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? me seemeth the lover hath right well sped."
"Fie upon thee, coward," said Sir Dinadan, "and if thou be any good
knight, now revenge my shame."
"Nay," said Sir Tristram, "I will not joust as at this time, but take
your horse and let us go from hence."
"God defend me," said Sir Dinadan, "from thy fellowship, for I never
sped well sith 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 Sir Dinadan, "from thy fellowship, for Sir
Tristram were much the worse and he were in thy company."
And then they departed.
"Sir," said Sir Tristram, "yet it may happen that I shall meet with you
in other places."
And so Sir Tristram rode unto Joyous Gard, and there heard in that town
great noise and cry.
"What meaneth this noise?" said Sir Tristram.
"Sir," said they, "here is a knight of this castle which 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 was a better
knight than was Sir Gawaine."
"That was but a simple cause," said Sir Tristram, "to slay a good
knight because he said well by his master."
"That is but a little remedy unto us," said the men of the town; "for
if Sir Launcelot had been here, soon we should have been revenged upon
those false knights."
When Sir Tristram heard them say so, incontinent he sent for his shield
and for his spear, and lightly within a little while he had overtaken
them, and bade them turn and amend that they had misdone.
"What amends wouldst thou have?" said that 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 crupper. Then
the other knight dressed him unto Sir Tristram, and in the same wise as
he served the first knight, so he served him. And then they gat them
upon their feet as well as they might, and dressed their shields and
their swords to do their battle unto the uttermost.
"Knights," said Sir Tristram, "ye shall tell me of whence ye are and
what be your names."
"Wit thou well, sir knight," said they, "we fear us 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 that 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; and it had
pleased God," said Sir Tristram, "I would I had been by Sir Lamorak at
his death."
"Then shouldest 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 towards 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."
* * * * *
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 Belle Isolde of all his adventure
as ye have heard tofore. And when she heard him tell of Sir Dinadan,
"Sir," she said, "is not that he that made the song by King Mark?"
"That same is he," said Sir Tristram, "for he is the best joker and
jester, 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 Belle Isolde 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
colors 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 Isolde, 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 Belle Isolde sent into the town, and prayed Sir Dinadan
that he would come into the castle and rest 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 Belle Isolde came unto him, and either
saluted other. Then she asked him of whence he was.
"Madam," said Sir Dinadan, "I am of King Arthur's court, and knight of
the Round Table, and my name is Sir Dinadan."
"What do ye in this country?" said la Belle Isolde.
"Madam," said he, "I seek the noble knight Sir Tristram, for it was
told me that he was in this country."
"It may well be," said la Belle Isolde, "but I am not ware of him."
"Madam," said Sir Dinadan, "I marvel of Sir Tristram and moe other
lovers, what aileth them to be so mad and so assotted upon women."
"Why," said la Belle Isolde, "are ye a knight and be ye no lover? it is
a shame unto you; wherefore ye may not be called a good knight, but if
that ye make a quarrel for a lady."
"God defend me," said Sir Dinadan, "for the joy of love is too short,
and the sorrow and what cometh thereof endureth over long."
"Ah!" said la Belle Isolde, "say ye not so, for here fast by was the
good knight Sir Bleoberis, which fought with three knights at once for
a damsel's sake, and he won her before 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 Belle Isolde, "tell me will ye fight for my
love with three knights that did me great wrong? and insomuch as ye be
a knight of King Arthur's court, I require you to do battle for me."
Then Sir Dinadan said, "I shall say unto you, ye are 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 that I will not fight for you with three knights,
Jesu defend me."
Then Isolde 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 Belle Isolde gave him a good
helm; and then he promised her that he would meet with Sir Dinadan, and
they two would ride together unto 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.
* * * * *
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 loth 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 himself to draw out his sword.
"Not so," said Sir Tristram, "why are ye so wroth? I will not fight."
"Fie on thee, coward," said Sir 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 dressing him for 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 Sir Tristram, "for that knight seemeth 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 that 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, Sir Dinadan," said that knight, "and my name is Sir Gareth, the
youngest brother unto Sir Gawaine."
Then either made of other great joy, for this Sir Gareth was the best
knight of all those brethren, and he proved a full good knight. Then
they took their horses, and there they spake of Sir Tristram, how he
was such a coward. And every word Sir Tristram heard, and laughed them
to scorn. Then were they ware where there came a knight before them
well horsed and well armed.
"Fair knights," said Sir Tristram, "look between you who shall joust
with yonder knight, for I warn you I will not have to do 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 crupper.
"How now?" said Sir Tristram unto Sir Dinadan, "dress thee now, and
revenge the good knight Sir 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 perceive full well
that your heart faileth you, therefore now shall ye see what I shall
do."
And then Sir Tristram hurled unto that knight, and smote him quite from
his horse. And when Sir Dinadan saw that, he marvelled greatly, and
then he deemed in himself 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 the knight, "my name is Sir Palamides."
"What knight hate ye most?" said Sir Tristram.
"Sir knight," said he, "I hate Sir Tristram to the death, for and 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 Lyonesse, and now do your worst."
When Sir Palamides heard him say so he was astonished, 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 there as I have owed you evil will me sore repenteth. I
wot not what aileth me, for me seemeth 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 Palamides," said Sir Tristram, "ye say well, and well I wot ye are
a good knight, for I have seen you proved, and many great enterprises
have ye taken upon you, and well achieved them; therefore," said Sir
Tristram, "and 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
things 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.
"Oh my lord Sir Tristram," said Dinadan, "foul have ye mocked me, for
truly 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."
* * * * *
Thus they rode until they were ware of the Castle of 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 Sir Palamides, "me seemeth 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 Sir Dinadan, "and in Surluse, at that tournament that Sir
Galahalt of the long isles made, the which lasted 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; Sir Launcelot won the degree."
"I doubt not," said Sir Tristram, "but he won the degree, so that
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 that he was the cleanest mighted man, and the best winded of his
age that was on live, 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 of his death, and, if they were all the
cousins of my lord King 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 King
Arthur. I will that ye wit it," said Sir Tristram to Sir Gareth.
"Sir, I blame you not," said Sir Gareth, "for well I understand the
vengeance of my brethren Sir Gawaine, Sir Agravaine, Sir Gaheris, and
Sir Mordred; but for me," said 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 would God
I had been by," said Sir 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 liever than all the gold between this and Rome I had been
there."
"Truly," said Sir Palamides, "I would I had been there, and yet I had
never the degree at no jousts there as he was, but he put me to the
worse 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 all the days of my
life. And when the degree was given him by my lord King Arthur, Sir
Gawaine and his three brethren, Sir Agravaine, Sir 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-hewed him; for one of his squires
told me that saw it."
[Illustration: "_They fought with him on foot more than three hours,
both before him and behind him_"]
"Fie upon treason," said Sir Tristram, "for it killeth my heart to hear
this tale."
"So doth it mine," said Sir Gareth; "brethren as they be mine, I shall
never love them nor draw me to their fellowship for that deed."
"Now speak we of other deeds," said Sir Palamides, "and let him be, for
his life ye may not get again."
"That is the more pity," said Sir 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, and 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 kindred about
him."
* * * * *
"Sir," said Palamides, "let us leave off this matter, and let us see
how we shall do at this tournament. By mine advice," said Palamides,
"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 I have seen
knights done many times: and when they wend best to have won worship
they lost it. For manhood is not worth but if it be meddled [_mingled_]
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 covered 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 bebled, 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 no knight see that letter open."
"Wit ye well," said Sir Tristram, "that some of us may revenge his
death as well as others; and if it be as ye say it 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
to all knights errant recommendation, and unto you, noble knights of
King 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 traitorously 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 of knights errant."
"Truly," said Sir Tristram, "here is a piteous case, and full fain I
would 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 betimes to
this jousts."
"Sir," said Palamides, "I pray you give me this enterprise, and ye
shall see me achieve it worshipfully, or 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 at this day
seven night."
"Sir," said Palamides, "I promise you that I shall be with you by that
day if I be unslain or unmaimed."
* * * * *
Then departed Sir Tristram, Gareth, and Sir Dinadan, and left Sir
Palamides in the vessel; and so Sir Tristram beheld the mariners how
they sailed along Humber. And when Sir Palamides 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 into his castle; and there they were brought
to the hall, that was well apparelled, and so they were 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 greatly, and said,
"Sir mine host, what cheer make ye?"
"Wit thou well," said he, "I fare much the worse for thee; for I know
thee well, Sir Tristram de Lyonesse, thou slewest my brother, and
therefore I give thee summons that I will slay thee and I may get thee
at large."
"Sir knight," said Sir Tristram, "I am not advised that ever I slew
any brother of yours; and if ye say that I did it, I will make you
amends unto my power."
"I will none of your 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 forth on their way. And within a little while Sir Dinadan saw
where came a knight riding all armed and well horsed without shield.
"Sir Tristram," said Sir Dinadan, "take heed to yourself, for I
undertake that yonder cometh your host that will have to do with you."
"Let him come," said Sir Tristram, "I shall abide him as well as I may."
Anon that knight when he came nigh Sir Tristram he cried to him, and
bade him abide and keep him well. So they hurled together, but Sir
Tristram smote the other knight so sore that he bare him to the ground.
And that knight arose lightly, and took his horse again, and so rode
fiercely to Sir Tristram, and smote him twice full hard upon the helm.
"Sir knight," said Sir Tristram, "I pray you to leave off and smite me
no more, for I would be loth to deal with you and 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 tumbled upside down from his horse, that the blood brast out at
the ventails of his helm; and there he lay still likely to have died.
Then Sir Tristram said, "Me repenteth sore of this buffet that I smote
so sore, for, as I suppose, he is dead."
And so they departed and rode forth on their way. So they had not
ridden but a while but they saw coming against them two full likely
knights, well armed and horsed, and goodly servants about them. The
one was called the king with the hundred knights, and that other was
Sir Segwarides, which were renowned two noble knights. So as they
came either by other, the king looked upon Sir Dinadan, which at that
time had Sir Tristram's helm upon his shoulder, which helm the king
had seen before with the Queen of Northwales, and that helm the Queen
of Northwales had given unto la Belle Isolde, and the Queen la Belle
Isolde gave it unto Sir Tristram.
"Sir knight," said [the king], "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 owned that helm, and therefore keep you."
So they departed and came together with all the 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 [the king] 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 [the king] such a buffet upon the
helm that he fell down over his horse, sore stunned.
"Lo," said Sir 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 Sir Dinadan, "I will not thereof."
Then Gareth dressed him to Sir Segwarides, and there Sir Segwarides
smote Sir 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 the castle, but Sir
Tristram would not suffer him to depart; and so they alighted, and
unarmed them, and had there great cheer. But when Sir Dinadan came
afore la Belle Isolde, he cursed the time that ever he bare the helm of
Sir Tristram, and there he told her how Sir Tristram had mocked him.
Then was there good laughing and sport at Sir Dinadan, that they wist
not what to do to keep them from laughing.
* * * * *
Now will we leave them merry within Joyous Gard, and speak we of Sir
Palamides. Then Sir Palamides sailed even along Humber unto the coast
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 Palamides, that
was fast on sleep: "Sir knight," said the mariners, "ye must arise, for
here is a castle into the which ye must go."
"I assent me thereto," said Sir Palamides.
And therewithal he arrived; and then he blew his horn, the which the
mariners had given him. And when they that were 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 Palamides entered into the castle. And
within a while he was served with many divers meats. Then Sir Palamides
heard about him much weeping and great dole. "What may this mean?" said
Sir Palamides: "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 gentleness 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 of our king. But
alas," said Ebel, "that we shall give all other warning by his death."
"Tell me," said Palamides, "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 whatsoever 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 by the advice of
these false traitors, and there he chased at the red deer, all armed
of all pieces, full like a good knight; and so for labor he waxed dry,
and then he alighted and drank at a well. And when he was alighted,
by the assent of these two false traitors, the one that hight Helius
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 unto
the well and found my lord and king wounded unto 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 that I owed unto him for to
write a letter in this manner:--
* * * * *
"'Recommending unto King Arthur and unto all the knights errant,
beseeching them all in so much 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, in so much as I have been ever
to my power well willing unto King 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 all my lands and
tenements that ever I possessed in all my life.' This letter," said
Sir Ebel, "I wrote by my lord's commandment, and then he received his
Maker [_took the Holy Communion_]. And when he was dead, he commanded
me, or ever he were cold, to put this 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 falselier ne 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 hold all these lands. For we all wit
well that, and ye may slay these two traitors, the Red City and all
those that be therein will take you for their lord."
"Truly," said Sir Palamides, "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 that 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, and 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 Palamides; "whatsoever come of me,
look ye keep well this castle. For, and 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 Lyonesse, or
else Sir Launcelot du Lake."
Then Sir Palamides departed from that castle. And as he came nigh unto
the city, there came out of a ship a goodly knight all armed against
him, with his shield upon his shoulder, and his hand upon his sword;
and anon as he came nigh Sir Palamides, he said, "Sir knight, what seek
ye here in this country? leave this quest, for it is mine, and mine it
was or it was yours, and therefore I will have it."
"Sir knight," said Sir Palamides, "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 King Hermance; and so at that time I
promised to revenge his death, and so I shall, or else I am shamed."
"Ye say well," said the knight, "but wit ye well then will I fight
with you, and he that is the better knight of us both let him take the
battle in hand."
"I assent me," said Sir Palamides.
And then they dressed their shields, and drew out their swords, and
lashed together many a sad stroke, as men of might, and thus they
fought more than an hour. And at the last Sir Palamides waxed big and
better winded, so that then he smote that knight such a stroke that he
made him to kneel upon both his knees. Then that knight spoke on high
and said, "Gentle knight, hold thy hand."
Sir Palamides was courteous and withdrew his hand.
Then this knight said, "Wit ye well, sir knight, that ye be better
worthy to have this battle than I, and I require thee of thy knighthood
to tell me thy name."
"Sir, my name is Sir Palamides, a knight of King Arthur's court and of
the Round Table, that hither am come to revenge the death of this dead
king."
* * * * *
"Ah, well be ye found," said the knight unto Sir Palamides, "for of all
knights that be now living (except three) I had lievest have you. The
first is Sir Launcelot du Lake, the second is Sir Tristram de Lyonesse,
and the third Sir Lamorak de Galis; and I am brother unto King Hermance
that is dead, and my name is Sir Hermind."
"It is well said," quoth Sir Palamides, "and ye shall see how I shall
speed; and if I be there slain, go ye unto my lord Sir Launcelot or
unto 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 Palamides, "by Sir Gawaine and his brethren."
"Truly," said Hermind, "there was not one for one that slew him."
"That is truth," said Sir Palamides, "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 Palamides told Hermind all the manner, and how they slew
Sir Lamorak all only by treason. So Sir Palamides 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 Palamides the good knight.
Then all the city made great joy. For mickle had they heard of Sir
Palamides, 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 to do withal."
"Wit ye well," said the messenger, "that his name is Sir Palamides,
the which is not yet christened, a noble knight."
"Well," said they, "and if he be now unchristened, he shall never be
christened."
So they appointed for to be at the city within two days. And when Sir
Palamides was come unto the city, they made passing great joy of him.
And when they beheld him, [they] 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 faithful and true of his
promise, and also well conditioned; and because he made his avow 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 this city these two brethren, the
one hight Sir Helius, and that other hight Sir Helake, the which were
men of great prowess, howbeit 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 the intent they should
be big enough for the Red City. Thus came the two brethren with great
bobance [_boasting_] and pride, for they had put the Red City in fear
and damage. Then they were brought into the lists; and Sir Palamides
came into the place, and thus he said, "Be ye the two brethren, Sir
Helius and Sir Helake, that slew your king and lord Sir Hermance by
felony and treason, for whom I am come hither for 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 Palamides,
Saracen, that we shall handle thee so or thou depart that thou shalt
wish that thou werest christened."
"It may well be," said Sir Palamides, "for yet I would not die or I
were christened, and yet so am I not afeared 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 Palamides, "either ye or I shall be left
dead in this place."
* * * * *
Then they departed, and the two brethren came against Sir Palamides,
and he against them, as fast as their horses might run. And by fortune
Sir Palamides 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 presumption he would not smite Sir Palamides 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 Palamides, "Help thyself": and
therewith he came hurtling unto Sir Palamides with his spear, and smote
him quite from his saddle. Then Sir Helius rode over Sir Palamides
twice or thrice. And therewith Sir Palamides was ashamed, and gat the
horse of Sir Helius by the bridle, and therewithal the horse areared,
and Sir Palamides helped after, and so they fell both to the earth, but
anon Sir Helius started up lightly, and there he smote Sir Palamides
a mighty stroke upon the helm, so 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
Palamides waxed faint and weary, and Sir Helius waxed passing strong,
and doubled his strokes, and drove Sir Palamides overthwart and endlong
all the field, that they of the city, when they saw Sir Palamides in
this case, they wept and cried, and made a sorrowful dole; and that
other party made 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 [for] Sir Palamides that had
endured well an hundred strokes, that it was wonder that he stood upon
his feet, at the last Sir Palamides beheld as well as he might the
common people how they wept for him. And then he said unto himself,
"Ah, fie for shame, Sir Palamides, wherefore hangest thou thy head so
low?" And therewith he bare up his shield, and looked Sir Helius in
the visage, and 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 upon the ground grovelling; and then he started lightly
to him, and rashed 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 unto his lodging with great solemnity, and there all the
people became his men; and then Sir Palamides prayed them all for to
take heed unto the lordship of King Hermance. "For, fair sirs, wit
ye well, I may not at this time abide with you, for I must in all the
haste be with my lord King Arthur at the Castle of Lonazep, which I
have promised."
So then were the people full heavy of his departing; for all that city
proffered Sir Palamides the third part of their goods so that he would
abide with them; but in no wise at that time he would abide; and so
Sir Palamides departed. And then he came unto the castle whereas Sir
Ebel was lieutenant; and when they that were in the castle knew how Sir
Palamides had sped, there was a joyful meyny [_household_]. And Sir
Palamides departed, and came to the Castle of Lonazep. And when he wist
that Sir Tristram was not there, he took his way unto Humber, and came
unto Joyous Gard, whereas Sir Tristram was and la Belle Isolde. So it
had been 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 Palamides," said Dinadan.
"It may well be," said Sir Tristram: "go ye to him," said Sir Tristram
unto Dinadan.
So Dinadan went unto Sir Palamides, and there either made of 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.
* * * * *
[And so, having done many great deeds of arms, after many days it
happened that Sir Tristram rode forth for to rescue Sir Palamides, but
Sir Launcelot, in disguise, had already rescued him or [_before_] that
Sir Tristram could come. And then Sir Tristram and Sir Palamides went
with the unknown knight to his castle, which was Sir Launcelot's castle
of Joyous Gard.]
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 had put off his helm, Sir Tristram and Sir Palamides
knew him. Then Sir Tristram took Sir Launcelot in his arms; and Sir
Palamides kneeled down upon his knees and thanked Sir Launcelot. When
Sir Launcelot saw Sir Palamides kneel, he lightly took him up, and
said,--
"Wit thou well, Sir Palamides, I and any knight in this land of worship
ought of very right succor and rescue so noble a knight as ye are
proved and renowned throughout all this realm, endlong and overthwart."
Then Sir Launcelot within three or four days departed; and with him
rode Sir Ector de Maris; and Dinadan and Sir Palamides were there
left with Sir Tristram a two months and more. But ever Sir Palamides
faded and mourned, that all men had marvel wherefore he faded so away.
So upon a day, in the dawning Sir Palamides went into the forest by
himself alone, and there he found a well. And therewithal he laid him
down by the well. And then he began to make a rhyme of la Belle Isolde
and him. And in the meanwhile Sir Tristram was that same day ridden
into the forest to chase the hart of greese [_the fat hart_]. And so
as Sir Tristram rode into that forest up and down, he heard one sing
marvellously loud; and that was Sir Palamides, 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 to a tree, and then he came near him on foot.
And anon he was ware where lay Sir Palamides by the well. And ever
the complaints were of that noble queen la Belle Isolde, the which
was marvellously and wonderfully well made and full dolefully and
piteously. 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 last, when Sir Tristram had heard all Sir Palamides'
complaints, he was wroth out of measure, and thought for to slay
him there as he lay. Then Sir Tristram remembered himself that Sir
Palamides was unarmed, and of the noble name that Sir Palamides had,
and the noble name that himself had, and then he made a restraint of
his anger, and so he went unto Sir Palamides a soft pace, and said,--
"Sir Palamides, 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 Palamides, "thus I will acquit me: as for queen la Belle
Isolde, ye shall wit well that I love her above all other ladies of
the world; and well I wot it shall befall me as for her love as befell
to the noble knight Sir Kehidius, that died for the love of la Belle
Isolde; and now, Sir Tristram, I will that ye wit that I have loved la
Belle Isolde 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 Belle Isolde, I won the worship wheresoever I
came, for the most part; and yet had I never reward nor bounty 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 Sir Tristram.
"I have done to you no treason," said Sir Palamides, "for love is free
for all men, and though I have loved your lady she is my lady as well
as yours; and yet shall I love her to the uttermost days of my life as
well as ye."
* * * * *
"Then," said Sir Tristram, "I will fight with you unto the uttermost."
"I grant," said Sir Palamides, "for in a better quarrel keep I never
to fight, for and I die of your hands, of a better knight's hands may
I not be slain. And sithen [_since_] I understand that I shall never
rejoice the queen la Belle Isolde, I have as good a will to die as to
live."
"Then set ye a day of battle," said Sir Tristram.
"This day fifteen days," said Sir Palamides, "will I meet with you
hereby in the meadow under Joyous Gard."
"Fie for shame!" said Sir Tristram, "will ye set so long a day? let us
fight to-morrow."
"Not so," said Sir Palamides, "for I am feeble and lean, and have been
long sick for the love of la Belle Isolde, and therefore I will rest me
till that I have my strength again."
So then Sir Tristram and Sir Palamides promised faithfully to meet at
the well as that day fifteen days.
Right so departed Sir Tristram and Sir Palamides; and so Sir Palamides
took his horse and his harness, and rode unto King Arthur's court, and
there Sir Palamides gat him four knights and three sergeants of arms;
and so he returned again towards Joyous Gard. And in the meanwhile Sir
Tristram chased and hunted at all manner of venery [_game_]; and about
a three days afore that 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 thickest of the thigh and wounded him right sore,
and the arrow slew Sir Tristram's horse; and when Sir Tristram was so
sore hurt, he was passing heavy, and wit ye well he bled sore. And
then he took another horse, and rode unto Joyous Gard with full great
heaviness.
* * * * *
Then when the fifteenth day was come, Sir Palamides came to the well
with four knights with him of King Arthur's court, and three sergeants
of arms. And the one sergeant brought his helm, the other his spear,
and the third his sword. So Sir Palamides 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 for to hold his
promise. When the squire was come to Joyous Gard, and that Sir Tristram
heard of his coming, he commanded that the squire should come to his
presence there as he lay in his bed.
"My lord Sir Tristram," said Palamides' squire, "wit you well, my lord
Palamides 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 Palamides and I were
well at ease I would not lie here, nor he should have no need to send
for me, and 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 liever than all the gold
of King Arthur that I were whole; and tell Sir Palamides, 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 then departed Sir Palamides
where as 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 wheresoever he rode, and always
he inquired for Sir Palamides.
* * * * *
[When Sir Tristram was returned, he heard how there should be a great
feast at King Arthur's court on the Pentecost next following. And so
when that day was nigh Sir Tristram set forth unarmed towards Camelot.]
And within a mile after, Sir Tristram saw before him where Sir
Palamides had stricken down a knight, and had almost wounded him to
death. Then Sir Tristram repented him that he was not armed, and then
he hoved still. With that Sir Palamides knew Sir Tristram, and cried on
high: "Sir Tristram, now be we met, for or we depart we will redress
our old sores."
"As for that," said Sir Tristram, "there was never yet Christian man
that might make his boast that ever I fled from him, and wit thou well,
Sir Palamides, thou that art a Saracen shall never make thy boast that
Sir Tristram de Lyonesse shall flee from thee."
And therewithal Sir Tristram made his horse to run with all his might,
came he straight upon Sir Palamides, and brake his spear upon him in
an hundred pieces, and forthwith Sir Tristram drew his sword, and then
he turned his horse and struck at Sir Palamides six great strokes upon
his helm. And then Sir Palamides stood still, and beheld Sir Tristram,
and marvelled of his woodness and of his great folly; and then Sir
Palamides said to himself, "And Sir Tristram were armed it were hard to
cease him of this battle, and if I turn again and slay him I am shamed
wheresoever that I go."
Then Sir Tristram spake and said, "Thou coward knight, what castest
thou to do? why wilt thou not do battle with me, for have thou no doubt
I shall endure all thy malice."
"Ah, Sir Tristram," said Sir Palamides, "full well thou wottest I may
not fight with thee for shame, for thou art here naked, and I am
armed, and if I slay thee dishonor shall be mine. And well thou wottest
I know thy strength and thy hardiness to endure against a good knight."
"That is truth," said Sir Tristram, "I understand thy valiantness well."
"Ye say well," said Sir Palamides, "now I require you tell me a
question that I shall say to you."
"Tell me what it is," said Sir Tristram, "and I shall answer you the
truth."
"I put the case," said Sir Palamides, "that ye were armed at all rights
as well as I am, and I naked as ye be, what would ye do to me now by
your true knighthood?"
"Ah," said Sir Tristram, "now I understand thee well, Sir Palamides,
for now must I say my own judgment, and, as God me bless, that I shall
say shall not be said for no fear that I have of thee. But this is all;
wit, Sir Palamides, as at this time thou shouldest depart from me, for
I would not have ado with thee."
"No more will I," said Sir Palamides, "and therefore ride forth on thy
way."
"As for that I may choose," said Sir Tristram, "either to ride or to
abide. But Sir Palamides," said Sir Tristram, "I marvel of one thing,
that thou that art so good a knight, that thou will not be christened,
and thy brother Sir Safere hath been christened many a day."
* * * * *
"As for that," said Sir Palamides, "I may not yet be christened for one
avow that I have made many years agone; howbeit in my heart I believe
in Jesus Christ and his mild mother Mary; but I have but one battle to
do, and when that is done I will be baptized with a good will."
"By my head," said Sir Tristram, "as for one battle thou shalt not
seek it no longer. For God defend," said Sir Tristram, "that through
my default thou shouldest longer live thus a Saracen. For yonder is a
knight that ye, Sir Palamides, have hurt and smitten down; now help me
that I were armed in his armor, and I shall soon fulfil thine avows."
"As ye will," said Sir Palamides, "so it shall be."
So they rode unto that knight that sat upon a bank, and then Sir
Tristram saluted him, and he weakly saluted him again.
"Sir knight," said Sir Tristram, "I require you tell me your right
name."
"Sir," he said, "my name is Sir Galleron of Galway, and knight of the
Table Round."
"Truly," said Sir Tristram, "I am right heavy of your hurts: but this
is all, I must pray you to lend me all your whole armor, for ye see I
am unarmed, and I must do battle with this knight."
"Sir," said the hurt knight, "ye shall have it with a good will; but ye
must beware, for I warn you that knight is wight [_strong_]. Sir," said
Galleron, "I pray you tell me your name, and what is that knight's name
that hath beaten me."
"Sir, as for my name, it is Sir Tristram de Lyonesse, and as for the
knight's name that hath hurt you, it is Sir Palamides, brother unto the
good knight Sir Safere, and yet is Sir Palamides unchristened."
"Alas," said Sir Galleron, "that is pity that so good a knight and so
noble a man of arms should be unchristened."
"Truly," said Sir Tristram, "either he shall slay me, or I him, but
that he shall be christened or ever we depart in sunder."
"My lord Sir Tristram," said Sir Galleron, "your renown and worship is
well known through many realms and God save you this day from shame."
Then Sir Tristram unarmed Galleron, the which was a noble knight and
had done many deeds of arms, and he was a large knight of flesh and
bone. And when he was unarmed he stood upon his feet, for he was
bruised in the back with a spear; yet, so as Sir Galleron might,
he armed Sir Tristram. And then Sir Tristram mounted upon his own
horse, and in his hand he gat Sir Galleron's spear. And therewithal
Sir Palamides was ready, and so they came hurtling together, and
either smote other in the midst of their shields, and therewithal Sir
Palamides' spear brake, and Sir Tristram smote down the horse; and then
Sir Palamides, as soon as he might, avoided his horse, and dressed his
shield, and pulled out his sword. That saw Sir Tristram, and therewith
he alighted, and tied his horse to a tree.
* * * * *
And then they came together as two wild boars, lashing together,
tracing and traversing as noble men that oft had been well proved in
battle; but ever Sir Palamides dreaded the might of Sir Tristram, and
therefore he suffered him to breathe him. Thus they fought more than
two hours; and often Sir Tristram smote such strokes at Sir Palamides
that he made him to kneel; and Sir Palamides brake and cut away many
pieces of Sir Tristram's shield, and then Sir Palamides wounded Sir
Tristram, for he was a well fighting man. Then Sir Tristram was wood
wrath out of measure, and rashed upon Sir Palamides with such a might
that Sir Palamides fell grovelling to the earth, and therewithal he
leapt up lightly upon his feet, and then Sir Tristram wounded Sir
Palamides sore through the shoulder. And ever Sir Tristram fought
still in like hard, and Sir Palamides failed not, but gave him many
sad strokes. And at the last Sir Tristram doubled his strokes, and by
fortune Sir Tristram smote Sir Palamides' sword out of his hand, and if
Sir Palamides had stooped for his sword, he had been slain. Then Sir
Palamides stood still and beheld his sword with a sorrowful heart.
"How now," said Sir Tristram unto Sir Palamides, "now have I thee at
advantage as thou hadst me this day, but it shall never be said in no
court, nor among good knights, that Sir Tristram shall slay any knight
that is weaponless, and therefore take thou thy sword, and let us make
an end of this battle."
"As for to do this battle," said Sir Palamides, "I dare right well end
it; but I have no great lust to fight no more, and for this cause, mine
offence to you is not so great but that we may be friends. All that I
have offended is and was for the love of la Belle Isolde. And as for
her, I dare say she is peerless above all other ladies, and also I
proffered her never no dishonor; and by her I have gotten the most part
of my worship, and sithen I offended never as to her own person. And
as for the offence that I have done, it was against your own person,
and for that offence ye have given me this day many sad strokes, and
some I have given you again; and now I dare say I felt never man of
your might, nor so well breathed, but if it were Sir Launcelot du Lake.
Wherefore I require you, my lord, forgive me all that I have offended
unto you. And this same day have me to the next church, and first let
me be clean confessed, and after see you now that I be truly baptized.
And then will we all ride together unto the court of Arthur, that we be
there at the high feast."
"Now take your horse," said Sir Tristram, "and as ye say, so it shall
be; and all your evil will God forgive it you, and I do. And here,
within this mile, is the suffragan of Carlisle, that shall give you the
sacrament of baptism."
Then they took their horses, and Sir Galleron rode with them. And when
they came to the suffragan Sir Tristram told him their desire. Then the
suffragan let fill a great vessel with water. And when he had hallowed
it, he then confessed clean Sir Palamides, and Sir Tristram and Sir
Galleron were his god-fathers. And then soon after they departed,
riding towards Camelot, where King Arthur and Queen Guenever was, and
for the most part all the knights of the Round Table. And so the king
and all the court were glad that Sir Palamides was christened. And Sir
Tristram returned again towards Joyous Gard.
* * * * *
[And so, after years, and many mighty deeds of arms, the] traitor King
Mark slew the noble knight Sir Tristram as he sat harping before his
lady la Belle Isolde, with a trenchant glaive; for whose death was much
bewailing of every knight in Arthur's days. And la Belle Isolde died
swooning upon the corpse of Sir Tristram, whereof was great pity. And
all that were with King Mark consenting to the death of Sir Tristram
were slain.
[Illustration: _King Mark slew the noble knight Sir Tristram as he sat
harping before his lady la Belle Isolde_]