daughters free—
“And for their coming with you, these words shall be the token;
“The words they recollect, that heretofore were spoken:—
“That the Cid's daughters and his wife, upon some future day,
“As rich and mighty dames should ride in proud array
“To meet their worthy father within some foreign land,
“Where he should reign a conqueror in honour and command.”
“I'll do it,” said Minaya, “with all my soul and heart.”
He sets affairs in order preparing to depart,
With a hundred men-at-arms as an escort strong and fair;
And a thousand marks of silver must Alvar Fanez bear
To the Convent of San Pedro, for the good abbot there.
While thus they were discoursing, and mirth and hope increased
A pilgrim came amongst them, from adventures in the East,
A clerk of holy Church and shaven as a priest:
Don Jerom was his name, a person of discerning,
Courteous and discreet, and famous for his learning;
A worthy man besides, on horseback or on foot,
And thither was he come, for his errand and pursuit
Had been to join the Cid, that he might fight his fill,
Sword-in-hand among the Moors, to cut them down and kill.—
The Cid with his arrival was pleased and satisfied;
He took Minaya Fanez to speak with him aside.
“Hear me, Minaya Fanez! in Heaven's name I say,
“Of all that Heaven has blessed us with, something we must repay:
“And therefore of my conquest this shall be the fruit,
“I'll make a bishop here, and a bishopric to boot;
“And this same good Don Jerom the bishop he shall be.
“Where can we find in all our host a better clerk than he?
“These will be goodly tidings, happy news and fair,
“Reported in Castille at your arrival there.”

420

Minaya was agreed; the thing was done as said,
And therewithal Don Jerom was a bishop made,
Invested and endow'd with lands and yearly rent;
And, oh! what happy tidings thro' Christendom were sent,
In all the courts of Christendom, and ev'ry town of Spain,
That a bishop in Valencia was appointed once again.
Minaya took his leave, and forth in haste he prest
His journey through Valencia; the country was at rest:
As for his other travel, I care not to recite
The stages that he made or where he stopt at night.
He rides inquiring for the king; at last he comes to know,
“The king was at St. Fagunt a little while ago,
“Meaning to go to Carrion so people understood.”
Minaya rode to Carrion, to find him if he could,
Ready with his present in case the king should pass;
And there at once he met him returning from the Mass.
Behold Minaya Fanez, in presence of the crowd,
He knelt before the king and made his moan aloud:—
“The good Cid Ruy Diaz salutes you as is meet,
“As a good vassal to his lord, kissing your hands and feet;
“He is driven from your kingdom, and he has lost your love,
“Be gracious to him, good my Lord, for heaven's sake above;
“Though living as a banish'd man, yet hath he prosper'd well
“Within the Moorish border, such tidings I can tell.
“He has taken towns and lands and castles many a one,
“Xerica and Almenar, Cebola, Casteion;
“He has taken Penna Cadella, the fortress and the hill,
“He has taken Murviedro, which is far better still;
“He is master of Valencia and rules it at his will;
“He has made a bishop of his own, with mitre, ring, and pall;
“He has fought five battles in the field, and conquer'd in them all;
“Great is the wealth and booty that, by the will of heaven,
“The Cid hath purchased in the field, and largely hath he thriven;
“And here I bring your Grace a sample and a token,
“In proof of his allegiance, and that the truth is spoken,—
“A hundred noble coursers, strong and tall and fleet,
“With saddles and caparisons, and all equipments meet;
“He sends his humble present, kissing your Grace's hands,
“And owns himself your vassal in his Lordship and his lands.”
The king lift up his hand, made a cross upon his brow,

421

The Cid was grown, he thought, to power and wealth enow.
“As heaven shall be my speed, heaven and St. Isidore,
“I like these tidings well from the Cid Campeador,
“And I receive his present and thank him furthermore.”
But the Count Garci Ordonnez, at his heart's inmost core,
The more the king was satisfied, was envious and sore.
“If the Cid conquers at this rate, if all is true that's said,
“What has become of all the Moors? the people must be dead.”
The king said, “Hold your peace, and make no more ado;
“The Cid has serv'd me more and better far than you.”
With that Minaya Fanez made a manly speech:—
“The Cid entreats your favour and fain he would beseech
“Your warrant and your licence (if so your Grace should please),
“As for his wife and daughters to grant them their release,—
“To take them from the convent whereat they now remain,
“And bring them to Valencia, to see them once again.”
“It pleases me right well,” the noble king replied:
“A convoy they shall have, where'er they pass or ride,
“To defend them from dishonour or offence that may betide
“In all my country's bounds, up to the border's side:
“But when they pass the border the charge will rest with you,
“To attend them and protect them, as is their right and due.
“—Ye knights and nobles of the court, my vassals, hear ye me!
“Henceforth shall Ruy Diaz stand unimpeach'd and free;
“I quit him from all forfeiture and other detriment,
“And for his followers that have lost their heritage and rent
“In favour of the Cid I grant it back again,
“To enable them to serve him there in his new domain.”
Minaya kissed his hand, and thank'd him for his grace.
Then spoke the noble king, with his smiling, manly face,
“Whichever of my vassals is minded to resort
“To Valencia with the Cid may freely leave the court;
“And he shall hold his lands unforfeited and free;
“And I shall own his service as a vassalage to me.”

422

IV.

ARGUMENT.

Alvar Fanez and Martin Antolinez, having taken leave of the King, go to the monastery of St. Pedro de Cardena, where Dona Ximena and her daughters were, and bring them to within three leagues of Valencia, where they are met by the Cid on his famous horse Babieca. He runs a career with him, and at the end of the course, alighting, goes towards his wife and daughters. Donna Ximena kneels to receive him; he conducts them into Valencia, where they are received with great rejoicings. In the spring, Yusef, King of Morocco, sends an army against Valencia. The Cid shows his wife and daughters the Moors landing, and entering the gardens round the city. Alvar Salvadores makes a sally, and drives the Moors back to their tents, but is himself taken prisoner. Next day, after early mass by the Bishop Don Jerom, who obtained the boon of being first in the battle, the Cid attacks the Moors, who are utterly routed, and wounds King Yusef, who escapes him. On his return to the city, the Cid declares his intention of giving the ladies attendant on his wife and daughters in marriage to his vassals, with a dowry out of the plunder of two hundred marks of silver to each of them. The King of Morocco's tent he reserves for the King Don Alphonso, and, in addition to his share of the booty, gives a tithe of his own fifth to the Bishop Don Jerom.

[_]

From line 1603 to 1809.

She knelt before the Cid there in the people's sight:
“Cid, in a lucky hour were you girded as a knight;
“Full often have you rescued me from injury and wrong:
“And now, sir, with Heaven's blessing, here I have brought along,
“To glad you with their presence, your own dear daughters both,
“Reared in noble nurture and of good health and growth.”
The Cid embraced them all with pleasure and surprize;
The tears for very joy were streaming from their eyes.
Then spake the noble Cid the words that you shall hear:
“Beloved and honoured woman, and you, my children dear,
“The pride and solace of my heart, my darlings, welcome here;
“Come hither to Valencia, the mansion and the land

423

“That I have purchased for you!” They knelt and kissed his hand.
He took them to the palace in triumph through the town,
He showed them from the tower the prospect looking down,
The city spread below, the cultivated plain,
The garden of Valencia, the paradise of Spain,
Stretching beyond the sight, the mountains and the main
Encompassing it round; they lift their hands and eyes,
To Heaven that had bestowed so fair and rich a prize.
There were pastimes fair enow at the entrance of the town,
Of tourneying and riding and riving targets down,
And hurling darts and snapping spears that it was joy to see,
With songs and instruments among, and mirth and minstrelsy;
The Cid with his companions has kept a noble court,
The while the winter lasted, in solace and disport.
The winter is departed, for March is coming in:
And I must tell you tidings, the tidings that begin
To reach us day by day from parts beyond the sea,
From Africa and Morocco; King Yusef there is he,
Ruling the mighty realm with strength and chivalry.
And the report has reached his ears of all the Cid has done,
Of towns and castles taken and battles fought and won:
The kingdom of Valencia he detains it as his own,
And owns no Lord on earth, but holds from Christ alone.
This Emperor of Morocco has assembled all his host:
And fifty thousand warriors are encamped upon the coast;
They put themselves on shipboard and shortly cross the main,
They disembark in haste along the coast of Spain,
They move towards Valencia, and encamp upon the plain.
The Cid has seen and heard it:—“I thank the Lord above!
“All upon earth that I possess, with all the things I love,
“Are here assembled round me, my children and my wife,
“And this my goodly conquest atchieved with toil and strife,
“I never mean to leave it while I retain my life.”—
—“But sure this Emp'ror, like a courteous gentle knight,
“Has sent us out a pageant for our pastime and delight,
“That I may bear a part in, in my wife and daughters' sight,
“And attire myself for battle and enter in the fight;
“That they may see with their own eyes the life we long have led,
“In daily combat with the Moors, earning our daily bread.”
He took the ladies up on high to the tower of the Alcazar,

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They saw the Moorish camp in all the pride of war,
The banners and pavilions stretching wide and far.
“Cid,—for mercy's sake! what upon earth is this?”
—“Nothing at all, my worthy dame—nothing that comes amiss.
“The Moors are arrived to greet you, their courtesy to pay,
“With a present for your daughters against their wedding-day:
“Remain, then, in the palace, or here in the Alcazar,
“And never feel alarm'd if you see me join the war,
“By the blessing of the Lord and of St. Mary bright
“We shall prosper once again and conquer in the fight,
“And with your presence here, and, combatting in your sight,
“My heart feels larger than before—joyous, alert, and light.”
Now from the Moorish host, with the first dawn of day,
Their heavy drums began to thunder and to bray:
The Cid was joyous at the sounds—“there comes a noble day!”
The ladies all are trembling with terror and dismay:
The Cid looked smiling on them with his hand upon his beard,
“Courage, noble ladies, there is nothing to be fear'd;
“The drums there that are making the noises that are heard,
“You shall have them brought before you, within a fortnight space,
“To view their shape and make here in this very place:
“We shall dispose them afterwards as the bishop may desire,
“To remain for a memorial in the cathedral quire;
“It is a vow recorded—a vow the Cid has made,
“To present them for an offering, and it must needs be paid:”
Thus has he cheer'd the ladies, they felt no more afraid.
The Moorish cavaliers are advancing without fear,
They enter in the Huerta and approach the city near:
The watchman in the barbican has smitten on the bell,
The Christians are assembled, armed and accoutred well,
They sally forth in order with an eager fierce attack—
The Moors are broken with the shock, routed and driven back.
In the charge and the pursuit five hundred Moors were slain,
The Christians follow them in haste to the tents upon the plain,
But by their own mischance, ere they returned again,
Alvar Salvador was left a prisoner to remain;
The rest are all return'd that dine at the Cid's board.
The adventures of the day they report them to their Lord:
The Cid has seen and heard it—he spake a merry word:
“Gentlemen, for this day's work our chance has not been ill,
“To-morrow with God's blessing we shall do better still;

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“Our Bishop, good Don Jerom, an early mass shall say
“And give us absolution before the dawn of day.
“Then we shall sally forth and assault them in the names
“Of the Lord and his Apostle our worthy good St. James.”
There was an answer all at once, one answer from the whole:
“With all our hearts,” the knights replied, “with all our hearts and soul.
Minaya was in haste, and thus he spake his mind:
“Cid, since you so determine, leave six more men behind;
“Go forward with the rest, and let the battle join,
“And God will send us succour on your side or on mine.
“Let it be so!” the Cid replied. The night was coming on.
The Christians all were armed betimes, accoutred every one.
At the second cock-crow, before the dawn of day,
The Bishop Don Jeronimo was ready mass to say.
He sang the mass full solemnly in the cathedral quire,
And gave them absolution, perfect and entire.
“He that falls in battle, his face against the foe,
“I make him clean of all his sins his soul to heaven shall go.
“And now, right worthy Cid, for the mass that has been chanted,
“I shall require a boon and it must needs be granted.
—“The foremost place in battle and the first stroke of the fight.”
“Let it be yours,” the Cid replied, “it is a claim of right.”
They sally forth, arm'd and equipp'd, beyond the city wall:
The Cid is there amongst them, to arrange and order all:
Babieca, his good courser, bearing him gallantly
Arm'd and attired for battle, a goodly sight to see!
A guard is left to keep the gates, men of high trust and worth:
And now beyond the gates the banner is borne forth;
Thirty less four thousand was the number at the most
To encounter fifty thousand, such was the Moorish host.
They rush upon them all at once, without a thought of fear:
Minaya chose his time to charge the flank and rear.
The Moors with sudden onset, such was the will of Heaven,
Were broken and confused, and wide asunder driven:
The Cid with his spear in hand and sword so sharp and good,
From the elbow to the point dripping down with blood,
The number that he slew was never understood.
He singled out King Yusef; the King durst not abide
So fearful an assault, but fast away 'gan ride
To the castle of Guyera, a palace fortified:

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There was he safely lodged; but till he reach'd the place,
The Cid was foremost in pursuit, nor ever left the chace.
Now with his followers he returns, rejoiced and satisfied:—
He has gain'd a mighty booty, he has check'd the Moorish pride;
And his courser, Babieca, has been fully proved and tried.
The plunder of the camp was plentiful and great—
Coin of gold and silver, and gold and silver plate,
And other riches more than they could estimate.
The Cid has left Minaya to take a just account,
Returning to Valencia before he would dismount;
An hundred knights were with him, he rode an easy pace,
Armed as he was before, all but his head and face.
There might his countenance be seen furrow'd with a frown—
Sword-in-hand, upon his steed he enter'd in the town.
He has rein'd him up before the porch, there, where the ladies stood
Ready to receive him. He spoke in merry mood:
“Welcome, welcome, ladies! we have purchased great renown—
“I have conquer'd in the field—and you have kept the town.
“It shows the will of Heaven, that it hath pleased to bless
“Your first arrival here with victory and success.
“You see my courser reeking, my sword with slaughter red—
“Such is the fashion among knights when Moors are slain and fled.
“Pray God to spare my life for two years or for three,
“Then gentlemen and knights shall salute you on their knee.”
These words the Cid has spoken before he lighted down—
His daughters with their ladies, his dame of high renown,
Bent the knee before him and kiss'd his hand with tears—
“We live, sir, in your favour,—may you live these many years!”
Then passing onward from the porch, to the rich hall he goes,
Sitting amongst them, for a while, in silence and repose—
“Hoh! Donna Ximena, my wife, it is a scheme of mine—
“You never mention'd it yourself, but this is my design—
“The ladies, your attendants, that have been brought to stay,
“I mean to marry them forthwith to the vassals in my pay,
“And to give each two hundred marks upon their wedding-day.
“They have served a noble lady, folks in Castille will say—
—“The marriage of our daughters for the present we delay.”
They rose and kiss'd his hand; so, from the first report,
Till the Cid's promise was fulfill'd, great was the mirth and sport,

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The gladness and rejoicing in the camp and in the court.
Minaya still was in the camp, busied all the day,
Reckoning and writing, and assorting all the prey,
And dealing with the shares of plunder and of pay.
The whole amount of wealth was more than I can say:
The tents and the pavilions, armour and rich array,
And horses without number running wide astray;
Many became a prize to the native peasants round,
Yet, for the fifth part of the whole, there were fifteen hundred found
(The Cid's own proper portion) horses strong and sound.
The rest with their allotments were joyous and content,
From many a proud pavilion and many a costly tent,
Enriched with silken hangings and golden ornament.
The great imperial tent, that in the centre stood,
It rested on two pillars of gold and sandal wood;
It is ordered to be left untouch'd, perfect and entire.
“I mean it as a present for our own Lord and sire;
“When the King receives it no courtier will refuse
“To credit our successes or cavil at the news.”
Now to Valencia they return with a store of wealth in hold.
The Bishop Don Jeronimo, like a worthy priest and bold,
Was fairly wearied out and glutted with delight,
With a sword in either hand striking to left and right,
No man could reckon up or guess the numbers he had slain;
For his own portion he received the largest share of gain.
The Cid from his own fifth presented him the tithe—
Thus all were joyous in the town confident and blythe.

V.

ARGUMENT.

After the route of King Yusef and his army, the Cid sends Alvar Fanez and Pero Bermudez with King Yusef's tent and a present of two hundred horses to King Alfonso, because the king had sent his wife and daughters when he asked for them, and because of the honour which he had done them. The king, when he saw the present, said that never had so goodly a present been sent before to a king of Spain by his vassals, and desired Alvar Fanez and Pero Bermudez, when


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they took their leave, to tell the Cid that he had a great desire to see him. The meeting was appointed upon the Tagus. When it took place, the king, at the previous instigation of the Infants (whose family were his old adversaries) asked the Cid to give his daughters in marriage to the Infants of Carrion. The Cid in reply consents to place his daughters “at the disposition of the King.” The wedding is celebrated at Valencia with the greatest possible splendour, and the two young Counts remain at Valencia with their father-in-law: their situation, however, is an invidious one; some occasions arise in which their courage appears doubtful, and the prudence and authority of the Cid are found insufficient to suppress the contemptuous mirth of his military court. Accordingly they enter into the resolution of leaving Valencia, but determining at the same time to execute a project of the basest and most unmanly revenge, they request of the Cid to be allowed to take their brides with them upon a journey to Carrion, under pretence of making them acquainted with the property which had been settled upon them at their marriage. The Cid is aware that their situation is an uneasy one; he readily consents, takes leave of them with great cordiality, loads them with presents, and at their departure bestows upon them the two celebrated swords, Colada and Tison. The Infants pursue their journey till they arrive in a wilderness, where they dismiss their followers, and being left alone with their brides, proceed to execute their scheme of vengeance by stripping them and “mangling them with spurs and thongs,” till they leave them without signs of life: in this state they are found by a relation of the Cid's, Felez Munioz, who, suspecting some evil design, had followed them at a distance. They are brought back to Valencia. The Cid demands justice. The King assembles the Cortes upon the occasion. The Cid, being called upon to state his grievances, confines himself to the claim of the two swords which he had given to his sons-in-law, and which he now demands back since they have forfeited their character. The swords are restored without hesitation, and the Cid immediately bestows them upon two of his champions. He then rises again, and upon the same plea requires the restitution of the gifts and treasures with which he had honoured his sons-in-law at parting. This claim is resisted by his opponents: the Cortes, however, decide in favour of the Cid, and as the Infants plead their immediate inability, it is determined that the property which they have with them shall be taken at an appraisement. This is accordingly done. The Cid then rises a third time, and demands satisfaction for the insult which his daughters had suffered: an altercation arises, in the course of which

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the Infants of Carrion and one of their partisans are challenged by three champions on the part of the Cid.

[_]

From line 3254 to 3401.

Within a little space
There was many a noble courser brought into the place,
Many a lusty mule with palfreys stout and sure,
And many a goodly sword with all its furniture.
The Cid received them all at an appraisement made,
Besides two hundred marks that to the King were paid:
The Infants give up all they have, their goods are at an end,
They go about in haste to their kindred and their friend;
They borrow as they can, but all will scarce suffice;
The attendants of the Cid take each thing at a price:
But as soon as this was ended, he began a new device.
“Justice and mercy, my Lord the King, I beseech you of your grace!
“I have yet a grievance left behind which nothing can efface.
“Let all men present in the court attend and judge the case,
“Listen to what these Counts have done and pity my disgrace.
“Dishonour'd as I am, I cannot be so base,
“But here, before I leave them, to defy them to their face.
“Say, Infants, how had I deserved, in earnest or in jest,
“Or on whatever plea you can defend it best,
“That you should rend and tear the heartstrings from my breast?
“I gave you at Valencia my daughters in your hand,
“I gave you wealth and honours and treasure at command;
“Had you been weary of them, to cover your neglect,
“You might have left them with me in honour and respect.
“Why did you take them from me, dogs and traitors as you were?
“In the forest of Corpes, why did you strip them there
“Why did you mangle them with whips? why did you leave them bare
“To the vultures and the wolves, and to the wintry air?
“The court will hear your answer and judge what you have done.
“I say, your name and honour henceforth are lost and gone.”
The Count Don Garcia was the first to rise:
“We crave your favour, my Lord the King, you are always just and wise;
“The Cid is come to your Court in such an uncouth guise,

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“He has left his beard to grow and tied it in a braid,
“We are half of us astonish'd, the other half afraid.
“The blood of the Counts of Carrion is of too high a line
“To take a daughter from his house, though it were for a concubine.
“A concubine or a leman from the lineage of the Cid,
“They could have done no other than leave them as they did.
“We neither care for what he says nor fear what he may threat.”
With that the noble Cid rose up from his seat:
He took his beard in his hand, “If this beard is fair and even,
“I must thank the Lord above, who made both earth and heaven;
“It has been cherish'd with respect and therefore it has thriven:
“It never suffered an affront since the day it first was worn.
“What business, Count, have you to speak of it with scorn?
“It never yet was shaken, nor pluck'd away nor torn,
“By Christian nor by Moor, nor by man of woman born,
“As yours was once, Sir Count, the day Cabra was taken;
“When I was master of Cabra that beard of yours was shaken;
“There was never a footboy in my camp but twitch'd away a bit:
“The side that I tore off grows all uneven yet.”
Ferran Gonzales started upon the floor,
He cried with a loud voice, “Cid, let us hear no more,
“Your claim for goods and money was satisfied before:
“Let not a feud arise betwixt our friends and you,
“We are the Counts of Carrion, from them our birth we drew.
“Daughters of Emperors or Kings were a match for our degree,
“We hold ourselves too good for a baron's such as thee.
“If we abandon'd, as you say, and left and gave them o'er,
“We vouch that we did right, and prize ourselves the more.”
The Cid look'd at Bermuez, that was sitting at his foot;
“Speak thou, Peter the Dumb, what ails thee to sit mute?
“My daughters and thy nieces are the parties in dispute.
“Stand forth and make reply, if you would do them right.
“If I should rise to speak, you cannot hope to fight.”
Peter Bermuez rose, somewhat he had to say,
The words were strangled in his throat, they could not find their way;
Till forth they came at once, without a stop or stay:
“Cid, I'll tell you what, this always is your way,
“You have always served me thus, whenever we have come

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“To meet here in the Cortes, you call me Peter the Dumb.
“I cannot help my nature; I never talk nor rail;
“But when a thing is to be done, you know I never fail.
“Fernando, you have lied, you have lied in every word:
“You have been honour'd by the Cid, and favour'd and preferr'd.
“I know of all your tricks, and can tell them to your face:
“Do you remember in Valencia the skirmish and the chase?
“You ask'd leave of the Cid to make the first attack:
“You went to meet a Moor, but you soon came running back.
“I met the Moor and kill'd him, or he would have kill'd you;
“I gave you up his arms, and all that was my due.
“Up to this very hour I never said a word.
“You praised yourself before the Cid, and I stood by and heard,
“How you had kill'd the Moor, and done a valiant act,
“And they believed you all, but they never knew the fact.
“You are tall enough and handsome, but cowardly and weak.
“Thou tongue without a hand, how can you dare to speak?
“There's the story of the lion should never be forgot.
“Now let us hear, Fernando, what answer have you got?
“The Cid was sleeping in his chair, with all his knights around,
“The cry went forth along the hall, that the lion was unbound,—
“What did you do, Fernando? like a coward as you were,
“You slunk behind the Cid, and crouch'd beneath his chair.
“We prest around the throne to shield our Lord from harm,
“Till the good Cid awoke; he rose without alarm;
“He went to meet the lion with his mantle on his arm;
“The lion was abash'd the noble Cid to meet,
“He bow'd his mane to the earth, his muzzle at his feet.
“The Cid by the neck and mane drew him to his den,
“He thrust him in at the hatch, and came to the hall again:
“He found his knights, his vassals, and all his valiant men;
“He ask'd for his sons-in-law, they were neither of them there.
“I defy you for a coward and a traitor as you are;
“For the daughters of the Cid you have done them great unright,
“In the wrong that they have suffer'd you stand dishonour'd quite.
“Although they are but women, and each of you a knight,
“I hold them worthier far; and here my word I plight,
“Before the King Alfonso, upon this plea to fight.
“If it be God his will, before the battle part,

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“Thou shalt avow it with thy mouth, like a traitor as thou art.”
Uprose Diego Gonzales and answer'd as he stood:
“By our lineage we are Counts, and of the purest blood;
“This match was too unequal, it never could hold good;
“For the daughters of the Cid we acknowledge no regret,
“We leave them to lament the chastisement they met.
“It will follow them through life for a scandal and a jest.
“I stand upon this plea to combat with the best,
“That having left them as we did, our honour is increased.”
Uprose Martin Antolinez when Diego ceased:
“Peace, thou lying mouth! thou traitor coward, Peace!
“The story of the lion should have taught you shame at least:
“You rush'd out at the door, and ran away so hard,
“You fell into the cesspool that was open in the yard.
“We dragg'd you forth in all men's sight, dripping from the drain;
“For shame, never wear a mantle, nor a knightly robe again!
“I fight upon this plea without more ado;
“The daughters of the Cid are worthier far than you.
“Before the combat part you shall avow it true,
“And that you have been a traitor and a coward too.”
Thus was ended the parley and challenge betwixt these two.
Assur Gonzales was entering at the door
With his ermine mantle trailing along the floor;
With his sauntering pace and his hardy look,
Of manners or of courtesy little heed he took:
He was flush'd and hot with breakfast and with drink.
“What ho, my masters, your spirits seem to sink!
“Have we no news stirring from the Cid Ruy Diaz of Bivar?
“Has he been to Riodivirna to besiege the windmills there?
“Does he tax the millers for their toll, or is that practice past?
“Will he make a match for his daughters another like the last?”
Munio Gustioz rose and made reply:
“Traitor! wilt thou never cease to slander and to lie?
“You breakfast before mass, you drink before you pray:
“There is no honour in your heart, nor truth in what you say;
“You cheat your comrade and your Lord, you flatter to betray:
“Your hatred I despise, your friendship I defy.
“False to all mankind, and most to God on high.
“I shall force you to confess that what I say is true.”
Thus was ended the parley and challenge betwixt these two.

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VI.

ARGUMENT.

The King suppresses all further altercation, and declares that those only who have already challenged shall be permitted to fight. The time and place are fixed. The Cid being obliged to return to Valencia, leaves his Champions under the protection of the King. The Cid takes leave of the King. At the end of three weeks the combat is fought, and the three Champions of the Cid are victorious.

[_]

From line 3516 to 3702.

I crave your favour, My Lord the King, since things are settled so;
“I have business at Valencia, and thither I must go.
“Before the town was conquer'd it cost me pains enow.”
The King lift up his hand, made a cross upon his brow:
“I swear by St. Isidro, the patron of Leon,
“In all my realm beside there is not such a good baron.”
The Cid leapt on his steed and rode him round the course,
He came up to the King and proffer'd him the horse—
“'Tis the noble Babieca that is famed for speed and force,
“Among the Christians nor the Moors there is not such another one;
“My Sovereign Lord and Sire, he is fit for you alone:
“Give orders to your people, and take him for your own.”
The King replied, “It cannot be; Cid, you shall keep your horse,
“He must not leave his master, nor change him for a worse;
“The man that would take him from you, evil may he speed,
“Our kingdom has been honour'd by you and by your steed.
“A courser such as he is fit for such a knight,
“To beat down Moors in battle, and follow them in flight.”
Now they have taken leave, and broken up the Court,
The Cid goes with his champions to advise them and exhort:
“You, Martin Antolinez, and Pero Bermuez, you,
“And you, Munio Gustioz, be valiant men and true:
“When I am gone to Valencia let me have good tidings there.”
Martin Antolinez replied, “Sir, what needs this care?

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“We are pledged in your behalf, we must do our best endeavour;
“You may hear that we are dead, but defeated never.”
The Cid was joyful at the word, and quitted them anon;
He has taken leave of all his friends, and shortly he is gone.
The Cid goes to Valencia, the King to Carrion.
Three weeks had been appointed, and now they are past away,
The champions of the Cid are ready at the day:
They are ready in the field to defend their master's right,
The noble King is with them, to protect them with his might.
They waited in the place for two days and a night,
Behold the Lords of Carrion where they appear in sight:
They are coming with an host of their kindred and their clan,
With horses and with arms, and many a valiant man;
If they could meet with them apart, or take them unaware,
In dishonour of the Cid to have slain his champions there.
The thought was foul and evil, but yet they did not dare,
For fear of the King Alfonso that had them in his care.
That night they watch'd their arms, and past the hours in prayer;
The night is past and over, the day begins to break;
Great was the throng of folk who, for that battle's sake,
Flock'd in on every side, assembled for the fight,
And many a man of arms and many a wealthy knight.
There is the King Alfonso with all his power and might,
To keep down force and wrong, and to defend the right.
The champions of the Cid are all of good accord,
They are arming themselves together, like vassals of one Lord.
The Infants of Carrion are arming themselves apart,
Count Garcia sits advising them, and keeps them in good heart.
They bring a plea before the King, and they pretend a right,
That those two trenchant swords should not be used in fight,
The swords Colada and Tizon, which the Cid's champions wore;
They repent of their imprudence when they gave them up before.
They were earnest in their plea, but they could not succeed;
“You might have kept them for yourselves to serve you in your need;
“If you have other good ones, make use of them instead.
“Infants of Carrion! hear me and take heed:
“You must approve your honour by some manly deed.
“Go forth into the field, and show a valiant heart,
“For nothing will be wanting upon the Champions' part.
“If you are conquerors in the fight you will purchase great renown,

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“If you are beaten and disgraced, the fault will be your own,
“For this business was your seeking, as has been seen and shown.”
The Infants of Carrion are beginning to repent;
The Lordship of Carrion with its honours and its rent,
Its mansion and its lands, they would have given all,
Could they command the past, to redeem it and recall.
The Champions of the Cid, clad in their warlike weed,
The King is gone to see them and wish them well to speed.
“Sir, we kiss your hands as our good Lord and sire,
“To have you judge and umpire is all that we require.
“Defend us in all right, assist us not in wrong;
“The friends of the Lords of Carrion are numerous and strong,
“We cannot guess their counsels, nor how they will behave.
“To the good Cid, our master, the promise that you gave,
“To defend us and protect us, this, Sir, is all we crave,
“So long as right and justice are found upon our part.”
“That will I,” said the King, “with all my soul and heart.”
Their horses are brought up to them, coursers strong and fleet,
They sign their saddles with the cross, and leap into the seat;
Their shields are hanging at their necks with bosses broad and sheen,
They take their lances in their hands, the points are bright and keen,
A pennon at each lance, the staves were large and stout,
And many a valiant man encompass'd them about.
They rode forth to the field where the barriers were set out.
The Champions of the Cid are agreed upon their plan,
To fight as they had challenged, and each to charge his man.
There come the Lords of Carrion with their kindred and their clan;
The King has appointed heralds for avoiding all debate,
He spoke aloud amongst them in the field there where they sate.
“Infants of Carrion! Attend to what I say:
“You should have fought this battle upon a former day,
“When we were at Toledo, but you would not agree;
“And now the noble Cid has sent these Champions three,
“To fight in the lands of Carrion, escorted here by me.
“Be valiant in your right, attempt no force or wrong;
“If any man attempt it he shall not triumph long:
“He never shall have rest or peace within my kingdom more.”
The Infants of Carrion are now repenting sore;

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The heralds and the King are foremost in the place,
They clear away the people from the middle space:
They measure out the lists, the barriers they fix:
They point them out in order, and explain to all the six:
“If you are forced beyond the line where they are fixt and traced,
“You shall be held as conquer'd, and beaten and disgraced.”
Six lances' length on either side an open space is laid,
They part the field between them, the sunshine and the shade.
Their office is perform'd, and from the middle space,
The heralds are withdrawn, and leave them face to face.
Here stood the warriors of the Cid, that noble champion,
Opposite on the other side, the Lords of Carrion.
Earnestly their minds are fixt each upon his foe;
Face to face they take their place; anon the trumpets blow.
They stir their horses with the spur, they lay their lances low,
They bend their shields before their breasts, their face to the saddle bow.
Earnestly their minds are fixt each upon his foe.
The heavens are overcast above, the earth trembles below,
The people stand in silence, gazing on the show:
Bermuez the first challenger first in combat closed,
He met Ferran Gonzales, face to face opposed;
They rush together with such rage that all men count them dead,
They strike each other on the shield, without all fear or dread.
Ferran Gonzales with his lance pierced the shield outright,
It past Bermuez on the left side, in his flesh it did not bite.
The spear was snapt in twain, Bermuez sat upright,
He neither flinch'd nor swerved, like a true stedfast knight,
A good stroke he received, but a better he has given;
He struck the shield upon the boss, in sunder it is riven.
Onward into Ferran's breast the lance's point is driven,
Full upon his breastplate, nothing would avail;
Two breastplates Fernando wore and a coat of mail:
The two are riven in sunder, the third stood him in stead,
The mail sunk in his breast, the mail and the spear head,
The blood burst from his mouth that all men thought him dead.
The blow has broken his girdle and his saddle girth,
It has taken him over his horse's back, and borne him to the earth.
The people think him dead, as he lies on the sand;
Bermuez left his lance and took his sword in hand.
Ferran Gonzales knew the blade which he had worn of old,

437

Before the blow came down, he yielded and cried, “Hold!”
Antolinez and Diego encounter'd man for man,
Their spears were shiver'd with the shock, so eagerly they ran.
Antolinez drew forth the blade which Diego once had worn,
Eagerly he aim'd the blow for the vengeance he had sworn.
Right through Diego's helm the blade its edge has borne,
The crest and helm are lopt away, the coif and hair are shorn.
He stood astounded with the stroke, trembling and forlorn,
He waved his sword above his head, he made a piteous cry,
“O save me, save me from that blade, Almighty Lord on high!”
Antolinez came fiercely round to reach the fatal stroke,
Diego's courser rear'd upright, and through the barrier broke.
Antolinez has won the day, though his blow he miss'd,
He has driven Diego from the field, and stands within the list.
I must tell you of Munio Gustioz, two combats now are done;
How he fought with Assur Gonzales, you shall hear anon.
Assur Gonzales, a fierce and hardy knight,
He rode at Munio Gustioz with all his force and might;
He struck the shield and pierced it through, but the point came wide,
It pass'd by Munio Gustioz, betwixt his arm and side:
Sternly, like a practised knight, Munio met him there.
His lance he levell'd stedfastly, and through the shield him bare;
He bore the point into his breast, a little beside the heart;
It took him through the body, but in no mortal part;
The shaft stood out behind his back a cloth-yard and more;
The pennon and the point were dripping down with gore.
Munio still clench'd his spear, as he pass'd he forced it round,
He wrench'd him from the saddle, and cast him to the ground.
His horse sprung forward with the spur, he pluck'd the spear away,
He wheel'd and came again to pierce him where he lay.
Then cried Gonzalo Asurez, “For God's sake spare my son!
“The other two have yielded, the field is fought and won.”