ABSTRACT
A n d when the Lord King had ascertained that all was ready, the ships as well as the galleys and other vessels, he was very joyous and content, and had all the people assembled by sound of trumpets, without dis tinction of class, in order that everyone should hear what he wished to sa y ; for he wished to take leave of them and to embark after having spoken. And on hearing this proclamation, everyone came to where the King would speak, prelates and richs homens and knights and all other people. And when all were assembled, the Lord King mounted on a platform of wood he had had made, so high that all could see and hear him well. And when he stood there, be sure he was well listened to. And he began to speak and said many good words, appropriate for those who were to go with him and for those who were to remain behind. And when he had finished his speech the noble A. Roger, count de Pallars, who was to go with him on his journey, rose in the name of all present and said : “ Lord, all your people, as well we who are going with you as those who remain behind, have great pleasure in the good words you have spoken to us and we all beseech you humbly to tell and discover to us where it is your intention to go.” And he gave as a reason, that his telling them his intention could cause no delay or injury, as their embarkation was so near, and that all would derive comfort from it, as well those who were going as those who remained ; again, that merchants and other worthy people would provide themselves with
victuals and all refreshments to carry to the arm y; and again, that his cities and towns would send, all the time, help and succour of all things. And the Lord King answered and said : “ Count, I wish you, and all others here present, and also those who are not here present, to be sure that if We knew that Our left hand knows what Our right hand intends to do, that We ourselves would cut it off. Therefore speak no more of this matter, but begin to embark, all those of you who are to go with Us.” And when the count and the others heard these strong words the Lord King had spoken, they wished to say no more, but contained themselves and said : “ Lord, give your orders and we will carry them out, and may it please Our Lord the true God and Our Lady Saint Mary and all the Heavenly Court to fulfil your intention to Their glory, and to the increase of your honour and that of your subjects and to give us grace that we may serve you in such manner that God and you be satisfied.” And upon this the count of Ampurias, viscount Rocaberti and other richs homens who were not to go on the journey, rose and said : “ Lord, may it please you to order that we embark with you, and on no account leave us behind ; for we are as well apparelled to embark as those who have notice to go on the journey.”
