Sections XIII-XX

Charlemagne reports to the barons that King Marsile offers substantial gifts and proposes to become Christian and become his vassal if Charlemagne will return to France and receive him at Aix.

The barons respond to Charlemagne's report by urging caution about trusting Marsile's proposal.

Roland argues vehemently against trusting Marsile, recounting how the king has repeatedly betrayed Charlemagne over seven years and previously sent false envoys bearing olive branches who were actually traitors.

Charlemagne responds to Roland's impassioned opposition only with body language—lowering his brow and tugging his beard—but offers neither approval nor disapproval.

Ganelon contends that Marsile's offer of homage and conversion is genuine, that Charlemagne's authority will be established over Spain, and that further war is foolish pride when the wise choice is to end the conflict.

Neimes emphasizes that Marsile is defeated, his fortifications destroyed, and that sparing a suppliants who offers hostages and faith is the wise course to end the war.

The barons express agreement with Neimes's counsel regarding peace.

Charlemagne asks the assembled barons to nominate a suitable messenger to carry his response to King Marsile in Zaragoza.

Neimes offers himself as the messenger and asks for the symbols of authority—the wand and glove—from Charlemagne.

Charlemagne refuses to allow Neimes to go, arguing that he is an old man of wisdom whom Charlemagne cannot afford to lose for a year.

Charlemagne asks once more which baron is willing to carry his message to Marsile in Zaragoza.

Roland steps forward and declares he is willing to undertake the mission to Zaragoza.

Oliver warns that Roland's fierce and courageous nature makes him unsuitable as a diplomatic envoy, as he fears Roland would mishandle the delicate mission.

Charlemagne silences both Roland and Oliver, forbidding either from undertaking the mission and threatening that sending the twelve peers would condemn them all.

Archbishop Turpin of Reims offers himself as messenger, claiming his seven-year presence in Spain gives him understanding of Marsile's intentions.

Charlemagne impatiently tells Turpin to sit down and be silent until commanded, showing his growing irritation with volunteers.

Charlemagne directly orders the assembled barons to select one of their number to carry his response to Marsile.

Roland suggests that Ganelon, his stepfather, should be sent as the ambassador to Marsile.

The barons agree that Ganelon can manage the diplomatic mission wisely and is the best choice for the task.

Ganelon reacts with anguish to his nomination, removing his fur pelts and declaring he will follow Roland with violent passion if he returns safely.

Roland responds to Ganelon's threats by calling him proud and mad, asserting that he is not concerned with slander, but maintains that a wise man should carry the diplomatic message.