Chapter 50
_Faire Vna to the Redcrosse knight 2 betrouthed is with ioy: Though false Duessa it to barre 4 her false sleights doe imploy._
1 Fair Una to the Redcross Knight 2 betrothed is with joy: 3 Though false Duessa, it to bar,
bar > debar, prevent
4 her false sleights does employ.
sleights > ruses, stratagems
112.1
BEhold I see the hauen nigh at hand, 2 To which I meane my wearie course to bend; Vere the maine shete, and beare vp with the land, 4 The which afore is fairely to be kend, And seemeth safe from stormes, that may offend; 6 There this faire virgin wearie of her way Must landed be, now at her iourneyes end: 8 There eke my feeble barke a while may stay, Till merry wind and weather call her thence away.
1 Behold, I see the haven nigh at hand, 2 To which I mean my weary course to bend; 3 Veer the main sheet, and bear up with the land,
Veer > Let out main sheet > {Mainsail; rope or chain attached to this and used for adjusting its inclination or volume} bear up with > [allowing the ship to run before the wind, steer towards]
4 Which afore is fairly to be kenned,
afore > in front; _hence:_ ahead fairly > well; beautifully; actually, really kenned > seen, descried
5 And seems safe from storms that may offend;
offend > attack, harm, do damage
6 There this fair virgin, weary of her way, 7 Must landed be, now at her journey's end: 8 There eke my feeble bark awhile may stay,
eke > also bark > vessel
9 Till merry wind and weather call her thence away.
merry > pleasant
112.2
Scarsely had _Ph{oe}bus_ in the glooming East 2 Yet harnessed his firie-footed teeme, Ne reard aboue the earth his flaming creast, 4 When the last deadly smoke aloft did steeme, That signe of last outbreathed life did seeme, 6 Vnto the watchman on the castle wall; Who thereby dead that balefull Beast did deeme, 8 And to his Lord and Ladie lowd gan call, To tell, how he had seene the Dragons fatall +fall.+
9 fall. > fall, _1590, 1596_
1 Scarcely had Phoebus in the glooming east
glooming > gloaming, becoming light; louring; scowling
2 Yet harnessed his fiery-footed team,
team > (Of horses pulling his chariot across the sky)
3 Nor reared above the earth his flaming crest, 4 When the last deadly smoke aloft did steam, 5 That sign of last outbreathed life did seem
sign > [a sign, the sign]
6 To the watchman on the castle wall; 7 Who thereby dead that baleful beast did deem, 8 And to his lord and lady loud gan call,
gan > did
9 To tell how he had seen the dragon's fatal fall.
fatal > fatal; _also:_ destined, ordained by fate
112.3
Vprose with hastie ioy, and feeble speed 2 That aged Sire, the Lord of all that land, And looked forth, to weet, if true indeede 4 Those tydings were, as he did vnderstand, Which whenas true by tryall he out +found+, 6 He bad to open wyde his brazen gate, Which long time had bene shut, and out of hond 8 Proclaymed ioy and peace through all his state; For dead now was their foe, which them forrayed late.
5 found > fond _1590_
1 Uprose with hasty joy, and feeble speed 2 That aged sire, the lord of all that land,
sire > elderly man, father
3 And looked forth, to weet if true indeed
weet > find out
4 Those tidings were, as he did understand: 5 Which when true by trial he out found,
trial > inquiry, ascertaining the facts; seeing [for himself]
6 He bade to open wide his brazen gate, 7 Which long time had been shut, and out of hand
out of hand > straight away
8 Proclaimed joy and peace through all his state; 9 For dead now was their foe, which them forayed late.
forayed late > [had] recently pillaged
112.4
Then gan triumphant Trompets sound on hie, 2 That sent to heauen the ecchoed report Of their new ioy, and happie victorie 4 Gainst him, that had them long opprest with tort, And fast imprisoned in sieged fort. 6 Then all the people, as in solemne feast, To him assembled with one full consort, 8 Reioycing at the fall of that great beast, From whose eternall bondage now they were releast.
1 Then gan triumphant trumpets sound on high,
gan > did
2 That sent to heaven the echoed report 3 Of their new joy, and happy victory 4 Against him, that had them long oppressed with tort,
tort > wrong; injury
5 And fast imprisoned in besieged fort.
fast > securely
6 Then all the people, as in solemn feast,
solemn > {Sacred, having a religious character} feast > festival, festivity, rejoicing
7 To him assembled with one full consort,
consort > consent, accord; company, assembly
8 Rejoicing at the fall of that great beast, 9 From whose eternal bondage now they were released.
112.5
Forth came that auncient Lord and aged Queene, 2 Arayd in antique robes downe to the ground, And sad habiliments right well beseene; 4 A noble crew about them waited round Of sage and sober Peres, all grauely gownd; 6 Whom farre before did march a goodly band Of tall young men, all hable armes to sownd, 8 But now they laurell braunches bore in hand; Glad signe of victorie and peace in all their land.
1 Forth came that ancient lord and aged queen,
lord > [Adam] queen > [Eve]
2 Arrayed in antique robes down to the ground, 3 And sad habiliments right well beseen;
sad habiliments > sober-coloured clothing right > very well beseen > good-looking, attractive
4 A noble crew about them waited round 5 Of sage and sober peers, all gravely gowned;
peers > nobles gravely > [in a grave and dignified manner]
6 Whom far before did march a goodly band
goodly > well-favoured; courteous
7 Of tall young men, all able arms to sound,
tall > tall; handsome; valiant, doughty arms > arms, weapons; _or perhaps, though less likely in view of "But now" at line 8:_ feats of arms sound > clash, wield in battle; _or perhaps, though less likely in view of "But now" at line 8:_ celebrate, proclaim, make known
8 But now they laurel branches bore in hand;
laurel > (Used to make a wreath for conquerors)
9 Glad sign of victory and peace in all their land.
sign > emblem
112.6
Vnto that doughtie Conquerour they came, 2 And him before themselues prostrating low, Their Lord and Patrone loud did him proclame, 4 And at his feet their laurell boughes did throw. Soone after them all dauncing on a row 6 The comely virgins came, with girlands dight, As fresh as flowres in medow greene do grow, 8 When morning deaw vpon their leaues doth light: And in their hands sweet Timbrels all vpheld on hight.
1 To that doughty conqueror they came, 2 And him before themselves prostrating low, 3 Their lord and patron loud did him proclaim,
patron > champion, protector; patron saint
4 And at his feet their laurel boughs did throw. 5 Soon after them, all dancing on a row,
on > in
6 The comely virgins came, with garlands dight,
dight > arranged, dressed; _hence:_ hung, decked
7 As fresh as flowers in meadow green do grow, 8 When morning dew upon their leaves does light:
light > alight; give light, twinkle
9 And in their hands sweet timbrels all upheld on high.
timbrel > tambourine (or similar percussion instrument)
112.7
And them before, the fry of children young 2 Their wanton sports and childish mirth did play, And to the Maydens sounding +tymbrels+ +sung+ 4 In well attuned notes, a ioyous lay, And made delightfull musicke all the way, 6 Vntill they came, where that faire virgin stood; As faire _Diana_ in fresh sommers +day,+ 8 Beholdes her Nymphes, enraung'd in shadie wood, Some wrestle, some do run, some bathe in christall flood.
3 tymbrels > tymbrel _1590_ 3 sung > song _1590_ 7 day, > day _1609_
1 And them before, the fry of children young 2 Their wanton sports and childish mirth did play,
wanton sports > frisky games mirth > sport; diversion, entertainment
3 And to the maidens sounding timbrels sang,
timbrel > tambourine (or similar percussion instrument)
4 In well attuned notes, a joyous lay,
lay > song
5 And made delightful music all the way, 6 Until they came where that fair virgin stood; 7 As fair Diana in fresh summer's day 8 Beholds her nymphs, enranged in shady wood:
enranged > ranging
9 Some wrestle, some do run, some bathe in crystal flood.
flood > river, stream
112.8
So she beheld those maydens meriment 2 With chearefull vew; who when to her they came, Themselues to ground with gratious humblesse bent, 4 And her ador'd by honorable name, Lifting to heauen her euerlasting fame: 6 Then on her head they set a girland greene, And crowned her twixt earnest and twixt game; 8 Who in her selfe-resemblance and well beseene, Did seeme such, as she was, a goodly maiden Queene.
1 So she beheld those maidens' merriment 2 With cheerful view; who when to her they came, 3 Themselves to ground with gracious humblesse bent,
humblesse > humbleness, humility
4 And her adored by honourable name,
by honourable name > by giving her honourable titles; by name (her name being honourable)
5 Lifting to heaven her everlasting fame: 6 Then on her head they set a garland green, 7 And crowned her 'twixt earnest and 'twixt game; 8 Who, in her self resemblance and well beseen,
self resemblance > trueness to herself well beseen > beauty (beseen = arranged; well beseen = good-looking: cf. 112.5:3)
9 Did seem such as she was: a goodly maiden queen.
goodly > beautiful; gracious
112.9
And +after,+ all the raskall many ran, 2 Heaped together in rude rablement, To see the face of that victorious man: 4 Whom all admired, as from heauen sent, And gazd vpon with gaping wonderment. 6 But when they came, where that dead Dragon lay, Stretcht on the ground in +monstrous+ large extent, 8 The sight with idle feare did them dismay, Ne durst approch him nigh, to touch, or once assay.
1 after, > after _1590_ 7 monstrous > monstrons _1596_
1 And after, all the rascal many ran,
rascal > rabble (adj.) many > [many people; hence: multitude]
2 Heaped together in rude rabblement,
rude > [a] rough, clumsy; simple, uneducated rabblement > tumult
3 To see the face of that victorious man: 4 Whom all admired, as from heaven sent,
admired > [viewed with wonder or surprise; admired]
5 And gazed upon with gaping wonderment. 6 But when they came where that dead dragon lay, 7 Stretched on the ground in monstrous large extent, 8 The sight with idle fear did them dismay:
idle > empty, baseless; weak-headed
9 None dared approach him nigh, to touch, or once assay.
assay > test; _hence:_ find out whether the dragon was still alive
112.10
Some feard, and fled; some feard and well it faynd; 2 One that would wiser seeme, then all the rest, Warnd him not touch, for yet perhaps remaynd 4 Some lingring life within his hollow brest, Or in his wombe might lurke some hidden nest 6 Of many Dragonets, his fruitfull seed; Another said, that in his eyes did rest 8 Yet sparckling fire, and bad thereof take heed; Another said, he saw him moue his eyes indeed.
1 Some feared, and fled; some feared and well it feigned;
feigned > concealed (SUS)
2 One, that would wiser seem than all the rest, 3 Warned him not touch, for yet perhaps remained
touch > [to touch]
4 Some lingering life within his hollow breast, 5 Or in his womb might lurk some hidden nest 6 Of many dragonets, his fruitful seed;
fruitful seed > abundant offspring
7 Another said that in his eyes did rest 8 Yet sparkling fire, and bade thereof take heed; 9 Another said, he saw him move his eyes indeed.
112.11
One mother, when as her foolehardie chyld 2 Did come too neare, and with his talants play, Halfe dead through feare, her litle babe reuyld, 4 And to her +gossips+ gan in counsell say; How can I tell, but that his +talants+ may 6 Yet scratch my sonne, or rend his tender hand? So diuersly themselues in vaine they fray; 8 Whiles some more bold, to measure him nigh stand, To proue how many acres he did spread of land.
4 gossips > gossibs _1590_ 5 talants > talents _1590 etc.: FE_
1 One mother, when her foolhardy child 2 Did come too near, and with his talons play, 3 Half dead through fear, her little babe reviled, 4 And to her gossips gan in counsel say:
gossips > friends, woman-friends gan > did in counsel > in private, in confidence
5 "How can I tell, but that his talons may 6 Yet scratch my son, or rend his tender hand?" 7 So diversely themselves in vain they fray;
diversely > variously; _also:_ distractingly (SUS) in vain > in vain; foolishly; profanely, without understanding (cf. 106.19:6) fray > frighten
8 While some, more bold, to measure him nigh stand, 9 To prove how many acres he did spread of land.
112.12
Thus flocked all the folke him round about, 2 The whiles that hoarie king, with all his traine, Being arriued, where that champion stout 4 After his foes defeasance did remaine, Him goodly greetes, and faire does entertaine, 6 With princely gifts of yuorie and gold, And thousand thankes him yeelds for all his paine. 8 Then when his daughter deare he does behold, Her dearely doth imbrace, and kisseth manifold.
1 Thus flocked all the folk him round about, 2 The whiles that hoary king, with all his train
The whiles > Meanwhile hoary > {Grey-haired with age; ancient}
3 (Being arrived where that champion stout
stout > bold, brave
4 After his foe's defeasance did remain),
defeasance > undoing, ruin; _also:_ rendering null and void (of a condition, right, etc.: a legal term)
5 Him goodly greets, and fair does entertain,
goodly greets > courteously congratulates, courteously greets fair > fittingly entertain > receive; _hence:_ greet
6 With princely gifts of ivory and gold, 7 And thousand thanks him yields for all his pain.
pain > effort, pains; pain
8 Then when his daughter dear he does behold, 9 Her dearly does embrace, and kisses manifold.
manifold > many times; in many ways
112.13
And after to his Pallace he them brings, 2 With shaumes, and trompets, and with Clarions sweet; And all the way the ioyous people sings, 4 And with their garments strowes the paued street: Whence mounting vp, they find purueyance meet 6 Of all, that royall Princes court became, And all the floore was vnderneath their feet 8 Bespred with costly scarlot of great name, On which they lowly sit, and fitting purpose frame.
1 And after to his palace he them brings, 2 With shawms, and trumpets, and with clarions sweet;
shawm > {Ancient instrument rather like an oboe} clarion > {Shrill trumpet with a narrow tube}
3 And all the way the joyous people sings, 4 And with their garments strews the paved street: 5 Whence, mounting up, they find purveyance meet
purveyance > victuals, provisions meet > fitting, suitable
6 Of all that royal prince's court became,
Of all > [Of all things, of all provisions] royal > [a royal] became > suited, was appropriate to
7 And all the floor was underneath their feet 8 Bespread with costly scarlet of great name,
scarlet > {A rich kind of cloth, usually red or orange in colour} name > reputation, value
9 On which they lowly sit, and fitting purpose frame.
purpose > discourse, conversation; questions
112.14
What needs me tell their feast and goodly guize, 2 In which was nothing riotous nor vaine? What needes of daintie dishes to deuize, 4 Of comely seruices, or courtly trayne? My narrow leaues cannot in them containe 6 The large discourse of royall Princes state. Yet was their manner then but bare and plaine: 8 For th'antique world excesse and pride did hate; Such proud luxurious pompe is swollen vp but late.
1 What needs me tell their feast and goodly guise,
needs me tell > need do I have to describe goodly > gracious, courteous; attractive guise > behaviour, demeanour
2 In which was nothing riotous nor vain?
vain > vain; foolish
3 What needs of dainty dishes to devise,
dainty > choice, delicious devise > talk, recount
4 Of comely services, or courtly train?
services > {The act of waiting at table; the manner in which this is done; also: the courses served}
5 My narrow leaves cannot in them contain 6 The large discourse of royal prince's state.
large discourse of > [necessarily] broad disquisition upon
7 Yet was their manner then but bare and plain: 8 For the antique world excess and pride did hate;
antique > ancient
9 Such proud luxurious pomp is swollen up but late.
luxurious > outrageous, extravagant; lascivious late > recently
112.15
Then when with meates and drinkes of euery kinde 2 Their feruent appetites they quenched had, That auncient Lord gan fit occasion finde, 4 Of straunge aduentures, and of perils sad, Which in his trauell him befallen had, 6 For to demaund of his renowmed guest: Who then with vtt'rance graue, and count'nance sad, 8 From point to point, as is before exprest, Discourst his voyage long, according his request.
1 Then, when with meats and drinks of every kind 2 Their fervent appetites they quenched had, 3 That ancient lord gan fit occasion find
gan > did
4 Of strange adventures, and of perils sad,
Of > [An account of] sad > grievous
5 Which in his travel him befallen had, 6 To demand of his renowned guest:
demand > request (the modern sense is rather too strong)
7 Who then with utterance grave, and countenance sad,
sad > sober
8 From point to point, as is before expressed, 9 Discoursed his voyage long, according his request.
Discoursed > Told of voyage > journey according > granting
112.16
Great +pleasure+ mixt with pittifull regard, 2 That godly King and Queene did passionate, Whyles they his pittifull aduentures heard, 4 That oft they did lament his lucklesse state, And often blame the too importune fate, 6 That heapd on him so many wrathfull wreakes: For neuer gentle knight, as he of late, 8 So tossed was in fortunes cruell freakes; And all the while salt teares bedeawd the hearers cheaks.
1 pleasure > pleasures _1596, 1609_
1 Great pleasure mixed with pitiful regard 2 That godly king and queen did passionate,
passionate > {Excite or imbue with passion; express with passion}
3 While they his pitiful adventures heard, 4 That oft they did lament his luckless state,
That > [So that]
5 And often blame the too importune fate
blame > reprove importune > grievous
6 That heaped on him so many wrathful wreaks:
wreaks > {Vindictive or vengeful acts (mainly northern dialect)}
7 For never gentle knight, as he of late,
gentle > noble; gentle
8 So tossed was in Fortune's cruel freaks;
in > [by] freaks > whims, vagaries
9 And all the while salt tears bedewed the hearers' cheeks.
112.17
Then said +the+ royall Pere in sober wise; 2 Deare Sonne, great beene the euils, which ye bore From first to last in your late enterprise, 4 That I note, whether prayse, or pitty more: For neuer liuing man, I weene, so sore 6 In sea of deadly daungers was distrest; But +since+ now safe ye seised haue the shore, 8 And well arriued are, (high God be blest) Let vs deuize of ease and euerlasting rest.
1 the > that _1590_ 7 since > sith _1609_
1 Then said the royal peer in sober wise:
peer > nobleman wise > manner
2 "Dear son, great been the evils which you bore
great been > [so] great were
3 From first to last in your late enterprise,
late > recent
4 That I no'te whether praise or pity more:
no'te > know not praise > [to praise] pity > [to pity you]
5 For never living man, I ween, so sore
ween > think, believe
6 In sea of deadly dangers was distressed; 7 But since now safe you seized have the shore,
seized > reached, gained
8 And well arrived are (high God be blessed), 9 Let us devise of ease and everlasting rest."
devise > talk
112.18
Ah dearest Lord, said then that doughty knight, 2 Of ease or rest I may not yet deuize; For by the faith, which I to armes haue plight, 4 I bounden am streight after this emprize, As that your daughter can ye well aduize, 6 Backe to returne to that great Faerie Queene, And her to serue six yeares in warlike wize, 8 Gainst that proud +Paynim+ king, that workes her teene: Therefore I ought craue pardon, till I there haue beene.
8 Paynim > Pynim _1596_
1 "Ah dearest lord," said then that doughty knight, 2 "Of ease or rest I may not yet devise;
devise > talk
3 For by the faith which I to arms have plight,
plight > pledged
4 I bound am straight after this emprise
straight > straight; strictly emprise > enterprise, undertaking
5 (As that your daughter can you well advise), 6 Back to return to that great Faery Queen, 7 And her to serve six years in warlike wise,
wise > manner
8 Against that proud paynim king, that works her teen:
paynim king > heathen king [Philip II of Spain] teen > grief, trouble
9 Therefore I ought crave pardon, till I there have been.
crave > [to crave your]
112.19
Vnhappie falles that hard necessitie, 2 (Quoth he) the troubler of my happie peace, And vowed foe of my felicitie; 4 Ne I against the same can iustly preace: But +since+ that band ye cannot now release, 6 Nor doen vndo; (for vowes may not be vaine) Soone as the terme of those six yeares shall cease, 8 Ye then shall hither backe returne againe, The marriage to accomplish vowd betwixt you twain.
5 since > sith _1609_
1 "Unhappy falls that hard necessity," 2 Quoth he, "the troubler of my happy peace, 3 And vowed foe of my felicity; 4 Nor I against the same can justly press: 5 But since that bond you cannot now release, 6 Nor done, undo (for vows may not be vain);
done > [once done] vain > idle, empty [made vain; made in vain]
7 Soon as the term of those six years shall cease,
Soon > [As soon]
8 You then shall hither back return again, 9 The marriage to accomplish, vowed betwixt you twain.
twain > two
112.20
Which for my part I couet to performe, 2 In sort as through the world I did proclame, That who so kild that monster most deforme, 4 And him in hardy battaile ouercame, Should haue mine onely daughter to his Dame, 6 And of my kingdome heire apparaunt bee: Therefore +since+ now to thee perteines the same, 8 By dew desert of noble cheualree, Both daughter and eke kingdome, lo I yield to thee.
7 since > sith _1609_
1 "Which for my part I covet to perform,
covet > desire, long
2 In sort as through the world I did proclaim
In sort > [Even]
3 That whoso killed that monster most deformed,
whoso > whoever deformed > perverted, morally ugly; deformed
4 And him in hardy battle overcame, 5 Should have my only daughter to his dame,
to his dame > as his wife
6 And of my kingdom heir apparent be: 7 Therefore since now to you pertains the same, 8 By due desert of noble chivalry,
desert > merit
9 Both daughter and eke kingdom, lo I yield to you."
eke > also
112.21
Then forth he called that his daughter faire, 2 The fairest _Vn_' his onely daughter deare, His onely daughter, and his onely heyre; 4 Who forth proceeding with sad sober cheare, As bright as doth the morning starre appeare 6 Out of the East, with flaming lockes bedight, To tell +that+ dawning day is +drawing+ neare, 8 And to the world does bring long wished light; So faire and fresh that Lady shewd her selfe in sight.
7 that > the _1596, 1609_ 7 drawing > dawning _1596, 1609_
1 Then forth he called his daughter fair, 2 The fairest Una, his only daughter dear, 3 His only daughter, and his only heir; 4 Who forth proceeding with sad sober cheer,
sad > steadfast; grave cheer > expression, mood
5 As bright as does the morning star appear 6 Out of the east, with flaming locks bedight,
bedight > adorned
7 To tell that dawning day is drawing near, 8 And to the world does bring long-wished light; 9 So fair and fresh that lady showed herself in sight.
So > Thus
112.22
So faire and fresh, as freshest flowre in May; 2 For she had layd her mournefull stole aside, And widow-like sad wimple throwne away, 4 Wherewith her +heauenly+ beautie she did hide, Whiles on her wearie iourney she did ride; 6 And on her now a garment she did weare, All lilly white, withoutten spot, or pride, 8 That seemd like silke and siluer wouen neare, But neither silke nor siluer therein did appeare.
4 heauenly > heaunnly _1596_
1 So fair and fresh, as freshest flower in May; 2 For she had laid her mournful stole aside,
stole > robe (it is black: see 101.4:5)
3 And widow-like sad wimple thrown away,
wimple > {Linen or silk garment enveloping head, chin, and sides of face and neck}
4 Wherewith her heavenly beauty she did hide
Wherewith > With which
5 While on her weary journey she did ride; 6 And on her now a garment she did wear, 7 All lily white, without spot, or pride,
pride > adornment
8 That seemed like silk and silver woven near,
near > closely together
9 But neither silk nor silver therein did appear.
112.23
The blazing brightnesse of her beauties beame, 2 And glorious light of her sunshyny face To tell, were as to striue against the streame. 4 My ragged rimes are all too rude and bace, Her heauenly lineaments for to enchace. 6 Ne wonder; for her owne deare loued knight, All were she dayly with himselfe in place, 8 Did wonder much at her celestiall sight: Oft had he seene her faire, but neuer so faire dight.
1 The blazing brightness of her beauty's beam, 2 And glorious light of her sunshiny face 3 To tell, were as to strive against the stream. 4 My ragged rhymes are all too rude and base
ragged > harsh, discordant rude > rough, uneducated
5 Her heavenly lineaments to enchase.
enchase > make a setting for (as a jeweller might make a setting for a precious stone)
6 No wonder; for her own dear loved knight, 7 All were she daily with himself in place,
All were she > [Although she had been] in place > there; _hence:_ together, in company
8 Did wonder much at her celestial sight:
wonder > marvel sight > appearance
9 Often had he seen her fair, but never so fairly dight.
fair > beauty dight > arranged, dressed; _hence:_ displayed
112.24
So fairely dight, when she in presence came, 2 She to her Sire made humble reuerence, And bowed low, that her right well became, 4 And added grace vnto her excellence: Who with great wisedome, and graue eloquence 6 Thus gan to say. But eare he thus had said, With flying speede, and seeming great pretence, 8 Came running in, much like a man dismaid, A Messenger with letters, which his message said.
1 So fairly dight, when she in presence came,
So > Thus presence > presence [of the king]; [the] presence-chamber (where the sovereign receives visitors)
2 She to her sire made humble reverence,
sire > father
3 And bowed low, that her right well became,
right > very became > suited
4 And added grace to her excellence: 5 Who with great wisdom, and grave eloquence 6 Thus began to say ... But ere he thus had said, 7 With flying speed, and seeming great pretence,
pretence > intention, importance; show of dignity
8 Came running in, much like a man dismayed, 9 A messenger with letters, which his message said.
112.25
All in the open hall amazed stood, 2 At suddeinnesse of that vnwarie sight, And wondred at his breathlesse hastie mood. 4 But he for nought would stay his passage right, Till fast before the king he did alight; 6 Where falling flat, great humblesse he did make, And kist the ground, whereon his foot was pight; 8 Then to his hands that writ he did betake, Which he disclosing, red thus, as the paper spake.
1 All in the open hall amazed stood,
hall > {A spacious public room in a castle, palace, etc., used for banquets and receptions} amazed > astounded; confounded
2 At suddenness of that unwary sight,
unwary > unexpected (SU)
3 And wondered at his breathless hasty mood.
wondered > marvelled
4 But he for naught would stay his passage right,
stay > check, delay right > {Straight, direct; leading towards the place he desired to reach}
5 Till fast before the king he did alight;
fast > close; rapidly alight > stop (SU)
6 Where, falling flat, great humblesse he did make,
humblesse > [show of] humbleness, humility
7 And kissed the ground whereon his foot was pight;
pight > placed
8 Then to his hands that writ he did beteach,
writ > document, paper beteach > yield; commit, entrust
9 Which he disclosing, read thus, as the paper spoke.
disclosing > opening up, unfolding (also in the fig. sense of revealing to the knowledge of others)
112.26
To thee, most mighty king of _Eden_ faire, 2 Her greeting sends in these sad lines addrest, The wofull daughter, and forsaken heire 4 Of that great Emperour of all the West; And bids thee be aduized for the best, 6 Ere thou thy daughter linck in holy band Of wedlocke to that new vnknowen guest: 8 For he already plighted his right hand Vnto another loue, and to another land.
1 "To you, most mighty king of Eden fair, 2 Her greeting sends, in these sad lines addressed, 3 The woeful daughter, and forsaken heir 4 Of that great emperor of all the west;
emperor > (See 102.22:7-9)
5 And bids you be advised for the best, 6 Ere you your daughter link in holy bond 7 Of wedlock to that new unknown guest: 8 For he already plighted his right hand
plighted > [has] pledged right hand > allegiance
9 To another love, and to another land.
112.27
To me sad mayd, or rather widow sad, 2 He was affiaunced long time before, And sacred pledges he both gaue, and had, 4 False erraunt knight, infamous, and forswore: Witnesse the burning Altars, which he swore, 6 And guiltie heauens of his bold periury, Which though he hath polluted oft +of+ yore, 8 Yet I to them for iudgement iust do fly, And them coniure t'auenge this shamefull iniury.
7 of > and _1596, 1609_
1 "To me, sad maid, or rather widow sad, 2 He was affianced long time before, 3 And sacred pledges he both gave, and had, 4 False errant knight, infamous, and forsworn:
errant > itinerant (a "knight errant" roamed in quest of adventure; the context here also implies the sense of erring, deviating) forsworn > perjurious; in breach of a solemn oath
5 Witness the burning altars, which he swore,
which > [on which, by which]
6 And guilty heavens of his bold perjury,
of > [made guilty by]
7 Which though he has polluted often of yore,
Which > [The heavens] yore > old
8 Yet I to them for judgement just do fly, 9 And them conjure to avenge this shameful injury.
conjure > call upon by oath injury > {Wrongful action; also: intentionally offensive speech or words}
112.28
Therefore +since+ mine he is, or free or bond, 2 Or false or trew, or liuing or else dead, Withhold, O soueraine Prince, your hasty hond 4 From knitting league with him, I you aread; Ne weene my right with strength adowne to tread, 6 Through weaknesse of my widowhed, or woe: For truth is strong, +her+ rightfull cause to plead, 8 And shall find friends, if need requireth soe, So bids thee well to fare, Thy neither friend, nor foe, _Fidessa_.
1 since > sith _1609_ 7 her > his _1596, 1609_
1 "Therefore since mine he is, +or+ free or bound,
or > either
2 Or false or true, +or+ living or else dead,
Or > Either or > either
3 Withhold, O sovereign prince, your hasty hand 4 From knitting league with him, I you aread;
aread > counsel
5 Nor ween my right with strength adown to tread,
ween > think, intend adown > down
6 Through weakness of my widowhood, or woe: 7 For truth is strong, her rightful cause to plead, 8 And shall find friends, if need requires so, 9 So bids you well to fare, Your neither friend nor foe, _Fidessa_."
well to fare > [farewell]
112.29
When he these bitter byting words had red, 2 The tydings straunge did him abashed make, That still he sate long time astonished 4 As in great muse, ne word to creature spake. At last his solemne silence thus he brake, 6 With doubtfull eyes fast fixed on his guest; Redoubted knight, that for mine onely sake 8 Thy life and honour late aduenturest, Let nought be hid from me, that ought to be exprest.
1 When he these bitter biting words had read, 2 The tidings strange did him abashed make, 3 That still he sat long time astonished,
That > [So that]
4 As in great muse, nor word to creature spoke.
muse > {Abstraction; the action of musing}
5 At last his solemn silence thus he broke, 6 With doubtful eyes fast fixed on his guest:
fast > firmly
7 "Redoubted knight, that for my only sake
Redoubted > Distinguished; feared; dreaded
8 Your life and honour late adventured,
adventured > risked
9 Let naught be hidden from me, that ought to be expressed.
112.30
What meane these bloudy vowes, and idle threats, 2 Throwne out from womanish impatient mind? What heauens? what altars? what enraged heates 4 Here heaped vp with termes of loue vnkind, My conscience cleare with guilty bands would bind? 6 High God be witnesse, that I guiltlesse ame. But if your selfe, Sir knight, ye faultie find, 8 Or wrapped be in loues of former Dame, With crime do not it couer, but disclose the same.
1 "What mean these bloody vows, and idle threats,
idle > empty
2 Thrown out from womanish impatient mind? 3 What heavens? what altars? what enraged heats,
heats > fits of passion; quarrels
4 Here heaped up with terms of love unkind,
terms > words, language unkind > unnatural; unkind
5 My conscience clear with guilty bonds would bind? 6 High God be witness that I guiltless am. 7 But if yourself, sir knight, you faulty find,
faulty > guilty
8 Or wrapped be in loves of former dame,
dame > lady, woman; mistress
9 With crime do not it cover, but disclose the same."
crime > [false denial]
112.31
To whom the _Redcrosse_ knight this answere sent, 2 My Lord, my King, be nought hereat dismayd, Till well ye wote by graue intendiment, 4 What woman, and wherefore doth me vpbrayd With breach of loue, and loyalty betrayd. 6 It was in my mishaps, as hitherward I lately traueild, that vnwares I strayd 8 Out of my way, through perils straunge and hard; That day should faile me, ere I had them all declard.
1 To whom the Redcross Knight this answer sent,
answer > {Rejoinder; reply to an accusation}
2 "My lord, my king, be naught hereat dismayed, 3 Till well you wot by grave intendiment
wot > learn, discover; know grave > careful intendiment > attention; consideration; intendment
4 What woman, and wherefore does me upbraid
wherefore > on which account; in consequence of which does > [she] does
5 With breach of love, and loyalty betrayed. 6 It was in my mishaps, as hitherward 7 I lately travelled, that unwares I strayed
unwares > unwittingly; unexpectedly
8 Out of my way, through perils strange and hard; 9 That day should fail me, ere I had them all declared.
That day should fail me > [It would take a very long time]
112.32
There did I find, or rather I was found 2 Of this false woman, that _Fidessa_ hight, _Fidessa_ hight the falsest Dame on ground, 4 Most false _Duessa_, royall richly dight, That easie was +t'inuegle+ weaker sight: 6 Who by her wicked arts, and wylie skill, Too false and strong for earthly skill or might, 8 Vnwares me wrought vnto her wicked will, And to my foe betrayd, when least I feared ill.
5 t'inuegle > to inuegle _1590 etc.: FE_
1 "There did I find (or rather I was found 2 Of) this false woman, that Fidessa hight,
Of > By hight > is named
3 Fidessa hight the falsest dame on ground,
dame > lady, woman
4 Most false Duessa, royal richly dight,
royal richly dight > [so] royally [and] richly dressed
5 That easy was to inveigle weaker sight:
That > [That it] inveigle > blind [in mind or judgement]; deceive weaker > too-weak
6 Who by her wicked arts, and wily skill
skill > skill; occult powers
7 (Too false and strong for earthly skill or might), 8 Unwares me worked to her wicked will,
Unwares > Unwittingly
9 And to my foe betrayed, when least I feared ill."
ill > evil
112.33
Then stepped forth the goodly royall Mayd, 2 And on the ground her selfe prostrating low, With sober countenaunce thus to him sayd; 4 O pardon me, my soueraigne Lord, to show The secret treasons, which of late I know 6 To haue bene wroght by that false sorceresse. She onely she it is, that earst did throw 8 This gentle knight into so great distresse, That death him did awaite in dayly wretchednesse.
1 Then stepped forth the goodly royal maid,
goodly > beautiful; gracious
2 And on the ground herself prostrating low, 3 With sober countenance thus to him said: 4 "O pardon me, my sovereign lord, to show
pardon me > [give me leave]
5 The secret treasons, which of late I know 6 To have been wrought by that false sorceress.
wrought > worked
7 She, only she, it is, that erst did throw
erst > recently; formerly
8 This gentle knight into so great distress,
gentle > noble; gentle so > such
9 That death him did await in daily wretchedness.
That > [Such that] him > him; he
112.34
And now it seemes, that she suborned hath 2 This craftie messenger with letters vaine, To worke new woe and +improuided+ scath, 4 By breaking of the band betwixt vs twaine; Wherein she vsed hath the practicke paine 6 Of this false footman, clokt with simplenesse, Whom if ye please for to discouer plaine, 8 Ye shall him _Archimago_ find, I ghesse, The falsest man aliue; +who+ tries shall find no lesse.
3 improuided > vnprouided _reported by Todd in some 1596 copies_ 9 who > wo _1590, 1596: FE_
1 "And now it seems that she suborned has 2 This crafty messenger with letters vain,
vain > vain, proud; empty, useless; foolish
3 To work new woe and improvided scathe,
improvided > unforeseen (SU) scathe > harm, damage
4 By breaking the bond betwixt us twain;
twain > two
5 Wherein she used has the practic pain
practic > artful, cunning pain > pains, efforts
6 Of this false footman, cloaked with simpleness, 7 Whom if you please to discover plain,
discover > uncover, unmask, reveal
8 You shall him Archimago find, I guess, 9 The falsest man alive; who tries shall find no less."
who > [he who; whoever]
112.35
The king was greatly moued at her speach, 2 And all with suddein indignation fraight, Bad on that Messenger rude hands to reach. 4 Eftsoones the Gard, which on his state did wait, Attacht that faitor false, and bound him strait: 6 Who seeming sorely chauffed at his band, As chained Beare, whom cruell dogs do bait, 8 With idle force did faine them to withstand, And often semblaunce made to scape out of their hand.
1 The king was greatly moved at her speech, 2 And, all with sudden indignation fraught,
fraught > filled
3 Bade on that messenger rude hands to reach.
rude > rough reach > seize
4 Eftsoons the guard, which on his state did wait,
Eftsoons > Thereupon state > canopied throne; majesty
5 Attached that faitour false, and bound him strait:
Attached > Arrested faitour > impostor, cheat strait > strictly, tightly; straightway
6 Who, seeming sorely chafed at his bond
chafed > angry
7 (As chained bear, whom cruel dogs do bait), 8 With idle force did feign them to withstand,
idle > empty, futile; _or:_ simulated
9 And often semblance made to scape out of their hand.
scape > escape their hand > [the constraint of the bonds; the custody of the guards]
112.36
But they him layd full low in dungeon deepe, 2 And bound him hand and foote with yron chains. And with continuall watch did warely keepe; 4 Who then would thinke, that by his subtile trains He could escape fowle death or deadly paines? 6 Thus when that Princes wrath was pacifide, He gan renew the late forbidden +banes+, 8 And to the knight his daughter deare he tyde, With sacred rites and vowes for euer to abyde.
7 banes > bains _1590_
1 But they him laid full low in dungeon deep,
full > very, exceedingly
2 And bound him hand and foot with iron chains. 3 And with continual watch did warely keep;
warely keep > vigilantly observe
4 Who then would think, that by his subtile trains
subtile > subtle; sly, crafty trains > tricks, wiles
5 He could escape foul death or deadly pains?
deadly > fatal
6 Thus, when that prince's wrath was pacified, 7 He gan renew the late forbidden banns,
gan > did renew > resume late forbidden > lately challenged
8 And to the knight his daughter dear he tied, 9 With sacred rites and vows for ever to abide.
abide > remain, remain true
112.37
His owne two hands the holy knots did knit, 2 That none but death for euer can deuide; His owne two hands, for such a turne most fit, 4 The housling fire did kindle and prouide, And holy water thereon sprinckled wide; 6 At which +the+ bushy Teade a groome did light, And sacred lampe in secret chamber hide, 8 Where it should not be quenched day nor night, For feare of euill fates, but burnen euer bright.
6 the > a _1609_
1 His own two hands the holy knots did knit, 2 That none but death for ever can divide; 3 His own two hands, for such a turn most fit,
turn > task (mainly northern and Scottish dialect)
4 The houseling fire did kindle and provide,
houseling > sacramental
5 And holy water thereon sprinkled wide; 6 At which the bushy tede a groom did light,
tede > torch (made of pine or other resinous wood); _hence:_ hymeneal torch (cf. _Epithalamion_ 27, _Muiopotmos_ 293)
7 And sacred lamp in secret chamber hide, 8 Where it should not be quenched day nor night, 9 For fear of evil fates, but burn ever bright.
112.38
Then gan they sprinckle all the posts with wine, 2 And made great feast to solemnize that day; They all perfumde with frankencense diuine, 4 And precious odours fetcht from far away, That all the house did sweat with great aray: 6 And all the while sweete Musicke did apply Her curious skill, the warbling notes to play, 8 To driue away the dull Melancholy; The whiles one sung a song of loue and iollity.
1 Then gan they sprinkle all the posts with wine,
gan > did sprinkle all the posts with wine > (A Roman custom; cf. _Epithalamion_ 253)
2 And made great feast to solemnize that day; 3 They all perfumed with frankincense divine,
all > everything
4 And precious odours fetched from far away,
fetched > [which had been imported]
5 That all the house did sweat with great array:
That > [So that] sweat > {Exude drops of moisture; hence: exhale fragrance} array > {State of special preparation for festivities}
6 And all the while sweet Music did apply
Music > (Music personified; the art of the Muses)
7 Her curious skill, the warbling notes to play,
curious > skilled; elaborate; exquisite
8 To drive away the dull melancholy;
melancholy > (Cf. 105.3:5)
9 The whiles one sang a song of love and jollity.
The whiles > Meanwhile jollity > pleasure, revelry; magnificence
112.39
During the which there was an heauenly noise 2 Heard sound through all the Pallace pleasantly, Like as it had bene many an Angels voice, 4 Singing before th'eternall maiesty, In their trinall triplicities on hye; 6 Yet wist no creature, whence that heauenly sweet Proceeded, yet eachone felt secretly 8 Himselfe thereby reft of his sences meet, And rauished with rare impression in his +sprite+.
9 sprite > spreete _1611_
1 During which there was a heavenly noise
noise > {Melodious sound}
2 Heard sound through all the palace pleasantly,
sound > [to sound; sounding]
3 Like as it had been many an angel's voice,
Like as > As if
4 Singing before the eternal majesty,
before > in front of
5 In their trinal triplicities on high;
trinal > triple triplicities > trios, triads (referring to the nine angelic orders of St Thomas Aquinas and others. The three Hierarchies are each divided into three Orders of Choirs: Seraphim, Cherubim, Thrones; Dominations, Virtues, Powers; Principalities, Archangels, Angels)
6 Yet wist no creature whence that heavenly sweet
wist > knew sweet > sweetness
7 Proceeded, yet each one felt secretly 8 Himself thereby reft of his senses meet,
reft > deprived, robbed senses meet > proper senses
9 And ravished with rare impression in his spirit.
112.40
Great ioy was made that day of young and old, 2 And solemne feast proclaimd throughout the land, That their exceeding merth may not be told: 4 Suffice it heare by signes to vnderstand The vsuall ioyes at knitting of loues band. 6 Thrise happy man the knight himselfe did hold, Possessed of his Ladies hart and hand, 8 And euer, when his eye did her behold, +His+ heart did seeme to melt in pleasures manifold.
9 His > Her _1596, 1609_
1 Great joy was made that day of young and old,
of > by
2 And solemn feast proclaimed throughout the land,
solemn > {Sacred, having a religious character} feast > festival, festivity, rejoicing
3 That their exceeding mirth may not be told:
That > [Such that]
4 Suffice it here by signs to understand
signs > traces, vestiges; _hence:_ hints
5 The usual joys at knitting of love's bond.
knitting > [the knitting]
6 Thrice happy man the knight himself did hold, 7 Possessed of his lady's heart and hand, 8 And ever, when his eye did her behold, 9 His heart did seem to melt in pleasures manifold.
112.41
Her ioyous presence and sweet company 2 In full content he there did long enioy, Ne wicked enuie, +ne+ vile gealosy 4 His deare delights were able to annoy: Yet swimming in that sea of blisfull ioy, 6 He nought forgot, how he whilome had sworne, In case he could that monstrous beast destroy, 8 Vnto his Farie Queene backe to returne: The which he shortly did, and _Vna_ left to mourne.
3 ne > nor _1609_
1 Her joyous presence and sweet company 2 In full content he there did long enjoy,
content > pleasure, satisfaction
3 Neither wicked envy, nor vile jealousy 4 His dear delights were able to annoy:
annoy > afflict, vex; _hence:_ spoil
5 Yet, swimming in that sea of blissful joy, 6 He naught forgot, how he whilom had sworn,
whilom > formerly
7 In case he could that monstrous beast destroy, 8 To his Faery Queen back to return: 9 Which he shortly did, and Una left to mourn.
Una left > [left Una]
112.42
Now strike your sailes ye iolly Mariners, 2 For we be come vnto a quiet rode, Where we must land some of our passengers, 4 And light this wearie vessell of her lode. Here she a while may make her safe abode, 6 Till she repaired haue her tackles spent, And wants supplide. And then againe abroad 8 On the long voyage whereto she is bent: Well may she speede and fairely finish her intent.
1 Now strike your sails, you jolly mariners,
strike > lower jolly > gallant, fine
2 For we be come to a quiet road,
be > [are, have] road > {Sheltered stretch of water near the shore where vessels may safely anchor}
3 Where we must land some of our passengers, 4 And lighten this weary vessel of her load. 5 Here she awhile may make her safe abode, 6 Till she repaired have her tackles spent,
tackles spent > worn-out rigging
7 And wants supplied. And then again abroad 8 On the long voyage whereto she is bent:
bent > inclined, directed
9 Well may she speed, and fairly finish her intent.
_FINIS LIB. I_
END OF BOOK I
=> THE SECOND 2 BOOKE OF THE FAERIE QVEENE. 4 Contayning, THE LEGEND OF SIR GVYON. 6 OR _Of Temperaunce._
1 THE SECOND 2 BOOK OF _THE 3 FAERY QUEEN_ 4 Containing 5 THE LEGEND OF SIR GUYON 6 or 7 OF TEMPERANCE
200.1
RIght well I wote most mighty Soueraine, 2 That all this famous antique history, Of some th'aboundance of an idle braine 4 Will iudged be, and painted forgery, Rather then matter of iust memory, 6 Sith none, that breatheth liuing aire, does know, Where is that happy land of Faery, 8 Which I so much do vaunt, yet no where show, But vouch antiquities, which no body can know.
1 Right well I wot, most mighty sovereign,
wot > know
2 That all this famous antique history
antique > ancient; old-fashioned; _also:_ antic: grotesque, bizarre
3 Of some the abundance of an idle brain
Of > By abundance > superfluity
4 Will judged be, and painted forgery,
painted > {Ornamented; given a false colouring}
5 Rather than matter of just memory,
just > true, correct memory > recollection; historical record
6 Sith none, that breathes living air, does know
Sith > Since living > refreshing; vital, giving life
7 Where is that happy land of Faery, 8 Which I so much do vaunt, yet nowhere show,
vaunt > reveal, display, make a show of; praise
9 But vouch antiquities, which nobody can know.
vouch > cite; affirm as true, certify antiquities > ancient records (cf. 100.2:4)
200.2
But let that man with better sence aduize, 2 That of the world least part to vs is red: And dayly how through hardy enterprize, 4 Many great Regions are discouered, Which to late age were neuer mentioned. 6 Who euer heard of th'Indian _Peru_? Or who in venturous vessell measured 8 The +_Amazons_+ huge riuer now found trew? Or fruitfullest _Virginia_ who did euer vew?
8 _Amazons_ > _Amarons 1590; Amazon FE_
1 But let that man with better sense advise
advise > consider
2 That of the world least part to us is read:
least > [the least] read > discerned; known
3 And daily how through hardy enterprise 4 Many great regions are discovered, 5 Which to late age were never mentioned.
to late age > [to those living in recent times]
6 Who ever heard of the Indian Peru?
Indian > (America was thought to be India)
7 Or who in venturous vessel measured
venturous > bold, daring; adventurous measured > measured; traversed
8 The Amazon's huge river, now found true? 9 Or fruitfullest Virginia who did ever view?
200.3
Yet all these were, when no man did them know; 2 Yet haue from wisest ages hidden beene: And later times things more vnknowne shall show. 4 Why then should witlesse man so much misweene That nothing is, but that which he hath seene? 6 What if within the Moones faire shining spheare? What if in euery other starre vnseene 8 Of other worldes he happily should heare? He wonder would much more: yet such to some appeare.
1 Yet all these were, when no man did them know; 2 Yet have from wisest ages hidden been: 3 And later times things more unknown shall show. 4 Why then should witless man so much misween
misween > hold the wrong opinion
5 That nothing is, but that which he has seen? 6 What if within the moon's fair shining sphere; 7 What if in every other star unseen 8 Of other worlds he happily should hear?
happily > perhaps; by chance; by good fortune; with mental pleasure
9 He wonder would much more: yet such to some appear.
more > [further]
200.4
Of Faerie lond yet if he more inquire, 2 By certaine signes here set in sundry place He may it find; ne let him then admire, 4 But yield his sence to be too blunt and bace, That no'te without an hound fine footing trace. 6 And +thou+, O fairest Princesse vnder sky, In this faire mirrhour maist behold thy face, 8 And thine owne realmes in lond of Faery, And in this antique Image thy great auncestry.
6 thou > then _1590_
1 Of Faery Land yet if he more inquire,
inquire > seek
2 By certain signs here set in sundry place
sundry place > [various places]
3 He may it find; neither let him then admire,
admire > {Feel or express astonishment}
4 But yield his sense to be too blunt and base,
yield > concede, admit
5 That no'te without a hound fine footing trace.
no'te > cannot fine footing trace > trace faint tracks
6 And you, O fairest princess under sky,
you > [Elizabeth]
7 In this fair mirror may behold your face,
this fair mirror > [the poem; Gloriana; "mirror" also = "paragon of beauty", cf. 106.15:6]
8 And your own realms in land of Faery, 9 And in this antique image your great ancestry.
antique > ancient; old-fashioned; _also:_ antic: grotesque, bizarre
200.5
The which O pardon me thus to enfold 2 In couert vele, and wrap in shadowes light, That feeble eyes your glory may behold, 4 Which else could not endure those +beames+ bright, But would be dazled with exceeding light. 6 O pardon, and vouchsafe with patient eare The braue aduentures of this Faery knight 8 The good Sir _Guyon_ gratiously to heare, In whom great rule of Temp'raunce goodly doth appeare.
4 beames > beamez _1609, emphasizing the disyllable; cf. 110.39:4, 204.28:8, 206.39:5_
1 Which O pardon me thus to enfold
pardon > {Make courteous allowance for}
2 In covert veil, and wrap in shadows light, 3 That feeble eyes your glory may behold,
That > [So that]
4 Which else could not endure those beams bright,
else > otherwise
5 But would be dazzled with exceeding light. 6 O pardon, and vouchsafe with patient ear 7 The brave adventures of this Faery knight
brave > brave; splendid
8 (The good Sir Guyon) graciously to hear,
9 In whom great rule of Temperance goodly does appear.
goodly > gracefully; excellently