noted for its formidable fortress, still existing and
commanding a pass through the Corbière Mountains, which in
the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries separated France from
Roussillon, then belonging to Spain. The French burnt the
village and demolished the fort of Salces in 1496, but the
latter was rebuilt by the Spaniards in the most massive
style. The walls of the fort are 66 feet thick at the base
and 54 feet thick at the summit. When Queen Margaret
returned from Spain in 152,5 she reached France by the pass
of Salces. (See vol. i. p. xlvi.).--Ed.

Amadour, accustomed ever to be the first in battle, failed not to seize
this opportunity of winning renown; but in truth he set forth with
unwonted regret, both on account of the pleasure he was losing and
because he feared that he might find a change on his return. He knew
that Florida, who was now fifteen or sixteen years old, was sought in
marriage by many great princes and lords, and he reflected that if she
were married during his absence he might have no further opportunity of
seeing her, unless, indeed, the Countess of Aranda gave her his wife,
Avanturada, as a companion. However, by skilful management with his
friends, he obtained a promise from both mother and daughter that
wherever Florida might go after her marriage thither should his wife,
Avanturada, accompany her. Although it was proposed to marry Florida
in Portugal, it was nevertheless resolved that Avanturada should never
leave her. With this assurance, yet not without unspeakable regret,
Amadour went away and left his wife with the Countess.

When Florida found herself alone after his departure, she set about
doing such good and virtuous works as she hoped might win her the
reputation that belongs to the most perfect women, and might prove her