 Section 38, Book 9, chapters 1-5 of Volume 1 of Le Morte d'Arthur. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For further information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Le Morte d'Arthur, Volume 1 by Sir Thomas Mallory. Book 9, chapters 1-5. Chapter 1. How a young man came into the court of King Arthur, and how Sir Kay called him in scorn la Côte Maltaie. At the court of King Arthur there came a young man and bigly made, and he was richly beseen, and he desired to be made knight of the king, but his overgarment sat overthwartly, how be it it was rich cloth of gold. What is your name, said King Arthur? Sir, said he, my name is Bruno Le Noir, and within short space ye shall know that I am of good kin. It may well be, said Sir Kay, the Sannishal, but in mockage ye shall be called la Côte Maltaie. That is, as much to say, the evil shape and coat. It is a great thing, thou askest, said the king, and for what cause wearest thou that rich coat? Tell me, for I can well think, for some cause it is. After he answered, I had a father, a noble knight, and as he rode a hunting, upon a day, it had him to lay down to sleep, and there came a knight that had been long his enemy, and when he saw he was fast asleep he all to hew him, and this same coat had my father on the same time, and that maketh this coat to sit so evil upon me, for the strokes be on it as I found it, and never shall be amended for me. Thus, to have my father's death in remembrance, I wear this coat till I be revenge'd, and because ye are called the most noblest king of the world, I came to you that ye should make me knight. Sir, said Sir Lamarack and Sir Gaharis, it were well done to make him knight, for him beseemeth well of person and of countenance, that he shall prove a good man and a good knight, and a mighty. For, sir, and ye be remembered, even such one was Sir Lancelot do luck, when he came first into this court, and full few of us knew from whence he came, and now is he proved the man of most worship in the world, and all your court, and all your round table, is by Sir Lancelot worshipped and amended, more than by any night now living. That is truth, said the king, and to-morrow, at your request, I shall make him knight. So on the morrow there was an heart found, and thither rode King Arthur, with a company of his knights, to slay the heart, and this young man, that Sir Kay named La Corte Maltaille, was there left behind with Queen Guinevere, and by a sudden adventure there was an horrible lion kept in a strong tower of stone, and it happened that he at that time break loose, and came hurling for the Queen and her knights, and when the Queen saw the lion she cried and fled, and prayed her knights to rescue her, and there was none of them all but twelve that abode, and all the others fled. Then said La Corte Maltaille, now I see well that all coward knights be not dead, and there with all he drew his sword, and dressed him before the lion, and that lion gaped wide, and came upon him, ramping to have slain him, and then he smote him in the midst of the head, such a mighty stroke that it clave his head in sunder, and dashed to the earth. Then was it told the Queen how the young man that Sir Kay named by scorn, La Corte Maltaille, had slain the lion. With that the King came home, and when the Queen told him of that adventure he was well pleased, and said, upon the pain of mine head he shall prove a noble man, and a faithful knight, and true of his promise. Then the King forthwith all made him knight. Now, Sir, said this young knight, I require you, and all the knights of your court, that ye call me by none other name but La Corte Maltaille, and in so much as Sir Kay hath so named me, so will I be called. I sent me well there too, said the King. Chapter 2. How a Damozel came into the court, and desired a knight to take on him an enquest, which La Corte Maltaille imprised. Then that same day there came a Damozel into the court, and she brought with her a great black shield with a white hand in the midst holding a sword. Other picture was there none in that shield. When King Arthur saw her he asked her from whence she came and what she would. Sir, she said, I have ridden long and many a day with this shield many ways, and for this cause I am come to your court. There was a good knight that ought this shield, and this knight had undertaken a great deed of arms to achieve it. And so it misfortune him another strong knight met with him by sudden adventure, and there they fought long, and either wounded other, passing sore. And they were so weary that they left that battle even hand. So this knight that ought this shield saw none other way, but he must die, and then he commanded me to bear this shield to the court of King Arthur, he requiring and praying some good knight to take this shield, and that he would fulfill the quest that he was in. Now what say ye to this quest? said King Arthur. Is there any of you here that will take upon him to wield this shield? Then was there not one that would speak one word. Then Sir Kay took the shield in his hands. Sir Knight said to Damosel, what is your name? Which ye well said he. My name is Sir Kay, the Sannishal, that wideware is known. Sir, said that Damosel, lay down that shield, for which ye well it falleth not for you, for he must be a better knight than ye that shall wield this shield. Damosel said Sir Kay, which ye well I took this shield in my hands by your leave, for to behold it, not to that intent. But go where some ever thou wilt, for I will not go with you. Then the Damosel stood still a great while, and beheld many of those knights. Then spake the knight, Lakot Maltai. Fair Damosel, I will take the shield, and that adventure upon me, so I waste I should know, whither would my journey might be. For because I was this day-made knight, I would take this adventure upon me. What is your name, fair young man? said the Damosel. My name is, said he, Lakot Maltai. Well, mayest thou be called so, said the Damosel, the knight with the ill-shape and coat. But an thou be so hardy to take upon thee to bear that shield, and to follow me, wit thou well thy skin shall be as well hewn as thy coat. As for that, said Lakot Maltai, when I am so hewn, I will ask you no salve to heal me with all. And forthwithal there came into the court two squires, and brought him great horses, and his armour, and his spears, and anon he was armed, and took his leave. I would not, by my will, said the king, that ye took upon you that hard adventure. Sir, said he, this adventure is mine, and the first that ever I took upon me. And that will I follow, what some ever come of me. Then that Damosel departed, and Lakot Maltai fast followed after. And within a while he overtook the Damosel, and anon she mis- said him in the foulest manner. Chapter 3 How Lakot Maltai overthrew Sir Dagonet, the king's fool, and of the rebuke that he had of the Damosel. Then Sir Kay ordained Sir Dagonet, King Arthur's fool, to follow after Lakot Maltai, and there Sir Kay ordained that Sir Dagonet was horse and armed, and bade him follow Lakot Maltai, and proffer him to joust, and so he did. And when he saw Lakot Maltai, he cried, and bade him make him ready to joust. So Sir Lakot Maltai smote Sir Dagonet over his horse's group. Then the Damosel mocked Lakot Maltai, and said, Five, for shame, now art thou shamed in Arthur's court, when they send a fool to have a do with thee, and specially at thy first jousts. Thus she rode long and chid. And within a while there came Sir Blebaris, the good night, and there he jousted with Lakot Maltai, and there Sir Blebaris smote him so sore that horse and all fell to the earth. Then Lakot Maltai arose up lightly, and dressed his shield, and drew his sword, and would have done battle to the utterance, for he was wood-roth. Not so, said Sir Blebaris Dagonis, as at this time I will not fight upon foot. Then the Damosel, Maldizant, rebuked him in the foulest manner, and bade him, turn again coward. Ah, Damosel, he said, I pray you of mercy to missay me no more. My grief is enough, though you give me no more. I call myself never the worst night when Amir's son faileth me, and also I count me never the worst night for a fall of Sir Blebaris. So thus he rode with her two days, and by fortune there came Sir Palomedis, and encountered with him, and he in the same wise served him as did Blebaris to forehand. What dost thou hear in my fellowship? said the Damosel, Maldizant. Thou canst not sit no night, nor withstand him one buffet, but if it were Sir Dagonit. Ah, fair Damosel, I am not the worst to take a fall of Sir Palomedis, and yet great diswership have I none, for neither Blebaris nor yet Palomedis would not fight with me on foot. As for that, said the Damosel, with thou well, they have disdain and scorn to light off their horses to fight with such a lewd night as thou art. So in the meanwhile there came Sir Mordrid, Sir Gawain's brother, and so he fell in the fellowship with the Damosel, Maldizant, and then they came before the castle, Orgulus, and there was such a custom that there might no night come by that castle, but either he must joust or be prisoner, or at the least to lose his horse and his harness. And there came out two nights against them, and Sir Mordrid jousted with the foremost, and that night of the castle smote Sir Mordrid down off his horse. And then Lakot Maltai jousted with that other, and either of them smote other down, horse and all, to the earth. And when they avoided their horses, then either of them took others' horses. And then Lakot Maltai rode unto that night that smote down Sir Mordrid and jousted with him, and there Sir Lakot Maltai hurt and wounded him, passing sore, and put him from his horse, as he had been dead. So he turned unto him that met him afore, and he took the flight towards the castle, and Sir Lakot Maltai rode after him into the castle Orgulus, and there Lakot Maltai slew him. Chapter 4 How Lakot Maltai fought against an hundred knights, and how he escaped by the mean of a lady. And anon there came an hundred knights about him, and assailed him, and when he saw his horse should be slain, he alighted and voided his horse, and put the bridle under his feet, and so put him out of the gate. And when he had so done, he hurled in among them, and dressed his back unto a lady's chamber wall, thinking himself that he had left for die there with worship, than to abide the rebukes of the Damosel Maldesaint. And in the meantime, as he stood and fought, that lady, whose was the chamber, went out slyly at her poston, and without the gate, she found Lakot Maltai's horse, and lightly she got him by the bridle, and tied him to the poston. And then she went unto her chamber slyly again, for to behold how that one night fought against an hundred knights. And when she had beheld him long, she went to a window behind his back, and said, Thou knight, thou fightest wonderly well, but for all that at the last, thou must needs die, but an thou canst, through thy mighty prowess, win unto yonder poston, for there have I fastened thy horse to abide thee, but with thou well thou must think on thy worship, and think not to die, for thou mayst not win unto that poston, without thou do nobly and mightily. When Lakot Maltai heard her say so, he gripped his sword in his hands, and put his shield fairer for him, and through the thickest press he thrulled through them. And when he came to the poston, he found there ready four knights, and at two of the first strokes he slew two of the knights, and the other fled. And so he won his horse, and rode from them. And all as it was, it was rehearsed in King Arthur's court, how he slew twelve knights within the castle augulus, and so he rode on his way. And in the meantime the Damazel said to Sir Mordred, I wean my foolish knight be either slain or taken prisoner. Then were they where he came riding? And when he was come unto them, he told all how he had spared and escaped in despite of them all, and some of the best of them will tell no tales. Thou lyst falsely said the Damazel, that dare I make good, but as a fool and a dastard to all knighthood they have let thee pass. That may ye prove, said Lakot Maltai. With that she sent a courier of hers that rode all way with her, for to know the truth of this deed. And so he rode dither lightly, and asked how and in what manner that Lakot Maltai was escaped out of the castle. Then all the knights cursed him, and said that he was a fiend and no man, for he hath slain here twelve of our best knights, and we weaned unto this day, that it had been too much for Sir Lancelot du Lac, of her Sir Tristram de Leonès. And in despite of us all, he is departed from us, and mow gray our heads. With this answer the courier departed, and came to Maldison't his lady, and told her all how Sir Lakot Maltai had spared at the castle Orgolis. Then she smoked down her head, and said little. By my head said Sir Mordred to the Damazel, ye are greatly to blame, says to rebuke him, for I warn you plainly, he is a good knight, and I doubt not, but he shall prove a noble knight. But as yet he may not yet sit sure on horseback, for he that shall be a good horseman, it must come of usage and exercise. But when he cometh to the strokes of his sword, he is then noble and mighty. And that saw Sir Blebaris and Sir Palamedis, for wit ye well they are wily men of arms, and anon they know when they see a young knight by his riding, how they are sure to give him a fall from his horse, or a great buffet. But for the most part they will not light on foot with young knights, for they are white and strongly armed. For in light ways Sir Lancelot du Lac, when he was first made knight, he was often put to the worse upon horseback, but ever upon foot he recovered his renown, and slew and defoiled many knights of the round table. And therefore the rebukes that Sir Lancelot did unto many knights, causeth them that be men of prowess to beware. For often I have seen the old proved knights rebuked and slain by them that were but young beginners. Thus they rode shore talking by the way together. Chapter 5 How Sir Lancelot came to the court, and heard of Lacourt Maltay, and how he followed after him, and how Lacourt Maltay was prisoner. Here leave we off a while of this tale, and speak we of Sir Lancelot du Lac, that when he was come to the court of King Arthur, then heard he tell of the young knight Lacourt Maltay, how he slew the lion, and how he took upon him the adventure of the Black Shield, the which was named at that time the hardiest adventure of the world. So God me save, said Sir Lancelot, unto many of his fellows. It was shame to all the noble knights to suffer such a young knight to take such adventure upon him for his destruction, for I will that ye wit, said Sir Lancelot, that that Damoiselle Maldisante hath borne that shield many a day for to seek the most proved knights, and that was she that Breuse Sanspite took that shield from her. And after Tristram de Leonès rescued that shield from him, and gave it to the Damoiselle again, a little afore that time that Sir Tristram fought with my nephew Sir Blamour de Gannis, for a quarrel that was betwixt the King of Ireland and him. Then many knights were sorry that Sir Lacourt Maltay was gone forth to that adventure. Truly, said Sir Lancelot, I cast me to ride after him. And within seven days Sir Lancelot overtook Lacourt Maltay, and then he saluted him and the Damoiselle Maldisante. And when Sir Maudrid saw Sir Lancelot, then he left their fellowship, and so Sir Lancelot rode with them all a day, and ever that Damoiselle rebuked Lacourt Maltay, and then Sir Lancelot answered for him, then she left off and rebuked Sir Lancelot. So, this mean time, Sir Tristram sent by Damoiselle a letter unto Sir Lancelot, excusing him of the wedding of assault la Blanche Mars, and said in the letter, as he was a true knight, he had never a do fleshly with assault la Blanche Mars. And passing courteously and gently Sir Tristram wrote unto Sir Lancelot, ever beseeching him to be his good friend and unto la belle assault of Cornwall, and that Sir Lancelot would excuse him if that ever he saw her. And within short time by the grace of God, said Sir Tristram, that he would speak with la belle assault, and with him write hastily. Then Sir Lancelot departed from the Damoiselle, and from Sir Lacourt Maltay, for to oversee that letter, and to write another letter unto Sir Tristram de Leonès. And in the meanwhile, Lacourt Maltay rode with the Damoiselle until they came to a castle that hight Penn Dragon, and there were six knights stood before him, and one of them proffered to joust with Lacourt Maltay, and there Lacourt Maltay smote him over his horse's group, and then the five knights set upon him all at once with their spears, and there they smote Lacourt Maltay down, horse and man, and then they alighted suddenly, and set their hands upon him all at once, and took him prisoner, and so led him unto the castle, and kept him his prisoner. And on the morning Sir Lancelot arose, and delivered the Damoiselle with letters unto Sir Tristram, and then he took his way after Lacourt Maltay. And by the way upon a bridge, there was a knight proffered Sir Lancelot to joust, and Sir Lancelot smote him down, and then they fought upon foot, and noble battle together, and a mighty, and at last Sir Lancelot smote him down, groveling upon his hands and his knees, and then that night yielded him, and Sir Lancelot received him fair. Sir said the knight, I require you tell me your name, for much my heart give it unto you. Nay said Sir Lancelot, as at this time I will not tell you my name, unless then that ye tell me your name. Certainly said the knight, my name is Sir Neravents, that was made knight of my lord Sir Lancelot du Lac. Ah, Neravents de Lille, said Sir Lancelot, I am right glad that ye approved a good night, for now with ye well, my name is Sir Lancelot du Lac. Alas, said Sir Neravents de Lille, what have I done? And there with all flatling he fell to his feet, and would have kissed them, but Sir Lancelot would not let him, and there neither made great joy of other. And then Sir Neravents told Sir Lancelot that he should not go by the castle of Pendragon, for there is a lord, a mighty knight, and many knights with him, and this night I heard say that they took a knight prisoner yesterday that rode with a damoiselle, and they say he is a knight of the round table. And of chapter 5, section 39 being book 9, chapters 6 to 11 of volume 1 of Le Morte d'Arthur. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For further information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org. Le Morte d'Arthur, volume 1 by Sir Thomas Mallory. Book 9, chapters 6 to 11. Chapter 6. How Sir Lancelot fought with six knights, and after with Sir Brian, and how he delivered the prisoners. Ah, said Sir Lancelot, that knight is my fellow, and him shall I rescue, or else I shall lose my life therefore. And there with all he rode fast till he came before the castle of Pendragon, and anon there with all there came six knights, and all made them ready to set upon Sir Lancelot at once. Then Sir Lancelot feuded his spear, and smote the foremost, that he break his back in Sunder, and three of them hit and three failed. And then Sir Lancelot passed through them, and lightly he turned in again, and smote another knight through the breast, and threw out the back more than an L, and there with all his spear break. So then all the remnant of the four knights drew their swords, and lashed at Sir Lancelot. And at every stroke Sir Lancelot bestowed so his strokes, that at four strokes sundry they avoided their saddles, passing sore wounded, and forth with all he rode hurling into that castle. And anon the lord of the castle, that was that time klept Sir Brian de Lézil, the witch was a noble man, and a great enemy unto King Arthur, within a while he was armed and upon horseback. And then they feuded their spears, and hurled together so strongly, that both their horses rashed to the earth. And then they avoided their saddles, and dressed their shields, and drew their swords, and flung together as woodmen, and there were many strokes given in a while. At the last Sir Lancelot gave to Sir Brian such a buffet that he kneeled upon his knees, and then Sir Lancelot rashed upon him, and with great force he pulled off his helm, and when Sir Brian saw that he should be slain he yielded him, and put him in his mercy and in his grace. Then Sir Lancelot made him to deliver all his prisoners that he had within his castle, and therein Sir Lancelot found of Arthur's knights thirty, and forty ladies, and so he delivered them, and then he rode his way. And anon, as Lakot Maltay was delivered, he got his horse, and his harness, and his damoiselle, Maltesante. The meanwhile Sir Nerevents, that Sir Lancelot had fought with all a four at the bridge, he sent a damoiselle after Sir Lancelot, to wit how he sped at the castle of Pendragon. And then they within the castle marveled what night he was, when Sir Brian and his knights delivered all those prisoners. Havieno Marvel said the damoiselle, for the best night in this world was here, and did this journey, and whichy well, she said, it was Sir Lancelot. Then was Sir Brian full glad, and so was his lady, and all his knights, that such a man should win them. And when the damoiselle and Lakot Maltay understood that it was Sir Lancelot do luck that had ridden with them in fellowship, and that she remembered her how she had rebuked him and called him coward, then she was passing heavy. Chapter 7 How Sir Lancelot met with the damoiselle named Maldesante, and named her the damoiselle bien-pensante. So then they took their horses, and rode forth the pace after Sir Lancelot. And within two miles they overtook him, and saluted him, and thanked him. And the damoiselle cried Sir Lancelot mercy of her evil deed, and saying, for now I know the flower of all nighthood is departed, even between Sir Tristram and you. For God knoweth, said the damoiselle, that I have sought you, my lord, Sir Lancelot, and Sir Tristram long, and now I thank God I have met with you. And once at Camelot I met with Sir Tristram, and there he rescued this black shield with the white hand holding a naked sword that Sir Breus sans pitié had taken from me. Now fair damoiselle, said Sir Lancelot, who told you my name? Sir, said she, there came a damoiselle from a night that ye fought with all at the bridge, and she told me your name was Sir Lancelot du Lac. Blame have she then, said Sir Lancelot, but her lord, Sir Nerevents, hath told her. But damoiselle, said Sir Lancelot, upon this covenant I will ride with you, so that ye will not rebuke this night, Sir Lacot-Maltay no more. For he is a good night, and I doubt not he shall prove a noble night. And for his sake and pity that he should not be destroyed, I followed him to succour him in this great need. Ah, jeez you thank you, said the damoiselle, for now I will say unto you and to him both. I rebuke'd him never for no hate that I hated him, but for great love that I had to him. For ever I supposed that he had been too young and too tender to take upon him these adventures. And therefore, by my will, I would have driven him away for jealousy that I had of his life, for it may be no young night's deed that shall enchieve this adventure to the end. Pardieu, said Sir Lancelot, it is well said, and where ye are called the damoiselle mal-des-ants, I will call you the damoiselle bien-pensante. And so they rode forth a great while until they came to the border of the country of Surlouz, and there they found a fair village with a strong bridge like a fortress. And when Sir Lancelot and they were at the bridge, their sturt forth fore them of gentlemen and yeoman many, that said, fair lords, you may not pass this bridge in this fortress because of that black shield that I see one of you bear, and therefore there shall not pass but one of you at once. Therefore choose you which of you shall enter within this bridge first. Then Sir Lancelot profited himself first to enter within this bridge. Sir, said Lakot Maltaï, I beseech you, let me enter within this fortress, and if I may speed well I will send for you. And if it happens that I be slain, there it goeth. And if so be that I am a prisoner taken, then may ye rescue me. I am loath, said Sir Lancelot, to let you pass this passage. Sir, said Lakot Maltaï, I pray you let me put my body in this adventure. Now go your way, said Sir Lancelot, and jeez you be your speed. So he entered, and anon they met with him two brethren, the one hight Sir Plander Force, and the other hight Sir Plander Moor. And anon they met with Sir Lakot Maltaï, and first Lakot Maltaï smoked down Plander Force, and after he smoked down Plander Moor, and then they dressed them to their shields and swords, and bade Lakot Maltaï a light, and so he did, and there was dashing and foining with swords, and so they began to assail full hard Lakot Maltaï, and many great wounds they gave him upon his head, and upon his breast, and upon his shoulders. And as he might, ever among, he gave sad strokes again. And then the two brethren traced and traversed, for to be of both hands of Sir Lakot Maltaï, but he by fine force and nightly prowess, gapped them before him. And then, when he felt himself so wounded, then he doubled his strokes, and gave them so many wounds that he felled them to the earth, and would have slain them had they not yielded them. And right so Sir Lakot Maltaï took the best horse that there was of them three, and so rode forth his way to the other fortress and bridge. And there he met with the third brother, whose name was Sir Plenorius, a full noble knight, and there they jousted together, and either smoked other down horse and man to the earth. And then they avoided their horses, and dressed their shields, and drew their swords, and gave many sad strokes, and one while the one knight was a four on the bridge, and another while the other. And thus they fought two hours and more, and never rested. And ever Sir Lancelot and the Damoiselle beheld them. Alas! said the Damoiselle, my night-fighteth passing soar and over long. Now may ye see, said Sir Lancelot, that he is a noble knight, for to consider his first battle and his grievous wounds, and even forthwithal so wounded as he is, it is marvel that he may endure this long battle with that good night. Chapter 8. How Lakot Maltaï was taken prisoner, and after rescued by Sir Lancelot, and how Sir Lancelot overcame four brethren. This meanwhile, Sir Lakot Maltaï sank right down upon the earth, what four wounded and what four bled he might not stand. Then the other night had pity of him, and said, Fair young knight, dismay you not, for had ye been fresh when ye met with me, as I was, I what well that I should not have endured so long as ye have done, and therefore for your noble deeds of arms I shall show to you kindness and gentleness in all that I may. And forthwithal this noble knight, Sir Plenorious, took him up in his arms and led him into his tower. And then he commanded him the wine, and made to search him, and to stop his bleeding wounds. Sir, said Lakot Maltaï, withdraw you from me, and high you to Yonderbridge again, for there will meet with you another man a night than ever was I. Why, said Sir Plenorious, is there another man a night behind of your fellowship? Ye, said Lakot Maltaï, there is a much better night than I am. What is his name, said Plenorious, ye shall not know for me, said Lakot Maltaï. Well, said the knight, he shall be encountered with all what some ever he be. Then Sir Plenorious heard a night call that said, Sir Plenorious, where art thou? Either thou must deliver me the prisoner that thou hast led into thy tower, or else come and do battle with me. Then Plenorious got his horse, and came with a spear in his hand, walloping towards Sir Lancelot. And then they began to future their spears, and came together as thunder, and smote either other so mightily that their horses fell down under them. And then they avoided their horses, and pulled out their swords, and like two bulls they lashed together with great strokes and foins. But ever Sir Lancelot recovered ground upon him, and Sir Plenorious traced to have gone about him. But Sir Lancelot would not suffer that, but bear him backer and backer till he came nigh his tower gate. And then said Sir Lancelot, I know thee well for a good night, but wit thou well thy life and death is in my hand, and therefore yield thee to me and thy prisoner. The other answered no word, but struck mightily upon Sir Lancelot's helm that the fire sprang out of his eyes. Then Sir Lancelot doubled his stroke so thick and smote at him so mightily that he made him kneel upon his knees. And therewith Sir Lancelot leapt upon him and pulled him groveling down. Then Sir Plenorious yielded him and his tower and all his prisoners at his will. Then Sir Lancelot received him and took his troth, and then he rode to the other bridge, and there Sir Lancelot jousted with other three of his brethren, the one Hyde Pelunis and the other Hyde Pelogris and the third Hyde Sir Pelandris. And first upon horseback Sir Lancelot smote them down, and afterward he beat them on foot, and made them to yield them unto him. And then he returned unto Sir Plenorious, and there he found in his prison King Caradoss of Scotland, and many other nights, and all they were delivered. And then Sir Lancelot came to Sir Lancelot, and then Sir Lancelot would have given him all these fortresses and these bridges. Nay! said Lancelot, I will not have Sir Plenorious's livelihood. With that he will grant you, my Lord Sir Lancelot, to come unto King Arthur's court, and to be his knight and all his brethren. I will pray you, my Lord, to let him have his livelihood. I will well, said Sir Lancelot, with this that he will come to the court of King Arthur and become his man and his brethren five. And as for you, Sir Plenorious, I will undertake, said Sir Lancelot, at the next feast, so there be a place voided, that ye shall be knight of the round table. Sir, said Plenorious, at the next feast of Pentecost I will be at Arthur's court, and at that time I will be guided and ruled as King Arthur and ye will have me. Then Sir Lancelot and Sir Lacourt Maltay reposed them there, until the time that Sir Lacourt Maltay was whole of his wounds, and there they had merry cheer and good rest, and many good games, and there were many fair ladies. Chapter 9 How Sir Lancelot made Lacourt Maltay, Lord of the Castle of Pendragon, and after was made knight of the round table. And in the meanwhile came Sir Kay, the Sannishall, and Sir Brandylis, and anon they fellowshiped with them. And then within ten days, then departed those knights of Arthur's court from these fortresses. And as Sir Lancelot came by the castle of Pendragon, there he put Sir Brian de Lézil from his lands, for cause he would never be withhold with King Arthur. And all that castle of Pendragon and all the lands thereof he gave to Sir Lacourt Maltay. And then Sir Lancelot sent for their events, that he made once night, and he made him to have all the rule of that castle and of that country under Lacourt Maltay. And so they rode to Arthur's court all wholly together. And at Pentecost next following there was Sir Plenorius and Sir Lacourt Maltay, called otherwise by right Sir Bruno Le Noir. Both made knights of the table round, and great lands King Arthur gave them. And there Bruno Le Noir wedded that Damoiselle Maldisante. And after she was called Boulevivante. But ever after, for the more part, he was called Lacourt Maltay, and he proved a passing noble knight and mighty, and many worshipful deeds he did after in his life. And Sir Plenorius proved a noble knight and full of prowess, and all the days of their life for the most part they awaited upon Sir Lancelot, and Sir Plenorius's brethren were ever knights of King Arthur. And also, as the French book Makith mentioned, Sir Lacourt Maltay avenged his father's death. Chapter 10. How La Belle is Oud sent letters to Sir Tristram by her maid Braguine, and of diverse adventures of Sir Tristram. Now leave we here, Sir Lacourt Maltay, and turn we unto Sir Tristram de Leonès, that was in Brittany. When La Belle is out, understood that he was wedded, she sent to him by her maiden Braguine, as piteous letters as could be thought and made. And her conclusion was that, and it pleased Sir Tristram, that he would come to her and bring with him Isot la Blanche Mass, and they should be kept as well as she herself. Then Sir Tristram called unto him Sir Cahidius, and asked him whether he would go with him into Cornwall secretly. He answered him that he was ready at all times. And then he let Ordain privily a little vassal, and therein they went, Sir Tristram Cahidius, Dame Braguine, and Guvernay, Sir Tristram Squire. So when they were in the sea, a contrarious wind blew them on the coasts of North Wales, neither castle perilous. Then said Sir Tristram, here shall ye abide me these ten days, and Guvernay my Squire with you. And if so be I come not again by that day, take the next way into Cornwall, for in this forest are many strange adventures as I have heard say, and some of them I cast me to prove, or I depart, and when I may I shall hide me after you. Then Sir Tristram and Cahidius took their horses and departed from their fellowship, and so they rode within that forest a mile and more. And at the last Sir Tristram saw afore him a likely night, armed, sitting by a well, and a strong mighty horse passing nigh him tied to an oak, and a man hoving and riding by him leading and horse laden with spears. And this night that sat at the well, seen by his countenance, to be passing heavy. Then Sir Tristram rode near him and said, fair knight, why sit ye so drooping? Ye seem to be a knight errant by your arms and harness, and therefore dress ye to joust with one of us, or with both. There with all the night made no words, but took his shield and buckled it about his neck, and lightly he took his horse and leapt upon him. And then he took a great spear of his squire, and departed his way a furlong. Sir Cahidius asked leave of Sir Tristram to joust first. Do your best, said Sir Tristram. So they met together, and there Sir Cahidius had a fall, and was sore wounded on high above the paps. Then Sir Tristram said, knight, that is well jousted, now make ye ready unto me. I'm ready, said the knight. And then that night took a greater spear in his hands, and encountered with Sir Tristram. And there by great force that night smoked down Sir Tristram from his horse, and had a great fall. Then Sir Tristram was sore ashamed, and lightly he avoided his horse, and put his shielder for his shoulder, and drew his sword. And then Sir Tristram required that night of his nighthood to alight upon foot, and fight with him. I will well, said the knight. And so he alighted upon foot, and avoided his horse, and cast his shield upon his shoulder, and drew his sword. And there they fought a long battle together, full night two hours. Then Sir Tristram said, fair knight, hold thine hand, and tell me of whence thou art, and what is thy name? As for that, said the knight, I will be advised, but and thou wilt tell me thy name, per adventure I will tell thee mine. Chapter 11 How Sir Tristram met with Sir Lamarack de Gallis, and how they fought, and after accorded never to fight together. Now, fair knight, he said, my name is Sir Tristram de Leonès. Sir, said the other night, and my name is Sir Lamarack de Gallis. Ah, Sir Lamarack, said Sir Tristram, well be we met, and bethink thee now of the despite thou didst me of the sending of the horn unto King Mark's court, to the intent to have slain or dishonoured my lady the queen, thou bellies ought. And therefore with thou well, said Sir Tristram, the one of us shall die, or we depart. Sir, said Sir Lamarack, remember that we were together in the Isle of Servage, and at that time ye promised me great friendship. Then Sir Tristram would make no longer delays, but lashed at Sir Lamarack, and thus they fought, till either were weary of other. Then Sir Tristram said to Sir Lamarack, in all my life met I never with such a knight that was so big and well breathed as ye be. Therefore, said Sir Tristram, it were pity that any of us both should here be mischieved. Sir, said Sir Lamarack, for your renown and name I will that ye have the worship of this battle, and therefore I will yield me unto you. And therewith he took the point of his sword to yield him. Nay, said Sir Tristram, ye shall not do so, for well I know your proffers, and more of your gentleness than for any fear or dread ye have of me. And therewithal Sir Tristram proffered him his sword, and said, Sir Lamarack, as an overcome knight, I yield me unto you as to a man of the most noble prowess that ever I met with all. Nay, said Sir Lamarack, I will do you gentleness. I require you, let us be sworn together, that never none of us shall, after this day, have a do with other. And therewithal Sir Tristram and Sir Lamarack swear that never none of them should fight against other, nor for wheel nor for woe. End of chapter 11, section 40, being book 9, chapters 12 to 17, volume 1 of La Mort d'Arthur. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For further information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. La Mort d'Arthur, volume 1 by Sir Thomas Mallory, book 9, chapters 12 to 17, chapter 12. How Sir Palamedes followed the questing beast, and smoked down Sir Tristram and Sir Lamarack with one spear. And this meanwhile there came Sir Palamedes, the good night, following the questing beast, that had in shape a head like a serpent's head, and a body like a leopard, buttocks like a lion, and footed like an heart. And in his body there was such a noise as it had been the noise of thirty couple of hounds questing, and such a noise that beast made wheresomever he went. And this beast evermore Sir Palamedes followed, for it was called his quest. And right so as he followed this beast it came by Sir Tristram, and soon after came Palamedes. And to brief this matter he smoked down Sir Tristram and Sir Lamarack both with one spear, and so he departed after the beast galt his hunt. That was called the questing beast. Wherefore these two nights were passing wrath that Sir Palamedes would not fight on foot with them. Here men may understand that be of worship, that he was never formed, that all times might stand, but some time he was put to the worst by mal fortune. And at some time the worst night put the better night to a rebuke. Then Sir Tristram and Sir Lamarack gagged Sir Cahideus upon a shield betwixt them both, and led him to a forester's lodge, and there they gave him in charge to keep him well, and with him they abode three days. Then the two nights took their horses, and at the cross they departed. And then said Sir Tristram to Sir Lamarack, I require you, if you have to meet with Sir Palamedes, say him that he shall find me at the same well where I met him, and there I, Sir Tristram, shall prove whether he be better night than I. And so either departed from other a sundry way. And Sir Tristram rode nigh, there as was Sir Cahideus, and Sir Lamarack rode until he came to a chapel, and there he put his horse unto pasture. And anon there came some Meliagons, that was King Bagdemagus's son, and he there put his horse to pasture, and was not aware of Sir Lamarack. And then this night Sir Meliagons made his moan of the love that he had to Queen Guinevere, and there he made a woeful complaint. All this heard Sir Lamarack, and on the morn Sir Lamarack took his horse and rode unto the forest, and there he met with two nights hoving under the wood shore. Fair night, said Sir Lamarack, what do ye hoving here and watching? And if ye be nightserrant that will joust, lo, I am ready. Nay, Sir Knight, they said, not so. We abide not here to joust with you, but we lie here in a weight of a night that slew our brother. What night was that? said Sir Lamarack, that you would feign meet with all. Sir, they said, it is Sir Lancelot that slew our brother, and if ever we may meet with him he shall not escape, but we shall slay him. Ye take upon you a great charge, said Sir Lamarack, for Sir Lancelot is a noble, proved knight. As for that we doubt not, for there nis none of us, but we are good enough for him. I will not believe that, said Sir Lamarack, for I heard never yet of no night the days of my life, but Sir Lancelot was too big for him. Chapter 13 How Sir Lamarack met with Sir Meliagons, and fought together for the beauty of Dame Guinevere. Right so as they stood talking thus, Sir Lamarack was where how Sir Lancelot came riding straight towards them. Then Sir Lamarack saluted him, and he him again. And then Sir Lamarack asked Sir Lancelot if there were anything that he might do for him in these marches. Nay, said Sir Lancelot, not at this time, I thank you. Then either departed for mother, and Sir Lamarack rode again there as he left the two nights, and then he found them hid in the levered wood. Fire on you, said Sir Lamarack, false cowards, pity and shame it is that any of you should take the high order of knighthood. So Sir Lamarack departed from them, and within a while he met with Sir Meliagons. And then Sir Lamarack asked him why he loved Queen Guinevere as he did. For I was not far from you when you made your complaint by the chapel. Did you so? said Sir Meliagons, then will I abide by it. I love Queen Guinevere, what will you with it? I will prove and make good that she is the fairest lady and most of beauty in the world. As to that, said Sir Lamarack, I say nay there too. For Queen Morgorce of Orkney, mother to Sir Gawain, and his mother is the fairest queen and lady that beareth the life. That is not so, said Sir Meliagons, and that will I prove with my hands upon thy body. Will you so? said Sir Lamarack, and in a better quarrel keep I not to fight. Then they departed either from other in great wrath, and then they came riding together as it had been thunder, and either smote other so sore that their horses fell backward to the earth. And then they avoided their horses and dressed their shields and drew their swords, and then they hurtled together as wild boars, and thus they fought a great while. For Meliagons was a good man, and of great might, but Sir Lamarack was hard big for him, and put him always aback, but either had wounded other soar. And as they stood thus fighting, by fortune came Sir Lancelot and Sir Blebaris riding, and then Sir Lancelot rode betwixt them and asked them for what cause they fought so together. And ye are both knights of King Arthur! Chapter 14 How Sir Meliagons told for what cause they fought, and how Sir Lamarack jousted with King Arthur Sir said Meliagons, I shall tell you for what cause we do this battle. I praised my lady, Queen Guinevere, and said she was the fairest lady of the world, and Sir Lamarack said nay there too, for he said Queen Morgorce of Orkney was fairer than she, and more of beauty. Ah, Sir Lamarack, why sayest thou so? It is not thy part to dispraise thy princess that thou art under her obeisance, and we all. And therewith he alighted on foot, and said, For this quarrel make thee ready, for I will prove upon thee that Queen Guinevere is the fairest lady, and most of bounty in the world. Sir said Sir Lamarack, I am loath to have a do with you in this quarrel, for every man thinketh his own lady fairest, and though I praised the lady that I love most, ye should not be wroth. For though my lady, Queen Guinevere, be fairest in your eye, which ye well, Queen Morgorce of Orkney, is fairest in mine eye, and so every night thinketh his own lady fairest. And which ye well, Sir, ye are the man in the world, except Sir Tristram, that I am most loathest to have a do with all. But, and ye will needs fight with me, I shall endure you as long as I may. Then Spake Sir Blebaris said, My Lord Sir Lancelot, I wished you never so misadvised as ye are now, for Sir Lamarack sayeth you but reason and nightly. For I warn you, I have a lady, and me thinketh that she is the fairest lady of the world. Were this a great reason that ye should be wroth with me for such language? And well ye what, that Sir Lamarack is as noble a night as I know, and he hath ought you and us ever good will, and therefore I pray you be good friends. Then Sir Lancelot said unto Sir Lamarack, I pray you forgive me mine evil will, and if I was misadvised I will amend it. Sir, said Sir Lamarack, the amends is soon made betwixt you and me. And so Sir Lancelot and Sir Blebaris departed, and Sir Meliagons and Sir Lamarack took their horses, and either departed from other. And within a while came King Arthur, and met with Sir Lamarack, and jousted with him, and there he smoked down Sir Lamarack, and wounded him sore with the spear, and so he rode from him, wherefore Sir Lamarack was wroth that he would not fight with him on foot, albeit that Sir Lamarack knew not King Arthur. Chapter 15 How Sir Kay met with Sir Tristram, and after of the shame spoken of the knights of Cornwall, and how they jousted. Now leave we of this tale, and speak we of Sir Tristram, that as he rode he met with Sir Kay the Seneschal, and there Sir Kay asked Sir Tristram of what country he was. He answered that he was of the country of Cornwall. It may well be, said Sir Kay, for yet heard I never that ever good night came out of Cornwall. That is evil spoken, said Sir Tristram, but and it pleas you to tell me your name I require you. Sir, witchy well, said Sir Kay, that my name is Sir Kay the Seneschal. Is that your name, said Sir Tristram? Now witchy well that ye are named the shamefulest knight of your tongue that now is living, how be it ye are called a good night, but ye are called unfortunate, and passing over thwart of your tongue. And thus they rode together till they came to a bridge, and there was a knight would not let them pass till one of them jousted with him, and so that night jousted with Sir Kay, and there that night gave Sir Kay a fall. His name was Sir Tor, Sir Lamarack's half-brother. And then they too rode to their lodging, and there they found Sir Brandyless, and Sir Tor came lither and on after. And as they sat at supper these four nights, three of them spake all shame by Cornish nights. Sir Tristram heard all that they said, and he said but little, but he thought the more, but at that time he discovered not his name. Upon the morn Sir Tristram took his horse and abode them upon their way, and there Sir Brandyless profited to joust with Sir Tristram, and Sir Tristram smote him down, horse and all, to the earth. Then Sir Tor Lefiz de Vesur encountered with Sir Tristram, and there Sir Tristram smote him down, and then he rode his way, and Sir Kay followed him, but he would not of his fellowship. Then Sir Brandyless came to Sir Kay and said, I would wit feign, what is that night's name? Come on with me, said Sir Kay, and we shall pray him to tell us his name. So they rode together till they came nigh him, and then they were where he sat by a well, and had put off his helm to drink at the well. And when he saw them come, he laced on his helm lightly, and took his horse and profoured them to joust. Nay, said Sir Brandyless, we jousted late enough with you, we come not in that intent, but for this we come, to require you of knighthood to tell us your name. My fair knights, sithen that is your desire, and to please you, ye shall wit that my name is Sir Tristram de Leunès, nephew under King Mark of Cornwall. In good time, said Sir Brandyless, and well be ye found, and which ye well, that we be right glad that we have found you, and we be of a fellowship that would be right glad of your company. For ye are the night in the world that the noble fellowship of the round table most desirous to have the company of. God thank them, said Sir Tristram, of their great goodness, but as yet I feel well that I am unable to be of their fellowship, for I was never yet of such deeds of worthiness to be in the company of such a fellowship. Ah, said Sir Kaye, and ye be Sir Tristram de Leunès, ye are the man called ye are the man called now most of prowess except Sir Lancelot de Leunès. For he beareth not the life Christian nor heathen that confines such another night to speak of his prowess, and of his hands, and of his truth with all. For yet could there never creature say of him dishonour and make it good. Thus they talked a great while, and then they departed either from other, such ways as them seemed best. Chapter 16 How King Arthur was brought into the forest perilous, and how Sir Tristram saved his life. Now shall ye hear what was the cause that King Arthur came into the forest perilous that was in North Wales by the means of a lady. Her name was Annaud, and this lady came to King Arthur at Cardiff. And she, by fair promise and fair behests, made King Arthur to ride with her into that forest perilous. And she was a great sorceress, and many days she had loved King Arthur, and because she would have him to lie by her, she came into that country. So when the king was gone with her, many of his knights followed after King Arthur when they missed him, as Sir Lancelot, Brandyles, and many other. And when she had brought him to her tower, she desired him to lie by her, and then the king remembered him of his lady, and would not lie by her for no craft that she could do. Then every day she would make him ride into that forest with his own knights, to the intent to have had King Arthur slain. For when this lady Annaud saw that she might not have him at her will, then she laboured by false means to have destroyed King Arthur and slain. Then the lady of the lake that was always friendly to King Arthur, she understood by her subtle crafts that King Arthur was like to be destroyed. And therefore this lady of the lake, that hight Nimu, came into that forest to seek after Sir Lancelot Dulac, or Sir Tristian for to help King Arthur, for as that same day this lady of the lake knew well that King Arthur should be slain, unless that he had help of one of these knights. And thus she rode up and down till she met with Sir Tristian, and on as she saw him she knew him. Oh my lord Sir Tristian, she said, well be ye met, and blessed be the time that I have met with you, for this same day and within these two hours shall be done the foulest deed that ever was done in this land. Oh fair Damosel, said Sir Tristian, may I amend it. Come on with me, she said, and that in all the haste ye may, for ye shall see the most worshipfulest night of the world hard bestowed. Then said Sir Tristian, I am ready to help such a noble man. He is neither better nor worse, said the lady of the lake, but the noble King Arthur himself. God defend, said Sir Tristian, that ever he should be in such distress. Then they rode together a great pace until they came to a little turret or castle, and underneath that castle they saw a knight standing upon foot, fighting with two knights, and so Sir Tristian beheld them, and at the last the two knights smoked down the one knight, and that one of them unlaced his helm to have slain him, and the lady Annaud got King Arthur's sword in her hand to have stricken off his head. And there with all came Sir Tristian, with all his might, crying, Tratris, Tratris, leave that! And anon there Sir Tristian smote the one of the knights through the body, that he fell dead, and then he rash to the other, and smote his back asunder. And in the meanwhile the lady of the lake cried to King Arthur, let not that false lady escape. Then King Arthur overtook her, and with the same sword he smote off her head, and the lady of the lake took up her head, and hung it by the hair of her saddle-bow. And then Sir Tristian hoarsed King Arthur, and rode forth with him, but he charged the lady of the lake not to discover his name as at that time. When the King was hoarsed he thanked heartily Sir Tristian, and desired to wit his name, but he would not tell him, but that he was a poor knight adventurous. And so he bear King Arthur fellowship till he met with some of his knights, and within a while he met with Sir Ector de Maris, and he knew not King Arthur nor Sir Tristian, and he desired to joust with one of them. Then Sir Tristian rode unto Sir Ector, and smote him from his horse. And when he had done so he came again to the King and said, My Lord, Yonder is one of your knights, he may bear you fellowship, and another day, that deed that I have done for you, I trust to God ye shall understand that I would do you service. Alas, said King Arthur, let me wit what ye are. Not at this time, said Sir Tristian. So he departed, and left King Arthur and Sir Ector together. Chapter 17. How Sir Tristian came to love Belly's Alt, and how Cahideus began to love Belly's Alt, and of a letter that Tristian found. And then at a day's set Sir Tristram and Sir Lamarack met at the well, and then they took Cahideus at the forester's house, and so they rode with him to the ship, where they left Dane Braguine and Gouvernei, and so they sailed into Cornwall all wholly together. And by assent an information of Dane Braguine, when they were landed, they rode unto Sir Dinas the Seneschal, a trusty friend of Sir Tristram's. And so Dane Braguine and Sir Dinas rode to the court of King Mark, and told the Queen, La Belly's Alt, that Sir Tristram was nigh her in that country. Then, for very pure joy, La Belly's Alt swooned, and when she might speak she said, Gentle knight Seneschal, help that I might speak with him, other my heart will brust. Then Sir Dinas and Dane Braguine brought Sir Tristram and Cahideus privily unto the court, unto a chamber, whereas La Belly's Alt had assigned it, and to tell the joys that were betwixt La Belly's Alt and Sir Tristram, there is no tongue can tell it, nor heart think it, nor pen write it. And as the French book maketh mention, at the first time that ever Sir Cahideus saw La Belly's Alt, he was so enamoured upon her that for very pure love he might never withdraw it. And at the last, as she shall hear, or the book be ended, Sir Cahideus died for the love of La Belly's Alt. And then privily he wrote unto her letters and ballads of the most goodliest that were used in those days. And when La Belly's Alt understood his letters, she had pity of his complaint, and unavised she wrote another letter to comfort him with all. And Sir Tristram was all this while in a turret at the commandment of La Belly's Alt, and when she might she came unto Sir Tristram. So on a day King Mark played at the chess under a chamber window, and at that time Sir Tristram and Sir Cahideus were within the chamber over King Mark. And as it mishapped, Sir Tristram found the letter that Cahideus sent unto La Belly's Alt. Also he had found the letter that she wrote unto Cahideus, and at that same time La Belly's Alt was in the same chamber. Then Sir Tristram came unto La Belly's Alt and said, Madam, here is a letter that was sent unto you, and here is the letter that ye sent unto him that sent you that letter. Alas, madam, the good love that I have loved you, and many lands and riches have I forsaken for your love, and now ye are a traitorous to me, the which doth me great pain. But as for thee, Sir Cahideus, I brought thee out of Brittany into this country, and thy father, King Howell, I won his lands, how be it I wedded thy sister, his Alt love, Blanche Maas, for the goodness she did unto me. And yet, as I am true knight, she is a clean maiden for me. But with thou well, Sir Cahideus, for this falsehood and treason thou hast done me, I will revenge it upon thee. And therewithal Sir Tristram drew out his sword and said, Sir Cahideus, keep thee, and then La Belly's Alt swooned to the earth. And when Sir Cahideus saw Sir Tristram come upon him, he saw none other boot, but leapt out at a bay window, even over the head where sat King Mark, playing at the chess. And when the King saw one come hurling over his head, he said, Fellow, what art thou, and what is the cause thou leapest out at that window? My Lord the King said, Cahideus, it fortune'd me that I was asleep in the window above your head, and as I slept I slumber'd, and so I fell down. And thus Sir Cahideus excused him. End of Chapter 17. Section 41 Being Book 9, chapters 18 to 22, Volume 1 of Le Morte d'Arthur. This is a Librivox recording. All Librivox recordings are in the public domain. For further information or to volunteer, please visit Librivox.org. Le Morte d'Arthur, Volume 1, by Sir Thomas Mallory. Book 9, chapters 18 to 22. Chapter 18. How Sir Tristram departed from Tintagel, and how he sorrowed, and was long in a forest till he was out of his mind. Then Sir Tristram dreads saw lest he were discovered unto the King that he was there, wherefore he drew him to the strength of the tower, and armed him in such armor as he had, for to fight with them that would withstand him. And so, when Sir Tristram saw there was no resistance against him, he sent Guvernay for his horse and his spear, and nightly he rode forth out of the castle openly that was called the Castle of Tintagel. And even at gate he met with Jingalyn, Sir Gawain's son, and anon Sir Jingalyn put his spear in his rest and ran upon Sir Tristram and break his spear. And Sir Tristram at that time had but a sword, and gave him such a buffet upon the helm that he fell down from his saddle, and his sword slid down and carved asunder his horse's neck. And so Sir Tristram rode his way into the forest, and all this doing saw King Mark. And then he sent a squire unto the hurt night, and commanded him to come to him, and so he did. And when King Mark whisked that it was Sir Jingalyn, he welcomed him and gave him a horse, and asked him what night it was that had encountered with him. Sir, said Jingalyn, I what not what night he was, but well I what that he sieth and maketh great dole. Then Sir Tristram within a while met with the night of his own that hights Sir Fergus, and when he had met with him he made great sorrow in so much that he fell down off his horse in a swoon, and in such sorrow he was in three days and three nights. Then at the last Sir Tristram sent unto the court by Sir Fergus for to spear what tidings. And so, as he rode by the way, he met with the Damosel that came from Sir Palomedes to know and seek how Sir Tristram did. Then Sir Fergus told her how he was almost out of his mind. Alas! said the Damosel, well shall I find him? In such a place, said Sir Fergus, then Sir Fergus found Queen Esalt, sick in her bed, making the greatest dole that ever any earthly woman made. And when the Damosel found Sir Tristram, she made great dole, because she might not amend him, for the more she made of him the more was his pain. And at the last Sir Tristram took his horse and rode away from her. And then was it three days, or that she could find him, and then she brought him meat and drink, but he would none. And then another time Sir Tristram escaped away from the Damosel, and it hacked him to ride by the same castle, where Sir Palomedes and Sir Tristram did battle when their bellies out departed them. And there by fortune the Damosel met with Sir Tristram again, making the greatest dole that ever earthly creature made. And she yed to the lady of that castle, and told her of the misadventure of Sir Tristram. Alas! said the lady of that castle, where is my lord, Sir Tristram? Right here by your castle, said the Damosel. In good times, said the lady, is he so nigh me, he shall have meat and drink of the best. And an harp I have of his, whereupon he taught me, for of goodly harping he beareth the prize in the world. So this lady and Damosel brought him meat and drink, but he ate little thereof. Then upon a night he put his horse from him, and then he unlaced his armour, and then Sir Tristram would go into the wilderness, and brass down the trees and boughs. And other while, when he found the harp that the lady sent him, then would he harp and play thereupon and weep together. And some time, when Sir Tristram was in the wood, that the lady whisked not where he was, then would she sit down and play upon that harp, then would Sir Tristram come to that harp, and hearken there too, and some time he would harp himself. Thus he there endured a quarter of a year. Then at the last he ran his way, and she whisked not where he was become. And then was he naked, and waxed, lean and poor of flesh, and so he fell in the fellowship of herdmen and shepherds, and daily they would give him some of their meat and drink. And when he did any shrewd deed, they would beat him with rods, and so they clipped him with shears, and made him like a fool. Chapter 19 How Sir Tristram soused Dagonet in a well, and how Palomedes sent a Damozel to seek Tristram, and how Palomedes met with King Mark. And upon a day Dagonet, King Arthur's fool, came into Cornwall with two squires with him. And as they rode through that forest, they came by a fair well where Sir Tristram was want to be, and the weather was hot, and they alighted to drink of that well, and in the meanwhile their horses break loose. Right so Sir Tristram came unto them, and first he soused Sir Dagonet in that well, and after his squires, and there at laughed the shepherds. And forthwith all he ran after their horses, and brought them again one by one, and right so, wet as they were, he made them leap up and ride their ways. Thus Sir Tristram endured there, and half year naked, and would never come in town nor village. The meanwhile the Damozel that Sir Palomedes sent to seek Sir Tristram, she yed unto Sir Palomedes, and told him all the mischief that Sir Tristram endured. Alas! said Sir Palomedes, it is great pity that ever so noble a night should be so mischieved for the love of a lady, but nevertheless I will go and seek him, and comfort him, and I may. Then a little before that time Labelizot had commanded Sir Cahideus out of the country of Cornwall, so Sir Cahideus departed with a dolerous heart, and by adventure he met with Sir Palomedes, and they end fellowship together, and either complained to other of their hot love that they loved Labelizot. Now let us, said Sir Palomedes, seek Sir Tristram that loved her as well as we, and let us prove whether we may recover him. So they rode into that forest, and three days and three nights they would never take their lodging, but ever sought Sir Tristram. And upon a time by adventure they met with King Mark that was ridden from his men all alone. When they saw him Sir Palomedes knew him, but Sir Cahideus knew him not. Ah, false king, said Sir Palomedes, it is pity thou hast thy life, for thou art a destroyer of all worshipful nights, and by thy mischief and thy vengeance thou hast destroyed that most noble night Sir Tristram de Leonès, and therefore defend thee, said Sir Palomedes, for thou shalt die this day. That was shame, said King Mark, for ye too are armed, and I am unarmed. As for that, said Sir Palomedes, I shall find a remedy therefore. Here is a night with me, and thou shalt have his harness. Nay, said King Mark, I will not have a do with you, for cause have ye none to me, for all the misese that Sir Tristram hath was for a letter that he found, for as to me I did to him no displeasure, and God knoweth I am full sorry for his disease and malady. So when the king had thus excused him they were friends, and King Mark would have had them unto Tintagel, but Sir Palomedes would not, but turned unto the realm of Logris, and Sir Cahidius said that he would go into Brittany. Now turn we unto Sir Dagonet again, that when he and his squires were upon horseback, he deemed that the shepherds had sent that fool to array them so, because that they laughed at them, and so they rode unto the keepers of beasts, and all to beat them. Sir Tristram saw them beat, that were want to give him meat and drink. Then he ran thither, and Gat Sir Dagonet by the head, and gave him such a fall to the earth, that he bruised him sore, so that he lay still. And then he wrast his sword out of his hand, and therewith he ran to one of his squires, and smote off his head, and the other fled. And so Sir Tristram took his way with that sword in his hand, running as he had been wild wood. Then Sir Dagonet rode to King Mark, and told him how he had sped in that forest. And therefore, said Sir Dagonet, beware, King Mark, that thou come not about that well in the forest, for there is a fool naked, and that fool and I fool met together, and he had almost slain me. Ah, said King Mark, that is Sir Matto Lebrun, that fell out of his wit because he lost his lady. For when Sir Gaharis smoked down Sir Matto, and won his lady off him, never since was he in his mind, and that was pity, for he was a good night. Chapter 20 How it was noise'd how Sir Tristram was dead, and how La Bellizote would have slain herself. Then Sir Andrid, that was cousin unto Sir Tristram, made a lady that was his paramour, to say, and to noise it, that she was with Sir Tristram, or ever he died. And this tale she brought unto King Mark's court, that she buried him by a well, and that, or he died, he besought King Mark to make his cousin, Sir Andrid, king of the country of Lyones, of the which Sir Tristram was lord of. All this did Sir Andrid, because he would have had Sir Tristram's lands. And when King Mark heard tell that Sir Tristram was dead, he wept and make great dole. But when Queen Isolt heard of these tidings, she made such sorrow that she was nigh out of her mind, and so upon a day she thought to slay herself, and never to live after Sir Tristram's death. And so upon a day La Bellizote got a sword prively, and bear it to her garden, and there she piped the sword through a plum tree up to the hilt, so that it stuck fast, and it stood breast high. And as she would have run upon the sword, and to have slain herself, all this inspired King Mark, how she kneeled down and said, Sweet Lord, Jesus, have mercy upon me, for I may not live after the death of Sir Tristram de Lyones, for he was my first love, and he shall be the last. And with these words came King Mark and took her in his arms, and then he took up the sword and bare her away with him into a tower, and there he made her to be kept, and watched her surely, and after that she lay long sick, nigh at the point of death. This meanwhile ran Sir Tristram naked in the forest with the sword in his hand, and so he came to an hermitage, and there he laid him down and slept, and in the meanwhile the hermit stole away his sword, and laid meat down by him. Thus was he kept there ten days, and at the last he departed, and came to the herdman again, and there was a giant in that country that hiked Talius, and for fear of Sir Tristram more than seven years he durst never much go at large, but for the most part he kept him in a sure castle of his own, and so this Talius heard tell that Sir Tristram was dead by the noise of the court of King Mark. Then this Talius went daily at large, and so he hacked upon a day he came to the herdman wandering and languering, and there he set him down to rest among them. The meanwhile there came a knight of Cornwall that led a lady with him, and his name was Sir Dinant, and when the giant saw him he went from the herdman, and hid him under a tree, and so the knight came to that well, and there he alighted to repose him, and as soon as he was from his horse this giant Talius came betwixt this knight and his horse, and took the horse and leapt upon him. So forthwith he rode unto Sir Dinant, and took him by the collar, and pulled him before him upon his horse, and there would have stricken off his head. Then the herdman said unto Sir Tristram, Help, yonder knight, help ye him, said Sir Tristram, we dare not, said the herdman. Then Sir Tristram was aware of the sword of the knight, there as it lay, and so thither he ran, and took up the sword, and struck off Sir Talius's head, and so he yared his way to the herdman. Chapter 21 How King Mark found Sir Tristram naked, and made him to be born home to Tintagel, and how he was there known by Brachit. Then the knight took up the giant's head, and bare it with him unto King Mark, and told him what adventure bitted him in the forest, and how a naked man rescued him from the grimly giant Talius. Where had ye this adventure, said King Mark? For soothed said Sir Dinant, at the fair fountain in your forest where many adventurous knights meet, and there is the madman. Well, said King Mark, I will see that wild man. So within a day or two King Mark commanded his knights and his hunters, that they should be ready on the morn for to hunt, and so upon the morn he went unto that forest. And when the king came to that well, he found there lying by that well a fair naked man, and a sword by him. Then King Mark blew and striked, and therewith his knights came to him, and then the king commanded his knights to take that naked man with fairness, and bring him to my castle. So they did, softly and fairly, and cast mantles upon Sir Tristram, and so led him unto Tintagel, and there they bathed him, and washed him, and gave him hot suppings, till they had brought him well to his remembrance. But all this while there was no creature that knew Sir Tristram, nor what man he was. So it fell upon a day that the queen, Labellis Alt, heard of such a man that ran naked in the forest, and how the king had brought him home to the court. Then Labellis Alt called unto her Dane Braguine and said, Come on with me, for we will go see this man that my lord brought from the forest the last day. So they passed forth, and speared where was the sick man. And then a squire told the queen that he was in the garden taking his rest, and reposing him against the sun. So when the queen looked upon Sir Tristram, she was not remembered of him, but ever she said unto Dane Braguine, Missy Mith, I should have seen him hair to four in many places. But as soon as Sir Tristram saw her he knew her well enough, and then he turned away his visage, and wept. Then the queen had always a little bratchet with her, that Sir Tristram gave her the first time that ever she came into Cornwall, and never would that bratchet depart from her. But if Sir Tristram was nigh, there as was Labellis Alt. And this bratchet was sent from the king's daughter of France unto Sir Tristram, for great love. And anon, as this little bratchet felt a savour of Sir Tristram, she leapt upon him and licked his leers and his ears, and then she whined and quested, and she smelled at his feet and at his hands, and on all parts of his body that she might come to. Ah, my lady said Dane Braguine unto Labellis Alt. Alasa last said she, I see it is mine own Lord Sir Tristram. And thereupon his alt fell down in a swoon, and so lay a great while. And when she might speak, she said, My Lord Sir Tristram, Blessed be God ye have your life, and now I am sure ye shall be discovered by this little bratchet, for she will never leave you. And also I am sure as soon as my Lord, King Mark, do know you, he will banish you out of the country of Cornwall, or else he will destroy you. For God's sake, my own Lord, grant King Mark his will, and then draw you unto the court of King Arthur, for there are ye beloved, and ever when I may, I shall send unto you. And when ye list, ye may come to me, and at all times, early and late, I will be at your commandment, to live as poor a life as ever did, queen or lady. Oh, madam said Sir Tristram, go from me, for Michael, anger and danger have I escaped for your love. Chapter 22 How King Mark, by the advice of his council, banished Sir Tristram out of Cornwall, for the term of ten years. Then the queen departed, but the bratchet would not from him, and therewith all came King Mark, and the bratchet set upon him, and bade at them all. Therewith all Sir Andred spake, and said, Sir, this is Sir Tristram, I see by the bratchet. Nay, said the king, I cannot suppose that. Then the king asked him upon his faith what he was, and what was his name. So God me help, said he, my name is Sir Tristram de Leonès, now do by me what ye list. Ah, said King Mark, me repenteth of your recovery, and then he let call his barons to judge Sir Tristram. Then many of his barons would not assent thereto, and in his special Sir Deenès, the Seneschal, and Sir Fergus. And so, by the advice of them all, Sir Tristram was banished out of the country for ten years, and thereupon he took his oath upon a book before the king and his barons. And so he was made to depart out of the country of Cornwall, and there were many barons brought him unto his ship, of the which some were his friends, and some his foes. And in the meanwhile there came a knight of King Arthur's, his name was Dinadun, and his coming was for to seek after Sir Tristram. Then they showed him where he was, armed at all points, going to the ship. Now fair knight, said Sir Dinadun, or ye pass this court, that ye will joust with me, I require thee. With a good will, said Sir Tristram, and these lords will give me leave. Then the barons granted thereto, and so they ran together, and there Sir Tristram gave Sir Dinadun a fall. And then he prayed Sir Tristram to give him leave to go in his fellowship. Ye shall be right welcome, said then Sir Tristram. And so they took their horses, and rode to their ships together, and when Sir Tristram was in the sea he said, Greek well, King Mark, and all mine enemies, and say them I will come again when I may, and well am I rewarded for the fighting with Sir Marhouse, and delivered all this country from servage. And well am I rewarded for the fetching and costs of Queen Isalt out of Ireland, and the danger that I was in first and last. And by the way, coming home, what danger I had to bring again Queen Isalt from the castle Plouere. And well am I rewarded when I fought with Sir Blebaris for Sir Sekwaridiz's wife. And well am I rewarded when I fought with Sir Blamorda Gannis for King Anguish, father unto love Bellysalt. And well am I rewarded when I smoked down the good night Sir Lamaracta Gullis at King Mark's request. And well am I rewarded when I fought with the King with the Hundred Knights and the King of North Gullis. And both these would have put his land in servage, and by me they were put to a rebuke. And well am I rewarded for the slaying of Talias, the mighty giant, and many other deeds have I done for him, and now have I my warrison. And tell King Mark that many noble knights of the Table Round have spared the barons of this country for my sake. Also am I not well rewarded when I fought with the good knights of Palomidiz and rescued Queen Isalt from him. And at that time King Mark said afore all his barons I should have been better rewarded. And forthwith all he took the sea. End of Chapter 22 How a Demiselle sought help to help Sir Lancelot against 30 knights, and how Sir Tristram fought with them. And at the next landing, fast by the sea, there met with Sir Tristram and with Sir Dinadon, Sir Ector de Maris and Sir Bors de Ghanis, and there Sir Ector jousted with Sir Dinadon, and he smote him and his horse down. And there Sir Ector jousted with Sir Dinadon, and he smote him and his horse down. And then Sir Tristram would have jousted with Sir Bors, and Sir Bors said that he would not joust with no Cornish knights, for they are not called men of worship, and all this was done upon a bridge. And with this came Sir Blaobaris and Sir Dreot, and Sir Blaobaris proffered to joust with Sir Tristram, and there Sir Tristram smote down Sir Blaobaris. Then said Sir Bors de Ghanis, I wish never Cornish knight of so great valor, nor so valiant as that knight that berth the trappings embroidered with crowns. And then Sir Tristram and Sir Dinadon departed from them into a forest, and there met them a demazelle that came for the love of Sir Lancelot, to seek after some noble knights of King Arthur's court for to rescue Sir Lancelot. And so Sir Lancelot was ordained for by the treason of Queen Morgan Le Fay to have slain Sir Lancelot, and for that cause she ordained thirty knights to lie in a wait for Sir Lancelot, and this demazelle knew this treason. And for this cause the demazelle came for to seek noble knights to help Sir Lancelot. For that night or the day after Sir Lancelot should come where these thirty knights were, and so this demazelle met with Sir Bors and Sir Ector and with Sir Dreont, and there she told them all four of the treason of Morgan Le Fay, and then they promised her that they would be nigh where Sir Lancelot should meet with the thirty knights, and if so be they set upon him we will do rescues as we can. So the demazelle departed, and by adventure the demazelle met with Sir Tristram and with Sir Dinadin, and there the demazelle told them all the treason that was ordained for Sir Lancelot. Fair demazelle, said Sir Tristram, bring me to that same place where they should meet with Sir Lancelot. Then said Sir Dinadin, what will you do? It is not for us to fight with thirty knights, and wit you well I will not thereof. As to match one knight two or three is enough, and they be men, but for to match fifteen knights that will I never undertake. Five for shame, said Sir Tristram, but do your part. Nay, said Sir Dinadin, I will not thereof, but if ye will lend me your shield, for you bear a shield of Cornwall, and for the cowardice that is named to the knights of Cornwall, by your shields ye be ever foreborn. Nay, said Sir Tristram, I will not depart from my shield for her sake that gave it to me. But one thing, said Sir Tristram, I promise thee, Sir Dinadin, but if thou wilt promise me to abide with me, here I shall slay thee, for I desire no more of thee but answer one knight. And if thy heart will not serve thee, stand by and look upon me and them. Sir, said Sir Dinadin, I promise you to look upon and to do what I may to save myself, but I would I had not met with you. So then and on these thirty knights came fast by these four knights, and they were aware of them, and either of other. And so these thirty knights let them pass, for this cause, that they would not wrath them, if case be that they had a do with Sir Lancelot. And the four knights let them pass to this intent, that they would see and behold what they would do with Sir Lancelot. And so the thirty knights passed on, and came by Sir Tristram and by Sir Dinadin. And then Sir Tristram cried on high, low here is a knight against you for the love of Sir Lancelot. And there he slew two with one spear and ten with his sword. And then came in Sir Dinadin, and he did passing well. And so of the thirty knights there were but ten away, and they flanned. All this battle saw Sir Bors de Gannis and his three fellows, and then they saw well it was the same knight that jousted with them at the bridge. Then they took their horses and rode unto Sir Tristram and praised him, and thanked him of his good deeds. And they all desired Sir Tristram to go with them to their lodging. And he said, Nay, he would not go to no lodging. Then they all four knights prayed him to tell them his name. Fair Lords, said Sir Tristram, as at this time I will not tell you my name. Chapter 24 How Sir Tristram and Sir Dinadin came to a lodging where they must joust with two knights. Then Sir Tristram and Sir Dinadin rode forth their way till they came to the shepherds and to the herdsmen, and there they asked them if they knew any lodging or harbour their nigh-hand. For sooth, sirs, said the herdman, hereby is good lodging in a castle. But there is such a custom that there shall no knight be harboured, but if he joust with two knights. And if he be but one knight he must joust with two. And as ye be therein soon shall ye be matched. There is shrewd harbour, said Sir Dinadin, lodge where ye will, but I will not lodge there. Five for shame, said Sir Tristram, are ye not a knight of the table round? Wherefore ye may not, with your worship, refuse your lodging? Not so, said the herdman, for an ye be beaten and have the worse ye shall not be lodged there. And if ye beat them ye shall be well harboured. Ah! said Sir Dinadin, there are two sure knights. Then Sir Dinadin would not lodge there in no manner, but as Sir Tristram required him of his knighthood. And so they rode thither. And to make short-tail, Sir Tristram and Sir Dinadin smote them down both, and so they entered into the castle and had good cheer, as they could think or devise. And when they were unarmed, and thought to be merry and in good rest, there came in at the gates Sir Palomides and Sir Geharus, requiring to have the custom of the castle. What array is this, said Sir Dinadin, I would have my rest. That may not be, said Sir Tristram. Now must we needs defend the custom of this castle, in so much as we have the better of the lords of this castle. And therefore, said Sir Tristram, needs must ye make you ready. In the devil's name, said Sir Dinadin, came I into your company. And so they made them ready and Sir Geharus encountered with Sir Tristram and Sir Geharus had a fall. And Sir Palomides encountered with Sir Dinadin and Sir Dinadin had a fall. Then it was fall for fall. So then must they fight on foot. That would not, Sir Dinadin, for he was so sore bruised of the fall that Sir Palomides gave him. Then Sir Tristram unlaced Sir Dinadin's helm and prayed him to help him. I will not, said Sir Dinadin, for I am sore wounded of the thirty nights that we had but late ago to do with all. But ye fare, said Sir Dinadin unto Sir Tristram, as a madman and as a man that is out of his mind that would cast himself away. And I may curse the time that ever I saw you. For in all the world are not two such nights that be so wood as is Sir Lancelot and ye, Sir Tristram? For once I fell in the fellowship of Sir Lancelot as I have done now with you, and he set me a work that a quarter of a year I kept my bed. Yesu defend me, said Sir Dinadin, from such two nights and specially from your fellowship. Then, said Sir Tristram, I will fight with them both. Then Sir Tristram bade them come forth both, for I will fight with you. Then Sir Palomides and Sir Charis dressed them and smote at them both. Then Dinadin smote at Sir Charis a stroke or two and turned from him. Nay, said Sir Palomides, it is too much shame for us two nights to fight with one. And then he did bid Sir Charis stand aside with that night that hath no list to fight. Then they rode together and fought long, and at the last Sir Tristram doubled his strokes and drove Sir Palomides aback more than three strides. And then by one ascent Sir Charis and Sir Dinadin went betwixt them and departed them in Sunder. And then by ascent of Sir Tristram they would have lodged together. But Sir Dinadin would not lodge in that castle, and then he cursed the time that ever he came in their fellowship. And so he took his horse, and his harness, and departed. Then Sir Tristram prayed the lords of that castle to lend him a man to bring him to a lodging. And so they did, and overtook Sir Dinadin, and rode to their lodging two mile, thence with a good man in a priory. And there they were well at ease. And that same night Sir Bors and Sir Blaobaris and Sir Ector and Sir Drianth abode still in the same place, there as Sir Tristram fought with the thirty knights. And there they met with Sir Lancelot the same night, and had made promise to lodge with Sir Colgravence the same night. How Sir Tristram diasted with Sir Kaye and Sir Sagrimore the Lude desirous, and how Sir Gawain turned Sir Tristram from Morgan Le Fay. But Anon is the noble knight Sir Lancelot, heard of the shield of Cornwall, then whisked he well that it was Sir Tristram that fought with his enemies. And then Sir Lancelot praised Sir Tristram, and called him the man of most worship in the world. So there was a knight in that priory that hight Pelinor, and he desired to wit the name of Sir Tristram. But in no wise he could not, and so Sir Tristram departed and left Sir Dinadin in the priory, for he was so weary and so sore bruised that he might not ride. Then this night Sir Pelinor said to Sir Dinadin, Sithin that ye will not tell me that night's name, I will ride after him, and make him to tell me his name, for he shall die therefore. Beware, Sir Knight, said Sir Dinadin, for and ye follow him, ye shall repent it. So that night Sir Pelinor rode after Sir Tristram and required him of jousts. Then Sir Tristram smote him down and wounded him through the shoulder, and so he passed on his way. And on the next day following Sir Tristram met with Per Suivance, and they told him that there was made a great cry of tournament between King Caradus of Scotland and the King of North Wales, and either should joust against other at the Castle of Maidens, and these poor Suivance sought all the country after the Good Nights, and in a special, King Caradus let make seeking for Sir Lancelot du Lac, and the King of North Gallus let seek after Sir Tristram de Leonis. And at that time Sir Tristram thought to be at that joust, and so by adventure they met with Sir Kay the Seneschal, and Sir Sagermore Ludicirus, and Sir Kay required Sir Tristram to joust, and Sir Tristram in a manner refused him, because he would not be hurt nor bruised against the great joust that should be before the Castle of Maidens, and therefore thought to repose him and to rest him. And always Sir Kay cried, Sir Knight of Cornwall joust with me, or else yield thee to me as requriant. When Sir Tristram heard him say so, he turned to him, and then Sir Kay refused him and turned his back. Then Sir Tristram said, As I find thee, I shall take thee, and Sir Kay turned with evil will, and Sir Tristram smote Sir Kay down, and so he rode forth. Then Sir Sagermore Ludicirus rode after Sir Tristram and made him to joust with him, and there Sir Tristram smote down Sir Sagermore Ludicirus from his horse, and rode his way, and the same day he met with a Damazelle that told him that he should win great worship of a night adventurous, that did much harm in all that country. When Sir Tristram heard her say so, he was glad to go with her to win worship. So Sir Tristram rode with that Damazelle a sixth mile, and then met him, Sir Gawain, and therewithal Sir Gawain knew the Damazelle, and that she was a Damazelle of Queen Morgan Le Fay. Then Sir Gawain understood that she led that night to some mischief. Fair night, said Sir Gawain, with her ride you now with that Damazelle. Sir, said Sir Tristram, I want not with her I shall ride, but as the Damazelle will lead me. Sir, said Sir Gawain, you shall not ride with her, for she and her lady did never good, but ill. And then Sir Gawain pulled out his sword and said, Damazelle, if thou tell me anon, for what cause thou leadest this night with thee, thou shall die for it right anon. I know all your ladies treason and yours. Mercy, Sir Gawain, she said, and if you will save my life I will tell you. Say anon, said Sir Gawain, and thou shall have thy life. Sir, she said, Queen Morgan Le Fay, my lady hath ordained a thirty ladies to seek in a spy after Sir Lancelot or Sir Tristram, and by the trains of these ladies, who that may first meet any of these two knights, they should turn them unto Morgan Le Fay's castle, saying that they should do deeds of worship, and if any of the two knights came there, there be thirty knights lying and watching in a tower to wait upon Sir Lancelot or upon Sir Tristram. Five for shame, said Sir Gawain, that ever such false treason should be wrought or used in a queen and a king's sister and a king and queen's daughter. Chapter 26 How Sir Tristram and Sir Gawain rode to have foughtten with the thirty knights, but they durst not come out. Sir, said Sir Gawain, we stand with me, and we will see the malice of these thirty knights. Sir, said Sir Tristram, go ye to them, and it please you, and ye shall see I will not fail you, for it is not long ago since I and a fellow met with thirty knights of that queen's fellowship, and God speed us so that we may win worship. So then Sir Gawain and Sir Tristram rode toward the castle where Morgan Le Fay was, and ever Sir Gawain deemed well that he was Sir Tristram de Leonis, because he heard that two knights had slain and beaten thirty knights. And when they came before the castle Sir Gawain spake on high, and said, Queen Morgan Le Fay, send out your knights that ye have laid in a watch for Sir Lancelot and for Sir Tristram. Now, said Sir Gawain, I know your false treason, and through all places where that I ride, men shall know of your false treason, and now let's see, said Sir Gawain, whether ye dare come out of your castle ye thirty knights. Then the queen spake, and all the thirty knights at once, and said, Sir Gawain, full well wattest thou, what thou dost and sayest, for by God we know the passing well, but all that thou speakest and dost, thou sayest it upon pride of that good night that is there with thee. For there be some of us that know full well the hands of that knight over all well. And wit thou well, Sir Gawain, it is more for his sake than for thine that we will not come out of this castle. For wit ye well, Sir Gawain, the knight that beareth the arms of Cornwall, we know him and what he is. Then Sir Gawain and Sir Tristram departed and rode on their ways a day or two together, and there by adventure they met with Sir Kaye and Sir Sagermore Lundesiris. And then they were glad of Sir Gawain and he of them, but they whisked not that he was with the shield of Cornwall, but by deeming. And thus they rode together a day or two. And then they were aware of Sir Bruce sans pitié, chasing a lady for to have slain her, for he had slain her paramour of four. Hold you all still, said Sir Gawain, and show none of you forth, and ye shall see me reward yonder false knight, for and he, as by you, he is so well hoarse that he will escape away. And then Sir Gawain rode betwixt Sir Bruce and the lady, and said, false knight, leave her, and have a do with me. When Sir Bruce saw no more but Sir Gawain, he furtered his spear, and Sir Gawain against him, and there Sir Bruce overthrew Sir Gawain, and then he rode over him, and overthwart him twenty times to have destroyed him. And when Sir Tristram saw him do so villainous a deed, he hurled out against him. And when Sir Bruce saw him with the shield of Cornwall, he knew him well that it was Sir Tristram, and that he fled, and Sir Tristram followed after him, and Sir Bruce sans pitié was so hoarse that he went his way quite, and Sir Tristram followed him long, for he would feign have been avenged upon him. And so when he had long chased him, he saw a farewell, and thither he rode to repose him and hide his horse till a tree.