LXXXIV
　　ThegoodRinaldo，whotooverthrowThestrongestofthefoemancovetsstill，AtAgramantdirectsadeadlyblow，——Whoseemstoopassing-proud，andgreaterillWorksthere，thanthousandothersofthefoe——
　　Andspurshishorse，theMoorishchieftospill。
　　Hesmotethemonarch，broadsidechargedthesteed，Andmanandhorsereverseduponthemead。
　　LXXXV
　　Whattime，without，insuchdestructivefraysHate，Rage，andFury，alloffendbyturns，InParisRodomontthepeopleslays，Andcostlyhouse，andholytempleburns:
　　WhileCharleselsewhereantherdutystays，Whonothinghearsofthis，noraughtdiscerns。
　　He，inthetown，receivestheBritishband，WhichEdwardandSirArimancommand。
　　LXXXVI
　　Tohimasquireapproached，whopalewithdread，Scarcedrewhisbreath，andcried:“Oh，wellaway！
　　Alas！alas！“andthusheoftensaid，Erehecouldutteraughtbeside。“To-day，To-day，sire，istheRomanempiresped，AndChristtotheheathenmakeshisflockaprey。
　　Afiendfromairto-dayhasdropt，thatnoneHenceforthmayinthiscitymaketheirwon。
　　LXXXVII
　　“Sataninsooth，itcannootherbe
　　Destroysandruinstheunhappytown。
　　Turn，andthecurlingwreathsofvapoursee，Fromtheredflameswhichwanderupanddown；
　　Listtothosegroans，andbetheywarrantryOfthesadnewsthyservantnowmakesknown！
　　Onethefaircitywasteswithswordandfire，Beforewhosevengefulfuryallretire。”
　　LXXXVIII
　　Evensuchashe，whohearsthetumultwide，Andclatterofchurch-bells，ereheespyTheragingfire，concealedfromnonebesideHimself，tohimmostdangerous，andmostnigh；
　　SuchwasKingCharles；whoheard，andthendescriedThenewdisasterwithhisveryeye。
　　HencehethechoicestofhismeinysteersThither，wherehethecryandtumulthears。
　　LXXXIX
　　Withmanypeersandchiefs，whoworthiestare，Summonedabouthim，Charlemagneisgone:
　　HebidsdirecthisstandardstothesquareWhitherthepaynimhadrepaired；hearsgroanAndtumult，spiesthehorridtokensthereOfcruelty，seeshumanmembersstrown——
　　Nomore——Lethimreturnanothertime，Whowillinglywilllistentothisrhyme。
　　CANTO17
　　ARGUMENT
　　Charlesgoes，withhis，againstKingRodomont。
　　GryphoninNorandino'stournamentDoesmightydeeds；Martanoturnshisfront，Showinghowrecreantishisnaturalbent；
　　Andnext，onGryphontobringdownaffront，Stolefromtheknightthearmsinwhichhewent；
　　Hencebythekindlymonarchmuchesteemed，AndGryphonscorned，whomheMartanodeemed。
　　I
　　God，outragedbyourrankiniquity，Whenevercrimeshavepastremission'sbound，Thatmercymaywithjusticemingledbe，Hasmonstrousanddestructivetyrantscrowned；
　　Andgiftedthemwithforceandsubtlety，Asinfulworldtopunishandconfound。
　　MariusandSyllatothisendwerenursed，RomewithtwoNerosandaCaiuscursed；
　　II
　　DomitianandthelatterAntonine；
　　And，liftedfromthelowestrabble'slees，Toimperialplaceandpuissance，Maximine:
　　HenceThebestocruelCreonbentherknees，MezentiusruledthesubjectAgiline，Fatteninghisfieldswithblood。TopestsliketheseOurItalywasgiveninlaterday，ToLombard，Goth，andHunableedingprey。
　　III
　　WhatshallIoffierceAttila，whatsayOfwickedEzzeline，andhundredsmore?
　　Whom，becausemenstilltrodthecrookedway，Godsentthemfortheirpainandtormentsore。
　　Ofthisourselveshavemadeaclearassay，Aswellasthosewholivedindaysofyore；
　　Consignedtoraveningwolves，ordainedtokeepUs，hisill-nurturingandunusefulsheep；
　　IV
　　Who，asifhavingmorethanservedtofillTheirhungrymaw，invitefromforeignwoodBeyondthemountain，wolvesofgreedierwill，Withthemtobepartakersoftheirfood。
　　TheboneswhichThrasymeneandTrebbiafill，AndCannae，seembutfewtowhatarestrewedOnfattenedfieldandbank，whereontheirwayAddaandMella，RoncoandTarrostray。
　　V
　　NowGodpermitsthatweshouldfeelthespiteOfpeople，whoarehaplyworsethanwe，Forerrorsmultipliedandinfinite，Andfoulandpestilentiniquity。
　　ThetimewillcomewemaysuchillrequiteUpontheirshores，ifweshallbetterbe，AndtheirtransgressionseverproveaboveThelongenduranceofAETERNALLOVE。
　　VI
　　TheChristianpeoplethenGod'splacidfrontMusthavedisturbedwiththeirexcessessore；
　　Sincethemwithslaughter，rape，andrapinehunt，Throughalltheirquarters，plunderingTurkandMoor:
　　ButtheunsparingrageofRodomontProvesworsethanalltheillsenduredbefore。
　　IsaidthatCharlemagnehadmaderepairInsearchofhimtowardsthecitysquare。
　　VII
　　Charles，bytheway，hispeople'sbutcheryBeholds——burntpalacesandruinedfanes——
　　AndseeslargeportionofthecitylieInunexampledwreck——“Yecowardtrains，Whitherinheartlesspanicwouldyefly?
　　Willnonehislosscontemplate?whatremainsToyou，——whatplaceofrefuge，say，isleft，Ifthisfromyousoshamefullybereft?
　　VIII
　　“Thenshallonemanalone，aprisonedfoe，Whocannotscalethewallswhichroundhimspread，Unscathed，unquestioned，fromyourcitygo，Whenallarebyhisvengefularmlaiddead?“
　　ThusCharlemagne，whoseveinswithangerglow，Andshame，toostrongtobrook，infurysaid；
　　Andtothespacioussquaremadegoodhisway，Wherehebeheldthefoehispeopleslay。
　　IX
　　Thitherlargeportionofthepopulace，Climbingthepalaceroof，hadmaderesort；
　　Forstronglywalled，andfurnishedwastheplaceWithammunition，fortheirlongsupport。
　　Rodomont，madwithpride，had，inhischaceOfthescaredburghers，singlyclearedthecourt，Hewithonedaringhand，whichscornedtheworld，Brandishedthesword；——hisotherwildfirehurled；
　　X
　　Andsmoteandthundered，'midafearfulshower，Atthesublimeandroyalhouse'sgate。
　　Totheirlife'speril，crumblingroofandtowerIstostbythemthatonthesummitwait:
　　Noranyfearstoruinhallorbower；
　　Butwoodandstoneendureonecommonfate，Andmarbledcolumn，slab，andgildedbeam，Bysireandgrandsireheldinhighesteem。
　　XI
　　Rodomontstandsbeforetheportal，brightWithsteel，hisheadandbustsecuredinmail，Liketoaserpent，issuedintolight，Havingcastoffhisslough，diseasedandstale:
　　Whomorethaneverjoyinginhismight，Renewedinyouth，andproudofpolishedscale，Dartshisthreetongues，fireflashingfromhiseyes；
　　Whileeveryfrightedbeastbeforehimflies。
　　XII
　　Norbulwark，stone，norarbalest，norbow，Norwhatuponthepaynimsmotebeside，Sufficedtoarrestthesanguinaryfoe；
　　Whobrokeandhewed，andshookthatportalwide，Andinhisfuryletsuchday-lightthrough，'Twaseasytoespy——andmightbespied——
　　Invisageso'ercastindeath-likesort，Thatfullofpeoplewasthepalacecourt。
　　XIII
　　Throughthosefairchambersechoedshoutsofdread，Andfemininelamentfromdamedistrest；
　　Andgrieving，throughthehouse，palewomenfled，Whowept，afflictedsore，andbeattheirbreast。
　　Andhuggedthedoor-postandthegenialbed，Toosoontobebystrangerlordspossest。
　　ThematterinthisstateofperilhungWhenthithercametheking，hispeersamong。
　　XIV
　　Charlesturnedhimroundtothese，ofvigoroushand，Whomhehadfoundinformerperiltrue。
　　“Areyounotthosethaterstwithmedidstand'GainstAgolantinAspramont?InyouIsvigournowsospent，hesaid，theband，Whohim，Troyano，andAlmontesslew，Withhundredsmore，thatyounowfeartofaceOneofthatveryblood，thatveryrace?
　　XV
　　“WhyshouldInowincontestwiththefoeLessstrengthinyoubeholdthanthem?YourmightUponthishoundpursuedthemonarchshow；
　　Thishoundwhopreysonman——AgenerousspriteThethoughtofdeath——approachhefastorslow——
　　Sothathediesbutwell，holdscheapandlight。
　　Butwhereyouare，Idoubtmyfortuneill，Forbyyoursuccour，haveIconqueredstill。”
　　XVI
　　Thissaid，hespurredhiscourser，couchedhisspear，Andchargedthepaynim；noroflifelessfree，SirOgierjoinedthekinginhiscareer；
　　NamusandOliver；and，withthethree，Avino，Avolio，Otho，andBerlinghier:
　　ForonewithouttherestIneversee
　　Andonthebosom，flanks，andonthefront，AllsmotetogetheratKingRodomont。
　　XVII
　　Butletus，sir，forloveofHeaven，foregoOfangerandofdeaththenoisomelore；
　　AndbeitdeemedthatIhavesaidenow，Forthiswhile，ofthatSaracen，notmoreCruelthanstrong；'tistimeintracetogoOfGryphon，leftwithOrigille，beforeDamascus'gate，andhimwhowithhercame，Theadulterer，notthebrotherofthedame。
　　XVIII
　　Ofallthecitiesundereasternskies，Mostwealthy，populous，andfairlydight，'Tissaid，Damascusis；whichdistantliesFromSalemsevendays'journey；itsfairsite，Afertileplain，abundantfruitssupplies，Winterandsummer，sojournofdelight。
　　Shadingthecityfromthedawningday，Amountaininterceptsitsearlyray。
　　XIX
　　Twocrystalstreamsthewealthycityscower；
　　Whosecurrents，partedintomanyarill，Infinitegardens，neverbareofflower，Orstriptofleaf，withgratefulmurmurfill:
　　'TissaidtheperfumedwatersareofpowerSoplenteouslytheyswelltoturnamill；
　　Andthatwhoeverwanderthroughthestreets，Scent，issuingfromeachhome，acloudofsweets。
　　XX
　　Thenthehigh-streetgaysignsoftriumphwore，Coveredwithshowyclothsofdifferentdye，Whichdeckthewalls，whilesylvanleavesinstore，Andscentedherbsuponthepavementlie。
　　Adornediseverywindow，everydoor，Withcarpetingandfinestdrapery；
　　Butmorewithladiesfair，andrichlydrest，Incostlyjewelsandingorgeousvest。
　　XXI
　　Withinthecitygatesinfrolicsport，Manyareseentoplythefestivedance；
　　AndheretheburghersofthebettersortUpontheirgayandwell-traptcoursersprance。
　　Afairershowremains；thesumptuouscourtOfbaronsboldandvassals，whoadvance，Garnishedwithwhatcouldbeprocured，oforeAndpearl，fromIndandErythraeanshore。
　　XXII
　　ForwardSirGryphonpricked，withhisarray，Surveying，hereandthere，thewholeatease；
　　Whenthemaknightarrestedbytheway，Andsuchhiswontandnaturalcourtesies
　　Obligedbeneathhispalace-rooftostay；
　　Whereheletnoughtbewantingwhichmightplease；
　　Andchearfullytheguests，withbathrestored，Nextwelcomedathiscostlysupper-board；
　　XXIII
　　Andtoldhowhe，who，Norandinohight，DamascusandallSyria'skingdomswayed，Nativeandforeignerhadbadeinvite，Onwhomtheswordofknighthoodhadbeenlaid，Toafairjoust，whichatthemorrow'slight，Ensuing，inthesquarewastobemade。
　　Wheretheymightshow，andwithoutfurtherfaring，Iftheyhadvalourequaltotheirbearing。
　　XXIV
　　Gryphon，thoughhecamenotthatjousttosee，Acceptsthechallengeofthecavalier；
　　Forwhenoccasionserves，itcannotbeAnevilusetomakeourworthappear:
　　Thenquestionedmoreofthatsolemnity；——
　　If'twereawontedfeast，heldeveryyear，Ornewemprise；bywhich，inmartialcourse，Themonarchwouldassayhiswarriors'force——
　　XXV
　　“ThegorgeousfeastourmonarchwilldisplayEachfourthsucceedingmoon，“thebaronsaid；
　　“Thisisthefirstthatyouwillnowsurvey；
　　Nonehavebeenheldbeside。ThecausewhichbredThesolemnusageis，thatonsuchdayThekingfromsovereignperilsavedhishead，Afterfourmonths，consumedindolefulwise，'Midtearsandgroans，withdeathbeforehiseyes。
　　XXVI
　　“Ourmonarch，whoisnamedkingNorandineFullytoyouthemattertorecite，Throughmanyandmanyayearforherdidpine，Aboveallotherdamselsfairandbright，ThekingofCyprus'daughter；whom，infine，Espoused，he，withhisbride，anddame，andknight，Towaituponherhome，afairarray，TowardshisSyrianrealmhadshapedhisway。
　　XXVII
　　“ButaswescouredthefellCarpathiansea，Withflowingsheet，atdistancefromtheshore，Astormassailedus，ofsuchcruelty，Thetempestevenscaredourpilothoar。
　　Driftingthreedaysandnightsatrandom，weOurdeviouscourse'midthreateningwavesexplore；
　　Then，wetandweary，land'midverdanthills，Betweenwell-shadedandrefreshingrills。
　　XXVIII
　　“Weourpavilionspitch，and，'midthosegroves，Joyfullystrainourawningsoverhead；
　　Andkitchensthereconstruct，andrusticstoves，Andcarpetsfortheintendedbanquetspread。
　　Meanwhilethroughneighbouringvalethemonarchroves，Andsecretwood，scarcepervioustothetread，Seekingreddeer，goat，fallow-buck，anddoe；
　　And，followinghim，twoservantsbearhisbow。
　　XXIX
　　“While，withmuchsolace，seatedinaround，Wefromthechaceexpectourlord'sreturn，Approachingusalongtheshore，astound，Theorc，thatfearfulmonster，wediscern。
　　Godgrant，fairsir，henevermayconfoundYoureyesightwithhissemblancefoulandstern！
　　Betteritisofhimbyfametohear，Thantobeholdhimbyapproachingnear。
　　XXX
　　“Tocalculatethegrieslymonster'sheight，Someasurelessisheexceedsallskill；
　　Offungus-hue，inplaceoforbsofsight，Theirsocketstwosmallboneslikeberriesfill。
　　Towardsus，asIsay，hespeedsoutrightAlongtheshore，andseemsamovinghill。
　　Tusksjuttingoutlikesavageswineheshows，Abreastwithdrivelfoul，andpointednose。
　　XXXI
　　“Running，themonstercomes，andbearshissnoutInguiseofbrach，whoentersonthetrail。
　　Wewhobeholdhimflyahelplessrout，Whereverterrordrives，withvisagepale。
　　'Tislittlecomfort，thatheiswithoutEye-sight，whowindshisplunderinthegale，Betterthanaughtpossestofscentandsight:
　　Andwingandplumewereneededforourflight。
　　XXXII
　　“Somehere，sometheremakeoff，butlittlegainByflyinghim；forswifteristhepestThanthesouthwind。Offorty，ten，withpain，Swimmingaboardthebarkinsafetyrest。
　　UnderhisarmsomewretchesofourtrainHepacked，noremptylefthislaporbreast:
　　Andloadedacapaciousscripbeside，Which，likeashepherd's，tohiswaistwastied。
　　XXXIII
　　“Ustohisdenthesightlessmonstercarried，Hollowedwithinarock，upontheshore；
　　Ofsnowymarblewasthatcavernquarried，Aswhiteasleaf，unstainedbyinkyscore。
　　Withhimwithinthecaveamatrontarried，Whomarkedbygriefandpainavisagewore。
　　Withherwerewifeandmaid，anumerouscourt，Bothfairandfoul，ofeveryageandsort。
　　XXXIV
　　“Largeastheother，andthatgrottonear，Almostuponthesummitoftherock，Anothercavernwascontrived，torear，Andfromtheweatherfendhiswoollyflock，Whichhestillherdedthroughthechangefulyear；
　　Sonumerous，itwerehardtocounthisstock:
　　Wontindueseasonthesetopenorloose，Andplaytheshepherdmoreforsportthanuse。
　　XXXV
　　“Thefleshofmanhesavouredmorethansheep，Andthis，beforehereachedthecave，wasseen。
　　Threeyouthsofours，ereyetheclimbedthesteep，Hearealive，orratherswallowedclean；
　　Thenmovedthestone，whichclosedthatcaverndeep，Andlodgedusthere。Withthat，topasturegreenHisflockheled，aswont，themeadsamong，Soundingthepipewhichathisneckwashung。
　　XXXVI
　　“Ourlord，meanwhile，returningtothestrand，Thelosswhichhehadsufferedcomprehends；
　　Forindeepsilence，uponeveryhand，Throughemptytentandhutthemonarchwends:
　　Norwhohasrobbedhimcanbeunderstand；
　　Andfullofterrortothebeachdescends；
　　WhencehehissailorsintheoffingseesUnmoorandspreadtheircanvastothebreeze。
　　XXXVII
　　“AssoonasNorandinowasinview，TheylaunchedandsenttheirpinnacetoconveyThemonarchthence:buthenosoonerknewOfthefellorc，andthosehemadehisprey，Thenhe，withoutmorethought，wouldhimpursueAndfollow，wheresoe'erhebenthisway。
　　ToloseLucinaissuchcruelpain，Thatlifeisloathsomesaveheherregain。
　　XXXVIII
　　“WhenonthenewlyprintedsandhiseyesNorandinefixt，hewiththeswiftnessspedWithwhichtherageofloveamansupplies，UntilhereachedthecaveofwhichIsaid，Wherewe，enduringgreateragoniesThane'erweresuffered，thereawaitindreadTheorc，anddeemateverysoundwehear，Thefamishedbruteabouttore-appear。
　　XXXIX
　　“ThemonarchtothecavedidFortuneguide，Whentheorc'swifealonewasinthelair。
　　Seeingtheking:`Fly！——Woetothee！'shecried
　　`Shouldtheorctakethee！'——`WoefuleverywhereIcannotchoosebutbe，'thekingreplied
　　`Whetherbetakeormissme，killorspare。
　　NothitherIbychancehavewandered，I
　　Comewithdesirebesidemywifetodie。'
　　XXX
　　“HeafterwardsthedamefortidingspressedOfthosetheorchadtakenontheshore；
　　AndofLucinaabovealltherest；
　　Ifslainorprisonerkept。Withkindlylore，SheNorandino，inreturn，addressed；
　　AndsaidLucinalived，norneedhemoreHaveofherfuturesafetyanydread，Fortheorconfleshofwomanneverfed。
　　XLI
　　“`Ofthisyoumaybeholdtheproofinme，Andalltheseotherdameswhowithmedwell；
　　Norme，northemtheorcoffends，soweDepartnoteverfromthiscavernedcell。
　　Butvainlywhowouldfromherprisonflee，Hopespeaceorpardonfromourtyrantfell:
　　Buriedalive，orboundwithgridingband，Of，inthesun，striptnakedonthesand。
　　XLII
　　“`Whenhitherheto-dayconveyedyourcrew，Thefemalesfromthemalesheseverednot；
　　But，ashetookthem，inconfusionthrewAllhehadcaptivemade，intothatgrot。
　　Hewillscentouttheirsex；nottremble，you，Lesthethewomenslay:theothers'lotIsfixt；and，offourmenorsixa-day，Besurethegreedyorcwillmakehisprey。
　　XLIII
　　“`IhavenocounselforyouhowtofreeThelady；butcontentthyselftohear，Sheinnodangerofherlifewillbe，Whowillourlot，ingoodorevil，share。
　　Butgo，forloveofHeaven，myson，lesttheeThemonstersmell，andonthybodyfare；
　　Forwhenarrived，hesniffsaboutthehouse，And，suchhissubtlescent，canwindamouse。'
　　XLIV
　　“Tohertheamorousmonarchmadereply，Thathethecavewouldnotabandon，ereHesawLucina，andnearhertodie，Thantolivefarfromher，esteemedmoredear——
　　SeeingthatshecannothingmoresupplyFittedtoshakethepurposeofthepeer，Uponanewdesignthematronhits。
　　Pursuedwithallherpains，withallherwits。
　　XLV
　　“WithslaughteredsheepandgoatwasevermoreThecavernfilled，thenumerousflock'sincrease，Whichservedherandherhouseholdasastore；
　　Andfromtheceilingdangledmanyafleece。
　　ThedamemadeNorandinofromahoarAndhugehe-goat'sfatbowelstakethegrease，Andwiththesuetallhismemberspay，Untilhedrovehisnaturalscentaway。
　　XLVI
　　“AndwhenshethoughthehadimbibedthesmellWhichtherankgoatexhales，shetookthehide，Andmadehimcreepintotheshaggyfell；
　　Whowaswellcoveredbythatmantlewide。
　　HiminthisstrangedisguiseshefromthecellCrawlingforsuchwashercommanddidguide，Where，prisonedbyastone，inherretreat，Washidhisbeauteouslady'svisagesweet。
　　XLVII
　　“KinNorandine，asbid，tookuphisgroundBeforethecavern，onthegreenswardlaid，ThathemightenterwiththeflockwhowoundHomeward；andlongingsore，tilleveningstayed。
　　Atevehehearsthehollowelder'ssound，Uponwhosepipesthewontedtunewasplayed，Callinghissheepfrompasturetotheirrock，Bythefellswainwhostalkedbehindhisflock。
　　XLVIII
　　“Thinkifhisheartistremblingatitscore，WhenNorandinohearstheapproachingstrains；
　　Andnowadvancingtothecaverndoor，Thesightofthatterrificfacesustains！
　　Butiffearshookhim，pitymovedhimmore:
　　Youseeifheloveswelloronlyfeigns！
　　Theorcremovedthestone，unbarredthecote，Andthekingentered，amidsheepandgoat。
　　XLIX
　　“Hisflocksohoused，toustheorcdescended，Butfirsthadcarethecaverndoortoclose:
　　Thenscentedallabout，andhavingendedHisquest，twowretchesforhissupperchose。
　　Soisremembrancebythismealoffended，Itmakesmetrembleyet:thisdone，hegoes；
　　Andbeinggone，thekinghisgoatishvestCastsoff，andfoldshisladytohisbreast。
　　L
　　“Whereasshehimwithpleasureshoulddescry，She，seeinghim，butsuffersgriefandpain。
　　Sheseeshimthitherbutarrivedtodie，Whocannothinderherfrombeingslain。
　　`“Twasnosmalljoy'midallthewoes，that。'
　　TohimexclaimedLucina，'heresustain。
　　Thatthouwertnotamongusfoundto-day，WhenhitherIwasbrought，themonster'sprey。
　　LI
　　“`ForthoughtofindmyselfabouttoleaveThislifebebitterandafflictmesore，Suchisourcommoninstinct，IshouldgrieveButformyself；butwhetherthee，beforeOfafterme，theorcoflifebereave，AssurethyselfthydeathwillpainmemoreThanmine。'AndthusthedamepersiststomoanMoreNorandino'sdangerthanherown。
　　LII
　　“`Ahopeconductsmehere，'themonarchsaid，`Tosavetheeandthyfollowerseveryone；
　　And，ifIcannot，Iwerebetterdead，Thanlivingwithoutlightofthee，mysun！
　　Itrusttoscape，ashitherIhavespied；
　　Asyeshallall，if，asourselveshavedone，Tocompassourdesign，youdonotshrinkToimbueyourbodieswiththeloathsomestink。'
　　LIII
　　“Thetrickhetold，wherewiththemonster'ssmellTocheat，asfirsttohimthewifehadtold:
　　Inanycasetocloatheusinthefell，Thathemayfeelisissueingfromthefold。
　　Asmanymenaswomeninthecell，Weslaypersuadedbythemonarchbold
　　Asmanygoatsaswithournumbersquare，Ofthosewhichstinkthemostandoldestare。
　　LIV
　　“WesmearedourbodieswiththefruitfulgreaseWhichroundaboutthefatintestineslay，Andcloathedourbodieswiththeshaggyfleece:
　　Thiswhilefromgoldendwellingbroketheday。
　　Andnow，hisflockreturningtorelease，Weviewedtheshepherd，withthedawningray；
　　Who，givingbreathtothesonorousreeds，Pipedforthhisprisonedflocktohillandmeads。
　　LV
　　“Heheldhishandbeforetheopenedlair，Lestwiththeherdweissuedfromtheden，Andstoptusshort；butfeelingwoolorhairUponourbodies，letusgoagain。
　　Bysuchastrangedevicewerescuedwere，Cloathedinourshaggyfleeces，damesandmen:
　　Noranyissuingthencethemonsterkept，Tillthither，sorealarmed，Lucinacrept。
　　LVI
　　“Lucina——whethersheabhorredthescent，And，likeusothers，loathedherselftosmear，——OrwhetherwithaslowergaitshewentThanmightlikethepretendedbeast'sappear，——Orwhether，whentheorcherbodyhent，Herdreadsomasteredher，shescreamedforfear，——Orthatherhairescapedfromneckorbrow，Wasknown；norcanIwellinformyouhow。
　　LVII
　　“Sowereweallintentonourowncase，Weforanother'sdangerhadnoeyes:
　　Him，turningatthescream。IsawuncaseAlreadyherwhomhehadmadehisprize，AndforcehertothecaverntoretraceHersteps:we，couchinginourquaintdisguise，Wendwiththeflock，whereustheshepherdleads，Throughverdantmountains，intopleasantmeads。
　　LVIII
　　“Thereweawaited，tillbeneaththeshadeSecure，wesawthebeakedorcasleep；
　　Whenonealongtheshoreofoceanmade，Andonebetookhimtothemountainsteep。
　　KingNorandinehislovealonedelayed；
　　Whowouldreturndisguisedamongthesheep，Norfromtheplacedepart，whileliferemained，Unlesshisfaithfulconsortheregained。
　　LIX
　　“Forwhenbefore，ontheflockissuingout，Hesawherprisonedinthecavealone，Intotheorc'swidethroathewasaboutTospring；sogriefhadreasonoverthrown，Andheadvancedeventothemonster'ssnout，And，butbylittle，scapedthegrindingstone:
　　Yethimthehopedetainedamidtheflock，TrustingtobearLucinafromtherock。
　　LX
　　“Theorc，ateve，whentothecaveagainHebringstheherd，norfindsusinthestall，Andknowsthathemustsupperlessremain，Lucinaguiltyofthewholedoescall，Condemnedtostand，fastgirdedwithachain，Inopenair，uponthesummittall。
　　Thekingwhocausedherwoes，withpityingeyeLookson，andpines，——andonlycannotdie。
　　LXI
　　“Morningandevening，her，lamentingsore，Evertheunhappylovermightsurvey；
　　WhattimehegrievingwentafieldbeforeTheissuingflock，orhomewardtookhisway。
　　She，withsadface，andsuppliantevermore，SignedthatforloveofHeavenhewouldnotstay；
　　Sincetherehetarriedatgreatriskoflife。
　　Norcouldinanythingassisthiswife。
　　LXII
　　“Sotheorc'swife，aswelluponherside，Imploredhimtodepart，butmovedhimnought；
　　TogowithoutLucinahedenied，Andbutremainedmoreconstantinhisthought。
　　Inthissadservitudehelongwastried，ByLoveandPitybound:tillFortunebroughtApairofwarriorstotherockywon，Gradasso，andAgrican'sredoubtedson:
　　LXIII
　　“Where，withtheirarmssowroughtthechampionsbrave，TheyfreedLucinafromthechainsshewore，ThoughheWitlessthanFortuneservedinsave
　　Andrunningtotheseatheirburdenbore:
　　Hertoherfather，whowasthere，theygave。
　　Thiswasatmorn，wheninthecavernhoar，Mixtwiththegoats，kingNorandinostood，Whichruminating，chewedtheirgrassyfood:
　　LXIV
　　“Butwhen，atday-light，'twasunbarred，andnowHewasinstructedthathiswifewasgone；
　　Fortheorc'sconsorttoldthetale，andhow，Ineverypoint，thethingrehearsedwasdone；
　　HethankedhisGod，andbegged，withpromisedvow，That，since'twasgrantedhersuchilltoshun，Hewoulddirecthiswifetosomerepair，Whencehemightfreeher，byarms，gold，orprayer。
　　LXV
　　“Togetherwiththeflat-nosedherdhiswayHetook，andforgreenmeadsrejoicingmade。
　　Hehereexpected，tillthemonsterlayExtended，underneaththegloomyshade:
　　Thenjourneyedallthenightandalltheday；
　　Till，ofthecruelorcnomoreafraid，HeclimbedabarkonSatalia'sstrand，And，threedayspast，arrivedonSyrianland。
　　LXVI
　　“InCyprus，andinRhodes，bytowerandtown，WhichinnearEgypt，Turkey，orAfriclay，ThekingbadeseekLucinaupanddown，Norcouldhearnewsofhertilltheotherday。
　　Theotherday，hisfather-in-lawmadeknownHehadhersafewithhim。WhatcausedherstayInNicosiawasacruelgaleWhichhadlongtimebeenadversetohersail。
　　LXVII
　　“Theking，forpleasureofthetidingstrue，Preparesthecostlyfeastinsolemnstate；
　　AndwilloneachfourthmoonthatshallensueMakeone，resemblingthiswecelebrate。
　　Pleasedofthattimethememorytorenew，Thathe，intheorc'scavern，hadtowait，——Forfourmonthsandaday——whichisto-morrow；
　　Whenhewasrescuedfromsuchcruelsorrow。
　　LXVIII
　　“ThethingsrelatedIinpartdescried，Andfromhim，presentatthewhole，heardmore；
　　FromNorandine，throughcalendandthroughide，Pent，tillhechangedtosmileshisanguishsore:
　　Andiffromotheryouhearaughtbeside，Say，heisillinstructedinhislore。”
　　TheSyriangentlemandidthusdisplayTheoccasionofthatfeastandfairarray。
　　LXIX
　　Largeportionofthenight，inlikediscourse，Wasbythosecavalierstogetherspent，WhodeemedthatLoveandPity'smickleforceWasprovedinthatsodreadexperiment；
　　Thenrising，whenthesupper'ssumptuouscourseWascleared，togoodandpleasantlodgingswent；
　　And，astheensuingmorningfairlybroke，Tosoundsoftriumphandrejoicingwoke。
　　LXX
　　Thecirclingdrums'andtrumpets'echoingstrainAssembleallthetownwithinthesquare；
　　Andnow，whenmixtwithsoundofhorseandwain，Loudoutcriesthroughthestreetsrepeatedare，SirGryphondonshisglitteringarmsagain，Apanoplyofthoseesteemedmostrare；
　　Whosemail，impassablebyspearorbrand，She，thewhitefay，hadtemperedwithherhand。
　　LXXI
　　ThemanofAntiochinhiscompany，Armedhimarecreantworsethanhewasnone，Providedbytheirlandlord'scourtesyWithsturdyspearsandgood，thecoursetorun；
　　Whowithhiskindred，afairchivalry，Tobringthewarriorstothesquareisgone；
　　Withsquiresafootandmounteduponsteeds，Whomhebestowed，asaptestfortheirneeds。
　　LXXII
　　Theyinthesquarearrivedandstoodaside，Norofthemselvesawhilewouldmakedisplay；
　　BettertoseethemartialgallantsrideBytwosandthrees，orsingly，tothefray。
　　Onetold，bycolourscunninglyallied，Hisjoyorsorrowtohisladygay；
　　One，withapaintedLoveoncrestorshield，Ifshewerecruelorwerekind，revealed。
　　LXXIII
　　ItwastheSyrians'practiseinthatageToarmtheminthisfashionofthewest。
　　HaplythissprungoutoftheirvicinageAndconstantcommercewiththeFranks，possestInthosedaysofthesacredheritage，ThatGodincarnatewithhispresenceblest；
　　Whichnow，tothemabandonedbythetrainOfwretchedChristians，heathenhoundsprofane。
　　LXXIV
　　God'sworshippers，wheretheyshouldcouchthelance，Forfurtheranceofhisholyfaithandtrue，Againsteachother'sbreastthespearadvance，Tothedestructionofthefaithfulfew。
　　YoumenofSpain，andyou，yemenofFrance，AndSwitzers，turnyourstepselsewhere，andyou，YeGermans，worthierempiretoacquire；
　　ForthatiswonforChrist，whichyoudesire。
　　LXXV
　　IfverilymostChristianyouwouldbe，——Ispeaktoyou，thatcatholicarehight——
　　WhyslainbyyouChrist'speopledoIsee?
　　Whereforearetheydespoiledoftheirright?
　　WhyseekyounotJerusalemtofreeFromrenegades?ByTurkishMoslemiteImpure，whyisByzantium，withthebestAndfairestportionoftheworld，possest?
　　LXXVI
　　ThouSpain，hastthounotfruitfulAfricnigh?
　　AndhasshenotinsoothoffendedmoreThanItaly?yethertoscathe，thathigh，Andnoble，enterprizewiltthougiveo'er。
　　Alas！thousleepest，drunkenItaly，Ofeveryviceandcrimethefetidsewer！
　　Norgrievest，asahand-maid，toobey，Inturn，thenationsthathaveownedthysway。
　　LXXVII
　　Iffearoffamishingwithinthycave，Switzer，doestheetoLombardyconvey，Andthou，amongourpeople，dostbutcraveAhandtogivetheedailybread，orslay，——
　　TheTurkhasreadywealth；acrossthewave，DrivehimfromEuropeorfromGreeceaway:
　　SoshaltthouinthosepartshavewherewithalTofeedthyhunger，ormorenoblyfall。
　　LXXVIII
　　ItotheGermanneighbourofthylairSaywhatIsaytothee；thewealtho'thewest，WhichConstantinebroughtofffromRome，isthere——
　　Broughtoffthechoicest，gaveawaytherest——
　　TheregoldenHermusandPactolusare，MygdoniaandLydia:northatcountryblest，Whichmanytalesformanypraisesnote，Ifthouwouldstthitherwend，istooremote。
　　LXXIX
　　ThoumightyLion，thatartchargedtokeepThekeysofParadise，aweightycare，Oh！letnotItalylieplungedinsleep，Ifthystronghandisplantedinherhair。
　　Tothee，hisshepherd，God，toguidehissheep，Hasgiventhatwandandfuriousnametobear；
　　Thatthoumay'stroar，andwidethinearmsextend，Andsofromgreedywolvesthyflockdefend。
　　LXXX
　　ButwhitherhaveIroved！whoevermoreSofromonetopictotheotherstray?
　　YetthinknotItheroadIkeptbeforeTohavemissedsofar，butIcanfindmyway。
　　Isaid，theSyriansthenobservedtheloreOrarmingliketheChristiansofthatday。
　　SothatDamascus'crowdedsquarewasbrightWithcorslet，plate，andhelmofbeltedknight。
　　LXXXI
　　ThelovelyladiesfromtheirscaffoldsthrowUponthejoustersyellowflowersandred；
　　Whilethese，asloudthebrazentrumpetsblow，Maketheirsteedsleapandwheelandproudlytread。
　　Each，rodehewellorill，hisartwouldshow，Andwiththegoringspurhiscourserbled。
　　Hencethisgoodcavalierearnsfameandpraise，Whileothersscornfulhootsandlaughterraise。
　　LXXXII
　　Asuitofarmswasprizeoftheassay，Presentedtothekingsomedaysbefore；
　　WhichlateamerchantfounduponthewayReturningfromArmenia；thisthemoreTograce，avest，withnoblesttissuegay，TheSyriankingsubjoined，sopowderedo'erWithjewels，gold，andpearlsinrichdevice，Theymadethemeedathingofpassingprice。
　　LXXXIII
　　Ifthegoodkinghadknownthepanoply，Thishehadheldaboveallothersdear；
　　Northishadgiven，asfullofcourtesy，Tobecontentedforwithswordandspear。
　　'TwerelongtotellwhosounworthilyHaderstmistreatedthusthegoodlygear，Thatlaythewaytheharnesshadbeenstrowed，Apreytowhosoeverpasttheroad。
　　LXXXIV
　　Ofthisyoumoreinotherplaceshallhear。
　　OfGryphonnowItell，whoatthejustArrived，sawbrokenmanyaknightlyspear，Andmorethanonegoodstrokeandonegoodthrust。
　　Eightweretherewhomadeleaguetogether，dearToNorandine，andheldinsovereigntrust；
　　Youthsquickinarmsandpractisedintheshock:
　　Alllords，orscionsofillustriousstock。
　　LXXXV
　　Atopenbarriers，onebyone，theplaceTheykeptagainstallcomersforaday；
　　Atfirstwithlance，andnextwithswordormace，Whilethemthekingdelightedtosurvey。
　　Ofttimestheypiercethecorslet'sironcase，Andeverythinginfineperforminplay，Whichfoemendothatdeadlyweaponsmeasure，Savethatthekingmaypartthemathispleasure。
　　LXXXVI
　　ThatwitlessAntiochite，who，worthily，BynamewascowardlyMartanohight，Thinking，becausehiscomrade，hemustbePartakerofthenobleGryphon'smight，Intothemartialpressridesvaliantly，Thenstops；andtheissueofafuriousfight，Whichhadbegunbetweentwocavaliers，Towait，retiringfromthestrife，appears。
　　LXXXVII
　　Seleucia'slord，ofthosecompanionsone，Combinedinthatemprizetokeeptheplace，WhothenacoursewithboldOmbrunorun，Woundedtheunhappywarriorinmid-face，Sothatheslewhim；mournedbyeveryone，Whoasaworthyknightthewarriorgrace，Andoverandabovehisworth，beforeAllothers，holdhimforhiscourteouslore。
　　LXXXVIII
　　WhenvileMartanofromhisplacediscernedThefatewhichmightbehiswithfearfuleye，Intohiscravennaturebereturned，Andstraightbegantothinkhowhemightfly:
　　ButhimfromflightthewatchfulGryphonturned，And，aftermuchado，withactandcry，Urgedhimagainstaknightupontheground，Asattheraveningwolfmenslipthehound。
　　LXXXIX
　　Whowillpursuethebrindledbeastforten，Ortwentyyards，and，after，stoptobay；
　　Whenhebeholdshisflashingeyes，andwhenHeseesthegrieslybeasthisteethdisplay。
　　'Twasthus，beforethosevaliantgentlemenAndprinces，presentthereinfairarray，FearfulMartano，seizedwithpanicdread，Turnedtotherighthiscourser'sreinandhead。
　　XC
　　Yethewhowouldexcusethesuddenwheel，Uponhiscoursermighttheblamebestow:
　　But，after，hesoillhisstrokesdiddeal，Demostheneshiscausemightwellforego。
　　Withpaperarmedheseems，andnotwithsteel，Soshrinksheatthewindofeveryblow:
　　Atlengthhebreakstheorderedchampionsthrough，Amidloudlaughterfromthecirclingcrew。
　　XCI
　　Clappingofhands，andcries，ateveryturn，Wereheardfromallthatrubblewidelyspread。
　　AsawolfsorelyhuntedmakesreturnToearth，tohisretreatMartanofled。
　　Gryphonremained，andsulliedwiththescornEsteemedhimself，whichonhismatewasshed；
　　Andratherthanbethere，he，inhisire，Wouldgladlyfindhimselfi'themidstoffire。
　　XCII
　　Withburningheart，andvisageredwithshame，Hethinkstheknight'sdisgraceisallhisown，Becausebydeedslikehiswithwhomhecame，Heweensthemobexpectstoseehimknown。
　　SothatitnowbehoveshisvalourflameMoreclearthanlight，orthey，tocensureprone，——Errsheafinger'sbreadth——aninch——willswellHisfault，andofthatinchwillmakeanell。
　　XCIII
　　AlreadyhethelanceuponhisthighHasrested，littleusedtomissthefoe:
　　Thenmakeswithflowingreinhiscourserfly，Andnext，somedealadvanced，directstheblow；
　　And，smiting，putstothelastagonySidonia'syouthfullord，byhimlaidlow。
　　O'ercomewithwondereachassistantrises，Whomsoretheunexpecteddeedsurprises。
　　XCIV
　　Gryphonreturned，anddidtheweaponwield。
　　Wholeandrecovered，whichhecouchedbefore，AndinthreepiecesbrokeitontheshieldWhichboldLaodicea'sbaronbore。
　　ThriceoffourtimesabouttopressthefieldHeseemed，andlayalongthecrupper，soreAstound；yetroseatlength，unsheathedhisblade，Wheeledhisgoodcourser，andatGryphonmade。
　　XCV
　　Gryphon，whoinhissaddleseesthepeerAdvancingtowardshim，norunseatedbyTheencounter，says:“ThefailureofthespearInafewstrokesthesabreshallsupply；“
　　Andonhistemplessmoteastrokesoshear，Itseemedthatitdescendedfromthesky；
　　Andmatcheditwithanother，andagainAnother，tillhestretchedhimontheplain。
　　XCVI
　　HeretwogoodbrothersofApamiawere，Intourneywonttohavetheupperhand:
　　CorimbonamedandThyrsiswasthepair；
　　BothoverturnedbyGryphonontheland。
　　Oneattheencounterlefthissaddlebare，OntheotherGryphonusedhistrenchantbrand:
　　Thisvaliantknight，was，inthecommontrust，Suretoobtainthehonoursofthejust。
　　XCVII
　　BoldSalinterno，midthewarliketrain，Wasinthelists，vizierandmarshalhight，Whohadthegovernmentofallthatreign，Andwas，withal，apuissantmanofmight:
　　Thetourney'sprizehesees，withmuchdisdain，Abouttobeborneoffbyforeignknight。
　　Alancehesnatches，andtoGryphoncries，Andhimwithmanymenacesdefies。
　　XCVIII
　　Buthemakesanswerwithamassyspear，Outoftenotherschosenasthebest；
　　Andlevellingatthebucklerofthepeer，Forgreatersurety，piercesplateandbreast。
　　'Twixtribandrib，itboredthecavalier，Issuingapalmbehind。Toalltherest，Thekingexcepted，welcomewastheblow:
　　ForeachwasgreedySalinterno'sfoe。
　　XCIX
　　TwoofDamascusnextSirGryphonsped，HermophiloandCarmondo。This，arraidUnderhisflag，theking'smilitialed；
　　Thatwasaslordhighadmiralobeyed。
　　Thislightlyattheshockonearthwasshed，Andthat，reversed，uponthegroundo'erlaidByhisweakhorse，toofeebletowithstandSirGryphon'smightypushandpuissanthand。
　　C
　　YetinthefieldremainedSeleucia'sknight，Thebestofalltheothersevenatneed；
　　AndonewhowellaccompaniedhismightWithperfectarmourandagallantsteed。
　　Bothatthehelmet，whereitlocks，takesight，Andwiththeirspearstotheencounterspeed:
　　ButGryphonhardestsmote，whosepaynimfoeLosthisleftstirrup，staggeredbytheblow。
　　CI
　　Theycastthetruncheonsdown，theircourserswheel，And，fullofdaring，withdrawnfalchionsclose。
　　SirGryphonwasthefirstastroketodeal，Whichmighthavesplitananvil；attheblow'sDescent，theshieldissplintered——boneandsteel——
　　Thishaditslordmidthousandotherschose；
　　And，but'twasdouble，andthecoataswell，Theswordhadcleftthethighonwhichitfell。
　　CII
　　HeofSeleuciaatSirGryphon'scasque，Atthesametime，sofellablowaddrest，Itwouldhaverentandtorntheironmask，Haditnotbeenenchantedliketherest。
　　Thepaynim'slabourisafruitlesstask，OfarmssohardSirGryphonispossest；
　　Whohasthefoe'salreadycleftandbrokeInmanyparts，northrownawayastroke。
　　CIII
　　EachonemightseehowmuchSeleucia'slordWasovermatchedbyGryphon，andthatday，Theworstedmenhadperishedbythesword，Hadnotthemonarchquicklystoptthefray。
　　TohisguardkingNorandinospaketheword，Andbadethementer，andtheduelstay:
　　Theyparttheknight，whomtheyasunderbear，Andmuchthekingislaudedforhiscare。
　　CIV
　　Theeight，whohadtokeepthefieldpretendedFromalltheworld，noryettheirparthaddoneOnasoleknight，——theirquarrelilldefended，——
　　Hadvanishedfromthetilt-yardonebyone。
　　Theothers，whowiththemshouldhavecontended，Stoodidle；fortoanswerthemwasnone。
　　SinceGryphonhadforestalled，inthedebate，Whattheyshouldallhavedoneagainstthoseeight；
　　CV
　　And，forsuchlittletimeenduredtheplay，Lessthananhoursufficedtofinishall。
　　ButNorandine，thepastimetodelay，Andtocontinueittilleven-fall，Descendingfromhisplace，badecleartheway；
　　Andthehugesquaddivided，athiscall，Intotwotroops，whom，rankedbybloodandmight，Themonarchformed，andmarchedforotherfight。
　　CVI
　　SirGryphon，duringthis，hadmadereturnHomeward，withangerandwithfurystung；
　　LessthinkingofhishonoursthatthescornWhichonthevileMartanohadbeenflung。
　　Hence，fromhimselftheopprobriousshametoturn，Martanonowemployshislyingtongue；
　　Andshe，thefalseandcunningcourtezan，Assistshiminhisschemeasbestshecan。
　　CVII
　　Whethertheyouthbelievedthetaleorno，Hetheexcusereceived，likeonediscreet；
　　Anddeemeditbestforthematoncetogo，Andsecretlyandsilentlyretreat，Forfear，thatifthepopulaceshouldknowMartanobase，theyhimmightillentreat。
　　So，byshortwaysandclose，theyquittheabode，Andissuefromthegatesupontheirroad。
　　CVIII
　　SirGryphon，washeorhishorseforedoneWithtoil，orwasitsleephiseyesdownweighed，Ereyetthetroopbeyondtwomileshadgone，Atthefirstinnuponthehighwaystayed。
　　Hedoffedhisarmourall，andmorion，Andhadthesteedsoftrappingsdisarrayed；
　　Andnextalonehetoachambersped，Lockedhimselfin，undrest，andwenttobed。
　　CIX
　　Nosoonerhehisheadhadrestedthere，Than，withdeepsleepopprest，heclosedhiseye:
　　Soheavily，nobadgersintheirlair，Ordormice，overcomewithslumber，lie。
　　MartanoandOrigille，totaketheair，Enteredthiswhileagardenwhichwasnigh；
　　Andtherethestrangestfraudtogetherbred，Whicheverenteredintomortalhead。
　　CX
　　MartanoschemedtotakeawaythesteedAndgear，inwhichSirGryphonhadbeendight，Andstandbeforethemonarch，intheweedOfhimwhohadinjoustsoprovedhismight。
　　Ashehadshapedinthought，hedidthedeed:
　　Hetookawaythewarrior'shorse，morewhiteThanmilk，hisbuckler，surcoat，arms，andcrest；
　　InallSirGryphon'sknightlyensignsdrest。
　　CXI
　　He，whowascladintrappingsnothisown，Liketheassmantledinthelion'shide，Asheexpected，totheking，unknown，WascalledinplaceofGryphon:whendescriedOrNorandine，herisingfromhisthrone，Embracedandkissed，andplacedhimbyhisside:
　　Nordeemsenoughtopraiseandholdhimdear，Butwillsthatallaroundhispraiseshouldhear:
　　CXII
　　Andbidsthemthesonorousmetalblow，Proclaiminghimtheconquerorofthatday:
　　Androundaboutloudvoices，highandlow，Theunworthynamethroughoutthelistsconvey。
　　Hewillsthat，sidebyside，withhimshallgoTheknight，whenhomewardheshalltakehisway；
　　Andhimsuchfavourshows，intenttoplease，AsmighthavehonouredMarsorHercules。
　　CXIII
　　Himlodgingsfairhegave，whereintodwellAtcourt；andshewhowiththepeerdidrideWashonouredbythecourteouskingaswell，——FalseOrigille，——withknightandpagesupplied。
　　ButitistimethatIofGryphontell；
　　Whounsuspecting，she，orwightbeside，Himwouldwithtreacherousstratagemdeceive，Hadfallenasleep，noreverwakedtilleve。
　　CXIV
　　Whenhehowlateitwas，awaking，knew，Withspeedhefromthechamberdidwithdraw；
　　Andhastenedwherehe，withtheothercrew，LeftOrigilleandherfalsebrother-in-law:
　　Andwhen，northese，nor，uponbetterview，Hisarmournorhiswontedclotheshesaw，Suspiciouswaxed；andmoresuspicionbredTheensignsofhiscomradeleftinstead。
　　CXV
　　Thehost，arriving，himatfullpossestOfeverything，——andhow，inwhitearray，Thatwarrior，withtheladyandtherest，Hadtothecitymeasuredbacktheirway。
　　Bylittleandbylittle，GryphonguessedWhatlovefromhimhadhiddentillthatday；
　　Andknew，tohisgreatsorrow，intheotherOrigille'sparamour，andnotherbrother。
　　CXVI
　　Nowhelamentingforhisfollystood，Thathavingheardthetruthsthepilgrimsaid，Heshouldhaveletherstorychangehismood，Whohimbeforesooftenhadbetrayed。
　　Hemighthavevengedhimself，nordid:——nowwou'd，Toolate，inflictthepunishmentdelaid；
　　Constrainedacryingerror！inhisneedTotakethatwilytreachour'sarmsandsteed。
　　CXVII
　　Hebetterwouldhavegonelikenakedman，Thanbracedtheunworthycuirassonhisbreast；
　　Orhastenedthedetestedshieldtospan，Orplaceuponhishelmthescornedcrest。
　　Butofthelover，andthatcourtezan，He，passionmasteringreason，tookthequest:
　　AndbendingtoDamascus'gatehisway，Arrivedanhourbeforethecloseofday。
　　CXVIII
　　OnthelefthandacastlerichlydightStoodnighthegate，towhichSirGryphonrode。
　　Besides，thatitwasstrongandarmedforfight，Filledwithrarechamberswastherichabode。
　　ThefirstofSyria，king，andlord，andknight，Andlady，inagentlegroupbestowed，Thereinanopengalleryfairlymet，Wereattheirgladandcostlysupperset。
　　CXIX
　　Withthehightowerthebeauteousgallery，clearBeyondthecity-wall，projectedout，Fromwhencemightbediscovered，farandnear，Thespaciousfieldsanddifferentroadsabout。
　　WhenGryphonnow，inhisopprobriousgear，Andarms，dishonouredbytherabble'sflout，Makes，byillfortune，tothegateresort，Hebythekingisseen，andallhiscourt；
　　CXX
　　And，takenforthemanwhosecresthewears，Indameandknightmoveslaughter，throughthering。
　　ThevileMartano，asamanwhosharesTheroyalgrace，sitsnextbelowtheking；
　　Andnext，she，whomherlovesofitlypairs；
　　WhomNorandinogailyquestioning。
　　Demandsofthem，whoisthecowardknight，Thatofhishonourmakessopassinglight；
　　CXXI
　　Who，afterfeatsobaseandfoul，anewApproaches，withsuchfrontandshamelesscheer，——Andcries，“Itseemsathingunheard，thatyou，Anexcellentandworthycavalier，Shouldtakethismanforyourcompanion，whoHasnotinallourwideLevanthispeer。
　　Didyouwithhimforcontrast-sakecombine，Thatsoyourvalourmightmorebrightlyshine?
　　CXXII
　　“——Butdidnotloveforyoumywillrestrain，Bytheeternalgods，Itrulyswear，Heshouldenduresuchignominiousstain，AsIamwonttomakehisfellowsshare:
　　HimwouldImakeofmylong-nurseddisdainOfcowardiceperpetualrecordbear。
　　Toyou，bywhomhehitherwasconveyed，Ifnowunpunished，lethisthanksbepaid。”
　　CXXIII
　　Thatvesselofallfilthyvices，he，Madeanswer:“Mightysir，IcannotsayWhoisthestranger，thatfellinwithmeJourneyingfromAntiochhither，bytheway:
　　ButhimIworthyofmycompanyDeemed，byhiswarlikesemblanceledastray。
　　Inothingofhisdeedshaveheardorseen，Savewhatillfeatsto-dayhavewitnessedbeen；
　　CXXIV
　　“Whichmovedmeso，itlittlelackedbutI，Forpunishmentofhisunworthyfear，Hadputhimoutofcaseagaintoply，Inmartialtournament，theswordorspear；
　　And，butinreverencetoyourmajestyAndpresence，Iforborebyhandtorear，Notforhissake:——norbythymercyshowedOnhim，asmycompanionontheroad；
　　CXXV
　　“Whoseformerfellowshipappearsastain；
　　Andever'twillsitheavyatmyheart，IfI，uninjured，seethewretchagain'Scape，tothescandalofthewarlikeart。
　　'Twerebetterhefromtower，aworthypain，Weregibbeted，thansufferedtodepart:
　　Hungasabeaconforthecoward'sgaze。
　　Suchwereaprincelydeed，andworthypraise。”
　　CXXVI
　　AvoucherheinOrigillahad，Whowell，withoutasign，hispurposeread。
　　“Ideemnot，“criedtheking，“hisworkssobad，Thattheyshouldcostthestrangerknighthishead:
　　Enoughthatheagainthepeopleglad，Forpenanceofhisweightysin。”Thissaid，Hequicklycalledabaronofhiscrew，Andhimenjoinedthedeedhewastodo。
　　CXXVII
　　Withmanyarmedmenthatbaronfares，Andtothecity-gatedescending，hereCollectshistroop，andfortheattemptprepares，Waitingthecomingofthecavalier；
　　Andhimsurprisessoatunawares，He，softly，'twixttwobridges，takesthepeer；
　　Andhimdetains，withmockeryandscorn，Inadarkchamber，tillreturningmorn。
　　CXXVIII
　　TheearlysunhadscarcehisgoldenhairUpliftedfromhisancientnurse'sbreast，Beginning，uponAlpineregionsbare，Tochasetheshadesandgildthemountain-crest，WhenMartan'，fearingGryphonmightdeclareHiswrong，andtothekingthetruthattest，Retortinguponhimtheslandercast，Tookleave，andthenceuponhisjourneypast。
　　CXXIX
　　HisreadywitafitexcusesuppliesWhyhestaysnot，toseetherecreantshown。
　　Heiswithothergifts，besidetheprize，Rewardedforthevictory，nothisown，Andletterspatent，drawninamplewise，Whereinhisloftyhonourswideareblown。
　　Lethimdepart；IpromiseheshallmeetAguerdonworthyofhistreacherousfeat。
　　CXXX
　　Gryphonisbroughtwithshameintothesquare，Whenitisfullythrongedwithgazingwight，Whomtheyofcuirassandofhelmetbare，Andleaveinsimplecassock，meanlydight；
　　And，astoslaughterheconductedwere，Placeonawain，conspicuoustothesight；
　　Harnessedtowhichtwosluggishcowsareseen，Wearyandweak，andwithlonghungerlean。
　　CXXXI
　　Throngingabouttheignoblecar，appearBrazen-facedboyandgirlofevilfame，Who，eachinturn，willplaythecharioteer，Andallassailtheknightwithbitterblame。
　　Theboysmightbeacauseofgreaterfear，For，joinedtomocksandmows，andwordsofshame，Thewarriortheywithvolleyedstoneswouldslay，Butthatthewiserfewtheirfurystay。
　　CXXXII
　　Thatwhichofhisdisgracehadbeentheground，Thoughnotrueevidenceofguilt，hismailAndplate，aredraggedinduedishonourround，Suspendedattheshamefulwaggon'stail。
　　Thewainisstopt，andtothetrumpet'ssound，Heralds，infrontofatribunal'spale，Hisshame，beforehiseyes，amidthecrowd，Another'sevildeedproclaimaloud。
　　CXXXIII
　　Theytaketheirprisonerthence，andsorepairInfrontoftemple，dwelling-house，andstore；
　　Noranycruelnameofmockeryspare，Norleaveunsaidawordoffilthylore；
　　Andhimatlastwithoutthecitybear:
　　Thefoolishrabble，trustingevermoreTheirthralltobanishtothesoundofblows，Whopassinglittleofitsprisonerknows。
　　CXXXIV
　　Thewarrior'sgyvesnosoonertheyundo，Andfromtheirmanaclesfreeeitherhand，ThanGryphonseizesshieldandsword，and，throughTherabble，makeslongfurrowswithhisbrand。
　　Withpikeandspearunfurnishedwasthecrew，Whowithoutweaponscame，awitlessband。
　　TherestforothercantoIsuspend，For，sir，'tistimethissongshouldhaveanend。
　　CANTO18
　　ARGUMENT
　　Gryphonisvenged。SirMandricardogoesInsearchofArgier'sking。Charleswinsthefight。
　　MarphisaNorandino'smeno'erthrows。
　　DuepainsMartano'scowardicerequite。
　　AfavouringwindMarphisa'sgalleryblows，ForFrancewithGryphonboundandmanyaknight。
　　ThefieldMedoroandCloridanotread，AndfindtheirmonarchDardinellodead。