Page:The Song of Roland.djvu/37

 If the King wills it I might go there well.” Answers the King: “Be silent both on bench; Your feet nor his, I say, shall that way wend. Nay, by this beard, that you have seen grow blench, The dozen peers by that would stand condemned. Franks hold their peace; you’d seen them all silent.”

Turpins of Reins is risen from his rank, Says to the King: “In peace now leave your Franks. For seven years you’ve lingered in this land; They have endured much pain and sufferance. Give, Sire, to me the glove, also the wand, I will seek out the Spanish Sarazand, For I believe his thoughts I understand.” That Emperour answers intolerant: “Go, sit you down on yonder silken mat; And speak no more, until that I command.” AOI.

“Franks, chevaliers,” says the Emperour then, Charlès, “Choose ye me out a baron from my marches, To Marsilie shall carry back my answer.” Then says Rollanz: “There’s Guenès, my good-father.” Answer the Franks: “For he can wisely manage; So let him go, there’s none you should send rather.” And that count Guenes is very full of anguish; Off from his neck he flings the pelts of marten, And on his feet stands clear in silken garment. Proud face he had, his eyes with colour sparkled; Fine limbs he had, his ribs were broadly archèd; So fair he seemed that all the court regarded.