manner, and imprisoned him with Ogier. The King then sent
Constantine and Ocellus, but, seizing one under each arm, he bore them
off likewise. He then sent twenty warriors by pairs against him, but
they shared the same fate. Charles dared not then venture to send more
warriors: but Orlando with the King's permission approached the Giant,
who seized him instantly by the right arm, and seated him upon his steed
before him.

But as he was bearing him to the city, Orlando, recovering his strength,
and trusting in the Almighty, seized the Giant by the beard, and tumbled
him from his horse, so that both came to the ground together. Orlando,
then, thinking to slay the Giant, drew his sword, and struck at him, but
the blow fell upon his steed, and pierced him through. The Giant being
thus on foot, drew his enormous sword, which Orlando perceiving, who had
remounted his own charger, struck him on the sword arm, and, though he
did not wound him, struck the sword out of his hand; which greatly
enraging Ferracute, he aimed a blow at Orlando with his fist, but,
missing him, hit his horse on the forehead, and laid him dead on the
spot. And now the fight lasted till noon with fists and stones. The
Giant then demanded a truce till next day, agreeing to meet Orlando
without horse or spear. Each warrior then retired to his post.

Next morning they accordingly met once more. The Giant brought a sword,
but Orlando a long staff to ward off the Giant's blows, who wearied
himself to no purpose. They now began to batter each other with stones,
that lay scattered about the field, till at last the Giant begged a
second truce, which being granted, he presently fell fast asleep upon
the ground. Orlando, taking a stone for a pillow, quietly laid himself
down also. For such was the law of honour between the Christians and
Saracens at that time, that no one on any pretence dared to take
advantage of his adversary before the truce was expired, as in that case
his own party would have slain him.

When Ferracute awoke, he found Orlando awake also, who thereupon rose,
and seated himself by the Giant's side, inquiring how it came to pass he
was so very strong? "Because," replied the Giant, "I am only vulnerable
in the navel." Ferracute spoke in the Spanish language, which Orlando
understanding tolerably well, a conversation now followed between them,
which Ferracute recommenced by inquiring his name, which Orlando told
him. "And what race are you of?"