CCLXXXI.

When Tierri sees that now the fight is near, He gives the Emperor his right hand glove. To him the sureties Carle himself provides, Bids that they bring four benches to the place Whereon the combatants shall sit. The terms Are judged by all the others as most fair. Ogier de Dannemarche was chosen to rule The lists. Then for their steeds and arms both called. Aoi.

CCLXXXII.

Both knights now made them ready for the fight, Were shriven, assoiled, and blessed; a mass have heard, Communion have received, and richest alms Bequeathed to monasteries.--Before striking They both appear.--Gold spurs their heels adorn; They wear white hauberks light and strong; bright helms Clasp on their heads, and gold hilt swords are girt Upon their thighs, and to their necks are bound Strong quartered shields; they wield in each right hand A trenchant sword, and on fleet steeds they mount; Then melt in tears one hundred thousand knights Who for Rollánd's sake wish Tierri well. Yea--but God knows what way the thing will end. Aoi.

CCLXXXIII.

Beyond the town of Aix a plain extends: And here our Barons will the combat try. Most valiant knights are both; the steeds they ride Are swift and stout; with spurs in flanks, and freed Of rein, they dash.--The warriors all their might And skill unite to strike the surest blow. Bucklers beneath the shock are torn and crushed, White hauberks rent in shreds, asunder bursts Each courser's girth, the saddles, turning, fall. One hundred thousand men look weeping on.... Aoi.

CCLXXXIV.

Both knights leap on the earth, and, quick as light, Stand face to face.--Strong, fiery Pinabel And Tierri for each other seek. Their steeds Are fled.--But their gold-hilted swords they wield; And on the helms of steel they shower such blows As rashed the thongs. Loudly the knights lament, And Carle exclaims:--"Show thou the right, O God!" Aoi.