knights, came late, with the blessing of his father, who was none
other than King of Ireland.

A brave show they all made, these many knights seeking adventure, and
each, as he so easily bestrode his steed, found it hard matter to find
comrade and friend, for the many who were there. Gay were the colors
each knight wore and on some fortune had smiled, for these carried
token of some fair lady. Of fair ladies there were many to watch the
deeds of skill and bravery and most beautiful of them all, was
Arthur's queen, Guenever.

Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine had found no need to journey to
Cornwall. For word had come that Sir Tristram had had a bitter quarrel
with King Mark and had left his court carrying that wicked King's
curse. Tristram had made final demand on the traitorous King to
release the maiden Beatrice whom he was holding for ransom and this
the King had had no mind to do. Then had the bold knight himself made
for the door of the great dungeon and with hilt of sword knocked long
and loud to summon the keeper. And when the door was opened this same
keeper could not withstay him, nor would he. Then had Tristram carried
the maiden to point of safety and so earned her gratitude. Nor would
any knight of King Mark take issue with him for none felt the King's
deed to be knightly. And though the King made pretense of bearing no
ill will, yet did Sir Tristram leave Cornwall that same day.

And Sir Gawaine knew not whether to be pleased or otherwise at the
news.

"I would have fancied making rescue of the Lady Beatrice myself. And
fancied even more to have told King Mark the scurvy knave I deem him;