Page:A Biographical Dictionary of the Celebrated Women of Every Age and Country (1804).djvu/34

20 of our thoughts and wishes! We become truly virtuous, only when we prize virtue more than wealth and honour!—This glorous enterprise has, as yet, succeeded, since you have passed through countries occupied by your enemies. But, it is now time that the seed should produce fruit. It is time to make a trial of your strength, since you have occasion to make a trial of your courage. Hence, then, without delay, which enfeebles the minds of most men. Be under arms at the first break of day; so that the rising sun may beam upon the victory, which the Most High promises to your charity. May my prayers draw down a blessing upon you; and, may the sight of those beautiful ladies who accompany me, animate you! If knights are accustomed to display their skill and strength, in cruel combats, for pleasure only; if they expose their lives in honour of scarce-remembered beauty; how much more ought you to make efforts for the victory! you, who by the motive of your enterprise alone, augment the glory of your name, and acquire the esteem of the world? Let not your hands, then, spare the rebels! Be your swords bathed in the biood of those who resist! Indulgence is not for those, who, whilst they can do evil, will not pardon!"

"This discourse," says the historian of Aldrude, "made the battalions flourish like a lily:—they shouted with joy, and danced to the sound of trumpets and tambourines."

No battle, however, was fought. The Archbishop fled during the night, and all the city came to render thanks to Aldrude and William, and to offer them the most magnificent presents.

The Countess returned, with her guards, to her domains, meeting many detachments of the enemy upon the