they were thus taking leave, Beaumains's dwarf had ridden ahead to
the besieged castle, where he saw the Lady Lioness, and told her of the
champion her sister was bringing, and what deeds he had done.

"I am glad enough of these tidings," said the lady. "There is a
hermitage of mine near by, where I would have you go, and take thither
two silver flagons of wine, of two gallons each; also bread, baked
venison, and fowls. I give you also a rich cup of gold for the knight's
use. Then go to my sister, and bid her present my thanks to the knight,
and pray him to eat and drink, that he may be strong for the great task
he undertakes. Tell him I thank him for his courtesy and goodness, and
that he whom he is to meet has none of these qualities, but strong and
bold as he is, cares for nothing but murder."

This message the dwarf brought back, and led the knight and damsel to
the hermitage, where they rested and feasted on the rich food provided.
They spent the night there, and in the morning heard mass and broke
their fast. Then they mounted and rode towards the besieged castle.

Their journey soon brought them to a plain, where they saw many tents
and pavilions, and a castle in the distance. And there was a great noise
and much smoke, as from a large encampment. As they came nearer the
castle Beaumains saw before him a number of great trees, and from these
hung by the neck armed knights, with their shields and swords, and gilt
spurs on their heels. Of these there were in all nearly forty.

"What means this sorrowful sight?" asked Beaumains, with a look of deep
concern.

"Do not be depressed by what you see," said Linet. "You must keep in
spirit, or it will be the worse for you and us all. These knights came
here to the rescue of my sister, and the red knight, when he had
overcome them, put them to this shameful death, without mercy or pity.
He will serve you in the same way if he should vanquish you."

"Jesu defend me from such a shameful death and disgrace!" cried
Beaumains. "If I must die, I hope to be slain in open battle."

"It would be better, indeed. But trust not to his courtesy, for thus he
treats all."

"It is a marvel that so vile a murderer has been left to live so long. I
shall do my best to end his career of crime."

Then they rode to the castle, and found it surrounded with high and
strong walls, with double ditches, and lofty towers within. Near the
walls were lodged many lords of the besieging army, an