 Chapters 47-51, Book 10, Vol. 2 of Le Mans d'Artour. This is a LibriVox recording, or LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Reading by Lars Rolander Le Mans d'Artour, Vol. 2, by Sir Thomas Mallory. Chapter 47 So by fortune this damosel heard tell that Palomedes did much for damosel's sake, so she sent to him a pencil and prayed him to fight with Sir Corsabrin for her love, and he should have her and her lands of her father that should fall to her. Then the damosel sent unto Corsabrin and made him go unto Sir Palomedes that was a pain him as well as he, and she gave him warning that she had sent him her pencil, and if he might overcome Palomedes she would wed him. When Corsabrin whisked of her deeds, then was he would wroth and angry, and rode unto Sir Luz where the Horde Prince was, and there he found Sir Palomedes ready, the witch had the pencil. So there the witch battled either with other for Gala Horde. Well, said the Horde Prince, this day must noble knights just, and at after dinner we shall see how ye can speed. Then they blew to justs, and in came Dineran, and met with Sir Cairin a good night, and he threw him down over his horse's croop, and Sir Dineran overthrew four nights more, and there he did great deeds of arms, for he was a good night, but he was a scoffer and a japper, and the merriest night among fellowships that was that time living. And he had such a custom, that he loved every good night, and every good night loved him again. So then, when the Horde Prince saw Dineran do so well, he sent unto Sir Lonsilot and made him strike down Sir Dineran. And when that ye have done so, bringing him before me and the noble Queen Ganevere, then Sir Lonsilot did as he was required. Then Sir Lamarac and he smoked down many nights, and raced off helms, and drew all the nights before them. And so Sir Lonsilot smoked down Sir Dineran, and made his men to unarm him, and so brought him to the Queen and the Horde Prince, and they laughed at Dineran so sore that they might not stand. Well said Sir Dineran, yet have I no shame for the old shrews Sir Lonsilot smote me down, so they went to dinner, and all the court had goods bought at Dineran. Then, when the dinner was done, they blew to the field to behold Sir Palomedus and Corsabrin. Sir Palomedus pied his pencil in midst of the field, and then they hurtled together with their spears as it were thunder, and either smote other to the earth. And then they pulled out their swords, and dressed their shields, and lashed together mightily as mighty knights. That well night there was no peace of harness would hold them, for this Corsabrin was a passing felonious knight. Corsabrin, said Palomedus, will thou release me, John the Damocel, and the pencil? Then was Corsabrin wroth out of measure, and gave Palomedus such a buffet that he kneeled on his knee. Then Palomedus arose lightly, and smote him upon the helm that he fell down right to the earth, and therewith he raised off his helm and said, Corsabrin, yield thee, or else thou shalt die of my hands. Fire on thee, said Corsabrin, do thy worst. Then he smote off his head, and therewith all came a stink of his body when the soul departed, that there might nobody abide the Saviour. So was the corpse had a way and buried in a wood, because he was a pain him. Then they blew unto lodging, and Palomedus was unarmed. Then he went unto Queen Ganyver, to the Horde Prince and to Sir Loneslot. Sir, said the Horde Prince, here have ye seen this day a great miracle by Corsabrin, what Saviour there was when the soul departed from the body. Therefore, sir, we will require you to take the baptism upon you, and I promise you all knights will set thee more by you, and say more worship by you. Sir, said Palomedus, I will that ye all know that into this land I came to be christened, and in my heart I am christened, and christened will I be. But I have made such an avow that I may not be christened till I have done seven true battles for Jesus' sake, and then will I be christened, and I trust God will take my intent, for I mean truly. Then Sir Palomedus prayed Queen Ganyver and the Horde Prince to sup with him, and so they did, both Sir Loneslot and Sir Lamarac, and many other good knights, so on the morn they heard their mass and blew the field, and then knights made them ready. Here begineth the sixth day. Then came therein Sir Gaharis, and there encountered with him Sir Osees of Surluse, and Sir Gaharis smote him over his horse's group, and then either party encountered with other, and there were many spares broken, and many knights cast under feet. So there came in Sir Dornad and Sir Aglovel, that were brethren unto Sir Lamarac, and they met with other two knights, and either smote other so hard that all four knights and horses fell to the earth. When Sir Lamarac saw his two brethren down, he was wroth out of measure, and then he got a great spare in his hand, and there with all he smote down four good knights, and then his spare break. Then he pulled out his sword, and smote about him on the right hand and on the left hand, and raised off helms, and pulled down knights, that all men marveled of such deeds of arms as he did, for he fared so that many knights fled. Then he horsed his brethren again, and said, Brethren, ye ought to be ashamed to fall so off your horses. What is a knight but when he is on horseback? I set not by a knight when he is on foot, for all battles on foot are but pillar's battles, and there should no knight fight on foot, but if it were for treason, or else he were driven there too by force. Therefore, brethren, sit fast on your horses, or else fight never more for me. With that came in the Duke Chalains of Clarence, and there encountered with him the Earl Ulbaus of Sir Luz, and either of them smote other down. Then the knights of both parties horsed their lords again, for Sir Ector and Bleobris were on foot, waiting on the Duke Chalains. And the king with the hundred knights was with the Earl of Ulbaus. With that came Gaharis and Lash to the king with the hundred knights, and he to him again. Then came the Duke Chalains and departed them. Then they blew to lodging, and the knights unarmed them and drew them to their dinner, and at the midst of their dinner in came Dinedan and began to rail. Then he beheld the Horde Prince that seemed wroth with some fault that he saw, for he had a custom he loved no fish, and because he was served with fish, the which he hated, therefore he was not married. When Sardinian had aspired the Horde Prince, he aspired where was a fish with a great head, and that he got bewitched two dishes and served the Horde Prince with that fish. And then he said thus, Sir Galaholt, well may I liken you to a wolf, for he will never eat fish but flesh. Then the Horde Prince laughed at his words. Well well said Dinedan to Lonslot, what devil do ye in this country, for here may know me knights with no worship for thee. Sir Dinedan said Lonslot, I ensure thee, I shall no more meet with thee, nor with thy great spare, for I may not sit in my saddle when that spare hitteth me. And if I be happy, I shall beware of that poisonous body that thou bears'dt. Well said Lonslot, make good watch ever. God forbid that ever we meet, but it be at a dish of meat. Then laughed the Queen and the Horde Prince, that they might not sit at their table, thus they made great joy till on the morn. And then they heard mass and blew to field, and Queen Ganevere and all the estates were set, and judges armed clean with their shields to keep the right. Chapter 49 Now begineth the seventh battle. There came in the Duke Cambines, and there encountered with him Sir Aristons, that was counted a good night. And they met so hard that either bear other down horse and man. Then came there the Earl of Lambale, and helped the Duke again to horse. Then came Sir Osses of Sir Luz, and he smoot the Earl Lambale down from his horse. Then began they to do great deeds of arms, and many spears were broken, and many knights were cast through the earth. Then the King of North Calis and the Earl of Baos smote together that all the judges thought it was like mortal death. This meanwhile Queen Ganevere and the Horde Prince and Sir Lonslot made their Sardinidan making ready to just. I would, Sardinidan, ride into the field, but then one of you twain will meet with me. Per dieu said the Horde Prince, you may see how we sit here as judges with our shields, and always mayst thou behold whether we sit here or not. So Sardinidan departed and took his horse, and met with many knights, and did passing well. And as he was departed, Sir Lonslot disguised himself, and put upon his armour a maiden's garment freshly attired. Then Sir Lonslot made Sir Galhudin to lead him through the range, and all men had wonder what Damocel it was. And so as Sardinidan came into the range, Sir Lonslot that was in the Damocel's array, got Galhudin's spear, and ran unto Sardinidan. And always Sardinidan looked up there as Sir Lonslot was, and then he saw one sit in the state of Sir Lonslot armed. But when Sardinidan saw a manor of a Damocel, he dreared perils that it was Sir Lonslot disguised. But Sir Lonslot came on him so fast that he smote him over his horse's screw, and then, with great scorns, they got Sardinidan into the forest, there beside, and there they despoiled him unto his shirt, and put upon him a woman's garment, and so brought him into the field, and so they blew unto lodging. And every night went and unarmed them. Then was Sardinidan brought in among them all, and when Queen Gannover saw Sardinidan brought so amongst them all, then she laughed that she fell down, and so did all that there were. Well, Sardinidan to Lonslot, thou art so false that I can never beware of thee. Then by all the assent they gave Sir Lonslot the price. The next was Sir Lamorak de Gaelis, the third was Sir Palomedis, the fourth was King Bagdemagus, so these four knights had the price, and there was great joy, and great nobly in all the court. And on the mourn Queen Gannover and Sir Lonslot departed unto King Arthur, but in no wise Sir Lamorak would not go with them. I shall undertake, said Sir Lonslot, that and ye will go with us. King Arthur shall charge Sir Gavain, and his brethren never to do you hurt. As for that, said Sir Lamorak, I will not trust Sir Gavain, nor none of his brethren, and which ye will, Sir Lonslot, and it were not for my Lord King Arthur's sake I should match Sir Gavain and his brethren well enough. But to say that I should trust them, that shall I never, and therefore I pray you recommend me unto my Lord Arthur, and unto all my lords of the round table. And in what place that ever I come I shall do you service to my power, and, sir, it is but late that I revenge that, when my Lord Arthur's kin were put to the worst by Sir Palomedis. Then Sir Lamorak departed from Sir Lonslot, and either wept at their departing. Chapter 15 Now turn we from this matter, and speak we of Sir Tristram, of whom this book is principally of, and leave we the King and the Queen, Sir Lonslot and Sir Lamorak, and here begineth the treason of King Mark, that he ordained against Sir Tristram. There was cried by the coasts of Cornwall a great tournament and justs, and all was done by Sir Gallaholt, the Horde Prince and King Bagdemarbus, to the intend to slay Lonslot, or else utterly destroy him and shame him, because Sir Lonslot had always the higher degree. Therefore this prince and this king made this justs against Sir Lonslot, and thus their council was discovered unto King Mark, whereof he was full glad. Then King Mark bethought him that he would have Sir Tristram unto that tournament, disguised that no man should know him, to that intend that the Horde Prince should wean that Sir Tristram were Sir Lonslot. So at these justs came in Sir Tristram, and at that time Sir Lonslot was not there, but when they saw a knight disguised to such deeds of arms, they weaned it had been Sir Lonslot, and in a special King Mark said it was Sir Lonslot plainly. Then they set upon him both King Bagdemargus and the Horde Prince and their knights, that it was wonder that ever Sir Tristram might endure that pain. Notwithstanding for all the pain that he had, Sir Tristram won the degree at that tournament, and there he hurt many knights and bruised them, and they hurt him and bruised him, wonderly sore. So when the justs were all done, they knew well that it was Sir Tristram the lioness, and all that were on King Mark's party were glad that Sir Tristram was hurt, and the remnant were sorry of his hurt, for Sir Tristram was not to be hated as was Sir Lonslot within the realm of England. Then came King Mark unto Sir Tristram and said, Fair nephew, I am sorry of your hurts. Gramercy, my lord, said Sir Tristram. Then King Mark made Sir Tristram to be put in a horse-beer in a great sign of love, and said, Fair cousin, I shall be your leech myself, and so he rode forth with Sir Tristram and brought him to a castle by daylight. And then King Mark made Sir Tristram to eat, and then after he gave him a drink, the witch as soon as he had drunk he fell asleep, and when it was night he made him to be carried to another castle, and there he put him in a strong prison, and there he ordained a man and a woman to give him his meat and drink, so there he was a great wile. Then was Sir Tristram missed, and no creature wist where he was come. When Labilisud heard how he was missed, privily she went unto Sir Sadoq and prayed him to his spy where was Sir Tristram. Then when Sadoq wist how Sir Tristram was missed, and a known as spy that he was put in prison by King Mark and the traitors of Maghuns, then Sadoq and two of his cousins laid them in an ambushment, fast by the castle of Tintagil in arms, and as by fortune there came riding King Mark and four of his nephews and a certain of the traitors of Maghuns. When Sir Sadoq espied them he break out of the bushment and set there upon them, and when King Mark espied Sir Sadoq he fled as fast as he might, and there Sir Sadoq slew all the four nephews unto King Mark, but these traitors of Maghuns slew one of Sadoq's cousins with a great wound in the neck, but Sadoq smote the other to the death. Then Sir Sadoq rode upon his way unto a castle that was called Lyones, and there he espied of the treason and felony of King Mark. So they of that castle rode with Sir Sadoq till that they came to a castle that hight Arbri, and there in the town they found Sir Dinas, the Seneshal, that was a good night. But when Sir Sadoq had told Sir Dinas of all the treason of King Mark he defied such a king and said he would give up his lands that he held of him, and when he said these words all manner night said as Sir Dinas said, then by his advice and of Sir Sadoq's he letstuff all the towns and castles within the country of Lyones and assemble all the people that they might make. Chapter 51 Now turn we unto King Mark, that when he was escaped from Sir Sadoq he rode unto the castle of Tintagil, and there he made great cry and noise, and cried unto harness all that might bear arms. Then they sought and found where were dead four cousins of King Marks and the traitor of Maghuns. Then the king let into them in a chapel, then the king let cry in all the country that held of him to go unto arms, for he understood to the war he must needs. When King Mark heard and understood how Sir Sadoq and Sir Dinas were arisen in the country of Lyones he remembered of wiles and treason. Lo thus he did, he let make and count of it letters from the pope, and did make a strange clerk to bear them unto King Mark, the which letters specify that King Mark should make him ready upon pain of cursing, with his host to come to the pope to help to go to Jerusalem for to make war upon Sarasens. When this clerk was come by the mean of the king, and known with all King Mark sent these letters unto Sir Tristram, and made him say thus, that and he would go war upon the miscreants he should be had out of prison, and to have all his power. When Sir Tristram understood this letter, then he said thus to the clerk, Ah, King Mark ever has thou been a traitor, and ever will be. But clerk, said Sir Tristram, say thou thus unto King Mark, since the apostle pope has sent for him, bid him go thither himself, for tell him, traitor King, as he is, I will not go at his commandment. Get I out of prison as I may, for I see I am well rewarded for my true service. Then the clerk returned unto King Mark, and told him of the answer of Sir Tristram. Well, said King Mark, yet shall he be beguiled. So he went into his chamber, and counterfeit letters, and the letter specified that the pope decided Sir Tristram to come himself to make war upon the miscreants. When the clerk was come again to Sir Tristram, and took him these letters, then Sir Tristram beheld these letters, and, known as by, they were of King Mark's counterfeiting. Ah, said Sir Tristram, false has thou been ever, King Mark, and so wilt thou end. Then the clerk departed from Sir Tristram, and came to King Mark again. By then there were come four wounded knights within the castle of Tintagel, and one of them, his neck was nigh broken in twain. Another had his arms stricken away, the third was borne through with a spear, the fourth had his teeth stricken in twain. And when there came a four King Mark, they cried and said, King Mark, why fleece thou not, for all this country is arisen clearly against thee? Then was King Mark wroth out of measure. And in the meanwhile there came into the country Sir Percival de Gaelis to seek Sir Tristram. And when he'd heard that Sir Tristram was in prison, Sir Percival made clearly the deliverance of Sir Tristram by his nightly means. And when he was so delivered, he made great joy of Sir Percival, and so each one of other. Sir Tristram said unto Sir Percival, And ye will abide in these marches, I will ride with you. Nay, said Percival, In this country I may not tarry, for I must sneeze into wales. So Sir Percival departed from Sir Tristram, and rode straight unto King Mark, and told him how he had delivered Sir Tristram. And also he told the king that he had done himself great shame for to put Sir Tristram in prison. For he is now the night of most renown in this world living. And with Thou well the noblest nights of the world loves Sir Tristram, and if he will make war upon you, ye may not abide it. That is truth, said King Mark, but I may not love Sir Tristram because he loves my queen and my wife, Labili Sud. Ah, fee for shame, said Sir Percival, Say ye never so more. Are ye not uncle unto Sir Tristram, and he your nephew? Ye should never think that so noble a night as Sir Tristram is, that he would do himself so great a villainy to hold his uncle's wife. How bade, said Sir Percival, he may love your queen sinless, because she is called one of the fairest ladies of the world. Then Sir Percival departed from King Mark, so when he was departed King Mark bethought him of mortreson, not withstanding King Mark granted Sir Percival never by no manner of means to hurt Sir Tristram. So an own King Mark sent unto Sardinas the Seneschal, that he should put down all the people that he had raised, for he sent him an oath that he would go himself unto the Pope of Rome to war upon the Miscreants, and this is a fairer war than thus to arise the people against your king. When Sardinas understood that King Mark would go upon the Miscreants, then Sardinas in all haste put down all the people, and when the people were departed every man to his home, then King Mark aspired where was Sir Tristram with Labili Sud. And there, by treason, King Mark let take him and put him in prison, contrary to his promise that he made unto Sir Percivalia. When Queen Issud understood that Sir Tristram was in prison, she made as great sorrow as ever made lady or gentle woman. Then Sir Tristram sent a letter unto Labili Sud and prayed her to be his good lady, and if it pleased her to make a vessel ready for her and him, he would go with her unto the realm of Logris, that is this land. When Labili Sud understood Sir Tristram's letter and his intent, she sent him another and made him be of good comfort, for she would do make the vessel ready and all thing to purpose. Then Labili Sud sent unto Sardinas and to Sardok, and prayed them in any ways to take King Mark and put him in prison, unto the time that she and Sir Tristram were departed unto the realm of Logris. When Sardinas the Sennishal understood the treason of King Mark, he promised her again and sent word that King Mark should be put in prison, and as they devised it so it was done, and then Sir Tristram was delivered out of prison. And unknown in all the haste, Queenie Sud and Sir Tristram went and took their counsel with that they would have with them when they departed. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Reading by Lars Rolander. Then Labili Sud and Sir Tristram took their vessel and came by water into this land, and so they were not in this land for days, but there came a cry of a just and tournament that King Arthur let make. When Sir Tristram her tell of that tournament, he disguised himself and Labili Sud and rode unto that tournament, and when he came there he saw many nights just and tourney, and so Sir Tristram dressed him to the range, and to make short conclusion he overthrew forty nights of the round table. When Sir Lonslott saw these nights thus overthrown, Sir Lonslott dressed him to Sir Tristram, that so Labili Sud how Sir Lonslott was come into the field. Then Labili Sud sent unto Sir Lonslott a ring and bade him with that it was Sir Tristram the lioness. When Sir Lonslott understood that there was Sir Tristram he was full glad and would not just. Then Sir Lonslott spied wither Sir Tristram yead and after him he rode, and then either made of other great joy. And so Sir Lonslott brought Sir Tristram and Labili Sud unto Joyous card, that was his own castle, that he had won with his own hands, and there Sir Lonslott put them into wheel for their own, and which ye well, that castle was garnished and furnished for a king and a queen royal there to have sojourned. And Sir Lonslott charged all his people to honour them and love them as they would do himself. So Sir Lonslott departed, untooking Arthur, and then he told Queen Ganyver how he that just did so well at the last tournament was Sir Tristram. And there he told her now he had with him Labili Sud Morg King Mark, and so Queen Ganyver told all this unto King Arthur. When King Arthur wished that Sir Tristram was escaped and come from King Mark, and had brought Labili Sud with him, then was he passing glad. So because of Sir Tristram, King Arthur let make a cry that on May Day should be adjusts before the castle of Lonatsib, and that castle was fast by Joyous card. And thus Arthur devised that all the knights of this land, and of Cornwall, and of North Wales, should just against all these countries, Ireland, Scotland, and the remnant of Wales, and the country of Gore and Salus, and of Listinois, and they of Northumberland, and all they that held lands of Arthur on this half the sea. When this cry was made many knights were glad, and many were un- glad. Sir said Lonslott unto Arthur, By this cry that ye have made, ye will put us that be about you in great jeopardy, for there be many knights that have great envy to us. Therefore when we shall meet at the day of just there will be hard shift among us. As for that said Arthur, I care not, there shall we prove who shall be best of his hands. So when Sir Lonslott understood wherefor King Arthur made this justing, then he made such pervance that Labili Sud should behold the just in a secret place that was honest for her estate. Now turn we unto Sir Tristram and to Labili Sud, how they made great joy daily together with all manner or mercy that they could devise, and every day Sir Tristram would go ride a hunting, for Sir Tristram was that time called the best chaser of the world, and the noblest blower of horn of all manner of measures. For as books report of Sir Tristram came all the good terms of venery and hunting, and all the sizes of measures of blowing of an horn, and of him we had first all the terms of hawking, and which were beasts of chase, and beasts of venery, and which were vermin's, and all the blasts that longed to all manner of games. First to the uncoupling, to the seeking, to the reachet, to the flight, to the death, and to strike, and many other blasts and terms that all manners of gentlemen have caused to the world's end to praise Sir Tristram and to pray for his soul. Chapter 53 So on a day Labili Sud said unto Sir Tristram, I marveled me much, said she, that ye remember not yourself, how ye be here in a strange country, and hear be many perilious nights, and well ye what that King Mark is full of treason, and that ye will ride thus to chase and to hunt unarmed, ye may be destroyed. My fair lady, and my love, I cry you mercy, I will no more do so. So then Sir Tristram rowed daily a hunting-armed, and his men bearing his shield and his spear. So on a day a little afore the month of May, Sir Tristram chased and heart passing eagerly, and so the heart passed by a farewell, and then Sir Tristram alighted, and put off his helm to drink of that bubbly water. Right so he heard and saw the questing beast come to the well. When Sir Tristram saw that beast, he put on his helm for redeem he should hear of Sir Palomedis, for that beast was his quest. Right so Sir Tristram saw where came a knight-armed upon a noble coarser, and he saluted him, and they spake of many things, and this knight's name was Prus sans piti, and right so with all there came unto them the noble knight Sir Palomedis, and either saluted other and spake fair to other. Fair knights said Sir Palomedis, I can tell you tidings, what is that said those knights? Sirs, witchy well that King Mark is put in prison by his own knights, and all was for love of Sir Tristram. For King Mark had put Sir Tristram twice in prison, and one Sir Percival delivered the noble knight Sir Tristram out of prison, and at the last time Queen Labilisud delivered him, and went clearly away with him into this realm, and all this while King Mark the false traitor is in prison. Is this truth, said Palomedis, then shall we hastily hear of Sir Tristram, and as for to say that I love Labilisud paramours, I dare make good that I do, and that she hath my service above all other ladies, and shall have the term of my life. And right so as they stood talking, they saw for them where came a knight all armed on a great horse, and one of his men bare his shield, and the other his spear. And unknown as that knight aspired them, he got his shield and his spear, and dressed him to just. Fair fellows said Sir Tristram, Yonder is a knight, will just with us. Let's see which of us shall encounter with him, for I see well he is so the court of King Arthur. It shall not be long, or he be met with all, said Sir Palomedis, for I found never no knight in my quest of this glasting beast, but and he would just I never refused him. As well may I, said Breux-Saint-Pétit, follow that beast as ye. Then shall ye do battle with me, said Palomedis. So Sir Palomedis dressed him unto that other knight. Sir Bleobris, that was a full noble knight, knike in unto Sir Lonsalot, and so they met so hard that Sir Palomedis fell to the earth, horse, and all. Then Sir Bleobris cried aloud and said thus, Make thee ready, thou false traitor knight. Breux-Saint-Pétit, for with thou certainly I will have a do with thee, to the utterance for the noble knights and ladies that thou hast falsely betrayed. When this false knight and traitor Breux-Saint-Pétit heard him say so, he took his horse by the bridle and fled his way as fast as ever his horse might run. For sore he was of him a fared. When Sir Bleobris saw him flee, he followed fast after, through thick and through thin. And by fortune as Sir Breux fled, he saw even for him three knights of the table round, of which the one hights Sir Héctor de Maris, the other hights Sir Percival de Galis, the third hights Sir Harry Lefis Lake, a good knight and a hardy. And as for Sir Percival he was called that time of his time one of the best knights of the world, and the best assured. When Breux saw these knights, he rode straight unto them and cried unto them and prayed them for rescues. What need have ye, said Sir Héctor? Ah, fair knight, said Sir Breux. Here followth me the most traitor knight and most coward and most villainy. His name is Breux-Saint-Pétitit, and if he may get me, he will slay me without mercy in pity. Abide with us, said Sir Percival, and we shall warrant you. Then were they aware of Sir Bleobriss that came riding all that he might. Then Sir Héctor put himself forth through just for them all. When Sir Bleobriss saw that they were four knights, and he but himself, he stood in a doubt whether he would turn or hold his way. Then he said to himself, I am a knight of the table round, and rather than I should shame mine oath and my blood, I will hold my way whatever fall thereof. And then Sir Héctor dressed his spear and smote either other passing sore, but Sir Héctor fell to the earth. That saw Sir Percival, and he dressed his horse toward him all that he might drive, but Sir Percival had such a stroke that horse and man fell to the earth. When Sir Harry saw that they were both through the earth, then he said to himself, Never was Breux of such prowess. So Sir Harry dressed his horse, and they met together so strongly that both the horses and knights fell to the earth, but Sir Bleobriss's horse began to recover again. That saw Breux, and he came hurtling and smote him over and over, and would have slain him as he lay on the ground. Then Sir Harry left his lake, rose lightly, and took the bridle of Sir Breux's horse, and said, Fie for shame, strike never a night when he is at the earth. For this night may be called no shameful night of his deeds, for yet as men may see there as he lies on the ground, he hath done worshipfully, and put to the worse passing good nights. Therefore will I not let, said Sir Breux, thou shalt not choose, said Sir Harry, as at this time. Then when Sir Breux saw that he might not choose, nor have his will, he spake fair. Then Sir Harry let him go, and then anon he made his horse to run over Sir Bleobriss, and rashed him to the earth like if he would have slain him. When Sir Harry saw him do so villainously, he cried, Traitor night, leave off for shame, and as Sir Harry would have taken his horse to fight with Sir Breux, then Sir Breux ran upon him as he was half upon his horse, and smote him down horse and man to the earth, and had near slain Sir Harry, the good night. That saw Sir Percival, and then he cried, Traitor night, what dost thou? And when Sir Percival was upon his horse, Sir Breux took his horse and fled, all that ever he might. And Sir Percival and Sir Harry followed after him fast, but ever the longer they chased the father were they behind. Then they turned again, and came to Sir Ictor de Maris and to Sir Bleobriss. Ah fair night, said Bleobriss, why have ye secured that false night and Traitor? Why, said Sir Harry, what night is he? For well I what it is a false night, said Sir Harry, and a coward and a felonious night. Sir, said Bleobriss, he is the most coward night, and a devourer of ladies and destroyer of good nights, and especially of archers. What is your name? said Sir Ictor. My name is Sir Bleobriss de Ghanis. Ah, last fair cousin, said Ictor, forgive it me, for I am Sir Ictor de Maris. Then Sir Percival and Sir Harry made great joy that they met with Bleobriss, but all they were heavy that Sir Breux was escaped them, whereof they made great dole. Chapter 54 Right so as they stood thus, there came Sir Palomedis, and when he saw the shield of Bleobriss lie on the earth, then said Palomedis, he that oath, that shield, let him dress him to me, for he smote me down here fast by a fountain, and therefore I will fight for him on foot. I am ready, said Bleobriss, here to answer thee, for with thou well, Sir Knight, it was I, and my name is Bleobriss de Ghanis. Well art thou met, said Palomedis, and with thou well my name is Palomedis the Sarasim, and either of them hated other to the death. Sir Palomedis, said Ictor, with thou well, there is neither thou nor none knight that bears the life that slays any of our blood, but he shall die for it. Therefore, and thou list to fight, go seek Sir Lonslot or Sir Tristram, and there shall ye find your match. With them have I met, said Palomedis, but I had never no worship of them. Was there never no manner of knight, said Sir Ictor, but they that ever matched with you? Yes, said Palomedis, there was the third a good knight as any of them, and of his age he was the best that ever I found, for and he might have lived till he had been an hardier man. There lived no knight now such, and his name was Sir Lamorak de Gaelis, and as he had josted at a tournament, that he overthrew me and thirty knights more, and there he won the degree. And at his departing there met him Sir Gavein and his brethren, and with great pain they slew him feloniously unto all good knights great damage. Unknown as Sir Percival heard that his brother was dead, Sir Lamorak, he fell over his horse's mane, swooning, and there he made the greatest doll that ever made night. And when Sir Percival arose, he said, Alas, my good and noble brother Sir Lamorak, now shall we never meet, and I throw in all the wide world a man may not find such a knight as he was of his age. And it is too much to suffer the death of our father King Pelinor, and now the death of our good brother Sir Lamorak. Then in the meanwhile there came a varlet from the court of King Arthur, and told them of the great tournament that should be at Lonacec, and how these lands Cornwall and North Gaelis should be against all them that would come. Chapter 55 Now turn we unto Sir Tristram, that is, he rode a hunting he met with Sir Dinadan, that was come into that country to seek Sir Tristram. Then Sir Dinadan told Sir Tristram his name, but Sir Tristram would not tell him his name, wherefore Sir Dinadan was wroth. For such a foolish knight as he are, said Sir Dinadan, I saw but late this day lying by well, and he fared as he slept, and there he lay like a fool grinning, and would not speak. And his sheed lay by him, and his horse stood by him, and well I what he was a lover. Ah, fair Sir, said Sir Tristram, are ye not a lover? Mary, fire on that craft, said Sir Dinadan. That is evil said Sir Tristram, for a knight might never be your provost but if ye be a lover. It is well said, said Sir Dinadan. Now tell me your name, Sith ye be a lover, or else I shall do battle with you. As for that, said Sir Tristram, it is no reason to fight with me, but I tell you my name. And as for that, my name shall ye not wit as at this time. Fire, shame, said Dinadan, art thou a knight, and there is not tell thy name to me. Therefore I will fight with thee. As for that, said Sir Tristram, I will be advised, for I will not do battle, but if me list. And if I do battle, said Sir Tristram, ye are not able to withstand me. Fire on thee, coward, said Sir Dinadan. And thus they hoped still, they saw a knight come riding against them. Lo, said Sir Tristram, see where come a knight riding, we just with you. And known as Sir Dinadan beheld him, he said, that is the same doted knight that I saw lie by the well. Neither sleeping nor waking. Still, said Sir Tristram, I know that knight well, with a covered shield of Asur. He is the king's son of Northumberland, his name is Epinegris, and he is a great lover, as I know. And he loves the king's daughter of Wales, a full-fair lady. And now I suppose, said Sir Tristram, and ye require him, he will just with you. And then shall ye prove whether a lover be a better knight, or ye that will not love no lady. Well, said Dinadan, now shalt thou see what I shall do. Therewith all, said Dinadan, spake on high, and said, Sir Knight, make thee ready to just with me, for it is the custom of errant knights one to just with other. Sir, said Epinegris, is that the rule of ye errant knights, for to make a knight to just, will ye or nil? As for that, said Dinadan, make thee ready, for here is for me. And therewith all, they spurred their horses, and met together so hard, that Epinegris smoked down Sir Dinadan. Then Sir Tristram rode to Sir Dinadan, and said, How now, me seems, the lover has well sped. Fie on thee, coward, said Sir Dinadan, and if thou be a good knight, revenge me. Nay, said Sir Tristram, I will not just as at this time, but take your horse, and let us go hence. God defend me, said Sir Dinadan, from thy fellowship, for I never sped well since I met with thee, and so they departed. Well, said Sir Tristram, per adventure I could tell you tidings of Sir Tristram. God defend me, said Dinadan, from thy fellowship, for Sir Tristram were mickled the worse, and he were in thy company, and then they departed. Sir, said Sir Tristram, yet it may happen I shall meet with you in other places. Sir rode Sir Tristram unto Joyusgard, and there he heard in that town great noise and cry. What is this noise? said Sir Tristram. Sir, said they, Here is a knight of this castle that hath been long among us, and right now he is slain with two knights, and for none other course, but our knight said that Sir Lonslot were a better knight than Sir Gavein. That was a simple course, said Sir Tristram, for to slay a good knight, for to say well by his master. That is little remedy to us, said the men of the town, for and Sir Lonslot had been here soon we should have been revenged upon the false knights. When Sir Tristram heard them say so, he sent for his shield and for his spear, and lightly within a while he had overtaken them, and bade them turn and amend that they had missed on. What amends wouldst thou have, said the one knight, and therewith they took their course, and either met others so hard that Sir Tristram smote down that night over his horse's tail. Then the other knight dressed him to Sir Tristram, and in the same vice he served the other knight, and then they got off their horses as well as they might, and dressed their shields and swords to do their battle to the utterance. Knights, said Sir Tristram, ye shall tell me of whence ye are, and what be your names? For such men ye might be ye should hard escape my hands, and ye might be such men of such a country that for all your evil deeds ye should pass quick. With thou well, Sir Knight, said they, we fear not to tell thee our names, for my name is Sir Agravain, and my name is Cahares, brethren unto the good knight Sir Gavain, and we be nephews unto King Arthur. Well, said Sir Tristram, for King Arthur's sake I shall let you pass as at this time, but it is shame, said Sir Tristram, that Sir Gavain and ye become of so great a blood that ye, for brethren, are so named as ye be, for ye be called the greatest destroyers and murderers of good knights that be now in this realm. For it is but, as I heard, say, that Sir Gavain and ye slew among you a better knight than ever ye were. That was the noble knight Sir Lamarac de Gaelis, and it had pleased God, said Sir Tristram, I would I had been by Sir Lamarac at his death. Then shouldst thou have gone the same way, said Sir Gahares. Fair knight, said Sir Tristram, there must have been many more knights than ye are, and therewith also Tristram departed from them toward Joyous Garden, and when he was departed they took their horses, and the one said to the other, we will overtake him, and be revenged upon him in the despite of Sir Lamarac. Chapter 56-59, Book 10, Volume 2 of Lemar d'Artour. This is a LibriVox recording, all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Reading by Lars Rolander Lemar d'Artour, Volume 2 by Sir Thomas Mallory Chapter 56 So when they had overtaken Sir Tristram, Sir Agravain made him turn traitor knight, that is evil said, said Sir Tristram, and therewith he pulled out his sword and smote Sir Agravain such a buffet upon the helm, that he tumbled down of his horse in a swarm, and he had a grievous wound. And then he turned to Gaharis, and Sir Tristram smote his sword and his helm together with such a might that Gaharis fell out of his saddle, and so Sir Tristram rode on to Joyous Garden, and there he alighted and unarmed him. So Sir Tristram told Abili Sud of all his adventure, as ye have heard to fall. And when she'd heard him tell of Sir Dinadam, Sir, said she, is not that he that made the song-biking mark. That same is he, said Sir Tristram, for he is the best border and japper, and a noble knight of his hands, and the best fellow that I know, and all good knights love his fellowship. Sir, said she, why brought ye not him with you? Have ye not cared, said Sir Tristram, for he rideeth to seek me in this country, and therefore he will not away till he have met with me. And there Sir Tristram told Abili Sud how Sir Dinadam held against all lovers. Right so there came in a barlet, and told Sir Tristram how there was come an errant night into the town with such colors upon his shield. That is Sir Dinadam, said Sir Tristram, which ye what ye shall do, said Sir Tristram. Send ye for him, my lady Sud, and I will not be seen, and ye shall hear the merriest night that ever ye spake with all, and the maddest talker. And I pray you heartily that ye make him good share. Then Anon Abili Sud sent in to the town, and prayed Sir Dinadam that he would come into the castle, and repose him there with the lady. With the good will, said Sir Dinadam, and so he mounted upon his horse, and rode into the castle, and there he alighted, and was unarmed, and brought into the castle. Anon Abili Sud came unto him, and either saluted other, then she asked him, a wence that he was. Madam, said Dinadam, I am of the court of King Arthur, and Knight of the Table Round, and my name is Sir Dinadam. What do ye in this country? said Abili Sud. Madam, said he, I seek Sir Tristram the good night, for it was told me that he was in this country. It may well be, said Abili Sud, but I am not aware of him. Madam, said Dinadam, I marvel of Sir Tristram and no other lovers, what ails them to be so mad, and so salted upon women. Why, said Abili Sud, are ye a knight, and be no lover? It is shame to you, wherefore ye may not be called a good night, but if ye make a quarrel for a lady. God defend me, said Dinadam, for the joy of love is too short, and the sorrow thereof, and what comes thereof dureth over long. Ah, said Abili Sud, say ye not so, for here fast by was the good night Sir Bliobris, that fought with three knights at once for a damasal's sake, and he won here afore the King of Northumberland. It was so, said Sir Dinadam, for I know him well for a good night and a noble, and come of noble blood, for all be noble knights of whom he is camo, that is Sir Lonslott du Lac. Now I pray you, said Abili Sud, tell me, will you fight for my love with three knights that do me great wrong? And in so much as ye be a knight of King Arthur's, I require you to do battle for me. Then Sir Dinadam said, I shall say you ye be as fair a lady's ever I saw any, and much fairer than is my Lady Queen Gunnevere, but which ye well at one word I will not fight for you with three knights. Jesus defend me. Then Isud laughed and had good game at him, so he had all the cheer that she might make him, and there he lay all that night. And on the morning early Sir Tristram armed him, and Abili Sud gave him a good helm, and then he promised her that he would meet with Sir Dinadam, and they too would ride together into Lonassep, where the tournament should be. And there shall I make ready for you where ye shall see the tournament. Then departed Sir Tristram with two squires that bear his shield and his spares that were great and long. Chapter 57 Then after that Sir Dinadam departed, and rode his way a great pace until he had overtaken Sir Tristram. And when Sir Dinadam had overtaken him, he knew him unknown, and he hated the fellowship of him above all other knights. Ah, said Sir Dinadam, art thou that coward knight that I met with yesterday? Keep thee, for thou shalt just with me morger thy head. Well said Sir Tristram, and I am loath to just, and so they let their horses run, and Sir Tristram missed of him a purpose, and Sir Dinadam break a spare upon Sir Tristram. And therewith Sir Dinadam dressed him to draw out his sword. Not so, said Sir Tristram, why are ye so wroth? I will not fight. Fire on thee, coward, said Dinadam, thou shames'd all knights. As for that, said Sir Tristram, I care not, for I will wait upon you, and be under your protection. For because ye are so good a knight, ye may save me. The devil deliver me of thee, said Sir Dinadam, for thou art a goodly man of arms, and of thy person as ever I saw, and the most coward that ever I saw. What wilt thou do with those great spares that thou carest with thee? I shall give them, said Sir Tristram, to some good night when I come to the tournament, and if I see you do best, I shall give them to you. So thus, as they rode talking, they saw where came an errant knight before them, that dressed him to just. Lo, said Sir Tristram, John there is one will just, now dress thee to him. Ah, shame betide thee, said Sir Dinadam. Nay, not so, said Sir Tristram, for that night besiemed a shrew. Then shall I, said Sir Dinadam, and so they dressed their shields and their spares, and they met together so hard that the other night smote down Sir Dinadam from his horse. Lo, said Sir Tristram, it had been better ye had left. Fire on thee, cowered, said Sir Dinadam. Then Sir Dinadam started up and got his sword in his hand, and proffered to do battle on foot. Whether in love or in wrath, said the other night. Let us do battle in love, said Sir Dinadam. What is your name, said the night. I pray you tell me, which ye well my name is Sir Dinadam. Ah, Dinadam, said that night, and my name is Karath, the youngest brother unto Sir Gavein. Then either made of other great share, for this Karath was the best night of all the brethren, and he proved a good night. Then they took their horses, and there the spake of Sir Tristram, how such a coward he was, and every word Sir Tristram heard, and laughed them to scorn. Then where they came a night for them, well horsed and well armed, and he made him ready to just. Fair night, said Sir Tristram, look betwixt you who shall just with John the Knight, for I warn you I will not have a do with him. Then shall I, said Sir Gareth, and so they encountered together, and there that night smoothed down Sir Gareth over his horse's crew. How now, said Sir Tristram unto Sir Dinadam, dress thee now and revenge the good night, Gareth. That shall I not, said Sir Dinadam, for he hath stricken down a much bigger night than I am. Ah, said Sir Tristram, now, Sir Dinadam, I see and feel well your heart paleth you, therefore now shall ye see what I shall do. And then Sir Tristram hurtled unto that night, and smelt him quite from his horse. And when Sir Dinadam saw that, he marveled greatly, and then he deemed that it was Sir Tristram. Then this night that was on foot pulled out his sword to do battle. What is your name, said Sir Tristram, which ye well said that night, my name is Sir Palomedus. What night hate ye most, said Sir Tristram? Sir Knight said he, I hate Sir Tristram to the death, for and I may meet with him the one of us shall die. Ye say well, said Sir Tristram, and which ye well, that I am Sir Tristram the lioness, and now do your worst. When Sir Palomedus heard him say so, he was astonished. And then he said thus, I pray you, Sir Tristram, forgive me all my evil will, and if I live I shall do your service above all other nights that be living. And whereas I have owed you evil, will me soar repenteth. I what not what ails me, for me seems that ye are a good night, and none other night that named himself a good night should not hate you. Therefore I require you, Sir Tristram, take no displeasure at mine unkind words. Sir Palomedus said, Sir Tristram, ye say well, and well I what ye are a good night, for I have seen ye proved, and many great enterprises have ye taken upon you, and well achieved them. Therefore, said Sir Tristram, and ye have any evil will to me, now may ye write it, for I am ready at your hand. Not so, my Lord, Sir Tristram, I will do your nightly service in all things as ye will command, and right so I will take you, said Sir Tristram. And so they rode forth on their ways, talking of many things. Oh, my Lord, Sir Tristram, said Inidan, foul have ye mocked me, for God knows I came into this country for your sake, and by the advice of my Lord, Sir Lancelot, and yet would not Sir Lancelot tell me the certainty of you, where I should find you. Truly, said Sir Tristram, Sir Lancelot wished well where I was, for I abode within his own castle. Chapter 58 Thus they rode until they were aware of the castle Donacep, and then where they were of four hundred tents and pavilions, and marvellous great ordinance. So God me help, said Sir Tristram. Jonder I see the greatest ordinance that ever I saw. Sir, said Palomedes, me seemeth, that there was a great an ordinance at the castle of maidens upon the rock, where ye won the prize, for I saw myself where ye rejoisted thirty nights. Sir, said Inidan, and in Sir Luce, at that tournament that Gala Hoth of the Long Isles made, the which there endured seven days, was as great a gathering as is here, for there were many nations. Who was the best, said Sir Tristram. Sir, it was Sir Lancelot to luck, and the noble knight Sir Lamarak the Gaelis, and Sir Lancelot won the degree. I doubt not, said Sir Tristram, but he won the degree, so he had not been overmatched with many nights. And of the death of Sir Lamarak, said Sir Tristram, it was over great pity, for I dare say he was the cleanest, mighty man, and the best-winded of his age that was alive. For I knew him that he was the biggest knight that ever I met with all, but if it were Sir Lancelot. Alas, said Sir Tristram, full woe is me for his death, and if they were not the cousins of my Lord Arthur that slew him, they should die for it, and all those that were consenting to his death. And for such things, said Sir Tristram, I fear to drew unto the court of my Lord Arthur. I will that ye wit it, said Sir Tristram, unto Gareth. Sir, I blame you not, said Gareth, for well I understand the vengeance of my brethren, Sir Gavain, Agravain, Gahiris, and Mordred. But as for me, said Sir Gareth, I meddle not of their matters. Therefore there is none of them that loved me, and for I understand they be murderers of good nights, I left their company. And God would I had been by, said Gareth, when the noble knight Sir Lamarok was slain. Now as Jesus be my help, said Sir Tristram, it is well said of you, for I had leaper than all the gold between this and Rome, I had been there, he wish, said Palomedis, and so would I had been there. And yet had I never the degree at no justs nor tournament there as he was. But he put me to the worse, or on foot or on horseback. And that day that he was slain, he did the most deeds of arms that ever I saw night do in all my life days. And when he must give in the degree by my Lord Arthur, Sir Gareth and his three brethren, Agriven, Gareth and Sir Maudred, set upon Sir Lamarok in a privy place, and there they slew his horse. And so they fought with him on foot more than three hours, both before him and behind him. And Sir Maudred gave him his death wound behind him at his back, and all to you him, for one of his squires told me that saw it. Fire upon treason, said Sir Tristan, for it killeth my heart to hear this tale. So it doth mine, said Gareth, brethren as they be mine, I shall never love them, nor draw in their fellowship for that deed. Now speak we of other deeds, said Palomedis, and let him be, for his life you may not get again. That is the more pity, said Inidan, for Sir Gavain is brethren, except you, Sir Gareth, hate all the good nights of the round table for the most part. For well I what, and they might privily, they hate my Lord Sir Lonslot and all his kin, and great privy, despite, they have at him. And that is my Lord Sir Lonslot well aware of, and that cause this him to have the good nights of his kin about him. Chapter 59 Sir, said Palomedis, let us leave of this matter, and let us see how we shall do at this tournament. By mine advice, said Palomedis, let us forehold together against all that will come, not by my counsel, said Sir Tristan, for I see by their pavilions there will be four hundred nights, and doubt ye not, said Sir Tristan, but there will be many good nights, and be a man never so valiant nor so big, yet he may be overmatched. And so have I seen nights done many times, and when they wean best to have one worship, they lost it, for manhood is not worth but if it be meddled with wisdom. And as for me, said Sir Tristan, it may happen I shall keep mine own head as well as another. So thus they rode until that they came to Humberbank, where they heard a cry and a doleful noise. Then where they were in the wind, where came a rich vessel, healed over with red seal, and the vessel landed fast by them. Therewith Sir Tristan alighted and his knights, and so Sir Tristan went afore, and entered into that vessel. And when he came within, he saw a fair bed richly covered, and thereupon lay a dead, seemly night, all armed, saved the head, was all beblended with deadly wounds upon him, the which seemed to be a passing good night. How may this be, said Sir Tristan, that this night is thus slain? Then Sir Tristan was aware of a letter in the dead knight's hand. Master Mariners, said Sir Tristan, what meaneth that letter? Sir said they, in that letter ye shall hear and know how he was slain, and for that cause and what was his name. But Sir said the Mariners, witty well that no man shall take that letter and read it, but if he be a good night, and that he will faithfully promise to revenge his death, else shall there be no night see that letter open. Witty well, said Sir Tristan, that some of us may revenge his death as well as other, and if it be so as ye Mariners say his death shall be revenge'd. And therewith Sir Tristan took the letter out of the knight's hand, and it said thus, Hermans king and lord of the Red City, I send unto all knights errant, recommending unto you noble knights of Arthur's court. I beseech them all among them to find one night that will fight for my sake with two brethren that I brought up of north and feloniously and traitorily, they have slain me. Wherefore I beseech one good night to revenge my death, and he that revengeeth my death, I will that he have my Red City and all my castles. Sir, said the Mariners, witty well, this king and knight that here life was a full worshipful man and full of great prowess, and full well he loved all men and knights errants. So God me help, said Sir Tristan, here is a picturesque case, and full feign would I take this enterprise upon me. But I have made such a promise that needs I must be at this great tournament, or else I am shamed. For well I want for my sake in a special my lord Arthur let make his just and tournament in this country. And well I want that many worshipful people will be there at that tournament for to see me. Therefore I fear me to take this enterprise upon me that I shall not come again by time to his justs. Sir, said Palomedes, I pray you give me this enterprise, and ye shall see me achieve it worshipfully, other else I shall die in this quarrel. Well, said Sir Tristram, and this enterprise I give you, with this that ye be with me at this tournament that shall be as this day seven night. Sir, said Palomedes, I promise you that I shall be with you by that day, if I be unslain or unmaimed. End of book 10, chapters 56 to 59, read by Lars Rolander. Chapters 60 to 63, book 10, volume 2 of Le Monde Arthur. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Reading by Lars Rolander. Le Monde Arthur, volume 2 by Sir Thomas Mallory. Chapter 60 Then departed Sir Tristram, Gareth and Sir Dinadon, and left Sir Palomedes in the vessel. And so Sir Tristram beheld the mariners how they sailed over Longhumber. And when Sir Palomedes was out of their sight, they took their horses and beheld about them. And then were they aware of a night that came riding against them unarmed, and nothing about him but a sword. And when this night came nigh them, he saluted them, and they him again. Fair knights said that night, I pray you in so much as ye be knights errand, that ye will come and see my castle, and take such as ye find there. I pray you heartily, and so they rode with him until his castle. And there they were brought into the hall, that was well apparelled, and so they were there unarmed, and set at a board. And when this night saw Sir Tristram, unknown he knew him. And then this night waxed pale, and wroth at Sir Tristram. When Sir Tristram saw his host make such cheer, he marveled and said, Sir, my host, what cheer make you? With the well said he, I fare the worth. With the well said he, I fare the worth for thee, for I know thee, Sir Tristram de Lyones. Thou sluiced my brother, and therefore I give thee summons, I will slay thee, and ever I may get thee at large. Sir Knight said, Sir Tristram, I am never advised that ever I slu any brother of yours, and if ye say that I did, I will make amends unto my power. I will none amends said the night, but keep thee from me. So when he had dined, Sir Tristram asked his arms, and departed, and so they rode on their ways, and within a while Sir Dineran saw where came a night well-armed and well-horst, without shield. Sir Tristram said, Sir Dineran, take keep to yourself, for I dare undertake yonder cometh your host that will have a do with you. Let him come, said Sir Tristram, I shall abide him as well as I may. Alone the night when he came nigh, Sir Tristram, he cried and bade him abide and keep him. So they hurtled together, but Sir Tristram smote the other night so sore that he bare him over his horse's group. That night arose lightly, and took his horse again, and so rode fiercely to Sir Tristram, and smote him twice hard upon the helm. Sir Knight, said Sir Tristram, I pray you leave off and smite me no more, for I would be loath to deal with you, and I might choose, for I have your meat and your drink within my body. For all that he would not leave, and then Sir Tristram gave him such a buffet upon the helm, that he fell up so down from his horse, that the blood brassed out of the ventails of his helm, and so he lay still likely to be dead. Then Sir Tristram said, me repenteth of this buffet, that I smote so sore, for as I suppose he is dead, and so they left him and rode on their ways. So they had not ridden but a while, but they saw riding against them two full likely knights, well armed and well horsed, and goodly servants about them. The one was Berend Leapres, and he was called the king with the hundred knights, and the other was Sir Segwarites, which were renowned two noble knights. So as they came either by other, the king looked upon Sardinidon, that at that time he had Sir Tristram's helm upon his shoulder, the which helm the king had seen to fall with the queen of North Galleys, and that queen the king loved as Paramour. And that helm the queen of North Galleys had given to Labili Sud, and the queen Labili Sud gave it to Sir Tristram. Sir Knight said, Berend, where had ye that helm? What would ye, said Sardinidon, for I will have a do with thee, said the king, for the love of her that owed that helm, and therefore keep you. So they departed and came together with all their knights of their horses, and there the king with the hundred knights smote Sardinidon horse and all to the earth, and then he commanded his servant, Go and take thou his helm off, and keep it. So the varlet went to unbuckle his helm. What helm, what wilt thou do, said Sir Tristram, leave that helm? To what intent, said the king, will ye Sir Knight meddle with that helm? Which ye well, said Sir Tristram, that helm shall not depart from me, or it be dearer bought. Then make you ready, said Sir Berend, unto Sir Tristram. So they hurdled together, and there Sir Tristram smote him down over his horse's tail, and then the king arose lightly, and got his horse lightly again. And then he struck fiercely at Sir Tristram, many great strokes, and then Sir Tristram gave Sir Berend such a buffet upon the helm, that he fell down over his horse, sore-stoned. Lo, said Dinedan, that helm is unhappy to us, Twain, for I had a fall for it, and now, sir king, have ye another fall? Then Seguarise asked, who shall just with me? I prayed thee, said Sir Gareth, unto Dinedan, let me have this just. Sir, said Dinedan, I pray you take it as for me. That is no reason, said Tristram, for this just should be yours. At a word, said Dinedan, I will not thereof. Then Gareth dressed him to Sir Seguarise, and there Sir Seguarise smote Gareth and his horse to the earth. Now, said Sir Tristram to Dinedan, just with John the Knight, I will not thereof, said Dinedan. Then will I, said Sir Tristram, and then Sir Tristram ran to him, and gave him a fall, and so they left him on foot, and Sir Tristram rode on to Joyous Guard, and there Sir Gareth would not of his courtesy have gone into this castle, but Sir Tristram would not suffer him to depart, and so they alighted and unharmed them, and had great cheer. But when Dinedan came afore la Bile Sud, he cursed the time that every bear Sir Tristram's helm, and there he told her how Sir Tristram had mocked him. Then was there laughing and japping at Sir Dinedan, that they wished not what to do with him. Chapter 61 Now will we leave them merry within Joyous Guard, and speak we of Sir Palomedis. Then Sir Palomedis sailed even long Humber to the coasts of the sea, where was a fair castle, and at that time it was early in the morning, a four day. Then the mariners went down to Sir Palomedis that slept fast. Sir Knight said the mariners, you must arise, for here is a castle where you must go into. I assent me, said Sir Palomedis, and there with all he arrived. And then he blew his horn that the mariners had given him, and when they within the castle heard that horn, they put forth many knights, and there they stood upon the walls, and said with one voice, Welcome be ye to this castle, and then it waxed clear day, and Sir Palomedis entered into the castle, and within a while he was served with many diverse meats. Then Sir Palomedis heard about him much weeping and great dole. What may this mean, said Sir Palomedis, I love not to hear such a sorrow, and feign I would know what it meaneth. Then there came for him one whose name was Sir Ebel, that said thus, Witchy well, Sir Knight, this dole and sorrow is here made every day, and for this cause. We had a knight that hight Hermans, and he was king of the Red City, and this king, that was lord, was a noble knight, large and liberal of his expanse, and in the world he loved nothing so much as he did errant knights of King Arthur's court, and all justing, hunting, and all manner of nightly games, for so kind a king and a knight had never the rule of poor people as he was, and because of his goodness and gentleness we bemoan him and ever shall. And all kings and estates may beware by our lord, for he was destroyed in his own default, for had he cherished them of his blood, he had yet lived with great riches and rest, but all estates may beware of our king, but alas said Ebel, that we shall give all other warning by his death. Tell me, said Palomedis, and in what manner was your lord slain, and by whom? Sir, said Sir Ebel, our king brought up of children to men that now are perilous knights, and these two knights our king had so in charity, that he loved no man nor trusted no man of his blood, nor none other that was about him. And by these two knights our king was governed, and so they ruled him peaceably and his lands, and never would they suffer none of his blood to have no rule with our king. And also he was so free and so gentle, and they so false and deceivable, that they ruled him peaceably, and that espied the lords of our king's blood, and departed from him unto their own livelihood. Then when these two traitors understood that they had driven all the lords of his blood from him, they were not pleased with that rule, but then they thought to have more, as ever is an old soul. Give a churl rule, and thereby he will not be sufficed, for whatsoever he be that is ruled by a villain born, and the lord of the soil to be a gentleman born. The same villain shall destroy all the gentlemen about him. Therefore all estates and lords beware whom ye take about you, and if ye be a knight of king Arthur's court, remember this tale, for this is the end and conclusion. My lord and king rode on through the forest hereby, by the advice of these traitors, and there he chased at the red deer, armed at all pieces full like a good night, and so for labour he waxed dry, and then he alighted and drank at a well. And when he was alighted, by the assent of these two traitors, that one that Hytelius, he suddenly smote our king through the body with a spare, and so they left him there. And when they were departed, then by fortune I came to the well, and found my lord and king wounded to the death. And when I heard his complaint, I let bring him to the waterside, and in that same ship I put him alive, and when my lord king Hermans was in that vessel, he required me for the true faith I owed unto him, for to write a letter in this manner. Recommending unto king Arthur and to all his knights aren't beseeching them all that in so much as I, king Hermans, king of the red city, thus am slain by felony and treason through two knights of mine own, and of mine own bringing up, and of mine own making, that some worshipful knight will revenge my death in so much I have been ever to my power well-willing unto Arthur's court. And who that will adventure his life with these two traitors for my sake in one battle, I, king Hermans, king of the red city, freely give him all my lands and rents that ever I wielded in my life. This letter said evil, I wrote by my lord's commandment, and then he received his creator, and when he was dead he commanded me or ever he were cold to put that letter fast in his hand, and then he commanded me to put forth that same vessel down Humber, and I should give these mariners in commandment never to steen until that they came unto logris, where all the noble knights shall assemble at this time. And there shall some good knight have pity on me to revenge my death, for there was never king nor lord falsely or nor traitorily slain than I am here to my death. Thus was a complaint of our king Hermans. Now, said Sir Evil, you know all how our lord was betrayed. We require you for God's sake have pity upon his death, and worship fully revenge his death, and then may ye wield all these lands, for we all with well that and ye may slay these two traitors, the red city, and all those that be therein will take you for their lord. Truly, said Sir Palomedes, it grieves me hard for to hear you tell this doleful tale, and to say the truth I saw the same letter that ye speak of, and one of the best knights of the earth read that letter to me, and by his commandment I came hither to revenge your king's death, and therefore have done, and let me with where I shall find those traitors, for I shall never be at ease in my heart till I be enhanced with them. Sir, said Sir Evil, then take your ship again, and that ship must bring you unto the delectable Isle, fast by the red city, and we in this castle shall pray for you, and abide your again coming. For this same castle, and ye speed well, must needs be yours, for our king Hermans let make this castle for the love of the two traitors, and so we kept it with strong hand, and therefore full sore are we threaded. What ye that ye shall do, said Sir Palomedes, what some ever come of me, look ye keep well this castle, for an it misfortune me so to be slain in this quest, I am sure there will come one of the best knights of the world for to revenge my death, and that is Sir Tristram the lioness, or else Sir Lonselot the luck. Then Sir Palomedes departed from that castle, and as he came nigh the city, they came out of a ship a goodly night armed against him, with his shield on his shoulder, and his hand upon his sword. And, unknown as he came nigh, Sir Palomedes he said, Sir Knight, what seek ye here? Leave this quest for it is mine, and mine it was or ever it was yours, and therefore I will have it. Sir Knight, said Palomedes, it may well be that this quest was yours, for it was mine, but when the letter was taken out of the dead king's hand, at that time by likelihood there was no knight had undertaken to revenge the death of the king. And so at that time I promised to revenge his death, and so I shall, or else I am ashamed. Ye say well, said the knight, but which ye well, then will I fight with you, and who be the better knight of us both, let him take the battle upon hand. I assent me, said Sir Palomedes. And then they dressed their shields, and pulled out their swords, and lashed together many sad strokes as men of might. And this fighting was more than an hour, but at the last Sir Palomedes waxed big and better winded, so that then he smote that knight such a stroke that he made him to kneel upon his knees. Then that knight spake on high, and said, Gentle Knight, hold thy hand. Sir Palomedes was goodly and withdrew his hand. Then this knight said, Which ye well, Knight, that thou are better worthy to have this battle than I, and require thee of knighthood, tell me thy name. Sir, my name is Palomedes, a knight of King Arthur's, and of the Table Round, that hither I came to revenge the death of this dead king. Chapter 63 Well, be ye found, said the knight to Palomedes. For of all knights that be alive except three, I had lefist have you. The first is Sir Lonselot de Lac, and Sir Tristram de Lioness. The third is my knight cousin, Sir Lamarac de Gaelis. And I am brother unto King Hermans, that is dead. And my name is Sir Hermand. Ye say well, said Sir Palomedes, and ye shall see how I shall speed. And if I be there slain, go ye to my Lord Sir Lonselot, or else to my Lord Sir Tristram, and pray them to revenge my death. For as for Sir Lamarac, him shall ye never see in this world. Allah, said Sir Hermand, how may that be? He is slain, said Sir Palomedes, by Sir Gavain and his brethren. So God me help, said Hermand, there was not one for one that slew him. That is truth, said Sir Palomedes, for they were four dangerous knights that slew him. As Sir Gavain, Sir Agravain, Sir Gahiris, and Sir Mordred. But Sir Gareth, the fifth brother was away, the best knight of them all. And so Sir Palomedes told Hermand all the manner, and how they slew Sir Lamarac all only by treason. So Sir Palomedes took his ship and arrived upon the delectable Isle. And in the meanwhile Sir Hermand, that was the king's brother, he arrived up at the Red City, and there he told them how there was come a night of King Arthur's to avenge King Hermand's death. And his name is Sir Palomedes, the good knight, that for the most part he followed the beast Glatisant. Then all the city made great joy, for Mikkel had they heard of Sir Palomedes and of his noble prowess. So let they ordain a messenger and send unto the two brethren, and bade them to make them ready, for there was a night come that would fight with them both. So the messenger went unto them where they were at a castle there beside, and there he told them how there was a night come of King Arthur's court to fight with them both at once. He is welcome, said they, but tell us, we pray you, if it be Sir Lonslot or any of his blood. His none of that blood, said the messenger, then we care the less, said the two brethren, for with none of the blood of Sir Lonslot we keep not to have a do with all. Which ye well, said the messenger, that his name is Sir Palomedes, that yet is uncristened a noble knight. Well, said they, and be he now uncristened, he shall never be christened. So they appointed to be at the city within two days. And when Sir Palomedes was come to the city, they made passing great joy of him, and then they beheld him, and saw that he was well made, cleanly and bigly, and unmaimed of his limbs, and neither too young nor too old. And so all the people praised him, and though he was not christened yet, he believed in the best manner, and was full faithful and true of his promise, and well conditioned, and because he made his avow that he would never be christened, unto the time that he had achieved the beast Gladyson, the which was a full wonderful beast, and a great signification, for Merlin prophesied much of that beast. And also Sir Palomedes avowed never to take full christenedum, unto the time that he had done seven battles within the lists. So within the third day there came into the city these two brethren, the one-height Helius, the other-height Helae, the which were men of great prowess, howbate that they were false and full of treason, and but poor men born, yet were they noble knights of their hands, and with them they brought forty knights to that intent that they should be big enough for the red city. Thus came the two brethren with great obonce and pride, for they had put the red city in fear and damage. Then they were brought to the lists, and Sir Palomedes came into the place and said thus, Be ye the two brethren Helius and Helae, that slew your king and lord Sir Hermans by felony and treason, for whom that I am come hither to revenge his death, with thou well said Sir Helius and Sir Helae, that we are the same knights that slew king Hermans and with thou well Sir Palomedes Saracen, that we shall handle these so, or thou depart that thou shall wish that thou were christened. It may well be, said Sir Palomedes, for yet I would not die for I were christened, and yet so am I not afraid of you both, but I trust to God that I shall die a better Christian man than any of you both, and doubt ye not, said Sir Palomedes, either ye or I shall be left dead in this place. End of book 10, chapters 60 to 63, read by Lorsch Rulander.