es
he undertook, without reproach and without blame. Perceval hath ridden
until he hath overtaken the damsel that carried the rich cup of gold
and the knight that was along with her. Perceval saluteth him, and the
knight maketh answer, may he be blessed of God and of His sweet Mother.

"Fair Sir," saith Perceval, "Is this damsel of your company?"

Saith the knight, "Rather am I of hers. But we are going to an
assembly of knights that is to be under the White Tower to the intent
to prove which knight is most worth, and to him that shall have the
prize of the assembly shall be delivered this golden cup."

"By my head," saith Perceval, "That will be fair to see!"

He departeth from the knight and the damsel, and goeth his way a great
pace amidst the meadows under the White Tower, whither the knights were
coming from all parts, and many of them were already armed to issue
forth. So soon as it was known that the damsel with the cup was come
thither, the fellowships assembled on all sides, and great was the
clashing of arms. Perceval hurleth into the assembly in such sort that
many a knight he smiteth down and overthroweth at his coming, and he
giveth so many blows and so many receiveth that all they that behold
marvel much how he may abide. The assembly lasted until evensong, and
when it came to an end the damsel came to the knights and prayed and
required that they would declare to her by right judgment of arms which
had done the best. The more part said that he of the white shield had
surpassed them all in arms, and all agreed thereto. The damsel was
right glad, for well she knew that they spake truth. She cometh to
Perceval; "Sir," saith she, "I present you this cup of gold for your
good chivalry, and therefore is it meet and right you should know
whence the cup cometh. The elder Damsel of the Tent where the evil
custom was wont to be, sent it to Messire Gawain, and Messire Gawain
made much joy thereof. And it came to pass on such wise that Brundans,
the son of the sister of Briant of the Isles, slew Meliot of Logres,
the most courteous knight and the most valiant that was in the realm of
Logres, and thereof was Messire Gawain so sorrowful that he knew not
how to contain himself. For Meliot had twice rescued him from death,
and King Arthur once. He was liegeman of Messire Gawain. Wherefore he
prayeth and beseecheth you on his behalf that you receive not the cup
save you undertake to avenge him. For he was l