So as he journeyed upon the way,
Him soon the sly enchaunter over-hent,
Clad like a Fairy knight in armour gay,
With painted shield, and spear right forward bent,
In knightly guise and shew of hardiment,
That aye prepared was for bloody fight.
Whereat the Elfin knight with speeches gent
Him first saluted, who, well as he might,
Him fair salutes again, as seemeth courteous knight.