had already passed the four knights of Arthur's court, without a combat,
and they now rode in the same way past Tristram and Dinadan, with no
show of hostility.

But Tristram was of different mettle. Turning towards them he cried with
a voice of thunder,--"Lo! sir villains. I have heard of your plot to
murder Lancelot. Turn and defend yourselves. Here is a knight ready to
fight you all for the love of Lancelot du Lake!"

Then, spurring his good war-steed, he rode upon them with the fury of a
lion, slaying two with his spear. He then drew his mighty blade, and
attacked them with such fierce spirit and giant strength that ten more
soon fell dead beneath his furious blows. Nor did Dinadan stand and look
on, as he had grumblingly threatened, but rode in and aided Tristram
nobly, more than one of the villains falling before his blows. When, at
length, the murderous crew took to flight, there were but ten of them
alive.

Sir Bors and his companions had seen this battle at a distance, but it
was all over before they could reach the scene of fray. High was their
praise of the valor and prowess of the victor, who, they said, had done
such a deed as they had deemed only Lancelot could perform.

They invited him with knightly warmth and courtesy to go with them to
their lodging.

"Many thanks, fair sirs," said Tristram, "but I cannot go with you."

"Then tell us your name, that we may remember it as that of one of the
best of knights, and give you the honor which is your due."

"Nor that either," answered Tristram. "In good time you shall know my
name, but not now."

Leaving them with the dead knights, Tristram and Dinadan rode forward,
and in time found themselves near a party of shepherds and herdsmen,
whom they asked if any lodging was to be had near by.

"That there is," said the herdsmen, "and good lodging, in a castle close
at hand. But it is not to be had for the asking. The custom of that
castle is that no knight shall lodge there except he fight with two
knights of the castle. But as you are two, you can fight your battle man
for man, if you seek lodging there."

"That is rough pay for a night's rest," said Dinadan. "Lodge where you
will, I will not rest in that castle. I have done enough to-day to spoil
my appetite for fighting."

"Come, come," said Tristram, "and you a Knight of the Round Table! You
cannot refuse to win your lodging in knightly fashion."

"Win it you must if you want it," said the herdsmen