CI
　　TootherTremizenheposts，wherebredAswellthepeopleareinMahound'sstyle；
　　ForotherAethiopsthenhispinionsspread，Whichfacethefirst，andliebeyondtheNile。
　　BetweenCoalleeandDobadasped，BoundfortheNubiancity'sroyalpile；
　　Threadingthetwo，where，rangedoneitherland，MoslemsandChristianswatch，witharmsinhand。
　　CII
　　InAethiopia'srealmSenapusreigns，Whosesceptreisthecross；ofcitiesbrave，Ofmen，ofgoldpossest，andbroaddomains，WhichtheRedSea'sextremestwaterslave。
　　Afaithwellnighlikeoursthatkingmaintains，Whichmanfromhisprimaevaldoommaysave。
　　Here，saveIerrinwhattheirritesrequire，Theswarthypeoplearebaptizedwithfire。
　　CIII
　　Astolpholightedinthespaciouscourt，IntendingontheNubiankingtowait。
　　Lessstrongthansumptuousisthewealthyfort，WhereintheroyalAethiopkeepshisstate，Thechainsthatservethedrawbridgetosupport，Thebolts，thebars，thehingesofthegate，AndfinallywhateverwebeholdHerewroughtiniron，thereiswroughtingold。
　　CIV
　　Highprizedwithal，albeititsoabound，Isthatbestmetal；lodgesbuiltinairWhichonallsidesthewealthypilesurround，Clearcolonnadeswithcrystalshaftsupbear。
　　Ofgreen，white，crimson，blueandyellowground，Afriezeextendsbelowthosegalleriesfair。
　　Hereatdueintervalsrichgemscombine，Andtopaz，sapphire，emerald，rubyshine。
　　CV
　　InwallandroofandpavementscatteredareFullmanyapearl，fullmanyacostlystone。
　　Herethrivesthebalm；theplantswereeverrare，Comparedwiththese，whichwereinJewrygrown，Themuskwhichwepossessfromthencewebear，Infinethoseproductsfromthisclimearebrought，Whichinourregionsaresoprizedandsought。
　　CVI
　　Thesoldan，kingoftheEgyptianland，Paystributetothissovereign，ashishead，Theysay，sincehavingNileathiscommandHemaydivertthestreamtootherbed。
　　Hence，withitsdistrictuponeitherhand，ForthwithmightCairolackitsdailybread。
　　SenapushimhisNubiantribesproclaim；
　　WePriestandPresterJohnthesovereignname。
　　CVII
　　OfallthoseAethiopmonarchs，beyondmeasure，Thefirstwasthis，forrichesandformight；
　　Buthewithallhispuissance，allhistreasure，Alas！hadmiserablylosthissight。
　　Andyetwasthisthemonarch'sleastdispleasure；
　　Vexedbyadirerandaworsedespite；
　　Harassed，thoughrichestofthoseNubiankings，Byaperpetualhunger'scruelstings。
　　CVIII
　　Whene'ertoeatordrinkthewretchedmanPrepared，bythatresistlessneedpursued，Forthwith——infernalandavengingclan——
　　AppearedthemonstrousHarpies'cravingbrood；
　　Which，armedwithbeakandtalons，overranVesselandboard，andpreyeduponthefood；
　　AndwhattheirwombssufficenottoreceiveFoulanddefiledtheloathsomemonstersleave。
　　CIX
　　Andthis，becauseupbornbysuchatideOffullblownhonours，inhisunripeage，Forheexcelledinheartandnerve，besideTherichesofhisroyalheritage，LikeLucifer，themonarchwaxedinpride，Andwaruponhismakerthoughttowage。
　　Hewithhishostagainstthemountainwent，WhereEgypt'smightyriverfindsavent。
　　CX
　　Uponthishillwhichwell-nighkissedtheskies，Piercingtheclouds，thekinghadheardrecite，Wasseatedtheterrestrialparadise，Whereourfirstparentsflourishedindelight。
　　Withcamels，elephants，andfootmenhiesThitherthatking，confidinginhismight；
　　WithhugedesireifpeopledbethelandTobringitsnationsunderhiscommand。
　　CXI
　　Godmarredtherashemprise，andfromonhighSentdownanangel，whosedestroyingswordAhundredthousandofthatchivalrySlew，andtoendlessnightcondemnedtheirlord。
　　Emerging，next，fromhellishcaverns，flyThesehorridharpiesandassaulthisboard；
　　Whichstillpolluteorwastetheroyalmeat，Norleavethemonarchaughttodrinkoreat。
　　CXII
　　AndhimhadplungedinuttermostdespairOnethattohimerewhilehadprophesiedTheloathsomeHarpiesshouldhisdailyfareLeaveunpollutedonly，whenastrideOfwingedhorse，arrivingthroughtheair，Anarmedcavaliershouldbedescried。
　　And，forimpossibleappearsthething，Devoidofhoperemainsthemournfulking。
　　CXIII
　　NowthatwithwondermenthisfollowersspyTheEnglishcavaliersomakehisway，O'ereverywall，o'ereveryturrethigh，Someswiftlytothekingthenewsconvey。
　　Whocallstomindthatancientprophecy，Andheedlessofthestaff，hiswontedstay，Throughjoy，withoutstretchedarmsandtotteringfeet，Comesforth，theflyingcavaliertomeet。
　　CXIV
　　WithinthecastlecourtAstolphoflew，Andthere，withspaciouswheels，onearthdescended；
　　Theking，conductedbyhiscourtlycrew，Beforethewarriorknelt，witharmsextended，Andcried:“ThouangelsendofGod，thounewMessiah，iftoosoreIhaveoffended，Formercy，yet，bethinkthee，'tisourbentTosin，andthinetopardonwhorepent。
　　CXV
　　“Knowingmysin，Iasknot，I，tobe——SuchgraceIdarenotask——restoredtolight；
　　ForwellIweensuchpowerresidesinthee，AsBeingacceptedinthyMaker'ssight。
　　Letitsuffice，thatInolongersee，Norletmewithperpetualhungerfight。
　　Atleast，expeltheharpies'loathsomehorde，Norletthemmorepollutemyravagedboard；
　　CXVI
　　“AndItobuildthee，inmyroyalhold，Aholytemple，madeofmarble，swear，Withallitsportalsanditsroofofgold，Anddecked，withinandout，withjewelsrare。
　　HereshallthymightymiraclebetoldInsculpture，andthynamethedomeshallbear。”
　　SospakethesightlesskingofNubia'sreign，Andsoughttokissthestranger'sfeetinvain。
　　CXVII
　　“Norangel“——goodAstolphomadereply——
　　“NornewMessiah，Ifromheavendescend；
　　NolessamortalandasinnerI，Tosuchhighgraceunworthytopretend。
　　ToslaythemonstersIallmeanswilltry，Ordrivethemfromtherealmwhichtheyoffend。
　　IfIshallprosper，bethypraisespaidToGodalone，whosentmetothineaid。
　　CXVIII
　　“OfferthesevowstoGod，tohimwelldue；
　　Tohimthychurchesbuild，thinealtarsrear。”
　　Discoursingso，togetherwendthetwo，'Midbaronsbold，thatkingandcavalier。
　　TheNubianprincecommandsthemenialcrewForthwithtobringthehospitablecheer；
　　Andhopesthatnowthefoul，rapaciousband，Willnotdaresnatchthevictualfromhishand。
　　CXIX
　　ForthwithasolemnbanquettheyprepareWithinthegorgeouspalaceoftheking。
　　Seatedalonehereguestandsovereignare，Andtheattendanttrooptheviandsbring。
　　Behold！awhizzingsoundisheardinair，Whichechoeswiththebeatofsavagewing。
　　Behold！thebandofharpiesthitherflies，Luredbythescentofvictualfromtheskies。
　　CXX
　　Allbearafemalefaceofpalliddye，Andseveninnumberarethehorridband；
　　Emaciatedwithhunger，lean，anddry；
　　Foulerthandeath；thepinionstheyexpandRagged，andhuge，andshapelesstotheeye；
　　Thetaloncrook'd；rapaciousisthehand；
　　Fetidandlargethepaunch；inmanyafold，Likesnake's，theirlongandknottedtailsarerolled。
　　CXXI
　　Thefowlsareheardinair；thenswoopsamainThecoveywellnighinthatinstant，rendsThefood，o'erturnsthevessels，andarainOfnoisomeordureontheboarddescends。
　　Tostoptheirnostrilskinganddukearefain；
　　Suchaninsufferablestenchoffends。
　　Againstthegreedybirds，aswrathexcites，Astolphowithhisbrandishedfaulchionsmites。
　　CXXII
　　Atcrouporcollarnowheaimshisblow，Nowstrikesatneckorpinion；butonall，Asifhesmoteuponabagoftow，Thestrokeswithouteffectandlanguidfall。
　　Thiswhilenordishnorgoblettheyforego；
　　Norvoidthoseraveningfowlstheregalhall，Tilltheyhavefeastedfull，andleftthefoodWasteorpollutedbytheirrapinerude。
　　CXXIII
　　ThatkinghadfirmlyhopedthecavalierWouldfromhisroyalseattheharpiesscare。
　　Henow，thathopeforegone，withnoughttocheer，Laments，andsighs，andgroansinhisdespair。
　　Ofhisgoodhornremembershimthepeer，Whoseclangourshelpfulayeinperilare，AnddeemshisbuglewerethefittestmeanTofreethemonarchfromthosebirdsunclean；
　　CXXIV
　　Andfirsttofilltheirears，tokingandtrain，Withmeltedwax，Astolphogivescommand；
　　ThateveryonewhohearsthedeafeningstrainMaynotinpanicterrorflytheland。
　　Hetakesthereins，hiscourserbacksagain，Graspstheenchantedbugleinhishand；
　　AndtothesewernextsignstohavetheboardAnewwithhospitablevictualstored。
　　CXXV
　　Themeatshetoanopengalleybears，Andotherbanquetspreadsonotherground。
　　Behold，aswont，theharpy-squadappears；
　　Astolphoquicklyliftsthebugle'sround；
　　Andforunguardedaretheirharassedears
　　Theharpiesarenotproofagainstthesound；
　　Interrorformtheroyaldometheyspeed，Normeatnoraughtbesidethemonstersheed。
　　CXXVI
　　Afterthemspursinhastethevaliantpeer:
　　Andonthewingedcourserforthisflown，Leavingbeneathhim，inhisswiftcareer，Theroyalcastleandthecrowdedtown；
　　Thebugleeverpealing，farandnear。
　　Theharpiesflytowardthetorridzone；
　　NorlightuntiltheyreachthatloftiestmountainWheresprings，ifanywhere，Nile'ssecretfountain。
　　CXXVII
　　Almostatthataerialmountain'sfeet，Deepunderearth，extendsagloomycell。
　　Thesurestpassforhim，astheyrepeat，Thatwouldatanytimedescendtohell。
　　Hitherthepredatorytroopretreat，Asasaferefugefromthedeafeningyell。
　　Asfar，andfartherthanCocytus'shoreDescending，tillthathornisheardnomore。
　　CXXVIII
　　Atthatdarkhellishinlet，whichawayOpenstohimwhowouldabandonlight，Theterrifyingbugleceasedtobray；——
　　Thecourserfurledhiswingsandstopthisflight。
　　But，ereAstolphofurtherIconvey，——Nottodepartfrommyaccustomedrite——
　　Sinceonallsidesthepaperoverflows，Ishallconcludemycantoandrepose。
　　CANTO34
　　ARGUMENT
　　IntheinfernalpitAstolphohearsOfLydia'swoe，bysmokewell-nighopprest。
　　Hemountsanew，andhimhiscourserbearsTotheterrestrialparadiseaddrest。
　　ByJohnadvisedinall，toheavenhesteers；
　　Ofsomeofhislostsensehererepossest，Orlando'swastedwitaswellhetakes，SeestheFatesspintheirthreads，andearthwardmakes。
　　I
　　Ofierceandhungryharpies，thatonblindAnderringItalysofullhavefed！
　　Whom，forthescourgeofancientsinsdesigned，HaplyjustHeaventoeveryboardhassped。
　　Innocentchildren，piousmothers，pinedWithhunger，die，andseetheirdailybread，——Theorphan'sandthewidow'sscantyfood——
　　Feedforasinglefeastthatfilthybrood。
　　II
　　Toofoulafaultwashis，whodiduncloseThatcavelongshut，andmadethepassagefree，Fromwhencethatgreediness，thatfiltharose，OurItaly'sinfectiondoomedtobe。
　　Thenwasgoodlifeextinguished，andreposeSobanished，thatwithstrifeandpoverty，Withfearandtrouble，isshestillperplext，Andshallformanyafutureyearbevext:
　　III
　　Tillshehersonshasshakenbythehair，AndfromLethaeanslothtoliferestored；
　　Exclaiming，“Willnoneimitatethatpair，ZethesandCalais，withavengingswordRescuefromclawsandstenchourgoodlyfare，Andcleanseandgladanewthegenialboard。
　　AstheykingPhineusfromthosefowlsreleased，AndEngland'speerrestoredtheNubian'sfeast?“
　　IV
　　Huntingthosehideousbirds，thatcavalierAyescaredthemwiththebugle'shorridsound；
　　Tillatthemountain-cavehislongcareerHeclosed，andranthemonstroustrooptoground:
　　Attentivetotheventheheldhisear，Andinthattroubledcavernheardrebound，Weepingandwailing，andeternalyell；
　　Proofcertainthatitsentranceledtohell。
　　V
　　Astolphodoubtsifhewithinshallwend，Andseethosewretchedonesexpelledfromday；
　　Intothecentralpitofearthdescend，Andtheinfernalgulfsaroundsurvey。
　　“WhyshouldIfear，thatonmyhorndependForcertainsuccour?“didthewarriorsay
　　“SatanandPlutosowillIconfound，Anddrivebeforemetheirthree-headedhound。”
　　VI
　　Hespeedilyhiswingedhorseforsook；
　　Himtoasaplingnearathandheties
　　Thecavernenterednext；butfirsthetookHishorn，whereontheknightinallrelies。
　　Notfarhasheadvancedbeforeasmoke，Obscureandfoul，offendshisnoseandeyes。
　　Rankerthanpitchandsulphuristhestench，YetnotthereatdoesgoodAstolphoblench。
　　VII
　　Butashemoredescendsintothatlair，Somuchhefindsthesmokeandvapourworse；
　　Anditappearshecannofurtherfare；
　　Nay，backwardmustretracehiswayparforce。
　　Lo！somethingwhatheknowsnotheinairEspies，thatseemsinmotion，likeacorse，UponwhosewastedformlongtimehadbeatThewinter'srainandsummersscorchingheat。
　　VIII
　　Inthatdimcavernwassolittlelight，——Yea，well-nighmightbesaidthatlightwasnone——
　　NoughtseesorcomprehendstheEnglishknightWhatwaversso，abovethatvapourdun:
　　Forsurerproof，astrokeortwowouldsmiteWithhisgoodfaulchionOtho'svaliantson:
　　Thendeemedthatdukeitwasaspirit，whomHeseemedtostrikeamidthemistygloom。
　　IX
　　Whenhimamelancholyvoiceaddressed；
　　“Ah！withoutharmingother，downwardwend。
　　Mebuttoosorethesablefumesmolest，Whichhitherformthehellishfiresascend。”
　　Thereattheduke，amazed，hisstepsreprest，Andtothespiritcried:“SomayHeavensendArespitefromthevapoursthatexhale，Asthoushaltdeigntotellthymournfultale！
　　X
　　“Andtobeknownonearthshouldstthoubefain，TheewillIsatisfy。”Tohimthesprite:
　　Sosweetitseemstome，infameagainThustoreturnintothegloriouslight，Myhugedesiresuchfavourtoobtain，Forcesmywordsfrommeinmydespite，Constrainingmetotellthethingsyeseek；
　　Though'tisannoyanceandfatiguetospeak。
　　XI
　　“Lydia，thechildofLydia'sking，amI，Toproudestateandprincelyhonoursborn，CondemnedbyrighteousdoomofGodonhighInmurkysmokeeternallytomourn:
　　Becauseakindlylover'sconstancyI，whileIlived，repaidwithspiteandscorn。
　　Withcountlessothersswarmthesegrotsbelow，Forthesamesin，condemnedtothesamewoe。
　　XII
　　“Yetlowerdown，harshAnaxareteSuffersworsepainwherethickerfumesarise；
　　Heavenchangedherfleshtostone，andheretobeTormented，herafflictedspiritsties:
　　Inthatunmovedshe，hunginair，couldseeAlovervestbyherbarbarities。
　　HereDaphnelearnshowrashlyshehaddoneInhavinggivenApollosucharun。”
　　XIII
　　“OfhostsofingratewomeninthiscellConfined，itwouldbetedioustorecite，If，onebyone，Iupontheseshoulddwell；
　　Somany，theiramountisinfinite。
　　'Twouldbemoretediousofthementotell，Whosebaseingratitudeduepainsrequite；
　　Andwhom，inamoredismalprisonpent，Smokeblinds，andeverlastingfirestorment。
　　XIV
　　“Sincetobeliefsoftwomanismoreprone，Hethatdeceivesher，meritsheavierpain；
　　ToTheseusandtoJasonthisisknown，AndhimthatvexedofoldtheLatianreign，AndhimthatofhisbrotherAbsalonErewhileprovokedthepestilentdisdain，BecauseofThamar；countlessisthehordeOfthosewholeftawifeorweddedlord。
　　XV
　　“But，ratherofmystatethantheirstoshew，Andsinwhichbroughtmehither:——Iwasfair，Butsomuchhaughtierwasthanfairofhue，IknownotifIeverequalledwere:
　　Norwhichwasmostexcessiveofthetwo，Myprideofbeauty，couldtotheedeclare。
　　Thoughitiscertain，PridebuttookitsriseInthatrarelovelinesswhichpleasedalleyes。
　　XVI
　　“TherelivedaThracianknight，forwarlikeskillAndprowess，uponearthwithoutapeer；
　　Who，voicedbymanyaworthywitnessstill，Thepraisesofmymatchlesscharmsdidhear。
　　Sothat，offorethoughtandhisownfreewill，Fixedallhisloveonmethatcavalier；
　　WeeningthiswifethatI，uponmypart，Shouldforhisvalourdulyprizehisheart。
　　XVII
　　“HecametoLydia，andbyfastertieWasfetteredatmysight；andthereenrolledAmidmyroyalfather'schivalry，Inmicklefameincreasedthatbaronbold。
　　Hisfeatsofmanyasort，andvalourhighWouldmakeataletootedioustobetold；
　　Withwhathisboundlessmerithaddeserved，Ifamoregratefulmasterhehadserved。
　　XVIII
　　“Pamphylia，Caria，andCilicia'sreign，Throughhim，myfatherbroughtbeneathhissway，Whonevermoveda-fieldhismartialtrain，Butwhenthatwarriorpointedouttheway:
　　He，whenhedeemedhehaddeservedsuchgain，PressedclosetheLydianking，uponaday，Andcravedmefromthemonarchashiswife，Asmeedofallthatbootymadeinstrife。
　　XIX
　　“Rejectedofthemonarchwasthepeer，Whowasresolvedhischildshouldhighlywed；
　　Nothimwhowasasimplecavalier；
　　Who，savingvalour，waswithnoughtbested。
　　Foronmyfather，bentongainandgearAndavarice，ofallvicethefountain-head，Mannersandmeritforaslittlepass，Asthelute'smusiconthelumpishass。
　　XX
　　“Alcestes，heofwhomIspeaksohightThatwarrior，whenheseeshissuitdenied，Repulsedbyone，bywhomhehadmostrightTothinkthatheshouldmostbegratified，Craveshisdischarge，andthreatenshethisslightWillmaketheLydianmonarchdearabide。
　　TheArmenian，anoldrivalofmysire，Andmortalfor，hesoughtwiththisdesire；
　　XXI
　　“Andsothemonarchurged，hemadehimrearHisbanner，andattackmysire；and，throughHisfamousfeats，thatThraciancavalierWasnamedthecaptainoftheinvadingcrew。
　　FortheArmeniansovereign，farandnear，Allthingssosaidtheknighthewouldsubdue；
　　Butclaimingashisshare，whenallwaswon，Mysovereignbeautiesfortheservicedone。
　　XXII
　　“IilltoyouthemischiefcouldexpressAlcestesdidusinthatwar；o'erthrownByhimfourarmieswere，andheinlessThanoneshorttwelvemonthleftusneithertown，Nottower，saveone，wherecliffsforbadeaccess:
　　'Twasheremysire，amidthoseofhisownWhommostheloved，tookrefuge，inhisneed，Withallthewealthhecouldcollectwithspeed。
　　XXIII
　　“Usinthisfortilagetheknightattacked，Andshortlytosuchdesperationdrave，Thatgladlywouldthekinghavemadeapact，Toyieldmeforhisconsort，yeahisslave，Withhalfourrealm，ifcertainbythatactHimselffromeveryotherlosstosave；
　　Rightsureheotherwiseshouldforfeitall，And，after，dieinbonds，acaptivethrall。
　　XXIV
　　“Beforethishappened，totryeverywayOfremedytheLydiankingwasbent；
　　Andthither，whereAlcestes'armylay，Me，thefirstcauseofallthemischief，sent。
　　ToyieldmypersontohimasapreyIwithintentiontoAlcesteswent；
　　TobidhimtakewhatportionofourreignHepleased，andpacifyhisfiercedisdain。
　　XXV
　　“Whenofmycomingthatgoodknightdoesknow，Meheencounterspaleandtremblingsore:
　　'Twouldseemavanquishedman'saprisoner'sbrow，He，ratherthanavictor'ssemblance，bore。
　　Iwhoperceiveheloves，addressnotnowThewarriorasIwasresolvedbefore。
　　MyvantageIdescry，andshiftmyground，Tofitthestatewhereinthatknightwasfound。
　　XXVI
　　“Tocursethewarrior'spassionIbegun，Andofhiscryingcrueltycomplained，Sincefoullybymyfatherhadhedone，Andmewouldhavebyviolenceconstrained；
　　Whowithmoregracemypersonwouldhavewon，Norwaitedmanydays，hadhemaintainedHiscourseofcourtship，asbegunwhilere。
　　Tokingandallofussopassingdear；
　　XXVII
　　“AndifthehonestsuithehopedtogainHadbeenatfirstrejectedbymysire，'Twas，hewassomedealofachurlishvein，Noreveryieldedtoafirstdesire；
　　Heshouldnottherefore，restivetotherein，Havelefthisgoodlytask，soprompttoire；
　　Sure，passingayefromgoodtobetterdeed，Inlittletimetowinthewished-formeed；
　　XXVIII
　　“Andifmyfatherwouldnothavebeenwon，TohimIwouldsoearnestlyhaveprayed，Thathemylovershouldhavemadehisson；
　　Nay，hadmyroyalsiremysuitgainsayed，ForhiminsecretthatIwouldhavedone，Wherewithheshouldhavedeemedhimselfappaid:
　　Butsince，itseemed，heothermeansdesigned，NevertolovehimhadIfixedmymind；
　　XXIX
　　“And，thoughIsoughthim，atmyfather'shest，Andpiousloveforhimhadbeenmyguide，Hemightbesure，notlongshouldbepossestTheblissthatI，inmydespite，supplied；
　　FortheredbloodshouldissuefrommybreastAssoonashisillwillwassatisfiedOnthismywretchedperson，whichaloneHesobybrutalforceshouldmakehisown。
　　XXX
　　“Withthese，andwordslikethese，Imovedthepeer，WhenIsuchpuissanceinmyselfespied；
　　Andhimsocontritemade，indesertdrear，Wasneverseenasaintmoremortified。
　　BeforemyfeetthedolefulcavalierFelldown，andsnatchedaponiardfromhisside；
　　Which，heprotested，Iparforceshouldtake，Andforsofoulasinmyvengeanceslake。
　　XXXI
　　“TopushmymightyvictorytoanendIscheme，whenhimIseeinsuchdistress，AndgivehimhopeshemayevenyetpretendThatIdeservedlyhisloveshouldbless，Ifhehisancienterrorwillamend，Willofhisrealmmyfatherrepossess，AndwillinfuturetimedeservemycharmsByloveandservice，notbyforceofarms。
　　XXXII
　　“Sopromisedhetodo；andsetmefree，Andletme，asIcame，untouched，depart；
　　Noreventokissmylipsheventured；seeIfheisyokedsecurely，ifhisheartLovehaswelltouchedwiththedesireofme，Ifheforhimneedfeatherotherdart！
　　HeseekstheArmenian，whybypactshouldtakeWhateverspoiltheconqueringarmiesmake；
　　XXXIII
　　“Andhim，asbesthemight，wouldfainpersuadeToleavetoLydia'smonarchhisdomain，Uponwhosewastedlandshishosthadpreyed，AndrestcontentwithhisArmenianreign——
　　Hewouldnothearofthisthemonarchsaid，WithcheerswithfuryswolennorwouldrefrainFrompressingLydia'skingwitharmedband，Solongashepossessedapalmofland；
　　XXXIV
　　“Andiftheknight，whenavilewomansues，Hispurposeshift，lethimtheevilbear:
　　Hewillnot，forthewarrior'sasking，loseWhathehashardlyconqueredinayear。
　　Alcestestothekinghissuitrenews，Andnextcomplains，thatherejectshisprayer。
　　AtlengththeThracianfires，andthreatenshigh，Byloveorforcethemonarchshallcomply。
　　XXXV
　　“Sokindlingangerwaxedbetweenthetwo，Iturgedthemfromillwordstoworserdeed:
　　UponthekinghisswordAlcestesdrew；
　　Thoughthousandsaidthemonarchinhisneed，And，indespiteofall，theirsovereignslew；
　　AndmadethatdayaswelltheArmenianbleed，BackedbytheThracians'andCilicians'aidAndotherfollowers，bythewarriorpaid。
　　XXXVI
　　“Hisconquesthepursued，and，athiscost，Withoutexpensetous，inlessthanoneShortmonth，thekingdombymyfatherlostRestored；and，torepairthemischiefdone，Besidespoilgivenheconqueredwithhishost，——Taxingortakingwhathisarmshadwon——
　　ArmeniaandCappadociawhichconfine；
　　AndscoweredHyrcaniatothedistantbrine。
　　XXXVII
　　“Himnottogreetwithtriumphs，buttoslay，Returningfromthatwarfare，weintend；
　　But，fearingfailure，ourdesigndelayInthatwefindtoomanyhimbefriend。
　　Feedinghimayewithhopefromdaytoday，IfortheThracianwarriorlovepretend:
　　ButfirstdeclaremywillthatheopposeAndprovehisvalouronourotherfoes；
　　XXXVIII
　　“Andhim，nowsole，nowillaccompanied，OnstrangeandperilousemprizeIspeed；
　　Whereinathousandknightsmightwellhavedied；
　　Butallthingshappilywithhimsucceed:
　　ForVictorywaseveronhisside；
　　Andoftwithhorridfoesofmonstrousbreed，WithGiantsandwithLestrigons，whobroughtDamageinourdomains，thewarriorfought。
　　XXXIX
　　NorJuno，norEurystheus，insuchchaseEverrenownedAlcidesvextsosore，InErymanth，Nemaea，Lerna，Thrace，Aetolia，Africa，byTyber'sshore，ByEbro'ssunnybank，orotherplace，Ashidingmurderoushate，whileIimplore
　　Iexercisemyloverstillinstrife，Withthesamefelldesignuponhislife。
　　XL
　　“Unabletoachievemyfirstintent，Ionaschemeofnolessmischieffall:
　　Throughme，alldeemedhisfriendsbyhimareshent，Whothusbringdownonhimthehateofall。
　　TheThracianleadernevermorecontentThantoobey，whateverbethecall，Isatmybiddingeverprompttosmite，Withoutregardingwhoorwhatthewight。
　　XLI
　　“WhenIperceivethat，throughthewarrior'smean，Extinguishedismyfather'severyfoe；
　　And，conqueredbyhimself，thatknightisseen——Friendless，throughus——Inowthemasqueforego；
　　WhatI，fromhim，beneathaflatteringmien，Hadhithertoconcealed，Iplainlyshow；——
　　Whatdeepanddeadlyhatebybosomfired，AndthatIbuttoworkhisdeathdesired。
　　XLII
　　“Then，thinkingifsuchcourseIshouldpursue，Thatpublicshamewouldstillthedeedattend，Formentoowellmyobligationsknew，Andwouldbepromptmycrueltytoshend。
　　Meseemedenoughtodrivehimfrommyview，Sothatheshouldnomoremyeyesoffend:
　　NorwouldImoreaddressorseethepeer，Norletterwouldreceiveormessagehear。
　　XLIII
　　“ThismyingratitudeinhimsuchpainAtlengthproduced，thatmasteredbyhiswoe，Afterentreatingmercylonginvain，Hesickenedsoreandsankbeneaththeblow。
　　Forpainwhichfitsmysin，darkfumesnowstainMycheek，andwithsaltrheummineeyeso'erflow。
　　ThusineternaltormentshallIdwell；
　　Forsavingmercyhelpethnotinhell。”
　　XLIV
　　SincewretchedLydiaspakenomore，thepeerWouldfaindiscernifmoreintormentlay；
　　But，thosefalseingrates'curse，thedarknessdrearSowaxedbeforehim，andobscuredtheway，Thatnotoneinchadvancedthecavalier；
　　Nay，backparforcereturnsthatwarrior；nay，Himselffromthatincreasingsmoketosave，Makesforthemouthofthedisastrouscave。
　　XLV
　　ThemotionofhisquicklyshiftingfeetMoresavoursofarunthanwalkortrot。
　　Thusmountingtheascentinswiftretreat，Astolphoseestheoutletofthegrot；
　　Where，throughthedarknessofthatdismalseatAndthosefoulfumes，adawnofdaylightshot；
　　Hefromthecavern，sorelypainedandpined，Issuesatlast，andleavesthesmokebehind；
　　XLVI
　　Andnexttobarthewayagainstthatband，Whosegreedybelliessoforvictualcrave，Picksstones，andtreeslayslevelwithhisbrand，Whichchargedwithpepperoramomumwave；
　　Andwhatmightseemahedge，withbusyhand，Asbesthecan，constructsbeforethecave；
　　Andsosucceedsinblockingthatrepair，Theharpiesshallnomorerevisitair。
　　XLVII
　　WhileinthatcaveAstolphodidremain，Thefumesthatfromthesablepitcharose，Notonlywhatappearedtosightdidstain；
　　Butevensosearchedthefleshbeneathhisclothes，Hesoughtsomecleansingstream，longsoughtinvain；
　　Butfoundatlengthalimpidtill，whichroseOutofalivingrock，withinthatwood，Andbathedhimselfalloverintheflood。
　　XLVIII
　　Thenbackedthegriffin-horse，andsoaredaflightWherebytoreachthatmountain'stopheschemes，Whichlittledistant，withitshaughtyheight，Fromthemoon'scirclegoodAstolphodeems；
　　And，suchdesiretoseeitwarmstheknight，Thatheaspirestoheaven，norearthesteems。
　　Throughairsomoreandmorethewarriorstrains，Thatheatlastthemountain-summitgains。
　　XLIX
　　Heresapphire，ruby，gold，andtopazglow，Pearl，jacinth，chrysoliteanddiamondlie，Whichwellmightpassfornaturalflowerswhichblow，Catchingtheircolourfromthatkindlysky。
　　Sogreenthegrass！couldwehavesuchbelow，Weshouldpreferittoouremerald'sdye。
　　Asfairthefoliageofthosepleasantbowers！
　　Whosetreesareeverfilledwithfruitandflowers。
　　L
　　Warblethewantonbirdsinverdantbrake，Azure，andred，andyellow，greenandwhite。
　　ThequaveringrivuletandquietlakeInlimpidhuesurpassthecrystalbright。
　　Abreeze，whichwithonebreathappearstoshake，Aye，withoutfillorfall，thefoliagelight，Tothequickairsuchlivelymotionlends，ThatDay'soppressivenooninnoughtoffends；
　　LI
　　Andthis，midfruitandflowerandverdurethere，Evermorestealingdiversodours，went；
　　Andmadeofthosemixtsweetsamedleyrare，Whichfilledthespiritwithacalmcontent。
　　Inthemidplainaroseapalacefair，Whichseemedasifwithlivingflamesitbrent。
　　SuchpassingsplendourandsuchgloriouslightShotfromthosewalls，beyondallusagebright。
　　LII
　　Thitherwherethosetransparentwallsappear，Whichcovermorethanthirtymilesinmeasure，Ateaseandslowlymovedthecavalier，Andviewedthelovelyregionathisleisure；
　　Anddeemed——comparedwiththis——thatsadanddrear，Andseenbyheavenandnaturewithdispleasure，Wasthefoulworld，whereinwedwellbelow:
　　Sojocundthis，sosweetandfairinshow！
　　LIII
　　Astoundwithwonder，pausedtheadventurousknight，Whentothatshiningpalacehewasnigh，For，thanthecarbunclemorecrimsonbright，Itseemedonepolishedstoneofsanguinedye。
　　Omightywonder！ODaedaliansleight！
　　Whatfabricuponearthwiththiscanvie?
　　Letthemhenceforthbesilent，thatinstoryExalttheworld'ssevenwonderstosuchglory！
　　LIV
　　Anelder，intheshiningentrance-hallOfthatgladhouse，towardsAstolphoprest；
　　Crimsonhiswaistcoatwas，andwhitehispall；
　　Vermillionseemedthemantle，milkthevest:
　　Whitewasthatancient'shair，andwhitewithalThebushybearddescendingtohisbreast；
　　Andfromhisreverendfacesuchglorybeamed，OftheelectofParadiseheseemed。
　　LV
　　He，withgladvisage，tothepaladin，Whohumbly，fromhissellhadlighted，cries:
　　“Ogentlebaron，thatbywilldivineHavesoaredtothisterrestrialparadise！
　　Albeitnoryouthecauseofyourdesign，Noryouthescopeofyourdesiresurmise，Believe，younotwithouthighmysterysteerHitherward，fromyourarctichemisphere。
　　LVI
　　“Youforinstruction，howtofurnishaidToCharlesandtotheChurchinutmostneed，Withmetocounsel，hitherareconveyed，Whowithoutcounselfromsuchdistancespeed。
　　But，son，ascribenotyouthejourneymadeTowitorworth；northroughyourwingedsteed，Northroughyourvirtuousbuglehadyethriven，ButthatsuchhelpinggracefromGodwasgiven。
　　LVII
　　“Wewilldiscourseatbetterleisuremore，Andyouwhatmustbedoneshallafterhear；
　　Butyouthat，throughlongfast，musthungersore，Firstbraceyourstrengthwithus，withgenialcheer。”
　　Continuinghisdiscourse，thatelderhoarRaisedmightywonderinthecavalier，Whenheavouched，ashehisnamedisclosed，ThatheTHEHOLYGOSPEL，hadcomposed；
　　LVIII
　　HeofourLordsoloved，theblessedJohn；
　　Ofwhomaspeechamongthebrethrenwent，Henevershouldseedeath，andhencetheSonOfGodwiththisrebukeSt。Petershent；
　　Insaying，“Whatisittothee，ifoneTarryonearth，tillIanewbesent?“
　　Albeithesaidnotthatheshouldnotdie，Thatsohemeanttosayweplaindescry。
　　LIX
　　Translatedthither，hefoundcompany，ThepatriarchEnoch，andthemightyseerElias；norasyetthosesaintedthreeHaveseencorruption，butingarden，clearOfearth'sfoulair，willjoyeternityOfspring，tilltheyangelictrumpetshear，Soundingthroughheavenandearth，proclaimaloudChrist'ssecondadventonthesilverycloud。
　　LX
　　Theholyancientstoachamberlead，Withwelcomekind，theadventurouscavalier；
　　AndinanotherthenhisflyingsteedSufficientlywithgoodlyforagecheer。
　　AstolphotheywithfruitsofEdenfeed，Sorich，thatinhisjudgment'twouldappear，InsomesortmightourparentsbeexcusedIf，forsuchfruits，obediencetheyrefused。
　　LXI
　　Whenwiththatdailypaymentwhichmanowes，Naturehadbeencontentedbythepeer，Aswellofduerefreshmentasrepose，Forallandeverycomfortfoundhehere
　　AndnowAuroraleftherancientspouse，Notforhismanyyearstoherlessdear，Risingfrombed，AstolphoathissideTheapostle，sobelovedofGod，espied。
　　LXII
　　Muchthatnotlawfullycouldherebeshown，Takinghimbythehand，tohimheread。
　　“Toyou，thoughcomefromFrance，maybeunknownWhattherehathhappened，“nexttheapostlesaid；
　　“Learn，yourOrlando，forhehathforegoneThewaywhereinhewasenjoinedtotread，IsvisitedofGod，thatevershendsHimwhomhelovethbest，whenheoffends:
　　LXIII
　　“He，yourOrlando，athisbirthendowedWithsovereigndaringandwithsovereignmight，Onwhom，beyondallusage，GodbestowedThegrace，thatweaponhimshouldvainlysmite，BecausehewasselectedfromthecrowdTobedefenderofhisChurch'sright。
　　AsheelectedSampson，calledwhilereTheJewagainstthePhilistinetocheer；
　　LXIV
　　“He，yourOrlando，forsuchgiftshasmadeUntohisheavenlyLordanillreturn:
　　Wholefthispeople，whenmostneedingaid，Thenmostabandonedtotheheathens'scorn。
　　IncestuousloveforafairpaynimmaidHadblindedsothatknight，ofgraceforlorn，ThattwiceandmoreinfellandimpiousstrifeThecounthassoughthisfaithfulcousin'slife。
　　LXV
　　“HenceGodhathmadehimmad，and，inthisvein，Belly，andbreast，andnakedfleshexpose；
　　Andsodiseasedandtroubledishisbrain，Thatnone，andleasthimself，thechampionknows，NebuchadnezzarwhilomtosuchpainGodinhisvengeancedoomed，asstoryshows；
　　Sent，forsevenyears，ofsavagefuryfull，Tofeedongrassandhay，likeslaveringbull。
　　LXVI
　　“Butyet，becausetheChristianpaladineHassinnedagainsthisheavenlyMakerless，Heonlyforthreemonths，bywilldivine，Isdoomedtocleansehimselfofhisexcess。
　　NoryetwithotherscopedidyourdesignOfwendinghithertheRedeemerbless，Butthatthroughusthemodeyoushouldexplore，Orlando'smissingsensestorestore。
　　LXVII
　　“`Tistruetojourneyfurtheryewillneed，Andwhollymustyouleavethisnethersphere；
　　Tothemoon'scircleyouIhavetolead，Ofalltheplanetstoourworldmostnear，Becausethemedicine，thatisfittospeedInsaneOrlando'scure，istreasuredhere。
　　Thisnightwillweaway，whenoverheadHerdownwardraysthesilvermoonshallshed。”
　　LXVIII
　　IntalktheblestapostleisdiffuseOnthisandthat，untilthedayisworn:
　　Butwhenthesunissunki'thesaltseaooze，Andoverheadthemoonupliftsherhorn，Achariotisprepared，erewhileinuseToscowertheheavens，whereinofoldwasborneFromJewry'smistymountainstothesky，SaintedElias，raptfrommortaleye。
　　LXIX
　　Fourgoodlycoursersnext，andredderfarThanflame，tothatfairchariotyokesthesire；
　　Who，whentheknightandhewellseatedare，Collectsthereins；andheavenwardtheyaspire。
　　Inairycirclesswiftlyrosethecar，Andreachedtheregionofeternalfire；
　　Whoseheatthesaintbymiraclesuspends，Whilethroughthepartedairthepairascends。
　　LXX
　　Thechariot，towering，threadsthefierysphere，Andrisesthenceintothelunarreign。
　　This，initslargerparttheyfindasclearAspolishedsteel，whenundefiledbystain；
　　Andsuchitseems，orlittleless，whennear，Aswhatthelimitsofourearthcontain:
　　Suchasourearth，thelastofglobesbelow，Includingseas，whichroundaboutitflow。
　　LXXI
　　Heredoublywaxedthepaladin'ssurprize，Toseethatplacesolarge，whenviewedathand；
　　Resemblingthatalittlehoopinsize，Whenfromtheglobesurveyedwhereonwestand，Andthathebothhiseyesbehovedtostrain，IfhewouldviewEarth'scirclingseasandland；
　　Inthat，byreasonofthelackoflight，Theirimagesattainedtolittleheight。
　　LXXII
　　Hereotherriver，lake，andrichchampaignAreseen，thanthosewhicharebelowdescried；
　　Hereothervalley，otherhillandplain，Withtownsandcitiesoftheirownsupplied；
　　Whichmansionsofsuchmightysizecontain，Suchneverhebeforeofafterspied。
　　Herespaciousholdandlonelyforestlay，Wherenymphsforeverchasedthepantingprey。
　　LXXIII
　　He，thatwithotherscopehadthithersoared，Pausesnotallthesewondertoperuse:
　　ButledbythediscipleofourLord，Hiswaytowardsaspaciousvalepursues；
　　AplacewhereiniswonderfullystoredWhateveronourearthbelowwelose。
　　Collectedthereareallthingswhatsoe'er，Lostthroughtime，chance，orourownfolly，here。
　　LXXIV
　　Norherealoneofrealmandwealthydower，O'erwhichayeturnstherestlesswheel，Isay:
　　IspeakofwhatitisnotinthepowerOfFortunetobestow，ortakeaway。
　　Muchfameishere，whereonTimeandtheHour，Likewastingmoth，inthisourplanetprey。
　　Herecountlessvows，hereprayersunnumberedlie，MadebyussinfulmentoGodonhigh:
　　LXXV
　　Thelover'stearsandsighs；whattimeinpleasureAndplaywehereunprofitablyspend；
　　Tothis，ofignorantmentheeternalleisure，Andvaindesigns，ayefrustrateoftheirend。
　　Emptydesiressofarexceedallmeasure，Theyo'erthatvalley'sbetterpartextend。
　　Therewiltthoufind，ifthouwiltthitherpost，Whateverthouonearthbeneathhastlost。
　　LXXVI
　　He，passingbythoseheaps，oneitherhand，Ofthisandnowofthatthemeaningsought；
　　Formedofswollenbladdershereahilldidstand，Whenceheheardcriesandtumults，ashethought。
　　ThesewereoldcrownsoftheAssyrianlandAndLydian——asthatpaladinwastaught——
　　GrecianandPersian，allofancientfame；
　　Andnow，alas！well-nighwithoutaname。
　　LXXVII
　　Goldenandsilverhookstosightsucceed，Heapedinamass，thegiftswhichcourtiersbear，——Hopingtherebytopurchasefuturemeed——
　　Togreedyprinceandpatron；manyasnare，Concealedingarlands，didthewarriorheed，Whoheard，thesesignsofadulationwere；
　　Andincicalas，whichtheirlungshadburst，Sawfulsomelaysbyvenalpoetsversed。
　　LXXVIII
　　LovesofunhappyendinimageryOfgoldorjewelledbandshesawexprest；
　　Theneagles'talons，theauthorityWithwhichgreatlordstheirdelegatesinvest:
　　Bellowsfilledeverynook，thefumeandfeeWhereinthefavouritesofkingsareblest:
　　GiventothoseGanymedesthathavetheirhour，Andreft，whenfadedistheirvernalflower。
　　LXXIX
　　O'erturned，hereruinedtownandcastlelies，Withalltheirwealth:“Thesymbols“saidhisguide
　　“Oftreatiesandofthoseconspiracies，Whichtheirconductorsseemedsoilltohide。”
　　Serpentswithfemalefaces，feloniesOfcoinersandofrobbers，hedescried；
　　Nextbrokenbottlessawofmanysorts，Thetypesofservitudeinsorrycourts。
　　LXXX
　　Hemarksmightypoolofporridgespilled，Andaskswhatinthatsymbolshouldberead，Andhears'twascharity，bysickmenwilledFordistribution，aftertheyweredead。
　　Hepassedaheapofflowers，thaterstdistilledSweetsavours，andnownoisomeodoursshed；
　　Thegiftifitmaylawfullybesaid
　　WhichConstantinetogoodSylvestermade。
　　LXXXI
　　Alargeprovision，next，oftwigsandlime——Yourwitcheries，Owomen！——heexplored。
　　Thethingshewitnessed，torecountinrhymeTootediouswere；weremyriadsonrecord，TosumtheremnantillshouldIhavetime。
　　'Tisherethatallinfirmitiesarestored，SaveonlyMadness，seennothereatall，Whichdwellsbelow，norleavesthisearthlyball。
　　LXXXII
　　Heturnshimback，uponsomedaysanddeedsTolookagain，whichhehadlostofyore；
　　But，savetheinterpreterthelessonreads，Wouldknowthemnot，suchdifferentformtheywore。
　　Henextsawthatwhichmansolittleneeds，——Asitappears——nonepraytoHeavenformore；
　　Ispeakofsense，whereofaloftymountAlonesurpastallelsewhichIrecount。
　　LXXXIII
　　Itwasas'twerealiquorsoftandthin，Which，savewellcorked，wouldfromthevasehavedrained；
　　Laidup，andtreasuredvariousflaskswithin，Largerorlesser，tothatuseordained。
　　Thatlargestwaswhichofthepaladin，Anglantes'lord，themightysensecontained；
　　Andfromthoseotherswasdiscerned，sincewritUponthevesselwasORLANDO'SWIT。
　　LXXXIV
　　ThenamesofthosewhosewitsthereinwerepentHethusonallthoseotherflasksespied。
　　Muchofhisown，butwithmorewonderment，Thesenseofmanyothershedescried，Who，hebelieved，nodramoftheirshadspent；
　　Buthere，bytokensclearwassatisfied，Thatscantilytherewithweretheypurveyed；
　　Solargethequantityheheresurveyed。
　　LXXXV
　　Somewasteonlove，someseekinghonour，loseTheirwits，some，scoweringseas，formerchandise，Some，thatonwealthylordstheirhoperepose，Andsome，befooledbysillysorceries；
　　Theseuponpictures，uponjewelsthose；
　　Theseonwhateverelsetheyhighestprize。
　　Astrologers'andsophists'witsmidthese，Andmanyapoet'stoo，Astolphosees。
　　LXXXVI
　　SincehisconsenttheapostlesignifiedWhowrotetheobscureApocalypse，hisownHetook，andonlytohisnoseapplied，Whenitappearedittoitsplacewasgone；
　　Andhenceforth，hasSirTurpincertified，ThatlongtimesagelylivedkingOtho'sson；
　　TillothererrorashesaysagainDeprivedthegentlebaronofhisbrain。
　　LXXXVII
　　ThefullestvesselandofamplestroundWhichheldthewitOrlandoerstpossessed，Astolphotook；northissolighthefound，Asitappeared，whenpiledamongtherest。
　　Before，fromthosebrightspheres，nowearthwardbound，Hiscourseistoourlowerorbaddressed，Himtoaspaciouspalace，bywhosesideAriverran，conductshisholyguide。
　　LXXXVIII
　　Filledfulloffleecesallitschamberswere，Ofwool，silk，linen，cotton，intheirhue，Ofdiversedyesandcolours，foulandfair。
　　Yarnstoherreelfromallthosefleecesdrew，Intheouterporch，adameofhoaryhair。
　　Onsummer-daythusvillagewifeweview，Whenthenewsilkisreeled，itsfilmytwineWindfromtheworm，andsoaktheslenderline。
　　LXXXIX
　　AseconddamereplacedtheworkwhendoneWithother；andoneboreitoffelsewhere；
　　Athirdselectedfromthefleecesspun，Andmingledbythatsecond，foulfromfair。
　　“Whatisthislabour?“saidthepeertoJohn；
　　AndthediscipleansweredOtho'sheir，“KnowthattheParcaearethoseancientwives，Thatinthisfashionspinyourfeeblelives。
　　XC
　　“Aslongasonefleecelasts，lifeinsuchwiseEndureth，noroutlastsitbyathought。
　　ForDeathandNaturehavetheirwatchfuleyesOnthehourwheneachshouldtohisendbebrought。
　　ThechoicestthreadsareculledforParadise，And，after，foritsornamentsarewrought；
　　AndfashionedfromthestrandsoffoulestshowAregallingfettersforthedamnedbelow。”
　　XCI
　　OnallthefleecesthaterewhilewerelaidUponthereel，andculledforothercare，Thenamesweregravedonlittleplates，whichmadeOfsilver，orofgold，oriron，were，Thesepiledinmanyheapshenextsurveyed；
　　Whenceanoldmansomeskinswasseentobear，Who，seeminglyunwearied，hurriedsore，Hisrestlesswayretracingevermore。
　　XCII
　　Thatelderissonimbleandsoprest，Thatheseemsborntorun；hebearsawayOutofthoseheapsbylapfullsinhisvestTheticketsthatthedifferentnamesdisplay。
　　Whereforeandwhitherhehisstepsaddrest，ToyouIshallinothercantosay，Ifyou，insignofpleasure，willattend，Withthatkindaudienceyearewonttolend。
　　CANTO35
　　ARGUMENT
　　Theapostlepraisesauthorstothepeer。
　　DukeAymon'smartialdaughterinaffray，ConquersthegiantmonarchofArgier，AndofthegoodFrontinomakesaprey。
　　ShenextfromArlesdefieshercavalier，And，whilehemarvelswhowouldhimassay，GrandonioandFerraushewithherhandAndSerpentineunhorsesonthestrand。
　　I
　　Madonna，whowillscalethehighascentOfheaven，tomemyjudgmenttorestore，Which，sincefromyourbrighteyestheweaponwent，Thatpiercedmyheart，iswastingevermore?
　　YetwillnotIsuchmightylosslament，Sothatitdrainnofasterthanbefore；
　　But——ebbingfurther——IshouldfeartobeSuchasOrlandoisdescribedbyme。
　　II
　　Tohaveanewthatjudgment，throughtheskies，IdeemthereisnoneedformetoflyTothemoon'scircle，ortoParadise；
　　For，Ibelieve，mineisnotlodgedsohigh。
　　Onyourbrightvisage，onyourbeauteouseyes，Alabastrineneck，andpapsofivory，Wandermywits，andIwithbusylip，IfImayhavethemback，thesefainwouldsip。
　　III
　　Astolphowanderedthroughthatpalacewide，Observingalthefuturelivesaround:
　　WhenthosealreadywovenhehadspiedUponthefatalwheelforfinishwound，HeafairfleecediscernedthatfaroutviedFinegold，whosewondrouslustrejewelsground，Couldtheseintoathreadbedrawnbyart，Wouldneverequalbythethousandthpart。
　　IV
　　ThebeauteousfleecehesawwithwondrousgleeEqualledbynoneamidthatcountlessstore；
　　Andwhenandwhosesuchgloriouslifeshouldbe，Longedsoretoknow。“This，“saidtheapostlehoar，Concealingnothingofitshistory，
　　“Shallhaveexistencetwentyyearsbefore，DatingfromTHEINCARNATEWORD，theyearShallmarkedmymenwithMandDappear；
　　V
　　“And，asforsplendorandforsubstancefair，Thisfleeceshallhavenolikeorequal，soShalltheblestagewhereinitshallappearBesingularinthisourworldbelow；
　　Becauseallgraces，excellentandrare，WhichNatureorwhichStudycanbestow，OrbounteousFortuneuponmencanshower，Shallbeitscertainandeternaldower。
　　VI
　　“Betweenthekingofrivers'horns，“hecries，
　　“Standswhatisnowasmallandhumbletown。
　　BeforeitrunsthePo，behinditliesAmistypoolofmarsh；this——lookingdownThestreamoffutureyears——IrecognizeFirstofItaliancitiesofrenown；
　　Notonlyfamedforwallandpalacerare，Butnoblewaysoflifeandstudiesfair。
　　VII
　　“Suchexaltation，reachedsosuddenly，Isnotfortuitousnorwroughtinvain；
　　Butthatismayhisworthycradlebe，WhereofIspeak，shallsotheheavenordain。
　　Forwheremenlookforfruittheygraffthetree，Andstudystilltherisingplanttotrain；
　　AndartistusestorefinethegoldDesignedbyhimthepreciousgemtohold。
　　VIII
　　“Norever，interrestrialrealm，sofineAndfairaraimentspiritdidinvest，AndrarelysoulsogreatfromrealmsdivineHasbeen，orwillbe，thitherwardaddrest，AsthatwhereofTHEETERNALhaddesignTofashiongoodHippolytusofEste:
　　HippolytusofEsteshallhebehight，OnwhomsorichagiftofGodshalllight。
　　IX
　　“Allthosefairgraces，that，onmanyspent，Wouldhaveservedmanywhollytoarray，Areallunitedforhisornament，Ofwhomthouhastentreatedmetosay。
　　Topropthearts，thevirtuesishesent；
　　AndshouldIseekhismeritstodisplay，Solongatimewouldlastmytediousstrain，Orlandomightexpecthiswitsinvain。”
　　X
　　'TwassoChrist'sservantwiththecavalierDiscoursed；theyhavingsatisfiedtheirviewWithsightofthatfairmansion，farandnear，Thatwhenceconveyedwerehumanlives，thetwoIssueduponthestream，whosewavesappearTurbidwithsandandofdiscolouredhue；
　　Andfoundthatancientmanupontheshore，Whonames，engravedonmetal，thitherbore。
　　XI
　　Iknownotifyourecollect；ofhimIspeak，whosestoryIerewhilesuspended，Ancientofvisage，andsoswiftoflimb，Thatfasterfarthanforeststaghewended。
　　Withnameshefilledhismantletothebrim，Ayethinnedthepile，butne'erhislabourended；
　　Andinthatstream，hightLethe，nextbestowed，Yea，rathercastaway，hiscostlyload。
　　XII
　　Isay，thatwhenupontheriversideArrivesthatancient，ofhisstoreprofuse，HeallthosenamesintotheturbidtideDischarges，asheshakeshismantleloose。
　　Acountlessshoal，theyinthestreamsubside；
　　Norhencefortharetheyfitforanyuse；
　　And，outofmightymyriads，hardlyoneIssavedofthosewhichwavesandsando'errun。
　　XIII
　　AlongthatriverandarounditflyVilecrowsandraveningvultures，andacrewOfchoughs，andmore，thatwithdiscordantcryAnddeafeningdintheirairyflightpursue；
　　Andtothepreyallhurry，whenfromhighThoseamplerichestheysoscatteredview；
　　Andwiththeirbeakortalonseizetheprey:
　　Yetlittledistancetheytheirprizeconvey。
　　XIV
　　Whentheywouldraisethemselvesinupwardflight，Theyhavenotstrengththeburdentosustain；
　　SothatparforceinLethe'swaterlightTheworthynames，whichlastingpraiseshouldgain。
　　Twoswansthereareamidthosebirds，aswhite，Mylord，asisyourbanner'ssnowygrain；
　　Whocatchwhatnamestheycan，andevermoreWiththesereturnsecurelytotheshore。
　　XV
　　Thus，countertothatancient'swillmalign，Whothemtothedevouringriverdooms，Somenamesarerescuedbythebirdsbenign；
　　WastefulOblivionalltherestconsumes。
　　Nowswimaboutthestreamthoseswansdivine，Nowbeatthebuxomairwithnimbleplumes，Till，nearthatimpiousriver'sbank，theygainAhill，andonthathillahallowedfane。
　　XVI
　　ToImmortality'tissacred；thereAlovelynymph，thatfromthehilldescends，TotheLetheanrivermakesrepair；
　　Takesfromthoseswanstheirburden，andsuspendsThenamesaboutanimage，raisedinairUponashaft，whichinmidfaneascends；
　　Thereconsecratesandfixesthemsofast，Thatallthroughouteternityshalllast。
　　XVII
　　Ofthatoldsire，andwhyhewoulddispenseIdly，allthosefairnames，as'twouldappear，Andofthebirdsandholyplace，fromwhenceThenymphwastotheriverseentosteer，Thesolemnmystery，andthesecretsense，Astolpho，marvelling，desiredtohear；
　　AndprayedthemanofGodwouldtheseunfold，Whotothewarriorthustheirmeaningtold。