The warrior fell to the ground in the form of a cross and said: "You know full well, Lord, that I love You from the depths of my heart. Since You have shown Your power through me, deign to send Your messenger for me now at my life's end. Watch over my poor soul, that no evil spirit may harm it! Remember my lord: strengthen him in justice and suppress those who oppose him, so that he may conquer his enemies in Your name. I also commend to Your grace the good Frenchmen and his other subjects; let all his loyal friends, living or dead, have a place at Abraham's bosom." Turning onto his right arm, the warrior lowered his head, spread out his hands, and committed his soul to the almighty Lord. With St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael he rejoices evermore.
When Roland passed from this world, a great light shone down from the heavens. This was followed at once by a great earthquake, thunder, and signs in the skies of both France and Spain. Raging winds tore down huge forest trees and threatened the lives of the people. They watched as the sun was blotted out and countless fearful lightning bolts took its place. The heathens suffered many losses in a day that was as dark as night: ships went down with their crews, towers and lovely palaces fell, and stars appeared. Terrified by the storms, they all thought that the end of the world had come, that God would now sit in judgment.
