; and both
monarchs assented to the condition that in such case the champion of
the offending party should be discharged from his allegiance, and at
liberty to transfer his arms to the other side.

When all the preparations were concluded the monarchs and their
attendants retired each to his own side, and the champions were left
alone. The two warriors advanced with measured steps towards each
other, and met in the middle of the space. They attacked one another at
the same moment, and the air resounded with the blows they gave. Sparks
flew from their battle-axes, while the velocity with which they managed
their weapons astonished the beholders. Rogero, always remembering that
his antagonist was the brother of his betrothed, could not aim a deadly
wound; he strove only to ward off those levelled against himself.
Rinaldo, on the other hand, much as he esteemed Rogero, spared not his
blows, for he eagerly desired victory for his own sake, and for the
sake of his country and his faith.

The Saracens soon perceived that their champion fought feebly, and gave
not to Rinaldo such blows as he received from him. His disadvantage was
so marked that anxiety and shame were manifest on the countenance of
Agramant. Melissa, one of the most acute enchantresses that ever lived,
seized this moment to disguise herself under the form of Rodomont, that
rude and impetuous warrior, who had now for some time been absent from
the Saracen camp. Approaching Agramant, she said, "How could you, my
lord, have the imprudence of selecting a young man without experience
to oppose the most redoubtable warrior of France? Surely you must have
been regardless of the honor of your arms, and of the fate of your
empire! But it is not too late. Break without delay the agreement which
is sure to result in your ruin." So saying, she addressed the troops
who stood near, "Friends," said she, "follow me; under my guidance
every one of you will be a match for a score of those feeble
Christians." Agramant, delighted at seeing Rodomont once more at his
side, gave his consent, and the Saracens, at the instant, couched their
lances, set spurs to their steeds, and swept down upon the French.
Melissa, when she saw her work successful, disappeared.

Rinaldo and Rogero, seeing the truce broken, and the two armies engaged
in general conflict, stopped their battle; their martial fury ceased at
once, they joined hands, and resolved to act no more on either side
until it sh