Le Morte DarthurPart 1 out of 11Scanned with OmniPage Professional OCR software donated by Caere Corporation, 1-800-535-7226. Contact Mike Lough Le Morte Darthur Sir Thomas Malory's Book of King Arthur and of his Noble Knights of the Round Table IN TWO VOLS.--VOL. II Content of Chapters. here follow the Chapters of the Tenth Book.> How Sir Tristram jousted, and smote down King Arthur, because he told him not the cause why he bare that shield . Chap. i. How Sir Tristram saved Sir Palomides' life, and how they promised to fight together within a fortnight . . Chap. ii. How Sir Tristram sought a strong knight that had smitten him down, and many other knights of the Round Table . Chap. iii. How Sir Tristram smote down Sir Sagramore le Desirous and Sir Dodinas le Savage . . . . Chap. iv. How Sir Tristram met at the peron with Sir Launcelot, and how they fought together unknown . . . . Chap. v. How Sir Launcelot brought Sir Tristram to the court, and of the joy that the king and other made for the coming of Sir Tristram . . . . . . Chap. vi. How for the despite of Sir Tristram King Mark came with two knights into England, and how he slew one of the knights Chap. vii. How the king came to a fountain where he found Sir Lamorak complaining for the love of King Lot's wife . Chap. viii. How King Mark, Sir Lamorak, and Sir Dinadan came to a castle, and how King Mark was known there . . Chap. ix. How Sir Berluse met with King Mark, and how Sir Dinadan took his part . . . . . . Chap. x. How King Mark mocked Sir Dinadan, and how they met with six knights of the Round Table . . . Chap. xi. How the six knights sent Sir Dagonet to joust with King Mark, and how King Mark refused him . . . Chap. xii. How Sir Palomides by adventure met King Mark flying, and how he overthrew Dagonet and other knights . . Chap. xiii. How King Mark and Sir Dinadan heard Sir Palomides making great sorrow and mourning for La Beale Isoud . . Chap. xiv. How the king had slain Amant wrongfully to-fore King Arthur, and Sir Launcelot fetched King Mark to King Arthur . Chap. xv. How Sir Dinadan told Sir Palomides of the battle between Sir Launcelot and Sir Tristram . . . Chap. xvi. How Sir Lamorak jousted with divers knights of the castle wherein was Morgan le Fay . . . . Chap. xvii. How Sir Palomides would have jousted for Sir Lamorak with the knights of the castle . . . . Chap. xviii. How Sir Lamorak jousted with Sir Palomides, and hurt him grievously . . . . . . Chap xix. How it was told Sir Launcelot that Dagonet chased King Mark, and how a knight overthrew him and six knights . Chap. xx. How King Arthur let do cry a jousts, and how Sir Lamorak came in, and overthrew Sir Gawaine and many other . Chap. xxi. How King Arthur made King Mark to be accorded with Sir Tristram, and how they departed toward Cornwall . . Chap. xxii. How Sir Percivale was made knight of King Arthur, and how a dumb maid spake, and brought him to the Round Table Chap. xxiii. How Sir Lamorak lay with King Lot's wife, and how Sir Gaheris slew her which was his own mother . . . Chap. xxiv. How Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred met with a knight fleeing, and how they both were overthrown, and of Sir Dinadan Chap. xxv. How King Arthur, the Queen, and Launcelot received letters out of Cornwall, and of the answer again . . Chap. xxvi. How Sir Launcelot was wroth with the letter that he received from King Mark, and of Dinadan which made a lay of King Mark Chap. xxvii. How Sir Tristram was hurt, and of a war made to King Mark; and of Sir Tristram how he promised to rescue him . Chap. xxviii. How Sir Tristram overcame the battle, and how Elias desired a man to fight body for body . . . . Chap. xxix. How Sir Elias and Sir Tristram fought together for the truage, and how Sir Tristram slew Elias in the field . . Chap. xxx. How at a great feast that King Mark made an harper came and sang the lay that Dinadan had made . . . Chap. xxxi. How King Mark slew by treason his brother Boudwin, for good service that he had done to him . . . Chap. xxxii. How Anglides, Boudwin's wife, escaped with her young son, Alisander le Orphelin, and came to the Castle of Arundel . Chap. xxxiii. How Anglides gave the bloody doublet to Alisander, her son, the same day that he was made knight, and the charge withal Chap. xxxiv. How it was told to King Mark of Sir Alisander, and how he would have slain Sir Sadok for saving of his life . . Chap. xxxv. How Sir Alisander won the prize at a tournament, and of Morgan le Fay: and how he fought with Sir Malgrin, and slew him Chap. xxxvi. How Queen Morgan le Fay had Alisander in her castle, and how she healed his wounds . . . . Chap xxxvii. How Alisander was delivered from the queen Morgan le Fay by the mean of a damosel . . . . Chap. xxxviii. How Alisander met with Alice la Beale Pilgrim, and how he jousted with two knights; and after of him and of Sir Mordred Chap. xxxix. How Sir Galahalt did do cry a jousts in Surluse, and Queen Guenever's knights should joust against all that would come . Chap. xl. How Sir Launcelot fought in the tournament, and how Sir Palomides did arms there for a damosel . . . Chap. xli. How Sir Galahalt and Sir Palomides fought together, and of Sir Dinadan and Sir Galahalt . . . Chap. xlii. How Sir Archade appealed Sir Palomides of treason, and how Sir Palomides slew him . . . . Chap. xliii. Of the third day, and how Sir Palomides jousted with Sir Lamorak and other things . . . . . Chap. xliv. Of the fourth day, and of many great feats of arms . Chap. xlv. Of the fifth day, and how Sir Lamorak behaved him . Chap. xlvi. How Palomides fought with Corsabrin for a lady, and how Palomides slew Corsabrin . . . . Chap. xlvii. Of the sixth day, and what was then done . . Chap. xlviii. Of the seventh battle, and how Sir Launcelot, being disguised like a maid, smote down Sir Dinadan . . . Chap. xlix. How by treason Sir Tristram was brought to a tournament for to have been slain, and how he was put in prison . . Chap. l. How King Mark let do counterfeit letters from the Pope, and how Sir Percivale delivered Sir Tristram out of prison . Chap. li. How Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud came into England, and how Sir Launcelot brought them to Joyous Gard . Chap. lii. How by the counsel of Beale Isoud Tristram rode armed, and how he met with Sir Palomides . . . Chap. liii. Of Sir Palomides, and how he met with Sir Bleoberis and with Sir Ector, and of Sir Percivale . . . Chap. liv. How Sir Tristram met with Sir Dinadan, and of their devices, and what he said to Sir Gawaine's brethren . . Chap. lv. How Sir Tristram smote down Sir Agravaine and Sir Gaheris, and how Sir Dinadan was sent for by La Beale Isoud . Chap. lvi. How Sir Dinadan met with Sir Tristram, and with jousting with Sir Palomides, Sir Dinadan knew him . . Chap. lvii. How they approached the Castle Lonazep, and of other devices of the death of Sir Lamorak . . . . Chap. lviii. How they came to Humber bank, and how they found a ship there, wherein lay the body of King Hermance . . Chap. lix. How Sir Tristram with his fellowship came and were with an host which after fought with Sir Tristram; and other matters Chap. lx. How Palomides went for to fight with two brethren for the death of King Hermance . . . . . Chap. lxi. The copy of the letter written for to revenge the king's death, and how Sir Palomides fought for to have the battle . Chap. lxii. Of the preparation of Sir Palomides and the two brethren that should fight with him . . . . . Chap. lxiii. Of the battle between Sir Palomides and the two brethren, and how the two brethren were slain . . . Chap. lxiv. How Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides met Breuse Saunce Pit how Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud went unto Lonazep Chap. lxv. How Sir Palomides jousted with Sir Galihodin, and after with Sir Gawaine, and smote them down . . . Chap. lxvi. How Sir Tristram and his fellowship came unto the tournament of Lonazep; and of divers jousts and matters . Chap. lxvii. How Sir Tristram and his fellowship jousted, and of the noble feats that they did in that tourneying . . . Chap. lxviii. How Sir Tristram was unhorsed and smitten down by Sir Launcelot, and after that Sir Tristram smote down King Arthur Chap. lxix. How Sir Tristram changed his harness and it was all red, and how he demeaned him, and how Sir Palomides slew Launcelot's horse Chap. lxx. How Sir Launcelot said to Sir Palomides, and how the prize of that day was given to Sir Palomides . . . Chap. lxxi. How Sir Dinadan provoked Sir Tristram to do well . Chap. lxxii How King Arthur and Sir Launcelot came to see La Beale Isoud, and how Palomides smote down King Arthur . . Chap. lxxiii. How the second day Palomides forsook Sir Tristram, and went to the contrary party against him . . . Chap. lxxiv. How Sir Tristram departed out of the field, and awaked Sir Dinadan, and changed his array into black . . . Chap. lxxv. How Sir Palomides changed his shield and armour for to hurt Sir Tristram, and how Sir Launcelot did to Sir Tristram Chap. lxxvi. How Sir Tristram departed with La Beale Isoud, and how Palomides followed and excused him . . . Chap. lxxvii How King Arthur and Sir Launcelot came unto their pavilions as they sat at supper, and of Palomides . . Chap. lxxviii. How Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides did the next day, and how King Arthur was unhorsed . . . . Chap. lxxix. How Sir Tristram turned to King Arthur's side, and how Sir Palomides would not . . . . Chap. lxxx. How Sir Bleoberis and Sir Ector reported to Queen Guenever of the beauty of La Beale Isoud . . . . Chap. lxxxi. How Epinogris complained by a well, and how Sir Palomides came and found him, and of their both sorrows . . Chap. lxxxii How Sir Palomides brought to Sir Epinogris his lady; and how Sir Palomides and Sir Safere were assailed . . Chap. lxxxiii. [How Sir Palomides and Sir Safere conducted Sir Epinogris to his castle, and of other adventures] . . . Chap. lxxxiv. How Sir Tristram made him ready to rescue Sir Palomides, but Sir Launcelot rescued him or he came . . Chap. lxxxv How Sir Tristram and Sir Launcelot, with Palomides, came to Joyous Gard; and of Palomides and Sir Tristram . Chap. lxxxvi. How there was a day set between Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides for to fight, and how Sir Tristram was hurt . . Chap. lxxxvii. How Sir Palomides kept his day for to have foughten, but Sir Tristram might not come; and other things . Chap. lxxxviii. Here follow the Chapters of the Eleventh Book How Sir Launcelot rode on his adventure, and how he holp a dolorous lady from her pain, and how that he fought with a dragon Chap. i. How Sir Launcelot came to Pelles, and of the Sangreal, and how he begat Galahad on Elaine, King Pelles' daughter . Chap. ii. How Sir Launcelot was displeased when he knew that he had lain by Elaine, and how she was delivered of Galahad . Chap. iii. How Sir Bors came to Dame Elaine and saw Galahad, and how he was fed with the Sangreal . . . Chap. iv. How Sir Bors made Sir Pedivere to yield him, and of marvellous adventures that he had, and how he achieved them Chap. v. How Sir Bors departed; and how Sir Launcelot was rebuked of Queen Guenever, and of his excuse . . . Chap. vi. How Dame Elaine, Galahad's mother, came in great estate unto Camelot, and how Sir Launcelot behaved him there Chap. vii. How Dame Brisen by enchantment brought Sir Launcelot to Dame Elaine's bed, and how Queen Guenever rebuked him Chap. viii. How Dame Elaine was commanded by Queen Guenever to void the court, and how Sir Launcelot became mad . Chap. ix. What sorrow Queen Guenever made for Sir Launcelot, and how he was sought by knights of his kin . . . Chap. x. How a servant of Sir Aglovale's was slain, and what vengeance Sir Aglovale and Sir Percivale did therefore . . Chap. xi. How Sir Percivale departed secretly from his brother, and how he loosed a knight bound with a chain, and other doings Chap. xii. How Sir Percivale met with Sir Ector, and how they fought long, and each had almost slain other . . . Chap. xiii. How by miracle they were both made whole by the coming of the holy vessel of Sangreal . . . . Chap. xiv. Here follow the Chapters of the Tenth Book How Sir Launcelot in his madness took a sword and fought with a knight, and after leapt into a bed . . . Chap. i. How Sir Launcelot was carried in an horse litter, and how Sir Launcelot rescued Sir Bliant, his host . . Chap. ii. How Sir Launcelot fought against a boar and slew him, and how he was hurt, and brought to an hermitage . . Chap. iii. How Sir Launcelot was known by Dame Elaine, and was borne into a chamber and after healed by the Sangreal . Chap. iv. How Sir Launcelot, after that he was whole and had his mind, he was ashamed, and how that Elaine desired a castle for him Chap. v. How Sir Launcelot came into the Joyous Isle, and there he named himself Le Chevaler Mal Fet . . . Chap. vi. Of a great tourneying in the Joyous Isle, and how Sir Percivale and Sir Ector came thither, and Sir Percivale fought with him Chap. vii. How each of them knew other, and of their courtesy, and how his brother Ector came to him, and of their joy . Chap. viii. How Sir Bors and Sir Lionel came to King Brandegore, and how Sir Bors took his son Helin le Blank, and of Sir Launcelot Chap. ix. How Sir Launcelot with Sir Percivale and Sir Ector came to the court, and of the great joy of him . . . Chap. x. How La Beale Isoud counselled Sir Tristram to go unto the court, to the great feast of Pentecost . . . Chap. xi. How Sir Tristram departed unarmed and met with Sir Palomides, and how they smote each other, and how Palomides forbare him Chap. xii. How Sir Tristram gat him harness of a knight which was hurt, and how he overthrew Sir Palomides . . . Chap. xiii. How Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides fought long together, and after accorded, and Sir Tristram made him to be christened Chap. xiv. Here follow the Chapters of the Thirteenth Book How at the vigil of the Feast of Pentecost entered into the hall before King Arthur a damosel, and desired Sir Launcelot for to come and dub a knight, and how he went with her . Chap. i. How the letters were found written in the Siege Perilous, and of the marvellous adventure of the sword in a stone . Chap. ii. How Sir Gawaine assayed to draw out the sword, and how an old man brought in Galahad . . . . Chap. iii. How the old man brought Galahad to the Siege Perilous and set him therein, and how all the knights marvelled . Chap. iv. How King Arthur shewed the stone hoving on the water to Galahad, and how he drew out the sword . . . Chap. v. How King Arthur had all the knights together for to joust in the meadow beside Camelot or they departed . . Chap. vi. How the queen desired to see Galahad; and how after, all the knights were replenished with the Holy Sangreal, and how they avowed the enquest of the same . . . . Chap. vii How great sorrow was made of the king and the queen and ladies for the departing of the knights, and how they departed Chap. viii. How Galahad gat him a shield, and how they sped that presumed to take down the said shield . . . Chap. ix. How Galahad departed with the shield, and how King Evelake had received the shield of Joseph of Aramathie . Chap. x. How Joseph made a cross on the white shield with his blood, and how Galahad was by a monk brought to a tomb . Chap. xi. Of the marvel that Sir Galahad saw and heard in the tomb, and how he made Melias knight . . . . Chap. xii. Of the adventure that Melias had, and how Galahad revenged him, and how Melias was carried into an abbey . Chap. xiii. How Galahad departed, and how he was commanded to go to the Castle of Maidens to destroy the wicked custom . Chap. xiv. How Sir Galahad fought with the knights of the castle, and destroyed the wicked custom . . . . Chap. xv. How Sir Gawaine came to the abbey for to follow Galahad, and how he was shriven to a hermit . . . Chap. xvi. How Sir Galahad met with Sir Launcelot and Sir Percivale, and smote them down, and departed from them . . Chap. xvii. How Sir Launcelot, half sleeping and half waking, saw a sick man borne in a litter, and how he was healed by the Sangreal Chap. xviii. How a voice spake to Sir Launcelot, and how he found his horse and his helm borne away, and after went afoot . Chap. xix. How Sir Launcelot was shriven, and what sorrow he made, and of good ensamples which were shewed him . . Chap. xx. here follow the Chapters of the Fourteenth Book How Sir Percivale came to a recluse and asked her counsel, and how she told him that she was his aunt . . Chap. i. How Merlin likened the Round Table to the world, and how the knights that should achieve the Sangreal should be known Chap. ii. How Sir Percivale came into a monastery, where he found King Evelake, which was an old man . . . Chap. iii. How Sir Percivale saw many men of arms bearing a dead knight, and how he fought against them . . . Chap. iv. How a yeoman desired him to get again an horse, and how Sir Percivale's hackney was slain, and how he gat an horse. Chap. v. Of the great danger that Sir Percivale was in by his horse, and how he saw a serpent and a lion fight . . . Chap. vi. Of the advision that Sir Percivale saw, and how his advision was expounded, and of his lion . . . Chap. vii. How Sir Percivale saw a ship coming to him-ward, and how the lady of the ship told him of her disheritance . . Chap. viii. How Sir Percivale promised her help, and how he required her of love, and how he was saved from the fiend . . Chap. ix. How Sir Percivale for penance rove himself through the thigh; and how she was known for the devil . . . Chap. x. here follow the Chapters of the Fifteenth Book which is of Sir Launcelot. How Sir Launcelot came into a chapel, where he found dead, in a white shirt, a man of religion, of an hundred winter old . Chap i. Of a dead man, how men would have hewn him, and it would not be, and how Sir Launcelot took the hair of the dead man Chap. ii. Of an advision that Sir Launcelot had, and how he told it to an hermit, and desired counsel of him . . . Chap. iii. How the hermit expounded to Sir Launcelot his advision, and told him that Sir Galahad was his son. . . Chap. iv. How Sir Launcelot jousted with many knights, and how he was taken Chap. v. How Sir Launcelot told his advision to a woman, and how she expounded it to him . . . . Chap. vi. here follow the Chapters of the Sixteenth Book How Sir Gawaine was nigh weary of the quest of the Sangreal, and of his marvellous dream . . . . Chap. i. Of the advision of Sir Ector, and how he jousted with Sir Uwaine les Avoutres, his sworn brother . . . Chap. ii. How Sir Gawaine and Sir Ector came to an hermitage to be confessed, and how they told to the hermit their advisions . Chap. iii. How the hermit expounded their advision . . Chap. iv. Of the good counsel that the hermit gave to them . Chap. v. How Sir Bors met with an hermit, and how he was confessed to him, and of his penance enjoined to him . . Chap. vi. How Sir Bors was lodged with a lady, and how he took upon him for to get against a champion for her land . . Chap. vii. Of a vision which Sir Bors had that night, and how he fought and overcame his adversary . . . . Chap. viii. How the lady was restored to her lands by the battle of Sir Bors, and of his departing, and how he met Sir Lionel taken and beaten with thorns, and also of a maid which should have been devoured Chap. ix. How Sir Bors left to rescue his brother, and rescued the damosel and how it was told him that Lionel was dead . Chap. x. How Sir Bors told his dream to a priest, which he had dreamed, and of the counsel that the priest gave to him . . Chap. xi. How the devil in a woman's likeness would have had Sir Bors to have lain by her, and how by God's grace he escaped . Chap. xii. Of the holy communication of an abbot to Sir Bors, and how the abbot counselled him . . . . Chap. xiii. How Sir Bors met with his brother Sir Lionel, and how Sir Lionel would have slain Sir Bors . . . . Chap. xiv. How Sir Colgrevance fought against Sir Lionel for to save Sir Bors and how the hermit was slain . . . Chap. xv. How Sir Lionel slew Sir Colgrevance, and how after he would have slain Sir Bors . . . . . Chap. xvi. How there came a voice which charged Sir Bors to touch him not, and a cloud that came between them . . Chap. xvii. here follow the Chapters of the Seventeenth Book How Sir Galahad fought at a tournament, and how he was known of Sir Gawaine and of Sir Ector de Maris . . Chap. i. How Sir Galahad rode with a damosel, and came to the ship whereas ir Bors and Sir Percivale were in . . Chap. ii. How Sir Galahad entered into the ship, and of a fair bed therein, with other marvellous things, and of a sword . . Chap. iii. Of the marvels of the sword and of the scabbard . Chap. iv. How King Pelles was smitten through both thighs because he drew the sword, and other marvellous histories . . Chap. v. How Solomon took David's sword by the counsel of his wife, and of other matters marvellous . . . . Chap. vi. A wonderful tale of King Solomon and his wife . Chap. vii. How Galahad and his fellows came to a castle, and how they were fought withal, and how they slew their adversaries, and other matters . . . . . . Chap. viii. How the three knights, with Percivale's sister, came into the waste forest, and of an hart and four lions, and other things Chap. ix. How they were desired of a strange custom, the which they would not obey; wherefore they fought and slew many knights Chap. x. How Sir Percivale's sister bled a dish full of blood for to heal a lady, wherefore she died; and how that the body was put in a ship Chap. xi. How Galahad and Percivale found in a castle many tombs of maidens that had bled to death . . . . Chap. xii. How Sir Launcelot entered into the ship where Sir Percivale's sister lay dead, and how he met with Sir Galahad, his son Chap. xiii. How a knight brought to Sir Galahad an horse, and bade him come from his father, Sir Launcelot . . . Chap. xiv. How Sir Launcelot was to-fore the door of the chamber wherein the Holy Sangreal was . . . . Chap. xv. How Sir Launcelot had lain four-and-twenty days and as many nights as a dead man, and other divers matters . . Chap. xvi. How Sir Launcelot returned towards Logris, and of other adventures which he saw in the way . . . . Chap. xvii. How Galahad came to King Mordrains, and of other matters and adventures . . . . . Chap. xviii. How Sir Percivale and Sir Bors met with Sir Galahad, and how they came to the castle of Carbonek, and other matters . Chap. xix. How Galahad and his fellows were fed of the Holy Sangreal, and how Our Lord appeared to them, and other things . Chap. xx. How Galahad anointed with the blood of the spear the Maimed King, and of other adventures . . . Chap. xxi. How they were fed with the Sangreal while they were in prison, and how Galahad was made king . . . Chap xxii. Of the sorrow that Percivale and Bors made when Galahad was dead: and of Percivale how he died, and other matters . Chap. xxiii. here follow the Chapters of the Eighteenth Book. Of the joy King Arthur and the queen had of the achievement of the Sangreal; and how Launcelot fell to his old love again Chap. i. How the queen commanded Sir Launcelot to avoid the court, and of the sorrow that Launcelot made . . . Chap. ii. How at a dinner that the queen made there was a knight enpoisoned, which Sir Mador laid on the queen . . Chap. iii. How Sir Mador appeached the queen of treason, and there was no knight would fight for her at the first time . Chap. iv. How the queen required Sir Bors to fight for her, and how he granted upon condition; and how he warned Sir Launcelot thereof Chap. v. How at the day Sir Bors made him ready for to fight for the queen; and when he would fight how another discharged him Chap. vi. How Sir Launcelot fought against Sir Mador for the queen, and how he overcame Sir Mador, and discharged the queen Chap. vii. How the truth was known by the Maiden of the Lake, and of divers other matters . . . . . Chap. viii. How Sir Launcelot rode to Astolat, and received a sleeve to wear upon his helm at the request of a maid . . . Chap. ix. How the tourney began at Winchester, and what knights were at the Jousts; and other things . . . . Chap. x. How Sir Launcelot and Sir Lavaine entered in the field against them of King Arthur's court, and how Launcelot was hurt Chap. xi. How Sir Launcelot and Sir Lavaine departed out of the field, and in what jeopardy Launcelot was . . . Chap. xii. How Launcelot was brought to an hermit for to be healed of his wound, and of other matters . . . Chap. xiii. How Sir Gawaine was lodged with the lord of Astolat, and there had knowledge that it was Sir Launcelot that bare the red sleeve Of the sorrow that Sir Bors had for the hurt of Launcelot; and of the anger that the queen had because Launcelot bare the sleeve Chap. xv. How Sir Bors sought Launcelot and found him in the hermitage, and of the lamentation between them . . . Chap. xvi. How Sir Launcelot armed him to assay if he might bear arms, and how his wounds brast out again . . . Chap. xvii. How Sir Bors returned and told tidings of Sir Launcelot; and of the tourney, and to whom the prize was given . Chap. xviii. Of the great lamentation of the Fair Maid of Astolat when Launcelot should depart, and how she died for his love . Chap. xix. How the corpse of the Maid of Astolat arrived to-fore King Arthur, and of the burying, and how Sir Launcelot offered the mass-penny Chap. xx. Of great jousts done all a Christmas, and of a great jousts and tourney ordained by King Arthur, and of Sir Launcelot . Chap. xxi. How Launcelot after that he was hurt of a gentlewoman came to an hermit, and of other matters . . . Chap. xxii. How Sir Launcelot behaved him at the jousts, and other men also Chap. xxiii How King Arthur marvelled much of the jousting in the field, and how he rode and found Sir Launcelot . . Chap. xxiv. How true love is likened to summer . . . Chap. xxv. here follow the Chapters of the Nineteenth Book How Queen Guenever rode a-Maying with certain knights of the Round Table and clad all in green . . Chap. i. How Sir Meliagrance took the queen and all her knights, which were sore hurt in fighting . . . . Chap. ii. How Sir Launcelot had word how the queen was taken, and how Sir Meliagrance laid a bushment for Launcelot . Chap. iii. How Sir Launcelot's horse was slain, and how Sir Launcelot rode in a cart for to rescue the queen . . . Chap. iv. How Sir Meliagrance required forgiveness of the queen, and how she appeased Sir Launcelot; and other matters . Chap. v. How Sir Launcelot came in the night to the queen and lay with her, and how Sir Meliagrance appeached the queen of treason Chap. vi. How Sir Launcelot answered for the queen, and waged battle against Sir Meliagrance; and how Sir Launcelot was taken in a trap Chap. vii. How Sir Launcelot was delivered out of prison by a lady, and took a white courser and came for to keep his day . Chap. viii. How Sir Launcelot came the same time that Sir Meliagrance abode him in the field and dressed him to battle . Chap. ix. How Sir Urre came into Arthur's court for to be healed of his wounds, and how King Arthur would begin to handle him. Chap. x. How King Arthur handled Sir Urre, and after him many other knights of the Round Table . . . . Chap. xi. How Sir Launcelot was commanded by Arthur to handle his wounds, and anon he was all whole, and how they thanked God Chap. xii. How there was a party made of an hundred knights against an hundred knights, and of other matters . . . Chap. xiii. here followeth the book of the Piteous History which is of the Morte or Death of King Aurthur, and the Chapters of the Twentieth Book. How Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred were busy upon Sir Gawaine for to disclose the love between Sir Launcelot and Queen Guenever Chap. i. How Sir Agravaine disclosed their love to King Arthur, and how King Arthur gave them licence to take him . . Chap. ii. How Sir Launcelot was espied in the queen's chamber, and how Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred came with twelve knights to slay him Chap. iii. How Sir Launcelot slew Sir Colgrevance, and armed him in his harness, and after slew Sir Agravaine, and twelve of his fellows Chap. iv. How Sir Launcelot came to Sir Bors, and told him how he had sped, and in what adventure he had been, and how he escaped Chap. v. Of the counsel and advice that was taken by Sir Launcelot and his friends for to save the queen . . . Chap. vi. How Sir Mordred rode hastily to the king, to tell him of the affray and death of Sir Agravaine and the other knights . Chap. vii. How Sir Launcelot and his kinsmen rescued the queen from the fire, and how he slew many knights . . . Chap. viii. Of the sorrow and lamentation of King Arthur for the death of his nephews and other good knights, and also for the queen, his wife Chap. ix. How King Arthur at the request of Sir Gawaine concluded to make war against Sir Launcelot, and laid siege to his castle called Joyous Gard . . . . . Chap. x. Of the communication between King Arthur and Sir Launcelot, and how King Arthur reproved him . . . Chap. xi. How the cousins and kinsmen of Sir Launcelot excited him to go out to battle, and how they made them ready . . Chap. xii. How Sir Gawaine jousted and smote down Sir Lionel, and how Sir Launcelot horsed King Arthur . . . Chap. liii. How the Pope sent down his bulls to make peace, and how Sir Launcelot brought the queen to King Arthur . Chap. xiv. Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot . Chap. xv. Of the communication between Sir Gawaine and Sir Launcelot, with much other language . . . . Chap. xvi. How Sir Launcelot departed from the king and from Joyous Gard over seaward, and what knights went with him . Chap. xvii. How Sir Launcelot passed over the sea, and how he made great lords of the knights that went with him . . Chap. xviii. How King Arthur and Sir Gawaine made a great host ready to go over sea to make war on Sir Launcelot . . Chap. xix. What message Sir Gawaine sent to Sir Launcelot; and how King Arthur laid siege to Benwick, and other matters . Chap. xx. How Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine did battle together, and how Sir Gawaine was overthrown and hurt . . Chap. xxi. Of the sorrow that King Arthur made for the war, and of another battle where also Sir Gawaine had the worse . Chap. xxii. here follow the Chapters of the Twenty-first Book. How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father's wife Chap. i. How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine . . . . Chap. ii. How after, Sir Gawaine's ghost appeared to King Arthur, and warned him that he should not fight that day . . Chap. iii. How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death . . Chap. iv. How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge Chap. v. How Sir Bedivere found him on the morn dead in an hermitage, and how he abode there with the hermit . . Chap. vi. Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury . Chap. vii. How when Sir Launcelot heard of the death of King Arthur, and of Sir Gawaine, and other matters, he came into England Chap. viii. How Sir Launcelot departed to seek the Queen Guenever, and how he found her at Almesbury . . . Chap. ix. How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him Chap. x. How Sir Launcelot went with his seven fellows to Almesbury, and found there Queen Guenever dead, whom they brought to Glastonbury . . . . . Chap. xi. How Sir Launcelot began to sicken, and after died, whose body was borne to Joyous Gard for to be buried . . Chap. xii. How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book . . . . . . Chap. xiii. Explicit the Table. BOOK X CHAPTER I How Sir Tristram jousted, and smote down King Arthur, because he told him not the cause why he bare that shield. AND if so be ye can descrive what ye bear, ye are worthy to bear the arms. As for that, said Sir Tristram, I will answer you; this shield was given me, not desired, of Queen Morgan le Fay; and as for me, I can not descrive these arms, for it is no point of my charge, and yet I trust to God to bear them with worship. Truly, said King Arthur, ye ought not to bear none arms but if ye wist what ye bear: but I pray you tell me your name. To what intent? said Sir Tristram. For I would wit, said Arthur. Sir, ye shall not wit as at this time. Then shall ye and I do battle together, said King Arthur. Why, said Sir Tristram, will ye do battle with me but if I tell you my name? and that little needeth you an ye were a man of worship, for ye have seen me this day have had great travail, and therefore ye are a villainous knight to ask battle of me, considering my great travail; howbeit I will not fail you, and have ye no doubt that I fear not you; though you think you have me at a great advantage yet shall I right well endure you. And there withal King Arthur dressed his shield and his spear, and Sir Tristram against him, and they came so eagerly together. And there King Arthur brake his spear all to pieces upon Sir Tristram's shield. But Sir Tristram hit Arthur again, that horse and man fell to the earth. And there was King Arthur wounded on the left side, a great wound and a perilous. Then when Sir Uwaine saw his lord Arthur lie on the ground sore wounded, he was passing heavy. And then he dressed his shield and his spear, and cried aloud unto Sir Tristram and said: Knight, defend thee. So they came together as thunder, and Sir Uwaine brised his spear all to pieces upon Sir Tristram's shield, and Sir Tristram smote him harder and sorer, with such a might that he bare him clean out of his saddle to the earth. With that Sir Tristram turned about and said: Fair knights, I had no need to joust with you, for I have had enough to do this day. Then arose Arthur and went to Sir Uwaine, and said to Sir Tristram: We have as we have deserved, for through our orgulyt and yet we knew not your name. Nevertheless, by Saint Cross, said Sir Uwaine, he is a strong knight at mine advice as any is now living. Then Sir Tristram departed, and in every place he asked and demanded after Sir Launcelot, but in no place he could not hear of him whether he were dead or alive; wherefore Sir Tristram made great dole and sorrow. So Sir Tristram rode by a forest, and then was he ware of a fair tower by a marsh on that one side, and on that other side a fair meadow. And there he saw ten knights fighting together. And ever the nearer he came he saw how there was but one knight did battle against nine knights, and that one did so marvellously that Sir Tristram had great wonder that ever one knight might do so great deeds of arms. And then within a little while he had slain half their horses and unhorsed them, and their horses ran in the fields and forest. Then Sir Tristram had so great pity of that one knight that endured so great pain, and ever he thought it should be Sir Palomides, by his shield. And so he rode unto the knights and cried unto them, and bade them cease of their battle, for they did themselves great shame so many knights to fight with one. Then answered the master of those knights, his name was called Breuse Saunce Pit that was at that time the most mischievoust knight living, and said thus: Sir knight, what have ye ado with us to meddle? and therefore, an ye be wise, depart on your way as ye came, for this knight shall not escape us. That were pity, said Sir Tristram, that so good a knight as he is should be slain so cowardly; and therefore I warn you I will succour him with all my puissance. CHAPTER II How Sir Tristram saved Sir Palomides' life, and how they promised to fight together within a fortnight. So Sir Tristram alighted off his horse because they were on foot, that they should not slay his horse, and then dressed his shield, with his sword in his hand, and he smote on the right hand and on the left hand passing sore, that well-nigh at every stroke he struck down a knight. And when they espied his strokes they fled all with Breuse Saunce Pit followed fast after with his sword in his hand, but they escaped into the tower, and shut Sir Tristram without the gate. And when Sir Tristram saw this he returned aback unto Sir Palomides, and found him sitting under a tree sore wounded. Ah, fair knight, said Sir Tristram, well be ye found. Gramercy, said Sir Palomides, of your great goodness, for ye have rescued me of my life, and saved me from my death. What is your name? said Sir Tristram. He said: My name is Sir Palomides. O Jesu, said Sir Tristram, thou hast a fair grace of me this day that I should rescue thee, and thou art the man in the world that I most hate; but now make thee ready, for I will do battle with thee. What is your name? said Sir Palomides. My name is Sir Tristram, your mortal enemy. It may be so, said Sir Palomides; but ye have done over much for me this day that I should fight with you; for inasmuch as ye have saved my life it will be no worship for you to have ado with me, for ye are fresh and I am wounded sore, and therefore, an ye will needs have ado with me, assign me a day and then I shall meet with you without fail. Ye say well, said Sir Tristram, now I assign you to meet me in the meadow by the river of Camelot, where Merlin set the peron. So they were agreed. Then Sir Tristram asked Sir Palomides why the ten knights did battle with him. For this cause, said Sir Palomides; as I rode upon mine adventures in a forest here beside I espied where lay a dead knight, and a lady weeping beside him. And when I saw her making such dole, I asked her who slew her lord. Sir, she said, the falsest knight of the world now living, and he is the most villain that ever man heard speak of and his name is Sir Breuse Saunce Pit to leap on her palfrey, and I promised her to be her warrant, and to help her to inter her lord. And so, suddenly, as I came riding by this tower, there came out Sir Breuse Saunce Pit my horse. And then or I might recover my horse this Sir Breuse slew the damosel. And so I took my horse again, and I was sore ashamed, and so began the medley betwixt us: and this is the cause wherefore we did this battle. Well, said Sir Tristram, now I understand the manner of your battle, but in any wise have remembrance of your promise that ye have made with me to do battle with me this day fortnight. I shall not fail you, said Sir Palomides. Well, said Sir Tristram, as at this time I will not fail you till that ye be out of the danger of your enemies. So they mounted upon their horses, and rode together unto that forest, and there they found a fair well, with clear water bubbling. Fair sir, said Sir Tristram, to drink of that water have I courage; and then they alighted off their horses. And then were they ware by them where stood a great horse tied to a tree, and ever he neighed. And then were they ware of a fair knight armed, under a tree, lacking no piece of harness, save his helm lay under his head. By the good lord, said Sir Tristram, yonder lieth a well-faring knight; what is best to do? Awake him, said Sir Palomides. So Sir Tristram awaked him with the butt of his spear. And so the knight rose up hastily and put his helm upon his head, and gat a great spear in his hand; and without any more words he hurled unto Sir Tristram, and smote him clean from his saddle to the earth, and hurt him on the left side, that Sir Tristram lay in great peril. Then he walloped farther, and fetched his course, and came hurling upon Sir Palomides, and there he struck him a part through the body, that he fell from his horse to the earth. And then this strange knight left them there, and took his way through the forest. With this Sir Palomides and Sir Tristram were on foot, and gat their horses again, and either asked counsel of other, what was best to do. By my head, said Sir Tristram, I will follow this strong knight that thus hath shamed us. Well, said Sir Palomides, and I will repose me hereby with a friend of mine. Beware, said Sir Tristram unto Palomides, that ye fail not that day that ye have set with me to do battle, for, as I deem, ye will not hold your day, for I am much bigger than ye. As for that, said Sir Palomides, be it as it be may, for I fear you not, for an I be not sick nor prisoner, I will not fail you; but I have cause to have more doubt of you that ye will not meet with me, for ye ride after yonder strong knight. And if ye meet with him it is an hard adventure an ever ye escape his hands. Right so Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides departed, and either took their ways diverse. CHAPTER III How Sir Tristram sought a strong knight that had smitten him down, and many other knights of the Round Table. AND so Sir Tristram rode long after this strong knight. And at the last he saw where lay a lady overthwart a dead knight. Fair lady, said Sir Tristram, who hath slain your lord? Sir, she said, here came a knight riding, as my lord and I rested us here, and asked him of whence he was, and my lord said of Arthur's court. Therefore, said the strong knight, I will joust with thee, for I hate all these that be of Arthur's court. And my lord that lieth here dead amounted upon his horse, and the strong knight and my lord encountered together, and there he smote my lord throughout with his spear, and thus he hath brought me in great woe and damage. That me repenteth, said Sir Tristram, of your great anger; an it please you tell me your husband's name. Sir, said she, his name was Galardoun, that would have proved a good knight. So departed Sir Tristram from that dolorous lady, and had much evil lodging. Then on the third day Sir Tristram met with Sir Gawaine and with Sir Bleoberis in a forest at a lodge, and either were sore wounded. Then Sir Tristram asked Sir Gawaine and Sir Bleoberis if they met with such a knight, with such a cognisance, with a covered shield. Fair sir, said these knights, such a knight met with us to our great damage. And first he smote down my fellow, Sir Bleoberis, and sore wounded him because he bade me I should not have ado with him, for why he was overstrong for me. That strong knight took his words at scorn, and said he said it for mockery. And then they rode together, and so he hurt my fellow. And when he had done so I might not for shame but I must joust with him. And at the first course he smote me down and my horse to the earth. And there he had almost slain me, and from us he took his horse and departed, and in an evil time we met with him. Fair knights, said Sir Tristram, so he met with me, and with another knight that hight Palomides, and he smote us both down with one spear, and hurt us right sore. By my faith, said Sir Gawaine, by my counsel ye shall let him pass and seek him no further; for at the next feast of the Round Table, upon pain of my head ye shall find him there. By my faith, said Sir Tristram, I shall never rest till that I find him. And then Sir Gawaine asked him his name. Then he said: My name is Sir Tristram. And so either told other their names, and then departed Sir Tristram and rode his way. And by fortune in a meadow Sir Tristram met with Sir Kay, the Seneschal, and Sir Dinadan. What tidings with you, said Sir Tristram, with you knights? Not good, said these knights. Why so? said Sir Tristram; I pray you tell me, for I ride to seek a knight. What cognisance beareth he? said Sir Kay. He beareth, said Sir Tristram, a covered shield close with cloth. By my head, said Sir Kay, that is the same knight that met with us, for this night we were lodged within a widow's house, and there was that knight lodged; and when he wist we were of Arthur's court he spoke great villainy by the king, and specially by the Queen Guenever, and then on the morn was waged battle with him for that cause. And at the first recounter, said Sir Kay, he smote me down from my horse and hurt me passing sore; and when my fellow, Sir Dinadan, saw me smitten down and hurt he would not revenge me, but fled from me; and thus he departed. And then Sir Tristram asked them their names, and so either told other their names. And so Sir Tristram departed from Sir Kay, and from Sir Dinadan, and so he passed through a great forest into a plain, till he was ware of a priory, and there he reposed him with a good man six days. CHAPTER IV How Sir Tristram smote down Sir Sagramore le Desirous and Sir Dodinas le Savage. AND then he sent his man that hight Gouvernail, and commanded him to go to a city thereby to fetch him new harness; for it was long time afore that that Sir Tristram had been refreshed, his harness was brised and broken. And when Gouvernail, his servant, was come with his apparel, he took his leave at the widow, and mounted upon his horse, and rode his way early on the morn. And by sudden adventure Sir Tristram met with Sir Sagramore le Desirous, and with Sir Dodinas le Savage. And these two knights met with Sir Tristram and questioned with him, and asked him if he would joust with them. Fair knights, said Sir Tristram, with a good will I would joust with you, but I have promised at a day set, near hand, to do battle with a strong knight; and therefore I am loath to have ado with you, for an it misfortuned me here to be hurt I should not be able to do my battle which I promised. As for that, said Sagramore, maugre your head, ye shall joust with us or ye pass from us. Well, said Sir Tristram, if ye enforce me thereto I must do what I may. And then they dressed their shields, and came running together with great ire. But through Sir Tristram's great force he struck Sir Sagramore from his horse. Then he hurled his horse farther, and said to Sir Dodinas: Knight, make thee ready; and so through fine force Sir Tristram struck Dodinas from his horse. And when he saw them lie on the earth he took his bridle, and rode forth on his way, and his man Gouvernail with him. Anon as Sir Tristram was passed, Sir Sagramore and Sir Dodinas gat again their horses, and mounted up lightly and followed after Sir Tristram. And when Sir Tristram saw them come so fast after him he returned with his horse to them, and asked them what they would. It is not long ago sithen I smote you to the earth at your own request and desire: I would have ridden by you, but ye would not suffer me, and now meseemeth ye would do more battle with me. That is truth, said Sir Sagramore and Sir Dodinas, for we will be revenged of the despite ye have done to us. Fair knights, said Sir Tristram, that shall little need you, for all that I did to you ye caused it; wherefore I require you of your knighthood leave me as at this time, for I am sure an I do battle with you I shall not escape without great hurts, and as I suppose ye shall not escape all lotless. And this is the cause why I am so loath to have ado with you; for I must fight within these three days with a good knight, and as valiant as any is now living, and if I be hurt I shall not be able to do battle with him. What knight is that, said Sir Sagramore, that ye shall fight withal? Sirs, said he, it is a good knight called Sir Palomides. By my head, said Sir Sagramore and Sir Dodinas, ye have cause to dread him, for ye shall find him a passing good knight, and a valiant. And because ye shall have ado with him we will forbear you as at this time, and else ye should not escape us lightly. But, fair knight, said Sir Sagramore, tell us your name. Sir, said he, my name is Sir Tristram de Liones. Ah, said Sagramore and Sir Dodinas, well be ye found, for much worship have we heard of you. And then either took leave of other, and departed on their way. CHAPTER V How Sir Tristram met at the peron with Sir Launcelot, and how they fought together unknown. THEN departed Sir Tristram and rode straight unto Camelot, to the peron that Merlin had made to-fore, where Sir Lanceor, that was the king's son of Ireland, was slain by the hands of Balin. And in that same place was the fair lady Colombe slain, that was love unto Sir Lanceor; for after he was dead she took his sword and thrust it through her body. And by the craft of Merlin he made to inter this knight, Lanceor, and his lady, Colombe, under one stone. And at that time Merlin prophesied that in that same place should fight two the best knights that ever were in Arthur's days, and the best lovers. So when Sir Tristram came to the tomb where Lanceor and his lady were buried he looked about him after Sir Palomides. Then was he ware of a seemly knight came riding against him all in white, with a covered shield. When he came nigh Sir Tristram he said on high: Ye be welcome, sir knight, and well and truly have ye holden your promise. And then they dressed their shields and spears, and came together with all their might of their horses; and they met so fiercely that both their horses and knights fell to the earth, and as fast as they might avoided their horses, and put their shields afore them; and they struck together with bright swords, as men that were of might, and either wounded other wonderly sore, that the blood ran out upon the grass. And thus they fought the space of four hours, that never one would speak to other one word, and of their harness they had hewn off many pieces. O Lord Jesu, said Gouvernail, I marvel greatly of the strokes my master hath given to your master. By my head, said Sir Launcelot's servant, your master hath not given so many but your master has received as many or more. O Jesu, said Gouvernail, it is too much for Sir Palomides to suffer or Sir Launcelot, and yet pity it were that either of these good knights should destroy other's blood. So they stood and wept both, and made great dole when they saw the bright swords over-covered with blood of their bodies. Then at the last spake Sir Launcelot and said: Knight, thou fightest wonderly well as ever I saw knight, therefore, an it please you, tell me your name. Sir, said Sir Tristram, that is me loath to tell any man my name. Truly, said Sir Launcelot, an I were required I was never loath to tell my name. It is well said, said Sir Tristram, then I require you to tell me your name? Fair knight, he said, my name is Sir Launcelot du Lake. Alas, said Sir Tristram, what have I done! for ye are the man in the world that I love best. Fair knight, said Sir Launcelot, tell me your name? Truly, said he, my name is Sir Tristram de Liones. O Jesu, said Sir Launcelot, what adventure is befallen me! And therewith Sir Launcelot kneeled down and yielded him up his sword. And therewith Sir Tristram kneeled adown, and yielded him up his sword. And so either gave other the degree. And then they both forthwithal went to the stone, and set them down upon it, and took off their helms to cool them, and either kissed other an hundred times. And then anon after they took off their helms and rode to Camelot. And there they met with Sir Gawaine and with Sir Gaheris that had made promise to Arthur never to come again to the court till they had brought Sir Tristram with them. CHAPTER VI How Sir Launcelot brought Sir Tristram to the court, and of the great joy that the king and other made for the coming of Sir Tristram. RETURN again, said Sir Launcelot, for your quest is done, for I have met with Sir Tristram: lo, here is his own person! Then was Sir Gawaine glad, and said to Sir Tristram: Ye are welcome, for now have ye eased me greatly of my labour. For what cause, said Sir Gawaine, came ye into this court? Fair sir, said Sir Tristram, I came into this country because of Sir Palomides; for he and I had assigned at this day to have done battle together at the peron, and I marvel I hear not of him. And thus by adventure my lord, Sir Launcelot, and I met together. With this came King Arthur, and when he wist that there was Sir Tristram, then he ran unto him and took him by the hand and said: Sir Tristram, ye are as welcome as any knight that ever came to this court. And when the king had heard how Sir Launcelot and he had foughten, and either had wounded other wonderly sore, then the king made great dole. Then Sir Tristram told the king how he came thither for to have had ado with Sir Palomides. And then he told the king how he had rescued him from the nine knights and Breuse Saunce Pit found a knight lying by a well, and that knight smote down Sir Palomides and me, but his shield was covered with a cloth. So Sir Palomides left me, and I followed after that knight; and in many places I found where he had slain knights, and forjousted many. By my head, said Sir Gawaine, that same knight smote me down and Sir Bleoberis, and hurt us sore both, he with the covered shield. Ah, said Sir Kay, that knight smote me adown and hurt me passing sore, and fain would I have known him, but I might not. Jesu, mercy, said Arthur, what knight was that with the covered shield? I know not, said Sir Tristram; and so said they all. Now, said King Arthur, then wot I, for it is Sir Launcelot. Then they all looked upon Sir Launcelot and said: Ye have beguiled us with your covered shield. It is not the first time, said Arthur, he hath done so. My lord, said Sir Launcelot, truly wit ye well I was the same knight that bare the covered shield; and because I would not be known that I was of your court I said no worship of your house. That is truth, said Sir Gawaine, Sir Kay, and Sir Bleoberis. Then King Arthur took Sir Tristram by the hand and went to the Table Round. Then came Queen Guenever and many ladies with her, and all the ladies said at one voice: Welcome, Sir Tristram! Welcome, said the damosels. Welcome, said knights. Welcome, said Arthur, for one of the best knights, and the gentlest of the world, and the man of most worship; for of all manner of hunting thou bearest the prize, and of all measures of blowing thou art the beginning, and of all the terms of hunting and hawking ye are the beginner, of all instruments of music ye are the best; therefore, gentle knight, said Arthur, ye are welcome to this court. And also, I pray you, said Arthur, grant me a boon. It shall be at your commandment, said Tristram. Well, said Arthur, I will desire of you that ye will abide in my court. Sir, said Sir Tristram, thereto is me loath, for I have ado in many countries. Not so, said Arthur, ye have promised it me, ye may not say nay. Sir, said Sir Tristram, I will as ye will. Then went Arthur unto the sieges about the Round Table, and looked in every siege the which were void that lacked knights. And then the king saw in the siege of Marhaus letters that said: This is the siege of the noble knight, Sir Tristram. And then Arthur made Sir Tristram Knight of the Table Round, with great nobley and great feast as might be thought. For Sir Marhaus was slain afore by the hands of Sir Tristram in an island; and that was well known at that time in the court of Arthur, for this Marhaus was a worthy knight. And for evil deeds that he did unto the country of Cornwall Sir Tristram and he fought. And they fought so long, tracing and traversing, till they fell bleeding to the earth; for they were so sore wounded that they might not stand for bleeding. And Sir Tristram by fortune recovered, and Sir Marhaus died through the stroke on the head. So leave we of Sir Tristram and speak we of King Mark. CHAPTER VII How for the despite of Sir Tristram King Mark came with two knights into England, and how he slew one of the knights. THEN King Mark had great despite of the renown of Sir Tristram, and then he chased him out of Cornwall: yet was he nephew unto King Mark, but he had great suspicion unto Sir Tristram because of his queen, La Beale Isoud; for him seemed that there was too much love between them both. So when Sir Tristram departed out of Cornwall into England King Mark heard of the great prowess that Sir Tristram did there, the which grieved him sore. So he sent on his part men to espy what deeds he did. And the queen sent privily on her part spies to know what deeds he had done, for great love was between them twain. So when the messengers were come home they told the truth as they had heard, that he passed all other knights but if it were Sir Launcelot. Then King Mark was right heavy of these tidings, and as glad was La Beale Isoud. Then in great despite he took with him two good knights and two squires, and disguised himself, and took his way into England, to the intent for to slay Sir Tristram. And one of these two knights hight Bersules, and the other knight was called Amant. So as they rode King Mark asked a knight that he met, where he should find King Arthur. He said: At Camelot. Also he asked that knight after Sir Tristram, whether he heard of him in the court of King Arthur. Wit you well, said that knight, ye shall find Sir Tristram there for a man of as great worship as is now living; for through his prowess he won the tournament of the Castle of Maidens that standeth by the Hard Rock. And sithen he hath won with his own hands thirty knights that were men of great honour. And the last battle that ever he did he fought with Sir Launcelot; and that was a marvellous battle. And not by force Sir Launcelot brought Sir Tristram to the court, and of him King Arthur made passing great joy, and so made him Knight of the Table Round; and his seat was where the good knight's, Sir Marhaus, seat was. Then was King Mark passing sorry when he heard of the honour of Sir Tristram; and so they departed. Then said King Mark unto his two knights: Now will I tell you my counsel: ye are the men that I trust most to alive, and I will that ye wit my coming hither is to this intent, for to destroy Sir Tristram by wiles or by treason; and it shall be hard if ever he escape our hands. Alas, said Sir Bersules, what mean you? for ye be set in such a way ye are disposed shamefully; for Sir Tristram is the knight of most worship that we know living, and therefore I warn you plainly I will never consent to do him to the death; and therefore I will yield my service, and forsake you. When King Mark heard him say so, suddenly he drew his sword and said: Ah, traitor; and smote Sir Bersules on the head, that the sword went to his teeth. When Amant, the knight, saw him do that villainous deed, and his squires, they said it was foul done, and mischievously: Wherefore we will do thee no more service, and wit ye well, we will appeach thee of treason afore Arthur. Then was King Mark wonderly wroth and would have slain Amant; but he and the two squires held them together, and set nought by his malice. When King Mark saw he might not be revenged on them, he said thus unto the knight, Amant: Wit thou well, an thou appeach me of treason I shall thereof defend me afore King Arthur; but I require thee that thou tell not my name, that I am King Mark, whatsomever come of me. As for that, said Sir Amant, I will not discover your name; and so they departed, and Amant and his fellows took the body of Bersules and buried it. CHAPTER VIII How King Mark came to a fountain where he found Sir Lamorak complaining for the love of King Lot's wife. THEN King Mark rode till he came to a fountain, and there he rested him, and stood in a doubt whether he would ride to Arthur's court or none, or return again to his country. And as he thus rested him by that fountain there came by him a knight well armed on horseback; and he alighted, and tied his horse until a tree, and set him down by the brink of the fountain; and there he made great languor and dole, and made the dolefullest complaint of love that ever man heard; and all this while was he not ware of King Mark. And this was a great part of his complaint: he cried and wept, saying: O fair Queen of Orkney, King Lot's wife, and mother of Sir Gawaine, and to Sir Gaheris, and mother to many other, for thy love I am in great pains. Then King Mark arose and went near him and said: Fair knight, ye have made a piteous complaint. Truly, said the knight, it is an hundred part more ruefuller than my heart can utter. I require you, said King Mark, tell me your name. Sir, said he, as for my name I will not hide it from no knight that beareth a shield, and my name is Sir Lamorak de Galis. But when Sir Lamorak heard King Mark speak, then wist he well by his speech that he was a Cornish knight. Sir, said Sir Lamorak, I understand by your tongue ye be of Cornwall, wherein there dwelleth the shamefullest king that is now living, for he is a great enemy to all good knights; and that proveth well, for he hath chased out of that country Sir Tristram, that is the worshipfullest knight that now is living, and all knights speak of him worship; and for jealousness of his queen he hath chased him out of his country. It is pity, said Sir Lamorak, that ever any such false knight-coward as King Mark is, should be matched with such a fair lady and good as La Beale Isoud is, for all the world of him speaketh shame, and of her worship that any queen may have. I have not ado in this matter, said King Mark, neither nought will I speak thereof. Well said, said Sir Lamorak. Sir, can ye tell me any tidings? I can tell you, said Sir Lamorak, that there shall be a great tournament in haste beside Camelot, at the Castle of Jagent; and the King with the Hundred Knights and the King of Ireland, as I suppose, make that tournament. Then there came a knight that was called Sir Dinadan, and saluted them both. And when he wist that King Mark was a knight of Cornwall he reproved him for the love of King Mark a thousand fold more than did Sir Lamorak. Then he proffered to joust with King Mark. And he was full loath thereto, but Sir Dinadan edged him so, that he jousted with Sir Lamorak. And Sir Lamorak smote King Mark so sore that he bare him on his spear end over his horse's tail. And then King Mark arose again, and followed after Sir Lamorak. But Sir Dinadan would not joust with Sir Lamorak, but he told King Mark that Sir Lamorak was Sir Kay, the Seneschal. That is not so, said King Mark, for he is much bigger than Sir Kay; and so he followed and overtook him, and bade him abide. What will you do? said Sir Lamorak. Sir, he said, I will fight with a sword, for ye have shamed me with a spear; and therewith they dashed together with swords, and Sir Lamorak suffered him and forbare him. And King Mark was passing hasty, and smote thick strokes. Sir Lamorak saw he would not stint, and waxed somewhat wroth, and doubled his strokes, for he was one of the noblest knights of the world; and he beat him so on the helm that his head hung nigh on the saddle bow. When Sir Lamorak saw him fare so, he said: Sir knight, what cheer? meseemeth you have nigh your fill of fighting, it were pity to do you any more harm, for ye are but a mean knight, therefore I give you leave to go where ye list. Gramercy, said King Mark, for ye and I be not matches. Then Sir Dinadan mocked King Mark and said: Ye are not able to match a good knight. As for that, said King Mark, at the first time I jousted with this knight ye refused him. Think ye that it is a shame to me? said Sir Dinadan: nay, sir, it is ever worship to a knight to refuse that thing that he may not attain, there fore your worship had been much more to have refused him as I did; for I warn you plainly he is able to beat such five as ye and I be; for ye knights of Cornwall are no men of worship as other knights are. And because ye are no men of worship ye hate all men of worship, for never was bred in your country such a knight as is Sir Tristram. CHAPTER IX How King Mark, Sir Lamorak, and Sir Dinadan came to a castle, and how King Mark was known there. THEN they rode forth all together, King Mark, Sir Lamorak, and Sir Dinadan, till that they came to a bridge, and at the end thereof stood a fair tower. Then saw they a knight on horseback well armed, brandishing a spear, crying and proffering himself to joust. Now, said Sir Dinadan unto King Mark, yonder are two brethren, that one hight Alein, and the other hight Trian, that will joust with any that passeth this passage. Now proffer yourself, said Dinadan to King Mark, for ever ye be laid to the earth. Then King Mark was ashamed, and therewith he feutred his spear, and hurtled to Sir Trian, and either brake their spears all to pieces, and passed through anon. Then Sir Trian sent King Mark another spear to joust more; but in no wise he would not joust no more. Then they came to the castle all three knights, and prayed the lord of the castle of harbour. Ye are right welcome, said the knights of the castle, for the love of the lord of this castle, the which hight Sir Tor le Fise Aries. And then they came into a fair court well repaired, and they had passing good cheer, till the lieutenant of this castle, that hight Berluse, espied King Mark of Cornwall. Then said Berluse: Sir knight, I know you better than you ween, for ye are King Mark that slew my father afore mine own eyen; and me had ye slain had I not escaped into a wood; but wit ye well, for the love of my lord of this castle I will neither hurt you nor harm you, nor none of your fellowship. But wit ye well, when ye are past this lodging I shall hurt you an I may, for ye slew my father traitorly. But first for the love of my lord, Sir Tor, and for the love of Sir Lamorak, the honourable knight that here is lodged, ye shall have none ill lodging; for it is pity that ever ye should be in the company of good knights; for ye are the most villainous knight or king that is now known alive, for ye are a destroyer of good knights, and all that ye do is but treason. CHAPTER X How Sir Berluse met with King Mark, and how Sir Dinadan took his part. THEN was King Mark sore ashamed, and said but little again. But when Sir Lamorak and Sir Dinadan wist that he was King Mark they were sorry of his fellowship. So after supper they went to lodging. So on the morn they arose early, and King Mark and Sir Dinadan rode together; and three mile from their lodging there met with them three knights, and Sir Berluse was one, and that other his two cousins. Sir Berluse saw King Mark, and then he cried on high: Traitor, keep thee from me for wit thou well that I am Berluse. Sir knight, said Sir Dinadan, I counsel you to leave off at this time, for he is riding to King Arthur; and because I have promised to conduct him to my lord King Arthur needs must I take a part with him; howbeit I love not his condition, and fain I would be from him. Well, Dinadan, said Sir Berluse, me repenteth that ye will take part with him, but now do your best. And then he hurtled to King Mark, and smote him sore upon the shield, that he bare him clean out of his saddle to the earth. That saw Sir Dinadan, and he feutred his spear, and ran to one of Berluse's fellows, and smote him down off his saddle. Then Dinadan turned his horse, and smote the third knight in the same wise to the earth, for Sir Dinadan was a good knight on horseback; and there began a great battle, for Berluse and his fellows held them together strongly on foot. And so through the great force of Sir Dinadan King Mark had Berluse to the earth, and his two fellows fled; and had not been Sir Dinadan King Mark would have slain him. And so Sir Dinadan rescued him of his life, for King Mark was but a murderer. And then they took their horses and departed and left Sir Berluse there sore wounded. Then King Mark and Sir Dinadan rode forth a four leagues English, till that they came to a bridge where hoved a knight on horseback, armed and ready to joust. Lo, said Sir Dinadan unto King Mark, yonder hoveth a knight that will joust, for there shall none pass this bridge but he must joust with that knight. It is well, said King Mark, for this jousts falleth with thee. Sir Dinadan knew the knight well that he was a noble knight, and fain he would have jousted, but he had had liefer King Mark had jousted with him, but by no mean King Mark would not joust. Then Sir Dinadan might not refuse him in no manner. And then either dressed their spears and their shields, and smote together, so that through fine force Sir Dinadan was smitten to the earth; and lightly he rose up and gat his horse, and required that knight to do battle with swords. And he answered and said: Fair knight, as at this time I may not have ado with you no more, for the custom of this passage is such. Then was Sir Dinadan passing wroth that he might not be revenged of that knight; and so he departed, and in no wise would that knight tell his name. But ever Sir Dinadan thought he should know him by his shield that it should be Sir Tor. CHAPTER XI How King Mark mocked Sir Dinadan, and how they met with six knights of the Round Table. So as they rode by the way King Mark then began to mock Sir Dinadan, and said: I weened you knights of the Table Round might not in no wise find their matches. Ye say well, said Sir Dinadan; as for you, on my life I call you none of the best knights; but sith ye have such a despite at me I require you to joust with me to prove my strength. Not so, said King Mark, for I will not have ado with you in no manner; but I require you of one thing, that when ye come to Arthur's court discover not my name, for I am there so hated. It is shame to you, said Sir Dinadan, that ye govern you so shamefully; for I see by you ye are full of cowardice, and ye are a murderer, and that is the greatest shame that a knight may have; for never a knight being a murderer hath worship, nor never shall have; for I saw but late through my force ye would have slain Sir Berluse, a better knight than ye, or ever ye shall be, and more of prowess. Thus they rode forth talking till they came to a fair place, where stood a knight, and prayed them to take their lodging with him. So at the request of that knight they reposed them there, and made them well at ease, and had great cheer. For all errant-knights were welcome to him, and specially all those of Arthur's court. Then Sir Dinadan demanded his host what was the knight's name that kept the bridge. For what cause ask you it? said the host. For it is not long ago, said Sir Dinadan, sithen he gave me a fall. Ah, fair knight, said his host, thereof have ye no marvel, for he is a passing good knight, and his name is Sir Tor, the son of Aries le Vaysher. Ah, said Sir Dinadan, was that Sir Tor? for truly so ever me thought. Right as they stood thus talking together they saw come riding to them over a plain six knights of the court of King Arthur, well armed at all points. And there by their shields Sir Dinadan knew them well. The first was the good knight Sir Uwaine, the son of King Uriens, the second was the noble knight Sir Brandiles, the third was Ozana le Cure Hardy, the fourth was Uwaine les Aventurous, the fifth was Sir Agravaine, the sixth Sir Mordred, brother to Sir Gawaine. When Sir Dinadan had seen these six knights he thought in himself he would bring King Mark by some wile to joust with one of them. And anon they took their horses and ran after these knights well a three mile English. Then was King Mark ware where they sat all six about a well, and ate and drank such meats as they had, and their horses walking and some tied, and their shields hung in divers places about them. Lo, said Sir Dinadan, yonder are knights-errant that will joust with us. God forbid, said King Mark, for they be six and we but two. As for that, said Sir Dinadan, let us not spare, for I will assay the foremost; and therewith he made him ready. When King Mark saw him do so, as fast as Sir Dinadan rode toward them, King Mark rode froward them with all his menial meiny. So when Sir Dinadan saw King Mark was gone, he set the spear out of the rest, and threw his shield upon his back, and came, riding to the fellowship of the Table Round. And anon Sir Uwaine knew Sir Dinadan, and welcomed him, and so did all his fellowship. CHAPTER XII How the six knights sent Sir Dagonet to joust with King Mark, and how King Mark refused him. AND then they asked him of his adventures, and whether he had seen Sir Tristram or Sir Launcelot. So God me help, said Sir Dinadan, I saw none of them sithen I departed from Camelot. What knight is that, said Sir Brandiles, that so suddenly departed from you, and rode over yonder field? Sir, said he, it was a knight of Cornwall, and the most horrible coward that ever bestrode horse. What is his name? said all these knights. I wot not, said Sir Dinadan. So when they had reposed them, and spoken together, they took their horses and rode to a castle where dwelt an old knight that made all knights-errant good cheer. Then in the meanwhile that they were talking came into the castle Sir Griflet le Fise de Dieu, and there was he welcome; and they all asked him whether he had seen Sir Launcelot or Sir Tristram. Sirs, he answered, I saw him not sithen he departed from Camelot. So as Sir Dinadan walked and beheld the castle, thereby in a chamber he espied King Mark, and then he rebuked him, and asked him why he departed so. Sir, said he, for I durst not abide because they were so many. But how escaped ye? said King Mark. Sir, said Sir Dinadan, they were better friends than I weened they had been. Who is captain of that fellowship? said the king. Then for to fear him Sir Dinadan said that it was Sir Launcelot. O Jesu, said the king, might I know Sir Launcelot by his shield? Yea, said Dinadan, for he beareth a shield of silver and black bends. All this he said to fear the king, for Sir Launcelot was not in his fellowship. Now I pray you, said King Mark, that ye will ride in my fellowship. That is me loath to do, said Sir Dinadan, because ye forsook my fellowship. Right so Sir Dinadan went from King Mark, and went to his own fellowship; and so they mounted upon their horses, and rode on their ways, and talked of the Cornish knight, for Dinadan told them that he was in the castle where they were lodged. It is well said, said Sir Griflet, for here have I brought Sir Dagonet, King Arthur's fool, that is the best fellow and the merriest in the world. Will ye do well? said Sir Dinadan: I have told the Cornish knight that here is Sir Launcelot, and the Cornish knight asked me what shield he bare. Truly, I told him that he bare the same shield that Sir Mordred beareth. Will ye do well? said Sir Mordred; I am hurt and may not well bear my shield nor harness, and therefore put my shield and my harness upon Sir Dagonet, and let him set upon the Cornish knight. That shall be done, said Sir Dagonet, by my faith. Then anon was Dagonet armed him in Mordred's harness and his shield, and he was set on a great horse, and a spear in his hand. Now, said Dagonet, shew me the knight, and I trow I shall bear him down. So all these knights rode to a woodside, and abode till King Mark came by the way. Then they put forth Sir Dagonet, and he came on all the while his horse might run, straight upon King Mark. And when he came nigh King Mark, he cried as he were wood, and said: Keep thee, knight of Cornwall, for I will slay thee. Anon, as King Mark beheld his shield, he said to himself: Yonder is Sir Launcelot; alas, now am I destroyed; and therewithal he made his horse to run as fast as it might through thick and thin. And ever Sir Dagonet followed after King Mark, crying and rating him as a wood man, through a great forest. When Sir Uwaine and Sir Brandiles saw Dagonet so chase King Mark, they laughed all as they were wood. And then they took their horses, and rode after to see how Sir Dagonet sped, for they would not for no good that Sir Dagonet were shent, for King Arthur loved him passing well, and made him knight with his own hands. And at every tournament he began to make King Arthur to laugh. Then the knights rode here and there, crying and chasing after King Mark, that all the forest rang of the noise. CHAPTER XIII How Sir Palomides by adventure met King Mark flying, and how he overthrew Dagonet and other knights. SO King Mark rode by fortune by a well, in the way where stood a knight-errant on horseback, armed at all points, with a great spear in his hand. And when he saw King Mark coming flying he said: Knight, return again for shame and stand with me, and I shall be thy warrant. Ah, fair knight, said King Mark, let me pass, for yonder cometh after me the best knight of the world, with the black bended shield. Fie, for shame, said the knight, he is none of the worthy knights, and if he were Sir Launcelot or Sir Tristram I should not doubt to meet the better of them both. When King Mark heard him say that word, he turned his horse and abode by him. And then that strong knight bare a spear to Dagonet, and smote him so sore that he bare him over his horse's tail, and nigh he had broken his neck. And anon after him came Sir Brandiles, and when he saw Dagonet have that fall he was passing wroth, and cried: Keep thee, knight, and so they hurtled together wonder sore. But the knight smote Sir Brandiles so sore that he went to the earth, horse and man. Sir Uwaine came after and saw all this. Jesu, said he, yonder is a strong knight. And then they feutred their spears, and this knight came so eagerly that he smote down Sir Uwaine. Then came Ozana with the hardy heart, and he was smitten down. Now, said Sir Griflet, by my counsel let us send to yonder errant-knight, and wit whether he be of Arthur's court, for as I deem it is Sir Lamorak de Galis. So they sent unto him, and prayed the strange knight to tell his name, and whether he were of Arthur's court or not. As for my name they shall not wit, but tell them I am a knight-errant as they are, and let them wit that I am no knight of King Arthur's court; and so the squire rode again unto them and told them his answer of him. By my head, said Sir Agravaine, he is one of the strongest knights that ever I saw, for he hath overthrown three noble knights, and needs we must encounter with him for shame. So Sir Agravaine feutred his spear, and that other was ready, and smote him down over his horse to the earth. And in the same wise he smote Sir Uwaine les Avoutres and also Sir Griflet. Then had he served them all but Sir Dinadan, for he was behind, and Sir Mordred was unarmed, and Dagonet had his harness. So when this was done, this strong knight rode on his way a soft pace, and King Mark rode after him, praising him mickle; but he would answer no words, but sighed wonderly sore, hanging down his head, taking no heed to his words. Thus they rode well a three mile English, and then this knight called to him a varlet, and bade him ride until yonder fair manor, and recommend me to the lady of that castle and place, and pray her to send me refreshing of good meats and drinks. And if she ask thee what I am, tell her that I am the knight that followeth the glatisant beast: that is in English to say the questing beast; for that beast wheresomever he yede he quested in the belly with such a noise as it had been a thirty couple of hounds. Then the varlet went his way and came to the manor, and saluted the lady, and told her from whence he came. And when she understood that he came from the knight that followed the questing beast: O sweet Lord Jesu, she said, when shall I see that noble knight, my dear son Palomides? Alas, will he not abide with me? and therewith she swooned and wept, and made passing great dole. And then also soon as she might she gave the varlet all that he asked. And the varlet returned unto Sir Palomides, for he was a varlet of King Mark. And as soon as he came, he told the knight's name was Sir Palomides. I am well pleased, said King Mark, but hold thee still and say nothing. Then they alighted and set them down and reposed them a while. Anon withal King Mark fell asleep. When Sir Palomides saw him sound asleep he took his horse and rode his way, and said to them: I will not be in the company of a sleeping knight. And so he rode forth a great pace. CHAPTER XIV How King Mark and Sir Dinadan heard Sir Palomides making great sorrow and mourning for La Beale Isoud. NOW turn we unto Sir Dinadan, that found these seven knights passing heavy. And when he wist how that they sped, as heavy was he. My lord Uwaine, said Dinadan, I dare lay my head it is Sir Lamorak de Galis. I promise you all I shall find him an he may be found in this country. And so Sir Dinadan rode after this knight; and so did King Mark, that sought him through the forest. So as King Mark rode after Sir Palomides he heard the noise of a man that made great dole. Then King Mark rode as nigh that noise as he might and as he durst. Then was he ware of a knight that was descended off his horse, and had put off his helm, and there he made a piteous complaint and a dolorous, of love. Now leave we that, and talk we of Sir Dinadan, that rode to seek Sir Palomides. And as he came within a forest he met with a knight, a chaser of a deer. Sir, said Sir Dinadan, met ye with a knight with a shield of silver and lions' heads? Yea, fair knight, said the other, with such a knight met I with but a while agone, and straight yonder way he yede. Gramercy, said Sir Dinadan, for might I find the track of his horse I should not fail to find that knight. Right so as Sir Dinadan rode in the even late he heard a doleful noise as it were of a man. Then Sir Dinadan rode toward that noise; and when he came nigh that noise he alighted off his horse, and went near him on foot. Then was he ware of a knight that stood under a tree, and his horse tied by him, and the helm off his head; and ever that knight made a doleful complaint as ever made knight. And always he made his complaint of La Beale Isoud, the Queen of Cornwall, and said: Ah, fair lady, why love I thee! for thou art fairest of all other, and yet showest thou never love to me, nor bounty. Alas, yet must I love thee. And I may not blame thee, fair lady, for mine eyes be cause of this sorrow. And yet to love thee I am but a fool, for the best knight of the world loveth thee, and ye him again, that is Sir Tristram de Liones. And the falsest king and knight is your husband, and the most coward and full of treason, is your lord, King Mark. Alas, that ever so fair a lady and peerless of all other should be matched with the most villainous knight of the world. All this language heard King Mark, what Sir Palomides said by him; wherefore he was adread when he saw Sir Dinadan, lest he espied him, that he would tell Sir Palomides that he was King Mark; and therefore he withdrew him, and took his horse and rode to his men, where he commanded them to abide. And so he rode as fast as he might unto Camelot; and the same day he found there Amant, the knight, ready that afore Arthur had appealed him of treason; and so, lightly the king commanded them to do battle. And by misadventure King Mark smote Amant through the body. And yet was Amant in the righteous quarrel. And right so he took his horse and departed from the court for dread of Sir Dinadan, that he would tell Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides what he was. Then were there maidens that La Beale Isoud had sent to Sir Tristram, that knew Sir Amant well. CHAPTER XV How King Mark had slain Sir Amant wrongfully to-fore King Arthur, and Sir Launcelot fetched King Mark to King Arthur. THEN by the license of King Arthur they went to him and spake with him; for while the truncheon of the spear stuck in his body he spake: Ah, fair damosels, said Amant, recommend me unto La Beale Isoud, and tell her that I am slain for the love of her and of Sir Tristram. And there he told the damosels how cowardly King Mark had slain him, and Sir Bersules, his fellow. And for that deed I appealed him of treason, and here am I slain in a righteous quarrel; and all was because Sir Bersules and I would not consent by treason to slay the noble knight, Sir Tristram. Then the two maidens cried aloud that all the court might hear it, and said: O sweet Lord Jesu, that knowest all hid things, why sufferest Thou so false a traitor to vanquish and slay a true knight that fought in a righteous quarrel? Then anon it was sprung to the king, and the queen, and to all the lords, that it was King Mark that had slain Sir Amant, and Sir Bersules afore hand; wherefore they did their battle. Then was King Arthur wroth out of measure, and so were all the other knights. But when Sir Tristram knew all the matter he made great dole and sorrow out of measure, and wept for sorrow for the loss of the noble knights, Sir Bersules and of Sir Amant. When Sir Launcelot espied Sir Tristram weep he went hastily to King Arthur, and said: Sir, I pray you give me leave to return again to yonder false king and knight. I pray you, said King Arthur, fetch him again, but I would not that ye slew him, for my worship. Then Sir Launcelot armed him in all haste, and mounted upon a great horse, and took a spear in his hand and rode after King Mark. And from thence a three mile English Sir Launcelot over took him, and bade him: Turn recreant king and knight, for whether thou wilt or not thou shalt go with me to King Arthur's court. King Mark returned and looked upon Sir Launcelot, and said: Fair sir, what is your name? Wit thou well, said he, my name is Sir Launcelot, and therefore defend thee. And when King Mark wist that it was Sir Launcelot, and came so fast upon him with a spear, he cried then aloud: I yield me to thee, Sir Launcelot, honourable knight. But Sir Launcelot would not hear him, but came fast upon him. King Mark saw that, and made no defence, but tumbled adown out of his saddle
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