Page:The Song of Roland.djvu/131

 “Fair son Malprimes,” then says t’ him Baligant, “Was slain yestre’en the good vassal Rollanz, And Oliver, the proof and valiant, The dozen peers, whom Charles so cherished, and Twenty thousand more Frankish combatants. For all the rest I’ld not unglove my hand. But the Emperour is verily come back, —So tells me now my man, that Sulian— Ten great columns, he’s set them in their ranks; He’s a proof man who sounds that olifant, With a clear call he rallies his comrades; These at the head come cantering in advance, Also with them are fifteen thousand Franks, Young bachelors, whom Charlès calls Infants; As many again come following that band, Who will lay on with utmost arrogance.” Then says Malprimes: “The first blow I demand.” AOI.

“Fair son Malprimes,” says Baligant to him, “I grant it you, as you have asked me this; Against the Franks go now, and smite them quick. And take with you Torleu, the Persian king And Dapamort, another king Leutish. Their arrogance if you can humble it, Of my domains a slice to you I’ll give From Cheriant unto the Vale Marquis.” “I thank you, Sire!” Malprimes answers him; 3210 Going before, he takes delivery; ’Tis of that land, was held by king Flurit. After that hour he never looked on it, Investiture gat never, nor seizin.

That admiral canters among his hosts; After, his son with ’s great body follows,