Page:The Song of Roland.djvu/63

 Fast as he could, down from the peak hath sped, Comes to the Franks, to them his tale hath said.

Says Oliver: “Pagans from there I saw; Never on earth did any man see more. Gainst us their shields an hundred thousand bore, That lacèd helms and shining hauberks wore; And, bolt upright, their bright brown spearheads shone. Battle we’ll have as never was before. Lords of the Franks, God keep you in valour! So hold your ground, we be not overborne!” Then say the Franks: “Shame take him that goes off: If we must die, then perish one and all.” AOI.

Says Oliver: “Pagans in force abound, While of us Franks but very few I count; Comrade Rollanz, your horn I pray you sound! If Charlès hear, he’ll turn his armies round.” Answers Rollanz: “A fool I should be found; In France the Douce would perish my renown. With Durendal I’ll lay on thick and stout, In blood the blade, to its golden hilt, I’ll drown. Felon pagans to th’ pass shall not come down; I pledge you now, to death they all are bound. AOI.

“Comrade Rollanz, sound the olifant, I pray; If Charlès hear, the host he’ll turn again; Will succour us our King and baronage.” Answers Rollanz: “Never, by God, I say, For my misdeed shall kinsmen hear the blame, Nor France the Douce fall into evil fame! Rather stout blows with Durendal I’ll lay,