XV.
This opened, quick and mighty marvel wrought;
For not a leaf is finished by the sage,
Before a spirit, by his bidding brought,
Waits his command in likeness of a page:
He, by the magic writ constrained and taught,
Hastes where the warriors face to face engage,
In the cool shade—but not in cool disport—
And steps between, and stops their battle short.
XVI.
“In courtesy,” he cried, “let either show
“What his foe’s death to either can avail,
“And what the guerdon conquest will bestow
“On him who in the battle shall prevail,
“If Roland, though he has not struck a blow,
“Or snapt in fight a single link of mail,
“To Paris-town conveys the damsel gay,
“Who has engaged you in this bitter fray.
XVII.
“Within an easy mile I saw the peer
“Pricking to Paris with that lady bright;
“Riding, in merry mood, with laugh and jeer,
“And mocking at your fierce and fruitless fight.
“Sure it were better, while they yet are near,
“To follow peer and damsel in their flight:
“For should he once in Paris place his prize
“The lady never more shall meet your eyes.”
