CCLXXVI.

On seeing the great plea was to commence, Thirty good Knights were called by Ganelon Out of his kin, and one among them makes A speech all others hark: 'tis Pinabel Of Castel de Sorence, of greatest skill In words, and apt with reason plausible; Withal, a vassal brave to guard his arms. Thus to him Ganelon:--"In you my trust I place; my life from death, my name from shame Preserve!"--Said Pinabel:--"Thou shalt be saved. Dare one French Knight condemn thee to be hanged, And would the Emperor make us both to meet In combat, my good sword will his rash word Believe."--And at his feet falls Ganelon. Aoi.

CCLXXVII.

Baiviers, Saines, Poitevins, Normans and French In council met;--Allemans, Tiedeis in great Array. Those from Alverne most courteous prove And show more kindness unto Pinabel. One to the others said:--"To leave this plea Right would it be, and pray Carl'magne, this once To pardon Ganelon who, from this day, Will serve his lord with truer faith and love. Rollánd lies in his grave; nor wealth, nor gold Restores him to your eyes. This cruel fight Is folly."--All the Knights approve, save one, Tierri, a brother of the Lord Geffrei. Aoi.

CCLXXVIII.

To Carle his Barons come again, and say: "We pray you, sire, acquit Count Ganelon; Then will he serve you with true faith and love. Grant him his life which springs from noble race. Rollánd lies in his grave; ne'er shall we see Him more, nor treasures e'er can bring him back." Exclaimed the King: "Vile traitors are ye all!" Aoi.