The Project Gutenberg eBook of Amadis of Gaul, Vol. IV. of IV., by Vasco Lobeira.

CHAPTER 9.

Don Quadragante also, on his part, spake with his nephew Landin, the good Knight, saying, beloved nephew it is necessary that you depart for Ireland with all speed, and speak there with the Queen my niece, in private, so that King Cildadan know not your errand; for he being sworn vassal to King Lisuarte, there is no reason that he should know the thing. Tell her how we are circumstanced, and that though so many good Knights are here, yet they make great account, and place great trust in me, as you Nephew behold, considering what I am, and of what lineage. And say to her that I beseech her in her kindness to permit as many of her people as shall be so disposed to come serve me; for tell her that in contests like these, such changes oftentimes take place, that states and kingdoms are overthrown, and vassals become Lords, and they who were the Lords are reduced to vassallage. She therefore should not fear to grant my request. Do you then with what aid you may thus obtain, and with my friends and vassals, fit out a fleet, and be ready to obey my call. Landin replied that by God's help he would procure a good answer to his demand. So he embarked on board one of the Roman ships, and went his way.

And Don Bruneo bade his Squire depart with letters to the Marquis his father, and to his brother Branfil, and beseech them to collect forces for their help. Lasindo, my good friend, said he, you must perceive that though so many good Knights are here, in this quarrel, yet Amadis is the most nearly concerned; and much as the love which we bear each other would influence me to serve him, yet am I the more bound to this duty, seeing that he is brother to my Lady Melicia. Though he had been my enemy I should now have been bound to serve him for her sake, how much more when he is the man in the world whom I love best! I therefore above all others am most concerned to support his honour. Of this you will say nothing, but do you persuade my father to this succour which so concerns my honour now. Of Branfil my brother I am already assured, and well I know that he would rather have had his part in what has already past than have won an Empire, for all his delight is in honourable feats of chivalry. You need say no more Sir, replied Lasindo, by God's help I shall procure you such succour that your Lady shall be well served, and your own renown greatly increased. So he embarked and put to sea. Now this Lasindo was a right good Squire, and of good lineage, and with true love and true good will did he now go upon his Master's service.