ds the close of a summer's day, Sir
Owen, by the magic whereby it was made known to him, knew that there
was a knight who challenged him at the fountain. So, putting on his
sky-blue armour, he went forth and found the knight.

They rushed together, and the strange knight was overthrown. But others
who were with him took him away, and Sir Owen waited. But none other
challenge was made, and in the twilight he retired, resolved to attend
next day in case any others desired to challenge him.

In the morning the same knight came forth from the company of knights
which was among the trees about the fountain. And so fiercely did Sir
Owen assail him that the head of his lance broke the helmet of the
stranger and pierced the flesh to the bone. Again his companions
carried him off.

Then other knights came forth and had to do with Sir Owen, but all were
overthrown. At length came one having over himself and his horse a rich
satin robe of honour, and Sir Owen knew that he must be a man of great
dignity, big of body and of knightly prowess.

They fought together that evening and half through the next day, but
neither could obtain the mastery. And about noon they took still
stronger lances and fought most stubbornly. At length they came so
furiously together that the girths of their horses were broken and both
were borne to the ground.

They rose up speedily and drew their swords and resumed the combat; and
all those that witnessed it felt that they had never seen such a battle
of heroes before. And suddenly with a blow fiercely strong and swiftly
keen, Sir Owen cut the fastenings of the strange knight's helm, so that
the headpiece came off.

With a cry Sir Owen dropped his weapon, for he knew that this was Sir
Gawaine, his cousin.

'My Lord Gawaine,' he said, 'the robe of honour that covered thee
prevented my knowing it was thee with whom I fought. Take my sword and
my arms, for I yield me to thee.'

'Nay, Sir Owen,' said Gawaine, 'take thou mine, for I am at thy mercy.'

Then came forward King Arthur, and Sir Owen knew him and kneeled before
him and kissed his hand, and then embraced him. And there was much joy
between all the knights and Owen, for all had feared that he had been
slain, and the king in despair had come upon this adventure to learn
tidings of him.

Then they all proceeded to the castle of the countess, and a great
banquet was prepared, with joustings and hawking parties and games.
They stayed three mon