The Lay of the Cid. Folio 48r

CXV

"May I see that time when payment I shall make to thee twice o'er
For all that thou deserves". The twain turned back once more.
Don Pero there bore witness to Ferrando's brag and lie.
The Cid and all his vassals were gladdened much thereby.
"If God our Father wills it, in Heaven that doth dwell,
My sons-in-law in battle shall both acquit them well."
So they spake. And the two armies now the advance began.
In the Moorish host resounded of the drums the rataplan.
It was among the Christians a marvel sore to some,
For never had they heard it, since but newly were they come.
On Diego and Ferrando greater wonder yet did fall,
And of their free will thither they would not have come at all.
To what he said who was brought forth in happy hour give ear:
"Ho! now don Pero Vermudoz, who art my nephew dear,
Didago and Ferrando now keep them well for me,
For in mine eyes my sons-in-law are dear exceedingly.
By God's help the Moriscos shall hold the field no more."

CXVI

"In the name of every charity I tell thee, Campeador,
That today to be their keeper I never will remain.
To me they matter little — let him keep them who is fain.
I with my men about me against their van will smite;
Do thou with thine hold firmly the rearward of the fight.
Then canst thou aid me lightly if peril should arise."
Minaya Alvar Fanez came then to him likewise.
"Oh, Cid, give ear, and hearken, Oh faithful Campeador!
For surely in this battle shall God himself make war,
And He will make thee worthy with Him therein to share.