His word once spoken was to him a law:

Though it cost all the gold beneath the sky,

Yet would he march to Aix, where Carle was wont

To hold his court. Some praise him, even give

Him counsel. Two from out his host of Knights

He summons, Clarien, and Clarifan:

"Ye are the sons of King Maltraïen,

A willing message bearer: 'tis my will

Ye go to Sarraguce; there in my name

Give ye this message to the King Marsile:

I have come to succor him against the French,

And if I find them, great the fight will be.

Give him this gold-embroidered glove, and place it

On his right hand; give him this staff of gold;

And when he comes to pay me homage, as

A vassal to his lord, I then will lead

My force to France to fight with Carlemagne.

If he fall not before my feet to pray

For mercy, and abjure the Christian law,

I from his head will tear away the crown."

The Pagans answer all:—"Well spoken, Sire."

Aoi.