Page:The Song of Roland.djvu/54

 Jennet nor mule that canter can with speed, Nor sumpter-horse will lose, nor any steed; But my sword’s point shall first exact their meed.” Answers him Guenes: “I know; ’tis true indeed.” AOI.

When Rollant heard that he should be rerewarden Furiously he spoke to his good-father: “Aha! culvert; begotten of a bastard. Thinkest the glove will slip from me hereafter, As then from thee the wand fell before Charlès?” AOI.

“Right Emperour,” says the baron Rollanz, “Give me the bow you carry in your hand; Ne’er in reproach, I know, will any man Say that it fell and lay upon the land, As Guenes let fall, when he received the wand.” That Emperour with lowered front doth stand, He tugs his beard, his chin is in his hand; Tears fill his eyes, he cannot them command.

And after that is come duke Neimès furth, (Better vassal there was not upon earth) Says to the King: “Right well now have you heard; The count Rollanz to bitter wrath is stirred, For that on him the rereward is conferred; No baron else have you, would do that work. Give him the bow your hands have bent, at first; Then find him men, his company are worth.” Gives it, the King, and Rollant bears it furth.

That Emperour, Rollanz then calleth he: “Fair nephew mine, know this in verity; Half of my host I leave you presently;