CCXVII.

First of them all the Emperor is armed. Quick donned his hauberk,--laced his helm--Joyeuse, Whose brightness vies with the sun's dazzling rays, Is girded on--a shield of Girunde hangs Upon his neck,--his lance, forged in Blandune He wields, and mounts his good steed Tencendur Which nigh the ford below Marsune he won, When he struck dead Malpalin de Nerbune. Quick to a gallop spurred, rein loosed, the steed Sped on, before one hundred thousand men. Carle calls on Rome's Apostle and on God. Aoi.