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“I will put it to the test,” said the Count of Mayence, coolly; and the traitor and unbeliever kissed each other.
The queen passed by Marsillus stopped her cortege, and bade her dismount, saying, “This is our best of friends. You owe it to him that we shall remain under that Spanish sky which you love so much. Embrace him for the love of us all.”
“With all my heart,” said the Sultana. “I wish you also, Sir Ganelon, to bear to your wife from me these bracelets, which are the finest in my possession. Neither the Pope at Rome nor the Emperor at Aix-la-Chapelle can boast anything to equal them among all their treasures.”
All vied in paying the Count attention, and in loading him with the most precious gifts. .
The same evening Ganelon returned to the French camp, accompanied by presents and hostages for the Emperor.
Three days later, at early dawn, Ganelon and his escort arrived at Charlemagne’s quarters.
“So you have returned,” said Charles. “Have you sped well with your mission?”