Blondel

a celebrated French minstrel of the twelfth century. He was a favorite of Richard the Lion Hearted, and accompanied him to Palestine. On his return Richard was imprisoned by the emperor of Austria. Blondel set out to find his friend and master and wandered, it is said, from castle to castle seeking him. Learning that some illustrious captive was confined in the tower of a certain Austrian castle, he stationed himself at a distance and began to sing a song that he and Richard had sung together in former days. No sooner had Blondel sung the first stanza than a well known voice took up the song and finished it. Having thus located his master, Blondel repaired to England with all speed, and set on foot measures for Richard's release. The story may not be true, but it is a delightful account of friendship. It has given rise to the expression, "the faithful Blondel." See Richard I; THE TALISMAN.