Le Morte Darthur

by

Thomas Malory
Sir Thomas Malory’s Book of King Arthur and of his
Noble Knights of the Round Table

Book Ten
An Electronic Classics Series Publication
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 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten

Le Morte Darthur BOOK X

CHAPTER I
by
How Sir Tristram jousted, and smote down King
Arthur, because he told him not the cause why he bare
Thomas Malory that shield.

A
nd if so be ye can descrive what ye bear, ye are
Sir Thomas Malory’s Book worthy to bear the arms. As for that, said Sir
of Tristram, I will answer you; this shield was given
me, not desired, of Queen Morgan le Fay; and as for me, I
King Arthur and of his can not descrive these arms, for it is no point of my charge,
Noble and yet I trust to God to bear them with worship. Truly,
said King Arthur, ye ought not to bear none arms but if ye
Knights of the Round Table wist what ye bear: but I pray you tell me your name. To
what intent? said Sir Tristram. For I would wit, said Arthur.
Sir, ye shall not wit as at this time. Then shall ye and I do
Book Ten battle together, said King Arthur. Why, said Sir Tristram,
will ye do battle with me but if I tell you my name? and
that little needeth you an ye were a man of worship, for ye
have seen me this day have had great travail, and there-
3
 Thomas Malory
fore ye are a villainous knight to ask battle of me, consid- Arthur and went to Sir Uwaine, and said to Sir Tristram:
ering my great travail; howbeit I will not fail you, and We have as we have deserved, for through our orgulyté
have ye no doubt that I fear not you; though you think you we demanded battle of you, and yet we knew not your
have me at a great advantage yet shall I right well endure name. Nevertheless, by Saint Cross, said Sir Uwaine, he
you. And there withal King Arthur dressed his shield and is a strong knight at mine advice as any is now living.
his spear, and Sir Tristram against him, and they came so Then Sir Tristram departed, and in every place he asked
eagerly together. And there King Arthur brake his spear and demanded after Sir Launcelot, but in no place he could
all to pieces upon Sir Tristram’s shield. But Sir Tristram not hear of him whether he were dead or alive; wherefore
hit Arthur again, that horse and man fell to the earth. And Sir Tristram made great dole and sorrow. So Sir Tristram
there was King Arthur wounded on the left side, a great rode by a forest, and then was he ware of a fair tower by a
wound and a perilous. marsh on that one side, and on that other side a fair
Then when Sir Uwaine saw his lord Arthur lie on the meadow. And there he saw ten knights fighting together.
ground sore wounded, he was passing heavy. And then he And ever the nearer he came he saw how there was but
dressed his shield and his spear, and cried aloud unto Sir one knight did battle against nine knights, and that one
Tristram and said: Knight, defend thee. So they came to- did so marvellously that Sir Tristram had great wonder
gether as thunder, and Sir Uwaine brised his spear all to that ever one knight might do so great deeds of arms. And
pieces upon Sir Tristram’s shield, and Sir Tristram smote then within a little while he had slain half their horses and
him harder and sorer, with such a might that he bare him unhorsed them, and their horses ran in the fields and for-
clean out of his saddle to the earth. With that Sir Tristram est. Then Sir Tristram had so great pity of that one knight
turned about and said: Fair knights, I had no need to joust that endured so great pain, and ever he thought it should
with you, for I have had enough to do this day. Then arose be Sir Palomides, by his shield. And so he rode unto the

4
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
knights and cried unto them, and bade them cease of their CHAPTER II
battle, for they did themselves great shame so many knights
to fight with one. Then answered the master of those How Sir Tristram saved Sir Palomides’ life, and how
they promised to fight together within a fortnight.
knights, his name was called Breuse Saunce Pité, that was
at that time the most mischievoust knight living, and said

S
o Sir Tristram alighted off his horse because they
thus: Sir knight, what have ye ado with us to meddle? and
were on foot, that they should not slay his horse,
therefore, an ye be wise, depart on your way as ye came,
and then dressed his shield, with his sword in his
for this knight shall not escape us. That were pity, said Sir
hand, and he smote on the right hand and on the left hand
Tristram, that so good a knight as he is should be slain so
passing sore, that well-nigh at every stroke he struck down
cowardly; and therefore I warn you I will succour him
a knight. And when they espied his strokes they fled all
with all my puissance.
with Breuse Saunce Pité unto the tower, and Sir Tristram
followed fast after with his sword in his hand, but they
escaped into the tower, and shut Sir Tristram without the
gate. And when Sir Tristram saw this he returned aback
unto Sir Palomides, and found him sitting under a tree
sore wounded. Ah, fair knight, said Sir Tristram, well be
ye found. Gramercy, said Sir Palomides, of your great
goodness, for ye have rescued me of my life, and saved
me from my death. What is your name? said Sir Tristram.
He said: My name is Sir Palomides. O Jesu, said Sir
Tristram, thou hast a fair grace of me this day that I should

5
 Thomas Malory
rescue thee, and thou art the man in the world that I most Pité. Then for pity I made the damosel to leap on her pal-
hate; but now make thee ready, for I will do battle with frey, and I promised her to be her warrant, and to help her
thee. What is your name? said Sir Palomides. My name to inter her lord. And so, suddenly, as I came riding by this
is Sir Tristram, your mortal enemy. It may be so, said Sir tower, there came out Sir Breuse Saunce Pité, and sud-
Palomides; but ye have done over much for me this day denly he struck me from my horse. And then or I might
that I should fight with you; for inasmuch as ye have recover my horse this Sir Breuse slew the damosel. And
saved my life it will be no worship for you to have ado so I took my horse again, and I was sore ashamed, and so
with me, for ye are fresh and I am wounded sore, and began the medley betwixt us: and this is the cause where-
therefore, an ye will needs have ado with me, assign me fore we did this battle. Well, said Sir Tristram, now I un-
a day and then I shall meet with you without fail. Ye say derstand the manner of your battle, but in any wise have
well, said Sir Tristram, now I assign you to meet me in remembrance of your promise that ye have made with me
the meadow by the river of Camelot, where Merlin set to do battle with me this day fortnight. I shall not fail you,
the peron. So they were agreed. said Sir Palomides. Well, said Sir Tristram, as at this time
Then Sir Tristram asked Sir Palomides why the ten I will not fail you till that ye be out of the danger of your
knights did battle with him. For this cause, said Sir enemies.
Palomides; as I rode upon mine adventures in a forest here So they mounted upon their horses, and rode together
beside I espied where lay a dead knight, and a lady weep- unto that forest, and there they found a fair well, with clear
ing beside him. And when I saw her making such dole, I water bubbling. Fair sir, said Sir Tristram, to drink of that
asked her who slew her lord. Sir, she said, the falsest knight water have I courage; and then they alighted off their
of the world now living, and he is the most villain that horses. And then were they ware by them where stood a
ever man heard speak of and his name is Sir Breuse Saunce great horse tied to a tree, and ever he neighed. And then

6
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
were they ware of a fair knight armed, under a tree, lack- ye have set with me to do battle, for, as I deem, ye will not
ing no piece of harness, save his helm lay under his head. hold your day, for I am much bigger than ye. As for that,
By the good lord, said Sir Tristram, yonder lieth a well- said Sir Palomides, be it as it be may, for I fear you not,
faring knight; what is best to do? Awake him, said Sir for an I be not sick nor prisoner, I will not fail you; but I
Palomides. So Sir Tristram awaked him with the butt of have cause to have more doubt of you that ye will not
his spear. And so the knight rose up hastily and put his meet with me, for ye ride after yonder strong knight. And
helm upon his head, and gat a great spear in his hand; and if ye meet with him it is an hard adventure an ever ye
without any more words he hurled unto Sir Tristram, and escape his hands. Right so Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides
smote him clean from his saddle to the earth, and hurt him departed, and either took their ways diverse.
on the left side, that Sir Tristram lay in great peril. Then
he walloped farther, and fetched his course, and came hurl-
ing upon Sir Palomides, and there he struck him a part
through the body, that he fell from his horse to the earth.
And then this strange knight left them there, and took his
way through the forest. With this Sir Palomides and Sir
Tristram were on foot, and gat their horses again, and ei-
ther asked counsel of other, what was best to do. By my
head, said Sir Tristram, I will follow this strong knight
that thus hath shamed us. Well, said Sir Palomides, and I
will repose me hereby with a friend of mine. Beware, said
Sir Tristram unto Palomides, that ye fail not that day that

7
 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER III evil lodging. Then on the third day Sir Tristram met with
Sir Gawaine and with Sir Bleoberis in a forest at a lodge,
How Sir Tristram sought a strong knight that had smit- and either were sore wounded. Then Sir Tristram asked Sir
ten him down, and many other knights of the Round Gawaine and Sir Bleoberis if they met with such a knight,
Table.
with such a cognisance, with a covered shield. Fair sir, said
these knights, such a knight met with us to our great dam-

A
nd so Sir Tristram rode long after this strong
knight. And at the last he saw where lay a lady age. And first he smote down my fellow, Sir Bleoberis, and
overthwart a dead knight. Fair lady, said Sir sore wounded him because he bade me I should not have
Tristram, who hath slain your lord? Sir, she said, here came ado with him, for why he was overstrong for me. That strong
a knight riding, as my lord and I rested us here, and asked knight took his words at scorn, and said he said it for mock-
him of whence he was, and my lord said of Arthur’s court. ery. And then they rode together, and so he hurt my fellow.
Therefore, said the strong knight, I will joust with thee, And when he had done so I might not for shame but I must
for I hate all these that be of Arthur’s court. And my lord joust with him. And at the first course he smote me down
that lieth here dead amounted upon his horse, and the strong and my horse to the earth. And there he had almost slain
knight and my lord encountered together, and there he me, and from us he took his horse and departed, and in an
smote my lord throughout with his spear, and thus he hath evil time we met with him. Fair knights, said Sir Tristram,
brought me in great woe and damage. That me repenteth, so he met with me, and with another knight that hight
said Sir Tristram, of your great anger; an it please you tell Palomides, and he smote us both down with one spear, and
me your husband’s name. Sir, said she, his name was hurt us right sore. By my faith, said Sir Gawaine, by my
Galardoun, that would have proved a good knight. So de- counsel ye shall let him pass and seek him no further; for at
parted Sir Tristram from that dolorous lady, and had much the next feast of the Round Table, upon pain of my head ye

8
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
shall find him there. By my faith, said Sir Tristram, I shall me; and thus he departed. And then Sir Tristram asked
never rest till that I find him. And then Sir Gawaine asked them their names, and so either told other their names.
him his name. Then he said: My name is Sir Tristram. And And so Sir Tristram departed from Sir Kay, and from Sir
so either told other their names, and then departed Sir Dinadan, and so he passed through a great forest into a
Tristram and rode his way. plain, till he was ware of a priory, and there he reposed
And by fortune in a meadow Sir Tristram met with Sir him with a good man six days.
Kay, the Seneschal, and Sir Dinadan. What tidings with
you, said Sir Tristram, with you knights? Not good, said
these knights. Why so? said Sir Tristram; I pray you tell
me, for I ride to seek a knight. What cognisance beareth
he? said Sir Kay. He beareth, said Sir Tristram, a covered
shield close with cloth. By my head, said Sir Kay, that is
the same knight that met with us, for this night we were
lodged within a widow’s house, and there was that knight
lodged; and when he wist we were of Arthur’s court he
spoke great villainy by the king, and specially by the Queen
Guenever, and then on the morn was waged battle with
him for that cause. And at the first recounter, said Sir Kay,
he smote me down from my horse and hurt me passing
sore; and when my fellow, Sir Dinadan, saw me smitten
down and hurt he would not revenge me, but fled from

9
 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER IV ye shall joust with us or ye pass from us. Well, said Sir
Tristram, if ye enforce me thereto I must do what I may.
How Sir Tristram smote down Sir Sagramore le Desir- And then they dressed their shields, and came running to-
ous and Sir Dodinas le Savage. gether with great ire. But through Sir Tristram’s great force
he struck Sir Sagramore from his horse. Then he hurled

A
nd then he sent his man that hight Gouvernail,
his horse farther, and said to Sir Dodinas: Knight, make
and commanded him to go to a city thereby to
thee ready; and so through fine force Sir Tristram struck
fetch him new harness; for it was long time afore
Dodinas from his horse. And when he saw them lie on the
that that Sir Tristram had been refreshed, his harness was
earth he took his bridle, and rode forth on his way, and his
brised and broken. And when Gouvernail, his servant, was
man Gouvernail with him.
come with his apparel, he took his leave at the widow, and
Anon as Sir Tristram was passed, Sir Sagramore and Sir
mounted upon his horse, and rode his way early on the
Dodinas gat again their horses, and mounted up lightly
morn. And by sudden adventure Sir Tristram met with Sir
and followed after Sir Tristram. And when Sir Tristram
Sagramore le Desirous, and with Sir Dodinas le Savage.
saw them come so fast after him he returned with his horse
And these two knights met with Sir Tristram and ques-
to them, and asked them what they would. It is not long
tioned with him, and asked him if he would joust with
ago sithen I smote you to the earth at your own request
them. Fair knights, said Sir Tristram, with a good will I
and desire: I would have ridden by you, but ye would not
would joust with you, but I have promised at a day set,
suffer me, and now meseemeth ye would do more battle
near hand, to do battle with a strong knight; and therefore
with me. That is truth, said Sir Sagramore and Sir Dodinas,
I am loath to have ado with you, for an it misfortuned me
for we will be revenged of the despite ye have done to us.
here to be hurt I should not be able to do my battle which
Fair knights, said Sir Tristram, that shall little need you,
I promised. As for that, said Sagramore, maugre your head,

10
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
for all that I did to you ye caused it; wherefore I require CHAPTER V
you of your knighthood leave me as at this time, for I am
sure an I do battle with you I shall not escape without How Sir Tristram met at the peron with Sir Launcelot,
and how they fought together unknown.
great hurts, and as I suppose ye shall not escape all lotless.
And this is the cause why I am so loath to have ado with

T
hen departed Sir Tristram and rode straight unto
you; for I must fight within these three days with a good
Camelot, to the peron that Merlin had made to-
knight, and as valiant as any is now living, and if I be hurt
fore, where Sir Lanceor, that was the king’s son
I shall not be able to do battle with him. What knight is
of Ireland, was slain by the hands of Balin. And in that
that, said Sir Sagramore, that ye shall fight withal? Sirs,
same place was the fair lady Colombe slain, that was love
said he, it is a good knight called Sir Palomides. By my
unto Sir Lanceor; for after he was dead she took his sword
head, said Sir Sagramore and Sir Dodinas, ye have cause
and thrust it through her body. And by the craft of Merlin
to dread him, for ye shall find him a passing good knight,
he made to inter this knight, Lanceor, and his lady,
and a valiant. And because ye shall have ado with him we
Colombe, under one stone. And at that time Merlin proph-
will forbear you as at this time, and else ye should not
esied that in that same place should fight two the best
escape us lightly. But, fair knight, said Sir Sagramore, tell
knights that ever were in Arthur’s days, and the best lov-
us your name. Sir, said he, my name is Sir Tristram de
ers. So when Sir Tristram came to the tomb where Lanceor
Liones. Ah, said Sagramore and Sir Dodinas, well be ye
and his lady were buried he looked about him after Sir
found, for much worship have we heard of you. And then
Palomides. Then was he ware of a seemly knight came
either took leave of other, and departed on their way.
riding against him all in white, with a covered shield. When
he came nigh Sir Tristram he said on high: Ye be wel-
come, sir knight, and well and truly have ye holden your

11
 Thomas Malory
promise. And then they dressed their shields and spears, fore, an it please you, tell me your name. Sir, said Sir
and came together with all their might of their horses; and Tristram, that is me loath to tell any man my name. Truly,
they met so fiercely that both their horses and knights fell said Sir Launcelot, an I were required I was never loath to
to the earth, and as fast as they might avoided their horses, tell my name. It is well said, said Sir Tristram, then I re-
and put their shields afore them; and they struck together quire you to tell me your name? Fair knight, he said, my
with bright swords, as men that were of might, and either name is Sir Launcelot du Lake. Alas, said Sir Tristram,
wounded other wonderly sore, that the blood ran out upon what have I done! for ye are the man in the world that I
the grass. And thus they fought the space of four hours, love best. Fair knight, said Sir Launcelot, tell me your
that never one would speak to other one word, and of their name? Truly, said he, my name is Sir Tristram de Liones.
harness they had hewn off many pieces. O Lord Jesu, said O Jesu, said Sir Launcelot, what adventure is befallen me!
Gouvernail, I marvel greatly of the strokes my master hath And therewith Sir Launcelot kneeled down and yielded
given to your master. By my head, said Sir Launcelot’s him up his sword. And therewith Sir Tristram kneeled
servant, your master hath not given so many but your adown, and yielded him up his sword. And so either gave
master has received as many or more. O Jesu, said other the degree. And then they both forthwithal went to
Gouvernail, it is too much for Sir Palomides to suffer or the stone, and set them down upon it, and took off their
Sir Launcelot, and yet pity it were that either of these good helms to cool them, and either kissed other an hundred
knights should destroy other’s blood. So they stood and times. And then anon after they took off their helms and
wept both, and made great dole when they saw the bright rode to Camelot. And there they met with Sir Gawaine
swords over-covered with blood of their bodies. and with Sir Gaheris that had made promise to Arthur never
Then at the last spake Sir Launcelot and said: Knight, to come again to the court till they had brought Sir Tristram
thou fightest wonderly well as ever I saw knight, there- with them.

12
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
CHAPTER VI made great dole. Then Sir Tristram told the king how he
came thither for to have had ado with Sir Palomides. And
How Sir Launcelot brought Sir Tristram to the court, then he told the king how he had rescued him from the
and of the great joy that the king and other made for nine knights and Breuse Saunce Pité; and how he found a
the coming of Sir Tristram.
knight lying by a well, and that knight smote down Sir
Palomides and me, but his shield was covered with a cloth.

R
eturn again, said Sir Launcelot, for your quest is
done, for I have met with Sir Tristram: lo, here is So Sir Palomides left me, and I followed after that knight;
his own person! Then was Sir Gawaine glad, and in many places I found where he had slain knights,
and said to Sir Tristram: Ye are welcome, for now have ye and forjousted many. By my head, said Sir Gawaine, that
eased me greatly of my labour. For what cause, said Sir same knight smote me down and Sir Bleoberis, and hurt
Gawaine, came ye into this court? Fair sir, said Sir Tristram, us sore both, he with the covered shield. Ah, said Sir Kay,
I came into this country because of Sir Palomides; for he that knight smote me adown and hurt me passing sore,
and I had assigned at this day to have done battle together and fain would I have known him, but I might not. Jesu,
at the peron, and I marvel I hear not of him. And thus by mercy, said Arthur, what knight was that with the covered
adventure my lord, Sir Launcelot, and I met together. With shield? I know not, said Sir Tristram; and so said they all.
this came King Arthur, and when he wist that there was Now, said King Arthur, then wot I, for it is Sir Launcelot.
Sir Tristram, then he ran unto him and took him by the Then they all looked upon Sir Launcelot and said: Ye have
hand and said: Sir Tristram, ye are as welcome as any beguiled us with your covered shield. It is not the first
knight that ever came to this court. And when the king time, said Arthur, he hath done so. My lord, said Sir
had heard how Sir Launcelot and he had foughten, and Launcelot, truly wit ye well I was the same knight that
either had wounded other wonderly sore, then the king bare the covered shield; and because I would not be known

13
 Thomas Malory
that I was of your court I said no worship of your house. void that lacked knights. And then the king saw in the
That is truth, said Sir Gawaine, Sir Kay, and Sir Bleoberis. siege of Marhaus letters that said: This is the siege of the
Then King Arthur took Sir Tristram by the hand and noble knight, Sir Tristram. And then Arthur made Sir
went to the Table Round. Then came Queen Guenever and Tristram Knight of the Table Round, with great nobley
many ladies with her, and all the ladies said at one voice: and great feast as might be thought. For Sir Marhaus was
Welcome, Sir Tristram! Welcome, said the damosels. Wel- slain afore by the hands of Sir Tristram in an island; and
come, said knights. Welcome, said Arthur, for one of the that was well known at that time in the court of Arthur, for
best knights, and the gentlest of the world, and the man of this Marhaus was a worthy knight. And for evil deeds that
most worship; for of all manner of hunting thou bearest he did unto the country of Cornwall Sir Tristram and he
the prize, and of all measures of blowing thou art the be- fought. And they fought so long, tracing and traversing,
ginning, and of all the terms of hunting and hawking ye till they fell bleeding to the earth; for they were so sore
are the beginner, of all instruments of music ye are the wounded that they might not stand for bleeding. And Sir
best; therefore, gentle knight, said Arthur, ye are welcome Tristram by fortune recovered, and Sir Marhaus died
to this court. And also, I pray you, said Arthur, grant me a through the stroke on the head. So leave we of Sir Tristram
boon. It shall be at your commandment, said Tristram. Well, and speak we of King Mark.
said Arthur, I will desire of you that ye will abide in my
court. Sir, said Sir Tristram, thereto is me loath, for I have
ado in many countries. Not so, said Arthur, ye have prom-
ised it me, ye may not say nay. Sir, said Sir Tristram, I will
as ye will. Then went Arthur unto the sieges about the
Round Table, and looked in every siege the which were

14
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
CHAPTER VII and two squires, and disguised himself, and took his way
into England, to the intent for to slay Sir Tristram. And one
How for the despite of Sir Tristram King Mark came of these two knights hight Bersules, and the other knight
with two knights into England, and how he slew one of was called Amant. So as they rode King Mark asked a knight
the knights.
that he met, where he should find King Arthur. He said: At
Camelot. Also he asked that knight after Sir Tristram,

T
hen King Mark had great despite of the renown
of Sir Tristram, and then he chased him out of whether he heard of him in the court of King Arthur. Wit
Cornwall: yet was he nephew unto King Mark, you well, said that knight, ye shall find Sir Tristram there
but he had great suspicion unto Sir Tristram because of for a man of as great worship as is now living; for through
his queen, La Beale Isoud; for him seemed that there was his prowess he won the tournament of the Castle of Maid-
too much love between them both. So when Sir Tristram ens that standeth by the Hard Rock. And sithen he hath won
departed out of Cornwall into England King Mark heard of with his own hands thirty knights that were men of great
the great prowess that Sir Tristram did there, the which honour. And the last battle that ever he did he fought with
grieved him sore. So he sent on his part men to espy what Sir Launcelot; and that was a marvellous battle. And not by
deeds he did. And the queen sent privily on her part spies to force Sir Launcelot brought Sir Tristram to the court, and
know what deeds he had done, for great love was between of him King Arthur made passing great joy, and so made
them twain. So when the messengers were come home they him Knight of the Table Round; and his seat was where the
told the truth as they had heard, that he passed all other good knight’s, Sir Marhaus, seat was. Then was King Mark
knights but if it were Sir Launcelot. Then King Mark was passing sorry when he heard of the honour of Sir Tristram;
right heavy of these tidings, and as glad was La Beale Isoud. and so they departed.
Then in great despite he took with him two good knights Then said King Mark unto his two knights: Now will I

15
 Thomas Malory
tell you my counsel: ye are the men that I trust most to me afore King Arthur; but I require thee that thou tell not
alive, and I will that ye wit my coming hither is to this my name, that I am King Mark, whatsomever come of
intent, for to destroy Sir Tristram by wiles or by treason; me. As for that, said Sir Amant, I will not discover your
and it shall be hard if ever he escape our hands. Alas, said name; and so they departed, and Amant and his fellows
Sir Bersules, what mean you? for ye be set in such a way took the body of Bersules and buried it.
ye are disposed shamefully; for Sir Tristram is the knight
of most worship that we know living, and therefore I warn
you plainly I will never consent to do him to the death;
and therefore I will yield my service, and forsake you.
When King Mark heard him say so, suddenly he drew his
sword and said: Ah, traitor; and smote Sir Bersules on the
head, that the sword went to his teeth. When Amant, the
knight, saw him do that villainous deed, and his squires,
they said it was foul done, and mischievously: Wherefore
we will do thee no more service, and wit ye well, we will
appeach thee of treason afore Arthur. Then was King Mark
wonderly wroth and would have slain Amant; but he and
the two squires held them together, and set nought by his
malice. When King Mark saw he might not be revenged
on them, he said thus unto the knight, Amant: Wit thou
well, an thou appeach me of treason I shall thereof defend

16
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
CHAPTER VIII part more ruefuller than my heart can utter. I require you,
said King Mark, tell me your name. Sir, said he, as for my
How King Mark came to a fountain where he found name I will not hide it from no knight that beareth a shield,
Sir Lamorak complaining for the love of King Lot’s and my name is Sir Lamorak de Galis. But when Sir
wife.
Lamorak heard King Mark speak, then wist he well by his
speech that he was a Cornish knight. Sir, said Sir Lamorak,

T
hen King Mark rode till he came to a fountain,
and there he rested him, and stood in a doubt I understand by your tongue ye be of Cornwall, wherein
whether he would ride to Arthur’s court or none, there dwelleth the shamefullest king that is now living,
or return again to his country. And as he thus rested him for he is a great enemy to all good knights; and that proveth
by that fountain there came by him a knight well armed well, for he hath chased out of that country Sir Tristram,
on horseback; and he alighted, and tied his horse until a that is the worshipfullest knight that now is living, and all
tree, and set him down by the brink of the fountain; and knights speak of him worship; and for jealousness of his
there he made great languor and dole, and made the queen he hath chased him out of his country. It is pity,
dolefullest complaint of love that ever man heard; and all said Sir Lamorak, that ever any such false knight-coward
this while was he not ware of King Mark. And this was a as King Mark is, should be matched with such a fair lady
great part of his complaint: he cried and wept, saying: O and good as La Beale Isoud is, for all the world of him
fair Queen of Orkney, King Lot’s wife, and mother of Sir speaketh shame, and of her worship that any queen may
Gawaine, and to Sir Gaheris, and mother to many other, have. I have not ado in this matter, said King Mark, nei-
for thy love I am in great pains. Then King Mark arose ther nought will I speak thereof. Well said, said Sir
and went near him and said: Fair knight, ye have made a Lamorak. Sir, can ye tell me any tidings? I can tell you,
piteous complaint. Truly, said the knight, it is an hundred said Sir Lamorak, that there shall be a great tournament in

17
 Thomas Malory
haste beside Camelot, at the Castle of Jagent; and the King Sir Lamorak saw he would not stint, and waxed somewhat
with the Hundred Knights and the King of Ireland, as I wroth, and doubled his strokes, for he was one of the no-
suppose, make that tournament. blest knights of the world; and he beat him so on the helm
Then there came a knight that was called Sir Dinadan, that his head hung nigh on the saddle bow. When Sir
and saluted them both. And when he wist that King Mark Lamorak saw him fare so, he said: Sir knight, what cheer?
was a knight of Cornwall he reproved him for the love of meseemeth you have nigh your fill of fighting, it were pity
King Mark a thousand fold more than did Sir Lamorak. to do you any more harm, for ye are but a mean knight,
Then he proffered to joust with King Mark. And he was full therefore I give you leave to go where ye list. Gramercy,
loath thereto, but Sir Dinadan edged him so, that he jousted said King Mark, for ye and I be not matches.
with Sir Lamorak. And Sir Lamorak smote King Mark so Then Sir Dinadan mocked King Mark and said: Ye are
sore that he bare him on his spear end over his horse’s tail. not able to match a good knight. As for that, said King
And then King Mark arose again, and followed after Sir Mark, at the first time I jousted with this knight ye refused
Lamorak. But Sir Dinadan would not joust with Sir him. Think ye that it is a shame to me? said Sir Dinadan:
Lamorak, but he told King Mark that Sir Lamorak was Sir nay, sir, it is ever worship to a knight to refuse that thing
Kay, the Seneschal. That is not so, said King Mark, for he is that he may not attain, there fore your worship had been
much bigger than Sir Kay; and so he followed and over- much more to have refused him as I did; for I warn you
took him, and bade him abide. What will you do? said Sir plainly he is able to beat such five as ye and I be; for ye
Lamorak. Sir, he said, I will fight with a sword, for ye have knights of Cornwall are no men of worship as other knights
shamed me with a spear; and therewith they dashed together are. And because ye are no men of worship ye hate all
with swords, and Sir Lamorak suffered him and forbare him. men of worship, for never was bred in your country such
And King Mark was passing hasty, and smote thick strokes. a knight as is Sir Tristram.

18
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
CHAPTER IX this castle, the which hight Sir Tor le Fise Aries. And then
they came into a fair court well repaired, and they had
How King Mark, Sir Lamorak, and Sir Dinadan came passing good cheer, till the lieutenant of this castle, that
to a castle, and how King Mark was known there. hight Berluse, espied King Mark of Cornwall. Then said
Berluse: Sir knight, I know you better than you ween, for

T
hen they rode forth all together, King Mark, Sir
ye are King Mark that slew my father afore mine own
Lamorak, and Sir Dinadan, till that they came to
eyen; and me had ye slain had I not escaped into a wood;
a bridge, and at the end thereof stood a fair tower.
but wit ye well, for the love of my lord of this castle I will
Then saw they a knight on horseback well armed, bran-
neither hurt you nor harm you, nor none of your fellow-
dishing a spear, crying and proffering himself to joust.
ship. But wit ye well, when ye are past this lodging I shall
Now, said Sir Dinadan unto King Mark, yonder are two
hurt you an I may, for ye slew my father traitorly. But first
brethren, that one hight Alein, and the other hight Trian,
for the love of my lord, Sir Tor, and for the love of Sir
that will joust with any that passeth this passage. Now
Lamorak, the honourable knight that here is lodged, ye
proffer yourself, said Dinadan to King Mark, for ever ye
shall have none ill lodging; for it is pity that ever ye should
be laid to the earth. Then King Mark was ashamed, and
be in the company of good knights; for ye are the most
therewith he feutred his spear, and hurtled to Sir Trian,
villainous knight or king that is now known alive, for ye
and either brake their spears all to pieces, and passed
are a destroyer of good knights, and all that ye do is but
through anon. Then Sir Trian sent King Mark another spear
treason.
to joust more; but in no wise he would not joust no more.
Then they came to the castle all three knights, and prayed
the lord of the castle of harbour. Ye are right welcome,
said the knights of the castle, for the love of the lord of

19
 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER X him sore upon the shield, that he bare him clean out of his
saddle to the earth. That saw Sir Dinadan, and he feutred
How Sir Berluse met with King Mark, and how Sir his spear, and ran to one of Berluse’s fellows, and smote
Dinadan took his part. him down off his saddle. Then Dinadan turned his horse,
and smote the third knight in the same wise to the earth,

T
hen was King Mark sore ashamed, and said but
for Sir Dinadan was a good knight on horseback; and there
little again. But when Sir Lamorak and Sir
began a great battle, for Berluse and his fellows held them
Dinadan wist that he was King Mark they were
together strongly on foot. And so through the great force
sorry of his fellowship. So after supper they went to lodg-
of Sir Dinadan King Mark had Berluse to the earth, and
ing. So on the morn they arose early, and King Mark and
his two fellows fled; and had not been Sir Dinadan King
Sir Dinadan rode together; and three mile from their lodg-
Mark would have slain him. And so Sir Dinadan rescued
ing there met with them three knights, and Sir Berluse
him of his life, for King Mark was but a murderer. And
was one, and that other his two cousins. Sir Berluse saw
then they took their horses and departed and left Sir Berluse
King Mark, and then he cried on high: Traitor, keep thee
there sore wounded.
from me for wit thou well that I am Berluse. Sir knight,
Then King Mark and Sir Dinadan rode forth a four
said Sir Dinadan, I counsel you to leave off at this time,
leagues English, till that they came to a bridge where hoved
for he is riding to King Arthur; and because I have prom-
a knight on horseback, armed and ready to joust. Lo, said
ised to conduct him to my lord King Arthur needs must I
Sir Dinadan unto King Mark, yonder hoveth a knight that
take a part with him; howbeit I love not his condition, and
will joust, for there shall none pass this bridge but he must
fain I would be from him. Well, Dinadan, said Sir Berluse,
joust with that knight. It is well, said King Mark, for this
me repenteth that ye will take part with him, but now do
jousts falleth with thee. Sir Dinadan knew the knight well
your best. And then he hurtled to King Mark, and smote

20
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
that he was a noble knight, and fain he would have jousted, CHAPTER XI
but he had had liefer King Mark had jousted with him, but
by no mean King Mark would not joust. Then Sir Dinadan How King Mark mocked Sir Dinadan, and how they
met with six knights of the Round Table.
might not refuse him in no manner. And then either dressed
their spears and their shields, and smote together, so that

S
o as they rode by the way King Mark then began
through fine force Sir Dinadan was smitten to the earth;
to mock Sir Dinadan, and said: I weened you
and lightly he rose up and gat his horse, and required that
knights of the Table Round might not in no wise
knight to do battle with swords. And he answered and said:
find their matches. Ye say well, said Sir Dinadan; as for
Fair knight, as at this time I may not have ado with you no
you, on my life I call you none of the best knights; but sith
more, for the custom of this passage is such. Then was Sir
ye have such a despite at me I require you to joust with me
Dinadan passing wroth that he might not be revenged of
to prove my strength. Not so, said King Mark, for I will
that knight; and so he departed, and in no wise would that
not have ado with you in no manner; but I require you of
knight tell his name. But ever Sir Dinadan thought he
one thing, that when ye come to Arthur’s court discover
should know him by his shield that it should be Sir Tor.
not my name, for I am there so hated. It is shame to you,
said Sir Dinadan, that ye govern you so shamefully; for I
see by you ye are full of cowardice, and ye are a murderer,
and that is the greatest shame that a knight may have; for
never a knight being a murderer hath worship, nor never
shall have; for I saw but late through my force ye would
have slain Sir Berluse, a better knight than ye, or ever ye
shall be, and more of prowess. Thus they rode forth talk-

21
 Thomas Malory
ing till they came to a fair place, where stood a knight, Gawaine. When Sir Dinadan had seen these six knights
and prayed them to take their lodging with him. So at the he thought in himself he would bring King Mark by some
request of that knight they reposed them there, and made wile to joust with one of them. And anon they took their
them well at ease, and had great cheer. For all errant- horses and ran after these knights well a three mile En-
knights were welcome to him, and specially all those of glish. Then was King Mark ware where they sat all six
Arthur’s court. Then Sir Dinadan demanded his host what about a well, and ate and drank such meats as they had,
was the knight’s name that kept the bridge. For what cause and their horses walking and some tied, and their shields
ask you it? said the host. For it is not long ago, said Sir hung in divers places about them. Lo, said Sir Dinadan,
Dinadan, sithen he gave me a fall. Ah, fair knight, said his yonder are knights-errant that will joust with us. God for-
host, thereof have ye no marvel, for he is a passing good bid, said King Mark, for they be six and we but two. As
knight, and his name is Sir Tor, the son of Aries le Vaysher. for that, said Sir Dinadan, let us not spare, for I will assay
Ah, said Sir Dinadan, was that Sir Tor? for truly so ever the foremost; and therewith he made him ready. When King
me thought. Mark saw him do so, as fast as Sir Dinadan rode toward
Right as they stood thus talking together they saw come them, King Mark rode froward them with all his menial
riding to them over a plain six knights of the court of King meiny. So when Sir Dinadan saw King Mark was gone,
Arthur, well armed at all points. And there by their shields he set the spear out of the rest, and threw his shield upon
Sir Dinadan knew them well. The first was the good knight his back, and came, riding to the fellowship of the Table
Sir Uwaine, the son of King Uriens, the second was the Round. And anon Sir Uwaine knew Sir Dinadan, and wel-
noble knight Sir Brandiles, the third was Ozana le Cure comed him, and so did all his fellowship.
Hardy, the fourth was Uwaine les Aventurous, the fifth
was Sir Agravaine, the sixth Sir Mordred, brother to Sir

22
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
CHAPTER XII thereby in a chamber he espied King Mark, and then he
rebuked him, and asked him why he departed so. Sir, said
How the six knights sent Sir Dagonet to joust with King he, for I durst not abide because they were so many. But
Mark, and how King Mark refused him. how escaped ye? said King Mark. Sir, said Sir Dinadan,
they were better friends than I weened they had been. Who

A
nd then they asked him of his adventures, and
is captain of that fellowship? said the king. Then for to fear
whether he had seen Sir Tristram or Sir
him Sir Dinadan said that it was Sir Launcelot. O Jesu, said
Launcelot. So God me help, said Sir Dinadan, I
the king, might I know Sir Launcelot by his shield? Yea,
saw none of them sithen I departed from Camelot. What
said Dinadan, for he beareth a shield of silver and black
knight is that, said Sir Brandiles, that so suddenly departed
bends. All this he said to fear the king, for Sir Launcelot
from you, and rode over yonder field? Sir, said he, it was
was not in his fellowship. Now I pray you, said King Mark,
a knight of Cornwall, and the most horrible coward that
that ye will ride in my fellowship. That is me loath to do,
ever bestrode horse. What is his name? said all these
said Sir Dinadan, because ye forsook my fellowship.
knights. I wot not, said Sir Dinadan. So when they had
Right so Sir Dinadan went from King Mark, and went
reposed them, and spoken together, they took their horses
to his own fellowship; and so they mounted upon their
and rode to a castle where dwelt an old knight that made
horses, and rode on their ways, and talked of the Cornish
all knights-errant good cheer. Then in the meanwhile that
knight, for Dinadan told them that he was in the castle
they were talking came into the castle Sir Griflet le Fise
where they were lodged. It is well said, said Sir Griflet,
de Dieu, and there was he welcome; and they all asked
for here have I brought Sir Dagonet, King Arthur’s fool,
him whether he had seen Sir Launcelot or Sir Tristram.
that is the best fellow and the merriest in the world. Will
Sirs, he answered, I saw him not sithen he departed from
ye do well? said Sir Dinadan: I have told the Cornish knight
Camelot. So as Sir Dinadan walked and beheld the castle,

23
 Thomas Malory
that here is Sir Launcelot, and the Cornish knight asked as a wood man, through a great forest. When Sir Uwaine
me what shield he bare. Truly, I told him that he bare the and Sir Brandiles saw Dagonet so chase King Mark, they
same shield that Sir Mordred beareth. Will ye do well? laughed all as they were wood. And then they took their
said Sir Mordred; I am hurt and may not well bear my horses, and rode after to see how Sir Dagonet sped, for
shield nor harness, and therefore put my shield and my they would not for no good that Sir Dagonet were shent,
harness upon Sir Dagonet, and let him set upon the Cor- for King Arthur loved him passing well, and made him
nish knight. That shall be done, said Sir Dagonet, by my knight with his own hands. And at every tournament he
faith. Then anon was Dagonet armed him in Mordred’s began to make King Arthur to laugh. Then the knights
harness and his shield, and he was set on a great horse, rode here and there, crying and chasing after King Mark,
and a spear in his hand. Now, said Dagonet, shew me the that all the forest rang of the noise.
knight, and I trow I shall bear him down. So all these
knights rode to a woodside, and abode till King Mark came
by the way. Then they put forth Sir Dagonet, and he came
on all the while his horse might run, straight upon King
Mark. And when he came nigh King Mark, he cried as he
were wood, and said: Keep thee, knight of Cornwall, for I
will slay thee. Anon, as King Mark beheld his shield, he
said to himself: Yonder is Sir Launcelot; alas, now am I
destroyed; and therewithal he made his horse to run as
fast as it might through thick and thin. And ever Sir
Dagonet followed after King Mark, crying and rating him

24
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
CHAPTER XIII hurtled together wonder sore. But the knight smote Sir
Brandiles so sore that he went to the earth, horse and man.
How Sir Palomides by adventure met King Mark fly- Sir Uwaine came after and saw all this. Jesu, said he, yon-
ing, and how he overthrew Dagonet and other knights. der is a strong knight. And then they feutred their spears,
and this knight came so eagerly that he smote down Sir

S
o King Mark rode by fortune by a well, in the way
Uwaine. Then came Ozana with the hardy heart, and he
where stood a knight-errant on horseback, armed
was smitten down. Now, said Sir Griflet, by my counsel
at all points, with a great spear in his hand. And
let us send to yonder errant-knight, and wit whether he be
when he saw King Mark coming flying he said: Knight,
of Arthur’s court, for as I deem it is Sir Lamorak de Galis.
return again for shame and stand with me, and I shall be
So they sent unto him, and prayed the strange knight to
thy warrant. Ah, fair knight, said King Mark, let me pass,
tell his name, and whether he were of Arthur’s court or
for yonder cometh after me the best knight of the world,
not. As for my name they shall not wit, but tell them I am
with the black bended shield. Fie, for shame, said the
a knight-errant as they are, and let them wit that I am no
knight, he is none of the worthy knights, and if he were
knight of King Arthur’s court; and so the squire rode again
Sir Launcelot or Sir Tristram I should not doubt to meet
unto them and told them his answer of him. By my head,
the better of them both. When King Mark heard him say
said Sir Agravaine, he is one of the strongest knights that
that word, he turned his horse and abode by him. And then
ever I saw, for he hath overthrown three noble knights,
that strong knight bare a spear to Dagonet, and smote him
and needs we must encounter with him for shame. So Sir
so sore that he bare him over his horse’s tail, and nigh he
Agravaine feutred his spear, and that other was ready, and
had broken his neck. And anon after him came Sir
smote him down over his horse to the earth. And in the
Brandiles, and when he saw Dagonet have that fall he was
same wise he smote Sir Uwaine les Avoutres and also Sir
passing wroth, and cried: Keep thee, knight, and so they

25
 Thomas Malory
Griflet. Then had he served them all but Sir Dinadan, for Alas, will he not abide with me? and therewith she
he was behind, and Sir Mordred was unarmed, and Dagonet swooned and wept, and made passing great dole. And then
had his harness. also soon as she might she gave the varlet all that he asked.
So when this was done, this strong knight rode on his And the varlet returned unto Sir Palomides, for he was a
way a soft pace, and King Mark rode after him, praising varlet of King Mark. And as soon as he came, he told the
him mickle; but he would answer no words, but sighed knight’s name was Sir Palomides. I am well pleased, said
wonderly sore, hanging down his head, taking no heed to King Mark, but hold thee still and say nothing. Then they
his words. Thus they rode well a three mile English, and alighted and set them down and reposed them a while.
then this knight called to him a varlet, and bade him ride Anon withal King Mark fell asleep. When Sir Palomides
until yonder fair manor, and recommend me to the lady of saw him sound asleep he took his horse and rode his way,
that castle and place, and pray her to send me refreshing and said to them: I will not be in the company of a sleep-
of good meats and drinks. And if she ask thee what I am, ing knight. And so he rode forth a great pace.
tell her that I am the knight that followeth the glatisant
beast: that is in English to say the questing beast; for that
beast wheresomever he yede he quested in the belly with
such a noise as it had been a thirty couple of hounds. Then
the varlet went his way and came to the manor, and sa-
luted the lady, and told her from whence he came. And
when she understood that he came from the knight that
followed the questing beast: O sweet Lord Jesu, she said,
when shall I see that noble knight, my dear son Palomides?

26
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
CHAPTER XIV lions’ heads? Yea, fair knight, said the other, with such a
knight met I with but a while agone, and straight yonder
How King Mark and Sir Dinadan heard Sir Palomides way he yede. Gramercy, said Sir Dinadan, for might I find
making great sorrow and mourning for La Beale Isoud. the track of his horse I should not fail to find that knight.
Right so as Sir Dinadan rode in the even late he heard a

N
ow turn we unto Sir Dinadan, that found these
doleful noise as it were of a man. Then Sir Dinadan rode
seven knights passing heavy. And when he wist
toward that noise; and when he came nigh that noise he
how that they sped, as heavy was he. My lord
alighted off his horse, and went near him on foot. Then
Uwaine, said Dinadan, I dare lay my head it is Sir Lamorak
was he ware of a knight that stood under a tree, and his
de Galis. I promise you all I shall find him an he may be
horse tied by him, and the helm off his head; and ever that
found in this country. And so Sir Dinadan rode after this
knight made a doleful complaint as ever made knight. And
knight; and so did King Mark, that sought him through
always he made his complaint of La Beale Isoud, the Queen
the forest. So as King Mark rode after Sir Palomides he
of Cornwall, and said: Ah, fair lady, why love I thee! for
heard the noise of a man that made great dole. Then King
thou art fairest of all other, and yet showest thou never
Mark rode as nigh that noise as he might and as he durst.
love to me, nor bounty. Alas, yet must I love thee. And I
Then was he ware of a knight that was descended off his
may not blame thee, fair lady, for mine eyes be cause of
horse, and had put off his helm, and there he made a pite-
this sorrow. And yet to love thee I am but a fool, for the
ous complaint and a dolorous, of love.
best knight of the world loveth thee, and ye him again,
Now leave we that, and talk we of Sir Dinadan, that
that is Sir Tristram de Liones. And the falsest king and
rode to seek Sir Palomides. And as he came within a for-
knight is your husband, and the most coward and full of
est he met with a knight, a chaser of a deer. Sir, said Sir
treason, is your lord, King Mark. Alas, that ever so fair a
Dinadan, met ye with a knight with a shield of silver and

27
 Thomas Malory
lady and peerless of all other should be matched with the CHAPTER XV
most villainous knight of the world. All this language heard
King Mark, what Sir Palomides said by him; wherefore How King Mark had slain Sir Amant wrongfully to-
fore King Arthur, and Sir Launcelot fetched King Mark
he was adread when he saw Sir Dinadan, lest he espied
to King Arthur.
him, that he would tell Sir Palomides that he was King
Mark; and therefore he withdrew him, and took his horse

T
hen by the license of King Arthur they went to
and rode to his men, where he commanded them to abide. him and spake with him; for while the truncheon
And so he rode as fast as he might unto Camelot; and the of the spear stuck in his body he spake: Ah, fair
same day he found there Amant, the knight, ready that damosels, said Amant, recommend me unto La Beale
afore Arthur had appealed him of treason; and so, lightly Isoud, and tell her that I am slain for the love of her and of
the king commanded them to do battle. And by misadven- Sir Tristram. And there he told the damosels how cow-
ture King Mark smote Amant through the body. And yet ardly King Mark had slain him, and Sir Bersules, his fel-
was Amant in the righteous quarrel. And right so he took low. And for that deed I appealed him of treason, and here
his horse and departed from the court for dread of Sir am I slain in a righteous quarrel; and all was because Sir
Dinadan, that he would tell Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides Bersules and I would not consent by treason to slay the
what he was. Then were there maidens that La Beale Isoud noble knight, Sir Tristram. Then the two maidens cried
had sent to Sir Tristram, that knew Sir Amant well. aloud that all the court might hear it, and said: O sweet
Lord Jesu, that knowest all hid things, why sufferest Thou
so false a traitor to vanquish and slay a true knight that
fought in a righteous quarrel? Then anon it was sprung to
the king, and the queen, and to all the lords, that it was

28
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
King Mark that had slain Sir Amant, and Sir Bersules afore Launcelot, and came so fast upon him with a spear, he
hand; wherefore they did their battle. Then was King cried then aloud: I yield me to thee, Sir Launcelot,
Arthur wroth out of measure, and so were all the other honourable knight. But Sir Launcelot would not hear him,
knights. But when Sir Tristram knew all the matter he made but came fast upon him. King Mark saw that, and made
great dole and sorrow out of measure, and wept for sor- no defence, but tumbled adown out of his saddle to the
row for the loss of the noble knights, Sir Bersules and of earth as a sack, and there he lay still, and cried Sir
Sir Amant. Launcelot mercy. Arise, recreant knight and king. I will
When Sir Launcelot espied Sir Tristram weep he went not fight, said King Mark, but whither that ye will I will
hastily to King Arthur, and said: Sir, I pray you give me go with you. Alas, alas, said Sir Launcelot, that I may not
leave to return again to yonder false king and knight. I give thee one buffet for the love of Sir Tristram and of La
pray you, said King Arthur, fetch him again, but I would Beale Isoud, and for the two knights that thou hast slain
not that ye slew him, for my worship. Then Sir Launcelot traitorly. And so he mounted upon his horse and brought
armed him in all haste, and mounted upon a great horse, him to King Arthur; and there King Mark alighted in that
and took a spear in his hand and rode after King Mark. same place, and threw his helm from him upon the earth,
And from thence a three mile English Sir Launcelot over and his sword, and fell flat to the earth of King Arthur’s
took him, and bade him: Turn recreant king and knight, feet, and put him in his grace and mercy. So God me help,
for whether thou wilt or not thou shalt go with me to King said Arthur, ye are welcome in a manner, and in a manner
Arthur’s court. King Mark returned and looked upon Sir ye are not welcome. In this manner ye are welcome, that
Launcelot, and said: Fair sir, what is your name? Wit thou ye come hither maugre thy head, as I suppose. That is
well, said he, my name is Sir Launcelot, and therefore truth, said King Mark, and else I had not been here, for
defend thee. And when King Mark wist that it was Sir my lord, Sir Launcelot, brought me hither through his fine

29
 Thomas Malory
force, and to him am I yolden to as recreant. Well, said CHAPTER XVI
Arthur, ye understand ye ought to do me service, homage,
and fealty. And never would ye do me none, but ever ye How Sir Dinadan told Sir Palomides of the battle be-
tween Sir Launcelot and Sir Tristam.
have been against me, and a destroyer of my knights; now,
how will ye acquit you? Sir, said King Mark, right as your

N
ow turn we again unto Sir Palomides, how Sir
lordship will require me, unto my power, I will make a
Dinadan comforted him in all that he might,
large amends. For he was a fair speaker, and false there-
from his great sorrow. What knight are ye? said
under. Then for great pleasure of Sir Tristram, to make
Sir Palomides. Sir, I am a knight-errant as ye be, that hath
them twain accorded, the king withheld King Mark as at
sought you long by your shield. Here is my shield, said
that time, and made a broken love-day between them.
Sir Palomides, wit ye well, an ye will ought, therewith I
will defend it. Nay, said Sir Dinadan, I will not have ado
with you but in good manner. And if ye will, ye shall find
me soon ready. Sir, said Sir Dinadan, whitherward ride
you this way? By my head, said Sir Palomides, I wot not,
but as fortune leadeth me. Heard ye or saw ye ought of Sir
Tristram? So God me help, of Sir Tristram I both heard
and saw, and not for then we loved not inwardly well to-
gether, yet at my mischief Sir Tristram rescued me from
my death; and yet, or he and I departed, by both our as-
sents we assigned a day that we should have met at the
stony grave that Merlin set beside Camelot, and there to

30
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
have done battle together; howbeit I was letted, said Sir witting. But at the fountain where Sir Launcelot lay asleep,
Palomides, that I might not hold my day, the which grieveth there with one spear he smote down Sir Tristram and me,
me sore; but I have a large excuse. For I was prisoner with said Palomides, but at that time they knew not either other.
a lord, and many other more, and that shall Sir Tristram Fair knight, said Sir Dinadan, as for Sir Launcelot and Sir
right well understand, that I brake it not of fear of coward- Tristram let them be, for the worst of them will not be
ice. And then Sir Palomides told Sir Dinadan the same lightly matched of no knights that I know living. No, said
day that they should have met. So God me help, said Sir Sir Palomides, God defend, but an I had a quarrel to the
Dinadan, that same day met Sir Launcelot and Sir Tristram better of them both I would with as good a will fight with
at the same grave of stone. And there was the most mighti- him as with you. Sir, I require you tell me your name, and
est battle that ever was seen in this land betwixt two in good faith I shall hold you company till that we come
knights, for they fought more than two hours. And there to Camelot; and there shall ye have great worship now at
they both bled so much blood that all men marvelled that this great tournament; for there shall be the Queen
ever they might endure it. And so at the last, by both their Guenever, and La Beale Isoud of Cornwall. Wit you well,
assents, they were made friends and sworn-brethren for sir knight, for the love of La Beale Isoud I will be there,
ever, and no man can judge the better knight. And now is and else not, but I will not have ado in King Arthur’s court.
Sir Tristram made a knight of the Round Table, and he Sir, said Dinadan, I shall ride with you and do you ser-
sitteth in the siege of the noble knight, Sir Marhaus. By vice, so you will tell me your name. Sir, ye shall under-
my head, said Sir Palomides, Sir Tristram is far bigger stand my name is Sir Palomides, brother to Safere, the
than Sir Launcelot, and the hardier knight. Have ye as- good and noble knight. And Sir Segwarides and I, we be
sayed them both? said Sir Dinadan. I have seen Sir Tristram Saracens born, of father and mother. Sir, said Sir Dinadan,
fight, said Sir Palomides, but never Sir Launcelot to my I thank you much for the telling of your name. For I am

31
 Thomas Malory
glad of that I know your name, and I promise you by the CHAPTER XVII
faith of my body, ye shall not be hurt by me by my will,
but rather be advanced. And thereto will I help you with How Sir Lamorak jousted with divers knights of the
castle wherein was Morgan le Fay.
all my power, I promise you, doubt ye not. And certainly
on my life ye shall win great worship in the court of King

S
ir Palomides, said Dinadan, here is a castle that I
Arthur, and be right welcome. So then they dressed on
know well, and therein dwelleth Queen Morgan
their helms and put on their shields, and mounted upon
le Fay, King Arthur’s sister; and King Arthur gave
their horses, and took the broad way towards Camelot.
her this castle, the which he hath repented him sithen a
And then were they ware of a castle that was fair and rich,
thousand times, for sithen King Arthur and she have been
and also passing strong as any was within this realm.
at debate and strife; but this castle could he never get nor
win of her by no manner of engine; and ever as she might
she made war on King Arthur. And all dangerous knights
she withholdeth with her, for to destroy all these knights
that King Arthur loveth. And there shall no knight pass
this way but he must joust with one knight, or with two, or
with three. And if it hap that King Arthur’s knight be
beaten, he shall lose his horse and his harness and all that
he hath, and hard, if that he escape, but that he shall be
prisoner. So God me help, said Palomides, this is a shame-
ful custom, and a villainous usance for a queen to use, and
namely to make such war upon her own lord, that is called

32
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
the Flower of Chivalry that is christian or heathen; and anon came another knight of the castle, and he was smitten
with all my heart I would destroy that shameful custom. so sore that he avoided his saddle. And forthwithal came
And I will that all the world wit she shall have no service the third knight, and the Knight with the Red Shield smote
of me. And if she send out any knights, as I suppose she him to the earth. Then came Sir Palomides, and besought
will, for to joust, they shall have both their hands full. him that he might help him to joust. Fair knight, said he
And I shall not fail you, said Sir Dinadan, unto my puis- unto him, suffer me as at this time to have my will, for an
sance, upon my life. they were twenty knights I shall not doubt them. And ever
So as they stood on horseback afore the castle, there came there were upon the walls of the castle many lords and la-
a knight with a red shield, and two squires after him; and he dies that cried and said: Well have ye jousted, Knight with
came straight unto Sir Palomides, the good knight, and said the Red Shield. But as soon as the knight had smitten them
to him: Fair and gentle knight-errant, I require thee for the down, his squire took their horses, and avoided their saddles
love thou owest unto knighthood, that ye will not have ado and bridles of the horses, and turned them into the forest,
here with these men of this castle; for this was Sir Lamorak and made the knights to be kept to the end of the jousts.
that thus said. For I came hither to seek this deed, and it is Right so came out of the castle the fourth knight, and freshly
my request; and therefore I beseech you, knight, let me deal, proffered to joust with the Knight with the Red Shield: and
and if I be beaten revenge me. In the name of God, said he was ready, and he smote him so hard that horse and man
Palomides, let see how ye will speed, and we shall behold fell to the earth, and the knight’s back brake with the fall,
you. Then anon came forth a knight of the castle, and prof- and his neck also. O Jesu, said Sir Palomides, that yonder is
fered to joust with the Knight with the Red Shield. Anon a passing good knight, and the best jouster that ever I saw.
they encountered together, and he with the red shield smote By my head, said Sir Dinadan, he is as good as ever was Sir
him so hard that he bare him over to the earth. Therewith Launcelot or Sir Tristram, what knight somever he be.

33
 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER XVIII Knight with the Red Shield, ye should not proffer me
shame; therefore I require you to joust with me, and ye
How Sir Palomides would have jousted for Sir Lamorak shall find that I am not weary. Sith ye require me, said Sir
with the knights of the castle. Palomides, take keep to yourself. Then they two knights
came together as fast as their horses might run, and the

T
hen forthwithal came a knight out of the castle,
knight smote Sir Palomides sore on the shield that the spear
with a shield bended with black and with white.
went into his side a great wound, and a perilous. And there-
And anon the Knight with the Red Shield and he
withal Sir Palomides avoided his saddle. And that knight
encountered so hard that he smote the knight of the castle
turned unto Sir Dinadan; and when he saw him coming he
through the bended shield and through the body, and brake
cried aloud, and said: Sir, I will not have ado with you;
the horse’s back. Fair knight, said Sir Palomides, ye have
but for that he let it not, but came straight upon him. So
overmuch on hand, therefore I pray you let me joust, for
Sir Dinadan for shame put forth his spear and all to-shiv-
ye had need to be reposed. Why sir, said the knight, seem
ered it upon the knight. But he smote Sir Dinadan again
ye that I am weak and feeble? and sir, methinketh ye prof-
so hard that he smote him clean from his saddle; but their
fer me wrong, and to me shame, when I do well enough. I
horses he would not suffer his squires to meddle with, and
tell you now as I told you erst; for an they were twenty
because they were knights-errant.
knights I shall beat them, and if I be beaten or slain then
Then he dressed him again to the castle, and jousted
may ye revenge me. And if ye think that I be weary, and
with seven knights more, and there was none of them might
ye have an appetite to joust with me, I shall find you joust-
withstand him, but he bare him to the earth. And of these
ing enough. Sir, said Palomides, I said it not because I
twelve knights he slew in plain jousts four. And the eight
would joust with you, but meseemeth that ye have over-
knights he made them to swear on the cross of a sword
much on hand. And therefore, an ye were gentle, said the

34
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
that they should never use the evil customs of the castle. him this day have had overmuch to do, and overmuch
And when he had made them to swear that oath he let travailed. By almighty Jesu, said Palomides, I shall never
them pass. And ever stood the lords and the ladies on the be at ease till that I have had ado with him. Sir, said
castle walls crying and saying: Knight with the Red Shield, Dinadan, I shall give you my beholding. Well, said
ye have marvellously well done as ever we saw knight do. Palomides, then shall ye see how we shall redress our
And therewith came a knight out of the castle unarmed, mights. So they took their horses of their varlets, and rode
and said: Knight with the Red Shield, overmuch damage after the Knight with the Red Shield; and down in a valley
hast thou done to us this day, therefore return whither thou beside a fountain they were ware where he was alighted
wilt, for here are no more will have ado with thee; for we to repose him, and had done off his helm for to drink at
repent sore that ever thou camest here, for by thee is for- the well.
done the old custom of this castle. And with that word he
turned again into the castle, and shut the gates. Then the
Knight with the Red Shield turned and called his squires,
and so passed forth on his way, and rode a great pace.
And when he was past Sir Palomides went to Sir
Dinadan, and said: I had never such a shame of one knight
that ever I met; and therefore I cast me to ride after him,
and to be revenged with my sword, for a-horseback I deem
I shall get no worship of him. Sir Palomides, said Dinadan,
ye shall not meddle with him by my counsel, for ye shall
get no worship of him; and for this cause, ye have seen

35
 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER XIX and so he drew out his sword. And then they came to-
gether a soft pace, and wonderly they lashed together pass-
How Sir Lamorak jousted with Sir Palomides, and hurt ing thick the mountenance of an hour or ever they breathed.
him grievously. Then they traced and traversed, and waxed wonderly
wroth, and either behight other death; they hewed so fast

T
hen Palomides rode fast till he came nigh him.
with their swords that they cut in down half their swords
And then he said: Knight, remember ye of the
and mails, that the bare flesh in some place stood above
shame ye did to me right now at the castle, there-
their harness. And when Sir Palomides beheld his fellow’s
fore dress thee, for I will have ado with thee. Fair knight,
sword over-hylled with his blood it grieved him sore: some
said he to Palomides, of me ye win no worship, for ye
while they foined, some while they struck as wild men.
have seen this day that I have been travailed sore. As for
But at the last Sir Palomides waxed faint, because of his
that, said Palomides, I will not let, for wit ye well I will be
first wound that he had at the castle with a spear, for that
revenged. Well, said the knight, I may happen to endure
wound grieved him wonderly sore. Fair knight, said
you. And therewithal he mounted upon his horse, and took
Palomides, meseemeth we have assayed either other pass-
a great spear in his hand ready for to joust. Nay, said
ing sore, and if it may please thee, I require thee of thy
Palomides, I will not joust, for I am sure at jousting I get
knighthood tell me thy name. Sir, said the knight to
no prize. Fair knight, said that knight, it would beseem a
Palomides, that is me loath to do, for thou hast done me
knight to joust and to fight on horseback. Ye shall see what
wrong and no knighthood to proffer me battle, consider-
I will do, said Palomides. And therewith he alighted down
ing my great travail, but an thou wilt tell me thy name I
upon foot, and dressed his shield afore him and pulled out
will tell thee mine. Sir, said he, wit thou well my name is
his sword. Then the Knight with the Red Shield descended
Palomides. Ah, sir, ye shall understand my name is Sir
down from his horse, and dressed his shield afore him,

36
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
Lamorak de Galis, son and heir unto the good knight and CHAPTER XX
king, King Pellinore, and Sir Tor, the good knight, is my
half brother. When Sir Palomides heard him say so he How it was told Sir Launcelot that Dagonet chased King
Mark, and how a knight overthrew him and six knights.
kneeled down and asked mercy, For outrageously have I
done to you this day; considering the great deeds of arms I

N
ow turn we again. When Sir Ganis and Sir
have seen you do, shamefully and unknightly I have re-
Brandiles with his fellows came to the court of
quired you to do battle. Ah, Sir Palomides, said Sir Lamorak,
King Arthur they told the king, Sir Launcelot,
overmuch have ye done and said to me. And therewith he
and Sir Tristram, how Sir Dagonet, the fool, chased King
embraced him with his both hands, and said: Palomides,
Mark through the forest, and how the strong knight smote
the worthy knight, in all this land is no better than ye, nor
them down all seven with one spear. There was great laugh-
more of prowess, and me repenteth sore that we should fight
ing and japing at King Mark and at Sir Dagonet. But all
together. So it doth not me, said Sir Palomides, and yet am
these knights could not tell what knight it was that res-
I sorer wounded than ye be; but as for that I shall soon
cued King Mark. Then they asked King Mark if that he
thereof be whole. But certainly I would not for the fairest
knew him, and he answered and said: He named himself
castle in this land, but if thou and I had met, for I shall love
the Knight that followed the Questing Beast, and on that
you the days of my life afore all other knights except my
name he sent one of my varlets to a place where was his
brother, Sir Safere. I say the same, said Sir Lamorak, ex-
mother; and when she heard from whence he came she
cept my brother, Sir Tor. Then came Sir Dinadan, and he
made passing great dole, and discovered to my varlet his
made great joy of Sir Lamorak. Then their squires dressed
name, and said: Oh, my dear son, Sir Palomides, why wilt
both their shields and their harness, and stopped their
thou not see me? And therefore, sir, said King Mark, it is
wounds. And thereby at a priory they rested them all night.
to understand his name is Sir Palomides, a noble knight.

37
 Thomas Malory
Then were all these seven knights glad that they knew his Dinadan, I love my lord Sir Tristram, above all other, and
name. him will I serve and do honour. So shall I, said Sir Lamorak,
Now turn we again, for on the morn they took their in all that may lie in my power.
horses, both Sir Lamorak, Palomides, and Dinadan, with So on the morn Sir Dinadan rode unto the court of King
their squires and varlets, till they saw a fair castle that Arthur; and by the way as he rode he saw where stood an
stood on a mountain well closed, and thither they rode, errant knight, and made him ready for to joust. Not so,
and there they found a knight that hight Galahalt, that was said Dinadan, for I have no will to joust. With me shall ye
lord of that castle, and there they had great cheer and were joust, said the knight, or that ye pass this way. Whether
well eased. Sir Dinadan, said Sir Lamorak, what will ye ask ye jousts, by love or by hate? The knight answered:
do? Oh sir, said Dinadan, I will to-morrow to the court of Wit ye well I ask it for love, and not for hate. It may well
King Arthur. By my head, said Sir Palomides, I will not be so, said Sir Dinadan, but ye proffer me hard love when
ride these three days, for I am sore hurt, and much have I ye will joust with me with a sharp spear. But, fair knight,
bled, and therefore I will repose me here. Truly, said Sir said Sir Dinadan, sith ye will joust with me, meet with me
Lamorak, and I will abide here with you; and when ye in the court of King Arthur, and there shall I joust with
ride, then will I ride, unless that ye tarry over long; then you. Well, said the knight, sith ye will not joust with me, I
will I take my horse. Therefore I pray you, Sir Dinadan, pray you tell me your name. Sir knight, said he, my name
abide and ride with us. Faithfully, said Dinadan, I will not is Sir Dinadan. Ah, said the knight, full well know I you
abide, for I have such a talent to see Sir Tristram that I for a good knight and a gentle, and wit you well I love you
may not abide long from him. Ah, Dinadan, said Sir heartily. Then shall there be no jousts, said Dinadan, be-
Palomides, now do I understand that ye love my mortal twixt us. So they departed. And the same day he came to
enemy, and therefore how should I trust you. Well, said Camelot, where lay King Arthur. And there he saluted the

38
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
king and the queen, Sir Launcelot, and Sir Tristram; and nothing thereof, for at mine advice there is not a valianter
all the court was glad of Sir Dinadan, for he was gentle, knight in the world living, for I know his might. And now
wise, and courteous, and a good knight. And in especial, I will say you, I was never so weary of knight but if it
the valiant knight Sir Tristram loved Sir Dinadan passing were Sir Launcelot. And there is no knight in the world
well above all other knights save Sir Launcelot. except Sir Launcelot that did so well as Sir Lamorak. So
Then the king asked Sir Dinadan what adventures he God me help, said the king, I would that knight, Sir
had seen. Sir, said Dinadan, I have seen many adventures, Lamorak, came to this Court. Sir, said Dinadan, he will be
and of some King Mark knoweth, but not all. Then the here in short space, and Sir Palomides both, but I fear that
king hearkened Sir Dinadan, how he told that Sir Palomides Palomides may not yet travel.
and he were afore the castle of Morgan le Fay, and how
Sir Lamorak took the jousts afore them, and how he
forjousted twelve knights, and of them four he slew, and
how after he smote down Sir Palomides and me both. t I
may not believe that, said the king, for Sir Palomides is a
passing good knight. That is very truth, said Sir Dinadan,
but yet I saw him better proved, hand for hand. And then
he told the king all that battle, and how Sir Palomides was
more weaker, and more hurt, and more lost of his blood.
And without doubt, said Sir Dinadan, had the battle longer
lasted, Palomides had been slain. O Jesu, said King Arthur,
this is to me a great marvel. Sir, said Tristram, marvel ye

39
 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER XXI down two knights of the Round Table. Then with his hur-
tling he lost the covering of his shield, then was the king
How King Arthur let do cry a jousts, and how Sir and all other ware that he bare a red shield. O Jesu, said
Lamorak came in, and overthrew Sir Gawaine and King Arthur, see where rideth a stout knight, he with the
many other.
red shield. And there was noise and crying Beware the
Knight with the Red Shield. So within a little while he

T
hen within three days after the king let make a
jousting at a priory. And there made them ready had overthrown three brethren of Sir Gawaine’s. So God
many knights of the Round Table, for Sir Gawaine me help, said King Arthur, meseemeth yonder is the best
and his brethren made them ready to joust; but Tristram, jouster that ever I saw. With that he saw him encounter
Launcelot, nor Dinadan, would not joust, but suffered Sir with Sir Gawaine, and he smote him down with so great
Gawaine, for the love of King Arthur, with his brethren, force that he made his horse to avoid his saddle. How now,
to win the gree if they might. Then on the morn they said the king, Sir Gawaine hath a fall; well were me an I
apparelled them to joust, Sir Gawaine and his four breth- knew what knight he were with the red shield. I know him
ren, and did there great deeds of arms. And Sir Ector de well, said Dinadan, but as at this time ye shall not know
Maris did marvellously well, but Sir Gawaine passed his name. By my head, said Sir Tristram, he jousted better
all that fellowship; wherefore King Arthur and all the than Sir Palomides, and if ye list to know his name, wit ye
knights gave Sir Gawaine the honour at the beginning. well his name is Sir Lamorak de Galis.
Right so King Arthur was ware of a knight and two As they stood thus talking, Sir Gawaine and he encoun-
squires, the which came out of a forest side, with a shield tered together again, and there he smote Sir Gawaine from
covered with leather, and then he came slyly and hurtled his horse, and bruised him sore. And in the sight of King
here and there, and anon with one spear he had smitten Arthur he smote down twenty knights, beside Sir Gawaine

40
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
and his brethren. And so clearly was the prize given him he hateth. And wit ye well, my fair brethren, that this Sir
as a knight peerless. Then slyly and marvellously Sir Lamorak will never love us, because we slew his father,
Lamorak withdrew him from all the fellowship into the King Pellinore, for we deemed that he slew our father,
forest side. All this espied King Arthur, for his eye went King of Orkney. And for the despite of Pellinore, Sir
never from him. Then the king, Sir Launcelot, Sir Tristram, Lamorak did us a shame to our mother, therefore I will be
and Sir Dinadan, took their hackneys, and rode straight revenged. Sir, said Sir Gawaine’s brethren, let see how ye
after the good knight, Sir Lamorak de Galis, and there will or may be revenged, and ye shall find us ready. Well,
found him. And thus said the king: Ah, fair knight, well be said Gawaine, hold you still and we shall espy our time.
ye found. When he saw the king he put off his helm and
saluted him, and when he saw Sir Tristram he alighted
down off his horse and ran to him to take him by the thighs,
but Sir Tristram would not suffer him, but he alighted or
that he came, and either took other in arms, and made great
joy of other. The king was glad, and also was all the fel-
lowship of the Round Table, except Sir Gawaine and his
brethren. And when they wist that he was Sir Lamorak,
they had great despite at him, and were wonderly wroth
with him that he had put him to dishonour that day.
Then Gawaine called privily in council all his brethren,
and to them said thus: Fair brethren, here may ye see, whom
that we hate King Arthur loveth, and whom that we love

41
 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER XXII hands hard knit together. But for all this King Mark thought
falsely, as it proved after, for he put Sir Tristram in prison,
How King Arthur made King Mark to be accorded with and cowardly would have slain him.
Sir Tristram, and how they departed toward Cornwall. Then soon after King Mark took his leave to ride into
Cornwall, and Sir Tristram made him ready to ride with

N
ow pass we our matter, and leave we Sir
him, whereof the most part of the Round Table were wroth
Gawaine, and speak of King Arthur, that on a
and heavy, and in especial Sir Launcelot, and Sir Lamorak,
day said unto King Mark: Sir, I pray you give
and Sir Dinadan, were wroth out of measure For well they
me a gift that I shall ask you. Sir, said King Mark, I will
wist King Mark would slay or destroy Sir Tristram. Alas,
give you whatsomever ye desire an it be in my power. Sir,
said Dinadan, that my lord, Sir Tristram, shall depart. And
gramercy, said Arthur. This I will ask you, that ye will be
Sir Tristram took such sorrow that he was amazed like a
good lord unto Sir Tristram, for he is a man of great honour;
fool. Alas, said Sir Launcelot unto King Arthur, what have
and that ye will take him with you into Cornwall, and let
ye done, for ye shall lose the most man of worship that
him see his friends, and there cherish him for my sake.
ever came into your court. It was his own desire, said
Sir, said King Mark, I promise you by the faith of my
Arthur, and therefore I might not do withal, for I have
body, and by the faith that I owe to God and to you, I shall
done all that I can and made them at accord. Accord, said
worship him for your sake in all that I can or may. Sir, said
Sir Launcelot, fie upon that accord, for ye shall hear that
Arthur, and I will forgive you all the evil will that ever I
he shall slay Sir Tristram, or put him in a prison, for he is
ought you, an so be that you swear that upon a book be-
the most coward and the villainest king and knight that is
fore me. With a good will, said King Mark; and so he there
now living.
sware upon a book afore him and all his knights, and there-
And therewith Sir Launcelot departed, and came to King
with King Mark and Sir Tristram took either other by the

42
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
Mark, and said to him thus: Sir king, wit thou well the CHAPTER XXIII
good knight Sir Tristram shall go with thee. Beware, I rede
thee, of treason, for an thou mischief that knight by any How Sir Percivale was made knight of King Arthur,
and how a dumb maid spake, and brought him to the
manner of falsehood or treason, by the faith I owe to God
Round Table.
and to the order of knighthood, I shall slay thee with mine
own hands. Sir Launcelot, said the king, overmuch have

N
ow turn we again unto Sir Lamorak, and speak
ye said to me, and I have sworn and said over largely afore we of his brethren, Sir Tor, which was King
King Arthur in hearing of all his knights, that I shall not Pellinore’s first son and begotten of Aryes, wife
slay nor betray him. It were to me overmuch shame to of the cowherd, for he was a bastard; and Sir Aglovale
break my promise. Ye say well, said Sir Launcelot, but ye was his first son begotten in wedlock; Sir Lamorak, Dornar,
are called so false and full of treason that no man may Percivale, these were his sons too in wedlock. So when
believe you. Forsooth it is known well wherefore ye came King Mark and Sir Tristram were departed from the court
into this country, and for none other cause but for to slay there was made great dole and sorrow for the departing of
Sir Tristram. So with great dole King Mark and Sir Sir Tristram. Then the king and his knights made no man-
Tristram rode together, for it was by Sir Tristram’s will ner of joys eight days after. And at the eight days’ end
and his means to go with King Mark, and all was for the there came to the court a knight with a young squire with
intent to see La Beale Isoud, for without the sight of her him. And when this knight was unarmed, he went to the
Sir Tristram might not endure. king and required him to make the young squire a knight.
Of what lineage is he come? said King Arthur. Sir, said
the knight, he is the son of King Pellinore, that did you
some time good service, and he is a brother unto Sir

43
 Thomas Malory
Lamorak de Galis, the good knight. Well, said the king, And there she brought him to the right side of the Siege
for what cause desire ye that of me that I should make him Perilous, and said, Fair knight, take here thy siege, for
knight? Wit you well, my lord the king, that this young that siege appertaineth to thee and to none other. Right so
squire is brother to me as well as to Sir Lamorak, and my she departed and asked a priest. And as she was confessed
name is Aglavale. Sir Aglavale, said Arthur, for the love and houselled then she died. Then the king and all the
of Sir Lamorak, and for his father’s love, he shall be made court made great joy of Sir Percivale.
knight to-morrow. Now tell me, said Arthur, what is his
name? Sir, said the knight, his name is Percivale de Galis.
So on the morn the king made him knight in Camelot. But
the king and all the knights thought it would be long or
that he proved a good knight.
Then at the dinner, when the king was set at the table,
and every knight after he was of prowess, the king com-
manded him to be set among mean knights; and so was
Sir Percivale set as the king commanded. Then was there
a maiden in the queen’s court that was come of high blood,
and she was dumb and never spake word. Right so she
came straight into the hall, and went unto Sir Percivale,
and took him by the hand and said aloud, that the king and
all the knights might hear it: Arise, Sir Percivale, the noble
knight and God’s knight, and go with me; and so he did.

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 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
CHAPTER XXIV with his sword naked, and suddenly gat his mother by the
hair and struck off her head.
How Sir Lamorak visited King Lot’s wife, and how Sir When Sir Lamorak saw the blood dash upon him all
Gaheris slew her which was his own mother. hot, the which he loved passing well, wit you well he was
sore abashed and dismayed of that dolorous knight. And

N
ow turn we unto Sir Lamorak, that much was
therewithal, Sir Lamorak leapt out of the bed in his shirt
there praised. Then, by the mean of Sir Gawaine
as a knight dismayed, saying thus: Ah, Sir Gaheris, knight
and his brethren, they sent for their mother there
of the Table Round, foul and evil have ye done, and to you
besides, fast by a castle beside Camelot; and all was to
great shame. Alas, why have ye slain your mother that
that intent to slay Sir Lamorak. The Queen of Orkney was
bare you? with more right ye should have slain me. The
there but a while, but Sir Lamorak wist of their being, and
offence hast thou done, said Gaheris, notwithstanding a
was full fain; and for to make an end of this matter, he
man is born to offer his service; but yet shouldst thou be-
sent unto her, and there betwixt them was a night assigned
ware with whom thou meddlest, for thou hast put me and
that Sir Lamorak should come to her. Thereof was ware
my brethren to a shame, and thy father slew our father;
Sir Gaheris, and there he rode afore the same night, and
and thou to lie by our mother is too much shame for us to
waited upon Sir Lamorak, and then he saw where he came
suffer. And as for thy father, King Pellinore my brother
all armed. And where Sir Lamorak alighted he tied his
Sir Gawaine and I slew him. Ye did him the more wrong,
horse to a privy postern, and so he went into a parlour and
said Sir Lamorak, for my father slew not your father, it
unarmed him; and then he went unto the queen’s bed, and
was Balin le Savage: and as yet my father’s death is not
she made of him passing great joy, and he of her again, for
revenged. Leave those words, said Sir Gaheris, for an thou
either loved other passing sore. So when the knight, Sir
speak feloniously I will slay thee. But because thou art
Gaheris, saw his time, he came to their bedside all armed,

45
 Thomas Malory
naked I am ashamed to slay thee. But wit thou well, in defend, said the noble King Arthur, that I should lose Sir
what place I may get thee I shall slay thee; and now my Lamorak or Sir Tristram, for then twain of my chief knights
mother is quit of thee; and withdraw thee and take thine of the Table Round were gone. Sir, said Sir Launcelot, I
armour, that thou were gone. Sir Lamorak saw there was am sure ye shall lose Sir Lamorak, for Sir Gawaine and
none other bote, but fast armed him, and took his horse his brethren will slay him by one mean or other; for they
and rode his way making great sorrow. But for the shame among them have concluded and sworn to slay him an
and dolour he would not ride to King Arthur’s court, but ever they may see their time. That shall I let, said Arthur.
rode another way.
But when it was known that Gaheris had slain his mother
the king was passing wroth, and commanded him to go
out of his court. Wit ye well Sir Gawaine was wroth that
Gaheris had slain his mother and let Sir Lamorak escape.
And for this matter was the king passing wroth, and so
was Sir Launcelot, and many other knights. Sir, said Sir
Launcelot, here is a great mischief befallen by felony, and
by forecast treason, that your sister is thus shamefully slain.
And I dare say that it was wrought by treason, and I dare
say ye shall lose that good knight, Sir Lamorak the which
is great pity. I wot well and am sure, an Sir Tristram wist
it, he would never more come within your court, the which
should grieve you much more and all your knights. God

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 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
CHAPTER XXV rode over Agravaine five or six times. When Dinadan saw
this, he must needs joust with him for shame. And so
How Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred met with a knight Dinadan and he encountered together, that with pure
fleeing, and how they both were overthrown, and of strength Sir Dinadan smote him over his horse’s tail Then
Sir Dinadan.
he took his horse and fled, for he was on foot one of the
valiantest knights in Arthur’s days, and a great destroyer

N
ow leave we of Sir Lamorak, and speak of Sir
Gawaine’s brethren, and specially of Sir of all good knights.
Agravaine and Sir Mordred. As they rode on Then rode Sir Dinadan unto Sir Mordred and unto Sir
their adventures they met with a knight fleeing, sore Agravaine. Sir knight, said they all, well have ye done,
wounded; and they asked him what tidings. Fair knights, and well have ye revenged us, wherefore we pray you tell
said he, here cometh a knight after me that will slay me. us your name. Fair sirs, ye ought to know my name, the
With that came Sir Dinadan riding to them by adventure, which is called Sir Dinadan. When they understood that it
but he would promise them no help. But Sir Agravaine was Dinadan they were more wroth than they were be-
and Sir Mordred promised him to rescue him. Therewithal fore, for they hated him out of measure because of Sir
came that knight straight unto them, and anon he prof- Lamorak. For Dinadan had such a custom that he loved
fered to joust. That saw Sir Mordred and rode to him, but all good knights that were valiant, and he hated all those
he struck Mordred over his horse’s tail. That saw Sir that were destroyers of good knights. And there were none
Agravaine, and straight he rode toward that knight, and that hated Dinadan but those that ever were called mur-
right so as he served Mordred so he served Agravaine, derers. Then spake the hurt knight that Breuse Saunce Pité
and said to them: Sirs, wit ye well both that I am Breuse had chased, his name was Dalan, and said: If thou be
Saunce Pit<e’>, that hath done this to you. And yet he Dinadan thou slewest my father. It may well be so, said

47
 Thomas Malory
Dinadan, but then it was in my defence and at his request. CHAPTER XXVI
By my head, said Dalan, thou shalt die therefore, and there-
with he dressed his spear and his shield. And to make the How King Arthur, the Queen, and Launcelot received
letters out of Cornwall, and of the answer again.
shorter tale, Sir Dinadan smote him down off his horse,
that his neck was nigh broken. And in the same wise he

N
ow leave we Sir Palomides and Sir Dinadan in
smote Sir Mordred and Sir Agravaine. And after, in the
the Castle of Beale-Valet, and turn we again unto
quest of the Sangreal, cowardly and feloniously they slew
King Arthur. There came a knight out of
Dinadan, the which was great damage, for he was a great
Cornwall, his name was Fergus, a fellow of the Round
bourder and a passing good knight.
Table. And there he told the king and Sir Launcelot good
And so Sir Dinadan rode to a castle that hight Beale-
tidings of Sir Tristram, and there were brought goodly let-
Valet. And there he found Sir Palomides that was not yet
ters, and how he left him in the castle of Tintagil. Then
whole of the wound that Sir Lamorak gave him. And there
came the damosel that brought goodly letters unto King
Dinadan told Palomides all the tidings that he heard and
Arthur and unto Sir Launcelot, and there she had passing
saw of Sir Tristram, and how he was gone with King Mark,
good cheer of the king, and of the Queen Guenever, and
and with him he hath all his will and desire. Therewith Sir
of Sir Launcelot. Then they wrote goodly letters again.
Palomides waxed wroth, for he loved La Beale Isoud. And
But Sir Launcelot bade ever Sir Tristram beware of King
then he wist well that Sir Tristram enjoyed her.
Mark, for ever he called him in his letters King Fox, as
who saith, he fareth all with wiles and treason. Whereof
Sir Tristram in his heart thanked Sir Launcelot. Then the
damosel went unto La Beale Isoud, and bare her letters
from the king and from Sir Launcelot, whereof she was in

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 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
passing great joy. Fair damosel, said La Beale Isoud, how madam, ye wot well I must do for Sir Tristram, for I have
fareth my Lord Arthur, and the Queen Guenever, and the been long his own maiden.
noble knight, Sir Launcelot? She answered, and to make So on the morn the damosel went to King Mark to have
short tale: Much the better that ye and Sir Tristram be in had his letters and to depart. I am not avised, said King
joy. God reward them, said La Beale Isoud, for Sir Mark, as at this time to send my letters. Then privily and
Tristram suffereth great pain for me, and I for him. secretly he sent letters unto King Arthur, and unto Queen
So the damosel departed, and brought letters to King Guenever, and unto Sir Launcelot. So the varlet departed,
Mark. And when he had read them, and understood them, and found the king and the queen in Wales, at Carlion.
he was wroth with Sir Tristram, for he deemed that he had And as the king and the queen were at mass the varlet
sent the damosel unto King Arthur. For Arthur and came with the letters. And when mass was done the king
Launcelot in a manner threated King Mark. And as King and the queen opened the letters privily by themself. And
Mark read these letters he deemed treason by Sir Tristram. the beginning of the king’s letters spake wonderly short
Damosel, said King Mark, will ye ride again and bear let- unto King Arthur, and bade him entermete with himself
ters from me unto King Arthur? Sir, she said, I will be at and with his wife, and of his knights; for he was able
your commandment to ride when ye will. Ye say well, said enough to rule and keep his wife.
the king; come again, said the king, to-morn, and fetch
your letters. Then she departed and told them how she
should ride again with letters unto Arthur. Then we pray
you, said La Beale Isoud and Sir Tristram, that when ye
have received your letters, that ye would come by us that
we may see the privity of your letters. All that I may do,

49
 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER XXVII so wroth that he laid him down on his bed to sleep, whereof
Sir Dinadan was ware, for it was his manner to be privy
How Sir Launcelot was wroth with the letter that he with all good knights. And as Sir Launcelot slept he stole
received from King Mark, and of Dinadan which made the letter out of his hand, and read it word by word. And
a lay of King Mark.
then he made great sorrow for anger. And so Sir Launcelot
awaked, and went to a window, and read the letter again,

W
hen King Arthur understood the letter, he
mused of many things, and thought on his the which made him angry.
sister’s words, Queen Morgan le Fay, that Sir, said Dinadan, wherefore be ye angry? discover your
she had said betwixt Queen Guenever and Sir Launcelot. heart to me: forsooth ye wot well I owe you good will, how-
And in this thought he studied a great while. Then he be- beit I am a poor knight and a servitor unto you and to all good
thought him again how his sister was his own enemy, and knights. For though I be not of worship myself I love all
that she hated the queen and Sir Launcelot, and so he put all those that be of worship. It is truth, said Sir Launcelot, ye are
that out of his thought. Then King Arthur read the letter a trusty knight, and for great trust I will shew you my coun-
again, and the latter clause said that King Mark took Sir sel. And when Dinadan understood all, he said: This is my
Tristram for his mortal enemy; wherefore he put Arthur out counsel: set you right nought by these threats, for King Mark
of doubt he would be revenged of Sir Tristram. Then was is so villainous, that by fair speech shall never man get of
King Arthur wroth with King Mark. And when Queen him. But ye shall see what I shall do; I will make a lay for
Guenever read her letter and understood it, she was wroth him, and when it is made I shall make an harper to sing it
out of measure, for the letter spake shame by her and by Sir afore him. So anon he went and made it, and taught it an
Launcelot. And so privily she sent the letter unto Sir harper that hight Eliot. And when he could it, he taught it to
Launcelot. And when he wist the intent of the letter he was many harpers. And so by the will of Sir Launcelot, and of

50
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
Arthur, the harpers went straight into Wales, and into CHAPTER XXVIII
Cornwall, to sing the lay that Sir Dinadan made by King
Mark, the which was the worst lay that ever harper sang with How Sir Tristram was hurt, and of a war made to King
Mark; and of Sir Tristram how he promised to rescue
harp or with any other instruments.
him.

N
ow turn we again unto Sir Tristram and to King
Mark. As Sir Tristram was at jousts and at tourna-
ment it fortuned he was sore hurt both with a spear
and with a sword, but yet he won always the degree. And
for to repose him he went to a good knight that dwelled in
Cornwall, in a castle, whose name was Sir Dinas le Sen-
eschal. Then by misfortune there came out of Sessoin a great
number of men of arms, and an hideous host, and they en-
tered nigh the Castle of Tintagil; and their captain’s name
was Elias, a good man of arms. When King Mark under-
stood his enemies were entered into his land he made great
dole and sorrow, for in no wise by his will King Mark would
not send for Sir Tristram, for he hated him deadly.
So when his council was come they devised and cast
many perils of the strength of their enemies. And then they
concluded all at once, and said thus unto King Mark: Sir,

51
 Thomas Malory
wit ye well ye must send for Sir Tristram, the good knight, parted them in three; the first part led Sir Dinas the Sen-
or else they will never be overcome. For by Sir Tristram eschal, and Sir Andred led the second part, and Sir Argius
they must be foughten withal, or else we row against the led the third part; and he was of the blood of King Mark.
stream. Well, said King Mark, I will do by your counsel; And the Sessoins had three great battles, and many good
but yet he was full loath thereto, but need constrained him men of arms. And so King Mark by the advice of his
to send for him. Then was he sent for in all haste that knights issued out of the Castle of Tintagil upon his en-
might be, that he should come to King Mark. And when emies. And Dinas, the good knight, rode out afore, and
he understood that King Mark had sent for him, he mounted slew two knights with his own hands, and then began the
upon a soft ambler and rode to King Mark. And when he battles. And there was marvellous breaking of spears and
was come the king said thus: Fair nephew Sir Tristram, smiting of swords, and slew down many good knights.
this is all. Here be come our enemies of Sessoin, that are And ever was Sir Dinas the Seneschal the best of King
here nigh hand, and without tarrying they must be met Mark’s party. And thus the battle endured long with great
with shortly, or else they will destroy this country. Sir, mortality. But at the last King Mark and Sir Dinas, were
said Sir Tristram, wit ye well all my power is at your com- they never so loath, they withdrew them to the Castle of
mandment. And wit ye well, sir, these eight days I may Tintagil with great slaughter of people; and the Sessoins
bear none arms, for my wounds be not yet whole. And by followed on fast, that ten of them were put within the gates
that day I shall do what I may. Ye say well, said King and four slain with the portcullis.
Mark; then go ye again and repose you and make you fresh, Then King Mark sent for Sir Tristram by a varlet, that
and I shall go and meet the Sessoins with all my power. told him all the mortality. Then he sent the varlet again,
So the king departed unto Tintagil, and Sir Tristram went and bade him: Tell King Mark that I will come as soon as
to repose him. And the king made a great host and de- I am whole, for erst I may do him no good. Then King

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 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
Mark had his answer. Therewith came Elias and bade the CHAPTER XXIX
king yield up the castle: For ye may not hold it no while.
Sir Elias, said the king, so will I yield up the castle if I be How Sir Tristram overcame the battle, and how Elias
desired a man to fight body for body.
not soon rescued. Anon King Mark sent again for rescue
to Sir Tristram. By then Sir Tristram was whole, and he

S
o on the morn Elias the captain came, and bade
had gotten him ten good knights of Arthur’s; and with them
King Mark: Come out and do battle; for now the
he rode unto Tintagil. And when he saw the great host of
good knight Sir Tristram is entered it will be shame
Sessoins he marvelled wonder greatly. And then Sir
to thee, said Elias, for to keep thy walls. When King Mark
Tristram rode by the woods and by the ditches as secretly
understood this he was wroth and said no word, but went
as he might, till he came nigh the gates. And there dressed
unto Sir Tristram and asked him his counsel. Sir, said Sir
a knight to him when he saw that Sir Tristram would en-
Tristram, will ye that I give him his answer? I will well,
ter; and Sir Tristram smote him down dead, and so he
said King Mark. Then Sir Tristram said thus to the mes-
served three more. And everych of these ten knights slew
senger: Bear thy lord word from the king and me, that we
a man of arms. So Sir Tristram entered into the Castle of
will do battle with him to-morn in the plain field. What is
Tintagil. And when King Mark wist that Sir Tristram was
your name? said the messenger. Wit thou well my name is
come he was glad of his coming, and so was all the fel-
Sir Tristram de Liones. Therewithal the messenger de-
lowship, and of him they made great joy.
parted and told his lord Elias all that he had heard. Sir,
said Sir Tristram unto King Mark, I pray you give me leave
to have the rule of the battle. I pray you take the rule, said
King Mark. Then Sir Tristram let devise the battle in what
manner that it should be. He let depart his host in six par-

53
 Thomas Malory
ties, and ordained Sir Dinas the Seneschal to have the that he made him to avoid the saddle. And then Sir Dinas
foreward, and other knights to rule the remnant. And the gat King Mark again to horseback. Therewithal came in
same night Sir Tristram burnt all the Sessoins’ ships unto Sir Tristram like a lion, and there he met with Elias, and
the cold water. Anon, as Elias wist that, he said it was of he smote him so sore upon the helm that he avoided his
Sir Tristram’s doing: For he casteth that we shall never saddle. And thus they fought till it was night, and for great
escape, mother son of us. Therefore, fair fellows, fight slaughter and for wounded people everych party drew to
freely to-morrow, and miscomfort you nought; for any their rest.
knight, though he be the best knight in the world, he may And when King Mark was come within the Castle of
not have ado with us all. Tintagil he lacked of his knights an hundred, and they
Then they ordained their battle in four parties, wonderly without lacked two hundred; and they searched the
well apparelled and garnished with men of arms. Thus they wounded men on both parties. And then they went to coun-
within issued, and they without set freely upon them; and cil; and wit you well either party were loath to fight more,
there Sir Dinas did great deeds of arms. Not for then Sir so that either might escape with their worship. When Elias
Dinas and his fellowship were put to the worse. With that the captain understood the death of his men he made great
came Sir Tristram and slew two knights with one spear; dole; and when he wist that they were loath to go to battle
then he slew on the right hand and on the left hand, that again he was wroth out of measure. Then Elias sent word
men marvelled that ever he might do such deeds of arms. unto King Mark, in great despite, whether he would find a
And then he might see sometime the battle was driven a knight that would fight for him body for body. And if that
bow-draught from the castle, and sometime it was at the he might slay King Mark’s knight, he to have the truage
gates of the castle. Then came Elias the captain rushing of Cornwall yearly. And if that his knight slay mine, I fully
here and there, and hit King Mark so sore upon the helm release my claim forever. Then the messenger departed

54
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
unto King Mark, and told him how that his lord Elias had CHAPTER XXX
sent him word to find a knight to do battle with him body
for body. When King Mark understood the messenger, he How Sir Elias and Sir Tristram fought together for the
truage, and how Sir Tristram slew Elias in the field.
bade him abide and he should have his answer. Then called
he all the baronage together to wit what was the best coun-

N
ot for then when all this was said, they could
sel. They said all at once: To fight in a field we have no
find no knight that would do battle with him.
lust, for had not been Sir Tristram’s prowess it had been
Sir king, said they all, here is no knight that dare
likely that we never should have escaped; and therefore,
fight with Elias. Alas, said King Mark, then am I utterly
sir, as we deem, it were well done to find a knight that
ashamed and utterly destroyed, unless that my nephew
would do battle with him, for he knightly proffereth.
Sir Tristram will take the battle upon him. Wit you well,
they said all, he had yesterday overmuch on hand, and
he is weary for travail, and sore wounded. Where is he?
said King Mark. Sir, said they, he is in his bed to repose
him. Alas, said King Mark, but I have the succour of my
nephew Sir Tristram, I am utterly destroyed for ever.
Therewith one went to Sir Tristram where he lay, and
told him what King Mark had said. And therewith Sir
Tristram arose lightly, and put on him a long gown, and
came afore the king and all the lords. And when he saw
them all so dismayed he asked the king and the lords what
tidings were with them. Never worse, said the king. And

55
 Thomas Malory
therewith he told him all, how he had word of Elias to find meet with thy lord on horseback, to do battle as long as
a knight to fight for the truage of Cornwall, and none can my horse may endure, and after that to do battle with him
I find. And as for you, said the king and all the lords, we on foot to the utterance. The messenger beheld Sir Tristram
may ask no more of you for shame; for through your har- from the top to the toe; and therewithal he departed and
diness yesterday ye saved all our lives. Sir, said Sir came to his lord, and told him how he was answered of Sir
Tristram, now I understand ye would have my succour, Tristram. And therewithal was made hostage on both par-
reason would that I should do all that lieth in my power to ties, and made it as sure as it might be, that whether party
do, saving my worship and my life, howbeit I am sore had the victory, so to end. And then were both hosts as-
bruised and hurt. And sithen Sir Elias proffereth so largely, sembled on both parts of the field, without the Castle of
I shall fight with him, or else I will be slain in the field, or Tintagil, and there was none but Sir Tristram and Sir Elias
else I will deliver Cornwall from the old truage. And there- armed.
fore lightly call his messenger and he shall be answered, So when the appointment was made, they departed in-
for as yet my wounds be green, and they will be sorer a sunder, and they came together with all the might that their
seven night after than they be now; and therefore he shall horses might run. And either knight smote other so hard
have his answer that I will do battle to-morn with him. that both horses and knights went to the earth. Not for
Then was the messenger departed brought before King then they both lightly arose and dressed their shields on
Mark. Hark, my fellow, said Sir Tristram, go fast unto thy their shoulders, with naked swords in their hands, and they
lord, and bid him make true assurance on his part for the dashed together that it seemed a flaming fire about them.
truage, as the king here shall make on his part; and then Thus they traced, and traversed, and hewed on helms and
tell thy lord, Sir Elias, that I, Sir Tristram, King Arthur’s hauberks, and cut away many cantels of their shields, and
knight, and knight of the Table Round, will as to-morn either wounded other passing sore, so that the hot blood

56
 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
fell freshly upon the earth. And by then they had foughten down to the earth. Then began King Mark to laugh, and
the mountenance of an hour Sir Tristram waxed faint and all Cornish men, and that other party to weep. And ever
for-bled, and gave sore aback. That saw Sir Elias, and fol- Sir Tristram said to Sir Elias: Yield thee.
lowed fiercely upon him, and wounded him in many places. Then when Sir Tristram saw him so staggering on the
And ever Sir Tristram traced and traversed, and went fro- ground, he said: Sir Elias, I am right sorry for thee, for
ward him here and there, and covered him with his shield thou art a passing good knight as ever I met withal, except
as he might all weakly, that all men said he was over- Sir Launcelot. Therewithal Sir Elias fell to the earth, and
come; for Sir Elias had given him twenty strokes against there died. What shall I do, said Sir Tristram unto King
one. Mark, for this battle is at an end? Then they of Elias’ party
Then was there laughing of the Sessoins’ party, and great departed, and King Mark took of them many prisoners, to
dole on King Mark’s party. Alas, said the king, we are redress the harms and the scathes that he had of them; and
ashamed and destroyed all for ever: for as the book saith, the remnant he sent into their country to borrow out their
Sir Tristram was never so matched, but if it were Sir fellows. Then was Sir Tristram searched and well healed.
Launcelot. Thus as they stood and beheld both parties, Yet for all this King Mark would fain have slain Sir
that one party laughing and the other party weeping, Sir Tristram. But for all that ever Sir Tristram saw or heard by
Tristram remembered him of his lady, La Beale Isoud, that King Mark, yet would he never beware of his treason, but
looked upon him, and how he was likely never to come in ever he would be thereas La Beale Isoud was.
her presence. Then he pulled up his shield that erst hung
full low. And then he dressed up his shield unto Elias, and
gave him many sad strokes, twenty against one, and all
to-brake his shield and his hauberk, that the hot blood ran

57
 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER XXXI was wonderly wroth, and said: Thou harper, how durst
thou be so bold on thy head to sing this song afore me. Sir,
How at a great feast that King Mark made an harper said Eliot, wit you well I am a minstrel, and I must do as
came and sang the lay that Dinadan had made. I am commanded of these lords that I bear the arms of.
And sir, wit ye well that Sir Dinadan, a knight of the

N
ow will we pass of this matter, and speak we of
Table Round, made this song, and made me to sing it
the harpers that Sir Launcelot and Sir Dinadan
afore you. Thou sayest well, said King Mark, and be-
had sent into Cornwall. And at the great feast
cause thou art a minstrel thou shalt go quit, but I charge
that King Mark made for joy that the Sessoins were put
thee hie thee fast out of my sight. So the harper departed
out of his country, then came Eliot the harper with the lay
and went to Sir Tristram, and told him how he had sped.
that Dinadan had made and secretly brought it unto Sir
Then Sir Tristram let make letters as goodly as he could
Tristram, and told him the lay that Dinadan had made by
to Launcelot and to Sir Dinadan. And so he let conduct
King Mark. And when Sir Tristram heard it, he said: O
the harper out of the country. But to say that King Mark
Lord Jesu, that Dinadan can make wonderly well and ill,
was wonderly wroth, he was, for he deemed that the lay
thereas it shall be. Sir, said Eliot, dare I sing this song
that was sung afore him was made by Sir Tristram’s coun-
afore King Mark? Yea, on my peril, said Sir Tristram, for
sel, wherefore he thought to slay him and all his well-
I shall be thy warrant. Then at the meat came in Eliot the
willers in that country.
harper, and because he was a curious harper men heard
him sing the same lay that Dinadan had made, the which
spake the most villainy by King Mark of his treason that
ever man heard.
When the harper had sung his song to the end King Mark

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CHAPTER XXXII prince was better beloved than he in all that country, and
that also Boudwin loved well Sir Tristram, therefore he
How King Mark slew by treason his brother Boudwin, thought to slay him. And thus, hastily, as a man out of his
for good service that he had done to him. wit, he sent for Prince Boudwin and Anglides his wife,
and bade them bring their young son with them, that he

N
ow turn we to another matter that fell between
might see him. All this he did to the intent to
King Mark and his brother, that was called the
slay the child as well as his father, for he was the falsest
good Prince Boudwin, that all the people of the
traitor that ever was born. Alas, for his goodness and for
country loved passing well. So it befell on a time that the
his good deeds this gentle Prince Boudwin was slain. So
miscreant Saracens landed in the country of Cornwall soon
when he came with his wife Anglides, the king made them
after these Sessoins were gone. And then the good Prince
fair semblant till they had dined. And when they had dined
Boudwin, at the landing, he raised the country privily and
King Mark sent for his brother and said thus: Brother, how
hastily. And or it were day he let put wildfire in three of
sped you when the miscreants arrived by you? meseemeth
his own ships, and suddenly he pulled up the sail, and
it had been your part to have sent me word, that I might
with the wind he made those ships to be driven among the
have been at that journey, for it had been reason that I had
navy of the Saracens. And to make short tale, those three
had the honour and not you. Sir, said the Prince Boudwin,
ships set on fire all the ships, that none were saved. And at
it was so that an I had tarried till that I had sent for you
point of the day the good Prince Boudwin with all his fel-
those miscreants had destroyed my country. Thou liest,
lowship set on the miscreants with shouts and cries, and
false traitor, said King Mark, for thou art ever about for to
slew to the number of forty thousand, and left none alive.
win worship from me, and put me to dishonour, and thou
When King Mark wist this he was wonderly wroth that
cherishest that I hate. And therewith he struck him to the
his brother should win such worship. And because this

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 Thomas Malory
heart with a dagger, that he never after spake word. Then CHAPTER XXXIII
the Lady Anglides made great dole, and swooned, for she
saw her lord slain afore her face. Then was there no more How Anglides, Boudwin’s wife, escaped with her young
son, Alisander le Orphelin, and came to the Castle of
to do but Prince Boudwin was despoiled and brought to
Arundel.
burial. But Anglides privily gat her husband’s doublet and
his shirt, and that she kept secretly.

N
otwithstanding, when King Mark had done this
Then was there much sorrow and crying, and great dole deed, yet he thought to do more vengeance; and
made Sir Tristram, Sir Dinas, Sir Fergus, and so did all with his sword in his hand, he sought from cham-
knights that were there; for that prince was passingly well ber to chamber, to seek Anglides and her young son. And
beloved. So La Beale Isoud sent unto Anglides, the Prince when she was missed he called a good knight that hight
Boudwin’s wife, and bade her avoid lightly or else her Sadok, and charged him by pain of death to fetch Anglides
young son, Alisander le Orphelin, should be slain When again and her young son. So Sir Sadok departed and rode
she heard this, she took her horse and her child; and rode after Anglides. And within ten mile he overtook her, and
with such poor men as durst ride with her. bade her turn again and ride with him to King Mark. Alas,
fair knight, she said, what shall ye win by my son’s death
or by mine? I have had overmuch harm and too great a
loss. Madam, said Sadok, of your loss is dole and pity; but
madam, said Sadok, would ye depart out of this country
with your son, and keep him till he be of age, that he may
revenge his father’s death, then would I suffer you to de-
part from me, so you promise me to revenge the death of

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Prince Boudwin. Ah, gentle knight, Jesu thank thee, and none so wight in all that country, neither there was none
if ever my son, Alisander le Orphelin, live to be a knight, that might do no manner of mastery afore him.
he shall have his father’s doublet and his shirt with the
bloody marks, and I shall give him such a charge that he
shall remember it while he liveth. And therewithal Sadok
departed from her, and either betook other to God. And
when Sadok came to King Mark he told him faithfully
that he had drowned young Alisander her son; and thereof
King Mark was full glad.
Now turn we unto Anglides, that rode both night and
day by adventure out of Cornwall, and little and in few
places she rested; but ever she drew southward to the sea-
side, till by fortune she came to a castle that is called
Magouns, and now it is called Arundel, in Sussex. And
the Constable of the castle welcomed her, and said she
was welcome to her own castle; and there was Anglides
worshipfully received, for the Constable’s wife was nigh
her cousin, and the Constable’s name was Bellangere; and
that same Constable told Anglides that the same castle
was hers by right inheritance. Thus Anglides endured years
and winters, till Alisander was big and strong; there was

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 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER XXXIV was made knight. So on the same day that Alisander and
his twenty fellows were made knights, at the offering of
How Anglides gave the bloody doublet to Alisander, the mass there came Anglides unto her son and said thus:
her son, the same day that he was made knight, and O fair sweet son, I charge thee upon my blessing, and of
the charge withal.
the high order of chivalry that thou takest here this day,
that thou understand what I shall say and charge thee

T
hen upon a day Bellangere the Constable came to
Anglides and said: Madam, it were time my lord withal. Therewithal she pulled out a bloody doublet and a
Alisander were made knight, for he is a passing bloody shirt, that were be-bled with old blood. When
strong young man. Sir, said she, I would he were made Alisander saw this he stert aback and waxed pale, and said:
knight; but then must I give him the most charge that ever Fair mother, what may this mean? I shall tell thee, fair
sinful mother gave to her child. Do as ye list, said son: this was thine own father’s doublet and shirt, that he
Bellangere, and I shall give him warning that he shall be wore upon him that same day that he was slain. And there
made knight. Now it will be well done that he may be she told him why and wherefore, and how for his good-
made knight at our Lady Day in Lent. Be it so, said ness King Mark slew him with his dagger afore mine own
Anglides, and I pray you make ready therefore. So came eyen. And therefore this shall be your charge that I shall
the Constable to Alisander, and told him that he should at give thee.
our Lady Day in Lent be made knight. I thank God, said
Alisander; these are the best tidings that ever came to me.
Then the Constable ordained twenty of the greatest
gentlemen’s sons, and the best born men of the country,
that should be made knights that same day that Alisander

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CHAPTER XXXV time. Alas, false treason, said King Mark, I weened that
young traitor had been dead. Alas, whom may I trust? And
How it was told to King Mark of Sir Alisander, and therewithal King Mark took a sword in his hand; and
how he would have slain Sir Sadok for saving his life. sought Sir Sadok from chamber to chamber to slay him.
When Sir Sadok saw King Mark come with his sword in

N
ow I require thee, and charge thee upon my bless
his hand he said thus: Beware, King Mark, and come not
ing, and upon the high order of knighthood, that
nigh me; for wit thou well that I saved Alisander his life,
thou be revenged upon King Mark for the death
of which I never repent me, for thou falsely and cowardly
of thy father. And therewithal she swooned. Then Alisander
slew his father Boudwin, traitorly for his good deeds;
leapt to his mother, and took her up in his arms, and said:
wherefore I pray Almighty Jesu send Alisander might and
Fair mother, ye have given me a great charge, and here I
strength to be revenged upon thee. And now beware King
promise you I shall be avenged upon King Mark when
Mark of young Alisander, for he is made a knight. Alas,
that I may; and that I promise to God and to you. So this
said King Mark, that ever I should hear a traitor say so
feast was ended, and the Constable, by the advice of
afore me. And therewith four knights of King Mark’s drew
Anglides, let purvey that Alisander was well horsed and
their swords to slay Sir Sadok, but anon Sir Sadok slew
harnessed. Then he jousted with his twenty fellows that
them all in King Mark’s presence. And then Sir Sadok
were made knights with him, but for to make a short tale,
passed forth into his chamber, and took his horse and his
he overthrew all those twenty, that none might withstand
harness, and rode on his way a good pace. For there was
him a buffet.
neither Sir Tristram, neither Sir Dinas, nor Sir Fergus, that
Then one of those knights departed unto King Mark,
would Sir Sadok any evil will. Then was King Mark wroth,
and told him all, how Alisander was made knight, and all
and thought to destroy Sir Alisander and Sir Sadok that
the charge that his mother gave him, as ye have heard afore

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 Thomas Malory
had saved him; for King Mark dreaded and hated Alisander Alisander le Orphelin should escape, but either he should
most of any man living. be taken or slain. This ordinance made King Mark for to
When Sir Tristram understood that Alisander was made destroy Alisander.
knight, anon forthwithal he sent him a letter, praying him
and charging him that he would draw him to the court of
King Arthur, and that he put him in the rule and in the
hands of Sir Launcelot. So this letter was sent to Alisander
from his cousin, Sir Tristram. And at that time he thought
to do after his commandment. Then King Mark called a
knight that brought him the tidings from Alisander, and
bade him abide still in that country. Sir, said that knight,
so must I do, for in my own country I dare not come. No
force, said King Mark, I shall give thee here double as
much lands as ever thou hadst of thine own. But within
short space Sir Sadok met with that false knight, and slew
him. Then was King Mark wood wroth out of measure.
Then he sent unto Queen Morgan le Fay, and to the Queen
of North-galis, praying them in his letters that they two
sorceresses would set all the country in fire with ladies
that were enchantresses, and by such that were dangerous
knights, as Malgrin, Breuse Saunce Pité, that by no mean

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 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
CHAPTER XXXVI then she rested her in her pavilion. So there came four
knights, two were armed, and two were unarmed, and they
How Sir Alisander won the prize at a tournament, and told Morgan le Fay their names: the first was Elias de
of Morgan le Fay: and how he fought with Sir Malgrin, Gomeret, the second was Cari de Gomeret, those were
and slew him.
armed; that other twain were of Camiliard, cousins unto
Queen Guenever, and that one hight Guy, and that other

N
ow turn we again unto Sir Alisander, that at his
departing his mother took with him his father’s hight Garaunt, those were unarmed. There these four
bloody shirt. So that he bare with him always knights told Morgan le Fay how a young knight had smit-
till his death day, in tokening to think of his father’s death. ten them down before a castle For the maiden of that castle
So was Alisander purposed to ride to London, by the coun- said that he was but late made knight, and young. But as
sel of Sir Tristram, to Sir Launcelot. And by fortune he we suppose, but if it were Sir Tristram, or Sir Launcelot,
went by the seaside, and rode wrong. And there he won at or Sir Lamorak, the good knight, there is none that might
a tournament the gree that King Carados made. And there sit him a buffet with a spear. Well, said Morgan le Fay, I
he smote down King Carados and twenty of his knights, shall meet that knight or it be long time, an he dwell in
and also Sir Safere, a good knight that was Sir Palomides’ that country.
brother, the good knight. All this saw a damosel, and saw So turn we to the damosel of the castle, that when
the best knight joust that ever she saw. And ever as he Alisander le Orphelin had forjousted the four knights, she
smote down knights he made them to swear to wear none called him to her, and said thus: Sir knight, wilt thou for
harness in a twelvemonth and a day. This is well said, said my sake joust and fight with a knight, for my sake, of this
Morgan le Fay, this is the knight that I would fain see. country, that is and hath been long time an evil neighbour
And so she took her palfrey, and rode a great while, and to me? His name is Malgrin, and he will not suffer me to

65
 Thomas Malory
be married in no manner wise for all that I can do, or any the dangerous knights of the world to do battle on foot,
knight for my sake. Damosel, said Alisander, an he come but on horseback there were many better. And ever this
whiles I am here I will fight with him, and my poor body Malgrin awaited to slay Alisander, and so wounded him
for your sake I will jeopard. And therewithal she sent for wonderly sore, that it was marvel that ever he might stand,
him, for he was at her commandment. And when either for he had bled so much blood; for Alisander fought wildly,
had a sight of other, they made them ready for to joust, and not wittily. And that other was a felonious knight, and
and they came together eagerly, and Malgrin brised his awaited him, and smote him sore. And sometime they
spear upon Alisander, and Alisander smote him again so rushed together with their shields, like two boars or rams,
hard that he bare him quite from his saddle to the earth. and fell grovelling both to the earth. Now knight, said
But this Malgrin arose lightly, and dressed his shield and Malgrin, hold thy hand a while, and tell me what thou art.
drew his sword, and bade him alight, saying: Though thou I will not, said Alisander, but if me list: but tell me thy
have the better of me on horseback, thou shalt find that I name, and why thou keepest this country, or else thou shalt
shall endure like a knight on foot. It is well said, said die of my hands. Wit thou well, said Malgrin, that for this
Alisander; and so lightly he avoided his horse and betook maiden’s love, of this castle, I have slain ten good knights
him to his varlet. And then they rushed together like two by mishap; and by outrage and orgulité of myself I have
boars, and laid on their helms and shields long time, by slain ten other knights. So God me help, said Alisander,
the space of three hours, that never man could say which this is the foulest confession that ever I heard knight make,
was the better knight. nor never heard I speak of other men of such a shameful
And in the meanwhile came Morgan le Fay to the confession; wherefore it were great pity and great shame
damosel of the castle, and they beheld the battle. But this unto me that I should let thee live any longer; therefore
Malgrin was an old roted knight, and he was called one of keep thee as well as ever thou mayest, for as I am true

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 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
knight, either thou shalt slay me or else I shall slay thee, I CHAPTER XXXVII
promise thee faithfully.
Then they lashed together fiercely, and at the last How Queen Morgan le Fay had Alisander in her castle,
and how she healed his wounds.
Alisander smote Malgrin to the earth. And then he raced
off his helm, and smote off his head lightly. And when he

T
hen Queen Morgan le Fay searched his wounds,
had done and ended this battle, anon he called to him his
and gave such an ointment unto him that he should
varlet, the which brought him his horse. And then he,
have died. And on the morn when she came to
weening to be strong enough, would have mounted. And
him he complained him sore; and then she put other oint-
so she laid Sir Alisander in an horse litter, and led him
ments upon him, and then he was out of his pain. Then
into the castle, for he had no foot nor might to stand upon
came the damosel of the castle, and said unto Morgan le
the earth; for he had sixteen great wounds, and in especial
Fay: I pray you help me that this knight might wed me, for
one of them was like to be his death.
he hath won me with his hands. Ye shall see, said Morgan
le Fay, what I shall say. Then Morgan le Fay went unto
Alisander, and bade in anywise that he should refuse this
lady, an she desire to wed you, for she is not for you. So
the damosel came and desired of him marriage. Damosel,
said Orphelin, I thank you, but as yet I cast me not to marry
in this country. Sir, she said, sithen ye will not marry me,
I pray you insomuch as ye have won me, that ye will give
me to a knight of this country that hath been my friend,
and loved me many years. With all my heart, said Alisander,

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 Thomas Malory
I will assent thereto. Then was the knight sent for, his name this castle where lay Alisander, and there she found him
was Gerine le Grose. And anon he made them handfast, upon his bed, passing heavy and all sad.
and wedded them.
Then came Queen Morgan le Fay to Alisander, and bade
him arise, and put him in an horse litter, and gave him
such a drink that in three days and three nights he waked
never, but slept; and so she brought him to her own castle
that at that time was called La Beale Regard. Then Mor-
gan le Fay came to Alisander, and asked him if he would
fain be whole. Who would be sick, said Alisander, an he
might be whole? Well, said Morgan le Fay, then shall ye
promise me by your knighthood that this day twelvemonth
and a day ye shall not pass the compass of this castle, and
without doubt ye shall lightly be whole. I assent, said Sir
Alisander. And there he made her a promise: then was he
soon whole. And when Alisander was whole, then he re-
pented him of his oath, for he might not be revenged upon
King Mark. Right so there came a damosel that was cousin
to the Earl of Pase, and she was cousin to Morgan le Fay.
And by right that castle of La Beale Regard should have
been hers by true inheritance. So this damosel entered into

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CHAPTER XXXVIII this castle for the evil customs that be used therein; and
then will he come and set wild-fire on every part of the
How Alisander was delivered from Queen Morgan le castle, and I shall get you out at a privy postern, and there
Fay by the means of a damosel. shall ye have your horse and your harness. Ye say well,
damosel, said Alisander. And then she said: Ye may keep

S
ir knight, said the damosel, an ye would be merry
the room of this castle this twelvemonth and a day, then
I could tell you good tidings. Well were me, said
break ye not your oath. Truly, fair damosel, said Alisander,
Alisander, an I might hear of good tidings, for now
ye say sooth. And then he kissed her, and did to her
I stand as a prisoner by my promise. Sir, she said, wit you
pleasaunce as it pleased them both at times and leisures.
well that ye be a prisoner, and worse than ye ween; for my
So anon she sent unto her uncle and bade him come and
lady, my cousin Queen Morgan le Fay, keepeth you here
destroy that castle, for as the book saith, he would have
for none other intent but for to do her pleasure with you
destroyed that castle afore time had not that damosel been.
when it liketh her. O Jesu defend me, said Alisander, from
When the earl understood her letters he sent her word again
such pleasure; for I had liefer cut away my hangers than I
that on such a day he would come and destroy that castle.
would do her such pleasure. As Jesu help me, said the
So when that day came she showed Alisander a postern
damosel, an ye would love me and be ruled by me, I shall
wherethrough he should flee into a garden, and there he
make your deliverance with your worship. Tell me, said
should find his armour and his horse. When the day came
Alisander, by what means, and ye shall have my love. Fair
that was set, thither came the Earl of Pase with four hun-
knight, said she, this castle of right ought to be mine, and
dred knights, and set on fire all the parts of the castle, that
I have an uncle the which is a mighty earl, he is Earl of
or they ceased they left not a stone standing. And all this
Pase, and of all folks he hateth most Morgan le Fay; and I
while that the fire was in the castle he abode in the gar-
shall send unto him and pray him for my sake to destroy

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 Thomas Malory
den. And when the fire was done he let make a cry that he there came a knight of Arthur’s court that hight Sagramore
would keep that piece of earth thereas the castle of La le Desirous, and he proffered to joust with Alisander;
Beale Regard was a twelvemonth and a day, from all man- and they encountered, and Sagramore le Desirous brised
ner knights that would come his spear upon Sir Alisander, but Sir Alisander smote him
So it happed there was a duke that hight Ansirus, and he so hard that he avoided his saddle. And when La Beale
was of the kin of Sir Launcelot. And this knight was a Alice saw him joust so well, she thought him a passing
great pilgrim, for every third year he would be at Jerusa- goodly knight on horseback. And then she leapt out of
lem. And because he used all his life to go in pilgrimage her pavilion, and took Sir Alisander by the bridle, and
men called him Duke Ansirus the Pilgrim. And this duke thus she said: Fair knight, I require thee of thy knight-
had a daughter that hight Alice, that was a passing fair hood show me thy visage. I dare well, said Alisander,
woman, and because of her father she was called Alice la show my visage. And then he put off his helm; and she
Beale Pilgrim. And anon as she heard of this cry she went saw his visage, she said: O sweet Jesu, thee I must love,
unto Arthur’s court, and said openly in hearing of many and never other. Then show me your visage, said he.
knights, that what knight may overcome that knight that
keepeth that piece of earth shall have me and all my lands.
When the knights of the Round Table heard her say
thus many were glad, for she was passing fair and of
great rents. Right so she let cry in castles and towns as
fast on her side as Alisander did on his side. Then she
dressed her pavilion straight by the piece of the earth
that Alisander kept. So she was not so soon there but

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CHAPTER XXXIX on foot. Sir Alisander overcame him with three strokes,
and there would have slain him had he not yielded him.
How Alisander met with Alice la Beale Pilgrim, and So then Alisander made both those knights to swear to
how he jousted with two knights; and after of him and wear none armour in a twelvemonth and a day.
of Sir Mordred.
Then Sir Alisander alighted down, and went to rest him
and repose him. Then the damosel that helped Sir Alisander

T
hen she unwimpled her visage. And when he saw
her he said: Here have I found my love and my out of the castle, in her play told Alice all together how he
lady. Truly, fair lady, said he, I promise you to be was prisoner in the castle of La Beale Regard, and there
your knight, and none other that beareth the life. Now, she told her how she got him out of prison. Sir, said Alice
gentle knight, said she, tell me your name. My name is, la Beale Pilgrim, meseemeth ye are much beholding to
said he, Alisander le Orphelin. Now, damosel, tell me your this maiden. That is truth, said Sir Alisander. And there
name, said he. My name is, said she, Alice la Beale Pil- Alice told him of what blood she was come. Sir, wit ye
grim. And when we be more at our heart’s ease, both ye well, she said, that I am of the blood of King Ban, that
and I shall tell other of what blood we be come. So there was father unto Sir Launcelot. Y-wis, fair lady, said
was great love betwixt them. And as they thus talked there Alisander, my mother told me that my father was brother
came a knight that hight Harsouse le Berbuse, and asked unto a king, and I nigh cousin unto Sir Tristram.
part of Sir Alisander’s spears. Then Sir Alisander encoun- Then this while came there three knights, that one hight
tered with him, and at the first Sir Alisander smote him Vains, and the other hight Harvis de les Marches, and the
over his horse’s croup. And then there came another knight third hight Perin de la Montaine. And with one spear Sir
that hight Sir Hewgon, and Sir Alisander smote him down Alisander smote them down all three, and gave them such
as he did that other. Then Sir Hewgon proffered to do battle falls that they had no list to fight upon foot. So he made

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 Thomas Malory
them to swear to wear none arms in a twelvemonth. So himself that Sir Mordred was so escaped his hands. But
when they were departed Sir Alisander beheld his lady then Sir Alisander and Alice had good game at the damosel,
Alice on horseback as he stood in her pavilion. And then how sadly she hit him upon the helm.
was he so enamoured upon her that he wist not whether he Then Sir Alisander jousted thus day by day, and on
were on horseback or on foot. foot he did many battles with many knights of King
Right so came the false knight Sir Mordred, and saw Sir Arthur’s court, and with many knights strangers. There-
Alisander was assotted upon his lady; and therewithal he fore to tell all the battles that he did it were overmuch to
took his horse by the bridle, and led him here and there, rehearse, for every day within that twelvemonth he had
and had cast to have led him out of that place to have ado with one knight or with other, and some day he had
shamed him. When the damosel that helped him out of ado with three or with four; and there was never knight
that castle saw how shamefully he was led, anon she let that put him to the worse. And at the twelvemonth’s end
arm her, and set a shield upon her shoulder; and therewith he departed with his lady, Alice la Beale Pilgrim. And
she mounted upon his horse, and gat a naked sword in her the damosel would never go from him, and so they went
hand, and she thrust unto Alisander with all her might, into their country of Benoye, and lived there in great joy.
and she gave him such a buffet that he thought the fire
flew out of his eyen. And when Alisander felt that stroke
he looked about him, and drew his sword And when she
saw that, she fled, and so did Mordred into the forest, and
the damosel fled into the pavilion. So when Alisander un-
derstood himself how the false knight would have shamed
him had not the damosel been then was he wroth with

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CHAPTER XL then he came to Arthur’s court and told him his intent,
how this was his will, how he would let cry a jousts in the
How Sir Galahalt did do cry a jousts in Surluse, and country of Surluse, the which country was within the lands
Queen Guenever’s knights should joust against all that of King Arthur, and there he asked leave to let cry a jousts.
would come.
I will give you leave, said King Arthur; but wit thou well,
said King Arthur, I may not be there. Sir, said Queen

B
ut as the book saith, King Mark would never stint
till he had slain him by treason. And by Alice he Guenever, please it you to give me leave to be at that jousts.
gat a child that hight Bellengerus le Beuse. And With right good will, said Arthur; for Sir Galahalt, the haut
by good fortune he came to the court of King Arthur, and prince, shall have you in governance. Sir, said Galahalt, I
proved a passing good knight; and he revenged his father’s will as ye will. Sir, then the queen, I will take with me [Sir
death, for the false King Mark slew both Sir Tristram and Launcelot] and such knights as please me best. Do as ye
Alisander falsely and feloniously. And it happed so that list, said King Arthur. So anon she commanded Sir
Alisander had never grace nor fortune to come to King Launcelot to make him ready with such knights as he
Arthur’s court. For an he had come to Sir Launcelot, all thought best.
knights said that knew him, he was one of the strongest So in every good town and castle of this land was made
knights that was in Arthur’s days, and great dole was made a cry, that in the country of Surluse Sir Galahalt should
for him. So let we of him pass, and turn we to another tale. make a joust that should last eight days, and how the haut
So it befell that Sir Galahalt, the haut prince, was lord prince, with the help of Queen Guenever’s knights, should
of the country of Surluse, whereof came many good joust against all manner of men that would come. When
knights. And this noble prince was a passing good man of this cry was known, kings and princes, dukes and earls,
arms, and ever he held a noble fellowship together. And barons and noble knights, made them ready to be at that

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 Thomas Malory
jousts. And at the day of jousting there came in Sir Dinadan CHAPTER XLI
disguised, and did many great deeds of arms.
How Sir Launcelot fought in the tournament, and how
Sir Palomides did arms there for a damosel.

T
hen at the request of Queen Guenever and of King
Bagdemagus Sir Launcelot came into the range,
but he was disguised, and that was the cause that
few folk knew him; and there met with him Sir Ector de
Maris, his own brother, and either brake their spears upon
other to their hands. And then either gat another spear.
And then Sir Launcelot smote down Sir Ector de Maris,
his own brother. That saw Sir Bleoberis, and he smote Sir
Launcelot such a buffet upon the helm that he wist not
well where he was. Then Sir Launcelot was wrothy and
smote Sir Bleoberis so sore upon the helm that his head
bowed down backward. And he smote eft another buffet,
that he avoided his saddle; and so he rode by, and thrust
forth to the thickest. When the King of Northgalis saw Sir
Ector and Bleoberis lie on the ground then was he wroth,
for they came on his party against them of Surluse. So the
King of Northgalis ran to Sir Launcelot, and brake a spear

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upon him all to pieces. Therewith Sir Launcelot overtook for I would he were well beaten of thy hands, that he
the King of Northgalis, and smote him such a buffet on might depart out of this field. And then Sir Sauseise en-
the helm with his sword that he made him to avoid his countered with Sir Meliagaunce, and either smote other
horse; and anon the king was horsed again. So both the down. And then they fought on foot, and there Sauseise
King Bagdemagus’ and the King of North-galis’ party had won Sir Meliagaunce, had there not come rescues. So
hurled to other; and then began a strong medley, but they then the haut prince blew to lodging, and every knight
of Northgalis were far bigger. unarmed him and went to the great feast.
When Sir Launcelot saw his party go to the worst he Then in the meanwhile there came a damosel to the
thrang into the thickest press with a sword in his hand; haut prince, and complained that there was a knight that
and there he smote down on the right hand and on the hight Goneries that withheld her all her lands. Then the
left hand, and pulled down knights and raced off their knight was there present, and cast his glove to her or to
helms, that all men had wonder that ever one knight might any that would fight in her name. So the damosel took
do such deeds of arms. When Sir Meliagaunce, that was up the glove all heavily for default of a champion. Then
son unto King Bagdemagus, saw how Sir Launcelot fared there came a varlet to her and said: Damosel, will ye do
he marvelled greatly. And when he understood that it was after me? Full fain, said the damosel. Then go you unto
he, he wist well that he was disguised for his sake. Then such a knight that lieth here beside in an hermitage, and
Sir Meliagaunce prayed a knight to slay Sir Launcelot’s that followeth the Questing Beast, and pray him to take
horse, either with sword or with spear. At that time King the battle upon him, and anon I wot well he will grant
Bagdemagus met with a knight that hight Sauseise, a good you.
knight, to whom he said: Now fair Sauseise, encounter So anon she took her palfrey, and within a while she
with my son Meliagaunce and give him large payment, found that knight, that was Sir Palomides. And when she

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required him he armed him and rode with her, and made CHAPTER XLII
her to go to the haut prince, and to ask leave for her knight
to do battle. I will well, said the haut prince. Then the How Sir Galahalt and Palomides fought together, and
of Sir Dinadan and Sir Galahalt.
knights were ready in the field to joust on horseback; and
either gat a spear in their hands, and met so fiercely to-

H
ere beginneth the second day. Anon as Sir
gether that their spears all to-shivered. Then they flang
Palomides came into the field, Sir Galahalt, the
out swords, and Sir Palomides smote Sir Goneries down
haut prince, was at the range end, and met with
to the earth. And then he raced off his helm and smote off
Sir Palomides, and he with him, with great spears. And
his head. Then they went to supper, and the damosel loved
then they came so hard together that their spears all to-
Palomides as paramour, but the book saith she was of his
shivered, but Sir Galahalt smote him so hard that he bare
kin. So then Palomides disguised himself in this manner,
him backward over his horse, but yet he lost not his stir-
in his shield he bare the Questing Beast, and in all his
rups. Then they drew their swords and lashed together
trappings. And when he was thus ready, he sent to the haut
many sad strokes, that many worshipful knights left their
prince to give him leave to joust with other knights, but he
business to behold them. But at the last Sir Galahalt, the
was adoubted of Sir Launcelot. The haut prince sent him
haut prince, smote a stroke of might unto Palomides, sore
word again that he should be welcome, and that Sir
upon the helm; but the helm was so hard that the sword
Launcelot should not joust with him. Then Sir Galahalt,
might not bite, but slipped and smote off the head of the
the haut prince, let cry what knight somever he were that
horse of Sir Palomides. When the haut prince wist and
smote down Sir Palomides should have his damosel to
saw the good knight fall unto the earth he was ashamed of
himself.
that stroke. And therewith he alighted down off his own
horse, and prayed the good knight, Palomides, to take that

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horse of his gift, and to forgive him that deed. Sir, said fast after him, and bade him: Abide, Dinadan, for King
Palomides, I thank you of your great goodness, for ever of Arthur’s sake. Nay, said Dinadan, so God me help, we
a man of worship a knight shall never have disworship; meet no more together this day. Then in that wrath the
and so he mounted upon that horse, and the haut prince haut prince met with Meliagaunce, and he smote him in
had another anon. Now, said the haut prince, I release to the throat that an he had fallen his neck had broken; and
you that maiden, for ye have won her. Ah, said Palomides, with the same spear he smote down another knight. Then
the damosel and I be at your commandment. came in they of Northgalis and many strangers, and were
So they departed, and Sir Galahalt did great deeds of like to have put them of Surluse to the worse, for Sir
arms. And right so came Dinadan and encountered with Galahalt, the haut prince, had ever much in hand. So there
Sir Galahalt, and either came to other so fast with their came the good knight, Semound the Valiant, with forty
spears that their spears brake to their hands. But Dinadan knights, and he beat them all aback. Then the Queen
had weened the haut prince had been more weary than he Guenever and Sir Launcelot let blow to lodging, and ev-
was. And then he smote many sad strokes at the haut prince; ery knight unarmed him, and dressed him to the feast.
but when Dinadan saw he might not get him to the earth
he said: My lord, I pray you leave me, and take another.
The haut prince knew not Dinadan, and left goodly for his
fair words. And so they departed; but soon there came
another and told the haut prince that it was Dinadan.
Forsooth, said the prince, therefore am I heavy that he is
so escaped from me, for with his mocks and japes now
shall I never have done with him. And then Galahalt rode

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CHAPTER XLIII might not arise; and there Sir Palomides raced off his helm,
and smote off his head. Then the haut prince and Queen
How Sir Archade appealed Sir Palomides of treason, Guenever went unto supper. Then King Bagdemagus sent
and how Sir Palomides slew him. away his son Meliagaunce because Sir Launcelot should
not meet with him, for he hated Sir Launcelot, and that

W
hen Palomides was unarmed he asked lodg-
knew he not.
ing for himself and the damosel. Anon the
haut prince commanded them to lodging.
And he was not so soon in his lodging but there came a
knight that hight Archade, he was brother unto Goneries
that Palomides slew afore in the damosel’s quarrel. And
this knight, Archade, called Sir Palomides traitor, and ap-
pealed him for the death of his brother. By the leave of the
haut prince, said Palomides, I shall answer thee. When Sir
Galahalt understood their quarrel he bade them go to din-
ner: And as soon as ye have dined look that either knight
be ready in the field. So when they had dined they were
armed both, and took their horses, and the queen, and the
prince, and Sir Launcelot, were set to behold them; and so
they let run their horses, and there Sir Palomides bare
Archade on his spear over his horse’s tail. And then
Palomides alighted and drew his sword, but Sir Archade

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CHAPTER XLIV King Bagdemagus; and at the last King Bagdemagus hurtled
down Gaheris, horse and man.
Of the third day, and how Sir Palomides jousted with Then by adventure Sir Palomides, the good knight, met
Sir Lamorak, and other things. with Sir Blamore de Ganis, Sir Bleoberis’ brother. And
either smote other with great spears, that both their horses

N
ow beginneth the third day of jousting; and at
and knights fell to the earth. But Sir Blamore had such a
that day King Bagdemagus made him ready; and
fall that he had almost broken his neck, for the blood brast
there came against him King Marsil, that had in
out at nose, mouth, and his ears, but at the last he recov-
gift an island of Sir Galahalt the haut prince; and this is-
ered well by good surgeons. Then there came in the Duke
land had the name Pomitain. Then it befell that King
Chaleins of Clarance; and in his governance there came a
Bagdemagus and King Marsil of Pomitain met together
knight that hight Elis la Noire; and there encountered with
with spears, and King Marsil had such a buffet that he fell
him King Bagdemagus, and he smote Elis that he made
over his horse’s croup. Then came there in a knight of
him to avoid his saddle. So the Duke Chaleins of Clarance
King Marsil to revenge his lord, and King Bagdemagus
did there great deeds of arms, and of so late as he came in
smote him down, horse and man, to the earth. So there
the third day there was no man did so well except King
came an earl that hight Arrouse, and Sir Breuse, and an
Bagdemagus and Sir Palomides, that the prize was given
hundred knights with them of Pomitain, and the King of
that day to King Bagdemagus. And then they blew unto
Northgalis was with them; and all these were against them
lodging, and unarmed them, and went to the feast. Right
of Surluse. And then there began great battle, and many
so came Dinadan, and mocked and japed with King
knights were cast under horses’ feet. And ever King
Bagdemagus that all knights laughed at him, for he was a
Bagdemagus did best, for he first began, and ever he held
fine japer, and well loving all good knights.
on. Gaheris, Gawaine’s brother, smote ever at the face of

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 Thomas Malory
So anon as they had dined there came a varlet bearing strange knight doubled his strokes, and put Palomides
four spears on his back; and he came to Palomides, and aback; therewithal the haut prince cried: Ho: and then they
said thus: Here is a knight by hath sent you the choice of went to lodging. And when they were unarmed they knew
four spears, and requireth you for your lady’s sake to take it was the noble knight Sir Lamorak. When Sir Launcelot
that one half of these spears, and joust with him in the knew that it was Sir Lamorak he made much of him, for
field. Tell him, said Palomides, I will not fail him. When above all earthly men he loved him best except Sir
Sir Galahalt wist of this, he bade Palomides make him Tristram. Then Queen Guenever commended him, and so
ready. So the Queen Guenever, the haut prince, and Sir did all other good knights make much of him, except Sir
Launcelot, they were set upon scaffolds to give the judg- Gawaine’s brethren. Then Queen Guenever said unto Sir
ment of these two knights. Then Sir Palomides and the Launcelot: Sir, I require you that an ye joust any more,
strange knight ran so eagerly together that their spears that ye joust with none of the blood of my lord Arthur. So
brake to their hands. Anon withal either of them took a he promised he would not as at that time.
great spear in his hand and all to-shivered them in pieces.
And then either took a greater spear, and then the knight
smote down Sir Palomides, horse and man, to the earth.
And as he would have passed over him the strange knight’s
horse stumbled and fell down upon Palomides. Then they
drew their swords and lashed together wonderly sore a
great while.
Then the haut prince and Sir Launcelot said they saw
never two knights fight better than they did; but ever the

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CHAPTER XLV or ever he stint he smote down with his spear and with his
sword thirty knights. When Duke Chaleins saw Lamorak
Of the fourth day, and of many great feats of arms. do so great prowess he would not meddle with him for
shame; and then he charged all his knights in pain of death

H
ere beginneth the fourth day. Then came into
that none of you touch him; for it were shame to all good
the field the King with the Hundred Knights,
knights an that knight were shamed.
and all they of Northgalis, and the Duke
Then the two kings gathered them together, and all they
Chaleins of Clarance, and King Marsil of Pomitain, and
set upon Sir Lamorak; and he failed them not, but rushed
there came Safere, Palomides’ brother, and there he told
here and there, smiting on the right hand and on the left,
him tidings of his mother. And his name was called the
and raced off many helms, so that the haut prince and
Earl, and so he appealed him afore King Arthur: For he
Queen Guenever said they saw never knight do such deeds
made war upon our father and mother, and there I slew
of arms on horseback. Alas, said Launcelot to King
him in plain battle. So they went into the field, and the
Bagdemagus, I will arm me and help Sir Lamorak. And I
damosel with them; and there came to encounter again
will ride with you, said King Bagdemagus. And when they
them Sir Bleoberis de Ganis, and Sir Ector de Maris. Sir
two were horsed they came to Sir Lamorak that stood
Palomides encountered with Sir Bleoberis, and either
among thirty knights; and well was him that might reach
smote other down. And in the same wise did Sir Safere
him a buffet, and ever he smote again mightily. Then came
and Sir Ector, and the two couples did battle on foot. Then
there into the press Sir Launcelot, and he threw down Sir
came in Sir Lamorak, and he encountered with the King
Mador de la Porte. And with the truncheon of that spear
with the Hundred Knights, and smote him quite over his
he threw down many knights. And King Bagdemagus
horse’s tail. And in the same wise he served the King of
smote on the left hand and on the right hand marvellously
Northgalis, and also he smote down King Marsil. And so
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 Thomas Malory
well. And then the three kings fled aback. Therewithal then CHAPTER XLVI
Sir Galahalt let blow to lodging, and all the heralds gave
Sir Lamorak the prize. And all this while fought Palomides, Of the Fifth day, and how Sir Lamorak behaved him.
Sir Bleoberis, Sir Safere, Sir Ector on foot; never were

H
ere beginneth the fifth day. So it befell that Sir
there four knights evener matched. And then they were
Palomides came in the morntide, and proffered
departed, and had unto their lodging, and unarmed them,
to joust thereas King Arthur was in a castle there
and so they went to the great feast.
besides Surluse; and there encountered with him a wor-
But when Sir Lamorak was come into the court Queen
shipful duke, and there Sir Palomides smote him over his
Guenever took him in her arms and said: Sir, well have ye
horse’s croup. And this duke was uncle unto King Arthur.
done this day. Then came the haut prince, and he made of
Then Sir Elise’s son rode unto Palomides, and Palomides
him great joy, and so did Dinadan, for he wept for joy; but
served Elise in the same wise. When Sir Uwaine saw this
the joy that Sir Launcelot made of Sir Lamorak there might
he was wroth. Then he took his horse and encountered
no man tell. Then they went unto rest, and on the morn the
with Sir Palomides, and Palomides smote him so hard that
haut prince let blow unto the field.
he went to the earth, horse and man. And for to make a
short tale, he smote down three brethren of Sir Gawaine,
that is for to say Mordred, Gaheris, and Agravaine. O Jesu,
said Arthur, this is a great despite of a Saracen that he
shall smite down my blood. And therewithal King Arthur
was wood wroth, and thought to have made him ready to
joust.
That espied Sir Lamorak, that Arthur and his blood were
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 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
discomfit; and anon he was ready, and asked Palomides if ter, the which me sore grieveth: it had been much fairer
he would any more joust. Why should I not? said and better that ye had wedded her, for ye are a king’s son
Palomides. Then they hurtled together, and brake their as well as they. O Jesu, said the noble knight Sir Lamorak
spears, and all to-shivered them, that all the castle rang of unto Arthur, her death shall I never forget. I promise you,
their dints. Then either gat a greater spear in his hand, and and make mine avow unto God, I shall revenge her death
they came so fiercely together; but Sir Palomides’ spear as soon as I see time convenable. And if it were not at the
all to-brast and Sir Lamorak’s did hold. Therewithal Sir reverence of your highness I should now have been re-
Palomides lost his stirrups and lay upright on his horse’s venged upon Sir Gawaine and his brethren. Truly, said
back. And then Sir Palomides returned again and took his Arthur, I will make you at accord. Sir, said Lamorak, as at
damosel, and Sir Safere returned his way. this time I may not abide with you, for I must to the jousts,
So, when he was departed, King Arthur came to Sir where is Sir Launcelot, and the haut prince Sir Galahalt.
Lamorak and thanked him of his goodness, and prayed Then there was a damosel that was daughter to King
him to tell him his name. Sir, said Lamorak, wit thou well, Bandes. And there was a Saracen knight that hight
I owe you my service, but as at this time I will not abide Corsabrin, and he loved the damosel, and in no wise he
here, for I see of mine enemies many about me. Alas, said would suffer her to be married; for ever this Corsabrin
Arthur, now wot I well it is Sir Lamorak de Galis. O noised her, and named her that she was out of her mind;
Lamorak, abide with me, and by my crown I shall never and thus he let her that she might not be married.
fail thee: and not so hardy in Gawaine’s head, nor none of
his brethren, to do thee any wrong. Sir, said Sir Lamorak,
wrong have they done me, and to you both. That is truth,
said the king, for they slew their own mother and my sis-

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 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER XLVII over his horse’s croup; and Sir Dinadan overthrew four
knights more; and there he did great deeds of arms, for
How Sir Palomides fought with Corsabrin for a lady, he was a good knight, but he was a scoffer and a japer,
and how Palomides slew Corsabrin. and the merriest knight among fellowship that was that
time living. And he had such a custom that he loved ev-

S
o by fortune this damosel heard tell that Palomides
ery good knight, and every good knight loved him again.
did much for damosels’ sake; so she sent to him a
So then when the haut prince saw Dinadan do so well,
pensel, and prayed him to fight with Sir Corsabrin
he sent unto Sir Launcelot and bade him strike down Sir
for her love, and he should have her and her lands of her
Dinadan: And when that ye have done so bring him afore
father’s that should fall to her. Then the damosel sent unto
me and the noble Queen Guenever. Then Sir Launcelot
Corsabrin, and bade him go unto Sir Palomides that was a
did as he was required. Then Sir Lamorak and he smote
paynim as well as he, and she gave him warning that she
down many knights, and raced off helms, and drove all
had sent him her pensel, and if he might overcome
the knights afore them. And so Sir Launcelot smote down
Palomides she would wed him. When Corsabrin wist of
Sir Dinadan, and made his men to unarm him, and so
her deeds then was he wood wroth and angry, and rode
brought him to the queen and the haut prince, and they
unto Surluse where the haut prince was, and there he found
laughed at Dinadan so sore that they might not stand.
Sir Palomides ready, the which had the pensel. So there
Well, said Sir Dinadan, yet have I no shame, for the old
they waged battle either with other afore Galahalt. Well,
shrew, Sir Launcelot, smote me down. So they went to
said the haut prince, this day must noble knights joust,
dinner, [and] all the court had good sport at Dinadan.
and at-after dinner we shall see how ye can speed.
Then when the dinner was done they blew to the field to
Then they blew to jousts; and in came Dinadan, and
behold Sir Palomides and Corsabrin. Sir Palomides pight
met with Sir Gerin, a good knight, and he threw him down

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 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
his pensel in midst of the field; and then they hurtled to- ye seen this day a great miracle by Corsabrin, what savour
gether with their spears as it were thunder, and either smote there was when the soul departed from the body. There-
other to the earth. And then they pulled out their swords, fore, sir, we will require you to take the baptism upon you,
and dressed their shields, and lashed together mightily as and I promise you all knights will set the more by you,
mighty knights, that well-nigh there was no piece of har- and say more worship by you. Sir, said Palomides, I will
ness would hold them, for this Corsabrin was a passing that ye all know that into this land I came to be christened,
felonious knight. Corsabrin, said Palomides, wilt thou re- and in my heart I am christened and christened will I be.
lease me yonder damosel and the pensel? Then was But I have made such an avow that I may not be chris-
Corsabrin wroth out of measure, and gave Palomides such tened till I have done seven true battles for Jesu’s sake,
a buffet that he kneeled on his knee. Then Palomides arose and then will I be christened; and I trust God will take
lightly, and smote him upon the helm that he fell down mine intent, for I mean truly Then Sir Palomides prayed
right to the earth. And therewith he raced off his helm and Queen Guenever and the haut prince to sup with him. And
said: Corsabrin, yield thee or else thou shalt die of my so they did, both Sir Launcelot and Sir Lamorak, and many
hands. Fie on thee, said Corsabrin, do thy worst. Then he other good knights. So on the morn they heard their mass,
smote off his head. And therewithal came a stink of his and blew the field, and then knights made them ready.
body when the soul departed, that there might nobody abide
the savour. So was the corpse had away and buried in a
wood, because he was a paynim. Then they blew unto lodg-
ing, and Palomides was unarmed.
Then he went unto Queen Guenever, to the haut prince,
and to Sir Launcelot. Sir, said the haut prince, here have

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 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER XLVIII 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
Of the sixth day, and what then was done. pillers’ battles. For there should no knight fight on foot but
if it were for treason, or else he were driven thereto by force;

H
ere beginneth the sixth day. Then came therein
therefore, brethren, sit fast on your horses, or else fight never
Sir Gaheris, and there encountered with him Sir
more afore me.
Ossaise of Surluse, and Sir Gaheris smote him
With that came in the Duke Chaleins of Clarance, and
over his horse’s croup. And then either party encountered
there encountered with him the Earl Ulbawes of Surluse,
with other, and there were many spears broken, and many
and either of them smote other down. Then the knights of
knights cast under feet. So there came in Sir Dornard and
both parties horsed their lords again, for Sir Ector and
Sir Aglovale, that were brethren unto Sir Lamorak, and
Bleoberis were on foot, waiting on the Duke Chaleins. And
they met with other two knights, and either smote other so
the King with the Hundred Knights was with the Earl of
hard that all four knights and horses fell to the earth. When
Ulbawes. With that came Gaheris and lashed to the King
Sir Lamorak saw his two brethren down he was wroth out
with the Hundred Knights, and he to him again. Then came
of measure, and then he gat a great spear in his hand, and
the Duke Chaleins and departed them.
therewithal he smote down four good knights, and then
Then they blew to lodging, and the knights unarmed
his spear brake. Then he pulled out his sword, and smote
them and drew them to their dinner; and at the midst of
about him on the right hand and on the left hand, and raced
their dinner in came Dinadan and began to rail. Then he
off helms and pulled down knights, that all men marvelled
beheld the haut prince, that seemed wroth with some fault
of such deeds of arms as he did, for he fared so that many
that he saw; for he had a custom he loved no fish, and
knights fled. Then he horsed his brethren again, and said:
because he was served with fish, the which he hated, there-
Brethren, ye ought to be ashamed to fall so off your horses!
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 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
fore he was not merry. When Sir Dinadan had espied the CHAPTER XLIX
haut prince, he espied where was a fish with a great head,
and that he gat betwixt two dishes, and served the haut Of the seventh battle, and how Sir Launcelot, being
disguised like a maid, smote down Sir Dinadan.
prince with that fish. And then he said thus: Sir Galahalt,
well may I liken you to a wolf, for he will never eat fish,

N
ow beginneth the seventh battle. There came in
but flesh; then the haut prince laughed at his words. Well,
the Duke Cambines, and there encountered with
well, said Dinadan to Launcelot, what devil do ye in this
him Sir Aristance, that was counted a good
country, for here may no mean knights win no worship for
knight, and they met so hard that either bare other down,
thee. Sir Dinadan, said Launcelot, I ensure thee I shall no
horse and man. Then came there the Earl of Lambaile and
more meet with thee nor with thy great spear, for I may
helped the duke again to horse. Then came there Sir Ossaise
not sit in my saddle when that spear hitteth me. And if I be
of Surluse, and he smote the Earl Lambaile down from his
happy I shall beware of that boistous body that thou bearest.
horse. Then began they to do great deeds of arms, and many
Well, said Launcelot, make good watch ever: God forbid
spears were broken, and many knights were cast to the earth.
that ever we meet but if it be at a dish of meat. Then laughed
Then the King of Northgalis and the Earl Ulbawes smote
the queen and the haut prince, that they might not sit at
together that all the judges thought it was like mortal death.
their table; thus they made great joy till on the morn, and
This meanwhile Queen Guenever, and the haut prince, and
then they heard mass, and blew to field. And Queen
Sir Launcelot, made there Sir Dinadan make him ready to
Guenever and all the estates were set, and judges armed
joust. I would, said Dinadan, ride into the field, but then
clean with their shields to keep the right.
one of you twain will meet with me. Per dieu, said the haut
prince, ye may see how we sit here as judges with our shields,
and always mayest thou behold whether we sit here or not.

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So Sir Dinadan departed and took his horse, and met laughed that she fell down, and so did all that there were.
with many knights, and did passing well. And as he was Well, said Dinadan to Launcelot, thou art so false that I
departed, Sir Launcelot disguised himself, and put upon can never beware of thee. Then by all the assent they gave
his armour a maiden’s garment freshly attired. Then Sir Sir Launcelot the prize, the next was Sir Lamorak de Galis,
Launcelot made Sir Galihodin to lead him through the the third was Sir Palomides, the fourth was King
range, and all men had wonder what damosel it was. And Bagdemagus; so these four knights had the prize, and there
so as Sir Dinadan came into the range, Sir Launcelot, that was great joy, and great nobley in all the court.
was in the damosel’s array, gat Galihodin’s spear, and ran And on the morn Queen Guenever and Sir Launcelot
unto Sir Dinadan. And always Sir Dinadan looked up departed unto King Arthur, but in no wise Sir Lamorak
thereas Sir Launcelot was, and then he saw one sit in the would not go with them. I shall undertake, said Sir
stead of Sir Launcelot, armed. But when Dinadan saw a Launcelot, that an ye will go with us King Arthur shall
manner of a damosel he dread perils that it was Sir charge Sir Gawaine and his brethren never to do you hurt.
Launcelot disguised, but Sir Launcelot came on him so As for that, said Sir Lamorak, I will not trust Sir Gawaine
fast that he smote him over his horse’s croup; and then nor none of his brethren; and wit ye well, Sir Launcelot,
with great scorns they gat Sir Dinadan into the forest there an it were not for my lord King Arthur’s sake, I should
beside, and there they dispoiled him unto his shirt, and match Sir Gawaine and his brethren well enough. But to
put upon him a woman’s garment, and so brought him say that I should trust them, that shall I never, and there-
into the field: and so they blew unto lodging. And every fore I pray you recommend me unto my lord Arthur, and
knight went and unarmed them. Then was Sir Dinadan unto all my lords of the Round Table. And in what place
brought in among them all. And when Queen Guenever that ever I come I shall do you service to my power: and
saw Sir Dinadan brought so among them all, then she sir, it is but late that I revenged that, when my lord Arthur’s

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kin were put to the worse by Sir Palomides. Then Sir CHAPTER L
Lamorak departed from Sir Launcelot, and either wept at
their departing. How by treason Sir Tristram was brought to a tourna-
ment for to have been slain, and how he was put in
prison.

N
ow 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
Launcelot, and Sir Lamorak, and here beginneth the trea-
son of King Mark, that he ordained against Sir Tristram.
There was cried by the coasts of Cornwall a great tourna-
ment and jousts, and all was done by Sir Galahalt the haut
prince and King Bagdemagus, to the intent to slay
Launcelot, or else utterly destroy him and shame him,
because Sir Launcelot had always the higher degree, there-
fore this prince and this king made this jousts against Sir
Launcelot. And thus their counsel 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 intent that the haut prince should ween

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that Sir Tristram were Sir Launcelot. So at these jousts Fair cousin, I shall be your leech myself. And so he rode
came in Sir Tristram. And at that time Sir Launcelot was forth with Sir Tristram, and brought him to a castle by
not there, but when they saw a knight disguised do such daylight. And then King Mark made Sir Tristram to eat.
deeds of arms, they weened it had been Sir Launcelot. And then after he gave him a drink, the which as soon as
And in especial King Mark said it was Sir Launcelot he had drunk he fell asleep. And when it was night he
plainly. Then they set upon him, both King Bagdemagus, made him to be carried to another castle, and there he
and the haut prince, and their knights, that it was wonder put him in a strong prison, and there he ordained a man
that ever Sir Tristram might endure that pain. Notwith- and a woman to give him his meat and drink. So there he
standing for all the pain that he had, Sir Tristram won the was a great while.
degree at that tournament, and there he hurt many knights Then was Sir Tristram missed, and no creature wist
and bruised them, and they hurt him and bruised him where he was become. When La Beale Isoud heard how
wonderly sore. So when the jousts were all done they knew he was missed, privily she went unto Sir Sadok, and prayed
well that it was Sir Tristram de Liones; and all that were him to espy where was Sir Tristram. Then when Sadok
on King Mark’s party were glad that Sir Tristram was hurt, wist how Sir Tristram was missed, and anon espied that
and the remnant were sorry of his hurt; for Sir Tristram he was put in prison by King Mark and the traitors of
was not so behated as was Sir Launcelot within the realm Magouns, then Sadok and two of his cousins laid them in
of England. an ambushment, fast by the Castle of Tintagil, in arms.
Then came King Mark unto Sir Tristram and said: Fair And as by fortune, there came riding King Mark and four
nephew, I am sorry of your hurts. Gramercy my lord, of his nephews, and a certain of the traitors of Magouns.
said Sir Tristram. Then King Mark made Sir Tristram to When Sir Sadok espied them he brake out of the bushment,
be put in an horse bier in great sign of love, and said: and set there upon them. And when King Mark espied Sir

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Sadok he fled as fast as he might, and there Sir Sadok CHAPTER LI
slew all the four nephews unto King Mark. But these trai-
tors of Magouns slew one of Sadok’s cousins with a great How King Mark let do counterfeit letters from the
Pope, and how Sir Percivale delivered Sir Tristram out
wound in the neck, but Sadok smote the other to the death.
of prison.
Then Sir Sadok rode upon his way unto a castle that was
called Liones, and there he espied of the treason and felony

N
ow turn we unto King Mark, that when he was
of King Mark. So they of that castle rode with Sir Sadok escaped from Sir Sadok he rode unto the Castle
till that they came to a castle that hight Arbray, and there of Tintagil, and there he made great cry and
in the town they found Sir Dinas the Seneschal, that was a noise, and cried unto harness all that might bear arms. Then
good knight. But when Sir Sadok had told Sir Dinas of all they sought and found where were dead four cousins of King
the treason of King Mark he defied such a king, and said Mark’s, and the traitor of Magouns. Then the king let inter
he would give up his lands that he held of him. And when them in a chapel. Then the king let cry in all the country that
he said these words all manner knights said as Sir Dinas held of him, to go unto arms, for he understood to the war he
said. Then by his advice and of Sir Sadok’s, he let stuff all must needs. When King Mark heard and understood how Sir
the towns and castles within the country of Liones, and Sadok and Sir Dinas were arisen in the country of Liones he
assembled all the people that they might make. remembered of wiles and treason. Lo thus he did: he let make
and counterfeit letters from the Pope, and did make a strange
clerk to bear them unto King Mark; the which letters speci-
fied 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 the Saracens.

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 Thomas Malory
When this clerk was come by the mean of the king, anon departed from Sir Tristram and came to King Mark again.
withal King Mark sent these letters unto Sir Tristram and By then there were come four wounded knights within
bade him say thus: that an he would go war upon the mis- the Castle of Tintagil, and one of them his neck was nigh
creants, he should be had out of prison, and to have all his broken in twain. Another had his arm stricken away, the
power. When Sir Tristram understood this letter, then he third was borne through with a spear, the fourth had his
said thus to the clerk: Ah, King Mark, ever hast thou been teeth stricken in twain. And when they came afore King
a traitor, and ever will be; but, Clerk, said Sir Tristram, Mark they cried and said: King, why fleest thou not, for
say thou thus unto King Mark: Since the Apostle Pope all this country is arisen clearly against thee? Then was
hath sent for him, bid him go thither himself; for tell him, King Mark wroth out of measure.
traitor king as he is, I will not go at his commandment, get And in the meanwhile there came into the country Sir
I out of prison as I may, for I see I am well rewarded for Percivale de Galis to seek Sir Tristram. And when he heard
my true service. Then the clerk returned unto King Mark, that Sir Tristram was in prison, Sir Percivale made clearly
and told him of the answer of Sir Tristram. Well, said King the deliverance of Sir Tristram by his knightly means. And
Mark, yet shall he be beguiled. So he went into his cham- when he was so delivered he made great joy of Sir
ber, and counterfeit letters; and the letters specified that Percivale, and so each one of other. Sir Tristram said unto
the Pope desired Sir Tristram to come himself, to make Sir Percivale: An ye will abide in these marches I will ride
war upon the miscreants. When the clerk was come again with you. Nay, said Percivale, in this country I may not
to Sir Tristram and took him these letters, then Sir Tristram tarry, for I must needs into Wales. So Sir Percivale de-
beheld these letters, and anon espied they were of King parted from Sir Tristram, and rode straight unto King Mark,
Mark’s counterfeiting. Ah, said Sir Tristram, false hast thou and told him how he had delivered Sir Tristram; and also
been ever, King Mark, and so wilt thou end. Then the clerk he told the king that he had done himself great shame for

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to put Sir Tristram in prison, for he is now the knight of thus to arise the people against your king. When Sir Dinas
most renown in this world living. And wit thou well the understood that King Mark would go upon the miscre-
noblest knights of the world love Sir Tristram, and if he ants, then Sir Dinas in all the haste put down all the people;
will make war upon you ye may not abide it. That is truth, and when the people were departed every man to his home,
said King Mark, but I may not love Sir Tristram because then King Mark espied where was Sir Tristram with La
he loveth my queen and my wife, La Beale Isoud. Ah, fie Beale Isoud; and there by treason King Mark let take him
for shame, said Sir Percivale, say ye never so more. Are and put him in prison, contrary to his promise that he made
ye not uncle unto Sir Tristram, and he your nephew? Ye unto Sir Percivale.
should never think that so noble a knight as Sir Tristram When Queen Isoud understood that Sir Tristram was in
is, that he would do himself so great a villainy to hold his prison she made as great sorrow as ever made lady or
uncle’s wife; howbeit, said Sir Percivale, he may love your gentlewoman. Then Sir Tristram sent a letter unto La Beale
queen sinless, because she is called one of the fairest la- Isoud, and prayed her to be his good lady; and if it pleased
dies of the world. her to make a vessel ready for her and him, he would go
Then Sir Percivale departed from King Mark. So when with her unto the realm of Logris, that is this land. When
he was departed King Mark bethought him of more trea- La Beale Isoud understood Sir Tristram’s letters and his
son: notwithstanding King Mark granted Sir Percivale intent, she sent him another, and bade him be of good com-
never by no manner of means to hurt Sir Tristram. So anon fort, for she would do make the vessel ready, and all thing
King Mark sent unto Sir Dinas the Seneschal that he should to purpose.
put down all the people that he had raised, for he sent him Then La Beale Isoud sent unto Sir Dinas, and to Sadok,
an oath that he would go himself unto the Pope of Rome and prayed them in anywise to take King Mark, and put
to war upon the miscreants; and this is a fairer war than him in prison, unto the time that she and Sir Tristram were

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 Thomas Malory
departed unto the realm of Logris. When Sir Dinas the CHAPTER LII
Seneschal understood the treason of King Mark he prom-
ised her again, and sent her word that King Mark should How Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud came unto En-
gland, and how Sir Launcelot brought them to Joyous
be put in prison. And as they devised it so it was done.
Gard.
And then Sir Tristram was delivered out of prison; and
anon in all the haste Queen Isoud and Sir Tristram went

T
hen La Beale Isoud and Sir Tristram took their
and took their counsel with that they would have with them vessel, and came by water into this land. And so
when they departed. they were not in this land four days but there came
a cry of a jousts and tournament that King Arthur let make.
When Sir Tristram heard tell of that tournament he dis-
guised himself, and La Beale Isoud, and rode unto that
tournament. And when he came there he saw many knights
joust and tourney; and so Sir Tristram dressed him to the
range, and to make short conclusion, he overthrew four-
teen knights of the Round Table. When Sir Launcelot saw
these knights thus overthrown, Sir Launcelot dressed him
to Sir Tristram. That saw La Beale Isoud how Sir Launcelot
was come into the field. Then La Beale Isoud sent unto
Sir Launcelot a ring, and bade him wit that it was Sir
Tristram de Liones. When Sir Launcelot under stood that
there was Sir Tristram he was full glad, and would not

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joust. Then Sir Launcelot espied whither Sir Tristram yede, that all the knights of this land, and of Cornwall, and of
and after him he rode; and then either made of other great North Wales, should joust against all these countries, Ire-
joy. And so Sir Launcelot brought Sir Tristram and La land, Scotland, and the remnant of Wales, and the country
Beale Isoud unto Joyous Gard, that was his own castle, of Gore, and Surluse, and of Listinoise, and they of
that he had won with his own hands. And there Sir Northumberland, and all they that held lands of Arthur
Launcelot put them in to wield for their own. And wit ye on this half the sea. When this cry was made many knights
well that castle was garnished and furnished for a king were glad and many were unglad. Sir, said Launcelot
and a queen royal there to have sojourned. And Sir unto Arthur, by this cry that ye have made ye will put us
Launcelot charged all his people to honour them and love that be about you in great jeopardy, for there be many
them as they would do himself. knights that have great envy to us; therefore when we
So Sir Launcelot departed unto King Arthur; and then shall meet at the day of jousts there will be hard shift
he told Queen Guenever how he that jousted so well at the among us. As for that, said Arthur, I care not; there shall
last tournament was Sir Tristram. And there he told her we prove who shall be best of his hands. So when Sir
how he had with him La Beale Isoud maugre King Mark, Launcelot understood wherefore King Arthur made this
and so Queen Guenever told all this unto King Arthur. jousting, then he made such purveyance that La Beale
When King Arthur wist that Sir Tristram was escaped and Isoud should behold the jousts in a secret place that was
come from King Mark, and had brought La Beale Isoud honest for her estate.
with him, then was he passing glad. So because of Sir Now turn we unto Sir Tristram and to La Beale Isoud,
Tristram King Arthur let make a cry, that on May Day how they made great joy daily together with all manner
should be a jousts before the castle of Lonazep; and that of mirths that they could devise; and every day Sir
castle was fast by Joyous Gard. And thus Arthur devised, Tristram would go ride a-hunting, for Sir Tristram was

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that time called the best chaser of the world, and the no- CHAPTER LIII
blest blower of an horn of all manner of measures; for as
books report, of Sir Tristram came all the good terms of How by the counsel of La Beale Isoud Sir Tristram rode
armed, and how he met with Sir Palomides.
venery and hunting, and all the sizes and measures of
blowing of an horn; and of him we had first all the terms

S
o on a day La Beale Isoud said unto Sir Tristram:
of hawking, and which were beasts of chase and beasts
I marvel me much, said she, that ye remember not
of venery, and which were vermins, and all the blasts
yourself, how ye be here in a strange country, and
that long to all manner of games. First to the uncoupling,
here be many perilous knights; and well ye wot that King
to the seeking, to the rechate, to the flight, to the death,
Mark is full of treason; and that ye will ride thus to chase
and to strake, and many other blasts and terms, that all
and to hunt unarmed ye might be destroyed. My fair lady
manner of gentlemen have cause to the world’s end to
and my love, I cry you mercy, I will no more do so. So
praise Sir Tristram, and to pray for his soul.
then Sir Tristram rode 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 an hart passing
eagerly, and so the hart passed by a fair well. And then Sir
Tristram alighted and put off his helm to drink of that bub-
bly 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 he deemed he should hear of Sir Palomides,
for that beast was his quest. Right so Sir Tristram saw
where came a knight armed, upon a noble courser, and he

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saluted him, and they spake of many things; and this anon as that knight espied them he gat his shield and his
knight’s name was Breuse Saunce Pité. And right so withal spear and dressed him to joust. Fair fellows, said Sir
there came unto them the noble knight Sir Palomides, and Tristram, yonder is a knight will joust with us, let see
either saluted other, and spake fair to other. which of us shall encounter with him, for I see well he is
Fair knights, said Sir Palomides, I can tell you tid- of the court of King Arthur. It shall not be long or he be
ings. What is that? said those knights. Sirs, wit ye well met withal, said Sir Palomides, for I found never no
that King Mark is put in prison by his own knights, and knight in my quest of this glasting beast, but an he would
all was for love of Sir Tristram; for King Mark had put joust I never refused him. As well may I, said Breuse
Sir Tristram twice in prison, and once Sir Percivale Saunce Pité, follow that beast as ye. Then shall ye do
delivered the noble knight Sir Tristram out of prison. battle with me, said Palomides.
And at the last time Queen La Beale Isoud delivered So Sir Palomides dressed him unto that other knight,
him, and went clearly away with him into this realm; Sir Bleoberis, that was a full noble knight, nigh kin unto
and all this while King Mark, the false traitor, is in Sir Launcelot. And so they met so hard that Sir Palomides
prison. Is this truth? said Palomides; then shall we hast- fell to the earth, horse and all. Then Sir Bleoberis cried
ily hear of Sir Tristram. And as for to say that I love La aloud and said thus: Make thee ready thou false traitor
Beale Isoud paramours, I dare make good that I do, and knight, Breuse Saunce Pité, for wit thou certainly I will
that she hath my service above all other ladies, and shall have ado with thee to the utterance for the noble knights
have the term of my life. and ladies that thou hast falsely betrayed. When this false
And right so as they stood talking they saw afore them knight and traitor, Breuse Saunce Pité, heard him say so,
where came a knight all armed, on a great horse, and one he took his horse by the bridle and fled his way as fast as
of his men bare his shield, and the other his spear. And ever his horse might run, for sore he was of him afeard.

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 Thomas Malory
When Sir Bleoberis saw him flee he followed fast after, am a knight of the Table Round, and rather than I should
through thick and through thin. And by fortune as Sir shame mine oath and my blood I will hold my way what-
Breuse fled, he saw even afore him three knights of the soever fall thereof. And then Sir Ector dressed his spear,
Table Round, of the which the one hight Sir Ector de Maris, and smote either other passing sore, but Sir Ector fell to
the other hight Sir Percivale de Galis, the third hight Sir the earth. That saw Sir Percivale, and he dressed his horse
Harry le Fise Lake, a good knight and an hardy. And as toward him all that he might drive, but Sir Percivale had
for Sir Percivale, he was called that time of his time one such a stroke that horse and man fell to the earth. When
of the best knights of the world, and the best assured. When Sir Harry saw that they were both to the earth then he said
Breuse saw these knights he rode straight unto them, and to himself: Never was Breuse of such prowess. So Sir Harry
cried unto them and prayed them of rescues. What need dressed his horse, and they met together so strongly that
have ye? said Sir Ector. Ah, fair knights, said Sir Breuse, both the horses and knights fell to the earth, but Sir
here followeth me the most traitor knight, and most cow- Bleoberis’ horse began to recover again. That saw Breuse
ard, and most of villainy; his name is Breuse Saunce Pité, and he came hurtling, and smote him over and over, and
and if he may get me he will slay me without mercy and would have slain him as he lay on the ground. Then Sir
pity. Abide with us, said Sir Percivale, and we shall war- Harry le Fise Lake arose lightly, and took the bridle of Sir
rant you. Breuse’s horse, and said: Fie for shame! strike never a
Then were they ware of Sir Bleoberis that came riding knight when he is at the earth, for this knight may be called
all that he might. Then Sir Ector put himself forth to joust no shameful knight of his deeds, for yet as men may see
afore them all. When Sir Bleoberis saw that they were thereas he lieth on the ground he hath done worshipfully,
four knights and he but himself, he stood in a doubt whether and put to the worse passing good knights. Therefore will
he would turn or hold his way. Then he said to himself: I I not let, said Sir Breuse. Thou shalt not choose, said Sir

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Harry, as at this time. Then when Sir Breuse saw that he devourer of ladies and a destroyer of good knights and
might not choose nor have his will he spake fair. Then Sir especially of Arthur’s. What is your name? said Sir Ector.
Harry let him go. And then anon he made his horse to run My name is Sir Bleoberis de Ganis. Alas, fair cousin, said
over Sir Bleoberis, and rashed him to the earth like if he Ector, forgive it me, for I am Sir Ector de Maris. Then Sir
would have slain him. When Sir Harry saw him do so vil- Percivale and Sir Harry made great joy that they met with
lainously he cried: Traitor knight, leave off for shame. And Bleoberis, but all they were heavy that Sir Breuse was
as Sir Harry would have taken his horse to fight with Sir escaped them, whereof they made great dole.
Breuse, then Sir Breuse 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 knight. That
saw Sir Percivale, and then he cried: Traitor knight what
dost thou? And when Sir Percivale was upon his horse Sir
Breuse took his horse and fled all that ever he might, and
Sir Percivale and Sir Harry followed after him fast, but
ever the longer they chased the farther were they behind.
Then they turned again and came to Sir Ector de Maris
and to Sir Bleoberis. Ah, fair knights, said Bleoberis, why
have ye succoured that false knight and traitor? Why said
Sir Harry, what knight is he? for well I wot it is a false
knight, said Sir Harry, and a coward and a felonious knight.
Sir, said Bleoberis, he is the most coward knight, and a

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 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER LIV the third, a good knight as any of them, and of his age he was
the best that ever I found; for an he might have lived till he
Of Sir Palomides, and how he met with Sir Bleoberis had been an hardier man there liveth no knight now such,
and with Sir Ector, and of Sir Pervivale. and his name was Sir Lamorak de Galis. And as he had jousted
at a tournament there he overthrew me and thirty knights

R
ight so as they stood thus there came Sir
more, and there he won the degree. And at his departing there
Palomides, and when he saw the shield of
met him Sir Gawaine and his brethren, and with great pain
Bleoberis lie on the earth, then said Palomides:
they slew him feloniously, unto all good knights’ great dam-
He that oweth that shield let him dress him to me, for he
age. Anon as Sir Percivale heard that his brother was dead,
smote me down here fast by at a fountain, and therefore I will
Sir Lamorak, he fell over his horse’s mane swooning, and
fight for him on foot. I am ready, said Bleoberis, here to an-
there he made the greatest dole that ever made knight. And
swer thee, for wit thou well, sir knight, it was I, and my name
when Sir Percivale arose he said: Alas, my good and noble
is Bleoberis de Ganis. Well art thou met, said Palomides, and
brother Sir Lamorak, now shall we never meet, and I trow in
wit thou well my name is Palomides the Saracen; and either
all the wide world a man may not find such a knight as he
of them hated other to the death. Sir Palomides, said Ector,
was of his age; and it is too much to suffer the death of our
wit thou well there is neither thou nor none knight that beareth
father King Pellinore, and now the death of our good brother
the life that slayeth any of our blood but he shall die for it;
Sir Lamorak.
therefore an thou list to fight go seek Sir Launcelot or Sir
Then in the meanwhile there came a varlet from the court
Tristram, and there shall ye find your match. With them have
of King Arthur, and told them of the great tournament that
I met, said Palomides, but I had never no worship of them.
should be at Lonazep, and how these lands, Cornwall and
Was there never no manner of knight, said Sir Ector, but they
Northgalis, should be against all them that would come.
that ever matched with you? Yes, said Palomides, there was

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CHAPTER LV this time. Fie for shame, said Dinadan, art thou a knight
and durst not tell thy name to me? therefore I will fight
How Sir Tristram met with Sir Dinadan, and of their with thee. As for that, said Sir Tristram, I will be advised,
devices, and what he said to Sir Gawaine’s brethren. 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. Fie on thee,

N
ow turn we unto Sir Tristram, that as he rode a-
coward, said Sir Dinadan.
hunting he met with Sir Dinadan, that was come
And thus as they hoved still, they saw a knight come
into that country to seek Sir Tristram. Then Sir
riding against them. Lo, said Sir Tristram, see where
Dinadan told Sir Tristram his name, but Sir Tristram would
cometh a knight riding, will joust with you. Anon, as Sir
not tell him his name, wherefore Sir Dinadan was wroth.
Dinadan beheld him he said: That is the same doted knight
For such a foolish knight as ye are, said Sir Dinadan, I
that I saw lie by the well, neither sleeping nor waking.
saw but late this day lying by a well, and he fared as he
Well, said Sir Tristram, I know that knight well with the
slept; and there he lay like a fool grinning, and would not
covered shield of azure, he is the king’s son of
speak, and his shield lay by him, and his horse stood by
Northumberland, his name is Epinegris; and he is as great
him; and well I wot he was a lover. Ah, fair sir, said Sir
a lover as I know, and he loveth the king’s daughter of
Tristram are ye not a lover? Mary, fie on that craft! said
Wales, a full fair lady. And now I suppose, said Sir Tristram,
Sir Dinadan. That is evil said, said Sir Tristram, for a knight
an ye require him he will joust with you, and then shall ye
may never be of prowess but if he be a lover. It is well
prove whether a lover be a better knight, or ye that will
said, said Sir Dinadan; now tell me your name, sith ye be
not love no lady. Well, said Dinadan, now shalt thou see
a lover, or else I shall do battle with you. As for that, said
what I shall do. Therewithal Sir Dinadan spake on high
Sir Tristram, it is no reason to fight with me but I tell you
and said: Sir knight, make thee ready to joust with me, for
my name; and as for that my name shall ye not wit as at

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it is the custom of errant knights one to joust with other. said Sir Tristram. Sir, said they, here is a knight of this
Sir, said Epinegris, is that the rule of you errant knights castle that hath been long among us, and right now he is
for to make a knight to joust, will he or nill? As for that, slain with two knights, and for none other cause but that
said Dinadan, make thee ready, for here is for me. And our knight said that Sir Launcelot were a better knight
therewithal they spurred their horses and met together so than Sir Gawaine. That was a simple cause, said Sir
hard that Epinegris smote down Sir Dinadan. Then Sir Tristram, for to slay a good knight for to say well by his
Tristram rode to Sir Dinadan and said: How now, master. That is little remedy to us, said the men of the
meseemeth the lover hath well sped. Fie on thee, coward, town. For an Sir Launcelot had been here soon we should
said Sir Dinadan, and if thou be a good knight revenge have been revenged upon the false knights.
me. Nay, said Sir Tristram, I will not joust as at this time, When Sir Tristram heard them say so he sent for his
but take your horse and let us go hence. God defend me, shield and for his spear, and lightly within a while he had
said Sir Dinadan, from thy fellowship, for I never sped overtaken them, and bade them turn and amend that they
well since I met with thee: and so they departed. Well, had misdone. What amends wouldst thou have? said the
said Sir Tristram, peradventure I could tell you tidings of one knight. And therewith they took their course, and ei-
Sir Tristram. God defend me, said Dinadan, from thy fel- ther met other so hard that Sir Tristram smote down that
lowship, for Sir Tristram were mickle the worse an he were knight over his horse’s tail. Then the other knight dressed
in thy company; and then they departed. Sir, said Sir him to Sir Tristram, and in the same wise he served the
Tristram, yet it may happen I shall meet with you in other other knight. And then they gat off their horses as well as
places. they might, and dressed their shields and swords to do
So rode Sir Tristram unto Joyous Gard, and there he their battle to the utterance. Knights, said Sir Tristram, ye
heard in that town great noise and cry. What is this noise? shall tell me of whence ye are, and what be your names,

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for such men ye might be ye should hard escape my hands; said to the other: We will overtake him and be revenged
and ye might be such men of such a country that for all upon him in the despite of Sir Lamorak.
your evil deeds ye should pass quit. Wit thou well, sir
knight, said they, we fear not to tell thee our names, for
my name is Sir Agravaine, and my name is Gaheris, breth-
ren unto the good knight Sir Gawaine, and we be neph-
ews unto King Arthur. Well, said Sir Tristram, for King
Arthur’s sake I shall let you pass as at this time. But it is
shame, said Sir Tristram, that Sir Gawaine and ye be come
of so great a blood that ye four brethren are so named as
ye be, for ye be called the greatest destroyers and mur-
derers of good knights that be now in this realm; for it is
but as I heard say that Sir Gawaine and ye slew among
you a better knight than ever ye were, that was the noble
knight Sir Lamorak de Galis. An it had pleased God, said
Sir Tristram, I would I had been by Sir Lamorak at his
death. Then shouldst thou have gone the same way, said
Sir Gaheris. Fair knight, said Sir Tristram, there must have
been many more knights than ye are. And therewithal Sir
Tristram departed from them toward Joyous Gard. And
when he was departed they took their horses, and the one

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CHAPTER LVI ship. Alas, sir, said she, why brought ye not him with you?
Have ye no care, said Sir Tristram, for he rideth to seek
How Sir Tristram smote down Sir Agravaine and Sir me in this country; and therefore he will not away till he
Gaheris, and how Sir Dinadan was sent for by La Beale have met with me. And there Sir Tristram told La Beale
Isoud.
Isoud how Sir Dinadan held against all lovers. Right so
there came in a varlet and told Sir Tristram how there was

S
o when they had overtaken Sir Tristram, Sir
Agravaine bade him: Turn, traitor knight. That is come an errant knight into the town, with such colours
evil said, said Sir Tristram; and therewith he pulled upon his shield. That is Sir Dinadan, said Sir Tristram; wit
out his sword, and smote Sir Agravaine such a buffet upon ye what ye shall do, said Sir Tristram: send ye for him, my
the helm that he tumbled down off his horse in a swoon, Lady Isoud, and I will not be seen, and ye shall hear the
and he had a grievous wound. And then he turned to merriest knight that ever ye spake withal, and the maddest
Gaheris, and Sir Tristram smote his sword and his helm talker; and I pray you heartily that ye make him good cheer.
together with such a might that Gaheris fell out of his Then anon La Beale Isoud sent into the town, and prayed
saddle: and so Sir Tristram rode unto Joyous Gard, and Sir Dinadan that he would come into the castle and repose
there he alighted and unarmed him. So Sir Tristram told him there with a lady. With a good will, said Sir Dinadan;
La Beale Isoud of all his adventure, as ye have heard to- and so he mounted upon his horse and rode into the castle;
fore. And when she heard him tell of Sir Dinadan: Sir, and there he alighted, and was unarmed, and brought into
said she, is not that he that made the song by King Mark? the castle. Anon La Beale Isoud came unto him, and ei-
That same is he, said Sir Tristram, for he is the best bourder ther saluted other; then she asked him of whence that he
and japer, and a noble knight of his hands, and the best was. Madam, said Dinadan, I am of the court of King
fellow that I know, and all good knights love his fellow- Arthur, and knight of the Table Round, and my name is

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Sir Dinadan. What do ye in this country? said La Beale wrong? and insomuch as ye be a knight of King Arthur’s I
Isoud. Madam, said he, I seek Sir Tristram the good knight, require you to do battle for me. Then Sir Dinadan said: I
for it was told me that he was in this country. It may well shall say you ye be as fair a lady as ever I saw any, and
be, said La Beale Isoud, but I am not ware of him. Madam, much fairer than is my lady Queen Guenever, but wit ye
said Dinadan, I marvel of Sir Tristram and mo other lov- well at one word, I will not fight for you with three knights,
ers, what aileth them to be so mad and so sotted upon Jesu defend me. Then Isoud laughed, and had good game
women. Why, said La Beale Isoud, are ye a knight and be at him. So he had all the cheer that she might make him,
no lover? it is shame to you: wherefore ye may not be and there he lay all that night. And on the morn early Sir
called a good knight [but] if ye make a quarrel for a lady. Tristram armed him, and La Beale Isoud gave him a good
God defend me, said Dinadan, for the joy of love is too helm; and then he promised her that he would meet with
short, and the sorrow thereof, and what cometh thereof, Sir Dinadan, and they two would ride together into
dureth over long. Ah, said La Beale Isoud, say ye not so, Lonazep, where the tournament should be: And there shall
for here fast by was the good knight Sir Bleoberis, that I make ready for you where ye shall see the tournament.
fought with three knights at once for a damosel’s sake, Then departed Sir Tristram with two squires that bare his
and he won her afore the King of Northumberland. It was shield and his spears that were great and long.
so, said Sir Dinadan, for I know him well for a good knight
and a noble, and come of noble blood; for all be noble
knights of whom he is come of, that is Sir Launcelot du
Lake.
Now I pray you, said La Beale Isoud, tell me will you
fight for my love with three knights that do me great

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CHAPTER LVII of arms and of thy person as ever I saw, and the most cow-
ard that ever I saw. What wilt thou do with those great
How Sir Dinadan met with Sir Tristram, and with joust- spears that thou carriest with thee? I shall give them, said
ing with Sir Palomides, Sir Dinadan knew him. Sir Tristram, to some good knight when I come to the tour-
nament; and if I see you do best, I shall give them to you.

T
hen after that Sir Dinadan departed, and rode his
So thus as they rode talking they saw where came an
way a great pace until he had overtaken Sir
errant knight afore them, that dressed him to joust. Lo,
Tristram. And when Sir Dinadan had overtaken
said Sir Tristram, yonder is one will joust; now dress thee
him he knew him anon, and he hated the fellowship of
to him. Ah, shame betide thee, said Sir Dinadan. Nay, not
him above all other knights. Ah, said Sir Dinadan, art thou
so, said Tristram, for that knight beseemeth a shrew. Then
that coward knight that I met with yesterday? keep thee,
shall I, said Sir Dinadan. And so they dressed their shields
for thou shalt joust with me maugre thy head. Well, said
and their spears, and they met together so hard that the
Sir Tristram, and I am loath to joust. And so they let their
other knight smote down Sir Dinadan from his horse. Lo,
horses run, and Sir Tristram missed of him a-purpose, and
said Sir Tristram, it had been better ye had left. Fie on
Sir Dinadan brake a spear upon Sir Tristram, and there-
thee, coward, said Sir Dinadan. Then Sir Dinadan started
with Sir Dinadan dressed him to draw out his sword. Not
up and gat his sword in his hand, and proffered to do battle
so, said Sir Tristram, why are ye so wroth? I will not fight.
on foot. Whether in love or in wrath? said the other knight.
Fie on thee, coward, said Dinadan, thou shamest all
Let us do battle in love, said Sir Dinadan. What is your
knights. As for that, said Sir Tristram, I care not, for I will
name, said that knight, I pray you tell me. Wit ye well my
wait upon you and be under your protection; for because
name is Sir Dinadan. Ah, Dinadan, said that knight, and
ye are so good a knight ye may save me. The devil deliver
my name is Gareth, the youngest brother unto Sir Gawaine.
me of thee, said Sir Dinadan, for thou art as goodly a man

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Then either made of other great cheer, for this Gareth was Then this knight that was on foot pulled out his sword
the best knight of all the brethren, and he proved a good to do battle. What is your name? said Sir Tristram. Wit ye
knight. Then they took their horses, and there they spake well, said that knight, my name is Sir Palomides. What
of Sir Tristram, how such a coward he was; and every knight hate ye most? said Sir Tristram. Sir knight, said he,
word Sir Tristram heard and laughed them to scorn. I hate Sir Tristram to the death, for an I may meet with
Then were they ware where came a knight afore them him the one of us shall die. Ye say well, said Sir Tristram,
well horsed and well armed, and he made him ready to and wit ye well that I am Sir Tristram de Liones, and now
joust. Fair knights, said Sir Tristram, look betwixt you who do your worst. When Sir Palomides heard him say so he
shall joust with yonder knight, for I warn you I will not was astonied. And then he said thus: I pray you, Sir
have ado with him. Then shall I, said Sir Gareth. And so Tristram, forgive me all mine evil will, and if I live I shall
they encountered together, and there that knight smote do you service above all other knights that be living; and
down Sir Gareth over his horse’s croup. How now, said whereas I have owed you evil will me sore repenteth. I
Sir Tristram unto Sir Dinadan, dress thee now and revenge wot not what aileth me, for meseemeth that ye are a good
the good knight Gareth. That shall I not, said Sir Dinadan, knight, and none other knight that named himself a good
for he hath stricken down a much bigger knight than I am. knight should not hate you; therefore I require you, Sir
Ah, said Sir Tristram, now Sir Dinadan, I see and feel well Tristram, take no displeasure at mine unkind words. Sir
your heart faileth you, therefore now shall ye see what I Palomides, said Sir Tristram, ye say well, and well I wot
shall do. And then Sir Tristram hurtled unto that knight, ye are a good knight, for I have seen ye proved; and many
and smote him quite from his horse. And when Sir Dinadan great enterprises have ye taken upon you, and well
saw that, he marvelled greatly; and then he deemed that it achieved them; therefore, said Sir Tristram, an ye have
was Sir Tristram. any evil will to me, now may ye right it, for I am ready at

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your hand. Not so, my lord Sir Tristram, I will do you CHAPTER LVIII
knightly service in all thing as ye will command. And right
so I will take you, said Sir Tristram. And so they rode How they approached the Castle Lonazep, and of other
devices of the death of Sir Lamorak.
forth on their ways talking of many things. O my lord Sir
Tristram, said Dinadan, foul have ye mocked me, for God

T
hus they rode until they were ware of the Castle
knoweth I came into this country for your sake, and by the
Lonazep. And then were they ware of four hun
advice of my lord Sir Launcelot; and yet would not Sir
dred tents and pavilions, and marvellous great or-
Launcelot tell me the certainty of you, where I should find
dinance. So God me help, said Sir Tristram, yonder I see
you. Truly, said Sir Tristram, Sir Launcelot wist well where
the greatest ordinance that ever I saw. Sir, said Palomides,
I was, for I abode within his own castle.
meseemeth that there was as great an ordinance at the
Castle of Maidens upon the rock, where ye won the prize,
for I saw myself where ye forjousted thirty knights. Sir,
said Dinadan, and in Surluse, at that tournament that
Galahalt of the Long Isles made, the which there dured
seven days, was as great a gathering as is here, for there
were many nations. Who was the best? said Sir Tristram.
Sir, it was Sir Launcelot du Lake and the noble knight, Sir
Lamorak de Galis, and Sir Launcelot won the degree. I
doubt not, said Sir Tristram, but he won the degree, so he
had not been overmatched with many knights; and of the
death of Sir Lamorak, said Sir Tristram, it was over great

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pity, for I dare say he was the cleanest mighted man and degree at no jousts nor tournament thereas he was, but he
the best winded of his age that was alive; for I knew him put me to the worse, or on foot or on horseback; and that
that he was the biggest knight that ever I met withal, but if day that he was slain he did the most deeds of arms that
it were Sir Launcelot. Alas, said Sir Tristram, full woe is ever I saw knight do in all my life days. And when him
me for his death. And if they were not the cousins of my was given the degree by my lord Arthur, Sir Gawaine and
lord Arthur that slew him, they should die for it, and all his three brethren, Agravaine, Gaheris, and Sir Mordred,
those that were consenting to his death. And for such things, set upon Sir Lamorak in a privy place, and there they slew
said Sir Tristram, I fear to draw unto the court of my lord his horse. And so they fought with him on foot more than
Arthur; I will that ye wit it, said Sir Tristram unto Gareth. three hours, both before him and behind him; and Sir
Sir, I blame you not, said Gareth, for well I understand Mordred gave him his death wound behind him at his back,
the vengeance of my brethren Sir Gawaine, Agravaine, and all to-hew him: for one of his squires told me that saw
Gaheris, and Mordred. But as for me, said Sir Gareth, I it. Fie upon treason, said Sir Tristram, for it killeth my
meddle not of their matters, therefore there is none of them heart to hear this tale. So it doth mine, said Gareth; breth-
that loveth me. And for I understand they be murderers of ren as they be mine I shall never love them, nor draw in
good knights I left their company; and God would I had their fellowship for that deed.
been by, said Gareth, when the noble knight, Sir Lamorak, Now speak we of other deeds, said Palomides, and
was slain. Now as Jesu be my help, said Sir Tristram, it is let him be, for his life ye may not get again. That is the
well said of you, for I had liefer than all the gold betwixt more pity, said Dinadan, for Sir Gawaine and his breth-
this and Rome I had been there. Y-wis,* said Palomides, ren, except you Sir Gareth, hate all the good knights of
and so would I had been there, and yet had I never the the Round Table for the most part; for well I wot an
they might privily, they hate my lord Sir Launcelot and
*“Y-wis” (certainly); Caxton, “ye wis”; W. de Worde, “truly.”
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 Thomas Malory
all his kin, and great privy despite they have at him; CHAPTER LIX
and that is my lord Sir Launcelot well ware of, and that
causeth him to have the good knights of his kin about How they came to Humber bank, and how they found
a ship there, wherein lay the body of King Hermance.
him.

S
ir, said Palomides, let us leave of this matter, and
let us see how we shall do at this tournament. By
mine advice, said Palomides, let us four hold to-
gether against all that will come. Not by my counsel, said
Sir Tristram, for I see by their pavilions there will be four
hundred knights, and doubt ye not, said Sir Tristram, but
there will be many good knights; and be a man never so
valiant nor so big, yet he may be overmatched. And so
have I seen knights done many times; and when they
weened best to have won worship they lost it, for man-
hood is not worth but if it be medled with wisdom. And as
for me, said Sir Tristram, it may happen I shall keep mine
own head as well as another.
So thus they rode until that they came to Humber bank,
where they heard a cry and a doleful noise. Then were
they ware in the wind where came a rich vessel hilled over
with red silk, and the vessel landed fast by them. There-

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with Sir Tristram alighted and his knights. And so Sir Arthur’s court. I beseech them all among them to find one
Tristram went afore and entered into that vessel. And when knight that will fight for my sake with two brethren that I
he came within he saw a fair bed richly covered, and there- brought up of nought, and feloniously and traitorly they
upon lay a dead seemly knight, all armed save the head, have slain me; wherefore I beseech one good knight to
was all be-bled with deadly wounds upon him, the which revenge my death. And he that revengeth my death I will
seemed to be a passing good knight. How may this be, that he have my Red City and all my castles.
said Sir Tristram, that this knight is thus slain? Then Sir Sir, said the mariners, wit ye well this king and knight
Tristram was ware of a letter in the dead knight’s hand. that here lieth was a full worshipful man and of full great
Master mariners, said Sir Tristram, what meaneth that let- prowess, and full well he loved all manner knights er-
ter? Sir, said they, in that letter ye shall hear and know rants. So God me help, said Sir Tristram, here is a pite-
how he was slain, and for what cause, and what was his ous case, and full fain would I take this enterprise upon
name. But sir, said the mariners, wit ye well that no man me; but I have made such a promise that needs I must be
shall take that letter and read it but if he be a good knight, at this great tournament, or else I am shamed. For well I
and that he will faithfully promise to revenge his death, wot for my sake in especial my lord Arthur let make this
else shall there be no knight see that letter open. Wit ye jousts and tournament in this country; and well I wot
well, said Sir Tristram, that some of us may revenge his that many worshipful people will be there at that tourna-
death as well as other, and if it be so as ye mariners say his ment for to see me; therefore I fear me to take this enter-
death shall be revenged. And therewith Sir Tristram took prise upon me that I shall not come again by time to this
the letter out of the knight’s hand, and it said thus: jousts. Sir, said Palomides, I pray you give me this en-
Hermance, king and lord of the Red City, I send unto all terprise, and ye shall see me achieve it worshipfully, other
knights errant, recommending unto you noble knights of else I shall die in this quarrel. Well, said Sir Tristram,

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 Thomas Malory
and this enterprise I give you, with this, that ye be with CHAPTER LX
me at this tournament that shall be as this day seven night.
Sir, said Palomides, I promise you that I shall be with How Sir Tristram with his fellowship came and were
with an host which after fought with Sir Tristram; and
you by that day if I be unslain or unmaimed.
other matters.

T
hen departed Sir Tristram, Gareth, and Sir
Dinadan, and left Sir Palomides in the vessel;
and so Sir Tristram beheld the mariners how they
sailed overlong Humber. And when Sir Palomides was out
of their sight they took their horses and beheld about them.
And then were they ware of a knight that came riding
against them unarmed, and nothing about him but a sword.
And when this knight came nigh them he saluted them,
and they him again. Fair knights, said that knight, I pray
you insomuch as ye be knights errant, that ye will come
and see my castle, and take such as ye find there; I pray
you heartily. And so they rode with him 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 knight saw Sir Tristram, anon he
knew him. And then this knight waxed pale and wroth at

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Sir Tristram. When Sir Tristram saw his host make such and took his horse again, and so rode fiercely to Sir
cheer he marvelled and said: Sir, mine host, what cheer Tristram, and smote him twice hard upon the helm. Sir
make you? Wit thou well, said he, I fare the worse for knight, said Sir Tristram, I pray you leave off and smite
thee, for I know thee, Sir Tristram de Liones, thou slewest me no more, for I would be loath to deal with you an I
my brother; and therefore I give thee summons I will slay might choose, for I have your meat and your drink within
thee an ever I may get thee at large. Sir knight, said Sir my body. For all that he would not leave; and then Sir
Tristram, I am never advised that ever I slew any brother Tristram gave him such a buffet upon the helm that he fell
of yours; and if ye say that I did I will make amends unto up-so-down from his horse, that the blood brast out at the
my power. I will none amends, said the knight, but keep ventails of his helm, and so he lay still likely to be dead.
thee from me. Then Sir Tristram said: Me repenteth of this buffet that I
So when he had dined Sir Tristram asked his arms, and smote so sore, for as I suppose he is dead. And so they left
departed. And so they rode on their ways, and within a him and rode on their ways.
while Sir Dinadan saw where came a knight well armed So they had not ridden but a while, but they saw riding
and well horsed, without shield. Sir Tristram, said Sir against them two full likely knights, well armed and well
Dinadan, take keep to yourself, for I dare undertake yon- horsed, and goodly servants about them. The one was
der cometh your host that will have ado with you. Let him Berrant le Apres, and he was called the King with the
come, said Sir Tristram, I shall abide him as well as I may. Hundred Knights; and the other was Sir Segwarides, which
Anon the knight, when he came nigh Sir Tristram, he cried were renowned two noble knights. So as they came either
and bade him abide and keep him. So they hurtled together, by other the king looked upon Sir Dinadan, that at that
but Sir Tristram smote the other knight so sore that he time he had Sir Tristram’s helm upon his shoulder, the
bare him over his horse’s croup. That knight arose lightly which helm the king had seen to-fore with the Queen of

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 Thomas Malory
Northgalis, and that queen the king loved as paramour; a buffet upon the helm that he fell down over his horse
and that helm the Queen of Northgalis had given to La sore stonied. Lo, said Dinadan, that helm is unhappy to us
Beale Isoud, and the queen La Beale Isoud gave it to Sir twain, for I had a fall for it, and now, sir king, have ye
Tristram. Sir knight, said Berrant, where had ye that helm? another fall.
What would ye? said Sir Dinadan. For I will have ado Then Segwarides asked: Who shall joust with me? I pray
with thee, said the king, for the love of her that owed that thee, said Sir Gareth unto Dinadan, let me have this jousts.
helm, and therefore keep you. So they departed and came Sir, said Dinadan, I pray you take it as for me. That is no
together with all their mights of their horses, and there the reason, said Tristram, for this jousts should be yours. At a
King with the Hundred Knights smote Sir Dinadan, horse word, said Dinadan, I will not thereof. Then Gareth dressed
and all, to the earth; and then he commanded his servant: him to Sir Segwarides, and there Sir Segwarides smote
Go and take thou his helm off, and keep it. So the varlet Gareth and his horse to the earth. Now, said Sir Tristram
went to unbuckle his helm. What helm, what wilt thou to Dinadan, joust with yonder knight. I will not thereof,
do? said Sir Tristram, leave that helm. To what intent, said said Dinadan. Then will I, said Sir Tristram. And then Sir
the king, will ye, sir knight, meddle with that helm? Wit Tristram ran to him, and gave him a fall; and so they left
you well, said Sir Tristram, that helm shall not depart from them on foot, and Sir Tristram rode unto Joyous Gard,
me or it be dearer bought. Then make you ready, said Sir and there Sir Gareth would not of his courtesy have gone
Berrant unto Sir Tristram. So they hurtled together, and into this castle, but Sir Tristram would not suffer him to
there Sir Tristram smote him down over his horse’s tail; depart. And so they alighted and unarmed them, and had
and then the king arose lightly, and gat his horse lightly great cheer. But when Dinadan came afore La Beale Isoud
again. And then he struck fiercely at Sir Tristram many he cursed the time that ever he bare Sir Tristram’s helm,
great strokes. And then Sir Tristram gave Sir Berrant such and there he told her how Sir Tristram had mocked him.

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Then was there laughing and japing at Sir Dinadan, that CHAPTER LXI
they wist not what to do with him.
How Palomides went for to fight with two brethren for
the death of King Hermance.

N
ow will we leave them merry within Joyous
Gard, and speak we of Sir Palomides. Then Sir
Palomides sailed evenlong Humber to the coasts
of the sea, where was a fair castle. And at that time it was
early in the morning, afore day. Then the mariners went
unto Sir Palomides that slept fast. Sir knight, said the mari-
ners, ye must arise, for here is a castle there ye must go
into. I assent me, said Sir Palomides; and therewithal 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
Palomides entered into the castle. And within a while he
was served with many divers meats. Then Sir Palomides
heard about him much weeping and great dole. What may
this mean? said Sir Palomides; I love not to hear such a

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sorrow, and fain I would know what it meaneth. Then there these two knights our king had so in charity, that he loved
came afore him one whose name was Sir Ebel, that said no man nor trusted no man of his blood, nor none other
thus: Wit ye well, sir knight, this dole and sorrow is here that was about him. And by these two knights our king
made every day, and for this cause: we had a king that was governed, and so they ruled him peaceably and his
hight Hermance, and he was King of the Red City, and lands, and never would they suffer none of his blood to
this king that was lord was a noble knight, large and lib- have no rule with our king. And also he was so free and so
eral of gentle, and they so false and deceivable, that they ruled
his expense; and in the world he loved nothing so much as him peaceably; and that espied the lords of our king’s
he did errant knights of King Arthur’s court, and all joust- blood, and departed from him unto their own livelihood.
ing, hunting, and all manner of knightly games; for so kind Then when these two traitors understood that they had
a king and knight had never the rule of poor people as he driven all the lords of his blood from him, they were not
was; and because of his goodness and gentle ness we be- pleased with that rule, but then they thought to have more,
moan him, and ever shall. And all kings and estates may as ever it is an old saw: Give a churl rule and thereby he
beware by our lord, for he was destroyed in his own de- will not be sufficed; for whatsomever he be that is ruled
fault; for had he cherished them of his blood he had yet by a villain born, and the lord of the soil to be a gentleman
lived with great riches and rest: but all estates may be- born, the same villain shall destroy all the gentlemen about
ware by our king. But alas, said Ebel, that we shall give him: therefore all estates and lords, beware whom ye take
all other warning by his death. about you. And if ye be a knight of King Arthur’s court
Tell me, said Palomides, and in what manner was your remember this tale, for this is the end and conclusion. My
lord slain, and by whom. Sir, said Sir Ebel, our king brought lord and king rode unto the forest hereby by the advice of
up of children two men that now are perilous knights; and these traitors, and there he chased at the red deer, armed at

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all pieces full like a good knight; and so for labour he CHAPTER LXII
waxed dry, and then he alighted, and drank at a well. And
when he was alighted, by the assent of these two traitors, The copy of the letter written for to revenge the king’s
death, and how Sir Palomides fought for to have the
that one that hight Helius he suddenly smote our king
battle.
through the body with a spear, and so they left him there.
And when they were departed, then by fortune I came to

R
ecommending unto King Arthur and to all his
the well, and found my lord and king wounded to the death. knights errant, beseeching them all that insomuch
And when I heard his complaint, I let bring him to the as I, King Hermance, King of the Red City, thus
water side, and in that same ship I put him alive; and when am slain by felony and treason, through two knights of
my lord King Hermance was in that vessel, he required mine own, and of mine own bringing up and of mine own
me for the true faith I owed unto him for to write a letter in making, that some worshipful knight will revenge my
this manner. death, insomuch I have been ever to my power well will-
ing unto Arthur’s court. And who that will adventure his
life with these two traitors for my sake in one battle, I,
King Hermance, King of the Red City, freely give him all
my lands and rents that ever I wielded in my life. This
letter, said Ebel, 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 mari-

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 Thomas Malory
ners in commandment never to stint until that they came Isle, fast by the Red City, and we in this castle shall pray
unto Logris, where all the noble knights shall assemble at for you, and abide your again-coming. For this same castle,
this time. And there shall some good knight have pity on an ye speed well, must needs be yours; for our King
me to revenge my death, for there was never king nor lord Hermance let make this castle for the love of the two trai-
falslier nor traitorlier slain than I am here to my death. tors, and so we kept it with strong hand, and therefore full
Thus was the complaint of our King Hermance. Now, said sore are we threated. Wot ye what ye shall do, said Sir
Sir Ebel, ye know all how our lord was betrayed, we re- Palomides; whatsomever come of me, look ye keep well
quire you for God’s sake have pity upon his death, and this castle. For an it misfortune me so to be slain in this
worshipfully revenge his death, and then may ye wield all quest I am sure there will come one of the best knights of
these lands. For we all wit well that an ye may slay these the world for to revenge my death, and that is Sir Tristram
two traitors, the Red City and all those that be therein will de Liones, or else Sir Launcelot du Lake.
take you for their lord. Then Sir Palomides departed from that castle. And as
Truly, said Sir Palomides, it grieveth my heart for to he came nigh the city, there came out of a ship a goodly
hear you tell this doleful tale; and to say the truth I saw knight armed against him, with his shield on his shoulder,
the same letter that ye speak of, and one of the best knights and his hand upon his sword. And anon as he came nigh
on the earth read that letter to me, and by his command- Sir Palomides he said: Sir knight, what seek ye here? leave
ment I came hither to revenge your king’s death; and there- this quest for it is mine, and mine it was or ever it was
fore have done, and let me wit where I shall find those yours, and therefore I will have it. Sir knight, said
traitors, for I shall never be at ease in my heart till I be in Palomides, it may well be that this quest was yours or it
hands with them. Sir, said Sir Ebel, then take your ship was mine, but when the letter was taken out of the dead
again, and that ship must bring you unto the Delectable king’s hand, at that time by likelihood there was no knight

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had undertaken to revenge the death of the king. And so at CHAPTER LXIII
that time I promised to revenge his death, and so I shall or
else I am ashamed. Ye say well, said the knight, but wit ye Of the preparation of Sir Palomides and the two breth-
ren that should fight with him.
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,

W
ell be ye found, said the knight to Palomides,
said Sir Palomides. And then they dressed their shields,
for of all knights that be alive, except three,
and pulled out their swords, and lashed together many sad
I had liefest have you. The first is Sir
strokes as men of might; and this fighting was more than
Launcelot du Lake, and Sir Tristram de Liones, the third
an hour, but at the last Sir Palomides waxed big and better
is my nigh cousin, Sir Lamorak de Galis. And I am brother
winded, so that then he smote that knight such a stroke
unto King Hermance that is dead, and my name is Sir
that he made him to kneel upon his knees. Then that knight
Hermind. Ye say well, said Sir Palomides, and ye shall
spake on high and said: Gentle knight, hold thy hand. Sir
see how I shall speed; and if I be there slain go ye to my
Palomides was goodly and withdrew his hand. Then this
lord Sir Launcelot, or else to my lord Sir Tristram, and
knight said: Wit ye well, knight, that thou art better wor-
pray them to revenge my death, for as for Sir Lamorak
thy to have this battle than I, and require thee of knight-
him shall ye never see in this world. Alas, said Sir Hermind,
hood tell me thy name. Sir, my name is Palomides, a knight
how may that be? He is slain, said Sir Palomides, by Sir
of King Arthur’s, and of the Table
Gawaine and his brethren. So God me help, said Hermind,
Round, that hither I came to revenge the death of this dead
there was not one for one that slew him. That is truth, said
king.
Sir Palomides, for they were four dangerous knights that
slew him, as Sir Gawaine, Sir Agravaine, Sir Gaheris, and
Sir Mordred, but Sir Gareth, the fifth brother was away,

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 Thomas Malory
the best knight of them all. And so Sir Palomides told of Sir Launcelot we keep not to have ado withal. Wit ye
Hermind all the manner, and how they slew Sir Lamorak well, said the messenger, that his name is Sir Palomides,
all only by treason. that yet is unchristened, a noble knight. Well, said they, an
So Sir Palomides took his ship, and arrived up at the he be now unchristened he shall never be christened. So
Delectable Isle. And in the meanwhile Sir Hermind that they appointed to be at the city within two days.
was the king’s brother, he arrived up at the Red City, and And when Sir Palomides was come to the city they made
there he told them how there was come a knight of King passing great joy of him, and then they beheld him, and
Arthur’s to avenge King Hermance’s death: And his name saw that he was well made, cleanly and bigly, and
is Sir Palomides, the good knight, that for the most part he unmaimed of his limbs, and neither too young nor too old.
followeth the beast Glatisant. Then all the city made great And so all the people praised him; and though he was not
joy, for mickle had they heard of Sir Palomides, and of his christened yet he believed in the best manner, and was
noble prowess. So let they ordain a messenger, and sent full faithful and true of his promise, and well conditioned;
unto the two brethren, and bade them to make them ready, and because he made his avow that he would never be
for there was a knight come that would fight with them christened unto the time that he had achieved the beast
both. So the messenger went unto them where they were Glatisant, the which was a full wonderful beast, and a great
at a castle there beside; and there he told them how there signification; for Merlin prophesied much of that beast.
was a knight come of King Arthur’s court to fight with And also Sir Palomides avowed never to take full
them both at once. He is welcome, said they; but tell us, christendom unto the time that he had done seven battles
we pray you, if it be Sir Launcelot or any of his blood? He within the lists.
is none of that blood, said the messenger. Then we care So within the third day there came to the city these two
the less, said the two brethren, for with none of the blood brethren, the one hight Helius, the other hight Helake, the

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which were men of great prowess; howbeit that they were CHAPTER LXIV
false and full of treason, and but poor men born, yet were
they noble knights of their hands. And with them they Of the battle between Sir Palomides and the two breth-
ren, and how the two brethren were slain.
brought forty knights, to that intent that they should be
big enough for the Red City. Thus came the two brethren

T
hen they departed, and the two brethren came
with great bobaunce and pride, for they had put the Red
against Sir Palomides, and he against them, as
City in fear and damage. Then they were brought to the
fast as their horses might run. And by fortune Sir
lists, and Sir Palomides came into the place and said thus:
Palomides smote Helake through his shield and through
Be ye the two brethren, Helius and Helake, that slew your
the breast more than a fathom. All this while Sir Helius
king and lord, Sir Hermance, by felony and treason, for
held up his spear, and for pride and orgulité he would not
whom that I am come hither to revenge his death? Wit
smite Sir Palomides with his spear; but when he saw his
thou well, said Sir Helius and Sir Helake, that we are the
brother lie on the earth, and saw he might not help him-
same knights that slew King Hermance; and wit thou well,
self, then he said unto Sir Palomides: Help thyself. And
Sir Palomides Saracen, that we shall handle thee so or
therewith he came hurtling unto Sir Palomides with his
thou depart that thou shalt wish that thou wert christened.
spear, and smote him quite from his saddle. Then Sir Helius
It may well be, said Sir Palomides, for yet I would not die
rode over Sir Palomides twice or thrice. And therewith Sir
or I were christened; and yet so am I not afeard of you
Palomides was ashamed, and gat the horse of Sir Helius
both, but I trust to God that I shall die a better christian
by the bridle, and therewithal the horse areared, and Sir
man than any of you both; and doubt ye not, said Sir
Palomides halp after, and so they fell both to the earth; but
Palomides, either ye or I shall be left dead in this place.
anon Sir Helius stert up lightly, and there he smote Sir
Palomides a great stroke upon the helm, that he kneeled

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 Thomas Malory
upon his own knee. Then they lashed together many sad other. And then he smote Sir Helius with such a might that
strokes, and traced and traversed now backward, now he fell to the earth grovelling; and then he raced off his
sideling, hurtling together like two boars, and that same helm from his head, and there he smote him such a buffet
time they fell both grovelling to the earth. that he departed his head from the body. And then were
Thus they fought still without any reposing two hours, the people of the city the joyfullest people that might be.
and never breathed; and then Sir Palomides waxed faint So they brought him to his lodging with great solemnity,
and weary, and Sir Helius waxed passing strong, and and there all the people became his men. And then Sir
doubled his strokes, and drove Sir Palomides overthwart Palomides prayed them all to take keep unto all the lord-
and endlong all the field, that they of the city when they ship of King Hermance: For, fair sirs, wit ye well I may
saw Sir Palomides in this case they wept and cried, and not as at this time abide with you, for I must in all haste be
made great dole, and the other party made as great joy. with my lord King Arthur at the Castle of Lonazep, the
Alas, said the men of the city, that this noble knight should which I have promised. Then was the people full heavy at
thus be slain for our king’s sake. And as they were thus his departing, for all that city proffered Sir Palomides the
weeping and crying, Sir Palomides that had suffered an third part of their goods so that he would abide with them;
hundred strokes, that it was wonder that he stood on his but in no wise as at that time he would not abide.
feet, at the last Sir Palomides beheld as he might the com- And so Sir Palomides departed, and so he came unto
mon people, how they wept for him; and then he said to the castle thereas Sir Ebel was lieutenant. And when they
himself: Ah, fie for shame, Sir Palomides, why hangest in the castle wist how Sir Palomides had sped, there was a
thou thy head so low; and therewith he bare up his shield, joyful meiny; and so Sir Palomides departed, and came to
and looked Sir Helius in the visage, and he smote him a the castle of Lonazep. And when he wist that Sir Tristram
great stroke upon the helm, and after that another and an- was not there he took his way over Humber, and came

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unto Joyous Gard, whereas Sir Tristram was and La Beale CHAPTER LXV
Isoud. Sir Tristram had commanded that what knight er-
rant came within the Joyous Gard, as in the town, that How Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides met Breuse
Saunce Pité, and how Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud
they should warn Sir Tristram. So there came a man of the
went unto Lonazep.
town, and told Sir Tristram how there was a knight in the
town, a passing goodly man. What manner of man is he,

A
nd then Sir Tristram desired Sir Palomides to
said Sir Tristram, and what sign beareth he? So the man ride into the fields and woods. So they were ac-
told Sir Tristram all the tokens of him. That is Palomides, corded to repose them in the forest. And when
said Dinadan. It may well be, said Sir Tristram. Go ye to they had played them a great while they rode unto a fair
him, said Sir Tristram unto Dinadan. So Dinadan went well; and anon they were ware of an armed knight that
unto Sir Palomides, and there either made other great joy, came riding against them, and there either saluted other.
and so they lay together that night. And on the morn early Then this armed knight spake to Sir Tristram, and asked
came Sir Tristram and Sir Gareth, and took them in their what were these knights that were lodged in Joyous Gard.
beds, and so they arose and brake their fast. I wot not what they are, said Sir Tristram. What knights
be ye? said that knight, for meseemeth ye be no knights
errant, because ye ride unarmed. Whether we be knights
or not we list not to tell thee our name. Wilt thou not tell
me thy name? said that knight; then keep thee, for thou
shalt die of my hands. And therewith he got his spear in
his hands, and would have run Sir Tristram through. That
saw Sir Palomides, and smote his horse traverse in midst

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 Thomas Malory
of the side, that man and horse fell to the earth. And there- such a knight departed from us not a quarter of an hour
with Sir Palomides alighted and pulled out his sword to agone; we pray you tell us his name. Alas, said Epinogris,
have slain him. Let be, said Sir Tristram, slay him not, the why let ye him escape from you? and he is so great a foe
knight is but a fool, it were shame to slay him. But take unto all errant knights: his name is Breuse Saunce Pité.
away his spear, said Sir Tristram, and let him take his horse Ah, fie for shame, said Sir Palomides, alas that ever he
and go where that he will. escaped mine hands, for he is the man in the world that I
So when this knight arose he groaned sore of the fall, hate most. Then every knight made great sorrow to other;
and so he took his horse, and when he was up he turned and so Epinogris departed and followed the chase after
then his horse, and required Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides him.
to tell him what knights they were. Now wit ye well, said Then Sir Tristram and his three fellows rode unto Joy-
Sir Tristram, that my name is Sir Tristram de Liones, and ous Gard; and there Sir Tristram talked unto Sir Palomides
this knight’s name is Sir Palomides. When he wist what of his battle, how he sped at the Red City, and as ye have
they were he took his horse with the spurs, because they heard afore so was it ended. Truly, said Sir Tristram, I am
should not ask him his name, and so rode fast away through glad ye have well sped, for ye have done worshipfully.
thick and thin. Then came there by them a knight with a Well, said Sir Tristram, we must forward to-morn. And
bended shield of azure, whose name was Epinogris, and then he devised how it should be; and Sir Tristram de-
he came toward them a great wallop. Whither are ye riding? vised to send his two pavilions to set them fast by the well
said Sir Tristram. My fair lords, said Epinogris, I follow of Lonazep, and therein shall be the queen La Beale Isoud.
the falsest knight that beareth the life; wherefore I require It is well said, said Sir Dinadan, but when Sir Palomides
you tell me whether ye saw him, for he beareth a shield heard of that his heart was ravished out of measure: not-
with a case of red over it. So God me help, said Tristram, withstanding he said but little. So when they came to Joy-

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ous Gard Sir Palomides would not have gone into the and win her and take her. Sir, said Palomides, an it please
castle, but as Sir Tristram took him by the finger, and led you let me have this deed, and I shall undertake them all
him into the castle. And when Sir Palomides saw La Beale four. I will that ye have it, said Sir Tristram, at your plea-
Isoud he was ravished so that he might unnethe speak. So sure. Now go and tell your lord Galihodin, that this same
they went unto meat, but Palomides might not eat, and knight will encounter with him and his fellows.
there was all the cheer that might be had. And on the morn
they were apparelled to ride toward Lonazep.
So Sir Tristram had three squires, and La Beale Isoud
had three gentlewomen, and both the queen and they were
richly apparelled; and other people had they none with
them, but varlets to bear their shields and their spears. And
thus they rode forth. So as they rode they saw afore them
a rout of knights; it was the knight Galihodin with twenty
knights with him. Fair fellows, said Galihodin, yonder
come four knights, and a rich and a well fair lady: I am in
will to take that lady from them. That is not of the best
counsel, said one of Galihodin’s men, but send ye to them
and wit what they will say; and so it was done. There came
a squire unto Sir Tristram, and asked them whether they
would joust or else to lose their lady. Not so, said Sir
Tristram, tell your lord I bid him come as many as we be,

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 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER LXVI fully have ye done as a good knight should. This Galihodin
was nigh cousin unto Galahalt, the haut prince; and this
How Sir Palomides jousted with Sir Galihodin, and Galihodin was a king within the country of Surluse.
after with Sir Gawaine, and smote them down. So as Sir Tristram, Sir Palomides, and La Beale Isoud
rode together they saw afore them four knights, and every

T
hen this squire departed and told Galihodin; and
man had his spear in his hand: the first was Sir Gawaine,
then he dressed his shield, and put forth a spear,
the second Sir Uwaine, the third Sir Sagramore le Desir-
and Sir Palomides another; and there Sir
ous, and the fourth was Dodinas le Savage. When Sir
Palomides smote Galihodin so hard that he smote both
Palomides beheld them, that the four knights were ready
horse and man to the earth. And there he had an horrible
to joust, he prayed Sir Tristram to give him leave to have
fall. And then came there another knight, and in the same
ado with them all so long as he might hold him on horse-
wise he served him; and so he served the third and the
back. And if that I be smitten down I pray you revenge
fourth, that he smote them over their horses’ croups, and
me. Well, said Sir Tristram, I will as ye will, and ye are
always Sir Palomides’ spear was whole. Then came six
not so fain to have worship but I would as fain increase
knights more of Galihodin’s men, and would have been
your worship. And therewithal Sir Gawaine put forth his
avenged upon Sir Palomides. Let be, said Sir Galihodin,
spear, and Sir Palomides another; and so they came so
not so hardy, none of you all meddle with this knight, for
eagerly together that Sir Palomides smote Sir Gawaine to
he is a man of great bounté and honour, and if he would ye
the earth, horse and all; and in the same wise he served
were not able to meddle with him. And right so they held
Uwaine, Sir Dodinas, and Sagramore. All these four
them still. And ever Sir Palomides was ready to joust; and
knights Sir Palomides smote down with divers spears And
when he saw they would no more he rode unto Sir Tristram.
then Sir Tristram departed toward Lonazep.
Right well have ye done, said Sir Tristram, and worship-

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And when they were departed then came thither Arthur at this tournament. The first is the King of Ireland,
Galihodin with his ten knights unto Sir Gawaine, and there and the King of Surluse, the King of Listinoise, the King
he told him all how he had sped. I marvel, said Sir Gawaine, of Northumberland, and the King of the best part of Wales,
what knights they be, that are so arrayed in green. And with many other countries. And these draw them to a coun-
that knight upon the white horse smote me down, said cil, to understand what governance they shall be of; but
Galihodin, and my three fellows. And so he did to me, the King of Ireland, whose name was Marhalt, and fa-
said Gawaine; and well I wot, said Sir Gawaine, that ei- ther to the good knight Sir Marhaus that Sir Tristram
ther he upon the white horse is Sir Tristram or else Sir slew, had all the speech that Sir Tristram might hear it.
Palomides, and that gay beseen lady is Queen Isoud. Thus He said: Lords and fellows, let us look to ourself, for wit
they talked of one thing and of other. ye well King Arthur is sure of many good knights, or
And in the meanwhile Sir Tristram passed on till that he else he would not with so few knights have ado with us;
came to the well where his two pavilions were set; and therefore by my counsel let every king have a standard
there they alighted, and there they saw many pavilions and a cognisance by himself, that every knight draw to
and great array. Then Sir Tristram left there Sir Palomides their natural lord, and then may every king and captain
and Sir Gareth with La Beale Isoud, and Sir Tristram and help his knights if they have need. When Sir Tristram
Sir Dinadan rode to Lonazep to hearken tidings; and Sir had heard all their counsel he rode unto King Arthur for
Tristram rode upon Sir Palomides’ white horse. And when to hear of his counsel.
he came into the castle Sir Dinadan heard a great horn
blow, and to the horn drew many knights. Then Sir Tristram
asked a knight: What meaneth the blast of that horn? Sir,
said that knight, it is all those that shall hold against King

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 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER LXVII not greatly desire it of you. So they rode together until
they came to King Arthur. Fair sir, said King Arthur, what
How Sir Tristram and his fellowship came into the tour- is the cause ye will not tell me your name? Sir, said Sir
nament of Lonazep; and of divers jousts and matters. Tristram, without a cause I will not hide my name. Upon
what party will ye hold? said King Arthur. Truly, my lord,

B
ut Sir Tristram was not so soon come into the
said Sir Tristram, I wot not yet on what party I will be on,
place, but Sir Gawaine and Sir Galihodin went
until I come to the field, and there as my heart giveth me,
to King Arthur, and told him: That same green
there will I hold; but to-morrow ye shall see and prove on
knight in the green harness with the white horse smote us
what party I shall come. And therewithal he returned and
two down, and six of our fellows this same day. Well, said
went to his pavilions.
Arthur. And then he called Sir Tristram and asked him
And upon the morn they armed them all in green, and
what was his name. Sir, said Sir Tristram, ye shall hold
came into the field; and there young knights began to joust,
me excused as at this time, for ye shall not wit my name.
and did many worshipful deeds. Then spake Gareth unto
And there Sir Tristram returned and rode his way. I have
Sir Tristram, and prayed him to give him leave to break
marvel, said Arthur, that yonder knight will not tell me his
his spear, for him thought shame to bear his spear whole
name, but go thou, Griflet le Fise de Dieu, and pray him to
again. When Sir Tristram heard him say so he laughed,
speak with me betwixt us. Then Sir Griflet rode after him
and said: I pray you do your best. Then Sir Gareth gat a
and overtook him, and said him that King Arthur prayed
spear and proffered to joust. That saw a knight that was
him for to speak with him secretly apart. Upon this cov-
nephew unto the King of the Hundred Knights; his name
enant, said Sir Tristram, I will speak with him; that I will
was Selises, and a good man of arms. So this knight Selises
turn again so that ye will ensure me not to desire to hear
then dressed him unto Sir Gareth, and they two met to-
my name. I shall undertake, said Sir Griflet, that he will

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gether so hard that either smote other down, his horse and CHAPTER LXVIII
all, to the earth, so they were both bruised and hurt; and
there they lay till the King with the Hundred Knights halp How Sir Tristram and his fellowship jousted, and of
the noble feats that they did in that tourneying.
Selises up, and Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides halp up
Gareth again. And so they rode with Sir Gareth unto their

N
ow upon what party, said Tristram, is it best we
pavilions, and then they pulled off his helm.
be withal as to-morn? Sir, said Palomides, ye
And when La Beale Isoud saw Sir Gareth bruised in the
shall have mine advice to be against King Arthur
face she asked him what ailed him. Madam, said Sir Gareth,
as to-morn, for on his party will be Sir Launcelot and many
I had a great buffet, and as I suppose I gave another, but
good knights of his blood with him. And the more men of
none of my fellows, God thank them, would not rescue
worship that they be, the more worship we shall win. That is
me. Forsooth, said Palomides, it longed not to none of us
full knightly spoken, said Sir Tristram; and right so as ye
as this day to joust, for there have not this day jousted no
counsel me, so will we do. In the name of God, said they all.
proved knights, and needly ye would joust. And when the
So that night they were lodged with the best. And on the
other party saw ye proffered yourself to joust they sent
morn when it was day they were arrayed all in green trap-
one to you, a passing good knight of his age, for I know
pings, shields and spears, and La Beale Isoud in the same
him well, his name is Selises; and worshipfully ye met
colour, and her three damosels. And right so these four knights
with him, and neither of you are dishonoured, and there-
came into the field endlong and through. And so they led La
fore refresh yourself that ye may be ready and whole to
Beale Isoud thither as she should stand and behold all the
joust to-morrow. As for that, said Gareth, I shall not fail
jousts in a bay window; but always she was wimpled that no
you an I may bestride mine horse.
man might see her visage. And then these three knights rode
straight unto the party of the King of Scots.

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 Thomas Malory
When King Arthur had seen them do all this he asked smote the King of Scots quite from his horse, and Sir Sadok
Sir Launcelot what were these knights and that queen. Sir, smote down the King of North Wales, and gave him a
said Launcelot, I cannot say you in certain, but if Sir wonder great fall, that there was a great cry on King
Tristram be in this country, or Sir Palomides, wit ye well Arthur’s party, and that made Sir Palomides passing wroth.
it be they m certain, and La Beale Isoud. Then Arthur called And so Sir Palomides dressed his shield and his spear,
to him Sir Kay and said: Go lightly and wit how many and with all his might he met with Sir Edward of Orkney,
knights there be here lacking of the Table Round, for by that he smote him so hard that his horse might not stand
the sieges thou mayst know. So went Sir Kay and saw by on his feet, and so they hurtled to the earth; and then with
the writings in the sieges that there lacked ten knights. the same spear Sir Palomides smote down Sir Sadok over
And these be their names that be not here. Sir Tristram, his horse’s croup. O Jesu, said Arthur, what knight is that
Sir Palomides, Sir Percivale, Sir Gaheris, Sir Epinogris, arrayed all in green? he jousteth mightily. Wit you well,
Sir Mordred, Sir Dinadan, Sir La Cote Male Taile, and Sir said Sir Gawaine, he is a good knight, and yet shall ye see
Pelleas the noble knight. Well, said Arthur, some of these him joust better or he depart. And yet shall ye see, said Sir
I dare undertake are here this day against us. Gawaine, another bigger knight, in the same colour, than
Then came therein two brethren, cousins unto Sir he is; for that same knight, said Sir Gawaine, that smote
Gawaine, the one hight Sir Edward, that other hight Sir down right now my four cousins, he smote me down within
Sadok, the which were two good knights; and they asked these two days, and seven fellows more.
of King Arthur that they might have the first jousts, for This meanwhile as they stood thus talking there came
they were of Orkney. I am pleased, said King Arthur. Then into the place Sir Tristram upon a black horse, and or ever
Sir Edward encountered with the King of Scots, in whose he stint he smote down with one spear four good knights
party was Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides; and Sir Edward of Orkney that were of the kin of Sir Gawaine; and Sir

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Gareth and Sir Dinadan everych of them smote down a that they of Orkney waxed weary of him, and so withdrew
good knight. Jesu, said Arthur, yonder knight upon the them unto Lonazep.
black horse doth mightily and marvellously well. Abide
you, said Sir Gawaine; that knight with the black horse
began not yet. Then Sir Tristram made to horse again the
two kings that Edward and Sadok had unhorsed at the be-
ginning. And then Sir Tristram drew his sword and rode
into the thickest of the press against them of Orkney; and
there he smote down knights, and rashed off helms, and
pulled away their shields, and hurtled down many knights:
he fared so that Sir Arthur and all knights had great mar-
vel when they saw one knight do so great deeds of arms.
And Sir Palomides failed not upon the other side, but did
so marvellously well that all men had wonder. For there
King Arthur likened Sir Tristram that was on the black
horse like to a wood lion, and likened Sir Palomides upon
the white horse unto a wood leopard, and Sir Gareth and
Sir Dinadan unto eager wolves. But the custom was such
among them that none of the kings would help other, but
all the fellowship of every standard to help other as they
might; but ever Sir Tristram did so much deeds of arms

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 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER LXIX will be the fourth, said Arthur. Sir, said Launcelot, ye shall
find me ready, and my brother Sir Ector, and my cousin
How Sir Tristram was unhorsed and smitten down by Sir Bleoberis. And so when they were ready and on horse-
Sir Launcelot, and after that Sir Tristram smote down back: Now choose, said Sir Arthur unto Sir Launcelot, with
King Arthur.
whom that ye will encounter withal. Sir, said Launcelot, I
will meet with the green knight upon the black horse, that

T
hen was the cry of heralds and all manner of com-
mon people: The Green Knight hath done was Sir Tristram; and my cousin Sir Bleoberis shall match
marvellously, and beaten all them of Orkney. And the green knight upon the white horse, that was Sir
there the heralds numbered that Sir Tristram that sat upon Palomides; and my brother Sir Ector shall match with the
the black horse had smitten down with spears and swords green knight upon the white horse, that was Sir Gareth.
thirty knights; and Sir Palomides had smitten down twenty Then must I, said Sir Arthur, have ado with the green knight
knights, and the most part of these fifty knights were of upon the grisled horse, and that was Sir Dinadan. Now
the house of King Arthur, and proved knights. So God me every man take heed to his fellow, said Sir Launcelot. And
help, said Arthur unto Sir Launcelot, this is a great shame so they trotted on together, and there encountered Sir
to us to see four knights beat so many knights of mine; Launcelot against Sir Tristram. So Sir Launcelot smote
and therefore make you ready, for we will have ado with Sir Tristram so sore upon the shield that he bare horse and
them. Sir, said Launcelot, wit ye well that there are two man to the earth; but Sir Launcelot weened that it had
passing good knights, and great worship were it not to us been Sir Palomides, and so he passed forth. And then Sir
now to have ado with them, for they have this day sore Bleoberis encountered with Sir Palomides, and he smote
travailed. As for that, said Arthur, I will be avenged; and him so hard upon the shield that Sir Palomides and his
therefore take with you Sir Bleoberis and Sir Ector, and I white horse rustled to the earth. Then Sir Ector de Maris

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 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
smote Sir Gareth so hard that down he fell off his horse. Tristram mounted upon his horse, and there he met with
And the noble King Arthur encountered with Sir Dinadan, King Arthur, and he gave him such a buffet upon the helm
and he smote him quite from his saddle. And then the noise with his sword that King Arthur had no power to keep his
turned awhile how the green knights were slain down. saddle. And then Sir Tristram gave the King of Northgalis
When the King of Northgalis saw that Sir Tristram had King Arthur’s horse: then was there great press about King
a fall, then he remembered him how great deeds of arms Arthur for to horse him again; but Sir Palomides would
Sir Tristram had done. Then he made ready many knights, not suffer King Arthur to be horsed again, but ever Sir
for the custom and cry was such, that what knight were Palomides smote on the right
smitten down, and might not be horsed again by his fel- hand and on the left hand mightily as a noble knight. And
lows, outher by his own strength, that as that day he should this meanwhile Sir Tristram rode through the thickest of
be prisoner unto the party that had smitten him down. So the press, and smote down knights on the right hand and
came in the King of Northgalis, and he rode straight unto on the left hand, and raced off helms, and so passed forth
Sir Tristram; and when he came nigh him he alighted down unto his pavilions, and left Sir Palomides on foot; and Sir
suddenly and betook Sir Tristram his horse, and said thus: Tristram changed his horse and disguised himself all in
Noble knight, I know thee not of what country that thou red, horse and harness.
art, but for the noble deeds that thou hast done this day
take there my horse, and let me do as well I may; for, as
Jesu me help, thou art better worthy to have mine horse
than I myself. Gramercy, said Sir Tristram, and if I may I
shall quite you: look that ye go not far from us, and as I
suppose, I shall win you another horse. And therewith Sir

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 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER LXX succoured them, and they [knew] not him, because he was
changed into red armour: and all this while Sir Launcelot
How Sir Tristram changed his harness and it was all was away.
red, and how he demeaned him, and how Sir Palomides So when La Beale Isoud knew Sir Tristram again upon
slew Launcelot’s horse.
his horse-back she was passing glad, and then she laughed
and made good cheer. And as it happened, Sir Palomides

A
nd when the queen La Beale Isoud saw that Sir
Tristram was unhorsed, and she wist not where looked up toward her where she lay in the window, and he
he was, then she wept greatly. But Sir Tristram, espied how she laughed; and therewith he took such a re-
when he was ready, came dashing lightly into the field, joicing that he smote down, what with his spear and with
and then La Beale Isoud espied him. And so he did great his sword, all that ever he met; for through the sight of her
deeds of arms; with one spear, that was great, Sir Tristram he was so enamoured in her love that he seemed at that
smote down five knights or ever he stint. Then Sir time, that an both Sir Tristram and Sir Launcelot had been
Launcelot espied him readily, that it was Sir Tristram, and both against him they should have won no worship of him;
then he repented him that he had smitten him down; and and in his heart, as the book saith, Sir Palomides wished
so Sir Launcelot went out of the press to repose him and that with his worship he might have ado with Sir Tristram
lightly he came again. And now when Sir Tristram came before all men, because of La Beale Isoud. Then Sir
into the press, through his great force he put Sir Palomides Palomides began to double his strength, and he did so
upon his horse, and Sir Gareth, and Sir Dinadan, and then marvellously that all men had wonder of him, and ever he
they began to do marvellously; but Sir Palomides nor none cast up his eye unto La Beale Isoud. And when he saw her
of his two fellows knew not who had holpen them on horse- make such cheer he fared like a lion, that there might no
back again. But ever Sir Tristram was nigh them and man withstand him; and then Sir Tristram beheld him, how

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that Sir Palomides bestirred him; and then he said unto Sir Sir Launcelot come upon him so fast, he ran upon Sir
Dinadan: So God me help, Sir Palomides is a passing good Launcelot as fast with his sword as he might; and as Sir
knight and a well enduring, but such deeds saw I him Launcelot should have stricken him he smote his spear
never do, nor never heard I tell that ever he did so much aside, and smote it a-two with his sword. And Sir
in one day. It is his day, said Dinadan; and he would say Palomides rushed unto Sir Launcelot, and thought to have
no more unto Sir Tristram; but to himself he said: An if put him to a shame; and with his sword he smote his
ye knew for whose love he doth all those deeds of arms, horse’s neck that Sir Launcelot rode upon, and then Sir
soon would Sir Tristram abate his courage. Alas, said Sir Launcelot fell to the earth. Then was the cry huge and
Tristram, that Sir Palomides is not christened. So said great: See how Sir Palomides the Saracen hath smitten
King Arthur, and so said all those that beheld him. Then down Sir Launcelot’s horse. Right then were there many
all people gave him the prize, as for the best knight that knights wroth with Sir Palomides because he had done
day, that he passed Sir Launcelot outher Sir Tristram. that deed; therefore many knights held there against that
Well, said Dinadan to himself, all this worship that Sir it was unknightly done in a tournament to kill an horse
Palomides hath here this day he may thank the Queen wilfully, but that it had been done in plain battle, life for
Isoud, for had she been away this day Sir Palomides had life.
not gotten the prize this day.
Right so came into the field Sir Launcelot du Lake, and
saw and heard the noise and cry and the great worship
that Sir Palomides had. He dressed him against Sir
Palomides, with a great mighty spear and a long, and
thought to smite him down. And when Sir Palomides saw

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 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER LXXI fore, most noble knight, I require thee spare me as at this
day, and I promise you I shall ever be your knight while I
How Sir Launcelot said to Sir Palomides, and how the live: an ye put me from my worship now, ye put me from
prize of that day was given unto Sir Palomides. the greatest worship that ever I had or ever shall have in
my life-days. Well, said Sir Launcelot, I see, for to say

W
hen Sir Ector de Maris saw Sir Launcelot his
thee sooth, ye have done marvellously well this day; and I
brother have such a despite, and so set on
understand a part for whose love ye do it, and well I wot
foot, then he gat a spear eagerly, and ran
that love is a great mistress. And if my lady were here as
against Sir Palomides, and he smote him so hard that he
she nis not, wit you well, said Sir Launcelot, ye should
bare him quite from his horse. That saw Sir Tristram, that
not bear away the worship. But beware your love be not
was in red harness, and he smote down Sir Ector de Maris
discovered, for an Sir Tristram may know it ye will repent
quite from his horse. Then Sir Launcelot dressed his shield
it; and sithen my quarrel is not here, ye shall have this day
upon his shoulder, and with his sword naked in his hand,
the worship as for me; considering the great travail and
and so came straight upon Sir Palomides fiercely and said:
pain that ye have had this day, it were no worship for me
Wit thou well thou hast done me this day the greatest de-
to put you from it. And therewithal Sir Launcelot suffered
spite that ever any worshipful knight did to me in tourna-
Sir Palomides to depart.
ment or in jousts, and therefore I will be avenged upon
Then Sir Launcelot by great force and might gat his own
thee, therefore take keep to yourself. Ah, mercy, noble
horse maugre twenty knights. So when Sir Launcelot was
knight, said Palomides, and forgive me mine unkindly
horsed he did many marvels, and so did Sir Tristram, and
deeds, for I have no power nor might to withstand you,
Sir Palomides in like wise. Then Sir Launcelot smote down
and I have done so much this day that well I wot I did
with a spear Sir Dinadan, and the King of Scotland, and
never so much, nor never shall in my life-days; and there-

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 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
the King of Wales, and the King of Northumberland, and manded. But when Sir Palomides understood and wist that
the King of Listinoise. So then Sir Launcelot and his fel- Sir Tristram was in the red armour, and on a red horse, wit
lows smote down well a forty knights. Then came the King ye well that he was glad, and so was Sir Gareth and Sir
of Ireland and the King of the Straight Marches to rescue Dinadan, for they all weened that Sir Tristram had been
Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides. There began a great med- taken prisoner. And then every knight drew to his inn. And
ley, and many knights were smitten down on both parties; then King Arthur and every knight spake of those knights;
and always Sir Launcelot spared Sir Tristram, and he but above all men they gave Sir Palomides the prize, and
spared him. And Sir Palomides would not meddle with all knights that knew Sir Palomides had wonder of his
Sir Launcelot, and so there was hurtling here and there. deeds. Sir, said Sir Launcelot unto Arthur, as for Sir
And then King Arthur sent out many knights of the Table Palomides an he be the green knight I dare say as for this
Round; and Sir Palomides was ever in the foremost front, day he is best worthy to have the degree, for he reposed
and Sir Tristram did so strongly well that the king and all him never, nor never changed his weeds, and he began
other had marvel. And then the king let blow to lodging; first and longest held on. And yet, well I wot, said Sir
and because Sir Palomides began first, and never he went Launcelot, that there was a better knight than he, and that
nor rode out of the field to repose, but ever he was doing shall be proved or we depart, upon pain of my life. Thus
marvellously well either on foot or on horseback, and long- they talked on either party; and so Sir Dinadan railed with
est during, King Arthur and all the kings gave Sir Sir Tristram and said: What the devil is upon thee this
Palomides the honour and the gree as for that day. day? for Sir Palomides’ strength feebled never this day,
Then Sir Tristram commanded Sir Dinadan to fetch the but ever he doubled his strength.
queen La Beale Isoud, and bring her to his two pavilions
that stood by the well. And so Dinadan did as he was com-

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 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER LXXII knighthood, courtesy, and prowess, and gentleness, I know
not his peer; for this day, said Sir Palomides, I did full
How Sir Dinadan provoked Sir Tristram to do well. uncourteously unto Sir Launcelot, and full unknightly, and
full knightly and courteously he did to me again; for an he

A
nd thou, Sir Tristram, farest all this day as though
had been as ungentle to me as I was to him, this day I had
thou hadst been asleep, and therefore I call thee
won no worship. And therefore, said Palomides, I shall be
coward. Well, Dinadan, said Sir Tristram, I was
Sir Launcelot’s knight while my life lasteth. This talking
never called coward or now of no earthly knight in my
was in the houses of kings. But all kings, lords, and knights,
life; and wit thou well, sir, I call myself never the more
said, of clear knighthood, and of pure strength, of bounty,
coward though Sir Launcelot gave me a fall, for I outcept
of courtesy, Sir Launcelot and Sir Tristram bare the prize
him of all knights. And doubt ye not Sir Dinadan, an Sir
above all knights that ever were in Arthur’s days. And
Launcelot have a quarrel good, he is too over good for
there were never knights in Arthur’s days did half so many
any knight that now is living; and yet of his sufferance,
deeds as they did; as the book saith, no ten knights did not
largess, bounty, and courtesy, I call him knight peerless:
half the deeds that they did, and there was never knight in
and so Sir Tristram was in manner wroth with Sir Dinadan.
their days that required Sir Launcelot or Sir Tristram of
But all this language Sir Dinadan said because he would
any quest, so it were not to their shame, but they performed
anger Sir Tristram, for to cause him to awake his spirits
their desire.
and to be wroth; for well knew Sir Dinadan that an Sir
Tristram were thoroughly wroth Sir Palomides should not
get the prize upon the morn. And for this intent Sir Dinadan
said all this railing and language against Sir Tristram. Truly,
said Sir Palomides, as for Sir Launcelot, of his noble
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 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
CHAPTER LXXIII peradventure there will be some knights be displeased an
we come suddenly upon them. As for that, said Arthur, I
How King Arthur and Sir Lancelot came to see La Beale will see her, for I take no force whom I grieve. Sir, said
Isoud, and how Palomides smote down King Arthur. Launcelot, ye put yourself in great jeopardy. As for that,
said the king, we will take the adventure. Right so anon

S
o on the morn Sir Launcelot departed, and Sir
the king rode even to her, and saluted her, and said: God
Tristram was ready, and La Beale Isoud with Sir
you save. Sir, said she, ye are welcome. Then the king
Palomides and Sir Gareth. And so they rode all in
beheld her, and liked her wonderly well.
green full freshly beseen unto the forest. And Sir Tristram
With that came Sir Palomides unto Arthur, and said:
left Sir Dinadan sleeping in his bed. And so as they rode it
Uncourteous knight, what seekest thou here? thou art
happed the king and Launcelot stood in a window, and
uncourteous to come upon a lady thus suddenly, therefore
saw Sir Tristram ride and Isoud. Sir, said Launcelot, yon-
withdraw thee. Sir Arthur took none heed of Sir Palomides’
der rideth the fairest lady of the world except your queen,
words, but ever he looked still upon Queen Isoud Then
Dame Guenever. Who is that? said Sir Arthur. Sir, said he,
was Sir Palomides wroth, and therewith he took a spear,
it is Queen Isoud that, out-taken my lady your queen, she
and came hurtling upon King Arthur, and smote him down
is makeless. Take your horse, said Arthur, and array you
with a spear. When Sir Launcelot saw that despite of Sir
at all rights as I will do, and I promise you, said the king,
Palomides, he said to himself: I am loath to have ado with
I will see her. Then anon they were armed and horsed, and
yonder knight, and not for his own sake but for Sir Tristram.
either took a spear and rode unto the forest. Sir, said
And one thing I am sure of, if I smite down Sir Palomides
Launcelot, it is not good that ye go too nigh them, for wit
I must have ado with Sir Tristram, and that were over-
ye well there are two as good knights as now are living,
much for me to match them both, for they are two noble
and therefore, sir, I pray you be not too hasty. For

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 Thomas Malory
knights; notwithstanding, whether I live or I die, needs horseback, and Sir Launcelot put King Arthur on horse-
must I revenge my lord, and so will I, whatsomever befall back and so departed. So God me help, said Sir Tristram
of me. And therewith Sir Launcelot cried to Sir Palomides: unto Palomides, ye did not worshipfully when ye smote
Keep thee from me. And then Sir Launcelot and Sir down that knight so suddenly as ye did. And wit ye well
Palomides rushed together with two spears strongly, but ye did yourself great shame, for the knights came hither
Sir Launcelot smote Sir Palomides so hard that he went of their gentleness to see a fair lady; and that is every good
quite out of his saddle, and had a great fall. When Sir knight’s part, to behold a fair lady; and ye had not ado to
Tristram saw Sir Palomides have that fall, he said to Sir play such masteries afore my lady. Wit thou well it will
Launcelot: Sir knight, keep thee, for I must joust with thee. turn to anger, for he that ye smote down was King Arthur,
As for to joust with me, said Sir Launcelot, I will not fail and that other was the good knight Sir Launcelot. But I
you, for no dread I have of you; but I am loath to have ado shall not forget the words of Sir Launcelot when that he
with you an I might choose, for I will that ye wit that I called him a man of great worship, thereby I wist that it
must revenge my special lord that was unhorsed unwarly was King Arthur. And as for Sir Launcelot, an there had
and unknightly. And therefore, though I revenged that fall, been five hundred knights in the meadow, he would not
take ye no displeasure therein, for he is to me such a friend have refused them, and yet he said he would refuse me.
that I may not see him shamed. By that again I wist that it was Sir Launcelot, for ever he
Anon Sir Tristram understood by his person and by his forbeareth me in every place, and showeth me great kind-
knightly words that it was Sir Launcelot du Lake, and ver- ness; and of all knights, I out-take none, say what men
ily Sir Tristram deemed that it was King Arthur, he that will say, he beareth the flower of all chivalry, say it him
Sir Palomides had smitten down. And then Sir Tristram whosomever will. An he be well angered, and that him list
put his spear from him, and put Sir Palomides again on to do his utterance without any favour, I know him not

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 Le Morte Darthur – Book Ten
alive but Sir Launcelot is over hard for him, be it on horse- CHAPTER LXXIV
back or on foot. I may never believe, said Palomides, that
King Arthur will ride so privily as a poor errant knight. How the second day Palomides forsook Sir Tristram,
and went to the contrary part against him.
Ah, said Sir Tristram, ye know not my lord Arthur, for all
knights may learn to be a knight of him. And therefore ye

T
hen there was a cry unto all knights, that when
may be sorry, said Sir Tristram, of your unkindly deeds to
they heard an horn blow they should make jousts
so noble a king. And a thing that is done may not be un-
as they did the first day. And like as the brethren
done, said Palomides. Then Sir Tristram sent Queen Isoud
Sir Edward and Sir Sadok began the jousts the first day,
unto her lodging in the priory, there to behold all the tour-
Sir Uwaine the king’s son Urien and Sir Lucanere de
nament.
Buttelere began the jousts the second day. And at the first
encounter Sir Uwaine smote down the King’s son of Scots;
and Sir Lucanere ran against the King of Wales, and they
brake their spears all to pieces; and they were so fierce
both, that they hurtled together that both fell to the earth.
Then they of Orkney horsed again Sir Lucanere. And then
came in Sir Tristram de Liones; and then Sir Tristram smote
down Sir Uwaine and Sir Lucanere; and Sir Palomides
smote down other two knights and Sir Gareth smote down
other two knights. Then said Sir Arthur unto Sir Launcelot:
See yonder three knights do passingly well, and namely
the first that jousted. Sir, said Launcelot, that knight be-

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 Thomas Malory
gan not yet but ye shall see him this day do marvellously. pany. So Sir Tristram beheld him a great while and did but
And then came into the place the duke’s son of Orkney, little else, for the noise and cry was so huge and great that
and then they began to do many deeds of arms. Sir Tristram marvelled from whence came the strength that
When Sir Tristram saw them so begin, he said to Sir Palomides had there in the field Sir, said Sir Gareth
Palomides: How feel ye yourself? may ye do this day as unto Sir Tristram, remember ye not of the words that Sir
ye did yesterday? Nay, said Palomides, I feel myself so Dinadan said to you yesterday, when he called you a cow-
weary, and so sore bruised of the deeds of yesterday, that ard; forsooth, sir, he said it for none ill, for ye are the man
I may not endure as I did yesterday. That me repenteth, in the world that he most loveth, and all that he said was
said Sir Tristram, for I shall lack you this day. Sir Palomides for your worship. And therefore, said Sir Gareth to Sir
said: Trust not to me, for I may not do as I did. All these Tristram, let me know this day what ye be; and wonder ye
words said Palomides for to beguile Sir Tristram. Sir, said not so upon Sir Palomides, for he enforceth himself to
Sir Tristram unto Sir Gareth, then must I trust upon you; win all the worship and honour from you. I may well be-
wherefore I pray you be not far from me to rescue me. An lieve it, said Sir Tristram. And sithen I understand his evil
need be, said Sir Gareth, I shall not fail you in all that I will and his envy, ye shall see, if that I enforce myself,
may do. Then Sir Palomides rode by himself; and then in that the noise shall be left that now is upon him.
despite of Sir Tristram he put himself in the thickest press Then Sir Tristram rode into the thickest of the press, and
among them of Orkney, and there he did so marvellously then he did so marvellously well, and did so great deeds of
deeds of arms that all men had wonder of him, for there arms, that all men said that Sir Tristram did double so much
might none stand him a stroke. deeds of arms as Sir Palomides had done aforehand. And
When Sir Tristram saw Sir Palomides do such deeds, he then the noise went plain from Sir Palomides, and all the
marvelled and said to himself: He is weary of my com- people cried upon Sir Tristram. O Jesu, said the people, see

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how Sir Tristram smiteth down with his spear so many CHAPTER LXXV
knights. And see, said they all, how many knights he smiteth
down with his sword, and of how many knights he rashed How Sir Tristram departed of the field, and awaked
Sir Dinadan, and changed his array into black.
off their helms and their shields; and so he beat them all of
Orkney afore him. How now, said Sir Launcelot unto King

T
hen came King Arthur, and the King of Northgalis,
Arthur, I told you that this day there would a knight play his
and Sir Launcelot du Lake; and Sir Bleoberis, Sir
pageant. Yonder rideth a knight ye may see he doth knightly,
Bors de Ganis, Sir Ector de Maris, these three
for he hath strength and wind. So God me help, said Arthur
knights came into the field with Sir Launcelot. And then
to Launcelot, ye say sooth, for I saw never a better knight,
Sir Launcelot with the three knights of his kin did so great
for he passeth far Sir Palomides. Sir, wit ye well, said
deeds of arms that all the noise began upon Sir Launcelot.
Launcelot, it must be so of right, for it is himself, that noble
And so they beat the King of Wales and the King of Scots
knight Sir Tristram. I may right well believe it, said Arthur.
far aback, and made them to avoid the field; but Sir
But when Sir Palomides heard the noise and the cry was
Tristram and Sir Gareth abode still in the field and en-
turned from him, he rode out on a part and beheld Sir
dured all that ever there came, that all men had wonder
Tristram. And when Sir Palomides saw Sir Tristram do so
that any knight might endure so many strokes. But ever
marvellously well he wept passingly sore for despite, for
Sir Launcelot, and his three kinsmen by the command-
he wist well he should no worship win that day; for well
ment of Sir Launcelot, forbare Sir Tristram. Then said Sir
knew Sir Palomides, when Sir Tristram would put forth
Arthur: Is that Sir Palomides that endureth so well? Nay,
his strength and his manhood, be should get but little wor-
said Sir Launcelot, wit ye well it is the good knight Sir
ship that day.
Tristram, for yonder ye may see Sir Palomides beholdeth
and hoveth, and doth little or nought. And sir, ye shall

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understand that Sir Tristram weeneth this day to beat us saw so many strokes upon his helm and upon his shield he
all out of the field. And as for me, said Sir Launcelot, I said: In good time was I thus asleep, for had I been with
shall not beat him, beat him whoso will. Sir, said Launcelot you I must needs for shame there have followed you; more
unto Arthur, ye may see how Sir Palomides hoveth yon- for shame than any prowess that is in me; that I see well
der, as though he were in a dream; wit ye well he is full now by those strokes that I should have been truly beaten
heavy that Tristram doth such deeds of arms Then is he as I was yesterday. Leave your japes, said Sir Tristram,
but a fool, said Arthur, for never was Sir Palomides, nor and come off, that [we] were in the field again. What, said
never shall be, of such prowess as Sir Tristram. And if he Sir Dinadan, is your heart up? yesterday ye fared as though
have any envy at Sir Tristram, and cometh in with him ye had dreamed. So then Sir Tristram was arrayed in black
upon his side he is a false knight. harness. O Jesu, said Dinadan, what aileth you this day?
As the king and Sir Launcelot thus spake, Sir Tristram meseemeth ye be wilder than ye were yesterday. Then
rode privily out of the press, that none espied him but La smiled Sir Tristram and said to Dinadan: Await well upon
Beale Isoud and Sir Palomides, for they two would not let me; if ye see me overmatched look that ye be ever behind
off their eyes upon Sir Tristram. And when Sir Tristram me, and I shall make you ready way by God’s grace. So
came to his pavilions he found Sir Dinadan in his bed Sir Tristram and Sir Dinadan took their horses. All this
asleep. Awake, said Tristram, ye ought to be ashamed so espied Sir Palomides, both their going and their coming,
to sleep when knights have ado in the field. Then Sir and so did La Beale Isoud, for she knew Sir Tristram above
Dinadan arose lightly and said: What will ye that I shall all other.
do? Make you ready, said Sir Tristram, to ride with me
into the field. So when Sir Dinadan was armed he looked
upon Sir Tristram’s helm and on his shield, and when he

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CHAPTER LXXVI the sight of Sir Palomides. And then Sir Palomides rode
against Sir Tristram, and either met other with great spears,
How Sir Palomides changed his shield and his armour that they brast to their hands. And then they dashed to-
for to hurt Sir Tristram, and how Sir Launcelot did to gether with swords eagerly. Then Sir Tristram had marvel
Sir Tristram.
what knight he was that did battle so knightly with him.
Then was Sir Tristram wroth, for he felt him passing strong,

T
hen when Sir Palomides saw that Sir Tristram was
disguised, then he thought to do him a shame. So so that he deemed he might not have ado with the remnant
Sir Palomides rode to a knight that was sore of the knights, because of the strength of Sir Palomides.
wounded, that sat under a fair well from the field. Sir So they lashed together and gave many sad strokes to-
knight, said Sir Palomides, I pray you to lend me your gether, and many knights marvelled what knight he might
armour and your shield, for mine is over-well known in be that so encountered with the black knight, Sir Tristram.
this field, and that hath done me great damage; and ye Full well knew La Beale Isoud that there was Sir Palomides
shall have mine armour and my shield that is as sure as that fought with Sir Tristram, for she espied all in her win-
yours. I will well, said the knight, that ye have mine armour dow where that she stood, as Sir Palomides changed his
and my shield, if they may do you any avail. So Sir harness with the wounded knight. And then she began to
Palomides armed him hastily in that knight’s armour and weep so heartily for the despite of Sir Palomides that there
his shield that shone as any crystal or silver, and so he she swooned.
came riding into the field. And then there was neither Sir Then came in Sir Launcelot with the knights of Orkney.
Tristram nor none of King Arthur’s party that knew Sir And when the other party had espied Sir Launcelot, they
Palomides. And right so as Sir Palomides was come into cried: Return, return, here cometh Sir Launcelot du Lake.
the field Sir Tristram smote down three knights, even in So there came knights and said: Sir Launcelot, ye must

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 Thomas Malory
needs fight with yonder knight in the black harness, that for Sir Tristram hath had too much travail this day. Then
was Sir Tristram, for he hath almost overcome that good let us smite him down, said Sir Gareth. So it is better that
knight that fighteth with him with the silver shield, that we do, said Sir Dinadan, than Sir Tristram be shamed, for
was Sir Palomides. Then Sir Launcelot rode betwixt Sir yonder hoveth the strong knight with the silver shield to
Tristram and Sir Palomides, and Sir Launcelot said to fall upon Sir Tristram if need be. Then forthwithal Gareth
Palomides: Sir knight, let me have the battle, for ye have rushed upon Sir Launcelot, and gave him a great stroke
need to be reposed. Sir Palomides knew Sir Launcelot well, upon his helm so hard that he was astonied. And then came
and so did Sir Tristram, but because Sir Launcelot was far Sir Dinadan with a spear, and he smote Sir Launcelot such
hardier knight than himself therefore he was glad, and a buffet that horse and all fell to the earth. O Jesu, said Sir
suffered Sir Launcelot to fight with Sir Tristram. For well Tristram to Sir Gareth and Sir Dinadan, fie for shame, why
wist he that Sir Launcelot knew not Sir Tristram, and there did ye smite down so good a knight as he is, and namely
he hoped that Sir Launcelot should beat or shame Sir when I had ado with him? now ye do yourself great shame,
Tristram, whereof Sir Palomides was full fain. And so Sir and him no disworship; for I held him reasonable hot,
Launcelot gave Sir Tristram many sad strokes, but Sir though ye had not holpen me.
Launcelot knew not Sir Tristram, but Sir Tristram knew Then came Sir Palomides that was disguised, and smote
well Sir Launcelot. And thus they fought long together, down Sir Dinadan from his horse. Then Sir Launcelot,
that La Beale Isoud was well-nigh out of her mind for because Sir Dinadan had smitten him aforehand, then Sir
sorrow. Launcelot assailed Sir Dinadan passing sore, and Sir
Then Sir Dinadan told Sir Gareth how that knight in the Dinadan defended him mightily. But well understood Sir
black harness was Sir Tristram: And this is Launcelot that Tristram that Sir Dinadan might not endure Sir Launcelot,
fighteth with him, that must needs have the better of him, wherefore Sir Tristram was sorry. Then came Sir Palomides

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fresh upon Sir Tristram. And when Sir Tristram saw him the honour and the degree, and on the other side all the
come, he thought to deliver him at once, because that he people gave to the noble knight Sir Tristram the honour
would help Sir Dinadan, because he stood in great peril and the degree; but Launcelot said nay thereto: For I am
with Sir Launcelot. Then Sir Tristram hurtled unto Sir not worthy to have this honour, for I will report me unto
Palomides and gave him a great buffet, and then Sir all knights that Sir Tristram hath been longer in the field
Tristram gat Sir Palomides and pulled him down under- than I, and he hath smitten down many more knights this
neath him. And so fell Sir Tristram with him; and Sir day than I have done. And therefore I will give Sir Tristram
Tristram leapt up lightly and left Sir Palomides, and went my voice and my name, and so I pray all my lords and
betwixt Sir Launcelot and Dinadan, and then they began fellows so to do. Then there was the whole voice of dukes
to do battle together. and earls, barons and knights, that Sir Tristram this day is
Right so Sir Dinadan gat Sir Tristram’s horse, and said proved the best knight.
on high that Sir Launcelot might hear it: My lord Sir
Tristram, take your horse. And when Sir Launcelot heard
him name Sir Tristram: O Jesu, said Launcelot, what have
I done? I am dishonoured. Ah, my lord Sir Tristram, said
Launcelot, why were ye disguised? ye have put yourself
in great peril this day; but I pray you noble knight to
pardon me, for an I had known you we had not done this
battle. Sir, said Sir Tristram, this is not the first kindness
ye showed me. So they were both horsed again.
Then all the people on the one side gave Sir Launcelot

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CHAPTER LXXVII Wit you well, sir knight, from this fellowship will I never
depart, for one of the best knights of the world commanded
How Sir Tristram departed with La Beale Isoud, and me to be in this company, and till he discharge me of my
how Palomides followed and excused him. service I will not be discharged. By that Sir Tristram knew
that it was Sir Palomides. Ah, Sir Palomides, said the noble

T
hen they blew unto lodging, and Queen Isoud was
knight Sir Tristram, are ye such a knight? Ye have been
led unto her pavilions. But wit you well she was
named wrong, for ye have long been called a gentle knight,
wroth out of measure with Sir Palomides, for she
and as this day ye have showed me great ungentleness,
saw all his treason from the beginning to the ending. And
for ye had almost brought me unto my death. But, as for
all this while neither Sir Tristram, neither Sir Gareth nor
you, I suppose I should have done well enough, but Sir
Dinadan, knew not of the treason of Sir Palomides; but
Launcelot with you was overmuch; for I know no knight
afterward ye shall hear that there befell the greatest de-
living but Sir Launcelot is over good for him, an he will
bate betwixt Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides that might be.
do his uttermost. Alas, said Sir Palomides, are ye my lord
So when the tournament was done, Sir Tristram, Gareth,
Sir Tristram? Yea, sir, and that ye know well enough. By
and Dinadan, rode with La Beale Isoud to these pavilions.
my knighthood, said Palomides, until now I knew you not;
And ever Sir Palomides rode with them in their company
I weened that ye had been the King of Ireland, for well I
disguised as he was. But when Sir Tristram had espied
wot ye bare his arms. His arms I bare, said Sir Tristram,
him that he was the same knight with the shield of silver
and that will I stand by, for I won them once in a field of a
that held him so hot that day: Sir knight, said Sir Tristram,
full noble knight, his name was Sir Marhaus; and with
wit ye well here is none that hath need of your fellowship,
great pain I won that knight, for there was none other re-
and therefore I pray you depart from us. Sir Palomides
cover, but Sir Marhaus died through false leeches; and yet
answered again as though he had not known Sir Tristram:

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was he never yolden to me. Sir, said Palomides, I weened and changed harness with him, and then straight I saw
ye had been turned upon Sir Launcelot’s party, and that him how he rode into the field. And anon as he had found
caused me to turn. Ye say well, said Sir Tristram, and so I you he encountered with you, and thus wilfully Sir
take you, and I forgive you. Palomides did battle with you; and as for him, sir, I was
So then they rode into their pavilions; and when they not greatly afraid, but I dread sore Launcelot, that knew
were alighted they unarmed them and washed their faces you not. Madam, said Palomides, ye may say whatso ye
and hands, and so yode unto meat, and were set at their will, I may not contrary you, but by my knighthood I knew
table. But when Isoud saw Sir Palomides she changed then not Sir Tristram. Sir Palomides, said Sir Tristram, I will
her colours, and for wrath she might not speak. Anon Sir take your excuse, but well I wot ye spared me but little,
Tristram espied her countenance and said: Madam, for but all is pardoned on my part. Then La Beale Isoud held
what cause make ye us such cheer? we have been sore down her head and said no more at that time.
travailed this day. Mine own lord, said La Beale Isoud,
for God’s sake be ye not displeased with me, for I may
none otherwise do; for I saw this day how ye were be-
trayed and nigh brought to your death. Truly, sir, I saw
every deal, how and in what wise, and therefore, sir, how
should I suffer in your presence such a felon and traitor as
Sir Palomides; for I saw him with mine eyes, how he be-
held you when ye went out of the field. For ever he hoved
still upon his horse till he saw you come in againward.
And then forthwithal I saw him ride to the hurt knight,

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 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER LXXVIII La Beale Isoud, Madam arise, for here is my lord, King
Arthur. Then the king and the queen kissed, and Sir
How King Arthur and Sir Launcelot came unto their Launcelot and Sir Tristram braced either other in arms,
pavilions as they sat at supper, and of Sir Palomides. and then there was joy without measure; and at the re-
quest of La Beale Isoud, King Arthur and Launcelot were

A
nd therewithal two knights armed came unto the
unarmed, and then there was merry talking. Madam, said
pavilion, and there they alighted both, and came
Sir Arthur, it is many a day sithen that I have desired to
in armed at all pieces. Fair knights, said Sir
see you, for ye have been praised so far; and now I dare
Tristram, ye are to blame to come thus armed at all pieces
say ye are the fairest that ever I saw, and Sir Tristram is as
upon me while we are at our meat; if ye would anything
fair and as good a knight as any that I know; therefore me
when we were in the field there might ye have eased your
beseemeth ye are well beset together. Sir, God thank you,
hearts. Not so, said the one of those knights, we come not
said the noble knight, Sir Tristram, and Isoud; of your great
for that intent, but wit ye well Sir Tristram, we be come
goodness and largess ye are peerless. Thus they talked of
hither as your friends. And I am come here, said the one,
many things and of all the whole jousts. But for what cause,
for to see you, and this knight is come for to see La Beale
said King Arthur, were ye, Sir Tristram, against us? Ye are
Isoud. Then said Sir Tristram: I require you do off your
a knight of the Table Round; of right ye should have been
helms that I may see you. That will we do at your desire,
with us. Sir, said Sir Tristram, here is Dinadan, and Sir
said the knights. And when their helms were off, Sir
Gareth your own nephew, caused me to be against you.
Tristram thought that he should know them.
My lord Arthur, said Gareth, I may well bear the blame,
Then said Sir Dinadan privily unto Sir Tristram: Sir, that
but it were Sir Tristram’s own deeds. That may I repent,
is Sir Launcelot du Lake that spake unto you first, and the
said Dinadan, for this unhappy Sir Tristram brought us to
other is my lord King Arthur. Then, said Sir Tristram unto

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this tournament, and many great buffets he caused us to bed, but wailed and wept out of measure. So on the morn
have. Then the king and Launcelot laughed that they might Sir Tristram, Gareth, and Dinadan arose early, and then
not sit. they went unto Sir Palomides’ chamber, and there they
What knight was that, said Arthur, that held you so short, found him fast asleep, for he had all night watched, and it
this with the shield of silver? Sir, said Sir Tristram, here was seen upon his cheeks that he had wept full sore. Say
he sitteth at this board. What, said Arthur, was it Sir nothing, said Sir Tristram, for I am sure he hath taken an-
Palomides? Wit ye well it was he, said La Beale Isoud. So ger and sorrow for the rebuke that I gave to him, and La
God me help, said Arthur, that was unknightly done of Beale Isoud.
you of so good a knight, for I have heard many people call
you a courteous knight. Sir, said Palomides, I knew not
Sir Tristram, for he was so disguised. So God me help,
said Launcelot, it may well be, for I knew not Sir Tristram;
but I marvel why ye turned on our party. That was done
for the same cause, said Launcelot.
As for that, said Sir Tristram, I have pardoned him, and I
would be right loath to leave his fellowship, for I love
right well his company: so they left off and talked of other
things.
And in the evening King Arthur and Sir Launcelot de-
parted unto their lodging; but wit ye well Sir Palomides
had envy heartily, for all that night he had never rest in his

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 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER LXXIX they stood talking thus, in came Sir Tristram as thunder,
and he encountered with Sir Kay the Seneschal, and there
How Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides did the next day, he smote him down quite from his horse; and with that
and how King Arthur was unhorsed. same spear Sir Tristram smote down three knights more,
and then he pulled out his sword and did marvellously.

T
hen Sir Tristram let call Sir Palomides, and bade
Then the noise and cry changed from Sir Palomides and
him make him ready, for it was time to go to the
turned to Sir Tristram, and all the people cried: O Tristram,
field. When they were ready they were armed,
O Tristram. And then was Sir Palomides clean forgotten.
and clothed all in red, both Isoud and all they; and so they
How now, said Launcelot unto Arthur, yonder rideth a
led her passing freshly through the field, into the priory
knight that playeth his pageants. So God me help, said
where was her lodging. And then they heard three blasts
Arthur to Launcelot, ye shall see this day that yonder two
blow, and every king and knight dressed him unto the field.
knights shall here do this day wonders. Sir, said Launcelot,
And the first that was ready to joust was Sir Palomides
the one knight waiteth upon the other, and enforceth him-
and Sir Kainus le Strange, a knight of the Table Round.
self through envy to pass the noble knight Sir Tristram,
And so they two encountered together, but Sir Palomides
and he knoweth not of the privy envy the which Sir
smote Sir Kainus so hard that he smote him quite over his
Palomides hath to him; for all that the noble Sir Tristram
horse’s croup. And forthwithal Sir Palomides smote down
doth is through clean knighthood. And then Sir Gareth
another knight, and brake then his spear, and pulled out
and Dinadan did wonderly great deeds of arms, as two
his sword and did wonderly well. And then the noise be-
noble knights, so that King Arthur spake of them great
gan greatly upon Sir Palomides. Lo, said King Arthur, yon-
honour and worship; and the kings and knights of Sir
der Palomides beginneth to play his pageant. So God me
Tristram’s side did passingly well, and held them truly
help, said Arthur, he is a passing good knight. And right as

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together. Then Sir Arthur and Sir Launcelot took their other horse. Gramercy, said Launcelot unto his brother.
horses and dressed them, and gat into the thickest of the And so when he was horsed again, with one spear he smote
press. And there Sir Tristram unknowing smote down King down four knights. And then Sir Launcelot brought to King
Arthur, and then Sir Launcelot would have rescued him, Arthur one of the best of the four horses. Then Sir
but there were so many upon Sir Launcelot that they pulled Launcelot with King Arthur and a few of his knights of
him down from his horse. And then the King of Ireland Sir Launcelot’s kin did marvellous deeds; for that time, as
and the King of Scots with their knights did their pain to the book recordeth, Sir Launcelot smote down and pulled
take King Arthur and Sir Launcelot prisoner. When Sir down thirty knights. Notwithstanding the other party held
Launcelot heard them say so, he fared as it had been an them so fast together that King Arthur and his knights were
hungry lion, for he fared so that no knight durst nigh him. overmatched. And when Sir Tristram saw that, what labour
Then came Sir Ector de Maris, and he bare a spear against King Arthur and his knights, and in especial the noble deeds
Sir Palomides, and brast it upon him all to shivers. And that Sir Launcelot did with his own hands, he marvelled
then Sir Ector came again and gave Sir Palomides such a greatly.
dash with a sword that he stooped down upon his saddle
bow. And forthwithal Sir Ector pulled down Sir Palomides
under his feet; and then Sir Ector de Maris gat Sir Launcelot
du Lake an horse, and brought it to him, and bade him
mount upon him; but Sir Palomides leapt afore and gat
the horse by the bridle, and leapt into the saddle. So God
me help, said Launcelot, ye are better worthy to have that
horse than I. Then Sir Ector brought Sir Launcelot an-

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 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER LXXX that he met. Sir Gareth and Sir Dinadan did there as noble
knights; then all the parties began to flee. Alas, said
How Sir Tristram turned to King Arthur’s side, and Palomides, that ever I should see this day, for now have I
how Palomides would not. lost all the worship that I won; and then Sir Palomides went
his way wailing, and so withdrew him till he came to a

T
hen Sir Tristram called unto him Sir Palomides,
well, and there he put his horse from him, and did off his
Sir Gareth, and Sir Dinadan, and said thus to them:
armour, and wailed and wept like as he had been a wood
My fair fellows, wit ye well that I will turn unto
man. Then many knights gave the prize to Sir Tristram, and
King Arthur’s party, for I saw never so few men do so
there were many that gave the prize unto Sir Launcelot.
well, and it will be shame unto us knights that be of the
Fair lords, said Sir Tristram, I thank you of the honour ye
Round Table to see our lord King Arthur, and that noble
would give me, but I pray you heartily that ye would give
knight Sir Launcelot, to be dishonoured. It will be well
your voice to Sir Launcelot, for by my faith said Sir Tristram,
done, said Sir Gareth and Sir Dinadan. Do your best, said
I will give Sir Launcelot my voice. But Sir Launcelot would
Palomides, for I will not change my party that I came in
not have it, and so the prize was given betwixt them both.
withal. That is for my sake, said Sir Tristram; God speed
Then every man rode to his lodging, and Sir Bleoberis
you in your journey. And so departed Sir Palomides from
and Sir Ector rode with Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud
them. Then Sir Tristram, Gareth, and Dinadan, turned with
unto their pavilions. Then as Sir Palomides was at the well
Sir Launcelot. And then Sir Launcelot smote down the
wailing and weeping, there came by him flying the kings
King of Ireland quite from his horse; and so Sir Launcelot
of Wales and of Scotland, and they saw Sir Palomides in
smote down the King of Scots, and the King of Wales;
that arage. Alas, said they, that so noble a man as ye be
and then Sir Arthur ran unto Sir Palomides and smote him
should be in this array. And then those kings gat Sir
quite from his horse; and then Sir Tristram bare down all

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Palomides’ horse again, and made him to arm him and mirths and disports that they could devise. And King Arthur
mount upon his horse, and so he rode with them, making and his knights drew unto Camelot, and Sir Palomides
great dole. So when Sir Palomides came nigh the pavil- rode with the two kings; and ever he made the greatest
ions thereas Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud was in, then dole that any man could think, for he was not all only so
Sir Palomides prayed the two kings to abide him there the dolorous for the departing from La Beale Isoud, but he
while that he spake with Sir Tristram. And when he came was a part as sorrowful to depart from the fellowship of
to the port of the pavilions, Sir Palomides said on high: Sir Tristram; for Sir Tristram was so kind and so gentle
Where art thou, Sir Tristram de Liones? Sir, said Dinadan, that when Sir Palomides remembered him thereof he might
that is Palomides. What, Sir Palomides, will ye not come never be merry.
in here among us? Fie on thee traitor, said Palomides, for
wit you well an it were daylight as it is night I should slay
thee, mine own hands. And if ever I may get thee, said
Palomides, thou shalt die for this day’s deed. Sir Palomides,
said Sir Tristram, ye wite me with wrong, for had ye done
as I did ye had won worship. But sithen ye give me so
large warning I shall be well ware of you. Fie on thee,
traitor, said Palomides, and therewith departed.
Then on the morn Sir Tristram, Bleoberis, and Sir Ector
de Maris, Sir Gareth, Sir Dinadan, what by water and what
by land, they brought La Beale Isoud unto Joyous Gard,
and there reposed them a seven night, and made all the

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 Thomas Malory
CHAPTER LXXXI had part of her conditions; and it is misfortuned me of my
sickness while that tournament endured. And as I suppose
How Sir Bleoberis and Sir Ector reported to Queen I shall never see in all my life such an assembly of knights
Guenever of the beauty of La Beale Isoud. and ladies as ye have done.
Then the knights told her how Palomides won the de-

S
o at the seven nights’ end Sir Bleoberis and Sir
gree at the first day with great noblesse; and the second
Ector departed from Sir Tristram and from the
day Sir Tristram won the degree; and the third day Sir
queen; and these two good knights had great gifts;
Launcelot won the degree. Well, said Queen Guenever,
and Sir Gareth and Sir Dinadan abode with Sir Tristram.
who did best all these three days? So God me help, said
And when Sir Bleoberis and Sir Ector were come there as
these knights, Sir Launcelot and Sir Tristram had least
the Queen Guenever was lodged, in a castle by the sea-
dishonour. And wit ye well Sir Palomides
side, and through the grace of God the queen was recov-
did passing well and mightily; but he turned against the
ered of her malady, then she asked the two knights from
party that he came in withal, and that caused him to lose a
whence they came. They said that they came from Sir
great part of his worship, for it seemed that Sir Palomides
Tristram and from La Beale Isoud. How doth Sir Tristram,
is passing envious. Then shall he never win worship, said
said the queen, and La Beale Isoud? Truly, said those two
Queen Guenever, for an it happeth an envious man once
knights, he doth as a noble knight should do; and as for
to win worship he shall be dishonoured twice therefore;
the Queen Isoud, she is peerless of all ladies; for to speak
and for this cause all men of worship hate an envious man,
of her beauty, bounté, and mirth, and of her goodness, we
and will shew him no favour, and he that is courteous, and
saw never her match as far as we have ridden and gone. O
kind, and gentle, hath favour in every place.
mercy Jesu, said Queen Gu enever, so saith all the people
that have seen her and spoken with her. God would that I

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CHAPTER LXXXII are; for I dare say, said Palomides, that my sorrow is an
hundred fold more than yours is, and therefore let us com-
How Epinogris complained by a well, and how Sir plain either to other. First, said the wounded knight, I re-
Palomides came and found him, and of their both sor- quire you tell me your name, for an thou be none of the
rowing.
noble knights of the Round Table thou shalt never know
my name, whatsomever come of me. Fair knight, said

N
ow leave we of this matter and speak we of Sir
Palomides, that rode and lodged him with the Palomides, such as I am, be it better or be it worse, wit
two kings, whereof the kings were heavy. Then thou well that my name is Sir Palomides, son and heir
the King of Ireland sent a man of his to Sir Palomides, and unto King Astlabor, and Sir Safere and Sir Segwarides are
gave him a great courser, and the King of Scotland gave my two brethren; and wit thou well as for myself I was
him great gifts; and fain they would have had Sir Palomides never christened, but my two brethren are truly christened.
to have abiden with them, but in no wise he would abide; O noble knight, said that knight, well is me that I have
and so he departed, and rode as adventures would guide met with you; and wit ye well my name is Epinogris, the
him, till it was nigh noon. And then in a forest by a well king’s son of Northumberland. Now sit down, said
Sir Palomides saw where lay a fair wounded knight and Epinogris, and let us either complain to other.
his horse bounden by him; and that knight made the great- Then Sir Palomides began his complaint. Now shall I
est dole that ever he heard man make, for ever he wept, tell you, said Palomides, what woe I endure. I love the
and therewith he sighed as though he would die. Then Sir fairest queen and lady that ever bare life, and wit ye well
Palomides rode near him and saluted him mildly and said: her name is La Beale Isoud, King Mark’s wife of Cornwall.
Fair knight, why wail ye so? let me lie down and wail That is great folly, said Epinogris, for to love Queen Isoud,
with you, for doubt not I am much more heavier than ye for one of the best knights of the world loveth her, that is

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 Thomas Malory
Sir Tristram de Liones. That is truth, said Palomides, for befall such prowess as I had in the fellowship of Sir
no man knoweth that matter better than I do, for I have Tristram.
been in Sir Tristram’s fellowship this month, and with La
Beale Isoud together; and alas, said Palomides, unhappy
man that I am, now have I lost the fellowship of Sir Tristram
for ever, and the love of La Beale Isoud for ever, and I am
never like to see her more, and Sir Tristram and I be either
to other mortal enemies. Well, said Epinogris, sith that ye
loved La Beale Isoud, loved she you ever again by any-
thing that ye could think or wit, or else did ye rejoice her
ever in any pleasure? Nay, by my knighthood, said
Palomides, I never espied that ever she loved me more
than all the world, nor never had I pleasure with her, but
the last day she gave me the greatest rebuke that ever I
had, the which shall never go from my heart. And yet I
well deserved that rebuke, for I did not knightly, and there-
fore I have lost the love of her and of Sir Tristram for
ever; and I have many times enforced myself to do many
deeds for La Beale Isoud’s sake, and she was the causer of
my worship-winning. Alas, said Sir Palomides, now have
I lost all the worship that ever I won, for never shall me

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CHAPTER LXXXIII That is truth, said Palomides, but sith I can never recover
myself I shall promise you if I can meet with Sir Helior I
How Sir Palomides brought Sir Epinogris his lady; and shall get you your lady again, or else he shall beat me.
how Sir Palomides and Sir Safere were assailed. Then Sir Palomides made Sir Epinogris to take his horse,
and so they rode to an hermitage, and there Sir Epinogris

N
ay, nay, said Epinogris, your sorrow is but japes
rested him. And in the meanwhile Sir Palomides walked
to my sorrow; for I rejoiced my lady and won
privily out to rest him under the leaves, and there beside
her with my hands, and lost her again: alas that
he saw a knight come riding with a shield that he had seen
day! Thus first I won her, said Epinogris; my lady was an
Sir Ector de Maris bear beforehand; and there came after
earl’s daughter, and as the earl and two knights came from
him a ten knights, and so these ten knights hoved under
the tournament of Lonazep, for her sake I set upon this
the leaves for heat. And anon after there came a knight
earl and on his two knights, my lady there being present;
with a green shield and therein a white lion, leading a lady
and so by fortune there I slew the earl and one of the
upon a palfrey. Then this knight with the green shield that
knights, and the other knight fled, and so that night I had
seemed to be master of the ten knights, he rode fiercely
my lady. And on the morn as she and I reposed us at this
after Sir Helior, for it was he that hurt Sir Epinogris. And
well-side there came there to me an errant knight, his name
when he came nigh Sir Helior he bade him defend his
was Sir Helior le Preuse, an hardy knight, and this Sir
lady. I will defend her, said Helior, unto my power. And
Helior challenged me to fight for my lady. And then we
so they ran together so mightily that either of these knights
went to battle first upon horse and after on foot, but at the
smote other down, horse and all, to the earth; and then
last Sir Helior wounded me so that he left me for dead,
they won up lightly and drew their swords and their shields,
and so he took my lady with him; and thus my sorrow is
and lashed together mightily more than an hour. All this
more than yours, for I have rejoiced and ye rejoiced never.

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 Thomas Malory
Sir Palomides saw and beheld, but ever at the last the knight think it never not; an thou were as good a knight as is Sir
with Sir Ector’s shield was bigger, and at the last this knight Launcelot, or as is Sir Tristram, or Sir Palomides, but thou
smote Sir Helior down, and then that knight unlaced his shalt win her dearer than ever did I. And so they went unto
helm to have stricken off his head. And then he cried mercy, battle upon foot, and there they gave many sad strokes,
and prayed him to save his life, and bade him take his and either wounded other passing sore, and thus they
lady. Then Sir Palomides dressed him up, because he wist fought still more than an hour.
well that that same lady was Epinogris’ lady, and he prom- Then Sir Palomides had marvel what knight he might
ised him to help him. be that was so strong and so well breathed during, and
Then Sir Palomides went straight to that lady, and took thus said Palomides: Knight, I require thee tell me thy
her by the hand, and asked her whether she knew a knight name. Wit thou well, said that knight, I dare tell thee my
that hight Epinogris. Alas, she said, that ever he knew me name, so that thou wilt tell me thy name. I will, said
or I him, for I have for his sake lost my worship, and also Palomides. Truly, said that knight, my name is Safere, son
his life grieveth me most of all. Not so, lady, said of King Astlabor, and Sir Palomides and Sir Segwarides
Palomides, come on with me, for here is Epinogris in this are my brethren. Now, and wit thou well, my name is Sir
hermitage. Ah! well is me, said the lady, an he be alive. Palomides. Then Sir Safere kneeled down upon his knees,
Whither wilt thou with that lady? said the knight with Sir and prayed him of mercy; and then they unlaced their helms
Ector’s shield. I will do with her what me list, said and either kissed other weeping. And in the meanwhile
Palomides. Wit you well, said that knight, thou speakest Sir Epinogris arose out of his bed, and heard them by the
over large, though thou seemest me to have at advantage, strokes, and so he armed him to help Sir Palomides if need
because thou sawest me do battle but late. Thou weenest, were.
sir knight, to have that lady away from me so lightly? nay,

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CHAPTER LXXXIV day until after noon. And at the last they heard a great
weeping and a great noise down in a manor. Sir, said then
How Sir Palomides and Sir Safere conducted Sir Sir Safere, let us wit what noise this is. I will well, said Sir
Epinogris to his castle, and of other adventures. Palomides. And so they rode forth till that they came to a
fair gate of a manor, and there sat an old man saying his

T
hen Sir Palomides took the lady by the hand and
prayers and beads. Then Sir Palomides and Sir Safere
brought her to Sir Epinogris, and there was great
alighted and left their horses, and went within the gates,
joy betwixt them, for either swooned for joy.
and there they saw full many goodly men weeping. Fair
When they were met: Fair knight and lady, said Sir Safere,
sirs, said Palomides, wherefore weep ye and make this
it were pity to depart you; Jesu send you joy either of other.
sorrow? Anon one of the knights of the castle beheld Sir
Gramercy, gentle knight, said Epinogris; and much more
Palomides and knew him, and then went to his fellows
thanks be to my lord Sir Palomides, that thus hath through
and said: Fair fellows, wit ye well all, we have in this
his prowess made me to get my lady. Then Sir Epinogris
castle the same knight that slew our lord at Lonazep, for I
required Sir Palomides and Sir Safere, his brother, to ride
know him well; it is Sir Palomides. Then they went unto
with them unto his castle, for the safeguard of his person.
harness, all that might bear harness, some on horseback
Sir, said Palomides, we will be ready to conduct you be-
and some on foot, to the number of three score. And when
cause that ye are sore wounded; and so was Epinogris and
they were ready they came freshly upon Sir Palomides
his lady horsed, and his lady behind him upon a soft ambler.
and upon Sir Safere with a great noise, and said thus: Keep
And then they rode unto his castle, where they had great
thee, Sir Palomides, for thou art known, and by right thou
cheer and joy, as great as ever Sir Palomides and Sir Safere
must be dead, for thou hast slain our lord; and therefore
had in their life-days.
wit ye well we will slay thee, therefore defend thee.
So on the morn Sir Safere and Sir Palomides departed,

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Then Sir Palomides and Sir Safere, the one set his back his legs under an old steed’s belly. And then they rode
to the other, and gave many great strokes, and took many with Sir Palomides unto a castle by the seaside, that hight
great strokes; and thus they fought with a twenty knights Pelownes, and there Sir Palomides should have justice.
and forty gentlemen and yeomen nigh two hours. But at Thus was their ordinance; and so they rode with Sir
the last though they were loath, Sir Palomides and Sir Palomides fast by the castle of Joyous Gard. And as they
Safere were taken and yolden, and put in a strong prison; passed by that castle there came riding out of that castle
and within three days twelve knights passed upon them, by them one that knew Sir Palomides. And when that
and they found Sir Palomides guilty, and Sir Safere not knight saw Sir Palomides bounden upon a crooked courser,
guilty, of their lord’s death. And when Sir Safere should the knight asked Sir Palomides for what cause he was led
be delivered there was great dole betwixt Sir Palomides so. Ah, my fair fellow and knight, said Palomides, I ride
and him, and many piteous complaints that Sir Safere made toward my death for the slaying of a knight at a tourna-
at his departing, there is no maker can rehearse the tenth ment of Lonazep; and if I had not departed from my lord
part. Fair brother, said Palomides, let be thy dolour and Sir Tristram, as I ought not to have done, now might I
thy sorrow. And if I be ordained to die a shameful death, have been sure to have had my life saved; but I pray you,
welcome be it; but an I had wist of this death that I am sir knight, recommend me unto my lord, Sir Tristram, and
deemed unto, I should never have been yolden. So Sir unto my lady, Queen Isoud, and say to them if ever I tres-
Safere departed from his brother with the greatest dolour passed to them I ask them forgiveness. And also I beseech
and sorrow that ever made knight. you recommend me unto my lord, King Arthur, and to all
And on the morn they of the castle ordained twelve the fellowship of the Round Table, unto my power. Then
knights to ride with Sir Palomides unto the father of the that knight wept for pity of Sir Palomides; and therewithal
same knight that Sir Palomides slew; and so they bound he rode unto Joyous Gard as fast as his horse might run,

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and lightly that knight descended down off his horse and CHAPTER LXXXV
went unto Sir Tristram, and there he told him all as ye
have heard, and ever the knight wept as he had been mad. How Sir Tristram made him ready to rescue Sir
Palomides, but Sir Launcelot rescued him or he came.

W
hen Sir Tristram heard how Sir Palomides
went to his death, he was heavy to hear that,
and said: Howbeit that I am wroth with Sir
Palomides, yet will not I suffer him to die so shameful a
death, for he is a full noble knight. And then anon Sir
Tristram was armed and took his horse and two squires
with him, and rode a great pace toward the castle of
Pelownes where Sir Palomides was judged to death. And
these twelve knights that led Sir Palomides passed by a
well whereas Sir Launcelot was, which was alighted there,
and had tied his horse to a tree, and taken off his helm to
drink of that well; and when he saw these knights, Sir
Launcelot put on his helm and suffered them to pass by
him. And then was he ware of Sir Palomides bounden,
and led shamefully to his death. O Jesu, said Launcelot,
what misadventure is befallen him that he is thus led to-
ward his death? Forsooth, said Launcelot, it were shame

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 Thomas Malory
to me to suffer this noble knight so to die an I might help laid them to the earth, and the most part of them were sore
him, therefore I will help him whatsomever come of it, or wounded. And then Sir Launcelot took the best horse that
else I shall die for Sir Palomides’ sake. And then Sir he found, and loosed Sir Palomides and set him upon that
Launcelot mounted upon his horse, and gat his spear in horse; and so they returned again unto Joyous Gard, and
his hand, and rode after the twelve knights that led Sir then was Sir Palomides ware of Sir Tristram how he came
Palomides. Fair knights, said Sir Launcelot, whither lead riding. And when Sir Launcelot saw him he knew him
ye that knight? it beseemeth him full ill to ride bounden. well, but Sir Tristram knew him not because Sir Launcelot
Then these twelve knights suddenly turned their horses had on his shoulder a golden shield. So Sir Launcelot made
and said to Sir Launcelot: Sir knight, we counsel thee not him ready to joust with Sir Tristram, that Sir Tristram
to meddle with this knight, for he hath deserved death, should not ween that he were Sir Launcelot. Then Sir
and unto death he is judged. That me repenteth, said Palomides cried aloud to Sir Tristram: O my lord, I re-
Launcelot, that I may not borrow him with fairness, for he quire you joust not with this knight, for this good knight
is over good a knight to die such a shameful death. And hath saved me from my death. When Sir Tristram heard
therefore, fair knights, said Sir Launcelot, keep you as well him say so he came a soft trotting pace toward them. And
as ye can, for I will rescue that knight or die for it. then Sir Palomides said: My lord, Sir Tristram, much am I
Then they began to dress their spears, and Sir Launcelot beholding unto you of your great goodness, that would
smote the foremost down, horse and man, and so he served proffer your noble body to rescue me undeserved, for I
three more with one spear; and then that spear brast, and have greatly offended you. Notwithstanding, said Sir
therewithal Sir Launcelot drew his sword, and then he Palomides, here met we with this noble knight that wor-
smote on the right hand and on the left hand. Then within shipfully and manly rescued me from twelve knights, and
a while he left none of those twelve knights, but he had smote them down all and wounded them sore.

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CHAPTER LXXXVI And when they were come within Joyous Gard they
alighted, and their horses were led into a stable; and then
How Sir Tristram and Launcelot, with Palomides, came they unarmed them. And when Sir Launcelot was
to joyous Gard; and of Palomides and Sir Tristram. unhelmed, Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides knew him. Then
Sir Tristram took Sir Launcelot in arms, and so did La

F
air knight, said Sir Tristram unto Sir Launcelot, of
Beale Isoud; and Palomides kneeled down upon his knees
whence be ye? I am a knight errant, said Sir
and thanked Sir Launcelot. When Sir Launcelot saw Sir
Launcelot, that rideth to seek many adventures.
Palomides kneel he lightly took him up and said thus: Wit
What is your name? said Sir Tristram. Sir, at this time I
thou well, Sir Palomides, I and any knight in this land, of
will not tell you. Then Sir Launcelot said unto Sir Tristram
worship ought of very right succour and rescue so noble a
and to Palomides: Now either of you are met together I
knight as ye are proved and renowned, throughout all this
will depart from you. Not so, said Sir Tristram; I pray you
realm endlong and overthwart. And then was there joy
of knighthood to ride with me unto my castle. Wit you
among them, and the oftener that Sir Palomides saw La
well, said Sir Launcelot, I may not ride with you, for I
Beale Isoud the heavier he waxed day by day.
have many deeds to do in other places, that at this time I
Then Sir Launcelot within three or four days departed,
may not abide with you. Ah, mercy Jesu, said Sir Tristram,
and with him rode Sir Ector de Maris; and Dinadan and
I require you as ye be a true knight to the order of knight-
Sir Palomides were there left with Sir Tristram a two
hood, play you with me this night. Then Sir Tristram had
months and more. But ever Sir Palomides faded and
a grant of Sir Launcelot: howbeit though he had not de-
mourned, that all men had marvel wherefore he faded so
sired him he would have ridden with them, outher soon
away. So upon a day, in the dawning, Sir Palomides went
have come after them; for Sir Launcelot came for none
into the forest by himself alone; and there he found a well,
other cause into that country but for to see Sir Tristram.

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 Thomas Malory
and then he looked into the well, and in the water he saw lay Sir Palomides by the well and sang loud and merrily;
his own visage, how he was disturbed and defaded, noth- and ever the complaints were of that noble queen, La Beale
ing like that he was. What may this mean? said Sir Isoud, the which was marvellously and wonderfully well
Palomides, and thus he said to himself: Ah, Palomides, said, and full dolefully and piteously made. And all the
Palomides, why art thou defaded, thou that was wont to whole song the noble knight, Sir Tristram, heard from the
be called one of the fairest knights of the world? I will no beginning to the ending, the which grieved and troubled
more lead this life, for I love that I may never get nor him sore.
recover. And therewithal he laid him down by the well. But then at the last, when Sir Tristram had heard all Sir
And then he began to make a rhyme of La Beale Isoud Palomides’ complaints, he was wroth out of measure, and
and him. thought for to slay him thereas he lay. Then Sir Tristram
And in the meanwhile Sir Tristram was that same day remembered himself that Sir Palomides was unarmed, and
ridden into the forest to chase the hart of greese; but Sir of the noble name that Sir Palomides had, and the noble
Tristram would not ride a-hunting never more unarmed, name that himself had, and then he made a restraint of his
because of Sir Breuse Saunce Pité. And so as Sir Tristram anger; and so he went unto Sir Palomides a soft pace and
rode into that forest up and down, he heard one sing said: Sir Palomides, I have heard your complaint, and of
marvellously loud, and that was Sir Palomides that lay by thy treason that thou hast owed me so long, and wit thou
the well. And then Sir Tristram rode softly thither, for he well therefore thou shalt die; and if it were not for shame of
deemed there was some knight errant that was at the well. knighthood thou shouldest not escape my hands, for now I
And when Sir Tristram came nigh him he descended down know well thou hast awaited me with treason. Tell me, said
from his horse and tied his horse fast till a tree, and then Sir Tristram, how thou wilt acquit thee? Sir, said Palomides,
he came near him on foot; and anon he was ware where thus I will acquit me: as for Queen La Beale Isoud, ye shall

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wit well that I love her above all other ladies in this world; CHAPTER LXXXVII
and well I wot it shall befall me as for her love as befell to
the noble knight Sir Kehydius, that died for the love of La How there was a day set between Sir Tristram and Sir
Palomides for to fight, and how Sir Tristram was hurt.
Beale Isoud. And now, Sir Tristram, I will that ye wit that I
have loved La Beale Isoud many a day, and she hath been

T
hen said Sir Tristram: I will fight with you to the
the causer of my worship, and else I had been the most
uttermost. I grant, said Palomides, for in a better
simplest knight in the world. For by her, and because of
quarrel keep I never to fight, for an I die of your
her, I have won the worship that I have; for when I remem-
hands, of a better knight’s hands may I not be slain. And
bered me of La Beale Isoud I won the worship
sithen I understand that I shall never rejoice La Beale Isoud,
wheresomever I came for the most part; and yet had I never
I have as good will to die as to live. Then set ye a day, said
reward nor bounté of her the days of my life, and yet have I
Sir Tristram, that we shall do battle. This day fifteen days,
been her knight guerdonless. And therefore, Sir Tristram,
said Palomides, will I meet with you hereby, in the meadow
as for any death I dread not, for I had as lief die as to live.
under Joyous Gard. Fie for shame, said Sir Tristram, will
And if I were armed as thou art, I should lightly do battle
ye set so long day? let us fight to-morn. Not so, said
with thee. Well have ye uttered your treason, said Tristram.
Palomides, for I am meagre, and have been long sick for
I have done to you no treason, said Palomides, for love is
the love of La Beale Isoud, and therefore I will repose me
free for all men, and though I have loved your lady, she is
till I have my strength again. So then Sir Tristram and Sir
my lady as well as yours; howbeit I have wrong if any wrong
Palomides promised faith fully to meet at the well that
be, for ye rejoice her, and have your desire of her, and so
day fifteen days. I am remembered, said Sir Tristram to
had I never nor never am like to have, and yet shall I love
Palomides, that ye brake me once a promise when that I
her to the uttermost days of my life as well as ye.
rescued you from Breuse Saunce Pité and nine knights;

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 Thomas Malory
and then ye promised me to meet me at the peron and the Palomides, as to do battle with him within three days af-
grave beside Camelot, whereas at that time ye failed of ter, than for any hurt of his thigh. Wherefore there was
your promise. Wit you well, said Palomides unto Sir neither man nor woman that could cheer him with any-
Tristram, I was at that day in prison, so that I might not thing that they could make to him, neither Queen La Beale
hold my promise. So God me help, said Sir Tristram, an Isoud; for ever he deemed that Sir Palomides had smitten
ye had holden your promise this work had not been here him so that he should not be able to do battle with him at
now at this time. the day set.
Right so departed Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides. And
so Sir Palomides took his horse and his harness, and he
rode unto King Arthur’s court; and there Sir Palomides
gat him four knights and four sergeants-of-arms, and so
he returned againward unto Joyous Gard. And in the mean-
while Sir Tristram chased and hunted at all manner of ven-
ery; and about three days afore the battle should be, as Sir
Tristram chased an hart, there was an archer shot at the
hart, and by misfortune he smote Sir Tristram in the thick
of the thigh, and the arrow slew Sir Tristram’s horse and
hurt him. When Sir Tristram was so hurt he was passing
heavy, and wit ye well he bled sore; and then he took an-
other horse, and rode unto Joyous Gard with great heavi-
ness, more for the promise that he had made with Sir

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CHAPTER LXXXVIII bed. My lord Sir Tristram, said Palomides’ squire, wit you
well my lord, Palomides, abideth you in the field, and he
How Sir Palomides kept his day to have foughten, but would wit whether ye would do battle or not. Ah, my fair
Sir Tristram might not come; and other things. brother, said Sir Tristram, wit thou well that I am right
heavy for these tidings; therefore tell Sir Palomides an I

B
ut in no wise there was no knight about Sir
were well at ease I would not lie here, nor he should have
Tristram that would believe that ever Sir
no need to send for me an I might either ride or go; and for
Palomides would hurt Sir Tristram, neither by
thou shalt say that I am no liar—Sir Tristram showed him
his own hands nor by none other consenting. Then when
his thigh that the wound was six inches deep. And now
the fifteenth day was come, Sir Palomides came to the
thou hast seen my hurt, tell thy lord that this is no feigned
well with four knights with him of Arthur’s court, and three
matter, and tell him that I had liefer than all the gold of
sergeants-of-arms. And for this intent Sir Palomides
King Arthur that I were whole; and tell Palomides as soon
brought the knights with him and the sergeants-of-arms,
as I am whole I shall seek him endlong and overthwart,
for they should bear record of the battle betwixt Sir
and that I promise you as I am true knight; and if ever I
Tristram and Sir Palomides. And the one sergeant brought
may meet with him, he shall have battle of me his fill. And
in his helm, the other his spear, the third his sword. So
with this the squire departed; and when Palomides wist
thus Palomides came into the field, and there he abode
that Tristram was hurt he was glad and said: Now I am
nigh two hours; and then he sent a squire unto Sir Tristram,
sure I shall have no shame, for I wot well I should have
and desired him to come into the field to hold his promise.
had hard handling of him, and by likely I must needs have
When the squire was come to Joyous Gard, anon as Sir
had the worse, for he is the hardest knight in battle that
Tristram heard of his coming he let command that the
now is living except Sir Launcelot.
squire should come to his presence thereas he lay in his

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 Thomas Malory
And then departed Sir Palomides whereas fortune led they were passing glad, and made great joy. And then they
him, and within a month Sir Tristram was whole of his of Liones sent letters unto Sir Tristram of recommendation,
hurt. And then he took his horse, and rode from country to and many great gifts to maintain Sir Tristram’s estate; and
country, and all strange adventures he achieved ever, between, Sir Tristram resorted unto Joyous Gard
wheresomever he rode; and always he enquired for Sir whereas La Beale Isoud was, that loved him as her life.
Palomides, but of all that quarter of summer Sir Tristram
Here endeth the tenth book which is of Sir Tristram.
could never meet with Sir Palomides. But thus as Sir
And here followeth the eleventh book which is of
Tristram sought and enquired after Sir Palomides Sir Sir Launcelot.
Tristram achieved many great battles, wherethrough all the
noise fell to Sir Tristram, and it ceased of Sir Launcelot;
and therefore Sir Launcelot’s brethren and his kinsmen
would have slain Sir Tristram because of his fame. But when To return to the Electronic
Sir Launcelot wist how his kinsmen were set, he said to Classics Series page, go to
them openly: Wit you well, that an the envy of you all be so http://www2.hn.psu.edu/faculty/
hardy to wait upon my lord, Sir Tristram, with any hurt, jmanis/jimspdf.htm
shame, or villainy, as I am true knight I shall slay the best of
you with mine own hands Alas, fie for shame, should ye for
his noble deeds await upon him to slay him. Jesu defend, To return to the Malory page, go to
said Launcelot, that ever any noble knight as Sir Tristram is http://www2.hn.psu.edu/faculty/
should be destroyed with treason. Of this noise and fame jmanis/malory.htm
sprang into Cornwall, and among them of Liones, whereof

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