When hears the Count Rollánd the lot has fallen

Upon himself, as loyal knight he speaks:—

"You, sire step-father, dear and well beloved

Must be, since you have named me for the rear;

Nor shall Carl'magne, the King of France, lose aught,

Nor palfrey, nor fleet steed, if knowledge true

I have, nor male nor female mule that man

Can ride, nor beast of burden, horse or ass,

Unreckoned for with these good swords of ours."

Said Ganelon:—"The truth you speak, I know."

Aoi.