THE ROYAL HOUSE OF FRANCE - outriders poetry project

513
© 2009 Max Wickert
When Charles beheld the twelve hostages, of such high rank, he was utterly reassured and the other
barons began to rejoice. But nothing could reassure Count Roland, holy baron that he was, because
the angel had told him, when he stayed with Samson the Hermit in Syria, that he would not escape
death in seven years’ time. Knowing that he was at the end of those seven years, he said in his heart:
“Certainly Ganelon must have plotted some treachery to encompass my death.” And because of
this thought, the Paladin Roland’s mind could find no peace.
All the other barons rejoiced heartily. Then Ganelon said to Charles: “Ah, your majesty, I have
determined with King Marsilius that you, with your army, should turn back, cross the high range of
Lucerna, and proceed from there to Saint-Jean-pied-de-Port. There stay until Marsilius and his
nobles arrive in the Vale of Roncesvalles, whither he will proceed unarmed with all his men to take
holy baptism, and to bestow his crown, with his own hands, upon your nephew Roland. For my
part, I would advise you to make Roland and the Twelve Peers of France, with their three thousand
men, stay in the Vale of Roncesvalles and keep good watch. If Marsilius should break his promise,
they will be well able to defend the valley, for if we lose it, we will be unable to turn back through
the mountains and the rough roads and passes all around us. I would have you know that if
Marsilius enters that valley with his army, we will never be able to defeat him so long as we live.
Therefore take my advice: leave Roland there, with the Twelve Peers of France and the three
thousand knights.”
Charles answered: “I should like to leave Roland in the valley with better guard.” He at once called
for Roland and the Twelve Peers, saying: “Dear nephew, I desire you to stay in the valley with the
Twelve Peers of France and those of your banner guard, so that if Marsilius breaks his promise . .
. 93 ” Said Roland: “I shall do whatever you please.” Then Roland mounted Veliantin and gathered his
93 His promise . . . :The sentence is incomplete in the manuscript.