Sections CXLIII-CL

Though Marsilies has fled, his uncle the alcaliph commands a fresh force of fifty thousand blackamoors from Africa, advancing with arrogance to continue the pagan assault.

Roland acknowledges that they will soon die as martyrs, but urges the Franks to sell their lives dearly so that when Charlemagne arrives, he will find the field strewn with fifteen pagan corpses for every French loss.

Roland observes that the alcaliph's men are black as ink with only their teeth showing white, confirming to him that the Franks are destined to die in this place.

Recognizing that the Franks are few in number, the pagans grow proud and mock Charlemagne for leaving them in such a vulnerable position.

The alcaliph strikes Oliver from behind, driving his spear through the knight's hauberk and body, then boasts that he has avenged his own men with this single blow.

Though mortally wounded, Oliver strikes back with his sword, splitting the alcaliph's helm and head, and defies the pagan's boast by declaring that neither he nor any Frank has suffered significant loss at the alcaliph's hands.

Knowing death approaches and seeking vengeance, Oliver fights through the pagan press with furious skill, breaking spears and shields and dismembering enemies while crying out Charlemagne's rallying call and summoning Roland.

Roland observes Oliver's deathly pale face and the blood pouring from his body, and laments that such a brave vassal should fall and that France now loses its noble defenders.

Overwhelmed by the sight of Oliver's wounds and the weight of his anguish, Roland loses consciousness and falls in his saddle.

Oliver, having lost so much blood that his vision fails, cannot recognize Roland and strikes him on the helm, slicing from crown to nose-piece but not piercing through.

Roland questions Oliver's action but in tender tones, identifies himself, and assures his companion that there was never any mistrust between them.

Oliver hears Roland's voice and confesses he cannot see him, asking pardon for the blow; Roland assures him he is unhurt and grants forgiveness before God.

The two companions lean toward each other in a moment of profound love and devotion as they prepare for death.

Feeling death's approach, Oliver dismounts and performs final confession, prayers, and blessings, commending his soul to God and blessing both Charlemagne and Roland before dying.

Roland mourns Oliver with such deep sorrow that no sadder man could be found anywhere on earth, emphasizing the magnitude of his loss.