XXI.
“And so the monarch urged, he made him rear
“His banner, and attack my sire; and, through
“His famous feats, that Thracian cavalier
“Was named the captain of the invading crew.
‘For the Armenian sovereign, far and near,
‘All things (so said the knight) he would subdue;
‘But claiming as his share, when all was won,
‘My sovereign beauties for the service done.’
XXII.
“I ill to you the mischief could express
“Alcestes did us in that war; o’erthrown
“By him four armies were, and he in less
“Than one short twelvemonth left us neither town,
“Nor tower, save one, where cliffs forbade access:
“’Twas here my sire, amid those of his own
“Whom most he loved, took refuge, in his need,
“With all the wealth he could collect with speed.
XXIII.
“Us in this fortilage the knight attacked,
“And shortly to such desperation drave,
“That gladly would the king have made a pact,
“To yield me for his consort, yea his slave,
“With half our realm, if certain by that act
“Himself from every other loss to save;
“Right sure he otherwise should forfeit all,
“And, after, die in bonds, a captive thrall.
