I. I like to hear the resounding of the hauberk against the saddlebow, the noise and the cry and the tumult that the horns and trumpets make, and to hear the tinkling and jingling of the bells; then I rush forth and see pourpoints and quilted coats thrown on top of equipment; the rustling of the pennons lifts my spirit.
II. I take pleasure and delight in war between the great men of the earth, and I will tell you why and wherefore: because they will not bestow any gifts except in time of war and strife; each of them rests and banquets until a dispute arises among them; then they are generous and friendly, modest and polite in their answers.
III. I know that hauberks and helmets and shields will have their day soon, and horses and lances and swords and good vassals from this time on; since at Montpellier the King grows angry, henceforth you will often see jousts and combats and tests of mettle at the gates many times, striking blows, unhorsing men.
IV. And if the good King of Aragon quickly conquers Montpellier or lays claim to it, I shall not lament the shame or harm done to Sir William, for he is contemptible; nor do I fear the Lord of Aubais, but set up such an obstacle (?) that, by the faith I owe you, I know not whether it will be harmful or advantageous to him.
