THE ROYAL HOUSE OF FRANCE - outriders poetry project

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© 2009 Max Wickert
will long continue and (by my head) will last so long that those who desire it most shall have more
than enough of it. Let any wise knight answer this, for who knows at this moment to gainsay my
words?” Count Ganelon sat down, and Solomon of Brittany rose immediately after him.
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He said: “My lords, one thing that Count Ganelon has said is true. If indeed we could obtain the
tribute we require from King Marsilius by right reason, I do not think any man here would be
discontented. But he himself has forgotten the voice of reason; hence, an embassy to Marsilius
seems to me the height of folly. He remains so obstinately proud that he will think in his heart that
we are sending to defy him. He will thus be able to make preparations and protect his lands. I
advise, on the contrary, that we send out no man who might, between the months of May and April,
give him the time to fortify his walls and towers. Let set out for to Spain before Marsilius knows of
it and let us send no one to give him notice of our coming. When we are in Spain, we will visit upon
his territories such great harm and damage that we will bring him to heel. Let whoever wants to go
on this venture in Spain call it God’s grace granting him just vengeance. And let whoever does not
want to go stay at home. Indeed, we have three reasons that oblige us to heed Roland’s call: the first
is the honor of God; the second is Charles and his legitimate claim to dominion; and the third, is
what seems to me Marsilius’ obstinacy and pride. Charles shall benefit by the upholding of his
honor; and we shall benefit by the great glory of the enterprise. This is what I ask of everyone, and
for this reason, to show my good will, I offer ten thousand Breton knights to serve from beginning
to end in the invasion of Spain. I have no wish to say anything more at this moment. Let us hear
what others have to offer to match this.” There good King Solomon resumed his seat.
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