saw the people of noise all still, Thus shewed he the mighty Dukë’s will.
“The lord hath of his high discretión Considered that it were destructión To gentle blood, to fighten in the guise Of mortal battle now in this emprise: Wherefore to shapë that they shall not die, He will his firstë purpose modify. No man therefore, on pain of loss of life, No manner shot, nor poleaxe, nor short knife Into the lists shall send, or thither bring. Nor short sword for to stick with point biting No man shall draw, nor bear it by his side. And no man shall unto his fellow ride But one course, with a sharp y-grounden spear: Foin if him list on foot, himself to wear. And he that is at mischief shall be take, And not slain, but be brought unto the stake, That shall be ordained on either side; Thither he shall by force, and there abide. And if so fall the chiefëtain be take On either side, or ellës slay his make, No longer then the tourneying shall last. God speedë you; go forth and lay on fast. With long sword and with macë fight your fill. Go now your way; this is the lordës will.” The voice of the people touched the heaven, So loudë criëd they with merry steven: “God savë such a lord that is so good, He willeth no destructión of blood.”