ath. Riding together these three knights, overtaken by a
storm, sought shelter in a neighboring castle, only to be refused
admittance. To escape from the downpour, they therefore took refuge
with their steeds in a neighboring shed, and were scarcely ensconced
there when another stranger rode up seeking shelter too. As there was
no room left, the first-comers forbade the stranger to enter,
whereupon he challenged them to come forth and fight. Hearing this,
Sir Paridell sallied out and began a duel, which was closely watched
by his two companions. They, however, decided that the combatants were
so exactly matched that it was useless to continue the fight, and
suggested that they four join forces to make their way into the
castle.

Before the determined attack of these knights and of their followers,
Malbecco, owner of the castle, opened his gates, and the strangers
proceeded to remove their armor and make themselves at home. While
doing so all present were startled to see that one of their number was
a woman, for the last-comer, Britomart, had no sooner removed her
helmet than her curls fell down over her shoulders!

The next day all left the castle save Sir Paridell, who had been so
sorely wounded by Britomart that he was forced to remain there for a
while. Before long Britomart and her squire parted from Sir Satyrane
and the Squire of Dames, and rode along until they beheld a shield
hanging from a branch in the forest. Surprised by such a sight, they
investigated, only to find its owner, Sir Scudamore, weeping beside a
stream, because his bride, Amoret, had been stolen from him on his
wedding day by the magician Busirane, who was trying to force her to
marry him. Having heard this tale of woe, Britomart informed Sir
Scudamore that instead of shedding vain tears they ought to devise
means to rescue the captive lady. Encouraged by these words, Sir
Scudamore donned his discarded armor and volunteered to guide
Britomart to the magician's castle, explaining on the way that it was
surrounded by a wall of fire through which none had been able to pass.

Undaunted by this information, Britomart pressed onward, and on
reaching the castle declared her intention to charge through the
flames. Although Sir Scudamore bravely tried to accompany her, he was
driven back by the fierce heat, but Britomart passed through
scatheless, and, entering the castle, found herself in a large room,
whence led a door with the inscription "Be bold."