At the head of this chapter was a view of the tilt-yard, at the end of
the great lake, with the towers of Kenilworth above.—In the lists were
two armed knights, on foot, each poising his spear at the other. They
were cased in complete steel; their visors closed, each bearing on his
helmet his plume and crest. There was somewhat very impressive in the
station and in the whole appearance of these armoured figures. Each
stood with his right foot advanced; the right arm, holding the spear,
was raised high, displaying at once the strength and grace of an
accomplished warrior. At the end and along one side of the tilt-yard,
were galleries hung with tapestry, where sat the Queen and her ladies,
and the King and his nobles, waiting to behold the encounter. The
opposite sides were open to the lake, the woods, and the castle.