Page:The venture; an annual of art and literature.djvu/114

 himself and prefer requests, that he came forth as well equipped for what he needed as you will see on the day of the tournament. Not to make too long a story, when the appointed day came the King and the Princess, with many ladies and damsels, seated themselves in a balcony of the palace overlooking the great court where the lists were opened. And the Princess was so beautiful and richly attired that the sight of her gave strength and courage to numbers who adventured themselves for her sake, and endeavoured more than they were able to compass; and with her were the judges, being four old men who were great nobles in the kingdom. Then the knights began to enter the square on all sides, which was beautiful to see, as the flower of all the chivalry of the world seemed to be there, all men regarding in silence the suits, colours, and devices which they bore.

Our Portuguese entered the lists fully armed with rich white armour gilded in places, which gave it great lustre, and covered with a short surcoat made in the fashion of the country, quartered in green and white damask, slashed with embroidery of large round Oriental pearls of greatest price. His visage was uncovered, which if of itself it was comely and of gentle semblance, seemed so much the more lovely with the martial mien of armour, insomuch that all viewed it with delight. In his company were the two master musicians, whom some knew for what they were, vested in silk raiment of the same colour as the surcoat, made in the fashion of that court, and bearing the jouster's arms. One carried his helmet,