"The Lord," sang the priests and the congregation, "has broken the bows, the shields, and the swords of our enemies, and put an end to the war."
"O Lord! Thou hast shed down upon us the rays of Thy goodness, whilst Thou hast filled our enemies with fear."
"Who, O Lord, can resist Thy anger?"
"Seated on Thy heavenly throne, Thou hast decreed the salvation of Thy people, and peace has succeeded to war."
"The universe praises Thee, and blesses Thee, and sings the glory of Thy name."
Many of the people assembled in the church were shedding tears of joy, whilst they accompanied the chants of the priests at the altar, for they were congregated there to thank God for the victories which had been won, as well as to witness the rewarding of him who had fought so valiantly against the enemies of Christ.
The Bishop of Burgos blessed the arms about to be presented to the new knight.
Then Rodrigo Diaz and Guillen, who had both been kneeling, arose and approached the arms, which stood before the altar. They were imitated by the ladies and cavaliers who were assisting at the solemn ceremony.
The young man bent his knee, and Rodrigo said to him—