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+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 1251 ***
+
+Le Morte D’Arthur
+King Arthur and of his Noble Knights of the Round Table
+
+by Thomas Malory
+
+
+IN TWO VOLS.—VOL. I
+
+
+Contents
+
+ BIBLIOGRAPHICAL NOTE
+ PREFACE OF WILLIAM CAXTON
+
+ BOOK I.
+
+ CHAPTER I. First, How Uther Pendragon sent for the duke of Cornwall
+ and Igraine his wife, and of their departing suddenly again.
+
+ CHAPTER II. How Uther Pendragon made war on the duke of Cornwall, and
+ how by the mean of Merlin he lay by the duchess and gat Arthur.
+
+ CHAPTER III. Of the birth of King Arthur and of his nurture.
+
+ CHAPTER IV. Of the death of King Uther Pendragon.
+
+ CHAPTER V. How Arthur was chosen king, and of wonders and marvels of a
+ sword taken out of a stone by the said Arthur.
+
+ CHAPTER VI. How King Arthur pulled out the sword divers times.
+
+ CHAPTER VII. How King Arthur was crowned, and how he made officers.
+
+ CHAPTER VIII. How King Arthur held in Wales, at a Pentecost, a great
+ feast, and what kings and lords came to his feast.
+
+ CHAPTER IX. Of the first war that King Arthur had, and how he won the
+ field.
+
+ CHAPTER X. How Merlin counselled King Arthur to send for King Ban and
+ King Bors, and of their counsel taken for the war.
+
+ CHAPTER XI. Of a great tourney made by King Arthur and the two kings
+ Ban and Bors, and how they went over the sea.
+
+ CHAPTER XII. How eleven kings gathered a great host against King
+ Arthur.
+
+ CHAPTER XIII. Of a dream of the King with the Hundred Knights.
+
+ CHAPTER XIV. How the eleven kings with their host fought against
+ Arthur and his host, and many great feats of the war.
+
+ CHAPTER XV. Yet of the same battle.
+
+ CHAPTER XVI. Yet more of the same battle.
+
+ CHAPTER XVII. Yet more of the same battle, and how it was ended by
+ Merlin.
+
+ CHAPTER XVIII. How King Arthur, King Ban, and King Bors rescued King
+ Leodegrance, and other incidents.
+
+ CHAPTER XIX. How King Arthur rode to Carlion, and of his dream, and
+ how he saw the questing beast.
+
+ CHAPTER XX. How King Pellinore took Arthur's horse and followed the
+ Questing Beast, and how Merlin met with Arthur.
+
+ CHAPTER XXI. How Ulfius impeached Queen Igraine, Arthur's mother, of
+ treason; and how a knight came and desired to have the death of his
+ master revenged.
+
+ CHAPTER XXII. How Griflet was made knight, and jousted with a knight
+
+ CHAPTER XXIII. How twelve knights came from Rome and asked truage for
+ this land of Arthur, and how Arthur fought with a knight.
+
+ CHAPTER XXIV. How Merlin saved Arthur's life, and threw an enchantment
+ on King Pellinore and made him to sleep.
+
+ CHAPTER XXV. How Arthur by the mean of Merlin gat Excalibur his sword
+ of the Lady of the Lake.
+
+ CHAPTER XXVI. How tidings came to Arthur that King Rience had overcome
+ eleven kings, and how he desired Arthur's beard to trim his mantle.
+
+ CHAPTER XXVII. How all the children were sent for that were born on
+ May-day, and how Mordred was saved.
+
+ BOOK II.
+
+ CHAPTER I. Of a damosel which came girt with a sword for to find a man
+ of such virtue to draw it out of the scabbard.
+
+ CHAPTER II. How Balin, arrayed like a poor knight, pulled out the
+ sword, which afterward was the cause of his death.
+
+ CHAPTER III. How the Lady of the Lake demanded the knight's head that
+ had won the sword, or the maiden's head.
+
+ CHAPTER IV. How Merlin told the adventure of this damosel.
+
+ CHAPTER V. How Balin was pursued by Sir Lanceor, knight of Ireland,
+ and how he jousted and slew him.
+
+ CHAPTER VI. How a damosel, which was love to Lanceor, slew herself for
+ love, and how Balin met with his brother Balan.
+
+ CHAPTER VII. How a dwarf reproved Balin for the death of Lanceor, and
+ how King Mark of Cornwall found them, and made a tomb over them.
+
+ CHAPTER VIII. How Merlin prophesied that two the best knights of the
+ world should fight there, which were Sir Lancelot and Sir Tristram.
+
+ CHAPTER IX. How Balin and his brother, by the counsel of Merlin, took
+ King Rience and brought him to King Arthur.
+
+ CHAPTER X. How King Arthur had a battle against Nero and King Lot of
+ Orkney, and how King Lot was deceived by Merlin, and how twelve kings
+ were slain.
+
+ CHAPTER XI. Of the interment of twelve kings, and of the prophecy of
+ Merlin, and how Balin should give the dolorous stroke.
+
+ CHAPTER XII. How a sorrowful knight came before Arthur, and how Balin
+ fetched him, and how that knight was slain by a knight invisible.
+
+ CHAPTER XIII. How Balin and the damosel met with a knight which was in
+ likewise slain, and how the damosel bled for the custom of a castle.
+
+ CHAPTER XIV. How Balin met with that knight named Garlon at a feast,
+ and there he slew him, to have his blood to heal therewith the son of
+ his host.
+
+ CHAPTER XV. How Balin fought with King Pellam, and how his sword
+ brake, and how he gat a spear wherewith he smote the dolorous stroke.
+
+ CHAPTER XVI. How Balin was delivered by Merlin, and saved a knight
+ that would have slain himself for love.
+
+ CHAPTER XVII. How that knight slew his love and a knight lying by her,
+ and after, how he slew himself with his own sword, and how Balin rode
+ toward a castle where he lost his life.
+
+ CHAPTER XVIII. How Balin met with his brother Balan, and how each of
+ them slew other unknown, till they were wounded to death.
+
+ CHAPTER XIX. How Merlin buried them both in one tomb, and of Balin's
+ sword.
+
+ BOOK III.
+
+ CHAPTER I. How King Arthur took a wife, and wedded Guenever, daughter
+ to Leodegrance, King of the Land of Cameliard, with whom he had the
+ Round Table.
+
+ CHAPTER II. How the Knights of the Round Table were ordained and their
+ sieges blessed by the Bishop of Canterbury.
+
+ CHAPTER III. How a poor man riding upon a lean mare desired King
+ Arthur to make his son knight.
+
+ CHAPTER IV. How Sir Tor was known for son of King Pellinore, and how
+ Gawaine was made knight.
+
+ CHAPTER V. How at feast of the wedding of King Arthur to Guenever, a
+ white hart came into the hall, and thirty couple hounds, and how a
+ brachet pinched the hart which was taken away.
+
+ CHAPTER VI. How Sir Gawaine rode for to fetch again the hart, and how
+ two brethren fought each against other for the hart.
+
+ CHAPTER VII How the hart was chased into a castle and there slain, and
+ how Sir Gawaine slew a lady.
+
+ CHAPTER VIII. How four knights fought against Gawaine and Gaheris, and
+ how they were overcome, and their lives saved at request of four
+ ladies.
+
+ CHAPTER IX. How Sir Tor rode after the knight with the brachet, and of
+ his adventure by the way.
+
+ CHAPTER X. How Sir Tor found the brachet with a lady, and how a knight
+ assailed him for the said brachet.
+
+ CHAPTER XI. How Sir Tor overcame the knight, and how he lost his head
+ at the request of a lady.
+
+ CHAPTER XII. How King Pellinore rode after the lady and the knight
+ that led her away, and how a lady desired help of him, and how he
+ fought with two knights for that lady, of whom he slew the one at the
+ first stroke.
+
+ CHAPTER XIII. How King Pellinore gat the lady and brought her to
+ Camelot to the court of King Arthur.
+
+ CHAPTER XIV. How on the way he heard two knights, as he lay by night
+ in a valley, and of their adventures.
+
+ CHAPTER XV. How when he was come to Camelot he was sworn upon a book
+ to tell the truth of his quest.
+
+ BOOK IV.
+
+ CHAPTER I. How Merlin was assotted and doted on one of the ladies of
+ the lake, and how he was shut in a rock under a stone and there died.
+
+ CHAPTER II. How five kings came into this land to war against King
+ Arthur, and what counsel Arthur had against them.
+
+ CHAPTER III. How King Arthur had ado with them and overthrew them, and
+ slew the five kings and made the remnant to flee.
+
+ CHAPTER IV. How the battle was finished or he came, and how King
+ Arthur founded an abbey where the battle was.
+
+ CHAPTER V. How Sir Tor was made knight of the Round Table, and how
+ Bagdemagus was displeased.
+
+ CHAPTER VI. How King Arthur, King Uriens, and Sir Accolon of Gaul,
+ chased an hart, and of their marvellous adventures.
+
+ CHAPTER VII. How Arthur took upon him to fight to be delivered out of
+ prison, and also for to deliver twenty knights that were in prison.
+
+ CHAPTER VIII. How Accolon found himself by a well, and he took upon
+ him to do battle against Arthur.
+
+ CHAPTER IX. Of the battle between King Arthur and Accolon.
+
+ CHAPTER X. How King Arthur's sword that he fought with brake, and how
+ he recovered of Accolon his own sword Excalibur, and overcame his
+ enemy.
+
+ CHAPTER XI. How Accolon confessed the treason of Morgan le Fay, King
+ Arthur's sister, and how she would have done slay him.
+
+ CHAPTER XII. How Arthur accorded the two brethren, and delivered the
+ twenty knights, and how Sir Accolon died.
+
+ CHAPTER XIII. How Morgan would have slain Sir Uriens her husband, and
+ how Sir Uwaine her son saved him.
+
+ CHAPTER XIV. How Queen Morgan le Fay made great sorrow for the death
+ of Accolon, and how she stole away the scabbard from Arthur.
+
+ CHAPTER XV. How Morgan le Fay saved a knight that should have been
+ drowned, and how King Arthur returned home again.
+
+ CHAPTER XVI. How the Damosel of the Lake saved King Arthur from mantle
+ that should have burnt him.
+
+ CHAPTER XVII. How Sir Gawaine and Sir Uwaine met with twelve fair
+ damosels, and how they complained on Sir Marhaus.
+
+ CHAPTER XVIII. How Sir Marhaus jousted with Sir Gawaine and Sir
+ Uwaine, and overthrew them both.
+
+ CHAPTER XIX. How Sir Marhaus, Sir Gawaine, and Sir Uwaine met three
+ damosels, and each of them took one.
+
+ CHAPTER XX. How a knight and a dwarf strove for a lady.
+
+ CHAPTER XXI. How King Pelleas suffered himself to be taken prisoner
+ because he would have a sight of his lady, and how Sir Gawaine
+ promised him to get to him the love of his lady.
+
+ CHAPTER XXII. How Sir Gawaine came to the Lady Ettard, and how Sir
+ Pelleas found them sleeping.
+
+ CHAPTER XXIII. How Sir Pelleas loved no more Ettard by means of the
+ Damosel of the Lake, whom he loved ever after.
+
+ CHAPTER XXIV. How Sir Marhaus rode with the damosel, and how he came
+ to the Duke of the South Marches.
+
+ CHAPTER XXV. How Sir Marhaus fought with the duke and his four sons
+ and made them to yield them.
+
+ CHAPTER XXVI. How Sir Uwaine rode with the damosel of sixty year of
+ age, and how he gat the prize at tourneying.
+
+ CHAPTER XXVII. How Sir Uwaine fought with two knights and overcame
+ them.
+
+ CHAPTER XXVIII. How at the year's end all three knights with their
+ three damosels met at the fountain.
+
+ BOOK V.
+
+ CHAPTER I. How twelve aged ambassadors of Rome came to King Arthur to
+ demand truage for Britain.
+
+ CHAPTER II. How the kings and lords promised to King Arthur aid and
+ help against the Romans.
+
+ CHAPTER III. How King Arthur held a parliament at York, and how he
+ ordained the realm should be governed in his absence.
+
+ CHAPTER IV. How King Arthur being shipped and lying in his cabin had a
+ marvellous dream and of the exposition thereof.
+
+ CHAPTER V. How a man of the country told to him of a marvellous giant,
+ and how he fought and conquered him.
+
+ CHAPTER VI. How King Arthur sent Sir Gawaine and other to Lucius, and
+ how they were assailed and escaped with worship.
+
+ CHAPTER VII. How Lucius sent certain spies in a bushment for to have
+ taken his knights being prisoners, and how they were letted.
+
+ CHAPTER VIII. How a senator told to Lucius of their discomfiture, and
+ also of the great battle between Arthur and Lucius.
+
+ CHAPTER IX How Arthur, after he had achieved the battle against the
+ Romans, entered into Almaine, and so into Italy.
+
+ CHAPTER X. Of a battle done by Sir Gawaine against a Saracen, which
+ after was yielden and became Christian.
+
+ CHAPTER XI. How the Saracens came out of a wood for to rescue their
+ beasts, and of a great battle.
+
+ CHAPTER XII. How Sir Gawaine returned to King Arthur with his
+ prisoners, and how the King won a city, and how he was crowned
+ Emperor.
+
+ BOOK VI.
+
+ CHAPTER I. How Sir Launcelot and Sir Lionel departed from the court,
+ and how Sir Lionel left him sleeping and was taken.
+
+ CHAPTER II. How Sir Ector followed for to seek Sir Launcelot, and how
+ he was taken by Sir Turquine.
+
+ CHAPTER III How four queens found Launcelot sleeping, and how by
+ enchantment he was taken and led into a castle.
+
+ CHAPTER IV. How Sir Launcelot was delivered by the mean of a damosel.
+
+ CHAPTER V. How a knight found Sir Launcelot lying in his leman's bed,
+ and how Sir Launcelot fought with the knight.
+
+ CHAPTER VI. How Sir Launcelot was received of King Bagdemagus'
+ daughter, and how he made his complaint to her father.
+
+ CHAPTER VII. How Sir Launcelot behaved him in a tournament, and how he
+ met with Sir Turquine leading Sir Gaheris.
+
+ CHAPTER VIII. How Sir Launcelot and Sir Turquine fought together.
+
+ CHAPTER IX. How Sir Turquine was slain, and how Sir Launcelot bade Sir
+ Gaheris deliver all the prisoners.
+
+ CHAPTER X. How Sir Launcelot rode with a damosel and slew a knight
+ that distressed all ladies and also a villain that kept a bridge.
+
+ CHAPTER XI. How Sir Launcelot slew two giants, and made a castle free.
+
+ CHAPTER XII. How Sir Launcelot rode disguised in Sir Kay's harness,
+ and how he smote down a knight.
+
+ CHAPTER XIII. How Sir Launcelot jousted against four knights of the
+ Round Table and overthrew them.
+
+ CHAPTER XIV. How Sir Launcelot followed a brachet into a castle, where
+ he found a dead knight, and how he after was required of a damosel to
+ heal her brother.
+
+ CHAPTER XV. How Sir Launcelot came into the Chapel Perilous and gat
+ there of a dead corpse a piece of the cloth and a sword.
+
+ CHAPTER XVI. How Sir Launcelot at the request of a lady recovered a
+ falcon, by which he was deceived.
+
+ CHAPTER XVII. How Sir Launcelot overtook a knight which chased his
+ wife to have slain her, and how he said to him.
+
+ CHAPTER XVIII. How Sir Launcelot came to King Arthur's Court, and how
+ there were recounted all his noble feats and acts.
+
+ BOOK VII.
+
+ CHAPTER I. How Beaumains came to King Arthur's Court and demanded
+ three petitions of King Arthur.
+
+ CHAPTER II. How Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine were wroth because Sir
+ Kay mocked Beaumains, and of a damosel which desired a knight to fight
+ for a lady.
+
+ CHAPTER III. How Beaumains desired the battle, and how it was granted
+ to him, and how he desired to be made knight of Sir Launcelot.
+
+ CHAPTER IV. How Beaumains departed, and how he gat of Sir Kay a spear
+ and a shield, and how he jousted with Sir Launcelot.
+
+ CHAPTER V. How Beaumains told to Sir Launcelot his name, and how he
+ was dubbed knight of Sir Launcelot, and after overtook the damosel.
+
+ CHAPTER VI. How Beaumains fought and slew two knights at a passage.
+
+ CHAPTER VII. How Beaumains fought with the Knight of the Black Launds,
+ and fought with him till he fell down and died.
+
+ CHAPTER VIII. How the brother of the knight that was slain met with
+ Beaumains, and fought with Beaumains till he was yielden.
+
+ CHAPTER IX. How the damosel again rebuked Beaumains, and would not
+ suffer him to sit at her table, but called him kitchen boy.
+
+ CHAPTER X. How the third brother, called the Red Knight, jousted and
+ fought against Beaumains, and how Beaumains overcame him.
+
+ CHAPTER XI. How Sir Beaumains suffered great rebukes of the damosel,
+ and he suffered it patiently.
+
+ CHAPTER XII. How Beaumains fought with Sir Persant of Inde, and made
+ him to be yielden.
+
+ CHAPTER XIII. Of the goodly communication between Sir Persant and
+ Beaumains, and how he told him that his name was Sir Gareth.
+
+ CHAPTER XIV. How the lady that was besieged had word from her sister
+ how she had brought a knight to fight for her, and what battles he had
+ achieved.
+
+ CHAPTER XV. How the damosel and Beaumains came to the siege; and came
+ to a sycamore tree, and there Beaumains blew a horn, and then the
+ Knight of the Red Launds came to fight with him.
+
+ CHAPTER XVI. How the two knights met together, and of their talking,
+ and how they began their battle.
+
+ CHAPTER XVII. How after long fighting Beaumains overcame the knight
+ and would have slain him, but at the request of the lords he saved his
+ life, and made him to yield him to the lady.
+
+ CHAPTER XVIII. How the knight yielded him, and how Beaumains made him
+ to go unto King Arthur's court, and to cry Sir Launcelot mercy.
+
+ CHAPTER XIX How Beaumains came to the lady, and when he came to the
+ castle the gates were closed against him, and of the words that the
+ lady said to him.
+
+ CHAPTER XX. How Sir Beaumains rode after to rescue his dwarf, and came
+ into the castle where he was.
+
+ CHAPTER XXI. How Sir Gareth, otherwise called Beaumains, came to the
+ presence of his lady, and how they took acquaintance, and of their
+ love.
+
+ CHAPTER XXII. How at night came an armed knight, and fought with Sir
+ Gareth, and he, sore hurt in the thigh, smote off the knight's head.
+
+ CHAPTER XXIII. How the said knight came again the next night and was
+ beheaded again, and how at the feast of Pentecost all the knights that
+ Sir Gareth had overcome came and yielded them to King Arthur.
+
+ CHAPTER XXIV. How King Arthur pardoned them, and demanded of them
+ where Sir Gareth was.
+
+ CHAPTER XXV. How the Queen of Orkney came to this feast of Pentecost,
+ and Sir Gawaine and his brethren came to ask her blessing.
+
+ CHAPTER XXVI. How King Arthur sent for the Lady Lionesse, and how she
+ let cry a tourney at her castle, whereas came many knights.
+
+ CHAPTER XXVII. How King Arthur went to the tournament with his
+ knights, and how the lady received him worshipfully, and how the
+ knights encountered.
+
+ CHAPTER XXVIII. How the knights bare them in the battle.
+
+ CHAPTER XXIX. Yet of the said tournament.
+
+ CHAPTER XXX. How Sir Gareth was espied by the heralds, and how he
+ escaped out of the field.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXI. How Sir Gareth came to a castle where he was well
+ lodged, and he jousted with a knight and slew him.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXII. How Sir Gareth fought with a knight that held within
+ his castle thirty ladies, and how he slew him.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXIII. How Sir Gareth and Sir Gawaine fought each against
+ other, and how they knew each other by the damosel Linet.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXIV. How Sir Gareth acknowledged that they loved each other
+ to King Arthur, and of the appointment of their wedding.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXV. Of the Great Royalty, and what officers were made at the
+ feast of the wedding, and of the jousts at the feast.
+
+ BOOK VIII.
+
+ CHAPTER I. How Sir Tristram de Liones was born, and how his mother
+ died at his birth, wherefore she named him Tristram.
+
+ CHAPTER II. How the stepmother of Sir Tristram had ordained poison for
+ to have poisoned Sir Tristram.
+
+ CHAPTER III. How Sir Tristram was sent into France, and had one to
+ govern him named Gouvernail, and how he learned to harp, hawk, and
+ hunt.
+
+ CHAPTER IV. How Sir Marhaus came out of Ireland for to ask truage of
+ Cornwall, or else he would fight therefore.
+
+ CHAPTER V. How Tristram enterprized the battle to fight for the truage
+ of Cornwall, and how he was made knight.
+
+ CHAPTER VI. How Sir Tristram arrived into the Island for to furnish
+ the battle with Sir Marhaus.
+
+ CHAPTER VII. How Sir Tristram fought against Sir Marhaus and achieved
+ his battle, and how Sir Marhaus fled to his ship.
+
+ CHAPTER VIII. How Sir Marhaus after that he was arrived in Ireland
+ died of the stroke that Sir Tristram had given him, and how Tristram
+ was hurt.
+
+ CHAPTER IX. How Sir Tristram was put to the keeping of La Beale Isoud
+ first for to be healed of his wound.
+
+ CHAPTER X. How Sir Tristram won the degree at a tournament in Ireland,
+ and there made Palamides to bear no more harness in a year.
+
+ CHAPTER XI. How the queen espied that Sir Tristram had slain her
+ brother Sir Marhaus by his sword, and in what jeopardy he was.
+
+ CHAPTER XII. How Sir Tristram departed from the king and La Beale
+ Isoud out of Ireland for to come into Cornwall.
+
+ CHAPTER XIII. How Sir Tristram and King Mark hurted each other for the
+ love of a knight's wife.
+
+ CHAPTER XIV. How Sir Tristram lay with the lady, and how her husband
+ fought with Sir Tristram.
+
+ CHAPTER XV. How Sir Bleoberis demanded the fairest lady in King Mark's
+ court, whom he took away, and how he was fought with.
+
+ CHAPTER XVI. How Sir Tristram fought with two knights of the Round
+ Table.
+
+ CHAPTER XVII. How Sir Tristram fought with Sir Bleoberis for a lady,
+ and how the lady was put to choice to whom she would go.
+
+ CHAPTER XVIII. How the lady forsook Sir Tristram and abode with Sir
+ Bleoberis, and how she desired to go to her husband.
+
+ CHAPTER XIX. How King Mark sent Sir Tristram for La Beale Isoud toward
+ Ireland, and how by fortune he arrived into England.
+
+ CHAPTER XX. How King Anguish of Ireland was summoned to come to King
+ Arthur's court for treason.
+
+ CHAPTER XXI. How Sir Tristram rescued a child from a knight, and how
+ Gouvernail told him of King Anguish.
+
+ CHAPTER XXII. How Sir Tristram fought for Sir Anguish and overcame his
+ adversary, and how his adversary would never yield him.
+
+ CHAPTER XXIII. How Sir Blamore desired Tristram to slay him, and how
+ Sir Tristram spared him, and how they took appointment.
+
+ CHAPTER XXIV. How Sir Tristram demanded La Beale Isoud for King Mark,
+ and how Sir Tristram and Isoud drank the love drink.
+
+ CHAPTER XXV. How Sir Tristram and Isoud were in prison, and how he
+ fought for her beauty, and smote off another lady's head.
+
+ CHAPTER XXVI. How Sir Tristram fought with Sir Breunor, and at the
+ last smote off his head.
+
+ CHAPTER XXVII. How Sir Galahad fought with Sir Tristram, and how Sir
+ Tristram yielded him and promised to fellowship with Launcelot.
+
+ CHAPTER XXVIII. How Sir Launcelot met with Sir Carados bearing away
+ Sir Gawaine, and of the rescue of Sir Gawaine.
+
+ CHAPTER XXIX. Of the wedding of King Mark to La Beale Isoud, and of
+ Bragwaine her maid, and of Palamides.
+
+ CHAPTER XXX. How Palamides demanded Queen Isoud, and how Lambegus rode
+ after to rescue her, and of the escape of Isoud.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXI. How Sir Tristram rode after Palamides, and how he found
+ him and fought with him, and by the means of Isoud the battle ceased.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXII. How Sir Tristram brought Queen Isoud home, and of the
+ debate of King Mark and Sir Tristram.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXIII. How Sir Lamorak jousted with thirty knights, and Sir
+ Tristram at the request of King Mark smote his horse down.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXIV. How Sir Lamorak sent an horn to King Mark in despite of
+ Sir Tristram, and how Sir Tristram was driven into a chapel.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXV. How Sir Tristram was holpen by his men, and of Queen
+ Isoud which was put in a lazar-cote, and how Tristram was hurt.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXVI. How Sir Tristram served in war King Howel of Brittany,
+ and slew his adversary in the field.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXVII. How Sir Suppinabiles told Sir Tristram how he was
+ defamed in the court of King Arthur, and of Sir Lamorak.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXVIII. How Sir Tristram and his wife arrived in Wales, and
+ how he met there with Sir Lamorak.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXIX. How Sir Tristram fought with Sir Nabon, and overcame
+ him, and made Sir Segwarides lord of the isle.
+
+ CHAPTER XL
+
+ CHAPTER XLI. How Sir Lamorak slew Sir Frol, and of the courteous
+ fighting with Sir Belliance his brother.
+
+ BOOK IX.
+
+ CHAPTER I. How a young man came into the court of King Arthur, and how
+ Sir Kay called him in scorn La Cote Male Taile.
+
+ CHAPTER II. How a damosel came into the court and desired a knight to
+ take on him an enquest, which La Cote Male Taile emprised.
+
+ CHAPTER III. How La Cote Male Taile overthrew Sir Dagonet the king's
+ fool, and of the rebuke that he had of the damosel.
+
+ CHAPTER IV. How La Cote Male Taile fought against an hundred knights,
+ and how he escaped by the mean of a lady.
+
+ CHAPTER V. How Sir Launcelot came to the court and heard of La Cote
+ Male Taile, and how he followed after him, and how La Cote Male Taile
+ was prisoner.
+
+ CHAPTER VI. How Sir Launcelot fought with six knights, and after with
+ Sir Brian, and how he delivered the prisoners.
+
+ CHAPTER VII. How Sir Launcelot met with the damosel named Male disant,
+ and named her the Damosel Bienpensant.
+
+ CHAPTER VIII. How La Cote Male Taile was taken prisoner, and after
+ rescued by Sir Launcelot, and how Sir Launcelot overcame four
+ brethren.
+
+ CHAPTER IX. How Sir Launcelot made La Cote Male Taile lord of the
+ Castle of Pendragon, and after was made knight of the Round Table.
+
+ CHAPTER X. How La Beale Isoud sent letters to Sir Tristram by her maid
+ Bragwaine, and of divers adventures of Sir Tristram.
+
+ CHAPTER XI. How Sir Tristram met with Sir Lamorak de Galis, and how
+ they fought, and after accorded never to fight together.
+
+ CHAPTER XII. How Sir Palomides followed the Questing Beast, and smote
+ down Sir Tristram and Sir Lamorak with one spear.
+
+ CHAPTER XIII. How Sir Lamorak met with Sir Meliagaunce, and fought
+ together for the beauty of Dame Guenever.
+
+ CHAPTER XIV. How Sir Kay met with Sir Tristram, and after of the shame
+ spoken of the knights of Cornwall, and how they jousted.
+
+ CHAPTER XV. How King Arthur was brought into the Forest Perilous, and
+ how Sir Tristram saved his life.
+
+ CHAPTER XVI. How Sir Tristram came to La Beale Isoud, and how Kehydius
+ began to love Beale Isoud, and of a letter that Tristram found.
+
+ CHAPTER XVII. How Sir Tristram departed from Tintagil, and how he
+ sorrowed and was so long in a forest till he was out of his mind.
+
+ CHAPTER XVIII. How Sir Tristram soused Dagonet in a well, and how
+ Palomides sent a damosel to seek Tristram, and how Palomides met with
+ King Mark.
+
+ CHAPTER XIX. How it was noised how Sir Tristram was dead, and how La
+ Beale Isoud would have slain herself.
+
+ CHAPTER XX. How King Mark found Sir Tristram naked, and made him to be
+ borne home to Tintagil, and how he was there known by a brachet.
+
+ CHAPTER XXI. How King Mark, by the advice of his council, banished Sir
+ Tristram out of Cornwall the term of ten years.
+
+ CHAPTER XXII. How a damosel sought help to help Sir Launcelot against
+ thirty knights, and how Sir Tristram fought with them.
+
+ CHAPTER XXIII. How Sir Tristram and Sir Dinadan came to a lodging
+ where they must joust with two knights.
+
+ CHAPTER XXIV. How Sir Tristram jousted with Sir Kay and Sir Sagramore
+ le Desirous, and how Sir Gawaine turned Sir Tristram from Morgan le
+ Fay.
+
+ CHAPTER XXV. How Sir Tristram and Sir Gawaine rode to have foughten
+ with the thirty knights, but they durst not come out.
+
+ CHAPTER XXVI. How damosel Bragwaine found Tristram sleeping by a well,
+ and how she delivered letters to him from La Beale Isoud.
+
+ CHAPTER XXVII. How Sir Tristram had a fall with Sir Palomides, and how
+ Launcelot overthrew two knights.
+
+ CHAPTER XXVIII. How Sir Launcelot jousted with Palomides and overthrew
+ him, and after he was assailed with twelve knights.
+
+ CHAPTER XXIX. How Sir Tristram behaved him the first day of the
+ tournament, and there he had the prize.
+
+ CHAPTER XXX. How Sir Tristram returned against King Arthur's party
+ because he saw Sir Palomides on that party.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXI. How Sir Tristram found Palomides by a well, and brought
+ him with him to his lodging.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXII. How Sir Tristram smote down Sir Palomides, and how he
+ jousted with King Arthur, and other feats.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXIII. How Sir Launcelot hurt Sir Tristram, and how after Sir
+ Tristram smote down Sir Palomides.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXIV. How the prize of the third day was given to Sir
+ Launcelot, and Sir Launcelot gave it to Sir Tristram.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXV. How Palomides came to the castle where Sir Tristram was,
+ and of the quest that Sir Launcelot and ten knights made for Sir
+ Tristram.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXVI. How Sir Tristram, Sir Palomides, and Sir Dinadan were
+ taken and put in prison.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXVII. How King Mark was sorry for the good renown of Sir
+ Tristram. Some of King Arthur's knights jousted with knights of
+ Cornwall.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXVIII. Of the treason of King Mark, and how Sir Gaheris
+ smote him down and Andred his cousin.
+
+ CHAPTER XXXIX. How after that Sir Tristram, Sir Palomides, and Sir
+ Dinadan had been long in prison they were delivered.
+
+ CHAPTER XL. How Sir Dinadan rescued a lady from Sir Breuse Saunce
+ Pité, and how Sir Tristram received a shield of Morgan le Fay.
+
+ CHAPTER XLI. How Sir Tristram took with him the shield, and also how
+ he slew the paramour of Morgan le Fay.
+
+ CHAPTER XLII. How Morgan le Fay buried her paramour, and how Sir
+ Tristram praised Sir Launcelot and his kin.
+
+ CHAPTER XLIII. How Sir Tristram at a tournament bare the shield that
+ Morgan le Fay delivered to him.
+
+GLOSSARY
+
+
+
+
+BIBLIOGRAPHICAL NOTE
+
+
+The Morte D’Arthur was finished, as the epilogue tells us, in the ninth
+year of Edward IV., i.e. between March 4, 1469 and the same date in
+1470. It is thus, fitly enough, the last important English book written
+before the introduction of printing into this country, and since no
+manuscript of it has come down to us it is also the first English
+classic for our knowledge of which we are entirely dependent on a
+printed text. Caxton’s story of how the book was brought to him and he
+was induced to print it may be read farther on in his own preface. From
+this we learn also that he was not only the printer of the book, but to
+some extent its editor also, dividing Malory’s work into twenty-one
+books, splitting up the books into chapters, by no means skilfully, and
+supplying the “Rubrish” or chapter-headings. It may be added that
+Caxton’s preface contains, moreover, a brief criticism which, on the
+points on which it touches, is still the soundest and most sympathetic
+that has been written.
+
+Caxton finished his edition the last day of July 1485, some fifteen or
+sixteen years after Malory wrote his epilogue. It is clear that the
+author was then dead, or the printer would not have acted as a clumsy
+editor to the book, and recent discoveries (if bibliography may, for
+the moment, enlarge its bounds to mention such matters) have revealed
+with tolerable certainty when Malory died and who he was. In letters to
+The Athenaeum in July 1896 Mr. T. Williams pointed out that the name of
+a Sir Thomas Malorie occurred among those of a number of other
+Lancastrians excluded from a general pardon granted by Edward IV. in
+1468, and that a William Mallerye was mentioned in the same year as
+taking part in a Lancastrian rising. In September 1897, again, in
+another letter to the same paper, Mr. A. T. Martin reported the finding
+of the will of a Thomas Malory of Papworth, a hundred partly in
+Cambridgeshire, partly in Hunts. This will was made on September 16,
+1469, and as it was proved the 27th of the next month the testator must
+have been in immediate expectation of death. It contains the most
+careful provision for the education and starting in life of a family of
+three daughters and seven sons, of whom the youngest seems to have been
+still an infant. We cannot say with certainty that this Thomas Malory,
+whose last thoughts were so busy for his children, was our author, or
+that the Lancastrian knight discovered by Mr. Williams was identical
+with either or both, but such evidence as the Morte D’Arthur offers
+favours such a belief. There is not only the epilogue with its
+petition, “pray for me while I am alive that God send me good
+deliverance and when I am dead pray you all for my soul,” but this very
+request is foreshadowed at the end of chap. 37 of Book ix. in the
+touching passage, surely inspired by personal experience, as to the
+sickness “that is the greatest pain a prisoner may have”; and the
+reflections on English fickleness in the first chapter of Book xxi.,
+though the Wars of the Roses might have inspired them in any one, come
+most naturally from an author who was a Lancastrian knight.
+
+If the Morte D’Arthur was really written in prison and by a prisoner
+distressed by ill-health as well as by lack of liberty, surely no task
+was ever better devised to while away weary hours. Leaving abundant
+scope for originality in selection, modification, and arrangement, as a
+compilation and translation it had in it that mechanical element which
+adds the touch of restfulness to literary work. No original, it is
+said, has yet been found for Book vii., and it is possible that none
+will ever be forthcoming for chap. 20 of Book xviii., which describes
+the arrival of the body of the Fair Maiden of Astolat at Arthur’s
+court, or vii for chap. 25 of the same book, with its discourse on true
+love; but the great bulk of the work has been traced chapter by chapter
+to the “Merlin” of Robert de Borron and his successors (Bks. i.-iv.),
+the English metrical romance La Morte Arthur of the Thornton manuscript
+(Bk. v.), the French romances of Tristan (Bks. viii.-x.) and of
+Launcelot (Bks. vi., xi.-xix.), and lastly to the English prose Morte
+Arthur of Harley MS. 2252 (Bks. xviii., xx., xxi.). As to Malory’s
+choice of his authorities critics have not failed to point out that now
+and again he gives a worse version where a better has come down to us,
+and if he had been able to order a complete set of Arthurian
+manuscripts from his bookseller, no doubt he would have done even
+better than he did! But of the skill, approaching to original genius,
+with which he used the books from which he worked there is little
+dispute.
+
+Malory died leaving his work obviously unrevised, and in this condition
+it was brought to Caxton, who prepared it for the press with his usual
+enthusiasm in the cause of good literature, and also, it must be added,
+with his usual carelessness. New chapters are sometimes made to begin
+in the middle of a sentence, and in addition to simple misprints there
+are numerous passages in which it is impossible to believe that we have
+the text as Malory intended it to stand. After Caxton’s edition
+Malory’s manuscript must have disappeared, and subsequent editions are
+differentiated only by the degree of closeness with which they follow
+the first. Editions appeared printed by Wynkyn de Worde in 1498 and
+1529, by William Copland in 1559, by Thomas East about 1585, and by
+Thomas Stansby in 1634, each printer apparently taking the text of his
+immediate predecessor and reproducing it with modifications. Stansby’s
+edition served for reprints in 1816 and 1856 (the latter edited by
+Thomas Wright); but in 1817 an edition supervised by Robert Southey
+went back to Caxton’s text, though to a copy (only two are extant, and
+only one perfect!) in which eleven leaves were supplied from Wynkyn de
+Worde’s reprint. In 1868 Sir Edward Strachey produced for the present
+publishers a reprint of Southey’s text in modern spelling, with the
+substitution of current words for those now obsolete, and the softening
+of a handful of passages likely, he thought, to prevent the book being
+placed in the hands of boys. In 1889 a boon was conferred on scholars
+by the publication of Dr. H. Oskar Sommer’s page-for-page reprint of
+Caxton’s text, with an elaborate discussion of Malory’s sources. Dr.
+Sommer’s edition was used by Sir E. Strachey to revise his Globe text,
+and in 1897 Mr. Israel Gollancz produced for the “Temple Classics” a
+very pretty edition in which Sir Edward Strachey’s principles of
+modernisation in spelling and punctuation were adopted, but with the
+restoration of obsolete words and omitted phrases. As to the present
+edition, Sir Edward Strachey altered with so sparing a hand that on
+many pages differences between his version and that here printed will
+be looked for in vain; but the most anxious care has been taken to
+produce a text modernised as to its spelling, but in other respects in
+accurate accordance with Caxton’s text, as represented by Dr Sommer’s
+reprint. Obvious misprints have been silently corrected, but in a few
+cases notes show where emendations have been introduced from Wynkyn de
+Worde—not that Wynkyn had any more right to emend Caxton than we, but
+because even a printer’s conjecture gains a little sanctity after four
+centuries. The restoration of obsolete words has necessitated a much
+fuller glossary, and the index of names has therefore been separated
+from it and enlarged. In its present form the index is the work of Mr.
+Henry Littlehales.
+
+A. W. POLLARD.
+
+
+
+PREFACE OF WILLIAM CAXTON
+
+After that I had accomplished and finished divers histories, as well of
+contemplation as of other historial and worldly acts of great
+conquerors and princes, and also certain books of ensamples and
+doctrine, many noble and divers gentlemen of this realm of England came
+and demanded me many and oft times, wherefore that I have not do made
+and imprint the noble history of the Saint Greal, and of the most
+renowned Christian king, first and chief of the three best Christian,
+and worthy, King Arthur, which ought most to be remembered among us
+Englishmen to-fore all other Christian kings; for it is notoyrly known
+through the universal world, that there be nine worthy and the best
+that ever were, that is to wit, three Paynims, three Jews, and three
+Christian men. As for the Paynims, they were to-fore the Incarnation of
+Christ, which were named, the first Hector of Troy, of whom the history
+is comen both in ballad and in prose, the second Alexander the Great,
+and the third Julius Caesar, Emperor of Rome, of whom the histories be
+well known and had. And as for the three Jews, which also were to-fore
+the incarnation of our Lord, of whom the first was duke Joshua which
+brought the children of Israel into the land of behest, the second
+David king of Jerusalem, and the third Judas Machabeus, of these three
+the Bible rehearseth all their noble histories and acts. And since the
+said Incarnation have been three noble Christian men, stalled and
+admitted through the universal world into the number of the nine best
+and worthy. Of whom was first the noble Arthur, whose noble acts I
+purpose to write in this present book here following. The second was
+Charlemain, or Charles the Great, of whom the history is had in many
+places, both in French and in English. And the third and last was
+Godfrey of Boloine, of whose acts and life I made a book unto the
+excellent prince and king of noble memory, King Edward the Fourth.
+
+The said noble gentlemen instantly required me to imprint the history
+of the said noble king and conqueror King Arthur, and of his knights,
+with the history of the Saint Greal, and of the death and ending of the
+said Arthur; affirming that I ought rather to imprint his acts and
+noble feats, than of Godfrey of Boloine, or any of the other eight,
+considering that he was a man born within this realm, and king and
+emperor of the same: and that there be in French divers and many noble
+volumes of his acts, and also of his knights. To whom I answered that
+divers men hold opinion that there was no such Arthur, and that all
+such books as been made of him be feigned and fables, because that some
+chronicles make of him no mention, nor remember him nothing, nor of his
+knights. Whereto they answered, and one in special said, that in him
+that should say or think that there was never such a king called Arthur
+might well be aretted great folly and blindness. For he said that there
+were many evidences of the contrary. First ye may see his sepulchre in
+the monastery of Glastonbury. And also in Policronicon, in the fifth
+book the sixth chapter, and in the seventh book the twenty-third
+chapter, where his body was buried, and after found, and translated
+into the said monastery. Ye shall see also in the history of Bochas, in
+his book De Casu Principum, part of his noble acts, and also of his
+fall. Also Galfridus in his British book recounteth his life: and in
+divers places of England many remembrances be yet of him, and shall
+remain perpetually, and also of his knights. First in the abbey of
+Westminster, at St. Edward’s shrine, remaineth the print of his seal in
+red wax closed in beryl, in which is written, Patricius Arthurus
+Britannie, Gallie, Germanie, Dacie, Imperator. Item in the castle of
+Dover ye may see Gawaine’s skull, and Cradok’s mantle: at Winchester
+the Round Table: in other places Launcelot’s sword and many other
+things. Then all these things considered, there can no man reasonably
+gainsay but there was a king of this land named Arthur. For in all
+places, Christian and heathen, he is reputed and taken for one of the
+nine worthy, and the first of the three Christian men. And also, he is
+more spoken of beyond the sea, more books made of his noble acts, than
+there be in England, as well in Dutch, Italian, Spanish, and Greekish,
+as in French. And yet of record remain in witness of him in Wales, in
+the town of Camelot, the great stones and the marvellous works of iron
+lying under the ground, and royal vaults, which divers now living have
+seen. Wherefore it is a marvel why he is no more renowned in his own
+country, save only it accordeth to the Word of God, which saith that no
+man is accepted for a prophet in his own country.
+
+Then all these things aforesaid alleged, I could not well deny but that
+there was such a noble king named Arthur, and reputed one of the nine
+worthy, and first and chief of the Christian men. And many noble
+volumes be made of him and of his noble knights in French, which I have
+seen and read beyond the sea, which be not had in our maternal tongue.
+But in Welsh be many and also in French, and some in English but
+nowhere nigh all. Wherefore, such as have late been drawn out briefly
+into English I have after the simple conning that God hath sent to me,
+under the favour and correction of all noble lords and gentlemen,
+enprised to imprint a book of the noble histories of the said King
+Arthur, and of certain of his knights, after a copy unto me delivered,
+which copy Sir Thomas Malorye did take out of certain books of French,
+and reduced it into English. And I, according to my copy, have done set
+it in imprint, to the intent that noble men may see and learn the noble
+acts of chivalry, the gentle and virtuous deeds that some knights used
+in those days, by which they came to honour, and how they that were
+vicious were punished and oft put to shame and rebuke; humbly
+beseeching all noble lords and ladies, with all other estates of what
+estate or degree they been of, that shall see and read in this said
+book and work, that they take the good and honest acts in their
+remembrance, and to follow the same. Wherein they shall find many
+joyous and pleasant histories, and noble and renowned acts of humanity,
+gentleness, and chivalry. For herein may be seen noble chivalry,
+courtesy, humanity, friendliness, hardiness, love, friendship,
+cowardice, murder, hate, virtue, and sin. Do after the good and leave
+the evil, and it shall bring you to good fame and renown. And for to
+pass the time this book shall be pleasant to read in, but for to give
+faith and belief that all is true that is contained herein, ye be at
+your liberty: but all is written for our doctrine, and for to beware
+that we fall not to vice nor sin, but to exercise and follow virtue, by
+which we may come and attain to good fame and renown in this life, and
+after this short and transitory life to come unto everlasting bliss in
+heaven; the which He grant us that reigneth in heaven, the blessed
+Trinity. Amen.
+
+Then to proceed forth in this said book, which I direct unto all noble
+princes, lords and ladies, gentlemen or gentlewomen, that desire to
+read or hear read of the noble and joyous history of the great
+conqueror and excellent king, King Arthur, sometime king of this noble
+realm, then called Britain; I, William Caxton, simple person, present
+this book following, which I have enprised to imprint: and treateth of
+the noble acts, feats of arms of chivalry, prowess, hardiness,
+humanity, love, courtesy, and very gentleness, with many wonderful
+histories and adventures. And for to understand briefly the content of
+this volume, I have divided it into XXI Books, and every book
+chaptered, as hereafter shall by God’s grace follow. The First Book
+shall treat how Uther Pendragon gat the noble conqueror King Arthur,
+and containeth xxviii chapters. The Second Book treateth of Balin the
+noble knight, and containeth xix chapters. The Third Book treateth of
+the marriage of King Arthur to Queen Guenever, with other matters, and
+containeth xv chapters. The Fourth Book, how Merlin was assotted, and
+of war made to King Arthur, and containeth xxix chapters. The Fifth
+Book treateth of the conquest of Lucius the emperor, and containeth xii
+chapters. The Sixth Book treateth of Sir Launcelot and Sir Lionel, and
+marvellous adventures, and containeth xviii chapters. The Seventh Book
+treateth of a noble knight called Sir Gareth, and named by Sir Kay
+Beaumains, and containeth xxxvi chapters. The Eighth Book treateth of
+the birth of Sir Tristram the noble knight, and of his acts, and
+containeth xli chapters. The Ninth Book treateth of a knight named by
+Sir Kay Le Cote Male Taille, and also of Sir Tristram, and containeth
+xliv chapters. The Tenth Book treateth of Sir Tristram, and other
+marvellous adventures, and containeth lxxxviii chapters. The Eleventh
+Book treateth of Sir Launcelot and Sir Galahad, and containeth xiv
+chapters. The Twelfth Book treateth of Sir Launcelot and his madness,
+and containeth xiv chapters. The Thirteenth Book treateth how Galahad
+came first to king Arthur’s court, and the quest how the Sangreal was
+begun, and containeth xx chapters. The Fourteenth Book treateth of the
+quest of the Sangreal, and containeth x chapters. The Fifteenth Book
+treateth of Sir Launcelot, and containeth vi chapters. The Sixteenth
+Book treateth of Sir Bors and Sir Lionel his brother, and containeth
+xvii chapters. The Seventeenth Book treateth of the Sangreal, and
+containeth xxiii chapters. The Eighteenth Book treateth of Sir
+Launcelot and the queen, and containeth xxv chapters. The Nineteenth
+Book treateth of Queen Guenever and Launcelot, and containeth xiii
+chapters. The Twentieth Book treateth of the piteous death of Arthur,
+and containeth xxii chapters. The Twenty-first Book treateth of his
+last departing, and how Sir Launcelot came to revenge his death, and
+containeth xiii chapters. The sum is twenty-one books, which contain
+the sum of five hundred and seven chapters, as more plainly shall
+follow hereafter.
+
+
+
+BOOK I.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I. First, How Uther Pendragon sent for the duke of Cornwall and
+Igraine his wife, and of their departing suddenly again.
+
+It befell in the days of Uther Pendragon, when he was king of all
+England, and so reigned, that there was a mighty duke in Cornwall that
+held war against him long time. And the duke was called the Duke of
+Tintagil. And so by means King Uther sent for this duke, charging him
+to bring his wife with him, for she was called a fair lady, and a
+passing wise, and her name was called Igraine.
+
+So when the duke and his wife were come unto the king, by the means of
+great lords they were accorded both. The king liked and loved this lady
+well, and he made them great cheer out of measure, and desired to have
+lain by her. But she was a passing good woman, and would not assent
+unto the king. And then she told the duke her husband, and said, I
+suppose that we were sent for that I should be dishonoured; wherefore,
+husband, I counsel you, that we depart from hence suddenly, that we may
+ride all night unto our own castle. And in like wise as she said so
+they departed, that neither the king nor none of his council were ware
+of their departing. All so soon as King Uther knew of their departing
+so suddenly, he was wonderly wroth. Then he called to him his privy
+council, and told them of the sudden departing of the duke and his
+wife.
+
+Then they advised the king to send for the duke and his wife by a great
+charge; and if he will not come at your summons, then may ye do your
+best, then have ye cause to make mighty war upon him. So that was done,
+and the messengers had their answers; and that was this shortly, that
+neither he nor his wife would not come at him.
+
+Then was the king wonderly wroth. And then the king sent him plain word
+again, and bade him be ready and stuff him and garnish him, for within
+forty days he would fetch him out of the biggest castle that he hath.
+
+When the duke had this warning, anon he went and furnished and
+garnished two strong castles of his, of the which the one hight
+Tintagil, and the other castle hight Terrabil. So his wife Dame Igraine
+he put in the castle of Tintagil, and himself he put in the castle of
+Terrabil, the which had many issues and posterns out. Then in all haste
+came Uther with a great host, and laid a siege about the castle of
+Terrabil. And there he pight many pavilions, and there was great war
+made on both parties, and much people slain. Then for pure anger and
+for great love of fair Igraine the king Uther fell sick. So came to the
+king Uther Sir Ulfius, a noble knight, and asked the king why he was
+sick. I shall tell thee, said the king, I am sick for anger and for
+love of fair Igraine, that I may not be whole. Well, my lord, said Sir
+Ulfius, I shall seek Merlin, and he shall do you remedy, that your
+heart shall be pleased. So Ulfius departed, and by adventure he met
+Merlin in a beggar’s array, and there Merlin asked Ulfius whom he
+sought. And he said he had little ado to tell him. Well, said Merlin, I
+know whom thou seekest, for thou seekest Merlin; therefore seek no
+farther, for I am he; and if King Uther will well reward me, and be
+sworn unto me to fulfil my desire, that shall be his honour and profit
+more than mine; for I shall cause him to have all his desire. All this
+will I undertake, said Ulfius, that there shall be nothing reasonable
+but thou shalt have thy desire. Well, said Merlin, he shall have his
+intent and desire. And therefore, said Merlin, ride on your way, for I
+will not be long behind.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II. How Uther Pendragon made war on the duke of Cornwall, and
+how by the mean of Merlin he lay by the duchess and gat Arthur.
+
+Then Ulfius was glad, and rode on more than a pace till that he came to
+King Uther Pendragon, and told him he had met with Merlin. Where is he?
+said the king. Sir, said Ulfius, he will not dwell long. Therewithal
+Ulfius was ware where Merlin stood at the porch of the pavilion’s door.
+And then Merlin was bound to come to the king. When King Uther saw him,
+he said he was welcome. Sir, said Merlin, I know all your heart every
+deal; so ye will be sworn unto me as ye be a true king anointed, to
+fulfil my desire, ye shall have your desire. Then the king was sworn
+upon the Four Evangelists. Sir, said Merlin, this is my desire: the
+first night that ye shall lie by Igraine ye shall get a child on her,
+and when that is born, that it shall be delivered to me for to nourish
+there as I will have it; for it shall be your worship, and the child’s
+avail, as mickle as the child is worth. I will well, said the king, as
+thou wilt have it. Now make you ready, said Merlin, this night ye shall
+lie with Igraine in the castle of Tintagil; and ye shall be like the
+duke her husband, Ulfius shall be like Sir Brastias, a knight of the
+duke’s, and I will be like a knight that hight Sir Jordanus, a knight
+of the duke’s. But wait ye make not many questions with her nor her
+men, but say ye are diseased, and so hie you to bed, and rise not on
+the morn till I come to you, for the castle of Tintagil is but ten
+miles hence; so this was done as they devised. But the duke of Tintagil
+espied how the king rode from the siege of Terrabil, and therefore that
+night he issued out of the castle at a postern for to have distressed
+the king’s host. And so, through his own issue, the duke himself was
+slain or ever the king came at the castle of Tintagil.
+
+So after the death of the duke, King Uther lay with Igraine more than
+three hours after his death, and begat on her that night Arthur, and on
+day came Merlin to the king, and bade him make him ready, and so he
+kissed the lady Igraine and departed in all haste. But when the lady
+heard tell of the duke her husband, and by all record he was dead or
+ever King Uther came to her, then she marvelled who that might be that
+lay with her in likeness of her lord; so she mourned privily and held
+her peace. Then all the barons by one assent prayed the king of accord
+betwixt the lady Igraine and him; the king gave them leave, for fain
+would he have been accorded with her. So the king put all the trust in
+Ulfius to entreat between them, so by the entreaty at the last the king
+and she met together. Now will we do well, said Ulfius, our king is a
+lusty knight and wifeless, and my lady Igraine is a passing fair lady;
+it were great joy unto us all, an it might please the king to make her
+his queen. Unto that they all well accorded and moved it to the king.
+And anon, like a lusty knight, he assented thereto with good will, and
+so in all haste they were married in a morning with great mirth and
+joy.
+
+And King Lot of Lothian and of Orkney then wedded Margawse that was
+Gawaine’s mother, and King Nentres of the land of Garlot wedded Elaine.
+All this was done at the request of King Uther. And the third sister
+Morgan le Fay was put to school in a nunnery, and there she learned so
+much that she was a great clerk of necromancy. And after she was wedded
+to King Uriens of the land of Gore, that was Sir Ewain’s le
+Blanchemain’s father.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III. Of the birth of King Arthur and of his nurture.
+
+Then Queen Igraine waxed daily greater and greater, so it befell after
+within half a year, as King Uther lay by his queen, he asked her, by
+the faith she owed to him, whose was the body; then she sore abashed to
+give answer. Dismay you not, said the king, but tell me the truth, and
+I shall love you the better, by the faith of my body. Sir, said she, I
+shall tell you the truth. The same night that my lord was dead, the
+hour of his death, as his knights record, there came into my castle of
+Tintagil a man like my lord in speech and in countenance, and two
+knights with him in likeness of his two knights Brastias and Jordanus,
+and so I went unto bed with him as I ought to do with my lord, and the
+same night, as I shall answer unto God, this child was begotten upon
+me. That is truth, said the king, as ye say; for it was I myself that
+came in the likeness, and therefore dismay you not, for I am father of
+the child; and there he told her all the cause, how it was by Merlin’s
+counsel. Then the queen made great joy when she knew who was the father
+of her child.
+
+Soon came Merlin unto the king, and said, Sir, ye must purvey you for
+the nourishing of your child. As thou wilt, said the king, be it. Well,
+said Merlin, I know a lord of yours in this land, that is a passing
+true man and a faithful, and he shall have the nourishing of your
+child, and his name is Sir Ector, and he is a lord of fair livelihood
+in many parts in England and Wales; and this lord, Sir Ector, let him
+be sent for, for to come and speak with you, and desire him yourself,
+as he loveth you, that he will put his own child to nourishing to
+another woman, and that his wife nourish yours. And when the child is
+born let it be delivered to me at yonder privy postern unchristened. So
+like as Merlin devised it was done. And when Sir Ector was come he made
+fiaunce to the king for to nourish the child like as the king desired;
+and there the king granted Sir Ector great rewards. Then when the lady
+was delivered, the king commanded two knights and two ladies to take
+the child, bound in a cloth of gold, and that ye deliver him to what
+poor man ye meet at the postern gate of the castle. So the child was
+delivered unto Merlin, and so he bare it forth unto Sir Ector, and made
+an holy man to christen him, and named him Arthur; and so Sir Ector’s
+wife nourished him with her own pap.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV. Of the death of King Uther Pendragon.
+
+Then within two years King Uther fell sick of a great malady. And in
+the meanwhile his enemies usurped upon him, and did a great battle upon
+his men, and slew many of his people. Sir, said Merlin, ye may not lie
+so as ye do, for ye must to the field though ye ride on an
+horse-litter: for ye shall never have the better of your enemies but if
+your person be there, and then shall ye have the victory. So it was
+done as Merlin had devised, and they carried the king forth in an
+horse-litter with a great host towards his enemies. And at St. Albans
+there met with the king a great host of the North. And that day Sir
+Ulfius and Sir Brastias did great deeds of arms, and King Uther’s men
+overcame the Northern battle and slew many people, and put the remnant
+to flight. And then the king returned unto London, and made great joy
+of his victory. And then he fell passing sore sick, so that three days
+and three nights he was speechless: wherefore all the barons made great
+sorrow, and asked Merlin what counsel were best. There is none other
+remedy, said Merlin, but God will have his will. But look ye all barons
+be before King Uther to-morn, and God and I shall make him to speak. So
+on the morn all the barons with Merlin came to-fore the king; then
+Merlin said aloud unto King Uther, Sir, shall your son Arthur be king
+after your days, of this realm with all the appurtenance? Then Uther
+Pendragon turned him, and said in hearing of them all, I give him God’s
+blessing and mine, and bid him pray for my soul, and righteously and
+worshipfully that he claim the crown, upon forfeiture of my blessing;
+and therewith he yielded up the ghost, and then was he interred as
+longed to a king. Wherefore the queen, fair Igraine, made great sorrow,
+and all the barons.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V. How Arthur was chosen king, and of wonders and marvels of a
+sword taken out of a stone by the said Arthur.
+
+Then stood the realm in great jeopardy long while, for every lord that
+was mighty of men made him strong, and many weened to have been king.
+Then Merlin went to the Archbishop of Canterbury, and counselled him
+for to send for all the lords of the realm, and all the gentlemen of
+arms, that they should to London come by Christmas, upon pain of
+cursing; and for this cause, that Jesus, that was born on that night,
+that he would of his great mercy show some miracle, as he was come to
+be king of mankind, for to show some miracle who should be rightwise
+king of this realm. So the Archbishop, by the advice of Merlin, sent
+for all the lords and gentlemen of arms that they should come by
+Christmas even unto London. And many of them made them clean of their
+life, that their prayer might be the more acceptable unto God. So in
+the greatest church of London, whether it were Paul’s or not the French
+book maketh no mention, all the estates were long or day in the church
+for to pray. And when matins and the first mass was done, there was
+seen in the churchyard, against the high altar, a great stone four
+square, like unto a marble stone; and in midst thereof was like an
+anvil of steel a foot on high, and therein stuck a fair sword naked by
+the point, and letters there were written in gold about the sword that
+said thus:—Whoso pulleth out this sword of this stone and anvil, is
+rightwise king born of all England. Then the people marvelled, and told
+it to the Archbishop.
+
+I command, said the Archbishop, that ye keep you within your church and
+pray unto God still, that no man touch the sword till the high mass be
+all done. So when all masses were done all the lords went to behold the
+stone and the sword. And when they saw the scripture some assayed, such
+as would have been king. But none might stir the sword nor move it. He
+is not here, said the Archbishop, that shall achieve the sword, but
+doubt not God will make him known. But this is my counsel, said the
+Archbishop, that we let purvey ten knights, men of good fame, and they
+to keep this sword. So it was ordained, and then there was made a cry,
+that every man should assay that would, for to win the sword. And upon
+New Year’s Day the barons let make a jousts and a tournament, that all
+knights that would joust or tourney there might play, and all this was
+ordained for to keep the lords together and the commons, for the
+Archbishop trusted that God would make him known that should win the
+sword.
+
+So upon New Year’s Day, when the service was done, the barons rode unto
+the field, some to joust and some to tourney, and so it happened that
+Sir Ector, that had great livelihood about London, rode unto the
+jousts, and with him rode Sir Kay his son, and young Arthur that was
+his nourished brother; and Sir Kay was made knight at All Hallowmass
+afore. So as they rode to the jousts-ward, Sir Kay lost his sword, for
+he had left it at his father’s lodging, and so he prayed young Arthur
+for to ride for his sword. I will well, said Arthur, and rode fast
+after the sword, and when he came home, the lady and all were out to
+see the jousting. Then was Arthur wroth, and said to himself, I will
+ride to the churchyard, and take the sword with me that sticketh in the
+stone, for my brother Sir Kay shall not be without a sword this day. So
+when he came to the churchyard, Sir Arthur alighted and tied his horse
+to the stile, and so he went to the tent, and found no knights there,
+for they were at the jousting. And so he handled the sword by the
+handles, and lightly and fiercely pulled it out of the stone, and took
+his horse and rode his way until he came to his brother Sir Kay, and
+delivered him the sword. And as soon as Sir Kay saw the sword, he wist
+well it was the sword of the stone, and so he rode to his father Sir
+Ector, and said: Sir, lo here is the sword of the stone, wherefore I
+must be king of this land. When Sir Ector beheld the sword, he returned
+again and came to the church, and there they alighted all three, and
+went into the church. And anon he made Sir Kay swear upon a book how he
+came to that sword. Sir, said Sir Kay, by my brother Arthur, for he
+brought it to me. How gat ye this sword? said Sir Ector to Arthur. Sir,
+I will tell you. When I came home for my brother’s sword, I found
+nobody at home to deliver me his sword; and so I thought my brother Sir
+Kay should not be swordless, and so I came hither eagerly and pulled it
+out of the stone without any pain. Found ye any knights about this
+sword? said Sir Ector. Nay, said Arthur. Now, said Sir Ector to Arthur,
+I understand ye must be king of this land. Wherefore I, said Arthur,
+and for what cause? Sir, said Ector, for God will have it so; for there
+should never man have drawn out this sword, but he that shall be
+rightwise king of this land. Now let me see whether ye can put the
+sword there as it was, and pull it out again. That is no mastery, said
+Arthur, and so he put it in the stone; wherewithal Sir Ector assayed to
+pull out the sword and failed.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI. How King Arthur pulled out the sword divers times.
+
+Now assay, said Sir Ector unto Sir Kay. And anon he pulled at the sword
+with all his might; but it would not be. Now shall ye assay, said Sir
+Ector to Arthur. I will well, said Arthur, and pulled it out easily.
+And therewithal Sir Ector knelt down to the earth, and Sir Kay. Alas,
+said Arthur, my own dear father and brother, why kneel ye to me? Nay,
+nay, my lord Arthur, it is not so; I was never your father nor of your
+blood, but I wot well ye are of an higher blood than I weened ye were.
+And then Sir Ector told him all, how he was betaken him for to nourish
+him, and by whose commandment, and by Merlin’s deliverance.
+
+Then Arthur made great dole when he understood that Sir Ector was not
+his father. Sir, said Ector unto Arthur, will ye be my good and
+gracious lord when ye are king? Else were I to blame, said Arthur, for
+ye are the man in the world that I am most beholden to, and my good
+lady and mother your wife, that as well as her own hath fostered me and
+kept. And if ever it be God’s will that I be king as ye say, ye shall
+desire of me what I may do, and I shall not fail you; God forbid I
+should fail you Sir, said Sir Ector, I will ask no more of you, but
+that ye will make my son, your foster brother, Sir Kay, seneschal of
+all your lands. That shall be done, said Arthur, and more, by the faith
+of my body, that never man shall have that office but he, while he and
+I live. Therewithal they went unto the Archbishop, and told him how the
+sword was achieved, and by whom; and on Twelfth-day all the barons came
+thither, and to assay to take the sword, who that would assay. But
+there afore them all, there might none take it out but Arthur;
+wherefore there were many lords wroth, and said it was great shame unto
+them all and the realm, to be overgoverned with a boy of no high blood
+born. And so they fell out at that time that it was put off till
+Candlemas and then all the barons should meet there again; but always
+the ten knights were ordained to watch the sword day and night, and so
+they set a pavilion over the stone and the sword, and five always
+watched. So at Candlemas many more great lords came thither for to have
+won the sword, but there might none prevail. And right as Arthur did at
+Christmas, he did at Candlemas, and pulled out the sword easily,
+whereof the barons were sore aggrieved and put it off in delay till the
+high feast of Easter. And as Arthur sped before, so did he at Easter;
+yet there were some of the great lords had indignation that Arthur
+should be king, and put it off in a delay till the feast of Pentecost.
+
+Then the Archbishop of Canterbury by Merlin’s providence let purvey
+then of the best knights that they might get, and such knights as Uther
+Pendragon loved best and most trusted in his days. And such knights
+were put about Arthur as Sir Baudwin of Britain, Sir Kay, Sir Ulfius,
+Sir Brastias. All these, with many other, were always about Arthur, day
+and night, till the feast of Pentecost.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII. How King Arthur was crowned, and how he made officers.
+
+And at the feast of Pentecost all manner of men assayed to pull at the
+sword that would assay; but none might prevail but Arthur, and pulled
+it out afore all the lords and commons that were there, wherefore all
+the commons cried at once, We will have Arthur unto our king, we will
+put him no more in delay, for we all see that it is God’s will that he
+shall be our king, and who that holdeth against it, we will slay him.
+And therewithal they kneeled at once, both rich and poor, and cried
+Arthur mercy because they had delayed him so long, and Arthur forgave
+them, and took the sword between both his hands, and offered it upon
+the altar where the Archbishop was, and so was he made knight of the
+best man that was there. And so anon was the coronation made. And there
+was he sworn unto his lords and the commons for to be a true king, to
+stand with true justice from thenceforth the days of this life. Also
+then he made all lords that held of the crown to come in, and to do
+service as they ought to do. And many complaints were made unto Sir
+Arthur of great wrongs that were done since the death of King Uther, of
+many lands that were bereaved lords, knights, ladies, and gentlemen.
+Wherefore King Arthur made the lands to be given again unto them that
+owned them.
+
+When this was done, that the king had stablished all the countries
+about London, then he let make Sir Kay seneschal of England; and Sir
+Baudwin of Britain was made constable; and Sir Ulfius was made
+chamberlain; and Sir Brastias was made warden to wait upon the north
+from Trent forwards, for it was that time the most party the king’s
+enemies. But within few years after Arthur won all the north, Scotland,
+and all that were under their obeissance. Also Wales, a part of it,
+held against Arthur, but he overcame them all, as he did the remnant,
+through the noble prowess of himself and his knights of the Round
+Table.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII. How King Arthur held in Wales, at a Pentecost, a great
+feast, and what kings and lords came to his feast.
+
+Then the king removed into Wales, and let cry a great feast that it
+should be holden at Pentecost after the incoronation of him at the city
+of Carlion. Unto the feast came King Lot of Lothian and of Orkney, with
+five hundred knights with him. Also there came to the feast King Uriens
+of Gore with four hundred knights with him. Also there came to that
+feast King Nentres of Garlot, with seven hundred knights with him. Also
+there came to the feast the king of Scotland with six hundred knights
+with him, and he was but a young man. Also there came to the feast a
+king that was called the King with the Hundred Knights, but he and his
+men were passing well beseen at all points. Also there came the king of
+Carados with five hundred knights. And King Arthur was glad of their
+coming, for he weened that all the kings and knights had come for great
+love, and to have done him worship at his feast; wherefore the king
+made great joy, and sent the kings and knights great presents. But the
+kings would none receive, but rebuked the messengers shamefully, and
+said they had no joy to receive no gifts of a beardless boy that was
+come of low blood, and sent him word they would none of his gifts, but
+that they were come to give him gifts with hard swords betwixt the neck
+and the shoulders: and therefore they came thither, so they told to the
+messengers plainly, for it was great shame to all them to see such a
+boy to have a rule of so noble a realm as this land was. With this
+answer the messengers departed and told to King Arthur this answer.
+Wherefore, by the advice of his barons, he took him to a strong tower
+with five hundred good men with him. And all the kings aforesaid in a
+manner laid a siege to-fore him, but King Arthur was well victualed.
+And within fifteen days there came Merlin among them into the city of
+Carlion. Then all the kings were passing glad of Merlin, and asked him,
+For what cause is that boy Arthur made your king? Sirs, said Merlin, I
+shall tell you the cause, for he is King Uther Pendragon’s son, born in
+wedlock, gotten on Igraine, the duke’s wife of Tintagil. Then is he a
+bastard, they said all. Nay, said Merlin, after the death of the duke,
+more than three hours, was Arthur begotten, and thirteen days after
+King Uther wedded Igraine; and therefore I prove him he is no bastard.
+And who saith nay, he shall be king and overcome all his enemies; and,
+or he die, he shall be long king of all England, and have under his
+obeissance Wales, Ireland, and Scotland, and more realms than I will
+now rehearse. Some of the kings had marvel of Merlin’s words, and
+deemed well that it should be as he said; and some of them laughed him
+to scorn, as King Lot; and more other called him a witch. But then were
+they accorded with Merlin, that King Arthur should come out and speak
+with the kings, and to come safe and to go safe, such surance there was
+made. So Merlin went unto King Arthur, and told him how he had done,
+and bade him fear not, but come out boldly and speak with them, and
+spare them not, but answer them as their king and chieftain; for ye
+shall overcome them all, whether they will or nill.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX. Of the first war that King Arthur had, and how he won the
+field.
+
+Then King Arthur came out of his tower, and had under his gown a
+jesseraunt of double mail, and there went with him the Archbishop of
+Canterbury, and Sir Baudwin of Britain, and Sir Kay, and Sir Brastias:
+these were the men of most worship that were with him. And when they
+were met there was no meekness, but stout words on both sides; but
+always King Arthur answered them, and said he would make them to bow an
+he lived. Wherefore they departed with wrath, and King Arthur bade keep
+them well, and they bade the king keep him well. So the king returned
+him to the tower again and armed him and all his knights. What will ye
+do? said Merlin to the kings; ye were better for to stint, for ye shall
+not here prevail though ye were ten times so many. Be we well advised
+to be afeared of a dream-reader? said King Lot. With that Merlin
+vanished away, and came to King Arthur, and bade him set on them
+fiercely; and in the meanwhile there were three hundred good men, of
+the best that were with the kings, that went straight unto King Arthur,
+and that comforted him greatly. Sir, said Merlin to Arthur, fight not
+with the sword that ye had by miracle, till that ye see ye go unto the
+worse, then draw it out and do your best. So forthwithal King Arthur
+set upon them in their lodging. And Sir Baudwin, Sir Kay, and Sir
+Brastias slew on the right hand and on the left hand that it was
+marvel; and always King Arthur on horseback laid on with a sword, and
+did marvellous deeds of arms, that many of the kings had great joy of
+his deeds and hardiness.
+
+Then King Lot brake out on the back side, and the King with the Hundred
+Knights, and King Carados, and set on Arthur fiercely behind him. With
+that Sir Arthur turned with his knights, and smote behind and before,
+and ever Sir Arthur was in the foremost press till his horse was slain
+underneath him. And therewith King Lot smote down King Arthur. With
+that his four knights received him and set him on horseback. Then he
+drew his sword Excalibur, but it was so bright in his enemies’ eyes,
+that it gave light like thirty torches. And therewith he put them
+a-back, and slew much people. And then the commons of Carlion arose
+with clubs and staves and slew many knights; but all the kings held
+them together with their knights that were left alive, and so fled and
+departed. And Merlin came unto Arthur, and counselled him to follow
+them no further.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X. How Merlin counselled King Arthur to send for King Ban and
+King Bors, and of their counsel taken for the war.
+
+So after the feast and journey, King Arthur drew him unto London, and
+so by the counsel of Merlin, the king let call his barons to council,
+for Merlin had told the king that the six kings that made war upon him
+would in all haste be awroke on him and on his lands. Wherefore the
+king asked counsel at them all. They could no counsel give, but said
+they were big enough. Ye say well, said Arthur; I thank you for your
+good courage, but will ye all that loveth me speak with Merlin? ye know
+well that he hath done much for me, and he knoweth many things, and
+when he is afore you, I would that ye prayed him heartily of his best
+advice. All the barons said they would pray him and desire him. So
+Merlin was sent for, and fair desired of all the barons to give them
+best counsel. I shall say you, said Merlin, I warn you all, your
+enemies are passing strong for you, and they are good men of arms as be
+alive, and by this time they have gotten to them four kings more, and a
+mighty duke; and unless that our king have more chivalry with him than
+he may make within the bounds of his own realm, an he fight with them
+in battle, he shall be overcome and slain. What were best to do in this
+cause? said all the barons. I shall tell you, said Merlin, mine advice;
+there are two brethren beyond the sea, and they be kings both, and
+marvellous good men of their hands; and that one hight King Ban of
+Benwick, and that other hight King Bors of Gaul, that is France. And on
+these two kings warreth a mighty man of men, the King Claudas, and
+striveth with them for a castle, and great war is betwixt them. But
+this Claudas is so mighty of goods whereof he getteth good knights,
+that he putteth these two kings most part to the worse; wherefore this
+is my counsel, that our king and sovereign lord send unto the kings Ban
+and Bors by two trusty knights with letters well devised, that an they
+will come and see King Arthur and his court, and so help him in his
+wars, that he will be sworn unto them to help them in their wars
+against King Claudas. Now, what say ye unto this counsel? said Merlin.
+This is well counselled, said the king and all the barons.
+
+Right so in all haste there were ordained to go two knights on the
+message unto the two kings. So were there made letters in the pleasant
+wise according unto King Arthur’s desire. Ulfius and Brastias were made
+the messengers, and so rode forth well horsed and well armed and as the
+guise was that time, and so passed the sea and rode toward the city of
+Benwick. And there besides were eight knights that espied them, and at
+a strait passage they met with Ulfius and Brastias, and would have
+taken them prisoners; so they prayed them that they might pass, for
+they were messengers unto King Ban and Bors sent from King Arthur.
+Therefore, said the eight knights, ye shall die or be prisoners, for we
+be knights of King Claudas. And therewith two of them dressed their
+spears, and Ulfius and Brastias dressed their spears, and ran together
+with great raundon. And Claudas’ knights brake their spears, and theirs
+to-held and bare the two knights out of their saddles to the earth, and
+so left them lying, and rode their ways. And the other six knights rode
+afore to a passage to meet with them again, and so Ulfius and Brastias
+smote other two down, and so passed on their ways. And at the fourth
+passage there met two for two, and both were laid unto the earth; so
+there was none of the eight knights but he was sore hurt or bruised.
+And when they come to Benwick it fortuned there were both kings, Ban
+and Bors.
+
+And when it was told the kings that there were come messengers, there
+were sent unto them two knights of worship, the one hight Lionses, lord
+of the country of Payarne, and Sir Phariance a worshipful knight. Anon
+they asked from whence they came, and they said from King Arthur, king
+of England; so they took them in their arms and made great joy each of
+other. But anon, as the two kings wist they were messengers of
+Arthur’s, there was made no tarrying, but forthwith they spake with the
+knights, and welcomed them in the faithfullest wise, and said they were
+most welcome unto them before all the kings living; and therewith they
+kissed the letters and delivered them. And when Ban and Bors understood
+the letters, then they were more welcome than they were before. And
+after the haste of the letters they gave them this answer, that they
+would fulfil the desire of King Arthur’s writing, and Ulfius and
+Brastias, tarry there as long as they would, they should have such
+cheer as might be made them in those marches. Then Ulfius and Brastias
+told the kings of the adventure at their passages of the eight knights.
+Ha! ah! said Ban and Bors, they were my good friends. I would I had
+wist of them; they should not have escaped so. So Ulfius and Brastias
+had good cheer and great gifts, as much as they might bear away; and
+had their answer by mouth and by writing, that those two kings would
+come unto Arthur in all the haste that they might. So the two knights
+rode on afore, and passed the sea, and came to their lord, and told him
+how they had sped, whereof King Arthur was passing glad. At what time
+suppose ye the two kings will be here? Sir, said they, afore All
+Hallowmass. Then the king let purvey for a great feast, and let cry a
+great jousts. And by All Hallowmass the two kings were come over the
+sea with three hundred knights well arrayed both for the peace and for
+the war. And King Arthur met with them ten mile out of London, and
+there was great joy as could be thought or made. And on All Hallowmass
+at the great feast, sat in the hall the three kings, and Sir Kay
+seneschal served in the hall, and Sir Lucas the butler, that was Duke
+Corneus’ son, and Sir Griflet, that was the son of Cardol, these three
+knights had the rule of all the service that served the kings. And
+anon, as they had washen and risen, all knights that would joust made
+them ready; by then they were ready on horseback there were seven
+hundred knights. And Arthur, Ban, and Bors, with the Archbishop of
+Canterbury, and Sir Ector, Kay’s father, they were in a place covered
+with cloth of gold like an hall, with ladies and gentlewomen, for to
+behold who did best, and thereon to give judgment.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI. Of a great tourney made by King Arthur and the two kings
+Ban and Bors, and how they went over the sea.
+
+And King Arthur and the two kings let depart the seven hundred knights
+in two parties. And there were three hundred knights of the realm of
+Benwick and of Gaul turned on the other side. Then they dressed their
+shields, and began to couch their spears many good knights. So Griflet
+was the first that met with a knight, one Ladinas, and they met so
+eagerly that all men had wonder; and they so fought that their shields
+fell to pieces, and horse and man fell to the earth; and both the
+French knight and the English knight lay so long that all men weened
+they had been dead. When Lucas the butler saw Griflet so lie, he horsed
+him again anon, and they two did marvellous deeds of arms with many
+bachelors. Also Sir Kay came out of an ambushment with five knights
+with him, and they six smote other six down. But Sir Kay did that day
+marvellous deeds of arms, that there was none did so well as he that
+day. Then there came Ladinas and Gracian, two knights of France, and
+did passing well, that all men praised them.
+
+Then came there Sir Placidas, a good knight, and met with Sir Kay, and
+smote him down horse and man, where fore Sir Griflet was wroth, and met
+with Sir Placidas so hard, that horse and man fell to the earth. But
+when the five knights wist that Sir Kay had a fall, they were wroth out
+of wit, and therewith each of them five bare down a knight. When King
+Arthur and the two kings saw them begin to wax wroth on both parties,
+they leapt on small hackneys, and let cry that all men should depart
+unto their lodging. And so they went home and unarmed them, and so to
+evensong and supper. And after, the three kings went into a garden, and
+gave the prize unto Sir Kay, and to Lucas the butler, and unto Sir
+Griflet. And then they went unto council, and with them Gwenbaus, the
+brother unto Sir Ban and Bors, a wise clerk, and thither went Ulfius
+and Brastias, and Merlin. And after they had been in council, they went
+unto bed. And on the morn they heard mass, and to dinner, and so to
+their council, and made many arguments what were best to do. At the
+last they were concluded, that Merlin should go with a token of King
+Ban, and that was a ring, unto his men and King Bors’; and Gracian and
+Placidas should go again and keep their castles and their countries, as
+for [dread of King Claudas] King Ban of Benwick, and King Bors of Gaul
+had ordained them, and so passed the sea and came to Benwick. And when
+the people saw King Ban’s ring, and Gracian and Placidas, they were
+glad, and asked how the kings fared, and made great joy of their
+welfare and cording, and according unto the sovereign lords desire, the
+men of war made them ready in all haste possible, so that they were
+fifteen thousand on horse and foot, and they had great plenty of
+victual with them, by Merlin’s provision. But Gracian and Placidas were
+left to furnish and garnish the castles, for dread of King Claudas.
+Right so Merlin passed the sea, well victualled both by water and by
+land. And when he came to the sea he sent home the footmen again, and
+took no more with him but ten thousand men on horseback, the most part
+men of arms, and so shipped and passed the sea into England, and landed
+at Dover; and through the wit of Merlin, he had the host northward, the
+priviest way that could be thought, unto the forest of Bedegraine, and
+there in a valley he lodged them secretly.
+
+Then rode Merlin unto Arthur and the two kings, and told them how he
+had sped; whereof they had great marvel, that man on earth might speed
+so soon, and go and come. So Merlin told them ten thousand were in the
+forest of Bedegraine, well armed at all points. Then was there no more
+to say, but to horseback went all the host as Arthur had afore
+purveyed. So with twenty thousand he passed by night and day, but there
+was made such an ordinance afore by Merlin, that there should no man of
+war ride nor go in no country on this side Trent water, but if he had a
+token from King Arthur, where through the king’s enemies durst not ride
+as they did to-fore to espy.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII. How eleven kings gathered a great host against King
+Arthur.
+
+And so within a little space the three kings came unto the castle of
+Bedegraine, and found there a passing fair fellowship, and well beseen,
+whereof they had great joy, and victual they wanted none. This was the
+cause of the northern host: that they were reared for the despite and
+rebuke the six kings had at Carlion. And those six kings by their
+means, gat unto them five other kings; and thus they began to gather
+their people.
+
+And now they sware that for weal nor woe, they should not leave other,
+till they had destroyed Arthur. And then they made an oath. The first
+that began the oath was the Duke of Cambenet, that he would bring with
+him five thousand men of arms, the which were ready on horseback. Then
+sware King Brandegoris of Stranggore that he would bring five thousand
+men of arms on horseback. Then sware King Clariance of Northumberland
+he would bring three thousand men of arms. Then sware the King of the
+Hundred Knights, that was a passing good man and a young, that he would
+bring four thousand men of arms on horseback. Then there swore King
+Lot, a passing good knight, and Sir Gawain’s father, that he would
+bring five thousand men of arms on horseback. Also there swore King
+Urience, that was Sir Uwain’s father, of the land of Gore, and he would
+bring six thousand men of arms on horseback. Also there swore King
+Idres of Cornwall, that he would bring five thousand men of arms on
+horseback. Also there swore King Cradelmas to bring five thousand men
+on horseback. Also there swore King Agwisance of Ireland to bring five
+thousand men of arms on horseback. Also there swore King Nentres to
+bring five thousand men of arms on horseback. Also there swore King
+Carados to bring five thousand men of arms on horseback. So their whole
+host was of clean men of arms on horseback fifty thousand, and a-foot
+ten thousand of good men’s bodies. Then were they soon ready, and
+mounted upon horse and sent forth their fore-riders, for these eleven
+kings in their ways laid a siege unto the castle of Bedegraine; and so
+they departed and drew toward Arthur, and left few to abide at the
+siege, for the castle of Bedegraine was holden of King Arthur, and the
+men that were therein were Arthur’s.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII. Of a dream of the King with the Hundred Knights.
+
+So by Merlin’s advice there were sent fore-riders to skim the country,
+and they met with the fore-riders of the north, and made them to tell
+which way the host came, and then they told it to Arthur, and by King
+Ban and Bors’ council they let burn and destroy all the country afore
+them, there they should ride.
+
+The King with the Hundred Knights met a wonder dream two nights afore
+the battle, that there blew a great wind, and blew down their castles
+and their towns, and after that came a water and bare it all away. All
+that heard of the sweven said it was a token of great battle. Then by
+counsel of Merlin, when they wist which way the eleven kings would ride
+and lodge that night, at midnight they set upon them, as they were in
+their pavilions. But the scout-watch by their host cried, Lords! at
+arms! for here be your enemies at your hand!
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV. How the eleven kings with their host fought against Arthur
+and his host, and many great feats of the war.
+
+Then King Arthur and King Ban and King Bors, with their good and trusty
+knights, set on them so fiercely that they made them overthrow their
+pavilions on their heads, but the eleven kings, by manly prowess of
+arms, took a fair champaign, but there was slain that morrowtide ten
+thousand good men’s bodies. And so they had afore them a strong
+passage, yet were they fifty thousand of hardy men. Then it drew toward
+day. Now shall ye do by mine advice, said Merlin unto the three kings:
+I would that King Ban and King Bors, with their fellowship of ten
+thousand men, were put in a wood here beside, in an ambushment, and
+keep them privy, and that they be laid or the light of the day come,
+and that they stir not till ye and your knights have fought with them
+long. And when it is daylight, dress your battle even afore them and
+the passage, that they may see all your host, for then will they be the
+more hardy, when they see you but about twenty thousand men, and cause
+them to be the gladder to suffer you and your host to come over the
+passage. All the three kings and the whole barons said that Merlin said
+passingly well, and it was done anon as Merlin had devised. So on the
+morn, when either host saw other, the host of the north was well
+comforted. Then to Ulfius and Brastias were delivered three thousand
+men of arms, and they set on them fiercely in the passage, and slew on
+the right hand and on the left hand that it was wonder to tell.
+
+When that the eleven kings saw that there was so few a fellowship did
+such deeds of arms, they were ashamed and set on them again fiercely;
+and there was Sir Ulfius’s horse slain under him, but he did
+marvellously well on foot. But the Duke Eustace of Cambenet and King
+Clariance of Northumberland, were alway grievous on Ulfius. Then
+Brastias saw his fellow fared so withal he smote the duke with a spear,
+that horse and man fell down. That saw King Clariance and returned unto
+Brastias, and either smote other so that horse and man went to the
+earth, and so they lay long astonied, and their horses’ knees brast to
+the hard bone. Then came Sir Kay the seneschal with six fellows with
+him, and did passing well. With that came the eleven kings, and there
+was Griflet put to the earth, horse and man, and Lucas the butler,
+horse and man, by King Brandegoris, and King Idres, and King Agwisance.
+Then waxed the medley passing hard on both parties. When Sir Kay saw
+Griflet on foot, he rode on King Nentres and smote him down, and led
+his horse unto Sir Griflet, and horsed him again. Also Sir Kay with the
+same spear smote down King Lot, and hurt him passing sore. That saw the
+King with the Hundred Knights, and ran unto Sir Kay and smote him down,
+and took his horse, and gave him King Lot, whereof he said gramercy.
+When Sir Griflet saw Sir Kay and Lucas the butler on foot, he took a
+sharp spear, great and square, and rode to Pinel, a good man of arms,
+and smote horse and man down, and then he took his horse, and gave him
+unto Sir Kay. Then King Lot saw King Nentres on foot, he ran unto Melot
+de la Roche, and smote him down, horse and man, and gave King Nentres
+the horse, and horsed him again. Also the King of the Hundred Knights
+saw King Idres on foot; then he ran unto Gwiniart de Bloi, and smote
+him down, horse and man, and gave King Idres the horse, and horsed him
+again; and King Lot smote down Clariance de la Forest Savage, and gave
+the horse unto Duke Eustace. And so when they had horsed the kings
+again they drew them, all eleven kings, together, and said they would
+be revenged of the damage that they had taken that day. The meanwhile
+came in Sir Ector with an eager countenance, and found Ulfius and
+Brastias on foot, in great peril of death, that were foul defoiled
+under horse-feet.
+
+Then Arthur as a lion, ran unto King Cradelment of North Wales, and
+smote him through the left side, that the horse and the king fell down;
+and then he took the horse by the rein, and led him unto Ulfius, and
+said, Have this horse, mine old friend, for great need hast thou of
+horse. Gramercy, said Ulfius. Then Sir Arthur did so marvellously in
+arms, that all men had wonder. When the King with the Hundred Knights
+saw King Cradelment on foot, he ran unto Sir Ector, that was well
+horsed, Sir Kay’s father, and smote horse and man down, and gave the
+horse unto the king, and horsed him again. And when King Arthur saw the
+king ride on Sir Ector’s horse, he was wroth and with his sword he
+smote the king on the helm, that a quarter of the helm and shield fell
+down, and so the sword carved down unto the horse’s neck, and so the
+king and the horse fell down to the ground. Then Sir Kay came unto Sir
+Morganore, seneschal with the King of the Hundred Knights, and smote
+him down, horse and man, and led the horse unto his father, Sir Ector;
+then Sir Ector ran unto a knight, hight Lardans, and smote horse and
+man down, and led the horse unto Sir Brastias, that great need had of
+an horse, and was greatly defoiled. When Brastias beheld Lucas the
+butler, that lay like a dead man under the horses’ feet, and ever Sir
+Griflet did marvellously for to rescue him, and there were always
+fourteen knights on Sir Lucas; then Brastias smote one of them on the
+helm, that it went to the teeth, and he rode to another and smote him,
+that the arm flew into the field. Then he went to the third and smote
+him on the shoulder, that shoulder and arm flew in the field. And when
+Griflet saw rescues, he smote a knight on the temples, that head and
+helm went to the earth, and Griflet took the horse of that knight, and
+led him unto Sir Lucas, and bade him mount upon the horse and revenge
+his hurts. For Brastias had slain a knight to-fore and horsed Griflet.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV. Yet of the same battle.
+
+Then Lucas saw King Agwisance, that late had slain Moris de la Roche,
+and Lucas ran to him with a short spear that was great, that he gave
+him such a fall, that the horse fell down to the earth. Also Lucas
+found there on foot, Bloias de La Flandres, and Sir Gwinas, two hardy
+knights, and in that woodness that Lucas was in, he slew two bachelors
+and horsed them again. Then waxed the battle passing hard on both
+parties, but Arthur was glad that his knights were horsed again, and
+then they fought together, that the noise and sound rang by the water
+and the wood. Wherefore King Ban and King Bors made them ready, and
+dressed their shields and harness, and they were so courageous that
+many knights shook and bevered for eagerness. All this while Lucas, and
+Gwinas, and Briant, and Bellias of Flanders, held strong medley against
+six kings, that was King Lot, King Nentres, King Brandegoris, King
+Idres, King Uriens, and King Agwisance. So with the help of Sir Kay and
+of Sir Griflet they held these six kings hard, that unnethe they had
+any power to defend them. But when Sir Arthur saw the battle would not
+be ended by no manner, he fared wood as a lion, and steered his horse
+here and there, on the right hand, and on the left hand, that he
+stinted not till he had slain twenty knights. Also he wounded King Lot
+sore on the shoulder, and made him to leave that ground, for Sir Kay
+and Griflet did with King Arthur there great deeds of arms. Then
+Ulfius, and Brastias, and Sir Ector encountered against the Duke
+Eustace, and King Cradelment, and King Clariance of Northumberland, and
+King Carados, and against the King with the Hundred Knights. So these
+knights encountered with these kings, that they made them to avoid the
+ground. Then King Lot made great dole for his damages and his fellows,
+and said unto the ten kings, But if ye will do as I devise we shall be
+slain and destroyed; let me have the King with the Hundred Knights, and
+King Agwisance, and King Idres, and the Duke of Cambenet, and we five
+kings will have fifteen thousand men of arms with us, and we will go
+apart while ye six kings hold medley with twelve thousand; an we see
+that ye have foughten with them long, then will we come on fiercely,
+and else shall we never match them, said King Lot, but by this mean. So
+they departed as they here devised, and six kings made their party
+strong against Arthur, and made great war long.
+
+In the meanwhile brake the ambushment of King Ban and King Bors, and
+Lionses and Phariance had the vanguard, and they two knights met with
+King Idres and his fellowship, and there began a great medley of
+breaking of spears, and smiting of swords, with slaying of men and
+horses, and King Idres was near at discomforture.
+
+That saw Agwisance the king, and put Lionses and Phariance in point of
+death; for the Duke of Cambenet came on withal with a great fellowship.
+So these two knights were in great danger of their lives that they were
+fain to return, but always they rescued themselves and their fellowship
+marvellously. When King Bors saw those knights put aback, it grieved
+him sore; then he came on so fast that his fellowship seemed as black
+as Inde. When King Lot had espied King Bors, he knew him well, then he
+said, O Jesu, defend us from death and horrible maims! for I see well
+we be in great peril of death; for I see yonder a king, one of the most
+worshipfullest men and one of the best knights of the world, is
+inclined unto his fellowship. What is he? said the King with the
+Hundred Knights. It is, said King Lot, King Bors of Gaul; I marvel how
+they came into this country without witting of us all. It was by
+Merlin’s advice, said the knight. As for him, said King Carados, I will
+encounter with King Bors, an ye will rescue me when myster is. Go on,
+said they all, we will do all that we may. Then King Carados and his
+host rode on a soft pace, till that they came as nigh King Bors as
+bow-draught; then either battle let their horse run as fast as they
+might. And Bleoberis, that was godson unto King Bors, he bare his chief
+standard, that was a passing good knight. Now shall we see, said King
+Bors, how these northern Britons can bear the arms: and King Bors
+encountered with a knight, and smote him throughout with a spear that
+he fell dead unto the earth; and after drew his sword and did
+marvellous deeds of arms, that all parties had great wonder thereof;
+and his knights failed not, but did their part, and King Carados was
+smitten to the earth. With that came the King with the Hundred Knights
+and rescued King Carados mightily by force of arms, for he was a
+passing good knight of a king, and but a young man.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI. Yet more of the same battle.
+
+By then came into the field King Ban as fierce as a lion, with bands of
+green and thereupon gold. Ha! a! said King Lot, we must be discomfited,
+for yonder I see the most valiant knight of the world, and the man of
+the most renown, for such two brethren as is King Ban and King Bors are
+not living, wherefore we must needs void or die; and but if we avoid
+manly and wisely there is but death. When King Ban came into the
+battle, he came in so fiercely that the strokes redounded again from
+the wood and the water; wherefore King Lot wept for pity and dole that
+he saw so many good knights take their end. But through the great force
+of King Ban they made both the northern battles that were departed
+hurtled together for great dread; and the three kings and their knights
+slew on ever, that it was pity on to behold that multitude of the
+people that fled. But King Lot, and King of the Hundred Knights, and
+King Morganore gathered the people together passing knightly, and did
+great prowess of arms, and held the battle all that day, like hard.
+
+When the King of the Hundred Knights beheld the great damage that King
+Ban did, he thrust unto him with his horse, and smote him on high upon
+the helm, a great stroke, and astonied him sore. Then King Ban was
+wroth with him, and followed on him fiercely; the other saw that, and
+cast up his shield, and spurred his horse forward, but the stroke of
+King Ban fell down and carved a cantel off the shield, and the sword
+slid down by the hauberk behind his back, and cut through the trapping
+of steel and the horse even in two pieces, that the sword felt the
+earth. Then the King of the Hundred Knights voided the horse lightly,
+and with his sword he broached the horse of King Ban through and
+through. With that King Ban voided lightly from the dead horse, and
+then King Ban smote at the other so eagerly, and smote him on the helm
+that he fell to the earth. Also in that ire he felled King Morganore,
+and there was great slaughter of good knights and much people. By then
+came into the press King Arthur, and found King Ban standing among dead
+men and dead horses, fighting on foot as a wood lion, that there came
+none nigh him, as far as he might reach with his sword, but he caught a
+grievous buffet; whereof King Arthur had great pity. And Arthur was so
+bloody, that by his shield there might no man know him, for all was
+blood and brains on his sword. And as Arthur looked by him he saw a
+knight that was passingly well horsed, and therewith Sir Arthur ran to
+him, and smote him on the helm, that his sword went unto his teeth, and
+the knight sank down to the earth dead, and anon Arthur took the horse
+by the rein, and led him unto King Ban, and said, Fair brother, have
+this horse, for he have great myster thereof, and me repenteth sore of
+your great damage. It shall be soon revenged, said King Ban, for I
+trust in God mine ure is not such but some of them may sore repent
+this. I will well, said Arthur, for I see your deeds full actual;
+nevertheless, I might not come at you at that time.
+
+But when King Ban was mounted on horseback, then there began new
+battle, the which was sore and hard, and passing great slaughter. And
+so through great force King Arthur, King Ban, and King Bors made their
+knights a little to withdraw them. But alway the eleven kings with
+their chivalry never turned back; and so withdrew them to a little
+wood, and so over a little river, and there they rested them, for on
+the night they might have no rest on the field. And then the eleven
+kings and knights put them on a heap all together, as men adread and
+out of all comfort. But there was no man might pass them, they held
+them so hard together both behind and before, that King Arthur had
+marvel of their deeds of arms, and was passing wroth. Ah, Sir Arthur,
+said King Ban and King Bors, blame them not, for they do as good men
+ought to do. For by my faith, said King Ban, they are the best fighting
+men, and knights of most prowess, that ever I saw or heard speak of,
+and those eleven kings are men of great worship; and if they were
+longing unto you there were no king under the heaven had such eleven
+knights, and of such worship. I may not love them, said Arthur, they
+would destroy me. That wot we well, said King Ban and King Bors, for
+they are your mortal enemies, and that hath been proved aforehand; and
+this day they have done their part, and that is great pity of their
+wilfulness.
+
+Then all the eleven kings drew them together, and then said King Lot,
+Lords, ye must other ways than ye do, or else the great loss is behind;
+ye may see what people we have lost, and what good men we lose, because
+we wait always on these foot-men, and ever in saving of one of the
+foot-men we lose ten horsemen for him; therefore this is mine advice,
+let us put our foot-men from us, for it is near night, for the noble
+Arthur will not tarry on the footmen, for they may save themselves, the
+wood is near hand. And when we horsemen be together, look every each of
+you kings let make such ordinance that none break upon pain of death.
+And who that seeth any man dress him to flee, lightly that he be slain,
+for it is better that we slay a coward, than through a coward all we to
+be slain. How say ye? said King Lot, answer me all ye kings. It is well
+said, quoth King Nentres; so said the King of the Hundred Knights; the
+same said the King Carados, and King Uriens; so did King Idres and King
+Brandegoris; and so did King Cradelment, and the Duke of Cambenet; the
+same said King Clariance and King Agwisance, and sware they would never
+fail other, neither for life nor for death. And whoso that fled, but
+did as they did, should be slain. Then they amended their harness, and
+righted their shields, and took new spears and set them on their
+thighs, and stood still as it had been a plump of wood.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII. Yet more of the same battle, and how it was ended by
+Merlin.
+
+When Sir Arthur and King Ban and Bors beheld them and all their
+knights, they praised them much for their noble cheer of chivalry, for
+the hardiest fighters that ever they heard or saw. With that, there
+dressed them a forty noble knights, and said unto the three kings, they
+would break their battle; these were their names: Lionses, Phariance,
+Ulfius, Brastias, Ector, Kay, Lucas the butler, Griflet le Fise de
+Dieu, Mariet de la Roche, Guinas de Bloi, Briant de la Forest Savage,
+Bellaus, Morians of the Castle [of] Maidens, Flannedrius of the Castle
+of Ladies, Annecians that was King Bors’ godson, a noble knight,
+Ladinas de la Rouse, Emerause, Caulas, Graciens le Castlein, one Blois
+de la Case, and Sir Colgrevaunce de Gorre; all these knights rode on
+afore with spears on their thighs, and spurred their horses mightily as
+the horses might run. And the eleven kings with part of their knights
+rushed with their horses as fast as they might with their spears, and
+there they did on both parties marvellous deeds of arms. So came into
+the thick of the press, Arthur, Ban, and Bors, and slew down right on
+both hands, that their horses went in blood up to the fetlocks. But
+ever the eleven kings and their host was ever in the visage of Arthur.
+Wherefore Ban and Bors had great marvel, considering the great
+slaughter that there was, but at the last they were driven aback over a
+little river. With that came Merlin on a great black horse, and said
+unto Arthur, Thou hast never done! Hast thou not done enough? of three
+score thousand this day hast thou left alive but fifteen thousand, and
+it is time to say Ho! For God is wroth with thee, that thou wilt never
+have done; for yonder eleven kings at this time will not be overthrown,
+but an thou tarry on them any longer, thy fortune will turn and they
+shall increase. And therefore withdraw you unto your lodging, and rest
+you as soon as ye may, and reward your good knights with gold and with
+silver, for they have well deserved it; there may no riches be too dear
+for them, for of so few men as ye have, there were never men did more
+of prowess than they have done today, for ye have matched this day with
+the best fighters of the world. That is truth, said King Ban and Bors.
+Also said Merlin, withdraw you where ye list, for this three year I
+dare undertake they shall not dere you; and by then ye shall hear new
+tidings. And then Merlin said unto Arthur, These eleven kings have more
+on hand than they are ware of, for the Saracens are landed in their
+countries, more than forty thousand, that burn and slay, and have laid
+siege at the castle Wandesborow, and make great destruction; therefore
+dread you not this three year. Also, sir, all the goods that be gotten
+at this battle, let it be searched, and when ye have it in your hands,
+let it be given freely unto these two kings, Ban and Bors, that they
+may reward their knights withal; and that shall cause strangers to be
+of better will to do you service at need. Also you be able to reward
+your own knights of your own goods whensomever it liketh you. It is
+well said, quoth Arthur, and as thou hast devised, so shall it be done.
+When it was delivered to Ban and Bors, they gave the goods as freely to
+their knights as freely as it was given to them. Then Merlin took his
+leave of Arthur and of the two kings, for to go and see his master
+Bleise, that dwelt in Northumberland; and so he departed and came to
+his master, that was passing glad of his coming; and there he told how
+Arthur and the two kings had sped at the great battle, and how it was
+ended, and told the names of every king and knight of worship that was
+there. And so Bleise wrote the battle word by word, as Merlin told him,
+how it began, and by whom, and in likewise how it was ended, and who
+had the worse. All the battles that were done in Arthur’s days Merlin
+did his master Bleise do write; also he did do write all the battles
+that every worthy knight did of Arthur’s court.
+
+After this Merlin departed from his master and came to King Arthur,
+that was in the castle of Bedegraine, that was one of the castles that
+stand in the forest of Sherwood. And Merlin was so disguised that King
+Arthur knew him not, for he was all befurred in black sheep-skins, and
+a great pair of boots, and a bow and arrows, in a russet gown, and
+brought wild geese in his hand, and it was on the morn after Candlemas
+day; but King Arthur knew him not. Sir, said Merlin unto the king, will
+ye give me a gift? Wherefore, said King Arthur, should I give thee a
+gift, churl? Sir, said Merlin, ye were better to give me a gift that is
+not in your hand than to lose great riches, for here in the same place
+where the great battle was, is great treasure hid in the earth. Who
+told thee so, churl? said Arthur. Merlin told me so, said he. Then
+Ulfius and Brastias knew him well enough, and smiled. Sir, said these
+two knights, it is Merlin that so speaketh unto you. Then King Arthur
+was greatly abashed, and had marvel of Merlin, and so had King Ban and
+King Bors, and so they had great disport at him. So in the meanwhile
+there came a damosel that was an earl’s daughter: his name was Sanam,
+and her name was Lionors, a passing fair damosel; and so she came
+thither for to do homage, as other lords did after the great battle.
+And King Arthur set his love greatly upon her, and so did she upon him,
+and the king had ado with her, and gat on her a child: his name was
+Borre, that was after a good knight, and of the Table Round. Then there
+came word that the King Rience of North Wales made great war on King
+Leodegrance of Cameliard, for the which thing Arthur was wroth, for he
+loved him well, and hated King Rience, for he was alway against him. So
+by ordinance of the three kings that were sent home unto Benwick, all
+they would depart for dread of King Claudas; and Phariance, and
+Antemes, and Gratian, and Lionses [of] Payarne, with the leaders of
+those that should keep the kings’ lands.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII. How King Arthur, King Ban, and King Bors rescued King
+Leodegrance, and other incidents.
+
+And then King Arthur, and King Ban, and King Bors departed with their
+fellowship, a twenty thousand, and came within six days into the
+country of Cameliard, and there rescued King Leodegrance, and slew
+there much people of King Rience, unto the number of ten thousand men,
+and put him to flight. And then had these three kings great cheer of
+King Leodegrance, that thanked them of their great goodness, that they
+would revenge him of his enemies; and there had Arthur the first sight
+of Guenever, the king’s daughter of Cameliard, and ever after he loved
+her. After they were wedded, as it telleth in the book. So, briefly to
+make an end, they took their leave to go into their own countries, for
+King Claudas did great destruction on their lands. Then said Arthur, I
+will go with you. Nay, said the kings, ye shall not at this time, for
+ye have much to do yet in these lands, therefore we will depart, and
+with the great goods that we have gotten in these lands by your gifts,
+we shall wage good knights and withstand the King Claudas’ malice, for
+by the grace of God, an we have need we will send to you for your
+succour; and if ye have need, send for us, and we will not tarry, by
+the faith of our bodies. It shall not, said Merlin, need that these two
+kings come again in the way of war, but I know well King Arthur may not
+be long from you, for within a year or two ye shall have great need,
+and then shall he revenge you on your enemies, as ye have done on his.
+For these eleven kings shall die all in a day, by the great might and
+prowess of arms of two valiant knights (as it telleth after); their
+names be Balin le Savage, and Balan, his brother, that be marvellous
+good knights as be any living.
+
+Now turn we to the eleven kings that returned unto a city that hight
+Sorhaute, the which city was within King Uriens’, and there they
+refreshed them as well as they might, and made leeches search their
+wounds, and sorrowed greatly for the death of their people. With that
+there came a messenger and told how there was come into their lands
+people that were lawless as well as Saracens, a forty thousand, and
+have burnt and slain all the people that they may come by, without
+mercy, and have laid siege on the castle of Wandesborow. Alas, said the
+eleven kings, here is sorrow upon sorrow, and if we had not warred
+against Arthur as we have done, he would soon revenge us. As for King
+Leodegrance, he loveth Arthur better than us, and as for King Rience,
+he hath enough to do with Leodegrance, for he hath laid siege unto him.
+So they consented together to keep all the marches of Cornwall, of
+Wales, and of the North. So first, they put King Idres in the City of
+Nauntes in Britain, with four thousand men of arms, to watch both the
+water and the land. Also they put in the city of Windesan, King Nentres
+of Garlot, with four thousand knights to watch both on water and on
+land. Also they had of other men of war more than eight thousand, for
+to fortify all the fortresses in the marches of Cornwall. Also they put
+more knights in all the marches of Wales and Scotland, with many good
+men of arms, and so they kept them together the space of three year,
+and ever allied them with mighty kings and dukes and lords. And to them
+fell King Rience of North Wales, the which and Nero that was a mighty
+man of men. And all this while they furnished them and garnished them
+of good men of arms, and victual, and of all manner of habiliment that
+pretendeth to the war, to avenge them for the battle of Bedegraine, as
+it telleth in the book of adventures following.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX. How King Arthur rode to Carlion, and of his dream, and how
+he saw the questing beast.
+
+Then after the departing of King Ban and of King Bors, King Arthur rode
+into Carlion. And thither came to him, King Lot’s wife, of Orkney, in
+manner of a message, but she was sent thither to espy the court of King
+Arthur; and she came richly beseen, with her four sons, Gawaine,
+Gaheris, Agravine, and Gareth, with many other knights and ladies. For
+she was a passing fair lady, therefore the king cast great love unto
+her, and desired to lie by her; so they were agreed, and he begat upon
+her Mordred, and she was his sister, on his mother’s side, Igraine. So
+there she rested her a month, and at the last departed. Then the king
+dreamed a marvellous dream whereof he was sore adread. But all this
+time King Arthur knew not that King Lot’s wife was his sister. Thus was
+the dream of Arthur: Him thought there was come into this land griffins
+and serpents, and him thought they burnt and slew all the people in the
+land, and then him thought he fought with them, and they did him
+passing great harm, and wounded him full sore, but at the last he slew
+them. When the king awaked, he was passing heavy of his dream, and so
+to put it out of thoughts, he made him ready with many knights to ride
+a-hunting. As soon as he was in the forest the king saw a great hart
+afore him. This hart will I chase, said King Arthur, and so he spurred
+the horse, and rode after long, and so by fine force oft he was like to
+have smitten the hart; whereas the king had chased the hart so long,
+that his horse lost his breath, and fell down dead. Then a yeoman
+fetched the king another horse.
+
+So the king saw the hart enbushed, and his horse dead, he set him down
+by a fountain, and there he fell in great thoughts. And as he sat so,
+him thought he heard a noise of hounds, to the sum of thirty. And with
+that the king saw coming toward him the strangest beast that ever he
+saw or heard of; so the beast went to the well and drank, and the noise
+was in the beast’s belly like unto the questing of thirty couple
+hounds; but all the while the beast drank there was no noise in the
+beast’s belly: and there with the beast departed with a great noise,
+whereof the king had great marvel. And so he was in a great thought,
+and therewith he fell asleep. Right so there came a knight afoot unto
+Arthur and said, Knight full of thought and sleepy, tell me if thou
+sawest a strange beast pass this way. Such one saw I, said King Arthur,
+that is past two mile; what would ye with the beast? said Arthur. Sir,
+I have followed that beast long time, and killed mine horse, so would
+God I had another to follow my quest. Right so came one with the king’s
+horse, and when the knight saw the horse, he prayed the king to give
+him the horse: for I have followed this quest this twelvemonth, and
+either I shall achieve him, or bleed of the best blood of my body.
+Pellinore, that time king, followed the Questing Beast, and after his
+death Sir Palamides followed it.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX. How King Pellinore took Arthur’s horse and followed the
+Questing Beast, and how Merlin met with Arthur.
+
+Sir knight, said the king, leave that quest, and suffer me to have it,
+and I will follow it another twelvemonth. Ah, fool, said the knight
+unto Arthur, it is in vain thy desire, for it shall never be achieved
+but by me, or my next kin. Therewith he started unto the king’s horse
+and mounted into the saddle, and said, Gramercy, this horse is my own.
+Well, said the king, thou mayst take my horse by force, but an I might
+prove thee whether thou were better on horseback or I.—Well, said the
+knight, seek me here when thou wilt, and here nigh this well thou shalt
+find me, and so passed on his way. Then the king sat in a study, and
+bade his men fetch his horse as fast as ever they might. Right so came
+by him Merlin like a child of fourteen year of age, and saluted the
+king, and asked him why he was so pensive. I may well be pensive, said
+the king, for I have seen the marvellest sight that ever I saw. That
+know I well, said Merlin, as well as thyself, and of all thy thoughts,
+but thou art but a fool to take thought, for it will not amend thee.
+Also I know what thou art, and who was thy father, and of whom thou
+wert begotten; King Uther Pendragon was thy father, and begat thee on
+Igraine. That is false, said King Arthur, how shouldest thou know it,
+for thou art not so old of years to know my father? Yes, said Merlin, I
+know it better than ye or any man living. I will not believe thee, said
+Arthur, and was wroth with the child. So departed Merlin, and came
+again in the likeness of an old man of fourscore year of age, whereof
+the king was right glad, for he seemed to be right wise.
+
+Then said the old man, Why are ye so sad? I may well be heavy, said
+Arthur, for many things. Also here was a child, and told me many things
+that meseemeth he should not know, for he was not of age to know my
+father. Yes, said the old man, the child told you truth, and more would
+he have told you an ye would have suffered him. But ye have done a
+thing late that God is displeased with you, for ye have lain by your
+sister, and on her ye have gotten a child that shall destroy you and
+all the knights of your realm. What are ye, said Arthur, that tell me
+these tidings? I am Merlin, and I was he in the child’s likeness. Ah,
+said King Arthur, ye are a marvellous man, but I marvel much of thy
+words that I must die in battle. Marvel not, said Merlin, for it is
+God’s will your body to be punished for your foul deeds; but I may well
+be sorry, said Merlin, for I shall die a shameful death, to be put in
+the earth quick, and ye shall die a worshipful death. And as they
+talked this, came one with the king’s horse, and so the king mounted on
+his horse, and Merlin on another, and so rode unto Carlion. And anon
+the king asked Ector and Ulfius how he was begotten, and they told him
+Uther Pendragon was his father and Queen Igraine his mother. Then he
+said to Merlin, I will that my mother be sent for that I may speak with
+her; and if she say so herself then will I believe it. In all haste,
+the queen was sent for, and she came and brought with her Morgan le
+Fay, her daughter, that was as fair a lady as any might be, and the
+king welcomed Igraine in the best manner.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI. How Ulfius impeached Queen Igraine, Arthur’s mother, of
+treason; and how a knight came and desired to have the death of his
+master revenged.
+
+Right so came Ulfius, and said openly, that the king and all might hear
+that were feasted that day, Ye are the falsest lady of the world, and
+the most traitress unto the king’s person. Beware, said Arthur, what
+thou sayest; thou speakest a great word. I am well ware, said Ulfius,
+what I speak, and here is my glove to prove it upon any man that will
+say the contrary, that this Queen Igraine is causer of your great
+damage, and of your great war. For, an she would have uttered it in the
+life of King Uther Pendragon, of the birth of you, and how ye were
+begotten ye had never had the mortal wars that ye have had; for the
+most part of your barons of your realm knew never whose son ye were,
+nor of whom ye were begotten; and she that bare you of her body should
+have made it known openly in excusing of her worship and yours, and in
+like wise to all the realm, wherefore I prove her false to God and to
+you and to all your realm, and who will say the contrary I will prove
+it on his body.
+
+Then spake Igraine and said, I am a woman and I may not fight, but
+rather than I should be dishonoured, there would some good man take my
+quarrel. More, she said, Merlin knoweth well, and ye Sir Ulfius, how
+King Uther came to me in the Castle of Tintagil in the likeness of my
+lord, that was dead three hours to-fore, and thereby gat a child that
+night upon me. And after the thirteenth day King Uther wedded me, and
+by his commandment when the child was born it was delivered unto Merlin
+and nourished by him, and so I saw the child never after, nor wot not
+what is his name, for I knew him never yet. And there, Ulfius said to
+the queen, Merlin is more to blame than ye. Well I wot, said the queen,
+I bare a child by my lord King Uther, but I wot not where he is become.
+Then Merlin took the king by the hand, saying, This is your mother. And
+therewith Sir Ector bare witness how he nourished him by Uther’s
+commandment. And therewith King Arthur took his mother, Queen Igraine,
+in his arms and kissed her, and either wept upon other. And then the
+king let make a feast that lasted eight days.
+
+Then on a day there came in the court a squire on horseback, leading a
+knight before him wounded to the death, and told him how there was a
+knight in the forest had reared up a pavilion by a well, and hath slain
+my master, a good knight, his name was Miles; wherefore I beseech you
+that my master may be buried, and that some knight may revenge my
+master’s death. Then the noise was great of that knight’s death in the
+court, and every man said his advice. Then came Griflet that was but a
+squire, and he was but young, of the age of the king Arthur, so he
+besought the king for all his service that he had done him to give the
+order of knighthood.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII. How Griflet was made knight, and jousted with a knight.
+
+Thou art full young and tender of age, said Arthur, for to take so high
+an order on thee. Sir, said Griflet, I beseech you make me knight. Sir,
+said Merlin, it were great pity to lose Griflet, for he will be a
+passing good man when he is of age, abiding with you the term of his
+life. And if he adventure his body with yonder knight at the fountain,
+it is in great peril if ever he come again, for he is one of the best
+knights of the world, and the strongest man of arms. Well, said Arthur.
+So at the desire of Griflet the king made him knight. Now, said Arthur
+unto Sir Griflet, sith I have made you knight thou must give me a gift.
+What ye will, said Griflet. Thou shalt promise me by the faith of thy
+body, when thou hast jousted with the knight at the fountain, whether
+it fall ye be on foot or on horseback, that right so ye shall come
+again unto me without making any more debate. I will promise you, said
+Griflet, as you desire. Then took Griflet his horse in great haste, and
+dressed his shield and took a spear in his hand, and so he rode a great
+wallop till he came to the fountain, and thereby he saw a rich
+pavilion, and thereby under a cloth stood a fair horse well saddled and
+bridled, and on a tree a shield of divers colours and a great spear.
+Then Griflet smote on the shield with the butt of his spear, that the
+shield fell down to the ground. With that the knight came out of the
+pavilion, and said, Fair knight, why smote ye down my shield? For I
+will joust with you, said Griflet. It is better ye do not, said the
+knight, for ye are but young, and late made knight, and your might is
+nothing to mine. As for that, said Griflet, I will joust with you. That
+is me loath, said the knight, but sith I must needs, I will dress me
+thereto. Of whence be ye? said the knight. Sir, I am of Arthur’s court.
+So the two knights ran together that Griflet’s spear all to-shivered;
+and there withal he smote Griflet through the shield and the left side,
+and brake the spear that the truncheon stuck in his body, that horse
+and knight fell down.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII. How twelve knights came from Rome and asked truage for
+this land of Arthur, and how Arthur fought with a knight.
+
+When the knight saw him lie so on the ground, he alighted, and was
+passing heavy, for he weened he had slain him, and then he unlaced his
+helm and gat him wind, and so with the truncheon he set him on his
+horse, and so betook him to God, and said he had a mighty heart, and if
+he might live he would prove a passing good knight. And so Sir Griflet
+rode to the court, where great dole was made for him. But through good
+leeches he was healed and saved. Right so came into the court twelve
+knights, and were aged men, and they came from the Emperor of Rome, and
+they asked of Arthur truage for this realm, other else the emperor
+would destroy him and his land. Well, said King Arthur, ye are
+messengers, therefore ye may say what ye will, other else ye should die
+therefore. But this is mine answer: I owe the emperor no truage, nor
+none will I hold him, but on a fair field I shall give him my truage
+that shall be with a sharp spear, or else with a sharp sword, and that
+shall not be long, by my father’s soul, Uther Pendragon. And therewith
+the messengers departed passingly wroth, and King Arthur as wroth, for
+in evil time came they then; for the king was passingly wroth for the
+hurt of Sir Griflet. And so he commanded a privy man of his chamber
+that or it be day his best horse and armour, with all that longeth unto
+his person, be without the city or to-morrow day. Right so or to-morrow
+day he met with his man and his horse, and so mounted up and dressed
+his shield and took his spear, and bade his chamberlain tarry there
+till he came again. And so Arthur rode a soft pace till it was day, and
+then was he ware of three churls chasing Merlin, and would have slain
+him. Then the king rode unto them, and bade them: Flee, churls! then
+were they afeard when they saw a knight, and fled. O Merlin, said
+Arthur, here hadst thou been slain for all thy crafts had I not been.
+Nay, said Merlin, not so, for I could save myself an I would; and thou
+art more near thy death than I am, for thou goest to the deathward, an
+God be not thy friend.
+
+So as they went thus talking they came to the fountain, and the rich
+pavilion there by it. Then King Arthur was ware where sat a knight
+armed in a chair. Sir knight, said Arthur, for what cause abidest thou
+here, that there may no knight ride this way but if he joust with thee?
+said the king. I rede thee leave that custom, said Arthur. This custom,
+said the knight, have I used and will use maugre who saith nay, and who
+is grieved with my custom let him amend it that will. I will amend it,
+said Arthur. I shall defend thee, said the knight. Anon he took his
+horse and dressed his shield and took a spear, and they met so hard
+either in other’s shields, that all to-shivered their spears. Therewith
+anon Arthur pulled out his sword. Nay, not so, said the knight; it is
+fairer, said the knight, that we twain run more together with sharp
+spears. I will well, said Arthur, an I had any more spears. I have
+enow, said the knight; so there came a squire and brought two good
+spears, and Arthur chose one and he another; so they spurred their
+horses and came together with all their mights, that either brake their
+spears to their hands. Then Arthur set hand on his sword. Nay, said the
+knight, ye shall do better, ye are a passing good jouster as ever I met
+withal, and once for the love of the high order of knighthood let us
+joust once again. I assent me, said Arthur. Anon there were brought two
+great spears, and every knight gat a spear, and therewith they ran
+together that Arthur’s spear all to-shivered. But the other knight hit
+him so hard in midst of the shield, that horse and man fell to the
+earth, and therewith Arthur was eager, and pulled out his sword, and
+said, I will assay thee, sir knight, on foot, for I have lost the
+honour on horseback. I will be on horseback, said the knight. Then was
+Arthur wroth, and dressed his shield toward him with his sword drawn.
+When the knight saw that, he alighted, for him thought no worship to
+have a knight at such avail, he to be on horseback and he on foot, and
+so he alighted and dressed his shield unto Arthur. And there began a
+strong battle with many great strokes, and so hewed with their swords
+that the cantels flew in the fields, and much blood they bled both,
+that all the place there as they fought was overbled with blood, and
+thus they fought long and rested them, and then they went to the battle
+again, and so hurtled together like two rams that either fell to the
+earth. So at the last they smote together that both their swords met
+even together. But the sword of the knight smote King Arthur’s sword in
+two pieces, wherefore he was heavy. Then said the knight unto Arthur,
+Thou art in my daunger whether me list to save thee or slay thee, and
+but thou yield thee as overcome and recreant, thou shalt die. As for
+death, said King Arthur, welcome be it when it cometh, but to yield me
+unto thee as recreant I had liefer die than to be so shamed. And
+therewithal the king leapt unto Pellinore, and took him by the middle
+and threw him down, and raced off his helm. When the knight felt that
+he was adread, for he was a passing big man of might, and anon he
+brought Arthur under him, and raced off his helm and would have smitten
+off his head.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV. How Merlin saved Arthur’s life, and threw an enchantment
+on King Pellinore and made him to sleep.
+
+Therewithal came Merlin and said, Knight, hold thy hand, for an thou
+slay that knight thou puttest this realm in the greatest damage that
+ever was realm: for this knight is a man of more worship than thou
+wotest of. Why, who is he? said the knight. It is King Arthur. Then
+would he have slain him for dread of his wrath, and heaved up his
+sword, and therewith Merlin cast an enchantment to the knight, that he
+fell to the earth in a great sleep. Then Merlin took up King Arthur,
+and rode forth on the knight’s horse. Alas! said Arthur, what hast thou
+done, Merlin? hast thou slain this good knight by thy crafts? There
+liveth not so worshipful a knight as he was; I had liefer than the
+stint of my land a year that he were alive. Care ye not, said Merlin,
+for he is wholer than ye; for he is but asleep, and will awake within
+three hours. I told you, said Merlin, what a knight he was; here had ye
+been slain had I not been. Also there liveth not a bigger knight than
+he is one, and he shall hereafter do you right good service; and his
+name is Pellinore, and he shall have two sons that shall be passing
+good men; save one they shall have no fellow of prowess and of good
+living, and their names shall be Percivale of Wales and Lamerake of
+Wales, and he shall tell you the name of your own son, begotten of your
+sister, that shall be the destruction of all this realm.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV. How Arthur by the mean of Merlin gat Excalibur his sword
+of the Lady of the Lake.
+
+Right so the king and he departed, and went unto an hermit that was a
+good man and a great leech. So the hermit searched all his wounds and
+gave him good salves; so the king was there three days, and then were
+his wounds well amended that he might ride and go, and so departed. And
+as they rode, Arthur said, I have no sword. No force, said Merlin,
+hereby is a sword that shall be yours, an I may. So they rode till they
+came to a lake, the which was a fair water and broad, and in the midst
+of the lake Arthur was ware of an arm clothed in white samite, that
+held a fair sword in that hand. Lo! said Merlin, yonder is that sword
+that I spake of. With that they saw a damosel going upon the lake. What
+damosel is that? said Arthur. That is the Lady of the Lake, said
+Merlin; and within that lake is a rock, and therein is as fair a place
+as any on earth, and richly beseen; and this damosel will come to you
+anon, and then speak ye fair to her that she will give you that sword.
+Anon withal came the damosel unto Arthur, and saluted him, and he her
+again. Damosel, said Arthur, what sword is that, that yonder the arm
+holdeth above the water? I would it were mine, for I have no sword. Sir
+Arthur, king, said the damosel, that sword is mine, and if ye will give
+me a gift when I ask it you, ye shall have it. By my faith, said
+Arthur, I will give you what gift ye will ask. Well! said the damosel,
+go ye into yonder barge, and row yourself to the sword, and take it and
+the scabbard with you, and I will ask my gift when I see my time. So
+Sir Arthur and Merlin alighted and tied their horses to two trees, and
+so they went into the ship, and when they came to the sword that the
+hand held, Sir Arthur took it up by the handles, and took it with him,
+and the arm and the hand went under the water. And so [they] came unto
+the land and rode forth, and then Sir Arthur saw a rich pavilion. What
+signifieth yonder pavilion? It is the knight’s pavilion, said Merlin,
+that ye fought with last, Sir Pellinore; but he is out, he is not
+there. He hath ado with a knight of yours that hight Egglame, and they
+have foughten together, but at the last Egglame fled, and else he had
+been dead, and he hath chased him even to Carlion, and we shall meet
+with him anon in the highway. That is well said, said Arthur, now have
+I a sword, now will I wage battle with him, and be avenged on him. Sir,
+you shall not so, said Merlin, for the knight is weary of fighting and
+chasing, so that ye shall have no worship to have ado with him; also he
+will not be lightly matched of one knight living, and therefore it is
+my counsel, let him pass, for he shall do you good service in short
+time, and his sons after his days. Also ye shall see that day in short
+space, you shall be right glad to give him your sister to wed. When I
+see him, I will do as ye advise, said Arthur.
+
+Then Sir Arthur looked on the sword, and liked it passing well. Whether
+liketh you better, said Merlin, the sword or the scabbard? Me liketh
+better the sword, said Arthur. Ye are more unwise, said Merlin, for the
+scabbard is worth ten of the swords, for whiles ye have the scabbard
+upon you, ye shall never lose no blood, be ye never so sore wounded;
+therefore keep well the scabbard always with you. So they rode unto
+Carlion, and by the way they met with Sir Pellinore; but Merlin had
+done such a craft, that Pellinore saw not Arthur, and he passed by
+without any words. I marvel, said Arthur, that the knight would not
+speak. Sir, said Merlin, he saw you not, for an he had seen you, ye had
+not lightly departed. So they came unto Carlion, whereof his knights
+were passing glad. And when they heard of his adventures, they
+marvelled that he would jeopard his person so, alone. But all men of
+worship said it was merry to be under such a chieftain, that would put
+his person in adventure as other poor knights did.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI. How tidings came to Arthur that King Rience had overcome
+eleven kings, and how he desired Arthur’s beard to trim his mantle.
+
+This meanwhile came a messenger from King Rience of North Wales, and
+king he was of all Ireland, and of many isles. And this was his
+message, greeting well King Arthur in this manner wise, saying that
+King Rience had discomfited and overcome eleven kings, and everych of
+them did him homage, and that was this, they gave him their beards
+clean flayed off, as much as there was; wherefore the messenger came
+for King Arthur’s beard. For King Rience had purfled a mantle with
+kings’ beards, and there lacked one place of the mantle; wherefore he
+sent for his beard, or else he would enter into his lands, and burn and
+slay, and never leave till he have the head and the beard. Well, said
+Arthur, thou hast said thy message, the which is the most villainous
+and lewdest message that ever man heard sent unto a king; also thou
+mayest see my beard is full young yet to make a purfle of it. But tell
+thou thy king this: I owe him none homage, nor none of mine elders; but
+or it be long to, he shall do me homage on both his knees, or else he
+shall lose his head, by the faith of my body, for this is the most
+shamefulest message that ever I heard speak of. I have espied thy king
+met never yet with worshipful man, but tell him, I will have his head
+without he do me homage. Then the messenger departed.
+
+Now is there any here, said Arthur, that knoweth King Rience? Then
+answered a knight that hight Naram, Sir, I know the king well; he is a
+passing good man of his body, as few be living, and a passing proud
+man, and Sir, doubt ye not he will make war on you with a mighty
+puissance. Well, said Arthur, I shall ordain for him in short time.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII. How all the children were sent for that were born on
+May-day, and how Mordred was saved.
+
+Then King Arthur let send for all the children born on May-day,
+begotten of lords and born of ladies; for Merlin told King Arthur that
+he that should destroy him should be born on May-day, wherefore he sent
+for them all, upon pain of death; and so there were found many lords’
+sons, and all were sent unto the king, and so was Mordred sent by King
+Lot’s wife, and all were put in a ship to the sea, and some were four
+weeks old, and some less. And so by fortune the ship drave unto a
+castle, and was all to-riven, and destroyed the most part, save that
+Mordred was cast up, and a good man found him, and nourished him till
+he was fourteen year old, and then he brought him to the court, as it
+rehearseth afterward, toward the end of the Death of Arthur. So many
+lords and barons of this realm were displeased, for their children were
+so lost, and many put the wite on Merlin more than on Arthur; so what
+for dread and for love, they held their peace. But when the messenger
+came to King Rience, then was he wood out of measure, and purveyed him
+for a great host, as it rehearseth after in the book of Balin le
+Savage, that followeth next after, how by adventure Balin gat the
+sword.
+
+Explicit liber primus.
+
+
+
+BOOK II.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I. Of a damosel which came girt with a sword for to find a man
+of such virtue to draw it out of the scabbard.
+
+After the death of Uther Pendragon reigned Arthur his son, the which
+had great war in his days for to get all England into his hand. For
+there were many kings within the realm of England, and in Wales,
+Scotland, and Cornwall. So it befell on a time when King Arthur was at
+London, there came a knight and told the king tidings how that the King
+Rience of North Wales had reared a great number of people, and were
+entered into the land, and burnt and slew the king’s true liege people.
+If this be true, said Arthur, it were great shame unto mine estate but
+that he were mightily withstood. It is truth, said the knight, for I
+saw the host myself. Well, said the king, let make a cry, that all the
+lords, knights, and gentlemen of arms, should draw unto a castle called
+Camelot in those days, and there the king would let make a
+council-general and a great jousts.
+
+So when the king was come thither with all his baronage, and lodged as
+they seemed best, there was come a damosel the which was sent on
+message from the great lady Lile of Avelion. And when she came before
+King Arthur, she told from whom she came, and how she was sent on
+message unto him for these causes. Then she let her mantle fall that
+was richly furred; and then was she girt with a noble sword whereof the
+king had marvel, and said, Damosel, for what cause are ye girt with
+that sword? it beseemeth you not. Now shall I tell you, said the
+damosel; this sword that I am girt withal doth me great sorrow and
+cumbrance, for I may not be delivered of this sword but by a knight,
+but he must be a passing good man of his hands and of his deeds, and
+without villainy or treachery, and without treason. And if I may find
+such a knight that hath all these virtues, he may draw out this sword
+out of the sheath, for I have been at King Rience’s it was told me
+there were passing good knights, and he and all his knights have
+assayed it and none can speed. This is a great marvel, said Arthur, if
+this be sooth; I will myself assay to draw out the sword, not presuming
+upon myself that I am the best knight, but that I will begin to draw at
+your sword in giving example to all the barons that they shall assay
+everych one after other when I have assayed it. Then Arthur took the
+sword by the sheath and by the girdle and pulled at it eagerly, but the
+sword would not out.
+
+Sir, said the damosel, you need not to pull half so hard, for he that
+shall pull it out shall do it with little might. Ye say well, said
+Arthur; now assay ye all my barons; but beware ye be not defiled with
+shame, treachery, nor guile. Then it will not avail, said the damosel,
+for he must be a clean knight without villainy, and of a gentle strain
+of father side and mother side. Most of all the barons of the Round
+Table that were there at that time assayed all by row, but there might
+none speed; wherefore the damosel made great sorrow out of measure, and
+said, Alas! I weened in this court had been the best knights without
+treachery or treason. By my faith, said Arthur, here are good knights,
+as I deem, as any be in the world, but their grace is not to help you,
+wherefore I am displeased.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II. How Balin, arrayed like a poor knight, pulled out the
+sword, which afterward was the cause of his death.
+
+Then fell it so that time there was a poor knight with King Arthur,
+that had been prisoner with him half a year and more for slaying of a
+knight, the which was cousin unto King Arthur. The name of this knight
+was called Balin, and by good means of the barons he was delivered out
+of prison, for he was a good man named of his body, and he was born in
+Northumberland. And so he went privily into the court, and saw this
+adventure, whereof it raised his heart, and he would assay it as other
+knights did, but for he was poor and poorly arrayed he put him not far
+in press. But in his heart he was fully assured to do as well, if his
+grace happed him, as any knight that there was. And as the damosel took
+her leave of Arthur and of all the barons, so departing, this knight
+Balin called unto her, and said, Damosel, I pray you of your courtesy,
+suffer me as well to assay as these lords; though that I be so poorly
+clothed, in my heart meseemeth I am fully assured as some of these
+others, and meseemeth in my heart to speed right well. The damosel
+beheld the poor knight, and saw he was a likely man, but for his poor
+arrayment she thought he should be of no worship without villainy or
+treachery. And then she said unto the knight, Sir, it needeth not to
+put me to more pain or labour, for it seemeth not you to speed there as
+other have failed. Ah! fair damosel, said Balin, worthiness, and good
+tatches, and good deeds, are not only in arrayment, but manhood and
+worship is hid within man’s person, and many a worshipful knight is not
+known unto all people, and therefore worship and hardiness is not in
+arrayment. By God, said the damosel, ye say sooth; therefore ye shall
+assay to do what ye may. Then Balin took the sword by the girdle and
+sheath, and drew it out easily; and when he looked on the sword it
+pleased him much. Then had the king and all the barons great marvel
+that Balin had done that adventure, and many knights had great despite
+of Balin. Certes, said the damosel, this is a passing good knight, and
+the best that ever I found, and most of worship without treason,
+treachery, or villainy, and many marvels shall he do. Now, gentle and
+courteous knight, give me the sword again. Nay, said Balin, for this
+sword will I keep, but it be taken from me with force. Well, said the
+damosel, ye are not wise to keep the sword from me, for ye shall slay
+with the sword the best friend that ye have, and the man that ye most
+love in the world, and the sword shall be your destruction. I shall
+take the adventure, said Balin, that God will ordain me, but the sword
+ye shall not have at this time, by the faith of my body. Ye shall
+repent it within short time, said the damosel, for I would have the
+sword more for your avail than for mine, for I am passing heavy for
+your sake; for ye will not believe that sword shall be your
+destruction, and that is great pity. With that the damosel departed,
+making great sorrow.
+
+Anon after, Balin sent for his horse and armour, and so would depart
+from the court, and took his leave of King Arthur. Nay, said the king,
+I suppose ye will not depart so lightly from this fellowship, I suppose
+ye are displeased that I have shewed you unkindness; blame me the less,
+for I was misinformed against you, but I weened ye had not been such a
+knight as ye are, of worship and prowess, and if ye will abide in this
+court among my fellowship, I shall so advance you as ye shall be
+pleased. God thank your highness, said Balin, your bounty and highness
+may no man praise half to the value; but at this time I must needs
+depart, beseeching you alway of your good grace. Truly, said the king,
+I am right wroth for your departing; I pray you, fair knight, that ye
+tarry not long, and ye shall be right welcome to me, and to my barons,
+and I shall amend all miss that I have done against you; God thank your
+great lordship, said Balin, and therewith made him ready to depart.
+Then the most part of the knights of the Round Table said that Balin
+did not this adventure all only by might, but by witchcraft.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III. How the Lady of the Lake demanded the knight’s head that
+had won the sword, or the maiden’s head.
+
+The meanwhile, that this knight was making him ready to depart, there
+came into the court a lady that hight the Lady of the Lake. And she
+came on horseback, richly beseen, and saluted King Arthur, and there
+asked him a gift that he promised her when she gave him the sword. That
+is sooth, said Arthur, a gift I promised you, but I have forgotten the
+name of my sword that ye gave me. The name of it, said the lady, is
+Excalibur, that is as much to say as Cut-steel. Ye say well, said the
+king; ask what ye will and ye shall have it, an it lie in my power to
+give it. Well, said the lady, I ask the head of the knight that hath
+won the sword, or else the damosel’s head that brought it; I take no
+force though I have both their heads, for he slew my brother, a good
+knight and a true, and that gentlewoman was causer of my father’s
+death. Truly, said King Arthur, I may not grant neither of their heads
+with my worship, therefore ask what ye will else, and I shall fulfil
+your desire. I will ask none other thing, said the lady. When Balin was
+ready to depart, he saw the Lady of the Lake, that by her means had
+slain Balin’s mother, and he had sought her three years; and when it
+was told him that she asked his head of King Arthur, he went to her
+straight and said, Evil be you found; ye would have my head, and
+therefore ye shall lose yours, and with his sword lightly he smote off
+her head before King Arthur. Alas, for shame! said Arthur, why have ye
+done so? ye have shamed me and all my court, for this was a lady that I
+was beholden to, and hither she came under my safe-conduct; I shall
+never forgive you that trespass. Sir, said Balin, me forthinketh of
+your displeasure, for this same lady was the untruest lady living, and
+by enchantment and sorcery she hath been the destroyer of many good
+knights, and she was causer that my mother was burnt, through her
+falsehood and treachery. What cause soever ye had, said Arthur, ye
+should have forborne her in my presence; therefore, think not the
+contrary, ye shall repent it, for such another despite had I never in
+my court; therefore withdraw you out of my court in all haste ye may.
+
+Then Balin took up the head of the lady, and bare it with him to his
+hostelry, and there he met with his squire, that was sorry he had
+displeased King Arthur and so they rode forth out of the town. Now,
+said Balin, we must depart, take thou this head and bear it to my
+friends, and tell them how I have sped, and tell my friends in
+Northumberland that my most foe is dead. Also tell them how I am out of
+prison, and what adventure befell me at the getting of this sword.
+Alas! said the squire, ye are greatly to blame for to displease King
+Arthur. As for that, said Balin, I will hie me, in all the haste that I
+may, to meet with King Rience and destroy him, either else to die
+therefore; and if it may hap me to win him, then will King Arthur be my
+good and gracious lord. Where shall I meet with you? said the squire.
+In King Arthur’s court, said Balin. So his squire and he departed at
+that time. Then King Arthur and all the court made great dole and had
+shame of the death of the Lady of the Lake. Then the king buried her
+richly.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV. How Merlin told the adventure of this damosel.
+
+At that time there was a knight, the which was the king’s son of
+Ireland, and his name was Lanceor, the which was an orgulous knight,
+and counted himself one of the best of the court; and he had great
+despite at Balin for the achieving of the sword, that any should be
+accounted more hardy, or more of prowess; and he asked King Arthur if
+he would give him leave to ride after Balin and to revenge the despite
+that he had done. Do your best, said Arthur, I am right wroth with
+Balin; I would he were quit of the despite that he hath done to me and
+to my court. Then this Lanceor went to his hostelry to make him ready.
+In the meanwhile came Merlin unto the court of King Arthur, and there
+was told him the adventure of the sword, and the death of the Lady of
+the Lake. Now shall I say you, said Merlin; this same damosel that here
+standeth, that brought the sword unto your court, I shall tell you the
+cause of her coming: she was the falsest damosel that liveth. Say not
+so, said they. She hath a brother, a passing good knight of prowess and
+a full true man; and this damosel loved another knight that held her to
+paramour, and this good knight her brother met with the knight that
+held her to paramour, and slew him by force of his hands. When this
+false damosel understood this, she went to the Lady Lile of Avelion,
+and besought her of help, to be avenged on her own brother.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V. How Balin was pursued by Sir Lanceor, knight of Ireland, and
+how he jousted and slew him.
+
+And so this Lady Lile of Avelion took her this sword that she brought
+with her, and told there should no man pull it out of the sheath but if
+he be one of the best knights of this realm, and he should be hard and
+full of prowess, and with that sword he should slay her brother. This
+was the cause that the damosel came into this court. I know it as well
+as ye. Would God she had not come into this court, but she came never
+in fellowship of worship to do good, but always great harm; and that
+knight that hath achieved the sword shall be destroyed by that sword,
+for the which will be great damage, for there liveth not a knight of
+more prowess than he is, and he shall do unto you, my Lord Arthur,
+great honour and kindness; and it is great pity he shall not endure but
+a while, for of his strength and hardiness I know not his match living.
+
+So the knight of Ireland armed him at all points, and dressed his
+shield on his shoulder, and mounted upon horseback, and took his spear
+in his hand, and rode after a great pace, as much as his horse might
+go; and within a little space on a mountain he had a sight of Balin,
+and with a loud voice he cried, Abide, knight, for ye shall abide
+whether ye will or nill, and the shield that is to-fore you shall not
+help. When Balin heard the noise, he turned his horse fiercely, and
+said, Fair knight, what will ye with me, will ye joust with me? Yea,
+said the Irish knight, therefore come I after you. Peradventure, said
+Balin, it had been better to have holden you at home, for many a man
+weeneth to put his enemy to a rebuke, and oft it falleth to himself. Of
+what court be ye sent from? said Balin. I am come from the court of
+King Arthur, said the knight of Ireland, that come hither for to
+revenge the despite ye did this day to King Arthur and to his court.
+Well, said Balin, I see well I must have ado with you, that me
+forthinketh for to grieve King Arthur, or any of his court; and your
+quarrel is full simple, said Balin, unto me, for the lady that is dead,
+did me great damage, and else would I have been loath as any knight
+that liveth for to slay a lady. Make you ready, said the knight
+Lanceor, and dress you unto me, for that one shall abide in the field.
+Then they took their spears, and came together as much as their horses
+might drive, and the Irish knight smote Balin on the shield, that all
+went shivers off his spear, and Balin hit him through the shield, and
+the hauberk perished, and so pierced through his body and the horse’s
+croup, and anon turned his horse fiercely, and drew out his sword, and
+wist not that he had slain him; and then he saw him lie as a dead
+corpse.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI. How a damosel, which was love to Lanceor, slew herself for
+love, and how Balin met with his brother Balan.
+
+Then he looked by him, and was ware of a damosel that came riding full
+fast as the horse might ride, on a fair palfrey. And when she espied
+that Lanceor was slain, she made sorrow out of measure, and said, O
+Balin, two bodies thou hast slain and one heart, and two hearts in one
+body, and two souls thou hast lost. And therewith she took the sword
+from her love that lay dead, and fell to the ground in a swoon. And
+when she arose she made great dole out of measure, the which sorrow
+grieved Balin passingly sore, and he went unto her for to have taken
+the sword out of her hand, but she held it so fast he might not take it
+out of her hand unless he should have hurt her, and suddenly she set
+the pommel to the ground, and rove herself through the body. When Balin
+espied her deeds, he was passing heavy in his heart, and ashamed that
+so fair a damosel had destroyed herself for the love of his death.
+Alas, said Balin, me repenteth sore the death of this knight, for the
+love of this damosel, for there was much true love betwixt them both,
+and for sorrow might not longer behold him, but turned his horse and
+looked toward a great forest, and there he was ware, by the arms, of
+his brother Balan. And when they were met they put off their helms and
+kissed together, and wept for joy and pity. Then Balan said, I little
+weened to have met with you at this sudden adventure; I am right glad
+of your deliverance out of your dolorous prisonment, for a man told me,
+in the castle of Four Stones, that ye were delivered, and that man had
+seen you in the court of King Arthur, and therefore I came hither into
+this country, for here I supposed to find you. Anon the knight Balin
+told his brother of his adventure of the sword, and of the death of the
+Lady of the Lake, and how King Arthur was displeased with him.
+Wherefore he sent this knight after me, that lieth here dead, and the
+death of this damosel grieveth me sore. So doth it me, said Balan, but
+ye must take the adventure that God will ordain you. Truly, said Balin,
+I am right heavy that my Lord Arthur is displeased with me, for he is
+the most worshipful knight that reigneth now on earth, and his love
+will I get or else will I put my life in adventure. For the King Rience
+lieth at a siege at the Castle Terrabil, and thither will we draw in
+all haste, to prove our worship and prowess upon him. I will well, said
+Balan, that we do, and we will help each other as brethren ought to do.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII. How a dwarf reproved Balin for the death of Lanceor, and
+how King Mark of Cornwall found them, and made a tomb over them.
+
+Now go we hence, said Balin, and well be we met. The meanwhile as they
+talked, there came a dwarf from the city of Camelot on horseback, as
+much as he might; and found the dead bodies, wherefore he made great
+dole, and pulled out his hair for sorrow, and said, Which of you
+knights have done this deed? Whereby askest thou it? said Balan. For I
+would wit it, said the dwarf. It was I, said Balin, that slew this
+knight in my defence, for hither he came to chase me, and either I must
+slay him or he me; and this damosel slew herself for his love, which
+repenteth me, and for her sake I shall owe all women the better love.
+Alas, said the dwarf, thou hast done great damage unto thyself, for
+this knight that is here dead was one of the most valiantest men that
+lived, and trust well, Balin, the kin of this knight will chase you
+through the world till they have slain you. As for that, said Balin, I
+fear not greatly, but I am right heavy that I have displeased my lord
+King Arthur, for the death of this knight. So as they talked together,
+there came a king of Cornwall riding, the which hight King Mark. And
+when he saw these two bodies dead, and understood how they were dead,
+by the two knights above said, then made the king great sorrow for the
+true love that was betwixt them, and said, I will not depart till I
+have on this earth made a tomb, and there he pight his pavilions and
+sought through all the country to find a tomb, and in a church they
+found one was fair and rich, and then the king let put them both in the
+earth, and put the tomb upon them, and wrote the names of them both on
+the tomb. How here lieth Lanceor the king’s son of Ireland, that at his
+own request was slain by the hands of Balin; and how his lady, Colombe,
+and paramour, slew herself with her love’s sword for dole and sorrow.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII. How Merlin prophesied that two the best knights of the
+world should fight there, which were Sir Lancelot and Sir Tristram.
+
+The meanwhile as this was a-doing, in came Merlin to King Mark, and
+seeing all his doing, said, Here shall be in this same place the
+greatest battle betwixt two knights that was or ever shall be, and the
+truest lovers, and yet none of them shall slay other. And there Merlin
+wrote their names upon the tomb with letters of gold that should fight
+in that place, whose names were Launcelot de Lake, and Tristram. Thou
+art a marvellous man, said King Mark unto Merlin, that speakest of such
+marvels, thou art a boistous man and an unlikely to tell of such deeds.
+What is thy name? said King Mark. At this time, said Merlin, I will not
+tell, but at that time when Sir Tristram is taken with his sovereign
+lady, then ye shall hear and know my name, and at that time ye shall
+hear tidings that shall not please you. Then said Merlin to Balin, Thou
+hast done thyself great hurt, because that thou savest not this lady
+that slew herself, that might have saved her an thou wouldest. By the
+faith of my body, said Balin, I might not save her, for she slew
+herself suddenly. Me repenteth, said Merlin; because of the death of
+that lady thou shalt strike a stroke most dolorous that ever man
+struck, except the stroke of our Lord, for thou shalt hurt the truest
+knight and the man of most worship that now liveth, and through that
+stroke three kingdoms shall be in great poverty, misery and
+wretchedness twelve years, and the knight shall not be whole of that
+wound for many years. Then Merlin took his leave of Balin. And Balin
+said, If I wist it were sooth that ye say I should do such a perilous
+deed as that, I would slay myself to make thee a liar. Therewith Merlin
+vanished away suddenly. And then Balan and his brother took their leave
+of King Mark. First, said the king, tell me your name. Sir, said Balan,
+ye may see he beareth two swords, thereby ye may call him the Knight
+with the Two Swords. And so departed King Mark unto Camelot to King
+Arthur, and Balin took the way toward King Rience; and as they rode
+together they met with Merlin disguised, but they knew him not. Whither
+ride you? said Merlin. We have little to do, said the two knights, to
+tell thee. But what is thy name? said Balin. At this time, said Merlin,
+I will not tell it thee. It is evil seen, said the knights, that thou
+art a true man that thou wilt not tell thy name. As for that, said
+Merlin, be it as it be may, I can tell you wherefore ye ride this way,
+for to meet King Rience; but it will not avail you without ye have my
+counsel. Ah! said Balin, ye are Merlin; we will be ruled by your
+counsel. Come on, said Merlin, ye shall have great worship, and look
+that ye do knightly, for ye shall have great need. As for that, said
+Balin, dread you not, we will do what we may.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX. How Balin and his brother, by the counsel of Merlin, took
+King Rience and brought him to King Arthur.
+
+Then Merlin lodged them in a wood among leaves beside the highway, and
+took off the bridles of their horses and put them to grass and laid
+them down to rest them till it was nigh midnight. Then Merlin bade them
+rise, and make them ready, for the king was nigh them, that was stolen
+away from his host with a three score horses of his best knights, and
+twenty of them rode to-fore to warn the Lady de Vance that the king was
+coming; for that night King Rience should have lain with her. Which is
+the king? said Balin. Abide, said Merlin, here in a strait way ye shall
+meet with him; and therewith he showed Balin and his brother where he
+rode.
+
+Anon Balin and his brother met with the king, and smote him down, and
+wounded him fiercely, and laid him to the ground; and there they slew
+on the right hand and the left hand, and slew more than forty of his
+men, and the remnant fled. Then went they again to King Rience and
+would have slain him had he not yielded him unto their grace. Then said
+he thus: Knights full of prowess, slay me not, for by my life ye may
+win, and by my death ye shall win nothing. Then said these two knights,
+Ye say sooth and truth, and so laid him on a horse-litter. With that
+Merlin was vanished, and came to King Arthur aforehand, and told him
+how his most enemy was taken and discomfited. By whom? said King
+Arthur. By two knights, said Merlin, that would please your lordship,
+and to-morrow ye shall know what knights they are. Anon after came the
+Knight with the Two Swords and Balan his brother, and brought with them
+King Rience of North Wales, and there delivered him to the porters, and
+charged them with him; and so they two returned again in the dawning of
+the day. King Arthur came then to King Rience, and said, Sir king, ye
+are welcome: by what adventure come ye hither? Sir, said King Rience, I
+came hither by an hard adventure. Who won you? said King Arthur. Sir,
+said the king, the Knight with the Two Swords and his brother, which
+are two marvellous knights of prowess. I know them not, said Arthur,
+but much I am beholden to them. Ah, said Merlin, I shall tell you: it
+is Balin that achieved the sword, and his brother Balan, a good knight,
+there liveth not a better of prowess and of worthiness, and it shall be
+the greatest dole of him that ever I knew of knight, for he shall not
+long endure. Alas, said King Arthur, that is great pity; for I am much
+beholden unto him, and I have ill deserved it unto him for his
+kindness. Nay, said Merlin, he shall do much more for you, and that
+shall ye know in haste. But, sir, are ye purveyed, said Merlin, for
+to-morn the host of Nero, King Rience’s brother, will set on you or
+noon with a great host, and therefore make you ready, for I will depart
+from you.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X. How King Arthur had a battle against Nero and King Lot of
+Orkney, and how King Lot was deceived by Merlin, and how twelve kings
+were slain.
+
+Then King Arthur made ready his host in ten battles and Nero was ready
+in the field afore the Castle Terrabil with a great host, and he had
+ten battles, with many more people than Arthur had. Then Nero had the
+vanguard with the most part of his people, and Merlin came to King Lot
+of the Isle of Orkney, and held him with a tale of prophecy, till Nero
+and his people were destroyed. And there Sir Kay the seneschal did
+passingly well, that the days of his life the worship went never from
+him; and Sir Hervis de Revel did marvellous deeds with King Arthur, and
+King Arthur slew that day twenty knights and maimed forty. At that time
+came in the Knight with the Two Swords and his brother Balan, but they
+two did so marvellously that the king and all the knights marvelled of
+them, and all they that beheld them said they were sent from heaven as
+angels, or devils from hell; and King Arthur said himself they were the
+best knights that ever he saw, for they gave such strokes that all men
+had wonder of them.
+
+In the meanwhile came one to King Lot, and told him while he tarried
+there Nero was destroyed and slain with all his people. Alas, said King
+Lot, I am ashamed, for by my default there is many a worshipful man
+slain, for an we had been together there had been none host under the
+heaven that had been able for to have matched with us; this faiter with
+his prophecy hath mocked me. All that did Merlin, for he knew well that
+an King Lot had been with his body there at the first battle, King
+Arthur had been slain, and all his people destroyed; and well Merlin
+knew that one of the kings should be dead that day, and loath was
+Merlin that any of them both should be slain; but of the twain, he had
+liefer King Lot had been slain than King Arthur. Now what is best to
+do? said King Lot of Orkney; whether is me better to treat with King
+Arthur or to fight, for the greater part of our people are slain and
+destroyed? Sir, said a knight, set on Arthur for they are weary and
+forfoughten and we be fresh. As for me, said King Lot, I would every
+knight would do his part as I would do mine. And then they advanced
+banners and smote together and all to-shivered their spears; and
+Arthur’s knights, with the help of the Knight with the Two Swords and
+his brother Balan put King Lot and his host to the worse. But always
+King Lot held him in the foremost front, and did marvellous deeds of
+arms, for all his host was borne up by his hands, for he abode all
+knights. Alas he might not endure, the which was great pity, that so
+worthy a knight as he was one should be overmatched, that of late time
+afore had been a knight of King Arthur’s, and wedded the sister of King
+Arthur; and for King Arthur lay by King Lot’s wife, the which was
+Arthur’s sister, and gat on her Mordred, therefore King Lot held
+against Arthur. So there was a knight that was called the Knight with
+the Strange Beast, and at that time his right name was called
+Pellinore, the which was a good man of prowess, and he smote a mighty
+stroke at King Lot as he fought with all his enemies, and he failed of
+his stroke, and smote the horse’s neck, that he fell to the ground with
+King Lot. And therewith anon Pellinore smote him a great stroke through
+the helm and head unto the brows. And then all the host of Orkney fled
+for the death of King Lot, and there were slain many mothers’ sons. But
+King Pellinore bare the wite of the death of King Lot, wherefore Sir
+Gawaine revenged the death of his father the tenth year after he was
+made knight, and slew King Pellinore with his own hands. Also there
+were slain at that battle twelve kings on the side of King Lot with
+Nero, and all were buried in the Church of Saint Stephen’s in Camelot,
+and the remnant of knights and of others were buried in a great rock.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI. Of the interment of twelve kings, and of the prophecy of
+Merlin, and how Balin should give the dolorous stroke.
+
+So at the interment came King Lot’s wife Margawse with her four sons,
+Gawaine, Agravaine, Gaheris, and Gareth. Also there came thither King
+Uriens, Sir Ewaine’s father, and Morgan le Fay his wife that was King
+Arthur’s sister. All these came to the interment. But of all these
+twelve kings King Arthur let make the tomb of King Lot passing richly,
+and made his tomb by his own; and then Arthur let make twelve images of
+latten and copper, and over-gilt it with gold, in the sign of twelve
+kings, and each one of them held a taper of wax that burnt day and
+night; and King Arthur was made in sign of a figure standing above them
+with a sword drawn in his hand, and all the twelve figures had
+countenance like unto men that were overcome. All this made Merlin by
+his subtle craft, and there he told the king, When I am dead these
+tapers shall burn no longer, and soon after the adventures of the
+Sangreal shall come among you and be achieved. Also he told Arthur how
+Balin the worshipful knight shall give the dolorous stroke, whereof
+shall fall great vengeance. Oh, where is Balin and Balan and Pellinore?
+said King Arthur. As for Pellinore, said Merlin, he will meet with you
+soon; and as for Balin he will not be long from you; but the other
+brother will depart, ye shall see him no more. By my faith, said
+Arthur, they are two marvellous knights, and namely Balin passeth of
+prowess of any knight that ever I found, for much beholden am I unto
+him; would God he would abide with me. Sir, said Merlin, look ye keep
+well the scabbard of Excalibur, for ye shall lose no blood while ye
+have the scabbard upon you, though ye have as many wounds upon you as
+ye may have. So after, for great trust, Arthur betook the scabbard to
+Morgan le Fay his sister, and she loved another knight better than her
+husband King Uriens or King Arthur, and she would have had Arthur her
+brother slain, and therefore she let make another scabbard like it by
+enchantment, and gave the scabbard Excalibur to her love; and the
+knight’s name was called Accolon, that after had near slain King
+Arthur. After this Merlin told unto King Arthur of the prophecy that
+there should be a great battle beside Salisbury, and Mordred his own
+son should be against him. Also he told him that Bagdemegus was his
+cousin, and germain unto King Uriens.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII. How a sorrowful knight came before Arthur, and how Balin
+fetched him, and how that knight was slain by a knight invisible.
+
+Within a day or two King Arthur was somewhat sick, and he let pitch his
+pavilion in a meadow, and there he laid him down on a pallet to sleep,
+but he might have no rest. Right so he heard a great noise of an horse,
+and therewith the king looked out at the porch of the pavilion, and saw
+a knight coming even by him, making great dole. Abide, fair sir, said
+Arthur, and tell me wherefore thou makest this sorrow. Ye may little
+amend me, said the knight, and so passed forth to the castle of Meliot.
+Anon after there came Balin, and when he saw King Arthur he alighted
+off his horse, and came to the King on foot, and saluted him. By my
+head, said Arthur, ye be welcome. Sir, right now came riding this way a
+knight making great mourn, for what cause I cannot tell; wherefore I
+would desire of you of your courtesy and of your gentleness to fetch
+again that knight either by force or else by his good will. I will do
+more for your lordship than that, said Balin; and so he rode more than
+a pace, and found the knight with a damosel in a forest, and said, Sir
+knight, ye must come with me unto King Arthur, for to tell him of your
+sorrow. That will I not, said the knight, for it will scathe me
+greatly, and do you none avail. Sir, said Balin, I pray you make you
+ready, for ye must go with me, or else I must fight with you and bring
+you by force, and that were me loath to do. Will ye be my warrant, said
+the knight, an I go with you? Yea, said Balin, or else I will die
+therefore. And so he made him ready to go with Balin, and left the
+damosel still. And as they were even afore King Arthur’s pavilion,
+there came one invisible, and smote this knight that went with Balin
+throughout the body with a spear. Alas, said the knight, I am slain
+under your conduct with a knight called Garlon; therefore take my horse
+that is better than yours, and ride to the damosel, and follow the
+quest that I was in as she will lead you, and revenge my death when ye
+may. That shall I do, said Balin, and that I make vow unto knighthood;
+and so he departed from this knight with great sorrow. So King Arthur
+let bury this knight richly, and made a mention on his tomb, how there
+was slain Herlews le Berbeus, and by whom the treachery was done, the
+knight Garlon. But ever the damosel bare the truncheon of the spear
+with her that Sir Herlews was slain withal.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII. How Balin and the damosel met with a knight which was in
+likewise slain, and how the damosel bled for the custom of a castle.
+
+So Balin and the damosel rode into a forest, and there met with a
+knight that had been a-hunting, and that knight asked Balin for what
+cause he made so great sorrow. Me list not to tell you, said Balin.
+Now, said the knight, an I were armed as ye be I would fight with you.
+That should little need, said Balin, I am not afeard to tell you, and
+told him all the cause how it was. Ah, said the knight, is this all?
+here I ensure you by the faith of my body never to depart from you
+while my life lasteth. And so they went to the hostelry and armed them,
+and so rode forth with Balin. And as they came by an hermitage even by
+a churchyard, there came the knight Garlon invisible, and smote this
+knight, Perin de Mountbeliard, through the body with a spear. Alas,
+said the knight, I am slain by this traitor knight that rideth
+invisible. Alas, said Balin, it is not the first despite he hath done
+me; and there the hermit and Balin buried the knight under a rich stone
+and a tomb royal. And on the morn they found letters of gold written,
+how Sir Gawaine shall revenge his father’s death, King Lot, on the King
+Pellinore. Anon after this Balin and the damosel rode till they came to
+a castle, and there Balin alighted, and he and the damosel went to go
+into the castle, and anon as Balin came within the castle’s gate the
+portcullis fell down at his back, and there fell many men about the
+damosel, and would have slain her. When Balin saw that, he was sore
+aggrieved, for he might not help the damosel. Then he went up into the
+tower, and leapt over walls into the ditch, and hurt him not; and anon
+he pulled out his sword and would have foughten with them. And they all
+said nay, they would not fight with him, for they did nothing but the
+old custom of the castle; and told him how their lady was sick, and had
+lain many years, and she might not be whole but if she had a dish of
+silver full of blood of a clean maid and a king’s daughter; and
+therefore the custom of this castle is, there shall no damosel pass
+this way but she shall bleed of her blood in a silver dish full. Well,
+said Balin, she shall bleed as much as she may bleed, but I will not
+lose the life of her whiles my life lasteth. And so Balin made her to
+bleed by her good will, but her blood helped not the lady. And so he
+and she rested there all night, and had there right good cheer, and on
+the morn they passed on their ways. And as it telleth after in the
+Sangreal, that Sir Percivale’s sister helped that lady with her blood,
+whereof she was dead.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV. How Balin met with that knight named Garlon at a feast,
+and there he slew him, to have his blood to heal therewith the son of
+his host.
+
+Then they rode three or four days and never met with adventure, and by
+hap they were lodged with a gentle man that was a rich man and well at
+ease. And as they sat at their supper Balin overheard one complain
+grievously by him in a chair. What is this noise? said Balin. Forsooth,
+said his host, I will tell you. I was but late at a jousting, and there
+I jousted with a knight that is brother unto King Pellam, and twice
+smote I him down, and then he promised to quit me on my best friend;
+and so he wounded my son, that cannot be whole till I have of that
+knight’s blood, and he rideth alway invisible; but I know not his name.
+Ah! said Balin, I know that knight, his name is Garlon, he hath slain
+two knights of mine in the same manner, therefore I had liefer meet
+with that knight than all the gold in this realm, for the despite he
+hath done me. Well, said his host, I shall tell you, King Pellam of
+Listeneise hath made do cry in all this country a great feast that
+shall be within these twenty days, and no knight may come there but if
+he bring his wife with him, or his paramour; and that knight, your
+enemy and mine, ye shall see that day. Then I behote you, said Balin,
+part of his blood to heal your son withal. We will be forward to-morn,
+said his host. So on the morn they rode all three toward Pellam, and
+they had fifteen days’ journey or they came thither; and that same day
+began the great feast. And so they alighted and stabled their horses,
+and went into the castle; but Balin’s host might not be let in because
+he had no lady. Then Balin was well received and brought unto a chamber
+and unarmed him; and there were brought him robes to his pleasure, and
+would have had Balin leave his sword behind him. Nay, said Balin, that
+do I not, for it is the custom of my country a knight always to keep
+his weapon with him, and that custom will I keep, or else I will depart
+as I came. Then they gave him leave to wear his sword, and so he went
+unto the castle, and was set among knights of worship, and his lady
+afore him.
+
+Soon Balin asked a knight, Is there not a knight in this court whose
+name is Garlon? Yonder he goeth, said a knight, he with the black face;
+he is the marvellest knight that is now living, for he destroyeth many
+good knights, for he goeth invisible. Ah well, said Balin, is that he?
+Then Balin advised him long: If I slay him here I shall not escape, and
+if I leave him now, peradventure I shall never meet with him again at
+such a steven, and much harm he will do an he live. Therewith this
+Garlon espied that this Balin beheld him, and then he came and smote
+Balin on the face with the back of his hand, and said, Knight, why
+beholdest me so? for shame therefore, eat thy meat and do that thou
+came for. Thou sayest sooth, said Balin, this is not the first despite
+that thou hast done me, and therefore I will do what I came for, and
+rose up fiercely and clave his head to the shoulders. Give me the
+truncheon, said Balin to his lady, wherewith he slew your knight. Anon
+she gave it him, for alway she bare the truncheon with her. And
+therewith Balin smote him through the body, and said openly, With that
+truncheon thou hast slain a good knight, and now it sticketh in thy
+body. And then Balin called unto him his host, saying, Now may ye fetch
+blood enough to heal your son withal.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV. How Balin fought with King Pellam, and how his sword brake,
+and how he gat a spear wherewith he smote the dolorous stroke.
+
+Anon all the knights arose from the table for to set on Balin, and King
+Pellam himself arose up fiercely, and said, Knight, hast thou slain my
+brother? thou shalt die therefore or thou depart. Well, said Balin, do
+it yourself. Yes, said King Pellam, there shall no man have ado with
+thee but myself, for the love of my brother. Then King Pellam caught in
+his hand a grim weapon and smote eagerly at Balin; but Balin put the
+sword betwixt his head and the stroke, and therewith his sword burst in
+sunder. And when Balin was weaponless he ran into a chamber for to seek
+some weapon, and so from chamber to chamber, and no weapon he could
+find, and always King Pellam after him. And at the last he entered into
+a chamber that was marvellously well dight and richly, and a bed
+arrayed with cloth of gold, the richest that might be thought, and one
+lying therein, and thereby stood a table of clean gold with four
+pillars of silver that bare up the table, and upon the table stood a
+marvellous spear strangely wrought. And when Balin saw that spear, he
+gat it in his hand and turned him to King Pellam, and smote him
+passingly sore with that spear, that King Pellam fell down in a swoon,
+and therewith the castle roof and walls brake and fell to the earth,
+and Balin fell down so that he might not stir foot nor hand. And so the
+most part of the castle, that was fallen down through that dolorous
+stroke, lay upon Pellam and Balin three days.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI. How Balin was delivered by Merlin, and saved a knight that
+would have slain himself for love.
+
+Then Merlin came thither and took up Balin, and gat him a good horse,
+for his was dead, and bade him ride out of that country. I would have
+my damosel, said Balin. Lo, said Merlin, where she lieth dead. And King
+Pellam lay so, many years sore wounded, and might never be whole till
+Galahad the haut prince healed him in the quest of the Sangreal, for in
+that place was part of the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, that Joseph
+of Arimathea brought into this land, and there himself lay in that rich
+bed. And that was the same spear that Longius smote our Lord to the
+heart; and King Pellam was nigh of Joseph’s kin, and that was the most
+worshipful man that lived in those days, and great pity it was of his
+hurt, for through that stroke, turned to great dole, tray and tene.
+Then departed Balin from Merlin, and said, In this world we meet never
+no more. So he rode forth through the fair countries and cities, and
+found the people dead, slain on every side. And all that were alive
+cried, O Balin, thou hast caused great damage in these countries; for
+the dolorous stroke thou gavest unto King Pellam three countries are
+destroyed, and doubt not but the vengeance will fall on thee at the
+last. When Balin was past those countries he was passing fain.
+
+So he rode eight days or he met with adventure. And at the last he came
+into a fair forest in a valley, and was ware of a tower, and there
+beside he saw a great horse of war, tied to a tree, and there beside
+sat a fair knight on the ground and made great mourning, and he was a
+likely man, and a well made. Balin said, God save you, why be ye so
+heavy? tell me and I will amend it, an I may, to my power. Sir knight,
+said he again, thou dost me great grief, for I was in merry thoughts,
+and now thou puttest me to more pain. Balin went a little from him, and
+looked on his horse; then heard Balin him say thus: Ah, fair lady, why
+have ye broken my promise, for thou promisest me to meet me here by
+noon, and I may curse thee that ever ye gave me this sword, for with
+this sword I slay myself, and pulled it out. And therewith Balin stert
+unto him and took him by the hand. Let go my hand, said the knight, or
+else I shall slay thee. That shall not need, said Balin, for I shall
+promise you my help to get you your lady, an ye will tell me where she
+is. What is your name? said the knight. My name is Balin le Savage. Ah,
+sir, I know you well enough, ye are the Knight with the Two Swords, and
+the man of most prowess of your hands living. What is your name? said
+Balin. My name is Garnish of the Mount, a poor man’s son, but by my
+prowess and hardiness a duke hath made me knight, and gave me lands;
+his name is Duke Hermel, and his daughter is she that I love, and she
+me as I deemed. How far is she hence? said Balin. But six mile, said
+the knight. Now ride we hence, said these two knights. So they rode
+more than a pace, till that they came to a fair castle well walled and
+ditched. I will into the castle, said Balin, and look if she be there.
+So he went in and searched from chamber to chamber, and found her bed,
+but she was not there. Then Balin looked into a fair little garden, and
+under a laurel tree he saw her lie upon a quilt of green samite and a
+knight in her arms, fast halsing either other, and under their heads
+grass and herbs. When Balin saw her lie so with the foulest knight that
+ever he saw, and she a fair lady, then Balin went through all the
+chambers again, and told the knight how he found her as she had slept
+fast, and so brought him in the place there she lay fast sleeping.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII. How that knight slew his love and a knight lying by her,
+and after, how he slew himself with his own sword, and how Balin rode
+toward a castle where he lost his life.
+
+And when Garnish beheld her so lying, for pure sorrow his mouth and
+nose burst out a-bleeding, and with his sword he smote off both their
+heads, and then he made sorrow out of measure, and said, O Balin, much
+sorrow hast thou brought unto me, for hadst thou not shewed me that
+sight I should have passed my sorrow. Forsooth, said Balin, I did it to
+this intent that it should better thy courage, and that ye might see
+and know her falsehood, and to cause you to leave love of such a lady;
+God knoweth I did none other but as I would ye did to me. Alas, said
+Garnish, now is my sorrow double that I may not endure, now have I
+slain that I most loved in all my life; and therewith suddenly he rove
+himself on his own sword unto the hilts. When Balin saw that, he
+dressed him thenceward, lest folk would say he had slain them; and so
+he rode forth, and within three days he came by a cross, and thereon
+were letters of gold written, that said, It is not for no knight alone
+to ride toward this castle. Then saw he an old hoar gentleman coming
+toward him, that said, Balin le Savage, thou passest thy bounds to come
+this way, therefore turn again and it will avail thee. And he vanished
+away anon; and so he heard an horn blow as it had been the death of a
+beast. That blast, said Balin, is blown for me, for I am the prize and
+yet am I not dead. Anon withal he saw an hundred ladies and many
+knights, that welcomed him with fair semblant, and made him passing
+good cheer unto his sight, and led him into the castle, and there was
+dancing and minstrelsy and all manner of joy. Then the chief lady of
+the castle said, Knight with the Two Swords, ye must have ado and joust
+with a knight hereby that keepeth an island, for there may no man pass
+this way but he must joust or he pass. That is an unhappy custom, said
+Balin, that a knight may not pass this way but if he joust. Ye shall
+not have ado but with one knight, said the lady.
+
+Well, said Balin, since I shall thereto I am ready, but travelling men
+are oft weary and their horses too, but though my horse be weary my
+heart is not weary, I would be fain there my death should be. Sir, said
+a knight to Balin, methinketh your shield is not good, I will lend you
+a bigger. Thereof I pray you. And so he took the shield that was
+unknown and left his own, and so rode unto the island, and put him and
+his horse in a great boat; and when he came on the other side he met
+with a damosel, and she said, O knight Balin, why have ye left your own
+shield? alas ye have put yourself in great danger, for by your shield
+ye should have been known; it is great pity of you as ever was of
+knight, for of thy prowess and hardiness thou hast no fellow living. Me
+repenteth, said Balin, that ever I came within this country, but I may
+not turn now again for shame, and what adventure shall fall to me, be
+it life or death, I will take the adventure that shall come to me. And
+then he looked on his armour, and understood he was well armed, and
+therewith blessed him and mounted upon his horse.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII. How Balin met with his brother Balan, and how each of
+them slew other unknown, till they were wounded to death.
+
+Then afore him he saw come riding out of a castle a knight, and his
+horse trapped all red, and himself in the same colour. When this knight
+in the red beheld Balin, him thought it should be his brother Balin by
+cause of his two swords, but by cause he knew not his shield he deemed
+it was not he. And so they aventryd their spears and came marvellously
+fast together, and they smote each other in the shields, but their
+spears and their course were so big that it bare down horse and man,
+that they lay both in a swoon. But Balin was bruised sore with the fall
+of his horse, for he was weary of travel. And Balan was the first that
+rose on foot and drew his sword, and went toward Balin, and he arose
+and went against him; but Balan smote Balin first, and he put up his
+shield and smote him through the shield and tamed his helm. Then Balin
+smote him again with that unhappy sword, and well-nigh had felled his
+brother Balan, and so they fought there together till their breaths
+failed. Then Balin looked up to the castle and saw the towers stand
+full of ladies. So they went unto battle again, and wounded everych
+other dolefully, and then they breathed ofttimes, and so went unto
+battle that all the place there as they fought was blood red. And at
+that time there was none of them both but they had either smitten other
+seven great wounds, so that the least of them might have been the death
+of the mightiest giant in this world.
+
+Then they went to battle again so marvellously that doubt it was to
+hear of that battle for the great blood-shedding, and their hauberks
+unnailed that naked they were on every side. At last Balan the younger
+brother withdrew him a little and laid him down. Then said Balin le
+Savage, What knight art thou? for or now I found never no knight that
+matched me. My name is, said he, Balan, brother unto the good knight,
+Balin. Alas, said Balin, that ever I should see this day, and therewith
+he fell backward in a swoon. Then Balan yede on all four feet and
+hands, and put off the helm off his brother, and might not know him by
+the visage it was so ful hewn and bled; but when he awoke he said, O
+Balan, my brother, thou hast slain me and I thee, wherefore all the
+wide world shall speak of us both. Alas, said Balan, that ever I saw
+this day, that through mishap I might not know you, for I espied well
+your two swords, but by cause ye had another shield I deemed ye had
+been another knight. Alas, said Balin, all that made an unhappy knight
+in the castle, for he caused me to leave my own shield to our both’s
+destruction, and if I might live I would destroy that castle for ill
+customs. That were well done, said Balan, for I had never grace to
+depart from them since that I came hither, for here it happed me to
+slay a knight that kept this island, and since might I never depart,
+and no more should ye, brother, an ye might have slain me as ye have,
+and escaped yourself with the life.
+
+Right so came the lady of the tower with four knights and six ladies
+and six yeomen unto them, and there she heard how they made their moan
+either to other, and said, We came both out of one tomb, that is to say
+one mother’s belly, and so shall we lie both in one pit. So Balan
+prayed the lady of her gentleness, for his true service, that she would
+bury them both in that same place there the battle was done. And she
+granted them, with weeping, it should be done richly in the best
+manner. Now, will ye send for a priest, that we may receive our
+sacrament, and receive the blessed body of our Lord Jesus Christ? Yea,
+said the lady, it shall be done; and so she sent for a priest and gave
+them their rights. Now, said Balin, when we are buried in one tomb, and
+the mention made over us how two brethren slew each other, there will
+never good knight, nor good man, see our tomb but they will pray for
+our souls. And so all the ladies and gentlewomen wept for pity. Then
+anon Balan died, but Balin died not till the midnight after, and so
+were they buried both, and the lady let make a mention of Balan how he
+was there slain by his brother’s hands, but she knew not Balin’s name.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX. How Merlin buried them both in one tomb, and of Balin’s
+sword.
+
+In the morn came Merlin and let write Balin’s name on the tomb with
+letters of gold, that Here lieth Balin le Savage that was the Knight
+with the Two Swords, and he that smote the Dolorous Stroke. Also Merlin
+let make there a bed, that there should never man lie therein but he
+went out of his wit, yet Launcelot de Lake fordid that bed through his
+noblesse. And anon after Balin was dead, Merlin took his sword, and
+took off the pommel and set on another pommel. So Merlin bade a knight
+that stood afore him handle that sword, and he assayed, and he might
+not handle it. Then Merlin laughed. Why laugh ye? said the knight. This
+is the cause, said Merlin: there shall never man handle this sword but
+the best knight of the world, and that shall be Sir Launcelot or else
+Galahad his son, and Launcelot with this sword shall slay the man that
+in the world he loved best, that shall be Sir Gawaine. All this he let
+write in the pommel of the sword. Then Merlin let make a bridge of iron
+and of steel into that island, and it was but half a foot broad, and
+there shall never man pass that bridge, nor have hardiness to go over,
+but if he were a passing good man and a good knight without treachery
+or villainy. Also the scabbard of Balin’s sword Merlin left it on this
+side the island, that Galahad should find it. Also Merlin let make by
+his subtilty that Balin’s sword was put in a marble stone standing
+upright as great as a mill stone, and the stone hoved always above the
+water and did many years, and so by adventure it swam down the stream
+to the City of Camelot, that is in English Winchester. And that same
+day Galahad the haut prince came with King Arthur, and so Galahad
+brought with him the scabbard and achieved the sword that was there in
+the marble stone hoving upon the water. And on Whitsunday he achieved
+the sword as it is rehearsed in the book of Sangreal.
+
+Soon after this was done Merlin came to King Arthur and told him of the
+dolorous stroke that Balin gave to King Pellam, and how Balin and Balan
+fought together the marvellest battle that ever was heard of, and how
+they were buried both in one tomb. Alas, said King Arthur, this is the
+greatest pity that ever I heard tell of two knights, for in the world I
+know not such two knights. Thus endeth the tale of Balin and of Balan,
+two brethren born in Northumberland, good knights.
+
+Sequitur iii. liber.
+
+
+
+BOOK III.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I. How King Arthur took a wife, and wedded Guenever, daughter
+to Leodegrance, King of the Land of Cameliard, with whom he had the
+Round Table.
+
+In the beginning of Arthur, after he was chosen king by adventure and
+by grace; for the most part of the barons knew not that he was Uther
+Pendragon’s son, but as Merlin made it openly known. But yet many kings
+and lords held great war against him for that cause, but well Arthur
+overcame them all, for the most part the days of his life he was ruled
+much by the counsel of Merlin. So it fell on a time King Arthur said
+unto Merlin, My barons will let me have no rest, but needs I must take
+a wife, and I will none take but by thy counsel and by thine advice. It
+is well done, said Merlin, that ye take a wife, for a man of your
+bounty and noblesse should not be without a wife. Now is there any that
+ye love more than another? Yea, said King Arthur, I love Guenever the
+king’s daughter, Leodegrance of the land of Cameliard, the which
+holdeth in his house the Table Round that ye told he had of my father
+Uther. And this damosel is the most valiant and fairest lady that I
+know living, or yet that ever I could find. Sir, said Merlin, as of her
+beauty and fairness she is one of the fairest alive, but, an ye loved
+her not so well as ye do, I should find you a damosel of beauty and of
+goodness that should like you and please you, an your heart were not
+set; but there as a man’s heart is set, he will be loath to return.
+That is truth, said King Arthur. But Merlin warned the king covertly
+that Guenever was not wholesome for him to take to wife, for he warned
+him that Launcelot should love her, and she him again; and so he turned
+his tale to the adventures of Sangreal.
+
+Then Merlin desired of the king for to have men with him that should
+enquire of Guenever, and so the king granted him, and Merlin went forth
+unto King Leodegrance of Cameliard, and told him of the desires of the
+king that he would have unto his wife Guenever his daughter. That is to
+me, said King Leodegrance, the best tidings that ever I heard, that so
+worthy a king of prowess and noblesse will wed my daughter. And as for
+my lands, I will give him, wist I it might please him, but he hath
+lands enow, him needeth none; but I shall send him a gift shall please
+him much more, for I shall give him the Table Round, the which Uther
+Pendragon gave me, and when it is full complete, there is an hundred
+knights and fifty. And as for an hundred good knights I have myself,
+but I faute fifty, for so many have been slain in my days. And so
+Leodegrance delivered his daughter Guenever unto Merlin, and the Table
+Round with the hundred knights, and so they rode freshly, with great
+royalty, what by water and what by land, till that they came nigh unto
+London.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II. How the Knights of the Round Table were ordained and their
+sieges blessed by the Bishop of Canterbury.
+
+When King Arthur heard of the coming of Guenever and the hundred
+knights with the Table Round, then King Arthur made great joy for her
+coming, and that rich present, and said openly, This fair lady is
+passing welcome unto me, for I have loved her long, and therefore there
+is nothing so lief to me. And these knights with the Round Table please
+me more than right great riches. And in all haste the king let ordain
+for the marriage and the coronation in the most honourable wise that
+could be devised. Now, Merlin, said King Arthur, go thou and espy me in
+all this land fifty knights which be of most prowess and worship.
+Within short time Merlin had found such knights that should fulfil
+twenty and eight knights, but no more he could find. Then the Bishop of
+Canterbury was fetched, and he blessed the sieges with great royalty
+and devotion, and there set the eight and twenty knights in their
+sieges. And when this was done Merlin said, Fair sirs, ye must all
+arise and come to King Arthur for to do him homage; he will have the
+better will to maintain you. And so they arose and did their homage,
+and when they were gone Merlin found in every sieges letters of gold
+that told the knights’ names that had sitten therein. But two sieges
+were void. And so anon came young Gawaine and asked the king a gift.
+Ask, said the king, and I shall grant it you. Sir, I ask that ye will
+make me knight that same day ye shall wed fair Guenever. I will do it
+with a good will, said King Arthur, and do unto you all the worship
+that I may, for I must by reason ye are my nephew, my sister’s son.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III. How a poor man riding upon a lean mare desired King Arthur
+to make his son knight.
+
+Forthwithal there came a poor man into the court, and brought with him
+a fair young man of eighteen years of age riding upon a lean mare; and
+the poor man asked all men that he met, Where shall I find King Arthur?
+Yonder he is, said the knights, wilt thou anything with him? Yea, said
+the poor man, therefore I came hither. Anon as he came before the king,
+he saluted him and said: O King Arthur, the flower of all knights and
+kings, I beseech Jesu save thee. Sir, it was told me that at this time
+of your marriage ye would give any man the gift that he would ask, out
+except that were unreasonable. That is truth, said the king, such cries
+I let make, and that will I hold, so it apair not my realm nor mine
+estate. Ye say well and graciously, said the poor man; Sir, I ask
+nothing else but that ye will make my son here a knight. It is a great
+thing thou askest of me, said the king. What is thy name? said the king
+to the poor man. Sir, my name is Aries the cowherd. Whether cometh this
+of thee or of thy son? said the king. Nay, sir, said Aries, this desire
+cometh of my son and not of me, for I shall tell you I have thirteen
+sons, and all they will fall to what labour I put them, and will be
+right glad to do labour, but this child will not labour for me, for
+anything that my wife or I may do, but always he will be shooting or
+casting darts, and glad for to see battles and to behold knights, and
+always day and night he desireth of me to be made a knight. What is thy
+name? said the king unto the young man. Sir, my name is Tor. The king
+beheld him fast, and saw he was passingly well-visaged and passingly
+well made of his years. Well, said King Arthur unto Aries the cowherd,
+fetch all thy sons afore me that I may see them. And so the poor man
+did, and all were shaped much like the poor man. But Tor was not like
+none of them all in shape nor in countenance, for he was much more than
+any of them. Now, said King Arthur unto the cow herd, where is the
+sword he shall be made knight withal? It is here, said Tor. Take it out
+of the sheath, said the king, and require me to make you a knight.
+
+Then Tor alighted off his mare and pulled out his sword, kneeling, and
+requiring the king that he would make him knight, and that he might be
+a knight of the Table Round. As for a knight I will make you, and
+therewith smote him in the neck with the sword, saying, Be ye a good
+knight, and so I pray to God so ye may be, and if ye be of prowess and
+of worthiness ye shall be a knight of the Table Round. Now Merlin, said
+Arthur, say whether this Tor shall be a good knight or no. Yea, sir, he
+ought to be a good knight, for he is come of as good a man as any is
+alive, and of kings’ blood. How so, sir? said the king. I shall tell
+you, said Merlin: This poor man, Aries the cowherd, is not his father;
+he is nothing sib to him, for King Pellinore is his father. I suppose
+nay, said the cowherd. Fetch thy wife afore me, said Merlin, and she
+shall not say nay. Anon the wife was fetched, which was a fair
+housewife, and there she answered Merlin full womanly, and there she
+told the king and Merlin that when she was a maid, and went to milk
+kine, there met with her a stern knight, and half by force he had my
+maidenhead, and at that time he begat my son Tor, and he took away from
+me my greyhound that I had that time with me, and said that he would
+keep the greyhound for my love. Ah, said the cowherd, I weened not
+this, but I may believe it well, for he had never no tatches of me.
+Sir, said Tor unto Merlin, dishonour not my mother. Sir, said Merlin,
+it is more for your worship than hurt, for your father is a good man
+and a king, and he may right well advance you and your mother, for ye
+were begotten or ever she was wedded. That is truth, said the wife. It
+is the less grief unto me, said the cowherd.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV. How Sir Tor was known for son of King Pellinore, and how
+Gawaine was made knight.
+
+So on the morn King Pellinore came to the court of King Arthur, which
+had great joy of him, and told him of Tor, how he was his son, and how
+he had made him knight at the request of the cowherd. When Pellinore
+beheld Tor, he pleased him much. So the king made Gawaine knight, but
+Tor was the first he made at the feast. What is the cause, said King
+Arthur, that there be two places void in the sieges? Sir, said Merlin,
+there shall no man sit in those places but they that shall be of most
+worship. But in the Siege Perilous there shall no man sit therein but
+one, and if there be any so hardy to do it he shall be destroyed, and
+he that shall sit there shall have no fellow. And therewith Merlin took
+King Pellinore by the hand, and in the one hand next the two sieges and
+the Siege Perilous he said, in open audience, This is your place and
+best ye are worthy to sit therein of any that is here. Thereat sat Sir
+Gawaine in great envy and told Gaheris his brother, yonder knight is
+put to great worship, the which grieveth me sore, for he slew our
+father King Lot, therefore I will slay him, said Gawaine, with a sword
+that was sent me that is passing trenchant. Ye shall not so, said
+Gaheris, at this time, for at this time I am but a squire, and when I
+am made knight I will be avenged on him, and therefore, brother, it is
+best ye suffer till another time, that we may have him out of the
+court, for an we did so we should trouble this high feast. I will well,
+said Gawaine, as ye will.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V. How at feast of the wedding of King Arthur to Guenever, a
+white hart came into the hall, and thirty couple hounds, and how a
+brachet pinched the hart which was taken away.
+
+Then was the high feast made ready, and the king was wedded at Camelot
+unto Dame Guenever in the church of Saint Stephen’s, with great
+solemnity. And as every man was set after his degree, Merlin went to
+all the knights of the Round Table, and bade them sit still, that none
+of them remove. For ye shall see a strange and a marvellous adventure.
+Right so as they sat there came running in a white hart into the hall,
+and a white brachet next him, and thirty couple of black running hounds
+came after with a great cry, and the hart went about the Table Round as
+he went by other boards. The white brachet bit him by the buttock and
+pulled out a piece, wherethrough the hart leapt a great leap and
+overthrew a knight that sat at the board side; and therewith the knight
+arose and took up the brachet, and so went forth out of the hall, and
+took his horse and rode his way with the brachet. Right so anon came in
+a lady on a white palfrey, and cried aloud to King Arthur, Sir, suffer
+me not to have this despite, for the brachet was mine that the knight
+led away. I may not do therewith, said the king.
+
+With this there came a knight riding all armed on a great horse, and
+took the lady away with him with force, and ever she cried and made
+great dole. When she was gone the king was glad, for she made such a
+noise. Nay, said Merlin, ye may not leave these adventures so lightly;
+for these adventures must be brought again or else it would be
+disworship to you and to your feast. I will, said the king, that all be
+done by your advice. Then, said Merlin, let call Sir Gawaine, for he
+must bring again the white hart. Also, sir, ye must let call Sir Tor,
+for he must bring again the brachet and the knight, or else slay him.
+Also let call King Pellinore, for he must bring again the lady and the
+knight, or else slay him. And these three knights shall do marvellous
+adventures or they come again. Then were they called all three as it
+rehearseth afore, and each of them took his charge, and armed them
+surely. But Sir Gawaine had the first request, and therefore we will
+begin at him.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI. How Sir Gawaine rode for to fetch again the hart, and how
+two brethren fought each against other for the hart.
+
+Sir Gawaine rode more than a pace, and Gaheris his brother that rode
+with him instead of a squire to do him service. So as they rode they
+saw two knights fight on horseback passing sore, so Sir Gawaine and his
+brother rode betwixt them, and asked them for what cause they fought
+so. The one knight answered and said, We fight for a simple matter, for
+we two be two brethren born and begotten of one man and of one woman.
+Alas, said Sir Gawaine, why do ye so? Sir, said the elder, there came a
+white hart this way this day, and many hounds chased him, and a white
+brachet was alway next him, and we understood it was adventure made for
+the high feast of King Arthur, and therefore I would have gone after to
+have won me worship; and here my younger brother said he would go after
+the hart, for he was better knight than I: and for this cause we fell
+at debate, and so we thought to prove which of us both was better
+knight. This is a simple cause, said Sir Gawaine; uncouth men ye should
+debate withal, and not brother with brother; therefore but if you will
+do by my counsel I will have ado with you, that is ye shall yield you
+unto me, and that ye go unto King Arthur and yield you unto his grace.
+Sir knight, said the two brethren, we are forfoughten and much blood
+have we lost through our wilfulness, and therefore we would be loath to
+have ado with you. Then do as I will have you, said Sir Gawaine. We
+will agree to fulfil your will; but by whom shall we say that we be
+thither sent? Ye may say, By the knight that followeth the quest of the
+hart that was white. Now what is your name? said Gawaine. Sorlouse of
+the Forest, said the elder. And my name is, said the younger, Brian of
+the Forest. And so they departed and went to the king’s court, and Sir
+Gawaine on his quest.
+
+And as Gawaine followed the hart by the cry of the hounds, even afore
+him there was a great river, and the hart swam over; and as Sir Gawaine
+would follow after, there stood a knight over the other side, and said,
+Sir knight, come not over after this hart but if thou wilt joust with
+me. I will not fail as for that, said Sir Gawaine, to follow the quest
+that I am in, and so made his horse to swim over the water. And anon
+they gat their spears and ran together full hard; but Sir Gawaine smote
+him off his horse, and then he turned his horse and bade him yield him.
+Nay, said the knight, not so, though thou have the better of me on
+horseback. I pray thee, valiant knight, alight afoot, and match we
+together with swords. What is your name? said Sir Gawaine. Allardin of
+the Isles, said the other. Then either dressed their shields and smote
+together, but Sir Gawaine smote him so hard through the helm that it
+went to the brains, and the knight fell down dead. Ah! said Gaheris,
+that was a mighty stroke of a young knight.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII How the hart was chased into a castle and there slain, and
+how Sir Gawaine slew a lady.
+
+Then Gawaine and Gaheris rode more than a pace after the white hart,
+and let slip at the hart three couple of greyhounds, and so they chased
+the hart into a castle, and in the chief place of the castle they slew
+the hart; Sir Gawaine and Gaheris followed after. Right so there came a
+knight out of a chamber with a sword drawn in his hand and slew two of
+the greyhounds, even in the sight of Sir Gawaine, and the remnant he
+chased them with his sword out of the castle. And when he came again,
+he said, O my white hart, me repenteth that thou art dead, for my
+sovereign lady gave thee to me, and evil have I kept thee, and thy
+death shall be dear bought an I live. And anon he went into his chamber
+and armed him, and came out fiercely, and there met he with Sir
+Gawaine. Why have ye slain my hounds? said Sir Gawaine, for they did
+but their kind, and liefer I had ye had wroken your anger upon me than
+upon a dumb beast. Thou sayest truth, said the knight, I have avenged
+me on thy hounds, and so I will on thee or thou go. Then Sir Gawaine
+alighted afoot and dressed his shield, and struck together mightily,
+and clave their shields, and stoned their helms, and brake their
+hauberks that the blood ran down to their feet.
+
+At the last Sir Gawaine smote the knight so hard that he fell to the
+earth, and then he cried mercy, and yielded him, and besought him as he
+was a knight and gentleman, to save his life. Thou shalt die, said Sir
+Gawaine, for slaying of my hounds. I will make amends, said the knight,
+unto my power. Sir Gawaine would no mercy have, but unlaced his helm to
+have stricken off his head. Right so came his lady out of a chamber and
+fell over him, and so he smote off her head by misadventure. Alas, said
+Gaheris, that is foully and shamefully done, that shame shall never
+from you; also ye should give mercy unto them that ask mercy, for a
+knight without mercy is without worship. Sir Gawaine was so stonied of
+the death of this fair lady that he wist not what he did, and said unto
+the knight, Arise, I will give thee mercy. Nay, nay, said the knight, I
+take no force of mercy now, for thou hast slain my love and my lady
+that I loved best of all earthly things. Me sore repenteth it, said Sir
+Gawaine, for I thought to strike unto thee; but now thou shalt go unto
+King Arthur and tell him of thine adventures, and how thou art overcome
+by the knight that went in the quest of the white hart. I take no
+force, said the knight, whether I live or I die; but so for dread of
+death he swore to go unto King Arthur, and he made him to bear one
+greyhound before him on his horse, and another behind him. What is your
+name? said Sir Gawaine, or we depart. My name is, said the knight,
+Ablamar of the Marsh. So he departed toward Camelot.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII. How four knights fought against Gawaine and Gaheris, and
+how they were overcome, and their lives saved at request of four
+ladies.
+
+And Sir Gawaine went into the castle, and made him ready to lie there
+all night, and would have unarmed him. What will ye do, said Gaheris,
+will ye unarm you in this country? Ye may think ye have many enemies
+here. They had not sooner said that word but there came four knights
+well armed, and assailed Sir Gawaine hard, and said unto him, Thou
+new-made knight, thou hast shamed thy knighthood, for a knight without
+mercy is dishonoured. Also thou hast slain a fair lady to thy great
+shame to the world’s end, and doubt thou not thou shalt have great need
+of mercy or thou depart from us. And therewith one of them smote Sir
+Gawaine a great stroke that nigh he fell to the earth, and Gaheris
+smote him again sore, and so they were on the one side and on the
+other, that Sir Gawaine and Gaheris were in jeopardy of their lives;
+and one with a bow, an archer, smote Sir Gawaine through the arm that
+it grieved him wonderly sore. And as they should have been slain, there
+came four fair ladies, and besought the knights of grace for Sir
+Gawaine; and goodly at request of the ladies they gave Sir Gawaine and
+Gaheris their lives, and made them to yield them as prisoners. Then
+Gawaine and Gaheris made great dole. Alas! said Sir Gawaine, mine arm
+grieveth me sore, I am like to be maimed; and so made his complaint
+piteously.
+
+Early on the morrow there came to Sir Gawaine one of the four ladies
+that had heard all his complaint, and said, Sir knight, what cheer? Not
+good, said he. It is your own default, said the lady, for ye have done
+a passing foul deed in the slaying of the lady, the which will be great
+villainy unto you. But be ye not of King Arthur’s kin? said the lady.
+Yes truly, said Sir Gawaine. What is your name? said the lady, ye must
+tell it me or ye pass. My name is Gawaine, the King Lot of Orkney’s
+son, and my mother is King Arthur’s sister. Ah! then are ye nephew unto
+King Arthur, said the lady, and I shall so speak for you that ye shall
+have conduct to go to King Arthur for his love. And so she departed and
+told the four knights how their prisoner was King Arthur’s nephew, and
+his name is Sir Gawaine, King Lot’s son of Orkney. And they gave him
+the hart’s head because it was in his quest. Then anon they delivered
+Sir Gawaine under this promise, that he should bear the dead lady with
+him in this manner; the head of her was hanged about his neck, and the
+whole body of her lay before him on his horse’s mane. Right so rode he
+forth unto Camelot. And anon as he was come, Merlin desired of King
+Arthur that Sir Gawaine should be sworn to tell of all his adventures,
+and how he slew the lady, and how he would give no mercy unto the
+knight, wherethrough the lady was slain. Then the king and the queen
+were greatly displeased with Sir Gawaine for the slaying of the lady.
+And there by ordinance of the queen there was set a quest of ladies on
+Sir Gawaine, and they judged him for ever while he lived to be with all
+ladies, and to fight for their quarrels; and that ever he should be
+courteous, and never to refuse mercy to him that asketh mercy. Thus was
+Gawaine sworn upon the Four Evangelists that he should never be against
+lady nor gentlewoman, but if he fought for a lady and his adversary
+fought for another. And thus endeth the adventure of Sir Gawaine that
+he did at the marriage of King Arthur. Amen.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX. How Sir Tor rode after the knight with the brachet, and of
+his adventure by the way.
+
+When Sir Tor was ready, he mounted upon his horseback, and rode after
+the knight with the brachet. So as he rode he met with a dwarf suddenly
+that smote his horse on the head with a staff, that he went backward
+his spear length. Why dost thou so? said Sir Tor. For thou shalt not
+pass this way, but if thou joust with yonder knights of the pavilions.
+Then was Tor ware where two pavilions were, and great spears stood out,
+and two shields hung on trees by the pavilions. I may not tarry, said
+Sir Tor, for I am in a quest that I must needs follow. Thou shalt not
+pass, said the dwarf, and therewithal he blew his horn. Then there came
+one armed on horseback, and dressed his shield, and came fast toward
+Tor, and he dressed him against him, and so ran together that Tor bare
+him from his horse. And anon the knight yielded him to his mercy. But,
+sir, I have a fellow in yonder pavilion that will have ado with you
+anon. He shall be welcome, said Sir Tor. Then was he ware of another
+knight coming with great raundon, and each of them dressed to other,
+that marvel it was to see; but the knight smote Sir Tor a great stroke
+in midst of the shield that his spear all to-shivered. And Sir Tor
+smote him through the shield below of the shield that it went through
+the cost of the knight, but the stroke slew him not. And therewith Sir
+Tor alighted and smote him on the helm a great stroke, and therewith
+the knight yielded him and besought him of mercy. I will well, said Sir
+Tor, but thou and thy fellow must go unto King Arthur, and yield you
+prisoners unto him. By whom shall we say are we thither sent? Ye shall
+say by the knight that went in the quest of the knight that went with
+the brachet. Now, what be your two names? said Sir Tor. My name is,
+said the one, Sir Felot of Langduk; and my name is, said the other, Sir
+Petipase of Winchelsea. Now go ye forth, said Sir Tor, and God speed
+you and me. Then came the dwarf and said unto Sir Tor, I pray you give
+me a gift. I will well, said Sir Tor, ask. I ask no more, said the
+dwarf, but that ye will suffer me to do you service, for I will serve
+no more recreant knights. Take an horse, said Sir Tor, and ride on with
+me. I wot ye ride after the knight with the white brachet, and I shall
+bring you where he is, said the dwarf. And so they rode throughout a
+forest, and at the last they were ware of two pavilions, even by a
+priory, with two shields, and the one shield was enewed with white, and
+the other shield was red.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X. How Sir Tor found the brachet with a lady, and how a knight
+assailed him for the said brachet.
+
+Therewith Sir Tor alighted and took the dwarf his glaive, and so he
+came to the white pavilion, and saw three damosels lie in it, on one
+pallet, sleeping, and so he went to the other pavilion, and found a
+lady lying sleeping therein, but there was the white brachet that bayed
+at her fast, and therewith the lady yede out of the pavilion and all
+her damosels. But anon as Sir Tor espied the white brachet, he took her
+by force and took her to the dwarf. What, will ye so, said the lady,
+take my brachet from me? Yea, said Sir Tor, this brachet have I sought
+from King Arthur’s court hither. Well, said the lady, knight, ye shall
+not go far with her, but that ye shall be met and grieved. I shall
+abide what adventure that cometh by the grace of God, and so mounted
+upon his horse, and passed on his way toward Camelot; but it was so
+near night he might not pass but little further. Know ye any lodging?
+said Tor. I know none, said the dwarf, but here beside is an hermitage,
+and there ye must take lodging as ye find. And within a while they came
+to the hermitage and took lodging; and was there grass, oats and bread
+for their horses; soon it was sped, and full hard was their supper; but
+there they rested them all night till on the morn, and heard a mass
+devoutly, and took their leave of the hermit, and Sir Tor prayed the
+hermit to pray for him. He said he would, and betook him to God. And so
+mounted upon horseback and rode towards Camelot a long while.
+
+With that they heard a knight call loud that came after them, and he
+said, Knight, abide and yield my brachet that thou took from my lady.
+Sir Tor returned again, and beheld him how he was a seemly knight and
+well horsed, and well armed at all points; then Sir Tor dressed his
+shield, and took his spear in his hands, and the other came fiercely
+upon him, and smote both horse and man to the earth. Anon they arose
+lightly and drew their swords as eagerly as lions, and put their
+shields afore them, and smote through the shields, that the cantels
+fell off both parties. Also they tamed their helms that the hot blood
+ran out, and the thick mails of their hauberks they carved and rove in
+sunder that the hot blood ran to the earth, and both they had many
+wounds and were passing weary. But Sir Tor espied that the other knight
+fainted, and then he sued fast upon him, and doubled his strokes, and
+gart him go to the earth on the one side. Then Sir Tor bade him yield
+him. That will I not, said Abelleus, while my life lasteth and the soul
+is within my body, unless that thou wilt give me the brachet. That will
+I not do, said Sir Tor, for it was my quest to bring again thy brachet,
+thee, or both.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI. How Sir Tor overcame the knight, and how he lost his head
+at the request of a lady.
+
+With that came a damosel riding on a palfrey as fast as she might
+drive, and cried with a loud voice unto Sir Tor. What will ye with me?
+said Sir Tor. I beseech thee, said the damosel, for King Arthur’s love,
+give me a gift; I require thee, gentle knight, as thou art a gentleman.
+Now, said Tor, ask a gift and I will give it you. Gramercy, said the
+damosel; now I ask the head of the false knight Abelleus, for he is the
+most outrageous knight that liveth, and the greatest murderer. I am
+loath, said Sir Tor, of that gift I have given you; let him make amends
+in that he hath trespassed unto you. Now, said the damosel, he may not,
+for he slew mine own brother before mine own eyes, that was a better
+knight than he, an he had had grace; and I kneeled half an hour afore
+him in the mire for to save my brother’s life, that had done him no
+damage, but fought with him by adventure of arms, and so for all that I
+could do he struck off his head; wherefore I require thee, as thou art
+a true knight, to give me my gift, or else I shall shame thee in all
+the court of King Arthur; for he is the falsest knight living, and a
+great destroyer of good knights. Then when Abelleus heard this, he was
+more afeard, and yielded him and asked mercy. I may not now, said Sir
+Tor, but if I should be found false of my promise; for while I would
+have taken you to mercy ye would none ask, but if ye had the brachet
+again, that was my quest. And therewith he took off his helm, and he
+arose and fled, and Sir Tor after him, and smote off his head quite.
+
+Now sir, said the damosel, it is near night; I pray you come and lodge
+with me here at my place, it is here fast by. I will well, said Sir
+Tor, for his horse and he had fared evil since they departed from
+Camelot, and so he rode with her, and had passing good cheer with her;
+and she had a passing fair old knight to her husband that made him
+passing good cheer, and well eased both his horse and him. And on the
+morn he heard his mass, and brake his fast, and took his leave of the
+knight and of the lady, that besought him to tell them his name. Truly,
+he said, my name is Sir Tor that was late made knight, and this was the
+first quest of arms that ever I did, to bring again that this knight
+Abelleus took away from King Arthur’s court. O fair knight, said the
+lady and her husband, an ye come here in our marches, come and see our
+poor lodging, and it shall be always at your commandment. So Sir Tor
+departed and came to Camelot on the third day by noon, and the king and
+the queen and all the court was passing fain of his coming, and made
+great joy that he was come again; for he went from the court with
+little succour, but as King Pellinore his father gave him an old
+courser, and King Arthur gave him armour and a sword, and else had he
+none other succour, but rode so forth himself alone. And then the king
+and the queen by Merlin’s advice made him to swear to tell of his
+adventures, and so he told and made proofs of his deeds as it is afore
+rehearsed, wherefore the king and the queen made great joy. Nay, nay,
+said Merlin, these be but japes to that he shall do; for he shall prove
+a noble knight of prowess, as good as any is living, and gentle and
+courteous, and of good tatches, and passing true of his promise, and
+never shall outrage. Wherethrough Merlin’s words King Arthur gave him
+an earldom of lands that fell unto him. And here endeth the quest of
+Sir Tor, King Pellinore’s son.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII. How King Pellinore rode after the lady and the knight that
+led her away, and how a lady desired help of him, and how he fought
+with two knights for that lady, of whom he slew the one at the first
+stroke.
+
+Then King Pellinore armed him and mounted upon his horse, and rode more
+than a pace after the lady that the knight led away. And as he rode in
+a forest, he saw in a valley a damosel sit by a well, and a wounded
+knight in her arms, and Pellinore saluted her. And when she was ware of
+him, she cried overloud, Help me, knight; for Christ’s sake, King
+Pellinore. And he would not tarry, he was so eager in his quest, and
+ever she cried an hundred times after help. When she saw he would not
+abide, she prayed unto God to send him as much need of help as she had,
+and that he might feel it or he died. So, as the book telleth, the
+knight there died that there was wounded, wherefore the lady for pure
+sorrow slew herself with his sword. As King Pellinore rode in that
+valley he met with a poor man, a labourer. Sawest thou not, said
+Pellinore, a knight riding and leading away a lady? Yea, said the man,
+I saw that knight, and the lady that made great dole; and yonder
+beneath in a valley there shall ye see two pavilions, and one of the
+knights of the pavilions challenged that lady of that knight, and said
+she was his cousin near, wherefore he should lead her no farther. And
+so they waged battle in that quarrel, the one said he would have her by
+force, and the other said he would have the rule of her, by cause he
+was her kinsman, and would lead her to her kin. For this quarrel he
+left them fighting. And if ye will ride a pace ye shall find them
+fighting, and the lady was beleft with the two squires in the
+pavilions. God thank thee, said King Pellinore.
+
+Then he rode a wallop till he had a sight of the two pavilions, and the
+two knights fighting. Anon he rode unto the pavilions, and saw the lady
+that was his quest, and said, Fair lady, ye must go with me unto the
+court of King Arthur. Sir knight, said the two squires that were with
+her, yonder are two knights that fight for this lady, go thither and
+depart them, and be agreed with them, and then may ye have her at your
+pleasure. Ye say well, said King Pellinore. And anon he rode betwixt
+them, and departed them, and asked them the causes why that they
+fought? Sir knight, said the one, I shall tell you, this lady is my
+kinswoman nigh, mine aunt’s daughter, and when I heard her complain
+that she was with him maugre her head, I waged battle to fight with
+him. Sir knight, said the other, whose name was Hontzlake of Wentland,
+and this lady I gat by my prowess of arms this day at Arthur’s court.
+That is untruly said, said King Pellinore, for ye came in suddenly
+there as we were at the high feast, and took away this lady or any man
+might make him ready; and therefore it was my quest to bring her again
+and you both, or else the one of us to abide in the field; therefore
+the lady shall go with me, or I will die for it, for I have promised it
+King Arthur. And therefore fight ye no more, for none of you shall have
+no part of her at this time; and if ye list to fight for her, fight
+with me, and I will defend her. Well, said the knights, make you ready,
+and we shall assail you with all our power. And as King Pellinore would
+have put his horse from them, Sir Hontzlake rove his horse through with
+a sword, and said: Now art thou on foot as well as we are. When King
+Pellinore espied that his horse was slain, lightly he leapt from his
+horse and pulled out his sword, and put his shield afore him, and said,
+Knight, keep well thy head, for thou shalt have a buffet for the
+slaying of my horse. So King Pellinore gave him such a stroke upon the
+helm that he clave the head down to the chin, that he fell to the earth
+dead.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII. How King Pellinore gat the lady and brought her to
+Camelot to the court of King Arthur.
+
+And then he turned him to the other knight, that was sore wounded. But
+when he saw the other’s buffet, he would not fight, but kneeled down
+and said, Take my cousin the lady with you at your request, and I
+require you, as ye be a true knight, put her to no shame nor villainy.
+What, said King Pellinore, will ye not fight for her? No, sir, said the
+knight, I will not fight with such a knight of prowess as ye be. Well,
+said Pellinore, ye say well; I promise you she shall have no villainy
+by me, as I am true knight; but now me lacketh an horse, said
+Pellinore, but I will have Hontzlake’s horse. Ye shall not need, said
+the knight, for I shall give you such an horse as shall please you, so
+that you will lodge with me, for it is near night. I will well, said
+King Pellinore, abide with you all night. And there he had with him
+right good cheer, and fared of the best with passing good wine, and had
+merry rest that night. And on the morn he heard a mass and dined; and
+then was brought him a fair bay courser, and King Pellinore’s saddle
+set upon him. Now, what shall I call you? said the knight, inasmuch as
+ye have my cousin at your desire of your quest. Sir, I shall tell you,
+my name is King Pellinore of the Isles and knight of the Table Round.
+Now I am glad, said the knight, that such a noble man shall have the
+rule of my cousin. Now, what is your name? said Pellinore, I pray you
+tell me. Sir, my name is Sir Meliot of Logurs, and this lady my cousin
+hight Nimue, and the knight that was in the other pavilion is my sworn
+brother, a passing good knight, and his name is Brian of the Isles, and
+he is full loath to do wrong, and full loath to fight with any man, but
+if he be sore sought on, so that for shame he may not leave it. It is
+marvel, said Pellinore, that he will not have ado with me. Sir, he will
+not have ado with no man but if it be at his request. Bring him to the
+court, said Pellinore, one of these days. Sir, we will come together.
+And ye shall be welcome, said Pellinore, to the court of King Arthur,
+and greatly allowed for your coming. And so he departed with the lady,
+and brought her to Camelot.
+
+So as they rode in a valley it was full of stones, and there the lady’s
+horse stumbled and threw her down, that her arm was sore bruised and
+near she swooned for pain. Alas! sir, said the lady, mine arm is out of
+lithe, wherethrough I must needs rest me. Ye shall well, said King
+Pellinore. And so he alighted under a fair tree where was fair grass,
+and he put his horse thereto, and so laid him under the tree and slept
+till it was nigh night. And when he awoke he would have ridden. Sir,
+said the lady, it is so dark that ye may as well ride backward as
+forward. So they abode still and made there their lodging. Then Sir
+Pellinore put off his armour; then a little afore midnight they heard
+the trotting of an horse. Be ye still, said King Pellinore, for we
+shall hear of some adventure.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV. How on the way he heard two knights, as he lay by night in
+a valley, and of their adventures.
+
+And therewith he armed him. So right even afore him there met two
+knights, the one came froward Camelot, and the other from the north,
+and either saluted other. What tidings at Camelot? said the one. By my
+head, said the other, there have I been and espied the court of King
+Arthur, and there is such a fellowship they may never be broken, and
+well-nigh all the world holdeth with Arthur, for there is the flower of
+chivalry. Now for this cause I am riding into the north, to tell our
+chieftains of the fellowship that is withholden with King Arthur. As
+for that, said the other knight, I have brought a remedy with me, that
+is the greatest poison that ever ye heard speak of, and to Camelot will
+I with it, for we have a friend right nigh King Arthur, and well
+cherished, that shall poison King Arthur; for so he hath promised our
+chieftains, and received great gifts for to do it. Beware, said the
+other knight, of Merlin, for he knoweth all things by the devil’s
+craft. Therefore will I not let it, said the knight. And so they
+departed asunder. Anon after Pellinore made him ready, and his lady,
+[and] rode toward Camelot; and as they came by the well there as the
+wounded knight was and the lady, there he found the knight, and the
+lady eaten with lions or wild beasts, all save the head, wherefore he
+made great sorrow, and wept passing sore, and said, Alas! her life
+might I have saved; but I was so fierce in my quest, therefore I would
+not abide. Wherefore make ye such dole? said the lady. I wot not, said
+Pellinore, but my heart mourneth sore of the death of her, for she was
+a passing fair lady and a young. Now, will ye do by mine advice? said
+the lady, take this knight and let him be buried in an hermitage, and
+then take the lady’s head and bear it with you unto Arthur. So King
+Pellinore took this dead knight on his shoulders, and brought him to
+the hermitage, and charged the hermit with the corpse, that service
+should be done for the soul; and take his harness for your pain. It
+shall be done, said the hermit, as I will answer unto God.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV. How when he was come to Camelot he was sworn upon a book to
+tell the truth of his quest.
+
+And therewith they departed, and came there as the head of the lady lay
+with a fair yellow hair that grieved King Pellinore passingly sore when
+he looked on it, for much he cast his heart on the visage. And so by
+noon they came to Camelot; and the king and the queen were passing fain
+of his coming to the court. And there he was made to swear upon the
+Four Evangelists, to tell the truth of his quest from the one to the
+other. Ah! Sir Pellinore, said Queen Guenever, ye were greatly to blame
+that ye saved not this lady’s life. Madam, said Pellinore, ye were
+greatly to blame an ye would not save your own life an ye might, but,
+save your pleasure, I was so furious in my quest that I would not
+abide, and that repenteth me, and shall the days of my life. Truly,
+said Merlin, ye ought sore to repent it, for that lady was your own
+daughter begotten on the lady of the Rule, and that knight that was
+dead was her love, and should have wedded her, and he was a right good
+knight of a young man, and would have proved a good man, and to this
+court was he coming, and his name was Sir Miles of the Launds, and a
+knight came behind him and slew him with a spear, and his name is
+Loraine le Savage, a false knight and a coward; and she for great
+sorrow and dole slew herself with his sword, and her name was Eleine.
+And because ye would not abide and help her, ye shall see your best
+friend fail you when ye be in the greatest distress that ever ye were
+or shall be. And that penance God hath ordained you for that deed, that
+he that ye shall most trust to of any man alive, he shall leave you
+there ye shall be slain. Me forthinketh, said King Pellinore, that this
+shall me betide, but God may fordo well destiny.
+
+Thus, when the quest was done of the white hart, the which followed Sir
+Gawaine; and the quest of the brachet, followed of Sir Tor, Pellinore’s
+son; and the quest of the lady that the knight took away, the which
+King Pellinore at that time followed; then the king stablished all his
+knights, and them that were of lands not rich he gave them lands, and
+charged them never to do outrageousity nor murder, and always to flee
+treason; also, by no means to be cruel, but to give mercy unto him that
+asketh mercy, upon pain of forfeiture of their worship and lordship of
+King Arthur for evermore; and always to do ladies, damosels, and
+gentlewomen succour, upon pain of death. Also, that no man take no
+battles in a wrongful quarrel for no law, nor for no world’s goods.
+Unto this were all the knights sworn of the Table Round, both old and
+young. And every year were they sworn at the high feast of Pentecost.
+
+Explicit the Wedding of King Arthur. Sequitur quartus liber.
+
+
+
+BOOK IV.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I. How Merlin was assotted and doted on one of the ladies of
+the lake, and how he was shut in a rock under a stone and there died.
+
+So after these quests of Sir Gawaine, Sir Tor, and King Pellinore, it
+fell so that Merlin fell in a dotage on the damosel that King Pellinore
+brought to court, and she was one of the damosels of the lake, that
+hight Nimue. But Merlin would let her have no rest, but always he would
+be with her. And ever she made Merlin good cheer till she had learned
+of him all manner thing that she desired; and he was assotted upon her,
+that he might not be from her. So on a time he told King Arthur that he
+should not dure long, but for all his crafts he should be put in the
+earth quick. And so he told the king many things that should befall,
+but always he warned the king to keep well his sword and the scabbard,
+for he told him how the sword and the scabbard should be stolen by a
+woman from him that he most trusted. Also he told King Arthur that he
+should miss him,—Yet had ye liefer than all your lands to have me
+again. Ah, said the king, since ye know of your adventure, purvey for
+it, and put away by your crafts that misadventure. Nay, said Merlin, it
+will not be; so he departed from the king. And within a while the
+Damosel of the Lake departed, and Merlin went with her evermore
+wheresomever she went. And ofttimes Merlin would have had her privily
+away by his subtle crafts; then she made him to swear that he should
+never do none enchantment upon her if he would have his will. And so he
+sware; so she and Merlin went over the sea unto the land of Benwick,
+whereas King Ban was king that had great war against King Claudas, and
+there Merlin spake with King Ban’s wife, a fair lady and a good, and
+her name was Elaine, and there he saw young Launcelot. There the queen
+made great sorrow for the mortal war that King Claudas made on her lord
+and on her lands. Take none heaviness, said Merlin, for this same child
+within this twenty year shall revenge you on King Claudas, that all
+Christendom shall speak of it; and this same child shall be the most
+man of worship of the world, and his first name is Galahad, that know I
+well, said Merlin, and since ye have confirmed him Launcelot. That is
+truth, said the queen, his first name was Galahad. O Merlin, said the
+queen, shall I live to see my son such a man of prowess? Yea, lady, on
+my peril ye shall see it, and live many winters after.
+
+And so, soon after, the lady and Merlin departed, and by the way Merlin
+showed her many wonders, and came into Cornwall. And always Merlin lay
+about the lady to have her maidenhood, and she was ever passing weary
+of him, and fain would have been delivered of him, for she was afeard
+of him because he was a devil’s son, and she could not beskift him by
+no mean. And so on a time it happed that Merlin showed to her in a rock
+whereas was a great wonder, and wrought by enchantment, that went under
+a great stone. So by her subtle working she made Merlin to go under
+that stone to let her wit of the marvels there; but she wrought so
+there for him that he came never out for all the craft he could do. And
+so she departed and left Merlin.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II. How five kings came into this land to war against King
+Arthur, and what counsel Arthur had against them.
+
+And as King Arthur rode to Camelot, and held there a great feast with
+mirth and joy, so soon after he returned unto Cardoile, and there came
+unto Arthur new tidings that the king of Denmark, and the king of
+Ireland that was his brother, and the king of the Vale, and the king of
+Soleise, and the king of the Isle of Longtains, all these five kings
+with a great host were entered into the land of King Arthur, and burnt
+and slew clean afore them, both cities and castles, that it was pity to
+hear. Alas, said Arthur, yet had I never rest one month since I was
+crowned king of this land. Now shall I never rest till I meet with
+those kings in a fair field, that I make mine avow; for my true liege
+people shall not be destroyed in my default, go with me who will, and
+abide who that will. Then the king let write unto King Pellinore, and
+prayed him in all haste to make him ready with such people as he might
+lightliest rear and hie him after in all haste. All the barons were
+privily wroth that the king would depart so suddenly; but the king by
+no mean would abide, but made writing unto them that were not there,
+and bade them hie after him, such as were not at that time in the
+court. Then the king came to Queen Guenever, and said, Lady, make you
+ready, for ye shall go with me, for I may not long miss you; ye shall
+cause me to be the more hardy, what adventure so befall me; I will not
+wit my lady to be in no jeopardy. Sir, said she, I am at your
+commandment, and shall be ready what time so ye be ready. So on the
+morn the king and the queen departed with such fellowship as they had,
+and came into the north, into a forest beside Humber, and there lodged
+them. When the word and tiding came unto the five kings above said,
+that Arthur was beside Humber in a forest, there was a knight, brother
+unto one of the five kings, that gave them this counsel: Ye know well
+that Sir Arthur hath the flower of chivalry of the world with him, as
+it is proved by the great battle he did with the eleven kings; and
+therefore hie unto him night and day till that we be nigh him, for the
+longer he tarrieth the bigger he is, and we ever the weaker; and he is
+so courageous of himself that he is come to the field with little
+people, and therefore let us set upon him or day and we shall slay
+down; of his knights there shall none escape.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III. How King Arthur had ado with them and overthrew them, and
+slew the five kings and made the remnant to flee.
+
+Unto this counsel these five kings assented, and so they passed forth
+with their host through North Wales, and came upon Arthur by night, and
+set upon his host as the king and his knights were in their pavilions.
+King Arthur was unarmed, and had laid him to rest with his Queen
+Guenever. Sir, said Sir Kay, it is not good we be unarmed. We shall
+have no need, said Sir Gawaine and Sir Griflet, that lay in a little
+pavilion by the king. With that they heard a great noise, and many
+cried, Treason, treason! Alas, said King Arthur, we be betrayed! Unto
+arms, fellows, then he cried. So they were armed anon at all points.
+Then came there a wounded knight unto the king, and said, Sir, save
+yourself and my lady the queen, for our host is destroyed, and much
+people of ours slain. So anon the king and the queen and the three
+knights took their horses, and rode toward Humber to pass over it, and
+the water was so rough that they were afraid to pass over. Now may ye
+choose, said King Arthur, whether ye will abide and take the adventure
+on this side, for an ye be taken they will slay you. It were me liefer,
+said the queen, to die in the water than to fall in your enemies’ hands
+and there be slain.
+
+And as they stood so talking, Sir Kay saw the five kings coming on
+horseback by themselves alone, with their spears in their hands even
+toward them. Lo, said Sir Kay, yonder be the five kings; let us go to
+them and match them. That were folly, said Sir Gawaine, for we are but
+three and they be five. That is truth, said Sir Griflet. No force, said
+Sir Kay, I will undertake for two of them, and then may ye three
+undertake for the other three. And therewithal, Sir Kay let his horse
+run as fast as he might, and struck one of them through the shield and
+the body a fathom, that the king fell to the earth stark dead. That saw
+Sir Gawaine, and ran unto another king so hard that he smote him
+through the body. And therewithal King Arthur ran to another, and smote
+him through the body with a spear, that he fell to the earth dead. Then
+Sir Griflet ran unto the fourth king, and gave him such a fall that his
+neck brake. Anon Sir Kay ran unto the fifth king, and smote him so hard
+on the helm that the stroke clave the helm and the head to the earth.
+That was well stricken, said King Arthur, and worshipfully hast thou
+holden thy promise, therefore I shall honour thee while that I live.
+And therewithal they set the queen in a barge into Humber; but always
+Queen Guenever praised Sir Kay for his deeds, and said, What lady that
+ye love, and she love you not again she were greatly to blame; and
+among ladies, said the queen, I shall bear your noble fame, for ye
+spake a great word, and fulfilled it worshipfully. And therewith the
+queen departed.
+
+Then the king and the three knights rode into the forest, for there
+they supposed to hear of them that were escaped; and there he found the
+most part of his people, and told them all how the five kings were
+dead. And therefore let us hold us together till it be day, and when
+their host have espied that their chieftains be slain, they will make
+such dole that they shall no more help themselves. And right so as the
+king said, so it was; for when they found the five kings dead, they
+made such dole that they fell from their horses. Therewithal came King
+Arthur but with a few people, and slew on the left hand and on the
+right hand, that well-nigh there escaped no man, but all were slain to
+the number thirty thousand. And when the battle was all ended, the king
+kneeled down and thanked God meekly. And then he sent for the queen,
+and soon she was come, and she made great joy of the overcoming of that
+battle.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV. How the battle was finished or he came, and how King Arthur
+founded an abbey where the battle was.
+
+Therewithal came one to King Arthur, and told him that King Pellinore
+was within three mile with a great host; and he said, Go unto him, and
+let him understand how we have sped. So within a while King Pellinore
+came with a great host, and saluted the people and the king, and there
+was great joy made on every side. Then the king let search how much
+people of his party there was slain; and there were found but little
+past two hundred men slain and eight knights of the Table Round in
+their pavilions. Then the king let rear and devise in the same place
+whereat the battle was done a fair abbey, and endowed it with great
+livelihood, and let it call the Abbey of La Beale Adventure. But when
+some of them came into their countries, whereof the five kings were
+kings, and told them how they were slain, there was made great dole.
+And all King Arthur’s enemies, as the King of North Wales, and the
+kings of the North, [when they] wist of the battle, they were passing
+heavy. And so the king returned unto Camelot in haste.
+
+And when he was come to Camelot he called King Pellinore unto him, and
+said, Ye understand well that we have lost eight knights of the best of
+the Table Round, and by your advice we will choose eight again of the
+best we may find in this court. Sir, said Pellinore, I shall counsel
+you after my conceit the best: there are in your court full noble
+knights both of old and young; and therefore by mine advice ye shall
+choose half of the old and half of the young. Which be the old? said
+King Arthur. Sir, said King Pellinore, meseemeth that King Uriens that
+hath wedded your sister Morgan le Fay, and the King of the Lake, and
+Sir Hervise de Revel, a noble knight, and Sir Galagars, the fourth.
+This is well devised, said King Arthur, and right so shall it be. Now,
+which are the four young knights? said Arthur. Sir, said Pellinore, the
+first is Sir Gawaine, your nephew, that is as good a knight of his time
+as any is in this land; and the second as meseemeth best is Sir Griflet
+le Fise de Dieu, that is a good knight and full desirous in arms, and
+who may see him live he shall prove a good knight; and the third as
+meseemeth is well to be one of the knights of the Round Table, Sir Kay
+the Seneschal, for many times he hath done full worshipfully, and now
+at your last battle he did full honourably for to undertake to slay two
+kings. By my head, said Arthur, he is best worth to be a knight of the
+Round Table of any that ye have rehearsed, an he had done no more
+prowess in his life days.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V. How Sir Tor was made knight of the Round Table, and how
+Bagdemagus was displeased.
+
+Now, said King Pellinore, I shall put to you two knights, and ye shall
+choose which is most worthy, that is Sir Bagdemagus, and Sir Tor, my
+son. But because Sir Tor is my son I may not praise him, but else, an
+he were not my son, I durst say that of his age there is not in this
+land a better knight than he is, nor of better conditions and loath to
+do any wrong, and loath to take any wrong. By my head, said Arthur, he
+is a passing good knight as any ye spake of this day, that wot I well,
+said the king; for I have seen him proved, but he saith little and he
+doth much more, for I know none in all this court an he were as well
+born on his mother’s side as he is on your side, that is like him of
+prowess and of might: and therefore I will have him at this time, and
+leave Sir Bagdemagus till another time. So when they were so chosen by
+the assent of all the barons, so were there found in their sieges every
+knights’ names that here are rehearsed, and so were they set in their
+sieges; whereof Sir Bagdemagus was wonderly wroth, that Sir Tor was
+advanced afore him, and therefore suddenly he departed from the court,
+and took his squire with him, and rode long in a forest till they came
+to a cross, and there alighted and said his prayers devoutly. The
+meanwhile his squire found written upon the cross, that Bagdemagus
+should never return unto the court again, till he had won a knight’s
+body of the Round Table, body for body. So, sir, said the squire, here
+I find writing of you, therefore I rede you return again to the court.
+That shall I never, said Bagdemagus, till men speak of me great
+worship, and that I be worthy to be a knight of the Round Table. And so
+he rode forth, and there by the way he found a branch of an holy herb
+that was the sign of the Sangreal, and no knight found such tokens but
+he were a good liver.
+
+So, as Sir Bagdemagus rode to see many adventures, it happed him to
+come to the rock whereas the Lady of the Lake had put Merlin under the
+stone, and there he heard him make great dole; whereof Sir Bagdemagus
+would have holpen him, and went unto the great stone, and it was so
+heavy that an hundred men might not lift it up. When Merlin wist he was
+there, he bade leave his labour, for all was in vain, for he might
+never be holpen but by her that put him there. And so Bagdemagus
+departed and did many adventures, and proved after a full good knight,
+and came again to the court and was made knight of the Round Table. So
+on the morn there fell new tidings and other adventures.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI. How King Arthur, King Uriens, and Sir Accolon of Gaul,
+chased an hart, and of their marvellous adventures.
+
+Then it befell that Arthur and many of his knights rode a-hunting into
+a great forest, and it happed King Arthur, King Uriens, and Sir Accolon
+of Gaul, followed a great hart, for they three were well horsed, and so
+they chased so fast that within a while they three were then ten mile
+from their fellowship. And at the last they chased so sore that they
+slew their horses underneath them. Then were they all three on foot,
+and ever they saw the hart afore them passing weary and enbushed. What
+will we do? said King Arthur, we are hard bestead. Let us go on foot,
+said King Uriens, till we may meet with some lodging. Then were they
+ware of the hart that lay on a great water bank, and a brachet biting
+on his throat, and more other hounds came after. Then King Arthur blew
+the prise and dight the hart.
+
+Then the king looked about the world, and saw afore him in a great
+water a little ship, all apparelled with silk down to the water, and
+the ship came right unto them and landed on the sands. Then Arthur went
+to the bank and looked in, and saw none earthly creature therein. Sirs,
+said the king, come thence, and let us see what is in this ship. So
+they went in all three, and found it richly behanged with cloth of
+silk. By then it was dark night, and there suddenly were about them an
+hundred torches set upon all the sides of the ship boards, and it gave
+great light; and therewithal there came out twelve fair damosels and
+saluted King Arthur on their knees, and called him by his name, and
+said he was right welcome, and such cheer as they had he should have of
+the best. The king thanked them fair. Therewithal they led the king and
+his two fellows into a fair chamber, and there was a cloth laid, richly
+beseen of all that longed unto a table, and there were they served of
+all wines and meats that they could think; of that the king had great
+marvel, for he fared never better in his life as for one supper. And so
+when they had supped at their leisure, King Arthur was led into a
+chamber, a richer beseen chamber saw he never none, and so was King
+Uriens served, and led into such another chamber, and Sir Accolon was
+led into the third chamber passing richly and well beseen; and so they
+were laid in their beds easily. And anon they fell asleep, and slept
+marvellously sore all the night. And on the morrow King Uriens was in
+Camelot abed in his wife’s arms, Morgan le Fay. And when he awoke he
+had great marvel, how he came there, for on the even afore he was two
+days’ journey from Camelot. And when King Arthur awoke he found himself
+in a dark prison, hearing about him many complaints of woful knights.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII. How Arthur took upon him to fight to be delivered out of
+prison, and also for to deliver twenty knights that were in prison.
+
+What are ye that so complain? said King Arthur. We be here twenty
+knights, prisoners, said they, and some of us have lain here seven
+year, and some more and some less. For what cause? said Arthur. We
+shall tell you, said the knights; this lord of this castle, his name is
+Sir Damas, and he is the falsest knight that liveth, and full of
+treason, and a very coward as any liveth, and he hath a younger
+brother, a good knight of prowess, his name is Sir Ontzlake; and this
+traitor Damas, the elder brother will give him no part of his
+livelihood, but as Sir Ontzlake keepeth thorough prowess of his hands,
+and so he keepeth from him a full fair manor and a rich, and therein
+Sir Ontzlake dwelleth worshipfully, and is well beloved of all people.
+And this Sir Damas, our master is as evil beloved, for he is without
+mercy, and he is a coward, and great war hath been betwixt them both,
+but Ontzlake hath ever the better, and ever he proffereth Sir Damas to
+fight for the livelihood, body for body, but he will not do; other-else
+to find a knight to fight for him. Unto that Sir Damas had granted to
+find a knight, but he is so evil beloved and hated, that there is never
+a knight will fight for him. And when Damas saw this, that there was
+never a knight would fight for him, he hath daily lain await with many
+knights with him, and taken all the knights in this country to see and
+espy their adventures, he hath taken them by force and brought them to
+his prison. And so he took us separately as we rode on our adventures,
+and many good knights have died in this prison for hunger, to the
+number of eighteen knights; and if any of us all that here is, or hath
+been, would have foughten with his brother Ontzlake, he would have
+delivered us, but for because this Damas is so false and so full of
+treason we would never fight for him to die for it. And we be so lean
+for hunger that unnethe we may stand on our feet. God deliver you, for
+his mercy, said Arthur.
+
+Anon, therewithal there came a damosel unto Arthur, and asked him, What
+cheer? I cannot say, said he. Sir, said she, an ye will fight for my
+lord, ye shall be delivered out of prison, and else ye escape never the
+life. Now, said Arthur, that is hard, yet had I liefer to fight with a
+knight than to die in prison; with this, said Arthur, I may be
+delivered and all these prisoners, I will do the battle. Yes, said the
+damosel. I am ready, said Arthur, an I had horse and armour. Ye shall
+lack none, said the damosel. Meseemeth, damosel, I should have seen you
+in the court of Arthur. Nay said the damosel, I came never there, I am
+the lord’s daughter of this castle. Yet was she false, for she was one
+of the damosels of Morgan le Fay.
+
+Anon she went unto Sir Damas, and told him how he would do battle for
+him, and so he sent for Arthur. And when he came he was well coloured,
+and well made of his limbs, that all knights that saw him said it were
+pity that such a knight should die in prison. So Sir Damas and he were
+agreed that he should fight for him upon this covenant, that all other
+knights should be delivered; and unto that was Sir Damas sworn unto
+Arthur, and also to do the battle to the uttermost. And with that all
+the twenty knights were brought out of the dark prison into the hall,
+and delivered, and so they all abode to see the battle.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII. How Accolon found himself by a well, and he took upon him
+to do battle against Arthur.
+
+Now turn we unto Accolon of Gaul, that when he awoke he found himself
+by a deep well-side, within half a foot, in great peril of death. And
+there came out of that fountain a pipe of silver, and out of that pipe
+ran water all on high in a stone of marble. When Sir Accolon saw this,
+he blessed him and said, Jesus save my lord King Arthur, and King
+Uriens, for these damosels in this ship have betrayed us, they were
+devils and no women; and if I may escape this misadventure, I shall
+destroy all where I may find these false damosels that use
+enchantments. Right with that there came a dwarf with a great mouth and
+a flat nose, and saluted Sir Accolon, and said how he came from Queen
+Morgan le Fay, and she greeteth you well, and biddeth you be of strong
+heart, for ye shall fight to morrow with a knight at the hour of prime,
+and therefore she hath sent you here Excalibur, Arthur’s sword, and the
+scabbard, and she biddeth you as ye love her, that ye do the battle to
+the uttermost, without any mercy, like as ye had promised her when ye
+spake together in privity; and what damosel that bringeth her the
+knight’s head, which ye shall fight withal, she will make her a queen.
+Now I understand you well, said Accolon, I shall hold that I have
+promised her now I have the sword: when saw ye my lady Queen Morgan le
+Fay? Right late, said the dwarf. Then Accolon took him in his arms and
+said, Recommend me unto my lady queen, and tell her all shall be done
+that I have promised her, and else I will die for it. Now I suppose,
+said Accolon, she hath made all these crafts and enchantments for this
+battle. Ye may well believe it, said the dwarf. Right so there came a
+knight and a lady with six squires, and saluted Accolon, and prayed him
+for to arise, and come and rest him at his manor. And so Accolon
+mounted upon a void horse, and went with the knight unto a fair manor
+by a priory, and there he had passing good cheer.
+
+Then Sir Damas sent unto his brother Sir Ontzlake, and bade make him
+ready by to-morn at the hour of prime, and to be in the field to fight
+with a good knight, for he had found a good knight that was ready to do
+battle at all points. When this word came unto Sir Ontzlake he was
+passing heavy, for he was wounded a little to-fore through both his
+thighs with a spear, and made great dole; but as he was wounded, he
+would have taken the battle on hand. So it happed at that time, by the
+means of Morgan le Fay, Accolon was with Sir Ontzlake lodged; and when
+he heard of that battle, and how Ontzlake was wounded, he said that he
+would fight for him. Because Morgan le Fay had sent him Excalibur and
+the sheath for to fight with the knight on the morn: this was the cause
+Sir Accolon took the battle on hand. Then Sir Ontzlake was passing
+glad, and thanked Sir Accolon with all his heart that he would do so
+much for him. And therewithal Sir Ontzlake sent word unto his brother
+Sir Damas, that he had a knight that for him should be ready in the
+field by the hour of prime.
+
+So on the morn Sir Arthur was armed and well horsed, and asked Sir
+Damas, When shall we to the field? Sir, said Sir Damas, ye shall hear
+mass. And so Arthur heard a mass, and when mass was done there came a
+squire on a great horse, and asked Sir Damas if his knight were ready,
+for our knight is ready in the field. Then Sir Arthur mounted upon
+horseback, and there were all the knights and commons of that country;
+and so by all advices there were chosen twelve good men of the country
+for to wait upon the two knights. And right as Arthur was on horseback
+there came a damosel from Morgan le Fay, and brought unto Sir Arthur a
+sword like unto Excalibur, and the scabbard, and said unto Arthur,
+Morgan le Fay sendeth here your sword for great love. And he thanked
+her, and weened it had been so, but she was false, for the sword and
+the scabbard was counterfeit, and brittle, and false.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX. Of the battle between King Arthur and Accolon.
+
+And then they dressed them on both parties of the field, and let their
+horses run so fast that either smote other in the midst of the shield
+with their spear-heads, that both horse and man went to the earth; and
+then they started up both, and pulled out their swords. The meanwhile
+that they were thus at the battle, came the Damosel of the Lake into
+the field, that put Merlin under the stone; and she came thither for
+love of King Arthur, for she knew how Morgan le Fay had so ordained
+that King Arthur should have been slain that day, and therefore she
+came to save his life. And so they went eagerly to the battle, and gave
+many great strokes, but always Arthur’s sword bit not like Accolon’s
+sword; but for the most part, every stroke that Accolon gave he wounded
+sore Arthur, that it was marvel he stood, and always his blood fell
+from him fast.
+
+When Arthur beheld the ground so sore be-bled he was dismayed, and then
+he deemed treason that his sword was changed; for his sword bit not
+steel as it was wont to do, therefore he dreaded him sore to be dead,
+for ever him seemed that the sword in Accolon’s hand was Excalibur, for
+at every stroke that Accolon struck he drew blood on Arthur. Now,
+knight, said Accolon unto Arthur, keep thee well from me; but Arthur
+answered not again, and gave him such a buffet on the helm that it made
+him to stoop, nigh falling down to the earth. Then Sir Accolon withdrew
+him a little, and came on with Excalibur on high, and smote Sir Arthur
+such a buffet that he fell nigh to the earth. Then were they wroth
+both, and gave each other many sore strokes, but always Sir Arthur lost
+so much blood that it was marvel he stood on his feet, but he was so
+full of knighthood that knightly he endured the pain. And Sir Accolon
+lost not a deal of blood, therefore he waxed passing light, and Sir
+Arthur was passing feeble, and weened verily to have died; but for all
+that he made countenance as though he might endure, and held Accolon as
+short as he might. But Accolon was so bold because of Excalibur that he
+waxed passing hardy. But all men that beheld him said they saw never
+knight fight so well as Arthur did considering the blood that he bled.
+So was all the people sorry for him, but the two brethren would not
+accord. Then always they fought together as fierce knights, and Sir
+Arthur withdrew him a little for to rest him, and Sir Accolon called
+him to battle and said, It is no time for me to suffer thee to rest.
+And therewith he came fiercely upon Arthur, and Sir Arthur was wroth
+for the blood that he had lost, and smote Accolon on high upon the
+helm, so mightily, that he made him nigh to fall to the earth; and
+therewith Arthur’s sword brast at the cross, and fell in the grass
+among the blood, and the pommel and the sure handles he held in his
+hands. When Sir Arthur saw that, he was in great fear to die, but
+always he held up his shield and lost no ground, nor bated no cheer.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X. How King Arthur’s sword that he fought with brake, and how
+he recovered of Accolon his own sword Excalibur, and overcame his
+enemy.
+
+Then Sir Accolon began with words of treason, and said, Knight, thou
+art overcome, and mayst not endure, and also thou art weaponless, and
+thou hast lost much of thy blood, and I am full loath to slay thee,
+therefore yield thee to me as recreant. Nay, said Sir Arthur, I may not
+so, for I have promised to do the battle to the uttermost by the faith
+of my body, while me lasteth the life, and therefore I had liefer to
+die with honour than to live with shame; and if it were possible for me
+to die an hundred times, I had liefer to die so oft than yield me to
+thee; for though I lack weapon, I shall lack no worship, and if thou
+slay me weaponless that shall be thy shame. Well, said Accolon, as for
+the shame I will not spare, now keep thee from me, for thou art but a
+dead man. And therewith Accolon gave him such a stroke that he fell
+nigh to the earth, and would have had Arthur to have cried him mercy.
+But Sir Arthur pressed unto Accolon with his shield, and gave him with
+the pommel in his hand such a buffet that he went three strides aback.
+
+When the Damosel of the Lake beheld Arthur, how full of prowess his
+body was, and the false treason that was wrought for him to have had
+him slain, she had great pity that so good a knight and such a man of
+worship should so be destroyed. And at the next stroke Sir Accolon
+struck him such a stroke that by the damosel’s enchantment the sword
+Excalibur fell out of Accolon’s hand to the earth. And therewithal Sir
+Arthur lightly leapt to it, and gat it in his hand, and forthwithal he
+knew that it was his sword Excalibur, and said, Thou hast been from me
+all too long, and much damage hast thou done me; and therewith he
+espied the scabbard hanging by his side, and suddenly he sterte to him
+and pulled the scabbard from him, and threw it from him as far as he
+might throw it. O knight, said Arthur, this day hast thou done me great
+damage with this sword; now are ye come unto your death, for I shall
+not warrant you but ye shall as well be rewarded with this sword, or
+ever we depart, as thou hast rewarded me; for much pain have ye made me
+to endure, and much blood have I lost. And therewith Sir Arthur rushed
+on him with all his might and pulled him to the earth, and then rushed
+off his helm, and gave him such a buffet on the head that the blood
+came out at his ears, his nose, and his mouth. Now will I slay thee,
+said Arthur. Slay me ye may well, said Accolon, an it please you, for
+ye are the best knight that ever I found, and I see well that God is
+with you. But for I promised to do this battle, said Accolon, to the
+uttermost, and never to be recreant while I lived, therefore shall I
+never yield me with my mouth, but God do with my body what he will.
+Then Sir Arthur remembered him, and thought he should have seen this
+knight. Now tell me, said Arthur, or I will slay thee, of what country
+art thou, and of what court? Sir Knight, said Sir Accolon, I am of the
+court of King Arthur, and my name is Accolon of Gaul. Then was Arthur
+more dismayed than he was beforehand; for then he remembered him of his
+sister Morgan le Fay, and of the enchantment of the ship. O sir knight,
+said he, I pray you tell me who gave you this sword, and by whom ye had
+it.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI. How Accolon confessed the treason of Morgan le Fay, King
+Arthur’s sister, and how she would have done slay him.
+
+Then Sir Accolon bethought him, and said, Woe worth this sword, for by
+it have I got my death. It may well be, said the king. Now, sir, said
+Accolon, I will tell you; this sword hath been in my keeping the most
+part of this twelvemonth; and Morgan le Fay, King Uriens’ wife, sent it
+me yesterday by a dwarf, to this intent, that I should slay King
+Arthur, her brother. For ye shall understand King Arthur is the man in
+the world that she most hateth, because he is most of worship and of
+prowess of any of her blood; also she loveth me out of measure as
+paramour, and I her again; and if she might bring about to slay Arthur
+by her crafts, she would slay her husband King Uriens lightly, and then
+had she me devised to be king in this land, and so to reign, and she to
+be my queen; but that is now done, said Accolon, for I am sure of my
+death. Well, said Sir Arthur, I feel by you ye would have been king in
+this land. It had been great damage to have destroyed your lord, said
+Arthur. It is truth, said Accolon, but now I have told you truth,
+wherefore I pray you tell me of whence ye are, and of what court? O
+Accolon, said King Arthur, now I let thee wit that I am King Arthur, to
+whom thou hast done great damage. When Accolon heard that he cried
+aloud, Fair, sweet lord, have mercy on me, for I knew not you. O Sir
+Accolon, said King Arthur, mercy shalt thou have, because I feel by thy
+words at this time thou knewest not my person; but I understand well by
+thy words that thou hast agreed to the death of my person, and
+therefore thou art a traitor; but I wite thee the less, for my sister
+Morgan le Fay by her false crafts made thee to agree and consent to her
+false lusts, but I shall be sore avenged upon her an I live, that all
+Christendom shall speak of it; God knoweth I have honoured her and
+worshipped her more than all my kin, and more have I trusted her than
+mine own wife and all my kin after.
+
+Then Sir Arthur called the keepers of the field, and said, Sirs, come
+hither, for here are we two knights that have fought unto a great
+damage unto us both, and like each one of us to have slain other, if it
+had happed so; and had any of us known other, here had been no battle,
+nor stroke stricken. Then all aloud cried Accolon unto all the knights
+and men that were then there gathered together, and said to them in
+this manner, O lords, this noble knight that I have fought withal, the
+which me sore repenteth, is the most man of prowess, of manhood, and of
+worship in the world, for it is himself King Arthur, our alther liege
+lord, and with mishap and with misadventure have I done this battle
+with the king and lord that I am holden withal.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII. How Arthur accorded the two brethren, and delivered the
+twenty knights, and how Sir Accolon died.
+
+Then all the people fell down on their knees and cried King Arthur
+mercy. Mercy shall ye have, said Arthur: here may ye see what
+adventures befall ofttime of errant knights, how that I have fought
+with a knight of mine own unto my great damage and his both. But, sirs,
+because I am sore hurt, and he both, and I had great need of a little
+rest, ye shall understand the opinion betwixt you two brethren: As to
+thee, Sir Damas, for whom I have been champion and won the field of
+this knight, yet will I judge because ye, Sir Damas, are called an
+orgulous knight, and full of villainy, and not worth of prowess your
+deeds, therefore I will that ye give unto your brother all the whole
+manor with the appurtenance, under this form, that Sir Ontzlake hold
+the manor of you, and yearly to give you a palfrey to ride upon, for
+that will become you better to ride on than upon a courser. Also I
+charge thee, Sir Damas, upon pain of death, that thou never distress no
+knights errant that ride on their adventure. And also that thou restore
+these twenty knights that thou hast long kept prisoners, of all their
+harness, that they be content for; and if any of them come to my court
+and complain of thee, by my head thou shalt die therefore. Also, Sir
+Ontzlake, as to you, because ye are named a good knight, and full of
+prowess, and true and gentle in all your deeds, this shall be your
+charge I will give you, that in all goodly haste ye come unto me and my
+court, and ye shall be a knight of mine, and if your deeds be
+thereafter I shall so prefer you, by the grace of God, that ye shall in
+short time be in ease for to live as worshipfully as your brother Sir
+Damas. God thank your largeness of your goodness and of your bounty, I
+shall be from henceforward at all times at your commandment; for, sir,
+said Sir Ontzlake, as God would, as I was hurt but late with an
+adventurous knight through both my thighs, that grieved me sore, and
+else had I done this battle with you. God would, said Arthur, it had
+been so, for then had not I been hurt as I am. I shall tell you the
+cause why: for I had not been hurt as I am, had it not been mine own
+sword, that was stolen from me by treason; and this battle was ordained
+aforehand to have slain me, and so it was brought to the purpose by
+false treason, and by false enchantment. Alas, said Sir Ontzlake, that
+is great pity that ever so noble a man as ye are of your deeds and
+prowess, that any man or woman might find in their hearts to work any
+treason against you. I shall reward them, said Arthur, in short time,
+by the grace of God. Now, tell me, said Arthur, how far am I from
+Camelot? Sir, ye are two days’ journey therefrom. I would fain be at
+some place of worship, said Sir Arthur, that I might rest me. Sir, said
+Sir Ontzlake, hereby is a rich abbey of your elders’ foundation, of
+nuns, but three miles hence. So the king took his leave of all the
+people, and mounted upon horseback, and Sir Accolon with him. And when
+they were come to the abbey, he let fetch leeches and search his wounds
+and Accolon’s both; but Sir Accolon died within four days, for he had
+bled so much blood that he might not live, but King Arthur was well
+recovered. So when Accolon was dead he let send him on an horse-bier
+with six knights unto Camelot, and said: Bear him to my sister Morgan
+le Fay, and say that I send her him to a present, and tell her I have
+my sword Excalibur and the scabbard; so they departed with the body.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII. How Morgan would have slain Sir Uriens her husband, and
+how Sir Uwaine her son saved him.
+
+The meanwhile Morgan le Fay had weened King Arthur had been dead. So on
+a day she espied King Uriens lay in his bed sleeping. Then she called
+unto her a maiden of her counsel, and said, Go fetch me my lord’s
+sword, for I saw never better time to slay him than now. O madam, said
+the damosel, an ye slay my lord ye can never escape. Care not you, said
+Morgan le Fay, for now I see my time in the which it is best to do it,
+and therefore hie thee fast and fetch me the sword. Then the damosel
+departed, and found Sir Uwaine sleeping upon a bed in another chamber,
+so she went unto Sir Uwaine, and awaked him, and bade him, Arise, and
+wait on my lady your mother, for she will slay the king your father
+sleeping in his bed, for I go to fetch his sword. Well, said Sir
+Uwaine, go on your way, and let me deal. Anon the damosel brought
+Morgan the sword with quaking hands, and she lightly took the sword,
+and pulled it out, and went boldly unto the bed’s side, and awaited how
+and where she might slay him best. And as she lifted up the sword to
+smite, Sir Uwaine leapt unto his mother, and caught her by the hand,
+and said, Ah, fiend, what wilt thou do? An thou wert not my mother,
+with this sword I should smite off thy head. Ah, said Sir Uwaine, men
+saith that Merlin was begotten of a devil, but I may say an earthly
+devil bare me. O fair son, Uwaine, have mercy upon me, I was tempted
+with a devil, wherefore I cry thee mercy; I will never more do so; and
+save my worship and discover me not. On this covenant, said Sir Uwaine,
+I will forgive it you, so ye will never be about to do such deeds. Nay,
+son, said she, and that I make you assurance.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV. How Queen Morgan le Fay made great sorrow for the death of
+Accolon, and how she stole away the scabbard from Arthur.
+
+Then came tidings unto Morgan le Fay that Accolon was dead, and his
+body brought unto the church, and how King Arthur had his sword again.
+But when Queen Morgan wist that Accolon was dead, she was so sorrowful
+that near her heart to-brast. But because she would not it were known,
+outward she kept her countenance, and made no semblant of sorrow. But
+well she wist an she abode till her brother Arthur came thither, there
+should no gold go for her life.
+
+Then she went unto Queen Guenever, and asked her leave to ride into the
+country. Ye may abide, said Queen Guenever, till your brother the king
+come home. I may not, said Morgan le Fay, for I have such hasty
+tidings, that I may not tarry. Well, said Guenever, ye may depart when
+ye will. So early on the morn, or it was day, she took her horse and
+rode all that day and most part of the night, and on the morn by noon
+she came to the same abbey of nuns whereas lay King Arthur; and she
+knowing he was there, she asked where he was. And they answered how he
+had laid him in his bed to sleep, for he had had but little rest these
+three nights. Well, said she, I charge you that none of you awake him
+till I do, and then she alighted off her horse, and thought for to
+steal away Excalibur his sword, and so she went straight unto his
+chamber, and no man durst disobey her commandment, and there she found
+Arthur asleep in his bed, and Excalibur in his right hand naked. When
+she saw that she was passing heavy that she might not come by the sword
+without she had awaked him, and then she wist well she had been dead.
+Then she took the scabbard and went her way on horseback. When the king
+awoke and missed his scabbard, he was wroth, and he asked who had been
+there, and they said his sister, Queen Morgan had been there, and had
+put the scabbard under her mantle and was gone. Alas, said Arthur,
+falsely ye have watched me. Sir, said they all, we durst not disobey
+your sister’s commandment. Ah, said the king, let fetch the best horse
+may be found, and bid Sir Ontzlake arm him in all haste, and take
+another good horse and ride with me. So anon the king and Ontzlake were
+well armed, and rode after this lady, and so they came by a cross and
+found a cowherd, and they asked the poor man if there came any lady
+riding that way. Sir, said this poor man, right late came a lady riding
+with a forty horses, and to yonder forest she rode. Then they spurred
+their horses, and followed fast, and within a while Arthur had a sight
+of Morgan le Fay; then he chased as fast as he might. When she espied
+him following her, she rode a greater pace through the forest till she
+came to a plain, and when she saw she might not escape, she rode unto a
+lake thereby, and said, Whatsoever come of me, my brother shall not
+have this scabbard. And then she let throw the scabbard in the deepest
+of the water so it sank, for it was heavy of gold and precious stones.
+
+Then she rode into a valley where many great stones were, and when she
+saw she must be overtaken, she shaped herself, horse and man, by
+enchantment unto a great marble stone. Anon withal came Sir Arthur and
+Sir Ontzlake whereas the king might know his sister and her men, and
+one knight from another. Ah, said the king, here may ye see the
+vengeance of God, and now am I sorry that this misadventure is
+befallen. And then he looked for the scabbard, but it would not be
+found, so he returned to the abbey where he came from. So when Arthur
+was gone she turned all into the likeliness as she and they were
+before, and said, Sirs, now may we go where we will.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV. How Morgan le Fay saved a knight that should have been
+drowned, and how King Arthur returned home again.
+
+Then said Morgan, Saw ye Arthur, my brother? Yea, said her knights,
+right well, and that ye should have found an we might have stirred from
+one stead, for by his armyvestal countenance he would have caused us to
+have fled. I believe you, said Morgan. Anon after as she rode she met a
+knight leading another knight on his horse before him, bound hand and
+foot, blindfold, to have drowned him in a fountain. When she saw this
+knight so bound, she asked him, What will ye do with that knight? Lady,
+said he, I will drown him. For what cause? she asked. For I found him
+with my wife, and she shall have the same death anon. That were pity,
+said Morgan le Fay. Now, what say ye, knight, is it truth that he saith
+of you? she said to the knight that should be drowned. Nay truly,
+madam, he saith not right on me. Of whence be ye, said Morgan le Fay,
+and of what country? I am of the court of King Arthur, and my name is
+Manassen, cousin unto Accolon of Gaul. Ye say well, said she, and for
+the love of him ye shall be delivered, and ye shall have your adversary
+in the same case ye be in. So Manassen was loosed and the other knight
+bound. And anon Manassen unarmed him, and armed himself in his harness,
+and so mounted on horseback, and the knight afore him, and so threw him
+into the fountain and drowned him. And then he rode unto Morgan again,
+and asked if she would anything unto King Arthur. Tell him that I
+rescued thee, not for the love of him but for the love of Accolon, and
+tell him I fear him not while I can make me and them that be with me in
+likeness of stones; and let him wit I can do much more when I see my
+time. And so she departed into the country of Gore, and there was she
+richly received, and made her castles and towns passing strong, for
+always she dreaded much King Arthur.
+
+When the king had well rested him at the abbey, he rode unto Camelot,
+and found his queen and his barons right glad of his coming. And when
+they heard of his strange adventures as is afore rehearsed, then all
+had marvel of the falsehood of Morgan le Fay; many knights wished her
+burnt. Then came Manassen to court and told the king of his adventure.
+Well, said the king, she is a kind sister; I shall so be avenged on her
+an I live, that all Christendom shall speak of it. So on the morn there
+came a damosel from Morgan to the king, and she brought with her the
+richest mantle that ever was seen in that court, for it was set as full
+of precious stones as one might stand by another, and there were the
+richest stones that ever the king saw. And the damosel said, Your
+sister sendeth you this mantle, and desireth that ye should take this
+gift of her; and in what thing she hath offended you, she will amend it
+at your own pleasure. When the king beheld this mantle it pleased him
+much, but he said but little.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI. How the Damosel of the Lake saved King Arthur from mantle
+that should have burnt him.
+
+With that came the Damosel of the Lake unto the king, and said, Sir, I
+must speak with you in privity. Say on, said the king, what ye will.
+Sir, said the damosel, put not on you this mantle till ye have seen
+more, and in no wise let it not come on you, nor on no knight of yours,
+till ye command the bringer thereof to put it upon her. Well, said King
+Arthur, it shall be done as ye counsel me. And then he said unto the
+damosel that came from his sister, Damosel, this mantle that ye have
+brought me, I will see it upon you. Sir, she said, It will not beseem
+me to wear a king’s garment. By my head, said Arthur, ye shall wear it
+or it come on my back, or any man’s that here is. And so the king made
+it to be put upon her, and forth withal she fell down dead, and never
+more spake word after and burnt to coals. Then was the king wonderly
+wroth, more than he was to-forehand, and said unto King Uriens, My
+sister, your wife, is alway about to betray me, and well I wot either
+ye, or my nephew, your son, is of counsel with her to have me
+destroyed; but as for you, said the king to King Uriens, I deem not
+greatly that ye be of her counsel, for Accolon confessed to me by his
+own mouth, that she would have destroyed you as well as me, therefore I
+hold you excused; but as for your son, Sir Uwaine, I hold him suspect,
+therefore I charge you put him out of my court. So Sir Uwaine was
+discharged. And when Sir Gawaine wist that, he made him ready to go
+with him; and said, Whoso banisheth my cousin-germain shall banish me.
+So they two departed, and rode into a great forest, and so they came to
+an abbey of monks, and there were well lodged. But when the king wist
+that Sir Gawaine was departed from the court, there was made great
+sorrow among all the estates. Now, said Gaheris, Gawaine’s brother, we
+have lost two good knights for the love of one. So on the morn they
+heard their masses in the abbey, and so they rode forth till that they
+came to a great forest. Then was Sir Gawaine ware in a valley by a
+turret [of] twelve fair damosels, and two knights armed on great
+horses, and the damosels went to and fro by a tree. And then was Sir
+Gawaine ware how there hung a white shield on that tree, and ever as
+the damosels came by it they spit upon it, and some threw mire upon the
+shield.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII. How Sir Gawaine and Sir Uwaine met with twelve fair
+damosels, and how they complained on Sir Marhaus.
+
+Then Sir Gawaine and Sir Uwaine went and saluted them, and asked why
+they did that despite to the shield. Sir, said the damosels, we shall
+tell you. There is a knight in this country that owneth this white
+shield, and he is a passing good man of his hands, but he hateth all
+ladies and gentlewomen, and therefore we do all this despite to the
+shield. I shall say you, said Sir Gawaine, it beseemeth evil a good
+knight to despise all ladies and gentlewomen, and peradventure though
+he hate you he hath some certain cause, and peradventure he loveth in
+some other places ladies and gentlewomen, and to be loved again, an he
+be such a man of prowess as ye speak of. Now, what is his name? Sir,
+said they, his name is Marhaus, the king’s son of Ireland. I know him
+well, said Sir Uwaine, he is a passing good knight as any is alive, for
+I saw him once proved at a jousts where many knights were gathered, and
+that time there might no man withstand him. Ah! said Sir Gawaine,
+damosels, methinketh ye are to blame, for it is to suppose, he that
+hung that shield there, he will not be long therefrom, and then may
+those knights match him on horseback, and that is more your worship
+than thus; for I will abide no longer to see a knight’s shield
+dishonoured. And therewith Sir Uwaine and Gawaine departed a little
+from them, and then were they ware where Sir Marhaus came riding on a
+great horse straight toward them. And when the twelve damosels saw Sir
+Marhaus they fled into the turret as they were wild, so that some of
+them fell by the way. Then the one of the knights of the tower dressed
+his shield, and said on high, Sir Marhaus, defend thee. And so they ran
+together that the knight brake his spear on Marhaus, and Marhaus smote
+him so hard that he brake his neck and the horse’s back. That saw the
+other knight of the turret, and dressed him toward Marhaus, and they
+met so eagerly together that the knight of the turret was soon smitten
+down, horse and man, stark dead.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII. How Sir Marhaus jousted with Sir Gawaine and Sir Uwaine,
+and overthrew them both.
+
+And then Sir Marhaus rode unto his shield, and saw how it was defouled,
+and said, Of this despite I am a part avenged, but for her love that
+gave me this white shield I shall wear thee, and hang mine where thou
+wast; and so he hanged it about his neck. Then he rode straight unto
+Sir Gawaine and to Sir Uwaine, and asked them what they did there? They
+answered him that they came from King Arthur’s court to see adventures.
+Well, said Sir Marhaus, here am I ready, an adventurous knight that
+will fulfil any adventure that ye will desire; and so departed from
+them, to fetch his range. Let him go, said Sir Uwaine unto Sir Gawaine,
+for he is a passing good knight as any is living; I would not by my
+will that any of us were matched with him. Nay, said Sir Gawaine, not
+so, it were shame to us were he not assayed, were he never so good a
+knight. Well, said Sir Uwaine, I will assay him afore you, for I am
+more weaker than ye, and if he smite me down then may ye revenge me. So
+these two knights came together with great raundon, that Sir Uwaine
+smote Sir Marhaus that his spear brast in pieces on the shield, and Sir
+Marhaus smote him so sore that horse and man he bare to the earth, and
+hurt Sir Uwaine on the left side.
+
+Then Sir Marhaus turned his horse and rode toward Gawaine with his
+spear, and when Sir Gawaine saw that he dressed his shield, and they
+aventred their spears, and they came together with all the might of
+their horses, that either knight smote other so hard in midst of their
+shields, but Sir Gawaine’s spear brake, but Sir Marhaus’ spear held;
+and therewith Sir Gawaine and his horse rushed down to the earth. And
+lightly Sir Gawaine rose on his feet, and pulled out his sword, and
+dressed him toward Sir Marhaus on foot, and Sir Marhaus saw that, and
+pulled out his sword and began to come to Sir Gawaine on horseback. Sir
+knight, said Sir Gawaine, alight on foot, or else I will slay thy
+horse. Gramercy, said Sir Marhaus, of your gentleness ye teach me
+courtesy, for it is not for one knight to be on foot, and the other on
+horseback. And therewith Sir Marhaus set his spear against a tree and
+alighted and tied his horse to a tree, and dressed his shield, and
+either came unto other eagerly, and smote together with their swords
+that their shields flew in cantels, and they bruised their helms and
+their hauberks, and wounded either other. But Sir Gawaine from it
+passed nine of the clock waxed ever stronger and stronger, for then it
+came to the hour of noon, and thrice his might was increased. All this
+espied Sir Marhaus and had great wonder how his might increased, and so
+they wounded other passing sore. And then when it was past noon, and
+when it drew toward evensong, Sir Gawaine’s strength feebled, and waxed
+passing faint that unnethes he might dure any longer, and Sir Marhaus
+was then bigger and bigger. Sir knight, said Sir Marhaus, I have well
+felt that ye are a passing good knight and a marvellous man of might as
+ever I felt any, while it lasteth, and our quarrels are not great, and
+therefore it were pity to do you hurt, for I feel ye are passing
+feeble. Ah, said Sir Gawaine, gentle knight, ye say the word that I
+should say. And therewith they took off their helms, and either kissed
+other, and there they swore together either to love other as brethren.
+And Sir Marhaus prayed Sir Gawaine to lodge with him that night. And so
+they took their horses, and rode toward Sir Marhaus’ house. And as they
+rode by the way, Sir knight, said Sir Gawaine, I have marvel that so
+valiant a man as ye be love no ladies nor damosels. Sir, said Sir
+Marhaus, they name me wrongfully those that give me that name, but well
+I wot it be the damosels of the turret that so name me, and other such
+as they be. Now shall I tell you for what cause I hate them: for they
+be sorceresses and enchanters many of them, and be a knight never so
+good of his body and full of prowess as man may be, they will make him
+a stark coward to have the better of him, and this is the principal
+cause that I hate them; and to all good ladies and gentlewomen I owe my
+service as a knight ought to do.
+
+As the book rehearseth in French, there were many knights that
+overmatched Sir Gawaine, for all the thrice might that he had: Sir
+Launcelot de Lake, Sir Tristram, Sir Bors de Ganis, Sir Percivale, Sir
+Pelleas, and Sir Marhaus, these six knights had the better of Sir
+Gawaine. Then within a little while they came to Sir Marhaus’ place,
+which was in a little priory, and there they alighted, and ladies and
+damosels unarmed them, and hastily looked to their hurts, for they were
+all three hurt. And so they had all three good lodging with Sir
+Marhaus, and good cheer; for when he wist that they were King Arthur’s
+sister’s sons he made them all the cheer that lay in his power, and so
+they sojourned there a sennight, and were well eased of their wounds,
+and at the last departed. Now, said Sir Marhaus, we will not depart so
+lightly, for I will bring you through the forest; and rode day by day
+well a seven days or they found any adventure. At the last they came
+into a great forest, that was named the country and forest of Arroy,
+and the country of strange adventures. In this country, said Sir
+Marhaus, came never knight since it was christened but he found strange
+adventures; and so they rode, and came into a deep valley full of
+stones, and thereby they saw a fair stream of water; above thereby was
+the head of the stream a fair fountain, and three damosels sitting
+thereby. And then they rode to them, and either saluted other, and the
+eldest had a garland of gold about her head, and she was three score
+winter of age or more, and her hair was white under the garland. The
+second damosel was of thirty winter of age, with a circlet of gold
+about her head. The third damosel was but fifteen year of age, and a
+garland of flowers about her head. When these knights had so beheld
+them, they asked them the cause why they sat at that fountain? We be
+here, said the damosels, for this cause: if we may see any errant
+knights, to teach them unto strange adventures; and ye be three knights
+that seek adventures, and we be three damosels, and therefore each one
+of you must choose one of us; and when ye have done so we will lead you
+unto three highways, and there each of you shall choose a way and his
+damosel with him. And this day twelvemonth ye must meet here again, and
+God send you your lives, and thereto ye must plight your troth. This is
+well said, said Sir Marhaus.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX. How Sir Marhaus, Sir Gawaine, and Sir Uwaine met three
+damosels, and each of them took one.
+
+Now shall everych of us choose a damosel. I shall tell you, said Sir
+Uwaine, I am the youngest and most weakest of you both, therefore I
+will have the eldest damosel, for she hath seen much, and can best help
+me when I have need, for I have most need of help of you both. Now,
+said Sir Marhaus, I will have the damosel of thirty winter age, for she
+falleth best to me. Well, said Sir Gawaine, I thank you, for ye have
+left me the youngest and the fairest, and she is most liefest to me.
+Then every damosel took her knight by the reins of his bridle, and
+brought him to the three ways, and there was their oath made to meet at
+the fountain that day twelvemonth an they were living, and so they
+kissed and departed, and each knight set his lady behind him. And Sir
+Uwaine took the way that lay west, and Sir Marhaus took the way that
+lay south, and Sir Gawaine took the way that lay north. Now will we
+begin at Sir Gawaine, that held that way till that he came unto a fair
+manor, where dwelled an old knight and a good householder, and there
+Sir Gawaine asked the knight if he knew any adventures in that country.
+I shall show you some to-morn, said the old knight, and that
+marvellous. So, on the morn they rode into the forest of adventures to
+a laund, and thereby they found a cross, and as they stood and hoved
+there came by them the fairest knight and the seemliest man that ever
+they saw, making the greatest dole that ever man made. And then he was
+ware of Sir Gawaine, and saluted him, and prayed God to send him much
+worship. As to that, said Sir Gawaine, gramercy; also I pray to God
+that he send you honour and worship. Ah, said the knight, I may lay
+that aside, for sorrow and shame cometh to me after worship.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX. How a knight and a dwarf strove for a lady.
+
+And therewith he passed unto the one side of the laund; and on the
+other side saw Sir Gawaine ten knights that hoved still and made them
+ready with their shields and spears against that one knight that came
+by Sir Gawaine.
+
+Then this one knight aventred a great spear, and one of the ten knights
+encountered with him, but this woful knight smote him so hard that he
+fell over his horse’s tail. So this same dolorous knight served them
+all, that at the leastway he smote down horse and man, and all he did
+with one spear; and so when they were all ten on foot, they went to
+that one knight, and he stood stone still, and suffered them to pull
+him down off his horse, and bound him hand and foot, and tied him under
+the horse’s belly, and so led him with them. O Jesu! said Sir Gawaine,
+this is a doleful sight, to see the yonder knight so to be entreated,
+and it seemeth by the knight that he suffereth them to bind him so, for
+he maketh no resistance. No, said his host, that is truth, for an he
+would they all were too weak so to do him. Sir, said the damosel unto
+Sir Gawaine, meseemeth it were your worship to help that dolorous
+knight, for methinketh he is one of the best knights that ever I saw. I
+would do for him, said Sir Gawaine, but it seemeth he will have no
+help. Then, said the damosel, methinketh ye have no lust to help him.
+
+Thus as they talked they saw a knight on the other side of the laund
+all armed save the head. And on the other side there came a dwarf on
+horseback all armed save the head, with a great mouth and a short nose;
+and when the dwarf came nigh he said, Where is the lady should meet us
+here? and therewithal she came forth out of the wood. And then they
+began to strive for the lady; for the knight said he would have her,
+and the dwarf said he would have her. Will we do well? said the dwarf;
+yonder is a knight at the cross, let us put it both upon him, and as he
+deemeth so shall it be. I will well, said the knight, and so they went
+all three unto Sir Gawaine and told him wherefore they strove. Well,
+sirs, said he, will ye put the matter in my hand? Yea, they said both.
+Now damosel, said Sir Gawaine, ye shall stand betwixt them both, and
+whether ye list better to go to, he shall have you. And when she was
+set between them both, she left the knight and went to the dwarf, and
+the dwarf took her and went his way singing, and the knight went his
+way with great mourning.
+
+Then came there two knights all armed, and cried on high, Sir Gawaine!
+knight of King Arthur’s, make thee ready in all haste and joust with
+me. So they ran together, that either fell down, and then on foot they
+drew their swords, and did full actually. The meanwhile the other
+knight went to the damosel, and asked her why she abode with that
+knight, and if ye would abide with me, I will be your faithful knight.
+And with you will I be, said the damosel, for with Sir Gawaine I may
+not find in mine heart to be with him; for now here was one knight
+discomfited ten knights, and at the last he was cowardly led away; and
+therefore let us two go whilst they fight. And Sir Gawaine fought with
+that other knight long, but at the last they accorded both. And then
+the knight prayed Sir Gawaine to lodge with him that night. So as Sir
+Gawaine went with this knight he asked him, What knight is he in this
+country that smote down the ten knights? For when he had done so
+manfully he suffered them to bind him hand and foot, and so led him
+away. Ah, said the knight, that is the best knight I trow in the world,
+and the most man of prowess, and he hath been served so as he was even
+more than ten times, and his name hight Sir Pelleas, and he loveth a
+great lady in this country and her name is Ettard. And so when he loved
+her there was cried in this country a great jousts three days, and all
+the knights of this country were there and gentlewomen, and who that
+proved him the best knight should have a passing good sword and a
+circlet of gold, and the circlet the knight should give it to the
+fairest lady that was at the jousts. And this knight Sir Pelleas was
+the best knight that was there, and there were five hundred knights,
+but there was never man that ever Sir Pelleas met withal but he struck
+him down, or else from his horse; and every day of three days he struck
+down twenty knights, therefore they gave him the prize, and forthwithal
+he went thereas the Lady Ettard was, and gave her the circlet, and said
+openly she was the fairest lady that there was, and that would he prove
+upon any knight that would say nay.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI. How King Pelleas suffered himself to be taken prisoner
+because he would have a sight of his lady, and how Sir Gawaine promised
+him to get to him the love of his lady.
+
+And so he chose her for his sovereign lady, and never to love other but
+her, but she was so proud that she had scorn of him, and said that she
+would never love him though he would die for her. Wherefore all ladies
+and gentlewomen had scorn of her that she was so proud, for there were
+fairer than she, and there was none that was there but an Sir Pelleas
+would have proffered them love, they would have loved him for his noble
+prowess. And so this knight promised the Lady Ettard to follow her into
+this country, and never to leave her till she loved him. And thus he is
+here the most part nigh her, and lodged by a priory, and every week she
+sendeth knights to fight with him. And when he hath put them to the
+worse, then will he suffer them wilfully to take him prisoner, because
+he would have a sight of this lady. And always she doth him great
+despite, for sometime she maketh her knights to tie him to his horse’s
+tail, and some to bind him under the horse’s belly; thus in the most
+shamefullest ways that she can think he is brought to her. And all she
+doth it for to cause him to leave this country, and to leave his
+loving; but all this cannot make him to leave, for an he would have
+fought on foot he might have had the better of the ten knights as well
+on foot as on horseback. Alas, said Sir Gawaine, it is great pity of
+him; and after this night I will seek him to-morrow, in this forest, to
+do him all the help I can. So on the morn Sir Gawaine took his leave of
+his host Sir Carados, and rode into the forest; and at the last he met
+with Sir Pelleas, making great moan out of measure, so each of them
+saluted other, and asked him why he made such sorrow. And as it is
+above rehearsed, Sir Pelleas told Sir Gawaine: But always I suffer her
+knights to fare so with me as ye saw yesterday, in trust at the last to
+win her love, for she knoweth well all her knights should not lightly
+win me, an me list to fight with them to the uttermost. Wherefore an I
+loved her not so sore, I had liefer die an hundred times, an I might
+die so oft, rather than I would suffer that despite; but I trust she
+will have pity upon me at the last, for love causeth many a good knight
+to suffer to have his entent, but alas I am unfortunate. And therewith
+he made so great dole and sorrow that unnethe he might hold him on
+horseback.
+
+Now, said Sir Gawaine, leave your mourning and I shall promise you by
+the faith of my body to do all that lieth in my power to get you the
+love of your lady, and thereto I will plight you my troth. Ah, said Sir
+Pelleas, of what court are ye? tell me, I pray you, my good friend. And
+then Sir Gawaine said, I am of the court of King Arthur, and his
+sister’s son, and King Lot of Orkney was my father, and my name is Sir
+Gawaine. And then he said, My name is Sir Pelleas, born in the Isles,
+and of many isles I am lord, and never have I loved lady nor damosel
+till now in an unhappy time; and, sir knight, since ye are so nigh
+cousin unto King Arthur, and a king’s son, therefore betray me not but
+help me, for I may never come by her but by some good knight, for she
+is in a strong castle here, fast by within this four mile, and over all
+this country she is lady of. And so I may never come to her presence,
+but as I suffer her knights to take me, and but if I did so that I
+might have a sight of her, I had been dead long or this time; and yet
+fair word had I never of her, but when I am brought to-fore her she
+rebuketh me in the foulest manner. And then they take my horse and
+harness and put me out of the gates, and she will not suffer me to eat
+nor drink; and always I offer me to be her prisoner, but that she will
+not suffer me, for I would desire no more, what pains so ever I had, so
+that I might have a sight of her daily. Well, said Sir Gawaine, all
+this shall I amend an ye will do as I shall devise: I will have your
+horse and your armour, and so will I ride unto her castle and tell her
+that I have slain you, and so shall I come within her to cause her to
+cherish me, and then shall I do my true part that ye shall not fail to
+have the love of her.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII. How Sir Gawaine came to the Lady Ettard, and how Sir
+Pelleas found them sleeping.
+
+And therewith Sir Gawaine plight his troth unto Sir Pelleas to be true
+and faithful unto him; so each one plight their troth to other, and so
+they changed horses and harness, and Sir Gawaine departed, and came to
+the castle whereas stood the pavilions of this lady without the gate.
+And as soon as Ettard had espied Sir Gawaine she fled in toward the
+castle. Sir Gawaine spake on high, and bade her abide, for he was not
+Sir Pelleas; I am another knight that have slain Sir Pelleas. Do off
+your helm, said the Lady Ettard, that I may see your visage. And so
+when she saw that it was not Sir Pelleas, she bade him alight and led
+him unto her castle, and asked him faithfully whether he had slain Sir
+Pelleas. And he said her yea, and told her his name was Sir Gawaine of
+the court of King Arthur, and his sister’s son. Truly, said she, that
+is great pity, for he was a passing good knight of his body, but of all
+men alive I hated him most, for I could never be quit of him; and for
+ye have slain him I shall be your woman, and to do anything that might
+please you. So she made Sir Gawaine good cheer. Then Sir Gawaine said
+that he loved a lady and by no means she would love him. She is to
+blame, said Ettard, an she will not love you, for ye that be so well
+born a man, and such a man of prowess, there is no lady in the world
+too good for you. Will ye, said Sir Gawaine, promise me to do all that
+ye may, by the faith of your body, to get me the love of my lady? Yea,
+sir, said she, and that I promise you by the faith of my body. Now,
+said Sir Gawaine, it is yourself that I love so well, therefore I pray
+you hold your promise. I may not choose, said the Lady Ettard, but if I
+should be forsworn; and so she granted him to fulfil all his desire.
+
+So it was then in the month of May that she and Sir Gawaine went out of
+the castle and supped in a pavilion, and there was made a bed, and
+there Sir Gawaine and the Lady Ettard went to bed together, and in
+another pavilion she laid her damosels, and in the third pavilion she
+laid part of her knights, for then she had no dread of Sir Pelleas. And
+there Sir Gawaine lay with her in that pavilion two days and two
+nights. And on the third day, in the morning early, Sir Pelleas armed
+him, for he had never slept since Sir Gawaine departed from him; for
+Sir Gawaine had promised him by the faith of his body, to come to him
+unto his pavilion by that priory within the space of a day and a night.
+
+Then Sir Pelleas mounted upon horseback, and came to the pavilions that
+stood without the castle, and found in the first pavilion three knights
+in three beds, and three squires lying at their feet. Then went he to
+the second pavilion and found four gentlewomen lying in four beds. And
+then he yede to the third pavilion and found Sir Gawaine lying in bed
+with his Lady Ettard, and either clipping other in arms, and when he
+saw that his heart well-nigh brast for sorrow, and said: Alas! that
+ever a knight should be found so false; and then he took his horse and
+might not abide no longer for pure sorrow. And when he had ridden nigh
+half a mile he turned again and thought to slay them both; and when he
+saw them both so lie sleeping fast, unnethe he might hold him on
+horseback for sorrow, and said thus to himself, Though this knight be
+never so false, I will never slay him sleeping, for I will never
+destroy the high order of knighthood; and therewith he departed again.
+And or he had ridden half a mile he returned again, and thought then to
+slay them both, making the greatest sorrow that ever man made. And when
+he came to the pavilions, he tied his horse unto a tree, and pulled out
+his sword naked in his hand, and went to them thereas they lay, and yet
+he thought it were shame to slay them sleeping, and laid the naked
+sword overthwart both their throats, and so took his horse and rode his
+way.
+
+And when Sir Pelleas came to his pavilions he told his knights and his
+squires how he had sped, and said thus to them, For your true and good
+service ye have done me I shall give you all my goods, for I will go
+unto my bed and never arise until I am dead. And when that I am dead I
+charge you that ye take the heart out of my body and bear it her
+betwixt two silver dishes, and tell her how I saw her lie with the
+false knight Sir Gawaine. Right so Sir Pelleas unarmed himself, and
+went unto his bed making marvellous dole and sorrow.
+
+When Sir Gawaine and Ettard awoke of their sleep, and found the naked
+sword overthwart their throats, then she knew well it was Sir Pelleas’
+sword. Alas! said she to Sir Gawaine, ye have betrayed me and Sir
+Pelleas both, for ye told me ye had slain him, and now I know well it
+is not so, he is alive. And if Sir Pelleas had been as uncourteous to
+you as ye have been to him ye had been a dead knight; but ye have
+deceived me and betrayed me falsely, that all ladies and damosels may
+beware by you and me. And therewith Sir Gawaine made him ready, and
+went into the forest. So it happed then that the Damosel of the Lake,
+Nimue, met with a knight of Sir Pelleas, that went on his foot in the
+forest making great dole, and she asked him the cause. And so the woful
+knight told her how his master and lord was betrayed through a knight
+and lady, and how he will never arise out of his bed till he be dead.
+Bring me to him, said she anon, and I will warrant his life he shall
+not die for love, and she that hath caused him so to love, she shall be
+in as evil plight as he is or it be long to, for it is no joy of such a
+proud lady that will have no mercy of such a valiant knight. Anon that
+knight brought her unto him, and when she saw him lie in his bed, she
+thought she saw never so likely a knight; and therewith she threw an
+enchantment upon him, and he fell asleep. And therewhile she rode unto
+the Lady Ettard, and charged no man to awake him till she came again.
+So within two hours she brought the Lady Ettard thither, and both
+ladies found him asleep: Lo, said the Damosel of the Lake, ye ought to
+be ashamed for to murder such a knight. And therewith she threw such an
+enchantment upon her that she loved him sore, that well-nigh she was
+out of her mind. O Lord Jesu, said the Lady Ettard, how is it befallen
+unto me that I love now him that I have most hated of any man alive?
+That is the righteous judgment of God, said the damosel. And then anon
+Sir Pelleas awaked and looked upon Ettard; and when he saw her he knew
+her, and then he hated her more than any woman alive, and said: Away,
+traitress, come never in my sight. And when she heard him say so, she
+wept and made great sorrow out of measure.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII. How Sir Pelleas loved no more Ettard by means of the
+Damosel of the Lake, whom he loved ever after.
+
+Sir knight Pelleas, said the Damosel of the Lake, take your horse and
+come forth with me out of this country, and ye shall love a lady that
+shall love you. I will well, said Sir Pelleas, for this Lady Ettard
+hath done me great despite and shame, and there he told her the
+beginning and ending, and how he had purposed never to have arisen till
+that he had been dead. And now such grace God hath sent me, that I hate
+her as much as ever I loved her, thanked be our Lord Jesus! Thank me,
+said the Damosel of the Lake. Anon Sir Pelleas armed him, and took his
+horse, and commanded his men to bring after his pavilions and his stuff
+where the Damosel of the Lake would assign. So the Lady Ettard died for
+sorrow, and the Damosel of the Lake rejoiced Sir Pelleas, and loved
+together during their life days.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV. How Sir Marhaus rode with the damosel, and how he came to
+the Duke of the South Marches.
+
+Now turn we unto Sir Marhaus, that rode with the damosel of thirty
+winter of age, southward. And so they came into a deep forest, and by
+fortune they were nighted, and rode long in a deep way, and at the last
+they came unto a courtelage, and there they asked harbour. But the man
+of the courtelage would not lodge them for no treatise that they could
+treat, but thus much the good man said, An ye will take the adventure
+of your lodging, I shall bring you where ye shall be lodged. What
+adventure is that that I shall have for my lodging? said Sir Marhaus.
+Ye shall wit when ye come there, said the good man. Sir, what adventure
+so it be, bring me thither I pray thee, said Sir Marhaus; for I am
+weary, my damosel, and my horse. So the good man went and opened the
+gate, and within an hour he brought him unto a fair castle, and then
+the poor man called the porter, and anon he was let into the castle,
+and so he told the lord how he brought him a knight errant and a
+damosel that would be lodged with him. Let him in, said the lord, it
+may happen he shall repent that they took their lodging here.
+
+So Sir Marhaus was let in with torchlight, and there was a goodly sight
+of young men that welcomed him. And then his horse was led into the
+stable, and he and the damosel were brought into the hall, and there
+stood a mighty duke and many goodly men about him. Then this lord asked
+him what he hight, and from whence he came, and with whom he dwelt.
+Sir, he said, I am a knight of King Arthur’s and knight of the Table
+Round, and my name is Sir Marhaus, and born I am in Ireland. And then
+said the duke to him, That me sore repenteth: the cause is this, for I
+love not thy lord nor none of thy fellows of the Table Round; and
+therefore ease thyself this night as well as thou mayest, for as
+to-morn I and my six sons shall match with you. Is there no remedy but
+that I must have ado with you and your six sons at once? said Sir
+Marhaus. No, said the duke, for this cause I made mine avow, for Sir
+Gawaine slew my seven sons in a recounter, therefore I made mine avow,
+there should never knight of King Arthur’s court lodge with me, or come
+thereas I might have ado with him, but that I would have a revenging of
+my sons’ death. What is your name? said Sir Marhaus; I require you tell
+me, an it please you. Wit thou well I am the Duke of South Marches. Ah,
+said Sir Marhaus, I have heard say that ye have been long time a great
+foe unto my lord Arthur and to his knights. That shall ye feel to-morn,
+said the duke. Shall I have ado with you? said Sir Marhaus. Yea, said
+the duke, thereof shalt thou not choose, and therefore take you to your
+chamber, and ye shall have all that to you longeth. So Sir Marhaus
+departed and was led to a chamber, and his damosel was led unto her
+chamber. And on the morn the duke sent unto Sir Marhaus and bade make
+him ready. And so Sir Marhaus arose and armed him, and then there was a
+mass sung afore him, and brake his fast, and so mounted on horseback in
+the court of the castle where they should do the battle. So there was
+the duke all ready on horseback, clean armed, and his six sons by him,
+and everych had a spear in his hand, and so they encountered, whereas
+the duke and his two sons brake their spears upon him, but Sir Marhaus
+held up his spear and touched none of them.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV. How Sir Marhaus fought with the duke and his four sons and
+made them to yield them.
+
+Then came the four sons by couple, and two of them brake their spears,
+and so did the other two. And all this while Sir Marhaus touched them
+not. Then Sir Marhaus ran to the duke, and smote him with his spear
+that horse and man fell to the earth, and so he served his sons; and
+then Sir Marhaus alighted down and bade the duke yield him or else he
+would slay him. And then some of his sons recovered, and would have set
+upon Sir Marhaus; then Sir Marhaus said to the duke, Cease thy sons, or
+else I will do the uttermost to you all. Then the duke saw he might not
+escape the death, he cried to his sons, and charged them to yield them
+to Sir Marhaus; and they kneeled all down and put the pommels of their
+swords to the knight, and so he received them. And then they helped up
+their father, and so by their cominal assent promised to Sir Marhaus
+never to be foes unto King Arthur, and thereupon at Whitsuntide after
+to come, he and his sons, and put them in the king’s grace.
+
+Then Sir Marhaus departed, and within two days his damosel brought him
+whereas was a great tournament that the Lady de Vawse had cried. And
+who that did best should have a rich circlet of gold worth a thousand
+besants. And there Sir Marhaus did so nobly that he was renowned, and
+had sometime down forty knights, and so the circlet of gold was
+rewarded him. Then he departed from them with great worship; and so
+within seven nights his damosel brought him to an earl’s place, his
+name was the Earl Fergus, that after was Sir Tristram’s knight; and
+this earl was but a young man, and late come into his lands, and there
+was a giant fast by him that hight Taulurd, and he had another brother
+in Cornwall that hight Taulas, that Sir Tristram slew when he was out
+of his mind. So this earl made his complaint unto Sir Marhaus, that
+there was a giant by him that destroyed all his lands, and how he durst
+nowhere ride nor go for him. Sir, said the knight, whether useth he to
+fight on horseback or on foot? Nay, said the earl, there may no horse
+bear him. Well, said Sir Marhaus, then will I fight with him on foot;
+so on the morn Sir Marhaus prayed the earl that one of his men might
+bring him whereas the giant was; and so he was, for he saw him sit
+under a tree of holly, and many clubs of iron and gisarms about him. So
+this knight dressed him to the giant, putting his shield afore him, and
+the giant took an iron club in his hand, and at the first stroke he
+clave Sir Marhaus’ shield in two pieces. And there he was in great
+peril, for the giant was a wily fighter, but at last Sir Marhaus smote
+off his right arm above the elbow.
+
+Then the giant fled and the knight after him, and so he drove him into
+a water, but the giant was so high that he might not wade after him.
+And then Sir Marhaus made the Earl Fergus’ man to fetch him stones, and
+with those stones the knight gave the giant many sore knocks, till at
+the last he made him fall down into the water, and so was he there
+dead. Then Sir Marhaus went unto the giant’s castle, and there he
+delivered twenty-four ladies and twelve knights out of the giant’s
+prison, and there he had great riches without number, so that the days
+of his life he was never poor man. Then he returned to the Earl Fergus,
+the which thanked him greatly, and would have given him half his lands,
+but he would none take. So Sir Marhaus dwelled with the earl nigh half
+a year, for he was sore bruised with the giant, and at the last he took
+his leave. And as he rode by the way, he met with Sir Gawaine and Sir
+Uwaine, and so by adventure he met with four knights of Arthur’s court,
+the first was Sir Sagramore le Desirous, Sir Osanna, Sir Dodinas le
+Savage, and Sir Felot of Listinoise; and there Sir Marhaus with one
+spear smote down these four knights, and hurt them sore. So he departed
+to meet at his day aforeset.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI. How Sir Uwaine rode with the damosel of sixty year of
+age, and how he gat the prize at tourneying.
+
+Now turn we unto Sir Uwaine, that rode westward with his damosel of
+three score winter of age, and she brought him thereas was a tournament
+nigh the march of Wales. And at that tournament Sir Uwaine smote down
+thirty knights, therefore was given him the prize, and that was a
+gerfalcon, and a white steed trapped with cloth of gold. So then Sir
+Uwaine did many strange adventures by the means of the old damosel, and
+so she brought him to a lady that was called the Lady of the Rock, the
+which was much courteous. So there were in the country two knights that
+were brethren, and they were called two perilous knights, the one
+knight hight Sir Edward of the Red Castle, and the other Sir Hue of the
+Red Castle; and these two brethren had disherited the Lady of the Rock
+of a barony of lands by their extortion. And as this knight was lodged
+with this lady she made her complaint to him of these two knights.
+
+Madam, said Sir Uwaine, they are to blame, for they do against the high
+order of knighthood, and the oath that they made; and if it like you I
+will speak with them, because I am a knight of King Arthur’s, and I
+will entreat them with fairness; and if they will not, I shall do
+battle with them, and in the defence of your right. Gramercy said the
+lady, and thereas I may not acquit you, God shall. So on the morn the
+two knights were sent for, that they should come thither to speak with
+the Lady of the Rock, and wit ye well they failed not, for they came
+with an hundred horse. But when this lady saw them in this manner so
+big, she would not suffer Sir Uwaine to go out to them upon no surety
+nor for no fair language, but she made him speak with them over a
+tower, but finally these two brethren would not be entreated, and
+answered that they would keep that they had. Well, said Sir Uwaine,
+then will I fight with one of you, and prove that ye do this lady
+wrong. That will we not, said they, for an we do battle, we two will
+fight with one knight at once, and therefore if ye will fight so, we
+will be ready at what hour ye will assign. And if ye win us in battle
+the lady shall have her lands again. Ye say well, said Sir Uwaine,
+therefore make you ready so that ye be here to-morn in the defence of
+the lady’s right.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII. How Sir Uwaine fought with two knights and overcame
+them.
+
+So was there sikerness made on both parties that no treason should be
+wrought on neither party; so then the knights departed and made them
+ready, and that night Sir Uwaine had great cheer. And on the morn he
+arose early and heard mass, and brake his fast, and so he rode unto the
+plain without the gates, where hoved the two brethren abiding him. So
+they rode together passing sore, that Sir Edward and Sir Hue brake
+their spears upon Sir Uwaine. And Sir Uwaine smote Sir Edward that he
+fell over his horse and yet his spear brast not. And then he spurred
+his horse and came upon Sir Hue and overthrew him, but they soon
+recovered and dressed their shields and drew their swords and bade Sir
+Uwaine alight and do his battle to the uttermost. Then Sir Uwaine
+devoided his horse suddenly, and put his shield afore him and drew his
+sword, and so they dressed together, and either gave other such
+strokes, and there these two brethren wounded Sir Uwaine passing
+grievously that the Lady of the Rock weened he should have died. And
+thus they fought together five hours as men raged out of reason. And at
+the last Sir Uwaine smote Sir Edward upon the helm such a stroke that
+his sword carved unto his canel bone, and then Sir Hue abated his
+courage, but Sir Uwaine pressed fast to have slain him. That saw Sir
+Hue: he kneeled down and yielded him to Sir Uwaine. And he of his
+gentleness received his sword, and took him by the hand, and went into
+the castle together. Then the Lady of the Rock was passing glad, and
+the other brother made great sorrow for his brother’s death. Then the
+lady was restored of all her lands, and Sir Hue was commanded to be at
+the court of King Arthur at the next feast of Pentecost. So Sir Uwaine
+dwelt with the lady nigh half a year, for it was long or he might be
+whole of his great hurts. And so when it drew nigh the term-day that
+Sir Gawaine, Sir Marhaus, and Sir Uwaine should meet at the cross-way,
+then every knight drew him thither to hold his promise that they had
+made; and Sir Marhaus and Sir Uwaine brought their damosels with them,
+but Sir Gawaine had lost his damosel, as it is afore rehearsed.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII. How at the year’s end all three knights with their
+three damosels met at the fountain.
+
+Right so at the twelvemonths’ end they met all three knights at the
+fountain and their damosels, but the damosel that Sir Gawaine had could
+say but little worship of him so they departed from the damosels and
+rode through a great forest, and there they met with a messenger that
+came from King Arthur, that had sought them well-nigh a twelvemonth
+throughout all England, Wales, and Scotland, and charged if ever he
+might find Sir Gawaine and Sir Uwaine to bring them to the court again.
+And then were they all glad, and so prayed they Sir Marhaus to ride
+with them to the king’s court. And so within twelve days they came to
+Camelot, and the king was passing glad of their coming, and so was all
+the court. Then the king made them to swear upon a book to tell him all
+their adventures that had befallen them that twelvemonth, and so they
+did. And there was Sir Marhaus well known, for there were knights that
+he had matched aforetime, and he was named one of the best knights
+living.
+
+Against the feast of Pentecost came the Damosel of the Lake and brought
+with her Sir Pelleas; and at that high feast there was great jousting
+of knights, and of all knights that were at that jousts, Sir Pelleas
+had the prize, and Sir Marhaus was named the next; but Sir Pelleas was
+so strong there might but few knights sit him a buffet with a spear.
+And at that next feast Sir Pelleas and Sir Marhaus were made knights of
+the Table Round, for there were two sieges void, for two knights were
+slain that twelvemonth, and great joy had King Arthur of Sir Pelleas
+and of Sir Marhaus. But Pelleas loved never after Sir Gawaine, but as
+he spared him for the love of King Arthur; but ofttimes at jousts and
+tournaments Sir Pelleas quit Sir Gawaine, for so it rehearseth in the
+book of French. So Sir Tristram many days after fought with Sir Marhaus
+in an island, and there they did a great battle, but at the last Sir
+Tristram slew him, so Sir Tristram was wounded that unnethe he might
+recover, and lay at a nunnery half a year. And Sir Pelleas was a
+worshipful knight, and was one of the four that achieved the Sangreal,
+and the Damosel of the Lake made by her means that never he had ado
+with Sir Launcelot de Lake, for where Sir Launcelot was at any jousts
+or any tournament, she would not suffer him be there that day, but if
+it were on the side of Sir Launcelot.
+
+Explicit liber quartus.
+Incipit liber quintus.
+
+
+
+BOOK V.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I. How twelve aged ambassadors of Rome came to King Arthur to
+demand truage for Britain.
+
+When King Arthur had after long war rested, and held a royal feast and
+Table Round with his allies of kings, princes, and noble knights all of
+the Round Table, there came into his hall, he sitting in his throne
+royal, twelve ancient men, bearing each of them a branch of olive, in
+token that they came as ambassadors and messengers from the Emperor
+Lucius, which was called at that time, Dictator or Procuror of the
+Public Weal of Rome. Which said messengers, after their entering and
+coming into the presence of King Arthur, did to him their obeisance in
+making to him reverence, and said to him in this wise: The high and
+mighty Emperor Lucius sendeth to the King of Britain greeting,
+commanding thee to acknowledge him for thy lord, and to send him the
+truage due of this realm unto the Empire, which thy father and other
+to-fore thy precessors have paid as is of record, and thou as rebel not
+knowing him as thy sovereign, withholdest and retainest contrary to the
+statutes and decrees made by the noble and worthy Julius Cesar,
+conqueror of this realm, and first Emperor of Rome. And if thou refuse
+his demand and commandment know thou for certain that he shall make
+strong war against thee, thy realms and lands, and shall chastise thee
+and thy subjects, that it shall be ensample perpetual unto all kings
+and princes, for to deny their truage unto that noble empire which
+domineth upon the universal world. Then when they had showed the effect
+of their message, the king commanded them to withdraw them, and said he
+should take advice of council and give to them an answer. Then some of
+the young knights, hearing this their message, would have run on them
+to have slain them, saying that it was a rebuke to all the knights
+there being present to suffer them to say so to the king. And anon the
+king commanded that none of them, upon pain of death, to missay them
+nor do them any harm, and commanded a knight to bring them to their
+lodging, and see that they have all that is necessary and requisite for
+them, with the best cheer, and that no dainty be spared, for the Romans
+be great lords, and though their message please me not nor my court,
+yet I must remember mine honour.
+
+After this the king let call all his lords and knights of the Round
+Table to counsel upon this matter, and desired them to say their
+advice. Then Sir Cador of Cornwall spake first and said, Sir, this
+message liketh me well, for we have many days rested us and have been
+idle, and now I hope ye shall make sharp war on the Romans, where I
+doubt not we shall get honour. I believe well, said Arthur, that this
+matter pleaseth thee well, but these answers may not be answered, for
+the demand grieveth me sore, for truly I will never pay truage to Rome,
+wherefore I pray you to counsel me. I have understood that Belinus and
+Brenius, kings of Britain, have had the empire in their hands many
+days, and also Constantine the son of Heleine, which is an open
+evidence that we owe no tribute to Rome but of right we that be
+descended of them have right to claim the title of the empire.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II. How the kings and lords promised to King Arthur aid and
+help against the Romans.
+
+Then answered King Anguish of Scotland, Sir, ye ought of right to be
+above all other kings, for unto you is none like nor pareil in
+Christendom, of knighthood nor of dignity, and I counsel you never to
+obey the Romans, for when they reigned on us they distressed our
+elders, and put this land to great extortions and tallies, wherefore I
+make here mine avow to avenge me on them; and for to strengthen your
+quarrel I shall furnish twenty thousand good men of war, and wage them
+on my costs, which shall await on you with myself when it shall please
+you. And the king of Little Britain granted him to the same thirty
+thousand; wherefore King Arthur thanked them. And then every man agreed
+to make war, and to aid after their power; that is to wit, the lord of
+West Wales promised to bring thirty thousand men, and Sir Uwaine, Sir
+Ider his son, with their cousins, promised to bring thirty thousand.
+Then Sir Launcelot with all other promised in likewise every man a
+great multitude.
+
+And when King Arthur understood their courages and good wills he
+thanked them heartily, and after let call the ambassadors to hear their
+answer. And in presence of all his lords and knights he said to them in
+this wise: I will that ye return unto your lord and Procuror of the
+Common Weal for the Romans, and say ye to him, Of his demand and
+commandment I set nothing, and that I know of no truage nor tribute
+that I owe to him, nor to none earthly prince, Christian nor heathen;
+but I pretend to have and occupy the sovereignty of the empire, wherein
+I am entitled by the right of my predecessors, sometime kings of this
+land; and say to him that I am delibered and fully concluded, to go
+with mine army with strength and power unto Rome, by the grace of God,
+to take possession in the empire and subdue them that be rebel.
+Wherefore I command him and all them of Rome, that incontinent they
+make to me their homage, and to acknowledge me for their Emperor and
+Governor, upon pain that shall ensue. And then he commanded his
+treasurer to give to them great and large gifts, and to pay all their
+dispenses, and assigned Sir Cador to convey them out of the land. And
+so they took their leave and departed, and took their shipping at
+Sandwich, and passed forth by Flanders, Almaine, the mountains, and all
+Italy, until they came unto Lucius. And after the reverence made, they
+made relation of their answer, like as ye to-fore have heard.
+
+When the Emperor Lucius had well understood their credence, he was sore
+moved as he had been all araged, and said, I had supposed that Arthur
+would have obeyed to my commandment, and have served you himself, as
+him well beseemed or any other king to do. O Sir, said one of the
+senators, let be such vain words, for we let you wit that I and my
+fellows were full sore afeard to behold his countenance; I fear me ye
+have made a rod for yourself, for he intendeth to be lord of this
+empire, which sore is to be doubted if he come, for he is all another
+man than ye ween, and holdeth the most noble court of the world, all
+other kings nor princes may not compare unto his noble maintenance. On
+New Year’s Day we saw him in his estate, which was the royalest that
+ever we saw, for he was served at his table with nine kings, and the
+noblest fellowship of other princes, lords, and knights that be in the
+world, and every knight approved and like a lord, and holdeth Table
+Round: and in his person the most manly man that liveth, and is like to
+conquer all the world, for unto his courage it is too little: wherefore
+I advise you to keep well your marches and straits in the mountains;
+for certainly he is a lord to be doubted. Well, said Lucius, before
+Easter I suppose to pass the mountains, and so forth into France, and
+there bereave him his lands with Genoese and other mighty warriors of
+Tuscany and Lombardy. And I shall send for them all that be subjects
+and allied to the empire of Rome to come to mine aid. And forthwith
+sent old wise knights unto these countries following: first to Ambage
+and Arrage, to Alexandria, to India, to Armenia, whereas the river of
+Euphrates runneth into Asia, to Africa, and Europe the Large, to
+Ertayne and Elamye, to Araby, Egypt, and to Damascus, to Damietta and
+Cayer, to Cappadocia, to Tarsus, Turkey, Pontus and Pamphylia, to Syria
+and Galatia. And all these were subject to Rome and many more, as
+Greece, Cyprus, Macedonia, Calabria, Cateland, Portugal, with many
+thousands of Spaniards. Thus all these kings, dukes, and admirals,
+assembled about Rome, with sixteen kings at once, with great multitude
+of people. When the emperor understood their coming he made ready his
+Romans and all the people between him and Flanders.
+
+Also he had gotten with him fifty giants which had been engendered of
+fiends; and they were ordained to guard his person, and to break the
+front of the battle of King Arthur. And thus departed from Rome, and
+came down the mountains for to destroy the lands that Arthur had
+conquered, and came unto Cologne, and besieged a castle thereby, and
+won it soon, and stuffed it with two hundred Saracens or Infidels, and
+after destroyed many fair countries which Arthur had won of King
+Claudas. And thus Lucius came with all his host, which were disperplyd
+sixty mile in breadth, and commanded them to meet with him in Burgoyne,
+for he purposed to destroy the realm of Little Britain.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III. How King Arthur held a parliament at York, and how he
+ordained the realm should be governed in his absence.
+
+Now leave we of Lucius the Emperor and speak we of King Arthur, that
+commanded all them of his retinue to be ready at the utas of Hilary for
+to hold a parliament at York. And at that parliament was concluded to
+arrest all the navy of the land, and to be ready within fifteen days at
+Sandwich, and there he showed to his army how he purposed to conquer
+the empire which he ought to have of right. And there he ordained two
+governors of this realm, that is to say, Sir Baudwin of Britain, for to
+counsel to the best, and Sir Constantine, son to Sir Cador of Cornwall,
+which after the death of Arthur was king of this realm. And in the
+presence of all his lords he resigned the rule of the realm and
+Guenever his queen to them, wherefore Sir Launcelot was wroth, for he
+left Sir Tristram with King Mark for the love of Beale Isould. Then the
+Queen Guenever made great sorrow for the departing of her lord and
+other, and swooned in such wise that the ladies bare her into her
+chamber. Thus the king with his great army departed, leaving the queen
+and realm in the governance of Sir Baudwin and Constantine. And when he
+was on his horse he said with an high voice, If I die in this journey I
+will that Sir Constantine be mine heir and king crowned of this realm
+as next of my blood. And after departed and entered into the sea at
+Sandwich with all his army, with a great multitude of ships, galleys,
+cogs, and dromounds, sailing on the sea.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV. How King Arthur being shipped and lying in his cabin had a
+marvellous dream and of the exposition thereof.
+
+And as the king lay in his cabin in the ship, he fell in a slumbering
+and dreamed a marvellous dream: him seemed that a dreadful dragon did
+drown much of his people, and he came flying out of the west, and his
+head was enamelled with azure, and his shoulders shone as gold, his
+belly like mails of a marvellous hue, his tail full of tatters, his
+feet full of fine sable, and his claws like fine gold; and an hideous
+flame of fire flew out of his mouth, like as the land and water had
+flamed all of fire. After, him seemed there came out of the orient, a
+grimly boar all black in a cloud, and his paws as big as a post; he was
+rugged looking roughly, he was the foulest beast that ever man saw, he
+roared and romed so hideously that it were marvel to hear. Then the
+dreadful dragon advanced him and came in the wind like a falcon giving
+great strokes on the boar, and the boar hit him again with his grizzly
+tusks that his breast was all bloody, and that the hot blood made all
+the sea red of his blood. Then the dragon flew away all on an height,
+and came down with such a swough, and smote the boar on the ridge,
+which was ten foot large from the head to the tail, and smote the boar
+all to powder both flesh and bones, that it flittered all abroad on the
+sea.
+
+And therewith the king awoke anon, and was sore abashed of this dream,
+and sent anon for a wise philosopher, commanding to tell him the
+signification of his dream. Sir, said the philosopher, the dragon that
+thou dreamedst of betokeneth thine own person that sailest here, and
+the colours of his wings be thy realms that thou hast won, and his tail
+which is all to-tattered signifieth the noble knights of the Round
+Table; and the boar that the dragon slew coming from the clouds
+betokeneth some tyrant that tormenteth the people, or else thou art
+like to fight with some giant thyself, being horrible and abominable,
+whose peer ye saw never in your days, wherefore of this dreadful dream
+doubt thee nothing, but as a conqueror come forth thyself.
+
+Then after this soon they had sight of land, and sailed till they
+arrived at Barflete in Flanders, and when they were there he found many
+of his great lords ready, as they had been commanded to wait upon him.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V. How a man of the country told to him of a marvellous giant,
+and how he fought and conquered him.
+
+Then came to him an husbandman of the country, and told him how there
+was in the country of Constantine beside Brittany, a great giant which
+had slain, murdered and devoured much people of the country, and had
+been sustained seven year with the children of the commons of that
+land, insomuch that all the children be all slain and destroyed; and
+now late he hath taken the Duchess of Brittany as she rode with her
+meiny, and hath led her to his lodging which is in a mountain, for to
+ravish and lie by her to her life’s end, and many people followed her,
+more than five hundred, but all they might not rescue her, but they
+left her shrieking and crying lamentably, wherefore I suppose that he
+hath slain her in fulfilling his foul lust of lechery. She was wife
+unto thy cousin Sir Howell, whom we call full nigh of thy blood. Now,
+as thou art a rightful king, have pity on this lady, and revenge us all
+as thou art a noble conqueror. Alas, said King Arthur, this is a great
+mischief, I had liefer than the best realm that I have that I had been
+a furlong way to-fore him for to have rescued that lady. Now, fellow,
+said King Arthur, canst thou bring me thereas this giant haunteth? Yea,
+Sir, said the good man, look yonder whereas thou seest those two great
+fires, there shalt thou find him, and more treasure than I suppose is
+in all France. When the king had understood this piteous case, he
+returned into his tent.
+
+Then he called to him Sir Kay and Sir Bedivere, and commanded them
+secretly to make ready horse and harness for himself and them twain;
+for after evensong he would ride on pilgrimage with them two only unto
+Saint Michael’s mount. And then anon he made him ready, and armed him
+at all points, and took his horse and his shield. And so they three
+departed thence and rode forth as fast as ever they might till that
+they came to the foreland of that mount. And there they alighted, and
+the king commanded them to tarry there, for he would himself go up into
+that mount. And so he ascended up into that hill till he came to a
+great fire, and there he found a careful widow wringing her hands and
+making great sorrow, sitting by a grave new made. And then King Arthur
+saluted her, and demanded of her wherefore she made such lamentation,
+to whom she answered and said, Sir knight, speak soft, for yonder is a
+devil, if he hear thee speak he will come and destroy thee; I hold thee
+unhappy; what dost thou here in this mountain? for if ye were such
+fifty as ye be, ye were not able to make resistance against this devil:
+here lieth a duchess dead, the which was the fairest of all the world,
+wife to Sir Howell, Duke of Brittany, he hath murdered her in forcing
+her, and hath slit her unto the navel.
+
+Dame, said the king, I come from the noble conqueror King Arthur, for
+to treat with that tyrant for his liege people. Fie on such treaties,
+said she, he setteth not by the king nor by no man else; but an if thou
+have brought Arthur’s wife, dame Guenever, he shall be gladder than
+thou hadst given to him half France. Beware, approach him not too nigh,
+for he hath vanquished fifteen kings, and hath made him a coat full of
+precious stones embroidered with their beards, which they sent him to
+have his love for salvation of their people at this last Christmas. And
+if thou wilt, speak with him at yonder great fire at supper. Well, said
+Arthur, I will accomplish my message for all your fearful words; and
+went forth by the crest of that hill, and saw where he sat at supper
+gnawing on a limb of a man, baking his broad limbs by the fire, and
+breechless, and three fair damosels turning three broaches whereon were
+broached twelve young children late born, like young birds.
+
+When King Arthur beheld that piteous sight he had great compassion on
+them, so that his heart bled for sorrow, and hailed him, saying in this
+wise: He that all the world wieldeth give thee short life and shameful
+death; and the devil have thy soul; why hast thou murdered these young
+innocent children, and murdered this duchess? Therefore, arise and
+dress thee, thou glutton, for this day shalt thou die of my hand. Then
+the glutton anon started up, and took a great club in his hand, and
+smote at the king that his coronal fell to the earth. And the king hit
+him again that he carved his belly and cut off his genitours, that his
+guts and his entrails fell down to the ground. Then the giant threw
+away his club, and caught the king in his arms that he crushed his
+ribs. Then the three maidens kneeled down and called to Christ for help
+and comfort of Arthur. And then Arthur weltered and wrung, that he was
+other while under and another time above. And so weltering and
+wallowing they rolled down the hill till they came to the sea mark, and
+ever as they so weltered Arthur smote him with his dagger.
+
+And it fortuned they came to the place whereas the two knights were and
+kept Arthur’s horse; then when they saw the king fast in the giant’s
+arms they came and loosed him. And then the king commanded Sir Kay to
+smite off the giant’s head, and to set it upon a truncheon of a spear,
+and bear it to Sir Howell, and tell him that his enemy was slain; and
+after let this head be bound to a barbican that all the people may see
+and behold it; and go ye two up to the mountain, and fetch me my
+shield, my sword, and the club of iron; and as for the treasure, take
+ye it, for ye shall find there goods out of number; so I have the
+kirtle and the club I desire no more. This was the fiercest giant that
+ever I met with, save one in the mount of Araby, which I overcame, but
+this was greater and fiercer. Then the knights fetched the club and the
+kirtle, and some of the treasure they took to themselves, and returned
+again to the host. And anon this was known through all the country,
+wherefore the people came and thanked the king. And he said again, Give
+the thanks to God, and depart the goods among you.
+
+And after that King Arthur said and commanded his cousin Howell, that
+he should ordain for a church to be builded on the same hill in the
+worship of Saint Michael. And on the morn the king removed with his
+great battle, and came into Champayne and in a valley, and there they
+pight their tents; and the king being set at his dinner, there came in
+two messengers, of whom that one was Marshal of France, and said to the
+king that the emperor was entered into France, and had destroyed a
+great part, and was in Burgoyne, and had destroyed and made great
+slaughter of people, and burnt towns and boroughs; wherefore, if thou
+come not hastily, they must yield up their bodies and goods.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI. How King Arthur sent Sir Gawaine and other to Lucius, and
+how they were assailed and escaped with worship.
+
+Then the king did do call Sir Gawaine, Sir Bors, Sir Lionel, and Sir
+Bedivere, and commanded them to go straight to Sir Lucius, and say ye
+to him that hastily he remove out of my land; and if he will not, bid
+him make him ready to battle and not distress the poor people. Then
+anon these noble knights dressed them to horseback, and when they came
+to the green wood, they saw many pavilions set in a meadow, of silk of
+divers colours, beside a river, and the emperor’s pavilion was in the
+middle with an eagle displayed above. To the which tent our knights
+rode toward, and ordained Sir Gawaine and Sir Bors to do the message,
+and left in a bushment Sir Lionel and Sir Bedivere. And then Sir
+Gawaine and Sir Bors did their message, and commanded Lucius, in
+Arthur’s name to avoid his land, or shortly to address him to battle.
+To whom Lucius answered and said, Ye shall return to your lord, and say
+ye to him that I shall subdue him and all his lands. Then Sir Gawaine
+was wroth and said, I had liefer than all France fight against thee;
+and so had I, said Sir Bors, liefer than all Brittany or Burgoyne.
+
+Then a knight named Sir Gainus, nigh cousin to the emperor, said, Lo,
+how these Britons be full of pride and boast, and they brag as though
+they bare up all the world. Then Sir Gawaine was sore grieved with
+these words, and pulled out his sword and smote off his head. And
+therewith turned their horses and rode over waters and through woods
+till they came to their bushment, whereas Sir Lionel and Sir Bedivere
+were hoving. The Romans followed fast after, on horseback and on foot,
+over a champaign unto a wood; then Sir Bors turned his horse and saw a
+knight come fast on, whom he smote through the body with a spear that
+he fell dead down to the earth; then came Caliburn one of the strongest
+of Pavie, and smote down many of Arthur’s knights. And when Sir Bors
+saw him do so much harm, he addressed toward him, and smote him through
+the breast, that he fell down dead to the earth. Then Sir Feldenak
+thought to revenge the death of Gainus upon Sir Gawaine, but Sir
+Gawaine was ware thereof, and smote him on the head, which stroke
+stinted not till it came to his breast. And then he returned and came
+to his fellows in the bushment. And there was a recounter, for the
+bushment brake on the Romans, and slew and hew down the Romans, and
+forced the Romans to flee and return, whom the noble knights chased
+unto their tents.
+
+Then the Romans gathered more people, and also footmen came on, and
+there was a new battle, and so much people that Sir Bors and Sir Berel
+were taken. But when Sir Gawaine saw that, he took with him Sir Idrus
+the good knight, and said he would never see King Arthur but if he
+rescued them, and pulled out Galatine his good sword, and followed them
+that led those two knights away; and he smote him that led Sir Bors,
+and took Sir Bors from him and delivered him to his fellows. And Sir
+Idrus in likewise rescued Sir Berel. Then began the battle to be great,
+that our knights were in great jeopardy, wherefore Sir Gawaine sent to
+King Arthur for succour, and that he hie him, for I am sore wounded,
+and that our prisoners may pay goods out of number. And the messenger
+came to the king and told him his message. And anon the king did do
+assemble his army, but anon, or he departed the prisoners were come,
+and Sir Gawaine and his fellows gat the field and put the Romans to
+flight, and after returned and came with their fellowship in such wise
+that no man of worship was lost of them, save that Sir Gawaine was sore
+hurt. Then the king did do ransack his wounds and comforted him. And
+thus was the beginning of the first journey of the Britons and Romans,
+and there were slain of the Romans more than ten thousand, and great
+joy and mirth was made that night in the host of King Arthur. And on
+the morn he sent all the prisoners into Paris under the guard of Sir
+Launcelot, with many knights, and of Sir Cador.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII. How Lucius sent certain spies in a bushment for to have
+taken his knights being prisoners, and how they were letted.
+
+Now turn we to the Emperor of Rome, which espied that these prisoners
+should be sent to Paris, and anon he sent to lie in a bushment certain
+knights and princes with sixty thousand men, for to rescue his knights
+and lords that were prisoners. And so on the morn as Launcelot and Sir
+Cador, chieftains and governors of all them that conveyed the
+prisoners, as they should pass through a wood, Sir Launcelot sent
+certain knights to espy if any were in the woods to let them. And when
+the said knights came into the wood, anon they espied and saw the great
+embushment, and returned and told Sir Launcelot that there lay in await
+for them three score thousand Romans. And then Sir Launcelot with such
+knights as he had, and men of war to the number of ten thousand, put
+them in array, and met with them and fought with them manly, and slew
+and detrenched many of the Romans, and slew many knights and admirals
+of the party of the Romans and Saracens; there was slain the king of
+Lyly and three great lords, Aladuke, Herawd, and Heringdale. But Sir
+Launcelot fought so nobly that no man might endure a stroke of his
+hand, but where he came he showed his prowess and might, for he slew
+down right on every side; and the Romans and Saracens fled from him as
+the sheep from the wolf or from the lion, and put them, all that abode
+alive, to flight.
+
+And so long they fought that tidings came to King Arthur, and anon he
+graithed him and came to the battle, and saw his knights how they had
+vanquished the battle, he embraced them knight by knight in his arms,
+and said, Ye be worthy to wield all your honour and worship; there was
+never king save myself that had so noble knights. Sir, said Cador,
+there was none of us failed other, but of the prowess and manhood of
+Sir Launcelot were more than wonder to tell, and also of his cousins
+which did that day many noble feats of war. And also Sir Cador told who
+of his knights were slain, as Sir Berel, and other Sir Moris and Sir
+Maurel, two good knights. Then the king wept, and dried his eyes with a
+kerchief, and said, Your courage had near-hand destroyed you, for
+though ye had returned again, ye had lost no worship; for I call it
+folly, knights to abide when they be overmatched. Nay, said Launcelot
+and the other, for once shamed may never be recovered.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII. How a senator told to Lucius of their discomfiture, and
+also of the great battle between Arthur and Lucius.
+
+Now leave we King Arthur and his noble knights which had won the field,
+and had brought their prisoners to Paris, and speak we of a senator
+which escaped from the battle, and came to Lucius the emperor, and said
+to him, Sir emperor, I advise thee for to withdraw thee; what dost thou
+here? thou shalt win nothing in these marches but great strokes out of
+all measure, for this day one of Arthur’s knights was worth in the
+battle an hundred of ours. Fie on thee, said Lucius, thou speakest
+cowardly; for thy words grieve me more than all the loss that I had
+this day. And anon he sent forth a king, which hight Sir Leomie, with a
+great army, and bade him hie him fast to-fore, and he would follow
+hastily after. King Arthur was warned privily, and sent his people to
+Sessoine, and took up the towns and castles from the Romans. Then the
+king commanded Sir Cador to take the rearward, and to take with him
+certain knights of the Round Table, and Sir Launcelot, Sir Bors, Sir
+Kay, Sir Marrok, with Sir Marhaus, shall await on our person. Thus the
+King Arthur disperpled his host in divers parties, to the end that his
+enemies should not escape.
+
+When the emperor was entered into the vale of Sessoine, he might see
+where King Arthur was embattled and his banner displayed; and he was
+beset round about with his enemies, that needs he must fight or yield
+him, for he might not flee, but said openly unto the Romans, Sirs, I
+admonish you that this day ye fight and acquit you as men, and remember
+how Rome domineth and is chief and head over all the earth and
+universal world, and suffer not these Britons this day to abide against
+us; and therewith he did command his trumpets to blow the bloody
+sounds, in such wise that the ground trembled and dindled.
+
+Then the battles approached and shoved and shouted on both sides, and
+great strokes were smitten on both sides, many men overthrown, hurt,
+and slain; and great valiances, prowesses and appertices of war were
+that day showed, which were over long to recount the noble feats of
+every man, for they should contain an whole volume. But in especial,
+King Arthur rode in the battle exhorting his knights to do well, and
+himself did as nobly with his hands as was possible a man to do; he
+drew out Excalibur his sword, and awaited ever whereas the Romans were
+thickest and most grieved his people, and anon he addressed him on that
+part, and hew and slew down right, and rescued his people; and he slew
+a great giant named Galapas, which was a man of an huge quantity and
+height, he shorted him and smote off both his legs by the knees,
+saying, Now art thou better of a size to deal with than thou were, and
+after smote off his head. There Sir Gawaine fought nobly and slew three
+admirals in that battle. And so did all the knights of the Round Table.
+Thus the battle between King Arthur and Lucius the Emperor endured
+long. Lucius had on his side many Saracens which were slain. And thus
+the battle was great, and oftsides that one party was at a fordeal and
+anon at an afterdeal, which endured so long till at the last King
+Arthur espied where Lucius the Emperor fought, and did wonder with his
+own hands. And anon he rode to him. And either smote other fiercely,
+and at last Lucius smote Arthur thwart the visage, and gave him a large
+wound. And when King Arthur felt himself hurt, anon he smote him again
+with Excalibur that it cleft his head, from the summit of his head, and
+stinted not till it came to his breast. And then the emperor fell down
+dead and there ended his life.
+
+And when it was known that the emperor was slain, anon all the Romans
+with all their host put them to flight, and King Arthur with all his
+knights followed the chase, and slew down right all them that they
+might attain. And thus was the victory given to King Arthur, and the
+triumph; and there were slain on the part of Lucius more than an
+hundred thousand. And after King Arthur did do ransack the dead bodies,
+and did do bury them that were slain of his retinue, every man
+according to the estate and degree that he was of. And them that were
+hurt he let the surgeons do search their hurts and wounds, and
+commanded to spare no salves nor medicines till they were whole.
+
+Then the king rode straight to the place where the Emperor Lucius lay
+dead, and with him he found slain the Soudan of Syria, the King of
+Egypt and of Ethiopia, which were two noble kings, with seventeen other
+kings of divers regions, and also sixty senators of Rome, all noble
+men, whom the king did do balm and gum with many good gums aromatic,
+and after did do cere them in sixty fold of cered cloth of sendal, and
+laid them in chests of lead, because they should not chafe nor savour,
+and upon all these bodies their shields with their arms and banners
+were set, to the end they should be known of what country they were.
+And after he found three senators which were alive, to whom he said,
+For to save your lives I will that ye take these dead bodies, and carry
+them with you unto great Rome, and present them to the Potestate on my
+behalf, shewing him my letters, and tell them that I in my person shall
+hastily be at Rome. And I suppose the Romans shall beware how they
+shall demand any tribute of me. And I command you to say when ye shall
+come to Rome, to the Potestate and all the Council and Senate, that I
+send to them these dead bodies for the tribute that they have demanded.
+And if they be not content with these, I shall pay more at my coming,
+for other tribute owe I none, nor none other will I pay. And methinketh
+this sufficeth for Britain, Ireland and all Almaine with Germany. And
+furthermore, I charge you to say to them, that I command them upon pain
+of their heads never to demand tribute nor tax of me nor of my lands.
+Then with this charge and commandment, the three senators aforesaid
+departed with all the said dead bodies, laying the body of Lucius in a
+car covered with the arms of the Empire all alone; and after alway two
+bodies of kings in a chariot, and then the bodies of the senators after
+them, and so went toward Rome, and showed their legation and message to
+the Potestate and Senate, recounting the battle done in France, and how
+the field was lost and much people and innumerable slain. Wherefore
+they advised them in no wise to move no more war against that noble
+conqueror Arthur, for his might and prowess is most to be doubted, seen
+the noble kings and great multitude of knights of the Round Table, to
+whom none earthly prince may compare.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX. How Arthur, after he had achieved the battle against the
+Romans, entered into Almaine, and so into Italy.
+
+Now turn we unto King Arthur and his noble knights, which, after the
+great battle achieved against the Romans, entered into Lorraine,
+Brabant and Flanders, and sithen returned into Haut Almaine, and so
+over the mountains into Lombardy, and after, into Tuscany wherein was a
+city which in no wise would yield themself nor obey, wherefore King
+Arthur besieged it, and lay long about it, and gave many assaults to
+the city; and they within defended them valiantly. Then, on a time, the
+king called Sir Florence, a knight, and said to him they lacked
+victual, And not far from hence be great forests and woods, wherein be
+many of mine enemies with much bestial: I will that thou make thee
+ready and go thither in foraying, and take with thee Sir Gawaine my
+nephew, Sir Wisshard, Sir Clegis, Sir Cleremond, and the Captain of
+Cardiff with other, and bring with you all the beasts that ye there can
+get.
+
+And anon these knights made them ready, and rode over holts and hills,
+through forests and woods, till they came into a fair meadow full of
+fair flowers and grass; and there they rested them and their horses all
+that night. And in the springing of the day in the next morn, Sir
+Gawaine took his horse and stole away from his fellowship, to seek some
+adventures. And anon he was ware of a man armed, walking his horse
+easily by a wood’s side, and his shield laced to his shoulder, sitting
+on a strong courser, without any man saving a page bearing a mighty
+spear. The knight bare in his shield three griffins of gold, in sable
+carbuncle, the chief of silver. When Sir Gawaine espied this gay
+knight, he feutred his spear, and rode straight to him, and demanded of
+him from whence that he was. That other answered and said he was of
+Tuscany, and demanded of Sir Gawaine, What, profferest thou, proud
+knight, thee so boldly? here gettest thou no prey, thou mayest prove
+what thou wilt, for thou shalt be my prisoner or thou depart. Then said
+Gawaine, thou avauntest thee greatly and speakest proud words, I
+counsel thee for all thy boast that thou make thee ready, and take thy
+gear to thee, to-fore greater grame fall to thee.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X. Of a battle done by Sir Gawaine against a Saracen, which
+after was yielden and became Christian.
+
+Then they took their spears and ran each at other with all the might
+they had, and smote each other through their shields into their
+shoulders, wherefore anon they pulled out their swords, and smote great
+strokes that the fire sprang out of their helms. Then Sir Gawaine was
+all abashed, and with Galatine his good sword he smote through shield
+and thick hauberk made of thick mails, and all to-rushed and break the
+precious stones, and made him a large wound, that men might see both
+liver and lung. Then groaned that knight, and addressed him to Sir
+Gawaine, and with an awk stroke gave him a great wound and cut a vein,
+which grieved Gawaine sore, and he bled sore. Then the knight said to
+Sir Gawaine, bind thy wound or thy blee[ding] change, for thou
+be-bleedest all thy horse and thy fair arms, for all the barbers of
+Brittany shall not con staunch thy blood, for whosomever is hurt with
+this blade he shall never be staunched of bleeding. Then answered
+Gawaine, it grieveth me but little, thy great words shall not fear me
+nor lessen my courage, but thou shalt suffer teen and sorrow or we
+depart, but tell me in haste who may staunch my bleeding. That may I
+do, said the knight, if I will, and so will I if thou wilt succour and
+aid me, that I may be christened and believe on God, and thereof I
+require thee of thy manhood, and it shall be great merit for thy soul.
+I grant, said Gawaine, so God help me, to accomplish all thy desire,
+but first tell me what thou soughtest here thus alone, and of what land
+and liegiance thou art of. Sir, he said, my name is Priamus, and a
+great prince is my father, and he hath been rebel unto Rome and
+overridden many of their lands. My father is lineally descended of
+Alexander and of Hector by right line. And Duke Joshua and Maccabaeus
+were of our lineage. I am right inheritor of Alexandria and Africa, and
+all the out isles, yet will I believe on thy Lord that thou believest
+on; and for thy labour I shall give thee treasure enough. I was so
+elate and hauteyn in my heart that I thought no man my peer, nor to me
+semblable. I was sent into this war with seven score knights, and now I
+have encountered with thee, which hast given to me of fighting my fill,
+wherefore sir knight, I pray thee to tell me what thou art. I am no
+knight, said Gawaine, I have been brought up in the guardrobe with the
+noble King Arthur many years, for to take heed to his armour and his
+other array, and to point his paltocks that long to himself. At Yule
+last he made me yeoman, and gave to me horse and harness, and an
+hundred pound in money; and if fortune be my friend, I doubt not but to
+be well advanced and holpen by my liege lord. Ah, said Priamus, if his
+knaves be so keen and fierce, his knights be passing good: now for the
+King’s love of Heaven, whether thou be a knave or a knight, tell thou
+me thy name. By God, said Sir Gawaine, now I will say thee sooth, my
+name is Sir Gawaine, and known I am in his court and in his chamber,
+and one of the knights of the Round Table, he dubbed me a duke with his
+own hand. Therefore grudge not if this grace is to me fortuned, it is
+the goodness of God that lent to me my strength. Now am I better
+pleased, said Priamus, than thou hadst given to me all the Provence and
+Paris the rich. I had liefer to have been torn with wild horses, than
+any varlet had won such loos, or any page or priker should have had
+prize on me. But now sir knight I warn thee that hereby is a Duke of
+Lorraine with his army, and the noblest men of Dolphiny, and lords of
+Lombardy, with the garrison of Godard, and Saracens of Southland,
+y-numbered sixty thousand of good men of arms; wherefore but if we hie
+us hence, it will harm us both, for we be sore hurt, never like to
+recover; but take heed to my page, that he no horn blow, for if he do,
+there be hoving here fast by an hundred knights awaiting on my person,
+and if they take thee, there shall no ransom of gold nor silver acquit
+thee.
+
+Then Sir Gawaine rode over a water for to save him, and the knight
+followed him, and so rode forth till they came to his fellows which
+were in the meadow, where they had been all the night. Anon as Sir
+Wisshard was ware of Sir Gawaine and saw that he was hurt, he ran to
+him sorrowfully weeping, and demanded of him who had so hurt him; and
+Gawaine told how he had foughten with that man, and each of them had
+hurt other, and how he had salves to heal them; but I can tell you
+other tidings, that soon we shall have ado with many enemies.
+
+Then Sir Priamus and Sir Gawaine alighted, and let their horses graze
+in the meadow, and unarmed them, and then the blood ran freshly from
+their wounds. And Priamus took from his page a vial full of the four
+waters that came out of Paradise, and with certain balm anointed their
+wounds, and washed them with that water, and within an hour after they
+were both as whole as ever they were. And then with a trumpet were they
+all assembled to council, and there Priamus told unto them what lords
+and knights had sworn to rescue him, and that without fail they should
+be assailed with many thousands, wherefore he counselled them to
+withdraw them. Then Sir Gawaine said, it were great shame to them to
+avoid without any strokes; Wherefore I advise to take our arms and to
+make us ready to meet with these Saracens and misbelieving men, and
+with the help of God we shall overthrow them and have a fair day on
+them. And Sir Florence shall abide still in this field to keep the
+stale as a noble knight, and we shall not forsake yonder fellows. Now,
+said Priamus, cease your words, for I warn you ye shall find in yonder
+woods many perilous knights; they will put forth beasts to call you on,
+they be out of number, and ye are not past seven hundred, which be over
+few to fight with so many. Nevertheless, said Sir Gawaine, we shall
+once encounter them, and see what they can do, and the best shall have
+the victory.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI. How the Saracens came out of a wood for to rescue their
+beasts, and of a great battle.
+
+Then Sir Florence called to him Sir Floridas, with an hundred knights,
+and drove forth the herd of beasts. Then followed him seven hundred men
+of arms; and Sir Ferant of Spain on a fair steed came springing out of
+the woods, and came to Sir Florence and asked him why he fled. Then Sir
+Florence took his spear and rode against him, and smote him in the
+forehead and brake his neck bone. Then all the other were moved, and
+thought to avenge the death of Sir Ferant, and smote in among them, and
+there was great fight, and many slain and laid down to ground, and Sir
+Florence with his hundred knights alway kept the stale, and fought
+manly.
+
+Then when Priamus the good knight perceived the great fight, he went to
+Sir Gawaine, and bade him that he should go and succour his fellowship,
+which were sore bestead with their enemies. Sir, grieve you not, said
+Sir Gawaine, for their gree shall be theirs. I shall not once move my
+horse to them ward, but if I see more than there be; for they be strong
+enough to match them.
+
+And with that he saw an earl called Sir Ethelwold and the duke of
+Dutchmen, came leaping out of a wood with many thousands, and Priamus’
+knights, and came straight unto the battle. Then Sir Gawaine comforted
+his knights, and bade them not to be abashed, for all shall be ours.
+Then they began to wallop and met with their enemies, there were men
+slain and overthrown on every side. Then thrust in among them the
+knights of the Table Round, and smote down to the earth all them that
+withstood them, in so much that they made them to recoil and flee. By
+God, said Sir Gawaine, this gladdeth my heart, for now be they less in
+number by twenty thousand. Then entered into the battle Jubance a
+giant, and fought and slew down right, and distressed many of our
+knights, among whom was slain Sir Gherard, a knight of Wales. Then our
+knights took heart to them, and slew many Saracens. And then came in
+Sir Priamus with his pennon, and rode with the knights of the Round
+Table, and fought so manfully that many of their enemies lost their
+lives. And there Sir Priamus slew the Marquis of Moises land, and Sir
+Gawaine with his fellows so quit them that they had the field, but in
+that stour was Sir Chestelaine, a child and ward of Sir Gawaine slain,
+wherefore was much sorrow made, and his death was soon avenged. Thus
+was the battle ended, and many lords of Lombardy and Saracens left dead
+in the field.
+
+Then Sir Florence and Sir Gawaine harboured surely their people, and
+took great plenty of bestial, of gold and silver, and great treasure
+and riches, and returned unto King Arthur, which lay still at the
+siege. And when they came to the king they presented their prisoners
+and recounted their adventures, and how they had vanquished their
+enemies.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII. How Sir Gawaine returned to King Arthur with his
+prisoners, and how the King won a city, and how he was crowned Emperor.
+
+Now thanked be God, said the noble King Arthur. But what manner man is
+he that standeth by himself, him seemeth no prisoner. Sir, said
+Gawaine, this is a good man of arms, he hath matched me, but he is
+yielden unto God, and to me, for to become Christian; had not he have
+been we should never have returned, wherefore I pray you that he may be
+baptised, for there liveth not a nobler man nor better knight of his
+hands. Then the king let him anon be christened, and did do call him
+his first name Priamus, and made him a duke and knight of the Table
+Round. And then anon the king let do cry assault to the city, and there
+was rearing of ladders, breaking of walls, and the ditch filled, that
+men with little pain might enter into the city. Then came out a
+duchess, and Clarisin the countess, with many ladies and damosels, and
+kneeling before King Arthur, required him for the love of God to
+receive the city, and not to take it by assault, for then should many
+guiltless be slain. Then the king avaled his visor with a meek and
+noble countenance, and said, Madam, there shall none of my subjects
+misdo you nor your maidens, nor to none that to you belong, but the
+duke shall abide my judgment. Then anon the king commanded to leave the
+assault, and anon the duke’s oldest son brought out the keys, and
+kneeling delivered them to the king, and besought him of grace; and the
+king seized the town by assent of his lords, and took the duke and sent
+him to Dover, there for to abide prisoner term of his life, and
+assigned certain rents for the dower of the duchess and for her
+children.
+
+Then he made lords to rule those lands, and laws as a lord ought to do
+in his own country; and after he took his journey toward Rome, and sent
+Sir Floris and Sir Floridas to-fore, with five hundred men of arms, and
+they came to the city of Urbino and laid there a bushment, thereas them
+seemed most best for them, and rode to-fore the town, where anon issued
+out much people and skirmished with the fore-riders. Then brake out the
+bushment and won the bridge, and after the town, and set upon the walls
+the king’s banner. Then came the king upon an hill, and saw the city
+and his banner on the walls, by which he knew that the city was won.
+And anon he sent and commanded that none of his liege men should defoul
+nor lie by no lady, wife nor maid; and when he came into the city, he
+passed to the castle, and comforted them that were in sorrow, and
+ordained there a captain, a knight of his own country.
+
+And when they of Milan heard that thilk city was won, they sent to King
+Arthur great sums of money, and besought him as their lord to have pity
+on them, promising to be his subjects for ever, and yield to him homage
+and fealty for the lands of Pleasance and Pavia, Petersaint, and the
+Port of Tremble, and to give him yearly a million of gold all his
+lifetime. Then he rideth into Tuscany, and winneth towns and castles,
+and wasted all in his way that to him will not obey, and so to Spolute
+and Viterbe, and from thence he rode into the Vale of Vicecount among
+the vines. And from thence he sent to the senators, to wit whether they
+would know him for their lord. But soon after on a Saturday came unto
+King Arthur all the senators that were left alive, and the noblest
+cardinals that then dwelt in Rome, and prayed him of peace, and
+proferred him full large, and besought him as governor to give licence
+for six weeks for to assemble all the Romans, and then to crown him
+emperor with chrism as it belongeth to so high estate. I assent, said
+the king, like as ye have devised, and at Christmas there to be
+crowned, and to hold my Round Table with my knights as me liketh. And
+then the senators made ready for his enthronization. And at the day
+appointed, as the romance telleth, he came into Rome, and was crowned
+emperor by the pope’s hand, with all the royalty that could be made,
+and sojourned there a time, and established all his lands from Rome
+into France, and gave lands and realms unto his servants and knights,
+to everych after his desert, in such wise that none complained, rich
+nor poor. And he gave to Sir Priamus the duchy of Lorraine; and he
+thanked him, and said he would serve him the days of his life; and
+after made dukes and earls, and made every man rich.
+
+Then after this all his knights and lords assembled them afore him, and
+said: Blessed be God, your war is finished and your conquest achieved,
+in so much that we know none so great nor mighty that dare make war
+against you: wherefore we beseech you to return homeward, and give us
+licence to go home to our wives, from whom we have been long, and to
+rest us, for your journey is finished with honour and worship. Then
+said the king, Ye say truth, and for to tempt God it is no wisdom, and
+therefore make you ready and return we into England. Then there was
+trussing of harness and baggage and great carriage. And after licence
+given, he returned and commanded that no man in pain of death should
+not rob nor take victual, nor other thing by the way but that he should
+pay therefore. And thus he came over the sea and landed at Sandwich,
+against whom Queen Guenever his wife came and met him, and he was nobly
+received of all his commons in every city and burgh, and great gifts
+presented to him at his home-coming to welcome him with.
+
+Thus endeth the fifth book of the conquest that King Arthur had against
+Lucius the Emperor of Rome, and here followeth the sixth book, which is
+of Sir Launcelot du Lake.
+
+
+
+BOOK VI.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I. How Sir Launcelot and Sir Lionel departed from the court,
+and how Sir Lionel left him sleeping and was taken.
+
+Soon after that King Arthur was come from Rome into England, then all
+the knights of the Table Round resorted unto the king, and made many
+jousts and tournaments, and some there were that were but knights,
+which increased so in arms and worship that they passed all their
+fellows in prowess and noble deeds, and that was well proved on many;
+but in especial it was proved on Sir Launcelot du Lake, for in all
+tournaments and jousts and deeds of arms, both for life and death, he
+passed all other knights, and at no time he was never overcome but if
+it were by treason or enchantment; so Sir Launcelot increased so
+marvellously in worship, and in honour, therefore is he the first
+knight that the French book maketh mention of after King Arthur came
+from Rome. Wherefore Queen Guenever had him in great favour above all
+other knights, and in certain he loved the queen again above all other
+ladies and damosels of his life, and for her he did many deeds of arms,
+and saved her from the fire through his noble chivalry.
+
+Thus Sir Launcelot rested him long with play and game. And then he
+thought himself to prove himself in strange adventures, then he bade
+his nephew, Sir Lionel, for to make him ready; for we two will seek
+adventures. So they mounted on their horses, armed at all rights, and
+rode into a deep forest and so into a deep plain. And then the weather
+was hot about noon, and Sir Launcelot had great lust to sleep. Then Sir
+Lionel espied a great apple-tree that stood by an hedge, and said,
+Brother, yonder is a fair shadow, there may we rest us [and] our
+horses. It is well said, fair brother, said Sir Launcelot, for this
+eight year I was not so sleepy as I am now; and so they there alighted
+and tied their horses unto sundry trees, and so Sir Launcelot laid him
+down under an appletree, and his helm he laid under his head. And Sir
+Lionel waked while he slept. So Sir Launcelot was asleep passing fast.
+
+And in the meanwhile there came three knights riding, as fast fleeing
+as ever they might ride. And there followed them three but one knight.
+And when Sir Lionel saw him, him thought he saw never so great a
+knight, nor so well faring a man, neither so well apparelled unto all
+rights. So within a while this strong knight had overtaken one of these
+knights, and there he smote him to the cold earth that he lay still.
+And then he rode unto the second knight, and smote him so that man and
+horse fell down. And then straight to the third knight he rode, and
+smote him behind his horse’s arse a spear length. And then he alighted
+down and reined his horse on the bridle, and bound all the three
+knights fast with the reins of their own bridles. When Sir Lionel saw
+him do thus, he thought to assay him, and made him ready, and stilly
+and privily he took his horse, and thought not for to awake Sir
+Launcelot. And when he was mounted upon his horse, he overtook this
+strong knight, and bade him turn, and the other smote Sir Lionel so
+hard that horse and man he bare to the earth, and so he alighted down
+and bound him fast, and threw him overthwart his own horse, and so he
+served them all four, and rode with them away to his own castle. And
+when he came there he gart unarm them, and beat them with thorns all
+naked, and after put them in a deep prison where were many more
+knights, that made great dolour.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II. How Sir Ector followed for to seek Sir Launcelot, and how
+he was taken by Sir Turquine.
+
+When Sir Ector de Maris wist that Sir Launcelot was passed out of the
+court to seek adventures, he was wroth with himself, and made him ready
+to seek Sir Launcelot, and as he had ridden long in a great forest he
+met with a man was like a forester. Fair fellow, said Sir Ector,
+knowest thou in this country any adventures that be here nigh hand?
+Sir, said the forester, this country know I well, and hereby, within
+this mile, is a strong manor, and well dyked, and by that manor, on the
+left hand, there is a fair ford for horses to drink of, and over that
+ford there groweth a fair tree, and thereon hang many fair shields that
+wielded sometime good knights, and at the hole of the tree hangeth a
+basin of copper and latten, and strike upon that basin with the butt of
+thy spear thrice, and soon after thou shalt hear new tidings, and else
+hast thou the fairest grace that many a year had ever knight that
+passed through this forest. Gramercy, said Sir Ector, and departed and
+came to the tree, and saw many fair shields. And among them he saw his
+brother’s shield, Sir Lionel, and many more that he knew that were his
+fellows of the Round Table, the which grieved his heart, and promised
+to revenge his brother.
+
+Then anon Sir Ector beat on the basin as he were wood, and then he gave
+his horse drink at the ford, and there came a knight behind him and
+bade him come out of the water and make him ready; and Sir Ector anon
+turned him shortly, and in feuter cast his spear, and smote the other
+knight a great buffet that his horse turned twice about. This was well
+done, said the strong knight, and knightly thou hast stricken me; and
+therewith he rushed his horse on Sir Ector, and cleight him under his
+right arm, and bare him clean out of the saddle, and rode with him away
+into his own hall, and threw him down in midst of the floor. The name
+of this knight was Sir Turquine. Then he said unto Sir Ector, For thou
+hast done this day more unto me than any knight did these twelve years,
+now will I grant thee thy life, so thou wilt be sworn to be my prisoner
+all thy life days. Nay, said Sir Ector, that will I never promise thee,
+but that I will do mine advantage. That me repenteth, said Sir
+Turquine. And then he gart to unarm him, and beat him with thorns all
+naked, and sithen put him down in a deep dungeon, where he knew many of
+his fellows. But when Sir Ector saw Sir Lionel, then made he great
+sorrow. Alas, brother, said Sir Ector, where is my brother Sir
+Launcelot? Fair brother, I left him asleep when that I from him yode,
+under an apple-tree, and what is become of him I cannot tell you. Alas,
+said the knights, but Sir Launcelot help us we may never be delivered,
+for we know now no knight that is able to match our master Turquine.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III. How four queens found Launcelot sleeping, and how by
+enchantment he was taken and led into a castle.
+
+Now leave we these knights prisoners, and speak we of Sir Launcelot du
+Lake that lieth under the apple-tree sleeping. Even about the noon
+there came by him four queens of great estate; and, for the heat should
+not annoy them, there rode four knights about them, and bare a cloth of
+green silk on four spears, betwixt them and the sun, and the queens
+rode on four white mules. Thus as they rode they heard by them a great
+horse grimly neigh, then were they ware of a sleeping knight, that lay
+all armed under an apple-tree; anon as these queens looked on his face,
+they knew it was Sir Launcelot. Then they began for to strive for that
+knight, everych one said they would have him to her love. We shall not
+strive, said Morgan le Fay, that was King Arthur’s sister, I shall put
+an enchantment upon him that he shall not awake in six hours, and then
+I will lead him away unto my castle, and when he is surely within my
+hold, I shall take the enchantment from him, and then let him choose
+which of us he will have unto paramour.
+
+So this enchantment was cast upon Sir Launcelot, and then they laid him
+upon his shield, and bare him so on horseback betwixt two knights, and
+brought him unto the castle Chariot, and there they laid him in a
+chamber cold, and at night they sent unto him a fair damosel with his
+supper ready dight. By that the enchantment was past, and when she came
+she saluted him, and asked him what cheer. I cannot say, fair damosel,
+said Sir Launcelot, for I wot not how I came into this castle but it be
+by an enchantment. Sir, said she, ye must make good cheer, and if ye be
+such a knight as it is said ye be, I shall tell you more to-morn by
+prime of the day. Gramercy, fair damosel, said Sir Launcelot, of your
+good will I require you. And so she departed. And there he lay all that
+night without comfort of anybody. And on the morn early came these four
+queens, passingly well beseen, all they bidding him good morn, and he
+them again.
+
+Sir knight, the four queens said, thou must understand thou art our
+prisoner, and we here know thee well that thou art Sir Launcelot du
+Lake, King Ban’s son, and because we understand your worthiness, that
+thou art the noblest knight living, and as we know well there can no
+lady have thy love but one, and that is Queen Guenever, and now thou
+shalt lose her for ever, and she thee, and therefore thee behoveth now
+to choose one of us four. I am the Queen Morgan le Fay, queen of the
+land of Gore, and here is the queen of Northgalis, and the queen of
+Eastland, and the queen of the Out Isles; now choose one of us which
+thou wilt have to thy paramour, for thou mayest not choose or else in
+this prison to die. This is an hard case, said Sir Launcelot, that
+either I must die or else choose one of you, yet had I liefer to die in
+this prison with worship, than to have one of you to my paramour maugre
+my head. And therefore ye be answered, I will none of you, for ye be
+false enchantresses, and as for my lady, Dame Guenever, were I at my
+liberty as I was, I would prove it on you or on yours, that she is the
+truest lady unto her lord living. Well, said the queens, is this your
+answer, that ye will refuse us. Yea, on my life, said Sir Launcelot,
+refused ye be of me. So they departed and left him there alone that
+made great sorrow.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV. How Sir Launcelot was delivered by the mean of a damosel.
+
+Right so at the noon came the damosel unto him with his dinner, and
+asked him what cheer. Truly, fair damosel, said Sir Launcelot, in my
+life days never so ill. Sir, she said, that me repenteth, but an ye
+will be ruled by me, I shall help you out of this distress, and ye
+shall have no shame nor villainy, so that ye hold me a promise. Fair
+damosel, I will grant you, and sore I am of these queen-sorceresses
+afeard, for they have destroyed many a good knight. Sir, said she, that
+is sooth, and for the renown and bounty that they hear of you they
+would have your love, and Sir, they say, your name is Sir Launcelot du
+Lake, the flower of knights, and they be passing wroth with you that ye
+have refused them. But Sir, an ye would promise me to help my father on
+Tuesday next coming, that hath made a tournament betwixt him and the
+King of Northgalis—for the last Tuesday past my father lost the field
+through three knights of Arthur’s court—an ye will be there on Tuesday
+next coming, and help my father, to-morn or prime, by the grace of God,
+I shall deliver you clean. Fair maiden, said Sir Launcelot, tell me
+what is your father’s name, and then shall I give you an answer. Sir
+knight, she said, my father is King Bagdemagus, that was foul rebuked
+at the last tournament. I know your father well, said Sir Launcelot,
+for a noble king and a good knight, and by the faith of my body, ye
+shall have my body ready to do your father and you service at that day.
+Sir, she said, gramercy, and to-morn await ye be ready betimes and I
+shall be she that shall deliver you and take you your armour and your
+horse, shield and spear, and hereby within this ten mile, is an abbey
+of white monks, there I pray you that ye me abide, and thither shall I
+bring my father unto you. All this shall be done, said Sir Launcelot as
+I am true knight.
+
+And so she departed, and came on the morn early, and found him ready;
+then she brought him out of twelve locks, and brought him unto his
+armour, and when he was clean armed, she brought him until his own
+horse, and lightly he saddled him and took a great spear in his hand
+and so rode forth, and said, Fair damosel, I shall not fail you, by the
+grace of God. And so he rode into a great forest all that day, and
+never could find no highway and so the night fell on him, and then was
+he ware in a slade, of a pavilion of red sendal. By my faith, said Sir
+Launcelot, in that pavilion will I lodge all this night, and so there
+he alighted down, and tied his horse to the pavilion, and there he
+unarmed him, and there he found a bed, and laid him therein and fell
+asleep sadly.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V. How a knight found Sir Launcelot lying in his leman’s bed,
+and how Sir Launcelot fought with the knight.
+
+Then within an hour there came the knight to whom the pavilion ought,
+and he weened that his leman had lain in that bed, and so he laid him
+down beside Sir Launcelot, and took him in his arms and began to kiss
+him. And when Sir Launcelot felt a rough beard kissing him, he started
+out of the bed lightly, and the other knight after him, and either of
+them gat their swords in their hands, and out at the pavilion door went
+the knight of the pavilion, and Sir Launcelot followed him, and there
+by a little slake Sir Launcelot wounded him sore, nigh unto the death.
+And then he yielded him unto Sir Launcelot, and so he granted him, so
+that he would tell him why he came into the bed. Sir, said the knight,
+the pavilion is mine own, and there this night I had assigned my lady
+to have slept with me, and now I am likely to die of this wound. That
+me repenteth, said Launcelot, of your hurt, but I was adread of
+treason, for I was late beguiled, and therefore come on your way into
+your pavilion and take your rest, and as I suppose I shall staunch your
+blood. And so they went both into the pavilion, and anon Sir Launcelot
+staunched his blood.
+
+Therewithal came the knight’s lady, that was a passing fair lady, and
+when she espied that her lord Belleus was sore wounded, she cried out
+on Sir Launcelot, and made great dole out of measure. Peace, my lady
+and my love, said Belleus, for this knight is a good man, and a knight
+adventurous, and there he told her all the cause how he was wounded;
+And when that I yielded me unto him, he left me goodly and hath
+staunched my blood. Sir, said the lady, I require thee tell me what
+knight ye be, and what is your name? Fair lady, he said, my name is Sir
+Launcelot du Lake. So me thought ever by your speech, said the lady,
+for I have seen you oft or this, and I know you better than ye ween.
+But now an ye would promise me of your courtesy, for the harms that ye
+have done to me and my Lord Belleus, that when he cometh unto Arthur’s
+court for to cause him to be made knight of the Round Table, for he is
+a passing good man of arms, and a mighty lord of lands of many out
+isles.
+
+Fair lady, said Sir Launcelot, let him come unto the court the next
+high feast, and look that ye come with him, and I shall do my power, an
+ye prove you doughty of your hands, that ye shall have your desire. So
+thus within a while, as they thus talked, the night passed, and the day
+shone, and then Sir Launcelot armed him, and took his horse, and they
+taught him to the Abbey, and thither he rode within the space of two
+hours.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI. How Sir Launcelot was received of King Bagdemagus’
+daughter, and how he made his complaint to her father.
+
+And soon as Sir Launcelot came within the abbey yard, the daughter of
+King Bagdemagus heard a great horse go on the pavement. And she then
+arose and yede unto a window, and there she saw Sir Launcelot, and anon
+she made men fast to take his horse from him and let lead him into a
+stable, and himself was led into a fair chamber, and unarmed him, and
+the lady sent him a long gown, and anon she came herself. And then she
+made Launcelot passing good cheer, and she said he was the knight in
+the world was most welcome to her. Then in all haste she sent for her
+father Bagdemagus that was within twelve mile of that Abbey, and afore
+even he came, with a fair fellowship of knights with him. And when the
+king was alighted off his horse he yode straight unto Sir Launcelot’s
+chamber and there he found his daughter, and then the king embraced Sir
+Launcelot in his arms, and either made other good cheer.
+
+Anon Sir Launcelot made his complaint unto the king how he was
+betrayed, and how his brother Sir Lionel was departed from him he wist
+not where, and how his daughter had delivered him out of prison;
+Therefore while I live I shall do her service and all her kindred. Then
+am I sure of your help, said the king, on Tuesday next coming. Yea,
+sir, said Sir Launcelot, I shall not fail you, for so I have promised
+my lady your daughter. But, sir, what knights be they of my lord
+Arthur’s that were with the King of Northgalis? And the king said it
+was Sir Mador de la Porte, and Sir Mordred and Sir Gahalantine that all
+for-fared my knights, for against them three I nor my knights might
+bear no strength. Sir, said Sir Launcelot, as I hear say that the
+tournament shall be here within this three mile of this abbey, ye shall
+send unto me three knights of yours, such as ye trust, and look that
+the three knights have all white shields, and I also, and no painture
+on the shields, and we four will come out of a little wood in midst of
+both parties, and we shall fall in the front of our enemies and grieve
+them that we may; and thus shall I not be known what knight I am.
+
+So they took their rest that night, and this was on the Sunday, and so
+the king departed, and sent unto Sir Launcelot three knights with the
+four white shields. And on the Tuesday they lodged them in a little
+leaved wood beside there the tournament should be. And there were
+scaffolds and holes that lords and ladies might behold and to give the
+prize. Then came into the field the King of Northgalis with eight score
+helms. And then the three knights of Arthur’s stood by themselves. Then
+came into the field King Bagdemagus with four score of helms. And then
+they feutred their spears, and came together with a great dash, and
+there were slain of knights at the first recounter twelve of King
+Bagdemagus’ party, and six of the King of Northgalis’ party, and King
+Bagdemagus’ party was far set aback.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII. How Sir Launcelot behaved him in a tournament, and how he
+met with Sir Turquine leading Sir Gaheris.
+
+With that came Sir Launcelot du Lake, and he thrust in with his spear
+in the thickest of the press, and there he smote down with one spear
+five knights, and of four of them he brake their backs. And in that
+throng he smote down the King of Northgalis, and brake his thigh in
+that fall. All this doing of Sir Launcelot saw the three knights of
+Arthur’s. Yonder is a shrewd guest, said Sir Mador de la Porte,
+therefore have here once at him. So they encountered, and Sir Launcelot
+bare him down horse and man, so that his shoulder went out of lith. Now
+befalleth it to me to joust, said Mordred, for Sir Mador hath a sore
+fall. Sir Launcelot was ware of him, and gat a great spear in his hand,
+and met him, and Sir Mordred brake a spear upon him, and Sir Launcelot
+gave him such a buffet that the arson of his saddle brake, and so he
+flew over his horse’s tail, that his helm butted into the earth a foot
+and more, that nigh his neck was broken, and there he lay long in a
+swoon.
+
+Then came in Sir Gahalantine with a great spear and Launcelot against
+him, with all their strength that they might drive, that both their
+spears to-brast even to their hands, and then they flang out with their
+swords and gave many a grim stroke. Then was Sir Launcelot wroth out of
+measure, and then he smote Sir Gahalantine on the helm that his nose
+brast out on blood, and ears and mouth both, and therewith his head
+hung low. And therewith his horse ran away with him, and he fell down
+to the earth. Anon therewithal Sir Launcelot gat a great spear in his
+hand, and or ever that great spear brake, he bare down to the earth
+sixteen knights, some horse and man, and some the man and not the
+horse, and there was none but that he hit surely, he bare none arms
+that day. And then he gat another great spear, and smote down twelve
+knights, and the most part of them never throve after. And then the
+knights of the King of Northgalis would joust no more. And there the
+gree was given to King Bagdemagus.
+
+So either party departed unto his own place, and Sir Launcelot rode
+forth with King Bagdemagus unto his castle, and there he had passing
+good cheer both with the king and with his daughter, and they proffered
+him great gifts. And on the morn he took his leave, and told the king
+that he would go and seek his brother Sir Lionel, that went from him
+when that he slept, so he took his horse, and betaught them all to God.
+And there he said unto the king’s daughter, If ye have need any time of
+my service I pray you let me have knowledge, and I shall not fail you
+as I am true knight. And so Sir Launcelot departed, and by adventure he
+came into the same forest there he was taken sleeping. And in the midst
+of a highway he met a damosel riding on a white palfrey, and there
+either saluted other. Fair damosel, said Sir Launcelot, know ye in this
+country any adventures? Sir knight, said that damosel, here are
+adventures near hand, an thou durst prove them. Why should I not prove
+adventures? said Sir Launcelot for that cause come I hither. Well, said
+she, thou seemest well to be a good knight, and if thou dare meet with
+a good knight, I shall bring thee where is the best knight, and the
+mightiest that ever thou found, so thou wilt tell me what is thy name,
+and what knight thou art. Damosel, as for to tell thee my name I take
+no great force; truly my name is Sir Launcelot du Lake. Sir, thou
+beseemest well, here be adventures by that fall for thee, for hereby
+dwelleth a knight that will not be overmatched for no man I know but ye
+overmatch him, and his name is Sir Turquine. And, as I understand, he
+hath in his prison, of Arthur’s court, good knights three score and
+four, that he hath won with his own hands. But when ye have done that
+journey ye shall promise me as ye are a true knight for to go with me,
+and to help me and other damosels that are distressed daily with a
+false knight. All your intent, damosel, and desire I will fulfil, so ye
+will bring me unto this knight. Now, fair knight, come on your way; and
+so she brought him unto the ford and the tree where hung the basin.
+
+So Sir Launcelot let his horse drink, and then he beat on the basin
+with the butt of his spear so hard with all his might till the bottom
+fell out, and long he did so, but he saw nothing. Then he rode endlong
+the gates of that manor nigh half-an-hour. And then was he ware of a
+great knight that drove an horse afore him, and overthwart the horse
+there lay an armed knight bound. And ever as they came near and near,
+Sir Launcelot thought he should know him. Then Sir Launcelot was ware
+that it was Sir Gaheris, Gawaine’s brother, a knight of the Table
+Round. Now, fair damosel, said Sir Launcelot, I see yonder cometh a
+knight fast bounden that is a fellow of mine, and brother he is unto
+Sir Gawaine. And at the first beginning I promise you, by the leave of
+God, to rescue that knight; but if his master sit better in the saddle
+I shall deliver all the prisoners that he hath out of danger, for I am
+sure he hath two brethren of mine prisoners with him. By that time that
+either had seen other, they gripped their spears unto them. Now, fair
+knight, said Sir Launcelot, put that wounded knight off the horse, and
+let him rest awhile, and let us two prove our strengths; for as it is
+informed me, thou doest and hast done great despite and shame unto
+knights of the Round Table, and therefore now defend thee. An thou be
+of the Table Round, said Turquine, I defy thee and all thy fellowship.
+That is overmuch said, said Sir Launcelot.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII. How Sir Launcelot and Sir Turquine fought together.
+
+And then they put their spears in the rests, and came together with
+their horses as fast as they might run, and either smote other in midst
+of their shields, that both their horses’ backs brast under them, and
+the knights were both stonied. And as soon as they might avoid their
+horses, they took their shields afore them, and drew out their swords,
+and came together eagerly, and either gave other many strong strokes,
+for there might neither shields nor harness hold their strokes. And so
+within a while they had both grimly wounds, and bled passing
+grievously. Thus they fared two hours or more trasing and rasing either
+other, where they might hit any bare place.
+
+Then at the last they were breathless both, and stood leaning on their
+swords. Now fellow, said Sir Turquine, hold thy hand a while, and tell
+me what I shall ask thee. Say on. Then Turquine said, Thou art the
+biggest man that ever I met withal, and the best breathed, and like one
+knight that I hate above all other knights; so be it that thou be not
+he I will lightly accord with thee, and for thy love I will deliver all
+the prisoners that I have, that is three score and four, so thou wilt
+tell me thy name. And thou and I we will be fellows together, and never
+to fail thee while that I live. It is well said, said Sir Launcelot,
+but sithen it is so that I may have thy friendship, what knight is he
+that thou so hatest above all other? Faithfully, said Sir Turquine, his
+name is Sir Launcelot du Lake, for he slew my brother, Sir Carados, at
+the dolorous tower, that was one of the best knights alive; and
+therefore him I except of all knights, for may I once meet with him,
+the one of us shall make an end of other, I make mine avow. And for Sir
+Launcelot’s sake I have slain an hundred good knights, and as many I
+have maimed all utterly that they might never after help themselves,
+and many have died in prison, and yet have I three score and four, and
+all shall be delivered so thou wilt tell me thy name, so be it that
+thou be not Sir Launcelot.
+
+Now, see I well, said Sir Launcelot, that such a man I might be, I
+might have peace, and such a man I might be, that there should be war
+mortal betwixt us. And now, sir knight, at thy request I will that thou
+wit and know that I am Launcelot du Lake, King Ban’s son of Benwick,
+and very knight of the Table Round. And now I defy thee, and do thy
+best. Ah, said Turquine, Launcelot, thou art unto me most welcome that
+ever was knight, for we shall never depart till the one of us be dead.
+Then they hurtled together as two wild bulls rushing and lashing with
+their shields and swords, that sometime they fell both over their
+noses. Thus they fought still two hours and more, and never would have
+rest, and Sir Turquine gave Sir Launcelot many wounds that all the
+ground thereas they fought was all bespeckled with blood.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX. How Sir Turquine was slain, and how Sir Launcelot bade Sir
+Gaheris deliver all the prisoners.
+
+Then at the last Sir Turquine waxed faint, and gave somewhat aback, and
+bare his shield low for weariness. That espied Sir Launcelot, and leapt
+upon him fiercely and gat him by the beaver of his helmet, and plucked
+him down on his knees, and anon he raced off his helm, and smote his
+neck in sunder. And when Sir Launcelot had done this, he yode unto the
+damosel and said, Damosel, I am ready to go with you where ye will have
+me, but I have no horse. Fair sir, said she, take this wounded knight’s
+horse and send him into this manor, and command him to deliver all the
+prisoners. So Sir Launcelot went unto Gaheris, and prayed him not to be
+aggrieved for to lend him his horse. Nay, fair lord, said Gaheris, I
+will that ye take my horse at your own commandment, for ye have both
+saved me and my horse, and this day I say ye are the best knight in the
+world, for ye have slain this day in my sight the mightiest man and the
+best knight except you that ever I saw, and, fair sir, said Gaheris, I
+pray you tell me your name. Sir, my name is Sir Launcelot du Lake, that
+ought to help you of right for King Arthur’s sake, and in especial for
+my lord Sir Gawaine’s sake, your own dear brother; and when that ye
+come within yonder manor, I am sure ye shall find there many knights of
+the Round Table, for I have seen many of their shields that I know on
+yonder tree. There is Kay’s shield, and Sir Brandel’s shield, and Sir
+Marhaus’ shield, and Sir Galind’s shield, and Sir Brian de Listnois’
+shield, and Sir Aliduke’s shield, with many more that I am not now
+advised of, and also my two brethren’s shields, Sir Ector de Maris and
+Sir Lionel; wherefore I pray you greet them all from me, and say that I
+bid them take such stuff there as they find, and that in any wise my
+brethren go unto the court and abide me there till that I come, for by
+the feast of Pentecost I cast me to be there, for as at this time I
+must ride with this damosel for to save my promise.
+
+And so he departed from Gaheris, and Gaheris yede in to the manor, and
+there he found a yeoman porter keeping there many keys. Anon withal Sir
+Gaheris threw the porter unto the ground and took the keys from him,
+and hastily he opened the prison door, and there he let out all the
+prisoners, and every man loosed other of their bonds. And when they saw
+Sir Gaheris, all they thanked him, for they weened that he was wounded.
+Not so, said Gaheris, it was Launcelot that slew him worshipfully with
+his own hands. I saw it with mine own eyes. And he greeteth you all
+well, and prayeth you to haste you to the court; and as unto Sir Lionel
+and Ector de Maris he prayeth you to abide him at the court. That shall
+we not do, says his brethren, we will find him an we may live. So shall
+I, said Sir Kay, find him or I come at the court, as I am true knight.
+
+Then all those knights sought the house thereas the armour was, and
+then they armed them, and every knight found his own horse, and all
+that ever longed unto him. And when this was done, there came a
+forester with four horses laden with fat venison. Anon, Sir Kay said,
+Here is good meat for us for one meal, for we had not many a day no
+good repast. And so that venison was roasted, baken, and sodden, and so
+after supper some abode there all night, but Sir Lionel and Ector de
+Maris and Sir Kay rode after Sir Launcelot to find him if they might.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X. How Sir Launcelot rode with a damosel and slew a knight that
+distressed all ladies and also a villain that kept a bridge.
+
+Now turn we unto Sir Launcelot, that rode with the damosel in a fair
+highway. Sir, said the damosel, here by this way haunteth a knight that
+distressed all ladies and gentlewomen, and at the least he robbeth them
+or lieth by them. What, said Sir Launcelot, is he a thief and a knight
+and a ravisher of women? he doth shame unto the order of knighthood,
+and contrary unto his oath; it is pity that he liveth. But, fair
+damosel, ye shall ride on afore, yourself, and I will keep myself in
+covert, and if that he trouble you or distress you I shall be your
+rescue and learn him to be ruled as a knight.
+
+So the maid rode on by the way a soft ambling pace, and within a while
+came out that knight on horseback out of the wood, and his page with
+him, and there he put the damosel from her horse, and then she cried.
+With that came Launcelot as fast as he might till he came to that
+knight, saying, O thou false knight and traitor unto knighthood, who
+did learn thee to distress ladies and gentlewomen? When the knight saw
+Sir Launcelot thus rebuking him he answered not, but drew his sword and
+rode unto Sir Launcelot, and Sir Launcelot threw his spear from him,
+and drew out his sword, and struck him such a buffet on the helmet that
+he clave his head and neck unto the throat. Now hast thou thy payment
+that long thou hast deserved! That is truth, said the damosel, for like
+as Sir Turquine watched to destroy knights, so did this knight attend
+to destroy and distress ladies, damosels, and gentlewomen, and his name
+was Sir Peris de Forest Savage. Now, damosel, said Sir Launcelot, will
+ye any more service of me? Nay, sir, she said, at this time, but
+almighty Jesu preserve you wheresomever ye ride or go, for the curteist
+knight thou art, and meekest unto all ladies and gentlewomen, that now
+liveth. But one thing, sir knight, methinketh ye lack, ye that are a
+knight wifeless, that he will not love some maiden or gentlewoman, for
+I could never hear say that ever ye loved any of no manner degree, and
+that is great pity; but it is noised that ye love Queen Guenever, and
+that she hath ordained by enchantment that ye shall never love none
+other but her, nor none other damosel nor lady shall rejoice you;
+wherefore many in this land, of high estate and low, make great sorrow.
+
+Fair damosel, said Sir Launcelot, I may not warn people to speak of me
+what it pleaseth them; but for to be a wedded man, I think it not; for
+then I must couch with her, and leave arms and tournaments, battles,
+and adventures; and as for to say for to take my pleasaunce with
+paramours, that will I refuse in principal for dread of God; for
+knights that be adventurous or lecherous shall not be happy nor
+fortunate unto the wars, for other they shall be overcome with a
+simpler knight than they be themselves, other else they shall by unhap
+and their cursedness slay better men than they be themselves. And so
+who that useth paramours shall be unhappy, and all thing is unhappy
+that is about them.
+
+And so Sir Launcelot and she departed. And then he rode in a deep
+forest two days and more, and had strait lodging. So on the third day
+he rode over a long bridge, and there stert upon him suddenly a passing
+foul churl, and he smote his horse on the nose that he turned about,
+and asked him why he rode over that bridge without his licence. Why
+should I not ride this way? said Sir Launcelot, I may not ride beside.
+Thou shalt not choose, said the churl, and lashed at him with a great
+club shod with iron. Then Sir Launcelot drew his sword and put the
+stroke aback, and clave his head unto the paps. At the end of the
+bridge was a fair village, and all the people, men and women, cried on
+Sir Launcelot, and said, A worse deed didst thou never for thyself, for
+thou hast slain the chief porter of our castle. Sir Launcelot let them
+say what they would, and straight he went into the castle; and when he
+came into the castle he alighted, and tied his horse to a ring on the
+wall and there he saw a fair green court, and thither he dressed him,
+for there him thought was a fair place to fight in. So he looked about,
+and saw much people in doors and windows that said, Fair knight, thou
+art unhappy.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI. How Sir Launcelot slew two giants, and made a castle free.
+
+Anon withal came there upon him two great giants, well armed all save
+the heads, with two horrible clubs in their hands. Sir Launcelot put
+his shield afore him and put the stroke away of the one giant, and with
+his sword he clave his head asunder. When his fellow saw that, he ran
+away as he were wood, for fear of the horrible strokes, and Launcelot
+after him with all his might, and smote him on the shoulder, and clave
+him to the navel. Then Sir Launcelot went into the hall, and there came
+afore him three score ladies and damosels, and all kneeled unto him,
+and thanked God and him of their deliverance; For sir, said they, the
+most party of us have been here this seven year their prisoners, and we
+have worked all manner of silk works for our meat, and we are all great
+gentlewomen born; and blessed be the time, knight, that ever thou be
+born, for thou hast done the most worship that ever did knight in this
+world, that will we bear record, and we all pray you to tell us your
+name, that we may tell our friends who delivered us out of prison. Fair
+damosel, he said, my name is Sir Launcelot du Lake. Ah, sir, said they
+all, well mayest thou be he, for else save yourself, as we deemed,
+there might never knight have the better of these two giants; for many
+fair knights have assayed it, and here have ended, and many times have
+we wished after you, and these two giants dread never knight but you.
+Now may ye say, said Sir Launcelot, unto your friends how and who hath
+delivered you, and greet them all from me, and if that I come in any of
+your marches, show me such cheer as ye have cause, and what treasure
+that there in this castle is I give it you for a reward for your
+grievance, and the lord that is owner of this castle I would he
+received it as is right. Fair sir, said they, the name of this castle
+is Tintagil, and a duke ought it sometime that had wedded fair Igraine,
+and after wedded her Uther Pendragon, and gat on her Arthur. Well, said
+Sir Launcelot, I understand to whom this castle longeth; and so he
+departed from them, and betaught them unto God.
+
+And then he mounted upon his horse, and rode into many strange and wild
+countries, and through many waters and valleys, and evil was he lodged.
+And at the last by fortune him happened, against a night, to come to a
+fair courtelage, and therein he found an old gentlewoman that lodged
+him with good will, and there he had good cheer for him and his horse.
+And when time was, his host brought him into a fair garret, over the
+gate, to his bed. There Sir Launcelot unarmed him, and set his harness
+by him, and went to bed, and anon he fell asleep. So, soon after, there
+came one on horseback, and knocked at the gate in great haste, and when
+Sir Launcelot heard this, he arose up and looked out at the window, and
+saw by the moonlight three knights came riding after that one man, and
+all three lashed on him at once with swords, and that one knight turned
+on them knightly again, and defended him. Truly, said Sir Launcelot,
+yonder one knight shall I help, for it were shame for me to see three
+knights on one, and if he be slain I am partner of his death; and
+therewith he took his harness, and went out at a window by a sheet down
+to the four knights, and then Sir Launcelot said on high, Turn you
+knights unto me, and leave your fighting with that knight. And then
+they all three left Sir Kay, and turned unto Sir Launcelot, and there
+began great battle, for they alighted all three, and struck many great
+strokes at Sir Launcelot, and assailed him on every side. Then Sir Kay
+dressed him for to have holpen Sir Launcelot. Nay, sir, said he, I will
+none of your help; therefore as ye will have my help, let me alone with
+them. Sir Kay, for the pleasure of the knight, suffered him for to do
+his will, and so stood aside. And then anon within six strokes, Sir
+Launcelot had stricken them to the earth.
+
+And then they all three cried: Sir knight, we yield us unto you as a
+man of might makeless. As to that, said Sir Launcelot, I will not take
+your yielding unto me. But so that ye will yield you unto Sir Kay the
+Seneschal, on that covenant I will save your lives, and else not. Fair
+knight, said they, that were we loath to do; for as for Sir Kay, we
+chased him hither, and had overcome him had not ye been, therefore to
+yield us unto him it were no reason. Well, as to that, said Launcelot,
+advise you well, for ye may choose whether ye will die or live, for an
+ye be yolden it shall be unto Sir Kay. Fair knight, then they said, in
+saving of our lives we will do as thou commandest us. Then shall ye,
+said Sir Launcelot, on Whitsunday next coming, go unto the court of
+King Arthur, and there shall ye yield you unto Queen Guenever, and put
+you all three in her grace and mercy, and say that Sir Kay sent you
+thither to be her prisoners. Sir, they said, it shall be done by the
+faith of our bodies, an we be living, and there they swore every knight
+upon his sword. And so Sir Launcelot suffered them so to depart. And
+then Sir Launcelot knocked at the gate with the pommel of his sword,
+and with that came his host, and in they entered Sir Kay and he. Sir,
+said his host, I weened ye had been in your bed. So I was, said Sir
+Launcelot, but I rose and leapt out at my window for to help an old
+fellow of mine. And so when they came nigh the light, Sir Kay knew well
+that it was Sir Launcelot, and therewith he kneeled down and thanked
+him of all his kindness that he had holpen him twice from the death.
+Sir, he said, I have nothing done but that me ought for to do, and ye
+are welcome, and here shall ye repose you and take your rest.
+
+So when Sir Kay was unarmed, he asked after meat; so there was meat
+fetched him, and he ate strongly. And when he had supped they went to
+their beds and were lodged together in one bed. On the morn Sir
+Launcelot arose early, and left Sir Kay sleeping, and Sir Launcelot
+took Sir Kay’s armour and his shield, and armed him, and so he went to
+the stable, and took his horse, and took his leave of his host, and so
+he departed. Then soon after arose Sir Kay and missed Sir Launcelot.
+And then he espied that he had his armour and his horse. Now by my
+faith I know well that he will grieve some of the court of King Arthur;
+for on him knights will be bold, and deem that it is I, and that will
+beguile them. And because of his armour and shield I am sure I shall
+ride in peace. And then soon after departed Sir Kay and thanked his
+host.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII. How Sir Launcelot rode disguised in Sir Kay’s harness, and
+how he smote down a knight.
+
+Now turn we unto Sir Launcelot that had ridden long in a great forest,
+and at the last he came into a low country, full of fair rivers and
+meadows. And afore him he saw a long bridge, and three pavilions stood
+thereon, of silk and sendal of divers hue. And without the pavilions
+hung three white shields on truncheons of spears, and great long spears
+stood upright by the pavilions, and at every pavilion’s door stood
+three fresh squires, and so Sir Launcelot passed by them and spake no
+word. When he was passed the three knights said them that it was the
+proud Kay; He weeneth no knight so good as he, and the contrary is
+ofttime proved. By my faith, said one of the knights, his name was Sir
+Gaunter, I will ride after him and assay him for all his pride, and ye
+may behold how that I speed. So this knight, Sir Gaunter, armed him,
+and hung his shield upon his shoulder, and mounted upon a great horse,
+and gat his spear in his hand, and walloped after Sir Launcelot. And
+when he came nigh him, he cried, Abide, thou proud knight Sir Kay, for
+thou shalt not pass quit. So Sir Launcelot turned him, and either
+feutred their spears, and came together with all their mights, and Sir
+Gaunter’s spear brake, but Sir Launcelot smote him down horse and man.
+And when Sir Gaunter was at the earth his brethren said each one to
+other, Yonder knight is not Sir Kay, for he is bigger than he. I dare
+lay my head, said Sir Gilmere, yonder knight hath slain Sir Kay and
+hath taken his horse and his harness. Whether it be so or no, said Sir
+Raynold, the third brother, let us now go mount upon our horses and
+rescue our brother Sir Gaunter, upon pain of death. We all shall have
+work enough to match that knight, for ever meseemeth by his person it
+is Sir Launcelot, or Sir Tristram, or Sir Pelleas, the good knight.
+
+Then anon they took their horses and overtook Sir Launcelot, and Sir
+Gilmere put forth his spear, and ran to Sir Launcelot, and Sir
+Launcelot smote him down that he lay in a swoon. Sir knight, said Sir
+Raynold, thou art a strong man, and as I suppose thou hast slain my two
+brethren, for the which raseth my heart sore against thee, and if I
+might with my worship I would not have ado with you, but needs I must
+take part as they do, and therefore, knight, he said, keep thyself. And
+so they hurtled together with all their mights, and all to-shivered
+both their spears. And then they drew their swords and lashed together
+eagerly. Anon therewith arose Sir Gaunter, and came unto his brother
+Sir Gilmere, and bade him, Arise, and help we our brother Sir Raynold,
+that yonder marvellously matched yonder good knight. Therewithal, they
+leapt on their horses and hurtled unto Sir Launcelot.
+
+And when he saw them come he smote a sore stroke unto Sir Raynold, that
+he fell off his horse to the ground, and then he struck to the other
+two brethren, and at two strokes he struck them down to the earth. With
+that Sir Raynold began to start up with his head all bloody, and came
+straight unto Sir Launcelot. Now let be, said Sir Launcelot, I was not
+far from thee when thou wert made knight, Sir Raynold, and also I know
+thou art a good knight, and loath I were to slay thee. Gramercy, said
+Sir Raynold, as for your goodness; and I dare say as for me and my
+brethren, we will not be loath to yield us unto you, with that we knew
+your name, for well we know ye are not Sir Kay. As for that be it as it
+be may, for ye shall yield you unto dame Guenever, and look that ye be
+with her on Whitsunday, and yield you unto her as prisoners, and say
+that Sir Kay sent you unto her. Then they swore it should be done, and
+so passed forth Sir Launcelot, and each one of the brethren holp other
+as well as they might.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII. How Sir Launcelot jousted against four knights of the
+Round Table and overthrew them.
+
+So Sir Launcelot rode into a deep forest, and thereby in a slade, he
+saw four knights hoving under an oak, and they were of Arthur’s court,
+one was Sir Sagramour le Desirous, and Ector de Maris, and Sir Gawaine,
+and Sir Uwaine. Anon as these four knights had espied Sir Launcelot,
+they weened by his arms it had been Sir Kay. Now by my faith, said Sir
+Sagramour, I will prove Sir Kay’s might, and gat his spear in his hand,
+and came toward Sir Launcelot. Therewith Sir Launcelot was ware and
+knew him well, and feutred his spear against him, and smote Sir
+Sagramour so sore that horse and man fell both to the earth. Lo, my
+fellows, said he, yonder ye may see what a buffet he hath; that knight
+is much bigger than ever was Sir Kay. Now shall ye see what I may do to
+him. So Sir Ector gat his spear in his hand and walloped toward Sir
+Launcelot, and Sir Launcelot smote him through the shield and shoulder,
+that man and horse went to the earth, and ever his spear held.
+
+By my faith, said Sir Uwaine, yonder is a strong knight, and I am sure
+he hath slain Sir Kay; and I see by his great strength it will be hard
+to match him. And therewithal, Sir Uwaine gat his spear in his hand and
+rode toward Sir Launcelot, and Sir Launcelot knew him well, and so he
+met him on the plain, and gave him such a buffet that he was astonied,
+that long he wist not where he was. Now see I well, said Sir Gawaine, I
+must encounter with that knight. Then he dressed his shield and gat a
+good spear in his hand, and Sir Launcelot knew him well; and then they
+let run their horses with all their mights, and either knight smote
+other in midst of the shield. But Sir Gawaine’s spear to-brast, and Sir
+Launcelot charged so sore upon him that his horse reversed up-so-down.
+And much sorrow had Sir Gawaine to avoid his horse, and so Sir
+Launcelot passed on a pace and smiled, and said, God give him joy that
+this spear made, for there came never a better in my hand.
+
+Then the four knights went each one to other and comforted each other.
+What say ye by this guest? said Sir Gawaine, that one spear hath felled
+us all four. We commend him unto the devil, they said all, for he is a
+man of great might. Ye may well say it, said Sir Gawaine, that he is a
+man of might, for I dare lay my head it is Sir Launcelot, I know it by
+his riding. Let him go, said Sir Gawaine, for when we come to the court
+then shall we wit; and then had they much sorrow to get their horses
+again.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV. How Sir Launcelot followed a brachet into a castle, where
+he found a dead knight, and how he after was required of a damosel to
+heal her brother.
+
+Now leave we there and speak of Sir Launcelot that rode a great while
+in a deep forest, where he saw a black brachet, seeking in manner as it
+had been in the feute of an hurt deer. And therewith he rode after the
+brachet, and he saw lie on the ground a large feute of blood. And then
+Sir Launcelot rode after. And ever the brachet looked behind her, and
+so she went through a great marsh, and ever Sir Launcelot followed. And
+then was he ware of an old manor, and thither ran the brachet, and so
+over the bridge. So Sir Launcelot rode over that bridge that was old
+and feeble; and when he came in midst of a great hall, there he saw lie
+a dead knight that was a seemly man, and that brachet licked his
+wounds. And therewithal came out a lady weeping and wringing her hands;
+and then she said, O knight, too much sorrow hast thou brought me. Why
+say ye so? said Sir Launcelot, I did never this knight no harm, for
+hither by feute of blood this brachet brought me; and therefore, fair
+lady, be not displeased with me, for I am full sore aggrieved of your
+grievance. Truly, sir, she said, I trow it be not ye that hath slain my
+husband, for he that did that deed is sore wounded, and he is never
+likely to recover, that shall I ensure him. What was your husband’s
+name? said Sir Launcelot. Sir, said she, his name was called Sir
+Gilbert the Bastard, one of the best knights of the world, and he that
+hath slain him I know not his name. Now God send you better comfort,
+said Sir Launcelot; and so he departed and went into the forest again,
+and there he met with a damosel, the which knew him well, and she said
+aloud, Well be ye found, my lord; and now I require thee, on thy
+knighthood, help my brother that is sore wounded, and never stinteth
+bleeding; for this day he fought with Sir Gilbert the Bastard and slew
+him in plain battle, and there was my brother sore wounded, and there
+is a lady a sorceress that dwelleth in a castle here beside, and this
+day she told me my brother’s wounds should never be whole till I could
+find a knight that would go into the Chapel Perilous, and there he
+should find a sword and a bloody cloth that the wounded knight was
+lapped in, and a piece of that cloth and sword should heal my brother’s
+wounds, so that his wounds were searched with the sword and the cloth.
+This is a marvellous thing, said Sir Launcelot, but what is your
+brother’s name? Sir, she said, his name was Sir Meliot de Logres. That
+me repenteth, said Sir Launcelot, for he is a fellow of the Table
+Round, and to his help I will do my power. Then, sir, said she, follow
+even this highway, and it will bring you unto the Chapel Perilous; and
+here I shall abide till God send you here again, and, but you speed, I
+know no knight living that may achieve that adventure.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV. How Sir Launcelot came into the Chapel Perilous and gat
+there of a dead corpse a piece of the cloth and a sword.
+
+Right so Sir Launcelot departed, and when he came unto the Chapel
+Perilous he alighted down, and tied his horse unto a little gate. And
+as soon as he was within the churchyard he saw on the front of the
+chapel many fair rich shields turned up-so-down, and many of the
+shields Sir Launcelot had seen knights bear beforehand. With that he
+saw by him there stand a thirty great knights, more by a yard than any
+man that ever he had seen, and all those grinned and gnashed at Sir
+Launcelot. And when he saw their countenance he dreaded him sore, and
+so put his shield afore him, and took his sword ready in his hand ready
+unto battle, and they were all armed in black harness ready with their
+shields and their swords drawn. And when Sir Launcelot would have gone
+throughout them, they scattered on every side of him, and gave him the
+way, and therewith he waxed all bold, and entered into the chapel, and
+then he saw no light but a dim lamp burning, and then was he ware of a
+corpse hilled with a cloth of silk. Then Sir Launcelot stooped down,
+and cut a piece away of that cloth, and then it fared under him as the
+earth had quaked a little; therewithal he feared. And then he saw a
+fair sword lie by the dead knight, and that he gat in his hand and hied
+him out of the chapel.
+
+Anon as ever he was in the chapel yard all the knights spake to him
+with a grimly voice, and said, Knight, Sir Launcelot, lay that sword
+from thee or else thou shalt die. Whether that I live or die, said Sir
+Launcelot, with no great word get ye it again, therefore fight for it
+an ye list. Then right so he passed throughout them, and beyond the
+chapel yard there met him a fair damosel, and said, Sir Launcelot,
+leave that sword behind thee, or thou wilt die for it. I leave it not,
+said Sir Launcelot, for no treaties. No, said she, an thou didst leave
+that sword, Queen Guenever should thou never see. Then were I a fool an
+I would leave this sword, said Launcelot. Now, gentle knight, said the
+damosel, I require thee to kiss me but once. Nay, said Sir Launcelot,
+that God me forbid. Well, sir, said she, an thou hadst kissed me thy
+life days had been done, but now, alas, she said, I have lost all my
+labour, for I ordained this chapel for thy sake, and for Sir Gawaine.
+And once I had Sir Gawaine within me, and at that time he fought with
+that knight that lieth there dead in yonder chapel, Sir Gilbert the
+Bastard; and at that time he smote the left hand off of Sir Gilbert the
+Bastard. And, Sir Launcelot, now I tell thee, I have loved thee this
+seven year, but there may no woman have thy love but Queen Guenever.
+But sithen I may not rejoice thee to have thy body alive, I had kept no
+more joy in this world but to have thy body dead. Then would I have
+balmed it and served it, and so have kept it my life days, and daily I
+should have clipped thee, and kissed thee, in despite of Queen
+Guenever. Ye say well, said Sir Launcelot, Jesu preserve me from your
+subtle crafts. And therewithal he took his horse and so departed from
+her. And as the book saith, when Sir Launcelot was departed she took
+such sorrow that she died within a fourteen night, and her name was
+Hellawes the sorceress, Lady of the Castle Nigramous.
+
+Anon Sir Launcelot met with the damosel, Sir Meliot’s sister. And when
+she saw him she clapped her hands, and wept for joy. And then they rode
+unto a castle thereby where lay Sir Meliot. And anon as Sir Launcelot
+saw him he knew him, but he was passing pale, as the earth, for
+bleeding. When Sir Meliot saw Sir Launcelot he kneeled upon his knees
+and cried on high: O lord Sir Launcelot, help me! Anon Sir Launcelot
+leapt unto him and touched his wounds with Sir Gilbert’s sword. And
+then he wiped his wounds with a part of the bloody cloth that Sir
+Gilbert was wrapped in, and anon an wholer man in his life was he
+never. And then there was great joy between them, and they made Sir
+Launcelot all the cheer that they might, and so on the morn Sir
+Launcelot took his leave, and bade Sir Meliot hie him to the court of
+my lord Arthur, for it draweth nigh to the Feast of Pentecost, and
+there by the grace of God ye shall find me. And therewith they
+departed.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI. How Sir Launcelot at the request of a lady recovered a
+falcon, by which he was deceived.
+
+And so Sir Launcelot rode through many strange countries, over marshes
+and valleys, till by fortune he came to a fair castle, and as he passed
+beyond the castle him thought he heard two bells ring. And then was he
+ware of a falcon came flying over his head toward an high elm, and long
+lunes about her feet, and as she flew unto the elm to take her perch
+the lunes over-cast about a bough. And when she would have taken her
+flight she hung by the legs fast; and Sir Launcelot saw how she hung,
+and beheld the fair falcon perigot, and he was sorry for her.
+
+The meanwhile came a lady out of the castle and cried on high: O
+Launcelot, Launcelot, as thou art flower of all knights, help me to get
+my hawk, for an my hawk be lost my lord will destroy me; for I kept the
+hawk and she slipped from me, and if my lord my husband wit it he is so
+hasty that he will slay me. What is your lord’s name? said Sir
+Launcelot. Sir, she said, his name is Sir Phelot, a knight that longeth
+unto the King of Northgalis. Well, fair lady, since that ye know my
+name, and require me of knighthood to help you, I will do what I may to
+get your hawk, and yet God knoweth I am an ill climber, and the tree is
+passing high, and few boughs to help me withal. And therewith Sir
+Launcelot alighted, and tied his horse to the same tree, and prayed the
+lady to unarm him. And so when he was unarmed, he put off all his
+clothes unto his shirt and breech, and with might and force he clomb up
+to the falcon, and tied the lines to a great rotten boyshe, and threw
+the hawk down and it withal.
+
+Anon the lady gat the hawk in her hand; and therewithal came out Sir
+Phelot out of the groves suddenly, that was her husband, all armed and
+with his naked sword in his hand, and said: O knight Launcelot, now
+have I found thee as I would, and stood at the bole of the tree to slay
+him. Ah, lady, said Sir Launcelot, why have ye betrayed me? She hath
+done, said Sir Phelot, but as I commanded her, and therefore there nis
+none other boot but thine hour is come that thou must die. That were
+shame unto thee, said Sir Launcelot, thou an armed knight to slay a
+naked man by treason. Thou gettest none other grace, said Sir Phelot,
+and therefore help thyself an thou canst. Truly, said Sir Launcelot,
+that shall be thy shame, but since thou wilt do none other, take mine
+harness with thee, and hang my sword upon a bough that I may get it,
+and then do thy best to slay me an thou canst. Nay, nay, said Sir
+Phelot, for I know thee better than thou weenest, therefore thou
+gettest no weapon, an I may keep you therefrom. Alas, said Sir
+Launcelot, that ever a knight should die weaponless. And therewith he
+waited above him and under him, and over his head he saw a rownsepyk, a
+big bough leafless, and therewith he brake it off by the body. And then
+he came lower and awaited how his own horse stood, and suddenly he
+leapt on the further side of the horse, fro-ward the knight. And then
+Sir Phelot lashed at him eagerly, weening to have slain him. But Sir
+Launcelot put away the stroke with the rownsepyk, and therewith he
+smote him on the one side of the head, that he fell down in a swoon to
+the ground. So then Sir Launcelot took his sword out of his hand, and
+struck his neck from the body. Then cried the lady, Alas! why hast thou
+slain my husband? I am not causer, said Sir Launcelot, for with
+falsehood ye would have had slain me with treason, and now it is fallen
+on you both. And then she swooned as though she would die. And
+therewithal Sir Launcelot gat all his armour as well as he might, and
+put it upon him for dread of more resort, for he dreaded that the
+knight’s castle was so nigh. And so, as soon as he might, he took his
+horse and departed, and thanked God that he had escaped that adventure.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII. How Sir Launcelot overtook a knight which chased his wife
+to have slain her, and how he said to him.
+
+So Sir Launcelot rode many wild ways, throughout marches and many wild
+ways. And as he rode in a valley he saw a knight chasing a lady, with a
+naked sword, to have slain her. And by fortune as this knight should
+have slain this lady, she cried on Sir Launcelot and prayed him to
+rescue her. When Sir Launcelot saw that mischief, he took his horse and
+rode between them, saying, Knight, fie for shame, why wilt thou slay
+this lady? thou dost shame unto thee and all knights. What hast thou to
+do betwixt me and my wife? said the knight. I will slay her maugre thy
+head. That shall ye not, said Sir Launcelot, for rather we two will
+have ado together. Sir Launcelot, said the knight, thou dost not thy
+part, for this lady hath betrayed me. It is not so, said the lady,
+truly he saith wrong on me. And for because I love and cherish my
+cousin germain, he is jealous betwixt him and me; and as I shall answer
+to God there was never sin betwixt us. But, sir, said the lady, as thou
+art called the worshipfullest knight of the world, I require thee of
+true knighthood, keep me and save me. For whatsomever ye say he will
+slay me, for he is without mercy. Have ye no doubt, said Launcelot, it
+shall not lie in his power. Sir, said the knight, in your sight I will
+be ruled as ye will have me. And so Sir Launcelot rode on the one side
+and she on the other: he had not ridden but a while, but the knight
+bade Sir Launcelot turn him and look behind him, and said, Sir, yonder
+come men of arms after us riding. And so Sir Launcelot turned him and
+thought no treason, and therewith was the knight and the lady on one
+side, and suddenly he swapped off his lady’s head.
+
+And when Sir Launcelot had espied him what he had done, he said, and
+called him, Traitor, thou hast shamed me for ever. And suddenly Sir
+Launcelot alighted off his horse, and pulled out his sword to slay him,
+and therewithal he fell flat to the earth, and gripped Sir Launcelot by
+the thighs, and cried mercy. Fie on thee, said Sir Launcelot, thou
+shameful knight, thou mayest have no mercy, and therefore arise and
+fight with me. Nay, said the knight, I will never arise till ye grant
+me mercy. Now will I proffer thee fair, said Launcelot, I will unarm me
+unto my shirt, and I will have nothing upon me but my shirt, and my
+sword and my hand. And if thou canst slay me, quit be thou for ever.
+Nay, sir, said Pedivere, that will I never. Well, said Sir Launcelot,
+take this lady and the head, and bear it upon thee, and here shalt thou
+swear upon my sword, to bear it always upon thy back, and never to rest
+till thou come to Queen Guenever. Sir, said he, that will I do, by the
+faith of my body. Now, said Launcelot, tell me what is your name? Sir,
+my name is Pedivere. In a shameful hour wert thou born, said Launcelot.
+
+So Pedivere departed with the dead lady and the head, and found the
+queen with King Arthur at Winchester, and there he told all the truth.
+Sir knight, said the queen, this is an horrible deed and a shameful,
+and a great rebuke unto Sir Launcelot; but notwithstanding his worship
+is not known in many divers countries; but this shall I give you in
+penance, make ye as good shift as ye can, ye shall bear this lady with
+you on horseback unto the Pope of Rome, and of him receive your penance
+for your foul deeds; and ye shall never rest one night whereas ye do
+another; an ye go to any bed the dead body shall lie with you. This
+oath there he made, and so departed. And as it telleth in the French
+book, when he came to Rome, the Pope bade him go again unto Queen
+Guenever, and in Rome was his lady buried by the Pope’s commandment.
+And after this Sir Pedivere fell to great goodness, and was an holy man
+and an hermit.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII. How Sir Launcelot came to King Arthur’s Court, and how
+there were recounted all his noble feats and acts.
+
+Now turn we unto Sir Launcelot du Lake, that came home two days afore
+the Feast of Pentecost; and the king and all the court were passing
+fain of his coming. And when Sir Gawaine, Sir Uwaine, Sir Sagramore,
+Sir Ector de Maris, saw Sir Launcelot in Kay’s armour, then they wist
+well it was he that smote them down all with one spear. Then there was
+laughing and smiling among them. And ever now and now came all the
+knights home that Sir Turquine had prisoners, and they all honoured and
+worshipped Sir Launcelot.
+
+When Sir Gaheris heard them speak, he said, I saw all the battle from
+the beginning to the ending, and there he told King Arthur all how it
+was, and how Sir Turquine was the strongest knight that ever he saw
+except Sir Launcelot: there were many knights bare him record, nigh
+three score. Then Sir Kay told the king how Sir Launcelot had rescued
+him when he should have been slain, and how he made the knights yield
+them to me, and not to him. And there they were all three, and bare
+record. And by Jesu, said Sir Kay, because Sir Launcelot took my
+harness and left me his I rode in good peace, and no man would have ado
+with me.
+
+Anon therewithal there came the three knights that fought with Sir
+Launcelot at the long bridge. And there they yielded them unto Sir Kay,
+and Sir Kay forsook them and said he fought never with them. But I
+shall ease your heart, said Sir Kay, yonder is Sir Launcelot that
+overcame you. When they wist that they were glad. And then Sir Meliot
+de Logres came home, and told the king how Sir Launcelot had saved him
+from the death. And all his deeds were known, how four queens,
+sorceresses, had him in prison, and how he was delivered by King
+Bagdemagus’ daughter. Also there were told all the great deeds of arms
+that Sir Launcelot did betwixt the two kings, that is for to say the
+King of Northgalis and King Bagdemagus. All the truth Sir Gahalantine
+did tell, and Sir Mador de la Porte and Sir Mordred, for they were at
+that same tournament. Then came in the lady that knew Sir Launcelot
+when that he wounded Sir Belleus at the pavilion. And there, at request
+of Sir Launcelot, Sir Belleus was made knight of the Round Table. And
+so at that time Sir Launcelot had the greatest name of any knight of
+the world, and most he was honoured of high and low.
+
+ Explicit the noble tale of Sir Launcelot du Lake, which is the vi.
+ book. Here followeth the tale of Sir Gareth of Orkney that was called
+ Beaumains by Sir Kay, and is the seventh book.
+
+
+
+BOOK VII.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I. How Beaumains came to King Arthur’s Court and demanded three
+petitions of King Arthur.
+
+When Arthur held his Round Table most plenour, it fortuned that he
+commanded that the high feast of Pentecost should be holden at a city
+and a castle, the which in those days was called Kynke Kenadonne, upon
+the sands that marched nigh Wales. So ever the king had a custom that
+at the feast of Pentecost in especial, afore other feasts in the year,
+he would not go that day to meat until he had heard or seen of a great
+marvel. And for that custom all manner of strange adventures came
+before Arthur as at that feast before all other feasts. And so Sir
+Gawaine, a little to-fore noon of the day of Pentecost, espied at a
+window three men upon horseback, and a dwarf on foot, and so the three
+men alighted, and the dwarf kept their horses, and one of the three men
+was higher than the other twain by a foot and an half. Then Sir Gawaine
+went unto the king and said, Sir, go to your meat, for here at the hand
+come strange adventures. So Arthur went unto his meat with many other
+kings. And there were all the knights of the Round Table, [save] only
+those that were prisoners or slain at a recounter. Then at the high
+feast evermore they should be fulfilled the whole number of an hundred
+and fifty, for then was the Round Table fully complished.
+
+Right so came into the hall two men well beseen and richly, and upon
+their shoulders there leaned the goodliest young man and the fairest
+that ever they all saw, and he was large and long, and broad in the
+shoulders, and well visaged, and the fairest and the largest handed
+that ever man saw, but he fared as though he might not go nor bear
+himself but if he leaned upon their shoulders. Anon as Arthur saw him
+there was made peace and room, and right so they yede with him unto the
+high dais, without saying of any words. Then this much young man pulled
+him aback, and easily stretched up straight, saying, King Arthur, God
+you bless and all your fair fellowship, and in especial the fellowship
+of the Table Round. And for this cause I am come hither, to pray you
+and require you to give me three gifts, and they shall not be
+unreasonably asked, but that ye may worshipfully and honourably grant
+them me, and to you no great hurt nor loss. And the first don and gift
+I will ask now, and the other two gifts I will ask this day
+twelvemonth, wheresomever ye hold your high feast. Now ask, said
+Arthur, and ye shall have your asking.
+
+Now, sir, this is my petition for this feast, that ye will give me meat
+and drink sufficiently for this twelvemonth, and at that day I will ask
+mine other two gifts.
+
+My fair son, said Arthur, ask better, I counsel thee, for this is but a
+simple asking; for my heart giveth me to thee greatly, that thou art
+come of men of worship, and greatly my conceit faileth me but thou
+shalt prove a man of right great worship. Sir, he said, thereof be as
+it be may, I have asked that I will ask. Well, said the king, ye shall
+have meat and drink enough; I never defended that none, neither my
+friend nor my foe. But what is thy name I would wit? I cannot tell you,
+said he. That is marvel, said the king, that thou knowest not thy name,
+and thou art the goodliest young man that ever I saw. Then the king
+betook him to Sir Kay the steward, and charged him that he should give
+him of all manner of meats and drinks of the best, and also that he had
+all manner of finding as though he were a lord’s son. That shall little
+need, said Sir Kay, to do such cost upon him; for I dare undertake he
+is a villain born, and never will make man, for an he had come of
+gentlemen he would have asked of you horse and armour, but such as he
+is, so he asketh. And sithen he hath no name, I shall give him a name
+that shall be Beaumains, that is Fair-hands, and into the kitchen I
+shall bring him, and there he shall have fat brose every day, that he
+shall be as fat by the twelvemonths’ end as a pork hog. Right so the
+two men departed and beleft him to Sir Kay, that scorned him and mocked
+him.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II. How Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine were wroth because Sir
+Kay mocked Beaumains, and of a damosel which desired a knight to fight
+for a lady.
+
+Thereat was Sir Gawaine wroth, and in especial Sir Launcelot bade Sir
+Kay leave his mocking, for I dare lay my head he shall prove a man of
+great worship. Let be said Sir Kay, it may not be by no reason, for as
+he is, so he hath asked. Beware, said Sir Launcelot, so ye gave the
+good knight Brewnor, Sir Dinadan’s brother, a name, and ye called him
+La Cote Male Taile, and that turned you to anger afterward. As for
+that, said Sir Kay, this shall never prove none such. For Sir Brewnor
+desired ever worship, and this desireth bread and drink and broth; upon
+pain of my life he was fostered up in some abbey, and, howsomever it
+was, they failed meat and drink, and so hither he is come for his
+sustenance.
+
+And so Sir Kay bade get him a place, and sit down to meat; so Beaumains
+went to the hall door, and set him down among boys and lads, and there
+he ate sadly. And then Sir Launcelot after meat bade him come to his
+chamber, and there he should have meat and drink enough. And so did Sir
+Gawaine: but he refused them all; he would do none other but as Sir Kay
+commanded him, for no proffer. But as touching Sir Gawaine, he had
+reason to proffer him lodging, meat, and drink, for that proffer came
+of his blood, for he was nearer kin to him than he wist. But that as
+Sir Launcelot did was of his great gentleness and courtesy.
+
+So thus he was put into the kitchen, and lay nightly as the boys of the
+kitchen did. And so he endured all that twelvemonth, and never
+displeased man nor child, but always he was meek and mild. But ever
+when that he saw any jousting of knights, that would he see an he
+might. And ever Sir Launcelot would give him gold to spend, and
+clothes, and so did Sir Gawaine, and where there were any masteries
+done, thereat would he be, and there might none cast bar nor stone to
+him by two yards. Then would Sir Kay say, How liketh you my boy of the
+kitchen? So it passed on till the feast of Whitsuntide. And at that
+time the king held it at Carlion in the most royallest wise that might
+be, like as he did yearly. But the king would no meat eat upon the
+Whitsunday, until he heard some adventures. Then came there a squire to
+the king and said, Sir, ye may go to your meat, for here cometh a
+damosel with some strange adventures. Then was the king glad and sat
+him down.
+
+Right so there came a damosel into the hall and saluted the king, and
+prayed him of succour. For whom? said the king, what is the adventure?
+
+Sir, she said, I have a lady of great worship and renown, and she is
+besieged with a tyrant, so that she may not out of her castle; and
+because here are called the noblest knights of the world, I come to you
+to pray you of succour. What hight your lady, and where dwelleth she,
+and who is she, and what is his name that hath besieged her? Sir king,
+she said, as for my lady’s name that shall not ye know for me as at
+this time, but I let you wit she is a lady of great worship and of
+great lands; and as for the tyrant that besiegeth her and destroyeth
+her lands, he is called the Red Knight of the Red Launds. I know him
+not, said the king. Sir, said Sir Gawaine, I know him well, for he is
+one of the perilloust knights of the world; men say that he hath seven
+men’s strength, and from him I escaped once full hard with my life.
+Fair damosel, said the king, there be knights here would do their power
+for to rescue your lady, but because you will not tell her name, nor
+where she dwelleth, therefore none of my knights that here be now shall
+go with you by my will. Then must I speak further, said the damosel.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III. How Beaumains desired the battle, and how it was granted
+to him, and how he desired to be made knight of Sir Launcelot.
+
+With these words came before the king Beaumains, while the damosel was
+there, and thus he said, Sir king, God thank you, I have been this
+twelvemonth in your kitchen, and have had my full sustenance, and now I
+will ask my two gifts that be behind. Ask, upon my peril, said the
+king. Sir, this shall be my two gifts, first that ye will grant me to
+have this adventure of the damosel, for it belongeth unto me. Thou
+shalt have it, said the king, I grant it thee. Then, sir, this is the
+other gift, that ye shall bid Launcelot du Lake to make me knight, for
+of him I will be made knight and else of none. And when I am passed I
+pray you let him ride after me, and make me knight when I require him.
+All this shall be done, said the king. Fie on thee, said the damosel,
+shall I have none but one that is your kitchen page? Then was she wroth
+and took her horse and departed. And with that there came one to
+Beaumains and told him his horse and armour was come for him; and there
+was the dwarf come with all thing that him needed, in the richest
+manner; thereat all the court had much marvel from whence came all that
+gear. So when he was armed there was none but few so goodly a man as he
+was; and right so as he came into the hall and took his leave of King
+Arthur, and Sir Gawaine, and Sir Launcelot, and prayed that he would
+hie after him, and so departed and rode after the damosel.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV. How Beaumains departed, and how he gat of Sir Kay a spear
+and a shield, and how he jousted with Sir Launcelot.
+
+But there went many after to behold how well he was horsed and trapped
+in cloth of gold, but he had neither shield nor spear. Then Sir Kay
+said all open in the hall, I will ride after my boy in the kitchen, to
+wit whether he will know me for his better. Said Sir Launcelot and Sir
+Gawaine, Yet abide at home. So Sir Kay made him ready and took his
+horse and his spear, and rode after him. And right as Beaumains
+overtook the damosel, right so came Sir Kay and said, Beaumains, what,
+sir, know ye not me? Then he turned his horse, and knew it was Sir Kay,
+that had done him all the despite as ye have heard afore. Yea, said
+Beaumains, I know you for an ungentle knight of the court, and
+therefore beware of me. Therewith Sir Kay put his spear in the rest,
+and ran straight upon him; and Beaumains came as fast upon him with his
+sword in his hand, and so he put away his spear with his sword, and
+with a foin thrust him through the side, that Sir Kay fell down as he
+had been dead; and he alighted down and took Sir Kay’s shield and his
+spear, and stert upon his own horse and rode his way.
+
+All that saw Sir Launcelot, and so did the damosel. And then he bade
+his dwarf stert upon Sir Kay’s horse, and so he did. By that Sir
+Launcelot was come, then he proffered Sir Launcelot to joust; and
+either made them ready, and they came together so fiercely that either
+bare down other to the earth, and sore were they bruised. Then Sir
+Launcelot arose and helped him from his horse. And then Beaumains threw
+his shield from him, and proffered to fight with Sir Launcelot on foot;
+and so they rushed together like boars, tracing, rasing, and foining to
+the mountenance of an hour; and Sir Launcelot felt him so big that he
+marvelled of his strength, for he fought more liker a giant than a
+knight, and that his fighting was durable and passing perilous. For Sir
+Launcelot had so much ado with him that he dreaded himself to be
+shamed, and said, Beaumains, fight not so sore, your quarrel and mine
+is not so great but we may leave off. Truly that is truth, said
+Beaumains, but it doth me good to feel your might, and yet, my lord, I
+showed not the utterance.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V. How Beaumains told to Sir Launcelot his name, and how he was
+dubbed knight of Sir Launcelot, and after overtook the damosel.
+
+In God’s name, said Sir Launcelot, for I promise you, by the faith of
+my body, I had as much to do as I might to save myself from you
+unshamed, and therefore have ye no doubt of none earthly knight. Hope
+ye so that I may any while stand a proved knight? said Beaumains. Yea,
+said Launcelot, do as ye have done, and I shall be your warrant. Then,
+I pray you, said Beaumains, give me the order of knighthood. Then must
+ye tell me your name, said Launcelot, and of what kin ye be born. Sir,
+so that ye will not discover me I shall, said Beaumains. Nay, said Sir
+Launcelot, and that I promise you by the faith of my body, until it be
+openly known. Then, sir, he said, my name is Gareth, and brother unto
+Sir Gawaine of father and mother. Ah, sir, said Sir Launcelot, I am
+more gladder of you than I was; for ever me thought ye should be of
+great blood, and that ye came not to the court neither for meat nor for
+drink. And then Sir Launcelot gave him the order of knighthood, and
+then Sir Gareth prayed him for to depart and let him go.
+
+So Sir Launcelot departed from him and came to Sir Kay, and made him to
+be borne home upon his shield, and so he was healed hard with the life;
+and all men scorned Sir Kay, and in especial Sir Gawaine and Sir
+Launcelot said it was not his part to rebuke no young man, for full
+little knew he of what birth he is come, and for what cause he came to
+this court; and so we leave Sir Kay and turn we unto Beaumains.
+
+When he had overtaken the damosel, anon she said, What dost thou here?
+thou stinkest all of the kitchen, thy clothes be bawdy of the grease
+and tallow that thou gainest in King Arthur’s kitchen; weenest thou,
+said she, that I allow thee, for yonder knight that thou killest. Nay
+truly, for thou slewest him unhappily and cowardly; therefore turn
+again, bawdy kitchen page, I know thee well, for Sir Kay named thee
+Beaumains. What art thou but a lusk and a turner of broaches and a
+ladle-washer? Damosel, said Beaumains, say to me what ye will, I will
+not go from you whatsomever ye say, for I have undertaken to King
+Arthur for to achieve your adventure, and so shall I finish it to the
+end, either I shall die therefore. Fie on thee, kitchen knave, wilt
+thou finish mine adventure? thou shalt anon be met withal, that thou
+wouldest not for all the broth that ever thou suppest once look him in
+the face. I shall assay, said Beaumains.
+
+So thus as they rode in the wood, there came a man flying all that ever
+he might. Whither wilt thou? said Beaumains. O lord, he said, help me,
+for here by in a slade are six thieves that have taken my lord and
+bound him, so I am afeard lest they will slay him. Bring me thither,
+said Beaumains. And so they rode together until they came thereas was
+the knight bounden; and then he rode unto them, and struck one unto the
+death, and then another, and at the third stroke he slew the third
+thief, and then the other three fled. And he rode after them, and he
+overtook them; and then those three thieves turned again and assailed
+Beaumains hard, but at the last he slew them, and returned and unbound
+the knight. And the knight thanked him, and prayed him to ride with him
+to his castle there a little beside, and he should worshipfully reward
+him for his good deeds. Sir, said Beaumains, I will no reward have: I
+was this day made knight of noble Sir Launcelot, and therefore I will
+no reward have, but God reward me. And also I must follow this damosel.
+
+And when he came nigh her she bade him ride from her, For thou smellest
+all of the kitchen: weenest thou that I have joy of thee, for all this
+deed that thou hast done is but mishapped thee: but thou shalt see a
+sight shall make thee turn again, and that lightly. Then the same
+knight which was rescued of the thieves rode after that damosel, and
+prayed her to lodge with him all that night. And because it was near
+night the damosel rode with him to his castle, and there they had great
+cheer, and at supper the knight sat Sir Beaumains afore the damosel.
+Fie, fie, said she, Sir knight, ye are uncourteous to set a kitchen
+page afore me; him beseemeth better to stick a swine than to sit afore
+a damosel of high parage. Then the knight was ashamed at her words, and
+took him up, and set him at a sideboard, and set himself afore him, and
+so all that night they had good cheer and merry rest.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI. How Beaumains fought and slew two knights at a passage.
+
+And on the morn the damosel and he took their leave and thanked the
+knight, and so departed, and rode on their way until they came to a
+great forest. And there was a great river and but one passage, and
+there were ready two knights on the farther side to let them the
+passage. What sayest thou, said the damosel, wilt thou match yonder
+knights or turn again? Nay, said Sir Beaumains, I will not turn again
+an they were six more. And therewithal he rushed into the water, and in
+midst of the water either brake their spears upon other to their hands,
+and then they drew their swords, and smote eagerly at other. And at the
+last Sir Beaumains smote the other upon the helm that his head stonied,
+and therewithal he fell down in the water, and there was he drowned.
+And then he spurred his horse upon the land, where the other knight
+fell upon him, and brake his spear, and so they drew their swords and
+fought long together. At the last Sir Beaumains clave his helm and his
+head down to the shoulders; and so he rode unto the damosel and bade
+her ride forth on her way.
+
+Alas, she said, that ever a kitchen page should have that fortune to
+destroy such two doughty knights: thou weenest thou hast done
+doughtily, that is not so; for the first knight his horse stumbled, and
+there he was drowned in the water, and never it was by thy force, nor
+by thy might. And the last knight by mishap thou camest behind him and
+mishappily thou slew him.
+
+Damosel, said Beaumains, ye may say what ye will, but with whomsomever
+I have ado withal, I trust to God to serve him or he depart. And
+therefore I reck not what ye say, so that I may win your lady. Fie,
+fie, foul kitchen knave, thou shalt see knights that shall abate thy
+boast. Fair damosel, give me goodly language, and then my care is past,
+for what knights somever they be, I care not, nor I doubt them not.
+Also, said she, I say it for thine avail, yet mayest thou turn again
+with thy worship; for an thou follow me, thou art but slain, for I see
+all that ever thou dost is but by misadventure, and not by prowess of
+thy hands. Well, damosel, ye may say what ye will, but wheresomever ye
+go I will follow you. So this Beaumains rode with that lady till
+evensong time, and ever she chid him, and would not rest. And they came
+to a black laund; and there was a black hawthorn, and thereon hung a
+black banner, and on the other side there hung a black shield, and by
+it stood a black spear great and long, and a great black horse covered
+with silk, and a black stone fast by.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII. How Beaumains fought with the Knight of the Black Launds,
+and fought with him till he fell down and died.
+
+There sat a knight all armed in black harness, and his name was the
+Knight of the Black Laund. Then the damosel, when she saw that knight,
+she bade him flee down that valley, for his horse was not saddled.
+Gramercy, said Beaumains, for always ye would have me a coward. With
+that the Black Knight, when she came nigh him, spake and said, Damosel,
+have ye brought this knight of King Arthur to be your champion? Nay,
+fair knight, said she, this is but a kitchen knave that was fed in King
+Arthur’s kitchen for alms. Why cometh he, said the knight, in such
+array? it is shame that he beareth you company. Sir, I cannot be
+delivered of him, said she, for with me he rideth maugre mine head: God
+would that ye should put him from me, other to slay him an ye may, for
+he is an unhappy knave, and unhappily he hath done this day: through
+mishap I saw him slay two knights at the passage of the water; and
+other deeds he did before right marvellous and through unhappiness.
+That marvelleth me, said the Black Knight, that any man that is of
+worship will have ado with him. They know him not, said the damosel,
+and for because he rideth with me, they ween that he be some man of
+worship born. That may be, said the Black Knight; howbeit as ye say
+that he be no man of worship, he is a full likely person, and full like
+to be a strong man: but thus much shall I grant you, said the Black
+Knight; I shall put him down upon one foot, and his horse and his
+harness he shall leave with me, for it were shame to me to do him any
+more harm.
+
+When Sir Beaumains heard him say thus, he said, Sir knight, thou art
+full large of my horse and my harness; I let thee wit it cost thee
+nought, and whether it liketh thee or not, this laund will I pass
+maugre thine head. And horse nor harness gettest thou none of mine, but
+if thou win them with thy hands; and therefore let see what thou canst
+do. Sayest thou that? said the Black Knight, now yield thy lady from
+thee, for it beseemeth never a kitchen page to ride with such a lady.
+Thou liest, said Beaumains, I am a gentleman born, and of more high
+lineage than thou, and that will I prove on thy body.
+
+Then in great wrath they departed with their horses, and came together
+as it had been the thunder, and the Black Knight’s spear brake, and
+Beaumains thrust him through both his sides, and therewith his spear
+brake, and the truncheon left still in his side. But nevertheless the
+Black Knight drew his sword, and smote many eager strokes, and of great
+might, and hurt Beaumains full sore. But at the last the Black Knight,
+within an hour and an half, he fell down off his horse in swoon, and
+there he died. And when Beaumains saw him so well horsed and armed,
+then he alighted down and armed him in his armour, and so took his
+horse and rode after the damosel.
+
+When she saw him come nigh, she said, Away, kitchen knave, out of the
+wind, for the smell of thy bawdy clothes grieveth me. Alas, she said,
+that ever such a knave should by mishap slay so good a knight as thou
+hast done, but all this is thine unhappiness. But here by is one shall
+pay thee all thy payment, and therefore yet I counsel thee, flee. It
+may happen me, said Beaumains, to be beaten or slain, but I warn you,
+fair damosel, I will not flee away, a nor leave your company, for all
+that ye can say; for ever ye say that they will kill me or beat me, but
+howsomever it happeneth I escape, and they lie on the ground. And
+therefore it were as good for you to hold you still thus all day
+rebuking me, for away will I not till I see the uttermost of this
+journey, or else I will be slain, other truly beaten; therefore ride on
+your way, for follow you I will whatsomever happen.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII. How the brother of the knight that was slain met with
+Beaumains, and fought with Beaumains till he was yielden.
+
+Thus as they rode together, they saw a knight come driving by them all
+in green, both his horse and his harness; and when he came nigh the
+damosel, he asked her, Is that my brother the Black Knight that ye have
+brought with you? Nay, nay, she said, this unhappy kitchen knave hath
+slain your brother through unhappiness. Alas, said the Green Knight,
+that is great pity, that so noble a knight as he was should so
+unhappily be slain, and namely of a knave’s hand, as ye say that he is.
+Ah! traitor, said the Green Knight, thou shalt die for slaying of my
+brother; he was a full noble knight, and his name was Sir Perard. I
+defy thee, said Beaumains, for I let thee wit I slew him knightly and
+not shamefully.
+
+Therewithal the Green Knight rode unto an horn that was green, and it
+hung upon a thorn, and there he blew three deadly motes, and there came
+two damosels and armed him lightly. And then he took a great horse, and
+a green shield and a green spear. And then they ran together with all
+their mights, and brake their spears unto their hands. And then they
+drew their swords, and gave many sad strokes, and either of them
+wounded other full ill. And at the last, at an overthwart, Beaumains
+with his horse struck the Green Knight’s horse upon the side, that he
+fell to the earth. And then the Green Knight avoided his horse lightly,
+and dressed him upon foot. That saw Beaumains, and therewithal he
+alighted, and they rushed together like two mighty kemps a long while,
+and sore they bled both. With that came the damosel, and said, My lord
+the Green Knight, why for shame stand ye so long fighting with the
+kitchen knave? Alas, it is shame that ever ye were made knight, to see
+such a lad to match such a knight, as the weed overgrew the corn.
+Therewith the Green Knight was ashamed, and therewithal he gave a great
+stroke of might, and clave his shield through. When Beaumains saw his
+shield cloven asunder he was a little ashamed of that stroke and of her
+language; and then he gave him such a buffet upon the helm that he fell
+on his knees. And so suddenly Beaumains pulled him upon the ground
+grovelling. And then the Green Knight cried him mercy, and yielded him
+unto Sir Beaumains, and prayed him to slay him not. All is in vain,
+said Beaumains, for thou shalt die but if this damosel that came with
+me pray me to save thy life. And therewithal he unlaced his helm like
+as he would slay him. Fie upon thee, false kitchen page, I will never
+pray thee to save his life, for I will never be so much in thy danger.
+Then shall he die, said Beaumains. Not so hardy, thou bawdy knave, said
+the damosel, that thou slay him. Alas, said the Green Knight, suffer me
+not to die for a fair word may save me. Fair knight, said the Green
+Knight, save my life, and I will forgive thee the death of my brother,
+and for ever to become thy man, and thirty knights that hold of me for
+ever shall do you service. In the devil’s name, said the damosel, that
+such a bawdy kitchen knave should have thee and thirty knights’
+service.
+
+Sir knight, said Beaumains, all this availeth thee not, but if my
+damosel speak with me for thy life. And therewithal he made a semblant
+to slay him. Let be, said the damosel, thou bawdy knave; slay him not,
+for an thou do thou shalt repent it. Damosel, said Beaumains, your
+charge is to me a pleasure, and at your commandment his life shall be
+saved, and else not. Then he said, Sir knight with the green arms, I
+release thee quit at this damosel’s request, for I will not make her
+wroth, I will fulfil all that she chargeth me. And then the Green
+Knight kneeled down, and did him homage with his sword. Then said the
+damosel, Me repenteth, Green Knight, of your damage, and of your
+brother’s death, the Black Knight, for of your help I had great mister,
+for I dread me sore to pass this forest. Nay, dread you not, said the
+Green Knight, for ye shall lodge with me this night, and to-morn I
+shall help you through this forest. So they took their horses and rode
+to his manor, which was fast there beside.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX. How the damosel again rebuked Beaumains, and would not
+suffer him to sit at her table, but called him kitchen boy.
+
+And ever she rebuked Beaumains, and would not suffer him to sit at her
+table, but as the Green Knight took him and sat him at a side table.
+Marvel methinketh, said the Green Knight to the damosel, why ye rebuke
+this noble knight as ye do, for I warn you, damosel, he is a full noble
+knight, and I know no knight is able to match him; therefore ye do
+great wrong to rebuke him, for he shall do you right good service, for
+whatsomever he maketh himself, ye shall prove at the end that he is
+come of a noble blood and of king’s lineage. Fie, fie, said the
+damosel, it is shame for you to say of him such worship. Truly, said
+the Green Knight, it were shame for me to say of him any disworship,
+for he hath proved himself a better knight than I am, yet have I met
+with many knights in my days, and never or this time have I found no
+knight his match. And so that night they yede unto rest, and all that
+night the Green Knight commanded thirty knights privily to watch
+Beaumains, for to keep him from all treason.
+
+And so on the morn they all arose, and heard their mass and brake their
+fast; and then they took their horses and rode on their way, and the
+Green Knight conveyed them through the forest; and there the Green
+Knight said, My lord Beaumains, I and these thirty knights shall be
+always at your summons, both early and late, at your calling and
+whither that ever ye will send us. It is well said, said Beaumains;
+when that I call upon you ye must yield you unto King Arthur, and all
+your knights. If that ye so command us, we shall be ready at all times,
+said the Green Knight. Fie, fie upon thee, in the devil’s name, said
+the damosel, that any good knights should be obedient unto a kitchen
+knave. So then departed the Green Knight and the damosel. And then she
+said unto Beaumains, Why followest thou me, thou kitchen boy? Cast away
+thy shield and thy spear, and flee away; yet I counsel thee betimes or
+thou shalt say right soon, alas; for wert thou as wight as ever was
+Wade or Launcelot, Tristram, or the good knight Sir Lamorak, thou shalt
+not pass a pass here that is called the Pass Perilous. Damosel, said
+Beaumains, who is afeard let him flee, for it were shame to turn again
+sithen I have ridden so long with you. Well, said the damosel, ye shall
+soon, whether ye will or not.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X. How the third brother, called the Red Knight, jousted and
+fought against Beaumains, and how Beaumains overcame him.
+
+So within a while they saw a tower as white as any snow, well
+matchecold all about, and double dyked. And over the tower gate there
+hung a fifty shields of divers colours, and under that tower there was
+a fair meadow. And therein were many knights and squires to behold,
+scaffolds and pavilions; for there upon the morn should be a great
+tournament: and the lord of the tower was in his castle and looked out
+at a window, and saw a damosel, a dwarf, and a knight armed at all
+points. So God me help, said the lord, with that knight will I joust,
+for I see that he is a knight-errant. And so he armed him and horsed
+him hastily. And when he was on horseback with his shield and his
+spear, it was all red, both his horse and his harness, and all that to
+him longeth. And when that he came nigh him he weened it had been his
+brother the Black Knight; and then he cried aloud, Brother, what do ye
+in these marches? Nay, nay, said the damosel, it is not he; this is but
+a kitchen knave that was brought up for alms in King Arthur’s court.
+Nevertheless, said the Red Knight, I will speak with him or he depart.
+Ah, said the damosel, this knave hath killed thy brother, and Sir Kay
+named him Beaumains, and this horse and this harness was thy brother’s,
+the Black Knight. Also I saw thy brother the Green Knight overcome of
+his hands. Now may ye be revenged upon him, for I may never be quit of
+him.
+
+With this either knights departed in sunder, and they came together
+with all their might, and either of their horses fell to the earth, and
+they avoided their horses, and put their shields afore them and drew
+their swords, and either gave other sad strokes, now here, now there,
+rasing, tracing, foining, and hurling like two boars, the space of two
+hours. And then she cried on high to the Red Knight, Alas, thou noble
+Red Knight, think what worship hath followed thee, let never a kitchen
+knave endure thee so long as he doth. Then the Red Knight waxed wroth
+and doubled his strokes, and hurt Beaumains wonderly sore, that the
+blood ran down to the ground, that it was wonder to see that strong
+battle. Yet at the last Sir Beaumains struck him to the earth, and as
+he would have slain the Red Knight, he cried mercy, saying, Noble
+knight, slay me not, and I shall yield me to thee with fifty knights
+with me that be at my commandment. And I forgive thee all the despite
+that thou hast done to me, and the death of my brother the Black
+Knight. All this availeth not, said Beaumains, but if my damosel pray
+me to save thy life. And therewith he made semblant to strike off his
+head. Let be, thou Beaumains, slay him not, for he is a noble knight,
+and not so hardy, upon thine head, but thou save him.
+
+Then Beaumains bade the Red Knight, Stand up, and thank the damosel now
+of thy life. Then the Red Knight prayed him to see his castle, and to
+be there all night. So the damosel then granted him, and there they had
+merry cheer. But always the damosel spake many foul words unto
+Beaumains, whereof the Red Knight had great marvel; and all that night
+the Red Knight made three score knights to watch Beaumains, that he
+should have no shame nor villainy. And upon the morn they heard mass
+and dined, and the Red Knight came before Beaumains with his three
+score knights, and there he proffered him his homage and fealty at all
+times, he and his knights to do him service. I thank you, said
+Beaumains, but this ye shall grant me: when I call upon you, to come
+afore my lord King Arthur, and yield you unto him to be his knights.
+Sir, said the Red Knight, I will be ready, and my fellowship, at your
+summons. So Sir Beaumains departed and the damosel, and ever she rode
+chiding him in the foulest manner.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI. How Sir Beaumains suffered great rebukes of the damosel,
+and he suffered it patiently.
+
+Damosel, said Beaumains, ye are uncourteous so to rebuke me as ye do,
+for meseemeth I have done you good service, and ever ye threaten me I
+shall be beaten with knights that we meet, but ever for all your boast
+they lie in the dust or in the mire, and therefore I pray you rebuke me
+no more; and when ye see me beaten or yielden as recreant, then may ye
+bid me go from you shamefully; but first I let you wit I will not
+depart from you, for I were worse than a fool an I would depart from
+you all the while that I win worship. Well, said she, right soon there
+shall meet a knight shall pay thee all thy wages, for he is the most
+man of worship of the world, except King Arthur. I will well, said
+Beaumains, the more he is of worship, the more shall be my worship to
+have ado with him.
+
+Then anon they were ware where was afore them a city rich and fair. And
+betwixt them and the city a mile and an half there was a fair meadow
+that seemed new mown, and therein were many pavilions fair to behold.
+Lo, said the damosel, yonder is a lord that owneth yonder city, and his
+custom is, when the weather is fair, to lie in this meadow to joust and
+tourney. And ever there be about him five hundred knights and gentlemen
+of arms, and there be all manner of games that any gentleman can
+devise. That goodly lord, said Beaumains, would I fain see. Thou shalt
+see him time enough, said the damosel, and so as she rode near she
+espied the pavilion where he was. Lo, said she, seest thou yonder
+pavilion that is all of the colour of Inde, and all manner of thing
+that there is about, men and women, and horses trapped, shields and
+spears were all of the colour of Inde, and his name is Sir Persant of
+Inde, the most lordliest knight that ever thou lookedst on. It may well
+be, said Beaumains, but be he never so stout a knight, in this field I
+shall abide till that I see him under his shield. Ah, fool, said she,
+thou wert better flee betimes. Why, said Beaumains, an he be such a
+knight as ye make him, he will not set upon me with all his men, or
+with his five hundred knights. For an there come no more but one at
+once, I shall him not fail whilst my life lasteth. Fie, fie, said the
+damosel, that ever such a stinking knave should blow such a boast.
+Damosel, he said, ye are to blame so to rebuke me, for I had liefer do
+five battles than so to be rebuked, let him come and then let him do
+his worst.
+
+Sir, she said, I marvel what thou art and of what kin thou art come;
+boldly thou speakest, and boldly thou hast done, that have I seen;
+therefore I pray thee save thyself an thou mayest, for thy horse and
+thou have had great travail, and I dread we dwell over long from the
+siege, for it is but hence seven mile, and all perilous passages we are
+passed save all only this passage; and here I dread me sore lest ye
+shall catch some hurt, therefore I would ye were hence, that ye were
+not bruised nor hurt with this strong knight. But I let you wit that
+Sir Persant of Inde is nothing of might nor strength unto the knight
+that laid the siege about my lady. As for that, said Sir Beaumains, be
+it as it be may. For sithen I am come so nigh this knight I will prove
+his might or I depart from him, and else I shall be shamed an I now
+withdraw me from him. And therefore, damosel, have ye no doubt by the
+grace of God I shall so deal with this knight that within two hours
+after noon I shall deliver him. And then shall we come to the siege by
+daylight. O Jesu, marvel have I, said the damosel, what manner a man ye
+be, for it may never be otherwise but that ye be come of a noble blood,
+for so foul nor shamefully did never woman rule a knight as I have done
+you, and ever courteously ye have suffered me, and that came never but
+of a gentle blood.
+
+Damosel, said Beaumains, a knight may little do that may not suffer a
+damosel, for whatsomever ye said unto me I took none heed to your
+words, for the more ye said the more ye angered me, and my wrath I
+wreaked upon them that I had ado withal. And therefore all the
+missaying that ye missaid me furthered me in my battle, and caused me
+to think to show and prove myself at the end what I was; for
+peradventure though I had meat in King Arthur’s kitchen, yet I might
+have had meat enough in other places, but all that I did it for to
+prove and assay my friends, and that shall be known another day; and
+whether that I be a gentleman born or none, I let you wit, fair
+damosel, I have done you gentleman’s service, and peradventure better
+service yet will I do or I depart from you. Alas, she said, fair
+Beaumains, forgive me all that I have missaid or done against thee.
+With all my heart, said he, I forgive it you, for ye did nothing but as
+ye should do, for all your evil words pleased me; and damosel, said
+Beaumains, since it liketh you to say thus fair unto me, wit ye well it
+gladdeth my heart greatly, and now meseemeth there is no knight living
+but I am able enough for him.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII. How Beaumains fought with Sir Persant of Inde, and made
+him to be yielden.
+
+With this Sir Persant of Inde had espied them as they hoved in the
+field, and knightly he sent to them whether he came in war or in peace.
+Say to thy lord, said Beaumains, I take no force, but whether as him
+list himself. So the messenger went again unto Sir Persant and told him
+all his answer. Well then will I have ado with him to the utterance,
+and so he purveyed him and rode against him. And Beaumains saw him and
+made him ready, and there they met with all that ever their horses
+might run, and brast their spears either in three pieces, and their
+horses rushed so together that both their horses fell dead to the
+earth; and lightly they avoided their horses and put their shields
+afore them, and drew their swords, and gave many great strokes that
+sometime they hurtled together that they fell grovelling on the ground.
+Thus they fought two hours and more, that their shields and their
+hauberks were all forhewen, and in many steads they were wounded. So at
+the last Sir Beaumains smote him through the cost of the body, and then
+he retrayed him here and there, and knightly maintained his battle long
+time. And at the last, though him loath were, Beaumains smote Sir
+Persant above upon the helm, that he fell grovelling to the earth; and
+then he leapt upon him overthwart and unlaced his helm to have slain
+him.
+
+Then Sir Persant yielded him and asked him mercy. With that came the
+damosel and prayed to save his life. I will well, for it were pity this
+noble knight should die. Gramercy, said Persant, gentle knight and
+damosel. For certainly now I wot well it was ye that slew my brother
+the Black Knight at the black thorn; he was a full noble knight, his
+name was Sir Percard. Also I am sure that ye are he that won mine other
+brother the Green Knight, his name was Sir Pertolepe. Also ye won my
+brother the Red Knight, Sir Perimones. And now since ye have won these,
+this shall I do for to please you: ye shall have homage and fealty of
+me, and an hundred knights to be always at your commandment, to go and
+ride where ye will command us. And so they went unto Sir Persant’s
+pavilion and drank the wine, and ate spices, and afterward Sir Persant
+made him to rest upon a bed until supper time, and after supper to bed
+again. When Beaumains was abed, Sir Persant had a lady, a fair daughter
+of eighteen year of age, and there he called her unto him, and charged
+her and commanded her upon his blessing to go unto the knight’s bed,
+and lie down by his side, and make him no strange cheer, but good
+cheer, and take him in thine arms and kiss him, and look that this be
+done, I charge you, as ye will have my love and my good will. So Sir
+Persant’s daughter did as her father bade her, and so she went unto Sir
+Beaumains’ bed, and privily she dispoiled her, and laid her down by
+him, and then he awoke and saw her, and asked her what she was. Sir,
+she said, I am Sir Persant’s daughter, that by the commandment of my
+father am come hither. Be ye a maid or a wife? said he. Sir, she said,
+I am a clean maiden. God defend, said he, that I should defoil you to
+do Sir Persant such a shame; therefore, fair damosel, arise out of this
+bed or else I will. Sir, she said, I came not to you by mine own will,
+but as I was commanded. Alas, said Sir Beaumains, I were a shameful
+knight an I would do your father any disworship; and so he kissed her,
+and so she departed and came unto Sir Persant her father, and told him
+all how she had sped. Truly, said Sir Persant, whatsomever he be, he is
+come of a noble blood. And so we leave them there till on the morn.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII. Of the goodly communication between Sir Persant and
+Beaumains, and how he told him that his name was Sir Gareth.
+
+And so on the morn the damosel and Sir Beaumains heard mass and brake
+their fast, and so took their leave. Fair damosel, said Persant,
+whitherward are ye way-leading this knight? Sir, she said, this knight
+is going to the siege that besiegeth my sister in the Castle Dangerous.
+Ah, ah, said Persant, that is the Knight of the Red Laund, the which is
+the most perilous knight that I know now living, and a man that is
+without mercy, and men say that he hath seven men’s strength. God save
+you, said he to Beaumains, from that knight, for he doth great wrong to
+that lady, and that is great pity, for she is one of the fairest ladies
+of the world, and meseemeth that your damosel is her sister: is not
+your name Linet? said he. Yea, sir, said she, and my lady my sister’s
+name is Dame Lionesse. Now shall I tell you, said Sir Persant, this Red
+Knight of the Red Laund hath lain long at the siege, well-nigh this two
+years, and many times he might have had her an he had would, but he
+prolongeth the time to this intent, for to have Sir Launcelot du Lake
+to do battle with him, or Sir Tristram, or Sir Lamorak de Galis, or Sir
+Gawaine, and this is his tarrying so long at the siege.
+
+Now my lord Sir Persant of Inde, said the damosel Linet, I require you
+that ye will make this gentleman knight or ever he fight with the Red
+Knight. I will with all my heart, said Sir Persant, an it please him to
+take the order of knighthood of so simple a man as I am. Sir, said
+Beaumains, I thank you for your good will, for I am better sped, for
+certainly the noble knight Sir Launcelot made me knight. Ah, said Sir
+Persant, of a more renowned knight might ye not be made knight; for of
+all knights he may be called chief of knighthood; and so all the world
+saith, that betwixt three knights is departed clearly knighthood, that
+is Launcelot du Lake, Sir Tristram de Liones, and Sir Lamorak de Galis:
+these bear now the renown. There be many other knights, as Sir
+Palamides the Saracen and Sir Safere his brother; also Sir Bleoberis
+and Sir Blamore de Ganis his brother; also Sir Bors de Ganis and Sir
+Ector de Maris and Sir Percivale de Galis; these and many more be noble
+knights, but there be none that pass the three above said; therefore
+God speed you well, said Sir Persant, for an ye may match the Red
+Knight ye shall be called the fourth of the world.
+
+Sir, said Beaumains, I would fain be of good fame and of knighthood.
+And I let you wit I came of good men, for I dare say my father was a
+noble man, and so that ye will keep it in close, and this damosel, I
+will tell you of what kin I am. We will not discover you, said they
+both, till ye command us, by the faith we owe unto God. Truly then,
+said he, my name is Gareth of Orkney, and King Lot was my father, and
+my mother is King Arthur’s sister, her name is Dame Morgawse, and Sir
+Gawaine is my brother, and Sir Agravaine and Sir Gaheris, and I am the
+youngest of them all. And yet wot not King Arthur nor Sir Gawaine what
+I am.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV. How the lady that was besieged had word from her sister
+how she had brought a knight to fight for her, and what battles he had
+achieved.
+
+So the book saith that the lady that was besieged had word of her
+sister’s coming by the dwarf, and a knight with her, and how he had
+passed all the perilous passages. What manner a man is he? said the
+lady. He is a noble knight, truly, madam, said the dwarf, and but a
+young man, but he is as likely a man as ever ye saw any. What is he?
+said the damosel, and of what kin is he come, and of whom was he made
+knight? Madam, said the dwarf, he is the king’s son of Orkney, but his
+name I will not tell you as at this time; but wit ye well, of Sir
+Launcelot was he made knight, for of none other would he be made
+knight, and Sir Kay named him Beaumains. How escaped he, said the lady,
+from the brethren of Persant? Madam, he said, as a noble knight should.
+First, he slew two brethren at a passage of a water. Ah! said she, they
+were good knights, but they were murderers, the one hight Gherard le
+Breuse, and the other knight hight Sir Arnold le Breuse. Then, madam,
+he recountered with the Black Knight, and slew him in plain battle, and
+so he took his horse and his armour and fought with the Green Knight
+and won him in plain battle, and in like wise he served the Red Knight,
+and after in the same wise he served the Blue Knight and won him in
+plain battle. Then, said the lady, he hath overcome Sir Persant of
+Inde, one of the noblest knights of the world, and the dwarf said, He
+hath won all the four brethren and slain the Black Knight, and yet he
+did more to-fore: he overthrew Sir Kay and left him nigh dead upon the
+ground; also he did a great battle with Sir Launcelot, and there they
+departed on even hands: and then Sir Launcelot made him knight.
+
+Dwarf, said the lady, I am glad of these tidings, therefore go thou in
+an hermitage of mine hereby, and there shalt thou bear with thee of my
+wine in two flagons of silver, they are of two gallons, and also two
+cast of bread with fat venison baked, and dainty fowls; and a cup of
+gold here I deliver thee, that is rich and precious; and bear all this
+to mine hermitage, and put it in the hermit’s hands. And sithen go thou
+unto my sister and greet her well, and commend me unto that gentle
+knight, and pray him to eat and to drink and make him strong, and say
+ye him I thank him of his courtesy and goodness, that he would take
+upon him such labour for me that never did him bounty nor courtesy.
+Also pray him that he be of good heart and courage, for he shall meet
+with a full noble knight, but he is neither of bounty, courtesy, nor
+gentleness; for he attendeth unto nothing but to murder, and that is
+the cause I cannot praise him nor love him.
+
+So this dwarf departed, and came to Sir Persant, where he found the
+damosel Linet and Sir Beaumains, and there he told them all as ye have
+heard; and then they took their leave, but Sir Persant took an ambling
+hackney and conveyed them on their ways, and then beleft them to God;
+and so within a little while they came to that hermitage, and there
+they drank the wine, and ate the venison and the fowls baken. And so
+when they had repasted them well, the dwarf returned again with his
+vessel unto the castle again; and there met with him the Red Knight of
+the Red Launds, and asked him from whence that he came, and where he
+had been. Sir, said the dwarf, I have been with my lady’s sister of
+this castle, and she hath been at King Arthur’s court, and brought a
+knight with her. Then I account her travail but lost; for though she
+had brought with her Sir Launcelot, Sir Tristram, Sir Lamorak, or Sir
+Gawaine, I would think myself good enough for them all.
+
+It may well be, said the dwarf, but this knight hath passed all the
+perilous passages, and slain the Black Knight and other two more, and
+won the Green Knight, the Red Knight, and the Blue Knight. Then is he
+one of these four that I have afore rehearsed. He is none of those,
+said the dwarf, but he is a king’s son. What is his name? said the Red
+Knight of the Red Launds. That will I not tell you, said the dwarf, but
+Sir Kay upon scorn named him Beaumains. I care not, said the knight,
+what knight so ever he be, for I shall soon deliver him. And if I ever
+match him he shall have a shameful death as many other have had. That
+were pity, said the dwarf, and it is marvel that ye make such shameful
+war upon noble knights.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV. How the damosel and Beaumains came to the siege; and came
+to a sycamore tree, and there Beaumains blew a horn, and then the
+Knight of the Red Launds came to fight with him.
+
+Now leave we the knight and the dwarf, and speak we of Beaumains, that
+all night lay in the hermitage; and upon the morn he and the damosel
+Linet heard their mass and brake their fast. And then they took their
+horses and rode throughout a fair forest; and then they came to a
+plain, and saw where were many pavilions and tents, and a fair castle,
+and there was much smoke and great noise; and when they came near the
+siege Sir Beaumains espied upon great trees, as he rode, how there hung
+full goodly armed knights by the neck, and their shields about their
+necks with their swords, and gilt spurs upon their heels, and so there
+hung nigh a forty knights shamefully with full rich arms.
+
+Then Sir Beaumains abated his countenance and said, What meaneth this?
+Fair sir, said the damosel, abate not your cheer for all this sight,
+for ye must courage yourself, or else ye be all shent, for all these
+knights came hither to this siege to rescue my sister Dame Lionesse,
+and when the Red Knight of the Red Launds had overcome them, he put
+them to this shameful death without mercy and pity. And in the same
+wise he will serve you but if you quit you the better.
+
+Now Jesu defend me, said Beaumains, from such a villainous death and
+shenship of arms. For rather than I should so be faren withal, I would
+rather be slain manly in plain battle. So were ye better, said the
+damosel; for trust not, in him is no courtesy, but all goeth to the
+death or shameful murder, and that is pity, for he is a full likely
+man, well made of body, and a full noble knight of prowess, and a lord
+of great lands and possessions. Truly, said Beaumains, he may well be a
+good knight, but he useth shameful customs, and it is marvel that he
+endureth so long that none of the noble knights of my lord Arthur’s
+have not dealt with him.
+
+And then they rode to the dykes, and saw them double dyked with full
+warlike walls; and there were lodged many great lords nigh the walls;
+and there was great noise of minstrelsy; and the sea beat upon the one
+side of the walls, where were many ships and mariners’ noise with “hale
+and how.” And also there was fast by a sycamore tree, and there hung an
+horn, the greatest that ever they saw, of an elephant’s bone; and this
+Knight of the Red Launds had hanged it up there, that if there came any
+errant-knight, he must blow that horn, and then will he make him ready
+and come to him to do battle. But, sir, I pray you, said the damosel
+Linet, blow ye not the horn till it be high noon, for now it is about
+prime, and now increaseth his might, that as men say he hath seven
+men’s strength. Ah, fie for shame, fair damosel, say ye never so more
+to me; for, an he were as good a knight as ever was, I shall never fail
+him in his most might, for either I will win worship worshipfully, or
+die knightly in the field. And therewith he spurred his horse straight
+to the sycamore tree, and blew so the horn eagerly that all the siege
+and the castle rang thereof. And then there leapt out knights out of
+their tents and pavilions, and they within the castle looked over the
+walls and out at windows.
+
+Then the Red Knight of the Red Launds armed him hastily, and two barons
+set on his spurs upon his heels, and all was blood red, his armour,
+spear and shield. And an earl buckled his helm upon his head, and then
+they brought him a red spear and a red steed, and so he rode into a
+little vale under the castle, that all that were in the castle and at
+the siege might behold the battle.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI. How the two knights met together, and of their talking,
+and how they began their battle.
+
+Sir, said the damosel Linet unto Sir Beaumains, look ye be glad and
+light, for yonder is your deadly enemy, and at yonder window is my
+lady, my sister, Dame Lionesse. Where? said Beaumains. Yonder, said the
+damosel, and pointed with her finger. That is truth, said Beaumains.
+She beseemeth afar the fairest lady that ever I looked upon; and truly,
+he said, I ask no better quarrel than now for to do battle, for truly
+she shall be my lady, and for her I will fight. And ever he looked up
+to the window with glad countenance, and the Lady Lionesse made curtsey
+to him down to the earth, with holding up both their hands.
+
+With that the Red Knight of the Red Launds called to Sir Beaumains,
+Leave, sir knight, thy looking, and behold me, I counsel thee; for I
+warn thee well she is my lady, and for her I have done many strong
+battles. If thou have so done, said Beaumains, meseemeth it was but
+waste labour, for she loveth none of thy fellowship, and thou to love
+that loveth not thee is but great folly. For an I understood that she
+were not glad of my coming, I would be advised or I did battle for her.
+But I understand by the besieging of this castle she may forbear thy
+fellowship. And therefore wit thou well, thou Red Knight of the Red
+Launds, I love her, and will rescue her, or else to die. Sayst thou
+that? said the Red Knight, meseemeth thou ought of reason to be ware by
+yonder knights that thou sawest hang upon yonder trees. Fie for shame,
+said Beaumains, that ever thou shouldest say or do so evil, for in that
+thou shamest thyself and knighthood, and thou mayst be sure there will
+no lady love thee that knoweth thy wicked customs. And now thou weenest
+that the sight of these hanged knights should fear me. Nay truly, not
+so; that shameful sight causeth me to have courage and hardiness
+against thee, more than I would have had against thee an thou wert a
+well-ruled knight. Make thee ready, said the Red Knight of the Red
+Launds, and talk no longer with me.
+
+Then Sir Beaumains bade the damosel go from him; and then they put
+their spears in their rests, and came together with all their might
+that they had both, and either smote other in midst of their shields
+that the paitrelles, surcingles, and cruppers brast, and fell to the
+earth both, and the reins of their bridles in their hands; and so they
+lay a great while sore astonied, that all that were in the castle and
+in the siege weened their necks had been broken; and then many a
+stranger and other said the strange knight was a big man, and a noble
+jouster, for or now we saw never no knight match the Red Knight of the
+Red Launds: thus they said, both within the castle and without. Then
+lightly they avoided their horses and put their shields afore them, and
+drew their swords and ran together like two fierce lions, and either
+gave other such buffets upon their helms that they reeled backward both
+two strides; and then they recovered both, and hewed great pieces off
+their harness and their shields that a great part fell into the fields.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII. How after long fighting Beaumains overcame the knight and
+would have slain him, but at the request of the lords he saved his
+life, and made him to yield him to the lady.
+
+And then thus they fought till it was past noon, and never would stint,
+till at the last they lacked wind both; and then they stood wagging and
+scattering, panting, blowing and bleeding, that all that beheld them
+for the most part wept for pity. So when they had rested them a while
+they yede to battle again, tracing, racing, foining as two boars. And
+at some time they took their run as it had been two rams, and hurtled
+together that sometime they fell grovelling to the earth: and at some
+time they were so amazed that either took other’s sword instead of his
+own.
+
+Thus they endured till evensong time, that there was none that beheld
+them might know whether was like to win the battle; and their armour
+was so forhewn that men might see their naked sides; and in other
+places they were naked, but ever the naked places they did defend. And
+the Red Knight was a wily knight of war, and his wily fighting taught
+Sir Beaumains to be wise; but he abought it full sore or he did espy
+his fighting.
+
+And thus by assent of them both they granted either other to rest; and
+so they set them down upon two mole-hills there beside the fighting
+place, and either of them unlaced his helm, and took the cold wind; for
+either of their pages was fast by them, to come when they called to
+unlace their harness and to set them on again at their commandment. And
+then when Sir Beaumains’ helm was off, he looked up to the window, and
+there he saw the fair lady Dame Lionesse, and she made him such
+countenance that his heart waxed light and jolly; and therewith he bade
+the Red Knight of the Red Launds make him ready, and let us do the
+battle to the utterance. I will well, said the knight, and then they
+laced up their helms, and their pages avoided, and they stepped
+together and fought freshly; but the Red Knight of the Red Launds
+awaited him, and at an overthwart smote him within the hand, that his
+sword fell out of his hand; and yet he gave him another buffet upon the
+helm that he fell grovelling to the earth, and the Red Knight fell over
+him, for to hold him down.
+
+Then cried the maiden Linet on high: O Sir Beaumains, where is thy
+courage become? Alas, my lady my sister beholdeth thee, and she sobbeth
+and weepeth, that maketh mine heart heavy. When Sir Beaumains heard her
+say so, he abraid up with a great might and gat him upon his feet, and
+lightly he leapt to his sword and gripped it in his hand, and doubled
+his pace unto the Red Knight, and there they fought a new battle
+together. But Sir Beaumains then doubled his strokes, and smote so
+thick that he smote the sword out of his hand, and then he smote him
+upon the helm that he fell to the earth, and Sir Beaumains fell upon
+him, and unlaced his helm to have slain him; and then he yielded him
+and asked mercy, and said with a loud voice: O noble knight, I yield me
+to thy mercy.
+
+Then Sir Beaumains bethought him upon the knights that he had made to
+be hanged shamefully, and then he said: I may not with my worship save
+thy life, for the shameful deaths that thou hast caused many full good
+knights to die. Sir, said the Red Knight of the Red Launds, hold your
+hand and ye shall know the causes why I put them to so shameful a
+death. Say on, said Sir Beaumains. Sir, I loved once a lady, a fair
+damosel, and she had her brother slain; and she said it was Sir
+Launcelot du Lake, or else Sir Gawaine; and she prayed me as that I
+loved her heartily, that I would make her a promise by the faith of my
+knighthood, for to labour daily in arms unto I met with one of them;
+and all that I might overcome I should put them unto a villainous
+death; and this is the cause that I have put all these knights to
+death, and so I ensured her to do all the villainy unto King Arthur’s
+knights, and that I should take vengeance upon all these knights. And,
+sir, now I will thee tell that every day my strength increaseth till
+noon, and all this time have I seven men’s strength.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII. How the knight yielded him, and how Beaumains made him
+to go unto King Arthur’s court, and to cry Sir Launcelot mercy.
+
+Then came there many earls, and barons, and noble knights, and prayed
+that knight to save his life, and take him to your prisoner. And all
+they fell upon their knees, and prayed him of mercy, and that he would
+save his life; and, Sir, they all said, it were fairer of him to take
+homage and fealty, and let him hold his lands of you than for to slay
+him; by his death ye shall have none advantage, and his misdeeds that
+be done may not be undone; and therefore he shall make amends to all
+parties, and we all will become your men and do you homage and fealty.
+Fair lords, said Beaumains, wit you well I am full loath to slay this
+knight, nevertheless he hath done passing ill and shamefully; but
+insomuch all that he did was at a lady’s request I blame him the less;
+and so for your sake I will release him that he shall have his life
+upon this covenant, that he go within the castle, and yield him there
+to the lady, and if she will forgive and quit him, I will well; with
+this he make her amends of all the trespass he hath done against her
+and her lands. And also, when that is done, that ye go unto the court
+of King Arthur, and there that ye ask Sir Launcelot mercy, and Sir
+Gawaine, for the evil will ye have had against them. Sir, said the Red
+Knight of the Red Launds, all this will I do as ye command, and siker
+assurance and borrows ye shall have. And so then when the assurance was
+made, he made his homage and fealty, and all those earls and barons
+with him.
+
+And then the maiden Linet came to Sir Beaumains, and unarmed him and
+searched his wounds, and stinted his blood, and in likewise she did to
+the Red Knight of the Red Launds. And there they sojourned ten days in
+their tents; and the Red Knight made his lords and servants to do all
+the pleasure that they might unto Sir Beaumains. And so within a while
+the Red Knight of the Red Launds yede unto the castle, and put him in
+her grace. And so she received him upon sufficient surety, so all her
+hurts were well restored of all that she could complain. And then he
+departed unto the court of King Arthur, and there openly the Red Knight
+of the Red Launds put him in the mercy of Sir Launcelot and Sir
+Gawaine, and there he told openly how he was overcome and by whom, and
+also he told all the battles from the beginning unto the ending. Jesu
+mercy, said King Arthur and Sir Gawaine, we marvel much of what blood
+he is come, for he is a noble knight. Have ye no marvel, said Sir
+Launcelot, for ye shall right well wit that he is come of a full noble
+blood; and as for his might and hardiness, there be but few now living
+that is so mighty as he is, and so noble of prowess. It seemeth by you,
+said King Arthur, that ye know his name, and from whence he is come,
+and of what blood he is. I suppose I do so, said Launcelot, or else I
+would not have given him the order of knighthood; but he gave me such
+charge at that time that I should never discover him until he required
+me, or else it be known openly by some other.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX. How Beaumains came to the lady, and when he came to the
+castle the gates were closed against him, and of the words that the
+lady said to him.
+
+Now turn we unto Sir Beaumains that desired of Linet that he might see
+her sister, his lady. Sir, she said, I would fain ye saw her. Then Sir
+Beaumains all armed him, and took his horse and his spear, and rode
+straight unto the castle. And when he came to the gate he found there
+many men armed, and pulled up the drawbridge and drew the port close.
+
+Then marvelled he why they would not suffer him to enter. And then he
+looked up to the window; and there he saw the fair Lionesse that said
+on high: Go thy way, Sir Beaumains, for as yet thou shalt not have
+wholly my love, unto the time that thou be called one of the number of
+the worthy knights. And therefore go labour in worship this
+twelvemonth, and then thou shalt hear new tidings. Alas, fair lady,
+said Beaumains, I have not deserved that ye should show me this
+strangeness, and I had weened that I should have right good cheer with
+you, and unto my power I have deserved thank, and well I am sure I have
+bought your love with part of the best blood within my body. Fair
+courteous knight, said Dame Lionesse, be not displeased nor over-hasty;
+for wit you well your great travail nor good love shall not be lost,
+for I consider your great travail and labour, your bounty and your
+goodness as me ought to do. And therefore go on your way, and look that
+ye be of good comfort, for all shall be for your worship and for the
+best, and perdy a twelvemonth will soon be done, and trust me, fair
+knight, I shall be true to you, and never to betray you, but to my
+death I shall love you and none other. And therewithal she turned her
+from the window, and Sir Beaumains rode awayward from the castle,
+making great dole, and so he rode here and there and wist not where he
+rode, till it was dark night. And then it happened him to come to a
+poor man’s house, and there he was harboured all that night.
+
+But Sir Beaumains had no rest, but wallowed and writhed for the love of
+the lady of the castle. And so upon the morrow he took his horse and
+rode until underne, and then he came to a broad water, and thereby was
+a great lodge, and there he alighted to sleep and laid his head upon
+the shield, and betook his horse to the dwarf, and commanded him to
+watch all night.
+
+Now turn we to the lady of the same castle, that thought much upon
+Beaumains, and then she called unto her Sir Gringamore her brother, and
+prayed him in all manner, as he loved her heartily, that he would ride
+after Sir Beaumains: And ever have ye wait upon him till ye may find
+him sleeping, for I am sure in his heaviness he will alight down in
+some place, and lie him down to sleep; and therefore have ye your wait
+upon him, and in the priviest manner ye can, take his dwarf, and go ye
+your way with him as fast as ever ye may or Sir Beaumains awake. For my
+sister Linet telleth me that he can tell of what kindred he is come,
+and what is his right name. And the meanwhile I and my sister will ride
+unto your castle to await when ye bring with you the dwarf. And then
+when ye have brought him unto your castle, I will have him in
+examination myself. Unto the time that I know what is his right name,
+and of what kindred he is come, shall I never be merry at my heart.
+Sister, said Sir Gringamore, all this shall be done after your intent.
+
+And so he rode all the other day and the night till that he found Sir
+Beaumains lying by a water, and his head upon his shield, for to sleep.
+And then when he saw Sir Beaumains fast asleep, he came stilly stalking
+behind the dwarf, and plucked him fast under his arm, and so he rode
+away with him as fast as ever he might unto his own castle. And this
+Sir Gringamore’s arms were all black, and that to him longeth. But ever
+as he rode with the dwarf toward his castle, he cried unto his lord and
+prayed him of help. And therewith awoke Sir Beaumains, and up he leapt
+lightly, and saw where Sir Gringamore rode his way with the dwarf, and
+so Sir Gringamore rode out of his sight.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX. How Sir Beaumains rode after to rescue his dwarf, and came
+into the castle where he was.
+
+Then Sir Beaumains put on his helm anon, and buckled his shield, and
+took his horse, and rode after him all that ever he might ride through
+marshes, and fields, and great dales, that many times his horse and he
+plunged over the head in deep mires, for he knew not the way, but took
+the gainest way in that woodness, that many times he was like to
+perish. And at the last him happened to come to a fair green way, and
+there he met with a poor man of the country, whom he saluted and asked
+him whether he met not with a knight upon a black horse and all black
+harness, a little dwarf sitting behind him with heavy cheer. Sir, said
+the poor man, here by me came Sir Gringamore the knight, with such a
+dwarf mourning as ye say; and therefore I rede you not follow him, for
+he is one of the periloust knights of the world, and his castle is here
+nigh hand but two mile; therefore we advise you ride not after Sir
+Gringamore, but if ye owe him good will.
+
+So leave we Sir Beaumains riding toward the castle, and speak we of Sir
+Gringamore and the dwarf. Anon as the dwarf was come to the castle,
+Dame Lionesse and Dame Linet her sister, asked the dwarf where was his
+master born, and of what lineage he was come. And but if thou tell me,
+said Dame Lionesse, thou shalt never escape this castle, but ever here
+to be prisoner. As for that, said the dwarf, I fear not greatly to tell
+his name and of what kin he is come. Wit you well he is a king’s son,
+and his mother is sister to King Arthur, and he is brother to the good
+knight Sir Gawaine, and his name is Sir Gareth of Orkney. And now I
+have told you his right name, I pray you, fair lady, let me go to my
+lord again, for he will never out of this country until that he have me
+again. And if he be angry he will do much harm or that he be stint, and
+work you wrack in this country. As for that threatening, said Sir
+Gringamore, be it as it be may, we will go to dinner. And so they
+washed and went to meat, and made them merry and well at ease, and
+because the Lady Lionesse of the castle was there, they made great joy.
+Truly, madam, said Linet unto her sister, well may he be a king’s son,
+for he hath many good tatches on him, for he is courteous and mild, and
+the most suffering man that ever I met withal. For I dare say there was
+never gentlewoman reviled man in so foul a manner as I have rebuked
+him; and at all times he gave me goodly and meek answers again.
+
+And as they sat thus talking, there came Sir Gareth in at the gate with
+an angry countenance, and his sword drawn in his hand, and cried aloud
+that all the castle might hear it, saying: Thou traitor, Sir
+Gringamore, deliver me my dwarf again, or by the faith that I owe to
+the order of knighthood, I shall do thee all the harm that I can. Then
+Sir Gringamore looked out at a window and said, Sir Gareth of Orkney,
+leave thy boasting words, for thou gettest not thy dwarf again. Thou
+coward knight, said Sir Gareth, bring him with thee, and come and do
+battle with me, and win him and take him. So will I do, said Sir
+Gringamore, an me list, but for all thy great words thou gettest him
+not. Ah! fair brother, said Dame Lionesse, I would he had his dwarf
+again, for I would he were not wroth, for now he hath told me all my
+desire I keep no more of the dwarf. And also, brother, he hath done
+much for me, and delivered me from the Red Knight of the Red Launds,
+and therefore, brother, I owe him my service afore all knights living.
+And wit ye well that I love him before all other, and full fain I would
+speak with him. But in nowise I would that he wist what I were, but
+that I were another strange lady.
+
+Well, said Sir Gringamore, sithen I know now your will, I will obey now
+unto him. And right therewithal he went down unto Sir Gareth, and said:
+Sir, I cry you mercy, and all that I have misdone I will amend it at
+your will. And therefore I pray you that ye would alight, and take such
+cheer as I can make you in this castle. Shall I have my dwarf? said Sir
+Gareth. Yea, sir, and all the pleasaunce that I can make you, for as
+soon as your dwarf told me what ye were and of what blood ye are come,
+and what noble deeds ye have done in these marches, then I repented of
+my deeds. And then Sir Gareth alighted, and there came his dwarf and
+took his horse. O my fellow, said Sir Gareth, I have had many
+adventures for thy sake. And so Sir Gringamore took him by the hand and
+led him into the hall where his own wife was.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI. How Sir Gareth, otherwise called Beaumains, came to the
+presence of his lady, and how they took acquaintance, and of their
+love.
+
+And then came forth Dame Lionesse arrayed like a princess, and there
+she made him passing good cheer, and he her again; and they had goodly
+language and lovely countenance together. And Sir Gareth thought many
+times, Jesu, would that the lady of the Castle Perilous were so fair as
+she was. There were all manner of games and plays, of dancing and
+singing. And ever the more Sir Gareth beheld that lady, the more he
+loved her; and so he burned in love that he was past himself in his
+reason; and forth toward night they yede unto supper, and Sir Gareth
+might not eat, for his love was so hot that he wist not where he was.
+
+All these looks espied Sir Gringamore, and then at-after supper he
+called his sister Dame Lionesse into a chamber, and said: Fair sister,
+I have well espied your countenance betwixt you and this knight, and I
+will, sister, that ye wit he is a full noble knight, and if ye can make
+him to abide here I will do him all the pleasure that I can, for an ye
+were better than ye are, ye were well bywaryd upon him. Fair brother,
+said Dame Lionesse, I understand well that the knight is good, and come
+he is of a noble house. Notwithstanding, I will assay him better,
+howbeit I am most beholden to him of any earthly man; for he hath had
+great labour for my love, and passed many a dangerous passage.
+
+Right so Sir Gringamore went unto Sir Gareth, and said, Sir, make ye
+good cheer, for ye shall have none other cause, for this lady, my
+sister, is yours at all times, her worship saved, for wit ye well she
+loveth you as well as ye do her, and better if better may be. An I wist
+that, said Sir Gareth, there lived not a gladder man than I would be.
+Upon my worship, said Sir Gringamore, trust unto my promise; and as
+long as it liketh you ye shall sojourn with me, and this lady shall be
+with us daily and nightly to make you all the cheer that she can. I
+will well, said Sir Gareth, for I have promised to be nigh this country
+this twelvemonth. And well I am sure King Arthur and other noble
+knights will find me where that I am within this twelvemonth. For I
+shall be sought and found, if that I be alive. And then the noble
+knight Sir Gareth went unto the Dame Lionesse, which he then much
+loved, and kissed her many times, and either made great joy of other.
+And there she promised him her love certainly, to love him and none
+other the days of her life. Then this lady, Dame Lionesse, by the
+assent of her brother, told Sir Gareth all the truth what she was, and
+how she was the same lady that he did battle for, and how she was lady
+of the Castle Perilous, and there she told him how she caused her
+brother to take away his dwarf.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII. How at night came an armed knight, and fought with Sir
+Gareth, and he, sore hurt in the thigh, smote off the knight’s head.
+
+For this cause, to know the certainty what was your name, and of what
+kin ye were come.
+
+And then she let fetch to-fore him Linet, the damosel that had ridden
+with him many wildsome ways. Then was Sir Gareth more gladder than he
+was to-fore. And then they troth-plight each other to love, and never
+to fail whiles their life lasteth. And so they burnt both in love, that
+they were accorded to abate their lusts secretly. And there Dame
+Lionesse counselled Sir Gareth to sleep in none other place but in the
+hall. And there she promised him to come to his bed a little afore
+midnight.
+
+This counsel was not so privily kept but it was understood; for they
+were but young both, and tender of age, and had not used none such
+crafts to-fore. Wherefore the damosel Linet was a little displeased,
+and she thought her sister Dame Lionesse was a little over-hasty, that
+she might not abide the time of her marriage; and for saving their
+worship, she thought to abate their hot lusts. And so she let ordain by
+her subtle crafts that they had not their intents neither with other,
+as in their delights, until they were married. And so it passed on.
+At-after supper was made clean avoidance, that every lord and lady
+should go unto his rest. But Sir Gareth said plainly he would go no
+farther than the hall, for in such places, he said, was convenient for
+an errant-knight to take his rest in; and so there were ordained great
+couches, and thereon feather beds, and there laid him down to sleep;
+and within a while came Dame Lionesse, wrapped in a mantle furred with
+ermine, and laid her down beside Sir Gareth. And therewithal he began
+to kiss her. And then he looked afore him, and there he apperceived and
+saw come an armed knight, with many lights about him; and this knight
+had a long gisarm in his hand, and made grim countenance to smite him.
+When Sir Gareth saw him come in that wise, he leapt out of his bed, and
+gat in his hand his sword, and leapt straight toward that knight. And
+when the knight saw Sir Gareth come so fiercely upon him, he smote him
+with a foin through the thick of the thigh that the wound was a
+shaftmon broad and had cut a-two many veins and sinews. And therewithal
+Sir Gareth smote him upon the helm such a buffet that he fell
+grovelling; and then he leapt over him and unlaced his helm, and smote
+off his head from the body. And then he bled so fast that he might not
+stand, but so he laid him down upon his bed, and there he swooned and
+lay as he had been dead.
+
+Then Dame Lionesse cried aloud, that her brother Sir Gringamore heard,
+and came down. And when he saw Sir Gareth so shamefully wounded he was
+sore displeased, and said: I am shamed that this noble knight is thus
+honoured. Sir, said Sir Gringamore, how may this be, that ye be here,
+and this noble knight wounded? Brother, she said, I can not tell you,
+for it was not done by me, nor by mine assent. For he is my lord and I
+am his, and he must be mine husband; therefore, my brother, I will that
+ye wit I shame me not to be with him, nor to do him all the pleasure
+that I can. Sister, said Sir Gringamore, and I will that ye wit it, and
+Sir Gareth both, that it was never done by me, nor by my assent that
+this unhappy deed was done. And there they staunched his bleeding as
+well as they might, and great sorrow made Sir Gringamore and Dame
+Lionesse.
+
+And forthwithal came Dame Linet, and took up the head in the sight of
+them all, and anointed it with an ointment thereas it was smitten off;
+and in the same wise she did to the other part thereas the head stuck,
+and then she set it together, and it stuck as fast as ever it did. And
+the knight arose lightly up, and the damosel Linet put him in her
+chamber. All this saw Sir Gringamore and Dame Lionesse, and so did Sir
+Gareth; and well he espied that it was the damosel Linet, that rode
+with him through the perilous passages. Ah well, damosel, said Sir
+Gareth, I weened ye would not have done as ye have done. My lord
+Gareth, said Linet, all that I have done I will avow, and all that I
+have done shall be for your honour and worship, and to us all. And so
+within a while Sir Gareth was nigh whole, and waxed light and jocund,
+and sang, danced, and gamed; and he and Dame Lionesse were so hot in
+burning love that they made their covenant at the tenth night after,
+that she should come to his bed. And because he was wounded afore, he
+laid his armour and his sword nigh his bed’s side.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII. How the said knight came again the next night and was
+beheaded again, and how at the feast of Pentecost all the knights that
+Sir Gareth had overcome came and yielded them to King Arthur.
+
+Right as she promised she came; and she was not so soon in his bed but
+she espied an armed knight coming toward the bed: therewithal she
+warned Sir Gareth, and lightly through the good help of Dame Lionesse
+he was armed; and they hurtled together with great ire and malice all
+about the hall; and there was great light as it had been the number of
+twenty torches both before and behind, so that Sir Gareth strained him,
+so that his old wound brast again a-bleeding; but he was hot and
+courageous and took no keep, but with his great force he struck down
+that knight, and voided his helm, and struck off his head. Then he
+hewed the head in an hundred pieces. And when he had done so he took up
+all those pieces, and threw them out at a window into the ditches of
+the castle; and by this done he was so faint that unnethes he might
+stand for bleeding. And by when he was almost unarmed he fell in a
+deadly swoon on the floor; and then Dame Lionesse cried so that Sir
+Gringamore heard; and when he came and found Sir Gareth in that plight
+he made great sorrow; and there he awaked Sir Gareth, and gave him a
+drink that relieved him wonderly well; but the sorrow that Dame
+Lionesse made there may no tongue tell, for she so fared with herself
+as she would have died.
+
+Right so came this damosel Linet before them all, and she had fetched
+all the gobbets of the head that Sir Gareth had thrown out at a window,
+and there she anointed them as she had done to-fore, and set them
+together again. Well, damosel Linet, said Sir Gareth, I have not
+deserved all this despite that ye do unto me. Sir knight, she said, I
+have nothing done but I will avow, and all that I have done shall be to
+your worship, and to us all. And then was Sir Gareth staunched of his
+bleeding. But the leeches said that there was no man that bare the life
+should heal him throughout of his wound but if they healed him that
+caused that stroke by enchantment.
+
+So leave we Sir Gareth there with Sir Gringamore and his sisters, and
+turn we unto King Arthur, that at the next feast of Pentecost held his
+feast; and there came the Green Knight with fifty knights, and yielded
+them all unto King Arthur. And so there came the Red Knight his
+brother, and yielded him to King Arthur, and three score knights with
+him. Also there came the Blue Knight, brother to them, with an hundred
+knights, and yielded them unto King Arthur; and the Green Knight’s name
+was Pertolepe, and the Red Knight’s name was Perimones, and the Blue
+Knight’s name was Sir Persant of Inde. These three brethren told King
+Arthur how they were overcome by a knight that a damosel had with her,
+and called him Beaumains. Jesu, said the king, I marvel what knight he
+is, and of what lineage he is come. He was with me a twelvemonth, and
+poorly and shamefully he was fostered, and Sir Kay in scorn named him
+Beaumains. So right as the king stood so talking with these three
+brethren, there came Sir Launcelot du Lake, and told the king that
+there was come a goodly lord with six hundred knights with him.
+
+Then the king went out of Carlion, for there was the feast, and there
+came to him this lord, and saluted the king in a goodly manner. What
+will ye, said King Arthur, and what is your errand? Sir, he said, my
+name is the Red Knight of the Red Launds, but my name is Sir Ironside;
+and sir, wit ye well, here I am sent to you of a knight that is called
+Beaumains, for he won me in plain battle hand for hand, and so did
+never no knight but he, that ever had the better of me this thirty
+winter; the which commanded to yield me to you at your will. Ye are
+welcome, said the king, for ye have been long a great foe to me and my
+court, and now I trust to God I shall so entreat you that ye shall be
+my friend. Sir, both I and these five hundred knights shall always be
+at your summons to do you service as may lie in our powers. Jesu mercy,
+said King Arthur, I am much beholden unto that knight that hath put so
+his body in devoir to worship me and my court. And as to thee,
+Ironside, that art called the Red Knight of the Red Launds, thou art
+called a perilous knight; and if thou wilt hold of me I shall worship
+thee and make thee knight of the Table Round; but then thou must be no
+more a murderer. Sir, as to that, I have promised unto Sir Beaumains
+never more to use such customs, for all the shameful customs that I
+used I did at the request of a lady that I loved; and therefore I must
+go unto Sir Launcelot, and unto Sir Gawaine, and ask them forgiveness
+of the evil will I had unto them; for all that I put to death was all
+only for the love of Sir Launcelot and of Sir Gawaine. They be here
+now, said the king, afore thee, now may ye say to them what ye will.
+And then he kneeled down unto Sir Launcelot, and to Sir Gawaine, and
+prayed them of forgiveness of his enmity that ever he had against them.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV. How King Arthur pardoned them, and demanded of them where
+Sir Gareth was.
+
+Then goodly they said all at once, God forgive you, and we do, and pray
+you that ye will tell us where we may find Sir Beaumains. Fair lords,
+said Sir Ironside, I cannot tell you, for it is full hard to find him;
+for such young knights as he is one, when they be in their adventures
+be never abiding in no place. But to say the worship that the Red
+Knight of the Red Launds, and Sir Persant and his brother said of
+Beaumains, it was marvel to hear. Well, my fair lords, said King
+Arthur, wit you well I shall do you honour for the love of Sir
+Beaumains, and as soon as ever I meet with him I shall make you all
+upon one day knights of the Table Round. And as to thee, Sir Persant of
+Inde, thou hast been ever called a full noble knight, and so have ever
+been thy three brethren called. But I marvel, said the king, that I
+hear not of the Black Knight your brother, he was a full noble knight.
+Sir, said Pertolepe, the Green Knight, Sir Beaumains slew him in a
+recounter with his spear, his name was Sir Percard. That was great
+pity, said the king, and so said many knights. For these four brethren
+were full well known in the court of King Arthur for noble knights, for
+long time they had holden war against the knights of the Round Table.
+Then said Pertolepe, the Green Knight, to the king: At a passage of the
+water of Mortaise there encountered Sir Beaumains with two brethren
+that ever for the most part kept that passage, and they were two deadly
+knights, and there he slew the eldest brother in the water, and smote
+him upon the head such a buffet that he fell down in the water, and
+there he was drowned, and his name was Sir Gherard le Breusse; and
+after he slew the other brother upon the land, his name was Sir Arnold
+le Breusse.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV. How the Queen of Orkney came to this feast of Pentecost,
+and Sir Gawaine and his brethren came to ask her blessing.
+
+So then the king and they went to meat, and were served in the best
+manner. And as they sat at the meat, there came in the Queen of Orkney,
+with ladies and knights a great number. And then Sir Gawaine, Sir
+Agravaine, and Gaheris arose, and went to her and saluted her upon
+their knees, and asked her blessing; for in fifteen year they had not
+seen her. Then she spake on high to her brother King Arthur: Where have
+ye done my young son Sir Gareth? He was here amongst you a twelvemonth,
+and ye made a kitchen knave of him, the which is shame to you all.
+Alas, where have ye done my dear son that was my joy and bliss? O dear
+mother, said Sir Gawaine, I knew him not. Nor I, said the king, that
+now me repenteth, but thanked be God he is proved a worshipful knight
+as any is now living of his years, and I shall never be glad till I may
+find him.
+
+Ah, brother, said the Queen unto King Arthur, and unto Sir Gawaine, and
+to all her sons, ye did yourself great shame when ye amongst you kept
+my son in the kitchen and fed him like a poor hog. Fair sister, said
+King Arthur, ye shall right well wit I knew him not, nor no more did
+Sir Gawaine, nor his brethren; but sithen it is so, said the king, that
+he is thus gone from us all, we must shape a remedy to find him. Also,
+sister, meseemeth ye might have done me to wit of his coming, and then
+an I had not done well to him ye might have blamed me. For when he came
+to this court he came leaning upon two men’s shoulders, as though he
+might not have gone. And then he asked me three gifts; and one he asked
+the same day, that was that I would give him meat enough that
+twelvemonth; and the other two gifts he asked that day a twelvemonth,
+and that was that he might have the adventure of the damosel Linet, and
+the third was that Sir Launcelot should make him knight when he desired
+him. And so I granted him all his desire, and many in this court
+marvelled that he desired his sustenance for a twelvemonth. And
+thereby, we deemed, many of us, that he was not come of a noble house.
+
+Sir, said the Queen of Orkney unto King Arthur her brother, wit ye well
+that I sent him unto you right well armed and horsed, and worshipfully
+beseen of his body, and gold and silver plenty to spend. It may be,
+said the King, but thereof saw we none, save that same day as he
+departed from us, knights told me that there came a dwarf hither
+suddenly, and brought him armour and a good horse full well and richly
+beseen; and thereat we all had marvel from whence that riches came,
+that we deemed all that he was come of men of worship. Brother, said
+the queen, all that ye say I believe, for ever sithen he was grown he
+was marvellously witted, and ever he was faithful and true of his
+promise. But I marvel, said she, that Sir Kay did mock him and scorn
+him, and gave him that name Beaumains; yet, Sir Kay, said the queen,
+named him more righteously than he weened; for I dare say an he be
+alive, he is as fair an handed man and well disposed as any is living.
+Sir, said Arthur, let this language be still, and by the grace of God
+he shall be found an he be within this seven realms, and let all this
+pass and be merry, for he is proved to be a man of worship, and that is
+my joy.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI. How King Arthur sent for the Lady Lionesse, and how she
+let cry a tourney at her castle, whereas came many knights.
+
+Then said Sir Gawaine and his brethren unto Arthur, Sir, an ye will
+give us leave, we will go and seek our brother. Nay, said Sir
+Launcelot, that shall ye not need; and so said Sir Baudwin of Britain:
+for as by our advice the king shall send unto Dame Lionesse a
+messenger, and pray her that she will come to the court in all the
+haste that she may, and doubt ye not she will come; and then she may
+give you best counsel where ye shall find him. This is well said of
+you, said the king. So then goodly letters were made, and the messenger
+sent forth, that night and day he went till he came unto the Castle
+Perilous. And then the lady Dame Lionesse was sent for, thereas she was
+with Sir Gringamore her brother and Sir Gareth. And when she understood
+this message, she bade him ride on his way unto King Arthur, and she
+would come after in all goodly haste. Then when she came to Sir
+Gringamore and to Sir Gareth, she told them all how King Arthur had
+sent for her. That is because of me, said Sir Gareth. Now advise me,
+said Dame Lionesse, what shall I say, and in what manner I shall rule
+me. My lady and my love, said Sir Gareth, I pray you in no wise be ye
+aknowen where I am; but well I wot my mother is there and all my
+brethren, and they will take upon them to seek me, I wot well that they
+do. But this, madam, I would ye said and advised the king when he
+questioned with you of me. Then may ye say, this is your advice that,
+an it like his good grace, ye will do make a cry against the feast of
+the Assumption of our Lady, that what knight there proveth him best he
+shall wield you and all your land. And if so be that he be a wedded
+man, that his wife shall have the degree, and a coronal of gold beset
+with stones of virtue to the value of a thousand pound, and a white
+gerfalcon.
+
+So Dame Lionesse departed and came to King Arthur, where she was nobly
+received, and there she was sore questioned of the king and of the
+Queen of Orkney. And she answered, where Sir Gareth was she could not
+tell. But thus much she said unto Arthur: Sir, I will let cry a
+tournament that shall be done before my castle at the Assumption of our
+Lady, and the cry shall be this: that you, my lord Arthur, shall be
+there, and your knights, and I will purvey that my knights shall be
+against yours; and then I am sure ye shall hear of Sir Gareth. This is
+well advised, said King Arthur; and so she departed. And the king and
+she made great provision to that tournament.
+
+When Dame Lionesse was come to the Isle of Avilion, that was the same
+isle thereas her brother Sir Gringamore dwelt, then she told them all
+how she had done, and what promise she had made to King Arthur. Alas,
+said Sir Gareth, I have been so wounded with unhappiness sithen I came
+into this castle that I shall not be able to do at that tournament like
+a knight; for I was never thoroughly whole since I was hurt. Be ye of
+good cheer, said the damosel Linet, for I undertake within these
+fifteen days to make ye whole, and as lusty as ever ye were. And then
+she laid an ointment and a salve to him as it pleased to her, that he
+was never so fresh nor so lusty. Then said the damosel Linet: Send you
+unto Sir Persant of Inde, and assummon him and his knights to be here
+with you as they have promised. Also, that ye send unto Sir Ironside,
+that is the Red Knight of the Red Launds, and charge him that he be
+ready with you with his whole sum of knights, and then shall ye be able
+to match with King Arthur and his knights. So this was done, and all
+knights were sent for unto the Castle Perilous; and then the Red Knight
+answered and said unto Dame Lionesse, and to Sir Gareth, Madam, and my
+lord Sir Gareth, ye shall understand that I have been at the court of
+King Arthur, and Sir Persant of Inde and his brethren, and there we
+have done our homage as ye commanded us. Also Sir Ironside said, I have
+taken upon me with Sir Persant of Inde and his brethren to hold part
+against my lord Sir Launcelot and the knights of that court. And this
+have I done for the love of my lady Dame Lionesse, and you my lord Sir
+Gareth. Ye have well done, said Sir Gareth; but wit you well ye shall
+be full sore matched with the most noble knights of the world;
+therefore we must purvey us of good knights, where we may get them.
+That is well said, said Sir Persant, and worshipfully.
+
+And so the cry was made in England, Wales, and Scotland, Ireland,
+Cornwall, and in all the Out Isles, and in Brittany and in many
+countries; that at the feast of our Lady the Assumption next coming,
+men should come to the Castle Perilous beside the Isle of Avilion; and
+there all the knights that there came should have the choice whether
+them list to be on the one party with the knights of the castle, or on
+the other party with King Arthur. And two months was to the day that
+the tournament should be. And so there came many good knights that were
+at their large, and held them for the most part against King Arthur and
+his knights of the Round Table and came in the side of them of the
+castle. For Sir Epinogrus was the first, and he was the king’s son of
+Northumberland, and Sir Palamides the Saracen was another, and Sir
+Safere his brother, and Sir Segwarides his brother, but they were
+christened, and Sir Malegrine another, and Sir Brian de les Isles, a
+noble knight, and Sir Grummore Grummursum, a good knight of Scotland,
+and Sir Carados of the dolorous tower, a noble knight, and Sir Turquine
+his brother, and Sir Arnold and Sir Gauter, two brethren, good knights
+of Cornwall. There came Sir Tristram de Liones, and with him Sir Dinas,
+the Seneschal, and Sir Sadok; but this Sir Tristram was not at that
+time knight of the Table Round, but he was one of the best knights of
+the world. And so all these noble knights accompanied them with the
+lady of the castle, and with the Red Knight of the Red Launds; but as
+for Sir Gareth, he would not take upon him more but as other mean
+knights.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII. How King Arthur went to the tournament with his knights,
+and how the lady received him worshipfully, and how the knights
+encountered.
+
+And then there came with King Arthur Sir Gawaine, Agravaine, Gaheris,
+his brethren. And then his nephews Sir Uwaine le Blanchemains, and Sir
+Aglovale, Sir Tor, Sir Percivale de Galis, and Sir Lamorak de Galis.
+Then came Sir Launcelot du Lake with his brethren, nephews, and
+cousins, as Sir Lionel, Sir Ector de Maris, Sir Bors de Ganis, and Sir
+Galihodin, Sir Galihud, and many more of Sir Launcelot’s blood, and Sir
+Dinadan, Sir La Cote Male Taile, his brother, a good knight, and Sir
+Sagramore, a good knight; and all the most part of the Round Table.
+Also there came with King Arthur these knights, the King of Ireland,
+King Agwisance, and the King of Scotland, King Carados and King Uriens
+of the land of Gore, and King Bagdemagus and his son Sir Meliaganus,
+and Sir Galahault the noble prince. All these kings, princes, and
+earls, barons, and other noble knights, as Sir Brandiles, Sir Uwaine
+les Avoutres, and Sir Kay, Sir Bedivere, Sir Meliot de Logres, Sir
+Petipase of Winchelsea, Sir Godelake: all these came with King Arthur,
+and more that cannot be rehearsed.
+
+Now leave we of these kings and knights, and let us speak of the great
+array that was made within the castle and about the castle for both
+parties. The Lady Dame Lionesse ordained great array upon her part for
+her noble knights, for all manner of lodging and victual that came by
+land and by water, that there lacked nothing for her party, nor for the
+other, but there was plenty to be had for gold and silver for King
+Arthur and his knights. And then there came the harbingers from King
+Arthur for to harbour him, and his kings, dukes, earls, barons, and
+knights. And then Sir Gareth prayed Dame Lionesse and the Red Knight of
+the Red Launds, and Sir Persant and his brother, and Sir Gringamore,
+that in no wise there should none of them tell not his name, and make
+no more of him than of the least knight that there was, For, he said, I
+will not be known of neither more nor less, neither at the beginning
+neither at the ending. Then Dame Lionesse said unto Sir Gareth: Sir, I
+will lend you a ring, but I would pray you as you love me heartily let
+me have it again when the tournament is done, for that ring increaseth
+my beauty much more than it is of himself. And the virtue of my ring is
+that, that is green it will turn to red, and that is red it will turn
+in likeness to green, and that is blue it will turn to likeness of
+white, and that is white it will turn in likeness to blue, and so it
+will do of all manner of colours. Also who that beareth my ring shall
+lose no blood, and for great love I will give you this ring. Gramercy,
+said Sir Gareth, mine own lady, for this ring is passing meet for me,
+for it will turn all manner of likeness that I am in, and that shall
+cause me that I shall not be known. Then Sir Gringamore gave Sir Gareth
+a bay courser that was a passing good horse; also he gave him good
+armour and sure, and a noble sword that sometime Sir Gringamore’s
+father won upon an heathen tyrant. And so thus every knight made him
+ready to that tournament. And King Arthur was come two days to-fore the
+Assumption of our Lady. And there was all manner of royalty of all
+minstrelsy that might be found. Also there came Queen Guenever and the
+Queen of Orkney, Sir Gareth’s mother.
+
+And upon the Assumption Day, when mass and matins were done, there were
+heralds with trumpets commanded to blow to the field. And so there came
+out Sir Epinogrus, the king’s son of Northumberland, from the castle,
+and there encountered with him Sir Sagramore le Desirous, and either of
+them brake their spears to their hands. And then came in Sir Palamides
+out of the castle, and there encountered with him Gawaine, and either
+of them smote other so hard that both the good knights and their horses
+fell to the earth. And then knights of either party rescued their
+knights. And then came in Sir Safere and Sir Segwarides, brethren to
+Sir Palamides; and there encountered Sir Agravaine with Sir Safere and
+Sir Gaheris encountered with Sir Segwarides. So Sir Safere smote down
+Agravaine, Sir Gawaine’s brother; and Sir Segwarides, Sir Safere’s
+brother. And Sir Malegrine, a knight of the castle, encountered with
+Sir Uwaine le Blanchemains, and there Sir Uwaine gave Sir Malegrine a
+fall, that he had almost broke his neck.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII. How the knights bare them in the battle.
+
+Then Sir Brian de les Isles and Grummore Grummursum, knights of the
+castle, encountered with Sir Aglovale, and Sir Tor smote down Sir
+Grummore Grummursum to the earth. Then came in Sir Carados of the
+dolorous tower, and Sir Turquine, knights of the castle; and there
+encountered with them Sir Percivale de Galis and Sir Lamorak de Galis,
+that were two brethren. And there encountered Sir Percivale with Sir
+Carados, and either brake their spears unto their hands, and then Sir
+Turquine with Sir Lamorak, and either of them smote down other’s horse
+and all to the earth, and either parties rescued other, and horsed them
+again. And Sir Arnold and Sir Gauter, knights of the castle,
+encountered with Sir Brandiles and Sir Kay, and these four knights
+encountered mightily, and brake their spears to their hands. Then came
+in Sir Tristram, Sir Sadok, and Sir Dinas, knights of the castle, and
+there encountered Sir Tristram with Sir Bedivere, and there Sir
+Bedivere was smitten to the earth both horse and man. And Sir Sadok
+encountered with Sir Petipase, and there Sir Sadok was overthrown. And
+there Uwaine les Avoutres smote down Sir Dinas, the Seneschal. Then
+came in Sir Persant of Inde, a knight of the castle, and there
+encountered with him Sir Launcelot du Lake, and there he smote Sir
+Persant, horse and man, to the earth. Then came Sir Pertolepe from the
+castle, and there encountered with him Sir Lionel, and there Sir
+Pertolepe, the Green Knight, smote down Sir Lionel, brother to Sir
+Launcelot. All this was marked by noble heralds, who bare him best, and
+their names.
+
+And then came into the field Sir Perimones, the Red Knight, Sir
+Persant’s brother, that was a knight of the castle, and he encountered
+with Sir Ector de Maris, and either smote other so hard that both their
+horses and they fell to the earth. And then came in the Red Knight of
+the Red Launds, and Sir Gareth, from the castle, and there encountered
+with them Sir Bors de Ganis and Sir Bleoberis, and there the Red Knight
+and Sir Bors [either] smote other so hard that their spears brast, and
+their horses fell grovelling to the earth. Then Sir Bleoberis brake his
+spear upon Sir Gareth, but of that stroke Sir Bleoberis fell to the
+earth. When Sir Galihodin saw that he bade Sir Gareth keep him, and Sir
+Gareth smote him to the earth. Then Sir Galihud gat a spear to avenge
+his brother, and in the same wise Sir Gareth served him, and Sir
+Dinadan and his brother, La Cote Male Taile, and Sir Sagramore le
+Desirous, and Sir Dodinas le Savage. All these he bare down with one
+spear.
+
+When King Agwisance of Ireland saw Sir Gareth fare so, he marvelled
+what he might be that one time seemed green, and another time, at his
+again coming, he seemed blue. And thus at every course that he rode to
+and fro he changed his colour, so that there might neither king nor
+knight have ready cognisance of him. Then Sir Agwisance, the King of
+Ireland, encountered with Sir Gareth, and there Sir Gareth smote him
+from his horse, saddle and all. And then came King Carados of Scotland,
+and Sir Gareth smote him down horse and man. And in the same wise he
+served King Uriens of the land of Gore. And then came in Sir
+Bagdemagus, and Sir Gareth smote him down, horse and man, to the earth.
+And Bagdemagus’ son, Meliganus, brake a spear upon Sir Gareth mightily
+and knightly. And then Sir Galahault, the noble prince, cried on high:
+Knight with the many colours, well hast thou jousted; now make thee
+ready that I may joust with thee. Sir Gareth heard him, and he gat a
+great spear, and so they encountered together, and there the prince
+brake his spear; but Sir Gareth smote him upon the left side of the
+helm that he reeled here and there, and he had fallen down had not his
+men recovered him.
+
+So God me help, said King Arthur, that same knight with the many
+colours is a good knight. Wherefore the king called unto him Sir
+Launcelot, and prayed him to encounter with that knight. Sir, said
+Launcelot, I may well find in my heart for to forbear him as at this
+time, for he hath had travail enough this day; and when a good knight
+doth so well upon some day, it is no good knight’s part to let him of
+his worship, and namely, when he seeth a knight hath done so great
+labour; for peradventure, said Sir Launcelot, his quarrel is here this
+day, and peradventure he is best beloved with this lady of all that be
+here; for I see well he paineth him and enforceth him to do great
+deeds, and therefore, said Sir Launcelot, as for me, this day he shall
+have the honour; though it lay in my power to put him from it I would
+not.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX. Yet of the said tournament.
+
+Then when this was done there was drawing of swords, and then there
+began a sore tournament. And there did Sir Lamorak marvellous deeds of
+arms; and betwixt Sir Lamorak and Sir Ironside, that was the Red Knight
+of the Red Launds, there was strong battle; and betwixt Sir Palamides
+and Bleoberis there was a strong battle; and Sir Gawaine and Sir
+Tristram met, and there Sir Gawaine had the worse, for he pulled Sir
+Gawaine from his horse, and there he was long upon foot, and defouled.
+Then came in Sir Launcelot, and he smote Sir Turquine, and he him; and
+then came Sir Carados his brother, and both at once they assailed him,
+and he as the most noblest knight of the world worshipfully fought with
+them both, that all men wondered of the noblesse of Sir Launcelot. And
+then came in Sir Gareth, and knew that it was Sir Launcelot that fought
+with the two perilous knights. And then Sir Gareth came with his good
+horse and hurtled them in-sunder, and no stroke would he smite to Sir
+Launcelot. That espied Sir Launcelot, and deemed it should be the good
+knight Sir Gareth: and then Sir Gareth rode here and there, and smote
+on the right hand and on the left hand, and all the folk might well
+espy where that he rode. And by fortune he met with his brother Sir
+Gawaine, and there he put Sir Gawaine to the worse, for he put off his
+helm, and so he served five or six knights of the Round Table, that all
+men said he put him in the most pain, and best he did his devoir. For
+when Sir Tristram beheld him how he first jousted and after fought so
+well with a sword, then he rode unto Sir Ironside and to Sir Persant of
+Inde, and asked them, by their faith, What manner a knight is yonder
+knight that seemeth in so many divers colours? Truly, meseemeth, said
+Tristram, that he putteth himself in great pain, for he never ceaseth.
+Wot ye not what he is? said Sir Ironside. No, said Sir Tristram. Then
+shall ye know that this is he that loveth the lady of the castle, and
+she him again; and this is he that won me when I besieged the lady of
+this castle, and this is he that won Sir Persant of Inde, and his three
+brethren. What is his name, said Sir Tristram, and of what blood is he
+come? He was called in the court of King Arthur, Beaumains, but his
+right name is Sir Gareth of Orkney, brother to Sir Gawaine. By my head,
+said Sir Tristram, he is a good knight, and a big man of arms, and if
+he be young he shall prove a full noble knight. He is but a child, they
+all said, and of Sir Launcelot he was made knight. Therefore he is
+mickle the better, said Tristram. And then Sir Tristram, Sir Ironside,
+Sir Persant, and his brother, rode together for to help Sir Gareth; and
+then there were given many strong strokes.
+
+And then Sir Gareth rode out on the one side to amend his helm; and
+then said his dwarf: Take me your ring, that ye lose it not while that
+ye drink. And so when he had drunk he gat on his helm, and eagerly took
+his horse and rode into the field, and left his ring with his dwarf;
+and the dwarf was glad the ring was from him, for then he wist well he
+should be known. And then when Sir Gareth was in the field all folks
+saw him well and plainly that he was in yellow colours; and there he
+rased off helms and pulled down knights, that King Arthur had marvel
+what knight he was, for the king saw by his hair that it was the same
+knight.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX. How Sir Gareth was espied by the heralds, and how he
+escaped out of the field.
+
+But before he was in so many colours, and now he is but in one colour;
+that is yellow. Now go, said King Arthur unto divers heralds, and ride
+about him, and espy what manner knight he is, for I have spered of many
+knights this day that be upon his party, and all say they know him not.
+
+And so an herald rode nigh Gareth as he could; and there he saw written
+about his helm in gold, This helm is Sir Gareth of Orkney.
+
+Then the herald cried as he were wood, and many heralds with him:—This
+is Sir Gareth of Orkney in the yellow arms; that by all kings and
+knights of Arthur’s beheld him and awaited; and then they pressed all
+to behold him, and ever the heralds cried: This is Sir Gareth of
+Orkney, King Lot’s son.
+
+And when Sir Gareth espied that he was discovered, then he doubled his
+strokes, and smote down Sir Sagramore, and his brother Sir Gawaine.
+
+O brother, said Sir Gawaine, I weened ye would not have stricken me.
+
+So when he heard him say so he thrang here and there, and so with great
+pain he gat out of the press, and there he met with his dwarf. O boy,
+said Sir Gareth, thou hast beguiled me foul this day that thou kept my
+ring; give it me anon again, that I may hide my body withal; and so he
+took it him. And then they all wist not where he was become; and Sir
+Gawaine had in manner espied where Sir Gareth rode, and then he rode
+after with all his might. That espied Sir Gareth, and rode lightly into
+the forest, that Sir Gawaine wist not where he was become. And when Sir
+Gareth wist that Sir Gawaine was passed, he asked the dwarf of best
+counsel. Sir, said the dwarf, meseemeth it were best, now that ye are
+escaped from spying, that ye send my lady Dame Lionesse her ring. It is
+well advised, said Sir Gareth; now have it here and bear it to her, and
+say that I recommend me unto her good grace, and say her I will come
+when I may, and I pray her to be true and faithful to me as I will be
+to her. Sir, said the dwarf, it shall be done as ye command: and so he
+rode his way, and did his errand unto the lady. Then she said, Where is
+my knight, Sir Gareth? Madam, said the dwarf, he bade me say that he
+would not be long from you. And so lightly the dwarf came again unto
+Sir Gareth, that would full fain have had a lodging, for he had need to
+be reposed. And then fell there a thunder and a rain, as heaven and
+earth should go together. And Sir Gareth was not a little weary, for of
+all that day he had but little rest, neither his horse nor he. So this
+Sir Gareth rode so long in that forest until the night came. And ever
+it lightened and thundered, as it had been wood. At the last by fortune
+he came to a castle, and there he heard the waits upon the walls.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI. How Sir Gareth came to a castle where he was well lodged,
+and he jousted with a knight and slew him.
+
+Then Sir Gareth rode unto the barbican of the castle, and prayed the
+porter fair to let him into the castle. The porter answered ungoodly
+again, and said, Thou gettest no lodging here. Fair sir, say not so,
+for I am a knight of King Arthur’s, and pray the lord or the lady of
+this castle to give me harbour for the love of King Arthur. Then the
+porter went unto the duchess, and told her how there was a knight of
+King Arthur’s would have harbour. Let him in, said the duchess, for I
+will see that knight, and for King Arthur’s sake he shall not be
+harbourless. Then she yode up into a tower over the gate, with great
+torchlight.
+
+When Sir Gareth saw that torch-light he cried on high: Whether thou be
+lord or lady, giant or champion, I take no force so that I may have
+harbour this night; and if it so be that I must needs fight, spare me
+not to-morn when I have rested me, for both I and mine horse be weary.
+Sir knight, said the lady, thou speakest knightly and boldly; but wit
+thou well the lord of this castle loveth not King Arthur, nor none of
+his court, for my lord hath ever been against him; and therefore thou
+were better not to come within this castle; for an thou come in this
+night, thou must come in under such form, that wheresomever thou meet
+my lord, by stigh or by street, thou must yield thee to him as
+prisoner. Madam, said Sir Gareth, what is your lord, and what is his
+name? Sir, my lord’s name is the Duke de la Rowse. Well madam, said Sir
+Gareth, I shall promise you in what place I meet your lord I shall
+yield me unto him and to his good grace; with that I understand he will
+do me no harm: and if I understand that he will, I will release myself
+an I can with my spear and my sword. Ye say well, said the duchess; and
+then she let the drawbridge down, and so he rode into the hall, and
+there he alighted, and his horse was led into a stable; and in the hall
+he unarmed him and said, Madam, I will not out of this hall this night;
+and when it is daylight, let see who will have ado with me, he shall
+find me ready. Then was he set unto supper, and had many good dishes.
+Then Sir Gareth list well to eat, and knightly he ate his meat, and
+eagerly; there was many a fair lady by him, and some said they never
+saw a goodlier man nor so well of eating. Then they made him passing
+good cheer, and shortly when he had supped his bed was made there; so
+he rested him all night.
+
+And on the morn he heard mass, and brake his fast and took his leave at
+the duchess, and at them all; and thanked her goodly of her lodging,
+and of his good cheer; and then she asked him his name. Madam, he said,
+truly my name is Gareth of Orkney, and some men call me Beaumains. Then
+knew she well it was the same knight that fought for Dame Lionesse. So
+Sir Gareth departed and rode up into a mountain, and there met him a
+knight, his name was Sir Bendelaine, and said to Sir Gareth: Thou shalt
+not pass this way, for either thou shalt joust with me, or else be my
+prisoner. Then will I joust, said Sir Gareth. And so they let their
+horses run, and there Sir Gareth smote him throughout the body; and Sir
+Bendelaine rode forth to his castle there beside, and there died. So
+Sir Gareth would have rested him, and he came riding to Bendelaine’s
+castle. Then his knights and servants espied that it was he that had
+slain their lord. Then they armed twenty good men, and came out and
+assailed Sir Gareth; and so he had no spear, but his sword, and put his
+shield afore him; and there they brake their spears upon him, and they
+assailed him passingly sore. But ever Sir Gareth defended him as a
+knight.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII. How Sir Gareth fought with a knight that held within his
+castle thirty ladies, and how he slew him.
+
+So when they saw that they might not overcome him, they rode from him,
+and took their counsel to slay his horse; and so they came in upon Sir
+Gareth, and with spears they slew his horse, and then they assailed him
+hard. But when he was on foot, there was none that he fought but he
+gave him such a buffet that he did never recover. So he slew them by
+one and one till they were but four, and there they fled; and Sir
+Gareth took a good horse that was one of theirs, and rode his way.
+
+Then he rode a great pace till that he came to a castle, and there he
+heard much mourning of ladies and gentlewomen. So there came by him a
+page. What noise is this, said Sir Gareth, that I hear within this
+castle? Sir knight, said the page, here be within this castle thirty
+ladies, and all they be widows; for here is a knight that waiteth daily
+upon this castle, and his name is the Brown Knight without Pity, and he
+is the periloust knight that now liveth; and therefore sir, said the
+page, I rede you flee. Nay, said Sir Gareth, I will not flee though
+thou be afeard of him. And then the page saw where came the Brown
+Knight: Lo, said the page, yonder he cometh. Let me deal with him, said
+Sir Gareth. And when either of other had a sight they let their horses
+run, and the Brown Knight brake his spear, and Sir Gareth smote him
+throughout the body, that he overthrew him to the ground stark dead. So
+Sir Gareth rode into the castle, and prayed the ladies that he might
+repose him. Alas, said the ladies, ye may not be lodged here. Make him
+good cheer, said the page, for this knight hath slain your enemy. Then
+they all made him good cheer as lay in their power. But wit ye well
+they made him good cheer, for they might none otherwise do, for they
+were but poor.
+
+And so on the morn he went to mass, and there he saw the thirty ladies
+kneel, and lay grovelling upon divers tombs, making great dole and
+sorrow. Then Sir Gareth wist well that in the tombs lay their lords.
+Fair ladies, said Sir Gareth, ye must at the next feast of Pentecost be
+at the court of King Arthur, and say that I, Sir Gareth, sent you
+thither. We shall do this, said the ladies. So he departed, and by
+fortune he came to a mountain, and there he found a goodly knight that
+bade him, Abide sir knight, and joust with me. What are ye? said Sir
+Gareth. My name is, said he, the Duke de la Rowse. Ah sir, ye are the
+same knight that I lodged once in your castle; and there I made promise
+unto your lady that I should yield me unto you. Ah, said the duke, art
+thou that proud knight that profferest to fight with my knights;
+therefore make thee ready, for I will have ado with you. So they let
+their horses run, and there Sir Gareth smote the duke down from his
+horse. But the duke lightly avoided his horse, and dressed his shield
+and drew his sword, and bade Sir Gareth alight and fight with him. So
+he did alight, and they did great battle together more than an hour,
+and either hurt other full sore. At the last Sir Gareth gat the duke to
+the earth, and would have slain him, and then he yield him to him. Then
+must ye go, said Sir Gareth, unto Sir Arthur my lord at the next feast,
+and say that I, Sir Gareth of Orkney, sent you unto him. It shall be
+done, said the duke, and I will do to you homage and fealty with an
+hundred knights with me; and all the days of my life to do you service
+where ye will command me.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII. How Sir Gareth and Sir Gawaine fought each against
+other, and how they knew each other by the damosel Linet.
+
+So the duke departed, and Sir Gareth stood there alone; and there he
+saw an armed knight coming toward him. Then Sir Gareth took the duke’s
+shield, and mounted upon horseback, and so without biding they ran
+together as it had been the thunder. And there that knight hurt Sir
+Gareth under the side with his spear. And then they alighted and drew
+their swords, and gave great strokes that the blood trailed to the
+ground. And so they fought two hours.
+
+At the last there came the damosel Linet, that some men called the
+damosel Savage, and she came riding upon an ambling mule; and there she
+cried all on high, Sir Gawaine, Sir Gawaine, leave thy fighting with
+thy brother Sir Gareth.
+
+And when he heard her say so he threw away his shield and his sword,
+and ran to Sir Gareth, and took him in his arms, and sithen kneeled
+down and asked him mercy.
+
+What are ye, said Sir Gareth, that right now were so strong and so
+mighty, and now so suddenly yield you to me? O Gareth, I am your
+brother Sir Gawaine, that for your sake have had great sorrow and
+labour.
+
+Then Sir Gareth unlaced his helm, and kneeled down to him, and asked
+him mercy. Then they rose both, and embraced either other in their
+arms, and wept a great while or they might speak, and either of them
+gave other the prize of the battle. And there were many kind words
+between them.
+
+Alas, my fair brother, said Sir Gawaine, perdy I owe of right to
+worship you an ye were not my brother, for ye have worshipped King
+Arthur and all his court, for ye have sent me more worshipful knights
+this twelvemonth than six the best of the Round Table have done, except
+Sir Launcelot.
+
+Then came the damosel Savage that was the Lady Linet, that rode with
+Sir Gareth so long, and there she did staunch Sir Gareth’s wounds and
+Sir Gawaine’s. Now what will ye do? said the damosel Savage; meseemeth
+that it were well done that Arthur had witting of you both, for your
+horses are so bruised that they may not bear. Now, fair damosel, said
+Sir Gawaine, I pray you ride unto my lord mine uncle, King Arthur, and
+tell him what adventure is to me betid here, and I suppose he will not
+tarry long. Then she took her mule, and lightly she came to King Arthur
+that was but two mile thence. And when she had told him tidings the
+king bade get him a palfrey. And when he was upon his back he bade the
+lords and ladies come after, who that would; and there was saddling and
+bridling of queens’ horses and princes’ horses, and well was him that
+soonest might be ready.
+
+So when the king came thereas they were, he saw Sir Gawaine and Sir
+Gareth sit upon a little hill-side, and then the king avoided his
+horse. And when he came nigh Sir Gareth he would have spoken but he
+might not; and therewith he sank down in a swoon for gladness. And so
+they stert unto their uncle, and required him of his good grace to be
+of good comfort. Wit ye well the king made great joy, and many a
+piteous complaint he made to Sir Gareth, and ever he wept as he had
+been a child. With that came his mother, the Queen of Orkney, Dame
+Morgawse, and when she saw Sir Gareth readily in the visage she might
+not weep, but suddenly fell down in a swoon, and lay there a great
+while like as she had been dead. And then Sir Gareth recomforted his
+mother in such wise that she recovered and made good cheer. Then the
+king commanded that all manner of knights that were under his
+obeissance should make their lodging right there for the love of his
+nephews. And so it was done, and all manner of purveyance purveyed,
+that there lacked nothing that might be gotten of tame nor wild for
+gold or silver. And then by the means of the damosel Savage Sir Gawaine
+and Sir Gareth were healed of their wounds; and there they sojourned
+eight days.
+
+Then said King Arthur unto the damosel Savage: I marvel that your
+sister, Dame Lionesse, cometh not here to me, and in especial that she
+cometh not to visit her knight, my nephew Sir Gareth, that hath had so
+much travail for her love. My lord, said the damosel Linet, ye must of
+your good grace hold her excused, for she knoweth not that my lord, Sir
+Gareth, is here. Go then for her, said King Arthur, that we may be
+appointed what is best to be done, according to the pleasure of my
+nephew. Sir, said the damosel, that shall be done, and so she rode unto
+her sister. And as lightly as she might she made her ready; and she
+came on the morn with her brother Sir Gringamore, and with her forty
+knights. And so when she was come she had all the cheer that might be
+done, both of the king, and of many other kings and queens.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV. How Sir Gareth acknowledged that they loved each other
+to King Arthur, and of the appointment of their wedding.
+
+And among all these ladies she was named the fairest, and peerless.
+Then when Sir Gawaine saw her there was many a goodly look and goodly
+words, that all men of worship had joy to behold them. Then came King
+Arthur and many other kings, and Dame Guenever, and the Queen of
+Orkney. And there the king asked his nephew, Sir Gareth, whether he
+would have that lady as paramour, or to have her to his wife. My lord,
+wit you well that I love her above all ladies living. Now, fair lady,
+said King Arthur, what say ye? Most noble King, said Dame Lionesse, wit
+you well that my lord, Sir Gareth, is to me more liefer to have and
+wield as my husband, than any king or prince that is christened; and if
+I may not have him I promise you I will never have none. For, my lord
+Arthur, said Dame Lionesse, wit ye well he is my first love, and he
+shall be the last; and if ye will suffer him to have his will and free
+choice I dare say he will have me. That is truth, said Sir Gareth; an I
+have not you and wield not you as my wife, there shall never lady nor
+gentlewoman rejoice me. What, nephew, said the king, is the wind in
+that door? for wit ye well I would not for the stint of my crown to be
+causer to withdraw your hearts; and wit ye well ye cannot love so well
+but I shall rather increase it than distress it. And also ye shall have
+my love and my lordship in the uttermost wise that may lie in my power.
+And in the same wise said Sir Gareth’s mother.
+
+Then there was made a provision for the day of marriage; and by the
+king’s advice it was provided that it should be at Michaelmas
+following, at Kink Kenadon by the seaside, for there is a plentiful
+country. And so it was cried in all the places through the realm. And
+then Sir Gareth sent his summons to all these knights and ladies that
+he had won in battle to-fore, that they should be at his day of
+marriage at Kink Kenadon by the sands.
+
+And then Dame Lionesse, and the damosel Linet with Sir Gringamore, rode
+to their castle; and a goodly and a rich ring she gave to Sir Gareth,
+and he gave her another. And King Arthur gave her a rich pair of bee of
+gold; and so she departed.
+
+And King Arthur and his fellowship rode toward Kink Kenadon, and Sir
+Gareth brought his lady on the way, and so came to the king again and
+rode with him.
+
+Lord! the great cheer that Sir Launcelot made of Sir Gareth and he of
+him, for there was never no knight that Sir Gareth loved so well as he
+did Sir Launcelot; and ever for the most part he would be in Sir
+Launcelot’s company; for after Sir Gareth had espied Sir Gawaine’s
+conditions, he withdrew himself from his brother, Sir Gawaine’s,
+fellowship, for he was vengeable, and where he hated he would be
+avenged with murder, and that hated Sir Gareth.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV. Of the Great Royalty, and what officers were made at the
+feast of the wedding, and of the jousts at the feast.
+
+So it drew fast to Michaelmas; and thither came Dame Lionesse, the lady
+of the Castle Perilous, and her sister, Dame Linet, with Sir
+Gringamore, her brother, with them for he had the conduct of these
+ladies. And there they were lodged at the device of King Arthur. And
+upon Michaelmas Day the Bishop of Canterbury made the wedding betwixt
+Sir Gareth and the Lady Lionesse with great solemnity. And King Arthur
+made Gaheris to wed the Damosel Savage, that was Dame Linet; and King
+Arthur made Sir Agravaine to wed Dame Lionesse’s niece, a fair lady,
+her name was Dame Laurel.
+
+And so when this solemnization was done, then came in the Green Knight,
+Sir Pertolepe, with thirty knights, and there he did homage and fealty
+to Sir Gareth, and these knights to hold of him for evermore. Also Sir
+Pertolepe said: I pray you that at this feast I may be your
+chamberlain. With a good will, said Sir Gareth sith it liketh you to
+take so simple an office. Then came in the Red Knight, with three score
+knights with him, and did to Sir Gareth homage and fealty, and all
+those knights to hold of him for evermore. And then this Sir Perimones
+prayed Sir Gareth to grant him to be his chief butler at that high
+feast. I will well, said Sir Gareth, that ye have this office, and it
+were better. Then came in Sir Persant of Inde, with an hundred knights
+with him, and there he did homage and fealty, and all his knights
+should do him service, and hold their lands of him for ever; and there
+he prayed Sir Gareth to make him his sewer-chief at the feast. I will
+well, said Sir Gareth, that ye have it and it were better. Then came
+the Duke de la Rowse with an hundred knights with him, and there he did
+homage and fealty to Sir Gareth, and so to hold their lands of him for
+ever. And he required Sir Gareth that he might serve him of the wine
+that day of that feast. I will well, said Sir Gareth, and it were
+better. Then came in the Red Knight of the Red Launds, that was Sir
+Ironside, and he brought with him three hundred knights, and there he
+did homage and fealty, and all these knights to hold their lands of him
+for ever. And then he asked Sir Gareth to be his carver. I will well,
+said Sir Gareth, an it please you.
+
+Then came into the court thirty ladies, and all they seemed widows, and
+those thirty ladies brought with them many fair gentlewomen. And all
+they kneeled down at once unto King Arthur and unto Sir Gareth, and
+there all those ladies told the king how Sir Gareth delivered them from
+the dolorous tower, and slew the Brown Knight without Pity: And
+therefore we, and our heirs for evermore, will do homage unto Sir
+Gareth of Orkney. So then the kings and queens, princes and earls,
+barons and many bold knights, went unto meat; and well may ye wit there
+were all manner of meat plenteously, all manner revels and games, with
+all manner of minstrelsy that was used in those days. Also there was
+great jousts three days. But the king would not suffer Sir Gareth to
+joust, because of his new bride; for, as the French book saith, that
+Dame Lionesse desired of the king that none that were wedded should
+joust at that feast.
+
+So the first day there jousted Sir Lamorak de Galis, for he overthrew
+thirty knights, and did passing marvellously deeds of arms; and then
+King Arthur made Sir Persant and his two brethren Knights of the Round
+Table to their lives’ end, and gave them great lands. Also the second
+day there jousted Tristram best, and he overthrew forty knights, and
+did there marvellous deeds of arms. And there King Arthur made
+Ironside, that was the Red Knight of the Red Launds, a Knight of the
+Table Round to his life’s end, and gave him great lands. The third day
+there jousted Sir Launcelot du Lake, and he overthrew fifty knights,
+and did many marvellous deeds of arms, that all men wondered on him.
+And there King Arthur made the Duke de la Rowse a Knight of the Round
+Table to his life’s end, and gave him great lands to spend. But when
+these jousts were done, Sir Lamorak and Sir Tristram departed suddenly,
+and would not be known, for the which King Arthur and all the court
+were sore displeased. And so they held the court forty days with great
+solemnity. And this Sir Gareth was a noble knight, and a well-ruled,
+and fair-languaged.
+
+Thus endeth this tale of Sir Gareth of Orkney that wedded Dame Lionesse
+of the Castle Perilous. And also Sir Gaheris wedded her sister, Dame
+Linet, that was called the Damosel Sabage. And Sir Agrabaine wedded
+Dame Laurel, a fair lady and great, and mighty lands with great riches
+gave with them King Arthur, that royally they might live till their
+lives’ end.
+
+ Here followeth the viii. book, the which is the first book of Sir
+ Tristram de Liones, and who was his father and his mother, and how he
+ was born and fostered, and how he was made knight.
+
+
+
+BOOK VIII.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I. How Sir Tristram de Liones was born, and how his mother died
+at his birth, wherefore she named him Tristram.
+
+It was a king that hight Meliodas, and he was lord and king of the
+country of Liones, and this Meliodas was a likely knight as any was
+that time living. And by fortune he wedded King Mark’s sister of
+Cornwall, and she was called Elizabeth, that was called both good and
+fair. And at that time King Arthur reigned, and he was whole king of
+England, Wales, and Scotland, and of many other realms: howbeit there
+were many kings that were lords of many countries, but all they held
+their lands of King Arthur; for in Wales were two kings, and in the
+north were many kings; and in Cornwall and in the west were two kings;
+also in Ireland were two or three kings, and all were under the
+obeissance of King Arthur. So was the King of France, and the King of
+Brittany, and all the lordships unto Rome.
+
+So when this King Meliodas had been with his wife, within a while she
+waxed great with child, and she was a full meek lady, and well she
+loved her lord, and he her again, so there was great joy betwixt them.
+Then there was a lady in that country that had loved King Meliodas
+long, and by no mean she never could get his love; therefore she let
+ordain upon a day, as King Meliodas rode a-hunting, for he was a great
+chaser, and there by an enchantment she made him chase an hart by
+himself alone till that he came to an old castle, and there anon he was
+taken prisoner by the lady that him loved. When Elizabeth, King
+Meliodas’ wife, missed her lord, and she was nigh out of her wit, and
+also as great with child as she was, she took a gentlewoman with her,
+and ran into the forest to seek her lord. And when she was far in the
+forest she might no farther, for she began to travail fast of her
+child. And she had many grimly throes; her gentlewoman helped her all
+that she might, and so by miracle of Our Lady of Heaven she was
+delivered with great pains. But she had taken such cold for the default
+of help that deep draughts of death took her, that needs she must die
+and depart out of this world; there was none other bote.
+
+And when this Queen Elizabeth saw that there was none other bote, then
+she made great dole, and said unto her gentlewoman: When ye see my
+lord, King Meliodas, recommend me unto him, and tell him what pains I
+endure here for his love, and how I must die here for his sake for
+default of good help; and let him wit that I am full sorry to depart
+out of this world from him, therefore pray him to be friend to my soul.
+Now let me see my little child, for whom I have had all this sorrow.
+And when she saw him she said thus: Ah, my little son, thou hast
+murdered thy mother, and therefore I suppose, thou that art a murderer
+so young, thou art full likely to be a manly man in thine age. And
+because I shall die of the birth of thee, I charge thee, gentlewoman,
+that thou pray my lord, King Meliodas, that when he is christened let
+call him Tristram, that is as much to say as a sorrowful birth. And
+therewith this queen gave up the ghost and died. Then the gentlewoman
+laid her under an umbre of a great tree, and then she lapped the child
+as well as she might for cold. Right so there came the barons,
+following after the queen, and when they saw that she was dead, and
+understood none other but the king was destroyed.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II. How the stepmother of Sir Tristram had ordained poison for
+to have poisoned Sir Tristram.
+
+Then certain of them would have slain the child, because they would
+have been lords of the country of Liones. But then through the fair
+speech of the gentlewoman, and by the means that she made, the most
+part of the barons would not assent thereto. And then they let carry
+home the dead queen, and much dole was made for her.
+
+Then this meanwhile Merlin delivered King Meliodas out of prison on the
+morn after his queen was dead. And so when the king was come home the
+most part of the barons made great joy. But the sorrow that the king
+made for his queen that might no tongue tell. So then the king let
+inter her richly, and after he let christen his child as his wife had
+commanded afore her death. And then he let call him Tristram, the
+sorrowful born child. Then the King Meliodas endured seven years
+without a wife, and all this time Tristram was nourished well. Then it
+befell that King Meliodas wedded King Howell’s daughter of Brittany,
+and anon she had children of King Meliodas: then was she heavy and
+wroth that her children should not rejoice the country of Liones,
+wherefore this queen ordained for to poison young Tristram. So she let
+poison be put in a piece of silver in the chamber whereas Tristram and
+her children were together, unto that intent that when Tristram were
+thirsty he should drink that drink. And so it fell upon a day, the
+queen’s son, as he was in that chamber, espied the piece with poison,
+and he weened it had been good drink, and because the child was thirsty
+he took the piece with poison and drank freely; and therewithal
+suddenly the child brast and was dead.
+
+When the queen of Meliodas wist of the death of her son, wit ye well
+that she was heavy. But yet the king understood nothing of her treason.
+Notwithstanding the queen would not leave this, but eft she let ordain
+more poison, and put it in a piece. And by fortune King Meliodas, her
+husband, found the piece with wine where was the poison, and he that
+was much thirsty took the piece for to drink thereout. And as he would
+have drunken thereof the queen espied him, and then she ran unto him,
+and pulled the piece from him suddenly. The king marvelled why she did
+so, and remembered him how her son was suddenly slain with poison. And
+then he took her by the hand, and said: Thou false traitress, thou
+shalt tell me what manner of drink this is, or else I shall slay thee.
+And therewith he pulled out his sword, and sware a great oath that he
+should slay her but if she told him truth. Ah! mercy, my lord, said
+she, and I shall tell you all. And then she told him why she would have
+slain Tristram, because her children should rejoice his land. Well,
+said King Meliodas, and therefore shall ye have the law. And so she was
+condemned by the assent of the barons to be burnt; and then was there
+made a great fire, and right as she was at the fire to take her
+execution, young Tristram kneeled afore King Meliodas, and besought him
+to give him a boon. I will well, said the king again. Then said young
+Tristram, Give me the life of thy queen, my stepmother. That is
+unrightfully asked, said King Meliodas, for thou ought of right to hate
+her, for she would have slain thee with that poison an she might have
+had her will; and for thy sake most is my cause that she should die.
+
+Sir, said Tristram, as for that, I beseech you of your mercy that you
+will forgive it her, and as for my part, God forgive it her, and I do;
+and so much it liked your highness to grant me my boon, for God’s love
+I require you hold your promise. Sithen it is so, said the king, I will
+that ye have her life. Then, said the king, I give her to you, and go
+ye to the fire and take her, and do with her what ye will. So Sir
+Tristram went to the fire, and by the commandment of the king delivered
+her from the death. But after that King Meliodas would never have ado
+with her, as at bed and board. But by the good means of young Tristram
+he made the king and her accorded. But then the king would not suffer
+young Tristram to abide no longer in his court.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III. How Sir Tristram was sent into France, and had one to
+govern him named Gouvernail, and how he learned to harp, hawk, and
+hunt.
+
+And then he let ordain a gentleman that was well learned and taught,
+his name was Gouvernail; and then he sent young Tristram with
+Gouvernail into France to learn the language, and nurture, and deeds of
+arms. And there was Tristram more than seven years. And then when he
+well could speak the language, and had learned all that he might learn
+in that country, then he came home to his father, King Meliodas, again.
+And so Tristram learned to be an harper passing all other, that there
+was none such called in no country, and so on harping and on
+instruments of music he applied him in his youth for to learn.
+
+And after, as he grew in might and strength, he laboured ever in
+hunting and in hawking, so that never gentleman more, that ever we
+heard read of. And as the book saith, he began good measures of blowing
+of beasts of venery, and beasts of chase, and all manner of vermin, and
+all these terms we have yet of hawking and hunting. And therefore the
+book of venery, of hawking, and hunting, is called the book of Sir
+Tristram. Wherefore, as meseemeth, all gentlemen that bear old arms
+ought of right to honour Sir Tristram for the goodly terms that
+gentlemen have and use, and shall to the day of doom, that thereby in a
+manner all men of worship may dissever a gentleman from a yeoman, and
+from a yeoman a villain. For he that gentle is will draw him unto
+gentle tatches, and to follow the customs of noble gentlemen.
+
+Thus Sir Tristram endured in Cornwall until he was big and strong, of
+the age of eighteen years. And then the King Meliodas had great joy of
+Sir Tristram, and so had the queen, his wife. For ever after in her
+life, because Sir Tristram saved her from the fire, she did never hate
+him more after, but loved him ever after, and gave Tristram many great
+gifts; for every estate loved him, where that he went.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV. How Sir Marhaus came out of Ireland for to ask truage of
+Cornwall, or else he would fight therefore.
+
+Then it befell that King Anguish of Ireland sent unto King Mark of
+Cornwall for his truage, that Cornwall had paid many winters. And all
+that time King Mark was behind of the truage for seven years. And King
+Mark and his barons gave unto the messenger of Ireland these words and
+answer, that they would none pay; and bade the messenger go unto his
+King Anguish, and tell him we will pay him no truage, but tell your
+lord, an he will always have truage of us of Cornwall, bid him send a
+trusty knight of his land, that will fight for his right, and we shall
+find another for to defend our right. With this answer the messengers
+departed into Ireland. And when King Anguish understood the answer of
+the messengers he was wonderly wroth. And then he called unto him Sir
+Marhaus, the good knight, that was nobly proved, and a Knight of the
+Table Round. And this Marhaus was brother unto the queen of Ireland.
+Then the king said thus: Fair brother, Sir Marhaus, I pray you go into
+Cornwall for my sake, and do battle for our truage that of right we
+ought to have; and whatsomever ye spend ye shall have sufficiently,
+more than ye shall need. Sir, said Marhaus, wit ye well that I shall
+not be loath to do battle in the right of you and your land with the
+best knight of the Table Round; for I know them, for the most part,
+what be their deeds; and for to advance my deeds and to increase my
+worship I will right gladly go unto this journey for our right.
+
+So in all haste there was made purveyance for Sir Marhaus, and he had
+all things that to him needed; and so he departed out of Ireland, and
+arrived up in Cornwall even fast by the Castle of Tintagil. And when
+King Mark understood that he was there arrived to fight for Ireland,
+then made King Mark great sorrow when he understood that the good and
+noble knight Sir Marhaus was come. For they knew no knight that durst
+have ado with him. For at that time Sir Marhaus was called one of the
+famousest and renowned knights of the world. And thus Sir Marhaus abode
+in the sea, and every day he sent unto King Mark for to pay the truage
+that was behind of seven year, other else to find a knight to fight
+with him for the truage. This manner of message Sir Marhaus sent daily
+unto King Mark.
+
+Then they of Cornwall let make cries in every place, that what knight
+would fight for to save the truage of Cornwall, he should be rewarded
+so that he should fare the better, term of his life. Then some of the
+barons said to King Mark, and counselled him to send to the court of
+King Arthur for to seek Sir Launcelot du Lake, that was that time named
+for the marvelloust knight of all the world. Then there were some other
+barons that counselled the king not to do so, and said that it was
+labour in vain, because Sir Marhaus was a knight of the Round Table,
+therefore any of them will be loath to have ado with other, but if it
+were any knight at his own request would fight disguised and unknown.
+So the king and all his barons assented that it was no bote to seek any
+knight of the Round Table. This mean while came the language and the
+noise unto King Meliodas, how that Sir Marhaus abode battle fast by
+Tintagil, and how King Mark could find no manner knight to fight for
+him. When young Tristram heard of this he was wroth, and sore ashamed
+that there durst no knight in Cornwall have ado with Sir Marhaus of
+Ireland.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V. How Tristram enterprized the battle to fight for the truage
+of Cornwall, and how he was made knight.
+
+Therewithal Tristram went unto his father, King Meliodas, and asked him
+counsel what was best to do for to recover Cornwall from truage. For,
+as meseemeth, said Sir Tristram, it were shame that Sir Marhaus, the
+queen’s brother of Ireland, should go away unless that he were foughten
+withal. As for that, said King Meliodas, wit you well, son Tristram,
+that Sir Marhaus is called one of the best knights of the world, and
+Knight of the Table Round; and therefore I know no knight in this
+country that is able to match with him. Alas, said Sir Tristram, that I
+am not made knight; and if Sir Marhaus should thus depart into Ireland,
+God let me never have worship: an I were made knight I should match
+him. And sir, said Tristram, I pray you give me leave to ride to King
+Mark; and, so ye be not displeased, of King Mark will I be made knight.
+I will well, said King Meliodas, that ye be ruled as your courage will
+rule you. Then Sir Tristram thanked his father much. And then he made
+him ready to ride into Cornwall.
+
+In the meanwhile there came a messenger with letters of love from King
+Faramon of France’s daughter unto Sir Tristram, that were full piteous
+letters, and in them were written many complaints of love; but Sir
+Tristram had no joy of her letters nor regard unto her. Also she sent
+him a little brachet that was passing fair. But when the king’s
+daughter understood that Sir Tristram would not love her, as the book
+saith, she died for sorrow. And then the same squire that brought the
+letter and the brachet came again unto Sir Tristram, as after ye shall
+hear in the tale.
+
+So this young Sir Tristram rode unto his eme, King Mark of Cornwall.
+And when he came there he heard say that there would no knight fight
+with Sir Marhaus. Then yede Sir Tristram unto his eme and said: Sir, if
+ye will give me the order of knighthood, I will do battle with Sir
+Marhaus. What are ye, said the king, and from whence be ye come? Sir,
+said Tristram, I come from King Meliodas that wedded your sister, and a
+gentleman wit ye well I am. King Mark beheld Sir Tristram and saw that
+he was but a young man of age, but he was passingly well made and big.
+Fair sir, said the king, what is your name, and where were ye born?
+Sir, said he again, my name is Tristram, and in the country of Liones
+was I born. Ye say well, said the king; and if ye will do this battle I
+shall make you knight. Therefore I come to you, said Sir Tristram, and
+for none other cause. But then King Mark made him knight. And
+therewithal, anon as he had made him knight, he sent a messenger unto
+Sir Marhaus with letters that said that he had found a young knight
+ready for to take the battle to the uttermost. It may well be, said Sir
+Marhaus; but tell King Mark I will not fight with no knight but he be
+of blood royal, that is to say, other king’s son, other queen’s son,
+born of a prince or princess.
+
+When King Mark understood that, he sent for Sir Tristram de Liones and
+told him what was the answer of Sir Marhaus. Then said Sir Tristram:
+Sithen that he saith so, let him wit that I am come of father side and
+mother side of as noble blood as he is: for, sir, now shall ye know
+that I am King Meliodas’ son, born of your own sister, Dame Elizabeth,
+that died in the forest in the birth of me. O Jesu, said King Mark, ye
+are welcome fair nephew to me. Then in all the haste the king let horse
+Sir Tristram, and armed him in the best manner that might be had or
+gotten for gold or silver. And then King Mark sent unto Sir Marhaus,
+and did him to wit that a better born man than he was himself should
+fight with him, and his name is Sir Tristram de Liones, gotten of King
+Meliodas, and born of King Mark’s sister. Then was Sir Marhaus glad and
+blithe that he should fight with such a gentleman. And so by the assent
+of King Mark and of Sir Marhaus they let ordain that they should fight
+within an island nigh Sir Marhaus’ ships; and so was Sir Tristram put
+into a vessel both his horse and he, and all that to him longed both
+for his body and for his horse. Sir Tristram lacked nothing. And when
+King Mark and his barons of Cornwall beheld how young Sir Tristram
+departed with such a carriage to fight for the right of Cornwall, there
+was neither man nor woman of worship but they wept to see and
+understand so young a knight to jeopardy himself for their right.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI. How Sir Tristram arrived into the Island for to furnish the
+battle with Sir Marhaus.
+
+So to shorten this tale, when Sir Tristram was arrived within the
+island he looked to the farther side, and there he saw at an anchor six
+ships nigh to the land; and under the shadow of the ships upon the
+land, there hoved the noble knight, Sir Marhaus of Ireland. Then Sir
+Tristram commanded his servant Gouvernail to bring his horse to the
+land, and dress his harness at all manner of rights. And then when he
+had so done he mounted upon his horse; and when he was in his saddle
+well apparelled, and his shield dressed upon his shoulder, Tristram
+asked Gouvernail, Where is this knight that I shall have ado withal?
+Sir, said Gouvernail, see ye him not? I weened ye had seen him; yonder
+he hoveth under the umbre of his ships on horseback, with his spear in
+his hand and his shield upon his shoulder. That is truth, said the
+noble knight, Sir Tristram, now I see him well enough.
+
+Then he commanded his servant Gouvernail to go to his vessel again: And
+commend me unto mine eme King Mark, and pray him, if that I be slain in
+this battle, for to inter my body as him seemed best; and as for me,
+let him wit that I will never yield me for cowardice; and if I be slain
+and flee not, then they have lost no truage for me; and if so be that I
+flee or yield me as recreant, bid mine eme never bury me in Christian
+burials. And upon thy life, said Sir Tristram to Gouvernail, come thou
+not nigh this island till that thou see me overcome or slain, or else
+that I win yonder knight. So either departed from other sore weeping.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII. How Sir Tristram fought against Sir Marhaus and achieved
+his battle, and how Sir Marhaus fled to his ship.
+
+And then Sir Marhaus avised Sir Tristram, and said thus: Young knight,
+Sir Tristram, what dost thou here? me sore repenteth of thy courage,
+for wit thou well I have been assayed, and the best knights of this
+land have been assayed of my hand; and also I have matched with the
+best knights of the world, and therefore by my counsel return again
+unto thy vessel. And fair knight, and well-proved knight, said Sir
+Tristram, thou shalt well wit I may not forsake thee in this quarrel,
+for I am for thy sake made knight. And thou shalt well wit that I am a
+king’s son born, and gotten upon a queen; and such promise I have made
+at my uncle’s request and mine own seeking, that I shall fight with
+thee unto the uttermost, and deliver Cornwall from the old truage. And
+also wit thou well, Sir Marhaus, that this is the greatest cause that
+thou couragest me to have ado with thee, for thou art called one of the
+most renowned knights of the world, and because of that noise and fame
+that thou hast thou givest me courage to have ado with thee, for never
+yet was I proved with good knight; and sithen I took the order of
+knighthood this day, I am well pleased that I may have ado with so good
+a knight as thou art. And now wit thou well, Sir Marhaus, that I cast
+me to get worship on thy body; and if that I be not proved, I trust to
+God that I shall be worshipfully proved upon thy body, and to deliver
+the country of Cornwall for ever from all manner of truage from Ireland
+for ever.
+
+When Sir Marhaus had heard him say what he would, he said then thus
+again: Fair knight, sithen it is so that thou castest to win worship of
+me, I let thee wit worship may thou none lose by me if thou mayest
+stand me three strokes; for I let thee wit for my noble deeds, proved
+and seen, King Arthur made me Knight of the Table Round.
+
+Then they began to feutre their spears, and they met so fiercely
+together that they smote either other down, both horse and all. But Sir
+Marhaus smote Sir Tristram a great wound in the side with his spear,
+and then they avoided their horses, and pulled out their swords, and
+threw their shields afore them. And then they lashed together as men
+that were wild and courageous. And when they had stricken so together
+long, then they left their strokes, and foined at their breaths and
+visors; and when they saw that that might not prevail them, then they
+hurtled together like rams to bear either other down. Thus they fought
+still more than half a day, and either were wounded passing sore, that
+the blood ran down freshly from them upon the ground. By then Sir
+Tristram waxed more fresher than Sir Marhaus, and better winded and
+bigger; and with a mighty stroke he smote Sir Marhaus upon the helm
+such a buffet that it went through his helm, and through the coif of
+steel, and through the brain-pan, and the sword stuck so fast in the
+helm and in his brain-pan that Sir Tristram pulled thrice at his sword
+or ever he might pull it out from his head; and there Marhaus fell down
+on his knees, the edge of Tristram’s sword left in his brain-pan. And
+suddenly Sir Marhaus rose grovelling, and threw his sword and his
+shield from him, and so ran to his ships and fled his way, and Sir
+Tristram had ever his shield and his sword.
+
+And when Sir Tristram saw Sir Marhaus withdraw him, he said: Ah! Sir
+Knight of the Round Table, why withdrawest thou thee? thou dost thyself
+and thy kin great shame, for I am but a young knight, or now I was
+never proved, and rather than I should withdraw me from thee, I had
+rather be hewn in an hundred pieces. Sir Marhaus answered no word but
+yede his way sore groaning. Well, Sir Knight, said Sir Tristram, I
+promise thee thy sword and thy shield shall be mine; and thy shield
+shall I wear in all places where I ride on mine adventures, and in the
+sight of King Arthur and all the Round Table.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII. How Sir Marhaus after that he was arrived in Ireland died
+of the stroke that Sir Tristram had given him, and how Tristram was
+hurt.
+
+Anon Sir Marhaus and his fellowship departed into Ireland. And as soon
+as he came to the king, his brother, he let search his wounds. And when
+his head was searched a piece of Sir Tristram’s sword was found
+therein, and might never be had out of his head for no surgeons, and so
+he died of Sir Tristram’s sword; and that piece of the sword the queen,
+his sister, kept it for ever with her, for she thought to be revenged
+an she might.
+
+Now turn we again unto Sir Tristram, that was sore wounded, and full
+sore bled that he might not within a little while, when he had taken
+cold, unnethe stir him of his limbs. And then he set him down softly
+upon a little hill, and bled fast. Then anon came Gouvernail, his man,
+with his vessel; and the king and his barons came with procession
+against him. And when he was come unto the land, King Mark took him in
+his arms, and the king and Sir Dinas, the seneschal, led Sir Tristram
+into the castle of Tintagil. And then was he searched in the best
+manner, and laid in his bed. And when King Mark saw his wounds he wept
+heartily, and so did all his lords. So God me help, said King Mark, I
+would not for all my lands that my nephew died. So Sir Tristram lay
+there a month and more, and ever he was like to die of that stroke that
+Sir Marhaus smote him first with the spear. For, as the French book
+saith, the spear’s head was envenomed, that Sir Tristram might not be
+whole. Then was King Mark and all his barons passing heavy, for they
+deemed none other but that Sir Tristram should not recover. Then the
+king let send after all manner of leeches and surgeons, both unto men
+and women, and there was none that would behote him the life. Then came
+there a lady that was a right wise lady, and she said plainly unto King
+Mark, and to Sir Tristram, and to all his barons, that he should never
+be whole but if Sir Tristram went in the same country that the venom
+came from, and in that country should he be holpen or else never. Thus
+said the lady unto the king.
+
+When King Mark understood that, he let purvey for Sir Tristram a fair
+vessel, well victualled, and therein was put Sir Tristram, and
+Gouvernail with him, and Sir Tristram took his harp with him, and so he
+was put into the sea to sail into Ireland; and so by good fortune he
+arrived up in Ireland, even fast by a castle where the king and the
+queen was; and at his arrival he sat and harped in his bed a merry lay,
+such one heard they never none in Ireland before that time.
+
+And when it was told the king and the queen of such a knight that was
+such an harper, anon the king sent for him, and let search his wounds,
+and then asked him his name. Then he answered, I am of the country of
+Liones, and my name is Tramtrist, that thus was wounded in a battle as
+I fought for a lady’s right. So God me help, said King Anguish, ye
+shall have all the help in this land that ye may have here; but I let
+you wit, in Cornwall I had a great loss as ever had king, for there I
+lost the best knight of the world; his name was Marhaus, a full noble
+knight, and Knight of the Table Round; and there he told Sir Tristram
+wherefore Sir Marhaus was slain. Sir Tristram made semblant as he had
+been sorry, and better knew he how it was than the king.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX. How Sir Tristram was put to the keeping of La Beale Isoud
+first for to be healed of his wound.
+
+Then the king for great favour made Tramtrist to be put in his
+daughter’s ward and keeping, because she was a noble surgeon. And when
+she had searched him she found in the bottom of his wound that therein
+was poison, and so she healed him within a while; and therefore
+Tramtrist cast great love to La Beale Isoud, for she was at that time
+the fairest maid and lady of the world. And there Tramtrist learned her
+to harp, and she began to have a great fantasy unto him. And at that
+time Sir Palamides, the Saracen, was in that country, and well
+cherished with the king and the queen. And every day Sir Palamides drew
+unto La Beale Isoud and proffered her many gifts, for he loved her
+passingly well. All that espied Tramtrist, and full well knew he Sir
+Palamides for a noble knight and a mighty man. And wit you well Sir
+Tramtrist had great despite at Sir Palamides, for La Beale Isoud told
+Tramtrist that Palamides was in will to be christened for her sake.
+Thus was there great envy betwixt Tramtrist and Sir Palamides.
+
+Then it befell that King Anguish let cry a great jousts and a great
+tournament for a lady that was called the Lady of the Launds, and she
+was nigh cousin unto the king. And what man won her, three days after
+he should wed her and have all her lands. This cry was made in England,
+Wales, Scotland, and also in France and in Brittany. It befell upon a
+day La Beale Isoud came unto Sir Tramtrist, and told him of this
+tournament. He answered and said: Fair lady, I am but a feeble knight,
+and but late I had been dead had not your good ladyship been. Now, fair
+lady, what would ye I should do in this matter? well ye wot, my lady,
+that I may not joust. Ah, Tramtrist, said La Beale Isoud, why will ye
+not have ado at that tournament? well I wot Sir Palamides shall be
+there, and to do what he may; and therefore Tramtrist, I pray you for
+to be there, for else Sir Palamides is like to win the degree. Madam,
+said Tramtrist, as for that, it may be so, for he is a proved knight,
+and I am but a young knight and late made; and the first battle that I
+did it mishapped me to be sore wounded as ye see. But an I wist ye
+would be my better lady, at that tournament I will be, so that ye will
+keep my counsel and let no creature have knowledge that I shall joust
+but yourself, and such as ye will to keep your counsel, my poor person
+shall I jeopard there for your sake, that, peradventure, Sir Palamides
+shall know when that I come. Thereto, said La Beale Isoud, do your
+best, and as I can, said La Beale Isoud, I shall purvey horse and
+armour for you at my device. As ye will so be it, said Sir Tramtrist, I
+will be at your commandment.
+
+So at the day of jousts there came Sir Palamides with a black shield,
+and he overthrew many knights, that all the people had marvel of him.
+For he put to the worse Sir Gawaine, Gaheris, Agravaine, Bagdemagus,
+Kay, Dodinas le Savage, Sagramore le Desirous, Gumret le Petit, and
+Griflet le Fise de Dieu. All these the first day Sir Palamides struck
+down to the earth. And then all manner of knights were adread of Sir
+Palamides, and many called him the Knight with the Black Shield. So
+that day Sir Palamides had great worship.
+
+Then came King Anguish unto Tramtrist, and asked him why he would not
+joust. Sir, he said, I was but late hurt, and as yet I dare not
+adventure me. Then came there the same squire that was sent from the
+king’s daughter of France unto Sir Tristram. And when he had espied Sir
+Tristram he fell flat to his feet. All that espied La Beale Isoud, what
+courtesy the squire made unto Sir Tristram. And therewithal suddenly
+Sir Tristram ran unto his squire, whose name was Hebes le Renoumes, and
+prayed him heartily in no wise to tell his name. Sir, said Hebes, I
+will not discover your name but if ye command me.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X. How Sir Tristram won the degree at a tournament in Ireland,
+and there made Palamides to bear no more harness in a year.
+
+Then Sir Tristram asked him what he did in those countries. Sir, he
+said, I came hither with Sir Gawaine for to be made knight, and if it
+please you, of your hands that I may be made knight. Await upon me as
+to-morn secretly, and in the field I shall make you a knight.
+
+Then had La Beale Isoud great suspicion unto Tramtrist, that he was
+some man of worship proved, and therewith she comforted herself, and
+cast more love unto him than she had done to-fore. And so on the morn
+Sir Palamides made him ready to come into the field as he did the first
+day. And there he smote down the King with the Hundred Knights, and the
+King of Scots. Then had La Beale Isoud ordained and well arrayed Sir
+Tristram in white horse and harness. And right so she let put him out
+at a privy postern, and so he came into the field as it had been a
+bright angel. And anon Sir Palamides espied him, and therewith he
+feutred a spear unto Sir Tramtrist, and he again unto him. And there
+Sir Tristram smote down Sir Palamides unto the earth. And then there
+was a great noise of people: some said Sir Palamides had a fall, some
+said the Knight with the Black Shield had a fall. And wit you well La
+Beale Isoud was passing glad. And then Sir Gawaine and his fellows nine
+had marvel what knight it might be that had smitten down Sir Palamides.
+Then would there none joust with Tramtrist, but all that there were
+forsook him, most and least. Then Sir Tristram made Hebes a knight, and
+caused him to put himself forth, and did right well that day. So after
+Sir Hebes held him with Sir Tristram.
+
+And when Sir Palamides had received this fall, wit ye well that he was
+sore ashamed, and as privily as he might he withdrew him out of the
+field. All that espied Sir Tristram, and lightly he rode after Sir
+Palamides and overtook him, and bade him turn, for better he would
+assay him or ever he departed. Then Sir Palamides turned him, and
+either lashed at other with their swords. But at the first stroke Sir
+Tristram smote down Palamides, and gave him such a stroke upon the head
+that he fell to the earth. So then Tristram bade yield him, and do his
+commandment, or else he would slay him. When Sir Palamides beheld his
+countenance, he dread his buffets so, that he granted all his askings.
+Well said, said Sir Tristram, this shall be your charge. First, upon
+pain of your life that ye forsake my lady La Beale Isoud, and in no
+manner wise that ye draw not to her. Also this twelvemonth and a day
+that ye bear none armour nor none harness of war. Now promise me this,
+or here shalt thou die. Alas, said Palamides, for ever am I ashamed.
+Then he sware as Sir Tristram had commanded him. Then for despite and
+anger Sir Palamides cut off his harness, and threw them away.
+
+And so Sir Tristram turned again to the castle where was La Beale
+Isoud; and by the way he met with a damosel that asked after Sir
+Launcelot, that won the Dolorous Guard worshipfully; and this damosel
+asked Sir Tristram what he was. For it was told her that it was he that
+smote down Sir Palamides, by whom the ten knights of King Arthur’s were
+smitten down. Then the damosel prayed Sir Tristram to tell her what he
+was, and whether that he were Sir Launcelot du Lake, for she deemed
+that there was no knight in the world might do such deeds of arms but
+if it were Launcelot. Fair damosel, said Sir Tristram, wit ye well that
+I am not Sir Launcelot, for I was never of such prowess, but in God is
+all that he may make me as good a knight as the good knight Sir
+Launcelot. Now, gentle knight, said she, put up thy visor; and when she
+beheld his visage she thought she saw never a better man’s visage, nor
+a better faring knight. And then when the damosel knew certainly that
+he was not Sir Launcelot, then she took her leave, and departed from
+him. And then Sir Tristram rode privily unto the postern, where kept
+him La Beale Isoud, and there she made him good cheer, and thanked God
+of his good speed. So anon, within a while the king and the queen
+understood that it was Tramtrist that smote down Sir Palamides; then
+was he much made of, more than he was before.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI. How the queen espied that Sir Tristram had slain her
+brother Sir Marhaus by his sword, and in what jeopardy he was.
+
+Thus was Sir Tramtrist long there well cherished with the king and the
+queen, and namely with La Beale Isoud. So upon a day the queen and La
+Beale Isoud made a bain for Sir Tramtrist. And when he was in his bain
+the queen and Isoud, her daughter, roamed up and down in the chamber;
+and therewhiles Gouvernail and Hebes attended upon Tramtrist, and the
+queen beheld his sword thereas it lay upon his bed. And then by unhap
+the queen drew out his sword and beheld it a long while, and both they
+thought it a passing fair sword; but within a foot and an half of the
+point there was a great piece thereof out-broken of the edge. And when
+the queen espied that gap in the sword, she remembered her of a piece
+of a sword that was found in the brain-pan of Sir Marhaus, the good
+knight that was her brother. Alas then, said she unto her daughter, La
+Beale Isoud, this is the same traitor knight that slew my brother,
+thine eme. When Isoud heard her say so she was passing sore abashed,
+for passing well she loved Tramtrist, and full well she knew the
+cruelness of her mother the queen.
+
+Anon therewithal the queen went unto her own chamber, and sought her
+coffer, and there she took out the piece or the sword that was pulled
+out of Sir Marhaus’ head after that he was dead. And then she ran with
+that piece of iron to the sword that lay upon the bed. And when she put
+that piece of steel and iron unto the sword, it was as meet as it might
+be when it was new broken. And then the queen gripped that sword in her
+hand fiercely, and with all her might she ran straight upon Tramtrist
+where he sat in his bain, and there she had rived him through had not
+Sir Hebes gotten her in his arms, and pulled the sword from her, and
+else she had thrust him through.
+
+Then when she was let of her evil will she ran to the King Anguish, her
+husband, and said on her knees: O my lord, here have ye in your house
+that traitor knight that slew my brother and your servant, that noble
+knight, Sir Marhaus. Who is that, said King Anguish, and where is he?
+Sir, she said, it is Sir Tramtrist, the same knight that my daughter
+healed. Alas, said the king, therefore am I right heavy, for he is a
+full noble knight as ever I saw in field. But I charge you, said the
+king to the queen, that ye have not ado with that knight, but let me
+deal with him.
+
+Then the king went into the chamber unto Sir Tramtrist, and then was he
+gone unto his chamber, and the king found him all ready armed to mount
+upon his horse. When the king saw him all ready armed to go unto
+horseback, the king said: Nay, Tramtrist, it will not avail to compare
+thee against me; but thus much I shall do for my worship and for thy
+love; in so much as thou art within my court it were no worship for me
+to slay thee: therefore upon this condition I will give thee leave for
+to depart from this court in safety, so thou wilt tell me who was thy
+father, and what is thy name, and if thou slew Sir Marhaus, my brother.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII. How Sir Tristram departed from the king and La Beale Isoud
+out of Ireland for to come into Cornwall.
+
+Sir, said Tristram, now I shall tell you all the truth: my father’s
+name is Sir Meliodas, King of Liones, and my mother hight Elizabeth,
+that was sister unto King Mark of Cornwall; and my mother died of me in
+the forest, and because thereof she commanded, or she died, that when I
+were christened they should christen me Tristram; and because I would
+not be known in this country I turned my name and let me call
+Tramtrist; and for the truage of Cornwall I fought for my eme’s sake,
+and for the right of Cornwall that ye had posseded many years. And wit
+ye well, said Tristram unto the king, I did the battle for the love of
+mine uncle, King Mark, and for the love of the country of Cornwall, and
+for to increase mine honour; for that same day that I fought with Sir
+Marhaus I was made knight, and never or then did I battle with no
+knight, and from me he went alive, and left his shield and his sword
+behind.
+
+So God me help, said the king, I may not say but ye did as a knight
+should, and it was your part to do for your quarrel, and to increase
+your worship as a knight should; howbeit I may not maintain you in this
+country with my worship, unless that I should displease my barons, and
+my wife and her kin. Sir, said Tristram, I thank you of your good
+lordship that I have had with you here, and the great goodness my lady,
+your daughter, hath shewed me, and therefore, said Sir Tristram, it may
+so happen that ye shall win more by my life than by my death, for in
+the parts of England it may happen I may do you service at some season,
+that ye shall be glad that ever ye shewed me your good lordship. With
+more I promise you as I am true knight, that in all places I shall be
+my lady your daughter’s servant and knight in right and in wrong, and I
+shall never fail her, to do as much as a knight may do. Also I beseech
+your good grace that I may take my leave at my lady, your daughter, and
+at all the barons and knights. I will well, said the king.
+
+Then Sir Tristram went unto La Beale Isoud and took his leave of her.
+And then he told her all, what he was, and how he had changed his name
+because he would not be known, and how a lady told him that he should
+never be whole till he came into this country where the poison was
+made, wherethrough I was near my death had not your ladyship been. O
+gentle knight, said La Beale Isoud, full woe am I of thy departing, for
+I saw never man that I owed so good will to. And therewithal she wept
+heartily. Madam, said Sir Tristram, ye shall understand that my name is
+Sir Tristram de Liones, gotten of King Meliodas, and born of his queen.
+And I promise you faithfully that I shall be all the days of my life
+your knight. Gramercy, said La Beale Isoud, and I promise you
+there-against that I shall not be married this seven years but by your
+assent; and to whom that ye will I shall be married to him will I have,
+and he will have me if ye will consent.
+
+And then Sir Tristram gave her a ring, and she gave him another; and
+therewith he departed from her, leaving her making great dole and
+lamentation; and he straight went unto the court among all the barons,
+and there he took his leave at most and least, and openly he said among
+them all: Fair lords, now it is so that I must depart: if there be any
+man here that I have offended unto, or that any man be with me grieved,
+let complain him here afore me or that ever I depart, and I shall amend
+it unto my power. And if there be any that will proffer me wrong, or
+say of me wrong or shame behind my back, say it now or never, and here
+is my body to make it good, body against body. And all they stood
+still, there was not one that would say one word; yet were there some
+knights that were of the queen’s blood, and of Sir Marhaus’ blood, but
+they would not meddle with him.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII. How Sir Tristram and King Mark hurted each other for the
+love of a knight’s wife.
+
+So Sir Tristram departed, and took the sea, and with good wind he
+arrived up at Tintagil in Cornwall; and when King Mark was whole in his
+prosperity there came tidings that Sir Tristram was arrived, and whole
+of his wounds: thereof was King Mark passing glad, and so were all the
+barons; and when he saw his time he rode unto his father, King
+Meliodas, and there he had all the cheer that the king and the queen
+could make him. And then largely King Meliodas and his queen departed
+of their lands and goods to Sir Tristram.
+
+Then by the license of King Meliodas, his father, he returned again
+unto the court of King Mark, and there he lived in great joy long time,
+until at the last there befell a jealousy and an unkindness betwixt
+King Mark and Sir Tristram, for they loved both one lady. And she was
+an earl’s wife that hight Sir Segwarides. And this lady loved Sir
+Tristram passingly well. And he loved her again, for she was a passing
+fair lady, and that espied Sir Tristram well. Then King Mark understood
+that and was jealous, for King Mark loved her passingly well.
+
+So it fell upon a day this lady sent a dwarf unto Sir Tristram, and
+bade him, as he loved her, that he would be with her the night next
+following. Also she charged you that ye come not to her but if ye be
+well armed, for her lover was called a good knight. Sir Tristram
+answered to the dwarf: Recommend me unto my lady, and tell her I will
+not fail but I will be with her the term that she hath set me. And with
+this answer the dwarf departed. And King Mark espied that the dwarf was
+with Sir Tristram upon message from Segwarides’ wife; then King Mark
+sent for the dwarf, and when he was come he made the dwarf by force to
+tell him all, why and wherefore that he came on message from Sir
+Tristram. Now, said King Mark, go where thou wilt, and upon pain of
+death that thou say no word that thou spakest with me; so the dwarf
+departed from the king.
+
+And that same night that the steven was set betwixt Segwarides’ wife
+and Sir Tristram, King Mark armed him, and made him ready, and took two
+knights of his counsel with him; and so he rode afore for to abide by
+the way for to wait upon Sir Tristram. And as Sir Tristram came riding
+upon his way with his spear in his hand, King Mark came hurtling upon
+him with his two knights suddenly. And all three smote him with their
+spears, and King Mark hurt Sir Tristram on the breast right sore. And
+then Sir Tristram feutred his spear, and smote his uncle, King Mark, so
+sore, that he rashed him to the earth, and bruised him that he lay
+still in a swoon, and long it was or ever he might wield himself. And
+then he ran to the one knight, and eft to the other, and smote them to
+the cold earth, that they lay still. And therewithal Sir Tristram rode
+forth sore wounded to the lady, and found her abiding him at a postern.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV. How Sir Tristram lay with the lady, and how her husband
+fought with Sir Tristram.
+
+And there she welcomed him fair, and either halsed other in arms, and
+so she let put up his horse in the best wise, and then she unarmed him.
+And so they supped lightly, and went to bed with great joy and
+pleasaunce; and so in his raging he took no keep of his green wound
+that King Mark had given him. And so Sir Tristram be-bled both the over
+sheet and the nether, and pillows, and head sheet. And within a while
+there came one afore, that warned her that her lord was near-hand
+within a bow-draught. So she made Sir Tristram to arise, and so he
+armed him, and took his horse, and so departed. By then was come
+Segwarides, her lord, and when he found her bed troubled and broken,
+and went near and beheld it by candle light, then he saw that there had
+lain a wounded knight. Ah, false traitress, then he said, why hast thou
+betrayed me? And therewithal he swang out a sword, and said: But if
+thou tell me who hath been here, here thou shalt die. Ah, my lord,
+mercy, said the lady, and held up her hands, saying: Slay me not, and I
+shall tell you all who hath been here. Tell anon, said Segwarides, to
+me all the truth. Anon for dread she said: Here was Sir Tristram with
+me, and by the way as he came to me ward, he was sore wounded. Ah,
+false traitress, said Segwarides, where is he become? Sir, she said, he
+is armed, and departed on horseback, not yet hence half a mile. Ye say
+well, said Segwarides.
+
+Then he armed him lightly, and gat his horse, and rode after Sir
+Tristram that rode straightway unto Tintagil. And within a while he
+overtook Sir Tristram, and then he bade him, Turn, false traitor
+knight. And Sir Tristram anon turned him against him. And therewithal
+Segwarides smote Sir Tristram with a spear that it all to-brast; and
+then he swang out his sword and smote fast at Sir Tristram. Sir knight,
+said Sir Tristram, I counsel you that ye smite no more, howbeit for the
+wrongs that I have done you I will forbear you as long as I may. Nay,
+said Segwarides, that shall not be, for either thou shalt die or I.
+
+Then Sir Tristram drew out his sword, and hurtled his horse unto him
+fiercely, and through the waist of the body he smote Sir Segwarides
+that he fell to the earth in a swoon. And so Sir Tristram departed and
+left him there. And so he rode unto Tintagil and took his lodging
+secretly, for he would not be known that he was hurt. Also Sir
+Segwarides’ men rode after their master, whom they found lying in the
+field sore wounded, and brought him home on his shield, and there he
+lay long or that he were whole, but at the last he recovered. Also King
+Mark would not be aknown of that Sir Tristram and he had met that
+night. And as for Sir Tristram, he knew not that King Mark had met with
+him. And so the king askance came to Sir Tristram, to comfort him as he
+lay sick in his bed. But as long as King Mark lived he loved never Sir
+Tristram after that; though there was fair speech, love was there none.
+And thus it passed many weeks and days, and all was forgiven and
+forgotten; for Sir Segwarides durst not have ado with Sir Tristram,
+because of his noble prowess, and also because he was nephew unto King
+Mark; therefore he let it overslip: for he that hath a privy hurt is
+loath to have a shame outward.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV. How Sir Bleoberis demanded the fairest lady in King Mark’s
+court, whom he took away, and how he was fought with.
+
+Then it befell upon a day that the good knight Bleoberis de Ganis,
+brother to Blamore de Ganis, and nigh cousin unto the good knight Sir
+Launcelot du Lake, this Bleoberis came unto the court of King Mark, and
+there he asked of King Mark a boon, to give him what gift that he would
+ask in his court. When the king heard him ask so, he marvelled of his
+asking, but because he was a knight of the Round Table, and of a great
+renown, King Mark granted him his whole asking. Then, said Sir
+Bleoberis, I will have the fairest lady in your court that me list to
+choose. I may not say nay, said King Mark; now choose at your
+adventure. And so Sir Bleoberis did choose Sir Segwarides’ wife, and
+took her by the hand, and so went his way with her; and so he took his
+horse and gart set her behind his squire, and rode upon his way.
+
+When Sir Segwarides heard tell that his lady was gone with a knight of
+King Arthur’s court, then he armed him and rode after that knight for
+to rescue his lady. So when Bleoberis was gone with this lady, King
+Mark and all the court was wroth that she was away. Then were there
+certain ladies that knew that there were great love between Sir
+Tristram and her, and also that lady loved Sir Tristram above all other
+knights. Then there was one lady that rebuked Sir Tristram in the
+horriblest wise, and called him coward knight, that he would for shame
+of his knighthood see a lady so shamefully be taken away from his
+uncle’s court. But she meant that either of them had loved other with
+entire heart. But Sir Tristram answered her thus: Fair lady, it is not
+my part to have ado in such matters while her lord and husband is
+present here; and if it had been that her lord had not been here in
+this court, then for the worship of this court peradventure I would
+have been her champion, and if so be Sir Segwarides speed not well, it
+may happen that I will speak with that good knight or ever he pass from
+this country.
+
+Then within a while came one of Sir Segwarides’ squires, and told in
+the court that Sir Segwarides was beaten sore and wounded to the point
+of death; as he would have rescued his lady Sir Bleoberis overthrew him
+and sore hath wounded him. Then was King Mark heavy thereof, and all
+the court. When Sir Tristram heard of this he was ashamed and sore
+grieved; and then was he soon armed and on horseback, and Gouvernail,
+his servant, bare his shield and spear. And so as Sir Tristram rode
+fast he met with Sir Andred his cousin, that by the commandment of King
+Mark was sent to bring forth, an ever it lay in his power, two knights
+of Arthur’s court, that rode by the country to seek their adventures.
+When Sir Tristram saw Sir Andred he asked him what tidings. So God me
+help, said Sir Andred, there was never worse with me, for here by the
+commandment of King Mark I was sent to fetch two knights of King
+Arthur’s court, and that one beat me and wounded me, and set nought by
+my message. Fair cousin, said Sir Tristram, ride on your way, and if I
+may meet them it may happen I shall revenge you. So Sir Andred rode
+into Cornwall, and Sir Tristram rode after the two knights, the which
+one hight Sagramore le Desirous, and the other hight Dodinas le Savage.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI. How Sir Tristram fought with two knights of the Round
+Table.
+
+Then within a while Sir Tristram saw them afore him, two likely
+knights. Sir, said Gouvernail unto his master, Sir, I would counsel you
+not to have ado with them, for they be two proved knights of Arthur’s
+court. As for that, said Sir Tristram, have ye no doubt but I will have
+ado with them to increase my worship, for it is many day sithen I did
+any deeds of arms. Do as ye list, said Gouvernail. And therewithal anon
+Sir Tristram asked them from whence they came, and whither they would,
+and what they did in those marches. Sir Sagramore looked upon Sir
+Tristram, and had scorn of his words, and asked him again, Fair knight,
+be ye a knight of Cornwall? Whereby ask ye it? said Sir Tristram. For
+it is seldom seen, said Sir Sagramore, that ye Cornish knights be
+valiant men of arms; for within these two hours there met us one of
+your Cornish knights, and great words he spake, and anon with little
+might he was laid to the earth. And, as I trow, said Sir Sagramore, ye
+shall have the same handsel that he had. Fair lords, said Sir Tristram,
+it may so happen that I may better withstand than he did, and whether
+ye will or nill I will have ado with you, because he was my cousin that
+ye beat. And therefore here do your best, and wit ye well but if ye
+quit you the better here upon this ground, one knight of Cornwall shall
+beat you both.
+
+When Sir Dodinas le Savage heard him say so he gat a spear in his hand,
+and said, Sir knight, keep well thyself: And then they departed and
+came together as it had been thunder. And Sir Dodinas’ spear brast
+in-sunder, but Sir Tristram smote him with a more might, that he smote
+him clean over the horse-croup, that nigh he had broken his neck. When
+Sir Sagramore saw his fellow have such a fall he marvelled what knight
+he might be. And he dressed his spear with all his might, and Sir
+Tristram against him, and they came together as the thunder, and there
+Sir Tristram smote Sir Sagramore a strong buffet, that he bare his
+horse and him to the earth, and in the falling he brake his thigh.
+
+When this was done Sir Tristram asked them: Fair knights, will ye any
+more? Be there no bigger knights in the court of King Arthur? it is to
+you shame to say of us knights of Cornwall dishonour, for it may happen
+a Cornish knight may match you. That is truth, said Sir Sagramore, that
+have we well proved; but I require thee, said Sir Sagramore, tell us
+your right name, by the faith and troth that ye owe to the high order
+of knighthood. Ye charge me with a great thing, said Sir Tristram, and
+sithen ye list to wit it, ye shall know and understand that my name is
+Sir Tristram de Liones, King Meliodas’ son, and nephew unto King Mark.
+Then were they two knights fain that they had met with Tristram, and so
+they prayed him to abide in their fellowship. Nay, said Sir Tristram,
+for I must have ado with one of your fellows, his name is Sir Bleoberis
+de Ganis. God speed you well, said Sir Sagramore and Dodinas. Sir
+Tristram departed and rode onward on his way. And then was he ware
+before him in a valley where rode Sir Bleoberis, with Sir Segwarides’
+lady, that rode behind his squire upon a palfrey.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII. How Sir Tristram fought with Sir Bleoberis for a lady,
+and how the lady was put to choice to whom she would go.
+
+Then Sir Tristram rode more than a pace until that he had overtaken
+him. Then spake Sir Tristram: Abide, he said, Knight of Arthur’s court,
+bring again that lady, or deliver her to me. I will do neither, said
+Bleoberis, for I dread no Cornish knight so sore that me list to
+deliver her. Why, said Sir Tristram, may not a Cornish knight do as
+well as another knight? this same day two knights of your court within
+this three mile met with me, and or ever we departed they found a
+Cornish knight good enough for them both. What were their names? said
+Bleoberis. They told me, said Sir Tristram, that the one of them hight
+Sir Sagramore le Desirous, and the other hight Dodinas le Savage. Ah,
+said Sir Bleoberis, have ye met with them? so God me help, they were
+two good knights and men of great worship, and if ye have beat them
+both ye must needs be a good knight; but if it so be ye have beat them
+both, yet shall ye not fear me, but ye shall beat me or ever ye have
+this lady. Then defend you, said Sir Tristram. So they departed and
+came together like thunder, and either bare other down, horse and all,
+to the earth.
+
+Then they avoided their horses, and lashed together eagerly with
+swords, and mightily, now tracing and traversing on the right hand and
+on the left hand more than two hours. And sometime they rushed together
+with such a might that they lay both grovelling on the ground. Then Sir
+Bleoberis de Ganis stert aback, and said thus: Now, gentle good knight,
+a while hold your hands, and let us speak together. Say what ye will,
+said Tristram, and I will answer you. Sir, said Bleoberis, I would wit
+of whence ye be, and of whom ye be come, and what is your name? So God
+me help, said Sir Tristram, I fear not to tell you my name. Wit ye well
+I am King Meliodas’ son, and my mother is King Mark’s sister, and my
+name is Sir Tristram de Liones, and King Mark is mine uncle. Truly,
+said Bleoberis, I am right glad of you, for ye are he that slew Marhaus
+the knight, hand for hand in an island, for the truage of Cornwall;
+also ye overcame Sir Palamides the good knight, at a tournament in an
+island, where ye beat Sir Gawaine and his nine fellows. So God me help,
+said Sir Tristram, wit ye well that I am the same knight; now I have
+told you my name, tell me yours with good will. Wit ye well that my
+name is Sir Bleoberis de Ganis, and my brother hight Sir Blamore de
+Ganis, that is called a good knight, and we be sister’s children unto
+my lord Sir Launcelot du Lake, that we call one of the best knights of
+the world. That is truth, said Sir Tristram, Sir Launcelot is called
+peerless of courtesy and of knighthood; and for his sake, said Sir
+Tristram, I will not with my good will fight no more with you, for the
+great love I have to Sir Launcelot du Lake. In good faith, said
+Bleoberis, as for me I will be loath to fight with you; but sithen ye
+follow me here to have this lady, I shall proffer you kindness,
+courtesy, and gentleness right here upon this ground. This lady shall
+be betwixt us both, and to whom that she will go, let him have her in
+peace. I will well, said Tristram, for, as I deem, she will leave you
+and come to me. Ye shall prove it anon, said Bleoberis.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII. How the lady forsook Sir Tristram and abode with Sir
+Bleoberis, and how she desired to go to her husband.
+
+So when she was set betwixt them both she said these words unto Sir
+Tristram: Wit ye well, Sir Tristram de Liones, that but late thou wast
+the man in the world that I most loved and trusted, and I weened thou
+hadst loved me again above all ladies; but when thou sawest this knight
+lead me away thou madest no cheer to rescue me, but suffered my lord
+Segwarides ride after me; but until that time I weened thou haddest
+loved me, and therefore now I will leave thee, and never love thee
+more. And therewithal she went unto Sir Bleoberis.
+
+When Sir Tristram saw her do so he was wonderly wroth with that lady,
+and ashamed to come to the court. Sir Tristram, said Sir Bleoberis, ye
+are in the default, for I hear by this lady’s words she before this day
+trusted you above all earthly knights, and, as she saith, ye have
+deceived her, therefore wit ye well, there may no man hold that will
+away; and rather than ye should be heartily displeased with me I would
+ye had her, an she would abide with you. Nay, said the lady, so God me
+help I will never go with him; for he that I loved most I weened he had
+loved me. And therefore, Sir Tristram, she said, ride as thou came, for
+though thou haddest overcome this knight, as ye was likely, with thee
+never would I have gone. And I shall pray this knight so fair of his
+knighthood, that or ever he pass this country, that he will lead me to
+the abbey where my lord Sir Segwarides lieth. So God me help, said
+Bleoberis, I let you wit, good knight Sir Tristram, because King Mark
+gave me the choice of a gift in this court, and so this lady liked me
+best—notwithstanding, she is wedded and hath a lord, and I have
+fulfilled my quest, she shall be sent unto her husband again, and in
+especial most for your sake, Sir Tristram; and if she would go with you
+I would ye had her. I thank you, said Sir Tristram, but for her love I
+shall beware what manner a lady I shall love or trust; for had her
+lord, Sir Segwarides, been away from the court, I should have been the
+first that should have followed you; but sithen that ye have refused
+me, as I am true knight I shall her know passingly well that I shall
+love or trust. And so they took their leave one from the other and
+departed.
+
+And so Sir Tristram rode unto Tintagil, and Sir Bleoberis rode unto the
+abbey where Sir Segwarides lay sore wounded, and there he delivered his
+lady, and departed as a noble knight; and when Sir Segwarides saw his
+lady, he was greatly comforted; and then she told him that Sir Tristram
+had done great battle with Sir Bleoberis, and caused him to bring her
+again. These words pleased Sir Segwarides right well, that Sir Tristram
+would do so much; and so that lady told all the battle unto King Mark
+betwixt Sir Tristram and Sir Bleoberis.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX. How King Mark sent Sir Tristram for La Beale Isoud toward
+Ireland, and how by fortune he arrived into England.
+
+Then when this was done King Mark cast always in his heart how he might
+destroy Sir Tristram. And then he imagined in himself to send Sir
+Tristram into Ireland for La Beale Isoud. For Sir Tristram had so
+praised her beauty and her goodness that King Mark said that he would
+wed her, whereupon he prayed Sir Tristram to take his way into Ireland
+for him on message. And all this was done to the intent to slay Sir
+Tristram. Notwithstanding, Sir Tristram would not refuse the message
+for no danger nor peril that might fall, for the pleasure of his uncle,
+but to go he made him ready in the most goodliest wise that might be
+devised. For Sir Tristram took with him the most goodliest knights that
+he might find in the court; and they were arrayed, after the guise that
+was then used, in the goodliest manner. So Sir Tristram departed and
+took the sea with all his fellowship. And anon, as he was in the broad
+sea a tempest took him and his fellowship, and drove them back into the
+coast of England; and there they arrived fast by Camelot, and full fain
+they were to take the land.
+
+And when they were landed Sir Tristram set up his pavilion upon the
+land of Camelot, and there he let hang his shield upon the pavilion.
+And that same day came two knights of King Arthur’s, that one was Sir
+Ector de Maris, and Sir Morganor. And they touched the shield, and bade
+him come out of the pavilion for to joust, an he would joust. Ye shall
+be answered, said Sir Tristram, an ye will tarry a little while. So he
+made him ready, and first he smote down Sir Ector de Maris, and after
+he smote down Sir Morganor, all with one spear, and sore bruised them.
+And when they lay upon the earth they asked Sir Tristram what he was,
+and of what country he was knight. Fair lords, said Sir Tristram, wit
+ye well that I am of Cornwall. Alas, said Sir Ector, now am I ashamed
+that ever any Cornish knight should overcome me. And then for despite
+Sir Ector put off his armour from him, and went on foot, and would not
+ride.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX. How King Anguish of Ireland was summoned to come to King
+Arthur’s court for treason.
+
+Then it fell that Sir Bleoberis and Sir Blamore de Ganis, that were
+brethren, they had summoned the King Anguish of Ireland for to come to
+Arthur’s court upon pain of forfeiture of King Arthur’s good grace. And
+if the King of Ireland came not in, at the day assigned and set, the
+king should lose his lands. So it happened that at the day assigned,
+King Arthur neither Sir Launcelot might not be there for to give the
+judgment, for King Arthur was with Sir Launcelot at the Castle Joyous
+Garde. And so King Arthur assigned King Carados and the King of Scots
+to be there that day as judges. So when the kings were at Camelot King
+Anguish of Ireland was come to know his accusers. Then was there Sir
+Blamore de Ganis, and appealed the King of Ireland of treason, that he
+had slain a cousin of his in his court in Ireland by treason. The king
+was sore abashed of his accusation, for-why he was come at the summons
+of King Arthur, and or he came at Camelot he wist not wherefore he was
+sent after. And when the king heard Sir Blamore say his will, he
+understood well there was none other remedy but for to answer him
+knightly; for the custom was such in those days, that an any man were
+appealed of any treason or murder he should fight body for body, or
+else to find another knight for him. And all manner of murders in those
+days were called treason.
+
+So when King Anguish understood his accusing he was passing heavy, for
+he knew Sir Blamore de Ganis that he was a noble knight, and of noble
+knights come. Then the King of Ireland was simply purveyed of his
+answer; therefore the judges gave him respite by the third day to give
+his answer. So the king departed unto his lodging. The meanwhile there
+came a lady by Sir Tristram’s pavilion making great dole. What aileth
+you, said Sir Tristram, that ye make such dole? Ah, fair knight, said
+the lady, I am ashamed unless that some good knight help me; for a
+great lady of worship sent by me a fair child and a rich, unto Sir
+Launcelot du Lake, and hereby there met with me a knight, and threw me
+down from my palfrey, and took away the child from me. Well, my lady,
+said Sir Tristram, and for my lord Sir Launcelot’s sake I shall get you
+that child again, or else I shall be beaten for it. And so Sir Tristram
+took his horse, and asked the lady which way the knight rode; and then
+she told him. And he rode after him, and within a while he overtook
+that knight. And then Sir Tristram bade him turn and give again the
+child.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI. How Sir Tristram rescued a child from a knight, and how
+Gouvernail told him of King Anguish.
+
+The knight turned his horse and made him ready to fight. And then Sir
+Tristram smote him with a sword such a buffet that he tumbled to the
+earth. And then he yielded him unto Sir Tristram. Then come thy way,
+said Sir Tristram, and bring the child to the lady again. So he took
+his horse meekly and rode with Sir Tristram; and then by the way Sir
+Tristram asked him his name. Then he said, My name is Breuse Saunce
+Pité. So when he had delivered that child to the lady, he said: Sir, as
+in this the child is well remedied. Then Sir Tristram let him go again
+that sore repented him after, for he was a great foe unto many good
+knights of King Arthur’s court.
+
+Then when Sir Tristram was in his pavilion Gouvernail, his man, came
+and told him how that King Anguish of Ireland was come thither, and he
+was put in great distress; and there Gouvernail told Sir Tristram how
+King Anguish was summoned and appealed of murder. So God me help, said
+Sir Tristram, these be the best tidings that ever came to me this seven
+years, for now shall the King of Ireland have need of my help; for I
+daresay there is no knight in this country that is not of Arthur’s
+court dare do battle with Sir Blamore de Ganis; and for to win the love
+of the King of Ireland I will take the battle upon me; and therefore
+Gouvernail bring me, I charge thee, to the king.
+
+Then Gouvernail went unto King Anguish of Ireland, and saluted him
+fair. The king welcomed him and asked him what he would. Sir, said
+Gouvernail, here is a knight near hand that desireth to speak with you:
+he bade me say he would do you service. What knight is he? said the
+king. Sir, said he, it is Sir Tristram de Liones, that for your good
+grace that ye showed him in your lands will reward you in this country.
+Come on, fellow, said the king, with me anon and show me unto Sir
+Tristram. So the king took a little hackney and but few fellowship with
+him, until he came unto Sir Tristram’s pavilion. And when Sir Tristram
+saw the king he ran unto him and would have holden his stirrup. But the
+king leapt from his horse lightly, and either halsed other in their
+arms. My gracious lord, said Sir Tristram, gramercy of your great
+goodnesses showed unto me in your marches and lands: and at that time I
+promised you to do you service an ever it lay in my power. And, gentle
+knight, said the king unto Sir Tristram, now have I great need of you,
+never had I so great need of no knight’s help. How so, my good lord?
+said Sir Tristram. I shall tell you, said the king: I am summoned and
+appealed from my country for the death of a knight that was kin unto
+the good knight Sir Launcelot; wherefore Sir Blamore de Ganis, brother
+to Sir Bleoberis hath appealed me to fight with him, outher to find a
+knight in my stead. And well I wot, said the king, these that are come
+of King Ban’s blood, as Sir Launcelot and these other, are passing good
+knights, and hard men for to win in battle as any that I know now
+living. Sir, said Sir Tristram, for the good lordship ye showed me in
+Ireland, and for my lady your daughter’s sake, La Beale Isoud, I will
+take the battle for you upon this condition that ye shall grant me two
+things: that one is that ye shall swear to me that ye are in the right,
+that ye were never consenting to the knight’s death; Sir, then said Sir
+Tristram, when that I have done this battle, if God give me grace that
+I speed, that ye shall give me a reward, what thing reasonable that I
+will ask of you. So God me help, said the king, ye shall have
+whatsomever ye will ask. It is well said, said Sir Tristram.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII. How Sir Tristram fought for Sir Anguish and overcame his
+adversary, and how his adversary would never yield him.
+
+Now make your answer that your champion is ready, for I shall die in
+your quarrel rather than to be recreant. I have no doubt of you, said
+the king, that, an ye should have ado with Sir Launcelot du Lake— Sir,
+said Sir Tristram, as for Sir Launcelot, he is called the noblest
+knight of the world, and wit ye well that the knights of his blood are
+noble men, and dread shame; and as for Bleoberis, brother unto Sir
+Blamore, I have done battle with him, therefore upon my head it is no
+shame to call him a good knight. It is noised, said the king, that
+Blamore is the hardier knight. Sir, as for that let him be, he shall
+never be refused, an as he were the best knight that now beareth shield
+or spear.
+
+So King Anguish departed unto King Carados and the kings that were that
+time as judges, and told them that he had found his champion ready.
+Then by the commandment of the kings Sir Blamore de Ganis and Sir
+Tristram were sent for to hear the charge. And when they were come
+before the judges there were many kings and knights beheld Sir
+Tristram, and much speech they had of him because that he slew Sir
+Marhaus, the good knight, and because he for-jousted Sir Palamides the
+good knight. So when they had taken their charge they withdrew them to
+make them ready to do battle.
+
+Then said Sir Bleoberis unto his brother, Sir Blamore: Fair dear
+brother, remember of what kin we be come of, and what a man is Sir
+Launcelot du Lake, neither farther nor nearer but brother’s children,
+and there was never none of our kin that ever was shamed in battle; and
+rather suffer death, brother, than to be shamed. Brother, said Blamore,
+have ye no doubt of me, for I shall never shame none of my blood;
+howbeit I am sure that yonder knight is called a passing good knight as
+of his time one of the world, yet shall I never yield me, nor say the
+loath word: well may he happen to smite me down with his great might of
+chivalry, but rather shall he slay me than I shall yield me as
+recreant. God speed you well, said Sir Bleoberis, for ye shall find him
+the mightiest knight that ever ye had ado withal, for I know him, for I
+have had ado with him. God me speed, said Sir Blamore de Ganis; and
+therewith he took his horse at the one end of the lists, and Sir
+Tristram at the other end of the lists, and so they feutred their
+spears and came together as it had been thunder; and there Sir Tristram
+through great might smote down Sir Blamore and his horse to the earth.
+Then anon Sir Blamore avoided his horse and pulled out his sword and
+threw his shield afore him, and bade Sir Tristram alight: For though an
+horse hath failed me, I trust to God the earth will not fail me. And
+then Sir Tristram alighted, and dressed him unto battle; and there they
+lashed together strongly as racing and tracing, foining and dashing,
+many sad strokes, that the kings and knights had great wonder that they
+might stand; for ever they fought like wood men, so that there was
+never knights seen fight more fiercely than they did; for Sir Blamore
+was so hasty that he would have no rest, that all men wondered that
+they had breath to stand on their feet; and all the place was bloody
+that they fought in. And at the last, Sir Tristram smote Sir Blamore
+such a buffet upon the helm that he there fell down upon his side, and
+Sir Tristram stood and beheld him.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII. How Sir Blamore desired Tristram to slay him, and how
+Sir Tristram spared him, and how they took appointment.
+
+Then when Sir Blamore might speak, he said thus: Sir Tristram de
+Liones, I require thee, as thou art a noble knight, and the best knight
+that ever I found, that thou wilt slay me out, for I would not live to
+be made lord of all the earth, for I have liefer die with worship than
+live with shame; and needs, Sir Tristram, thou must slay me, or else
+thou shalt never win the field, for I will never say the loath word.
+And therefore if thou dare slay me, slay me, I require thee. When Sir
+Tristram heard him say so knightly, he wist not what to do with him; he
+remembering him of both parties, of what blood he was come, and for Sir
+Launcelot’s sake he would be loath to slay him; and in the other party
+in no wise he might not choose, but that he must make him to say the
+loath word, or else to slay him.
+
+Then Sir Tristram stert aback, and went to the kings that were judges,
+and there he kneeled down to-fore them, and besought them for their
+worships, and for King Arthur’s and Sir Launcelot’s sake, that they
+would take this matter in their hands. For, my fair lords, said Sir
+Tristram, it were shame and pity that this noble knight that yonder
+lieth should be slain; for ye hear well, shamed will he not be, and I
+pray to God that he never be slain nor shamed for me. And as for the
+king for whom I fight for, I shall require him, as I am his true
+champion and true knight in this field, that he will have mercy upon
+this good knight. So God me help, said King Anguish, I will for your
+sake; Sir Tristram, be ruled as ye will have me, for I know you for my
+true knight; and therefore I will heartily pray the kings that be here
+as judges to take it in their hands. And the kings that were judges
+called Sir Bleoberis to them, and asked him his advice. My lords, said
+Bleoberis, though my brother be beaten, and hath the worse through
+might of arms, I dare say, though Sir Tristram hath beaten his body he
+hath not beaten his heart, and I thank God he is not shamed this day;
+and rather than he should be shamed I require you, said Bleoberis, let
+Sir Tristram slay him out. It shall not be so, said the kings, for his
+part adversary, both the king and the champion, have pity of Sir
+Blamore’s knighthood. My lords, said Bleoberis, I will right well as ye
+will.
+
+Then the kings called the King of Ireland, and found him goodly and
+treatable. And then, by all their advices, Sir Tristram and Sir
+Bleoberis took up Sir Blamore, and the two brethren were accorded with
+King Anguish, and kissed and made friends for ever. And then Sir
+Blamore and Sir Tristram kissed together, and there they made their
+oaths that they would never none of them two brethren fight with Sir
+Tristram, and Sir Tristram made the same oath. And for that gentle
+battle all the blood of Sir Launcelot loved Sir Tristram for ever.
+
+Then King Anguish and Sir Tristram took their leave, and sailed into
+Ireland with great noblesse and joy. So when they were in Ireland the
+king let make it known throughout all the land how and in what manner
+Sir Tristram had done for him. Then the queen and all that there were
+made the most of him that they might. But the joy that La Beale Isoud
+made of Sir Tristram there might no tongue tell, for of all men earthly
+she loved him most.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV. How Sir Tristram demanded La Beale Isoud for King Mark,
+and how Sir Tristram and Isoud drank the love drink.
+
+Then upon a day King Anguish asked Sir Tristram why he asked not his
+boon, for whatsomever he had promised him he should have it without
+fail. Sir, said Sir Tristram, now is it time; this is all that I will
+desire, that ye will give me La Beale Isoud, your daughter, not for
+myself, but for mine uncle, King Mark, that shall have her to wife, for
+so have I promised him. Alas, said the king, I had liefer than all the
+land that I have ye would wed her yourself. Sir, an I did then I were
+shamed for ever in this world, and false of my promise. Therefore, said
+Sir I Tristram, I pray you hold your promise that ye promised me; for
+this is my desire, that ye will give me La Beale Isoud to go with me
+into Cornwall for to be wedded to King Mark, mine uncle. As for that,
+said King Anguish, ye shall have her with you to do with her what it
+please you; that is for to say if that ye list to wed her yourself,
+that is me liefest, and if ye will give her unto King Mark, your uncle,
+that is in your choice. So, to make short conclusion, La Beale Isoud
+was made ready to go with Sir Tristram, and Dame Bragwaine went with
+her for her chief gentlewoman, with many other.
+
+Then the queen, Isoud’s mother, gave to her and Dame Bragwaine, her
+daughter’s gentlewoman, and unto Gouvernail, a drink, and charged them
+that what day King Mark should wed, that same day they should give him
+that drink, so that King Mark should drink to La Beale Isoud, and then,
+said the queen, I undertake either shall love other the days of their
+life. So this drink was given unto Dame Bragwaine, and unto Gouvernail.
+And then anon Sir Tristram took the sea, and La Beale Isoud; and when
+they were in their cabin, it happed so that they were thirsty, and they
+saw a little flasket of gold stand by them, and it seemed by the colour
+and the taste that it was noble wine. Then Sir Tristram took the
+flasket in his hand, and said, Madam Isoud, here is the best drink that
+ever ye drank, that Dame Bragwaine, your maiden, and Gouvernail, my
+servant, have kept for themselves. Then they laughed and made good
+cheer, and either drank to other freely, and they thought never drink
+that ever they drank to other was so sweet nor so good. But by that
+their drink was in their bodies, they loved either other so well that
+never their love departed for weal neither for woe. And thus it happed
+the love first betwixt Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud, the which love
+never departed the days of their life.
+
+So then they sailed till by fortune they came nigh a castle that hight
+Pluere, and thereby arrived for to repose them, weening to them to have
+had good harbourage. But anon as Sir Tristram was within the castle
+they were taken prisoners; for the custom of the castle was such; who
+that rode by that castle and brought any lady, he must needs fight with
+the lord, that hight Breunor. And if it were so that Breunor won the
+field, then should the knight stranger and his lady be put to death,
+what that ever they were; and if it were so that the strange knight won
+the field of Sir Breunor, then should he die and his lady both. This
+custom was used many winters, for it was called the Castle Pluere, that
+is to say the Weeping Castle.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV. How Sir Tristram and Isoud were in prison, and how he
+fought for her beauty, and smote off another lady’s head.
+
+Thus as Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud were in prison, it happed a
+knight and a lady came unto them where they were, to cheer them. I have
+marvel, said Tristram unto the knight and the lady, what is the cause
+the lord of this castle holdeth us in prison: it was never the custom
+of no place of worship that ever I came in, when a knight and a lady
+asked harbour, and they to receive them, and after to destroy them that
+be his guests. Sir, said the knight, this is the old custom of this
+castle, that when a knight cometh here he must needs fight with our
+lord, and he that is weaker must lose his head. And when that is done,
+if his lady that he bringeth be fouler than our lord’s wife, she must
+lose her head: and if she be fairer proved than is our lady, then shall
+the lady of this castle lose her head. So God me help, said Sir
+Tristram, this is a foul custom and a shameful. But one advantage have
+I, said Sir Tristram, I have a lady is fair enough, fairer saw I never
+in all my life-days, and I doubt not for lack of beauty she shall not
+lose her head; and rather than I should lose my head I will fight for
+it on a fair field. Wherefore, sir knight, I pray you tell your lord
+that I will be ready as to-morn with my lady, and myself to do battle,
+if it be so I may have my horse and mine armour. Sir, said that knight,
+I undertake that your desire shall be sped right well. And then he
+said: Take your rest, and look that ye be up betimes and make you ready
+and your lady, for ye shall want no thing that you behoveth. And
+therewith he departed, and on the morn betimes that same knight came to
+Sir Tristram, and fetched him out and his lady, and brought him horse
+and armour that was his own, and bade him make him ready to the field,
+for all the estates and commons of that lordship were there ready to
+behold that battle and judgment.
+
+Then came Sir Breunor, the lord of that castle, with his lady in his
+hand, muffled, and asked Sir Tristram where was his lady: For an thy
+lady be fairer than mine, with thy sword smite off my lady’s head; and
+if my lady be fairer than thine, with my sword I must strike off her
+head. And if I may win thee, yet shall thy lady be mine, and thou shalt
+lose thy head. Sir, said Tristram, this is a foul custom and horrible;
+and rather than my lady should lose her head, yet had I liefer lose my
+head. Nay, nay, said Sir Breunor, the ladies shall be first showed
+together, and the one shall have her judgment. Nay, I will not so, said
+Sir Tristram, for here is none that will give righteous judgment. But I
+doubt not, said Sir Tristram, my lady is fairer than thine, and that
+will I prove and make good with my hand. And whosomever he be that will
+say the contrary I will prove it on his head. And therewith Sir
+Tristram showed La Beale Isoud, and turned her thrice about with his
+naked sword in his hand. And when Sir Breunor saw that, he did the same
+wise turn his lady. But when Sir Breunor beheld La Beale Isoud, him
+thought he saw never a fairer lady, and then he dread his lady’s head
+should be off. And so all the people that were there present gave
+judgment that La Beale Isoud was the fairer lady and the better made.
+How now, said Sir Tristram, meseemeth it were pity that my lady should
+lose her head, but because thou and she of long time have used this
+wicked custom, and by you both have many good knights and ladies been
+destroyed, for that cause it were no loss to destroy you both. So God
+me help, said Sir Breunor, for to say the sooth, thy lady is fairer
+than mine, and that me sore repenteth. And so I hear the people privily
+say, for of all women I saw none so fair; and therefore, an thou wilt
+slay my lady, I doubt not but I shall slay thee and have thy lady. Thou
+shalt win her, said Sir Tristram, as dear as ever knight won lady. And
+because of thine own judgment, as thou wouldst have done to my lady if
+that she had been fouler, and because of the evil custom, give me thy
+lady, said Sir Tristram. And therewithal Sir Tristram strode unto him
+and took his lady from him, and with an awk stroke he smote off her
+head clean. Well, knight, said Sir Breunor, now hast thou done me a
+despite.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI. How Sir Tristram fought with Sir Breunor, and at the last
+smote off his head.
+
+Now take thine horse: sithen I am ladyless I will win thy lady an I
+may.
+
+Then they took their horses and came together as it had been the
+thunder; and Sir Tristram smote Sir Breunor clean from his horse, and
+lightly he rose up; and as Sir Tristram came again by him he thrust his
+horse throughout both the shoulders, that his horse hurled here and
+there and fell dead to the ground. And ever Sir Breunor ran after to
+have slain Sir Tristram, but Sir Tristram was light and nimble, and
+voided his horse lightly. And or ever Sir Tristram might dress his
+shield and his sword the other gave him three or four sad strokes. Then
+they rushed together like two boars, tracing and traversing mightily
+and wisely as two noble knights. For this Sir Breunor was a proved
+knight, and had been or then the death of many good knights, that it
+was pity that he had so long endured.
+
+Thus they fought, hurling here and there nigh two hours, and either
+were wounded sore. Then at the last Sir Breunor rashed upon Sir
+Tristram and took him in his arms, for he trusted much in his strength.
+Then was Sir Tristram called the strongest and the highest knight of
+the world; for he was called bigger than Sir Launcelot, but Sir
+Launcelot was better breathed. So anon Sir Tristram thrust Sir Breunor
+down grovelling, and then he unlaced his helm and struck off his head.
+And then all they that longed to the castle came to him, and did him
+homage and fealty, praying him that he would abide there still a little
+while to fordo that foul custom. Sir Tristram granted thereto. The
+meanwhile one of the knights of the castle rode unto Sir Galahad, the
+haut prince, the which was Sir Breunor’s son, which was a noble knight,
+and told him what misadventure his father had and his mother.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII. How Sir Galahad fought with Sir Tristram, and how Sir
+Tristram yielded him and promised to fellowship with Launcelot.
+
+Then came Sir Galahad, and the King with the Hundred Knights with him;
+and this Sir Galahad proffered to fight with Sir Tristram hand for
+hand. And so they made them ready to go unto battle on horseback with
+great courage. Then Sir Galahad and Sir Tristram met together so hard
+that either bare other down, horse and all, to the earth. And then they
+avoided their horses as noble knights, and dressed their shields, and
+drew their swords with ire and rancour, and they lashed together many
+sad strokes, and one while striking, another while foining, tracing and
+traversing as noble knights; thus they fought long, near half a day,
+and either were sore wounded. At the last Sir Tristram waxed light and
+big, and doubled his strokes, and drove Sir Galahad aback on the one
+side and on the other, so that he was like to have been slain.
+
+With that came the King with the Hundred Knights, and all that
+fellowship went fiercely upon Sir Tristram. When Sir Tristram saw them
+coming upon him, then he wist well he might not endure. Then as a wise
+knight of war, he said to Sir Galahad, the haut prince: Sir, ye show to
+me no knighthood, for to suffer all your men to have ado with me all at
+once; and as meseemeth ye be a noble knight of your hands it is great
+shame to you. So God me help, said Sir Galahad, there is none other way
+but thou must yield thee to me, other else to die, said Sir Galahad to
+Sir Tristram. I will rather yield me to you than die for that is more
+for the might of your men than of your hands. And therewithal Sir
+Tristram took his own sword by the point, and put the pommel in the
+hand of Sir Galahad.
+
+Therewithal came the King with the Hundred Knights, and hard began to
+assail Sir Tristram. Let be, said Sir Galahad, be ye not so hardy to
+touch him, for I have given this knight his life. That is your shame,
+said the King with the Hundred Knights; hath he not slain your father
+and your mother? As for that, said Sir Galahad, I may not wite him
+greatly, for my father had him in prison, and enforced him to do battle
+with him; and my father had such a custom that was a shameful custom,
+that what knight came there to ask harbour his lady must needs die but
+if she were fairer than my mother; and if my father overcame that
+knight he must needs die. This was a shameful custom and usage, a
+knight for his harbour-asking to have such harbourage. And for this
+custom I would never draw about him. So God me help, said the King,
+this was a shameful custom. Truly, said Sir Galahad, so seemed me; and
+meseemed it had been great pity that this knight should have been
+slain, for I dare say he is the noblest man that beareth life, but if
+it were Sir Launcelot du Lake. Now, fair knight, said Sir Galahad, I
+require thee tell me thy name, and of whence thou art, and whither thou
+wilt. Sir, he said, my name is Sir Tristram de Liones, and from King
+Mark of Cornwall I was sent on message unto King Anguish of Ireland,
+for to fetch his daughter to be his wife, and here she is ready to go
+with me into Cornwall, and her name is La Beale Isoud. And, Sir
+Tristram, said Sir Galahad, the haut prince, well be ye found in these
+marches, and so ye will promise me to go unto Sir Launcelot du Lake,
+and accompany with him, ye shall go where ye will, and your fair lady
+with you; and I shall promise you never in all my days shall such
+customs be used in this castle as have been used. Sir, said Sir
+Tristram, now I let you wit, so God me help, I weened ye had been Sir
+Launcelot du Lake when I saw you first, and therefore I dread you the
+more; and sir, I promise you, said Sir Tristram, as soon as I may I
+will see Sir Launcelot and in fellowship me with him; for of all the
+knights of the world I most desire his fellowship.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII. How Sir Launcelot met with Sir Carados bearing away Sir
+Gawaine, and of the rescue of Sir Gawaine.
+
+And then Sir Tristram took his leave when he saw his time, and took the
+sea. And in the meanwhile word came unto Sir Launcelot and to Sir
+Tristram that Sir Carados, the mighty king, that was made like a giant,
+fought with Sir Gawaine, and gave him such strokes that he swooned in
+his saddle, and after that he took him by the collar and pulled him out
+of his saddle, and fast bound him to the saddle-bow, and so rode his
+way with him toward his castle. And as he rode, by fortune Sir
+Launcelot met with Sir Carados, and anon he knew Sir Gawaine that lay
+bound after him. Ah, said Sir Launcelot unto Sir Gawaine, how stands it
+with you? Never so hard, said Sir Gawaine, unless that ye help me, for
+so God me help, without ye rescue me I know no knight that may, but
+outher you or Sir Tristram. Wherefore Sir Launcelot was heavy of Sir
+Gawaine’s words. And then Sir Launcelot bade Sir Carados: Lay down that
+knight and fight with me. Thou art but a fool, said Sir Carados, for I
+will serve you in the same wise. As for that, said Sir Launcelot, spare
+me not, for I warn thee I will not spare thee. And then he bound Sir
+Gawaine hand and foot, and so threw him to the ground. And then he gat
+his spear of his squire, and departed from Sir Launcelot to fetch his
+course. And so either met with other, and brake their spears to their
+hands; and then they pulled out swords, and hurtled together on
+horseback more than an hour. And at the last Sir Launcelot smote Sir
+Carados such a buffet upon the helm that it pierced his brain-pan. So
+then Sir Launcelot took Sir Carados by the collar and pulled him under
+his horse’s feet, and then he alighted and pulled off his helm and
+struck off his head. And then Sir Launcelot unbound Sir Gawaine. So
+this same tale was told to Sir Galahad and to Sir Tristram:—here may ye
+hear the nobleness that followeth Sir Launcelot. Alas, said Sir
+Tristram, an I had not this message in hand with this fair lady, truly
+I would never stint or I had found Sir Launcelot. Then Sir Tristram and
+La Beale Isoud went to the sea and came into Cornwall, and there all
+the barons met them.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX. Of the wedding of King Mark to La Beale Isoud, and of
+Bragwaine her maid, and of Palamides.
+
+And anon they were richly wedded with great noblesse. But ever, as the
+French book saith, Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud loved ever together.
+Then was there great jousts and great tourneying, and many lords and
+ladies were at that feast, and Sir Tristram was most praised of all
+other. Thus dured the feast long, and after the feast was done, within
+a little while after, by the assent of two ladies that were with Queen
+Isoud, they ordained for hate and envy for to destroy Dame Bragwaine,
+that was maiden and lady unto La Beale Isoud; and she was sent into the
+forest for to fetch herbs, and there she was met, and bound feet and
+hand to a tree, and so she was bounden three days. And by fortune, Sir
+Palamides found Dame Bragwaine, and there he delivered her from the
+death, and brought her to a nunnery there beside, for to be recovered.
+When Isoud the queen missed her maiden, wit ye well she was right heavy
+as ever was any queen, for of all earthly women she loved her best: the
+cause was for she came with her out of her country. And so upon a day
+Queen Isoud walked into the forest to put away her thoughts, and there
+she went herself unto a well and made great moan. And suddenly there
+came Palamides to her, and had heard all her complaint, and said: Madam
+Isoud, an ye will grant me my boon, I shall bring to you Dame Bragwaine
+safe and sound. And the queen was so glad of his proffer that suddenly
+unadvised she granted all his asking. Well, Madam, said Palamides, I
+trust to your promise, and if ye will abide here half an hour I shall
+bring her to you. I shall abide you, said La Beale Isoud. And Sir
+Palamides rode forth his way to that nunnery, and lightly he came again
+with Dame Bragwaine; but by her good will she would not have come
+again, because for love of the queen she stood in adventure of her
+life. Notwithstanding, half against her will, she went with Sir
+Palamides unto the queen. And when the queen saw her she was passing
+glad. Now, Madam, said Palamides, remember upon your promise, for I
+have fulfilled my promise. Sir Palamides, said the queen, I wot not
+what is your desire, but I will that ye wit, howbeit I promised you
+largely, I thought none evil, nor I warn you none evil will I do.
+Madam, said Sir Palamides, as at this time, ye shall not know my
+desire, but before my lord your husband there shall ye know that I will
+have my desire that ye have promised me. And therewith the queen
+departed, and rode home to the king, and Sir Palamides rode after her.
+And when Sir Palamides came before the king, he said: Sir King, I
+require you as ye be a righteous king, that ye will judge me the right.
+Tell me your cause, said the king, and ye shall have right.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX. How Palamides demanded Queen Isoud, and how Lambegus rode
+after to rescue her, and of the escape of Isoud.
+
+Sir, said Palamides, I promised your Queen Isoud to bring again Dame
+Bragwaine that she had lost, upon this covenant, that she should grant
+me a boon that I would ask, and without grudging, outher advisement,
+she granted me. What say ye, my lady? said the king. It is as he saith,
+so God me help, said the queen; to say thee sooth I promised him his
+asking for love and joy that I had to see her. Well, Madam, said the
+king, and if ye were hasty to grant him what boon he would ask, I will
+well that ye perform your promise. Then, said Palamides, I will that ye
+wit that I will have your queen to lead her and govern her whereas me
+list. Therewith the king stood still, and bethought him of Sir
+Tristram, and deemed that he would rescue her. And then hastily the
+king answered: Take her with the adventures that shall fall of it, for
+as I suppose thou wilt not enjoy her no while. As for that, said
+Palamides, I dare right well abide the adventure. And so, to make short
+tale, Sir Palamides took her by the hand and said: Madam, grudge not to
+go with me, for I desire nothing but your own promise. As for that,
+said the queen, I fear not greatly to go with thee, howbeit thou hast
+me at advantage upon my promise, for I doubt not I shall be
+worshipfully rescued from thee. As for that, said Sir Palamides, be it
+as it be may. So Queen Isoud was set behind Palamides, and rode his
+way.
+
+Anon the king sent after Sir Tristram, but in no wise he could be
+found, for he was in the forest a-hunting; for that was always his
+custom, but if he used arms, to chase and to hunt in the forests. Alas,
+said the king, now I am shamed for ever, that by mine own assent my
+lady and my queen shall be devoured. Then came forth a knight, his name
+was Lambegus, and he was a knight of Sir Tristram. My lord, said this
+knight, sith ye have trust in my lord, Sir Tristram, wit ye well for
+his sake I will ride after your queen and rescue her, or else I shall
+be beaten. Gramercy, said the king, as I live, Sir Lambegus, I shall
+deserve it. And then Sir Lambegus armed him, and rode after as fast as
+he might. And then within a while he overtook Sir Palamides. And then
+Sir Palamides left the queen. What art thou, said Palamides, art thou
+Tristram? Nay, he said, I am his servant, and my name is Sir Lambegus.
+That me repenteth, said Palamides. I had liefer thou hadst been Sir
+Tristram. I believe you well, said Lambegus, but when thou meetest with
+Sir Tristram thou shalt have thy hands full. And then they hurtled
+together and all to-brast their spears, and then they pulled out their
+swords, and hewed on helms and hauberks. At the last Sir Palamides gave
+Sir Lambegus such a wound that he fell down like a dead knight to the
+earth.
+
+Then he looked after La Beale Isoud, and then she was gone he nist
+where. Wit ye well Sir Palamides was never so heavy. So the queen ran
+into the forest, and there she found a well, and therein she had
+thought to have drowned herself. And as good fortune would, there came
+a knight to her that had a castle thereby, his name was Sir Adtherp.
+And when he found the queen in that mischief he rescued her, and
+brought her to his castle. And when he wist what she was he armed him,
+and took his horse, and said he would be avenged upon Palamides; and so
+he rode on till he met with him, and there Sir Palamides wounded him
+sore, and by force he made him to tell him the cause why he did battle
+with him, and how he had led the queen unto his castle. Now bring me
+there, said Palamides, or thou shalt die of my hands. Sir, said Sir
+Adtherp, I am so wounded I may not follow, but ride you this way and it
+shall bring you into my castle, and there within is the queen. Then Sir
+Palamides rode still till he came to the castle. And at a window La
+Beale Isoud saw Sir Palamides; then she made the gates to be shut
+strongly. And when he saw he might not come within the castle, he put
+off his bridle and his saddle, and put his horse to pasture, and set
+himself down at the gate like a man that was out of his wit that recked
+not of himself.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI. How Sir Tristram rode after Palamides, and how he found
+him and fought with him, and by the means of Isoud the battle ceased.
+
+Now turn we unto Sir Tristram, that when he was come home and wist La
+Beale Isoud was gone with Sir Palamides, wit ye well he was wroth out
+of measure. Alas, said Sir Tristram, I am this day shamed. Then he
+cried to Gouvernail his man: Haste thee that I were armed and on
+horseback, for well I wot Lambegus hath no might nor strength to
+withstand Sir Palamides: alas that I have not been in his stead! So
+anon as he was armed and horsed Sir Tristram and Gouvernail rode after
+into the forest, and within a while he found his knight Lambegus almost
+wounded to the death; and Sir Tristram bare him to a forester, and
+charged him to keep him well. And then he rode forth, and there he
+found Sir Adtherp sore wounded, and he told him how the queen would
+have drowned herself had he not been, and how for her sake and love he
+had taken upon him to do battle with Sir Palamides. Where is my lady?
+said Sir Tristram. Sir, said the knight, she is sure enough within my
+castle, an she can hold her within it. Gramercy, said Sir Tristram, of
+thy great goodness. And so he rode till he came nigh to that castle;
+and then Sir Tristram saw where Sir Palamides sat at the gate sleeping,
+and his horse pastured fast afore him. Now go thou, Gouvernail, said
+Sir Tristram, and bid him awake, and make him ready. So Gouvernail rode
+unto him and said: Sir Palamides, arise, and take to thee thine
+harness. But he was in such a study he heard not what Gouvernail said.
+So Gouvernail came again and told Sir Tristram he slept, or else he was
+mad. Go thou again, said Sir Tristram, and bid him arise, and tell him
+that I am here, his mortal foe. So Gouvernail rode again and put upon
+him the butt of his spear, and said: Sir Palamides, make thee ready,
+for wit ye well Sir Tristram hoveth yonder, and sendeth thee word he is
+thy mortal foe. And therewithal Sir Palamides arose stilly, without
+words, and gat his horse, and saddled him and bridled him, and lightly
+he leapt upon, and gat his spear in his hand, and either feutred their
+spears and hurtled fast together; and there Tristram smote down Sir
+Palamides over his horse’s tail. Then lightly Sir Palamides put his
+shield afore him and drew his sword. And there began strong battle on
+both parts, for both they fought for the love of one lady, and ever she
+lay on the walls and beheld them how they fought out of measure, and
+either were wounded passing sore, but Palamides was much sorer wounded.
+Thus they fought tracing and traversing more than two hours, that
+well-nigh for dole and sorrow La Beale Isoud swooned. Alas, she said,
+that one I loved and yet do, and the other I love not, yet it were
+great pity that I should see Sir Palamides slain; for well I know by
+that time the end be done Sir Palamides is but a dead knight: because
+he is not christened I would be loath that he should die a Saracen. And
+therewithal she came down and besought Sir Tristram to fight no more.
+Ah, madam, said he, what mean you, will ye have me shamed? Well ye know
+I will be ruled by you. I will not your dishonour, said La Beale Isoud,
+but I would that ye would for my sake spare this unhappy Saracen
+Palamides. Madam, said Sir Tristram, I will leave fighting at this time
+for your sake. Then she said to Sir Palamides: This shall be your
+charge, that thou shalt go out of this country while I am therein. I
+will obey your commandment, said Sir Palamides, the which is sore
+against my will. Then take thy way, said La Beale Isoud, unto the court
+of King Arthur, and there recommend me unto Queen Guenever, and tell
+her that I send her word that there be within this land but four
+lovers, that is, Sir Launcelot du Lake and Queen Guenever, and Sir
+Tristram de Liones and Queen Isoud.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII. How Sir Tristram brought Queen Isoud home, and of the
+debate of King Mark and Sir Tristram.
+
+And so Sir Palamides departed with great heaviness. And Sir Tristram
+took the queen and brought her again to King Mark, and then was there
+made great joy of her home-coming. Who was cherished but Sir Tristram!
+Then Sir Tristram let fetch Sir Lambegus, his knight, from the
+forester’s house, and it was long or he was whole, but at the last he
+was well recovered. Thus they lived with joy and play a long while. But
+ever Sir Andred, that was nigh cousin to Sir Tristram, lay in a watch
+to wait betwixt Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud, for to take them and
+slander them. So upon a day Sir Tristram talked with La Beale Isoud in
+a window, and that espied Sir Andred, and told it to the King. Then
+King Mark took a sword in his hand and came to Sir Tristram, and called
+him false traitor, and would have stricken him. But Sir Tristram was
+nigh him, and ran under his sword, and took it out of his hand. And
+then the King cried: Where are my knights and my men? I charge you slay
+this traitor. But at that time there was not one would move for his
+words. When Sir Tristram saw that there was not one would be against
+him, he shook the sword to the king, and made countenance as though he
+would have stricken him. And then King Mark fled, and Sir Tristram
+followed him, and smote upon him five or six strokes flatling on the
+neck, that he made him to fall upon the nose. And then Sir Tristram
+yede his way and armed him, and took his horse and his man, and so he
+rode into that forest.
+
+And there upon a day Sir Tristram met with two brethren that were
+knights with King Mark, and there he struck off the head of the one,
+and wounded the other to the death; and he made him to bear his
+brother’s head in his helm unto the king, and thirty more there he
+wounded. And when that knight came before the king to say his message,
+he there died afore the king and the queen. Then King Mark called his
+council unto him, and asked advice of his barons what was best to do
+with Sir Tristram. Sir, said the barons, in especial Sir Dinas, the
+Seneschal, Sir, we will give you counsel for to send for Sir Tristram,
+for we will that ye wit many men will hold with Sir Tristram an he were
+hard bestead. And sir, said Sir Dinas, ye shall understand that Sir
+Tristram is called peerless and makeless of any Christian knight, and
+of his might and hardiness we knew none so good a knight, but if it be
+Sir Launcelot du Lake. And if he depart from your court and go to King
+Arthur’s court, wit ye well he will get him such friends there that he
+will not set by your malice. And therefore, sir, I counsel you to take
+him to your grace. I will well, said the king, that he be sent for,
+that we may be friends. Then the barons sent for Sir Tristram under a
+safe conduct. And so when Sir Tristram came to the king he was welcome,
+and no rehearsal was made, and there was game and play. And then the
+king and the queen went a-hunting, and Sir Tristram.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII. How Sir Lamorak jousted with thirty knights, and Sir
+Tristram at the request of King Mark smote his horse down.
+
+The king and the queen made their pavilions and their tents in that
+forest beside a river, and there was daily hunting and jousting, for
+there were ever thirty knights ready to joust unto all them that came
+in at that time. And there by fortune came Sir Lamorak de Galis and Sir
+Driant; and there Sir Driant jousted right well, but at the last he had
+a fall. Then Sir Lamorak proffered to joust. And when he began he fared
+so with the thirty knights that there was not one of them but that he
+gave him a fall, and some of them were sore hurt. I marvel, said King
+Mark, what knight he is that doth such deeds of arms. Sir, said Sir
+Tristram, I know him well for a noble knight as few now be living, and
+his name is Sir Lamorak de Galis. It were great shame, said the king,
+that he should go thus away, unless that some of you meet with him
+better. Sir, said Sir Tristram, meseemeth it were no worship for a
+noble man to have ado with him: and for because at this time he hath
+done over much for any mean knight living, therefore, as meseemeth, it
+were great shame and villainy to tempt him any more at this time,
+insomuch as he and his horse are weary both; for the deeds of arms that
+he hath done this day, an they be well considered, it were enough for
+Sir Launcelot du Lake. As for that, said King Mark, I require you, as
+ye love me and my lady the queen, La Beale Isoud, take your arms and
+joust with Sir Lamorak de Galis. Sir, said Sir Tristram, ye bid me do a
+thing that is against knighthood, and well I can deem that I shall give
+him a fall, for it is no mastery, for my horse and I be fresh both, and
+so is not his horse and he; and wit ye well that he will take it for
+great unkindness, for ever one good knight is loath to take another at
+disadvantage; but because I will not displease you, as ye require me so
+will I do, and obey your commandment.
+
+And so Sir Tristram armed him and took his horse, and put him forth,
+and there Sir Lamorak met him mightily, and what with the might of his
+own spear, and of Sir Tristram’s spear, Sir Lamorak’s horse fell to the
+earth, and he sitting in the saddle. Then anon as lightly as he might
+he avoided the saddle and his horse, and put his shield afore him and
+drew his sword. And then he bade Sir Tristram: Alight, thou knight, an
+thou durst. Nay, said Sir Tristram, I will no more have ado with thee,
+for I have done to thee over much unto my dishonour and to thy worship.
+As for that, said Sir Lamorak, I can thee no thank; since thou hast
+for-jousted me on horseback I require thee and I beseech thee, an thou
+be Sir Tristram, fight with me on foot. I will not so, said Sir
+Tristram; and wit ye well my name is Sir Tristram de Liones, and well I
+know ye be Sir Lamorak de Galis, and this that I have done to you was
+against my will, but I was required thereto; but to say that I will do
+at your request as at this time, I will have no more ado with you, for
+me shameth of that I have done. As for the shame, said Sir Lamorak, on
+thy part or on mine, bear thou it an thou wilt, for though a mare’s son
+hath failed me, now a queen’s son shall not fail thee; and therefore,
+an thou be such a knight as men call thee, I require thee, alight, and
+fight with me. Sir Lamorak, said Sir Tristram, I understand your heart
+is great, and cause why ye have, to say thee sooth; for it would grieve
+me an any knight should keep him fresh and then to strike down a weary
+knight, for that knight nor horse was never formed that alway might
+stand or endure. And therefore, said Sir Tristram, I will not have ado
+with you, for me forthinketh of that I have done. As for that, said Sir
+Lamorak, I shall quit you, an ever I see my time.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV. How Sir Lamorak sent an horn to King Mark in despite of
+Sir Tristram, and how Sir Tristram was driven into a chapel.
+
+So he departed from him with Sir Driant, and by the way they met with a
+knight that was sent from Morgan le Fay unto King Arthur; and this
+knight had a fair horn harnessed with gold, and the horn had such a
+virtue that there might no lady nor gentlewoman drink of that horn but
+if she were true to her husband, and if she were false she should spill
+all the drink, and if she were true to her lord she might drink
+peaceable. And because of the Queen Guenever, and in the despite of Sir
+Launcelot, this horn was sent unto King Arthur; and by force Sir
+Lamorak made that knight to tell all the cause why he bare that horn.
+Now shalt thou bear this horn, said Lamorak, unto King Mark, or else
+choose thou to die for it; for I tell thee plainly, in despite and
+reproof of Sir Tristram thou shalt bear that horn unto King Mark, his
+uncle, and say thou to him that I sent it him for to assay his lady,
+and if she be true to him he shall prove her. So the knight went his
+way unto King Mark, and brought him that rich horn, and said that Sir
+Lamorak sent it him, and thereto he told him the virtue of that horn.
+Then the king made Queen Isoud to drink thereof, and an hundred ladies,
+and there were but four ladies of all those that drank clean. Alas,
+said King Mark, this is a great despite, and sware a great oath that
+she should be burnt and the other ladies.
+
+Then the barons gathered them together, and said plainly they would not
+have those ladies burnt for an horn made by sorcery, that came from as
+false a sorceress and witch as then was living. For that horn did never
+good, but caused strife and debate, and always in her days she had been
+an enemy to all true lovers. So there were many knights made their
+avow, an ever they met with Morgan le Fay, that they would show her
+short courtesy. Also Sir Tristram was passing wroth that Sir Lamorak
+sent that horn unto King Mark, for well he knew that it was done in the
+despite of him. And therefore he thought to quite Sir Lamorak.
+
+Then Sir Tristram used daily and nightly to go to Queen Isoud when he
+might, and ever Sir Andred his cousin watched him night and day for to
+take him with La Beale Isoud. And so upon a night Sir Andred espied the
+hour and the time when Sir Tristram went to his lady. Then Sir Andred
+gat unto him twelve knights, and at midnight he set upon Sir Tristram
+secretly and suddenly and there Sir Tristram was taken naked abed with
+La Beale Isoud, and then was he bound hand and foot, and so was he kept
+until day. And then by the assent of King Mark, and of Sir Andred, and
+of some of the barons, Sir Tristram was led unto a chapel that stood
+upon the sea rocks, there for to take his judgment: and so he was led
+bounden with forty knights. And when Sir Tristram saw that there was
+none other boot but needs that he must die, then said he: Fair lords,
+remember what I have done for the country of Cornwall, and in what
+jeopardy I have been in for the weal of you all; for when I fought for
+the truage of Cornwall with Sir Marhaus, the good knight, I was
+promised for to be better rewarded, when ye all refused to take the
+battle; therefore, as ye be good gentle knights, see me not thus
+shamefully to die, for it is shame to all knighthood thus to see me
+die; for I dare say, said Sir Tristram, that I never met with no knight
+but I was as good as he, or better. Fie upon thee, said Sir Andred,
+false traitor that thou art, with thine avaunting; for all thy boast
+thou shalt die this day. O Andred, Andred, said Sir Tristram, thou
+shouldst be my kinsman, and now thou art to me full unfriendly, but an
+there were no more but thou and I, thou wouldst not put me to death.
+No! said Sir Andred, and therewith he drew his sword, and would have
+slain him.
+
+When Sir Tristram saw him make such countenance he looked upon both his
+hands that were fast bounden unto two knights, and suddenly he pulled
+them both to him, and unwrast his hands, and then he leapt unto his
+cousin, Sir Andred, and wrested his sword out of his hands; then he
+smote Sir Andred that he fell to the earth, and so Sir Tristram fought
+till that he had killed ten knights. So then Sir Tristram gat the
+chapel and kept it mightily. Then the cry was great, and the people
+drew fast unto Sir Andred, mo than an hundred. When Sir Tristram saw
+the people draw unto him, he remembered he was naked, and sperd fast
+the chapel door, and brake the bars of a window, and so he leapt out
+and fell upon the crags in the sea. And so at that time Sir Andred nor
+none of his fellows might get to him, at that time.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV. How Sir Tristram was holpen by his men, and of Queen
+Isoud which was put in a lazar-cote, and how Tristram was hurt.
+
+So when they were departed, Gouvernail, and Sir Lambegus, and Sir
+Sentraille de Lushon, that were Sir Tristram’s men, sought their
+master. When they heard he was escaped then they were passing glad; and
+on the rocks they found him, and with towels they pulled him up. And
+then Sir Tristram asked them where was La Beale Isoud, for he weened
+she had been had away of Andred’s people. Sir, said Gouvernail, she is
+put in a lazar-cote. Alas, said Sir Tristram, this is a full ungoodly
+place for such a fair lady, and if I may she shall not be long there.
+And so he took his men and went thereas was La Beale Isoud, and fetched
+her away, and brought her into a forest to a fair manor, and Sir
+Tristram there abode with her. So the good knight bade his men go from
+him: For at this time I may not help you. So they departed all save
+Gouvernail. And so upon a day Sir Tristram yede into the forest for to
+disport him, and then it happened that there he fell sleep; and there
+came a man that Sir Tristram aforehand had slain his brother, and when
+this man had found him he shot him through the shoulder with an arrow,
+and Sir Tristram leapt up and killed that man. And in the meantime it
+was told King Mark how Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud were in that
+same manor, and as soon as ever he might thither he came with many
+knights to slay Sir Tristram. And when he came there he found him gone;
+and there he took La Beale Isoud home with him, and kept her strait
+that by no means never she might wit nor send unto Tristram, nor he
+unto her. And then when Sir Tristram came toward the old manor he found
+the track of many horses, and thereby he wist his lady was gone. And
+then Sir Tristram took great sorrow, and endured with great pain long
+time, for the arrow that he was hurt withal was envenomed.
+
+Then by the mean of La Beale Isoud she told a lady that was cousin unto
+Dame Bragwaine, and she came to Sir Tristram, and told him that he
+might not be whole by no means. For thy lady, La Beale Isoud, may not
+help thee, therefore she biddeth you haste into Brittany to King Howel,
+and there ye shall find his daughter, Isoud la Blanche Mains, and she
+shall help thee. Then Sir Tristram and Gouvernail gat them shipping,
+and so sailed into Brittany. And when King Howel wist that it was Sir
+Tristram he was full glad of him. Sir, he said, I am come into this
+country to have help of your daughter, for it is told me that there is
+none other may heal me but she; and so within a while she healed him.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI. How Sir Tristram served in war King Howel of Brittany,
+and slew his adversary in the field.
+
+There was an earl that hight Grip, and this earl made great war upon
+the king, and put the king to the worse, and besieged him. And on a
+time Sir Kehydius, that was son to King Howel, as he issued out he was
+sore wounded, nigh to the death. Then Gouvernail went to the king and
+said: Sir, I counsel you to desire my lord, Sir Tristram, as in your
+need to help you. I will do by your counsel, said the king. And so he
+yede unto Sir Tristram, and prayed him in his wars to help him: For my
+son, Sir Kehydius, may not go into the field. Sir, said Sir Tristram, I
+will go to the field and do what I may. Then Sir Tristram issued out of
+the town with such fellowship as he might make, and did such deeds that
+all Brittany spake of him. And then, at the last, by great might and
+force, he slew the Earl Grip with his own hands, and more than an
+hundred knights he slew that day. And then Sir Tristram was received
+worshipfully with procession. Then King Howel embraced him in his arms,
+and said: Sir Tristram, all my kingdom I will resign to thee. God
+defend, said Sir Tristram, for I am beholden unto you for your
+daughter’s sake to do for you.
+
+Then by the great means of King Howel and Kehydius his son, by great
+proffers, there grew great love betwixt Isoud and Sir Tristram, for
+that lady was both good and fair, and a woman of noble blood and fame.
+And for because Sir Tristram had such cheer and riches, and all other
+pleasaunce that he had, almost he had forsaken La Beale Isoud. And so
+upon a time Sir Tristram agreed to wed Isoud la Blanche Mains. And at
+the last they were wedded, and solemnly held their marriage. And so
+when they were abed both Sir Tristram remembered him of his old lady La
+Beale Isoud. And then he took such a thought suddenly that he was all
+dismayed, and other cheer made he none but with clipping and kissing;
+as for other fleshly lusts Sir Tristram never thought nor had ado with
+her: such mention maketh the French book; also it maketh mention that
+the lady weened there had been no pleasure but kissing and clipping.
+And in the meantime there was a knight in Brittany, his name was
+Suppinabiles, and he came over the sea into England, and then he came
+into the court of King Arthur, and there he met with Sir Launcelot du
+Lake, and told him of the marriage of Sir Tristram. Then said Sir
+Launcelot: Fie upon him, untrue knight to his lady, that so noble a
+knight as Sir Tristram is should be found to his first lady false, La
+Beale Isoud, Queen of Cornwall; but say ye him this, said Sir
+Launcelot, that of all knights in the world I loved him most, and had
+most joy of him, and all was for his noble deeds; and let him wit the
+love between him and me is done for ever, and that I give him warning
+from this day forth as his mortal enemy.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII. How Sir Suppinabiles told Sir Tristram how he was
+defamed in the court of King Arthur, and of Sir Lamorak.
+
+Then departed Sir Suppinabiles unto Brittany again, and there he found
+Sir Tristram, and told him that he had been in King Arthur’s court.
+Then said Sir Tristram: Heard ye anything of me? So God me help, said
+Sir Suppinabiles, there I heard Sir Launcelot speak of you great shame,
+and that ye be a false knight to your lady and he bade me do you to wit
+that he will be your mortal enemy in every place where he may meet you.
+That me repenteth, said Tristram, for of all knights I loved to be in
+his fellowship. So Sir Tristram made great moan and was ashamed that
+noble knights should defame him for the sake of his lady. And in this
+meanwhile La Beale Isoud made a letter unto Queen Guenever, complaining
+her of the untruth of Sir Tristram, and how he had wedded the king’s
+daughter of Brittany. Queen Guenever sent her another letter, and bade
+her be of good cheer, for she should have joy after sorrow, for Sir
+Tristram was so noble a knight called, that by crafts of sorcery ladies
+would make such noble men to wed them. But in the end, Queen Guenever
+said, it shall be thus, that he shall hate her, and love you better
+than ever he did to-fore.
+
+So leave we Sir Tristram in Brittany, and speak we of Sir Lamorak de
+Galis, that as he sailed his ship fell on a rock and perished all, save
+Sir Lamorak and his squire; and there he swam mightily, and fishers of
+the Isle of Servage took him up, and his squire was drowned, and the
+shipmen had great labour to save Sir Lamorak’s life, for all the
+comfort that they could do.
+
+And the lord of that isle, hight Sir Nabon le Noire, a great mighty
+giant. And this Sir Nabon hated all the knights of King Arthur’s, and
+in no wise he would do them favour. And these fishers told Sir Lamorak
+all the guise of Sir Nabon; how there came never knight of King
+Arthur’s but he destroyed him. And at the last battle that he did was
+slain Sir Nanowne le Petite, the which he put to a shameful death in
+despite of King Arthur, for he was drawn limb-meal. That forthinketh
+me, said Sir Lamorak, for that knight’s death, for he was my cousin;
+and if I were at mine ease as well as ever I was, I would revenge his
+death. Peace, said the fishers, and make here no words, for or ever ye
+depart from hence Sir Nabon must know that ye have been here, or else
+we should die for your sake. So that I be whole, said Lamorak, of my
+disease that I have taken in the sea, I will that ye tell him that I am
+a knight of King Arthur’s, for I was never afeard to reneye my lord.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII. How Sir Tristram and his wife arrived in Wales, and
+how he met there with Sir Lamorak.
+
+Now turn we unto Sir Tristram, that upon a day he took a little barget,
+and his wife Isoud la Blanche Mains, with Sir Kehydius her brother, to
+play them in the coasts. And when they were from the land, there was a
+wind drove them in to the coast of Wales upon this Isle of Servage,
+whereas was Sir Lamorak, and there the barget all to-rove; and there
+Dame Isoud was hurt; and as well as they might they gat into the
+forest, and there by a well he saw Segwarides and a damosel. And then
+either saluted other. Sir, said Segwarides, I know you for Sir Tristram
+de Liones, the man in the world that I have most cause to hate, because
+ye departed the love between me and my wife; but as for that, said Sir
+Segwarides, I will never hate a noble knight for a light lady; and
+therefore, I pray you, be my friend, and I will be yours unto my power;
+for wit ye well ye are hard bestead in this valley, and we shall have
+enough to do either of us to succour other. And then Sir Segwarides
+brought Sir Tristram to a lady thereby that was born in Cornwall, and
+she told him all the perils of that valley, and how there came never
+knight there but he were taken prisoner or slain. Wit you well, fair
+lady, said Sir Tristram, that I slew Sir Marhaus and delivered Cornwall
+from the truage of Ireland, and I am he that delivered the King of
+Ireland from Sir Blamore de Ganis, and I am he that beat Sir Palamides;
+and wit ye well I am Sir Tristram de Liones, that by the grace of God
+shall deliver this woful Isle of Servage. So Sir Tristram was well
+eased.
+
+Then one told him there was a knight of King Arthur’s that was wrecked
+on the rocks. What is his name? said Sir Tristram. We wot not, said the
+fishers, but he keepeth it no counsel but that he is a knight of King
+Arthur’s, and by the mighty lord of this isle he setteth nought. I pray
+you, said Sir Tristram, an ye may, bring him hither that I may see him,
+and if he be any of the knights of Arthur’s I shall know him. Then the
+lady prayed the fishers to bring him to her place. So on the morrow
+they brought him thither in a fisher’s raiment; and as soon as Sir
+Tristram saw him he smiled upon him and knew him well, but he knew not
+Sir Tristram. Fair sir, said Sir Tristram, meseemeth by your cheer ye
+have been diseased but late, and also methinketh I should know you
+heretofore. I will well, said Sir Lamorak, that ye have seen me and met
+with me. Fair sir, said Sir Tristram, tell me your name. Upon a
+covenant I will tell you, said Sir Lamorak, that is, that ye will tell
+me whether ye be lord of this island or no, that is called Nabon le
+Noire. Forsooth, said Sir Tristram, I am not he, nor I hold not of him;
+I am his foe as well as ye be, and so shall I be found or I depart out
+of this isle. Well, said Sir Lamorak, since ye have said so largely
+unto me, my name is Sir Lamorak de Galis, son unto King Pellinore.
+Forsooth, I trow well, said Sir Tristram, for an ye said other I know
+the contrary. What are ye, said Sir Lamorak, that knoweth me? I am Sir
+Tristram de Liones. Ah, sir, remember ye not of the fall ye did give me
+once, and after ye refused me to fight on foot. That was not for fear I
+had of you, said Sir Tristram, but me shamed at that time to have more
+ado with you, for meseemed ye had enough; but, Sir Lamorak, for my
+kindness many ladies ye put to a reproof when ye sent the horn from
+Morgan le Fay to King Mark, whereas ye did this in despite of me. Well,
+said he, an it were to do again, so would I do, for I had liefer strife
+and debate fell in King Mark’s court rather than Arthur’s court, for
+the honour of both courts be not alike. As to that, said Sir Tristram,
+I know well; but that that was done it was for despite of me, but all
+your malice, I thank God, hurt not greatly. Therefore, said Sir
+Tristram, ye shall leave all your malice, and so will I, and let us
+assay how we may win worship between you and me upon this giant Sir
+Nabon le Noire that is lord of this island, to destroy him. Sir, said
+Sir Lamorak, now I understand your knighthood, it may not be false that
+all men say, for of your bounty, noblesse, and worship, of all knights
+ye are peerless, and for your courtesy and gentleness I showed you
+ungentleness, and that now me repenteth.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIX. How Sir Tristram fought with Sir Nabon, and overcame
+him, and made Sir Segwarides lord of the isle.
+
+In the meantime there came word that Sir Nabon had made a cry that all
+the people of that isle should be at his castle the fifth day after.
+And the same day the son of Nabon should be made knight, and all the
+knights of that valley and thereabout should be there to joust, and all
+those of the realm of Logris should be there to joust with them of
+North Wales: and thither came five hundred knights, and they of the
+country brought thither Sir Lamorak, and Sir Tristram, and Sir
+Kehydius, and Sir Segwarides, for they durst none otherwise do; and
+then Sir Nabon lent Sir Lamorak horse and armour at Sir Lamorak’s
+desire, and Sir Lamorak jousted and did such deeds of arms that Nabon
+and all the people said there was never knight that ever they saw do
+such deeds of arms; for, as the French book saith, he for-jousted all
+that were there, for the most part of five hundred knights, that none
+abode him in his saddle.
+
+Then Sir Nabon proffered to play with him his play: For I saw never no
+knight do so much upon a day. I will well, said Sir Lamorak, play as I
+may, but I am weary and sore bruised. And there either gat a spear, but
+Nabon would not encounter with Sir Lamorak, but smote his horse in the
+forehead, and so slew him; and then Sir Lamorak yede on foot, and
+turned his shield and drew his sword, and there began strong battle on
+foot. But Sir Lamorak was so sore bruised and short breathed, that he
+traced and traversed somewhat aback. Fair fellow, said Sir Nabon, hold
+thy hand and I shall show thee more courtesy than ever I showed knight,
+because I have seen this day thy noble knighthood, and therefore stand
+thou by, and I will wit whether any of thy fellows will have ado with
+me. Then when Sir Tristram heard that, he stepped forth and said:
+Nabon, lend me horse and sure armour, and I will have ado with thee.
+Well, fellow, said Sir Nabon, go thou to yonder pavilion, and arm thee
+of the best thou findest there, and I shall play a marvellous play with
+thee. Then said Sir Tristram: Look ye play well, or else peradventure I
+shall learn you a new play. That is well said, fellow, said Sir Nabon.
+So when Sir Tristram was armed as him liked best, and well shielded and
+sworded, he dressed to him on foot; for well he knew that Sir Nabon
+would not abide a stroke with a spear, therefore he would slay all
+knights’ horses. Now, fair fellow, Sir Nabon, let us play. So then they
+fought long on foot, tracing and traversing, smiting and foining long
+without any rest. At the last Sir Nabon prayed him to tell him his
+name. Sir Nabon, I tell thee my name is Sir Tristram de Liones, a
+knight of Cornwall under King Mark. Thou art welcome, said Sir Nabon,
+for of all knights I have most desired to fight with thee or with Sir
+Launcelot.
+
+So then they went eagerly together, and Sir Tristram slew Sir Nabon,
+and so forthwith he leapt to his son, and struck off his head; and then
+all the country said they would hold of Sir Tristram. Nay, said Sir
+Tristram, I will not so; here is a worshipful knight, Sir Lamorak de
+Galis, that for me he shall be lord of this country, for he hath done
+here great deeds of arms. Nay, said Sir Lamorak, I will not be lord of
+this country, for I have not deserved it as well as ye, therefore give
+ye it where ye will, for I will none have. Well, said Sir Tristram,
+since ye nor I will not have it, let us give it to him that hath not so
+well deserved it. Do as ye list, said Segwarides, for the gift is
+yours, for I will none have an I had deserved it. So was it given to
+Segwarides, whereof he thanked them; and so was he lord, and
+worshipfully he did govern it. And then Sir Segwarides delivered all
+prisoners, and set good governance in that valley; and so he returned
+into Cornwall, and told King Mark and La Beale Isoud how Sir Tristram
+had advanced him to the Isle of Servage, and there he proclaimed in all
+Cornwall of all the adventures of these two knights, so was it openly
+known. But full woe was La Beale Isoud when she heard tell that Sir
+Tristram was wedded to Isoud la Blanche Mains.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XL. How Sir Lamorak departed from Sir Tristram, and how he met
+with Sir Frol, and after with Sir Launcelot.
+
+So turn we unto Sir Lamorak, that rode toward Arthur’s court, and Sir
+Tristram’s wife and Kehydius took a vessel and sailed into Brittany,
+unto King Howel, where he was welcome. And when he heard of these
+adventures they marvelled of his noble deeds. Now turn we unto Sir
+Lamorak, that when he was departed from Sir Tristram he rode out of the
+forest, till he came to an hermitage. When the hermit saw him, he asked
+him from whence he came. Sir, said Sir Lamorak, I come from this
+valley. Sir, said the hermit: thereof I marvel. For this twenty winter
+I saw never no knight pass this country but he was either slain or
+villainously wounded, or pass as a poor prisoner. Those ill customs,
+said Sir Lamorak, are fordone, for Sir Tristram slew your lord, Sir
+Nabon, and his son. Then was the hermit glad, and all his brethren, for
+he said there was never such a tyrant among Christian men. And
+therefore, said the hermit, this valley and franchise we will hold of
+Sir Tristram.
+
+So on the morrow Sir Lamorak departed; and as he rode he saw four
+knights fight against one, and that one knight defended him well, but
+at the last the four knights had him down. And then Sir Lamorak went
+betwixt them, and asked them why they would slay that one knight, and
+said it was shame, four against one. Thou shalt well wit, said the four
+knights, that he is false. That is your tale, said Sir Lamorak, and
+when I hear him also speak, I will say as ye say. Then said Lamorak:
+Ah, knight, can ye not excuse you, but that ye are a false knight. Sir,
+said he, yet can I excuse me both with my word and with my hands, that
+I will make good upon one of the best of them, my body to his body.
+Then spake they all at once: We will not jeopardy our bodies as for
+thee. But wit thou well, they said, an King Arthur were here himself,
+it should not lie in his power to save his life. That is too much said,
+said Sir Lamorak, but many speak behind a man more than they will say
+to his face; and because of your words ye shall understand that I am
+one of the simplest of King Arthur’s court; in the worship of my lord
+now do your best, and in despite of you I shall rescue him. And then
+they lashed all at once to Sir Lamorak, but anon at two strokes Sir
+Lamorak had slain two of them, and then the other two fled. So then Sir
+Lamorak turned again to that knight, and asked him his name. Sir, he
+said, my name is Sir Frol of the Out Isles. Then he rode with Sir
+Lamorak and bare him company.
+
+And as they rode by the way they saw a seemly knight riding against
+them, and all in white. Ah, said Frol, yonder knight jousted late with
+me and smote me down, therefore I will joust with him. Ye shall not do
+so, said Sir Lamorak, by my counsel, an ye will tell me your quarrel,
+whether ye jousted at his request, or he at yours. Nay, said Sir Frol,
+I jousted with him at my request. Sir, said Lamorak, then will I
+counsel you deal no more with him, for meseemeth by his countenance he
+should be a noble knight, and no japer; for methinketh he should be of
+the Table Round. Therefore I will not spare, said Sir Frol. And then he
+cried and said: Sir knight, make thee ready to joust. That needeth not,
+said the White Knight, for I have no lust to joust with thee; but yet
+they feutred their spears, and the White Knight overthrew Sir Frol, and
+then he rode his way a soft pace. Then Sir Lamorak rode after him, and
+prayed him to tell him his name: For meseemeth ye should be of the
+fellowship of the Round Table. Upon a covenant, said he, I will tell
+you my name, so that ye will not discover my name, and also that ye
+will tell me yours. Then, said he, my name is Sir Lamorak de Galis. And
+my name is Sir Launcelot du Lake. Then they put up their swords, and
+kissed heartily together, and either made great joy of other. Sir, said
+Sir Lamorak, an it please you I will do you service. God defend, said
+Launcelot, that any of so noble a blood as ye be should do me service.
+Then he said: More, I am in a quest that I must do myself alone. Now
+God speed you, said Sir Lamorak, and so they departed. Then Sir Lamorak
+came to Sir Frol and horsed him again. What knight is that? said Sir
+Frol. Sir, he said, it is not for you to know, nor it is no point of my
+charge. Ye are the more uncourteous, said Sir Frol, and therefore I
+will depart from you. Ye may do as ye list, said Sir Lamorak, and yet
+by my company ye have saved the fairest flower of your garland; so they
+departed.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLI. How Sir Lamorak slew Sir Frol, and of the courteous
+fighting with Sir Belliance his brother.
+
+Then within two or three days Sir Lamorak found a knight at a well
+sleeping, and his lady sat with him and waked. Right so came Sir
+Gawaine and took the knight’s lady, and set her up behind his squire.
+So Sir Lamorak rode after Sir Gawaine, and said: Sir Gawaine, turn
+again. And then said Sir Gawaine: What will ye do with me? for I am
+nephew unto King Arthur. Sir, said he, for that cause I will spare you,
+else that lady should abide with me, or else ye should joust with me.
+Then Sir Gawaine turned him and ran to him that ought the lady, with
+his spear, but the knight with pure might smote down Sir Gawaine, and
+took his lady with him. All this Sir Lamorak saw, and said to himself:
+But I revenge my fellow he will say of me dishonour in King Arthur’s
+court. Then Sir Lamorak returned and proffered that knight to joust.
+Sir, said he, I am ready. And there they came together with all their
+might, and there Sir Lamorak smote the knight through both sides that
+he fell to the earth dead.
+
+Then that lady rode to that knight’s brother that hight Belliance le
+Orgulus, that dwelt fast thereby, and then she told him how his brother
+was slain. Alas, said he, I will be revenged. And so he horsed him, and
+armed him, and within a while he overtook Sir Lamorak, and bade him:
+Turn and leave that lady, for thou and I must play a new play; for thou
+hast slain my brother Sir Frol, that was a better knight than ever wert
+thou. It might well be, said Sir Lamorak, but this day in the field I
+was found the better. So they rode together, and unhorsed other, and
+turned their shields, and drew their swords, and fought mightily as
+noble knights proved, by the space of two hours. So then Sir Belliance
+prayed him to tell him his name. Sir, said he, my name is Sir Lamorak
+de Galis. Ah, said Sir Belliance, thou art the man in the world that I
+most hate, for I slew my sons for thy sake, where I saved thy life, and
+now thou hast slain my brother Sir Frol. Alas, how should I be accorded
+with thee; therefore defend thee, for thou shalt die, there is none
+other remedy. Alas, said Sir Lamorak, full well me ought to know you,
+for ye are the man that most have done for me. And therewithal Sir
+Lamorak kneeled down, and besought him of grace. Arise, said Sir
+Belliance, or else thereas thou kneelest I shall slay thee. That shall
+not need, said Sir Lamorak, for I will yield me unto you, not for fear
+of you, nor for your strength, but your goodness maketh me full loath
+to have ado with you; wherefore I require you for God’s sake, and for
+the honour of knighthood, forgive me all that I have offended unto you.
+Alas, said Belliance, leave thy kneeling, or else I shall slay thee
+without mercy.
+
+Then they yede again unto battle, and either wounded other, that all
+the ground was bloody thereas they fought. And at the last Belliance
+withdrew him aback and set him down softly upon a little hill, for he
+was so faint for bleeding that he might not stand. Then Sir Lamorak
+threw his shield upon his back, and asked him what cheer. Well, said
+Sir Belliance. Ah, Sir, yet shall I show you favour in your mal-ease.
+Ah, Knight Sir Belliance, said Sir Lamorak, thou art a fool, for an I
+had had thee at such advantage as thou hast done me, I should slay
+thee; but thy gentleness is so good and so large, that I must needs
+forgive thee mine evil will. And then Sir Lamorak kneeled down, and
+unlaced first his umberere, and then his own, and then either kissed
+other with weeping tears. Then Sir Lamorak led Sir Belliance to an
+abbey fast by, and there Sir Lamorak would not depart from Belliance
+till he was whole. And then they sware together that none of them
+should never fight against other. So Sir Lamorak departed and went to
+the court of King Arthur.
+
+ Here leave we of Sir Lamorak and of Sir Tristram. And here beginneth
+ the history of La Cote Male Taile.
+
+
+
+BOOK IX.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I. How a young man came into the court of King Arthur, and how
+Sir Kay called him in scorn La Cote Male Taile.
+
+At the court of King Arthur there came a young man and bigly made, and
+he was richly beseen: and he desired to be made knight of the king, but
+his over-garment sat over-thwartly, howbeit it was rich cloth of gold.
+What is your name? said King Arthur. Sir, said he, my name is Breunor
+le Noire, and within short space ye shall know that I am of good kin.
+It may well be, said Sir Kay, the Seneschal, but in mockage ye shall be
+called La Cote Male Taile, that is as much to say, the evil-shapen
+coat. It is a great thing that thou askest, said the king; and for what
+cause wearest thou that rich coat? tell me, for I can well think for
+some cause it is. Sir, he answered, I had a father, a noble knight, and
+as he rode a-hunting, upon a day it happed him to lay him down to
+sleep; and there came a knight that had been long his enemy, and when
+he saw he was fast asleep he all to-hew him; and this same coat had my
+father on the same time; and that maketh this coat to sit so evil upon
+me, for the strokes be on it as I found it, and never shall be amended
+for me. Thus to have my father’s death in remembrance I wear this coat
+till I be revenged; and because ye are called the most noblest king of
+the world I come to you that ye should make me knight. Sir, said Sir
+Lamorak and Sir Gaheris, it were well done to make him knight; for him
+beseemeth well of person and of countenance, that he shall prove a good
+man, and a good knight, and a mighty; for, Sir, an ye be remembered,
+even such one was Sir Launcelot du Lake when he came first into this
+court, and full few of us knew from whence he came; and now is he
+proved the man of most worship in the world; and all your court and all
+your Round Table is by Sir Launcelot worshipped and amended more than
+by any knight now living. That is truth, said the king, and to-morrow
+at your request I shall make him knight.
+
+So on the morrow there was an hart found, and thither rode King Arthur
+with a company of his knights to slay the hart. And this young man that
+Sir Kay named La Cote Male Taile was there left behind with Queen
+Guenever; and by sudden adventure there was an horrible lion kept in a
+strong tower of stone, and it happened that he at that time brake
+loose, and came hurling afore the queen and her knights. And when the
+queen saw the lion she cried and fled, and prayed her knights to rescue
+her. And there was none of them all but twelve that abode, and all the
+other fled. Then said La Cote Male Taile: Now I see well that all
+coward knights be not dead; and therewithal he drew his sword and
+dressed him afore the lion. And that lion gaped wide and came upon him
+ramping to have slain him. And he then smote him in the midst of the
+head such a mighty stroke that it clave his head in sunder, and dashed
+to the earth. Then was it told the queen how the young man that Sir Kay
+named by scorn La Cote Male Taile had slain the lion. With that the
+king came home. And when the queen told him of that adventure, he was
+well pleased, and said: Upon pain of mine head he shall prove a noble
+man and a faithful knight, and true of his promise: then the king
+forthwithal made him knight. Now Sir, said this young knight, I require
+you and all the knights of your court, that ye call me by none other
+name but La Cote Male Taile: in so much as Sir Kay hath so named me so
+will I be called. I assent me well thereto, said the king.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II. How a damosel came into the court and desired a knight to
+take on him an enquest, which La Cote Male Taile emprised.
+
+Then that same day there came a damosel into the court, and she brought
+with her a great black shield, with a white hand in the midst holding a
+sword. Other picture was there none in that shield. When King Arthur
+saw her he asked her from whence she came and what she would. Sir, she
+said, I have ridden long and many a day with this shield many ways, and
+for this cause I am come to your court: there was a good knight that
+ought this shield, and this knight had undertaken a great deed of arms
+to enchieve it; and so it misfortuned him another strong knight met
+with him by sudden adventure, and there they fought long, and either
+wounded other passing sore; and they were so weary that they left that
+battle even hand. So this knight that ought this shield saw none other
+way but he must die; and then he commanded me to bear this shield to
+the court of King Arthur, he requiring and praying some good knight to
+take this shield, and that he would fulfil the quest that he was in.
+Now what say ye to this quest? said King Arthur; is there any of you
+here that will take upon him to wield this shield? Then was there not
+one that would speak one word. Then Sir Kay took the shield in his
+hands. Sir knight, said the damosel, what is your name? Wit ye well,
+said he, my name is Sir Kay, the Seneschal, that wide-where is known.
+Sir, said that damosel, lay down that shield, for wit ye well it
+falleth not for you, for he must be a better knight than ye that shall
+wield this shield. Damosel, said Sir Kay, wit ye well I took this
+shield in my hands by your leave for to behold it, not to that intent;
+but go wheresomever thou wilt, for I will not go with you.
+
+Then the damosel stood still a great while and beheld many of those
+knights. Then spake the knight, La Cote Male Taile: Fair damosel, I
+will take the shield and that adventure upon me, so I wist I should
+know whitherward my journey might be; for because I was this day made
+knight I would take this adventure upon me. What is your name, fair
+young man? said the damosel. My name is, said he, La Cote Male Taile.
+Well mayest thou be called so, said the damosel, the knight with the
+evil-shapen coat; but an thou be so hardy to take upon thee to bear
+that shield and to follow me, wit thou well thy skin shall be as well
+hewn as thy coat. As for that, said La Cote Male Taile, when I am so
+hewn I will ask you no salve to heal me withal. And forthwithal there
+came into the court two squires and brought him great horses, and his
+armour, and his spears, and anon he was armed and took his leave. I
+would not by my will, said the king, that ye took upon you that hard
+adventure. Sir, said he, this adventure is mine, and the first that
+ever I took upon me, and that will I follow whatsomever come of me.
+Then that damosel departed, and La Cote Male Taile fast followed after.
+And within a while he overtook the damosel, and anon she missaid him in
+the foulest manner.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III. How La Cote Male Taile overthrew Sir Dagonet the king’s
+fool, and of the rebuke that he had of the damosel.
+
+Then Sir Kay ordained Sir Dagonet, King Arthur’s fool, to follow after
+La Cote Male Taile; and there Sir Kay ordained that Sir Dagonet was
+horsed and armed, and bade him follow La Cote Male Taile and proffer
+him to joust, and so he did; and when he saw La Cote Male Taile, he
+cried and bade him make him ready to joust. So Sir La Cote Male Taile
+smote Sir Dagonet over his horse’s croup. Then the damosel mocked La
+Cote Male Taile, and said: Fie for shame! now art thou shamed in
+Arthur’s court, when they send a fool to have ado with thee, and
+specially at thy first jousts; thus she rode long, and chid. And within
+a while there came Sir Bleoberis, the good knight, and there he jousted
+with La Cote Male Taile, and there Sir Bleoberis smote him so sore,
+that horse and all fell to the earth. Then La Cote Male Taile arose up
+lightly, and dressed his shield, and drew his sword, and would have
+done battle to the utterance, for he was wood wroth. Not so, said Sir
+Bleoberis de Ganis, as at this time I will not fight upon foot. Then
+the damosel Maledisant rebuked him in the foulest manner, and bade him:
+Turn again, coward. Ah, damosel, he said, I pray you of mercy to missay
+me no more, my grief is enough though ye give me no more; I call myself
+never the worse knight when a mare’s son faileth me, and also I count
+me never the worse knight for a fall of Sir Bleoberis.
+
+So thus he rode with her two days; and by fortune there came Sir
+Palomides and encountered with him, and he in the same wise served him
+as did Bleoberis to-forehand. What dost thou here in my fellowship?
+said the damosel Maledisant, thou canst not sit no knight, nor
+withstand him one buffet, but if it were Sir Dagonet. Ah, fair damosel,
+I am not the worse to take a fall of Sir Palomides, and yet great
+disworship have I none, for neither Bleoberis nor yet Palomides would
+not fight with me on foot. As for that, said the damosel, wit thou well
+they have disdain and scorn to light off their horses to fight with
+such a lewd knight as thou art. So in the meanwhile there came Sir
+Mordred, Sir Gawaine’s brother, and so he fell in the fellowship with
+the damosel Maledisant. And then they came afore the Castle Orgulous,
+and there was such a custom that there might no knight come by that
+castle but either he must joust or be prisoner, or at the least to lose
+his horse and his harness. And there came out two knights against them,
+and Sir Mordred jousted with the foremost, and that knight of the
+castle smote Sir Mordred down off his horse. And then La Cote Male
+Taile jousted with that other, and either of them smote other down,
+horse and all, to the earth. And when they avoided their horses, then
+either of them took other’s horses. And then La Cote Male Taile rode
+unto that knight that smote down Sir Mordred, and jousted with him. And
+there Sir La Cote Male Taile hurt and wounded him passing sore, and put
+him from his horse as he had been dead. So he turned unto him that met
+him afore, and he took the flight towards the castle, and Sir La Cote
+Male Taile rode after him into the Castle Orgulous, and there La Cote
+Male Taile slew him.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV. How La Cote Male Taile fought against an hundred knights,
+and how he escaped by the mean of a lady.
+
+And anon there came an hundred knights about him and assailed him; and
+when he saw his horse should be slain he alighted and voided his horse,
+and put the bridle under his feet, and so put him out of the gate. And
+when he had so done he hurled in among them, and dressed his back unto
+a lady’s chamber-wall, thinking himself that he had liefer die there
+with worship than to abide the rebukes of the damosel Maledisant. And
+in the meantime as he stood and fought, that lady whose was the chamber
+went out slily at her postern, and without the gates she found La Cote
+Male Taile’s horse, and lightly she gat him by the bridle, and tied him
+to the postern. And then she went unto her chamber slily again for to
+behold how that one knight fought against an hundred knights. And when
+she had beheld him long she went to a window behind his back, and said:
+Thou knight, thou fightest wonderly well, but for all that at the last
+thou must needs die, but, an thou canst through thy mighty prowess, win
+unto yonder postern, for there have I fastened thy horse to abide thee:
+but wit thou well thou must think on thy worship, and think not to die,
+for thou mayst not win unto that postern without thou do nobly and
+mightily. When La Cote Male Taile heard her say so he gripped his sword
+in his hands, and put his shield fair afore him, and through the
+thickest press he thrulled through them. And when he came to the
+postern he found there ready four knights, and at two the first strokes
+he slew two of the knights, and the other fled; and so he won his horse
+and rode from them. And all as it was it was rehearsed in King Arthur’s
+court, how he slew twelve knights within the Castle Orgulous; and so he
+rode on his way.
+
+And in the meanwhile the damosel said to Sir Mordred: I ween my foolish
+knight be either slain or taken prisoner: then were they ware where he
+came riding. And when he was come unto them he told all how he had sped
+and escaped in despite of them all: And some of the best of them will
+tell no tales. Thou liest falsely, said the damosel, that dare I make
+good, but as a fool and a dastard to all knighthood they have let thee
+pass. That may ye prove, said La Cote Male Taile. With that she sent a
+courier of hers, that rode alway with her, for to know the truth of
+this deed; and so he rode thither lightly, and asked how and in what
+manner that La Cote Male Taile was escaped out of the castle. Then all
+the knights cursed him, and said that he was a fiend and no man: For he
+hath slain here twelve of our best knights, and we weened unto this day
+that it had been too much for Sir Launcelot du Lake or for Sir Tristram
+de Liones. And in despite of us all he is departed from us and maugre
+our heads.
+
+With this answer the courier departed and came to Maledisant his lady,
+and told her all how Sir La Cote Male Taile had sped at the Castle
+Orgulous. Then she smote down her head, and said little. By my head,
+said Sir Mordred to the damosel, ye are greatly to blame so to rebuke
+him, for I warn you plainly he is a good knight, and I doubt not but he
+shall prove a noble knight; but as yet he may not yet sit sure on
+horseback, for he that shall be a good horseman it must come of usage
+and exercise. But when he cometh to the strokes of his sword he is then
+noble and mighty, and that saw Sir Bleoberis and Sir Palomides, for wit
+ye well they are wily men of arms, and anon they know when they see a
+young knight by his riding, how they are sure to give him a fall from
+his horse or a great buffet. But for the most part they will not light
+on foot with young knights, for they are wight and strongly armed. For
+in likewise Sir Launcelot du Lake, when he was first made knight, he
+was often put to the worse upon horseback, but ever upon foot he
+recovered his renown, and slew and defoiled many knights of the Round
+Table. And therefore the rebukes that Sir Launcelot did unto many
+knights causeth them that be men of prowess to beware; for often I have
+seen the old proved knights rebuked and slain by them that were but
+young beginners. Thus they rode sure talking by the way together.
+
+Here leave we off a while of this tale, and speak we of Sir Launcelot
+du Lake.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V. How Sir Launcelot came to the court and heard of La Cote
+Male Taile, and how he followed after him, and how La Cote Male Taile
+was prisoner.
+
+That when he was come to the court of King Arthur, then heard he tell
+of the young knight La Cote Male Taile, how he slew the lion, and how
+he took upon him the adventure of the black shield, the which was named
+at that time the hardiest adventure of the world. So God me save, said
+Sir Launcelot unto many of his fellows, it was shame to all the noble
+knights to suffer such a young knight to take such adventure upon him
+for his destruction; for I will that ye wit, said Sir Launcelot, that
+that damosel Maledisant hath borne that shield many a day for to seek
+the most proved knights, and that was she that Breuse Saunce Pité took
+that shield from her, and after Tristram de Liones rescued that shield
+from him and gave it to the damosel again, a little afore that time
+that Sir Tristram fought with my nephew Sir Blamore de Ganis, for a
+quarrel that was betwixt the King of Ireland and him. Then many knights
+were sorry that Sir La Cote Male Taile was gone forth to that
+adventure. Truly, said Sir Launcelot, I cast me to ride after him. And
+within seven days Sir Launcelot overtook La Cote Male Taile, and then
+he saluted him and the damosel Maledisant. And when Sir Mordred saw Sir
+Launcelot, then he left their fellowship; and so Sir Launcelot rode
+with them all a day, and ever that damosel rebuked La Cote Male Taile;
+and then Sir Launcelot answered for him, then she left off, and rebuked
+Sir Launcelot.
+
+So this meantime Sir Tristram sent by a damosel a letter unto Sir
+Launcelot, excusing him of the wedding of Isoud la Blanche Mains; and
+said in the letter, as he was a true knight he had never ado fleshly
+with Isoud la Blanche Mains; and passing courteously and gentily Sir
+Tristram wrote unto Sir Launcelot, ever beseeching him to be his good
+friend and unto La Beale Isoud of Cornwall, and that Sir Launcelot
+would excuse him if that ever he saw her. And within short time by the
+grace of God, said Sir Tristram, that he would speak with La Beale
+Isoud, and with him right hastily. Then Sir Launcelot departed from the
+damosel and from Sir La Cote Male Taile, for to oversee that letter,
+and to write another letter unto Sir Tristram de Liones.
+
+And in the meanwhile La Cote Male Taile rode with the damosel until
+they came to a castle that hight Pendragon; and there were six knights
+stood afore him, and one of them proffered to joust with La Cote Male
+Taile. And there La Cote Male Taile smote him over his horse’s croup.
+And then the five knights set upon him all at once with their spears,
+and there they smote La Cote Male Taile down, horse and man. And then
+they alighted suddenly, and set their hands upon him all at once, and
+took him prisoner, and so led him unto the castle and kept him as
+prisoner.
+
+And on the morn Sir Launcelot arose, and delivered the damosel with
+letters unto Sir Tristram, and then he took his way after La Cote Male
+Taile; and by the way upon a bridge there was a knight proffered Sir
+Launcelot to joust, and Sir Launcelot smote him down, and then they
+fought upon foot a noble battle together, and a mighty; and at the last
+Sir Launcelot smote him down grovelling upon his hands and his knees.
+And then that knight yielded him, and Sir Launcelot received him fair.
+Sir, said the knight, I require thee tell me your name, for much my
+heart giveth unto you. Nay, said Sir Launcelot, as at this time I will
+not tell you my name, unless then that ye tell me your name. Certainly,
+said the knight, my name is Sir Nerovens, that was made knight of my
+lord Sir Launcelot du Lake. Ah, Nerovens de Lile, said Sir Launcelot, I
+am right glad that ye are proved a good knight, for now wit ye well my
+name is Sir Launcelot du Lake. Alas, said Sir Nerovens de Lile, what
+have I done! And therewithal flatling he fell to his feet, and would
+have kissed them, but Sir Launcelot would not let him; and then either
+made great joy of other. And then Sir Nerovens told Sir Launcelot that
+he should not go by the Castle of Pendragon: For there is a lord, a
+mighty knight, and many knights with him, and this night I heard say
+that they took a knight prisoner yesterday that rode with a damosel,
+and they say he is a Knight of the Round Table.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI. How Sir Launcelot fought with six knights, and after with
+Sir Brian, and how he delivered the prisoners.
+
+Ah, said Sir Launcelot, that knight is my fellow, and him shall I
+rescue or else I shall lose my life therefore. And therewithal he rode
+fast till he came before the Castle of Pendragon; and anon therewithal
+there came six knights, and all made them ready to set upon Sir
+Launcelot at once; then Sir Launcelot feutred his spear, and smote the
+foremost that he brake his back in-sunder, and three of them hit and
+three failed. And then Sir Launcelot passed through them, and lightly
+he turned in again, and smote another knight through the breast and
+throughout the back more than an ell, and therewithal his spear brake.
+So then all the remnant of the four knights drew their swords and
+lashed at Sir Launcelot. And at every stroke Sir Launcelot bestowed so
+his strokes that at four strokes sundry they avoided their saddles,
+passing sore wounded; and forthwithal he rode hurling into that castle.
+
+And anon the lord of the castle, that was that time cleped Sir Brian de
+les Isles, the which was a noble man and a great enemy unto King
+Arthur, within a while he was armed and upon horseback. And then they
+feutred their spears and hurled together so strongly that both their
+horses rashed to the earth. And then they avoided their saddles, and
+dressed their shields, and drew their swords, and flang together as
+wood men, and there were many strokes given in a while. At the last Sir
+Launcelot gave to Sir Brian such a buffet that he kneeled upon his
+knees, and then Sir Launcelot rashed upon him, and with great force he
+pulled off his helm; and when Sir Brian saw that he should be slain he
+yielded him, and put him in his mercy and in his grace. Then Sir
+Launcelot made him to deliver all his prisoners that he had within his
+castle, and therein Sir Launcelot found of Arthur’s knights thirty, and
+forty ladies, and so he delivered them; and then he rode his way. And
+anon as La Cote Male Taile was delivered he gat his horse, and his
+harness, and his damosel Maledisant.
+
+The meanwhile Sir Nerovens, that Sir Launcelot had foughten withal
+afore at the bridge, he sent a damosel after Sir Launcelot to wit how
+he sped at the Castle of Pendragon. And then they within the castle
+marvelled what knight he was, when Sir Brian and his knights delivered
+all those prisoners. Have ye no marvel, said the damosel, for the best
+knight in this world was here, and did this journey, and wit ye well,
+she said, it was Sir Launcelot. Then was Sir Brian full glad, and so
+was his lady, and all his knights, that such a man should win them. And
+when the damosel and La Cote Male Taile understood that it was Sir
+Launcelot du Lake that had ridden with them in fellowship, and that she
+remembered her how she had rebuked him and called him coward, then was
+she passing heavy.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII. How Sir Launcelot met with the damosel named Male disant,
+and named her the Damosel Bienpensant.
+
+So then they took their horses and rode forth a pace after Sir
+Launcelot. And within two mile they overtook him, and saluted him, and
+thanked him, and the damosel cried Sir Launcelot mercy of her evil deed
+and saying: For now I know the flower of all knighthood is departed
+even between Sir Tristram and you. For God knoweth, said the damosel,
+that I have sought you my lord, Sir Launcelot, and Sir Tristram long,
+and now I thank God I have met with you; and once at Camelot I met with
+Sir Tristram, and there he rescued this black shield with the white
+hand holding a naked sword that Sir Breuse Saunce Pité had taken from
+me. Now, fair damosel, said Sir Launcelot, who told you my name? Sir,
+said she, there came a damosel from a knight that ye fought withal at
+the bridge, and she told me your name was Sir Launcelot du Lake. Blame
+have she then, said Sir Launcelot, but her lord, Sir Nerovens, hath
+told her. But, damosel, said Sir Launcelot, upon this covenant I will
+ride with you, so that ye will not rebuke this knight Sir La Cote Male
+Taile no more; for he is a good knight, and I doubt not he shall prove
+a noble knight, and for his sake and pity that he should not be
+destroyed I followed him to succour him in this great need. Ah, Jesu
+thank you, said the damosel, for now I will say unto you and to him
+both, I rebuked him never for no hate that I hated him, but for great
+love that I had to him. For ever I supposed that he had been too young
+and too tender to take upon him these adventures. And therefore by my
+will I would have driven him away for jealousy that I had of his life,
+for it may be no young knight’s deed that shall enchieve this adventure
+to the end. Pardieu, said Sir Launcelot, it is well said, and where ye
+are called the Damosel Maledisant I will call you the Damosel
+Bienpensant.
+
+And so they rode forth a great while unto they came to the border of
+the country of Surluse, and there they found a fair village with a
+strong bridge like a fortress. And when Sir Launcelot and they were at
+the bridge there stert forth afore them of gentlemen and yeomen many,
+that said: Fair lords, ye may not pass this bridge and this fortress
+because of that black shield that I see one of you bear, and therefore
+there shall not pass but one of you at once; therefore choose you which
+of you shall enter within this bridge first. Then Sir Launcelot
+proffered himself first to enter within this bridge. Sir, said La Cote
+Male Taile, I beseech you let me enter within this fortress, and if I
+may speed well I will send for you, and if it happened that I be slain,
+there it goeth. And if so be that I am a prisoner taken, then may ye
+rescue me. I am loath, said Sir Launcelot, to let you pass this
+passage. Sir, said La Cote Male Taile, I pray you let me put my body in
+this adventure. Now go your way, said Sir Launcelot, and Jesu be your
+speed.
+
+So he entered, and anon there met with him two brethren, the one hight
+Sir Plaine de Force, and the other hight Sir Plaine de Amours. And anon
+they met with Sir La Cote Male Taile; and first La Cote Male Taile
+smote down Plaine de Force, and after he smote down Plaine de Amours;
+and then they dressed them to their shields and swords, and bade La
+Cote Male Taile alight, and so he did; and there was dashing and
+foining with swords, and so they began to assail full hard La Cote Male
+Taile, and many great wounds they gave him upon his head, and upon his
+breast, and upon his shoulders. And as he might ever among he gave sad
+strokes again. And then the two brethren traced and traversed for to be
+of both hands of Sir La Cote Male Taile, but he by fine force and
+knightly prowess gat them afore him. And then when he felt himself so
+wounded, then he doubled his strokes, and gave them so many wounds that
+he felled them to the earth, and would have slain them had they not
+yielded them. And right so Sir La Cote Male Taile took the best horse
+that there was of them three, and so rode forth his way to the other
+fortress and bridge; and there he met with the third brother whose name
+was Sir Plenorius, a full noble knight, and there they jousted
+together, and either smote other down, horse and man, to the earth. And
+then they avoided their horses, and dressed their shields, and drew
+their swords, and gave many sad strokes, and one while the one knight
+was afore on the bridge, and another while the other. And thus they
+fought two hours and more, and never rested. And ever Sir Launcelot and
+the damosel beheld them. Alas, said the damosel, my knight fighteth
+passing sore and over long. Now may ye see, said Sir Launcelot, that he
+is a noble knight, for to consider his first battle, and his grievous
+wounds; and even forthwithal so wounded as he is, it is marvel that he
+may endure this long battle with that good knight.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII. How La Cote Male Taile was taken prisoner, and after
+rescued by Sir Launcelot, and how Sir Launcelot overcame four brethren.
+
+This meanwhile Sir La Cote Male Taile sank right down upon the earth,
+what for-wounded and what for-bled he might not stand. Then the other
+knight had pity of him, and said: Fair young knight, dismay you not,
+for had ye been fresh when ye met with me, as I was, I wot well that I
+should not have endured so long as ye have done; and therefore for your
+noble deeds of arms I shall show to you kindness and gentleness in all
+that I may. And forthwithal this noble knight, Sir Plenorius, took him
+up in his arms, and led him into his tower. And then he commanded him
+the wine, and made to search him and to stop his bleeding wounds. Sir,
+said La Cote Male Taile, withdraw you from me, and hie you to yonder
+bridge again, for there will meet with you another manner knight than
+ever was I. Why, said Plenorius, is there another manner knight behind
+of your fellowship? Yea, said La Cote Male Taile, there is a much
+better knight than I am. What is his name? said Plenorius. Ye shall not
+know for me, said La Cote Male Taile. Well, said the knight, he shall
+be encountered withal whatsomever he be.
+
+Then Sir Plenorius heard a knight call that said: Sir Plenorius, where
+art thou? either thou must deliver me the prisoner that thou hast led
+unto thy tower, or else come and do battle with me. Then Plenorius gat
+his horse, and came with a spear in his hand walloping toward Sir
+Launcelot; and then they began to feutre their spears, and came
+together as thunder, and smote either other so mightily that their
+horses fell down under them. And then they avoided their horses, and
+pulled out their swords, and like two bulls they lashed together with
+great strokes and foins; but ever Sir Launcelot recovered ground upon
+him, and Sir Plenorius traced to have gone about him. But Sir Launcelot
+would not suffer that, but bare him backer and backer, till he came
+nigh his tower gate. And then said Sir Launcelot: I know thee well for
+a good knight, but wit thou well thy life and death is in my hand, and
+therefore yield thee to me, and thy prisoner. The other answered no
+word, but struck mightily upon Sir Launcelot’s helm, that the fire
+sprang out of his eyes. Then Sir Launcelot doubled his strokes so
+thick, and smote at him so mightily, that he made him kneel upon his
+knees. And therewith Sir Launcelot leapt upon him, and pulled him
+grovelling down. Then Sir Plenorius yielded him, and his tower, and all
+his prisoners at his will.
+
+Then Sir Launcelot received him and took his troth; and then he rode to
+the other bridge, and there Sir Launcelot jousted with other three of
+his brethren, the one hight Pillounes, and the other hight Pellogris,
+and the third Sir Pellandris. And first upon horseback Sir Launcelot
+smote them down, and afterward he beat them on foot, and made them to
+yield them unto him; and then he returned unto Sir Plenorius, and there
+he found in his prison King Carados of Scotland, and many other
+knights, and all they were delivered. And then Sir La Cote Male Taile
+came to Sir Launcelot, and then Sir Launcelot would have given him all
+these fortresses and these bridges. Nay, said La Cote Male Taile, I
+will not have Sir Plenorius’ livelihood; with that he will grant you,
+my lord Sir Launcelot, to come unto King Arthur’s court, and to be his
+knight, and all his brethren, I will pray you, my lord, to let him have
+his livelihood. I will well, said Sir Launcelot, with this that he will
+come to the court of King Arthur and become his man, and his brethren
+five. And as for you, Sir Plenorius, I will undertake, said Sir
+Launcelot, at the next feast, so there be a place voided, that ye shall
+be Knight of the Round Table. Sir, said Plenorius, at the next feast of
+Pentecost I will be at Arthur’s court, and at that time I will be
+guided and ruled as King Arthur and ye will have me. Then Sir Launcelot
+and Sir La Cote Male Taile reposed them there, unto the time that Sir
+La Cote Male Taile was whole of his wounds, and there they had merry
+cheer, and good rest, and many good games, and there were many fair
+ladies.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX. How Sir Launcelot made La Cote Male Taile lord of the
+Castle of Pendragon, and after was made knight of the Round Table.
+
+And in the meanwhile came Sir Kay, the Seneschal, and Sir Brandiles,
+and anon they fellowshipped with them. And then within ten days, then
+departed those knights of Arthur’s court from these fortresses. And as
+Sir Launcelot came by the Castle of Pendragon there he put Sir Brian de
+les Isles from his lands, for cause he would never be withhold with
+King Arthur; and all that Castle of Pendragon and all the lands thereof
+he gave to Sir La Cote Male Taile. And then Sir Launcelot sent for
+Nerovens that he made once knight, and he made him to have all the rule
+of that castle and of that country, under La Cote Male Taile; and so
+they rode to Arthur’s court all wholly together. And at Pentecost next
+following there was Sir Plenorius and Sir La Cote Male Taile, called
+otherwise by right Sir Breunor le Noire, both made Knights of the Table
+Round; and great lands King Arthur gave them, and there Breunor le
+Noire wedded that damosel Maledisant. And after she was called
+Beauvivante, but ever after for the more part he was called La Cote
+Male Taile; and he proved a passing noble knight, and mighty; and many
+worshipful deeds he did after in his life; and Sir Plenorius proved a
+noble knight and full of prowess, and all the days of their life for
+the most part they awaited upon Sir Launcelot; and Sir Plenorius’
+brethren were ever knights of King Arthur. And also, as the French book
+maketh mention, Sir La Cote Male Taile avenged his father’s death.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X. How La Beale Isoud sent letters to Sir Tristram by her maid
+Bragwaine, and of divers adventures of Sir Tristram.
+
+Now leave we here Sir La Cote Male Taile, and turn we unto Sir Tristram
+de Liones that was in Brittany. When La Beale Isoud understood that he
+was wedded she sent to him by her maiden Bragwaine as piteous letters
+as could be thought and made, and her conclusion was that, an it
+pleased Sir Tristram, that he would come to her court, and bring with
+him Isoud la Blanche Mains, and they should be kept as well as she
+herself. Then Sir Tristram called unto him Sir Kehydius, and asked him
+whether he would go with him into Cornwall secretly. He answered him
+that he was ready at all times. And then he let ordain privily a little
+vessel, and therein they went, Sir Tristram, Kehydius, Dame Bragwaine,
+and Gouvernail, Sir Tristram’s squire. So when they were in the sea a
+contrarious wind blew them on the coasts of North Wales, nigh the
+Castle Perilous. Then said Sir Tristram: Here shall ye abide me these
+ten days, and Gouvernail, my squire, with you. And if so be I come not
+again by that day take the next way into Cornwall; for in this forest
+are many strange adventures, as I have heard say, and some of them I
+cast me to prove or I depart. And when I may I shall hie me after you.
+
+Then Sir Tristram and Kehydius took their horses and departed from
+their fellowship. And so they rode within that forest a mile and more;
+and at the last Sir Tristram saw afore him a likely knight, armed,
+sitting by a well, and a strong mighty horse passing nigh him tied to
+an oak, and a man hoving and riding by him leading an horse laden with
+spears. And this knight that sat at the well seemed by his countenance
+to be passing heavy. Then Sir Tristram rode near him and said: Fair
+knight, why sit ye so drooping? ye seem to be a knight-errant by your
+arms and harness, and therefore dress you to joust with one of us, or
+with both. Therewithal that knight made no words, but took his shield
+and buckled it about his neck, and lightly he took his horse and leapt
+upon him. And then he took a great spear of his squire, and departed
+his way a furlong. Sir Kehydius asked leave of Sir Tristram to joust
+first. Do your best, said Sir Tristram. So they met together, and there
+Sir Kehydius had a fall, and was sore wounded on high above the paps.
+Then Sir Tristram said: Knight, that is well jousted, now make you
+ready unto me. I am ready, said the knight. And then that knight took a
+greater spear in his hand, and encountered with Sir Tristram, and there
+by great force that knight smote down Sir Tristram from his horse and
+had a great fall. Then Sir Tristram was sore ashamed, and lightly he
+avoided his horse, and put his shield afore his shoulder, and drew his
+sword. And then Sir Tristram required that knight of his knighthood to
+alight upon foot and fight with him. I will well, said the knight; and
+so he alighted upon foot, and avoided his horse, and cast his shield
+upon his shoulder, and drew his sword, and there they fought a long
+battle together full nigh two hours. Then Sir Tristram said: Fair
+knight, hold thine hand, and tell me of whence thou art, and what is
+thy name. As for that, said the knight, I will be avised; but an thou
+wilt tell me thy name peradventure I will tell thee mine.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI. How Sir Tristram met with Sir Lamorak de Galis, and how
+they fought, and after accorded never to fight together.
+
+Now fair knight, he said, my name is Sir Tristram de Liones. Sir, said
+the other knight, and my name is Sir Lamorak de Galis. Ah, Sir Lamorak,
+said Sir Tristram, well be we met, and bethink thee now of the despite
+thou didst me of the sending of the horn unto King Mark’s court, to the
+intent to have slain or dishonoured my lady the queen, La Beale Isoud;
+and therefore wit thou well, said Sir Tristram, the one of us shall die
+or we depart. Sir, said Sir Lamorak, remember that we were together in
+the Isle of Servage, and at that time ye promised me great friendship.
+Then Sir Tristram would make no longer delays, but lashed at Sir
+Lamorak; and thus they fought long till either were weary of other.
+Then Sir Tristram said to Sir Lamorak: In all my life met I never with
+such a knight that was so big and well breathed as ye be, therefore,
+said Sir Tristram, it were pity that any of us both should here be
+mischieved. Sir, said Sir Lamorak, for your renown and name I will that
+ye have the worship of this battle, and therefore I will yield me unto
+you. And therewith he took the point of his sword to yield him. Nay,
+said Sir Tristram, ye shall not do so, for well I know your proffers,
+and more of your gentleness than for any fear or dread ye have of me.
+And therewithal Sir Tristram proffered him his sword and said: Sir
+Lamorak, as an overcome knight I yield me unto you as to a man of the
+most noble prowess that ever I met withal. Nay, said Sir Lamorak, I
+will do you gentleness; I require you let us be sworn together that
+never none of us shall after this day have ado with other. And
+therewithal Sir Tristram and Sir Lamorak sware that never none of them
+should fight against other, nor for weal nor for woe.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII. How Sir Palomides followed the Questing Beast, and smote
+down Sir Tristram and Sir Lamorak with one spear.
+
+And this meanwhile there came Sir Palomides, the good knight, following
+the Questing Beast that had in shape a head like a serpent’s head, and
+a body like a leopard, buttocks like a lion, and footed like an hart;
+and in his body there was such a noise as it had been the noise of
+thirty couple of hounds questing, and such a noise that beast made
+wheresomever he went; and this beast ever more Sir Palomides followed,
+for it was called his quest. And right so as he followed this beast it
+came by Sir Tristram, and soon after came Palomides. And to brief this
+matter he smote down Sir Tristram and Sir Lamorak both with one spear;
+and so he departed after the beast Galtisant, that was called the
+Questing Beast; wherefore these two knights were passing wroth that Sir
+Palomides would not fight on foot with them. Here men may understand
+that be of worship, that he was never formed that all times might
+stand, but sometime he was put to the worse by mal-fortune; and at
+sometime the worse knight put the better knight to a rebuke.
+
+Then Sir Tristram and Sir Lamorak gat Sir Kehydius upon a shield
+betwixt them both, and led him to a forester’s lodge, and there they
+gave him in charge to keep him well, and with him they abode three
+days. Then the two knights took their horses and at the cross they
+departed. And then said Sir Tristram to Sir Lamorak: I require you if
+ye hap to meet with Sir Palomides, say him that he shall find me at the
+same well where I met him, and there I, Sir Tristram, shall prove
+whether he be better knight than I. And so either departed from other a
+sundry way, and Sir Tristram rode nigh thereas was Sir Kehydius; and
+Sir Lamorak rode until he came to a chapel, and there he put his horse
+unto pasture. And anon there came Sir Meliagaunce, that was King
+Bagdemagus’ son, and he there put his horse to pasture, and was not
+ware of Sir Lamorak; and then this knight Sir Meliagaunce made his moan
+of the love that he had to Queen Guenever, and there he made a woful
+complaint. All this heard Sir Lamorak, and on the morn Sir Lamorak took
+his horse and rode unto the forest, and there he met with two knights
+hoving under the wood-shaw. Fair knights, said Sir Lamorak, what do ye
+hoving here and watching? and if ye be knights-errant that will joust,
+lo I am ready. Nay, sir knight, they said, not so, we abide not here to
+joust with you, but we lie here in await of a knight that slew our
+brother. What knight was that, said Sir Lamorak, that you would fain
+meet withal? Sir, they said, it is Sir Launcelot that slew our brother,
+and if ever we may meet with him he shall not escape, but we shall slay
+him. Ye take upon you a great charge, said Sir Lamorak, for Sir
+Launcelot is a noble proved knight. As for that we doubt not, for there
+nis none of us but we are good enough for him. I will not believe that,
+said Sir Lamorak, for I heard never yet of no knight the days of my
+life but Sir Launcelot was too big for him.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII. How Sir Lamorak met with Sir Meliagaunce, and fought
+together for the beauty of Dame Guenever.
+
+Right so as they stood talking thus Sir Lamorak was ware how Sir
+Launcelot came riding straight toward them; then Sir Lamorak saluted
+him, and he him again. And then Sir Lamorak asked Sir Launcelot if
+there were anything that he might do for him in these marches. Nay,
+said Sir Launcelot, not at this time I thank you. Then either departed
+from other, and Sir Lamorak rode again thereas he left the two knights,
+and then he found them hid in the leaved wood. Fie on you, said Sir
+Lamorak, false cowards, pity and shame it is that any of you should
+take the high order of knighthood. So Sir Lamorak departed from them,
+and within a while he met with Sir Meliagaunce. And then Sir Lamorak
+asked him why he loved Queen Guenever as he did: For I was not far from
+you when ye made your complaint by the chapel. Did ye so? said Sir
+Meliagaunce, then will I abide by it: I love Queen Guenever, what will
+ye with it? I will prove and make good that she is the fairest lady and
+most of beauty in the world. As to that, said Sir Lamorak, I say nay
+thereto, for Queen Morgawse of Orkney, mother to Sir Gawaine, and his
+mother is the fairest queen and lady that beareth the life. That is not
+so, said Sir Meliagaunce, and that will I prove with my hands upon thy
+body. Will ye so? said Sir Lamorak, and in a better quarrel keep I not
+to fight. Then they departed either from other in great wrath. And then
+they came riding together as it had been thunder, and either smote
+other so sore that their horses fell backward to the earth. And then
+they avoided their horses, and dressed their shields, and drew their
+swords. And then they hurtled together as wild boars, and thus they
+fought a great while. For Meliagaunce was a good man and of great
+might, but Sir Lamorak was hard big for him, and put him always aback,
+but either had wounded other sore.
+
+And as they stood thus fighting, by fortune came Sir Launcelot and Sir
+Bleoberis riding. And then Sir Launcelot rode betwixt them, and asked
+them for what cause they fought so together: And ye are both knights of
+King Arthur!
+
+Sir, said Meliagaunce, I shall tell you for what cause we do this
+battle. I praised my lady, Queen Guenever, and said she was the fairest
+lady of the world, and Sir Lamorak said nay thereto, for he said Queen
+Morgawse of Orkney was fairer than she and more of beauty. Ah, Sir
+Lamorak, why sayest thou so? it is not thy part to dispraise thy
+princess that thou art under her obeissance, and we all. And therewith
+he alighted on foot, and said: For this quarrel, make thee ready, for I
+will prove upon thee that Queen Guenever is the fairest lady and most
+of bounty in the world. Sir, said Sir Lamorak, I am loath to have ado
+with you in this quarrel, for every man thinketh his own lady fairest;
+and though I praise the lady that I love most ye should not be wroth;
+for though my lady, Queen Guenever, be fairest in your eye, wit ye well
+Queen Morgawse of Orkney is fairest in mine eye, and so every knight
+thinketh his own lady fairest; and wit ye well, sir, ye are the man in
+the world except Sir Tristram that I am most loathest to have ado
+withal, but, an ye will needs fight with me I shall endure you as long
+as I may. Then spake Sir Bleoberis and said: My lord Sir Launcelot, I
+wist you never so misadvised as ye are now, for Sir Lamorak sayeth you
+but reason and knightly; for I warn you I have a lady, and methinketh
+that she is the fairest lady of the world. Were this a great reason
+that ye should be wroth with me for such language? And well ye wot,
+that Sir Lamorak is as noble a knight as I know, and he hath ought you
+and us ever good will, and therefore I pray you be good friends. Then
+Sir Launcelot said unto Sir Lamorak. I pray you forgive me mine evil
+will, and if I was misadvised I will amend it. Sir, said Sir Lamorak,
+the amends is soon made betwixt you and me. And so Sir Launcelot and
+Sir Bleoberis departed, and Sir Meliagaunce and Sir Lamorak took their
+horses, and either departed from other.
+
+And within a while came King Arthur, and met with Sir Lamorak, and
+jousted with him; and there he smote down Sir Lamorak, and wounded him
+sore with a spear, and so he rode from him; wherefore Sir Lamorak was
+wroth that he would not fight with him on foot, howbeit that Sir
+Lamorak knew not King Arthur.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV. How Sir Kay met with Sir Tristram, and after of the shame
+spoken of the knights of Cornwall, and how they jousted.
+
+Now leave we of this tale, and speak we of Sir Tristram, that as he
+rode he met with Sir Kay, the Seneschal; and there Sir Kay asked Sir
+Tristram of what country he was. He answered that he was of the country
+of Cornwall. It may well be, said Sir Kay, for yet heard I never that
+ever good knight came out of Cornwall. That is evil spoken, said Sir
+Tristram, but an it please you to tell me your name I require you. Sir,
+wit ye well, said Sir Kay, that my name is Sir Kay, the Seneschal. Is
+that your name? said Sir Tristram, now wit ye well that ye are named
+the shamefullest knight of your tongue that now is living; howbeit ye
+are called a good knight, but ye are called unfortunate, and passing
+overthwart of your tongue. And thus they rode together till they came
+to a bridge. And there was a knight would not let them pass till one of
+them jousted with him; and so that knight jousted with Sir Kay, and
+there that knight gave Sir Kay a fall: his name was Sir Tor, Sir
+Lamorak’s half-brother. And then they two rode to their lodging, and
+there they found Sir Brandiles, and Sir Tor came thither anon after.
+And as they sat at supper these four knights, three of them spake all
+shame by Cornish knights. Sir Tristram heard all that they said and he
+said but little, but he thought the more, but at that time he
+discovered not his name.
+
+Upon the morn Sir Tristram took his horse and abode them upon their
+way. And there Sir Brandiles proffered to joust with Sir Tristram, and
+Sir Tristram smote him down, horse and all, to the earth. Then Sir Tor
+le Fise de Vayshoure encountered with Sir Tristram and there Sir
+Tristram smote him down, and then he rode his way, and Sir Kay followed
+him, but he would not of his fellowship. Then Sir Brandiles came to Sir
+Kay and said: I would wit fain what is that knight’s name. Come on with
+me, said Sir Kay, and we shall pray him to tell us his name. So they
+rode together till they came nigh him, and then they were ware where he
+sat by a well, and had put off his helm to drink at the well. And when
+he saw them come he laced on his helm lightly, and took his horse, and
+proffered them to joust. Nay, said Sir Brandiles, we jousted late
+enough with you, we come not in that intent. But for this we come to
+require you of knighthood to tell us your name. My fair knights, sithen
+that is your desire, and to please you, ye shall wit that my name is
+Sir Tristram de Liones, nephew unto King Mark of Cornwall. In good
+time, said Sir Brandiles, and well be ye found, and wit ye well that we
+be right glad that we have found you, and we be of a fellowship that
+would be right glad of your company. For ye are the knight in the world
+that the noble fellowship of the Round Table most desireth to have the
+company of. God thank them, said Sir Tristram, of their great goodness,
+but as yet I feel well that I am unable to be of their fellowship, for
+I was never yet of such deeds of worthiness to be in the company of
+such a fellowship. Ah, said Sir Kay, an ye be Sir Tristram de Liones,
+ye are the man called now most of prowess except Sir Launcelot du Lake;
+for he beareth not the life, Christian nor heathen, that can find such
+another knight, to speak of his prowess, and of his hands, and his
+truth withal. For yet could there never creature say of him dishonour
+and make it good. Thus they talked a great while, and then they
+departed either from other such ways as them seemed best.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV. How King Arthur was brought into the Forest Perilous, and
+how Sir Tristram saved his life.
+
+Now shall ye hear what was the cause that King Arthur came into the
+Forest Perilous, that was in North Wales, by the means of a lady. Her
+name was Annowre, and this lady came to King Arthur at Cardiff; and she
+by fair promise and fair behests made King Arthur to ride with her into
+that Forest Perilous; and she was a great sorceress; and many days she
+had loved King Arthur, and because she would have him to lie by her she
+came into that country. So when the king was gone with her many of his
+knights followed after King Arthur when they missed him, as Sir
+Launcelot, Brandiles, and many other; and when she had brought him to
+her tower she desired him to lie by her; and then the king remembered
+him of his lady, and would not lie by her for no craft that she could
+do. Then every day she would make him ride into that forest with his
+own knights, to the intent to have had King Arthur slain. For when this
+Lady Annowre saw that she might not have him at her will, then she
+laboured by false means to have destroyed King Arthur, and slain.
+
+Then the Lady of the Lake that was alway friendly to King Arthur, she
+understood by her subtle crafts that King Arthur was like to be
+destroyed. And therefore this Lady of the Lake, that hight Nimue, came
+into that forest to seek after Sir Launcelot du Lake or Sir Tristram
+for to help King Arthur; foras that same day this Lady of the Lake knew
+well that King Arthur should be slain, unless that he had help of one
+of these two knights. And thus she rode up and down till she met with
+Sir Tristram, and anon as she saw him she knew him. O my lord Sir
+Tristram, she said, well be ye met, and blessed be the time that I have
+met with you; for this same day, and within these two hours, shall be
+done the foulest deed that ever was done in this land. O fair damosel,
+said Sir Tristram, may I amend it. Come on with me, she said, and that
+in all the haste ye may, for ye shall see the most worshipfullest
+knight of the world hard bestead. Then said Sir Tristram: I am ready to
+help such a noble man. He is neither better nor worse, said the Lady of
+the Lake, but the noble King Arthur himself. God defend, said Sir
+Tristram, that ever he should be in such distress. Then they rode
+together a great pace, until they came to a little turret or castle;
+and underneath that castle they saw a knight standing upon foot
+fighting with two knights; and so Sir Tristram beheld them, and at the
+last the two knights smote down the one knight, and that one of them
+unlaced his helm to have slain him. And the Lady Annowre gat King
+Arthur’s sword in her hand to have stricken off his head. And
+therewithal came Sir Tristram with all his might, crying: Traitress,
+traitress, leave that. And anon there Sir Tristram smote the one of the
+knights through the body that he fell dead; and then he rashed to the
+other and smote his back asunder; and in the meanwhile the Lady of the
+Lake cried to King Arthur: Let not that false lady escape. Then King
+Arthur overtook her, and with the same sword he smote off her head, and
+the Lady of the Lake took up her head and hung it up by the hair of her
+saddle-bow. And then Sir Tristram horsed King Arthur and rode forth
+with him, but he charged the Lady of the Lake not to discover his name
+as at that time.
+
+When the king was horsed he thanked heartily Sir Tristram, and desired
+to wit his name; but he would not tell him, but that he was a poor
+knight adventurous; and so he bare King Arthur fellowship till he met
+with some of his knights. And within a while he met with Sir Ector de
+Maris, and he knew not King Arthur nor Sir Tristram, and he desired to
+joust with one of them. Then Sir Tristram rode unto Sir Ector, and
+smote him from his horse. And when he had done so he came again to the
+king and said: My lord, yonder is one of your knights, he may bare you
+fellowship, and another day that deed that I have done for you I trust
+to God ye shall understand that I would do you service. Alas, said King
+Arthur, let me wit what ye are? Not at this time, said Sir Tristram. So
+he departed and left King Arthur and Sir Ector together.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI. How Sir Tristram came to La Beale Isoud, and how Kehydius
+began to love Beale Isoud, and of a letter that Tristram found.
+
+And then at a day set Sir Tristram and Sir Lamorak met at the well; and
+then they took Kehydius at the forester’s house, and so they rode with
+him to the ship where they left Dame Bragwaine and Gouvernail, and so
+they sailed into Cornwall all wholly together. And by assent and
+information of Dame Bragwaine when they were landed they rode unto Sir
+Dinas, the Seneschal, a trusty friend of Sir Tristram’s. And so Dame
+Bragwaine and Sir Dinas rode to the court of King Mark, and told the
+queen, La Beale Isoud, that Sir Tristram was nigh her in that country.
+Then for very pure joy La Beale Isoud swooned; and when she might speak
+she said: Gentle knight Seneschal, help that I might speak with him,
+outher my heart will brast. Then Sir Dinas and Dame Bragwaine brought
+Sir Tristram and Kehydius privily unto the court, unto a chamber
+whereas La Beale Isoud had assigned it; and to tell the joys that were
+betwixt La Beale Isoud and Sir Tristram, there is no tongue can tell
+it, nor heart think it, nor pen write it. And as the French book maketh
+mention, at the first time that ever Sir Kehydius saw La Beale Isoud he
+was so enamoured upon her that for very pure love he might never
+withdraw it. And at the last, as ye shall hear or the book be ended,
+Sir Kehydius died for the love of La Beale Isoud. And then privily he
+wrote unto her letters and ballads of the most goodliest that were used
+in those days. And when La Beale Isoud understood his letters she had
+pity of his complaint, and unavised she wrote another letter to comfort
+him withal.
+
+And Sir Tristram was all this while in a turret at the commandment of
+La Beale Isoud, and when she might she came unto Sir Tristram. So on a
+day King Mark played at the chess under a chamber window; and at that
+time Sir Tristram and Sir Kehydius were within the chamber over King
+Mark, and as it mishapped Sir Tristram found the letter that Kehydius
+sent unto La Beale Isoud, also he had found the letter that she wrote
+unto Kehydius, and at that same time La Beale Isoud was in the same
+chamber. Then Sir Tristram came unto La Beale Isoud and said: Madam,
+here is a letter that was sent unto you, and here is the letter that ye
+sent unto him that sent you that letter. Alas, Madam, the good love
+that I have loved you; and many lands and riches have I forsaken for
+your love, and now ye are a traitress to me, the which doth me great
+pain. But as for thee, Sir Kehydius, I brought thee out of Brittany
+into this country, and thy father, King Howel, I won his lands, howbeit
+I wedded thy sister Isoud la Blanche Mains for the goodness she did
+unto me. And yet, as I am true knight, she is a clean maiden for me;
+but wit thou well, Sir Kehydius, for this falsehood and treason thou
+hast done me, I will revenge it upon thee. And therewithal Sir Tristram
+drew out his sword and said: Sir Kehydius, keep thee, and then La Beale
+Isoud swooned to the earth. And when Sir Kehydius saw Sir Tristram come
+upon him he saw none other boot, but leapt out at a bay-window even
+over the head where sat King Mark playing at the chess. And when the
+king saw one come hurling over his head he said: Fellow, what art thou,
+and what is the cause thou leapest out at that window? My lord the
+king, said Kehydius, it fortuned me that I was asleep in the window
+above your head, and as I slept I slumbered, and so I fell down. And
+thus Sir Kehydius excused him.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII. How Sir Tristram departed from Tintagil, and how he
+sorrowed and was so long in a forest till he was out of his mind.
+
+Then Sir Tristram dread sore lest he were discovered unto the king that
+he was there; wherefore he drew him to the strength of the Tower, and
+armed him in such armour as he had for to fight with them that would
+withstand him. And so when Sir Tristram saw there was no resistance
+against him he sent Gouvernail for his horse and his spear, and
+knightly he rode forth out of the castle openly, that was called the
+Castle of Tintagil. And even at gate he met with Gingalin, Sir
+Gawaine’s son. And anon Sir Gingalin put his spear in his rest, and ran
+upon Sir Tristram and brake his spear; and Sir Tristram at that time
+had but a sword, and gave him such a buffet upon the helm that he fell
+down from his saddle, and his sword slid adown, and carved asunder his
+horse’s neck. And so Sir Tristram rode his way into the forest, and all
+this doing saw King Mark. And then he sent a squire unto the hurt
+knight, and commanded him to come to him, and so he did. And when King
+Mark wist that it was Sir Gingalin he welcomed him and gave him an
+horse, and asked him what knight it was that had encountered with him.
+Sir, said Gingalin, I wot not what knight he was, but well I wot that
+he sigheth and maketh great dole.
+
+Then Sir Tristram within a while met with a knight of his own, that
+hight Sir Fergus. And when he had met with him he made great sorrow,
+insomuch that he fell down off his horse in a swoon, and in such sorrow
+he was in three days and three nights. Then at the last Sir Tristram
+sent unto the court by Sir Fergus, for to spere what tidings. And so as
+he rode by the way he met with a damosel that came from Sir Palomides,
+to know and seek how Sir Tristram did. Then Sir Fergus told her how he
+was almost out of his mind. Alas, said the damosel, where shall I find
+him? In such a place, said Sir Fergus. Then Sir Fergus found Queen
+Isoud sick in her bed, making the greatest dole that ever any earthly
+woman made. And when the damosel found Sir Tristram she made great dole
+because she might not amend him, for the more she made of him the more
+was his pain. And at the last Sir Tristram took his horse and rode away
+from her. And then was it three days or that she could find him, and
+then she brought him meat and drink, but he would none; and then
+another time Sir Tristram escaped away from the damosel, and it happed
+him to ride by the same castle where Sir Palomides and Sir Tristram did
+battle when La Beale Isoud departed them. And there by fortune the
+damosel met with Sir Tristram again, making the greatest dole that ever
+earthly creature made; and she yede to the lady of that castle and told
+her of the misadventure of Sir Tristram. Alas, said the lady of that
+castle, where is my lord, Sir Tristram? Right here by your castle, said
+the damosel. In good time, said the lady, is he so nigh me; he shall
+have meat and drink of the best; and an harp I have of his whereupon he
+taught me, for of goodly harping he beareth the prize in the world. So
+this lady and damosel brought him meat and drink, but he ate little
+thereof. Then upon a night he put his horse from him, and then he
+unlaced his armour, and then Sir Tristram would go into the wilderness,
+and brast down the trees and boughs; and otherwhile when he found the
+harp that the lady sent him, then would he harp, and play thereupon and
+weep together. And sometime when Sir Tristram was in the wood that the
+lady wist not where he was, then would she sit her down and play upon
+that harp: then would Sir Tristram come to that harp, and hearken
+thereto, and sometime he would harp himself. Thus he there endured a
+quarter of a year. Then at the last he ran his way, and she wist not
+where he was become. And then was he naked and waxed lean and poor of
+flesh; and so he fell in the fellowship of herdmen and shepherds, and
+daily they would give him some of their meat and drink. And when he did
+any shrewd deed they would beat him with rods, and so they clipped him
+with shears and made him like a fool.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII. How Sir Tristram soused Dagonet in a well, and how
+Palomides sent a damosel to seek Tristram, and how Palomides met with
+King Mark.
+
+And upon a day Dagonet, King Arthur’s fool, came into Cornwall with two
+squires with him; and as they rode through that forest they came by a
+fair well where Sir Tristram was wont to be; and the weather was hot,
+and they alighted to drink of that well, and in the meanwhile their
+horses brake loose. Right so Sir Tristram came unto them, and first he
+soused Sir Dagonet in that well, and after his squires, and thereat
+laughed the shepherds; and forthwithal he ran after their horses and
+brought them again one by one, and right so, wet as they were, he made
+them leap up and ride their ways. Thus Sir Tristram endured there an
+half year naked, and would never come in town nor village. The
+meanwhile the damosel that Sir Palomides sent to seek Sir Tristram, she
+yede unto Sir Palomides and told him all the mischief that Sir Tristram
+endured. Alas, said Sir Palomides, it is great pity that ever so noble
+a knight should be so mischieved for the love of a lady; but
+nevertheless, I will go and seek him, and comfort him an I may. Then a
+little before that time La Beale Isoud had commanded Sir Kehydius out
+of the country of Cornwall. So Sir Kehydius departed with a dolorous
+heart, and by adventure he met with Sir Palomides, and they
+enfellowshipped together; and either complained to other of their hot
+love that they loved La Beale Isoud. Now let us, said Sir Palomides,
+seek Sir Tristram, that loved her as well as we, and let us prove
+whether we may recover him. So they rode into that forest, and three
+days and three nights they would never take their lodging, but ever
+sought Sir Tristram.
+
+And upon a time, by adventure, they met with King Mark that was ridden
+from his men all alone. When they saw him Sir Palomides knew him, but
+Sir Kehydius knew him not. Ah, false king, said Sir Palomides, it is
+pity thou hast thy life, for thou art a destroyer of all worshipful
+knights, and by thy mischief and thy vengeance thou hast destroyed that
+most noble knight, Sir Tristram de Liones. And therefore defend thee,
+said Sir Palomides, for thou shalt die this day. That were shame, said
+King Mark, for ye two are armed and I am unarmed. As for that, said Sir
+Palomides, I shall find a remedy therefore; here is a knight with me,
+and thou shalt have his harness. Nay, said King Mark, I will not have
+ado with you, for cause have ye none to me; for all the misease that
+Sir Tristram hath was for a letter that he found; for as to me I did to
+him no displeasure, and God knoweth I am full sorry for his disease and
+malady. So when the king had thus excused him they were friends, and
+King Mark would have had them unto Tintagil; but Sir Palomides would
+not, but turned unto the realm of Logris, and Sir Kehydius said that he
+would go into Brittany.
+
+Now turn we unto Sir Dagonet again, that when he and his squires were
+upon horseback he deemed that the shepherds had sent that fool to array
+them so, because that they laughed at them, and so they rode unto the
+keepers of beasts and all to-beat them. Sir Tristram saw them beat that
+were wont to give him meat and drink, then he ran thither and gat Sir
+Dagonet by the head, and gave him such a fall to the earth that he
+bruised him sore so that he lay still. And then he wrast his sword out
+of his hand, and therewith he ran to one of his squires and smote off
+his head, and the other fled. And so Sir Tristram took his way with
+that sword in his hand, running as he had been wild wood. Then Sir
+Dagonet rode to King Mark and told him how he had sped in that forest.
+And therefore, said Sir Dagonet, beware, King Mark, that thou come not
+about that well in the forest, for there is a fool naked, and that fool
+and I fool met together, and he had almost slain me. Ah, said King
+Mark, that is Sir Matto le Breune, that fell out of his wit because he
+lost his lady; for when Sir Gaheris smote down Sir Matto and won his
+lady of him, never since was he in his mind, and that was pity, for he
+was a good knight.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX. How it was noised how Sir Tristram was dead, and how La
+Beale Isoud would have slain herself.
+
+Then Sir Andred, that was cousin unto Sir Tristram, made a lady that
+was his paramour to say and to noise it that she was with Sir Tristram
+or ever he died. And this tale she brought unto King Mark’s court, that
+she buried him by a well, and that or he died he besought King Mark to
+make his cousin, Sir Andred, king of the country of Liones, of the
+which Sir Tristram was lord of. All this did Sir Andred because he
+would have had Sir Tristram’s lands. And when King Mark heard tell that
+Sir Tristram was dead he wept and made great dole. But when Queen Isoud
+heard of these tidings she made such sorrow that she was nigh out of
+her mind; and so upon a day she thought to slay herself and never to
+live after Sir Tristram’s death. And so upon a day La Beale Isoud gat a
+sword privily and bare it to her garden, and there she pight the sword
+through a plum tree up to the hilt, so that it stuck fast, and it stood
+breast high. And as she would have run upon the sword and to have slain
+herself all this espied King Mark, how she kneeled down and said: Sweet
+Lord Jesu, have mercy upon me, for I may not live after the death of
+Sir Tristram de Liones, for he was my first love and he shall be the
+last. And with these words came King Mark and took her in his arms, and
+then he took up the sword, and bare her away with him into a tower; and
+there he made her to be kept, and watched her surely, and after that
+she lay long sick, nigh at the point of death.
+
+This meanwhile ran Sir Tristram naked in the forest with the sword in
+his hand, and so he came to an hermitage, and there he laid him down
+and slept; and in the meanwhile the hermit stole away his sword, and
+laid meat down by him. Thus was he kept there ten days; and at the last
+he departed and came to the herdmen again. And there was a giant in
+that country that hight Tauleas, and for fear of Sir Tristram more than
+seven year he durst never much go at large, but for the most part he
+kept him in a sure castle of his own; and so this Tauleas heard tell
+that Sir Tristram was dead, by the noise of the court of King Mark.
+Then this Tauleas went daily at large. And so he happed upon a day he
+came to the herdmen wandering and langering, and there he set him down
+to rest among them. The meanwhile there came a knight of Cornwall that
+led a lady with him, and his name was Sir Dinant; and when the giant
+saw him he went from the herdmen and hid him under a tree, and so the
+knight came to that well, and there he alighted to repose him. And as
+soon as he was from his horse this giant Tauleas came betwixt this
+knight and his horse, and took the horse and leapt upon him. So
+forthwith he rode unto Sir Dinant and took him by the collar, and
+pulled him afore him upon his horse, and there would have stricken off
+his head. Then the herdmen said unto Sir Tristram: Help yonder knight.
+Help ye him, said Sir Tristram. We dare not, said the herdmen. Then Sir
+Tristram was ware of the sword of the knight thereas it lay; and so
+thither he ran and took up the sword and struck off Sir Tauleas’ head,
+and so he yede his way to the herdmen.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX. How King Mark found Sir Tristram naked, and made him to be
+borne home to Tintagil, and how he was there known by a brachet.
+
+Then the knight took up the giant’s head and bare it with him unto King
+Mark, and told him what adventure betid him in the forest, and how a
+naked man rescued him from the grimly giant, Tauleas. Where had ye this
+adventure? said King Mark. Forsooth, said Sir Dinant, at the fair
+fountain in your forest where many adventurous knights meet, and there
+is the mad man. Well, said King Mark, I will see that wild man. So
+within a day or two King Mark commanded his knights and his hunters
+that they should be ready on the morn for to hunt, and so upon the morn
+he went unto that forest. And when the king came to that well he found
+there lying by that well a fair naked man, and a sword by him. Then
+King Mark blew and straked, and therewith his knights came to him; and
+then the king commanded his knights to: Take that naked man with
+fairness, and bring him to my castle. So they did softly and fair, and
+cast mantles upon Sir Tristram, and so led him unto Tintagil; and there
+they bathed him, and washed him, and gave him hot suppings till they
+had brought him well to his remembrance; but all this while there was
+no creature that knew Sir Tristram, nor what man he was.
+
+So it fell upon a day that the queen, La Beale Isoud, heard of such a
+man, that ran naked in the forest, and how the king had brought him
+home to the court. Then La Beale Isoud called unto her Dame Bragwaine
+and said: Come on with me, for we will go see this man that my lord
+brought from the forest the last day. So they passed forth, and spered
+where was the sick man. And then a squire told the queen that he was in
+the garden taking his rest, and reposing him against the sun. So when
+the queen looked upon Sir Tristram she was not remembered of him. But
+ever she said unto Dame Bragwaine: Meseemeth I should have seen him
+heretofore in many places. But as soon as Sir Tristram saw her he knew
+her well enough. And then he turned away his visage and wept.
+
+Then the queen had always a little brachet with her that Sir Tristram
+gave her the first time that ever she came into Cornwall, and never
+would that brachet depart from her but if Sir Tristram was nigh thereas
+was La Beale Isoud; and this brachet was sent from the king’s daughter
+of France unto Sir Tristram for great love. And anon as this little
+brachet felt a savour of Sir Tristram, she leapt upon him and licked
+his lears and his ears, and then she whined and quested, and she
+smelled at his feet and at his hands, and on all parts of his body that
+she might come to. Ah, my lady, said Dame Bragwaine unto La Beale
+Isoud, alas, alas, said she, I see it is mine own lord, Sir Tristram.
+And thereupon Isoud fell down in a swoon, and so lay a great while. And
+when she might speak she said: My lord Sir Tristram, blessed be God ye
+have your life, and now I am sure ye shall be discovered by this little
+brachet, for she will never leave you. And also I am sure as soon as my
+lord, King Mark, do know you he will banish you out of the country of
+Cornwall, or else he will destroy you; for God’s sake, mine own lord,
+grant King Mark his will, and then draw you unto the court of King
+Arthur, for there are ye beloved, and ever when I may I shall send unto
+you; and when ye list ye may come to me, and at all times early and
+late I will be at your commandment, to live as poor a life as ever did
+queen or lady. O Madam, said Sir Tristram, go from me, for mickle anger
+and danger have I escaped for your love.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI. How King Mark, by the advice of his council, banished Sir
+Tristram out of Cornwall the term of ten years.
+
+Then the queen departed, but the brachet would not from him; and
+therewithal came King Mark, and the brachet set upon him, and bayed at
+them all. There withal Sir Andred spake and said: Sir, this is Sir
+Tristram, I see by the brachet. Nay, said the king, I cannot suppose
+that. Then the king asked him upon his faith what he was, and what was
+his name. So God me help, said he, my name is Sir Tristram de Liones;
+now do by me what ye list. Ah, said King Mark, me repenteth of your
+recovery. And then he let call his barons to judge Sir Tristram to the
+death. Then many of his barons would not assent thereto, and in
+especial Sir Dinas, the Seneschal, and Sir Fergus. And so by the advice
+of them all Sir Tristram was banished out of the country for ten year,
+and thereupon he took his oath upon a book before the king and his
+barons. And so he was made to depart out of the country of Cornwall;
+and there were many barons brought him unto his ship, of the which some
+were his friends and some his foes. And in the meanwhile there came a
+knight of King Arthur’s, his name was Dinadan, and his coming was for
+to seek after Sir Tristram; then they showed him where he was armed at
+all points going to the ship. Now fair knight, said Sir Dinadan, or ye
+pass this court that ye will joust with me I require thee. With a good
+will, said Sir Tristram, an these lords will give me leave. Then the
+barons granted thereto, and so they ran together, and there Sir
+Tristram gave Sir Dinadan a fall. And then he prayed Sir Tristram to
+give him leave to go in his fellowship. Ye shall be right welcome, said
+then Sir Tristram.
+
+And so they took their horses and rode to their ships together, and
+when Sir Tristram was in the sea he said: Greet well King Mark and all
+mine enemies, and say them I will come again when I may; and well am I
+rewarded for the fighting with Sir Marhaus, and delivered all this
+country from servage; and well am I rewarded for the fetching and costs
+of Queen Isoud out of Ireland, and the danger that I was in first and
+last, and by the way coming home what danger I had to bring again Queen
+Isoud from the Castle Pluere; and well am I rewarded when I fought with
+Sir Bleoberis for Sir Segwarides’ wife; and well am I rewarded when I
+fought with Sir Blamore de Ganis for King Anguish, father unto La Beale
+Isoud; and well am I rewarded when I smote down the good knight, Sir
+Lamorak de Galis, at King Mark’s request; and well am I rewarded when I
+fought with the King with the Hundred Knights, and the King of
+Northgalis, and both these would have put his land in servage, and by
+me they were put to a rebuke; and well am I rewarded for the slaying of
+Tauleas, the mighty giant, and many other deeds have I done for him,
+and now have I my warison. And tell King Mark that many noble knights
+of the Table Round have spared the barons of this country for my sake.
+Also am I not well rewarded when I fought with the good knight Sir
+Palomides and rescued Queen Isoud from him; and at that time King Mark
+said afore all his barons I should have been better rewarded. And
+forthwithal he took the sea.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII. How a damosel sought help to help Sir Launcelot against
+thirty knights, and how Sir Tristram fought with them.
+
+And at the next landing, fast by the sea, there met with Sir Tristram
+and with Sir Dinadan, Sir Ector de Maris and Sir Bors de Ganis; and
+there Sir Ector jousted with Sir Dinadan, and he smote him and his
+horse down. And then Sir Tristram would have jousted with Sir Bors, and
+Sir Bors said that he would not joust with no Cornish knights, for they
+are not called men of worship; and all this was done upon a bridge. And
+with this came Sir Bleoberis and Sir Driant, and Sir Bleoberis
+proffered to joust with Sir Tristram, and there Sir Tristram smote down
+Sir Bleoberis. Then said Sir Bors de Ganis: I wist never Cornish knight
+of so great valour nor so valiant as that knight that beareth the
+trappings embroidered with crowns. And then Sir Tristram and Sir
+Dinadan departed from them into a forest, and there met them a damosel
+that came for the love of Sir Launcelot to seek after some noble
+knights of King Arthur’s court for to rescue Sir Launcelot. And so Sir
+Launcelot was ordained, for-by the treason of Queen Morgan le Fay to
+have slain Sir Launcelot, and for that cause she ordained thirty
+knights to lie in await for Sir Launcelot, and this damosel knew this
+treason. And for this cause the damosel came for to seek noble knights
+to help Sir Launcelot. For that night, or the day after, Sir Launcelot
+should come where these thirty knights were. And so this damosel met
+with Sir Bors and Sir Ector and with Sir Driant, and there she told
+them all four of the treason of Morgan le Fay; and then they promised
+her that they would be nigh where Sir Launcelot should meet with the
+thirty knights. And if so be they set upon him we will do rescues as we
+can.
+
+So the damosel departed, and by adventure the damosel met with Sir
+Tristram and with Sir Dinadan, and there the damosel told them all the
+treason that was ordained for Sir Launcelot. Fair damosel, said Sir
+Tristram, bring me to that same place where they should meet with Sir
+Launcelot. Then said Sir Dinadan: What will ye do? it is not for us to
+fight with thirty knights, and wit you well I will not thereof; as to
+match one knight two or three is enough an they be men, but for to
+match fifteen knights that will I never undertake. Fie for shame, said
+Sir Tristram, do but your part. Nay, said Sir Dinadan, I will not
+thereof but if ye will lend me your shield, for ye bear a shield of
+Cornwall; and for the cowardice that is named to the knights of
+Cornwall, by your shields ye be ever forborne. Nay, said Sir Tristram,
+I will not depart from my shield for her sake that gave it me. But one
+thing, said Sir Tristram, I promise thee, Sir Dinadan, but if thou wilt
+promise me to abide with me, here I shall slay thee, for I desire no
+more of thee but answer one knight. And if thy heart will not serve
+thee, stand by and look upon me and them. Sir, said Sir Dinadan, I
+promise you to look upon and to do what I may to save myself, but I
+would I had not met with you.
+
+So then anon these thirty knights came fast by these four knights, and
+they were ware of them, and either of other. And so these thirty
+knights let them pass, for this cause, that they would not wrath them,
+if case be that they had ado with Sir Launcelot; and the four knights
+let them pass to this intent, that they would see and behold what they
+would do with Sir Launcelot. And so the thirty knights passed on and
+came by Sir Tristram and by Sir Dinadan, and then Sir Tristram cried on
+high: Lo, here is a knight against you for the love of Sir Launcelot.
+And there he slew two with one spear and ten with his sword. And then
+came in Sir Dinadan and he did passing well, and so of the thirty
+knights there went but ten away, and they fled. All this battle saw Sir
+Bors de Ganis and his three fellows, and then they saw well it was the
+same knight that jousted with them at the bridge; then they took their
+horses and rode unto Sir Tristram, and praised him and thanked him of
+his good deeds, and they all desired Sir Tristram to go with them to
+their lodging; and he said: Nay, he would not go to no lodging. Then
+they all four knights prayed him to tell them his name. Fair lords,
+said Sir Tristram, as at this time I will not tell you my name.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII. How Sir Tristram and Sir Dinadan came to a lodging where
+they must joust with two knights.
+
+Then Sir Tristram and Sir Dinadan rode forth their way till they came
+to the shepherds and to the herdmen, and there they asked them if they
+knew any lodging or harbour there nigh hand. Forsooth, sirs, said the
+herdmen, hereby is good lodging in a castle; but there is such a custom
+that there shall no knight be harboured but if he joust with two
+knights, and if he be but one knight he must joust with two. And as ye
+be therein soon shall ye be matched. There is shrewd harbour, said Sir
+Dinadan; lodge where ye will, for I will not lodge there. Fie for
+shame, said Sir Tristram, are ye not a knight of the Table Round?
+wherefore ye may not with your worship refuse your lodging. Not so,
+said the herdmen, for an ye be beaten and have the worse ye shall not
+be lodged there, and if ye beat them ye shall be well harboured. Ah,
+said Sir Dinadan, they are two sure knights. Then Sir Dinadan would not
+lodge there in no manner but as Sir Tristram required him of his
+knighthood; and so they rode thither. And to make short tale, Sir
+Tristram and Sir Dinadan smote them down both, and so they entered into
+the castle and had good cheer as they could think or devise.
+
+And when they were unarmed, and thought to be merry and in good rest,
+there came in at the gates Sir Palomides and Sir Gaheris, requiring to
+have the custom of the castle. What array is this? said Sir Dinadan, I
+would have my rest. That may not be, said Sir Tristram; now must we
+needs defend the custom of this castle, insomuch as we have the better
+of the lords of this castle, and therefore, said Sir Tristram, needs
+must ye make you ready. In the devil’s name, said Sir Dinadan, came I
+into your company. And so they made them ready; and Sir Gaheris
+encountered with Sir Tristram, and Sir Gaheris had a fall; and Sir
+Palomides encountered with Sir Dinadan, and Sir Dinadan had a fall:
+then was it fall for fall. So then must they fight on foot. That would
+not Sir Dinadan, for he was so sore bruised of the fall that Sir
+Palomides gave him. Then Sir Tristram unlaced Sir Dinadan’s helm, and
+prayed him to help him. I will not, said Sir Dinadan, for I am sore
+wounded of the thirty knights that we had but late ago to do withal.
+But ye fare, said Sir Dinadan unto Sir Tristram, as a madman and as a
+man that is out of his mind that would cast himself away, and I may
+curse the time that ever I saw you, for in all the world are not two
+such knights that be so wood as is Sir Launcelot and ye Sir Tristram;
+for once I fell in the fellowship of Sir Launcelot as I have done now
+with you, and he set me a work that a quarter of a year I kept my bed.
+Jesu defend me, said Sir Dinadan, from such two knights, and specially
+from your fellowship. Then, said Sir Tristram, I will fight with them
+both. Then Sir Tristram bade them come forth both, for I will fight
+with you. Then Sir Palomides and Sir Gaheris dressed them, and smote at
+them both. Then Dinadan smote at Sir Gaheris a stroke or two, and
+turned from him. Nay, said Sir Palomides, it is too much shame for us
+two knights to fight with one. And then he did bid Sir Gaheris stand
+aside with that knight that hath no list to fight. Then they rode
+together and fought long, and at the last Sir Tristram doubled his
+strokes, and drove Sir Palomides aback more than three strides. And
+then by one assent Sir Gaheris and Sir Dinadan went betwixt them, and
+departed them in-sunder. And then by assent of Sir Tristram they would
+have lodged together. But Sir Dinadan would not lodge in that castle.
+And then he cursed the time that ever he came in their fellowship, and
+so he took his horse, and his harness, and departed.
+
+Then Sir Tristram prayed the lords of that castle to lend him a man to
+bring him to a lodging, and so they did, and overtook Sir Dinadan, and
+rode to their lodging two mile thence with a good man in a priory, and
+there they were well at ease. And that same night Sir Bors and Sir
+Bleoberis, and Sir Ector and Sir Driant, abode still in the same place
+thereas Sir Tristram fought with the thirty knights; and there they met
+with Sir Launcelot the same night, and had made promise to lodge with
+Sir Colgrevance the same night.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV. How Sir Tristram jousted with Sir Kay and Sir Sagramore
+le Desirous, and how Sir Gawaine turned Sir Tristram from Morgan le
+Fay.
+
+But anon as the noble knight, Sir Launcelot, heard of the shield of
+Cornwall, then wist he well that it was Sir Tristram that fought with
+his enemies. And then Sir Launcelot praised Sir Tristram, and called
+him the man of most worship in the world. So there was a knight in that
+priory that hight Pellinore, and he desired to wit the name of Sir
+Tristram, but in no wise he could not; and so Sir Tristram departed and
+left Sir Dinadan in the priory, for he was so weary and so sore bruised
+that he might not ride. Then this knight, Sir Pellinore, said to Sir
+Dinadan: Sithen that ye will not tell me that knight’s name I will ride
+after him and make him to tell me his name, or he shall die therefore.
+Beware, sir knight, said Sir Dinadan, for an ye follow him ye shall
+repent it. So that knight, Sir Pellinore, rode after Sir Tristram and
+required him of jousts. Then Sir Tristram smote him down and wounded
+him through the shoulder, and so he passed on his way. And on the next
+day following Sir Tristram met with pursuivants, and they told him that
+there was made a great cry of tournament between King Carados of
+Scotland and the King of North Wales, and either should joust against
+other at the Castle of Maidens; and these pursuivants sought all the
+country after the good knights, and in especial King Carados let make
+seeking for Sir Launcelot du Lake, and the King of Northgalis let seek
+after Sir Tristram de Liones. And at that time Sir Tristram thought to
+be at that jousts; and so by adventure they met with Sir Kay, the
+Seneschal, and Sir Sagramore le Desirous; and Sir Kay required Sir
+Tristram to joust, and Sir Tristram in a manner refused him, because he
+would not be hurt nor bruised against the great jousts that should be
+before the Castle of Maidens, and therefore thought to repose him and
+to rest him. And alway Sir Kay cried: Sir knight of Cornwall, joust
+with me, or else yield thee to me as recreant. When Sir Tristram heard
+him say so he turned to him, and then Sir Kay refused him and turned
+his back. Then Sir Tristram said: As I find thee I shall take thee.
+Then Sir Kay turned with evil will, and Sir Tristram smote Sir Kay
+down, and so he rode forth.
+
+Then Sir Sagramore le Desirous rode after Sir Tristram, and made him to
+joust with him, and there Sir Tristram smote down Sir Sagramore le
+Desirous from his horse, and rode his way; and the same day he met with
+a damosel that told him that he should win great worship of a knight
+adventurous that did much harm in all that country. When Sir Tristram
+heard her say so, he was glad to go with her to win worship. So Sir
+Tristram rode with that damosel a six mile, and then met him Sir
+Gawaine, and therewithal Sir Gawaine knew the damosel, that she was a
+damosel of Queen Morgan le Fay. Then Sir Gawaine understood that she
+led that knight to some mischief. Fair knight, said Sir Gawaine,
+whither ride you now with that damosel? Sir, said Sir Tristram, I wot
+not whither I shall ride but as the damosel will lead me. Sir, said Sir
+Gawaine, ye shall not ride with her, for she and her lady did never
+good, but ill. And then Sir Gawaine pulled out his sword and said:
+Damosel, but if thou tell me anon for what cause thou leadest this
+knight with thee thou shalt die for it right anon: I know all your
+lady’s treason, and yours. Mercy, Sir Gawaine, she said, and if ye will
+save my life I will tell you. Say on, said Sir Gawaine, and thou shalt
+have thy life. Sir, she said, Queen Morgan le Fay, my lady, hath
+ordained a thirty ladies to seek and espy after Sir Launcelot or Sir
+Tristram, and by the trains of these ladies, who that may first meet
+any of these two knights they should turn them unto Morgan le Fay’s
+castle, saying that they should do deeds of worship; and if any of the
+two knights came there, there be thirty knights lying and watching in a
+tower to wait upon Sir Launcelot or upon Sir Tristram. Fie for shame,
+said Sir Gawaine, that ever such false treason should be wrought or
+used in a queen, and a king’s sister, and a king and queen’s daughter.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV. How Sir Tristram and Sir Gawaine rode to have foughten
+with the thirty knights, but they durst not come out.
+
+Sir, said Sir Gawaine, will ye stand with me, and we will see the
+malice of these thirty knights. Sir, said Sir Tristram, go ye to them,
+an it please you, and ye shall see I will not fail you, for it is not
+long ago since I and a fellow met with thirty knights of that queen’s
+fellowship; and God speed us so that we may win worship. So then Sir
+Gawaine and Sir Tristram rode toward the castle where Morgan le Fay
+was, and ever Sir Gawaine deemed well that he was Sir Tristram de
+Liones, because he heard that two knights had slain and beaten thirty
+knights. And when they came afore the castle Sir Gawaine spake on high
+and said: Queen Morgan le Fay, send out your knights that ye have laid
+in a watch for Sir Launcelot and for Sir Tristram. Now, said Sir
+Gawaine, I know your false treason, and through all places where that I
+ride men shall know of your false treason; and now let see, said Sir
+Gawaine, whether ye dare come out of your castle, ye thirty knights.
+Then the queen spake and all the thirty knights at once, and said: Sir
+Gawaine, full well wottest thou what thou dost and sayest; for by God
+we know thee passing well, but all that thou speakest and dost, thou
+sayest it upon pride of that good knight that is there with thee. For
+there be some of us that know full well the hands of that knight over
+all well. And wit thou well, Sir Gawaine, it is more for his sake than
+for thine that we will not come out of this castle. For wit ye well,
+Sir Gawaine, the knight that beareth the arms of Cornwall, we know him
+and what he is.
+
+Then Sir Gawaine and Sir Tristram departed and rode on their ways a day
+or two together; and there by adventure, they met with Sir Kay and Sir
+Sagramore le Desirous. And then they were glad of Sir Gawaine, and he
+of them, but they wist not what he was with the shield of Cornwall, but
+by deeming. And thus they rode together a day or two. And then they
+were ware of Sir Breuse Saunce Pité chasing a lady for to have slain
+her, for he had slain her paramour afore. Hold you all still, said Sir
+Gawaine, and show none of you forth, and ye shall see me reward yonder
+false knight; for an he espy you he is so well horsed that he will
+escape away. And then Sir Gawaine rode betwixt Sir Breuse and the lady,
+and said: False knight, leave her, and have ado with me. When Sir
+Breuse saw no more but Sir Gawaine he feutred his spear, and Sir
+Gawaine against him; and there Sir Breuse overthrew Sir Gawaine, and
+then he rode over him, and overthwart him twenty times to have
+destroyed him; and when Sir Tristram saw him do so villainous a deed,
+he hurled out against him. And when Sir Breuse saw him with the shield
+of Cornwall he knew him well that it was Sir Tristram, and then he
+fled, and Sir Tristram followed after him; and Sir Breuse Saunce Pité
+was so horsed that he went his way quite, and Sir Tristram followed him
+long, for he would fain have been avenged upon him. And so when he had
+long chased him, he saw a fair well, and thither he rode to repose him,
+and tied his horse till a tree.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI. How damosel Bragwaine found Tristram sleeping by a well,
+and how she delivered letters to him from La Beale Isoud.
+
+And then he pulled off his helm and washed his visage and his hands,
+and so he fell asleep. In the meanwhile came a damosel that had sought
+Sir Tristram many ways and days within this land. And when she came to
+the well she looked upon him, and had forgotten him as in remembrance
+of Sir Tristram, but by his horse she knew him, that hight Passe-Brewel
+that had been Sir Tristram’s horse many years. For when he was mad in
+the forest Sir Fergus kept him. So this lady, Dame Bragwaine, abode
+still till he was awake. So when she saw him wake she saluted him, and
+he her again, for either knew other of old acquaintance; then she told
+him how she had sought him long and broad, and there she told him how
+she had letters from Queen La Beale Isoud. Then anon Sir Tristram read
+them, and wit ye well he was glad, for therein was many a piteous
+complaint. Then Sir Tristram said: Lady Bragwaine, ye shall ride with
+me till that tournament be done at the Castle of Maidens, and then
+shall bear letters and tidings with you. And then Sir Tristram took his
+horse and sought lodging, and there he met with a good ancient knight
+and prayed him to lodge with him. Right so came Gouvernail unto Sir
+Tristram, that was glad of that lady. So this old knight’s name was Sir
+Pellounes, and he told of the great tournament that should be at the
+Castle of Maidens. And there Sir Launcelot and thirty-two knights of
+his blood had ordained shields of Cornwall. And right so there came one
+unto Sir Pellounes, and told him that Sir Persides de Bloise was come
+home; then that knight held up his hands and thanked God of his coming
+home. And there Sir Pellounes told Sir Tristram that in two years he
+had not seen his son, Sir Persides. Sir, said Sir Tristram, I know your
+son well enough for a good knight.
+
+So on a time Sir Tristram and Sir Persides came to their lodging both
+at once, and so they unarmed them, and put upon them their clothing.
+And then these two knights each welcomed other. And when Sir Persides
+understood that Sir Tristram was of Cornwall, he said he was once in
+Cornwall: And there I jousted afore King Mark; and so it happed me at
+that time to overthrow ten knights, and then came to me Sir Tristram de
+Liones and overthrew me, and took my lady away from me, and that shall
+I never forget, but I shall remember me an ever I see my time. Ah, said
+Sir Tristram, now I understand that ye hate Sir Tristram. What deem ye,
+ween ye that Sir Tristram is not able to withstand your malice? Yes,
+said Sir Persides, I know well that Sir Tristram is a noble knight and
+a much better knight than I, yet shall I not owe him my good will.
+Right as they stood thus talking at a bay-window of that castle, they
+saw many knights riding to and fro toward the tournament. And then was
+Sir Tristram ware of a likely knight riding upon a great black horse,
+and a black-covered shield. What knight is that, said Sir Tristram,
+with the black horse and the black shield? he seemeth a good knight. I
+know him well, said Sir Persides, he is one of the best knights of the
+world. Then is it Sir Launcelot, said Tristram. Nay, said Sir Persides,
+it is Sir Palomides, that is yet unchristened.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII. How Sir Tristram had a fall with Sir Palomides, and how
+Launcelot overthrew two knights.
+
+Then they saw much people of the country salute Sir Palomides. And
+within a while after there came a squire of the castle, that told Sir
+Pellounes that was lord of that castle, that a knight with a black
+shield had smitten down thirteen knights. Fair brother, said Sir
+Tristram unto Sir Persides, let us cast upon us cloaks, and let us go
+see the play. Not so, said Sir Persides, we will not go like knaves
+thither, but we will ride like men and good knights to withstand our
+enemies. So they armed them, and took their horses and great spears,
+and thither they went thereas many knights assayed themself before the
+tournament. And anon Sir Palomides saw Sir Persides, and then he sent a
+squire unto him and said: Go thou to the yonder knight with the green
+shield and therein a lion of gold, and say him I require him to joust
+with me, and tell him that my name is Sir Palomides. When Sir Persides
+understood that request of Sir Palomides, he made him ready, and there
+anon they met together, but Sir Persides had a fall. Then Sir Tristram
+dressed him to be revenged upon Sir Palomides, and that saw Sir
+Palomides that was ready and so was not Sir Tristram, and took him at
+an advantage and smote him over his horse’s tail when he had no spear
+in his rest. Then stert up Sir Tristram and took his horse lightly, and
+was wroth out of measure, and sore ashamed of that fall. Then Sir
+Tristram sent unto Sir Palomides by Gouvernail, and prayed him to joust
+with him at his request. Nay, said Sir Palomides, as at this time I
+will not joust with that knight, for I know him better than he weeneth.
+And if he be wroth he may right it to-morn at the Castle of Maidens,
+where he may see me and many other knights.
+
+With that came Sir Dinadan, and when he saw Sir Tristram wroth he list
+not to jape. Lo, said Sir Dinadan, here may a man prove, be a man never
+so good yet may he have a fall, and he was never so wise but he might
+be overseen, and he rideth well that never fell. So Sir Tristram was
+passing wroth, and said to Sir Persides and to Sir Dinadan: I will
+revenge me. Right so as they stood talking there, there came by Sir
+Tristram a likely knight riding passing soberly and heavily with a
+black shield. What knight is that? said Sir Tristram unto Sir Persides.
+I know him well, said Sir Persides, for his name is Sir Briant of North
+Wales; so he passed on among other knights of North Wales. And there
+came in Sir Launcelot du Lake with a shield of the arms of Cornwall,
+and he sent a squire unto Sir Briant, and required him to joust with
+him. Well, said Sir Briant, sithen I am required to joust I will do
+what I may; and there Sir Launcelot smote down Sir Briant from his
+horse a great fall. And then Sir Tristram marvelled what knight he was
+that bare the shield of Cornwall. Whatsoever he be, said Sir Dinadan, I
+warrant you he is of King Ban’s blood, the which be knights of the most
+noble prowess in the world, for to account so many for so many. Then
+there came two knights of Northgalis, that one hight Hew de la
+Montaine, and the other Sir Madok de la Montaine, and they challenged
+Sir Launcelot foot-hot. Sir Launcelot not refusing them but made him
+ready, with one spear he smote them down both over their horses’
+croups; and so Sir Launcelot rode his way. By the good lord, said Sir
+Tristram, he is a good knight that beareth the shield of Cornwall, and
+meseemeth he rideth in the best manner that ever I saw knight ride.
+
+Then the King of Northgalis rode unto Sir Palomides and prayed him
+heartily for his sake to joust with that knight that hath done us of
+Northgalis despite. Sir, said Sir Palomides, I am full loath to have
+ado with that knight, and cause why is, for as to-morn the great
+tournament shall be; and therefore I will keep myself fresh by my will.
+Nay, said the King of Northgalis, I pray you require him of jousts.
+Sir, said Sir Palomides, I will joust at your request, and require that
+knight to joust with me, and often I have seen a man have a fall at his
+own request.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII. How Sir Launcelot jousted with Palomides and overthrew
+him, and after he was assailed with twelve knights.
+
+Then Sir Palomides sent unto Sir Launcelot a squire, and required him
+of jousts. Fair fellow, said Sir Launcelot, tell me thy lord’s name.
+Sir, said the squire, my lord’s name is Sir Palomides, the good knight.
+In good hour, said Sir Launcelot, for there is no knight that I saw
+this seven years that I had liefer ado withal than with him. And so
+either knights made them ready with two great spears. Nay, said Sir
+Dinadan, ye shall see that Sir Palomides will quit him right well. It
+may be so, said Sir Tristram, but I undertake that knight with the
+shield of Cornwall shall give him a fall. I believe it not, said Sir
+Dinadan. Right so they spurred their horses and feutred their spears,
+and either hit other, and Sir Palomides brake a spear upon Sir
+Launcelot, and he sat and moved not; but Sir Launcelot smote him so
+lightly that he made his horse to avoid the saddle, and the stroke
+brake his shield and the hauberk, and had he not fallen he had been
+slain. How now, said Sir Tristram, I wist well by the manner of their
+riding both that Sir Palomides should have a fall.
+
+Right so Sir Launcelot rode his way, and rode to a well to drink and to
+repose him, and they of Northgalis espied him whither he rode; and then
+there followed him twelve knights for to have mischieved him, for this
+cause that upon the morn at the tournament of the Castle of Maidens
+that he should not win the victory. So they came upon Sir Launcelot
+suddenly, and unnethe he might put upon him his helm and take his
+horse, but they were in hands with him; and then Sir Launcelot gat his
+spear, and rode through them, and there he slew a knight and brake a
+spear in his body. Then he drew his sword and smote upon the right hand
+and upon the left hand, so that within a few strokes he had slain other
+three knights, and the remnant that abode he wounded them sore all that
+did abide. Thus Sir Launcelot escaped from his enemies of North Wales,
+and then Sir Launcelot rode his way till a friend, and lodged him till
+on the morn; for he would not the first day have ado in the tournament
+because of his great labour. And on the first day he was with King
+Arthur thereas he was set on high upon a scaffold to discern who was
+best worthy of his deeds. So Sir Launcelot was with King Arthur, and
+jousted not the first day.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX. How Sir Tristram behaved him the first day of the
+tournament, and there he had the prize.
+
+Now turn we unto Sir Tristram de Liones, that commanded Gouvernail, his
+servant, to ordain him a black shield with none other remembrance
+therein. And so Sir Persides and Sir Tristram departed from their host
+Sir Pellounes, and they rode early toward the tournament, and then they
+drew them to King Carados’ side, of Scotland; and anon knights began
+the field what of King Northgalis’ part, and what of King Carados’
+part, and there began great party. Then there was hurling and rashing.
+Right so came in Sir Persides and Sir Tristram and so they did fare
+that they put the King of Northgalis aback. Then came in Sir Bleoberis
+de Ganis and Sir Gaheris with them of Northgalis, and then was Sir
+Persides smitten down and almost slain, for more than forty horse men
+went over him. For Sir Bleoberis did great deeds of arms, and Sir
+Gaheris failed him not. When Sir Tristram beheld them, and saw them do
+such deeds of arms, he marvelled what they were. Also Sir Tristram
+thought shame that Sir Persides was so done to; and then he gat a great
+spear in his hand, and then he rode to Sir Gaheris and smote him down
+from his horse. And then was Sir Bleoberis wroth, and gat a spear and
+rode against Sir Tristram in great ire; and there Sir Tristram met with
+him, and smote Sir Bleoberis from his horse. So then the King with the
+Hundred Knights was wroth, and he horsed Sir Bleoberis and Sir Gaheris
+again, and there began a great medley; and ever Sir Tristram held them
+passing short, and ever Sir Bleoberis was passing busy upon Sir
+Tristram; and there came Sir Dinadan against Sir Tristram, and Sir
+Tristram gave him such a buffet that he swooned in his saddle. Then
+anon Sir Dinadan came to Sir Tristram and said: Sir, I know thee better
+than thou weenest; but here I promise thee my troth I will never come
+against thee more, for I promise thee that sword of thine shall never
+come on mine helm.
+
+With that came Sir Bleoberis, and Sir Tristram gave him such a buffet
+that down he laid his head; and then he caught him so sore by the helm
+that he pulled him under his horse’s feet. And then King Arthur blew to
+lodging. Then Sir Tristram departed to his pavilion, and Sir Dinadan
+rode with him; and Sir Persides and King Arthur then, and the kings
+upon both parties, marvelled what knight that was with the black
+shield. Many said their advice, and some knew him for Sir Tristram, and
+held their peace and would nought say. So that first day King Arthur,
+and all the kings and lords that were judges, gave Sir Tristram the
+prize; howbeit they knew him not, but named him the Knight with the
+Black Shield.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX. How Sir Tristram returned against King Arthur’s party
+because he saw Sir Palomides on that party.
+
+Then upon the morn Sir Palomides returned from the King of Northgalis,
+and rode to King Arthur’s side, where was King Carados, and the King of
+Ireland, and Sir Launcelot’s kin, and Sir Gawaine’s kin. So Sir
+Palomides sent the damosel unto Sir Tristram that he sent to seek him
+when he was out of his mind in the forest, and this damosel asked Sir
+Tristram what he was and what was his name?
+
+As for that, said Sir Tristram, tell Sir Palomides ye shall not wit as
+at this time unto the time I have broken two spears upon him. But let
+him wit thus much, said Sir Tristram, that I am the same knight that he
+smote down in over evening at the tournament; and tell him plainly on
+what party that Sir Palomides be I will be of the contrary party.
+
+Sir, said the damosel, ye shall understand that Sir Palomides will be
+on King Arthur’s side, where the most noble knights of the world be. In
+the name of God, said Sir Tristram, then will I be with the King of
+Northgalis, because Sir Palomides will be on King Arthur’s side, and
+else I would not but for his sake. So when King Arthur was come they
+blew unto the field; and then there began a great party, and so King
+Carados jousted with the King of the Hundred Knights, and there King
+Carados had a fall: then was there hurling and rushing, and right so
+came in knights of King Arthur’s, and they bare aback the King of
+Northgalis’ knights.
+
+Then Sir Tristram came in, and began so roughly and so bigly that there
+was none might withstand him, and thus Sir Tristram dured long. And at
+the last Sir Tristram fell among the fellowship of King Ban, and there
+fell upon him Sir Bors de Ganis, and Sir Ector de Maris, and Sir
+Blamore de Ganis, and many other knights. And then Sir Tristram smote
+on the right hand and on the left hand, that all lords and ladies spake
+of his noble deeds. But at the last Sir Tristram should have had the
+worse had not the King with the Hundred Knights been. And then he came
+with his fellowship and rescued Sir Tristram, and brought him away from
+those knights that bare the shields of Cornwall. And then Sir Tristram
+saw another fellowship by themself, and there were a forty knights
+together, and Sir Kay, the Seneschal, was their governor. Then Sir
+Tristram rode in amongst them, and there he smote down Sir Kay from his
+horse; and there he fared among those knights like a greyhound among
+conies.
+
+Then Sir Launcelot found a knight that was sore wounded upon the head.
+Sir, said Sir Launcelot, who wounded you so sore? Sir, he said, a
+knight that beareth a black shield, and I may curse the time that ever
+I met with him, for he is a devil and no man. So Sir Launcelot departed
+from him and thought to meet with Sir Tristram, and so he rode with his
+sword drawn in his hand to seek Sir Tristram; and then he espied him
+how he hurled here and there, and at every stroke Sir Tristram wellnigh
+smote down a knight. O mercy Jesu! said the king, sith the times I bare
+arms saw I never no knight do so marvellous deeds of arms. And if I
+should set upon this knight, said Sir Launcelot to himself, I did shame
+to myself, and therewithal Sir Launcelot put up his sword. And then the
+King with the Hundred Knights and an hundred more of North Wales set
+upon the twenty of Sir Launcelot’s kin: and they twenty knights held
+them ever together as wild swine, and none would fail other. And so
+when Sir Tristram beheld the noblesse of these twenty knights he
+marvelled of their good deeds, for he saw by their fare and by their
+rule that they had liefer die than avoid the field. Now Jesu, said Sir
+Tristram, well may he be valiant and full of prowess that hath such a
+sort of noble knights unto his kin, and full like is he to be a noble
+man that is their leader and governor. He meant it by Sir Launcelot du
+Lake. So when Sir Tristram had beholden them long he thought shame to
+see two hundred knights battering upon twenty knights. Then Sir
+Tristram rode unto the King with the Hundred Knights and said: Sir,
+leave your fighting with those twenty knights, for ye win no worship of
+them, ye be so many and they so few; and wit ye well they will not out
+of the field I see by their cheer and countenance; and worship get ye
+none an ye slay them. Therefore leave your fighting with them, for I to
+increase my worship I will ride to the twenty knights and help them
+with all my might and power. Nay, said the King with the Hundred
+Knights, ye shall not do so; now I see your courage and courtesy I will
+withdraw my knights for your pleasure, for evermore a good knight will
+favour another, and like will draw to like.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI. How Sir Tristram found Palomides by a well, and brought
+him with him to his lodging.
+
+Then the King with the Hundred Knights withdrew his knights. And all
+this while, and long to-fore, Sir Launcelot had watched upon Sir
+Tristram with a very purpose to have fellowshipped with him. And then
+suddenly Sir Tristram, Sir Dinadan, and Gouvernail, his man, rode their
+way into the forest, that no man perceived where they went. So then
+King Arthur blew unto lodging, and gave the King of Northgalis the
+prize because Sir Tristram was upon his side. Then Sir Launcelot rode
+here and there, so wood as lion that fauted his fill, because he had
+lost Sir Tristram, and so he returned unto King Arthur. And then in all
+the field was a noise that with the wind it might be heard two mile
+thence, how the lords and ladies cried: The Knight with the Black
+Shield hath won the field. Alas, said King Arthur, where is that knight
+become? It is shame to all those in the field so to let him escape away
+from you; but with gentleness and courtesy ye might have brought him
+unto me to the Castle of Maidens. Then the noble King Arthur went unto
+his knights and comforted them in the best wise that he could, and
+said: My fair fellows, be not dismayed, howbeit ye have lost the field
+this day. And many were hurt and sore wounded, and many were whole. My
+fellows, said King Arthur, look that ye be of good cheer, for to-morn I
+will be in the field with you and revenge you of your enemies. So that
+night King Arthur and his knights reposed themself.
+
+The damosel that came from La Beale Isoud unto Sir Tristram, all the
+while the tournament was a-doing she was with Queen Guenever, and ever
+the queen asked her for what cause she came into that country. Madam,
+she answered, I come for none other cause but from my lady La Beale
+Isoud to wit of your welfare. For in no wise she would not tell the
+queen that she came for Sir Tristram’s sake. So this lady, Dame
+Bragwaine, took her leave of Queen Guenever, and she rode after Sir
+Tristram. And as she rode through the forest she heard a great cry;
+then she commanded her squire to go into the forest to wit what was
+that noise. And so he came to a well, and there he found a knight
+bounden till a tree crying as he had been wood, and his horse and his
+harness standing by him. And when he espied that squire, therewith he
+abraid and brake himself loose, and took his sword in his hand, and ran
+to have slain the squire. Then he took his horse and fled all that ever
+he might unto Dame Bragwaine, and told her of his adventure. Then she
+rode unto Sir Tristram’s pavilion, and told Sir Tristram what adventure
+she had found in the forest. Alas, said Sir Tristram, upon my head
+there is some good knight at mischief.
+
+Then Sir Tristram took his horse and his sword and rode thither, and
+there he heard how the knight complained unto himself and said: I,
+woful knight Sir Palomides, what misadventure befalleth me, that thus
+am defoiled with falsehood and treason, through Sir Bors and Sir Ector.
+Alas, he said, why live I so long! And then he gat his sword in his
+hands, and made many strange signs and tokens; and so through his
+raging he threw his sword into that fountain. Then Sir Palomides wailed
+and wrang his hands. And at the last for pure sorrow he ran into that
+fountain, over his belly, and sought after his sword. Then Sir Tristram
+saw that, and ran upon Sir Palomides, and held him in his arms fast.
+What art thou, said Palomides, that holdeth me so? I am a man of this
+forest that would thee none harm. Alas, said Sir Palomides, I may never
+win worship where Sir Tristram is; for ever where he is an I be there,
+then get I no worship; and if he be away for the most part I have the
+gree, unless that Sir Launcelot be there or Sir Lamorak. Then Sir
+Palomides said: Once in Ireland Sir Tristram put me to the worse, and
+another time in Cornwall, and in other places in this land. What would
+ye do, said Sir Tristram, an ye had Sir Tristram? I would fight with
+him, said Sir Palomides, and ease my heart upon him; and yet, to say
+thee sooth, Sir Tristram is the gentlest knight in this world living.
+What will ye do, said Sir Tristram, will ye go with me to your lodging?
+Nay, said he, I will go to the King with the Hundred Knights, for he
+rescued me from Sir Bors de Ganis and Sir Ector and else had I been
+slain traitorly. Sir Tristram said him such kind words that Sir
+Palomides went with him to his lodging. Then Gouvernail went to-fore,
+and charged Dame Bragwaine to go out of the way to her lodging. And bid
+ye Sir Persides that he make him no quarrels. And so they rode together
+till they came to Sir Tristram’s pavilion, and there Sir Palomides had
+all the cheer that might be had all that night. But in no wise Sir
+Palomides might not know what was Sir Tristram; and so after supper
+they yede to rest, and Sir Tristram for great travail slept till it was
+day. And Sir Palomides might not sleep for anguish; and in the dawning
+of the day he took his horse privily, and rode his way unto Sir Gaheris
+and unto Sir Sagramore le Desirous, where they were in their pavilions;
+for they three were fellows at the beginning of the tournament. And
+then upon the morn the king blew unto the tournament upon the third
+day.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII. How Sir Tristram smote down Sir Palomides, and how he
+jousted with King Arthur, and other feats.
+
+So the King of Northgalis and the King with the Hundred Knights, they
+two encountered with King Carados and with the King of Ireland; and
+there the King with the Hundred Knights smote down King Carados, and
+the King of Northgalis smote down the King of Ireland. With that came
+in Sir Palomides, and when he came he made great work, for by his
+indented shield he was well known. So came in King Arthur, and did
+great deeds of arms together, and put the King of Northgalis and the
+King with the Hundred Knights to the worse. With this came in Sir
+Tristram with his black shield, and anon he jousted with Sir Palomides,
+and there by fine force Sir Tristram smote Sir Palomides over his
+horse’s croup. Then King Arthur cried: Knight with the Black Shield,
+make thee ready to me, and in the same wise Sir Tristram smote King
+Arthur. And then by force of King Arthur’s knights the King and Sir
+Palomides were horsed again. Then King Arthur with a great eager heart
+he gat a spear in his hand, and there upon the one side he smote Sir
+Tristram over his horse. Then foot-hot Sir Palomides came upon Sir
+Tristram, as he was upon foot, to have overridden him. Then Sir
+Tristram was ware of him, and there he stooped aside, and with great
+ire he gat him by the arm, and pulled him down from his horse. Then Sir
+Palomides lightly arose, and then they dashed together mightily with
+their swords; and many kings, queens, and lords, stood and beheld them.
+And at the last Sir Tristram smote Sir Palomides upon the helm three
+mighty strokes, and at every stroke that he gave him he said: This for
+Sir Tristram’s sake. With that Sir Palomides fell to the earth
+grovelling.
+
+Then came the King with the Hundred Knights, and brought Sir Tristram
+an horse, and so was he horsed again. By then was Sir Palomides horsed,
+and with great ire he jousted upon Sir Tristram with his spear as it
+was in the rest, and gave him a great dash with his sword. Then Sir
+Tristram avoided his spear, and gat him by the neck with his both
+hands, and pulled him clean out of his saddle, and so he bare him afore
+him the length of ten spears, and then in the presence of them all he
+let him fall at his adventure. Then Sir Tristram was ware of King
+Arthur with a naked sword in his hand, and with his spear Sir Tristram
+ran upon King Arthur; and then King Arthur boldly abode him and with
+his sword he smote a-two his spear, and therewithal Sir Tristram
+stonied; and so King Arthur gave him three or four strokes or he might
+get out his sword, and at the last Sir Tristram drew his sword and
+[either] assailed other passing hard. With that the great press
+departed [them]. Then Sir Tristram rode here and there and did his
+great pain, that eleven of the good knights of the blood of King Ban,
+that was of Sir Launcelot’s kin, that day Sir Tristram smote down; that
+all the estates marvelled of his great deeds and all cried upon the
+Knight with the Black Shield.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII. How Sir Launcelot hurt Sir Tristram, and how after Sir
+Tristram smote down Sir Palomides.
+
+Then this cry was so large that Sir Launcelot heard it. And then he gat
+a great spear in his hand and came towards the cry. Then Sir Launcelot
+cried: The Knight with the Black Shield, make thee ready to joust with
+me. When Sir Tristram heard him say so he gat his spear in his hand,
+and either abashed down their heads, and came together as thunder; and
+Sir Tristram’s spear brake in pieces, and Sir Launcelot by malfortune
+struck Sir Tristram on the side a deep wound nigh to the death; but yet
+Sir Tristram avoided not his saddle, and so the spear brake.
+Therewithal Sir Tristram that was wounded gat out his sword, and he
+rushed to Sir Launcelot, and gave him three great strokes upon the helm
+that the fire sprang thereout, and Sir Launcelot abashed his head lowly
+toward his saddle-bow. And therewithal Sir Tristram departed from the
+field, for he felt him so wounded that he weened he should have died;
+and Sir Dinadan espied him and followed him into the forest. Then Sir
+Launcelot abode and did many marvellous deeds.
+
+So when Sir Tristram was departed by the forest’s side he alighted, and
+unlaced his harness and freshed his wound; then weened Sir Dinadan that
+he should have died. Nay, nay, said Sir Tristram, Dinadan never dread
+thee, for I am heart-whole, and of this wound I shall soon be whole, by
+the mercy of God. By that Sir Dinadan was ware where came Palomides
+riding straight upon them. And then Sir Tristram was ware that Sir
+Palomides came to have destroyed him. And so Sir Dinadan gave him
+warning, and said: Sir Tristram, my lord, ye are so sore wounded that
+ye may not have ado with him, therefore I will ride against him and do
+to him what I may, and if I be slain ye may pray for my soul; and in
+the meanwhile ye may withdraw you and go into the castle, or in the
+forest, that he shall not meet with you. Sir Tristram smiled and said:
+I thank you, Sir Dinadan, of your good will, but ye shall wit that I am
+able to handle him. And then anon hastily he armed him, and took his
+horse, and a great spear in his hand, and said to Sir Dinadan: Adieu;
+and rode toward Sir Palomides a soft pace. Then when Sir Palomides saw
+that, he made countenance to amend his horse, but he did it for this
+cause, for he abode Sir Gaheris that came after him. And when he was
+come he rode toward Sir Tristram. Then Sir Tristram sent unto Sir
+Palomides, and required him to joust with him; and if he smote down Sir
+Palomides he would do no more to him; and if it so happened that Sir
+Palomides smote down Sir Tristram, he bade him do his utterance. So
+they were accorded. Then they met together, and Sir Tristram smote down
+Sir Palomides that he had a grievous fall, so that he lay still as he
+had been dead. And then Sir Tristram ran upon Sir Gaheris, and he would
+not have jousted; but whether he would or not Sir Tristram smote him
+over his horse’s croup, that he lay still as though he had been dead.
+And then Sir Tristram rode his way and left Sir Persides’ squire within
+the pavilions, and Sir Tristram and Sir Dinadan rode to an old knight’s
+place to lodge them. And that old knight had five sons at the
+tournament, for whom he prayed God heartily for their coming home. And
+so, as the French book saith, they came home all five well beaten.
+
+And when Sir Tristram departed into the forest Sir Launcelot held alway
+the stour like hard, as a man araged that took no heed to himself, and
+wit ye well there was many a noble knight against him. And when King
+Arthur saw Sir Launcelot do so marvellous deeds of arms he then armed
+him, and took his horse and his armour, and rode into the field to help
+Sir Launcelot; and so many knights came in with King Arthur. And to
+make short tale in conclusion, the King of Northgalis and the King of
+the Hundred Knights were put to the worse; and because Sir Launcelot
+abode and was the last in the field the prize was given him. But Sir
+Launcelot would neither for king, queen, nor knight, have the prize,
+but where the cry was cried through the field: Sir Launcelot, Sir
+Launcelot hath won the field this day, Sir Launcelot let make another
+cry contrary: Sir Tristram hath won the field, for he began first, and
+last he hath endured, and so hath he done the first day, the second,
+and the third day.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV. How the prize of the third day was given to Sir
+Launcelot, and Sir Launcelot gave it to Sir Tristram.
+
+Then all the estates and degrees high and low said of Sir Launcelot
+great worship, for the honour that he did unto Sir Tristram; and for
+that honour doing to Sir Tristram he was at that time more praised and
+renowned than an he had overthrown five hundred knights; and all the
+people wholly for this gentleness, first the estates both high and low,
+and after the commonalty cried at once: Sir Launcelot hath won the
+field whosoever say nay. Then was Sir Launcelot wroth and ashamed, and
+so therewithal he rode to King Arthur. Alas, said the king, we are all
+dismayed that Sir Tristram is thus departed from us. By God, said King
+Arthur, he is one of the noblest knights that ever I saw hold spear or
+sword in hand, and the most courteoust knight in his fighting; for full
+hard I saw him, said King Arthur, when he smote Sir Palomides upon the
+helm thrice, that he abashed his helm with his strokes, and also he
+said: Here is a stroke for Sir Tristram, and thus thrice he said. Then
+King Arthur, Sir Launcelot, and Sir Dodinas le Savage took their horses
+to seek Sir Tristram, and by the means of Sir Persides he had told King
+Arthur where Sir Tristram was in his pavilion. But when they came
+there, Sir Tristram and Sir Dinadan were gone.
+
+Then King Arthur and Sir Launcelot were heavy, and returned again to
+the Castle of Maidens making great dole for the hurt of Sir Tristram,
+and his sudden departing. So God me help, said King Arthur, I am more
+heavy that I cannot meet with him than for all the hurts that all my
+knights have had at the tournament. Right so came Sir Gaheris and told
+King Arthur how Sir Tristram had smitten down Sir Palomides, and it was
+at Sir Palomides’ own request. Alas, said King Arthur, that was great
+dishonour to Sir Palomides, inasmuch as Sir Tristram was sore wounded,
+and now may we all, kings, and knights, and men of worship, say that
+Sir Tristram may be called a noble knight, and one of the best knights
+that ever I saw the days of my life. For I will that ye all, kings and
+knights, know, said King Arthur, that I never saw knight do so
+marvellously as he hath done these three days; for he was the first
+that began and that longest held on, save this last day. And though he
+was hurt, it was a manly adventure of two noble knights, and when two
+noble men encounter needs must the one have the worse, like as God will
+suffer at that time. As for me, said Sir Launcelot, for all the lands
+that ever my father left me I would not have hurt Sir Tristram an I had
+known him at that time; that I hurt him was for I saw not his shield.
+For an I had seen his black shield, I would not have meddled with him
+for many causes; for late he did as much for me as ever did knight, and
+that is well known that he had ado with thirty knights, and no help
+save Sir Dinadan. And one thing shall I promise, said Sir Launcelot,
+Sir Palomides shall repent it as in his unkindly dealing for to follow
+that noble knight that I by mishap hurted thus. Sir Launcelot said all
+the worship that might be said by Sir Tristram. Then King Arthur made a
+great feast to all that would come. And thus we let pass King Arthur,
+and a little we will turn unto Sir Palomides, that after he had a fall
+of Sir Tristram, he was nigh-hand araged out of his wit for despite of
+Sir Tristram. And so he followed him by adventure. And as he came by a
+river, in his woodness he would have made his horse to have leapt over;
+and the horse failed footing and fell in the river, wherefore Sir
+Palomides was adread lest he should have been drowned; and then he
+avoided his horse, and swam to the land, and let his horse go down by
+adventure.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV. How Palomides came to the castle where Sir Tristram was,
+and of the quest that Sir Launcelot and ten knights made for Sir
+Tristram.
+
+And when he came to the land he took off his harness, and sat roaring
+and crying as a man out of his mind. Right so came a damosel even by
+Sir Palomides, that was sent from Sir Gawaine and his brother unto Sir
+Mordred, that lay sick in the same place with that old knight where Sir
+Tristram was. For, as the French book saith, Sir Persides hurt so Sir
+Mordred a ten days afore; and had it not been for the love of Sir
+Gawaine and his brother, Sir Persides had slain Sir Mordred. And so
+this damosel came by Sir Palomides, and she and he had language
+together, the which pleased neither of them; and so the damosel rode
+her ways till she came to the old knight’s place, and there she told
+that old knight how she met with the woodest knight by adventure that
+ever she met withal. What bare he in his shield? said Sir Tristram. It
+was indented with white and black, said the damosel. Ah, said Sir
+Tristram, that was Sir Palomides, the good knight. For well I know him,
+said Sir Tristram, for one of the best knights living in this realm.
+Then that old knight took a little hackney, and rode for Sir Palomides,
+and brought him unto his own manor; and full well knew Sir Tristram Sir
+Palomides, but he said but little, for at that time Sir Tristram was
+walking upon his feet, and well amended of his hurts; and always when
+Sir Palomides saw Sir Tristram he would behold him full marvellously,
+and ever him seemed that he had seen him. Then would he say unto Sir
+Dinadan: An ever I may meet with Sir Tristram he shall not escape mine
+hands. I marvel, said Sir Dinadan, that ye boast behind Sir Tristram,
+for it is but late that he was in your hands, and ye in his hands; why
+would ye not hold him when ye had him? for I saw myself twice or thrice
+that ye gat but little worship of Sir Tristram. Then was Sir Palomides
+ashamed. So leave we them a little while in the old castle with the old
+knight Sir Darras.
+
+Now shall we speak of King Arthur, that said to Sir Launcelot: Had not
+ye been we had not lost Sir Tristram, for he was here daily unto the
+time ye met with him, and in an evil time, said Arthur, ye encountered
+with him. My lord Arthur, said Launcelot, ye put upon me that I should
+be cause of his departition; God knoweth it was against my will. But
+when men be hot in deeds of arms oft they hurt their friends as well as
+their foes. And my lord, said Sir Launcelot, ye shall understand that
+Sir Tristram is a man that I am loath to offend, for he hath done for
+me more than ever I did for him as yet. But then Sir Launcelot made
+bring forth a book: and then Sir Launcelot said: Here we are ten
+knights that will swear upon a book never to rest one night where we
+rest another this twelvemonth until that we find Sir Tristram. And as
+for me, said Sir Launcelot, I promise you upon this book that an I may
+meet with him, either with fairness or foulness I shall bring him to
+this court, or else I shall die therefore. And the names of these ten
+knights that had undertaken this quest were these following: First was
+Sir Launcelot, Sir Ector de Maris, Sir Bors de Ganis, and Bleoberis,
+and Sir Blamore de Ganis, and Lucan the Butler, Sir Uwaine, Sir Galihud
+Lionel, and Galiodin. So these ten noble knights departed from the
+court of King Arthur, and so they rode upon their quest together until
+they came to a cross where departed four ways, and there departed the
+fellowship in four to seek Sir Tristram.
+
+And as Sir Launcelot rode by adventure he met with Dame Bragwaine that
+was sent into that country to seek Sir Tristram, and she fled as fast
+as her palfrey might go. So Sir Launcelot met with her and asked her
+why she fled. Ah, fair knight, said Dame Bragwaine, I flee for dread of
+my life, for here followeth me Sir Breuse Saunce Pité to slay me. Hold
+you nigh me, said Sir Launcelot. Then when Sir Launcelot saw Sir Breuse
+Saunce Pité, Sir Launcelot cried unto him, and said: False knight,
+destroyer of ladies and damosels, now thy last days be come. When Sir
+Breuse Saunce Pité saw Sir Launcelot’s shield he knew it well, for at
+that time he bare not the arms of Cornwall, but he bare his own shield.
+And then Sir Breuse fled, and Sir Launcelot followed after him. But Sir
+Breuse was so well horsed that when him list to flee he might well
+flee, and also abide when him list. And then Sir Launcelot returned
+unto Dame Bragwaine, and she thanked him of his great labour.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI. How Sir Tristram, Sir Palomides, and Sir Dinadan were
+taken and put in prison.
+
+Now will we speak of Sir Lucan the butler, that by fortune he came
+riding to the same place thereas was Sir Tristram, and in he came in
+none other intent but to ask harbour. Then the porter asked what was
+his name. Tell your lord that my name is Sir Lucan, the butler, a
+Knight of the Round Table. So the porter went unto Sir Darras, lord of
+the place, and told him who was there to ask harbour. Nay, nay, said
+Sir Daname, that was nephew to Sir Darras, say him that he shall not be
+lodged here, but let him wit that I, Sir Daname, will meet with him
+anon, and bid him make him ready. So Sir Daname came forth on
+horseback, and there they met together with spears, and Sir Lucan smote
+down Sir Daname over his horse’s croup, and then he fled into that
+place, and Sir Lucan rode after him, and asked after him many times.
+
+Then Sir Dinadan said to Sir Tristram: It is shame to see the lord’s
+cousin of this place defoiled. Abide, said Sir Tristram, and I shall
+redress it. And in the meanwhile Sir Dinadan was on horseback, and he
+jousted with Lucan the butler, and there Sir Lucan smote Dinadan
+through the thick of the thigh, and so he rode his way; and Sir
+Tristram was wroth that Sir Dinadan was hurt, and followed after, and
+thought to avenge him; and within a while he overtook Sir Lucan, and
+bade him turn; and so they met together so that Sir Tristram hurt Sir
+Lucan passing sore and gave him a fall. With that came Sir Uwaine, a
+gentle knight, and when he saw Sir Lucan so hurt he called Sir Tristram
+to joust with him. Fair knight, said Sir Tristram, tell me your name I
+require you. Sir knight, wit ye well my name is Sir Uwaine le Fise de
+Roy Ureine. Ah, said Sir Tristram, by my will I would not have ado with
+you at no time. Ye shall not so, said Sir Uwaine, but ye shall have ado
+with me. And then Sir Tristram saw none other bote, but rode against
+him, and overthrew Sir Uwaine and hurt him in the side, and so he
+departed unto his lodging again. And when Sir Dinadan understood that
+Sir Tristram had hurt Sir Lucan he would have ridden after Sir Lucan
+for to have slain him, but Sir Tristram would not suffer him. Then Sir
+Uwaine let ordain an horse litter, and brought Sir Lucan to the abbey
+of Ganis, and the castle thereby hight the Castle of Ganis, of the
+which Sir Bleoberis was lord. And at that castle Sir Launcelot promised
+all his fellows to meet in the quest of Sir Tristram.
+
+So when Sir Tristram was come to his lodging there came a damosel that
+told Sir Darras that three of his sons were slain at that tournament,
+and two grievously wounded that they were never like to help themself.
+And all this was done by a noble knight that bare the black shield, and
+that was he that bare the prize. Then came there one and told Sir
+Darras that the same knight was within, him that bare the black shield.
+Then Sir Darras yede unto Sir Tristram’s chamber, and there he found
+his shield and showed it to the damosel. Ah sir, said the damosel, that
+same is he that slew your three sons. Then without any tarrying Sir
+Darras put Sir Tristram, and Sir Palomides, and Sir Dinadan, within a
+strong prison, and there Sir Tristram was like to have died of great
+sickness; and every day Sir Palomides would reprove Sir Tristram of old
+hate betwixt them. And ever Sir Tristram spake fair and said little.
+But when Sir Palomides saw the falling of sickness of Sir Tristram,
+then was he heavy for him, and comforted him in all the best wise he
+could. And as the French book saith, there came forty knights to Sir
+Darras that were of his own kin, and they would have slain Sir Tristram
+and his two fellows, but Sir Darras would not suffer that, but kept
+them in prison, and meat and drink they had. So Sir Tristram endured
+there great pain, for sickness had undertaken him, and that is the
+greatest pain a prisoner may have. For all the while a prisoner may
+have his health of body he may endure under the mercy of God and in
+hope of good deliverance; but when sickness toucheth a prisoner’s body,
+then may a prisoner say all wealth is him bereft, and then he hath
+cause to wail and to weep. Right so did Sir Tristram when sickness had
+undertaken him, for then he took such sorrow that he had almost slain
+himself.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII. How King Mark was sorry for the good renown of Sir
+Tristram. Some of King Arthur’s knights jousted with knights of
+Cornwall.
+
+Now will we speak, and leave Sir Tristram, Sir Palomides, and Sir
+Dinadan in prison, and speak we of other knights that sought after Sir
+Tristram many divers parts of this land. And some yede into Cornwall;
+and by adventure Sir Gaheris, nephew unto King Arthur, came unto King
+Mark, and there he was well received and sat at King Mark’s own table
+and ate of his own mess. Then King Mark asked Sir Gaheris what tidings
+there were in the realm of Logris. Sir, said Sir Gaheris, the king
+reigneth as a noble knight; and now but late there was a great jousts
+and tournament as ever I saw any in the realm of Logris, and the most
+noble knights were at that jousts. But there was one knight that did
+marvellously three days, and he bare a black shield, and of all knights
+that ever I saw he proved the best knight. Then, said King Mark, that
+was Sir Launcelot, or Sir Palomides the paynim. Not so, said Sir
+Gheris, for both Sir Launcelot and Sir Palomides were on the contrary
+party against the Knight with the Black Shield. Then was it Sir
+Tristram, said the king. Yea, said Sir Gaheris. And therewithal the
+king smote down his head, and in his heart he feared sore that Sir
+Tristram should get him such worship in the realm of Logris
+wherethrough that he himself should not be able to withstand him. Thus
+Sir Gaheris had great cheer with King Mark, and with Queen La Beale
+Isoud, the which was glad of Sir Gaheris’ words; for well she wist by
+his deeds and manners that it was Sir Tristram. And then the king made
+a feast royal, and to that feast came Sir Uwaine le Fise de Roy Ureine,
+and some called him Uwaine le Blanchemains. And this Sir Uwaine
+challenged all the knights of Cornwall. Then was the king wood wroth
+that he had no knights to answer him. Then Sir Andred, nephew unto King
+Mark, leapt up and said: I will encounter with Sir Uwaine. Then he yede
+and armed him and horsed him in the best manner. And there Sir Uwaine
+met with Sir Andred, and smote him down that he swooned on the earth.
+Then was King Mark sorry and wroth out of measure that he had no knight
+to revenge his nephew, Sir Andred.
+
+So the king called unto him Sir Dinas, the Seneschal, and prayed him
+for his sake to take upon him to joust with Sir Uwaine. Sir, said Sir
+Dinas, I am full loath to have ado with any knight of the Round Table.
+Yet, said the king, for my love take upon thee to joust. So Sir Dinas
+made him ready, and anon they encountered together with great spears,
+but Sir Dinas was overthrown, horse and man, a great fall. Who was
+wroth but King Mark! Alas, he said, have I no knight that will
+encounter with yonder knight? Sir, said Sir Gaheris, for your sake I
+will joust. So Sir Gaheris made him ready, and when he was armed he
+rode into the field. And when Sir Uwaine saw Sir Gaheris’ shield he
+rode to him and said: Sir, ye do not your part. For, sir, the first
+time ye were made Knight of the Round Table ye sware that ye should not
+have ado with your fellowship wittingly. And pardie, Sir Gaheris, ye
+knew me well enough by my shield, and so do I know you by your shield,
+and though ye would break your oath I would not break mine; for there
+is not one here, nor ye, that shall think I am afeard of you, but I
+durst right well have ado with you, and yet we be sisters’ sons. Then
+was Sir Gaheris ashamed, and so therewithal every knight went their
+way, and Sir Uwaine rode into the country.
+
+Then King Mark armed him, and took his horse and his spear, with a
+squire with him. And then he rode afore Sir Uwaine, and suddenly at a
+gap he ran upon him as he that was not ware of him, and there he smote
+him almost through the body, and there left him. So within a while
+there came Sir Kay and found Sir Uwaine, and asked him how he was hurt.
+I wot not, said Sir Uwaine, why nor wherefore, but by treason I am sure
+I gat this hurt; for here came a knight suddenly upon me or that I was
+ware, and suddenly hurt me. Then there was come Sir Andred to seek King
+Mark. Thou traitor knight, said Sir Kay, an I wist it were thou that
+thus traitorly hast hurt this noble knight thou shouldst never pass my
+hands. Sir, said Sir Andred, I did never hurt him, and that I will
+report me to himself. Fie on you false knight, said Sir Kay, for ye of
+Cornwall are nought worth. So Sir Kay made carry Sir Uwaine to the
+Abbey of the Black Cross, and there he was healed. And then Sir Gaheris
+took his leave of King Mark, but or he departed he said: Sir king, ye
+did a foul shame unto you and your court, when ye banished Sir Tristram
+out of this country, for ye needed not to have doubted no knight an he
+had been here. And so he departed.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII. Of the treason of King Mark, and how Sir Gaheris smote
+him down and Andred his cousin.
+
+Then there came Sir Kay, the Seneschal, unto King Mark, and there he
+had good cheer showing outward. Now, fair lords, said he, will ye prove
+any adventure in the forest of Morris, in the which I know well is as
+hard an adventure as I know any. Sir, said Sir Kay, I will prove it.
+And Sir Gaheris said he would be avised for King Mark was ever full of
+treason: and therewithal Sir Gaheris departed and rode his way. And by
+the same way that Sir Kay should ride he laid him down to rest,
+charging his squire to wait upon Sir Kay; And warn me when he cometh.
+So within a while Sir Kay came riding that way, and then Sir Gaheris
+took his horse and met him, and said: Sir Kay, ye are not wise to ride
+at the request of King Mark, for he dealeth all with treason. Then said
+Sir Kay: I require you let us prove this adventure. I shall not fail
+you, said Sir Gaheris. And so they rode that time till a lake that was
+that time called the Perilous Lake, and there they abode under the shaw
+of the wood.
+
+The meanwhile King Mark within the castle of Tintagil avoided all his
+barons, and all other save such as were privy with him were avoided out
+of his chamber. And then he let call his nephew Sir Andred, and bade
+arm him and horse him lightly; and by that time it was midnight. And so
+King Mark was armed in black, horse and all; and so at a privy postern
+they two issued out with their varlets with them, and rode till they
+came to that lake. Then Sir Kay espied them first, and gat his spear,
+and proffered to joust. And King Mark rode against him, and smote each
+other full hard, for the moon shone as the bright day. And there at
+that jousts Sir Kay’s horse fell down, for his horse was not so big as
+the king’s horse, and Sir Kay’s horse bruised him full sore. Then Sir
+Gaheris was wroth that Sir Kay had a fall. Then he cried: Knight, sit
+thou fast in thy saddle, for I will revenge my fellow. Then King Mark
+was afeard of Sir Gaheris, and so with evil will King Mark rode against
+him, and Sir Gaheris gave him such a stroke that he fell down. So then
+forthwithal Sir Gaheris ran unto Sir Andred and smote him from his
+horse quite, that his helm smote in the earth, and nigh had broken his
+neck. And therewithal Sir Gaheris alighted, and gat up Sir Kay. And
+then they yode both on foot to them, and bade them yield them, and tell
+their names outher they should die. Then with great pain Sir Andred
+spake first, and said: It is King Mark of Cornwall, therefore be ye
+ware what ye do, and I am Sir Andred, his cousin. Fie on you both, said
+Sir Gaheris, for a false traitor, and false treason hast thou wrought
+and he both, under the feigned cheer that ye made us! it were pity,
+said Sir Gaheris, that thou shouldst live any longer. Save my life,
+said King Mark, and I will make amends; and consider that I am a king
+anointed. It were the more shame, said Sir Gaheris, to save thy life;
+thou art a king anointed with cream, and therefore thou shouldst hold
+with all men of worship; and therefore thou art worthy to die. With
+that he lashed at King Mark without saying any more, and covered him
+with his shield and defended him as he might. And then Sir Kay lashed
+at Sir Andred, and therewithal King Mark yielded him unto Sir Gaheris.
+And then he kneeled adown, and made his oath upon the cross of the
+sword, that never while he lived he would be against errant-knights.
+And also he sware to be good friend unto Sir Tristram if ever he came
+into Cornwall.
+
+By then Sir Andred was on the earth, and Sir Kay would have slain him.
+Let be, said Sir Gaheris, slay him not I pray you. It were pity, said
+Sir Kay, that he should live any longer, for this is nigh cousin unto
+Sir Tristram, and ever he hath been a traitor unto him, and by him he
+was exiled out of Cornwall, and therefore I will slay him, said Sir
+Kay. Ye shall not, said Sir Gaheris; sithen I have given the king his
+life, I pray you give him his life. And therewithal Sir Kay let him go.
+And so Sir Kay and Sir Gaheris rode their way unto Dinas, the
+Seneschal, for because they heard say that he loved well Sir Tristram.
+So they reposed them there, and soon after they rode unto the realm of
+Logris. And so within a little while they met with Sir Launcelot that
+always had Dame Bragwaine with him, to that intent he weened to have
+met the sooner with Sir Tristram; and Sir Launcelot asked what tidings
+in Cornwall, and whether they heard of Sir Tristram or not. Sir Kay and
+Sir Gaheris answered and said, that they heard not of him. Then they
+told Sir Launcelot word by word of their adventure. Then Sir Launcelot
+smiled and said: Hard it is to take out of the flesh that is bred in
+the bone; and so made them merry together.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX. How after that Sir Tristram, Sir Palomides, and Sir
+Dinadan had been long in prison they were delivered.
+
+Now leave we off this tale, and speak we of Sir Dinas that had within
+the castle a paramour, and she loved another knight better than him.
+And so when Sir Dinas went out a-hunting she slipped down by a towel,
+and took with her two brachets, and so she yede to the knight that she
+loved, and he her again. And when Sir Dinas came home and missed his
+paramour and his brachets, then was he the more wrother for his
+brachets than for the lady. So then he rode after the knight that had
+his paramour, and bade him turn and joust. So Sir Dinas smote him down,
+that with the fall he brake his leg and his arm. And then his lady and
+paramour cried Sir Dinas mercy, and said she would love him better than
+ever she did. Nay, said Sir Dinas, I shall never trust them that once
+betrayed me, and therefore, as ye have begun, so end, for I will never
+meddle with you. And so Sir Dinas departed, and took his brachets with
+him, and so rode to his castle.
+
+Now will we turn unto Sir Launcelot, that was right heavy that he could
+never hear no tidings of Sir Tristram, for all this while he was in
+prison with Sir Darras, Palomides, and Dinadan. Then Dame Bragwaine
+took her leave to go into Cornwall, and Sir Launcelot, Sir Kay, and Sir
+Gaheris rode to seek Sir Tristram in the country of Surluse.
+
+Now speaketh this tale of Sir Tristram and of his two fellows, for
+every day Sir Palomides brawled and said language against Sir Tristram.
+I marvel, said Sir Dinadan, of thee, Sir Palomides, an thou haddest Sir
+Tristram here thou wouldst do him no harm; for an a wolf and a sheep
+were together in a prison the wolf would suffer the sheep to be in
+peace. And wit thou well, said Sir Dinadan, this same is Sir Tristram
+at a word, and now must thou do thy best with him, and let see now if
+ye can skift it with your hands. Then was Sir Palomides abashed and
+said little. Sir Palomides, then said Sir Tristram, I have heard much
+of your maugre against me, but I will not meddle with you as at this
+time by my will, because I dread the lord of this place that hath us in
+governance; for an I dread him not more than I do thee, soon it should
+be skift: so they peaced themself. Right so came in a damosel and said:
+Knights, be of good cheer, for ye are sure of your lives, and that I
+heard say my lord, Sir Darras. Then were they glad all three, for daily
+they weened they should have died.
+
+Then soon after this Sir Tristram fell sick that he weened to have
+died; then Sir Dinadan wept, and so did Sir Palomides under them both
+making great sorrow. So a damosel came in to them and found them
+mourning. Then she went unto Sir Darras, and told him how that mighty
+knight that bare the black shield was likely to die. That shall not be,
+said Sir Darras, for God defend when knights come to me for succour
+that I should suffer them to die within my prison. Therefore, said Sir
+Darras to the damosel, fetch that knight and his fellows afore me. And
+then anon Sir Darras saw Sir Tristram brought afore him. He said: Sir
+knight, me repenteth of thy sickness for thou art called a full noble
+knight, and so it seemeth by thee; and wit ye well it shall never be
+said that Sir Darras shall destroy such a noble knight as thou art in
+prison, howbeit that thou hast slain three of my sons whereby I was
+greatly aggrieved. But now shalt thou go and thy fellows, and your
+harness and horses have been fair and clean kept, and ye shall go where
+it liketh you, upon this covenant, that thou, knight, wilt promise me
+to be good friend to my sons two that be now alive, and also that thou
+tell me thy name. Sir, said he, as for me my name is Sir Tristram de
+Liones, and in Cornwall was I born, and nephew I am unto King Mark. And
+as for the death of your sons I might not do withal, for an they had
+been the next kin that I have I might have done none otherwise. And if
+I had slain them by treason or treachery I had been worthy to have
+died. All this I consider, said Sir Darras, that all that ye did was by
+force of knighthood, and that was the cause I would not put you to
+death. But sith ye be Sir Tristram, the good knight, I pray you
+heartily to be my good friend and to my sons. Sir, said Sir Tristram, I
+promise you by the faith of my body, ever while I live I will do you
+service, for ye have done to us but as a natural knight ought to do.
+Then Sir Tristram reposed him there till that he was amended of his
+sickness; and when he was big and strong they took their leave, and
+every knight took their horses, and so departed and rode together till
+they came to a cross way. Now fellows, said Sir Tristram, here will we
+depart in sundry ways. And because Sir Dinadan had the first adventure
+of him I will begin.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XL. How Sir Dinadan rescued a lady from Sir Breuse Saunce Pité,
+and how Sir Tristram received a shield of Morgan le Fay.
+
+So as Sir Dinadan rode by a well he found a lady making great dole.
+What aileth you? said Sir Dinadan. Sir knight, said the lady, I am the
+wofullest lady of the world, for within these five days here came a
+knight called Sir Breuse Saunce Pité, and he slew mine own brother, and
+ever since he hath kept me at his own will, and of all men in the world
+I hate him most; and therefore I require you of knighthood to avenge
+me, for he will not tarry, but be here anon. Let him come, said Sir
+Dinadan, and because of honour of all women I will do my part. With
+this came Sir Breuse, and when he saw a knight with his lady he was
+wood wroth. And then he said: Sir knight, keep thee from me. So they
+hurtled together as thunder, and either smote other passing sore, but
+Sir Dinadan put him through the shoulder a grievous wound, and or ever
+Sir Dinadan might turn him Sir Breuse was gone and fled. Then the lady
+prayed him to bring her to a castle there beside but four mile thence;
+and so Sir Dinadan brought her there, and she was welcome, for the lord
+of that castle was her uncle; and so Sir Dinadan rode his way upon his
+adventure.
+
+Now turn we this tale unto Sir Tristram, that by adventure he came to a
+castle to ask lodging, wherein was Queen Morgan le Fay; and so when Sir
+Tristram was let into that castle he had good cheer all that night. And
+upon the morn when he would have departed the queen said: Wit ye well
+ye shall not depart lightly, for ye are here as a prisoner. Jesu
+defend! said Sir Tristram, for I was but late a prisoner. Fair knight,
+said the queen, ye shall abide with me till that I wit what ye are and
+from whence ye come. And ever the queen would set Sir Tristram on her
+own side, and her paramour on the other side. And ever Queen Morgan
+would behold Sir Tristram, and thereat the knight was jealous, and was
+in will suddenly to have run upon Sir Tristram with a sword, but he
+left it for shame. Then the queen said to Sir Tristram: Tell me thy
+name, and I shall suffer you to depart when ye will. Upon that covenant
+I tell you my name is Sir Tristram de Liones. Ah, said Morgan le Fay,
+an I had wist that, thou shouldst not have departed so soon as thou
+shalt. But sithen I have made a promise I will hold it, with that thou
+wilt promise me to bear upon thee a shield that I shall deliver thee,
+unto the castle of the Hard Rock, where King Arthur had cried a great
+tournament, and there I pray you that ye will be, and to do for me as
+much deeds of arms as ye may do. For at the Castle of Maidens, Sir
+Tristram, ye did marvellous deeds of arms as ever I heard knight do.
+Madam, said Sir Tristram, let me see the shield that I shall bear. Then
+the shield was brought forth, and the field was goldish, with a king
+and a queen therein painted, and a knight standing above them, [one
+foot] upon the king’s head, and the other upon the queen’s. Madam, said
+Sir Tristram, this is a fair shield and a mighty; but what signifieth
+this king and this queen, and the knight standing upon both their
+heads? I shall tell you, said Morgan le Fay, it signifieth King Arthur
+and Queen Guenever, and a knight who holdeth them both in bondage and
+in servage. Who is that knight? said Sir Tristram. That shall ye not
+wit as at this time, said the queen. But as the French book saith,
+Queen Morgan loved Sir Launcelot best, and ever she desired him, and he
+would never love her nor do nothing at her request, and therefore she
+held many knights together for to have taken him by strength. And
+because she deemed that Sir Launcelot loved Queen Guenever paramour,
+and she him again, therefore Queen Morgan le Fay ordained that shield
+to put Sir Launcelot to a rebuke, to that intent that King Arthur might
+understand the love between them. Then Sir Tristram took that shield
+and promised her to bear it at the tournament at the Castle of the Hard
+Rock. But Sir Tristram knew not that that shield was ordained against
+Sir Launcelot, but afterward he knew it.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLI. How Sir Tristram took with him the shield, and also how he
+slew the paramour of Morgan le Fay.
+
+So then Sir Tristram took his leave of the queen, and took the shield
+with him. Then came the knight that held Queen Morgan le Fay, his name
+was Sir Hemison, and he made him ready to follow Sir Tristram. Fair
+friend, said Morgan, ride not after that knight, for ye shall not win
+no worship of him. Fie on him, coward, said Sir Hemison, for I wist
+never good knight come out of Cornwall but if it were Sir Tristram de
+Liones. What an that be he? said she. Nay, nay, said he, he is with La
+Beale Isoud, and this is but a daffish knight. Alas, my fair friend, ye
+shall find him the best knight that ever ye met withal, for I know him
+better than ye do. For your sake, said Sir Hemison, I shall slay him.
+Ah, fair friend, said the queen, me repenteth that ye will follow that
+knight, for I fear me sore of your again coming. With this this knight
+rode his way wood wroth, and he rode after Sir Tristram as fast as he
+had been chased with knights. When Sir Tristram heard a knight come
+after him so fast he returned about, and saw a knight coming against
+him. And when he came nigh to Sir Tristram he cried on high: Sir
+knight, keep thee from me. Then they rushed together as it had been
+thunder, and Sir Hemison brised his spear upon Sir Tristram, but his
+harness was so good that he might not hurt him. And Sir Tristram smote
+him harder, and bare him through the body, and he fell over his horse’s
+croup. Then Sir Tristram turned to have done more with his sword, but
+he saw so much blood go from him that him seemed he was likely to die,
+and so he departed from him and came to a fair manor to an old knight,
+and there Sir Tristram lodged.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLII. How Morgan le Fay buried her paramour, and how Sir
+Tristram praised Sir Launcelot and his kin.
+
+Now leave to speak of Sir Tristram, and speak we of the knight that was
+wounded to the death. Then his varlet alighted, and took off his helm,
+and then he asked his lord whether there were any life in him. There is
+in me life, said the knight, but it is but little; and therefore leap
+thou up behind me when thou hast holpen me up, and hold me fast that I
+fall not, and bring me to Queen Morgan le Fay; for deep draughts of
+death draw to my heart that I may not live, for I would fain speak with
+her or I died: for else my soul will be in great peril an I die.
+For[thwith] with great pain his varlet brought him to the castle, and
+there Sir Hemison fell down dead. When Morgan le Fay saw him dead she
+made great sorrow out of reason; and then she let despoil him unto his
+shirt, and so she let him put into a tomb. And about the tomb she let
+write: Here lieth Sir Hemison, slain by the hands of Sir Tristram de
+Liones.
+
+Now turn we unto Sir Tristram, that asked the knight his host if he saw
+late any knights adventurous. Sir, he said, the last night here lodged
+with me Ector de Maris and a damosel with him, and that damosel told me
+that he was one of the best knights of the world. That is not so, said
+Sir Tristram, for I know four better knights of his own blood, and the
+first is Sir Launcelot du Lake, call him the best knight, and Sir Bors
+de Ganis, Sir Bleoberis, Sir Blamore de Ganis, and Sir Gaheris. Nay,
+said his host, Sir Gawaine is a better knight than he. That is not so,
+said Sir Tristram, for I have met with them both, and I felt Sir
+Gaheris for the better knight, and Sir Lamorak I call him as good as
+any of them except Sir Launcelot. Why name ye not Sir Tristram? said
+his host, for I account him as good as any of them. I know not Sir
+Tristram, said Tristram. Thus they talked and bourded as long as them
+list, and then went to rest. And on the morn Sir Tristram departed, and
+took his leave of his host, and rode toward the Roche Dure, and none
+adventure had Sir Tristram but that; and so he rested not till he came
+to the castle, where he saw five hundred tents.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLIII. How Sir Tristram at a tournament bare the shield that
+Morgan le Fay delivered to him.
+
+Then the King of Scots and the King of Ireland held against King
+Arthur’s knights, and there began a great medley. So came in Sir
+Tristram and did marvellous deeds of arms, for there he smote down many
+knights. And ever he was afore King Arthur with that shield. And when
+King Arthur saw that shield he marvelled greatly in what intent it was
+made; but Queen Guenever deemed as it was, wherefore she was heavy.
+Then was there a damosel of Queen Morgan in a chamber by King Arthur,
+and when she heard King Arthur speak of that shield, then she spake
+openly unto King Arthur. Sir King, wit ye well this shield was ordained
+for you, to warn you of your shame and dishonour, and that longeth to
+you and your queen. And then anon that damosel picked her away privily,
+that no man wist where she was become. Then was King Arthur sad and
+wroth, and asked from whence came that damosel. There was not one that
+knew her nor wist where she was become. Then Queen Guenever called to
+her Sir Ector de Maris, and there she made her complaint to him, and
+said: I wot well this shield was made by Morgan le Fay in despite of me
+and of Sir Launcelot, wherefore I dread me sore lest I should be
+destroyed. And ever the king beheld Sir Tristram, that did so
+marvellous deeds of arms that he wondered sore what knight he might be,
+and well he wist it was not Sir Launcelot. And it was told him that Sir
+Tristram was in Petit Britain with Isoud la Blanche Mains, for he
+deemed, an he had been in the realm of Logris, Sir Launcelot or some of
+his fellows that were in the quest of Sir Tristram that they should
+have found him or that time. So King Arthur had marvel what knight he
+might be. And ever Sir Arthur’s eye was on that shield. All that espied
+the queen, and that made her sore afeard.
+
+Then ever Sir Tristram smote down knights wonderly to behold, what upon
+the right hand and upon the left hand, that unnethe no knight might
+withstand him. And the King of Scots and the King of Ireland began to
+withdraw them. When Arthur espied that, he thought that that knight
+with the strange shield should not escape him. Then he called unto him
+Sir Uwaine le Blanche Mains, and bade him arm him and make him ready.
+So anon King Arthur and Sir Uwaine dressed them before Sir Tristram,
+and required him to tell them where he had that shield. Sir, he said, I
+had it of Queen Morgan le Fay, sister unto King Arthur.
+
+ So here endeth this history of this book, for it is the first book of
+ Sir Tristram de Liones and the second book of Sir Tristram followeth.
+
+
+GLOSSARY
+
+Abashed, abased, lowered,
+Abate, depress, calm,
+Abought, paid for,
+Abraid, started,
+Accompted, counted,
+Accorded, agreed,
+Accordment, agreement,
+Acquit, repay,
+Actually, actively,
+Adoubted, afraid,
+Advision, vision,
+Afeard, afraid,
+Afterdeal, disadvantage,
+Againsay, retract,
+Aknown, known,
+Aligement, alleviation,
+Allegeance, alleviation,
+Allow, approve,
+Almeries, chests,
+Alther, gen. pl., of all,
+Amounted, mounted,
+Anealed, anointed,
+Anguishly, in pain,
+Anon, at once,
+Apair, weaken,
+Apparelled, fitted up,
+Appeach, impeach,
+Appealed, challenged, accused,
+Appertices, displays,
+Araged, enraged, ; confused,
+Araised, raised,
+Arase, obliterate,
+Areared, reared,
+Armyvestal, martial,
+Array, plight, state of affairs,
+Arrayed, situated,
+Arson, saddle-bow,
+Askance, casually,
+Assoiled, absolved,
+Assotted, infatuated,
+Assummon, summon,
+Astonied, amazed, stunned,
+At, of, by,
+At-after, after,
+Attaint, overcome,
+Aumbries, chests,
+Avail (at), at an advantage,
+Avaled, lowered,
+Avaunt, boast,
+Aventred, couched,
+Avised, be advised, take thought,
+Avision, vision,
+Avoid, quit,
+Avoided, got clear off,
+Avow, vow,
+Await of (in), in watch for,
+Awayward, away,
+Awke, sideways,
+
+Bachelors, probationers for knighthood
+Bain, bath,
+Barbican, gate-tower,
+Barget, little ship,
+Battle, division of an army,
+Bawdy, dirty,
+Beams, trumpets,
+Be-closed, enclosed,
+Become, pp., befallen, gone to,
+Bedashed, splashed,
+Behests, promises,
+Behight, promised,
+Beholden (beholding) to, obliged to,
+Behote, promised,
+Benome, deprived, taken away,
+Besants, gold coins,
+Beseek, beseech,
+Beseen, appointed, arrayed,
+Beskift, shove off,
+Bested, beset,
+Betaken, entrusted,
+Betaught, entrusted, recommended,
+Betid, happened,
+Betook, committed, entrusted,
+Bevered, quivered,
+Board, sb., deck,
+Bobaunce, boasting, pride,
+Boishe, bush, branch of a tree,
+Boistous, rough,
+Bole, trunk of a tree,
+Boot, remedy,
+Borrow out, redeem,
+Borrows, pledges,
+Bote, remedy,
+Bound, ready,
+Bourded, jested,
+Bourder, jester,
+Braced, embraced,
+Brachet, little hound,
+Braide, quick movement,
+Brast, burst, break,
+Breaths, breathing holes,
+Brief, shorten,
+Brim, fierce, furious,
+Brised, broke,
+Broached, pierced,
+Broaches, spits,
+Bur, hand-guard of a spear,
+Burble, bubble,
+Burbling, bubbling,
+Burgenetts, buds, blossoms,
+Bushment, ambush,
+By and by, immediately,
+Bywaryed, expended, bestowed,
+
+Canel bone, collar bone,
+Cankered, inveterate,
+Cantel, slice, strip,
+Careful, sorrowful, full of troubles,
+Cast (of bread), loaves baked at the same time,
+Cast, ref: v., propose,
+Cedle, schedule, note,
+Cere, wax over, embalm,; cerel,
+Certes, certainly,
+Chafe, heat, decompose,; chafed, heated,
+Chaflet, platform, scaffold,
+Champaign, open country,
+Chariot (Fr charette), cart,
+Cheer, countenance,  entertainment,
+Chierte, dearness,
+Chrism, anointing oil,
+Clatter, talk confusedly,
+Cleight, clutched,
+Cleped, called,
+Clipping, embracing,
+Cog, small boat,
+Cognisance, badge, mark of distinction,
+Coif, head-piece,
+Comfort, strengthen, help,
+Cominal, common,
+Complished, complete,
+Con, know, be able, ; con thanlt, be grateful,
+Conserve, preserve,
+Conversant, abiding in,
+Cording, agreement,
+Coronal, circlet,
+Cost, side,
+Costed, kept up with,
+Couched, lay,
+Courage, encourage,
+Courtelage, courtyard,
+Covert, sheltered,
+Covetise, covetousness,
+Covin, deceit,
+Cream, oil,
+Credence, faith,
+Croup, crupper,
+Curteist, most courteous,
+
+Daffish, foolish,
+Danger (in), under obligation to, in the power of,
+Dawed, v tr., revived,  intr. dawned,
+Deadly, mortal, human,
+Deal, part, portion,
+Debate, quarrel, strife,
+Debonair, courteous,
+Deceivable, deceitful,
+Defaded, faded,
+Default, fault,
+Defend, forbid,; defended,; forbidden,
+Defoiled, trodden down, fouled, deflowered,
+Degree (win the), rank, superiority,
+Delibered, determined,
+Deliverly, adroitly,
+Departed, divided,
+Departition, departure,
+Dere, harm,
+Descrive, describe,
+Despoiled, stripped,
+Detrenched, cut to pieces,
+Devised, looked carefully at,
+Devoir, duty, service,
+Did off, doffed,
+Dight, prepared,
+Dindled, trembled,
+Disadventure, misfortune,
+Discover, reveal,
+Disherited, disinherited,
+Disparpled, scattered,
+Dispenses, expenses,
+Disperplyd, scattered,
+Dispoiled, stripped,
+Distained, sullied, dishonoured,
+Disworship, shame,
+Dole, gift of alms,
+Dole, sorrow,
+Domineth, dominates, rules,
+Don, gift,
+Doted, foolish,
+Doubted, redoubtable,
+Draughts, privities, secret interviews, recesses,
+Drenched, drowned,
+Dress, make ready,
+Dressed up, raised,
+Dretched, troubled in sleep,
+Dretching, being troubled in sleep,
+Dromounds, war vessels,
+Dure, endure, last,; dured,; during,
+Duresse, bondage, hardship,
+Dwined, dwindled,
+
+Eased, entertained,
+Eft, after, again,
+Eftures, passages,
+Embattled, ranged for battle,
+Embushed, concealed in the woods,
+Eme, uncle,
+Empoison, poison,
+Emprised, undertook,
+Enbraid,
+Enchafe, heat,; enchafed, heated,
+Enchieve, achieve,
+Endlong, alongside of,
+Enewed, painted,
+Enforce, constrain,
+Engine, device,
+Enow, enough,
+Enquest, enterprise,
+Ensured, assured,
+Entermete, intermeddle,
+Errant, wandering,
+Estates, ranks,
+Even hand, at an equality,
+Evenlong, along,
+Everych, each, every one,
+
+Faiter, vagabond,
+Fare, sb., ado, commotion,
+Faren, pp., treated,
+Faute, lack,; fauted, lacked,
+Fealty, oath of fidelity,
+Fear, frighten,
+Feute, trace, track,
+Feuter, set in rest, couch,
+Feutred, set in socket,
+Fiaunce, affiance, promise,
+Flang, flung,; rushed,
+Flatling, prostrate,
+Fleet, float,
+Flemed, put to flight,
+Flittered, fluttered,
+Foiled, defeated, shamed,
+Foined, thrust,
+Foining, thrusting,
+Foins, thrusts,
+Foot-hot, hastily,
+For-bled, spent with bleeding,
+Force (no), no concern,
+Fordeal, advantage,
+Fordo, destroy,; fordid,
+Forecast, preconcerted plot,
+For-fared, worsted,
+Forfend, forbid,
+Forfoughten, weary with fighting,
+Forhewn, hewn to pieces,
+Forjousted, tired with jousting,
+Forthinketh, repents,
+Fortuned, happened,
+Forward, vanguard,
+Forwowmded, sorely wounded,
+Free, noble,
+Freshed,
+Froward, away from,
+
+Gad, wedge or spike of iron,
+Gainest, readiest,
+Gar, cause,
+Gart, compelled,
+Gentily, like a gentleman,
+Gerfalcon, a fine hawk,
+Germane, closely allied,
+Gest, deed, story,
+Gisarm, halberd, battle-axe,
+Glaive, sword,
+Glasting, barking,
+Glatisant, barking, yelping,
+Gobbets, lumps,
+Graithed, made ready,
+Gree, degree, superiority,
+Greed, pp., pleased, content,
+Grescs, steps,
+Grimly, ugly,
+Grovelling, on his face,
+Guerdonless, without reward,
+Guise, fashion,
+
+Habergeon, hauberk with leggings attached,
+Hair, a hair-shirt,
+Hale and how, a sailor’s cry,
+Halp, helped,
+Halsed, embraced,
+Halsing, embracing,
+Handfast, betrothed,
+Handsel, earnest-money,
+Hangers, testicles,
+Harbingers, messengers sent to prepare lodgings,
+Harness, armour,
+Hart of greese, fat deer,
+Hauberk, coat of mail,
+Haut, high, noble,
+Hauteyn, haughty,
+Heavy, sad,
+Hete, command,
+Hide, skin,
+Hied, hurried,
+High (on), aloud,
+Higher hand, the uppermost,
+Hight, called,
+Hilled, covered, concealed,
+Holden, held,
+Holp, helped,
+Holts, woods,
+Hough-bone, back part of kneejoint,
+Houselled, to be given the Eucharist,
+Hoved, hovered, waited about,
+Hurled, dashed, staggered,; hurling,
+Hurtle, dash,
+
+Incontinent, forthwith,
+Ind, dark blue,
+Infellowship, join in fellowship,
+In like, alike,
+Intermit, interpose,
+
+Japer, jester,
+Japes, jests,
+Jesseraunt, a short cuirass,
+
+Keep, sb., care,
+Keep, s., care, reck,
+Kemps, champions,
+Kind, nature,
+Kindly, natural,
+Knights parters, marshals,
+Know, acknowledge,
+Knowledging, acknowledgment, confession,
+
+Lain, conceal,
+Langering, sauntering,
+Lapped, took in her lap,
+Large, generous,
+Largeness, liberality,
+Laton, latten, brass,
+Laund, waste plain,
+Layne, conceal,
+Lazar-cot, leper-house,
+Learn, teach,
+Lears, cheeks,
+Leaved, leafy,
+Lecher, fornicator,
+Leech, physician,
+Leman, lover,
+Let, caused to,
+Let, hinder,
+Lewdest, most ignorant,
+Licours lecherous,
+Lief, dear,
+Liefer, more gladly,
+Lieve, believe,
+Limb-meal, limb from limb,
+List, desire, pleasure,
+Lithe, joint,
+Longing unto, belonging to,
+Long on (upon), because of,
+Loos, praise,
+Lotless, without a share,
+Loveday, day for. settling disputes,
+Loving, praising,
+Lunes, leashes, strings,
+Lusk, lubber,
+Lusts, inclinations,
+
+Maims, wounds,
+Makeless, matchless,
+Makers, authors, poets,
+Mas,ease, discomfort,
+Mal engine, evil design,
+Mal-fortune, ill-luck, mishap,
+Marches, borders,
+Mass-penny, offering at mass for the dead,
+Matche old, machicolated, with holes for defence,
+Maugre, sb., despite,
+Measle, disease,
+Medled, mingled,
+Medley, melee, general encounter,
+Meiny, retinue,
+Mickle, much,
+Minever, ermine,
+Mischieved, hurt,
+Mischievous, painful,
+Miscorr fort, discomfort,
+Miscreature, unbeliever,
+Missay, revile,; missaid,
+Mo, more,
+More and less, rich and poor,
+Motes, notes on a horn,
+Mount~ lance, amount of, extent,
+Much, great,
+
+Naked, unarmed,
+Namely, especially,
+Ne, nor,
+Near-hand, nearly,; near,
+Needly, needs, on your own compulsion,
+Nesh, soft, tender,
+Nigh-hand, nearly,
+Nill, will not,
+Nilt, will not,
+Nis, ne is, is not,
+Nist, ne wist, knew not,
+Noblesse, nobleness,
+Nobley, nobility, splendour,
+Noised, reported,
+Nold, would not,
+Noseling, on his nose,
+Not for then, nevertheless,
+Notoyrly, notoriously,
+Noyous, hurtful,
+
+Obeissance, obedience,
+Or, before,
+Orgule, haughtiness,
+Orgulist, haughtiest,
+Orgulite, pride, arrogance,
+Orgulous, proud,
+Other, or,
+Ouches, jewels,
+Ought, owned,
+Outcept, except,
+Outher, or,
+Out-taken, except,
+Over-evening, last night,
+Overget, overtake,
+Overhylled, covered,
+Over-led, domineered over,
+Overlong, the length of,
+Overslip, pass,
+Overthwart, adj., cross,
+Overthwart, sb., mischance,
+Overthwart and endlong, by the breadth and length,
+
+Painture, painting,
+Paitrelles, breastplate of a horse,
+Paltocks, short coats,
+Parage, descent,
+Pareil, like,
+Passing, surpassingly,
+Paynim, pagan,
+Pensel, pennon,
+Perclos, partition,
+Perdy, par Dieu,
+Perigot, falcon,
+Perish, destroy,
+Peron, tombstone,
+Pight, pitched,
+Pike, steal away,
+Piked, stole,
+Pillers, plunderers,
+Pilling, plundering,
+Pleasaunce, pleasure,
+Plenour, complete,
+Plump, sb., cluster,
+Pointling, aiming,
+Pont, bridge,
+Port, gate,
+Posseded, possessed,
+Potestate, governor,
+Precessours, predecessors,
+Press, throng,
+Pretendeth, belongs to,
+Pricker, hard rider,
+Pricking, spurring,
+Prime, A.M.,
+Prise, capture,
+Puissance, power,
+Purfle, trimming,
+Purfled, embroidered,
+Purvey, provide,
+
+Quarrels, arrowheads,
+Questing, barking,
+Quick, alive,
+Quit, repaid,; acquitted, behaved,
+
+Raced (rased), tore,
+Rack (of bulls), herd,
+Raines, a town in Brittany famous for its cloth,
+Ramping, raging,
+Range, rank, station,
+Ransacked, searched,
+Rashed, fell headlong,
+Rashing, rushing,
+Rasing, rushing,
+Rasure,
+Raundon, impetuosity,
+Rear, raise,
+Rechate, note of recall,
+Recomforted, comforted, cheered,
+Recounter, rencontre, encounter,
+Recover, rescue,
+Rede, advise, ; sb., counsel,
+Redounded, glanced back,
+Religion, religious order,
+Reneye, deny,
+Report, refer,
+Resemblaunt; semblance,
+Retrayed, drew back,
+Rightwise, rightly,
+Rivage, shore,
+Romed, roared,
+Roted, practised,
+Rove, cleft,
+Rownsepyk, a branch,
+
+Sacring, consecrating,
+Sad, serious,
+Sadly, heartily, earnestly,
+Salle, room,
+Samite, silk stuff with gold or silver
+threads,
+Sangreal, Holy Grail,
+Sarps, girdles,
+Saw, proverb,
+Scathes, harms, hurts,
+icripture, writing,
+Search, probe wounds,
+Selar, canopy,
+Semblable, like,
+Semblant, semblance,
+Sendal, fine cloth,
+Sennight, week,
+Servage, slavery,
+Sewer, officer who set on dishes and tasted them,
+Shaft-mon, handbreadth,
+Shaw, thicket,
+Sheef, thrust,
+Sheer-Thursday, Thursday in Holy Week,
+Shend, harm,
+Shenship, disgrace,
+Shent, undone, blamed,
+Shour, attack,
+Shrew, rascal,
+Shrewd, knavish,
+Sib, akin to,
+Sideling, sideways,
+Siege, seat,
+Signified, likened,
+Siker, sure,
+Sikerness, assurance,
+Sith, since,
+Sithen, afterwards, since,
+Skift, changed,
+Slade, valley,
+Slake, glen,
+Soil (to go to), hunting term for taking the water,
+Sonds, messages,
+Sort, company,
+Sperd, bolted,
+Spere, ask, inquire,
+Spered, asked,
+Sperhawk, sparrowhawk,
+Sprent, sprinkled,
+Stale, station,
+Stark, thoroughly,
+Stead, place,
+Stert, started, rose quickly,
+Steven, appointment,; steven ser. appointment made,
+Steven, voice,
+Stigh, path,
+Stilly, silently,
+Stint, fixed revenue,
+Stonied, astonished,; became confused,
+Stour, battle,
+Strain, race, descent,
+Strait, narrow,
+Straked, blew a horn,
+Sue, pursue,
+Sued, pursued,
+Surcingles, saddle girths,
+Swang, swung,
+Sweven, dream,
+Swough, sound of wind,
+
+Talent, desire,
+Tallages, taxes,
+Tallies, taxes,
+Tamed, crushed,
+Tatches, qualities,
+Tene, sorrow,
+Term, period of time,
+Thilk, that same,
+Tho, then,
+Thrang, pushed,
+Thrulled, pushed,
+Till, to,
+To-brast, burst,
+To-fore, before,
+To-morn, to-morrow,
+Took, gave,
+To-rove, broke up,
+To-shivered, broken to pieces,
+Traced, advanced and retreated,
+Trains, devices, wiles,
+Trasing, pressing forward,
+Travers (met at), came across,
+Traverse, slantwise,
+Traversed, moved sideways,
+Tray, grief,
+Treatise, treaty,
+Tree, timber,
+Trenchant, cutting, sharp,
+Tres:, hunting term,
+Truage, tribute,
+Trussed, packed,
+
+Ubblie, wafer, Host,
+Umbecast, cast about,
+Umberere, the part of the helmet which shaded the eyes,
+Umbre, shade,
+Unavised, thoughtlessly,
+Uncouth, strange,
+Underne, - A.M.,
+Ungoodly, rudely,
+Unhappy, unlucky,
+Unhilled, uncovered,
+Unr the, scarcely,
+Unsicker, unstable,
+Unwimpled, uncovered,
+Unwrast, untwisted, unbound,
+Upright, flat on the back,
+Up-so-down, upside down,
+Ure, usage,
+Utas, octave of a festival,
+Utterance, uttermost,
+
+Varlet, servant,
+Venery, hunting,
+Ven ails, breathing holes,
+Villain, man of low birth,
+Visors, the perforated parts of helmets,
+Voided, slipped away from,
+
+Wagging, shaking,
+Waited, watched,
+Waits, watches,
+Wallop, gallop,
+Wanhope, despair,
+Wap, ripple,
+Ware, aware,
+Warison, reward,
+Warn, forbid, refuse,
+Weeds, garments,
+Weltered, rolled about,
+Wend, thought,
+Wer-wolf, a man turned into a wolf by magic,
+Where, whereas,
+Wide-where, over wide space,
+Wield, possess, have power over,
+Wield himself, come to himself,
+Wight, brave, strong,
+Wightly, swiftly,
+Wildsome, desolate,
+Wimpled, with the head covered,
+Win, make way,
+Wite, v., blame,
+Within-forth, on the inside,
+Without-forth, on the outside,
+Wittiest, cleverest,
+Wittily, cleverly,
+Witting, knowledge,
+Wold or nold, would or would not,
+Wonder, adj., wondrous,
+Wonder, adv., wondrously,
+Wonderly, wonderfully,
+Wood, mad,
+Woodness, madness,
+Wood shaw, thicket of the wood,
+Worship, honour,
+Worshipped, cause to be honoured,
+Worts, roots,
+Wot, know,
+Wrack, destruction,
+Wroken, wreaked,
+Wrothe, twisted,
+
+Yede, ran,
+Yelden, yielded,
+Yerde, stick, stem,
+Yode, went,
+Yolden, yielded,
+Y-wis, certainly,
+
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+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Le Morte D’Arthur, Volume I (of II),
+by Thomas Malory
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 1251 ***