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 orgulyté we
demanded battle of you, 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 Pité, 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
Pité unto the tower, and Sir Tristram 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 Pité. Then for pity I
made the damosel 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 Pité, and suddenly he struck me from 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 Pité; and how he 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.
Frederick Sandys
Morgan le Fay
1862-63
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 to the
earth as a sack, and there he lay still, and cried Sir
Launcelot mercy. Arise, recreant knight and king. I will not
fight, said King Mark, but whither that ye will I will go
with you. Alas, alas, said Sir Launcelot, that I may not
give thee one buffet for the love of Sir Tristram and of La
Beale Isoud, and for the two knights that thou hast slain
traitorly. And so he mounted upon his horse and brought him
to King Arthur; and there King Mark alighted in that same
place, and threw his helm from him upon the earth, and his
sword, and fell flat to the earth of King Arthur's feet, and
put him in his grace and mercy. So God me help, said Arthur,
ye are welcome in a manner, and in a manner ye are not
welcome. In this manner ye are welcome, that ye come hither
maugre thy head, as I suppose. That is truth, said King
Mark, and else I had not been here, for my lord, Sir
Launcelot, brought me hither through his fine force, and to
him am I yolden to as recreant. Well, said Arthur, ye
understand ye ought to do me service, homage, and fealty.
And never would ye do me none, but ever ye have been against
me, and a destroyer of my knights; now, how will ye acquit
you? Sir, said King Mark, right as your lordship will
require me, unto my power, I will make a large amends. For
he was a fair speaker, and false thereunder. Then for great
pleasure of Sir Tristram, to make them twain accorded, the
king withheld King Mark as at that time, and made a broken
love-day between them.
CHAPTER XVI. How Sir Dinadan told Sir Palomides of the
battle between Sir Launcelot and Sir Tristam.
NOW turn we again unto Sir Palomides, how Sir Dinadan
comforted him in all that he might, from his great sorrow.
What knight are ye? said Sir Palomides. Sir, I am a
knight-errant as ye be, that hath sought you long by your
shield. Here is my shield, said Sir Palomides, wit ye well,
an ye will ought, therewith I will defend it. Nay, said Sir
Dinadan, I will not have ado with you but in good manner.
And if ye will, ye shall find me soon ready. Sir, said Sir
Dinadan, whitherward ride you this way? By my head, said Sir
Palomides, I wot not, but as fortune leadeth me. Heard ye or
saw ye ought of Sir Tristram? So God me help, of Sir
Tristram I both heard and saw, and not for then we loved not
inwardly well together, yet at my mischief Sir Tristram
rescued me from my death; and yet, or he and I departed, by
both our assents we assigned a day that we should have met
at the stony grave that Merlin set beside Camelot, and there
to have done battle together; howbeit I was letted, said Sir
Palomides, that I might not hold my day, the which grieveth
me sore; but I have a large excuse. For I was prisoner with
a lord, and many other more, and that shall Sir Tristram
right well understand, that I brake it not of fear of
cowardice. And then Sir Palomides told Sir Dinadan the same
day that they should have met. So God me help, said Sir
Dinadan, that same day met Sir Launcelot and Sir Tristram at
the same grave of stone. And there was the most mightiest
battle that ever was seen in this land betwixt two knights,
for they fought more than two hours. And there they both
bled so much blood that all men marvelled that ever they
might endure it. And so at the last, by both their assents,
they were made friends and sworn-brethren for ever, and no
man can judge the better knight. And now is Sir Tristram
made a knight of the Round Table, and he sitteth in the
siege of the noble knight, Sir Marhaus. By my head, said Sir
Palomides, Sir Tristram is far bigger than Sir Launcelot,
and the hardier knight. Have ye assayed them both? said Sir
Dinadan. I have seen Sir Tristram fight, said Sir Palomides,
but never Sir Launcelot to my witting. But at the fountain
where Sir Launcelot lay asleep, there with one spear he
smote down Sir Tristram and me, said Palomides, but at that
time they knew not either other. Fair knight, said Sir
Dinadan, as for Sir Launcelot and Sir Tristram let them be,
for the worst of them will not be lightly matched of no
knights that I know living. No, said Sir Palomides, God
defend, but an I had a quarrel to the better of them both I
would with as good a will fight with him as with you. Sir, I
require you tell me your name, and in good faith I shall
hold you company till that we come to Camelot; and there
shall ye have great worship now at this great tournament;
for there shall be the Queen Guenever, and La Beale Isoud of
Cornwall. Wit you well, sir knight, for the love of La Beale
Isoud I will be there, and else not, but I will not have ado
in King Arthur's court. Sir, said Dinadan, I shall ride with
you and do you service, so you will tell me your name. Sir,
ye shall understand my name is Sir Palomides, brother to
Safere, the good and noble knight. And Sir Segwarides and I,
we be Saracens born, of father and mother. Sir, said Sir
Dinadan, I thank you much for the telling of your name. For
I am glad of that I know your name, and I promise you by the
faith of my body, ye shall not be hurt by me by my will, but
rather be advanced. And thereto will I help you with all my
power, I promise you, doubt ye not. And certainly on my life
ye shall win great worship in the court of King Arthur, and
be right welcome. So then they dressed on their helms and
put on their shields, and mounted upon their horses, and
took the broad way towards Camelot. And then were they ware
of a castle that was fair and rich, and also passing strong
as any was within this realm.
CHAPTER XVII. How Sir Lamorak jousted with divers
knights of the castle wherein was Morgan le Fay.
SIR PALOMIDES, said Dinadan, here is a castle that I know
well, and therein dwelleth Queen Morgan le Fay, King
Arthur's sister; and King Arthur gave her this castle, the
which he hath repented him sithen a thousand times, for
sithen King Arthur and she have been at debate and strife;
but this castle could he never get nor win of her by no
manner of engine; and ever as she might she made war on King
Arthur. And all dangerous knights she withholdeth with her,
for to destroy all these knights that King Arthur loveth.
And there shall no knight pass this way but he must joust
with one knight, or with two, or with three. And if it hap
that King Arthur's knight be beaten, he shall lose his horse
and his harness and all that he hath, and hard, if that he
escape, but that he shall be prisoner. So God me help, said
Palomides, this is a shameful custom, and a villainous
usance for a queen to use, and namely to make such war upon
her own lord, that is called the Flower of Chivalry that is
christian or heathen; and with all my heart I would destroy
that shameful custom. And I will that all the world wit she
shall have no service of me. And if she send out any
knights, as I suppose she will, for to joust, they shall
have both their hands full. And I shall not fail you, said
Sir Dinadan, unto my puissance, upon my life.
So as they stood on horseback afore the castle, there
came a knight with a red shield, and two squires after him;
and he came straight unto Sir Palomides, the good knight,
and said to him: Fair and gentle knight-errant, I require
thee for the love thou owest unto knighthood, that ye will
not have ado here with these men of this castle; for this
was Sir Lamorak that thus said. For I came hither to seek
this deed, and it is my request; and therefore I beseech
you, knight, let me deal, and if I be beaten revenge me. In
the name of God, said Palomides, let see how ye will speed,
and we shall behold you. Then anon came forth a knight of
the castle, and proffered to joust with the Knight with the
Red Shield. Anon they encountered together, and he with the
red shield smote him so hard that he bare him over to the
earth. Therewith anon came another knight of the castle, and
he was smitten so sore that he avoided his saddle. And
forthwithal came the third knight, and the Knight with the
Red Shield smote him to the earth. Then came Sir Palomides,
and besought him that he might help him to joust. Fair
knight, said he unto him, suffer me as at this time to have
my will, for an they were twenty knights I shall not doubt
them. And ever there were upon the walls of the castle many
lords and ladies that cried and said: Well have ye jousted,
Knight with the Red Shield. But as soon as the knight had
smitten them down, his squire took their horses, and avoided
their saddles and bridles of the horses, and turned them
into the forest, and made the knights to be kept to the end
of the jousts. Right so came out of the castle the fourth
knight, and freshly proffered to joust with the Knight with
the Red Shield: and he was ready, and he smote him so hard
that horse and man fell to the earth, and the knight's back
brake with the fall, and his neck also. O Jesu, said Sir
Palomides, that yonder is a passing good knight, and the
best jouster that ever I saw. By my head, said Sir Dinadan,
he is as good as ever was Sir Launcelot or Sir Tristram,
what knight somever he be.
CHAPTER XVIII. How Sir Palomides would have jousted for
Sir Lamorak with the knights of the castle.
THEN forthwithal came a knight out of the castle, with a
shield bended with black and with white. And anon the Knight
with the Red Shield and he encountered so hard that he smote
the knight of the castle through the bended shield and
through the body, and brake the horse's back. Fair knight,
said Sir Palomides, ye have overmuch on hand, therefore I
pray you let me joust, for ye had need to be reposed. Why
sir, said the knight, seem ye that I am weak and feeble? and
sir, methinketh ye proffer me wrong, and to me shame, when I
do well enough. I tell you now as I told you erst; for an
they were twenty knights I shall beat them, and if I be
beaten or slain then may ye revenge me. And if ye think that
I be weary, and ye have an appetite to joust with me, I
shall find you jousting enough. Sir, said Palomides, I said
it not because I would joust with you, but meseemeth that ye
have overmuch on hand. And therefore, an ye were gentle,
said the Knight with the Red Shield, ye should not proffer
me shame; therefore I require you to joust with me, and ye
shall find that I am not weary. Sith ye require me, said Sir
Palomides, take keep to yourself. Then they two knights came
together as fast as their horses might run, and the knight
smote Sir Palomides sore on the shield that the spear went
into his side a great wound, and a perilous. And therewithal
Sir Palomides avoided his saddle. And that knight turned
unto Sir Dinadan; and when he saw him coming he cried aloud,
and said: Sir, I will not have ado with you; but for that he
let it not, but came straight upon him. So Sir Dinadan for
shame put forth his spear and all to-shivered it upon the
knight. But he smote Sir Dinadan again so hard that he smote
him clean from his saddle; but their horses he would not
suffer his squires to meddle with, and because they were
knights-errant.
Then he dressed him again to the castle, and jousted with
seven knights more, and there was none of them might
withstand him, but he bare him to the earth. And of these
twelve knights he slew in plain jousts four. And the eight
knights he made them to swear on the cross of a sword that
they should never use the evil customs of the castle. And
when he had made them to swear that oath he let them pass.
And ever stood the lords and the ladies on the castle walls
crying and saying: Knight with the Red Shield, ye have
marvellously well done as ever we saw knight do. And
therewith came a knight out of the castle unarmed, and said:
Knight with the Red Shield, overmuch damage hast thou done
to us this day, therefore return whither thou wilt, for here
are no more will have ado with thee; for we repent sore that
ever thou camest here, for by thee is fordone the old custom
of this castle. And with that word he turned again into the
castle, and shut the gates. Then the Knight with the Red
Shield turned and called his squires, and so passed forth on
his way, and rode a great pace.
And when he was past Sir Palomides went to Sir Dinadan,
and said: I had never such a shame of one knight that ever I
met; and therefore I cast me to ride after him, and to be
revenged with my sword, for a-horseback I deem I shall get
no worship of him. Sir Palomides, said Dinadan, ye shall not
meddle with him by my counsel, for ye shall get no worship
of him; and for this cause, ye have seen him this day have
had overmuch to do, and overmuch travailed. By almighty
Jesu, said Palomides, I shall never be at ease till that I
have had ado with him. Sir, said Dinadan, I shall give you
my beholding. Well, said Palomides, then shall ye see how we
shall redress our mights. So they took their horses of their
varlets, and rode after the Knight with the Red Shield; and
down in a valley beside a fountain they were ware where he
was alighted to repose him, and had done off his helm for to
drink at the well.
John Spencer-Stanhope
Morgan le Fay
CHAPTER XIX. How Sir Lamorak jousted with Sir Palomides,
and hurt him grievously.
THEN Palomides rode fast till he came nigh him. And then
he said: Knight, remember ye of the shame ye did to me right
now at the castle, therefore dress thee, for I will have ado
with thee. Fair knight, said he to Palomides, of me ye win
no worship, for ye have seen this day that I have been
travailed sore. As for that, said Palomides, I will not let,
for wit ye well I will be revenged. Well, said the knight, I
may happen to endure you. And therewithal he mounted upon
his horse, and took a great spear in his hand ready for to
joust. Nay, said Palomides, I will not joust, for I am sure
at jousting I get no prize. Fair knight, said that knight,
it would beseem a knight to joust and to fight on horseback.
Ye shall see what I will do, said Palomides. And therewith
he alighted down upon foot, and dressed his shield afore him
and pulled out his sword. Then the Knight with the Red
Shield descended down from his horse, and dressed his shield
afore him, and so he drew out his sword. And then they came
together a soft pace, and wonderly they lashed together
passing thick the mountenance of an hour or ever they
breathed. Then they traced and traversed, and waxed wonderly
wroth, and either behight other death; they hewed so fast
with their swords that they cut in down half their swords
and mails, that the bare flesh in some place stood above
their harness. And when Sir Palomides beheld his fellow's
sword over-hylled with his blood it grieved him sore: some
while they foined, some while they struck as wild men. But
at the last Sir Palomides waxed faint, because of his first
wound that he had at the castle with a spear, for that wound
grieved him wonderly sore. Fair knight, said Palomides,
meseemeth we have assayed either other passing sore, and if
it may please thee, I require thee of thy knighthood tell me
thy name. Sir, said the knight to Palomides, that is me
loath to do, for thou hast done me wrong and no knighthood
to proffer me battle, considering my great travail, but an
thou wilt tell me thy name I will tell thee mine. Sir, said
he, wit thou well my name is Palomides. Ah, sir, ye shall
understand my name is Sir Lamorak de Galis, son and heir
unto the good knight and king, King Pellinore, and Sir Tor,
the good knight, is my half brother. When Sir Palomides
heard him say so he kneeled down and asked mercy, For
outrageously have I done to you this day; considering the
great deeds of arms I have seen you do, shamefully and
unknightly I have required you to do battle. Ah, Sir
Palomides, said Sir Lamorak, overmuch have ye done and said
to me. And therewith he embraced him with his both hands,
and said: Palomides, the worthy knight, in all this land is
no better than ye, nor more of prowess, and me repenteth
sore that we should fight together. So it doth not me, said
Sir Palomides, and yet am I sorer wounded than ye be; but as
for that I shall soon thereof be whole. But certainly I
would not for the fairest castle in this land, but if thou
and I had met, for I shall love you the days of my life
afore all other knights except my brother, Sir Safere. I say
the same, said Sir Lamorak, except my brother, Sir Tor. Then
came Sir Dinadan, and he made great joy of Sir Lamorak. Then
their squires dressed both their shields and their harness,
and stopped their wounds. And thereby at a priory they
rested them all night.
CHAPTER XX. How it was told Sir Launcelot that Dagonet
chased King Mark, and how a knight overthrew him and six
knights.
Now turn we again. When Sir Ganis and Sir Brandiles with
his fellows came to the court of King Arthur they told the
king, Sir Launcelot, and Sir Tristram, how Sir Dagonet, the
fool, chased King Mark through the forest, and how the
strong knight smote them down all seven with one spear.
There was great laughing and japing at King Mark and at Sir
Dagonet. But all these knights could not tell what knight it
was that rescued King Mark. Then they asked King Mark if
that he knew him, and he answered and said: He named himself
the Knight that followed the Questing Beast, and on that
name he sent one of my varlets to a place where was his
mother; and when she heard from whence he came she made
passing great dole, and discovered to my varlet his name,
and said: Oh, my dear son, Sir Palomides, why wilt thou not
see me? And therefore, sir, said King Mark, it is to
understand his name is Sir Palomides, a noble knight. Then
were all these seven knights glad that they knew his name.
Now turn we again, for on the morn they took their
horses, both Sir Lamorak, Palomides, and Dinadan, with their
squires and varlets, till they saw a fair castle that stood
on a mountain well closed, and thither they rode, and there
they found a knight that hight Galahalt, that was lord of
that castle, and there they had great cheer and were well
eased. Sir Dinadan, said Sir Lamorak, what will ye do? Oh
sir, said Dinadan, I will to-morrow to the court of King
Arthur. By my head, said Sir Palomides, I will not ride
these three days, for I am sore hurt, and much have I bled,
and therefore I will repose me here. Truly, said Sir
Lamorak, and I will abide here with you; and when ye ride,
then will I ride, unless that ye tarry over long; then will
I take my horse. Therefore I pray you, Sir Dinadan, abide
and ride with us. Faithfully, said Dinadan, I will not
abide, for I have such a talent to see Sir Tristram that I
may not abide long from him. Ah, Dinadan, said Sir
Palomides, now do I understand that ye love my mortal enemy,
and therefore how should I trust you. Well, said Dinadan, I
love my lord Sir Tristram, above all other, and him will I
serve and do honour. So shall I, said Sir Lamorak, in all
that may lie in my power.
So on the morn Sir Dinadan rode unto the court of King
Arthur; and by the way as he rode he saw where stood an
errant knight, and made him ready for to joust. Not so, said
Dinadan, for I have no will to joust. With me shall ye
joust, said the knight, or that ye pass this way. Whether
ask ye jousts, by love or by hate? The knight answered: Wit
ye well I ask it for love, and not for hate. It may well be
so, said Sir Dinadan, but ye proffer me hard love when ye
will joust with me with a sharp spear. But, fair knight,
said Sir Dinadan, sith ye will joust with me, meet with me
in the court of King Arthur, and there shall I joust with
you. Well, said the knight, sith ye will not joust with me,
I pray you tell me your name. Sir knight, said he, my name
is Sir Dinadan. Ah, said the knight, full well know I you
for a good knight and a gentle, and wit you well I love you
heartily. Then shall there be no jousts, said Dinadan,
betwixt us. So they departed. And the same day he came to
Camelot, where lay King Arthur. And there he saluted the
king and the queen, Sir Launcelot, and Sir Tristram; and all
the court was glad of Sir Dinadan, for he was gentle, wise,
and courteous, and a good knight. And in especial, the
valiant knight Sir Tristram loved Sir Dinadan passing well
above all other knights save Sir Launcelot.
Then the king asked Sir Dinadan what adventures he had
seen. Sir, said Dinadan, I have seen many adventures, and of
some King Mark knoweth, but not all. Then the king hearkened
Sir Dinadan, how he told that Sir Palomides and he were
afore the castle of Morgan le Fay, and how Sir Lamorak took
the jousts afore them, and how he forjousted twelve knights,
and of them four he slew, and how after he smote down Sir
Palomides and me both. t I may not believe that, said the
king, for Sir Palomides is a passing good knight. That is
very truth, said Sir Dinadan, but yet I saw him better
proved, hand for hand. And then he told the king all that
battle, and how Sir Palomides was more weaker, and more
hurt, and more lost of his blood. And without doubt, said
Sir Dinadan, had the battle longer lasted, Palomides had
been slain. O Jesu, said King Arthur, this is to me a great
marvel. Sir, said Tristram, marvel ye nothing thereof, for
at mine advice there is not a valianter knight in the world
living, for I know his might. And now I will say you, I was
never so weary of knight but if it were Sir Launcelot. And
there is no knight in the world except Sir Launcelot that
did so well as Sir Lamorak. So God me help, said the king, I
would that knight, Sir Lamorak, came to this Court. Sir,
said Dinadan, he will be here in short space, and Sir
Palomides both, but I fear that Palomides may not yet
travel.
CHAPTER XXI. How King Arthur let do cry a jousts, and
how Sir Lamorak came in, and overthrew Sir Gawaine and many
other.
THEN within three days after the king let make a jousting
at a priory. And there made them ready many knights of the
Round Table, for Sir Gawaine and his brethren made them
ready to joust; but Tristram, Launcelot, nor Dinadan, would
not joust, but suffered Sir Gawaine, for the love of King
Arthur, with his brethren, to win the gree if they might.
Then on the morn they apparelled them to joust, Sir Gawaine
and his four brethren, and did there great deeds of arms.
And Sir Ector de Maris did marvellously well, but Sir
Gawaine passed all that fellowship; wherefore King Arthur
and all the knights gave Sir Gawaine the honour at the
beginning.
Right so King Arthur was ware of a knight and two
squires, the which came out of a forest side, with a shield
covered with leather, and then he came slyly and hurtled
here and there, and anon with one spear he had smitten down
two knights of the Round Table. Then with his hurtling he
lost the covering of his shield, then was the king and all
other ware that he bare a red shield. O Jesu, said King
Arthur, see where rideth a stout knight, he with the red
shield. And there was noise and crying Beware the Knight
with the Red Shield. So within a little while he had
overthrown three brethren of Sir Gawaine's. So God me help,
said King Arthur, meseemeth yonder is the best jouster that
ever I saw. With that he saw him encounter with Sir Gawaine,
and he smote him down with so great force that he made his
horse to avoid his saddle. How now, said the king, Sir
Gawaine hath a fall; well were me an I knew what knight he
were with the red shield. I know him well, said Dinadan, but
as at this time ye shall not know his name. By my head, said
Sir Tristram, he jousted better than Sir Palomides, and if
ye list to know his name, wit ye well his name is Sir
Lamorak de Galis.
As they stood thus talking, Sir Gawaine and he
encountered together again, and there he smote Sir Gawaine
from his horse, and bruised him sore. And in the sight of
King Arthur he smote down twenty knights, beside Sir Gawaine
and his brethren. And so clearly was the prize given him as
a knight peerless. Then slyly and marvellously Sir Lamorak
withdrew him from all the fellowship into the forest side.
All this espied King Arthur, for his eye went never from
him. Then the king, Sir Launcelot, Sir Tristram, and Sir
Dinadan, took their hackneys, and rode straight after the
good knight, Sir Lamorak de Galis, and there found him. And
thus said the king: Ah, fair knight, well be ye found. When
he saw the king he put off his helm and saluted him, and
when he saw Sir Tristram he alighted down off his horse and
ran to him to take him by the thighs, but Sir Tristram would
not suffer him, but he alighted or that he came, and either
took other in arms, and made great joy of other. The king
was glad, and also was all the fellowship of the Round
Table, except Sir Gawaine and his brethren. And when they
wist that he was Sir Lamorak, they had great despite at him,
and were wonderly wroth with him that he had put him to
dishonour that day.
Then Gawaine called privily in council all his brethren,
and to them said thus: Fair brethren, here may ye see, whom
that we hate King Arthur loveth, and whom that we love he
hateth. And wit ye well, my fair brethren, that this Sir
Lamorak will never love us, because we slew his father, King
Pellinore, for we deemed that he slew our father, King of
Orkney. And for the despite of Pellinore, Sir Lamorak did us
a shame to our mother, therefore I will be revenged. Sir,
said Sir Gawaine's brethren, let see how ye will or may be
revenged, and ye shall find us ready. Well, said Gawaine,
hold you still and we shall espy our time.
CHAPTER XXII. How King Arthur made King Mark to be
accorded with Sir Tristram, and how they departed toward
Cornwall.
NOW pass we our matter, and leave we Sir Gawaine, and
speak of King Arthur, that on a day said unto King Mark:
Sir, I pray you give me a gift that I shall ask you. Sir,
said King Mark, I will give you whatsomever ye desire an it
be in my power. Sir, gramercy, said Arthur. This I will ask
you, that ye will be good lord unto Sir Tristram, for he is
a man of great honour; and that ye will take him with you
into Cornwall, and let him see his friends, and there
cherish him for my sake. Sir, said King Mark, I promise you
by the faith of my body, and by the faith that I owe to God
and to you, I shall worship him for your sake in all that I
can or may. Sir, said Arthur, and I will forgive you all the
evil will that ever I ought you, an so be that you swear
that upon a book before me. With a good will, said King
Mark; and so he there sware upon a book afore him and all
his knights, and therewith King Mark and Sir Tristram took
either other by the hands hard knit together. But for all
this King Mark thought falsely, as it proved after, for he
put Sir Tristram in prison, and cowardly would have slain
him.
Then soon after King Mark took his leave to ride into
Cornwall, and Sir Tristram made him ready to ride with him,
whereof the most part of the Round Table were wroth and
heavy, and in especial Sir Launcelot, and Sir Lamorak, and
Sir Dinadan, were wroth out of measure For well they wist
King Mark would slay or destroy Sir Tristram. Alas, said
Dinadan, that my lord, Sir Tristram, shall depart. And Sir
Tristram took such sorrow that he was amazed like a fool.
Alas, said Sir Launcelot unto King Arthur, what have ye
done, for ye shall lose the most man of worship that ever
came into your court. It was his own desire, said Arthur,
and therefore I might not do withal, for I have done all
that I can and made them at accord. Accord, said Sir
Launcelot, fie upon that accord, for ye shall hear that he
shall slay Sir Tristram, or put him in a prison, for he is
the most coward and the villainest king and knight that is
now living.
And therewith Sir Launcelot departed, and came to King
Mark, and said to him thus: Sir king, wit thou well the good
knight Sir Tristram shall go with thee. Beware, I rede thee,
of treason, for an thou mischief that knight by any manner
of falsehood or treason, by the faith I owe to God and to
the order of knighthood, I shall slay thee with mine own
hands. Sir Launcelot, said the king, overmuch have ye said
to me, and I have sworn and said over largely afore King
Arthur in hearing of all his knights, that I shall not slay
nor betray him. It were to me overmuch shame to break my
promise. Ye say well, said Sir Launcelot, but ye are called
so false and full of treason that no man may believe you.
Forsooth it is known well wherefore ye came into this
country, and for none other cause but for to slay Sir
Tristram. So with great dole King Mark and Sir Tristram rode
together, for it was by Sir Tristram's will and his means to
go with King Mark, and all was for the intent to see La
Beale Isoud, for without the sight of her Sir Tristram might
not endure.
CHAPTER XXIII. How Sir Percivale was made knight of King
Arthur, and how a dumb maid spake, and brought him to the
Round Table.
NOW turn we again unto Sir Lamorak, and speak we of his
brethren, Sir Tor, which was King Pellinore's first son and
begotten of Aryes, wife of the cowherd, for he was a
bastard; and Sir Aglovale was his first son begotten in
wedlock; Sir Lamorak, Dornar, Percivale, these were his sons
too in wedlock. So when King Mark and Sir Tristram were
departed from the court there was made great dole and sorrow
for the departing of Sir Tristram. Then the king and his
knights made no manner of joys eight days after. And at the
eight days' end there came to the court a knight with a
young squire with him. And when this knight was unarmed, he
went to the king and required him to make the young squire a
knight. Of what lineage is he come? said King Arthur. Sir,
said the knight, he is the son of King Pellinore, that did
you some time good service, and he is a brother unto Sir
Lamorak de Galis, the good knight. Well, said the king, for
what cause desire ye that of me that I should make him
knight? Wit you well, my lord the king, that this young
squire is brother to me as well as to Sir Lamorak, and my
name is Aglavale. Sir Aglavale, said Arthur, for the love of
Sir Lamorak, and for his father's love, he shall be made
knight to-morrow. Now tell me, said Arthur, what is his
name? Sir, said the knight, his name is Percivale de Galis.
So on the morn the king made him knight in Camelot. But the
king and all the knights thought it would be long or that he
proved a good knight.
Then at the dinner, when the king was set at the table,
and every knight after he was of prowess, the king commanded
him to be set among mean knights; and so was Sir Percivale
set as the king commanded. Then was there a maiden in the
queen's court that was come of high blood, and she was dumb
and never spake word. Right so she came straight into the
hall, and went unto Sir Percivale, and took him by the hand
and said aloud, that the king and all the knights might hear
it: Arise, Sir Percivale, the noble knight and God's knight,
and go with me; and so he did. And there she brought him to
the right side of the Siege Perilous, and said, Fair knight,
take here thy siege, for that siege appertaineth to thee and
to none other. Right so she departed and asked a priest. And
as she was confessed and houselled then she died. Then the
king and all the court made great joy of Sir Percivale.
CHAPTER XXIV. How Sir Lamorak visited King Lot's wife,
and how Sir Gaheris slew her which was his own mother.
NOW turn we unto Sir Lamorak, that much was there
praised. Then, by the mean of Sir Gawaine and his brethren,
they sent for their mother there besides, fast by a castle
beside Camelot; and all was to that intent to slay Sir
Lamorak. The Queen of Orkney was there but a while, but Sir
Lamorak wist of their being, and was full fain; and for to
make an end of this matter, he sent unto her, and there
betwixt them was a night assigned that Sir Lamorak should
come to her. Thereof was ware Sir Gaheris, and there he rode
afore the same night, and waited upon Sir Lamorak, and then
he saw where he came all armed. And where Sir Lamorak
alighted he tied his horse to a privy postern, and so he
went into a parlour and unarmed him; and then he went unto
the queen's bed, and she made of him passing great joy, and
he of her again, for either loved other passing sore. So
when the knight, Sir Gaheris, saw his time, he came to their
bedside all armed, with his sword naked, and suddenly gat
his mother by the hair and struck off her head.
When Sir Lamorak saw the blood dash upon him all hot, the
which he loved passing well, wit you well he was sore
abashed and dismayed of that dolorous knight. And
therewithal, Sir Lamorak leapt out of the bed in his shirt
as a knight dismayed, saying thus: Ah, Sir Gaheris, knight
of the Table Round, foul and evil have ye done, and to you
great shame. Alas, why have ye slain your mother that bare
you? with more right ye should have slain me. The offence
hast thou done, said Gaheris, notwithstanding a man is born
to offer his service; but yet shouldst thou beware with whom
thou meddlest, for thou hast put me and my brethren to a
shame, and thy father slew our father; and thou to lie by
our mother is too much shame for us to suffer. And as for
thy father, King Pellinore my brother Sir Gawaine and I slew
him. Ye did him the more wrong, said Sir Lamorak, for my
father slew not your father, it was Balin le Savage: and as
yet my father's death is not revenged. Leave those words,
said Sir Gaheris, for an thou speak feloniously I will slay
thee. But because thou art naked I am ashamed to slay thee.
But wit thou well, in what place I may get thee I shall slay
thee; and now my mother is quit of thee; and withdraw thee
and take thine armour, that thou were gone. Sir Lamorak saw
there was none other bote, but fast armed him, and took his
horse and rode his way making great sorrow. But for the
shame and dolour he would not ride to King Arthur's court,
but rode another way.
But when it was known that Gaheris had slain his mother
the king was passing wroth, and commanded him to go out of
his court. Wit ye well Sir Gawaine was wroth that Gaheris
had slain his mother and let Sir Lamorak escape. And for
this matter was the king passing wroth, and so was Sir
Launcelot, and many other knights. Sir, said Sir Launcelot,
here is a great mischief befallen by felony, and by forecast
treason, that your sister is thus shamefully slain. And I
dare say that it was wrought by treason, and I dare say ye
shall lose that good knight, Sir Lamorak the which is great
pity. I wot well and am sure, an Sir Tristram wist it, he
would never more come within your court, the which should
grieve you much more and all your knights. God defend, said
the noble King Arthur, that I should lose Sir Lamorak or Sir
Tristram, for then twain of my chief knights of the Table
Round were gone. Sir, said Sir Launcelot, I am sure ye shall
lose Sir Lamorak, for Sir Gawaine and his brethren will slay
him by one mean or other; for they among them have concluded
and sworn to slay him an ever they may see their time. That
shall I let, said Arthur.
CHAPTER XXV. How Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred met with
a knight fleeing, and how they both were overthrown, and of
Sir Dinadan.
NOW leave we of Sir Lamorak, and speak of Sir Gawaine's
brethren, and specially of Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred. As
they rode on their adventures they met with a knight
fleeing, sore wounded; and they asked him what tidings. Fair
knights, said he, here cometh a knight after me that will
slay me. With that came Sir Dinadan riding to them by
adventure, but he would promise them no help. But Sir
Agravaine and Sir Mordred promised him to rescue him.
Therewithal came that knight straight unto them, and anon he
proffered to joust. That saw Sir Mordred and rode to him,
but he struck Mordred over his horse's tail. That saw Sir
Agravaine, and straight he rode toward that knight, and
right so as he served Mordred so he served Agravaine, and
said to them: Sirs, wit ye well both that I am Breuse Saunce
Pité, that hath done this to you. And yet he rode over
Agravaine five or six times. When Dinadan saw this, he must
needs joust with him for shame. And so Dinadan and he
encountered together, that with pure strength Sir Dinadan
smote him over his horse's tail Then he took his horse and
fled, for he was on foot one of the valiantest knights in
Arthur's days, and a great destroyer of all good knights.
Then rode Sir Dinadan unto Sir Mordred and unto Sir
Agravaine. Sir knight, said they all, well have ye done, and
well have ye revenged us, wherefore we pray you tell us your
name. Fair sirs, ye ought to know my name, the which is
called Sir Dinadan. When they understood that it was Dinadan
they were more wroth than they were before, for they hated
him out of measure because of Sir Lamorak. For Dinadan had
such a custom that he loved all good knights that were
valiant, and he hated all those that were destroyers of good
knights. And there were none that hated Dinadan but those
that ever were called murderers. Then spake the hurt knight
that Breuse Saunce Pité had chased, his name was Dalan, and
said: If thou be Dinadan thou slewest my father. It may well
be so, said Dinadan, but then it was in my defence and at
his request. By my head, said Dalan, thou shalt die
therefore, and therewith he dressed his spear and his
shield. And to make the shorter tale, Sir Dinadan smote him
down off his horse, that his neck was nigh broken. And in
the same wise he smote Sir Mordred and Sir Agravaine. And
after, in the quest of the Sangreal, cowardly and
feloniously they slew Dinadan, the which was great damage,
for he was a great bourder and a passing good knight.
And so Sir Dinadan rode to a castle that hight
Beale-Valet. And there he found Sir Palomides that was not
yet whole of the wound that Sir Lamorak gave him. And there
Dinadan told Palomides all the tidings that he heard and saw
of Sir Tristram, and how he was gone with King Mark, and
with him he hath all his will and desire. Therewith Sir
Palomides waxed wroth, for he loved La Beale Isoud. And then
he wist well that Sir Tristram enjoyed her.
CHAPTER XXVI. How King Arthur, the Queen, and Launcelot
received letters out of Cornwall, and of the answer again.
NOW leave we Sir Palomides and Sir Dinadan in the Castle
of Beale-Valet, and turn we again unto King Arthur. There
came a knight out of Cornwall, his name was Fergus, a fellow
of the Round Table. And there he told the king and Sir
Launcelot good tidings of Sir Tristram, and there were
brought goodly letters, and how he left him in the castle of
Tintagil. Then came the damosel that brought goodly letters
unto King Arthur and unto Sir Launcelot, and there she had
passing good cheer of the king, and of the Queen Guenever,
and of Sir Launcelot. Then they wrote goodly letters again.
But Sir Launcelot bade ever Sir Tristram beware of King
Mark, for ever he called him in his letters King Fox, as who
saith, he fareth all with wiles and treason. Whereof Sir
Tristram in his heart thanked Sir Launcelot. Then the
damosel went unto La Beale Isoud, and bare her letters from
the king and from Sir Launcelot, whereof she was in passing
great joy. Fair damosel, said La Beale Isoud, how fareth my
Lord Arthur, and the Queen Guenever, and the noble knight,
Sir Launcelot? She answered, and to make short tale: Much
the better that ye and Sir Tristram be in joy. God reward
them, said La Beale Isoud, for Sir Tristram suffereth great
pain for me, and I for him.
So the damosel departed, and brought letters to King
Mark. And when he had read them, and understood them, he was
wroth with Sir Tristram, for he deemed that he had sent the
damosel unto King Arthur. For Arthur and Launcelot in a
manner threated King Mark. And as King Mark read these
letters he deemed treason by Sir Tristram. Damosel, said
King Mark, will ye ride again and bear letters from me unto
King Arthur? Sir, she said, I will be at your commandment to
ride when ye will. Ye say well, said the king; come again,
said the king, to-morn, and fetch your letters. Then she
departed and told them how she should ride again with
letters unto Arthur. Then we pray you, said La Beale Isoud
and Sir Tristram, that when ye have received your letters,
that ye would come by us that we may see the privity of your
letters. All that I may do, madam, ye wot well I must do for
Sir Tristram, for I have been long his own maiden.
So on the morn the damosel went to King Mark to have had
his letters and to depart. I am not avised, said King Mark,
as at this time to send my letters. Then privily and
secretly he sent letters unto King Arthur, and unto Queen
Guenever, and unto Sir Launcelot. So the varlet departed,
and found the king and the queen in Wales, at Carlion. And
as the king and the queen were at mass the varlet came with
the letters. And when mass was done the king and the queen
opened the letters privily by themself. And the beginning of
the king's letters spake wonderly short unto King Arthur,
and bade him entermete with himself and with his wife, and
of his knights; for he was able enough to rule and keep his
wife.
Edward Burne Jones
The last sleep of Arthur in Avalon
1881-91
CHAPTER XXVII. How Sir Launcelot was wroth with the
letter that he received from King Mark, and of Dinadan which
made a lay of King Mark.
WHEN King Arthur understood the letter, he mused of many
things, and thought on his sister's words, Queen Morgan le
Fay, that she had said betwixt Queen Guenever and Sir
Launcelot. And in this thought he studied a great while.
Then he bethought him again how his sister was his own
enemy, and that she hated the queen and Sir Launcelot, and
so he put all that out of his thought. Then King Arthur read
the letter again, and the latter clause said that King Mark
took Sir Tristram for his mortal enemy; wherefore he put
Arthur out of doubt he would be revenged of Sir Tristram.
Then was King Arthur wroth with King Mark. And when Queen
Guenever read her letter and understood it, she was wroth
out of measure, for the letter spake shame by her and by Sir
Launcelot. And so privily she sent the letter unto Sir
Launcelot. And when he wist the intent of the letter he was
so wroth that he laid him down on his bed to sleep, whereof
Sir Dinadan was ware, for it was his manner to be privy with
all good knights. And as Sir Launcelot slept he stole the
letter out of his hand, and read it word by word. And then
he made great sorrow for anger. And so Sir Launcelot awaked,
and went to a window, and read the letter again, the which
made him angry.
Sir, said Dinadan, wherefore be ye angry? discover your
heart to me: forsooth ye wot well I owe you good will,
howbeit I am a poor knight and a servitor unto you and to
all good knights. For though I be not of worship myself I
love all those that be of worship. It is truth, said Sir
Launcelot, ye are a trusty knight, and for great trust I
will shew you my counsel. And when Dinadan understood all,
he said: This is my counsel: set you right nought by these
threats, for King Mark is so villainous, that by fair speech
shall never man get of him. But ye shall see what I shall
do; I will make a lay for him, and when it is made I shall
make an harper to sing it afore him. So anon he went and
made it, and taught it an harper that hight Eliot. And when
he could it, he taught it to many harpers. And so by the
will of Sir Launcelot, and of Arthur, the harpers went
straight into Wales, and into Cornwall, to sing the lay that
Sir Dinadan made by King Mark, the which was the worst lay
that ever harper sang with harp or with any other
instruments.
CHAPTER XXVIII. How Sir Tristram was hurt, and of a war
made to King Mark; and of Sir Tristram how he promised to
rescue him.
NOW turn we again unto Sir Tristram and to King Mark. As
Sir Tristram was at jousts and at tournament it fortuned he
was sore hurt both with a spear and with a sword, but yet he
won always the degree. And for to repose him he went to a
good knight that dwelled in Cornwall, in a castle, whose
name was Sir Dinas le Seneschal. Then by misfortune there
came out of Sessoin a great number of men of arms, and an
hideous host, and they entered nigh the Castle of Tintagil;
and their captain's name was Elias, a good man of arms. When
King Mark understood his enemies were entered into his land
he made great dole and sorrow, for in no wise by his will
King Mark would not send for Sir Tristram, for he hated him
deadly.
So when his council was come they devised and cast many
perils of the strength of their enemies. And then they
concluded all at once, and said thus unto King Mark: Sir,
wit ye well ye must send for Sir Tristram, the good knight,
or else they will never be overcome. For by Sir Tristram
they must be foughten withal, or else we row against the
stream. Well, said King Mark, I will do by your counsel; but
yet he was full loath thereto, but need constrained him to
send for him. Then was he sent for in all haste that might
be, that he should come to King Mark. And when he understood
that King Mark had sent for him, he mounted upon a soft
ambler and rode to King Mark. And when he was come the king
said thus: Fair nephew Sir Tristram, this is all. Here be
come our enemies of Sessoin, that are here nigh hand, and
without tarrying they must be met with shortly, or else they
will destroy this country. Sir, said Sir Tristram, wit ye
well all my power is at your commandment. And wit ye well,
sir, these eight days I may bear none arms, for my wounds be
not yet whole. And by that day I shall do what I may. Ye say
well, said King Mark; then go ye again and repose you and
make you fresh, and I shall go and meet the Sessoins with
all my power.
So the king departed unto Tintagil, and Sir Tristram went
to repose him. And the king made a great host and departed
them in three; the first part led Sir Dinas the Seneschal,
and Sir Andred led the second part, and Sir Argius led the
third part; and he was of the blood of King Mark. And the
Sessoins had three great battles, and many good men of arms.
And so King Mark by the advice of his knights issued out of
the Castle of Tintagil upon his enemies. And Dinas, the good
knight, rode out afore, and slew two knights with his own
hands, and then began the battles. And there was marvellous
breaking of spears and smiting of swords, and slew down many
good knights. And ever was Sir Dinas the Seneschal the best
of King Mark's party. And thus the battle endured long with
great mortality. But at the last King Mark and Sir Dinas,
were they never so loath, they withdrew them to the Castle
of Tintagil with great slaughter of people; and the Sessoins
followed on fast, that ten of them were put within the gates
and four slain with the portcullis.
Then King Mark sent for Sir Tristram by a varlet, that
told him all the mortality. Then he sent the varlet again,
and bade him: Tell King Mark that I will come as soon as I
am whole, for erst I may do him no good. Then King Mark had
his answer. Therewith came Elias and bade the king yield up
the castle: For ye may not hold it no while. Sir Elias, said
the king, so will I yield up the castle if I be not soon
rescued. Anon King Mark sent again for rescue to Sir
Tristram. By then Sir Tristram was whole, and he had gotten
him ten good knights of Arthur's; and with them he rode unto
Tintagil. And when he saw the great host of Sessoins he
marvelled wonder greatly. And then Sir Tristram rode by the
woods and by the ditches as secretly as he might, till he
came nigh the gates. And there dressed a knight to him when
he saw that Sir Tristram would enter; and Sir Tristram smote
him down dead, and so he served three more. And everych of
these ten knights slew a man of arms. So Sir Tristram
entered into the Castle of Tintagil. And when King Mark wist
that Sir Tristram was come he was glad of his coming, and so
was all the fellowship, and of him they made great joy.
CHAPTER XXIX. How Sir Tristram overcame the battle, and
how Elias desired a man to fight body for body.
SO on the morn Elias the captain came, and bade King
Mark: Come out and do battle; for now the good knight Sir
Tristram is entered it will be shame to thee, said Elias,
for to keep thy walls. When King Mark understood this he was
wroth and said no word, but went unto Sir Tristram and asked
him his counsel. Sir, said Sir Tristram, will ye that I give
him his answer? I will well, said King Mark. Then Sir
Tristram said thus to the messenger: Bear thy lord word from
the king and me, that we will do battle with him to-morn in
the plain field. What is your name? said the messenger. Wit
thou well my name is Sir Tristram de Liones. Therewithal the
messenger departed and told his lord Elias all that he had
heard. Sir, said Sir Tristram unto King Mark, I pray you
give me leave to have the rule of the battle. I pray you
take the rule, said King Mark. Then Sir Tristram let devise
the battle in what manner that it should be. He let depart
his host in six parties, and ordained Sir Dinas the
Seneschal to have the foreward, and other knights to rule
the remnant. And the same night Sir Tristram burnt all the
Sessoins' ships unto the cold water. Anon, as Elias wist
that, he said it was of Sir Tristram's doing: For he casteth
that we shall never escape, mother son of us. Therefore,
fair fellows, fight freely to-morrow, and miscomfort you
nought; for any knight, though he be the best knight in the
world, he may not have ado with us all.
Then they ordained their battle in four parties, wonderly
well apparelled and garnished with men of arms. Thus they
within issued, and they without set freely upon them; and
there Sir Dinas did great deeds of arms. Not for then Sir
Dinas and his fellowship were put to the worse. With that
came Sir Tristram and slew two knights with one spear; then
he slew on the right hand and on the left hand, that men
marvelled that ever he might do such deeds of arms. And then
he might see sometime the battle was driven a bow-draught
from the castle, and sometime it was at the gates of the
castle. Then came Elias the captain rushing here and there,
and hit King Mark so sore upon the helm that he made him to
avoid the saddle. And then Sir Dinas gat King Mark again to
horseback. Therewithal came in Sir Tristram like a lion, and
there he met with Elias, and he smote him so sore upon the
helm that he avoided his saddle. And thus they fought till
it was night, and for great slaughter and for wounded people
everych party drew to their rest.
And when King Mark was come within the Castle of Tintagil
he lacked of his knights an hundred, and they without lacked
two hundred; and they searched the wounded men on both
parties. And then they went to council; and wit you well
either party were loath to fight more, so that either might
escape with their worship. When Elias the captain understood
the death of his men he made great dole; and when he wist
that they were loath to go to battle again he was wroth out
of measure. Then Elias sent word unto King Mark, in great
despite, whether he would find a knight that would fight for
him body for body. And if that he might slay King Mark's
knight, he to have the truage of Cornwall yearly. And if
that his knight slay mine, I fully release my claim forever.
Then the messenger departed unto King Mark, and told him how
that his lord Elias had sent him word to find a knight to do
battle with him body for body. When King Mark understood the
messenger, he bade him abide and he should have his answer.
Then called he all the baronage together to wit what was the
best counsel. They said all at once: To fight in a field we
have no lust, for had not been Sir Tristram's prowess it had
been likely that we never should have escaped; and
therefore, sir, as we deem, it were well done to find a
knight that would do battle with him, for he knightly
proffereth.
CHAPTER XXI. How Sir Elias and Sir Tristram fought
together for the truage, and how Sir Tristram slew Elias in
the field.
NOT for then when all this was said, they could find no
knight that would do battle with him. Sir king, said they
all, here is no knight that dare fight with Elias. Alas,
said King Mark, then am I utterly ashamed and utterly
destroyed, unless that my nephew Sir Tristram will take the
battle upon him. Wit you well, they said all, he had
yesterday overmuch on hand, and he is weary for travail, and
sore wounded. Where is he? said King Mark. Sir, said they,
he is in his bed to repose him. Alas, said King Mark, but I
have the succour of my nephew Sir Tristram, I am utterly
destroyed for ever.
Therewith one went to Sir Tristram where he lay, and told
him what King Mark had said. And therewith Sir Tristram
arose lightly, and put on him a long gown, and came afore
the king and all the lords. And when he saw them all so
dismayed he asked the king and the lords what tidings were
with them. Never worse, said the king. And therewith he told
him all, how he had word of Elias to find a knight to fight
for the truage of Cornwall, and none can I find. And as for
you, said the king and all the lords, we may ask no more of
you for shame; for through your hardiness yesterday ye saved
all our lives. Sir, said Sir Tristram, now I understand ye
would have my succour, reason would that I should do all
that lieth in my power to do, saving my worship and my life,
howbeit I am sore bruised and hurt. And sithen Sir Elias
proffereth so largely, I shall fight with him, or else I
will be slain in the field, or else I will deliver Cornwall
from the old truage. And therefore lightly call his
messenger and he shall be answered, for as yet my wounds be
green, and they will be sorer a seven night after than they
be now; and therefore he shall have his answer that I will
do battle to-morn with him.
Then was the messenger departed brought before King Mark.
Hark, my fellow, said Sir Tristram, go fast unto thy lord,
and bid him make true assurance on his part for the truage,
as the king here shall make on his part; and then tell thy
lord, Sir Elias, that I, Sir Tristram, King Arthur's knight,
and knight of the Table Round, will as to-morn meet with thy
lord on horseback, to do battle as long as my horse may
endure, and after that to do battle with him on foot to the
utterance. The messenger beheld Sir Tristram from the top to
the toe; and therewithal he departed and came to his lord,
and told him how he was answered of Sir Tristram. And
therewithal was made hostage on both parties, and made it as
sure as it might be, that whether party had the victory, so
to end. And then were both hosts assembled on both parts of
the field, without the Castle of Tintagil, and there was
none but Sir Tristram and Sir Elias armed.
So when the appointment was made, they departed
in-sunder, and they came together with all the might that
their horses might run. And either knight smote other so
hard that both horses and knights went to the earth. Not for
then they both lightly arose and dressed their shields on
their shoulders, with naked swords in their hands, and they
dashed together that it seemed a flaming fire about them.
Thus they traced, and traversed, and hewed on helms and
hauberks, and cut away many cantels of their shields, and
either wounded other passing sore, so that the hot blood
fell freshly upon the earth. And by then they had foughten
the mountenance of an hour Sir Tristram waxed faint and
for-bled, and gave sore aback. That saw Sir Elias, and
followed fiercely upon him, and wounded him in many places.
And ever Sir Tristram traced and traversed, and went froward
him here and there, and covered him with his shield as he
might all weakly, that all men said he was overcome; for Sir
Elias had given him twenty strokes against one.
Then was there laughing of the Sessoins' party, and great
dole on King Mark's party. Alas, said the king, we are
ashamed and destroyed all for ever: for as the book saith,
Sir Tristram was never so matched, but if it were Sir
Launcelot. Thus as they stood and beheld both parties, that
one party laughing and the other party weeping, Sir Tristram
remembered him of his lady, La Beale Isoud, that looked upon
him, and how he was likely never to come in her presence.
Then he pulled up his shield that erst hung full low. And
then he dressed up his shield unto Elias, and gave him many
sad strokes, twenty against one, and all to-brake his shield
and his hauberk, that the hot blood ran down to the earth.
Then began King Mark to laugh, and all Cornish men, and that
other party to weep. And ever Sir Tristram said to Sir
Elias: Yield thee.
Then when Sir Tristram saw him so staggering on the
ground, he said: Sir Elias, I am right sorry for thee, for
thou art a passing good knight as ever I met withal, except
Sir Launcelot. Therewithal Sir Elias fell to the earth, and
there died. What shall I do, said Sir Tristram unto King
Mark, for this battle is at an end? Then they of Elias'
party departed, and King Mark took of them many prisoners,
to redress the harms and the scathes that he had of them;
and the remnant he sent into their country to borrow out
their fellows. Then was Sir Tristram searched and well
healed. Yet for all this King Mark would fain have slain Sir
Tristram. But for all that ever Sir Tristram saw or heard by
King Mark, yet would he never beware of his treason, but
ever he would be thereas La Beale Isoud was.
CHAPTER XXXI. How at a great feast that King Mark made
an harper came and sang the lay that Dinadan had made.
NOW will we pass of this matter, and speak we of the
harpers that Sir Launcelot and Sir Dinadan had sent into
Cornwall. And at the great feast that King Mark made for joy
that the Sessoins were put out of his country, then came
Eliot the harper with the lay that Dinadan had made and
secretly brought it unto Sir Tristram, and told him the lay
that Dinadan had made by King Mark. And when Sir Tristram
heard it, he said: O Lord Jesu, that Dinadan can make
wonderly well and ill, thereas it shall be. Sir, said Eliot,
dare I sing this song afore King Mark? Yea, on my peril,
said Sir Tristram, for I shall be thy warrant. Then at the
meat came in Eliot the harper, and because he was a curious
harper men heard him sing the same lay that Dinadan had
made, the which spake the most villainy by King Mark of his
treason that ever man heard.
When the harper had sung his song to the end King Mark
was wonderly wroth, and said: Thou harper, how durst thou be
so bold on thy head to sing this song afore me. Sir, said
Eliot, wit you well I am a minstrel, and I must do as I am
commanded of these lords that I bear the arms of. And sir,
wit ye well that Sir Dinadan, a knight of the Table Round,
made this song, and made me to sing it afore you. Thou
sayest well, said King Mark, and because thou art a minstrel
thou shalt go quit, but I charge thee hie thee fast out of
my sight. So the harper departed and went to Sir Tristram,
and told him how he had sped. Then Sir Tristram let make
letters as goodly as he could to Launcelot and to Sir
Dinadan. And so he let conduct the harper out of the
country. But to say that King Mark was wonderly wroth, he
was, for he deemed that the lay that was sung afore him was
made by Sir Tristram's counsel, wherefore he thought to slay
him and all his well-willers in that country.
CHAPTER XXXII. How King Mark slew by treason his brother
Boudwin, for good service that he had done to him.
NOW turn we to another matter that fell between King Mark
and his brother, that was called the good Prince Boudwin,
that all the people of the country loved passing well. So it
befell on a time that the miscreant Saracens landed in the
country of Cornwall soon after these Sessoins were gone. And
then the good Prince Boudwin, at the landing, he raised the
country privily and hastily. And or it were day he let put
wildfire in three of his own ships, and suddenly he pulled
up the sail, and with the wind he made those ships to be
driven among the navy of the Saracens. And to make short
tale, those three ships set on fire all the ships, that none
were saved. And at point of the day the good Prince Boudwin
with all his fellowship set on the miscreants with shouts
and cries, and slew to the number of forty thousand, and
left none alive.
When King Mark wist this he was wonderly wroth that his
brother should win such worship. And because this prince was
better beloved than he in all that country, and that also
Boudwin loved well Sir Tristram, therefore he thought to
slay him. And thus, hastily, as a man out of his wit, he
sent for Prince Boudwin and Anglides his wife, and bade them
bring their young son with them, that he might see him. All
this he did to the intent to slay the child as well as his
father, for he was the falsest traitor that ever was born.
Alas, for his goodness and for his good deeds this gentle
Prince Boudwin was slain. So when he came with his wife
Anglides, the king made them fair semblant till they had
dined. And when they had dined King Mark sent for his
brother and said thus: Brother, how sped you when the
miscreants arrived by you? meseemeth it had been your part
to have sent me word, that I might have been at that
journey, for it had been reason that I had had the honour
and not you. Sir, said the Prince Boudwin, it was so that an
I had tarried till that I had sent for you those miscreants
had destroyed my country. Thou liest, false traitor, said
King Mark, for thou art ever about for to win worship from
me, and put me to dishonour, and thou cherishest that I
hate. And therewith he struck him to the heart with a
dagger, that he never after spake word. Then the Lady
Anglides made great dole, and swooned, for she saw her lord
slain afore her face. Then was there no more to do but
Prince Boudwin was despoiled and brought to burial. But
Anglides privily gat her husband's doublet and his shirt,
and that she kept secretly.
Then was there much sorrow and crying, and great dole
made Sir Tristram, Sir Dinas, Sir Fergus, and so did all
knights that were there; for that prince was passingly well
beloved. So La Beale Isoud sent unto Anglides, the Prince
Boudwin's wife, and bade her avoid lightly or else her young
son, Alisander le Orphelin, should be slain When she heard
this, she took her horse and her child; and rode with such
poor men as durst ride with her.
CHAPTER XXXIII. How Anglides, Boudwin's wife, escaped
with her young son, Alisander le Orphelin, and came to the
Castle of Arundel.
NOTWITHSTANDING, when King Mark had done this deed, yet
he thought to do more vengeance; and with his sword in his
hand, he sought from chamber to chamber, to seek Anglides
and her young son. And when she was missed he called a good
knight that hight Sadok, and charged him by pain of death to
fetch Anglides again and her young son. So Sir Sadok
departed and rode after Anglides. And within ten mile he
overtook her, and bade her turn again and ride with him to
King Mark. Alas, fair knight, she said, what shall ye win by
my son's death or by mine? I have had overmuch harm and too
great a loss. Madam, said Sadok, of your loss is dole and
pity; but madam, said Sadok, would ye depart out of this
country with your son, and keep him till he be of age, that
he may revenge his father's death, then would I suffer you
to depart from me, so you promise me to revenge the death of
Prince Boudwin. Ah, gentle knight, Jesu thank thee, and if
ever my son, Alisander le Orphelin, live to be a knight, he
shall have his father's doublet and his shirt with the
bloody marks, and I shall give him such a charge that he
shall remember it while he liveth. And therewithal Sadok
departed from her, and either betook other to God. And when
Sadok came to King Mark he told him faithfully that he had
drowned young Alisander her son; and thereof King Mark was
full glad.
Now turn we unto Anglides, that rode both night and day
by adventure out of Cornwall, and little and in few places
she rested; but ever she drew southward to the seaside, till
by fortune she came to a castle that is called Magouns, and
now it is called Arundel, in Sussex. And the Constable of
the castle welcomed her, and said she was welcome to her own
castle; and there was Anglides 2t worshipfully received, for
the Constable's wife was nigh her cousin, and the
Constable's name was Bellangere; and that same Constable
told Anglides that the same castle was hers by right
inheritance. Thus Anglides endured years and winters, till
Alisander was big and strong; there was none so wight in all
that country, neither there was none that might do no manner
of mastery afore him.
CHAPTER XXXIV. How Anglides gave the bloody doublet to
Alisander, her son, the same day that he was made knight,
and the charge withal.
THEN upon a day Bellangere the Constable came to Anglides
and said: Madam, it were time my lord Alisander were made
knight, for he is a passing strong young man. Sir, said she,
I would he were made knight; but then must I give him the
most charge that ever sinful mother gave to her child. Do as
ye list, said Bellangere, and I shall give him warning that
he shall be made knight. Now it will be well done that he
may be made knight at our Lady Day in Lent. Be it so, said
Anglides, and I pray you make ready therefore. So came the
Constable to Alisander, and told him that he should at our
Lady Day in Lent be made knight. I thank God, said
Alisander; these are the best tidings that ever came to me.
Then the Constable ordained twenty of the greatest
gentlemen's sons, and the best born men of the country, that
should be made knights that same day that Alisander was made
knight. So on the same day that Alisander and his twenty
fellows were made knights, at the offering of the mass there
came Anglides unto her son and said thus: O fair sweet son,
I charge thee upon my blessing, and of the high order of
chivalry that thou takest here this day, that thou
understand what I shall say and charge thee withal.
Therewithal she pulled out a bloody doublet and a bloody
shirt, that were be-bled with old blood. When Alisander saw
this he stert aback and waxed pale, and said: Fair mother,
what may this mean? I shall tell thee, fair son: this was
thine own father's doublet and shirt, that he wore upon him
that same day that he was slain. And there she told him why
and wherefore, and how for his goodness King Mark slew him
with his dagger afore mine own eyen. And therefore this
shall be your charge that I shall give thee.
CHAPTER XXXV. How it was told to King Mark of Sir
Alisander, and how he would have slain Sir Sadok for saving
his life.
NOW I require thee, and charge thee upon my blessing, and
upon the high order of knighthood, that thou be revenged
upon King Mark for the death of thy father. And therewithal
she swooned. Then Alisander leapt to his mother, and took
her up in his arms, and said: Fair mother, ye have given me
a great charge, and here I promise you I shall be avenged
upon King Mark when that I may; and that I promise to God
and to you. So this feast was ended, and the Constable, by
the advice of Anglides, let purvey that Alisander was well
horsed and harnessed. Then he jousted with his twenty
fellows that were made knights with him, but for to make a
short tale, he overthrew all those twenty, that none might
withstand him a buffet.
Then one of those knights departed unto King Mark, and
told him all, how Alisander was made knight, and all the
charge that his mother gave him, as ye have heard afore
time. Alas, false treason, said King Mark, I weened that
young traitor had been dead. Alas, whom may I trust? And
therewithal King Mark took a sword in his hand; and sought
Sir Sadok from chamber to chamber to slay him. When Sir
Sadok saw King Mark come with his sword in his hand he said
thus: Beware, King Mark, and come not nigh me; for wit thou
well that I saved Alisander his life, of which I never
repent me, for thou falsely and cowardly slew his father
Boudwin, traitorly for his good deeds; wherefore I pray
Almighty Jesu send Alisander might and strength to be
revenged upon thee. And now beware King Mark of young
Alisander, for he is made a knight. Alas, said King Mark,
that ever I should hear a traitor say so afore me. And
therewith four knights of King Mark's drew their swords to
slay Sir Sadok, but anon Sir Sadok slew them all in King
Mark's presence. And then Sir Sadok passed forth into his
chamber, and took his horse and his harness, and rode on his
way a good pace. For there was neither Sir Tristram, neither
Sir Dinas, nor Sir Fergus, that would Sir Sadok any evil
will. Then was King Mark wroth, and thought to destroy Sir
Alisander and Sir Sadok that had saved him; for King Mark
dreaded and hated Alisander most of any man living.
When Sir Tristram understood that Alisander was made
knight, anon forthwithal he sent him a letter, praying him
and charging him that he would draw him to the court of King
Arthur, and that he put him in the rule and in the hands of
Sir Launcelot. So this letter was sent to Alisander from his
cousin, Sir Tristram. And at that time he thought to do
after his commandment. Then King Mark called a knight that
brought him the tidings from Alisander, and bade him abide
still in that country. Sir, said that knight, so must I do,
for in my own country I dare not come. No force, said King
Mark, I shall give thee here double as much lands as ever
thou hadst of thine own. But within short space Sir Sadok
met with that false knight, and slew him. Then was King Mark
wood wroth out of measure. Then he sent unto Queen Morgan le
Fay, and to the Queen of North-galis, praying them in his
letters that they two sorceresses would set all the country
in fire with ladies that were enchantresses, and by such
that were dangerous knights, as Malgrin, Breuse Saunce Pité,
that by no mean Alisander le Orphelin should escape, but
either he should be taken or slain. This ordinance made King
Mark for to destroy Alisander.
CHAPTER XXXVI. How Sir Alisander won the prize at a
tournament, and of Morgan le Fay: and how he fought with Sir
Malgrin, and slew him.
NOW turn we again unto Sir Alisander, that at his
departing his mother took with him his father's bloody
shirt. So that he bare with him always till his death day,
in tokening to think of his father's death. So was Alisander
purposed to ride to London, by the counsel of Sir Tristram,
to Sir Launcelot. And by fortune he went by the seaside, and
rode wrong. And there he won at a tournament the gree that
King Carados made. And there he smote down King Carados and
twenty of his knights, and also Sir Safere, a good knight
that was Sir Palomides' brother, the good knight. All this
saw a damosel, and saw the best knight joust that ever she
saw. And ever as he smote down knights he made them to swear
to wear none harness in a twelvemonth and a day. This is
well said, said Morgan le Fay, this is the knight that I
would fain see. And so she took her palfrey, and rode a
great while, and then she rested her in her pavilion. So
there came four knights, two were armed, and two were
unarmed, and they told Morgan le Fay their names: the first
was Elias de Gomeret, the second was Cari de Gomeret, those
were armed; that other twain were of Camiliard, cousins unto
Queen Guenever, and that one hight Guy, and that other hight
Garaunt, those were unarmed. There these four knights told
Morgan le Fay how a young knight had smitten them down
before a castle For the maiden of that castle said that he
was but late made knight, and young. But as we suppose, but
if it were Sir Tristram, or Sir Launcelot, or Sir Lamorak,
the good knight, there is none that might sit him a buffet
with a spear. Well, said Morgan le Fay, I shall meet that
knight or it be long time, an he dwell in that country.
So turn we to the damosel of the castle, that when
Alisander le Orphelin had forjousted the four knights, she
called him to her, and said thus: Sir knight, wilt thou for
my sake joust and fight with a knight, for my sake, of this
country, that is and hath been long time an evil neighbour
to me? His name is Malgrin, and he will not suffer me to be
married in no manner wise for all that I can do, or any
knight for my sake. Damosel, said Alisander, an he come
whiles I am here I will fight with him, and my poor body for
your sake I will jeopard. And therewithal she sent for him,
for he was at her commandment. And when either had a sight
of other, they made them ready for to joust, and they came
together eagerly, and Malgrin brised his spear upon
Alisander, and Alisander smote him again so hard that he
bare him quite from his saddle to the earth. But this
Malgrin arose lightly, and dressed his shield and drew his
sword, and bade him alight, saying: Though thou have the
better of me on horseback, thou shalt find that I shall
endure like a knight on foot. It is well said, said
Alisander; and so lightly he avoided his horse and betook
him to his varlet. And then they rushed together like two
boars, and laid on their helms and shields long time, by the
space of three hours, that never man could say which was the
better knight.
And in the meanwhile came Morgan le Fay to the damosel of
the castle, and they beheld the battle. But this Malgrin was
an old roted knight, and he was called one of the dangerous
knights of the world to do battle on foot, but on horseback
there were many better. And ever this Malgrin awaited to
slay Alisander, and so wounded him wonderly sore, that it
was marvel that ever he might stand, for he had bled so much
blood; for Alisander fought wildly, and not wittily. And
that other was a felonious knight, and awaited him, and
smote him sore. And sometime they rushed together with their
shields, like two boars or rams, and fell grovelling both to
the earth. Now knight, said Malgrin, hold thy hand a while,
and tell me what thou art. I will not, said Alisander, but
if me list: but tell me thy name, and why thou keepest this
country, or else thou shalt die of my hands. Wit thou well,
said Malgrin, that for this maiden's love, of this castle, I
have slain ten good knights by mishap; and by outrage and
orgulité of myself I have slain ten other knights. So God me
help, said Alisander, this is the foulest confession that
ever I heard knight make, nor never heard I speak of other
men of such a shameful confession; wherefore it were great
pity and great shame unto me that I should let thee live any
longer; therefore keep thee as well as ever thou mayest, for
as I am true knight, either thou shalt slay me or else I
shall slay thee, I promise thee faithfully.
Then they lashed together fiercely, and at the last
Alisander smote Malgrin to the earth. And then he raced off
his helm, and smote off his head lightly. And when he had
done and ended this battle, anon he called to him his
varlet, the which brought him his horse. And then he,
weening to be strong enough, would have mounted. And so she
laid Sir Alisander in an horse litter, and led him into the
castle, for he had no foot nor might to stand upon the
earth; for he had sixteen great wounds, and in especial one
of them was like to be his death.
CHAPTER XXXVII. How Queen Morgan le Fay had Alisander in
her castle, and how she healed his wounds.
THEN Queen Morgan le Fay searched his wounds, and gave
such an ointment unto him that he should have died. And on
the morn when she came to him he complained him sore; and
then she put other ointments upon him, and then he was out
of his pain. Then came the damosel of the castle, and said
unto Morgan le Fay: I pray you help me that this knight
might wed me, for he hath won me with his hands. Ye shall
see, said Morgan le Fay, what I shall say. Then Morgan le
Fay went unto Alisander, and bade in anywise that he should
refuse this lady, an she desire to wed you, for she is not
for you. So the damosel came and desired of him marriage.
Damosel, said Orphelin, I thank you, but as yet I cast me
not to marry in this country. Sir, she said, sithen ye will
not marry me, I pray you insomuch as ye have won me, that ye
will give me to a knight of this country that hath been my
friend, and loved me many years. With all my heart, said
Alisander, I will assent thereto. Then was the knight sent
for, his name was Gerine le Grose. And anon he made them
handfast, and wedded them.
Then came Queen Morgan le Fay to Alisander, and bade him
arise, and put him in an horse litter, and gave him such a
drink that in three days and three nights he waked never,
but slept; and so she brought him to her own castle that at
that time was called La Beale Regard. Then Morgan le Fay
came to Alisander, and asked him if he would fain be whole.
Who would be sick, said Alisander, an he might be whole?
Well, said Morgan le Fay, then shall ye promise me by your
knighthood that this day twelvemonth and a day ye shall not
pass the compass of this castle, and without doubt ye shall
lightly be whole. I assent, said Sir Alisander. And there he
made her a promise: then was he soon whole. And when
Alisander was whole, then he repented him of his oath, for
he might not be revenged upon King Mark. Right so there came
a damosel that was cousin to the Earl of Pase, and she was
cousin to Morgan le Fay. And by right that castle of La
Beale Regard should have been hers by true inheritance. So
this damosel entered into this castle where lay Alisander,
and there she found him upon his bed, passing heavy and all
sad.
CHAPTER XXXVIII. How Alisander was delivered from Queen
Morgan le Fay by the means of a damosel.
SIR knight, said the damosel, an ye would be merry I
could tell you good tidings. Well were me, said Alisander,
an I might hear of good tidings, for now I stand as a
prisoner by my promise. Sir, she said, wit you well that ye
be a prisoner, and worse than ye ween; for my lady, my
cousin Queen Morgan le Fay, keepeth you here for none other
intent but for to do her pleasure with you when it liketh
her. O Jesu defend me, said Alisander, from such pleasure;
for I had liefer cut away my hangers than I would do her
such pleasure. As Jesu help me, said the damosel, an ye
would love me and be ruled by me, I shall make your
deliverance with your worship. Tell me, said Alisander, by
what means, and ye shall have my love. Fair knight, said
she, this castle of right ought to be mine, and I have an
uncle the which is a mighty earl, he is Earl of Pase, and of
all folks he hateth most Morgan le Fay; and I shall send
unto him and pray him for my sake to destroy this castle for
the evil customs that be used therein; and then will he come
and set wild-fire on every part of the castle, and I shall
get you out at a privy postern, and there shall ye have your
horse and your harness. Ye say well, damosel, said
Alisander. And then she said: Ye may keep the room of this
castle this twelvemonth and a day, then break ye not your
oath. Truly, fair damosel, said Alisander, ye say sooth. And
then he kissed her, and did to her pleasaunce as it pleased
them both at times and leisures.
So anon she sent unto her uncle and bade him come and
destroy that castle, for as the book saith, he would have
destroyed that castle afore time had not that damosel been.
When the earl understood her letters he sent her word again
that on such a day he would come and destroy that castle. So
when that day came she showed Alisander a postern
wherethrough he should flee into a garden, and there he
should find his armour and his horse. When the day came that
was set, thither came the Earl of Pase with four hundred
knights, and set on fire all the parts of the castle, that
or they ceased they left not a stone standing. And all this
while that the fire was in the castle he abode in the
garden. And when the fire was done he let make a cry that he
would keep that piece of earth thereas the castle of La
Beale Regard was a twelvemonth and a day, from all manner
knights that would come
So it happed there was a duke that hight Ansirus, and he
was of the kin of Sir Launcelot. And this knight was a great
pilgrim, for every third year he would be at Jerusalem. And
because he used all his life to go in pilgrimage men called
him Duke Ansirus the Pilgrim. And this duke had a daughter
that hight Alice, that was a passing fair woman, and because
of her father she was called Alice la Beale Pilgrim. And
anon as she heard of this cry she went unto Arthur's court,
and said openly in hearing of many knights, that what knight
may overcome that knight that keepeth that piece of earth
shall have me and all my lands.
When the knights of the Round Table heard her say thus
many were glad, for she was passing fair and of great rents.
Right so she let cry in castles and towns as fast on her
side as Alisander did on his side. Then she dressed her
pavilion straight by the piece of the earth that Alisander
kept. So she was not so soon there but there came a knight
of Arthur's court that hight Sagramore le Desirous, and he
proffered to joust with Alisander; and they encountered, and
Sagramore le Desirous brised his spear upon Sir Alisander,
but Sir Alisander smote him so hard that he avoided his
saddle. And when La Beale Alice saw him joust so well, she
thought him a passing goodly knight on horseback. And then
she leapt out of her pavilion, and took Sir Alisander by the
bridle, and thus she said: Fair knight, I require thee of
thy knighthood show me thy visage. I dare well, said
Alisander, show my visage. And then he put off his helm; and
she saw his visage, she said: O sweet Jesu, thee I must
love, and never other. Then show me your visage, said he.
CHAPTER XXXIX. How Alisander met with Alice la Beale
Pilgrim, and how he jousted with two knights; and after of
him and of Sir Mordred.
Then she unwimpled her visage. And when he saw her he
said: Here have I found my love and my lady. Truly, fair
lady, said he, I promise you to be your knight, and none
other that beareth the life. Now, gentle knight, said she,
tell me your name. My name is, said he, Alisander le
Orphelin. Now, damosel, tell me your name, said he. My name
is, said she, Alice la Beale Pilgrim. And when we be more at
our heart's ease, both ye and I shall tell other of what
blood we be come. So there was great love betwixt them. And
as they thus talked there came a knight that hight Harsouse
le Berbuse, and asked part of Sir Alisander's spears. Then
Sir Alisander encountered with him, and at the first Sir
Alisander smote him over his horse's croup. And then there
came another knight that hight Sir Hewgon, and Sir Alisander
smote him down as he did that other. Then Sir Hewgon
proffered to do battle on foot. Sir Alisander overcame him
with three strokes, and there would have slain him had he
not yielded him. So then Alisander made both those knights
to swear to wear none armour in a twelvemonth and a day.
Then Sir Alisander alighted down, and went to rest him
and repose him. Then the damosel that helped Sir Alisander
out of the castle, in her play told Alice all together how
he was prisoner in the castle of La Beale Regard, and there
she told her how she got him out of prison. Sir, said Alice
la Beale Pilgrim, meseemeth ye are much beholding to this
maiden. That is truth, said Sir Alisander. And there Alice
told him of what blood she was come. Sir, wit ye well, she
said, that I am of the blood of King Ban, that was father
unto Sir Launcelot. Y-wis, fair lady, said Alisander, my
mother told me that my father was brother unto a king, and I
nigh cousin unto Sir Tristram.
Then this while came there three knights, that one hight
Vains, and the other hight Harvis de les Marches, and the
third hight Perin de la Montaine. And with one spear Sir
Alisander smote them down all three, and gave them such
falls that they had no list to fight upon foot. So he made
them to swear to wear none arms in a twelvemonth. So when
they were departed Sir Alisander beheld his lady Alice on
horseback as he stood in her pavilion. And then was he so
enamoured upon her that he wist not whether he were on
horseback or on foot.
Right so came the false knight Sir Mordred, and saw Sir
Alisander was assotted upon his lady; and therewithal he
took his horse by the bridle, and led him here and there,
and had cast to have led him out of that place to have
shamed him. When the damosel that helped him out of that
castle saw how shamefully he was led, anon she let arm her,
and set a shield upon her shoulder; and therewith she
mounted upon his horse, and gat a naked sword in her hand,
and she thrust unto Alisander with all her might, and she
gave him such a buffet that he thought the fire flew out of
his eyen. And when Alisander felt that stroke he looked
about him, and drew his sword And when she saw that, she
fled, and so did Mordred into the forest, and the damosel
fled into the pavilion. So when Alisander understood himself
how the false knight would have shamed him had not the
damosel been then was he wroth with himself that Sir Mordred
was so escaped his hands. But then Sir Alisander and Alice
had good game at the damosel, how sadly she hit him upon the
helm.
Then Sir Alisander jousted thus day by day, and on foot
he did many battles with many knights of King Arthur's
court, and with many knights strangers. Therefore to tell
all the battles that he did it were overmuch to rehearse,
for every day within that twelvemonth he had ado with one
knight or with other, and some day he had ado with three or
with four; and there was never knight that put him to the
worse. And at the twelvemonth's end he departed with his
lady, Alice la Beale Pilgrim. And the damosel would never go
from him, and so they went into their country of Benoye, and
lived there in great joy.
CHAPTER XL. How Sir Galahalt did do cry a jousts in
Surluse, and Queen Guenever's knights should joust against
all that would come.
BUT as the book saith, King Mark would never stint till
he had slain him by treason. And by Alice he gat a child
that hight Bellengerus le Beuse. And by good fortune he came
to the court of King Arthur, and proved a passing good
knight; and he revenged his father's death, for the false
King Mark slew both Sir Tristram and Alisander falsely and
feloniously. And it happed so that Alisander had never grace
nor fortune to come to King Arthur's court. For an he had
come to Sir Launcelot, all knights said that knew him, he
was one of the strongest knights that was in Arthur's days,
and great dole was made for him. So let we of him pass, and
turn we to another tale.
So it befell that Sir Galahalt, the haut prince, was lord
of the country of Surluse, whereof came many good knights.
And this noble prince was a passing good man of arms, and
ever he held a noble fellowship together. And then he came
to Arthur's court and told him his intent, how this was his
will, how he would let cry a jousts in the country of
Surluse, the which country was within the lands of King
Arthur, and there he asked leave to let cry a jousts. I will
give you leave, said King Arthur; but wit thou well, said
King Arthur, I may not be there. Sir, said Queen Guenever,
please it you to give me leave to be at that jousts. With
right good will, said Arthur; for Sir Galahalt, the haut
prince, shall have you in governance. Sir, said Galahalt, I
will as ye will. Sir, then the queen, I will take with me
[Sir Launcelot] and such knights as please me best. Do as ye
list, said King Arthur. So anon she commanded Sir Launcelot
to make him ready with such knights as he thought best.
So in every good town and castle of this land was made a
cry, that in the country of Surluse Sir Galahalt should make
a joust that should last eight days, and how the haut
prince, with the help of Queen Guenever's knights, should
joust against all manner of men that would come. When this
cry was known, kings and princes, dukes and earls, barons
and noble knights, made them ready to be at that jousts. And
at the day of jousting there came in Sir Dinadan disguised,
and did many great deeds of arms.
CHAPTER XLI. How Sir Launcelot fought in the tournament,
and how Sir Palomides did arms there for a damosel.
THEN at the request of Queen Guenever and of King
Bagdemagus Sir Launcelot came into the range, but he was
disguised, and that was the cause that few folk knew him;
and there met with him Sir Ector de Maris, his own brother,
and either brake their spears upon other to their hands. And
then either gat another spear. And then Sir Launcelot smote
down Sir Ector de Maris, his own brother. That saw Sir
Bleoberis, and he smote Sir Launcelot such a buffet upon the
helm that he wist not well where he was. Then Sir Launcelot
was wrothy and smote Sir Bleoberis so sore upon the helm
that his head bowed down backward. And he smote eft another
buffet, that he avoided his saddle; and so he rode by, and
thrust forth to the thickest. When the King of Northgalis
saw Sir Ector and Bleoberis lie on the ground then was he
wroth, for they came on his party against them of Surluse.
So the King of Northgalis ran to Sir Launcelot, and brake a
spear upon him all to pieces. Therewith Sir Launcelot
overtook the King of Northgalis, and smote him such a buffet
on the helm with his sword that he made him to avoid his
horse; and anon the king was horsed again. So both the King
Bagdemagus' and the King of North-galis' party hurled to
other; and then began a strong medley, but they of
Northgalis were far bigger.
When Sir Launcelot saw his party go to the worst he
thrang into the thickest press with a sword in his hand; and
there he smote down on the right hand and on the left hand,
and pulled down knights and raced off their helms, that all
men had wonder that ever one knight might do such deeds of
arms. When Sir Meliagaunce, that was son unto King
Bagdemagus, saw how Sir Launcelot fared he marvelled
greatly. And when he understood that it was he, he wist well
that he was disguised for his sake. Then Sir Meliagaunce
prayed a knight to slay Sir Launcelot's horse, either with
sword or with spear. At that time King Bagdemagus met with a
knight that hight Sauseise, a good knight, to whom he said:
Now fair Sauseise, encounter with my son Meliagaunce and
give him large payment, for I would he were well beaten of
thy hands, that he might depart out of this field. And then
Sir Sauseise encountered with Sir Meliagaunce, and either
smote other down. And then they fought on foot, and there
Sauseise had won Sir Meliagaunce, had there not come
rescues. So then the haut prince blew to lodging, and every
knight unarmed him and went to the great feast.
Then in the meanwhile there came a damosel to the haut
prince, and complained that there was a knight that hight
Goneries that withheld her all her lands. Then the knight
was there present, and cast his glove to her or to any that
would fight in her name. So the damosel took up the glove
all heavily for default of a champion. Then there came a
varlet to her and said: Damosel, will ye do after me? Full
fain, said the damosel. Then go you unto such a knight that
lieth here beside in an hermitage, and that followeth the
Questing Beast, and pray him to take the battle upon him,
and anon I wot well he will grant you.
So anon she took her palfrey, and within a while she
found that knight, that was Sir Palomides. And when she
required him he armed him and rode with her, and made her to
go to the haut prince, and to ask leave for her knight to do
battle. I will well, said the haut prince. Then the knights
were ready in the field to joust on horseback; and either
gat a spear in their hands, and met so fiercely together
that their spears all to-shivered. Then they flang out
swords, and Sir Palomides smote Sir Goneries down to the
earth. And then he raced off his helm and smote off his
head. Then they went to supper, and the damosel loved
Palomides as paramour, but the book saith she was of his
kin. So then Palomides disguised himself in this manner, in
his shield he bare the Questing Beast, and in all his
trappings. And when he was thus ready, he sent to the haut
prince to give him leave to joust with other knights, but he
was adoubted of Sir Launcelot. The haut prince sent him word
again that he should be welcome, and that Sir Launcelot
should not joust with him. Then Sir Galahalt, the haut
prince, let cry what knight somever he were that smote down
Sir Palomides should have his damosel to himself.
CHAPTER XLII. How Sir Galahalt and Palomides fought
together, and of Sir Dinadan and Sir Galahalt.
HERE beginneth the second day. Anon as Sir Palomides came
into the field, Sir Galahalt, the haut prince, was at the
range end, and met with Sir Palomides, and he with him, with
great spears. And then they came so hard together that their
spears all to-shivered, but Sir Galahalt smote him so hard
that he bare him backward over his horse, but yet he lost
not his stirrups. Then they drew their swords and lashed
together many sad strokes, that many worshipful knights left
their business to behold them. But at the last Sir Galahalt,
the haut prince, smote a stroke of might unto Palomides,
sore upon the helm; but the helm was so hard that the sword
might not bite, but slipped and smote off the head of the
horse of Sir Palomides. When the haut prince wist and saw
the good knight fall unto the earth he was ashamed of that
stroke. And therewith he alighted down off his own horse,
and prayed the good knight, Palomides, to take that horse of
his gift, and to forgive him that deed. Sir, said Palomides,
I thank you of your great goodness, for ever of a man of
worship a knight shall never have disworship; and so he
mounted upon that horse, and the haut prince had another
anon. Now, said the haut prince, I release to you that
maiden, for ye have won her. Ah, said Palomides, the damosel
and I be at your commandment.
So they departed, and Sir Galahalt did great deeds of
arms. And right so came Dinadan and encountered with Sir
Galahalt, and either came to other so fast with their spears
that their spears brake to their hands. But Dinadan had
weened the haut prince had been more weary than he was. And
then he smote many sad strokes at the haut prince; but when
Dinadan saw he might not get him to the earth he said: My
lord, I pray you leave me, and take another. The haut prince
knew not Dinadan, and left goodly for his fair words. And so
they departed; but soon there came another and told the haut
prince that it was Dinadan. Forsooth, said the prince,
therefore am I heavy that he is so escaped from me, for with
his mocks and japes now shall I never have done with him.
And then Galahalt rode fast after him, and bade him: Abide,
Dinadan, for King Arthur's sake. Nay, said Dinadan, so God
me help, we meet no more together this day. Then in that
wrath the haut prince met with Meliagaunce, and he smote him
in the throat that an he had fallen his neck had broken; and
with the same spear he smote down another knight. Then came
in they of Northgalis and many strangers, and were like to
have put them of Surluse to the worse, for Sir Galahalt, the
haut prince, had ever much in hand. So there came the good
knight, Semound the Valiant, with forty knights, and he beat
them all aback. Then the Queen Guenever and Sir Launcelot
let blow to lodging, and every knight unarmed him, and
dressed him to the feast.
CHAPTER XLIII. How Sir Archade appealed Sir Palomides of
treason, and how Sir Palomides slew him.
WHEN Palomides was unarmed he asked lodging for himself
and the damosel. Anon the haut prince commanded them to
lodging. And he was not so soon in his lodging but there
came a knight that hight Archade, he was brother unto
Goneries that Palomides slew afore in the damosel's quarrel.
And this knight, Archade, called Sir Palomides traitor, and
appealed him for the death of his brother. By the leave of
the haut prince, said Palomides, I shall answer thee. When
Sir Galahalt understood their quarrel he bade them go to
dinner: And as soon as ye have dined look that either knight
be ready in the field. So when they had dined they were
armed both, and took their horses, and the queen, and the
prince, and Sir Launcelot, were set to behold them; and so
they let run their horses, and there Sir Palomides bare
Archade on his spear over his horse's tail. And then
Palomides alighted and drew his sword, but Sir Archade might
not arise; and there Sir Palomides raced off his helm, and
smote off his head. Then the haut prince and Queen Guenever
went unto supper. Then King Bagdemagus sent away his son
Meliagaunce because Sir Launcelot should not meet with him,
for he hated Sir Launcelot, and that knew he not.
CHAPTER XLIV. Of the third day, and how Sir Palomides
jousted with Sir Lamorak, and other things.
NOW beginneth the third day of jousting; and at that day
King Bagdemagus made him ready; and there came against him
King Marsil, that had in gift an island of Sir Galahalt the
haut prince; and this island had the name Pomitain. Then it
befell that King Bagdemagus and King Marsil of Pomitain met
together with spears, and King Marsil had such a buffet that
he fell over his horse's croup. Then came there in a knight
of King Marsil to revenge his lord, and King Bagdemagus
smote him down, horse and man, to the earth. So there came
an earl that hight Arrouse, and Sir Breuse, and an hundred
knights with them of Pomitain, and the King of Northgalis
was with them; and all these were against them of Surluse.
And then there began great battle, and many knights were
cast under horses' feet. And ever King Bagdemagus did best,
for he first began, and ever he held on. Gaheris, Gawaine's
brother, smote ever at the face of King Bagdemagus; and at
the last King Bagdemagus hurtled down Gaheris, horse and
man.
Then by adventure Sir Palomides, the good knight, met
with Sir Blamore de Ganis, Sir Bleoberis' brother. And
either smote other with great spears, that both their horses
and knights fell to the earth. But Sir Blamore had such a
fall that he had almost broken his neck, for the blood brast
out at nose, mouth, and his ears, but at the last he
recovered well by good surgeons. Then there came in the Duke
Chaleins of Clarance; and in his governance there came a
knight that hight Elis la Noire; and there encountered with
him King Bagdemagus, and he smote Elis that he made him to
avoid his saddle. So the Duke Chaleins of Clarance did there
great deeds of arms, and of so late as he came in the third
day there was no man did so well except King Bagdemagus and
Sir Palomides, that the prize was given that day to King
Bagdemagus. And then they blew unto lodging, and unarmed
them, and went to the feast. Right so came Dinadan, and
mocked and japed with King Bagdemagus that all knights
laughed at him, for he was a fine japer, and well loving all
good knights.
So anon as they had dined there came a varlet bearing
four spears on his back; and he came to Palomides, and said
thus: Here is a knight by hath sent you the choice of four
spears, and requireth you for your lady's sake to take that
one half of these spears, and joust with him in the field.
Tell him, said Palomides, I will not fail him. When Sir
Galahalt wist of this, he bade Palomides make him ready. So
the Queen Guenever, the haut prince, and Sir Launcelot, they
were set upon scaffolds to give the judgment of these two
knights. Then Sir Palomides and the strange knight ran so
eagerly together that their spears brake to their hands.
Anon withal either of them took a great spear in his hand
and all to-shivered them in pieces. And then either took a
greater spear, and then the knight smote down Sir Palomides,
horse and man, to the earth. And as he would have passed
over him the strange knight's horse stumbled and fell down
upon Palomides. Then they drew their swords and lashed
together wonderly sore a great while.
Then the haut prince and Sir Launcelot said they saw
never two knights fight better than they did; but ever the
strange knight doubled his strokes, and put Palomides aback;
therewithal the haut prince cried: Ho: and then they went to
lodging. And when they were unarmed they knew it was the
noble knight Sir Lamorak. When Sir Launcelot knew that it
was Sir Lamorak he made much of him, for above all earthly
men he loved him best except Sir Tristram. Then Queen
Guenever commended him, and so did all other good knights
make much of him, except Sir Gawaine's brethren. Then Queen
Guenever said unto Sir Launcelot: Sir, I require you that an
ye joust any more, that ye joust with none of the blood of
my lord Arthur. So he promised he would not as at that time.
CHAPTER XLV. Of the fourth day, and of many great feats
of arms.
HERE beginneth the fourth day. Then came into the field
the King with the Hundred Knights, and all they of
Northgalis, and the Duke Chaleins of Clarance, and King
Marsil of Pomitain, and there came Safere, Palomides'
brother, and there he told him tidings of his mother. And
his name was called the Earl, and so he appealed him afore
King Arthur: For he made war upon our father and mother, and
there I slew him in plain battle. So they went into the
field, and the damosel with them; and there came to
encounter again them Sir Bleoberis de Ganis, and Sir Ector
de Maris. Sir Palomides encountered with Sir Bleoberis, and
either smote other down. And in the same wise did Sir Safere
and Sir Ector, and the two couples did battle on foot. Then
came in Sir Lamorak, and he encountered with the King with
the Hundred Knights, and smote him quite over his horse's
tail. And in the same wise he served the King of Northgalis,
and also he smote down King Marsil. And so or ever he stint
he smote down with his spear and with his sword thirty
knights. When Duke Chaleins saw Lamorak do so great prowess
he would not meddle with him for shame; and then he charged
all his knights in pain of death that none of you touch him;
for it were shame to all good knights an that knight were
shamed.
Then the two kings gathered them together, and all they
set upon Sir Lamorak; and he failed them not, but rushed
here and there, smiting on the right hand and on the left,
and raced off many helms, so that the haut prince and Queen
Guenever said they saw never knight do such deeds of arms on
horseback. Alas, said Launcelot to King Bagdemagus, I will
arm me and help Sir Lamorak. And I will ride with you, said
King Bagdemagus. And when they two were horsed they came to
Sir Lamorak that stood among thirty knights; and well was
him that might reach him a buffet, and ever he smote again
mightily. Then came there into the press Sir Launcelot, and
he threw down Sir Mador de la Porte. And with the truncheon
of that spear he threw down many knights. And King
Bagdemagus smote on the left hand and on the right hand
marvellously well. And then the three kings fled aback.
Therewithal then Sir Galahalt let blow to lodging, and all
the heralds gave Sir Lamorak the prize. And all this while
fought Palomides, Sir Bleoberis, Sir Safere, Sir Ector on
foot; never were there four knights evener matched. And then
they were departed, and had unto their lodging, and unarmed
them, and so they went to the great feast.
But when Sir Lamorak was come into the court Queen
Guenever took him in her arms and said: Sir, well have ye
done this day. Then came the haut prince, and he made of him
great joy, and so did Dinadan, for he wept for joy; but the
joy that Sir Launcelot made of Sir Lamorak there might no
man tell. Then they went unto rest, and on the morn the haut
prince let blow unto the field.
CHAPTER XLVI. Of the Fifth day, and how Sir Lamorak
behaved him.
HERE beginneth the fifth day. So it befell that Sir
Palomides came in the morntide, and proffered to joust
thereas King Arthur was in a castle there besides Surluse;
and there encountered with him a worshipful duke, and there
Sir Palomides smote him over his horse's croup. And this
duke was uncle unto King Arthur. Then Sir Elise's son rode
unto Palomides, and Palomides served Elise in the same wise.
When Sir Uwaine saw this he was wroth. Then he took his
horse and encountered with Sir Palomides, and Palomides
smote him so hard that he went to the earth, horse and man.
And for to make a short tale, he smote down three brethren
of Sir Gawaine, that is for to say Mordred, Gaheris, and
Agravaine. O Jesu, said Arthur, this is a great despite of a
Saracen that he shall smite down my blood. And therewithal
King Arthur was wood wroth, and thought to have made him
ready to joust.
That espied Sir Lamorak, that Arthur and his blood were
discomfit; and anon he was ready, and asked Palomides if he
would any more joust. Why should I not? said Palomides. Then
they hurtled together, and brake their spears, and all
to-shivered them, that all the castle rang of their dints.
Then either gat a greater spear in his hand, and they came
so fiercely together; but Sir Palomides' spear all to-brast
and Sir Lamorak's did hold. Therewithal Sir Palomides lost
his stirrups and lay upright on his horse's back. And then
Sir Palomides returned again and took his damosel, and Sir
Safere returned his way.
So, when he was departed, King Arthur came to Sir Lamorak
and thanked him of his goodness, and prayed him to tell him
his name. Sir, said Lamorak, wit thou well, I owe you my
service, but as at this time I will not abide here, for I
see of mine enemies many about me. Alas, said Arthur, now
wot I well it is Sir Lamorak de Galis. O Lamorak, abide with
me, and by my crown I shall never fail thee: and not so
hardy in Gawaine's head, nor none of his brethren, to do
thee any wrong. Sir, said Sir Lamorak, wrong have they done
me, and to you both. That is truth, said the king, for they
slew their own mother and my sister, the which me sore
grieveth: it had been much fairer and better that ye had
wedded her, for ye are a king's son as well as they. O Jesu,
said the noble knight Sir Lamorak unto Arthur, her death
shall I never forget. I promise you, and make mine avow unto
God, I shall revenge her death as soon as I see time
convenable. And if it were not at the reverence of your
highness I should now have been revenged upon Sir Gawaine
and his brethren. Truly, said Arthur, I will make you at
accord. Sir, said Lamorak, as at this time I may not abide
with you, for I must to the jousts, where is Sir Launcelot,
and the haut prince Sir Galahalt.
Then there was a damosel that was daughter to King
Bandes. And there was a Saracen knight that hight Corsabrin,
and he loved the damosel, and in no wise he would suffer her
to be married; for ever this Corsabrin noised her, and named
her that she was out of her mind; and thus he let her that
she might not be married.
CHAPTER XLVII. How Sir Palomides fought with Corsabrin
for a lady, and how Palomides slew Corsabrin.
SO by fortune this damosel heard tell that Palomides did
much for damosels' sake; so she sent to him a pensel, and
prayed him to fight with Sir Corsabrin for her love, and he
should have her and her lands of her father's that should
fall to her. Then the damosel sent unto Corsabrin, and bade
him go unto Sir Palomides that was a paynim as well as he,
and she gave him warning that she had sent him her pensel,
and if he might overcome Palomides she would wed him. When
Corsabrin wist of her deeds then was he wood wroth and
angry, and rode unto Surluse where the haut prince was, and
there he found Sir Palomides ready, the which had the
pensel. So there they waged battle either with other afore
Galahalt. Well, said the haut prince, this day must noble
knights joust, and at-after dinner we shall see how ye can
speed.
Then they blew to jousts; and in came Dinadan, and met
with Sir Gerin, a good knight, and he threw him down over
his horse's croup; and Sir Dinadan overthrew four knights
more; and there he did great deeds of arms, for he was a
good knight, but he was a scoffer and a japer, and the
merriest knight among fellowship that was that time living.
And he had such a custom that he loved every good knight,
and every good knight loved him again. So then when the haut
prince saw Dinadan do so well, he sent unto Sir Launcelot
and bade him strike down Sir Dinadan: And when that ye have
done so bring him afore me and the noble Queen Guenever.
Then Sir Launcelot did as he was required. Then Sir Lamorak
and he smote down many knights, and raced off helms, and
drove all the knights afore them. And so Sir Launcelot smote
down Sir Dinadan, and made his men to unarm him, and so
brought him to the queen and the haut prince, and they
laughed at Dinadan so sore that they might not stand. Well,
said Sir Dinadan, yet have I no shame, for the old shrew,
Sir Launcelot, smote me down. So they went to dinner, [and]
all the court had good sport at Dinadan.
Then when the dinner was done they blew to the field to
behold Sir Palomides and Corsabrin. Sir Palomides pight his
pensel in midst of the field; and then they hurtled together
with their spears as it were thunder, and either smote other
to the earth. And then they pulled out their swords, and
dressed their shields, and lashed together mightily as
mighty knights, that well-nigh there was no piece of harness
would hold them, for this Corsabrin was a passing felonious
knight. Corsabrin, said Palomides, wilt thou release me
yonder damosel and the pensel? Then was Corsabrin wroth out
of measure, and gave Palomides such a buffet that he kneeled
on his knee. Then Palomides arose lightly, and smote him
upon the helm that he fell down right to the earth. And
therewith he raced off his helm and said: Corsabrin, yield
thee or else thou shalt die of my hands. Fie on thee, said
Corsabrin, do thy worst. Then he smote off his head. And
therewithal came a stink of his body when the soul departed,
that there might nobody abide the savour. So was the corpse
had away and buried in a wood, because he was a paynim. Then
they blew unto lodging, and Palomides was unarmed.
Then he went unto Queen Guenever, to the haut prince, and
to Sir Launcelot. Sir, said the haut prince, here have ye
seen this day a great miracle by Corsabrin, what savour
there was when the soul departed from the body. Therefore,
sir, we will require you to take the baptism upon you, and I
promise you all knights will set the more by you, and say
more worship by you. Sir, said Palomides, I will that ye all
know that into this land I came to be christened, and in my
heart I am christened and christened will I be. But I have
made such an avow that I may not be christened till I have
done seven true battles for Jesu's sake, and then will I be
christened; and I trust God will take mine intent, for I
mean truly Then Sir Palomides prayed Queen Guenever and the
haut prince to sup with him. And so they did, both Sir
Launcelot and Sir Lamorak, and many other good knights. So
on the morn they heard their mass, and blew the field, and
then knights made them ready.
CHAPTER XLVIII. Of the sixth day, and what then was
done.
HERE beginneth the sixth day. Then came therein Sir
Gaheris, and there encountered with him Sir Ossaise of
Surluse, and Sir Gaheris smote him over his horse's croup.
And then either party encountered with other, and there were
many spears broken, and many knights cast under feet. So
there came in Sir Dornard and Sir Aglovale, that were
brethren unto Sir Lamorak, and they met with other two
knights, and either smote other so hard that all four
knights and horses fell to the earth. When Sir Lamorak saw
his two brethren down he was wroth out of measure, and then
he gat a great spear in his hand, and therewithal he smote
down four good knights, and then his spear brake. Then he
pulled out his sword, and smote about him on the right hand
and on the left hand, and raced off helms and pulled down
knights, that all men marvelled of such deeds of arms as he
did, for he fared so that many knights fled. Then he horsed
his brethren again, and said: Brethren, ye ought to be
ashamed to fall so off your horses! what is a knight but
when he is on horseback? I set not by a knight when he is on
foot, for all battles on foot are but pillers' battles. For
there should no knight fight on foot but if it were for
treason, or else he were driven thereto by force; therefore,
brethren, sit fast on your horses, or else fight never more
afore me.
With that came in the Duke Chaleins of Clarance, and
there encountered with him the Earl Ulbawes of Surluse, and
either of them smote other down. Then the knights of both
parties horsed their lords again, for Sir Ector and
Bleoberis were on foot, waiting on the Duke Chaleins. And
the King with the Hundred Knights was with the Earl of
Ulbawes. With that came Gaheris and lashed to the King with
the Hundred Knights, and he to him again. Then came the Duke
Chaleins and departed them.
Then they blew to lodging, and the knights unarmed them
and drew them to their dinner; and at the midst of their
dinner in came Dinadan and began to rail. Then he beheld the
haut prince, that seemed wroth with some fault that he saw;
for he had a custom he loved no fish, and because he was
served with fish, the which he hated, therefore he was not
merry. When Sir Dinadan had espied the haut prince, he
espied where was a fish with a great head, and that he gat
betwixt two dishes, and served the haut prince with that
fish. And then he said thus: Sir Galahalt, well may I liken
you to a wolf, for he will never eat fish, but flesh; then
the haut prince laughed at his words. Well, well, said
Dinadan to Launcelot, what devil do ye in this country, for
here may no mean knights win no worship for thee. Sir
Dinadan, said Launcelot, I ensure thee I shall no more meet
with thee nor with thy great spear, for I may not sit in my
saddle when that spear hitteth me. And if I be happy I shall
beware of that boistous body that thou bearest. Well, said
Launcelot, make good watch ever: God forbid that ever we
meet but if it be at a dish of meat. Then laughed the queen
and the haut prince, that they might not sit at their table;
thus they made great joy till on the morn, and then they
heard mass, and blew to field. And Queen Guenever and all
the estates were set, and judges armed clean with their
shields to keep the right.
CHAPTER XLIX. Of the seventh battle, and how Sir
Launcelot, being disguised like a maid, smote down Sir
Dinadan.
NOW beginneth the seventh battle. There came in the Duke
Cambines, and there encountered with him Sir Aristance, that
was counted a good knight, and they met so hard that either
bare other down, horse and man. Then came there the Earl of
Lambaile and helped the duke again to horse. Then came there
Sir Ossaise of Surluse, and he smote the Earl Lambaile down
from his horse. Then began they to do great deeds of arms,
and many spears were broken, and many knights were cast to
the earth. Then the King of Northgalis and the Earl Ulbawes
smote together that all the judges thought it was like
mortal death. This meanwhile Queen Guenever, and the haut
prince, and Sir Launcelot, made there Sir Dinadan make him
ready to joust. I would, said Dinadan, ride into the field,
but then one of you twain will meet with me. Per dieu, said
the haut prince, ye may see how we sit here as judges with
our shields, and always mayest thou behold whether we sit
here or not.
So Sir Dinadan departed and took his horse, and met with
many knights, and did passing well. And as he was departed,
Sir Launcelot disguised himself, and put upon his armour a
maiden's garment freshly attired. Then Sir Launcelot made
Sir Galihodin to lead him through the range, and all men had
wonder what damosel it was. And so as Sir Dinadan came into
the range, Sir Launcelot, that was in the damosel's array,
gat Galihodin's spear, and ran unto Sir Dinadan. And always
Sir Dinadan looked up thereas Sir Launcelot was, and then he
saw one sit in the stead of Sir Launcelot, armed. But when
Dinadan saw a manner of a damosel he dread perils that it
was Sir Launcelot disguised, but Sir Launcelot came on him
so fast that he smote him over his horse's croup; and then
with great scorns they gat Sir Dinadan into the forest there
beside, and there they dispoiled him unto his shirt, and put
upon him a woman's garment, and so brought him into the
field: and so they blew unto lodging. And every knight went
and unarmed them. Then was Sir Dinadan brought in among them
all. And when Queen Guenever saw Sir Dinadan brought so
among them all, then she laughed that she fell down, and so
did all that there were. Well, said Dinadan to Launcelot,
thou art so false that I can never beware of thee. Then by
all the assent they gave Sir Launcelot the prize, the next
was Sir Lamorak de Galis, the third was Sir Palomides, the
fourth was King Bagdemagus; so these four knights had the
prize, and there was great joy, and great nobley in all the
court.
And on the morn Queen Guenever and Sir Launcelot departed
unto King Arthur, but in no wise Sir Lamorak would not go
with them. I shall undertake, said Sir Launcelot, that an ye
will go with us King Arthur shall charge Sir Gawaine and his
brethren never to do you hurt. As for that, said Sir
Lamorak, I will not trust Sir Gawaine nor none of his
brethren; and wit ye well, Sir Launcelot, an it were not for
my lord King Arthur's sake, I should match Sir Gawaine and
his brethren well enough. But to say that I should trust
them, that shall I never, and therefore I pray you recommend
me unto my lord Arthur, and unto all my lords of the Round
Table. And in what place that ever I come I shall do you
service to my power: and sir, it is but late that I revenged
that, when my lord Arthur's kin were put to the worse by Sir
Palomides. Then Sir Lamorak departed from Sir Launcelot, and
either wept at their departing.
CHAPTER L. How by treason Sir Tristram was brought to a
tournament for to have been slain, and how he was put in
prison.
NOW turn we from this matter, and speak we of Sir
Tristram, of whom this book is principally of, and leave we
the king and the queen, Sir Launcelot, and Sir Lamorak, and
here beginneth the treason of King Mark, that he ordained
against Sir Tristram. There was cried by the coasts of
Cornwall a great tournament and jousts, and all was done by
Sir Galahalt the haut prince and King Bagdemagus, to the
intent to slay Launcelot, or else utterly destroy him and
shame him, because Sir Launcelot had always the higher
degree, therefore this prince and this king made this jousts
against Sir Launcelot. And thus their counsel was discovered
unto King Mark, whereof he was full glad.
Then King Mark bethought him that he would have Sir
Tristram unto that tournament disguised that no man should
know him, to that intent that the haut prince should ween
that Sir Tristram were Sir Launcelot. So at these jousts
came in Sir Tristram. And at that time Sir Launcelot was not
there, but when they saw a knight disguised do such deeds of
arms, they weened it had been Sir Launcelot. And in especial
King Mark said it was Sir Launcelot plainly. Then they set
upon him, both King Bagdemagus, and the haut prince, and
their knights, that it was wonder that ever Sir Tristram
might endure that pain. Notwithstanding for all the pain
that he had, Sir Tristram won the degree at that tournament,
and there he hurt many knights and bruised them, and they
hurt him and bruised him wonderly sore. So when the jousts
were all done they knew well that it was Sir Tristram de
Liones; and all that were on King Mark's party were glad
that Sir Tristram was hurt, and the remnant were sorry of
his hurt; for Sir Tristram was not so behated as was Sir
Launcelot within the realm of England.
Then came King Mark unto Sir Tristram and said: Fair
nephew, I am sorry of your hurts. Gramercy my lord, said Sir
Tristram. Then King Mark made Sir Tristram to be put in an
horse bier in great sign of love, and said: Fair cousin, I
shall be your leech myself. And so he rode forth with Sir
Tristram, and brought him to a castle by daylight. And then
King Mark made Sir Tristram to eat. And then after he gave
him a drink, the which as soon as he had drunk he fell
asleep. And when it was night he made him to be carried to
another castle, and there he put him in a strong prison, and
there he ordained a man and a woman to give him his meat and
drink. So there he was a great while.
Then was Sir Tristram missed, and no creature wist where
he was become. When La Beale Isoud heard how he was missed,
privily she went unto Sir Sadok, and prayed him to espy
where was Sir Tristram. Then when Sadok wist how Sir
Tristram was missed, and anon espied that he was put in
prison by King Mark and the traitors of Magouns, then Sadok
and two of his cousins laid them in an ambushment, fast by
the Castle of Tintagil, in arms. And as by fortune, there
came riding King Mark and four of his nephews, and a certain
of the traitors of Magouns. When Sir Sadok espied them he
brake out of the bushment, and set there upon them. And when
King Mark espied Sir Sadok he fled as fast as he might, and
there Sir Sadok slew all the four nephews unto King Mark.
But these traitors of Magouns slew one of Sadok's cousins
with a great wound in the neck, but Sadok smote the other to
the death. Then Sir Sadok rode upon his way unto a castle
that was called Liones, and there he espied of the treason
and felony of King Mark. So they of that castle rode with
Sir Sadok till that they came to a castle that hight Arbray,
and there in the town they found Sir Dinas the Seneschal,
that was a good knight. But when Sir Sadok had told Sir
Dinas of all the treason of King Mark he defied such a king,
and said he would give up his lands that he held of him. And
when he said these words all manner knights said as Sir
Dinas said. Then by his advice and of Sir Sadok's, he let
stuff all the towns and castles within the country of
Liones, and assembled all the people that they might make.
CHAPTER LI. How King Mark let do counterfeit letters
from the Pope, and how Sir Percivale delivered Sir Tristram
out of prison.
NOW turn we unto King Mark, that when he was escaped from
Sir Sadok he rode unto the Castle of Tintagil, and there he
made great cry and noise, and cried unto harness all that
might bear arms. Then they sought and found where were dead
four cousins of King Mark's, and the traitor of Magouns.
Then the king let inter them in a chapel. Then the king let
cry in all the country that held of him, to go unto arms,
for he understood to the war he must needs. When King Mark
heard and understood how Sir Sadok and Sir Dinas were arisen
in the country of Liones he remembered of wiles and treason.
Lo thus he did: he let make and counterfeit letters from the
Pope, and did make a strange clerk to bear them unto King
Mark; the which letters specified that King Mark should make
him ready, upon pain of cursing, with his host to come to
the Pope, to help to go to Jerusalem, for to make war upon
the Saracens.
When this clerk was come by the mean of the king, anon
withal King Mark sent these letters unto Sir Tristram and
bade him say thus: that an he would go war upon the
miscreants, he should be had out of prison, and to have all
his power. When Sir Tristram understood this letter, then he
said thus to the clerk: Ah, King Mark, ever hast thou been a
traitor, and ever will be; but, Clerk, said Sir Tristram,
say thou thus unto King Mark: Since the Apostle Pope hath
sent for him, bid him go thither himself; for tell him,
traitor king as he is, I will not go at his commandment, get
I out of prison as I may, for I see I am well rewarded for
my true service. Then the clerk returned unto King Mark, and
told him of the answer of Sir Tristram. Well, said King
Mark, yet shall he be beguiled. So he went into his chamber,
and counterfeit letters; and the letters specified that the
Pope desired Sir Tristram to come himself, to make war upon
the miscreants. When the clerk was come again to Sir
Tristram and took him these letters, then Sir Tristram
beheld these letters, and anon espied they were of King
Mark's counterfeiting. Ah, said Sir Tristram, false hast
thou been ever, King Mark, and so wilt thou end. Then the
clerk departed from Sir Tristram and came to King Mark
again.
By then there were come four wounded knights within the
Castle of Tintagil, and one of them his neck was nigh broken
in twain. Another had his arm stricken away, the third was
borne through with a spear, the fourth had his teeth
stricken in twain. And when they came afore King Mark they
cried and said: King, why fleest thou not, for all this
country is arisen clearly against thee? Then was King Mark
wroth out of measure.
And in the meanwhile there came into the country Sir
Percivale de Galis to seek Sir Tristram. And when he heard
that Sir Tristram was in prison, Sir Percivale made clearly
the deliverance of Sir Tristram by his knightly means. And
when he was so delivered he made great joy of Sir Percivale,
and so each one of other. Sir Tristram said unto Sir
Percivale: An ye will abide in these marches I will ride
with you. Nay, said Percivale, in this country I may not
tarry, for I must needs into Wales. So Sir Percivale
departed from Sir Tristram, and rode straight unto King
Mark, and told him how he had delivered Sir Tristram; and
also he told the king that he had done himself great shame
for to put Sir Tristram in prison, for he is now the knight
of most renown in this world living. And wit thou well the
noblest knights of the world love Sir Tristram, and if he
will make war upon you ye may not abide it. That is truth,
said King Mark, but I may not love Sir Tristram because he
loveth my queen and my wife, La Beale Isoud. Ah, fie for
shame, said Sir Percivale, say ye never so more. Are ye not
uncle unto Sir Tristram, and he your nephew? Ye should never
think that so noble a knight as Sir Tristram is, that he
would do himself so great a villainy to hold his uncle's
wife; howbeit, said Sir Percivale, he may love your queen
sinless, because she is called one of the fairest ladies of
the world.
Then Sir Percivale departed from King Mark. So when he
was departed King Mark bethought him of more treason:
notwithstanding King Mark granted Sir Percivale never by no
manner of means to hurt Sir Tristram. So anon King Mark sent
unto Sir Dinas the Seneschal that he should put down all the
people that he had raised, for he sent him an oath that he
would go himself unto the Pope of Rome to war upon the
miscreants; and this is a fairer war than thus to arise the
people against your king. When Sir Dinas understood that
King Mark would go upon the miscreants, then Sir Dinas in
all the haste put down all the people; and when the people
were departed every man to his home, then King Mark espied
where was Sir Tristram with La Beale Isoud; and there by
treason King Mark let take him and put him in prison,
contrary to his promise that he made unto Sir Percivale.
When Queen Isoud understood that Sir Tristram was in
prison she made as great sorrow as ever made lady or
gentlewoman. Then Sir Tristram sent a letter unto La Beale
Isoud, and prayed her to be his good lady; and if it pleased
her to make a vessel ready for her and him, he would go with
her unto the realm of Logris, that is this land. When La
Beale Isoud understood Sir Tristram's letters and his
intent, she sent him another, and bade him be of good
comfort, for she would do make the vessel ready, and all
thing to purpose.
Then La Beale Isoud sent unto Sir Dinas, and to Sadok,
and prayed them in anywise to take King Mark, and put him in
prison, unto the time that she and Sir Tristram were
departed unto the realm of Logris. When Sir Dinas the
Seneschal understood the treason of King Mark he promised
her again, and sent her word that King Mark should be put in
prison. And as they devised it so it was done. And then Sir
Tristram was delivered out of prison; and anon in all the
haste Queen Isoud and Sir Tristram went and took their
counsel with that they would have with them when they
departed.
CHAPTER LII. How Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud came
unto England, and how Sir Launcelot brought them to Joyous
Gard.
THEN La Beale Isoud and Sir Tristram took their vessel,
and came by water into this land. And so they were not in
this land four days but there came a cry of a jousts and
tournament that King Arthur let make. When Sir Tristram
heard tell of that tournament he disguised himself, and La
Beale Isoud, and rode unto that tournament. And when he came
there he saw many knights joust and tourney; and so Sir
Tristram dressed him to the range, and to make short
conclusion, he overthrew fourteen knights of the Round
Table. When Sir Launcelot saw these knights thus overthrown,
Sir Launcelot dressed him to Sir Tristram. That saw La Beale
Isoud how Sir Launcelot was come into the field. Then La
Beale Isoud sent unto Sir Launcelot a ring, and bade him wit
that it was Sir Tristram de Liones. When Sir Launcelot under
stood that there was Sir Tristram he was full glad, and
would not joust. Then Sir Launcelot espied whither Sir
Tristram yede, and after him he rode; and then either made
of other great joy. And so Sir Launcelot brought Sir
Tristram and La Beale Isoud unto Joyous Gard, that was his
own castle, that he had won with his own hands. And there
Sir Launcelot put them in to wield for their own. And wit ye
well that castle was garnished and furnished for a king and
a queen royal there to have sojourned. And Sir Launcelot
charged all his people to honour them and love them as they
would do himself.
So Sir Launcelot departed unto King Arthur; and then he
told Queen Guenever how he that jousted so well at the last
tournament was Sir Tristram. And there he told her how he
had with him La Beale Isoud maugre King Mark, and so Queen
Guenever told all this unto King Arthur. When King Arthur
wist that Sir Tristram was escaped and come from King Mark,
and had brought La Beale Isoud with him, then was he passing
glad. So because of Sir Tristram King Arthur let make a cry,
that on May Day should be a jousts before the castle of
Lonazep; and that castle was fast by Joyous Gard. And thus
Arthur devised, that all the knights of this land, and of
Cornwall, and of North Wales, should joust against all these
countries, Ireland, Scotland, and the remnant of Wales, and
the country of Gore, and Surluse, and of Listinoise, and
they of Northumberland, and all they that held lands of
Arthur on this half the sea. When this cry was made many
knights were glad and many were unglad. Sir, said Launcelot
unto Arthur, by this cry that ye have made ye will put us
that be about you in great jeopardy, for there be many
knights that have great envy to us; therefore when we shall
meet at the day of jousts there will be hard shift among us.
As for that, said Arthur, I care not; there shall we prove
who shall be best of his hands. So when Sir Launcelot
understood wherefore King Arthur made this jousting, then he
made such purveyance that La Beale Isoud should behold the
jousts in a secret place that was honest for her estate.
Now turn we unto Sir Tristram and to La Beale Isoud, how
they made great joy daily together with all manner of mirths
that they could devise; and every day Sir Tristram would go
ride a-hunting, for Sir Tristram was that time called the
best chaser of the world, and the noblest blower of an horn
of all manner of measures; for as books report, of Sir
Tristram came all the good terms of venery and hunting, and
all the sizes and measures of blowing of an horn; and of him
we had first all the terms of hawking, and which were beasts
of chase and beasts of venery, and which were vermins, and
all the blasts that long to all manner of games. First to
the uncoupling, to the seeking, to the rechate, to the
flight, to the death, and to strake, and many other blasts
and terms, that all manner of gentlemen have cause to the
world's end to praise Sir Tristram, and to pray for his
soul.
CHAPTER LIII. How by the counsel of La Beale Isoud Sir
Tristram rode armed, and how he met with Sir Palomides.
SO on a day La Beale Isoud said unto Sir Tristram: I
marvel me much, said she, that ye remember not yourself, how
ye be here in a strange country, and here be many perilous
knights; and well ye wot that King Mark is full of treason;
and that ye will ride thus to chase and to hunt unarmed ye
might be destroyed. My fair lady and my love, I cry you
mercy, I will no more do so. So then Sir Tristram rode daily
a-hunting armed, and his men bearing his shield and his
spear. So on a day a little afore the month of May, Sir
Tristram chased an hart passing eagerly, and so the hart
passed by a fair well. And then Sir Tristram alighted and
put off his helm to drink of that bubbly water. Right so he
heard and saw the Questing Beast come to the well. When Sir
Tristram saw that beast he put on his helm, for he deemed he
should hear of Sir Palomides, for that beast was his quest.
Right so Sir Tristram saw where came a knight armed, upon a
noble courser, and he saluted him, and they spake of many
things; and this knight's name was Breuse Saunce Pité. And
right so withal there came unto them the noble knight Sir
Palomides, and either saluted other, and spake fair to
other.
Fair knights, said Sir Palomides, I can tell you tidings.
What is that? said those knights. Sirs, wit ye well that
King Mark is put in prison by his own knights, and all was
for love of Sir Tristram; for King Mark had put Sir Tristram
twice in prison, and once Sir Percivale delivered the noble
knight Sir Tristram out of prison. And at the last time
Queen La Beale Isoud delivered him, and went clearly away
with him into this realm; and all this while King Mark, the
false traitor, is in prison. Is this truth? said Palomides;
then shall we hastily hear of Sir Tristram. And as for to
say that I love La Beale Isoud paramours, I dare make good
that I do, and that she hath my service above all other
ladies, and shall have the term of my life.
And right so as they stood talking they saw afore them
where came a knight all armed, on a great horse, and one of
his men bare his shield, and the other his spear. And anon
as that knight espied them he gat his shield and his spear
and dressed him to joust. Fair fellows, said Sir Tristram,
yonder is a knight will joust with us, let see which of us
shall encounter with him, for I see well he is of the court
of King Arthur. It shall not be long or he be met withal,
said Sir Palomides, for I found never no knight in my quest
of this glasting beast, but an he would joust I never
refused him. As well may I, said Breuse Saunce Pité, follow
that beast as ye. Then shall ye do battle with me, said
Palomides.
So Sir Palomides dressed him unto that other knight, Sir
Bleoberis, that was a full noble knight, nigh kin unto Sir
Launcelot. And so they met so hard that Sir Palomides fell
to the earth, horse and all. Then Sir Bleoberis cried aloud
and said thus: Make thee ready thou false traitor knight,
Breuse Saunce Pité, for wit thou certainly I will have ado
with thee to the utterance for the noble knights and ladies
that thou hast falsely betrayed. When this false knight and
traitor, Breuse Saunce Pité, heard him say so, he took his
horse by the bridle and fled his way as fast as ever his
horse might run, for sore he was of him afeard. When Sir
Bleoberis saw him flee he followed fast after, through thick
and through thin. And by fortune as Sir Breuse fled, he saw
even afore him three knights of the Table Round, of the
which the one hight Sir Ector de Maris, the other hight Sir
Percivale de Galis, the third hight Sir Harry le Fise Lake,
a good knight and an hardy. And as for Sir Percivale, he was
called that time of his time one of the best knights of the
world, and the best assured. When Breuse saw these knights
he rode straight unto them, and cried unto them and prayed
them of rescues. What need have ye? said Sir Ector. Ah, fair
knights, said Sir Breuse, here followeth me the most traitor
knight, and most coward, and most of villainy; his name is
Breuse Saunce Pité, and if he may get me he will slay me
without mercy and pity. Abide with us, said Sir Percivale,
and we shall warrant you.
Then were they ware of Sir Bleoberis that came riding all
that he might. Then Sir Ector put himself forth to joust
afore them all. When Sir Bleoberis saw that they were four
knights and he but himself, he stood in a doubt whether he
would turn or hold his way. Then he said to himself: I am a
knight of the Table Round, and rather than I should shame
mine oath and my blood I will hold my way whatsoever fall
thereof. And then Sir Ector dressed his spear, and smote
either other passing sore, but Sir Ector fell to the earth.
That saw Sir Percivale, and he dressed his horse toward him
all that he might drive, but Sir Percivale had such a stroke
that horse and man fell to the earth. When Sir Harry saw
that they were both to the earth then he said to himself:
Never was Breuse of such prowess. So Sir Harry dressed his
horse, and they met together so strongly that both the
horses and knights fell to the earth, but Sir Bleoberis'
horse began to recover again. That saw Breuse and he came
hurtling, and smote him over and over, and would have slain
him as he lay on the ground. Then Sir Harry le Fise Lake
arose lightly, and took the bridle of Sir Breuse's horse,
and said: Fie for shame! strike never a knight when he is at
the earth, for this knight may be called no shameful knight
of his deeds, for yet as men may see thereas he lieth on the
ground he hath done worshipfully, and put to the worse
passing good knights. Therefore will I not let, said Sir
Breuse. Thou shalt not choose, said Sir Harry, as at this
time. Then when Sir Breuse saw that he might not choose nor
have his will he spake fair. Then Sir Harry let him go. And
then anon he made his horse to run over Sir Bleoberis, and
rashed him to the earth like if he would have slain him.
When Sir Harry saw him do so villainously he cried: Traitor
knight, leave off for shame. And as Sir Harry would have
taken his horse to fight with Sir Breuse, then Sir Breuse
ran upon him as he was half upon his horse, and smote him
down, horse and man, to the earth, and had near slain Sir
Harry, the good knight. That saw Sir Percivale, and then he
cried: Traitor knight what dost thou? And when Sir Percivale
was upon his horse Sir Breuse took his horse and fled all
that ever he might, and Sir Percivale and Sir Harry followed
after him fast, but ever the longer they chased the farther
were they behind.
Then they turned again and came to Sir Ector de Maris and
to Sir Bleoberis. Ah, fair knights, said Bleoberis, why have
ye succoured that false knight and traitor? Why said Sir
Harry, what knight is he? for well I wot it is a false
knight, said Sir Harry, and a coward and a felonious knight.
Sir, said Bleoberis, he is the most coward knight, and a
devourer of ladies and a destroyer of good knights and
especially of Arthur's. What is your name? said Sir Ector.
My name is Sir Bleoberis de Ganis. Alas, fair cousin, said
Ector, forgive it me, for I am Sir Ector de Maris. Then Sir
Percivale and Sir Harry made great joy that they met with
Bleoberis, but all they were heavy that Sir Breuse was
escaped them, whereof they made great dole.
CHAPTER LIV. Of Sir Palomides, and how he met with Sir
Bleoberis and with Sir Ector, and of Sir Pervivale.
RIGHT so as they stood thus there came Sir Palomides, and
when he saw the shield of Bleoberis lie on the earth, then
said Palomides: He that oweth that shield let him dress him
to me, for he smote me down here fast by at a fountain, and
therefore I will fight for him on foot. I am ready, said
Bleoberis, here to answer thee, for wit thou well, sir
knight, it was I, and my name is Bleoberis de Ganis. Well
art thou met, said Palomides, and wit thou well my name is
Palomides the Saracen; and either of them hated other to the
death. Sir Palomides, said Ector, wit thou well there is
neither thou nor none knight that beareth the life that
slayeth any of our blood but he shall die for it; therefore
an thou list to fight go seek Sir Launcelot or Sir Tristram,
and there shall ye find your match. With them have I met,
said Palomides, but I had never no worship of them. Was
there never no manner of knight, said Sir Ector, but they
that ever matched with you? Yes, said Palomides, there was
the third, a good knight as any of them, and of his age he
was the best that ever I found; for an he might have lived
till he had been an hardier man there liveth no knight now
such, and his name was Sir Lamorak de Galis. And as he had
jousted at a tournament there he overthrew me and thirty
knights more, and there he won the degree. And at his
departing there met him Sir Gawaine and his brethren, and
with great pain they slew him feloniously, unto all good
knights' great damage. Anon as Sir Percivale heard that his
brother was dead, Sir Lamorak, he fell over his horse's mane
swooning, and there he made the greatest dole that ever made
knight. And when Sir Percivale arose he said: Alas, my good
and noble brother Sir Lamorak, now shall we never meet, and
I trow in all the wide world a man may not find such a
knight as he was of his age; and it is too much to suffer
the death of our father King Pellinore, and now the death of
our good brother Sir Lamorak.
Then in the meanwhile there came a varlet from the court
of King Arthur, and told them of the great tournament that
should be at Lonazep, and how these lands, Cornwall and
Northgalis, should be against all them that would come.
CHAPTER LV. How Sir Tristram met with Sir Dinadan, and
of their devices, and what he said to Sir Gawaine's
brethren.
NOW turn we unto Sir Tristram, that as he rode a-hunting
he met with Sir Dinadan, that was come into that country to
seek Sir Tristram. Then Sir Dinadan told Sir Tristram his
name, but Sir Tristram would not tell him his name,
wherefore Sir Dinadan was wroth. For such a foolish knight
as ye are, said Sir Dinadan, I saw but late this day lying
by a well, and he fared as he slept; and there he lay like a
fool grinning, and would not speak, and his shield lay by
him, and his horse stood by him; and well I wot he was a
lover. Ah, fair sir, said Sir Tristram are ye not a lover?
Mary, fie on that craft! said Sir Dinadan. That is evil
said, said Sir Tristram, for a knight may never be of
prowess but if he be a lover. It is well said, said Sir
Dinadan; now tell me your name, sith ye be a lover, or else
I shall do battle with you. As for that, said Sir Tristram,
it is no reason to fight with me but I tell you my name; and
as for that my name shall ye not wit as at this time. Fie
for shame, said Dinadan, art thou a knight and durst not
tell thy name to me? therefore I will fight with thee. As
for that, said Sir Tristram, I will be advised, for I will
not do battle but if me list. And if I do battle, said Sir
Tristram, ye are not able to withstand me. Fie on thee,
coward, said Sir Dinadan.
And thus as they hoved still, they saw a knight come
riding against them. Lo, said Sir Tristram, see where cometh
a knight riding, will joust with you. Anon, as Sir Dinadan
beheld him he said: That is the same doted knight that I saw
lie by the well, neither sleeping nor waking. Well, said Sir
Tristram, I know that knight well with the covered shield of
azure, he is the king's son of Northumberland, his name is
Epinegris; and he is as great a lover as I know, and he
loveth the king's daughter of Wales, a full fair lady. And
now I suppose, said Sir Tristram, an ye require him he will
joust with you, and then shall ye prove whether a lover be a
better knight, or ye that will not love no lady. Well, said
Dinadan, now shalt thou see what I shall do. Therewithal Sir
Dinadan spake on high and said: Sir knight, make thee ready
to joust with me, for it is the custom of errant knights one
to joust with other. Sir, said Epinegris, is that the rule
of you errant knights for to make a knight to joust, will he
or nill? As for that, said Dinadan, make thee ready, for
here is for me. And therewithal they spurred their horses
and met together so hard that Epinegris smote down Sir
Dinadan. Then Sir Tristram rode to Sir Dinadan and said: How
now, meseemeth the lover hath well sped. Fie on thee,
coward, said Sir Dinadan, and if thou be a good knight
revenge me. Nay, said Sir Tristram, I will not joust as at
this time, but take your horse and let us go hence. God
defend me, said Sir Dinadan, from thy fellowship, for I
never sped well since I met with thee: and so they departed.
Well, said Sir Tristram, peradventure I could tell you
tidings of Sir Tristram. God defend me, said Dinadan, from
thy fellowship, for Sir Tristram were mickle the worse an he
were in thy company; and then they departed. Sir, said Sir
Tristram, yet it may happen I shall meet with you in other
places.
So rode Sir Tristram unto Joyous Gard, and there he heard
in that town great noise and cry. What is this noise? said
Sir Tristram. Sir, said they, here is a knight of this
castle that hath been long among us, and right now he is
slain with two knights, and for none other cause but that
our knight said that Sir Launcelot were a better knight than
Sir Gawaine. That was a simple cause, said Sir Tristram, for
to slay a good knight for to say well by his master. That is
little remedy to us, said the men of the town. For an Sir
Launcelot had been here soon we should have been revenged
upon the false knights.
When Sir Tristram heard them say so he sent for his
shield and for his spear, and lightly within a while he had
overtaken them, and bade them turn and amend that they had
misdone. What amends wouldst thou have? said the one knight.
And therewith they took their course, and either met other
so hard that Sir Tristram smote down that knight over his
horse's tail. Then the other knight dressed him to Sir
Tristram, and in the same wise he served the other knight.
And then they gat off their horses as well as they might,
and dressed their shields and swords to do their battle to
the utterance. Knights, said Sir Tristram, ye shall tell me
of whence ye are, and what be your names, for such men ye
might be ye should hard escape my hands; and ye might be
such men of such a country that for all your evil deeds ye
should pass quit. Wit thou well, sir knight, said they, we
fear not to tell thee our names, for my name is Sir
Agravaine, and my name is Gaheris, brethren unto the good
knight Sir Gawaine, and we be nephews unto King Arthur.
Well, said Sir Tristram, for King Arthur's sake I shall let
you pass as at this time. But it is shame, said Sir
Tristram, that Sir Gawaine and ye be come of so great a
blood that ye four brethren are so named as ye be, for ye be
called the greatest destroyers and murderers of good knights
that be now in this realm; for it is but as I heard say that
Sir Gawaine and ye slew among you a better knight than ever
ye were, that was the noble knight Sir Lamorak de Galis. An
it had pleased God, said Sir Tristram, I would I had been by
Sir Lamorak at his death. Then shouldst thou have gone the
same way, said Sir Gaheris. Fair knight, said Sir Tristram,
there must have been many more knights than ye are. And
therewithal Sir Tristram departed from them toward Joyous
Gard. And when he was departed they took their horses, and
the one said to the other: We will overtake him and be
revenged upon him in the despite of Sir Lamorak.
CHAPTER LVI. How Sir Tristram smote down Sir Agravaine
and Sir Gaheris, and how Sir Dinadan was sent for by La
Beale Isoud.
SO when they had overtaken Sir Tristram, Sir Agravaine
bade him: Turn, traitor knight. That is evil said, said Sir
Tristram; and therewith he pulled out his sword, and smote
Sir Agravaine such a buffet upon the helm that he tumbled
down off his horse in a swoon, and he had a grievous wound.
And then he turned to Gaheris, and Sir Tristram smote his
sword and his helm together with such a might that Gaheris
fell out of his saddle: and so Sir Tristram rode unto Joyous
Gard, and there he alighted and unarmed him. So Sir Tristram
told La Beale Isoud of all his adventure, as ye have heard
to-fore. And when she heard him tell of Sir Dinadan: Sir,
said she, is not that he that made the song by King Mark?
That same is he, said Sir Tristram, for he is the best
bourder and japer, and a noble knight of his hands, and the
best fellow that I know, and all good knights love his
fellowship. Alas, sir, said she, why brought ye not him with
you? Have ye no care, said Sir Tristram, for he rideth to
seek me in this country; and therefore he will not away till
he have met with me. And there Sir Tristram told La Beale
Isoud how Sir Dinadan held against all lovers. Right so
there came in a varlet and told Sir Tristram how there was
come an errant knight into the town, with such colours upon
his shield. That is Sir Dinadan, said Sir Tristram; wit ye
what ye shall do, said Sir Tristram: send ye for him, my
Lady Isoud, and I will not be seen, and ye shall hear the
merriest knight that ever ye spake withal, and the maddest
talker; and I pray you heartily that ye make him good cheer.
Then anon La Beale Isoud sent into the town, and prayed
Sir Dinadan that he would come into the castle and repose
him there with a lady. With a good will, said Sir Dinadan;
and so he mounted upon his horse and rode into the castle;
and there he alighted, and was unarmed, and brought into the
castle. Anon La Beale Isoud came unto him, and either
saluted other; then she asked him of whence that he was.
Madam, said Dinadan, I am of the court of King Arthur, and
knight of the Table Round, and my name is Sir Dinadan. What
do ye in this country? said La Beale Isoud. Madam, said he,
I seek Sir Tristram the good knight, for it was told me that
he was in this country. It may well be, said La Beale Isoud,
but I am not ware of him. Madam, said Dinadan, I marvel of
Sir Tristram and mo other lovers, what aileth them to be so
mad and so sotted upon women. Why, said La Beale Isoud, are
ye a knight and be no lover? it is shame to you: wherefore
ye may not be called a good knight [but] if ye make a
quarrel for a lady. God defend me, said Dinadan, for the joy
of love is too short, and the sorrow thereof, and what
cometh thereof, dureth over long. Ah, said La Beale Isoud,
say ye not so, for here fast by was the good knight Sir
Bleoberis, that fought with three knights at once for a
damosel's sake, and he won her afore the King of
Northumberland. It was so, said Sir Dinadan, for I know him
well for a good knight and a noble, and come of noble blood;
for all be noble knights of whom he is come of, that is Sir
Launcelot du Lake.
Now I pray you, said La Beale Isoud, tell me will you
fight for my love with three knights that do me great wrong?
and insomuch as ye be a knight of King Arthur's I require
you to do battle for me. Then Sir Dinadan said: I shall say
you ye be as fair a lady as ever I saw any, and much fairer
than is my lady Queen Guenever, but wit ye well at one word,
I will not fight for you with three knights, Jesu defend me.
Then Isoud laughed, and had good game at him. So he had all
the cheer that she might make him, and there he lay all that
night. And on the morn early Sir Tristram armed him, and La
Beale Isoud gave him a good helm; and then he promised her
that he would meet with Sir Dinadan, and they two would ride
together into Lonazep, where the tournament should be: And
there shall I make ready for you where ye shall see the
tournament. Then departed Sir Tristram with two squires that
bare his shield and his spears that were great and long.
CHAPTER LVII. How Sir Dinadan met with Sir Tristram, and
with jousting with Sir Palomides, Sir Dinadan knew him.
THEN after that Sir Dinadan departed, and rode his way a
great pace until he had overtaken Sir Tristram. And when Sir
Dinadan had overtaken him he knew him anon, and he hated the
fellowship of him above all other knights. Ah, said Sir
Dinadan, art thou that coward knight that I met with
yesterday? keep thee, for thou shalt joust with me maugre
thy head. Well, said Sir Tristram, and I am loath to joust.
And so they let their horses run, and Sir Tristram missed of
him a-purpose, and Sir Dinadan brake a spear upon Sir
Tristram, and therewith Sir Dinadan dressed him to draw out
his sword. Not so, said Sir Tristram, why are ye so wroth? I
will not fight. Fie on thee, coward, said Dinadan, thou
shamest all knights. As for that, said Sir Tristram, I care
not, for I will wait upon you and be under your protection;
for because ye are so good a knight ye may save me. The
devil deliver me of thee, said Sir Dinadan, for thou art as
goodly a man of arms and of thy person as ever I saw, and
the most coward that ever I saw. What wilt thou do with
those great spears that thou carriest with thee? I shall
give them, said Sir Tristram, to some good knight when I
come to the tournament; and if I see you do best, I shall
give them to you.
So thus as they rode talking they saw where came an
errant knight afore them, that dressed him to joust. Lo,
said Sir Tristram, yonder is one will joust; now dress thee
to him. Ah, shame betide thee, said Sir Dinadan. Nay, not
so, said Tristram, for that knight beseemeth a shrew. Then
shall I, said Sir Dinadan. And so they dressed their shields
and their spears, and they met together so hard that the
other knight smote down Sir Dinadan from his horse. Lo, said
Sir Tristram, it had been better ye had left. Fie on thee,
coward, said Sir Dinadan. Then Sir Dinadan started up and
gat his sword in his hand, and proffered to do battle on
foot. Whether in love or in wrath? said the other knight.
Let us do battle in love, said Sir Dinadan. What is your
name, said that knight, I pray you tell me. Wit ye well my
name is Sir Dinadan. Ah, Dinadan, said that knight, and my
name is Gareth, the youngest brother unto Sir Gawaine. Then
either made of other great cheer, for this Gareth was the
best knight of all the brethren, and he proved a good
knight. Then they took their horses, and there they spake of
Sir Tristram, how such a coward he was; and every word Sir
Tristram heard and laughed them to scorn.
Then were they ware where came a knight afore them well
horsed and well armed, and he made him ready to joust. Fair
knights, said Sir Tristram, look betwixt you who shall joust
with yonder knight, for I warn you I will not have ado with
him. Then shall I, said Sir Gareth. And so they encountered
together, and there that knight smote down Sir Gareth over
his horse's croup. How now, said Sir Tristram unto Sir
Dinadan, dress thee now and revenge the good knight Gareth.
That shall I not, said Sir Dinadan, for he hath stricken
down a much bigger knight than I am. Ah, said Sir Tristram,
now Sir Dinadan, I see and feel well your heart faileth you,
therefore now shall ye see what I shall do. And then Sir
Tristram hurtled unto that knight, and smote him quite from
his horse. And when Sir Dinadan saw that, he marvelled
greatly; and then he deemed that it was Sir Tristram.
Then this knight that was on foot pulled out his sword to
do battle. What is your name? said Sir Tristram. Wit ye
well, said that knight, my name is Sir Palomides. What
knight hate ye most? said Sir Tristram. Sir knight, said he,
I hate Sir Tristram to the death, for an I may meet with him
the one of us shall die. Ye say well, said Sir Tristram, and
wit ye well that I am Sir Tristram de Liones, and now do
your worst. When Sir Palomides heard him say so he was
astonied. And then he said thus: I pray you, Sir Tristram,
forgive me all mine evil will, and if I live I shall do you
service above all other knights that be living; and whereas
I have owed you evil will me sore repenteth. I wot not what
aileth me, for meseemeth that ye are a good knight, and none
other knight that named himself a good knight should not
hate you; therefore I require you, Sir Tristram, take no
displeasure at mine unkind words. Sir Palomides, said Sir
Tristram, ye say well, and well I wot ye are a good knight,
for I have seen ye proved; and many great enterprises have
ye taken upon you, and well achieved them; therefore, said
Sir Tristram, an ye have any evil will to me, now may ye
right it, for I am ready at your hand. Not so, my lord Sir
Tristram, I will do you knightly service in all thing as ye
will command. And right so I will take you, said Sir
Tristram. And so they rode forth on their ways talking of
many things. O my lord Sir Tristram, said Dinadan, foul have
ye mocked me, for God knoweth I came into this country for
your sake, and by the advice of my lord Sir Launcelot; and
yet would not Sir Launcelot tell me the certainty of you,
where I should find you. Truly, said Sir Tristram, Sir
Launcelot wist well where I was, for I abode within his own
castle.
CHAPTER LVIII. How they approached the Castle Lonazep,
and of other devices of the death of Sir Lamorak.
THUS they rode until they were ware of the Castle
Lonazep. And then were they ware of four hundred tents and
pavilions, and marvellous great ordinance. So God me help,
said Sir Tristram, yonder I see the greatest ordinance that
ever I saw. Sir, said Palomides, meseemeth that there was as
great an ordinance at the Castle of Maidens upon the rock,
where ye won the prize, for I saw myself where ye forjousted
thirty knights. Sir, said Dinadan, and in Surluse, at that
tournament that Galahalt of the Long Isles made, the which
there dured seven days, was as great a gathering as is here,
for there were many nations. Who was the best? said Sir
Tristram. Sir, it was Sir Launcelot du Lake and the noble
knight, Sir Lamorak de Galis, and Sir Launcelot won the
degree. I doubt not, said Sir Tristram, but he won the
degree, so he had not been overmatched with many knights;
and of the death of Sir Lamorak, said Sir Tristram, it was
over great pity, for I dare say he was the cleanest mighted
man and the best winded of his age that was alive; for I
knew him that he was the biggest knight that ever I met
withal, but if it were Sir Launcelot. Alas, said Sir
Tristram, full woe is me for his death. And if they were not
the cousins of my lord Arthur that slew him, they should die
for it, and all those that were consenting to his death. And
for such things, said Sir Tristram, I fear to draw unto the
court of my lord Arthur; I will that ye wit it, said Sir
Tristram unto Gareth.
Sir, I blame you not, said
Gareth, for well I understand the vengeance of my brethren
Sir Gawaine, Agravaine, Gaheris, and Mordred. But as for me,
said Sir Gareth, I meddle not of their matters, therefore
there is none of them that loveth me. And for I understand
they be murderers of good knights I left their company; and
God would I had been by, said Gareth, when the noble knight,
Sir Lamorak, was slain. Now as Jesu be my help, said Sir
Tristram, it is well said of you, for I had liefer than all
the gold betwixt this and Rome I had been there. Y-wis, said Palomides, and so
would I had been there, and yet had I never the degree at no
jousts nor tournament thereas he was, but he put me to the
worse, or on foot or on horseback; and that day that he was
slain he did the most deeds of arms that ever I saw knight
do in all my life days. And when him was given the degree by
my lord Arthur, Sir Gawaine and his three brethren,
Agravaine, Gaheris, and Sir Mordred, set upon Sir Lamorak in
a privy place, and there they slew his horse. And so they
fought with him on foot more than three hours, both before
him and behind him; and Sir Mordred gave him his death wound
behind him at his back, and all to-hew him: for one of his
squires told me that saw it. Fie upon treason, said Sir
Tristram, for it killeth my heart to hear this tale. So it
doth mine, said Gareth; brethren as they be mine I shall
never love them, nor draw in their fellowship for that deed.
Now speak we of other deeds, said Palomides, and let him
be, for his life ye may not get again. That is the more
pity, said Dinadan, for Sir Gawaine and his brethren, except
you Sir Gareth, hate all the good knights of the Round Table
for the most part; for well I wot an they might privily,
they hate my lord Sir Launcelot and all his kin, and great
privy despite they have at him; and that is my lord Sir
Launcelot well ware of, and that causeth him to have the
good knights of his kin about him.
CHAPTER LIX. How they came to Humber bank, and how they
found a ship there, wherein lay the body of King Hermance.
SIR, said Palomides, let us leave of this matter, and let
us see how we shall do at this tournament. By mine advice,
said Palomides, let us four hold together against all that
will come. Not by my counsel, said Sir Tristram, for I see
by their pavilions there will be four hundred knights, and
doubt ye not, said Sir Tristram, but there will be many good
knights; and be a man never so valiant nor so big, yet he
may be overmatched. And so have I seen knights done many
times; and when they weened best to have won worship they
lost it, for manhood is not worth but if it be medled with
wisdom. And as for me, said Sir Tristram, it may happen I
shall keep mine own head as well as another.
So thus they rode until that they came to Humber bank,
where they heard a cry and a doleful noise. Then were they
ware in the wind where came a rich vessel hilled over with
red silk, and the vessel landed fast by them. Therewith Sir
Tristram alighted and his knights. And so Sir Tristram went
afore and entered into that vessel. And when he came within
he saw a fair bed richly covered, and thereupon lay a dead
seemly knight, all armed save the head, was all be-bled with
deadly wounds upon him, the which seemed to be a passing
good knight. How may this be, said Sir Tristram, that this
knight is thus slain? Then Sir Tristram was ware of a letter
in the dead knight's hand. Master mariners, said Sir
Tristram, what meaneth that letter? Sir, said they, in that
letter ye shall hear and know how he was slain, and for what
cause, and what was his name. But sir, said the mariners,
wit ye well that no man shall take that letter and read it
but if he be a good knight, and that he will faithfully
promise to revenge his death, else shall there be no knight
see that letter open. Wit ye well, said Sir Tristram, that
some of us may revenge his death as well as other, and if it
be so as ye mariners say his death shall be revenged. And
therewith Sir Tristram took the letter out of the knight's
hand, and it said thus: Hermance, king and lord of the Red
City, I send unto all knights errant, recommending unto you
noble knights of Arthur's court. I beseech them all among
them to find one knight that will fight for my sake with two
brethren that I brought up of nought, and feloniously and
traitorly they have slain me; wherefore I beseech one good
knight to revenge my death. And he that revengeth my death I
will that he have my Red City and all my castles.
Sir, said the mariners, wit ye well this king and knight
that here lieth was a full worshipful man and of full great
prowess, and full well he loved all manner knights errants.
So God me help, said Sir Tristram, here is a piteous case,
and full fain would I take this enterprise upon me; but I
have made such a promise that needs I must be at this great
tournament, or else I am shamed. For well I wot for my sake
in especial my lord Arthur let make this jousts and
tournament in this country; and well I wot that many
worshipful people will be there at that tournament for to
see me; therefore I fear me to take this enterprise upon me
that I shall not come again by time to this jousts. Sir,
said Palomides, I pray you give me this enterprise, and ye
shall see me achieve it worshipfully, other else I shall die
in this quarrel. Well, said Sir Tristram, and this
enterprise I give you, with this, that ye be with me at this
tournament that shall be as this day seven night. Sir, said
Palomides, I promise you that I shall be with you by that
day if I be unslain or unmaimed.
CHAPTER LX. How Sir Tristram with his fellowship came
and were with an host which after fought with Sir Tristram;
and other matters.
THEN departed Sir Tristram, Gareth, and Sir Dinadan, and
left Sir Palomides in the vessel; and so Sir Tristram beheld
the mariners how they sailed overlong Humber. And when Sir
Palomides was out of their sight they took their horses and
beheld about them. And then were they ware of a knight that
came riding against them unarmed, and nothing about him but
a sword. And when this knight came nigh them he saluted
them, and they him again. Fair knights, said that knight, I
pray you insomuch as ye be knights errant, that ye will come
and see my castle, and take such as ye find there; I pray
you heartily. And so they rode with him until his castle,
and there they were brought into the hall, that was well
apparelled; and so they were there unarmed, and set at a
board; and when this knight saw Sir Tristram, anon he knew
him. And then this knight waxed pale and wroth at Sir
Tristram. When Sir Tristram saw his host make such cheer he
marvelled and said: Sir, mine host, what cheer make you? Wit
thou well, said he, I fare the worse for thee, for I know
thee, Sir Tristram de Liones, thou slewest my brother; and
therefore I give thee summons I will slay thee an ever I may
get thee at large. Sir knight, said Sir Tristram, I am never
advised that ever I slew any brother of yours; and if ye say
that I did I will make amends unto my power. I will none
amends, said the knight, but keep thee from me.
So when he had dined Sir Tristram asked his arms, and
departed. And so they rode on their ways, and within a while
Sir Dinadan saw where came a knight well armed and well
horsed, without shield. Sir Tristram, said Sir Dinadan, take
keep to yourself, for I dare undertake yonder cometh your
host that will have ado with you. Let him come, said Sir
Tristram, I shall abide him as well as I may. Anon the
knight, when he came nigh Sir Tristram, he cried and bade
him abide and keep him. So they hurtled together, but Sir
Tristram smote the other knight so sore that he bare him
over his horse's croup. That knight arose lightly and took
his horse again, and so rode fiercely to Sir Tristram, and
smote him twice hard upon the helm. Sir knight, said Sir
Tristram, I pray you leave off and smite me no more, for I
would be loath to deal with you an I might choose, for I
have your meat and your drink within my body. For all that
he would not leave; and then Sir Tristram gave him such a
buffet upon the helm that he fell up-so-down from his horse,
that the blood brast out at the ventails of his helm, and so
he lay still likely to be dead. Then Sir Tristram said: Me
repenteth of this buffet that I smote so sore, for as I
suppose he is dead. And so they left him and rode on their
ways.
So they had not ridden but a while, but they saw riding
against them two full likely knights, well armed and well
horsed, and goodly servants about them. The one was Berrant
le Apres, and he was called the King with the Hundred
Knights; and the other was Sir Segwarides, which were
renowned two noble knights. So as they came either by other
the king looked upon Sir Dinadan, that at that time he had
Sir Tristram's helm upon his shoulder, the which helm the
king had seen to-fore with the Queen of Northgalis, and that
queen the king loved as paramour; and that helm the Queen of
Northgalis had given to La Beale Isoud, and the queen La
Beale Isoud gave it to Sir Tristram. Sir knight, said
Berrant, where had ye that helm? What would ye? said Sir
Dinadan. For I will have ado with thee, said the king, for
the love of her that owed that helm, and therefore keep you.
So they departed and came together with all their mights of
their horses, and there the King with the Hundred Knights
smote Sir Dinadan, horse and all, to the earth; and then he
commanded his servant: Go and take thou his helm off, and
keep it. So the varlet went to unbuckle his helm. What helm,
what wilt thou do? said Sir Tristram, leave that helm. To
what intent, said the king, will ye, sir knight, meddle with
that helm? Wit you well, said Sir Tristram, that helm shall
not depart from me or it be dearer bought. Then make you
ready, said Sir Berrant unto Sir Tristram. So they hurtled
together, and there Sir Tristram smote him down over his
horse's tail; and then the king arose lightly, and gat his
horse lightly again. And then he struck fiercely at Sir
Tristram many great strokes. And then Sir Tristram gave Sir
Berrant such a buffet upon the helm that he fell down over
his horse sore stonied. Lo, said Dinadan, that helm is
unhappy to us twain, for I had a fall for it, and now, sir
king, have ye another fall.
Then Segwarides asked: Who shall joust with me? I pray
thee, said Sir Gareth unto Dinadan, let me have this jousts.
Sir, said Dinadan, I pray you take it as for me. That is no
reason, said Tristram, for this jousts should be yours. At a
word, said Dinadan, I will not thereof. Then Gareth dressed
him to Sir Segwarides, and there Sir Segwarides smote Gareth
and his horse to the earth. Now, said Sir Tristram to
Dinadan, joust with yonder knight. I will not thereof, said
Dinadan. Then will I, said Sir Tristram. And then Sir
Tristram ran to him, and gave him a fall; and so they left
them on foot, and Sir Tristram rode unto Joyous Gard, and
there Sir Gareth would not of his courtesy have gone into
this castle, but Sir Tristram would not suffer him to
depart. And so they alighted and unarmed them, and had great
cheer. But when Dinadan came afore La Beale Isoud he cursed
the time that ever he bare Sir Tristram's helm, and there he
told her how Sir Tristram had mocked him. Then was there
laughing and japing at Sir Dinadan, that they wist not what
to do with him.
CHAPTER LXI. How Palomides went for to fight with two
brethren for the death of King Hermance.
NOW will we leave them merry within Joyous Gard, and
speak we of Sir Palomides. Then Sir Palomides sailed
evenlong Humber to the coasts of the sea, where was a fair
castle. And at that time it was early in the morning, afore
day. Then the mariners went unto Sir Palomides that slept
fast. Sir knight, said the mariners, ye must arise, for here
is a castle there ye must go into. I assent me, said Sir
Palomides; and therewithal he arrived. And then he blew his
horn that the mariners had given him. And when they within
the castle heard that horn they put forth many knights; and
there they stood upon the walls, and said with one voice:
Welcome be ye to this castle. And then it waxed clear day,
and Sir Palomides entered into the castle. And within a
while he was served with many divers meats. Then Sir
Palomides heard about him much weeping and great dole. What
may this mean? said Sir Palomides; I love not to hear such a
sorrow, and fain I would know what it meaneth. Then there
came afore him one whose name was Sir Ebel, that said thus:
Wit ye well, sir knight, this dole and sorrow is here made
every day, and for this cause: we had a king that hight
Hermance, and he was King of the Red City, and this king
that was lord was a noble knight, large and liberal of his
expense; and in the world he loved nothing so much as he did
errant knights of King Arthur's court, and all jousting,
hunting, and all manner of knightly games; for so kind a
king and knight had never the rule of poor people as he was;
and because of his goodness and gentle ness we bemoan him,
and ever shall. And all kings and estates may beware by our
lord, for he was destroyed in his own default; for had he
cherished them of his blood he had yet lived with great
riches and rest: but all estates may beware by our king. But
alas, said Ebel, that we shall give all other warning by his
death.
Tell me, said Palomides, and in what manner was your lord
slain, and by whom. Sir, said Sir Ebel, our king brought up
of children two men that now are perilous knights; and these
two knights our king had so in charity, that he loved no man
nor trusted no man of his blood, nor none other that was
about him. And by these two knights our king was governed,
and so they ruled him peaceably and his lands, and never
would they suffer none of his blood to have no rule with our
king. And also he was so free and so gentle, and they so
false and deceivable, that they ruled him peaceably; and
that espied the lords of our king's blood, and departed from
him unto their own livelihood. Then when these two traitors
understood that they had driven all the lords of his blood
from him, they were not pleased with that rule, but then
they thought to have more, as ever it is an old saw: Give a
churl rule and thereby he will not be sufficed; for
whatsomever he be that is ruled by a villain born, and the
lord of the soil to be a gentleman born, the same villain
shall destroy all the gentlemen about him: therefore all
estates and lords, beware whom ye take about you. And if ye
be a knight of King Arthur's court remember this tale, for
this is the end and conclusion. My lord and king rode unto
the forest hereby by the advice of these traitors, and there
he chased at the red deer, armed at all pieces full like a
good knight; and so for labour he waxed dry, and then he
alighted, and drank at a well. And when he was alighted, by
the assent of these two traitors, that one that hight Helius
he suddenly smote our king through the body with a spear,
and so they left him there. And when they were departed,
then by fortune I came to the well, and found my lord and
king wounded to the death. And when I heard his complaint, I
let bring him to the water side, and in that same ship I put
him alive; and when my lord King Hermance was in that
vessel, he required me for the true faith I owed unto him
for to write a letter in this manner.
CHAPTER LXII. The copy of the letter written for to
revenge the king's death, and how Sir Palomides fought for
to have the battle.
RECOMMENDING unto King Arthur and to all his knights
errant, beseeching them all that insomuch as I, King
Hermance, King of the Red City, thus am slain by felony and
treason, through two knights of mine own, and of mine own
bringing up and of mine own making, that some worshipful
knight will revenge my death, insomuch I have been ever to
my power well willing unto Arthur's court. And who that will
adventure his life with these two traitors for my sake in
one battle, I, King Hermance, King of the Red City, freely
give him all my lands and rents that ever I wielded in my
life. This letter, said Ebel, I wrote by my lord's
commandment, and then he received his Creator; and when he
was dead, he commanded me or ever he were cold to put that
letter fast in his hand. And then he commanded me to put
forth that same vessel down Humber, and I should give these
mariners in commandment never to stint until that they came
unto Logris, where all the noble knights shall assemble at
this time. And there shall some good knight have pity on me
to revenge my death, for there was never king nor lord
falslier nor traitorlier slain than I am here to my death.
Thus was the complaint of our King Hermance. Now, said Sir
Ebel, ye know all how our lord was betrayed, we require you
for God's sake have pity upon his death, and worshipfully
revenge his death, and then may ye wield all these lands.
For we all wit well that an ye may slay these two traitors,
the Red City and all those that be therein will take you for
their lord.
Truly, said Sir Palomides, it grieveth my heart for to
hear you tell this doleful tale; and to say the truth I saw
the same letter that ye speak of, and one of the best
knights on the earth read that letter to me, and by his
commandment I came hither to revenge your king's death; and
therefore have done, and let me wit where I shall find those
traitors, for I shall never be at ease in my heart till I be
in hands with them. Sir, said Sir Ebel, then take your ship
again, and that ship must bring you unto the Delectable
Isle, fast by the Red City, and we in this castle shall pray
for you, and abide your again-coming. For this same castle,
an ye speed well, must needs be yours; for our King Hermance
let make this castle for the love of the two traitors, and
so we kept it with strong hand, and therefore full sore are
we threated. Wot ye what ye shall do, said Sir Palomides;
whatsomever come of me, look ye keep well this castle. For
an it misfortune me so to be slain in this quest I am sure
there will come one of the best knights of the world for to
revenge my death, and that is Sir Tristram de Liones, or
else Sir Launcelot du Lake.
Then Sir Palomides departed from that castle. And as he
came nigh the city, there came out of a ship a goodly knight
armed against him, with his shield on his shoulder, and his
hand upon his sword. And anon as he came nigh Sir Palomides
he said: Sir knight, what seek ye here? leave this quest for
it is mine, and mine it was or ever it was yours, and
therefore I will have it. Sir knight, said Palomides, it may
well be that this quest was yours or it was mine, but when
the letter was taken out of the dead king's hand, at that
time by likelihood there was no knight had undertaken to
revenge the death of the king. And so at that time I
promised to revenge his death, and so I shall or else I am
ashamed. Ye say well, said the knight, but wit ye well then
will I fight with you, and who be the better knight of us
both, let him take the battle upon hand. I assent me, said
Sir Palomides. And then they dressed their shields, and
pulled out their swords, and lashed together many sad
strokes as men of might; and this fighting was more than an
hour, but at the last Sir Palomides waxed big and better
winded, so that then he smote that knight such a stroke that
he made him to kneel upon his knees. Then that knight spake
on high and said: Gentle knight, hold thy hand. Sir
Palomides was goodly and withdrew his hand. Then this knight
said: Wit ye well, knight, that thou art better worthy to
have this battle than I, and require thee of knighthood tell
me thy name. Sir, my name is Palomides, a knight of King
Arthur's, and of the Table Round, that hither I came to
revenge the death of this dead king.
CHAPTER LXIII. Of the preparation of Sir Palomides and
the two brethren that should fight with him.
WELL be ye found, said the knight to Palomides, for of
all knights that be alive, except three, I had liefest have
you. The first is Sir Launcelot du Lake, and Sir Tristram de
Liones, the third is my nigh cousin, Sir Lamorak de Galis.
And I am brother unto King Hermance that is dead, and my
name is Sir Hermind. Ye say well, said Sir Palomides, and ye
shall see how I shall speed; and if I be there slain go ye
to my lord Sir Launcelot, or else to my lord Sir Tristram,
and pray them to revenge my death, for as for Sir Lamorak
him shall ye never see in this world. Alas, said Sir
Hermind, how may that be? He is slain, said Sir Palomides,
by Sir Gawaine and his brethren. So God me help, said
Hermind, there was not one for one that slew him. That is
truth, said Sir Palomides, for they were four dangerous
knights that slew him, as Sir Gawaine, Sir Agravaine, Sir
Gaheris, and Sir Mordred, but Sir Gareth, the fifth brother
was away, the best knight of them all. And so Sir Palomides
told Hermind all the manner, and how they slew Sir Lamorak
all only by treason.
So Sir Palomides took his ship, and arrived up at the
Delectable Isle. And in the meanwhile Sir Hermind that was
the king's brother, he arrived up at the Red City, and there
he told them how there was come a knight of King Arthur's to
avenge King Hermance's death: And his name is Sir Palomides,
the good knight, that for the most part he followeth the
beast Glatisant. Then all the city made great joy, for
mickle had they heard of Sir Palomides, and of his noble
prowess. So let they ordain a messenger, and sent unto the
two brethren, and bade them to make them ready, for there
was a knight come that would fight with them both. So the
messenger went unto them where they were at a castle there
beside; and there he told them how there was a knight come
of King Arthur's court to fight with them both at once. He
is welcome, said they; but tell us, we pray you, if it be
Sir Launcelot or any of his blood? He is none of that blood,
said the messenger. Then we care the less, said the two
brethren, for with none of the blood of Sir Launcelot we
keep not to have ado withal. Wit ye well, said the
messenger, that his name is Sir Palomides, that yet is
unchristened, a noble knight. Well, said they, an he be now
unchristened he shall never be christened. So they appointed
to be at the city within two days.
And when Sir Palomides was come to the city they made
passing great joy of him, and then they beheld him, and saw
that he was well made, cleanly and bigly, and unmaimed of
his limbs, and neither too young nor too old. And so all the
people praised him; and though he was not christened yet he
believed in the best manner, and was full faithful and true
of his promise, and well conditioned; and because he made
his avow that he would never be christened unto the time
that he had achieved the beast Glatisant, the which was a
full wonderful beast, and a great signification; for Merlin
prophesied much of that beast. And also Sir Palomides avowed
never to take full christendom unto the time that he had
done seven battles within the lists.
So within the third day there came to the city these two
brethren, the one hight Helius, the other hight Helake, the
which were men of great prowess; howbeit that they were
false and full of treason, and but poor men born, yet were
they noble knights of their hands. And with them they
brought forty knights, to that intent that they should be
big enough for the Red City. Thus came the two brethren with
great bobaunce and pride, for they had put the Red City in
fear and damage. Then they were brought to the lists, and
Sir Palomides came into the place and said thus: Be ye the
two brethren, Helius and Helake, that slew your king and
lord, Sir Hermance, by felony and treason, for whom that I
am come hither to revenge his death? Wit thou well, said Sir
Helius and Sir Helake, that we are the same knights that
slew King Hermance; and wit thou well, Sir Palomides
Saracen, that we shall handle thee so or thou depart that
thou shalt wish that thou wert christened. It may well be,
said Sir Palomides, for yet I would not die or I were
christened; and yet so am I not afeard of you both, but I
trust to God that I shall die a better christian man than
any of you both; and doubt ye not, said Sir Palomides,
either ye or I shall be left dead in this place.
CHAPTER LXIV. Of the battle between Sir Palomides and
the two brethren, and how the two brethren were slain.
THEN they departed, and the two brethren came against Sir
Palomides, and he against them, as fast as their horses
might run. And by fortune Sir Palomides smote Helake through
his shield and through the breast more than a fathom. All
this while Sir Helius held up his spear, and for pride and
orgulité he would not smite Sir Palomides with his spear;
but when he saw his brother lie on the earth, and saw he
might not help himself, then he said unto Sir Palomides:
Help thyself. And therewith he came hurtling unto Sir
Palomides with his spear, and smote him quite from his
saddle. Then Sir Helius rode over Sir Palomides twice or
thrice. And therewith Sir Palomides was ashamed, and gat the
horse of Sir Helius by the bridle, and therewithal the horse
areared, and Sir Palomides halp after, and so they fell both
to the earth; but anon Sir Helius stert up lightly, and
there he smote Sir Palomides a great stroke upon the helm,
that he kneeled upon his own knee. Then they lashed together
many sad strokes, and traced and traversed now backward, now
sideling, hurtling together like two boars, and that same
time they fell both grovelling to the earth.
Thus they fought still without any reposing two hours,
and never breathed; and then Sir Palomides waxed faint and
weary, and Sir Helius waxed passing strong, and doubled his
strokes, and drove Sir Palomides overthwart and endlong all
the field, that they of the city when they saw Sir Palomides
in this case they wept and cried, and made great dole, and
the other party made as great joy. Alas, said the men of the
city, that this noble knight should thus be slain for our
king's sake. And as they were thus weeping and crying, Sir
Palomides that had suffered an hundred strokes, that it was
wonder that he stood on his feet, at the last Sir Palomides
beheld as he might the common people, how they wept for him;
and then he said to himself: Ah, fie for shame, Sir
Palomides, why hangest thou thy head so low; and therewith
he bare up his shield, and looked Sir Helius in the visage,
and he smote him a great stroke upon the helm, and after
that another and another. And then he smote Sir Helius with
such a might that he fell to the earth grovelling; and then
he raced off his helm from his head, and there he smote him
such a buffet that he departed his head from the body. And
then were the people of the city the joyfullest people that
might be. So they brought him to his lodging with great
solemnity, and there all the people became his men. And then
Sir Palomides prayed them all to take keep unto all the
lordship of King Hermance: For, fair sirs, wit ye well I may
not as at this time abide with you, for I must in all haste
be with my lord King Arthur at the Castle of Lonazep, the
which I have promised. Then was the people full heavy at his
departing, for all that city proffered Sir Palomides the
third part of their goods so that he would abide with them;
but in no wise as at that time he would not abide.
And so Sir Palomides departed, and so he came unto the
castle thereas Sir Ebel was lieutenant. And when they in the
castle wist how Sir Palomides had sped, there was a joyful
meiny; and so Sir Palomides departed, and came to the castle
of Lonazep. And when he wist that Sir Tristram was not there
he took his way over Humber, and came unto Joyous Gard,
whereas Sir Tristram was and La Beale Isoud. Sir Tristram
had commanded that what knight errant came within the Joyous
Gard, as in the town, that they should warn Sir Tristram. So
there came a man of the town, and told Sir Tristram how
there was a knight in the town, a passing goodly man. What
manner of man is he, said Sir Tristram, and what sign
beareth he? So the man told Sir Tristram all the tokens of
him. That is Palomides, said Dinadan. It may well be, said
Sir Tristram. Go ye to him, said Sir Tristram unto Dinadan.
So Dinadan went unto Sir Palomides, and there either made
other great joy, and so they lay together that night. And on
the morn early came Sir Tristram and Sir Gareth, and took
them in their beds, and so they arose and brake their fast.
CHAPTER LXV. How Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides met
Breuse Saunce Pité, and how Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud
went unto Lonazep.
AND then Sir Tristram desired Sir Palomides to ride into
the fields and woods. So they were accorded to repose them
in the forest. And when they had played them a great while
they rode unto a fair well; and anon they were ware of an
armed knight that came riding against them, and there either
saluted other. Then this armed knight spake to Sir Tristram,
and asked what were these knights that were lodged in Joyous
Gard. I wot not what they are, said Sir Tristram. What
knights be ye? said that knight, for meseemeth ye be no
knights errant, because ye ride unarmed. Whether we be
knights or not we list not to tell thee our name. Wilt thou
not tell me thy name? said that knight; then keep thee, for
thou shalt die of my hands. And therewith he got his spear
in his hands, and would have run Sir Tristram through. That
saw Sir Palomides, and smote his horse traverse in midst of
the side, that man and horse fell to the earth. And
therewith Sir Palomides alighted and pulled out his sword to
have slain him. Let be, said Sir Tristram, slay him not, the
knight is but a fool, it were shame to slay him. But take
away his spear, said Sir Tristram, and let him take his
horse and go where that he will.
So when this knight arose he groaned sore of the fall,
and so he took his horse, and when he was up he turned then
his horse, and required Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides to
tell him what knights they were. Now wit ye well, said Sir
Tristram, that my name is Sir Tristram de Liones, and this
knight's name is Sir Palomides. When he wist what they were
he took his horse with the spurs, because they should not
ask him his name, and so rode fast away through thick and
thin. Then came there by them a knight with a bended shield
of azure, whose name was Epinogris, and he came toward them
a great wallop. Whither are ye riding? said Sir Tristram. My
fair lords, said Epinogris, I follow the falsest knight that
beareth the life; wherefore I require you tell me whether ye
saw him, for he beareth a shield with a case of red over it.
So God me help, said Tristram, such a knight departed from
us not a quarter of an hour agone; we pray you tell us his
name. Alas, said Epinogris, why let ye him escape from you?
and he is so great a foe unto all errant knights: his name
is Breuse Saunce Pité. Ah, fie for shame, said Sir
Palomides, alas that ever he escaped mine hands, for he is
the man in the world that I hate most. Then every knight
made great sorrow to other; and so Epinogris departed and
followed the chase after him.
Then Sir Tristram and his three fellows rode unto Joyous
Gard; and there Sir Tristram talked unto Sir Palomides of
his battle, how he sped at the Red City, and as ye have
heard afore so was it ended. Truly, said Sir Tristram, I am
glad ye have well sped, for ye have done worshipfully. Well,
said Sir Tristram, we must forward to-morn. And then he
devised how it should be; and Sir Tristram devised to send
his two pavilions to set them fast by the well of Lonazep,
and therein shall be the queen La Beale Isoud. It is well
said, said Sir Dinadan, but when Sir Palomides heard of that
his heart was ravished out of measure: notwithstanding he
said but little. So when they came to Joyous Gard Sir
Palomides would not have gone into the castle, but as Sir
Tristram took him by the finger, and led him into the
castle. And when Sir Palomides saw La Beale Isoud he was
ravished so that he might unnethe speak. So they went unto
meat, but Palomides might not eat, and there was all the
cheer that might be had. And on the morn they were
apparelled to ride toward Lonazep.
So Sir Tristram had three squires, and La Beale Isoud had
three gentlewomen, and both the queen and they were richly
apparelled; and other people had they none with them, but
varlets to bear their shields and their spears. And thus
they rode forth. So as they rode they saw afore them a rout
of knights; it was the knight Galihodin with twenty knights
with him. Fair fellows, said Galihodin, yonder come four
knights, and a rich and a well fair lady: I am in will to
take that lady from them. That is not of the best counsel,
said one of Galihodin's men, but send ye to them and wit
what they will say; and so it was done. There came a squire
unto Sir Tristram, and asked them whether they would joust
or else to lose their lady. Not so, said Sir Tristram, tell
your lord I bid him come as many as we be, and win her and
take her. Sir, said Palomides, an it please you let me have
this deed, and I shall undertake them all four. I will that
ye have it, said Sir Tristram, at your pleasure. Now go and
tell your lord Galihodin, that this same knight will
encounter with him and his fellows.
CHAPTER LXVI. How Sir Palomides jousted with Sir
Galihodin, and after with Sir Gawaine, and smote them down.
THEN this squire departed and told Galihodin; and then he
dressed his shield, and put forth a spear, and Sir Palomides
another; and there Sir Palomides smote Galihodin so hard
that he smote both horse and man to the earth. And there he
had an horrible fall. And then came there another knight,
and in the same wise he served him; and so he served the
third and the fourth, that he smote them over their horses'
croups, and always Sir Palomides' spear was whole. Then came
six knights more of Galihodin's men, and would have been
avenged upon Sir Palomides. Let be, said Sir Galihodin, not
so hardy, none of you all meddle with this knight, for he is
a man of great bounté and honour, and if he would ye were
not able to meddle with him. And right so they held them
still. And ever Sir Palomides was ready to joust; and when
he saw they would no more he rode unto Sir Tristram. Right
well have ye done, said Sir Tristram, and worshipfully have
ye done as a good knight should. This Galihodin was nigh
cousin unto Galahalt, the haut prince; and this Galihodin
was a king within the country of Surluse.
So as Sir Tristram, Sir Palomides, and La Beale Isoud
rode together they saw afore them four knights, and every
man had his spear in his hand: the first was Sir Gawaine,
the second Sir Uwaine, the third Sir Sagramore le Desirous,
and the fourth was Dodinas le Savage. When Sir Palomides
beheld them, that the four knights were ready to joust, he
prayed Sir Tristram to give him leave to have ado with them
all so long as he might hold him on horseback. And if that I
be smitten down I pray you revenge me. Well, said Sir
Tristram, I will as ye will, and ye are not so fain to have
worship but I would as fain increase your worship. And
therewithal Sir Gawaine put forth his spear, and Sir
Palomides another; and so they came so eagerly together that
Sir Palomides smote Sir Gawaine to the earth, horse and all;
and in the same wise he served Uwaine, Sir Dodinas, and
Sagramore. All these four knights Sir Palomides smote down
with divers spears And then Sir Tristram departed toward
Lonazep.
And when they were departed then came thither Galihodin
with his ten knights unto Sir Gawaine, and there he told him
all how he had sped. I marvel, said Sir Gawaine, what
knights they be, that are so arrayed in green. And that
knight upon the white horse smote me down, said Galihodin,
and my three fellows. And so he did to me, said Gawaine; and
well I wot, said Sir Gawaine, that either he upon the white
horse is Sir Tristram or else Sir Palomides, and that gay
beseen lady is Queen Isoud. Thus they talked of one thing
and of other.
And in the meanwhile Sir Tristram passed on till that he
came to the well where his two pavilions were set; and there
they alighted, and there they saw many pavilions and great
array. Then Sir Tristram left there Sir Palomides and Sir
Gareth with La Beale Isoud, and Sir Tristram and Sir Dinadan
rode to Lonazep to hearken tidings; and Sir Tristram rode
upon Sir Palomides' white horse. And when he came into the
castle Sir Dinadan heard a great horn blow, and to the horn
drew many knights. Then Sir Tristram asked a knight: What
meaneth the blast of that horn? Sir, said that knight, it is
all those that shall hold against King Arthur at this
tournament. The first is the King of Ireland, and the King
of Surluse, the King of Listinoise, the King of
Northumberland, and the King of the best part of Wales, with
many other countries. And these draw them to a council, to
understand what governance they shall be of; but the King of
Ireland, whose name was Marhalt, and father to the good
knight Sir Marhaus that Sir Tristram slew, had all the
speech that Sir Tristram might hear it. He said: Lords and
fellows, let us look to ourself, for wit ye well King Arthur
is sure of many good knights, or else he would not with so
few knights have ado with us; therefore by my counsel let
every king have a standard and a cognisance by himself, that
every knight draw to their natural lord, and then may every
king and captain help his knights if they have need. When
Sir Tristram had heard all their counsel he rode unto King
Arthur for to hear of his counsel.
CHAPTER LXVII. How Sir Tristram and his fellowship came
into the tournament of Lonazep; and of divers jousts and
matters.
BUT Sir Tristram was not so soon come into the place, but
Sir Gawaine and Sir Galihodin went to King Arthur, and told
him: That same green knight in the green harness with the
white horse smote us two down, and six of our fellows this
same day. Well, said Arthur. And then he called Sir Tristram
and asked him what was his name. Sir, said Sir Tristram, ye
shall hold me excused as at this time, for ye shall not wit
my name. And there Sir Tristram returned and rode his way. I
have marvel, said Arthur, that yonder knight will not tell
me his name, but go thou, Griflet le Fise de Dieu, and pray
him to speak with me betwixt us. Then Sir Griflet rode after
him and overtook him, and said him that King Arthur prayed
him for to speak with him secretly apart. Upon this
covenant, said Sir Tristram, I will speak with him; that I
will turn again so that ye will ensure me not to desire to
hear my name. I shall undertake, said Sir Griflet, that he
will not greatly desire it of you. So they rode together
until they came to King Arthur. Fair sir, said King Arthur,
what is the cause ye will not tell me your name? Sir, said
Sir Tristram, without a cause I will not hide my name. Upon
what party will ye hold? said King Arthur. Truly, my lord,
said Sir Tristram, I wot not yet on what party I will be on,
until I come to the field, and there as my heart giveth me,
there will I hold; but to-morrow ye shall see and prove on
what party I shall come. And therewithal he returned and
went to his pavilions.
And upon the morn they armed them all in green, and came
into the field; and there young knights began to joust, and
did many worshipful deeds. Then spake Gareth unto Sir
Tristram, and prayed him to give him leave to break his
spear, for him thought shame to bear his spear whole again.
When Sir Tristram heard him say so he laughed, and said: I
pray you do your best. Then Sir Gareth gat a spear and
proffered to joust. That saw a knight that was nephew unto
the King of the Hundred Knights; his name was Selises, and a
good man of arms. So this knight Selises then dressed him
unto Sir Gareth, and they two met together so hard that
either smote other down, his horse and all, to the earth, so
they were both bruised and hurt; and there they lay till the
King with the Hundred Knights halp Selises up, and Sir
Tristram and Sir Palomides halp up Gareth again. And so they
rode with Sir Gareth unto their pavilions, and then they
pulled off his helm.
And when La Beale Isoud saw Sir Gareth bruised in the
face she asked him what ailed him. Madam, said Sir Gareth, I
had a great buffet, and as I suppose I gave another, but
none of my fellows, God thank them, would not rescue me.
Forsooth, said Palomides, it longed not to none of us as
this day to joust, for there have not this day jousted no
proved knights, and needly ye would joust. And when the
other party saw ye proffered yourself to joust they sent one
to you, a passing good knight of his age, for I know him
well, his name is Selises; and worshipfully ye met with him,
and neither of you are dishonoured, and therefore refresh
yourself that ye may be ready and whole to joust to-morrow.
As for that, said Gareth, I shall not fail you an I may
bestride mine horse.
CHAPTER LXVIII. How Sir Tristram and his fellowship
jousted, and of the noble feats that they did in that
tourneying.
NOW upon what party, said Tristram, is it best we be
withal as to-morn? Sir, said Palomides, ye shall have mine
advice to be against King Arthur as to-morn, for on his
party will be Sir Launcelot and many good knights of his
blood with him. And the more men of worship that they be,
the more worship we shall win. That is full knightly spoken,
said Sir Tristram; and right so as ye counsel me, so will we
do. In the name of God, said they all. So that night they
were lodged with the best. And on the morn when it was day
they were arrayed all in green trappings, shields and
spears, and La Beale Isoud in the same colour, and her three
damosels. And right so these four knights came into the
field endlong and through. And so they led La Beale Isoud
thither as she should stand and behold all the jousts in a
bay window; but always she was wimpled that no man might see
her visage. And then these three knights rode straight unto
the party of the King of Scots.
When King Arthur had seen them do all this he asked Sir
Launcelot what were these knights and that queen. Sir, said
Launcelot, I cannot say you in certain, but if Sir Tristram
be in this country, or Sir Palomides, wit ye well it be they
m certain, and La Beale Isoud. Then Arthur called to him Sir
Kay and said: Go lightly and wit how many knights there be
here lacking of the Table Round, for by the sieges thou
mayst know. So went Sir Kay and saw by the writings in the
sieges that there lacked ten knights. And these be their
names that be not here. Sir Tristram, Sir Palomides, Sir
Percivale, Sir Gaheris, Sir Epinogris, Sir Mordred, Sir
Dinadan, Sir La Cote Male Taile, and Sir Pelleas the noble
knight. Well, said Arthur, some of these I dare undertake
are here this day against us.
Then came therein two brethren, cousins unto Sir Gawaine,
the one hight Sir Edward, that other hight Sir Sadok, the
which were two good knights; and they asked of King Arthur
that they might have the first jousts, for they were of
Orkney. I am pleased, said King Arthur. Then Sir Edward
encountered with the King of Scots, in whose party was Sir
Tristram and Sir Palomides; and Sir Edward smote the King of
Scots quite from his horse, and Sir Sadok smote down the
King of North Wales, and gave him a wonder great fall, that
there was a great cry on King Arthur's party, and that made
Sir Palomides passing wroth. And so Sir Palomides dressed
his shield and his spear, and with all his might he met with
Sir Edward of Orkney, that he smote him so hard that his
horse might not stand on his feet, and so they hurtled to
the earth; and then with the same spear Sir Palomides smote
down Sir Sadok over his horse's croup. O Jesu, said Arthur,
what knight is that arrayed all in green? he jousteth
mightily. Wit you well, said Sir Gawaine, he is a good
knight, and yet shall ye see him joust better or he depart.
And yet shall ye see, said Sir Gawaine, another bigger
knight, in the same colour, than he is; for that same
knight, said Sir Gawaine, that smote down right now my four
cousins, he smote me down within these two days, and seven
fellows more.
This meanwhile as they stood thus talking there came into
the place Sir Tristram upon a black horse, and or ever he
stint he smote down with one spear four good knights of
Orkney that were of the kin of Sir Gawaine; and Sir Gareth
and Sir Dinadan everych of them smote down a good knight.
Jesu, said Arthur, yonder knight upon the black horse doth
mightily and marvellously well. Abide you, said Sir Gawaine;
that knight with the black horse began not yet. Then Sir
Tristram made to horse again the two kings that Edward and
Sadok had unhorsed at the beginning. And then Sir Tristram
drew his sword and rode into the thickest of the press
against them of Orkney; and there he smote down knights, and
rashed off helms, and pulled away their shields, and hurtled
down many knights: he fared so that Sir Arthur and all
knights had great marvel when they saw one knight do so
great deeds of arms. And Sir Palomides failed not upon the
other side, but did so marvellously well that all men had
wonder. For there King Arthur likened Sir Tristram that was
on the black horse like to a wood lion, and likened Sir
Palomides upon the white horse unto a wood leopard, and Sir
Gareth and Sir Dinadan unto eager wolves. But the custom was
such among them that none of the kings would help other, but
all the fellowship of every standard to help other as they
might; but ever Sir Tristram did so much deeds of arms that
they of Orkney waxed weary of him, and so withdrew them unto
Lonazep
CHAPTER LXIX. How Sir Tristram was unhorsed and smitten
down by Sir Launcelot, and after that Sir Tristram smote
down King Arthur.
THEN was the cry of heralds and all manner of common
people: The Green Knight hath done marvellously, and beaten
all them of Orkney. And there the heralds numbered that Sir
Tristram that sat upon the black horse had smitten down with
spears and swords thirty knights; and Sir Palomides had
smitten down twenty knights, and the most part of these
fifty knights were of the house of King Arthur, and proved
knights. So God me help, said Arthur unto Sir Launcelot,
this is a great shame to us to see four knights beat so many
knights of mine; and therefore make you ready, for we will
have ado with them. Sir, said Launcelot, wit ye well that
there are two passing good knights, and great worship were
it not to us now to have ado with them, for they have this
day sore travailed. As for that, said Arthur, I will be
avenged; and therefore take with you Sir Bleoberis and Sir
Ector, and I will be the fourth, said Arthur. Sir, said
Launcelot, ye shall find me ready, and my brother Sir Ector,
and my cousin Sir Bleoberis. And so when they were ready and
on horseback: Now choose, said Sir Arthur unto Sir
Launcelot, with whom that ye will encounter withal. Sir,
said Launcelot, I will meet with the green knight upon the
black horse, that was Sir Tristram; and my cousin Sir
Bleoberis shall match the green knight upon the white horse,
that was Sir Palomides; and my brother Sir Ector shall match
with the green knight upon the white horse, that was Sir
Gareth. Then must I, said Sir Arthur, have ado with the
green knight upon the grisled horse, and that was Sir
Dinadan. Now every man take heed to his fellow, said Sir
Launcelot. And so they trotted on together, and there
encountered Sir Launcelot against Sir Tristram. So Sir
Launcelot smote Sir Tristram so sore upon the shield that he
bare horse and man to the earth; but Sir Launcelot weened
that it had been Sir Palomides, and so he passed forth. And
then Sir Bleoberis encountered with Sir Palomides, and he
smote him so hard upon the shield that Sir Palomides and his
white horse rustled to the earth. Then Sir Ector de Maris
smote Sir Gareth so hard that down he fell off his horse.
And the noble King Arthur encountered with Sir Dinadan, and
he smote him quite from his saddle. And then the noise
turned awhile how the green knights were slain down.
When the King of Northgalis saw that Sir Tristram had a
fall, then he remembered him how great deeds of arms Sir
Tristram had done. Then he made ready many knights, for the
custom and cry was such, that what knight were smitten down,
and might not be horsed again by his fellows, outher by his
own strength, that as that day he should be prisoner unto
the party that had smitten him down. So came in the King of
Northgalis, and he rode straight unto Sir Tristram; and when
he came nigh him he alighted down suddenly and betook Sir
Tristram his horse, and said thus: Noble knight, I know thee
not of what country that thou art, but for the noble deeds
that thou hast done this day take there my horse, and let me
do as well I may; for, as Jesu me help, thou art better
worthy to have mine horse than I myself. Gramercy, said Sir
Tristram, and if I may I shall quite you: look that ye go
not far from us, and as I suppose, I shall win you another
horse. And therewith Sir Tristram mounted upon his horse,
and there he met with King Arthur, and he gave him such a
buffet upon the helm with his sword that King Arthur had no
power to keep his saddle. And then Sir Tristram gave the
King of Northgalis King Arthur's horse: then was there great
press about King Arthur for to horse him again; but Sir
Palomides would not suffer King Arthur to be horsed again,
but ever Sir Palomides smote on the right hand and on the
left hand mightily as a noble knight. And this meanwhile Sir
Tristram rode through the thickest of the press, and smote
down knights on the right hand and on the left hand, and
raced off helms, and so passed forth unto his pavilions, and
left Sir Palomides on foot; and Sir Tristram changed his
horse and disguised himself all in red, horse and harness.
CHAPTER LXX. How Sir Tristram changed his harness and it
was all red, and how he demeaned him, and how Sir Palomides
slew Launcelot's horse.
AND when the queen La Beale Isoud saw that Sir Tristram
was unhorsed, and she wist not where he was, then she wept
greatly. But Sir Tristram, when he was ready, came dashing
lightly into the field, and then La Beale Isoud espied him.
And so he did great deeds of arms; with one spear, that was
great, Sir Tristram smote down five knights or ever he
stint. Then Sir Launcelot espied him readily, that it was
Sir Tristram, and then he repented him that he had smitten
him down; and so Sir Launcelot went out of the press to
repose him and lightly he came again. And now when Sir
Tristram came into the press, through his great force he put
Sir Palomides upon his horse, and Sir Gareth, and Sir
Dinadan, and then they began to do marvellously; but Sir
Palomides nor none of his two fellows knew not who had
holpen them on horseback again. But ever Sir Tristram was
nigh them and succoured them, and they [knew] not him,
because he was changed into red armour: and all this while
Sir Launcelot was away.
So when La Beale Isoud knew Sir Tristram again upon his
horse-back she was passing glad, and then she laughed and
made good cheer. And as it happened, Sir Palomides looked up
toward her where she lay in the window, and he espied how
she laughed; and therewith he took such a rejoicing that he
smote down, what with his spear and with his sword, all that
ever he met; for through the sight of her he was so
enamoured in her love that he seemed at that time, that an
both Sir Tristram and Sir Launcelot had been both against
him they should have won no worship of him; and in his
heart, as the book saith, Sir Palomides wished that with his
worship he might have ado with Sir Tristram before all men,
because of La Beale Isoud. Then Sir Palomides began to
double his strength, and he did so marvellously that all men
had wonder of him, and ever he cast up his eye unto La Beale
Isoud. And when he saw her make such cheer he fared like a
lion, that there might no man withstand him; and then Sir
Tristram beheld him, how that Sir Palomides bestirred him;
and then he said unto Sir Dinadan: So God me help, Sir
Palomides is a passing good knight and a well enduring, but
such deeds saw I him never do, nor never heard I tell that
ever he did so much in one day. It is his day, said Dinadan;
and he would say no more unto Sir Tristram; but to himself
he said: An if ye knew for whose love he doth all those
deeds of arms, soon would Sir Tristram abate his courage.
Alas, said Sir Tristram, that Sir Palomides is not
christened. So said King Arthur, and so said all those that
beheld him. Then all people gave him the prize, as for the
best knight that day, that he passed Sir Launcelot outher
Sir Tristram. Well, said Dinadan to himself, all this
worship that Sir Palomides hath here this day he may thank
the Queen Isoud, for had she been away this day Sir
Palomides had not gotten the prize this day.
Right so came into the field Sir Launcelot du Lake, and
saw and heard the noise and cry and the great worship that
Sir Palomides had. He dressed him against Sir Palomides,
with a great mighty spear and a long, and thought to smite
him down. And when Sir Palomides saw Sir Launcelot come upon
him so fast, he ran upon Sir Launcelot as fast with his
sword as he might; and as Sir Launcelot should have stricken
him he smote his spear aside, and smote it a-two with his
sword. And Sir Palomides rushed unto Sir Launcelot, and
thought to have put him to a shame; and with his sword he
smote his horse's neck that Sir Launcelot rode upon, and
then Sir Launcelot fell to the earth. Then was the cry huge
and great: See how Sir Palomides the Saracen hath smitten
down Sir Launcelot's horse. Right then were there many
knights wroth with Sir Palomides because he had done that
deed; therefore many knights held there against that it was
unknightly done in a tournament to kill an horse wilfully,
but that it had been done in plain battle, life for life.
CHAPTER LXXI. How Sir Launcelot said to Sir Palomides,
and how the prize of that day was given unto Sir Palomides.
WHEN Sir Ector de Maris saw Sir Launcelot his brother
have such a despite, and so set on foot, then he gat a spear
eagerly, and ran against Sir Palomides, and he smote him so
hard that he bare him quite from his horse. That saw Sir
Tristram, that was in red harness, and he smote down Sir
Ector de Maris quite from his horse. Then Sir Launcelot
dressed his shield upon his shoulder, and with his sword
naked in his hand, and so came straight upon Sir Palomides
fiercely and said: Wit thou well thou hast done me this day
the greatest despite that ever any worshipful knight did to
me in tournament or in jousts, and therefore I will be
avenged upon thee, therefore take keep to yourself. Ah,
mercy, noble knight, said Palomides, and forgive me mine
unkindly deeds, for I have no power nor might to withstand
you, and I have done so much this day that well I wot I did
never so much, nor never shall in my life-days; and
therefore, most noble knight, I require thee spare me as at
this day, and I promise you I shall ever be your knight
while I live: an ye put me from my worship now, ye put me
from the greatest worship that ever I had or ever shall have
in my life-days. Well, said Sir Launcelot, I see, for to say
thee sooth, ye have done marvellously well this day; and I
understand a part for whose love ye do it, and well I wot
that love is a great mistress. And if my lady were here as
she nis not, wit you well, said Sir Launcelot, ye should not
bear away the worship. But beware your love be not
discovered, for an Sir Tristram may know it ye will repent
it; and sithen my quarrel is not here, ye shall have this
day the worship as for me; considering the great travail and
pain that ye have had this day, it were no worship for me to
put you from it. And therewithal Sir Launcelot suffered Sir
Palomides to depart.
Then Sir Launcelot by great force and might gat his own
horse maugre twenty knights. So when Sir Launcelot was
horsed he did many marvels, and so did Sir Tristram, and Sir
Palomides in like wise. Then Sir Launcelot smote down with a
spear Sir Dinadan, and the King of Scotland, and the King of
Wales, and the King of Northumberland, and the King of
Listinoise. So then Sir Launcelot and his fellows smote down
well a forty knights. Then came the King of Ireland and the
King of the Straight Marches to rescue Sir Tristram and Sir
Palomides. There began a great medley, and many knights were
smitten down on both parties; and always Sir Launcelot
spared Sir Tristram, and he spared him. And Sir Palomides
would not meddle with Sir Launcelot, and so there was
hurtling here and there. And then King Arthur sent out many
knights of the Table Round; and Sir Palomides was ever in
the foremost front, and Sir Tristram did so strongly well
that the king and all other had marvel. And then the king
let blow to lodging; and because Sir Palomides began first,
and never he went nor rode out of the field to repose, but
ever he was doing marvellously well either on foot or on
horseback, and longest during, King Arthur and all the kings
gave Sir Palomides the honour and the gree as for that day.
Then Sir Tristram commanded Sir Dinadan to fetch the
queen La Beale Isoud, and bring her to his two pavilions
that stood by the well. And so Dinadan did as he was
commanded. But when Sir Palomides understood and wist that
Sir Tristram was in the red armour, and on a red horse, wit
ye well that he was glad, and so was Sir Gareth and Sir
Dinadan, for they all weened that Sir Tristram had been
taken prisoner. And then every knight drew to his inn. And
then King Arthur and every knight spake of those knights;
but above all men they gave Sir Palomides the prize, and all
knights that knew Sir Palomides had wonder of his deeds.
Sir, said Sir Launcelot unto Arthur, as for Sir Palomides an
he be the green knight I dare say as for this day he is best
worthy to have the degree, for he reposed him never, nor
never changed his weeds, and he began first and longest held
on. And yet, well I wot, said Sir Launcelot, that there was
a better knight than he, and that shall be proved or we
depart, upon pain of my life. Thus they talked on either
party; and so Sir Dinadan railed with Sir Tristram and said:
What the devil is upon thee this day? for Sir Palomides'
strength feebled never this day, but ever he doubled his
strength.
CHAPTER LXXII. How Sir Dinadan provoked Sir Tristram to
do well.
AND thou, Sir Tristram, farest all this day as though
thou hadst been asleep, and therefore I call thee coward.
Well, Dinadan, said Sir Tristram, I was never called coward
or now of no earthly knight in my life; and wit thou well,
sir, I call myself never the more coward though Sir
Launcelot gave me a fall, for I outcept him of all knights.
And doubt ye not Sir Dinadan, an Sir Launcelot have a
quarrel good, he is too over good for any knight that now is
living; and yet of his sufferance, largess, bounty, and
courtesy, I call him knight peerless: and so Sir Tristram
was in manner wroth with Sir Dinadan. But all this language
Sir Dinadan said because he would anger Sir Tristram, for to
cause him to awake his spirits and to be wroth; for well
knew Sir Dinadan that an Sir Tristram were thoroughly wroth
Sir Palomides should not get the prize upon the morn. And
for this intent Sir Dinadan said all this railing and
language against Sir Tristram. Truly, said Sir Palomides, as
for Sir Launcelot, of his noble knighthood, courtesy, and
prowess, and gentleness, I know not his peer; for this day,
said Sir Palomides, I did full uncourteously unto Sir
Launcelot, and full unknightly, and full knightly and
courteously he did to me again; for an he had been as
ungentle to me as I was to him, this day I had won no
worship. And therefore, said Palomides, I shall be Sir
Launcelot's knight while my life lasteth. This talking was
in the houses of kings. But all kings, lords, and knights,
said, of clear knighthood, and of pure strength, of bounty,
of courtesy, Sir Launcelot and Sir Tristram bare the prize
above all knights that ever were in Arthur's days. And there
were never knights in Arthur's days did half so many deeds
as they did; as the book saith, no ten knights did not half
the deeds that they did, and there was never knight in their
days that required Sir Launcelot or Sir Tristram of any
quest, so it were not to their shame, but they performed
their desire.
CHAPTER LXXIII. How King Arthur and Sir Lancelot came to
see La Beale Isoud, and how Palomides smote down King
Arthur.
SO on the morn Sir Launcelot departed, and Sir Tristram
was ready, and La Beale Isoud with Sir Palomides and Sir
Gareth. And so they rode all in green full freshly beseen
unto the forest. And Sir Tristram left Sir Dinadan sleeping
in his bed. And so as they rode it happed the king and
Launcelot stood in a window, and saw Sir Tristram ride and
Isoud. Sir, said Launcelot, yonder rideth the fairest lady
of the world except your queen, Dame Guenever. Who is that?
said Sir Arthur. Sir, said he, it is Queen Isoud that,
out-taken my lady your queen, she is makeless. Take your
horse, said Arthur, and array you at all rights as I will
do, and I promise you, said the king, I will see her. Then
anon they were armed and horsed, and either took a spear and
rode unto the forest. Sir, said Launcelot, it is not good
that ye go too nigh them, for wit ye well there are two as
good knights as now are living, and therefore, sir, I pray
you be not too hasty. For peradventure there will be some
knights be displeased an we come suddenly upon them. As for
that, said Arthur, I will see her, for I take no force whom
I grieve. Sir, said Launcelot, ye put yourself in great
jeopardy. As for that, said the king, we will take the
adventure. Right so anon the king rode even to her, and
saluted her, and said: God you save. Sir, said she, ye are
welcome. Then the king beheld her, and liked her wonderly
well.
With that came Sir Palomides unto Arthur, and said:
Uncourteous knight, what seekest thou here? thou art
uncourteous to come upon a lady thus suddenly, therefore
withdraw thee. Sir Arthur took none heed of Sir Palomides'
words, but ever he looked still upon Queen Isoud Then was
Sir Palomides wroth, and therewith he took a spear, and came
hurtling upon King Arthur, and smote him down with a spear.
When Sir Launcelot saw that despite of Sir Palomides, he
said to himself: I am loath to have ado with yonder knight,
and not for his own sake but for Sir Tristram. And one thing
I am sure of, if I smite down Sir Palomides I must have ado
with Sir Tristram, and that were overmuch for me to match
them both, for they are two noble knights; notwithstanding,
whether I live or I die, needs must I revenge my lord, and
so will I, whatsomever befall of me. And therewith Sir
Launcelot cried to Sir Palomides: Keep thee from me. And
then Sir Launcelot and Sir Palomides rushed together with
two spears strongly, but Sir Launcelot smote Sir Palomides
so hard that he went quite out of his saddle, and had a
great fall. When Sir Tristram saw Sir Palomides have that
fall, he said to Sir Launcelot: Sir knight, keep thee, for I
must joust with thee. As for to joust with me, said Sir
Launcelot, I will not fail you, for no dread I have of you;
but I am loath to have ado with you an I might choose, for I
will that ye wit that I must revenge my special lord that
was unhorsed unwarly and unknightly. And therefore, though I
revenged that fall, take ye no displeasure therein, for he
is to me such a friend that I may not see him shamed.
Anon Sir Tristram understood by his person and by his
knightly words that it was Sir Launcelot du Lake, and verily
Sir Tristram deemed that it was King Arthur, he that Sir
Palomides had smitten down. And then Sir Tristram put his
spear from him, and put Sir Palomides again on horseback,
and Sir Launcelot put King Arthur on horseback and so
departed. So God me help, said Sir Tristram unto Palomides,
ye did not worshipfully when ye smote down that knight so
suddenly as ye did. And wit ye well ye did yourself great
shame, for the knights came hither of their gentleness to
see a fair lady; and that is every good knight's part, to
behold a fair lady; and ye had not ado to play such
masteries afore my lady. Wit thou well it will turn to
anger, for he that ye smote down was King Arthur, and that
other was the good knight Sir Launcelot. But I shall not
forget the words of Sir Launcelot when that he called him a
man of great worship, thereby I wist that it was King
Arthur. And as for Sir Launcelot, an there had been five
hundred knights in the meadow, he would not have refused
them, and yet he said he would refuse me. By that again I
wist that it was Sir Launcelot, for ever he forbeareth me in
every place, and showeth me great kindness; and of all
knights, I out-take none, say what men will say, he beareth
the flower of all chivalry, say it him whosomever will. An
he be well angered, and that him list to do his utterance
without any favour, I know him not alive but Sir Launcelot
is over hard for him, be it on horseback or on foot. I may
never believe, said Palomides, that King Arthur will ride so
privily as a poor errant knight. Ah, said Sir Tristram, ye
know not my lord Arthur, for all knights may learn to be a
knight of him. And therefore ye may be sorry, said Sir
Tristram, of your unkindly deeds to so noble a king. And a
thing that is done may not be undone, said Palomides. Then
Sir Tristram sent Queen Isoud unto her lodging in the
priory, there to behold all the tournament.
CHAPTER LXXIV. How the second day Palomides forsook Sir
Tristram, and went to the contrary part against him.
THEN there was a cry unto all knights, that when they
heard an horn blow they should make jousts as they did the
first day. And like as the brethren Sir Edward and Sir Sadok
began the jousts the first day, Sir Uwaine the king's son
Urien and Sir Lucanere de Buttelere began the jousts the
second day. And at the first encounter
Sir Uwaine smote down the King's son of Scots; and Sir
Lucanere ran against the King of Wales, and they brake their
spears all to pieces; and they were so fierce both, that
they hurtled together that both fell to the earth. Then they
of Orkney horsed again Sir Lucanere. And then came in Sir
Tristram de Liones; and then Sir Tristram smote down Sir
Uwaine and Sir Lucanere; and Sir Palomides smote down other
two knights and Sir Gareth smote down other two knights.
Then said Sir Arthur unto Sir Launcelot: See yonder three
knights do passingly well, and namely the first that
jousted. Sir, said Launcelot, that knight began not yet but
ye shall see him this day do marvellously. And then came
into the place the duke's son of Orkney, and then they began
to do many deeds of arms.
When Sir Tristram saw them so begin, he said to
Palomides: How feel ye yourself? may ye do this day as ye
did yesterday? Nay, said Palomides, I feel myself so weary,
and so sore bruised of the deeds of yesterday, that I may
not endure as I did yesterday. That me repenteth, said Sir
Tristram, for I shall lack you this day. Sir Palomides said:
Trust not to me, for I may not do as I did. All these words
said Palomides for to beguile Sir Tristram. Sir, said Sir
Tristram unto Sir Gareth, then must I trust upon you;
wherefore I pray you be not far from me to rescue me. An
need be, said Sir Gareth, I shall not fail you in all that I
may do. Then Sir Palomides rode by himself; and then in
despite of Sir Tristram he put himself in the thickest press
among them of Orkney, and there he did so marvellously deeds
of arms that all men had wonder of him, for there might none
stand him a stroke.
When Sir Tristram saw Sir Palomides do such deeds, he
marvelled and said to himself: He is weary of my company. So
Sir Tristram beheld him a great while and did but little
else, for the noise and cry was so huge and great that Sir
Tristram marvelled from whence came the strength that Sir
Palomides had there in the field Sir, said Sir Gareth unto
Sir Tristram, remember ye not of the words that Sir Dinadan
said to you yesterday, when he called you a coward;
forsooth, sir, he said it for none ill, for ye are the man
in the world that he most loveth, and all that he said was
for your worship. And therefore, said Sir Gareth to Sir
Tristram, let me know this day what ye be; and wonder ye not
so upon Sir Palomides, for he enforceth himself to win all
the worship and honour from you. I may well believe it, said
Sir Tristram. And sithen I understand his evil will and his
envy, ye shall see, if that I enforce myself, that the noise
shall be left that now is upon him.
Then Sir Tristram rode into the thickest of the press,
and then he did so marvellously well, and did so great deeds
of arms, that all men said that Sir Tristram did double so
much deeds of arms as Sir Palomides had done aforehand. And
then the noise went plain from Sir Palomides, and all the
people cried upon Sir Tristram. O Jesu, said the people, see
how Sir Tristram smiteth down with his spear so many
knights. And see, said they all, how many knights he smiteth
down with his sword, and of how many knights he rashed off
their helms and their shields; and so he beat them all of
Orkney afore him. How now, said Sir Launcelot unto King
Arthur, I told you that this day there would a knight play
his pageant. Yonder rideth a knight ye may see he doth
knightly, for he hath strength and wind. So God me help,
said Arthur to Launcelot, ye say sooth, for I saw never a
better knight, for he passeth far Sir Palomides. Sir, wit ye
well, said Launcelot, it must be so of right, for it is
himself, that noble knight Sir Tristram. I may right well
believe it, said Arthur.
But when Sir Palomides heard the noise and the cry was
turned from him, he rode out on a part and beheld Sir
Tristram. And when Sir Palomides saw Sir Tristram do so
marvellously well he wept passingly sore for despite, for he
wist well he should no worship win that day; for well knew
Sir Palomides, when Sir Tristram would put forth his
strength and his manhood, be should get but little worship
that day.
CHAPTER LXXV. How Sir Tristram departed of the field,
and awaked Sir Dinadan, and changed his array into black.
THEN came King Arthur, and the King of Northgalis, and
Sir Launcelot du Lake; and Sir Bleoberis, Sir Bors de Ganis,
Sir Ector de Maris, these three knights came into the field
with Sir Launcelot. And then Sir Launcelot with the three
knights of his kin did so great deeds of arms that all the
noise began upon Sir Launcelot. And so they beat the King of
Wales and the King of Scots far aback, and made them to
avoid the field; but Sir Tristram and Sir Gareth abode still
in the field and endured all that ever there came, that all
men had wonder that any knight might endure so many strokes.
But ever Sir Launcelot, and his three kinsmen by the
commandment of Sir Launcelot, forbare Sir Tristram. Then
said Sir Arthur: Is that Sir Palomides that endureth so
well? Nay, said Sir Launcelot, wit ye well it is the good
knight Sir Tristram, for yonder ye may see Sir Palomides
beholdeth and hoveth, and doth little or nought. And sir, ye
shall understand that Sir Tristram weeneth this day to beat
us all out of the field. And as for me, said Sir Launcelot,
I shall not beat him, beat him whoso will. Sir, said
Launcelot unto Arthur, ye may see how Sir Palomides hoveth
yonder, as though he were in a dream; wit ye well he is full
heavy that Tristram doth such deeds of arms Then is he but a
fool, said Arthur, for never was Sir Palomides, nor never
shall be, of such prowess as Sir Tristram. And if he have
any envy at Sir Tristram, and cometh in with him upon his
side he is a false knight.
As the king and Sir Launcelot thus spake, Sir Tristram
rode privily out of the press, that none espied him but La
Beale Isoud and Sir Palomides, for they two would not let
off their eyes upon Sir Tristram. And when Sir Tristram came
to his pavilions he found Sir Dinadan in his bed asleep.
Awake, said Tristram, ye ought to be ashamed so to sleep
when knights have ado in the field. Then Sir Dinadan arose
lightly and said: What will ye that I shall do? Make you
ready, said Sir Tristram, to ride with me into the field. So
when Sir Dinadan was armed he looked upon Sir Tristram's
helm and on his shield, and when he saw so many strokes upon
his helm and upon his shield he said: In good time was I
thus asleep, for had I been with you I must needs for shame
there have followed you; more for shame than any prowess
that is in me; that I see well now by those strokes that I
should have been truly beaten as I was yesterday. Leave your
japes, said Sir Tristram, and come off, that [we] were in
the field again. What, said Sir Dinadan, is your heart up?
yesterday ye fared as though ye had dreamed. So then Sir
Tristram was arrayed in black harness. O Jesu, said Dinadan,
what aileth you this day? meseemeth ye be wilder than ye
were yesterday. Then smiled Sir Tristram and said to
Dinadan: Await well upon me; if ye see me overmatched look
that ye be ever behind me, and I shall make you ready way by
God's grace. So Sir Tristram and Sir Dinadan took their
horses. All this espied Sir Palomides, both their going and
their coming, and so did La Beale Isoud, for she knew Sir
Tristram above all other.
CHAPTER LXXVI. How Sir Palomides changed his shield and
his armour for to hurt Sir Tristram, and how Sir Launcelot
did to Sir Tristram.
THEN when Sir Palomides saw that Sir Tristram was
disguised, then he thought to do him a shame. So Sir
Palomides rode to a knight that was sore wounded, that sat
under a fair well from the field. Sir knight, said Sir
Palomides, I pray you to lend me your armour and your
shield, for mine is over-well known in this field, and that
hath done me great damage; and ye shall have mine armour and
my shield that is as sure as yours. I will well, said the
knight, that ye have mine armour and my shield, if they may
do you any avail. So Sir Palomides armed him hastily in that
knight's armour and his shield that shone as any crystal or
silver, and so he came riding into the field. And then there
was neither Sir Tristram nor none of King Arthur's party
that knew Sir Palomides. And right so as Sir Palomides was
come into the field Sir Tristram smote down three knights,
even in the sight of Sir Palomides. And then Sir Palomides
rode against Sir Tristram, and either met other with great
spears, that they brast to their hands. And then they dashed
together with swords eagerly. Then Sir Tristram had marvel
what knight he was that did battle so knightly with him.
Then was Sir Tristram wroth, for he felt him passing strong,
so that he deemed he might not have ado with the remnant of
the knights, because of the strength of Sir Palomides. So
they lashed together and gave many sad strokes together, and
many knights marvelled what knight he might be that so
encountered with the black knight, Sir Tristram. Full well
knew La Beale Isoud that there was Sir Palomides that fought
with Sir Tristram, for she espied all in her window where
that she stood, as Sir Palomides changed his harness with
the wounded knight. And then she began to weep so heartily
for the despite of Sir Palomides that there she swooned.
Then came in Sir Launcelot with the knights of Orkney.
And when the other party had espied Sir Launcelot, they
cried: Return, return, here cometh Sir Launcelot du Lake. So
there came knights and said: Sir Launcelot, ye must needs
fight with yonder knight in the black harness, that was Sir
Tristram, for he hath almost overcome that good knight that
fighteth with him with the silver shield, that was Sir
Palomides. Then Sir Launcelot rode betwixt Sir Tristram and
Sir Palomides, and Sir Launcelot said to Palomides: Sir
knight, let me have the battle, for ye have need to be
reposed. Sir Palomides knew Sir Launcelot well, and so did
Sir Tristram, but because Sir Launcelot was far hardier
knight than himself therefore he was glad, and suffered Sir
Launcelot to fight with Sir Tristram. For well wist he that
Sir Launcelot knew not Sir Tristram, and there he hoped that
Sir Launcelot should beat or shame Sir Tristram, whereof Sir
Palomides was full fain. And so Sir Launcelot gave Sir
Tristram many sad strokes, but Sir Launcelot knew not Sir
Tristram, but Sir Tristram knew well Sir Launcelot. And thus
they fought long together, that La Beale Isoud was well-nigh
out of her mind for sorrow.
Then Sir Dinadan told Sir Gareth how that knight in the
black harness was Sir Tristram: And this is Launcelot that
fighteth with him, that must needs have the better of him,
for Sir Tristram hath had too much travail this day. Then
let us smite him down, said Sir Gareth. So it is better that
we do, said Sir Dinadan, than Sir Tristram be shamed, for
yonder hoveth the strong knight with the silver shield to
fall upon Sir Tristram if need be. Then forthwithal Gareth
rushed upon Sir Launcelot, and gave him a great stroke upon
his helm so hard that he was astonied. And then came Sir
Dinadan with a spear, and he smote Sir Launcelot such a
buffet that horse and all fell to the earth. O Jesu, said
Sir Tristram to Sir Gareth and Sir Dinadan, fie for shame,
why did ye smite down so good a knight as he is, and namely
when I had ado with him? now ye do yourself great shame, and
him no disworship; for I held him reasonable hot, though ye
had not holpen me.
Then came Sir Palomides that was disguised, and smote
down Sir Dinadan from his horse. Then Sir Launcelot, because
Sir Dinadan had smitten him aforehand, then Sir Launcelot
assailed Sir Dinadan passing sore, and Sir Dinadan defended
him mightily. But well understood Sir Tristram that Sir
Dinadan might not endure Sir Launcelot, wherefore Sir
Tristram was sorry. Then came Sir Palomides fresh upon Sir
Tristram. And when Sir Tristram saw him come, he thought to
deliver him at once, because that he would help Sir Dinadan,
because he stood in great peril with Sir Launcelot. Then Sir
Tristram hurtled unto Sir Palomides and gave him a great
buffet, and then Sir Tristram gat Sir Palomides and pulled
him down underneath him. And so fell Sir Tristram with him;
and Sir Tristram leapt up lightly and left Sir Palomides,
and went betwixt Sir Launcelot and Dinadan, and then they
began to do battle together.
Right so Sir Dinadan gat Sir Tristram's horse, and said
on high that Sir Launcelot might hear it: My lord Sir
Tristram, take your horse. And when Sir Launcelot heard him
name Sir Tristram: O Jesu, said Launcelot, what have I done?
I am dishonoured. Ah, my lord Sir Tristram, said Launcelot,
why were ye disguised? ye have put yourself in great peril
this day; but I pray you noble knight to pardon me, for an I
had known you we had not done this battle. Sir, said Sir
Tristram, this is not the first kindness ye showed me. So
they were both horsed again.
Then all the people on the one side gave Sir Launcelot
the honour and the degree, and on the other side all the
people gave to the noble knight Sir Tristram the honour and
the degree; but Launcelot said nay thereto: For I am not
worthy to have this honour, for I will report me unto all
knights that Sir Tristram hath been longer in the field than
I, and he hath smitten down many more knights this day than
I have done. And therefore I will give Sir Tristram my voice
and my name, and so I pray all my lords and fellows so to
do. Then there was the whole voice of dukes and earls,
barons and knights, that Sir Tristram this day is proved the
best knight.
CHAPTER LXXVII. How Sir Tristram departed with La Beale
Isoud, and how Palomides followed and excused him.
THEN they blew unto lodging, and Queen Isoud was led unto
her pavilions. But wit you well she was wroth out of measure
with Sir Palomides, for she saw all his treason from the
beginning to the ending. And all this while neither Sir
Tristram, neither Sir Gareth nor Dinadan, knew not of the
treason of Sir Palomides; but afterward ye shall hear that
there befell the greatest debate betwixt Sir Tristram and
Sir Palomides that might be.
So when the tournament was done, Sir Tristram, Gareth,
and Dinadan, rode with La Beale Isoud to these pavilions.
And ever Sir Palomides rode with them in their company
disguised as he was. But when Sir Tristram had espied him
that he was the same knight with the shield of silver that
held him so hot that day: Sir knight, said Sir Tristram, wit
ye well here is none that hath need of your fellowship, and
therefore I pray you depart from us. Sir Palomides answered
again as though he had not known Sir Tristram: Wit you well,
sir knight, from this fellowship will I never depart, for
one of the best knights of the world commanded me to be in
this company, and till he discharge me of my service I will
not be discharged. By that Sir Tristram knew that it was Sir
Palomides. Ah, Sir Palomides, said the noble knight Sir
Tristram, are ye such a knight? Ye have been named wrong,
for ye have long been called a gentle knight, and as this
day ye have showed me great ungentleness, for ye had almost
brought me unto my death. But, as for you, I suppose I
should have done well enough, but Sir Launcelot with you was
overmuch; for I know no knight living but Sir Launcelot is
over good for him, an he will do his uttermost. Alas, said
Sir Palomides, are ye my lord Sir Tristram? Yea, sir, and
that ye know well enough. By my knighthood, said Palomides,
until now I knew you not; I weened that ye had been the King
of Ireland, for well I wot ye bare his arms. His arms I
bare, said Sir Tristram, and that will I stand by, for I won
them once in a field of a full noble knight, his name was
Sir Marhaus; and with great pain I won that knight, for
there was none other recover, but Sir Marhaus died through
false leeches; and yet was he never yolden to me. Sir, said
Palomides, I weened ye had been turned upon Sir Launcelot's
party, and that caused me to turn. Ye say well, said Sir
Tristram, and so I take you, and I forgive you.
So then they rode into their pavilions; and when they
were alighted they unarmed them and washed their faces and
hands, and so yode unto meat, and were set at their table.
But when Isoud saw Sir Palomides she changed then her
colours, and for wrath she might not speak. Anon Sir
Tristram espied her countenance and said: Madam, for what
cause make ye us such cheer? we have been sore travailed
this day. Mine own lord, said La Beale Isoud, for God's sake
be ye not displeased with me, for I may none otherwise do;
for I saw this day how ye were betrayed and nigh brought to
your death. Truly, sir, I saw every deal, how and in what
wise, and therefore, sir, how should I suffer in your
presence such a felon and traitor as Sir Palomides; for I
saw him with mine eyes, how he beheld you when ye went out
of the field. For ever he hoved still upon his horse till he
saw you come in againward. And then forthwithal I saw him
ride to the hurt knight, and changed harness with him, and
then straight I saw him how he rode into the field. And anon
as he had found you he encountered with you, and thus
wilfully Sir Palomides did battle with you; and as for him,
sir, I was not greatly afraid, but I dread sore Launcelot,
that knew you not. Madam, said Palomides, ye may say whatso
ye will, I may not contrary you, but by my knighthood I knew
not Sir Tristram. Sir Palomides, said Sir Tristram, I will
take your excuse, but well I wot ye spared me but little,
but all is pardoned on my part. Then La Beale Isoud held
down her head and said no more at that time.
CHAPTER LXXVIII. How King Arthur and Sir Launcelot came
unto their pavilions as they sat at supper, and of Sir
Palomides.
AND therewithal two knights armed came unto the pavilion,
and there they alighted both, and came in armed at all
pieces. Fair knights, said Sir Tristram, ye are to blame to
come thus armed at all pieces upon me while we are at our
meat; if ye would anything when we were in the field there
might ye have eased your hearts. Not so, said the one of
those knights, we come not for that intent, but wit ye well
Sir Tristram, we be come hither as your friends. And I am
come here, said the one, for to see you, and this knight is
come for to see La Beale Isoud. Then said Sir Tristram: I
require you do off your helms that I may see you. That will
we do at your desire, said the knights. And when their helms
were off, Sir Tristram thought that he should know them.
Then said Sir Dinadan privily unto Sir Tristram: Sir,
that is Sir Launcelot du Lake that spake unto you first, and
the other is my lord King Arthur. Then, said Sir Tristram
unto La Beale Isoud, Madam arise, for here is my lord, King
Arthur. Then the king and the queen kissed, and Sir
Launcelot and Sir Tristram braced either other in arms, and
then there was joy without measure; and at the request of La
Beale Isoud, King Arthur and Launcelot were unarmed, and
then there was merry talking. Madam, said Sir Arthur, it is
many a day sithen that I have desired to see you, for ye
have been praised so far; and now I dare say ye are the
fairest that ever I saw, and Sir Tristram is as fair and as
good a knight as any that I know; therefore me beseemeth ye
are well beset together. Sir, God thank you, said the noble
knight, Sir Tristram, and Isoud; of your great goodness and
largess ye are peerless. Thus they talked of many things and
of all the whole jousts. But for what cause, said King
Arthur, were ye, Sir Tristram, against us? Ye are a knight
of the Table Round; of right ye should have been with us.
Sir, said Sir Tristram, here is Dinadan, and Sir Gareth your
own nephew, caused me to be against you. My lord Arthur,
said Gareth, I may well bear the blame, but it were Sir
Tristram's own deeds. That may I repent, said Dinadan, for
this unhappy Sir Tristram brought us to this tournament, and
many great buffets he caused us to have. Then the king and
Launcelot laughed that they might not sit.
What knight was that, said Arthur, that held you so
short, this with the shield of silver? Sir, said Sir
Tristram, here he sitteth at this board. What, said Arthur,
was it Sir Palomides? Wit ye well it was he, said La Beale
Isoud. So God me help, said Arthur, that was unknightly done
of you of so good a knight, for I have heard many people
call you a courteous knight. Sir, said Palomides, I knew not
Sir Tristram, for he was so disguised. So God me help, said
Launcelot, it may well be, for I knew not Sir Tristram; but
I marvel why ye turned on our party. That was done for the
same cause, said Launcelot. As for that, said Sir Tristram,
I have pardoned him, and I would be right loath to leave his
fellowship, for I love right well his company: so they left
off and talked of other things.
And in the evening King Arthur and Sir Launcelot departed
unto their lodging; but wit ye well Sir Palomides had envy
heartily, for all that night he had never rest in his bed,
but wailed and wept out of measure. So on the morn Sir
Tristram, Gareth, and Dinadan arose early, and then they
went unto Sir Palomides' chamber, and there they found him
fast asleep, for he had all night watched, and it was seen
upon his cheeks that he had wept full sore. Say nothing,
said Sir Tristram, for I am sure he hath taken anger and
sorrow for the rebuke that I gave to him, and La Beale
Isoud.
CHAPTER LXXIX. How Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides did
the next day, and how King Arthur was unhorsed.
THEN Sir Tristram let call Sir Palomides, and bade him
make him ready, for it was time to go to the field. When
they were ready they were armed, and clothed all in red,
both Isoud and all they; and so they led her passing freshly
through the field, into the priory where was her lodging.
And then they heard three blasts blow, and every king and
knight dressed him unto the field. And the first that was
ready to joust was Sir Palomides and Sir Kainus le Strange,
a knight of the Table Round. And so they two encountered
together, but Sir Palomides smote Sir Kainus so hard that he
smote him quite over his horse's croup. And forthwithal Sir
Palomides smote down another knight, and brake then his
spear, and pulled out his sword and did wonderly well. And
then the noise began greatly upon Sir Palomides. Lo, said
King Arthur, yonder Palomides beginneth to play his pageant.
So God me help, said Arthur, he is a passing good knight.
And right as they stood talking thus, in came Sir Tristram
as thunder, and he encountered with Sir Kay the Seneschal,
and there he smote him down quite from his horse; and with
that same spear Sir Tristram smote down three knights more,
and then he pulled out his sword and did marvellously. Then
the noise and cry changed from Sir Palomides and turned to
Sir Tristram, and all the people cried: O Tristram, O
Tristram. And then was Sir Palomides clean forgotten.
How now, said Launcelot unto Arthur, yonder rideth a
knight that playeth his pageants. So God me help, said
Arthur to Launcelot, ye shall see this day that yonder two
knights shall here do this day wonders. Sir, said Launcelot,
the one knight waiteth upon the other, and enforceth himself
through envy to pass the noble knight Sir Tristram, and he
knoweth not of the privy envy the which Sir Palomides hath
to him; for all that the noble Sir Tristram doth is through
clean knighthood. And then Sir Gareth and Dinadan did
wonderly great deeds of arms, as two noble knights, so that
King Arthur spake of them great honour and worship; and the
kings and knights of Sir Tristram's side did passingly well,
and held them truly together. Then Sir Arthur and Sir
Launcelot took their horses and dressed them, and gat into
the thickest of the press. And there Sir Tristram unknowing
smote down King Arthur, and then Sir Launcelot would have
rescued him, but there were so many upon Sir Launcelot that
they pulled him down from his horse. And then the King of
Ireland and the King of Scots with their knights did their
pain to take King Arthur and Sir Launcelot prisoner. When
Sir Launcelot heard them say so, he fared as it had been an
hungry lion, for he fared so that no knight durst nigh him.
Then came Sir Ector de Maris, and he bare a spear against
Sir Palomides, and brast it upon him all to shivers. And
then Sir Ector came again and gave Sir Palomides such a dash
with a sword that he stooped down upon his saddle bow. And
forthwithal Sir Ector pulled down Sir Palomides under his
feet; and then Sir Ector de Maris gat Sir Launcelot du Lake
an horse, and brought it to him, and bade him mount upon
him; but Sir Palomides leapt afore and gat the horse by the
bridle, and leapt into the saddle. So God me help, said
Launcelot, ye are better worthy to have that horse than I.
Then Sir Ector brought Sir Launcelot another horse.
Gramercy, said Launcelot unto his brother. And so when he
was horsed again, with one spear he smote down four knights.
And then Sir Launcelot brought to King Arthur one of the
best of the four horses. Then Sir Launcelot with King Arthur
and a few of his knights of Sir Launcelot's kin did
marvellous deeds; for that time, as the book recordeth, Sir
Launcelot smote down and pulled down thirty knights.
Notwithstanding the other party held them so fast together
that King Arthur and his knights were overmatched. And when
Sir Tristram saw that, what labour King Arthur and his
knights, and in especial the noble deeds that Sir Launcelot
did with his own hands, he marvelled greatly.
CHAPTER LXXX. How Sir Tristram turned to King Arthur's
side, and how Palomides would not.
THEN Sir Tristram called unto him Sir Palomides, Sir
Gareth, and Sir Dinadan, and said thus to them: My fair
fellows, wit ye well that I will turn unto King Arthur's
party, for I saw never so few men do so well, and it will be
shame unto us knights that be of the Round Table to see our
lord King Arthur, and that noble knight Sir Launcelot, to be
dishonoured. It will be well done, said Sir Gareth and Sir
Dinadan. Do your best, said Palomides, for I will not change
my party that I came in withal. That is for my sake, said
Sir Tristram; God speed you in your journey. And so departed
Sir Palomides from them. Then Sir Tristram, Gareth, and
Dinadan, turned with Sir Launcelot. And then Sir Launcelot
smote down the King of Ireland quite from his horse; and so
Sir Launcelot smote down the King of Scots, and the King of
Wales; and then Sir Arthur ran unto Sir Palomides and smote
him quite from his horse; and then Sir Tristram bare down
all that he met. Sir Gareth and Sir Dinadan did there as
noble knights; then all the parties began to flee. Alas,
said Palomides, that ever I should see this day, for now
have I lost all the worship that I won; and then Sir
Palomides went his way wailing, and so withdrew him till he
came to a well, and there he put his horse from him, and did
off his armour, and wailed and wept like as he had been a
wood man. Then many knights gave the prize to Sir Tristram,
and there were many that gave the prize unto Sir Launcelot.
Fair lords, said Sir Tristram, I thank you of the honour ye
would give me, but I pray you heartily that ye would give
your voice to Sir Launcelot, for by my faith said Sir
Tristram, I will give Sir Launcelot my voice. But Sir
Launcelot would not have it, and so the prize was given
betwixt them both.
Then every man rode to his lodging, and Sir Bleoberis and
Sir Ector rode with Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud unto
their pavilions. Then as Sir Palomides was at the well
wailing and weeping, there came by him flying the kings of
Wales and of Scotland, and they saw Sir Palomides in that
arage. Alas, said they, that so noble a man as ye be should
be in this array. And then those kings gat Sir Palomides'
horse again, and made him to arm him and mount upon his
horse, and so he rode with them, making great dole. So when
Sir Palomides came nigh the pavilions thereas Sir Tristram
and La Beale Isoud was in, then Sir Palomides prayed the two
kings to abide him there the while that he spake with Sir
Tristram. And when he came to the port of the pavilions, Sir
Palomides said on high: Where art thou, Sir Tristram de
Liones? Sir, said Dinadan, that is Palomides. What, Sir
Palomides, will ye not come in here among us? Fie on thee
traitor, said Palomides, for wit you well an it were
daylight as it is night I should slay thee, mine own hands.
And if ever I may get thee, said Palomides, thou shalt die
for this day's deed. Sir Palomides, said Sir Tristram, ye
wite me with wrong, for had ye done as I did ye had won
worship. But sithen ye give me so large warning I shall be
well ware of you. Fie on thee, traitor, said Palomides, and
therewith departed.
Then on the morn Sir Tristram, Bleoberis, and Sir Ector
de Maris, Sir Gareth, Sir Dinadan, what by water and what by
land, they brought La Beale Isoud unto Joyous Gard, and
there reposed them a seven night, and made all the mirths
and disports that they could devise. And King Arthur and his
knights drew unto Camelot, and Sir Palomides rode with the
two kings; and ever he made the greatest dole that any man
could think, for he was not all only so dolorous for the
departing from La Beale Isoud, but he was a part as
sorrowful to depart from the fellowship of Sir Tristram; for
Sir Tristram was so kind and so gentle that when Sir
Palomides remembered him thereof he might never be merry.
CHAPTER LXXXI. How Sir Bleoberis and Sir Ector reported
to Queen Guenever of the beauty of La Beale Isoud.
SO at the seven nights' end Sir Bleoberis and Sir Ector
departed from Sir Tristram and from the queen; and these two
good knights had great gifts; and Sir Gareth and Sir Dinadan
abode with Sir Tristram. And when Sir Bleoberis and Sir
Ector were come there as the Queen Guenever was lodged, in a
castle by the seaside, and through the grace of God the
queen was recovered of her malady, then she asked the two
knights from whence they came. They said that they came from
Sir Tristram and from La Beale Isoud. How doth Sir Tristram,
said the queen, and La Beale Isoud? Truly, said those two
knights, he doth as a noble knight should do; and as for the
Queen Isoud, she is peerless of all ladies; for to speak of
her beauty, bounté, and mirth, and of her goodness, we saw
never her match as far as we have ridden and gone. O mercy
Jesu, said Queen Guenever, so saith all the people that have
seen her and spoken with her. God would that I had part of
her conditions; and it is misfortuned me of my sickness
while that tournament endured. And as I suppose I shall
never see in all my life such an assembly of knights and
ladies as ye have done.
Then the knights told her how Palomides won the degree at
the first day with great noblesse; and the second day Sir
Tristram won the degree; and the third day Sir Launcelot won
the degree. Well, said Queen Guenever, who did best all
these three days? So God me help, said these knights, Sir
Launcelot and Sir Tristram had least dishonour. And wit ye
well Sir Palomides did passing well and mightily; but he
turned against the party that he came in withal, and that
caused him to lose a great part of his worship, for it
seemed that Sir Palomides is passing envious. Then shall he
never win worship, said Queen Guenever, for an it happeth an
envious man once to win worship he shall be dishonoured
twice therefore; and for this cause all men of worship hate
an envious man, and will shew him no favour, and he that is
courteous, and kind, and gentle, hath favour in every place.
CHAPTER LXXXII. How Epinogris complained by a well, and
how Sir Palomides came and found him, and of their both
sorrowing.
NOW leave we of this matter and speak we of Sir
Palomides, that rode and lodged him with the two kings,
whereof the kings were heavy. Then the King of Ireland sent
a man of his to Sir Palomides, and gave him a great courser,
and the King of Scotland gave him great gifts; and fain they
would have had Sir Palomides to have abiden with them, but
in no wise he would abide; and so he departed, and rode as
adventures would guide him, till it was nigh noon. And then
in a forest by a well Sir Palomides saw where lay a fair
wounded knight and his horse bounden by him; and that knight
made the greatest dole that ever he heard man make, for ever
he wept, and therewith he sighed as though he would die.
Then Sir Palomides rode near him and saluted him mildly and
said: Fair knight, why wail ye so? let me lie down and wail
with you, for doubt not I am much more heavier than ye are;
for I dare say, said Palomides, that my sorrow is an hundred
fold more than yours is, and therefore let us complain
either to other. First, said the wounded knight, I require
you tell me your name, for an thou be none of the noble
knights of the Round Table thou shalt never know my name,
whatsomever come of me. Fair knight, said Palomides, such as
I am, be it better or be it worse, wit thou well that my
name is Sir Palomides, son and heir unto King Astlabor, and
Sir Safere and Sir Segwarides are my two brethren; and wit
thou well as for myself I was never christened, but my two
brethren are truly christened. O noble knight, said that
knight, well is me that I have met with you; and wit ye well
my name is Epinogris, the king's son of Northumberland. Now
sit down, said Epinogris, and let us either complain to
other.
Then Sir Palomides began his complaint. Now shall I tell
you, said Palomides, what woe I endure. I love the fairest
queen and lady that ever bare life, and wit ye well her name
is La Beale Isoud, King Mark's wife of Cornwall. That is
great folly, said Epinogris, for to love Queen Isoud, for
one of the best knights of the world loveth her, that is Sir
Tristram de Liones. That is truth, said Palomides, for no
man knoweth that matter better than I do, for I have been in
Sir Tristram's fellowship this month, and with La Beale
Isoud together; and alas, said Palomides, unhappy man that I
am, now have I lost the fellowship of Sir Tristram for ever,
and the love of La Beale Isoud for ever, and I am never like
to see her more, and Sir Tristram and I be either to other
mortal enemies. Well, said Epinogris, sith that ye loved La
Beale Isoud, loved she you ever again by anything that ye
could think or wit, or else did ye rejoice her ever in any
pleasure? Nay, by my knighthood, said Palomides, I never
espied that ever she loved me more than all the world, nor
never had I pleasure with her, but the last day she gave me
the greatest rebuke that ever I had, the which shall never
go from my heart. And yet I well deserved that rebuke, for I
did not knightly, and therefore I have lost the love of her
and of Sir Tristram for ever; and I have many times enforced
myself to do many deeds for La Beale Isoud's sake, and she
was the causer of my worship-winning. Alas, said Sir
Palomides, now have I lost all the worship that ever I won,
for never shall me befall such prowess as I had in the
fellowship of Sir Tristram.
CHAPTER LXXXIII. How Sir Palomides brought Sir Epinogris
his lady; and how Sir Palomides and Sir Safere were
assailed.
NAY, nay, said Epinogris, your sorrow is but japes to my
sorrow; for I rejoiced my lady and won her with my hands,
and lost her again: alas that day! Thus first I won her,
said Epinogris; my lady was an earl's daughter, and as the
earl and two knights came from the tournament of Lonazep,
for her sake I set upon this earl and on his two knights, my
lady there being present; and so by fortune there I slew the
earl and one of the knights, and the other knight fled, and
so that night I had my lady. And on the morn as she and I
reposed us at this well-side there came there to me an
errant knight, his name was Sir Helior le Preuse, an hardy
knight, and this Sir Helior challenged me to fight for my
lady. And then we went to battle first upon horse and after
on foot, but at the last Sir Helior wounded me so that he
left me for dead, and so he took my lady with him; and thus
my sorrow is more than yours, for I have rejoiced and ye
rejoiced never. That is truth, said Palomides, but sith I
can never recover myself I shall promise you if I can meet
with Sir Helior I shall get you your lady again, or else he
shall beat me.
Then Sir Palomides made Sir Epinogris to take his horse,
and so they rode to an hermitage, and there Sir Epinogris
rested him. And in the meanwhile Sir Palomides walked
privily out to rest him under the leaves, and there beside
he saw a knight come riding with a shield that he had seen
Sir Ector de Maris bear beforehand; and there came after him
a ten knights, and so these ten knights hoved under the
leaves for heat. And anon after there came a knight with a
green shield and therein a white lion, leading a lady upon a
palfrey. Then this knight with the green shield that seemed
to be master of the ten knights, he rode fiercely after Sir
Helior, for it was he that hurt Sir Epinogris. And when he
came nigh Sir Helior he bade him defend his lady. I will
defend her, said Helior, unto my power. And so they ran
together so mightily that either of these knights smote
other down, horse and all, to the earth; and then they won
up lightly and drew their swords and their shields, and
lashed together mightily more than an hour. All this Sir
Palomides saw and beheld, but ever at the last the knight
with Sir Ector's shield was bigger, and at the last this
knight smote Sir Helior down, and then that knight unlaced
his helm to have stricken off his head. And then he cried
mercy, and prayed him to save his life, and bade him take
his lady. Then Sir Palomides dressed him up, because he wist
well that that same lady was Epinogris' lady, and he
promised him to help him.
Then Sir Palomides went straight to that lady, and took
her by the hand, and asked her whether she knew a knight
that hight Epinogris. Alas, she said, that ever he knew me
or I him, for I have for his sake lost my worship, and also
his life grieveth me most of all. Not so, lady, said
Palomides, come on with me, for here is Epinogris in this
hermitage. Ah! well is me, said the lady, an he be alive.
Whither wilt thou with that lady? said the knight with Sir
Ector's shield. I will do with her what me list, said
Palomides. Wit you well, said that knight, thou speakest
over large, though thou seemest me to have at advantage,
because thou sawest me do battle but late. Thou weenest, sir
knight, to have that lady away from me so lightly? nay,
think it never not; an thou were as good a knight as is Sir
Launcelot, or as is Sir Tristram, or Sir Palomides, but thou
shalt win her dearer than ever did I. And so they went unto
battle upon foot, and there they gave many sad strokes, and
either wounded other passing sore, and thus they fought
still more than an hour.
Then Sir Palomides had marvel what knight he might be
that was so strong and so well breathed during, and thus
said Palomides: Knight, I require thee tell me thy name. Wit
thou well, said that knight, I dare tell thee my name, so
that thou wilt tell me thy name. I will, said Palomides.
Truly, said that knight, my name is Safere, son of King
Astlabor, and Sir Palomides and Sir Segwarides are my
brethren. Now, and wit thou well, my name is Sir Palomides.
Then Sir Safere kneeled down upon his knees, and prayed him
of mercy; and then they unlaced their helms and either
kissed other weeping. And in the meanwhile Sir Epinogris
arose out of his bed, and heard them by the strokes, and so
he armed him to help Sir Palomides if need were.
CHAPTER LXXXIV. How Sir Palomides and Sir Safere
conducted Sir Epinogris to his castle, and of other
adventures.
THEN Sir Palomides took the lady by the hand and brought
her to Sir Epinogris, and there was great joy betwixt them,
for either swooned for joy. When they were met: Fair knight
and lady, said Sir Safere, it were pity to depart you; Jesu
send you joy either of other. Gramercy, gentle knight, said
Epinogris; and much more thanks be to my lord Sir Palomides,
that thus hath through his prowess made me to get my lady.
Then Sir Epinogris required Sir Palomides and Sir Safere,
his brother, to ride with them unto his castle, for the
safeguard of his person. Sir, said Palomides, we will be
ready to conduct you because that ye are sore wounded; and
so was Epinogris and his lady horsed, and his lady behind
him upon a soft ambler. And then they rode unto his castle,
where they had great cheer and joy, as great as ever Sir
Palomides and Sir Safere had in their life-days.
So on the morn Sir Safere and Sir Palomides departed, day
until after noon. And at the last they heard a great weeping
and a great noise down in a manor. Sir, said then Sir
Safere, let us wit what noise this is. I will well, said Sir
Palomides. And so they rode forth till that they came to a
fair gate of a manor, and there sat an old man saying his
prayers and beads. Then Sir Palomides and Sir Safere
alighted and left their horses, and went within the gates,
and there they saw full many goodly men weeping. Fair sirs,
said Palomides, wherefore weep ye and make this sorrow? Anon
one of the knights of the castle beheld Sir Palomides and
knew him, and then went to his fellows and said: Fair
fellows, wit ye well all, we have in this castle the same
knight that slew our lord at Lonazep, for I know him well;
it is Sir Palomides. Then they went unto harness, all that
might bear harness, some on horseback and some on foot, to
the number of three score. And when they were ready they
came freshly upon Sir Palomides and upon Sir Safere with a
great noise, and said thus: Keep thee, Sir Palomides, for
thou art known, and by right thou must be dead, for thou
hast slain our lord; and therefore wit ye well we will slay
thee, therefore defend thee.
Then Sir Palomides and Sir Safere, the one set his back
to the other, and gave many great strokes, and took many
great strokes; and thus they fought with a twenty knights
and forty gentlemen and yeomen nigh two hours. But at the
last though they were loath, Sir Palomides and Sir Safere
were taken and yolden, and put in a strong prison; and
within three days twelve knights passed upon them, and they
found Sir Palomides guilty, and Sir Safere not guilty, of
their lord's death. And when Sir Safere should be delivered
there was great dole betwixt Sir Palomides and him, and many
piteous complaints that Sir Safere made at his departing,
there is no maker can rehearse the tenth part. Fair brother,
said Palomides, let be thy dolour and thy sorrow. And if I
be ordained to die a shameful death, welcome be it; but an I
had wist of this death that I am deemed unto, I should never
have been yolden. So Sir Safere departed from his brother
with the greatest dolour and sorrow that ever made knight.
And on the morn they of the castle ordained twelve
knights to ride with Sir Palomides unto the father of the
same knight that Sir Palomides slew; and so they bound his
legs under an old steed's belly. And then they rode with Sir
Palomides unto a castle by the seaside, that hight Pelownes,
and there Sir Palomides should have justice. Thus was their
ordinance; and so they rode with Sir Palomides fast by the
castle of Joyous Gard. And as they passed by that castle
there came riding out of that castle by them one that knew
Sir Palomides. And when that knight saw Sir Palomides
bounden upon a crooked courser, the knight asked Sir
Palomides for what cause he was led so. Ah, my fair fellow
and knight, said Palomides, I ride toward my death for the
slaying of a knight at a tournament of Lonazep; and if I had
not departed from my lord Sir Tristram, as I ought not to
have done, now might I have been sure to have had my life
saved; but I pray you, sir knight, recommend me unto my
lord, Sir Tristram, and unto my lady, Queen Isoud, and say
to them if ever I trespassed to them I ask them forgiveness.
And also I beseech you recommend me unto my lord, King
Arthur, and to all the fellowship of the Round Table, unto
my power. Then that knight wept for pity of Sir Palomides;
and therewithal he rode unto Joyous Gard as fast as his
horse might run, and lightly that knight descended down off
his horse and went unto Sir Tristram, and there he told him
all as ye have heard, and ever the knight wept as he had
been mad.
CHAPTER LXXXV. How Sir Tristram made him ready to rescue
Sir Palomides, but Sir Launcelot rescued him or he came.
WHEN Sir Tristram heard how Sir Palomides went to his
death, he was heavy to hear that, and said: Howbeit that I
am wroth with Sir Palomides, yet will not I suffer him to
die so shameful a death, for he is a full noble knight. And
then anon Sir Tristram was armed and took his horse and two
squires with him, and rode a great pace toward the castle of
Pelownes where Sir Palomides was judged to death. And these
twelve knights that led Sir Palomides passed by a well
whereas Sir Launcelot was, which was alighted there, and had
tied his horse to a tree, and taken off his helm to drink of
that well; and when he saw these knights, Sir Launcelot put
on his helm and suffered them to pass by him. And then was
he ware of Sir Palomides bounden, and led shamefully to his
death. O Jesu, said Launcelot, what misadventure is befallen
him that he is thus led toward his death? Forsooth, said
Launcelot, it were shame to me to suffer this noble knight
so to die an I might help him, therefore I will help him
whatsomever come of it, or else I shall die for Sir
Palomides' sake. And then Sir Launcelot mounted upon his
horse, and gat his spear in his hand, and rode after the
twelve knights that led Sir Palomides. Fair knights, said
Sir Launcelot, whither lead ye that knight? it beseemeth him
full ill to ride bounden. Then these twelve knights suddenly
turned their horses and said to Sir Launcelot: Sir knight,
we counsel thee not to meddle with this knight, for he hath
deserved death, and unto death he is judged. That me
repenteth, said Launcelot, that I may not borrow him with
fairness, for he is over good a knight to die such a
shameful death. And therefore, fair knights, said Sir
Launcelot, keep you as well as ye can, for I will rescue
that knight or die for it.
Then they began to dress their spears, and Sir Launcelot
smote the foremost down, horse and man, and so he served
three more with one spear; and then that spear brast, and
therewithal Sir Launcelot drew his sword, and then he smote
on the right hand and on the left hand. Then within a while
he left none of those twelve knights, but he had laid them
to the earth, and the most part of them were sore wounded.
And then Sir Launcelot took the best horse that he found,
and loosed Sir Palomides and set him upon that horse; and so
they returned again unto Joyous Gard, and then was Sir
Palomides ware of Sir Tristram how he came riding. And when
Sir Launcelot saw him he knew him well, but Sir Tristram
knew him not because Sir Launcelot had on his shoulder a
golden shield. So Sir Launcelot made him ready to joust with
Sir Tristram, that Sir Tristram should not ween that he were
Sir Launcelot. Then Sir Palomides cried aloud to Sir
Tristram: O my lord, I require you joust not with this
knight, for this good knight hath saved me from my death.
When Sir Tristram heard him say so he came a soft trotting
pace toward them. And then Sir Palomides said: My lord, Sir
Tristram, much am I beholding unto you of your great
goodness, that would proffer your noble body to rescue me
undeserved, for I have greatly offended you.
Notwithstanding, said Sir Palomides, here met we with this
noble knight that worshipfully and manly rescued me from
twelve knights, and smote them down all and wounded them
sore.
CHAPTER LXXXVI. How Sir Tristram and Launcelot, with
Palomides, came to joyous Gard; and of Palomides and Sir
Tristram.
FAIR knight, said Sir Tristram unto Sir Launcelot, of
whence be ye? I am a knight errant, said Sir Launcelot, that
rideth to seek many adventures. What is your name? said Sir
Tristram. Sir, at this time I will not tell you. Then Sir
Launcelot said unto Sir Tristram and to Palomides: Now
either of you are met together I will depart from you. Not
so, said Sir Tristram; I pray you of knighthood to ride with
me unto my castle. Wit you well, said Sir Launcelot, I may
not ride with you, for I have many deeds to do in other
places, that at this time I may not abide with you. Ah,
mercy Jesu, said Sir Tristram, I require you as ye be a true
knight to the order of knighthood, play you with me this
night. Then Sir Tristram had a grant of Sir Launcelot:
howbeit though he had not desired him he would have ridden
with them, outher soon have come after them; for Sir
Launcelot came for none other cause into that country but
for to see Sir Tristram. And when they were come within
Joyous Gard they alighted, and their horses were led into a
stable; and then they unarmed them. And when Sir Launcelot
was unhelmed, Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides knew him. Then
Sir Tristram took Sir Launcelot in arms, and so did La Beale
Isoud; and Palomides kneeled down upon his knees and thanked
Sir Launcelot. When Sir Launcelot saw Sir Palomides kneel he
lightly took him up and said thus: Wit thou well, Sir
Palomides, I and any knight in this land, of worship ought
of very right succour and rescue so noble a knight as ye are
proved and renowned, throughout all this realm endlong and
overthwart. And then was there joy among them, and the
oftener that Sir Palomides saw La Beale Isoud the heavier he
waxed day by day.
Then Sir Launcelot within three or four days departed,
and with him rode Sir Ector de Maris; and Dinadan and Sir
Palomides were there left with Sir Tristram a two months and
more. But ever Sir Palomides faded and mourned, that all men
had marvel wherefore he faded so away. So upon a day, in the
dawning, Sir Palomides went into the forest by himself
alone; and there he found a well, and then he looked into
the well, and in the water he saw his own visage, how he was
disturbed and defaded, nothing like that he was. What may
this mean? said Sir Palomides, and thus he said to himself:
Ah, Palomides, Palomides, why art thou defaded, thou that
was wont to be called one of the fairest knights of the
world? I will no more lead this life, for I love that I may
never get nor recover. And therewithal he laid him down by
the well. And then he began to make a rhyme of La Beale
Isoud and him.
And in the meanwhile Sir Tristram was that same day
ridden into the forest to chase the hart of greese; but Sir
Tristram would not ride a-hunting never more unarmed,
because of Sir Breuse Saunce Pité. And so as Sir Tristram
rode into that forest up and down, he heard one sing
marvellously loud, and that was Sir Palomides that lay by
the well. And then Sir Tristram rode softly thither, for he
deemed there was some knight errant that was at the well.
And when Sir Tristram came nigh him he descended down from
his horse and tied his horse fast till a tree, and then he
came near him on foot; and anon he was ware where lay Sir
Palomides by the well and sang loud and merrily; and ever
the complaints were of that noble queen, La Beale Isoud, the
which was marvellously and wonderfully well said, and full
dolefully and piteously made. And all the whole song the
noble knight, Sir Tristram, heard from the beginning to the
ending, the which grieved and troubled him sore.
But then at the last, when Sir Tristram had heard all Sir
Palomides' complaints, he was wroth out of measure, and
thought for to slay him thereas he lay. Then Sir Tristram
remembered himself that Sir Palomides was unarmed, and of
the noble name that Sir Palomides had, and the noble name
that himself had, and then he made a restraint of his anger;
and so he went unto Sir Palomides a soft pace and said: Sir
Palomides, I have heard your complaint, and of thy treason
that thou hast owed me so long, and wit thou well therefore
thou shalt die; and if it were not for shame of knighthood
thou shouldest not escape my hands, for now I know well thou
hast awaited me with treason. Tell me, said Sir Tristram,
how thou wilt acquit thee? Sir, said Palomides, thus I will
acquit me: as for Queen La Beale Isoud, ye shall wit well
that I love her above all other ladies in this world; and
well I wot it shall befall me as for her love as befell to
the noble knight Sir Kehydius, that died for the love of La
Beale Isoud. And now, Sir Tristram, I will that ye wit that
I have loved La Beale Isoud many a day, and she hath been
the causer of my worship, and else I had been the most
simplest knight in the world. For by her, and because of
her, I have won the worship that I have; for when I
remembered me of La Beale Isoud I won the worship
wheresomever I came for the most part; and yet had I never
reward nor bounté of her the days of my life, and yet have I
been her knight guerdonless. And therefore, Sir Tristram, as
for any death I dread not, for I had as lief die as to live.
And if I were armed as thou art, I should lightly do battle
with thee. Well have ye uttered your treason, said Tristram.
I have done to you no treason, said Palomides, for love is
free for all men, and though I have loved your lady, she is
my lady as well as yours; howbeit I have wrong if any wrong
be, for ye rejoice her, and have your desire of her, and so
had I never nor never am like to have, and yet shall I love
her to the uttermost days of my life as well as ye.
CHAPTER LXXXVII. How there was a day set between Sir
Tristram and Sir Palomides for to fight, and how Sir
Tristram was hurt.
THEN said Sir Tristram: I will fight with you to the
uttermost. I grant, said Palomides, for in a better quarrel
keep I never to fight, for an I die of your hands, of a
better knight's hands may I not be slain. And sithen I
understand that I shall never rejoice La Beale Isoud, I have
as good will to die as to live. Then set ye a day, said Sir
Tristram, that we shall do battle. This day fifteen days,
said Palomides, will I meet with you hereby, in the meadow
under Joyous Gard. Fie for shame, said Sir Tristram, will ye
set so long day? let us fight to-morn. Not so, said
Palomides, for I am meagre, and have been long sick for the
love of La Beale Isoud, and therefore I will repose me till
I have my strength again. So then Sir Tristram and Sir
Palomides promised faith fully to meet at the well that day
fifteen days. I am remembered, said Sir Tristram to
Palomides, that ye brake me once a promise when that I
rescued you from Breuse Saunce Pité and nine knights; and
then ye promised me to meet me at the peron and the grave
beside Camelot, whereas at that time ye failed of your
promise. Wit you well, said Palomides unto Sir Tristram, I
was at that day in prison, so that I might not hold my
promise. So God me help, said Sir Tristram, an ye had holden
your promise this work had not been here now at this time.
Right so departed Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides. And so
Sir Palomides took his horse and his harness, and he rode
unto King Arthur's court; and there Sir Palomides gat him
four knights and four sergeants-of-arms, and so he returned
againward unto Joyous Gard. And in the meanwhile Sir
Tristram chased and hunted at all manner of venery; and
about three days afore the battle should be, as Sir Tristram
chased an hart, there was an archer shot at the hart, and by
misfortune he smote Sir Tristram in the thick of the thigh,
and the arrow slew Sir Tristram's horse and hurt him. When
Sir Tristram was so hurt he was passing heavy, and wit ye
well he bled sore; and then he took another horse, and rode
unto Joyous Gard with great heaviness, more for the promise
that he had made with Sir Palomides, as to do battle with
him within three days after, than for any hurt of his thigh.
Wherefore there was neither man nor woman that could cheer
him with anything that they could make to him, neither Queen
La Beale Isoud; for ever he deemed that Sir Palomides had
smitten him so that he should not be able to do battle with
him at the day set.
CHAPTER LXXXVIII. How Sir Palomides kept his day to have
foughten, but Sir Tristram might not come; and other things.
BUT in no wise there was no knight about Sir Tristram
that would believe that ever Sir Palomides would hurt Sir
Tristram, neither by his own hands nor by none other
consenting. Then when the fifteenth day was come, Sir
Palomides came to the well with four knights with him of
Arthur's court, and three sergeants-of-arms. And for this
intent Sir Palomides brought the knights with him and the
sergeants-of-arms, for they should bear record of the battle
betwixt Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides. And the one sergeant
brought in his helm, the other his spear, the third his
sword. So thus Palomides came into the field, and there he
abode nigh two hours; and then he sent a squire unto Sir
Tristram, and desired him to come into the field to hold his
promise.
When the squire was come to Joyous Gard, anon as Sir
Tristram heard of his coming he let command that the squire
should come to his presence thereas he lay in his bed. My
lord Sir Tristram, said Palomides' squire, wit you well my
lord, Palomides, abideth you in the field, and he would wit
whether ye would do battle or not. Ah, my fair brother, said
Sir Tristram, wit thou well that I am right heavy for these
tidings; therefore tell Sir Palomides an I were well at ease
I would not lie here, nor he should have no need to send for
me an I might either ride or go; and for thou shalt say that
I am no liar—Sir Tristram showed him his thigh that the
wound was six inches deep. And now thou hast seen my hurt,
tell thy lord that this is no feigned matter, and tell him
that I had liefer than all the gold of King Arthur that I
were whole; and tell Palomides as soon as I am whole I shall
seek him endlong and overthwart, and that I promise you as I
am true knight; and if ever I may meet with him, he shall
have battle of me his fill. And with this the squire
departed; and when Palomides wist that Tristram was hurt he
was glad and said: Now I am sure I shall have no shame, for
I wot well I should have had hard handling of him, and by
likely I must needs have had the worse, for he is the
hardest knight in battle that now is living except Sir
Launcelot.
And then departed Sir Palomides whereas fortune led him,
and within a month Sir Tristram was whole of his hurt. And
then he took his horse, and rode from country to country,
and all strange adventures he achieved wheresomever he rode;
and always he enquired for Sir Palomides, but of all that
quarter of summer Sir Tristram could never meet with Sir
Palomides. But thus as Sir Tristram sought and enquired
after Sir Palomides Sir Tristram achieved many great
battles, wherethrough all the noise fell to Sir Tristram,
and it ceased of Sir Launcelot; and therefore Sir
Launcelot's brethren and his kinsmen would have slain Sir
Tristram because of his fame. But when Sir Launcelot wist
how his kinsmen were set, he said to them openly: Wit you
well, that an the envy of you all be so hardy to wait upon
my lord, Sir Tristram, with any hurt, shame, or villainy, as
I am true knight I shall slay the best of you with mine own
hands Alas, fie for shame, should ye for his noble deeds
await upon him to slay him. Jesu defend, said Launcelot,
that ever any noble knight as Sir Tristram is should be
destroyed with treason. Of this noise and fame sprang into
Cornwall, and among them of Liones, whereof they were
passing glad, and made great joy. And then they of Liones
sent letters unto Sir Tristram of recommendation, and many
great gifts to maintain Sir Tristram's estate; and ever,
between, Sir Tristram resorted unto Joyous Gard whereas La
Beale Isoud was, that loved him as her life.
