Bradamante, astonished at these words, and the objects which met her view, knew not whether she was awake or asleep.  Confused, but modest, she cast down her eyes, and a blush overspread her face.  “Ah, what am I,” said she, “that so great a prophet should deign to speak to me!” Still, with a secret satisfaction, she followed the priestess, who led her to the tomb of Merlin.  This tomb was constructed of a species of stone hard and resplendent like fire.  The rays which beamed from the stone sufficed to light up that terrible place, where the sun’s rays never penetrated; but I know not whether that light was the effect of a certain phosphorescence of the stone itself, or of the many talismans and charms with which it was wrought over.

Bradamante had hardly passed the threshold of this sacred place when the spirit of the enchanter saluted her with a voice firm and distinct:  “May thy designs be prosperous, O chaste and noble maiden, the future mother of heroes, the glory of Italy, and destined to fill the whole world with their fame.  Great captains, renowned knights, shall be numbered among your descendants, who shall defend the Church and restore their country to its ancient splendor.  Princes, wise as Augustus and the sage Numa, shall bring back the age of gold. [Footnote:  This prophecy is introduced by Ariosto in this place to compliment the noble house of Este, the princes of his native state, the dukedom of Ferrara.] To accomplish these grand destinies it is ordained that you shall wed the illustrious Rogero.  Fly then to his deliverance, and lay prostrate in the dust the traitor who has snatched him from you, and now holds him in chains!”

Merlin ceased with these words, and left to Melissa, the priestess, the charge of more fully instructing the maiden in her future course.  “To-morrow,” said she, “I will conduct you to the castle on the rock where Rogero is held captive.  I will not leave you till I have guided you through this wild wood, and I will direct you on your way so that you shall be in no danger of mistaking it.”

The next morning Melissa conducted Bradamante between rocks and precipices, crossing rapid torrents, and traversing intricate passes, employing the time in imparting to her such information as was necessary to enable her to bring her design to a successful issue.

“Not only would the castle, impenetrable by force, and that winged horse of his baffle your efforts, but know that he possesses also a buckler whence flashes a light so brilliant that the eyes of all who look upon it are blinded.  Think not to avoid it by shutting your eyes, for how then will you be able to avoid his blows, and make him feel your own?  But I will teach you the proper course to pursue.