Guy, the good knyght,
Most was worshipped and that was right.[42]
[42] Caius MS., p. 215.
Morgadour, the imperial steward, who aspired to the hand of the emperor’s daughter, became envious of the honors won by Guy, and his jealousy and hatred increased in proportion as the realization of his hopes grew less and less probable. He plotted to remove his rival by suggesting to the emperor that Guy and Heraud be sent as ambassadors to the sultan to make a proposal of peace. The steward well knew that if they should go, they would never return. The emperor was willing to make a proposal of peace to the enemy, but unwilling that Guy should go on this dangerous mission. However, Guy insisted upon going. He entered the tent of the sultan defiantly, and proposed to him that he select a champion to represent the Saracens. Guy himself would defend the cause of the emperor. If the sultan’s champion should win, the Greeks were to pay tribute to the sultan and acknowledge him as their lord. If, however, he should be vanquished, the infidels should leave the country. The sultan’s answer to the proposal was an order to his men to take and slay the insolent ambassador. Thereupon the latter drew his sword and cut off the sultan’s head, seized it, and hurried away on his steed. He was pursued and attacked by a multitude of Saracens, but they were unable to take or to slay him. When Guy reached the city, he gave the head to the emperor, and
Whan thei of the Citee wiste of his comynge
For ioye they ganne all the belles rynge.[43]
[43] Caius MS., p. 235.
The following day, the emperor said to Guy:
Gij, make the redi;
Tomorwe thou schalt mi doughter weddi.[44]