THE ROYAL HOUSE OF FRANCE - outriders poetry project

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© 2009 Max Wickert
surely than from any man living. Do this, and we will honor you as befits an emperor and any of
your other kings. As long as you send somebody to offer open defiance, no man can afterwards
impugn your honor.” And so the letter ended.
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When Charles had heard King Marsilius’ message, he pondered a response in his heart, and then said
to the envoys: “Tell your king on my behalf that I shall not cease to capture castles, villages and
valleys in preparation for whatever he might do. In short, I answer that the time for our revenge is
near. Let him who has offered me insult or injury not sleep, for Charles will awaken before long.”
And here our emperor said no more.
“Sire,” said the messengers, “does this mean that you defy us? We beg you to tell us plainly whether
you a coming against us.” The emperor replied: “I have given you my answer. I would have you
know that you have long acted like vicious wolves, who always devour all beasts but those that resist
them. You have been too savage in the destruction and slaughter of Christians. I mean to act in
accordance with the faith in that glorious Father who was nailed to the cross for us. As for the
arrogant Saracens, though I have long left them alone, I intend their destruction. Therefore, if your
king sees clearly, I answer that to be on good watch has ever been the best first course.”
Ferrau
12-15: Ferrau in Lazara [summary]
Knowing that they could receive no clearer reply, the messengers posted back to Saragossa. Marsilius had already
heard of Charles’ further preparations, and received his messengers’ report with much anxiety, since he felt ill furnished
to withstand an attack. He then convened a council of all his friends. At the council, his chief ally, the Caliph, angrily
told him: “My dear kinsman, you have done ill to trust in magic rather than chivalry. It is great folly to forget the
strength of one’s enemies. You have wasted too much time ignoring Charles’ power, and he now rouses his folk against
you. I told you a year ago to invade France and lay waste to his territories. It is now too late for this; but for the