THE ROYAL HOUSE OF FRANCE - outriders poetry project

Gerard’s Rivalry Revives
Roland Lost and Found
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© 2009 Max Wickert
While Lord Clare was in combat with Anglant, as told above, Charles had his own tents brought and
erected in place of King Anglant’s. He inquired after his barons, and behold Astolph, Otho,
Berlingher, and Angelet returned. Learning that they did not know where Roland was, Charlemagne
was much grieved. He had him sought for throughout the camp, but he was nowhere to be found.
Duke Gerard came to Charlemagne. Their two camps close together, and still neither Lord Clare
not Roland were found. The victory thus seemed a paltry and sorrowful affair, and was much grief
at the loss of both, especially of Roland. Two thousand knights left their tents in search of them.
Gerard had two reasons for sorrow: one was the loss of his nephew, the other that Roland received
more honor than Lord Clare.
While all were thus grieving, Ogier the Dane returned. Charles, not seeing Roland with him, gave
Ogier many harsh words. Hearing these words, Ogier left his tent in tears. Despite its victory, the
army was in a very troubled state. Presently a number of knights arrived in haste at the pavilion and
brought news that Roland was coming back. He had been seen near the edge of the camp. Charles,
hearing that he was on his way, was extremely delighted.
Ogier went to meet Roland on the way and told him of the harsh words he had received from
Charles. Roland laughed at this but, but when he entered his uncle Charles’s tent, greatly rebuked
him, saying that he had no better baron at his court than Ogier, and that he could bear witness to
this himself, for he had seen proof.