Page:The Song of Roland.djvu/40

 Since I must go, why need I linger, I?” Then said the King: “In Jesu’s Name and mine!” With his right hand he has absolved and signed, Then to his care the wand and brief confides.

Guenès the count goes to his hostelry, Finds for the road his garments and his gear, All of the best he takes that may appear: Spurs of fine gold he fastens on his feet, And to his side Murglès his sword of steel. On Tachebrun, his charger, next he leaps, His uncle holds the stirrup, Guinemere. Then you had seen so many knights to weep, Who all exclaim: “Unlucky lord, indeed! In the King’s court these many years you’ve been, Noble vassal, they say that have you seen. He that for you this journey has decreed King Charlemagne will never hold him dear. The Count Rollant, he should not so have deemed, Knowing you were born of very noble breed.” After they say: “Us too, Sire, shall he lead.” Then answers Guenes: “Not so, the Lord be pleased! Far better one than many knights should bleed. To France the Douce, my lords, you soon shall speed, On my behalf my gentle wife you’ll greet, And Pinabel, who is my friend and peer, And Baldëwin, my son, whom you have seen; His rights accord and help him in his need.” —Rides down the road, and on his way goes he. AOI.

Guenes canters on, and halts beneath a tree; Where Sarrazins assembled he may see, With Blancandrins, who abides his company.