Part 7 Summary

Stanza 53 - Narration reveals that Charles has withdrawn his troops and his court to a town called Galne, which had been captured by Roland earlier in the war. He waits there for Ganelon's return and the tribute offered by Spain. One morning, Ganelon rides back.

Stanza 54 - Narration tells how Charles rose early, went to church services, and waited to greet Ganelon in the company of Roland, Oliver, Naimon and others. Ganelon greets Charles, presents him with the keys to Saragossa, and details the treasure and the hostages he brought with him. He then tells how the High Priest and others who refused to obey Marsile's command to surrender attempted to flee by sea, were caught in a storm and drowned. This is clearly a lie, concocted to explain why the High Priest isn't one of the hostages. Ganelon then assures Charles that...