 Chapter 1 to 6, Book 1, Volume 1 of Le Morte de Arthur. It befell in the days of Uther Pendragon, when he was king of all England and so reigned, that there was a mighty duke in Cornwall that held war against him long time, and the duke was called the Duke of Tintagel. And so, by means, King Uther sent for this duke, charging him to bring his wife with him, for she was called a fair lady and a passing wise, and her name was Ygraine. So when the duke and his wife were come unto the king, by the means of great lords they were accorded both. The king liked and loved this lady well, and he made them great cheer out of measure, and desired to have lain by her. But she was a passing good woman, and would not assent unto the king. And then she told the duke her husband, and said, I suppose that we were sent for that I should be dishonored, wherefore, husband, I counsel you, that we depart from hence suddenly, that we may ride all night unto our own castle. And, likewise, as she said, so they departed, that neither the king nor none of his counsel were aware of their departing. Or so soon as King Uther knew of their departing so suddenly, he was wonderly wroth. Then he called to him his privy counsel, and told them of the sudden departing of the duke and his wife. Then they advised the king to send for the duke and his wife by great charge. And if it were not to come at your summons, then may you do your best, then have you cause to make mighty war upon him. So that was done, and the messengers had their answers, and that was this shortly, that neither he nor his wife would not come at him. Then was the king wonderly wroth. And then the king sent him plain word again, and bade him be ready, and stuff him and garnish him, for within forty days he would fetch him out of the biggest castle that he hath. When the duke had this warning, and on he went and furnished and garnished two strong castles of his, of the which the one height Tintagel, and the other castle height Terrible. So his wife, Dame Egrain, he put in the castle of Tintagel, and himself he put in the castle of Terrible, the which had many issues and postons out. Then in all haste came Uther with a great host, and laid a siege about the castle of Terrible. And there he pied many pavilions, and there was great war made on both parties, and much people slain. Then for pure anger, and for great love of fairer grain, the king Uther fell sick. So came to the king Uther, Sir Ulpheus, a noble knight, and asked the king why he was sick. I shall tell thee, said the king, I am sick for anger and for love of fairer grain, that I may not be whole. Well, my lord, said Sir Ulpheus, I shall seek Merlin, and he shall do you remedy, that your heart shall be pleased. So Ulpheus departed, and by adventure he met Merlin in a beggar's array. And there Merlin asked Ulpheus whom he sought, and he said he had little adieu to tell him. Well, said Merlin, I know whom thou seekest, for thou seekest Merlin. Therefore seek no father, for I am he, and if king Uther will well reward me, and be sworn unto me to fulfil my desire. That shall be his honour and profit more than mine, for I shall cause him to have all his desire. All this I will undertake, said Ulpheus, that there shall be nothing reasonable, but thou shalt have thy desire. Well, said Merlin, he shall have his intent and desire. And therefore, said Merlin, ride on your way, for I will not be long behind. Then Ulpheus was glad, and rode on more than a pace till he came to King Uther Penjagen, and told him he had met with Merlin. Where is he, said the king? Sir, said Ulpheus, he will not dwell long. Therewith all Ulpheus was where where Merlin stood, at the porch of the pavilion's door. And then Merlin was bound to come to the king. When King Uther saw him, he said he was welcome. Sir, said Merlin, I know all your heart every deal, so ye will be sworn unto me as ye be a true king anointed. To fulfil my desire, ye shall have your desire. Then the king was sworn upon the four evangelists. Sir, said Merlin, this is my desire. The first night that ye shall lie by a grain, ye shall get a child on her. And when that is born, then it shall be delivered to me, for to nourish there as I will have it. For it shall be your worship, and the child's avail, as Michael as the child is worth. I will well, said the king, as thou wilt have it. Now make you ready, said Merlin. This night ye shall lie with a grain in the castle of Tintagel. And ye shall be like the duke her husband. Ulpheus shall be like Sir Brastius, a knight of the dukes. And I will be like a knight that hight Sir Jordanus, a knight of the dukes. But wait ye make not many questions with her, nor her men. But say ye are diseased, and so hide your bed, and rise not on the mourn till I come to you. For the castle of Tintagel is but ten miles hence. So this was done as they devised. But the duke of Tintagel is spied, how the king rode from the siege of Terrible. And therefore that night, he issued out of the castle at a poston, for to have distressed the king's host. And so, through his own issue, the duke himself was slain, or ever the king came at the castle of Tintagel. So, after the death of the duke, King Uther lay with the grain more than three hours after his death, and begat on her that night Arthur. And on day came Merlin to the king, and bade him make him ready. And so he kissed the lady a grain, and departed in all haste. But when the lady heard tell of the duke her husband, and by all record he was dead, or ever King Uther came to her, then she marveled who that might be that lay with her in likeness of her lord. So she mourned privily, and held her peace. Then all the barons by one, ascent prayed the king of Accord, betwixt the lady a grain and him. The king gave them leave, for feign would he have been accorded with her. So the king put all the trust in Alpheus to entreat between them. So, by the entreaty at the last, the king and she met together. Now will we do well, Sidolpheus. Our king is a lusty night, and wifeless, and my lady a grain is a passing fair lady. It were great joy unto us all, and it might please the king to make her his queen. Unto that they all well accorded and moved it to the king. And anon, like a lusty night, he assented there too with good will, and so in all haste they were married in a morning with great mirth and joy. And king Lot of Lothian and of Orkney then wedded Morghese, that was Gawain's mother, and king Nentress of the land of Garlot wedded Elaine. All this was done unto the request of King Uther, and the third sister, Morgan Lafay, was put to school in an unnery, and there she learned so much that she was a great clerk of necromancy, and after she was wedded to King Urian's of the land of Gaw, that was Sir Ewen's Lord Blanche-Maine's father. Chapter 3 Then Queen Agraene waxed daily greater and greater, so it befell after within half a year, as King Uther lay by his queen he asked her, by the faith she owed to him, whose was the child within her body. Then she saw a bash to give answer. Dismay you not, said the king, but tell me the truth, and I shall love you the better by the faith of my body. Sir, said she, I shall tell you the truth. The same night that my Lord was dead, the hour of his death, as his nights record, there came into my castle of Tintagel, a man like my Lord in speech and in countenance, and two nights with him in likeness of his two nights Brastius and Jordanus. And so I went unto bed with him, as I ought to do with my Lord. And the same night, as I shall answer unto God, this child was begotten upon me. That is truth, said the king, as you say, for it was I myself that came in the likeness, and therefore dismay you not, for I am father of the child. And there he told all the cause, how it was by Merlin's counsel. Then the queen made great joy when she knew who was the father of her child. Soon came Merlin unto the king, and said, Sir, ye must purveille you for the nourishing of your child. As thou wilt, said the king, be it. Well, said Merlin, I know a Lord of yours in this land, that is a passing true man and a faithful. And he shall have the nourishing of your child. And his name is Sir Ector. And he is the Lord of fair livelihood in many parts in England and Wales. And this Lord, Sir Ector, let him be sent for. For to come and speak with you, and desire him yourself, as he loveth you, that he will put his own child to nourishing to another woman, and that his wife nourish yours. And when the child is born, let it be delivered to me at yonder privy post and uncristened. So like as Merlin devised, it was done. And when Sir Ector was come, he made fiance to the king, for to nourish the child like as the king desired. And there the king granted Sir Ector great rewards. Then when the lady was delivered, the king commanded two knights and two ladies to take the child, bound in a cloth of gold, and that ye deliver him to what poor man ye meet at the post and gate of the castle. So the child was delivered unto Merlin, and so he bear it forth unto Sir Ector, and made an holy man to christen him, and named him Arthur. And so Sir Ector's wife nourished him with her own pap. Chapter 4 Then within two years King Uther fell sick of a great malady, and in the meanwhile his enemies usurped upon him, and did a great battle upon his men, and slew many of his people. Sir said Merlin, ye may not lie so as ye do, for ye must to the field though you ride on a horse-litter. For ye shall never have the better of your enemies, but if your person be there, and then shall ye have the victory. So it was done as Merlin had devised, and they carried the king forth in a horse-litter with a great host towards his enemies. And at St. Albans their met with the king a great host of the north. And that day Sir Ulpheus and Sir Brastius did great deeds of arms, and King Uther's men overcame the northern battle, and slew many people, and put the remnant to flight. And then the king returned unto London, and made great joy of his victory. And then he fell passing sore sick, so that three days and three nights he was speechless, wherefore all the barons made great sorrow, and asked Merlin what council were best. There is none other remedy, said Merlin, but God will have his will. But look ye all barons be before King Uther, to mourn, and God and I shall make him to speak. So on the mourn all the barons with Merlin came to fore the king. Then Merlin said aloud unto King Uther, Sir, shall your son Arthur be king after your days, of this realm with all the appurtenance. Then Uther Pendragon turned him, and said in hearing of them all, I give him God's blessing and mine, and bid him prayer for my soul, and righteously and worshipfully that he claim the crown upon forfeiture of my blessing. And therewith he yielded up the ghost, and there was he interred as longed to a king, wherefore the queen, Ferry Grain, made great sorrow and all the barons. Chapter 5 Then stood the realm in great jeopardy long while, for every lord that was mighty of men made him strong, and many weaned to have been king. Chapter 6 Then Merlin went to the Archbishop of Canterbury, and counseled him for to send for all the lords of the realm, and all the gentlemen of arms, that they should to London come by Christmas upon pain of cursing. And for this cause, that Jesus that was born on that night, that ye would of his great mercy show some miracle, as he was come to be king of mankind, for to show some miracle who should be right wise king of this realm. So the Archbishop, by the advice of Merlin, sent for all the lords and gentlemen of arms, that they should come by Christmas even unto London. And many of them made them clean of their life, that their prayer might be the more acceptable unto God. So in the greatest Church of London, whether it were Paul's or not, the French book make if no mention. All the estates were long or day in the Church for to pray. And when Martin's and the first Mass was done, there was seen in the Churchyard, against the High Altar, a great stone four square, like unto a marble stone, and in the midst thereof was like an anvil of steel a foot done high, and therein struck a fair sword naked by the point, and letters there were written in gold about the sword, that said thus, whoso pulleth out this sword of this stone and anvil, is right wise king born of all England. Then the people marveled and told it to the Archbishop. I command, said the Archbishop, that ye keep you within your Church and pray unto God still, that no man touch the sword till the high Mass be all done. So when all Masses were done, all the lords went to behold the stone and the sword. And when they saw the scripture some assayed, such as would have been king. But none might stir the sword nor move it. He is not here, said the Archbishop, that shall achieve the sword. But doubt not God will make him known. But this is my counsel, said the Archbishop. That we let pervay ten nights, men of good fame, and they to keep this sword. So it was ordained. And then there was made a cry, that every man should assay that would, for to win the sword. And upon New Year's Day the barons let make a joust and a tournament, that all nights that would joust or turny there might play. And all this was ordained for to keep the lords together and the commons. For the Archbishop trusted that God would make him known, that should win the sword. So upon New Year's Day, when the service was done, the barons rode on to the field, some to joust and some to turny. And so it happened that Sir Ekta, that at great livelihood about London, rode on to the jousts, and with him rode Sir Kay, his son, and young Arthur that was his nourished brother. And Sir Kay was made night at all Hallow Mass of Four. So as they rode to the joust's ward, Sir Kay lost his sword, for he had left it at his father's lodging, and so he prayed young Arthur for to ride for his sword. I will well, said Arthur, and rode fast after the sword. And when he came home, the lady and all were out to see the jousting. Then was Arthur Roth, and said to himself, I will ride to the churchyard, and take the sword with me that sticketh in the stone. For my brother Sir Kay shall not be without a sword this day. So when he came to the churchyard, Sir Arthur alighted, and tied his horse to the style, and so he went to the tent, and found no knights there, for they were at the jousting. And so he handled the sword by the handles, and lightly and fiercely pulled it out of the stone, and took his horse, and rode his way until he came to his brother Sir Kay, and delivered him the sword. And as soon as Sir Kay saw the sword, he whisked well it was the sword of the stone. And so he rode to his father's hector, and said, Sir, lo here is the sword of the stone, wherefore I must be king of this land. When Sir Hector beheld the sword, he returned again, and came to the church. And there they alighted all three, and went into the church. And anon he made Sir Kay swear upon a book, how he came to that sword. Sir, said Sir Kay, by my brother Arthur, for he brought it to me. How gatchy this sword! said Sir Hector to Arthur. Sir, I will tell you, when I came home from my brother's sword, I found nobody at home to deliver me his sword. And so I thought my brother Kay should not be swordless. And so I came hither eagerly, and pulled it out of the stone without any pain. Found ye any knights about this sword? said Sir Hector. Nay, said Arthur. Now, said Sir Hector to Arthur, I understand ye must be king of this land. Wherefore I, said Arthur, and for what cause? Sir, said Hector, for God will have it so, for there should never man have drawn out this sword, but he that shall be right wise king of this land. Now let me see whether you can put the sword there as it was, and pull it out again. That is no mastery, said Arthur, and so we put it in the stone. Wherewith all Sir Hector is said to pull out the sword and failed? Chapter 6 Now a say, said Sir Hector unto Sir Kay, and a none he pulled at the sword with all his might, but it would not be. Now shall ye a say, said Sir Hector to Arthur? I will well, said Arthur, and pulled it out easily. And therewith all Sir Hector knelt down to the earth, and Sir Kay. Alas! said Arthur, my own dear father and brother, why kneel ye to me. Nay, nay, my lord Arthur, it is not so. I was never your father, nor of your blood, but I watched well ye of and higher blood than I weaned ye were. And then Sir Hector told him all, how he was betaken him for to nourish him, and by whose commandment, and by Merlin's deliverance. Then Arthur made great dull when he understood that Sir Hector was not his father. Sir, said Hector unto Arthur, will ye be my good and greatest lord when ye are king? Else were I to blame, said Arthur, for ye are the man in the world that I am most beholden to, and my good lady and mother your wife. That as well as her own hath fostered me and kept. And if ever it be God's will that I be king as ye say, ye shall desire of me what I may do, and I shall not fail you. God forbid I should fail you, sir, said Sir Hector. I will ask no more of you, but that ye will make my son your foster-brother, Sir Kay, seneschal of all your lands. That shall be done, said Arthur, and more by the faith of my body, that never man shall have that office but he, while he and I live. Therewithal they went unto the archbishop, and told him how the sword was achieved, and by whom. And on the twelfth day all the barons came thither, and to assay to take the sword, who that would assay. But there are four them all, they might none take it out but Arthur. Wherefore there were many lords wroth, and said it was great shame unto them all and the realm, to be over-governed with a boy of no high-blood-born. And so they fell out at that time, that it was put off till candle-mass, and then all the barons should meet there again. But always the ten nights were ordained to watch the sword night and day. And so they set a pavilion over the stone and the sword, and five always watched. So at candle-mass many more great lords came thither for to have won the sword, but there might none prevail. And right as Arthur did at Christmas he did at candle-mass, and pulled out the sword easily, whereof the barons were sore aggrieved, and put it off in delay till the high feast of Easter. And as Arthur sped before, so did he at Easter. Yet there were some of the great lords had indignation that Arthur should be king, and put it off in a delay till the feast of Pentecost. Then the Archbishop of Canterbury, by Merlin's Providence, let purvey then of the best nights that they might get. And such nights as Uther Pendragon loved best, and most trusted in his days. And such nights were put about Arthur as Sir Boardwin of Britain, Sir Kay, Sir Ulpheus, Sir Brastius. All these, with many others, were always about Arthur day and night, till the feast of Pentecost. Le More d'Artur, Volume 1, by Sir Thomas Mallory Book 1, Chapter 7 to 11 Chapter 7 And at the feast of Pentecost all manner of men is say to pull at the sword that would assay, but none might prevail but Arthur, and pulled it out for all the lords and commons that were there. Wherefore all the commons cried at once, We will have Arthur unto our king, we will put him no more in delay, for we all see that it is God's will that he shall be our king, and who that holdeth against it, we will slay him. And therewithal they kneeled at once, both rich and poor, and cried Arthur mercy, because they had delayed him so long. And Arthur forgave them, and took the sword between both his hands, and offered it upon the altar where the Archbishop was. And so was he made night of the best man that was there. And so anon was the coronation made, and there was he sworn unto his lords and the commons, for to be a true king, to stand with true justice from thence forth the days of this life. Also then he made all the lords that held of the crown to come in, and to do service as they ought to do. And many complaints were made unto Sir Arthur of great wrongs that were done since the death of King Uther, of many lands that were bereaved, lords, knights, ladies, and gentlemen, whereof King Arthur made the lands to be given again, unto them that owned them. When this was done, that the king had established all the countries about London, then he let make Sir K central of England, and Sir Bedouin of Britain was made Constable, and Sir Ulpheus was made Chamberlain, and Sir Brastius was made Warden to wait upon the north from Trent forwards, for it was that time the most party the king's enemies. But within few years after Arthur won all the north, Scotland, and all that were under their obeisance. Also Wales, a part of it, held against Arthur, but he overcame them all as he did the remnant, through the noble prowess of himself and his knights at the round table. Chapter 8 Then the king removed into Wales, and let cry a great feast that it should be holding at Pentecost, after the incarnation of him at the city of Carlyon. Unto the feast came King Lot of Lothian and of Orkney, with five hundred knights with him. Also there came to the feast King Ureons of Gore, with four hundred knights with him. Also there came to that feast King Nentres of Garlott, with seven hundred knights with him. Also there came to the feast the king of Scotland, with six hundred knights with him, and he was but a young man. Also there came to the feast a king that was called the king with the hundred knights, but he and his men were passing well besieged at all points. Also there came the king of Carrados, with five hundred knights. And King Arthur was glad of their coming, for he weaned that all the kings and knights had come for great love, and to have done him worship at his feast. Whereof the king made great joy, and sent the kings and knights great presence. But the kings were to none receive, but rebuked the messenger shamefully, and said they had no joy to receive no gifts of a beardless boy that was come of low blood, and sent him word they would none of his gifts, but that they were come to give him gifts, with hard swords betwixt the neck and the shoulders, and therefore they came thither, so they told to the messengers plainly. For it was great shame to all them to see such a boy to have a rule of so noble a realm as this land was. With this answer the messenger departed, and told to King Arthur this answer. Wherefore, by the advice of his barons, he took him to a strong tower, with five hundred good men with him. And all the kings aforesaid, in a manner, laid a seed to fore him. But King Arthur was well victulated, and within fifteen days there came Merlin among them, into the city of Carlyon. Then all the kings were passing glad of Merlin, and asked him, for what cause is that boy Arthur made your king? Sirs, said Merlin, I shall tell you the cause, for he is King Uther Pendragon's son, born in Wedlock, Gotten on Igrayne, the duke's wife of Tintagel. Then he is a bastard, they all said. Nay, said Merlin, after the death of the duke, more than three hours was Arthur begotten, and thirteen days after King Uther wedded Igrayne, and therefore I prove him he is no bastard. And who sayeth Nay, he shall be king, and overcome all his enemies? And, or he die, he shall be long king of all England, and have under his obsessions Wales, Ireland, and Scotland, and more realms than I will now rehearse. Some of the kings had marveled of Merlin's words, and deemed well that it should be as he said, and some of them laughed him to scorn, as King Lot, and more other called him a witch. But then they were accorded with Merlin, that King Arthur should come out and speak with the kings, and to come safe, and to go safe. Such assurance there was made. So Merlin went unto King Arthur, and told him how he had done, and bade him fear not, but come out boldly, and speak with them, and spare them not, but answer them as their king and chieftain. For ye shall overcome them all, whether they will or nil. Then King Arthur came out of his tower, and had under his gown a jesseront of double mail, and there went with him the Archbishop of Canterbury, and Sir Bedouin of Britain, and Sir Kaye and Sir Brastius. These were the men of most worship that were with him, and when they were met there was no meekness, but stout words on both sides. But always King Arthur answered them, and said he would make them to bow, and he lived. Wherefore they departed with wrath, and King Arthur bade keep them well, and they bade the king keep him well. So the king returned him to the tower again, and armed him and all his knights. What will ye do, said Merlin to the kings? Ye were better fought astint, for ye shall not hear prevail, though ye were ten times so many. Be we well advised to be a feared of a dream-reader, said King Lot? With that Merlin vanished away, and came to King Arthur, and bade him set on them fiercely, and in the meanwhile there were three hundred good men, of the best that were with the kings. They went straight unto King Arthur, and that comforted him greatly. Sir, said Merlin to Arthur, fight not with the sword that ye had by miracle, till that ye see ye go unto the worst, then draw it out and do your best. So, for with all, King Arthur set upon them in their lodging, and Sir Bedouin, Sir Kay, and Sir Brastius slew on the right hand, and on the left hand that it was Marvel. And always King Arthur and horseback laid on with this sword, and did Marvelous deeds of arms, that many of the kings had great joy of his deeds and hardiness. Then King Lot break out on the backside, and the king with the hundred knights, and King Carrados, and set on Arthur fiercely behind him. With that Sir Arthur turned with his knights, and smote behind and before, and ever Sir Arthur was in the foremost press till his horse was slain underneath him. And therewith King Lot smote down King Arthur. With that his four knights received him and set him on horseback. Then he drew his sword its gallaba, but it was so bright in his enemy's eyes that it gave light like thirty torches. And therewith he put them aback, and slew much people. And then the commons of Carlyon arose with clubs and staves, and slew many knights. But all the kings held them together with their knights that were left alive, and so fled and departed. And Merlin came unto Arthur and counseled him to follow them no further. Chapter 10 So after the feast and journey King Arthur drew him unto London, and so by the counsel of Merlin the king let call his barons to counsel. For Merlin had told the king that the six kings that made war upon him would in all haste be a rogue on him and on his lands. Wherefore the king asked counsel at them all. They could know counsel give, but said they were big enough. You say well, said Arthur, I thank you for your good courage, but will you all that love with me speak with Merlin? You know well that he hath done much for me, and he know if many things, and when he is a for you, I would that you prayed him heartily of his best advice. All the barons said they would pray him and desire him. So Merlin was sent for, and fair desired, of all the barons to give them best counsel. I shall say you, said Merlin, I warn you all, your enemies are passing strong for you, and they are good men of arms as be alive, and by this time they have gotten to them four kings more, and a mighty duke. And unless that our king have more chivalry with him, then he may make within the bounds of his own realm, and he fight with them in battle, he shall be overcome and slain. What were best to do in this cause? said all the barons. I shall tell you, said Merlin, my advice, there are two brethren beyond the sea, and they be kings both, and marvellous good men of their hands, and that one height king ban of Benwick, and that other height king boars of Gaul, that is France. And on these two kings wareth a mighty man of men, the king Claudas, and striveth with them for a castle, and great war is betwixt them. But this Claudas is so mighty of goods, whereof he geteth good knights, that he puteth these two kings most part to the worse. Wherefore this is my counsel, that our king and sovereign lord send unto the kings ban and boars by two trusty knights, with letters well devised, that and they will come and see king Arthur and his court, and so help him in his wars, that he will be sworn unto them to help them in their wars against king Claudas. Now what say ye unto this counsel? said Merlin. This is well counseled, said the king and all the barons. Right so in all haste there was ordain to go two nights on the message unto the two kings. So were there made letters in the pleasant wise according unto king Arthur's desire. Alpheus and Brastius were made the messengers, and so rode forth well-horst and well-armed, and as the guise was that time, and so passed the sea and rode toward the city of Benwick. And there besides were eight knights that despised them, and at a straight passage they met with Alpheus and Brastius, and would have taken them prisoners, so they prayed them that they might pass, for they were messengers unto king Ban and Boars, sent from king Arthur. Therefore, said the eight knights, ye shall die or be prisoners, for we be knights of king Claudas. And therewith two of them dressed their spears, and Alpheus and Brastius dressed their spears, and ran together with great random. And Claudas's knights break their spears, and theirs to held and bear the two knights out of their saddles to the earth, and so left them lying and rode their ways. And the other six knights rode a four to a passage to meet with them again, and so Alpheus and Brastius smote other two down, and so passed on their ways. And as the fourth passage there met two for two, and both were laid unto the earth. So there was none of the eight knights, but he was sore, hurt, or bruised. And when they came to Benwick, it fortune'd they were both kings, Ban and Boars, and when it was told that kings, that there were come messengers, they were sent unto them two knights of worship. The one Hytlionsis, Lord of the country of Pion, and Seferians, a worshipful knight. Anon they asked from whence they came, and they said from King Arthur, King of England. So they took them in their arms, and made great joy each of other. But Anon, as the two kings whisked they were messengers of Arthur's, there was made notarying, but forthwith they spake with the knights, and welcomed them in the faithfulest wise, and said they were most welcome unto them before all the kings living. And therewith they kissed the letters, and delivered them. And when Ban and Boars understood the letters, then they were more welcome than they were before. And after the haste of the letters, they gave them this answer, that they would fulfil the desire of King Arthur's writing, and Ulfias and Brastius tarry there as long as they would. They should have such cheer as might be made them in those marches. Then Ulfias and Brastius told the kings of the adventure at their passages of the eight nights. Ha-ah! said Ban and Boars. They were my good friends. A word I had wished of them. They should not have escaped so. So Ulfias and Brastius had good cheer and great gifts, as much as they might bear away. And had their answer by mouth and by writing, that these two kings would come unto Arthur in all the haste that they might. So the two knights rode on a four, and passed the sea, and came to their lord, and told him how they had sped, whereof King Arthur was passing glad. At what time suppose ye the two kings will be here? Sir said they, a four all hallow mass. Then the king let purveye for a great feast, and let a cry of great jousts. And by all hallow mass the two kings will come over the sea with three hundred knights, well arrayed both for the peace and for the war. And King Arthur met with them ten miles out of London, and there was great joy as could be thought or made. And on all hallow mass at the great feast, sat in the hall the three kings, and Sir K. Central served in the hall. And Sir Lucas the butler, that was Duke Cornis's son. And Sir Grifflett, that was the son of Cardle. These three knights had the rule of all the service that served the kings. And anon, as they had washed and risen, all knights that would joust made them ready. By then they were ready on horseback there were seven hundred knights. And Arthur, Ban, and Bors, with the Archbishop of Canterbury, and Sir Ector, K's father. They were in a place covered with cloth of gold like an hall, with ladies and gentle-women, for to behold who did best, and thereon to give judgment. CHAPTER XI And King Arthur and the two kings let depart the seven hundred knights in two parties. And there were three hundred knights of the realm of Benwick, and of Gaul turned on the other side. Then they dressed their shields, and began to couch their spears many good knights. Sir Grifflett was the first that met with the knight. One landerness. And they met so eagerly that all men had wonder, and they so fought that their shields fell to pieces, and horse and man fell to the earth. And both the French knight and the English knight lay so long that all men weaned they had been dead. When Lucas the butler saw Grifflett so lie, he hoarsed him again and on, and they too did marvellous deeds of arms with many bachelors. Also Sir K came out of an ambushment, with five knights with him, and they six smote other six down. But Sir K did that day marvellous deeds of arms. That there was none did so well as he that day. Then they came landerness and grassian. Two knights of France, and did pass in well that all men praised them. Then came their Sir Placidus a good knight, and met with Sir K, and smote him down horse and man. Wherefore Sir Grifflett was wroth, and met with Sir Placidus so hard, that horse and man fell to the earth. But when the five knights whisked that Sir K had a fall, they were wroth out of wit, and therewith each of them five bear down a knight. When King Arthur and the two kings saw them begin to wax wroth on both parties, they leapt on small hackneys, and let cry that all men should depart onto their lodging. And so they went home and unarmed them, and so to even song and supper. And after the three kings went into a garden, and gave the prize unto Sir K, and to Lucas the butler, and unto Sir Grifflett. And then they went under council, and with them Grenbaus, the brother unto Sir Ban and Bors, a wise clerk. And thither went Ulfias and Brastius and Merlin, and after they had been in council they went unto bed. And on the mourn they heard Mass, and to dinner, and so to their council, and made many arguments what were best to do. At the last they were concluded, that Merlin should go with a token of King Ban, and that was a ring. Unto his men, and King Bors and Gracian and Placidus, should go again, and keep their castles and their countries. As for Dread of King Claudus, King Ban of Benwick, and King Bors of Gaul had ordained them. And so past the seaing came to Benwick. And when the people saw King Ban's ring, and Gracian and Placidus, they were glad, and asked how the kings fared, and made great joy of their welfare and courting. And according unto the sovereign Lord's desire, the men of war made them ready in all haste possible. So that they were fifteen thousand on horse and foot, and they had great plenty of victual with them, by Merlin's provision. But Gracian and Placidus were left to furnish and garnish the castles, for Dread of King Claudus. Right so Merlin passed the sea, well victualed both by water and by land, and when he came to the sea he sent home the footmen again, and took no more with him but ten thousand men on horseback. The most part men of arms, and so shipped and passed the sea into England, and landed at Dofer. And through the wit of Merlin he had the host Northwood, the privetous way that could be thought, unto the forest of Beddygrain, and there in a valley he lodged them secretly. Then rode Merlin unto Arthur and the two kings, and told them how he had sped. Whereof they had great marvel, that man on earth might speed so soon and go and come. So Merlin told them ten thousand were in the forest of Beddygrain, well armed at all points. Then was there no more to say. But to horseback went all the host as Arthur had a four pervade. So with twenty thousand he passed by night and day. But there was made such an ordinance of four by Merlin, that there should no man of war ride, nor go in no country on this side Trentwater. But if he had a token from King Arthur, where through the king's enemies didst not ride as they did, to four to a spy. Chapter 12 And so within a little space the three kings came unto the castle of Beddygrain, and found there a passing fair fellowship, and well be seen whereof they had great joy. and victual they wanted none. This was the cause of the northern post, that they were reared for the despite and rebuke the six kings had at Carlyon, and those six kings by their names, get unto them five other kings, and thus they began to gather their people. And now they swear that for wheel nor woe they should not leave other, till they had destroyed Arthur. And then they made an oath. The first that began the oath was a duke of cabinet, that he would bring with him five thousand men of arms, the which were ready on horseback. Then swear King Brandegorus of Strangor, that he would bring five thousand men of arms on horseback. Then swear King Clarence of Northumberland, he would bring three thousand men of arms. And swear the king of the hundred knights, that was a passing good man on a young, that he would bring four thousand men of arms on horseback. Then there swore King Lott, a passing good knight, and Ser Gawain's father, that he would bring five thousand men of arms on horseback. Also there swore King Uriens, that was the Wain's father of the land of Gore, and he would bring six thousand men of arms on horseback. And also there swore King Idres of Cornwall, that he would bring five thousand men of arms on horseback. And there swore King Crudelmas, to bring five thousand men on horseback. Also there swore King Aquasens of Ireland, to bring five thousand men of arms on horseback. Also there swore King Nentris, to bring five thousand men of arms on horseback. Also there swore King Carados, to bring five thousand men of arms on horseback. So their whole host was a clean man of arms on horseback fifty thousand, and a foot ten thousand of good men's bodies. Then were they soon ready and mounted upon horse and sent forth their four riders. For these elven kings in their ways laid a siege unto the castle of Betagraine, and so they departed and drew toward Arthur, and left few to abide at the siege, for the castle of Betagraine was holding of King Arthur, and the men that were therein were Arthurs. CHAPTER XIII So by Merlin's advice there were sent four riders to skim the country, and they met with the four riders of the north, and made them to tell which way the host came. And then they told it to Arthur, and by King Bannon Boris's council, they let burn and destroy all the country for them, there they should ride. The king with the hundred knights met a wonder dream two nights before the battle, that there blew a great wind, and blew down their castles and their towns. And after that came a watcher and bare it all away. All that heard of the seven said it was a token of a great battle. Then by council of Merlin, when they whisked which way the elven kings would ride and lodge that night, at midnight they set upon them as they were in their pavilions. But the scout watched by their host cried, Lords at arms for here be your enemies at your hand. CHAPTER XIV Then King Arthur and King Bannon and King Boris, with their good and trusty knights, set on them so fiercely that they made them overthrow their pavilions on their heads. But the elven kings by many prowess of arms took a fair campaign, but there was slain that moral tide ten thousand good men's bodies, and so they had afford them a strong passage. Yet were they fifty thousand of hardy men, then it drew toward day, now shall ye do by mine advice, said Merlin, unto the three kings. I would that King Bannon and King Boris, with their fellowship of ten thousand men, were put in a wood here beside, in an ambushment, and keep them privy, and that they be laid, or the light of the day come, and that they stir not till ye and your knights have fought with them long, and when it is daylight, dress your battle even before them in the passage, that they may see all your host, for then will they be the more hardy, when they see you but about twenty thousand men, and cause them to be the gladder to suffer you and your host to come over the passage. All the three kings and the whole baron said that Merlin said passingly well, and it was done anon as Merlin had devised, so on the morn when either host saw other, the host of the north was well comforted. Then to Ophius and Brastius were delivered three thousand men of arms, and they set on them fiercely in the passage, and slew on the right hand, and on the left hand that it was wonder to tell. When that the eleven kings saw that there was so few fellowship did such deeds of arms, they were shamed and set on them again fiercely, and there was so Ophius's horse slain under him, but he did marvelously well on foot, but the duke of Eustace of Cambinet and King Clarence of Northumberland were always grievous and Ophius, then Brastius saw his fellow fared so with all he smote the duke with the spear, that horse and man fell down, that saw King Clarence and returned on to Brastius, and either smote other so that horse and man went to earth, and so they lay long astonied and their horses knees brassed to the hard bone. Then came Sir Kay the Seneschal, with six fellows with him, and did passing well. With that came the elven kings and there was Grifflet put to the earth horse and man, and Lucas the butler horse and man, by King Brandagoras and King Idrass and King Aquisans, then waxed the medley passing hard on both parties, when Sir Kay saw Grifflet on foot he rode on King Nentris and smote him down, and led his horse on to Sir Grafflet and horse him again. Also Sir Kay with the same spear smote down King Lot and heard him passing sore, that saw the king with the hundred knights and ran on to Sir Kay and smote him down, and took his horse and gave him King Lot, whereof he said Gramercy, when Sir Grifflet saw Sir Kay and Lucas the butler on foot he took a sharp spear great in square, and rode to Penel a good man of arms and smote horse and man down, and then he took his horse and gave him unto Sir Kay. Then King Lot saw King Nentris on foot, he ran unto him a lot de la Roche, and smote him down horse and man and gave King Nentris the horse, and horse to him again. Also the king of the hundred knights saw King Idris on foot, then he ran unto Guignard de Bloy and smote him down horse and man, and gave King Idris the horse, and horse to him again, and King Lot smote down Clarence de la Flore Savage, and gave the horse unto Duke Eustace, and so when they had horse the kings again they drew them all eleven kings together, and said they would be revenge of the damage they had taken that day. The meanwhile came in Sir Ector with an eager countenance, and found Olpheus and Brostius on foot in great peril of death, that were foul defoiled under horse feet. Then Arthur as a lion ran into King Cradlement of North Wales, and smote him to the left side, that the horse and the king fell down, and then he took the horse by the rain, and let him unto Olpheus, and said, Have this horse, my old friend, for a great need has thou of horse. Gramercy said Olpheus, then Sir Arthur did so marvelously in arms, that all men had wonder. When the king with the hundred knights saw King Cradlement on foot, he ran into Sir Ector that was well-horst, Sir Kay's father, and smote horse and man down, and gave the horse unto the king and horse to him again, and when King Arthur saw the king ride on Sir Ector's horse, he was wroth, and with his sword he smote the king on the helm, that a quarter of the helm and shield fell down, and so the sword carved down unto the horse's neck, and so the king and the horse fell down to the ground. Then Sir Kay came unto Sir Morgan, or Senneschal, with the king of the hundred knights, and smote him down, horse and man, and led the horse unto his father. Sir Ector, then Sir Ector ran unto a knight, hiked lardens, and smote horse and man down, and led the horse unto Sir Brostius, that great need have in a horse, and was greatly defoiled, when Brostius beheld Lucas the butler that lay like a dead man under the horse's feet, and ever Sir Grafflett did marvelously for to rescue him, and there were always fourteen knights on Sir Lucas, then Brostius smote one of them on the helm, then it went to the teeth and he rode to another, and smote him, that the arm flew unto the field, then he went to the third and smote him on the shoulder, that shoulder and arm flew into the field, and when Grifflett saw rescues, he smote a knight on the temples, that head and helm went to earth, and Grifflett took the horse of that knight, and led him unto Sir Lucas, and bade him mount upon the horse in revenge's hurts, for Brostius had slain a knight to four and horse Grifflett. Chapter 15. Then Lucas saw King Aquasens, the late had slain Morris de La Roche, and Lucas ran to him with a short spear that was great, that he gave him such a fall that the horse fell down to the earth. Also Lucas found there on foot Bloas de la Flandre, and Sir Gwynas, two hardy knights, and in that woodness that Lucas was in, he slew two bachelors and horse them again, then waxed the battle passing hard on both parties, but Arthur was glad that his knights were horse again, and then they fought together, that the noise and sound rang by the water in the wood, wherefore King Bane and King Bors made them ready and dressed their shields and harness, and they were so courageous that many knights shook him, beavered for eagerness. All this while Lucas and Gwynas and Bryant, and Bellius of Flanders, held strong medley against six kings that was King Lot, King Nentris, King Brandagoras, King Addressed, King Urennes, and King Aquasens. So with the help of Sir Cain of Sir Grifflett, they held these six kings hard, that underneath they had any power to defend them, but when Sir Arthur saw the battle would not be ended by no manner, he fared wood as a line and steered his horse here and there, on the right hand and on the left hand, that he stinted not till he had slain twenty knights. Also he wounded King Lot's sore on the shoulder, and made him to leave that ground, for Sir Cain Grifflett did with King Arthur their great deeds of arms. Then Ophius, Ambrositius, and Sir actor, encountered against the Duke Eustis, and King Crattlement, and King Clarence of North Umberlin, and King Kratos, and against the king with the hundred knights. So these knights encountered with these kings, that they made them to avoid the ground, then King Lot made great duel for his damages, and his fellows and said unto the ten kings. But if you will do as I devise, we shall be slain and destroyed. Let me have the king with the hundred knights and King Aquasens, and King Edress, and the Duke of Cambenet, and we five kings will have fifteen thousand men of arms with us, and we will go apart while ye six kings hold medley with twelve thousand, and we see that ye have fought with them long, then will we come on fiercely, and else shall we never match them, said King Lot, but by this mean. So they departed as they were devised, and six kings made their party strong against Arthur, and made great war long. In the meanwhile break the ambush of King Bran and King Bors, and Lyons and Faryons had the vanguard, and they two knights met with King Edress and his fellowship, and there began a great medley of breaking of spears and smiting of swords, with slaying of men and horses, and King Edress was near at discomforture. That saw Aquasens the king and put Leonises and Faryons in points of death. For the Duke of Cambenet came on with all with a great fellowship, so these two knights were in great danger of their lives, that they were feigned to return. But always they rescued themselves and their fellowship marvelously, when King Bors saw those knights put aback, aggrieved him sore. Then he came on so fast that his fellowship seemed as black as ind. When King Lot had aspired King Bors, he knew him well. Then he said, oh Jesse defend us from death and horrible maims, for I see well we be in great peril of death. For I see Yondura King one of the most worshipfulest men, and one of the best knights of the world, is inclined unto his fellowship. What is he, said the king with a hundred knights? It is, said King Lot. King Bors of Gaul, I marvel how they came into this country without witting of us all. It was by Merlin's advice, said the knight. As for him, said King Carados, I will encounter with King Bors, and you will rescue me when Mr. is. Go on, said they all, we will do all that we may. Then King Carados and his host rode on a soft pace, till that they came as nigh King Bors as bow-draught. Then either battle let their horse run as fast as they might, and Bleo beareth that was God's son unto King Bors. He beareth his chief standard that he was passing good night. Now shall we see, say King Bors, how these northern Britons can bear the arms? And King Bors encountered with the knight, and smote him throughout with the spear, that he fell dead unto the earth, and after drew his sword, and did marvelous deeds of arms. That all parties had great wonder thereof, and as the knights failed not, but did their part, and King Carados was smitten to the earth. When that came the king with a hundred knights, and rescued King Carados, muchly by force of arms, for he was a passing good night of a king, and but a young man. CHAPTER XVI By then came unto the field King Bann as fiercely as a lion, with bonds of green and therapon gold. Ha-ha! said King Lot. We must be discomfited, for yonder I see the most valiant knight of the world, and the man of the most renowned, for such two brethren as King Bann and King Bors are not living. Wherefore we must needs void or die, and but if we avoid manly and wisely there, is but death. When King Bann came into the battle, he came in so fiercely that the strokes were bound again from the wood and the water. Wherefore King Lot wept for pity and dull, that he saw so many good knights take their end. But through the great force of King Bann, they made both the northern battles that were departed hurled together for great dread, and the three kings and their knights slew on ever, that it was pity unto behold that multitude of the people that fled. But King Lot and King of the Hundred Knights and King Morgannor gathered the people together passing nightly, and a great prowess of arms and held the battle all that day like hard. When the King of the Hundred Knights beheld the great damage that King Bann did, he thrust unto him with his horse and smote him on high upon the helm. A great stroke and a stonyed him soar, then King Bann was wrought with him and followed him fiercely. The other saw that and cast upon his shield and spurred his horse forward. But the stroke of King Bann fell down and carved a cantile off the shield, and the sword slid down by the herbric behind his back, and cut through the trapping of steel and the horse even in two pieces, that the sword fell the earth. Then the King of the Hundred Knights voided the horse lightly, and with his sword he broached the horse of King Bann through and through. With that King Bann voided lightly from the dead horse, and then King Bann smote that the other so eagerly and smote him on the helm that he fell to the earth. As when that ear he fell the King Morgannor. And there was a great slaughter of good knights and much people. But then came into the press King Arthur and found King Bann standing among dead men and dead horses, fighting on foot as a wood lion, that there came none nigh him. As far as he might reach with his sword. But he caught a grievous buffet, whereas King Arthur had great pity. And Arthur was so bloody that by his shield there might no man know him, for all was blood and brains in his sword. And as Arthur looked by him he saw a knight that was passingly well horsed. And there was Sir Arthur ran to him and smote him on the helm, that his sword went into his teeth, and the knight sank down to the earth dead. For I trust in God, mine ear is not such, but done of some made sword, repent this. I will well, said Arthur, for I see your deeds full actual, nevertheless, I might not come at you at that time. Arthur took the horse by the rain and led him on to King Bann, and said, Fair brother, have this horse, for he have great mister thereof. And me repent the sword of your great damage. It shall be soon revenge, said King Bann, for I trust in God, mine ear is not such, but some of them made sword, repent this. I will well, said Arthur, for I see your deeds full actual, nevertheless, I might not come at you at that time. But when King Bann was mounted on horseback, then there began a new battle, that which was sore and hard and passing great slaughter. And so through great force King Arthur, King Bann, and King Bores made their knights little tubes draw them. But all way the eleven kings with their chivalry never turned back, and so withdrew them to a little wood, and so over a little river, and there they rested them, for on the night they might have no rest on the field. But when the elven kings and knights put them on a heap all together, as men had dreaded an out of all comfort, but there was no man might pass them. They held them so hard together, both behind and before, that King Arthur had marveled of their deeds of arms, and was passing Ah, Sir Arthur, said King Bann and King Bores, blame them not, for they do so as good men ought to do. For by my face, said King Bann, they are the best fighting men and knights of most prowess, that ever I saw or heard speak of, and those elven kings are men of great worship. And if they were longing unto you, there were no king under the heaven, had such elven knights enough such worship. I may not love them, said Arthur, they would destroy me. That what we well, said King Bann and King Bores, for they are your mortal enemies, and that hath been proved beforehand, and this day they have done their part, and that is great pity of their willfulness. Then all the elven kings drew them together, and then, said King Lot, lords, you must other ways than you do, or else the great loss is behind. You may see what people we have lost, and what good men we lose, because we wait always on these footmen, and ever in heaving of one of the footmen we lose ten horsemen for him. Therefore, this is my advice, let us put our footmen from us, for it is near night, for the noble Arthur will not tarry on the footmen, but they may save themselves, the wood is near hand. And when we horsemen be together, look every each of you kings, let make such ordinance that none break upon pain of death. And who that seeeth any man dress him to flee, lightly that he be slain, for it is better that we slay a coward, than through a coward all we to be slain. How say ye, said King Lot, answer me all ye kings. It is well said, quote King Dantris. So said the king of the hundred knights, the same said the king of Caradose, and king Uryans, so did king Idrass, and king Brandagoras, and so did king Crattlement, and the Duke of Cabinet. The same said king Clarence, and king Aquisans, and swear they would never fail other neither for life nor death. And who so that fled, but did as they did, should be slain? Then they amended their harness, and righted their shields, and took new spears and set them on their thighs, and stood still as it had been a plump of wood. End of Book 1, chapters 12 to 16. Book 1, Chapter 17, Volume 1 of Le Morte d'Arthur. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information, or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Writing by Catherine Fitts. Le Morte d'Arthur. Volume 1 by Sir Thomas Mallory. Book 1, Chapter 17. When Sir Arthur, and King Ban, and Bors, beheld them, and all their knights, they praised them much for their noble cheer of chivalry, for the hardiest fighters that they ever heard or saw. With that, they addressed them of forty noble knights, and said unto the three kings that they would break their battle. These were their names. Leonesses, Fariens, Wolfias, Brastius, Hector, K, Lucas the Butler, Grifflay, Lefles de Dieu, Mariette de Le Roche, Guynas de Blois, Briand de la Foreste Sauvage, Bellius, Maureens of the Castle Maidens, Flanagrius of the Castle of Ladies, Annesians that was King Bors Godson, a noble knight, Ladinas de la Rousse, Amaraus, Caulis, Graciennes le Castelaine, one Blois de la Casse, and Sir Col Grivance de Gore. All these knights rode on a four with spears on their thighs, and spurred their horses mightily as the horses might run. And the eleven kings, with part of their knights, rushed with their horses as fast as they might with their spears, and there they did on both parties marvelous deeds of arms. So came into the thick of the press Arthur, Ban and Bors, and slew down right on both hands, that their horses went in blood up to the Fetlocks. But ever the eleven kings and their host was ever in the visage of Arthur, wherefore Ban and Bors had great marvel, considering the great slaughter that there was, but at last they were driven aback over a little river. With that came Merlin on a great black horse, and said unto Arthur, Thou hast never done. Hast thou not done enough? Of three score a thousand this day hast thou left alive but fifteen thousand, and it is time to say ho. For God is wroth with thee, that thou wilt never have done. For yonder eleven kings at this time will not be overthrown. But, and thou tarry on them any longer, thy fortune will turn, and they shall increase. And therefore withdraw you unto your lodging, and rest you as soon as he may, and reward your good nights with gold and with silver, for they have well deserved it. There may no riches be too dear for them, for of so few men as ye have, there were never men did more prowess than they have done to-day, for ye have matched this day with the best fighters of the world. That is truth, said King Ban and Bors. Also said Merlin, withdraw you where ye list, for this three year I dare unto take they shall not dare you, and by then ye shall hear new tidings. And then Merlin said unto Arthur these eleven kings have more on hand than they are aware of, for the Saracens are landed in their countries, more than forty thousand, that burn and slay, and have laid siege at the Castle Wandsboro, and make great destruction. Therefore dread you not these three year. Also, sir, all the goods that be gotten at this battle, let it be searched, and when ye have it in their hands, let it be freely given until these two kings, Ban and Bors, that they may reward their knights withal, and that shall cause strangers to be of better will to do you service at need. Also, ye be able to reward your own knights of your own goods whensoever it likeeth you. It is well said, quote Arthur, and ask thou hast devised, so shall it be done. When it was delivered to Ban and Bors, they gave the goods as freely to their knights as freely as it was given to them. Then Merlin took his leave of Arthur and of the two kings, for to go and see his master, Blaise, that dwelt in Northumberland, and so he departed and came to his master, that was passing glad of his coming, and there he told how Arthur and the two kings had sped at the great battle, and how it was ended, and told the names of every king and knight of worship that was there. And so Blaise wrote the battle word by word, as Merlin told him, how it began, and by whom, and in likewise how it was ended, and who had the worse. All the battles that were done in Arthur's days Merlin did his master, Blaise, do right. Also he did do right all the battles that every worthy knight did of Arthur's court. After this Merlin departed from his master and came to King Arthur, that was in the castle of Betagrain, that was one of the castles that stand in the forest of Sherwood. And Merlin was so disguised that Arthur knew him not, for he was all beferred in black sheepskins, and a great pair of boots, and a bow and arrows in a russet gown, and brought wild geese in his hand, and it was on the morn after Candlemas Day. But King Arthur knew him not. Sir, said Merlin, unto the king, will you give me a gift? Wherefore, said King Arthur, should I give thee a gift, churl? Sir, said Merlin, ye were better to give me a gift that is not in your hand than to lose great riches, for here in the same place where the great battle was is great treasure hid in the earth. Who told thee, sir, churl? said Arthur. Merlin told me so, said he. Then Ulpheus and Brastius knew him well enough and smiled. Sir, said these two knights, it is Merlin that speak of so, unto you. Then King Arthur was greatly abashed, and had marvel of Merlin, and so had King Ban and King Bors, and so they had great desported him. So, in the meanwhile, there came a Damocel that was an Earl's daughter. His name was Sanum, and her name was Leonors, a passing fair Damocel. And she came thither for to do homage, as other lords did, after the great battle. And King Arthur set his love greatly upon her, and so did she upon him, and the king had to do with her and get on her a child. His name was Bohr, that was after a good night, and of the table round. Then there came word that the King Rance of North Wales made great war on King Lyodigrants of Cameliard. For the witch thing Arthur was wroth, for he loved him well, and hated King Rance, for he was all way against him. So, by ordinance of the three kings that were sent home unto Benwick, all they would depart for dread of King Claudus, and Fariens, and Antimus, and Gratian, and Leonisus of Parin, with the leaders of those that should keep the king's land. And then King Arthur, and King Ban, and King Bohr's departed with their fellowship, a thirty thousand, and came within six days into the country of Cameliard, and there rescued King Lyodigrants, and slew there much people of King Rance, unto the number of ten thousand men, and put him to flight. And then had these three kings great cheer of King Lyodigrants, that thanked them of their great goodness, that they would revenge him of his enemies. And there had Arthur the first sight of Guinevere, the king's daughter of Cameliard, and ever after he loved her. After they were wedded, as it telleth in the book. So briefly to make an end, they took their leave to go into their own countries, for King Claudus did great destruction on their lands. Then said Arthur, I will go with you. Nay said the kings, ye shall not at this time, for ye have much to do yet in these lands. Therefore we will depart, and with the great goods that we have gotten in these lands by your gifts, we shall wage good nights, and withstand the King Claudus malice, for by the grace of God, and we have need we will send to you for your sucker. And if ye have need send to us, and we will not tarry, by the faith of our bodies. It shall not, said Merlin, need that these two kings come again in the way of war. But I know well King Arthur may not belong from you, for within a year or two ye shall have great need, and then shall he revenge you on your enemies, as ye have done on his. For these eleven kings shall die all in a day by the great might and prowess of arms of two valiant knights, as it telleth after. Their names be Balan the Savage and Balan his brother, that be marvelous good nights as any living. Now turn we to the eleven kings that returned unto a city that hights or out, the which city was within King Ureans, and there they refreshed them as well as they might, and made leeches search their wounds, and sorrowed greatly for the death of their people. With that there came a messenger, and told how there was come into their lands people that were lawless as well as Saracens, of forty thousand, and have burnt and slain all the people that they may come by, without mercy, and have laid siege on the castle of Wandsboro. Alas, said the eleven kings, here is sorrow upon sorrow, and if we had not warred against Arthur as we have done, he would soon revenge us. As for King Leodigrance, he loveth Arthur better than us, and as for King Reans he hath enough to do with Leodigrance, for he hath laid siege unto him. So they consented together to keep all the marches of Cornwall, of Wales, and of the North. So first they put King Idris in the city of Nontus in Britain, with four thousand men of arms, to watch both the water and the land. Also they put in the city of Windeson, King Nentris of Garlow, with four thousand knights to watch both water and on land. Also they had of other men of war more than eight thousand, for to fortify all the fortresses in the marches of Cornwall. Also they put more knights in all the marches of Wales and Scotland, with many good men of arms, and so they kept them together the space of three year, and ever allied them with mighty kings and dukes and lords, and to them fell King Reans of North Wales, the witch and Nero that was a mighty man of men. And all this while they furnished them and garnished them of good men of arms and victual, and of all matter of habillment that pretendeth to the war, to avenge them for the battle of Betagraine, as it telleth in the book of the adventures following. CHAPTER XIX Then after the departing of King Bors and King Ban, King Arthur rode into Carlyone, and thither came to him King Lot's wife of Orkney, in manner of a message, but she was sent thither to espy the court of King Arthur, and she came richly be seen, with her four sons, Gawain, Geharus, Agriven, and Gareth, with many other knights and ladies. For she was a passing fair lady, therefore the king cast great love unto her, and desired to lie with her. So they were agreed, and he begat upon her Mordred, and she was his sister on his mother's side, Agriene. So there she rested her a month, and at the last departed. Then the king dreamed a marvellous dream, whereof he was sore adred. But all this time King Arthur knew not that King Lot's wife was his sister. Thus was the dream of Arthur. Him thought there was come unto this land griffins and serpents, and him thought they burnt and slew all the people in the land, and then him thought he thought with them, and they did him passing great harm, and wounded him full sore. But at the last he slew them. When the king awaked he was passing heavy of his dream, and so to put it out of thoughts he made him ready with many nights to ride hunting. As soon as he was in the forest the king saw a great heart before him. This heart I will chase, said King Arthur, and so he spurred the horse and rode after long, and so by fine force oft he was like to have smitten the heart, whereas the king had chased the heart so long that his horse lost his breath and fell down dead. Then a yeoman fetched the king another horse. So the king saw the heart and bushed, and his horse dead he set him down by a fountain, and there he fell in great thoughts. And as he sat so him thought he heard a noise of hounds to the sum of thirty. And with that the king saw coming toward him the strangest beast that he ever saw or heard of. So the beast went to the well and drank, and the noise was in the beast's belly, like unto the questing of thirty couple hounds. But all the while the beast drank there was no noise in the beast's belly. And there with the beast departed with a great noise, whereof the king had great marvel. And so he was in a great thought, and therewith he fell asleep. Right so there came a night afoot unto Arthur and said, Night full of thought and sleepy, tell me if thou sawest a strange beast pass this way. Such one saw, I said, King Arthur, that is past two mile. What would ye with the beast, said Arthur? Sir, I have followed that beast long time, and killed mine horse, so I would God I had another to follow my quest. Right so came one with the king's horse, and when the night saw the horse he prayed the king to give him the horse, for I have followed this quest this twelve month, and either I shall achieve him, or bleed of the best blood of my body. Pelinor, that time king, followed the questing beast, and after his death Sir Palomedis followed it. CHAPTER XX Sir Night said the king, leave that quest, and suffer me to have it, and I will follow it another twelve month. Ah, fool! said the night unto Arthur, it is in vain thy desire, for it shall never be achieved but by me, or by my next kin. Therewith he started unto the king's horse, and mounted unto the saddle, and said, Gramercy, this horse is my own. Well, said the king, thou mayest take my horse by force, but and I might prove thee whether thou art better on horseback or I. Well, said the night, seek me here when thou wilt, and here nigh this well thou shalt find me, and so passed on his way. Then the king sat in his study, and bade his men fetch his horse as fast as ever they might. Right so came by him Merlin, like a child of fourteen years of age, and saluted the king, and asked him why he was so pensive. I may well be pensive, said the king, for I have seen the marvellous sight that I ever saw. That I know well, said Merlin, as well as thyself and of all thy thoughts, but thou art a fool to take thought, for it will not amend thee. Also I know what thou art, and who was thy father, and of whom thou art begotten, king Uther Pendragon was thy father, and begat thee on a grain. That is false, said King Arthur. How shouldest thou know it, for thou art not so old of years to know my father? Yes, said Merlin, I know it better than ye or any man living. I will not believe thee, said Arthur, and was so wroth with the child. So departed Merlin, and came again in the likeness of an old man of forescore a year of age. Whereof the king was right glad, for he seemed to be right wise. Then said the old man, why are ye so sad? I may well be heavy, said Arthur, for many things. Also here was a child, and he told me many things that may seemeth he should not know, for he was not of age to know my father. Yes, said the old man, the child told you truth, and more he would have told you and you would have suffered him. But ye have done a thing late that God is displeased with you, for ye have lain by your sister, and on her ye have gotten a child that shall destroy you and all the nights of your realm. What are ye, said Arthur, that tell me these tidings? I am Merlin, and I was he in the child's likeness. Ah, said King Arthur, ye are a marvellous man, but I marvel much of thy words that I must die in battle. Marvel not, said Merlin, for it is God's will your body to be punished for your foul deeds. But I may well be sorry, said Merlin, for I shall die a shameful death to be put in the earth quick, and ye shall die a worshipful death. And as they talked this, came one of the king's horse, and the king mounted on his horse, and Merlin on another, and so rode on to Carlion. And then on the king asked Ector and Ulpheus how he was begotten, and they told him, with her pen-dragon was his father, and Queen E'guain his mother. Then he said to Merlin, I will that my mother be sent for, that I may speak with her, and if she say so herself, then I will believe it. In all haste the Queen was sent for, and she came and brought with her Morgan Le Fay, her daughter, that was as fair a lady as any might be, and the king welcomed E'guain in the best manner. CHAPTER XXI Right so came Ulpheus, and said openly that the king and all might hear that were feasted that day. Ye are the falsest lady of the world, and the most treacherous under the king's person. Beware, said Arthur, what thou sayest, thou speakest a great word. I am well aware, said Ulpheus, what I speak, and here is my glove to prove it upon any man that will say the contrary, that this Queen E'guain is causer of your great damage, and of your great war. For, and she would have uttered it in the life of King Uther Pendragon, of the birth of you, and how ye were begotten, ye had never had the mortal wards that ye have had. For the most part of your barons of your realm knew never whose son you were, nor of whom you were begotten, and she that bear you of her body should have made it known openly in excusing of her worship and yours, and in likewise to all the realm, wherefore I prove her false to God and to you and to all your realm, and who will say the contrary I will prove it on his body. Then spake E'guain, and said, I am a woman, and I may not fight, but rather than I should be dishonored, there would some good man take my quarrel. More, she said, Merlin, knoweth well, and ye bless her, Ulpheus, how King Uther came to me in the castle of Tintagal, in the likeness of my lord, that was dead three hours to four, and thereby get a child that night upon me. And after the thirteenth day King Uther wedded me, and by his commandment when the child was born it was delivered unto Merlin, and nourished by him, and so I saw the child never after, nor what not what his name, for I never knew him yet. And therefore Ulpheus said to the queen, Merlin is more to blame than ye. Well I wot, said the queen, I bear a child by my lord King Uther, but I wot not where he has become. Then Merlin took the king by the hand, saying, This is your mother. And therewith Sir Ector bear witness how he nourished him by Uther's commandment. And therewith King Arthur took his mother, Queen E'guain, in his arms, and kissed her, and either wept upon Uther. And then the king let make a feast, that lasted eight days. Then on a day there came in the court a squire on horseback, leading a night before him wounded to the death, and told him how there was a night in the forest had reared up a pavilion by a well, and hath slain my master a good night, his name was Myles. Wherefore I beseech you that my master may be buried, and that some night may revenge my master's death. Then the noise was great of that night's death in the court, and every man said his advice. Then came Grifflet that was but a squire, and he was but young, of the age of the King Arthur, so he besought the king for all his service that he had done him to give the order of knighthood. CHAPTER 17 THROUGH 21 CHAPTER 22-27 CHAPTER 22 CHAPTER 23-24 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 23-24 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 24-25 CHAPTER 25 CHAPTER 25 CHAPTER 25 CHAPTER 25 CHAPTER 25 CHAPTER 25 CHAPTER 25 CHAPTER 25 CHAPTER 25 CHAPTER 26 CHAPTER 27 CHAPTER 27 CHAPTER 27 CHAPTER 27 CHAPTER 27 CHAPTER 27 CHAPTER 27 CHAPTER 27