LXXV.
Above the laurel and the pine-tree’s height,
Through the tall beech and shaggy fir-tree’s spray,
Sport little loves, with desultory flight:
These, at their conquests made, rejoiced and gay:
These, with the well-directed shaft, take sight
At hearts, and those spread nets to catch their prey:
One wets his arrows in the brook which winds,
And one on whirling stone the weapon grinds.
LXXVI.
To good Rogero here was brought a steed,
Puissant and nimble, all of sorel hue;
Who was caparisoned with costly weed,
Broidered with gold, and jewels bright to view.
That other winged horse, which, at his need,
Obedient to the Moorish wizard flew,
The friendly damsels to a youth consigned,
Who led him at a slower pace behind.
LXXVII.
That kindly pair who, by the wicked band
Offended late, had saved the youthful knight;
The wicked crew, that did the Child withstand,
When he the road had taken on his right,
Exclaimed, “Fair sir, your works already scanned
“By us, who are instructed of your might,
“Embolden us, in our behalf, to pray
“You will the prowess of your arm assay.
