CHAPTER XVI
I spake before of a challenge made by the Emperor unto the Turk, which when the Herald had reported unto the Sultan (who certainly was a very honorable Soldier) but there he vowed to perform it, and to set the Emperor’s head upon the highest pavilion in view of all the City. And thereupon the next day after this skirmish, he sent the same Herald with purpose and commandment to declare in excellent gallant terms the acceptance of the combat, knowing that it depended upon his honour to shew his small fear, in not refusing so equal a Foe, whose proffer proceeded from a most Honourable resolution: when it was reported unto the Emperor that the same Herald returned, he caused the Hall to be adorned with most brave furniture, his high Chair of estate placed, and all about seats for the other Princes. The Emperor having seated himself, full of brave thought and gallant hardihood, expecting the answer of the enemy in such sort as it was in very deed. In all brave manner the Herald in proud phrase uttered the purport of his message, requesting that a peace being concluded on both parties for the space of three days, and free egress and regress for the Nobles on both parties, the one to view the Camp, the other the Court, and on the third day he would, armed in his country manner, meet him in the lists, to shew that he never refused the combat of any Christian Emperor, albeit he knew his calling far superior to that of his. So then the message was accepted, the Herald had his 10,000 Ducats carried to the Turk’s camp on horse, and they in the City began to keep feasts, and entertained the Turkish Nobles in exceeding bravery, and they theirs in the like without damage or thought of treason.