GEOFFREY DE SEGRINES. 167

these did no doubt look through the spectacles of
fancy.’

Louis turned, bent his brow, and darted upon the
speaker a glance of keen reproach, which might have
found fuller expression in words. But there was
no time for argument or admonition; for at that
moment the Saracens made one of their fiery charges,
and though the French warriors defended themselves
and their king with heroism, they could not hope
that valour would ultimately save them. While
Chatillon and Bisset, now charging singly, now side by
side, did wonders in keeping a space clear around
the king and the royal standard, Geoffrey de Segrines,
adhering to the side of Louis, wielded his sword with
such effect that he drove off, one by one, the horsemen
who darted forth from the Saracen ranks.

‘In truth,’ said the brave Frenchman, when com-
plimented by Bisset on his exploits, ‘I know not how
it is; but to me, it seems that the danger of this day
has doubled my-strength.’

‘On my faith,’ replied Bisset, ‘I am at a loss
whether more to admire your valour or your vigi-
lance. Your care of your good king reminds me of
the watchful servant who carefully drives away the
flies from his master’s cup.’

But brief were the intervals allowed even for such
an exchange of sentiments. Now secure of victory,
and. stimulated by enthusiasm and fanaticism, the
Saracens grew bolder and more audacious in their
attacks. Urged on by their dervishes and imaums,
who had flocked to the host of Saracens to remind
them that they were fighting in the cause of the