THE ROYAL HOUSE OF FRANCE - outriders poetry project

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© 2009 Max Wickert
them, and admonishing each of them that this constituted the fortress and rallying place for the
whole army. Then he ordered each to return to his banners, and to follow the orders that had been
issued. Almont was filled with great good cheer and said to Balant: “When I feel myself seated on
this horse, mounted in its saddle, I do not fear the whole world, for I am in possession of the best
horse and the best sword.” Balant replied: “Ah, my lord Almont, it shall soon be seen who has a
good horse, and a good sword, and a good heart to perform feats of arms.”
4
As soon as Almont had ordered his battle ranks, Balant began to move. They proceeded toward the
tower, so that Gerard of the Thicket’s people saw the dust rising and the banners. Gerard was soon
apprised of the fact, and he at once summoned his barons and instructed them in how best to
proceed. He had his entire force get ready in arms, but commanded that none should enter battle
unless first commanded to do so. Many armed men issued outside the walls into some of the
meadows.
That morning King Solomon had sent out a thousand knights on reconnaissance, and these saw the
tower from afar. They believed that those who held the fortress were Saracens, and as they were
looking toward the tower, they saw all the forces that were marching toward it. They therefore
returned to King Solomon who had command of the vanguard of sixty thousand. Hearing the
news, he at once ordered all his men to arms.
Then Huon the Less said: “O noble King Solomon, we might be waiting too long to send word to
Charles to tell him to come to this battle. Let us at least send him word that the Saracens are
banding together.” Solomon answered: “Sir Duke, why not perform this errand yourself.” “By my