Tristram

Sir Tristram de Liones was the son of King Meliodas and Queen Elizabeth. (8,xii) He was one of the best knights in the world. (7,xvi) Sir Raynold compared him to Launcelot and Pelleas. (6,xii) According to a French book, Tristram will be one of the knights who will defeat Gawaine, despite his thrice might. (4,viii)

## Prophecies

Before Tristram was born, or when he was young, his uncle King Mark was setting the tomb of Sir Lanceor and Colombe. Then Merlin prophecised that Launcelot and Tristram, the truest lovers, will fight the greatest battle that will ever be, but they won't slay each other; he wrote their names on the tomb with gold letters. Merlin also predicted that Mark will learn Merlin's name, along with bad new, when Tristram will be taken with his lady. (2,viii)

## Early life

When his mother was pregnant his father disappeared and she went to the forest to look for him when the labors began, and a gentlewoman delivered him in the cold. Feeling that she will die, she asked to see the child for whom she had had all this sorrow. She called him a murderer of his mother in such a young age, and predicted he wil be a manly man. She charged the gentlewoman, if she sees Meliodas, to ask him to christen him Tristram, because of his sorrowful birth. (8,i)(8,xii) When she died, the gentlewoman lapped the child as well as she could in the cold. The queen was followed by some barons, and with their king lost and the queen dead, some of them wanted to kill the child so that they become lords of the country (8,i) but the gentlewoman's fair speech and her means, most of them didn't assent and they brought him home. (8,ii)

When Meliodas returned, he buried the queen and christened him Tristram according to her commands, the sorrowful born child. The boy was nourished well for 7 years. Then his father married a new wife and had more children with her. For this, his stepmother was wished for her children to rejoice the land instead of Tristram, and had poison in poison in a silver piece for drinks in the children's chamber; but the first time her own son died, and another time Meliodas attempted to drink, thus discovering her treachery, so she was condemned to be burnt.

When a great fire was made for her execution, young Tristram knelt before Meliodas and asked a favor and Meliodas consented. The favor was the life of his stepmother. Meliodas was surprised, as he should hate her, as for his sake she was going to die. Tristram asked for his mercy to forgive her, as God and himself did, and asked again the favor. Meliodas agreed and told him to go to the fire and take her and do what he wanted.

By his good means later he made the king and her accorded. But the King would not risk young Tristram to stay in his court any more. (8,ii) he sent him under the guardianship of Gouvernail to France to learn the language and nurture and fighting and stayed for more than 7 years learning all he could learn there. (7,iii) (Perhaps during that time the daughter of King Faramon knew and loved him.)

He returned to his father and learned to harp, better than any other in any country, and other instruments. Growing up strong, he laboured in hunting and hawking more than any other noble, and began "good measures of blowing of beasts" of venery and chase, and all manner of vermin. He stayed in Cornwall until he was 18, big and strong, making his father and his queen proud, and all ranks loved him wherever he went. (7,iii) A messenger came from France with a fair brachet and letters of love from King Faramon's daughter; but Tristram had no regard to her and didn't enjoy the piteous letters, with many complaints of love. (8,v)

## Knight in Cornwall

Around that time news came to Meliodas that Sir Marhaus abode battle fast by Tintagil and that King Mark could find no knight to fight to save the truage of Cornwall, and Tristram was angry and ashamed. (8,iv) He went to his father to ask counsel to save Cornwall from truage and was ashamed that he wouldn't leave without a fight. His father said that he is one of the best and knight of the Round Table, and Tristram regretted that he was a knight; vowing on his worship to drive Marhaus away, he asked leave to go to King Mark to be knighted by him. His father trusted him so Tristram thanked him and prepared for Cornwall (8,iv) with Gouvernail. (8,vi)

He rode to his uncle and heard again that no knight would fight with Marhaus so he asked for the order of knighthood to battle him. Asked about himself, he said that he comes from Meliodas and that he is a gentleman, and his name is Tristram from Liones; Mark promised to make him knight and Tristram said that it was the very reason he came, and was knighted. (8,v)(8,xii) Then Mark sent for Tristram and told him Marhaus's reply, that he accepts to fight only with someone of royal blood, and Tristram then explained that he is of noble blood from both sides, revealing that he is the son of Meliodas and Mark's nephew. Mark welcomed him happily, and in all haste horsed and armed Tristram in the best manner possible for silver or gold.

It was ordained for the fight to be on the island where Marhaus's ships were docked so Tristram, Gouvernail and his horse, with all their supplies boarded a vessel. Mark and the Cornish barons wept seeing him. (8,v) He saw 6 ships near the farther side of the island under which Marhaus hoving with his horse. He commanded Gouvernail to bring his horse and dress his harness; he mounted on his saddle well apparrelled and dressed his shield on his shoulder and asked where is Marhaus. Gouvernail was surprised he didn't see him and showed him under the shadow of his ships, and Tristram said that he seems him well now. Then he commanded him to return to his vessel, and pray King Mark to bury him as he thinks best if he dies, and they have lost no truage for him; and promised he will never yield for cowardice as recreant, or he won't have a christian burial. He also ordered him not to approach the island until the battle is over, and both departed weeping. (8,vi) Marhaus told him that he is much assayed with the best knights and that Tristram should leave. Tristram recognised this and said that he won't flee as he was made knight for his sake; repeated that he is the sonof a king and queen and he had sworn to fight to death to deliver Cornwall; and Marhaus's renown gives him the most courage; and he is glad to be matched with such a good knight, as he never before had been proved. Marhaus responded that if he stands him 3 strokes, he will be worthy of worship that he desires.

### Battle with Marhaus

   So they feutred their spears and met so fiercely that both fell with their horses, but Tristram was woundeded sorely in the side. They evaded their horses and pulled their swords, throwing their shields. They lashed together like wild men and after striking long they foined at their breaths and visors; they hurtled together like rams bring each other down and fought more than half a day, and were so wounded that their blood ran on the ground.

   But Tristram remained fresher, better winded and stronger, and with a stroke he smote Marhaus on the helm; and it stuck so strong in his skull that Marhaus knelt down and Tristram yanked 3 times before pulling his sword out. Then Marhaus stood up and fled to his ships, leaving his sword and shield; behind him Tristram asked why he withraws from a young knight, shaming himself and his kin, while he'd prefer to be hewn in a 100 pieces than withdrawing. He swore to take and wear Marhaus's sword and shield in his adventures, even before King Arthur and the Round Table. (8,vii) Marhaus died in Ireland while Tristram himself was sore wounded. (4,xxviii)(8,viii)

Tristram was sore wounded and took cold and was unable to move his limbs and lay down on a little hill bleeding. Then came Gouvernail, the king and his procession of barons. Returning to the mainland, Mark took him in his arms, and with Sir Dinas they led him into Tintagil. He was laid in his bed and was examined in the best manner, worrying the king and his lords, and lay there more than a month, near death, as, according to the French book, Marhaus's spear was poisoned. A wise lady however said that the poison could be cured only if Tristram was taken to the place it was made from, so Mark prepared for him a fair vessel to Ireland, and Tristram saild there with Gouvernail, taking his harp with him. (8,viii)(8,xii)

## Travel to Ireland

He arrived fast by the royal castle and at his arrival sat and harped in his bed a merry lay. Soon King Anguish came to him curious and had his wounds examined. Asked his name, Tristram lied that his name is Tramtrist from Liones, and was wounded fighting for a lady's right. The King promised to help him, and also told him how he lost his best knight in Cornwall, and Tristram pretended to be sorry to hear this. (8,viii) The king did to Tramtrist a great favor and put him in his daughter's ward and keeping.

It is said that he stayed half a year in a nunnery to recover. (4,xxviii)

Indeed, soon she had him cured. For this Tristram loved her a lot. He taught her to harp, and she also started to fantasize about him. Meanwhile he saw how Sir Palamides, whom he knew as a mighty and noble knight, being every day with Isoud, and had despite for him. When she told Tritram that he intends to be christened for her sake, he became jealous. (8,ix)

### Tournament

One day Isoud told him that her father announced a tournament and jousts, but Tristram said that he is still feeble, and almost dead if she hadn't saved his life, and said that he couldn't joust. Isoud insisted saying that Palamides will also be there and likely to win the degree. Tristram said that Palamides is a proved knight whereas himself is a young and new knight and almost killed in his very first battle; but he would go there if Isoud would be "his better lady", but asked so that his presence there is secret, as he will be in danger if Palamides knows it's him. Isoud promised to supply with him a hourse and armour and Tristram said he will be at her commandment.

On the first day of the jousts Palamides gained much worship. King Anguish came to ask him why he doesn't joust, and Tristram replied that he was still hurt and didn't dare to risk. Then came to him Hebes and seeing him, he fell flat to his feet, which Isoud noticed; immediately Tristram ran to him and asked to not mention his name. (8,ix) He asked what he did in this country, and replied that he came with Gawaine to be knighted and asked to be by his hands; Tristram told him to await upon him secretly the next day, and will make him a knight in the field. (8,x)

The other day Isoud ordained and well arrayed him in white horse and harness, and had him put out at a privy postern, and so he came into the field like a bright angel. Seeing him, Palamides ran against him, and Tristram also, and then managed to smite Palamides down; Isoud was very glad, while Gawaine and his 9 fellows wondered about the knight who could defeat Palamides, and nobody, strong or weak, would joust with him. (although it is said that Tristram defeated also Gawaine and his 9 fellows (8,xvii)) Then Tristram made Hebes a knight, and caused him to put himself forth and Sir Hebes held him with Tristram. Then Tristram noticed that Palamides was retreating secretly from the field, in shame, and lightly he rode after him and overtook him and told him to turn back, so that he can try him better before he departs. Palamides turned and they lashed at eachother with swords, but from the 1st stroke he gave him a stroke on the head and Palamides fell down. Tristram bade him to yield and obey him to save his life, and told him to forsake Isoud and not approach her; and for a year and a day to bear no armour or harness. In shame, Palamides swore and threw away his harness angrily. Tristram turned back to the castle to meet Isoud, and met a damsel who sought Launcelot and asked Tristram, who smote Palamides, who had smitten 10 Arthur's knights, was Launcelot. Tristram said he had never Launcelot's prowess and wished to be as a good knight as him. The damsel asked him to lift his visor to see him. Then she took her leave, and Tristram rode secretly to the postern where Isoud made great joy. His prowess was learned by the king and queen. (8,x) Tristram stayed there long and well cherished by them and especially by Isoud. (8,xi)

One day the queen and Isoud made him a bath and Gouvernail and Hebes attended upon him. Then suddenly the Queen entered and attempted to slay him with his own sword, having discovered he was the killer of her brother; Hebes restrained her until she left. Tristram armed himself and mounted his horse ready to leave when the King saw him, and told him that because of his worship and love for him, he allow him to leave in safety, asking his name and parents. (8,xi) Tristram then said everything about his parents, birth, and how he turned his name to not be recognised in the country; and his knighting and fight with Marhaus for the sake of his uncle Mark and Cornwall. Anguish replied that he did well as a knight but can't keep him in his country with his worship. Tristram thanked him for his good lordship and hospitality and that he will gain more by his life than his death because he will service him in England and promised in his knighthood that everywhere he will be his daughter's servant and do as much as a knight, and asked his permission to say goodbye to her and his barons and knights. (8,xii)

Then he went to Isoud to take his leave and told everything about him, and how he came and was saved by her. Isoud wept because she owed her good will to him; Tristram told his name and kin and promised his service for all his life; she thanked him and promised to be married only by his assent within 7 years. They exchanged rings and he left as he cried. He went to the court among the barons and took his leave at the highest and the lowest and apologised if he offended or grieved anyone and asked to hear complaints to amend, and challenged if any said wrong or shame; all stood still, and those of the Queen's kin didn't dare to meddle with him. (8,xii)

## Return to Cornwall

Tristram sailed away and with good wind he landed at Tintagil, and Mark with all his barons were glad that he returned all healed. After some time, he rode back to his father and the king and queen made all joy, and largely they bestowed their lands and goods to him. (8,xiii)

Again by license of his father he returned to the court of Mark and stayed long in great joy; until he met with the wife of earl Segwarides (the brother of Sir Palamides (7,xvi)), who loved him. But King Mark was jealous because he also wanted her. One day her dwarf came to Tristram with the message to be with her the next night, well armed in fear of her husband, and Tristram said that he will appear as she said. (8,xiii)

That night Tristram was riding with spear in hand when 3 knights suddenly attacked him, smiting him with spear, without knowing that one of them was Mark who also desired the same lady and heard of that meeting; Mark hurt him on the breast sore, but Tristram feutred his spear and smote him down, then ran to the knights, smiting them to the earth still, and rode forth wounded. He saw the lady waiting for him at a postern. (8,xiii) She welcomed her and they embraced each other, she stabled his horse and unarmed him. They supped lightly and went to bed with great joy and in his pleasance and rage she forgot his fresh wound, and bled all sheets and pillows. Within a while one warned the lady that Segwarides was nearby so she made Tristram to arise, armed him and he rode away. Tristram was riding on his way to Tintagil when Segwarides finally overook him and bade him to turn, and Tristram turned against him; Segwarides smote him with a spear that it broke and started hitting him with a sword. Tristram counseled him to stop, and that despite his wrong he will forbear him, but Segwarides said that they will fight to the deat; then Tristram drew out his sword and hurtled his horse fiercely against him, smiting him through the waist, and as Segwarides fell, Tristram rode away to Tintagil, and took his lodging discreetly, keeping his wound a secret.

As he lay sick in his bed, Mark obliquely came to comfort him, wishing to keep their fight a secret, as Tristram never knew it was Mark who ambushed him; there were fair words but Mark didn't love him any more. (8,xiv) Some ladies knew that there were great love between Tristram and that lady, and that she loved Tristram above all other knights. (8,xv)

One day Sir Bleoberis of the Round Table came and asked from King Mark the fairest lady of his court, and he left with Segwarides's wife angering Mark and his court. There were some ladies that knew about the love between her and Tristram, and one rebuked Tristram most horribly, called him a coward and shamed his knighthood seeing a lady taken away from his uncle's court like this, knowing that they loved each other. But Tristram answered that it is not his part while her husband is present; otherwise, or if Segwarides didn't speed well, he would go to her rescue for the worship of this court, and meet the knight before he leaves the country. Soon after came one of Segwarides's squires and said that Bleoberis wounded him near death.

### Battle with Sagramore and Dodinas

Tristram was ashamed and grieved hearing this; he armed himself on horseback Gouvernail bare his shield and spear. He rode fast and on the way he met Sir Andred, and asked his tidings; Andred said that he was going to fetch Sirs Sagramore and Dodinas and one beat and wounded him; Tristram told him to return and he will avenge him when he finds them. (8,xv) Within a while he found the two knights and Gouvernail counseled him not to provoke them, but Tristram said that he surely will trouble with them to increase his own worship, as it was long since he had fought. He asked them about theitr travels and business, Sagramore, had scorn and asked if he is a knight of Cornwall, and Tristram asked why; Sagramore said that another Cornish knight said big words but they threw him down, and Tristram said that he will do better, as he will challenge them, because that knight was his cousin, and threatened that he will beat them. With that Dodinas challenged him and they set off with spears and met like thunder, and as Dodinas's spear broke, Tristram smote him with more might throwing him from the horse. Sagramore marveled and moved against him too, and again Tristram smote him a strong buffet that brought both him and his horse down. Tristram asked them if they want more, and if there are stronger knights in King Arthur's court, and they shame themselves to underestimate the Cornish knights, as they can be matched by one. Sagramore agreed, and asked his name in the name of knighthood, and charged with a great thing, Tristram said his name and heritage; both were happy to know him and asked him to stay with them, but Tristram said that he is after Bleoberis, and the knights bid him farewell.

### Battle with Bleoberis

Tristram rode on his way and 3 miles later (8,xvii) he reached a valley where he saw Bleoberis with his squire and the lady. (8,xvi) He rode fastly until he overtook him and told him to stop and deliver the lady to him. Bleoberis refused to obey a Cornish knight; Tristram said that a Cornish knight match him well, as he did with 2 of his fellows, 3 miles ago, who found a Cornish knight good enough for them. Asked their names, he said they were Sagramore and Dodinas, surprising Bleoberis who recognised his might, and that he might believe that he will beat him for the lady; so Tristram told him to defend himself. They departed and met again like thunder and both fell with their horses down. They evaded their horses and started lashing mightily with swords, tracing and traversing on the right and left for more than 2 hours, until they rushed together and fell grovelling on the ground.

Bleoberis moved back and asked to stop and talk and Tristram let him. Asked about himself, he said his name, and Bleoberis was glad to meet him, knowing him as the one who beat Marhaus and also Palamides at a tournament. Tristram asked him the same, and Bleoberis said his name, about his brother Blamore, nephews of Launcelot, one of the best knights in the world. Tristram agreed that Launcelot has no match in courtesy and knighthood and for his sake didn't want to fight any more. Bleoberis said the same, and offered to have the lady choose herself whom to follow. Tristram agreed, being sure that she would choose him. (8,xvii) As she was between them she said to Tristram that although he was the man most loved and trusted, he let her husband to go and rescue her, so she forsook his love, and chose Bleoberis. Tristram was so angry and ashamed to return to the court. Bleoberis heard everything but not wanting to displease him, he asked her if she would stay with Tristram, but she repeated her words, telling him to go back, as she'd go to see her husband. Bleoberis said to Tristram that she will return to her husband, for Tristram's sake, although he'd prefer Tristram to take her. Tristram thanked him and said that for her love he will love or trust ladies more carefully; because if her husband wasn't there, he would be the first to come to her rescue, but since she refused him, he "shall her know passingly well that I shall love or trust." So they took their leave and Tristram returned to Tintagil. (8,xviii)

## In England

As Tristram always praised the beauty and goodness of Isoud, Mark sent Tristram to Ireland with a message, with a proposal to marry her. Without knowing that Mark actually intended to slay him, Tristram would ignore all peril to please his uncle and started to prepare in the best manner, chose with him the best knights he could find in the court, arrayed in the best manner. He sailed with all his fellowship, but a tempest drove them back to the coast of England.

### Battle with Ector and Morganor

They arrived fast by Camelot and were glad for this land and Tristram set up his pavilion and hunged his shield upon it. That day came two knights of Arthur, Ector de Maris and Morganor and asked him to joust. Tristram told them to wait a little until he prepared himself; and with the same spear he smote down Ector and after Morganor. Still down, they asked who he is, and hearing that he is from Cornwall, Ector felt ashamed. (8,xix)

### Battle with Breuse

One time a lady came to his pavilion and Tristram asked her why she made great sorrow; she said that while she was delivering a lady's child to Launcelot, one knight threw her and kidnapped it. Tristram agreed to fetch it for Launcelot's sake, so he took his horse and followed the way she told him. He chased the knight and overtook him, and made him turn and return the child. (8,xx) The knight turned ready to fight and Tristram smote him with a sword throwing him down. He yielded to him and Tristram commanded him to bring the child to the lady. Tristram rode with him back and asked his name, that was Breuse Saunce Pite. After he delivered the child, Tristram let him go, and he repented as he was a big foe of Arthur's knights. (8,xxi)

When Tristram had returned in his pavilion, Gouvernail came and told him that King Anguish was summoned there and accused of murder and should fight against Blamore. Tristram said it was the best tidings that ever came to him the last 7 years, as he would help him now that nobody of Arthur's court would dare to battle Blamore, and asked Gouvernail to meet him. Indeed he returned with the king and his fellowship and when Tristram saw him ran to hold his stirrup, but he lept and the embraced. Tristram thanked him for his kindness while he was in his land, and reminded his promise to serve him. Anguish said that he is in dire need and Tristram asked, and Anguish explained how he was accused of the death of a knight of Launcelot's blood, and that he is supposed to fight with his kin. Tristram said that for his good lordship and the sake of his daughter he accepted to fight for him, provided that he swears that he is innocent for the knight's death, and that he will give him a reward after the battle. (8,xxi) As he agreed, Tristram told him to announce that he is ready, preferring to die for him than be a recreant. Anguish said thathe is brave enough to fight with Launcelot and Tristram praised Launcelot and all of his blood, but he had already battled with Blamore's brother who is indeed a good knight. Anguish said that Blamore is hardier but Tristram said that he won't refuse even the best knight. Then Anguish left and soon after the judges sent for him and Blamore to hear the charge. When kings and knights saw Tristram there was much fuss about him, as the one who defeated Marhaus and Palamides. (8,xxii)

### Battle with Blamore

At the battle Tristram went to the one end of the lists, they feutred the spears and came together like thunder hitting Blamore and his horse down. Blamore dressed against him and bade Tristram to dismount, and he also dressed for battle. They raced. traced, foined and dashed lashing strongly and all wondered how they could still stand on feet, making all the place bloody. Finally Tristram smote Blamore on the helm, and he stood and beheld Blamore laying down. (8,xxii) Then Blamore told him that he should kill him to win the battle because he will never yield. Hearing such knightly words; on the one hand he respected him for Launcelot's sake, but on the other hand he should either make him yield or slay him. (8,xxiii)

Then he retreated and went to the judges, knelt and prayed their worships, for the sake of King Arthur and Launcelot's, to take the matter in their hands, because it would be a pity to slay that noble knight who refuses to be shamed. As he wished to God to neither slay or shame him he required King Anguish to have mercy upon Blamore. After counseling Bleoberis and Anguish, the judges adviced, and granted his life. Tristram with Bleoberis pucked up Blamore; after according with Anguish, Blamore and Tristram kissed and exchanged oaths that none of the brothers or Tristram would fight each other again; and after that gentle battle all the kin of Launcelot loved Tristram for ever. Anguish and Tristram took their leave with great noblesse and joy to return to Ireland. (8,xxiii)

## Return to Ireland

Back in Ireland, the king announced in all the land what Tristram did for him and everyone honored him, even the Queen, and Isoud who loved him more than all men on earth. (8,xxiii) One day Anguish asked him why he didn't request the second boon that he promised before the battle. Tristram said now it was the time, to give his daughter for his uncle Mark to wed, as Tristram promised to him. Anguish regretted, saying he'd prefer Tristram to marry her. But Tristram said he would break his promise to Mark and would be shamed, so he asked him to keep his promise and let his daughter to go with him to Cornwall. Anguish agreed, giving Isoud to Tristram's discretion, even to wed her, or give her to Mark. (8,xxiv)

Soon they sailed to Cornwall. While in their cabin they were thirsty and saw a little gold flasket that was held by Gouvernail and Dame Bragwaine. As it looked and tasted like noble wine, Tristram said that her maiden and his servant were keeping for themselves the best drink ever. So they laughed and made joy, but it was actually a love drink intended by the Queen to Mark, so they loved each other deeply instead. (8,xxiv)

## Breunor's captive

Eventually they arrived to a castle to have good harbourage and repose. But as Tristram and Isoud entered the castle to seek harbourage, they were taken prisoners. (8,xxiv) Tristram was put to prison with Isoud, then a knight and a lady came to cheer them. Tristram wondered why they put them in prison complaining that no respectable place has a custom to kill their guests seeking harbour. The knight told him that it is the old custom that any knight and lady coming must match in fight and in beauty the lord and the lady of the castle to the death. Tristram said this is the foulest and most shameful custom but said that his advantage is Isoud's beauty, the greatest he ever saw; and likewise he will fight to save his head; and said that the next morning he will be ready, asking his horse and armour. The knight complied and told him to rest until he comes to make him ready.

## Battle with Breunor

The next morning he returned and brought them out, returned his horse and armour and told him to get ready for the field. Then came Breunor with his wife, asking to see Isoud, and telling him that whoever is less fair will lose her head. Tristram said that his custom is foul and horrible and that he prefers to lose his head in place of Isoud's. Breunor said that the ladies will be judged first. Tristram said he won't because nobody will give righteous judgment, but he is sure that Isoud is the fairest and will challenge anyone saying otherwise; so he showed Isoud and turned her about thrice with his sword. Breunor did the same, and all agreed that Isoud won. Tristram said it would be pity if the lady lost her head but they used a wicked custom destroying knights and ladies for many years, so they deserve the same. Breunor said that if he slays his wife, he will slay Tristram and take Isoud. Tristram said he will win hear dearly, and as they would do the same to them, he strode unto him, taking the lady and cut off her head with an awk stroke. (8,xxv)

So they took their horses to fight for Isoud, and came together like thunder, and Tristram smote Breunor from his horse, then came again by him thrusting the horse through the shoulders killing it. Breunor ran against him but he was fast and nimble and evaded his horse. He gave him strong strokes before even dressing his shield and sword, then they started rushing like boars, and traced cautiously like noble knights. For 2 hours they fought and hurled and gravely wounded, until Breunor rashed upon him and took him in his arms. Then they called Tristram the strongest knight of the world, more than Launcelot, but not as well breathed. He managed to thrust Breunor down grovelling, unlaced his helm and cut off his head. All the court of the castle came to him to do homage and fealty, asking to stay there to remedy the custom of the castle. (8,xxvi)

## Battle with Galahad

Then arrived Sir Galahad, Breunor's son with the King with the Hundred Knights, and Tristram thought he was Launcelot himself. He challenged Tristram to avenge his parents. They prepared for battle and came together with their horses so hard that both fell with their horses. They avoided their horses and drew their swords and shields and exchanged many strokes. They fought near half a day and were gravely wounded but Tristram gathered courage and doubled his strokes, driving Galahad aback, and was ready to slay him. Then came the King with his men fiercely against Tristram. Seeing this, he complained to Galahad that it's not knightly to have all his men against him at once, that would be shame on him. Galahad told him his onlyoption is to yield to him. Tristram said he prefers to yield because of the might of his men rather than hishands, and took his sword by the point, handling the pommel to Galahad.

Galahad stopped the King's assault and explained to him the shameful custom of the Castle. He compared him to Launcelot and asked his name, and Tristram said about his travel to bring Isoud to his uncle to marry in Cornwall. Galahad welcomed him and instructed him to find the companionship of Launcelot, and promised he will stop his father's custom. Tristram also said that Galahad seemed to him like Launcelot himself when he saw him and dreads him more; and promised to do as he said because he desired his friendship more than any other knight's. (8,xxvii) Then he took his leave; and around that time came word to them about how Sir Carados attacked and captured Gawaine, and how Launcelot fought to rescue him. Tristram regretted that he was with Isoud, otherwise he would never stint before finding Launcelot.

So they sailed off. They reached Cornwall and all barons met them. (8,xxviii)

During the feast Tristram was most praised of all others. Even though they married, Tristram and Isoud loved each other for ever, as the French book says. (8,xxix)

## Theft of Isoud

His custom, whenever he didn't use arms, was to chase and hunt in the forests. He was hunting when Palamides took advantage of Isoud's desperation and took her from Mark, and Mark couldn't find Tristram anywhere. His servant Lambegus offered to go and rescue her for his sake. (8,xxx) But when Tristram returned, he learned that Isoud was gone with Palamides and that Lambegus went after them and was angry beyond measure of his shame. He called Gouvernail to prepare his arms and horse because Lambegus would not have might or strength to withstand Palamides and wishes he was in his place. As soon as he was horsed, they rode after them in the forest and soon found Lambegus wounded to death; he took him to a forester and charged him to care for him, and rode forth. Soon he found Sir Adtherp wounded, who said how he found Isoud when she was about to drown herself, and he was wounded fighting Palamides for her. Tristram asked where she is, and he directed them to his castle; Tristram thanked his goodness and left. As they approached the castle, Palamides was sleeping at the gate and he sent Gouvernail to wake him and challenge him. Gouvernail returned telling him that Palamides is sleeping or he is mad, and Tristram told him to go again and tell him to rise and his mortal foe is there. (8,xxxi)

## Battle with Palamides

Palamides silently rose and prepared his horse, they feutred the spears and hurtled together, and Tristram smote him down. He then drew his sword, and the two started fighting for Isoud who watched them from the walls. More than 2 hours they fought and Tristram managed to wound him more.

Then came down Isoud and asked Tristram to stop fighting. He asked his purpose, as he would shame himself. Isoud wanted not to dishonour him, just to spare the Saracen for her sake, and Tristram complied. Isoud then ordered him to leave the land and recommend her to Guenever, with the word that she and Tristram are the only lovers except Launcelot and Guenever. (8,xxxi)

Tristram returned Isoud to Mark and there was made great joy and Tristram was cherished. He then asked for Lambegus who came and eventually was healed. (8,xxxii)

## Self-exile

While they were living with joy and play, Andred watched and waited between them in order to accuse them. A day he was talking with Isoud in a window, Andred reported to the King. He came to Tristram with a sword, called him false traitor; before striking him, Tristram ran under his sword and took it from his hand. Mark called for his knights against him but nobody moved against Tristram. Then Tristram shook the sword to Mark threateningly and Mark fled, and Tristram ran after, smiting 5-6 time flatling on the neck, throwing him down. Then he took his horse and man and rode into the forest. (8,xxxii)

One day he met 2 brothers who were knights with Mark, and decapitated one and wounded mortally the other, and ordered him to bring his brother's head in his helm to the king; and he wounded other 30. Eventually Mark was advised to take him back to his grace, so his barons sent for Tristram under a safe conduct. (8,xxxii)

He returned to the king and was welcome, without rehearsal, and there was game and play. Then he with the royal couple went hunting. (8,xxxii) They made their pavilions and tents beside a river in the forest, and there was daily hunting and jousting.

## Fight with Lamorak

One of the knights who came was Lamorak who defeated all of Mark's knights, and made him wonder and ask who he was. Tristram said his name, and that he is one of the noblest knights living. Mark felt shame for his victory and suggested that he should meet someone better. Tristram pointed out that there is no glory for a noble man to challenge him now that he did so much, as much could Launcelot do, as he and his horse are weary. Mark nonetheless ordered him to joust with Lamorak for the love of his and Isoud. Tristram repeated that this order is against knighthood, as he was sure that, being fresh, he can throw him down, but it is unkindness to take another knight at disadvantage; but didn't wish to displease the King. (8,xxxiii)
So Tristram armed himself and rode forth; Lamorak met him with might, but Tristram threw his horse down, and Lamorak challenged him with his sword. Tristram refused, as he already did much to his dishonour and Lamorak's worship. Lamorak insisted to fight on foot if he is Tristram. Tristram said it's him, and said that his challenge was against his will, and won't comply to his request, as he is already shamed. Lamorak insisted, to fight, but Tristram again said that although his heart is great, it is sad a fresh knight to strike down a weary one, for no knight or horse can endure for ever, and refused, repenting for what he has done. Lamorak said that he will repay it. (8,xxxiii)

Soon a knight came and delivered to King Mark a horn on Lamorak's behalf, saying that it it can test the fidelity of a lady. So Mark made Isoud to drink, and 100 ladies, and seeing that she spilled it, he swore to burn her and all who were unfaithful. The barons however objected. Tristram realised that Lamorak sent it in his despite and decided to take revenge. (8,xxxiv)

## Arrest and escape

Tristram continued to visit Isoud whenever he could, day or night, and his cousin Andred still spied on him. One night while Tristram was naked in bed with her, at midnight suddenly 12 knights came and caught him, and tied him hand and foot. He was left like this all night.

The next day 40 knights took him bound to a chapel upon the sea rocks. Then he realised there was no way to escape death and talked to the lords; he said how he endangered his life fighting for Cornwall, and he was promised to be better rewarded while all refused to fight Marhaus; and asked the gentle knights to not let him die shamefully, admitting that he never met any knight as good as him. Andred silenced his boasts saying that he will die today. Tristram said taht Andred is his kinsman but he is like an enemy, and he wouldn't kill him if they weren't others around. Andred drew his sword to kill him, and since his hands were tied and held by 2 knights, he pulled them and untied his hands. He jumped on Andred and took the sword, smote him down and fought. Having killed 10 knights he hid in the chapel. Seeing more than 100 people approaching and he was naked, he barred the door, broke the bars of a window and jumped out, falling upon the crags in the sea. (8,xxxiv) Soon came his men, Gouvernail, Lambegus and Sentraille who were looking for him, and pulled him up with towels.

Tristram feared that Isoud would be taken by Andred's people and was told that she was put in a leper-hut. Tristram was sorry that such a fair lady ended up in such a place and with his men went to rescue her. They stayed in a fair manor in the forest, and told his men to leave as he could not help them any more, but Gouvernail stayed. (8,xxxv)

One day he went to the forest for game, and fell asleep. Then came a man (whose brother Tristram had slain) and shot a poisoned arrow that hit through his shoulder. Tristram leapt up and killed him. When Tristram returned he found the tracks of many horses, and that Isoud again ahd been taken away. He was very sad because there is no way to communicate with Isoud and his wound gave him great pain. (8,xxxv)

Eventually a lady came from Isoud and told him that Isoud could not help him, and adviced him to go to Brittany and find the daughter of King Howel, to heal him. (8,xxxv)

## In Brittany

Indeed Tristram and Gouvernail sailed off and he welcomed by King Howel. Tristram told him that he came to get help from his daughter, Isoud la Blanche Mains, and indeed within a while she healed him. (8,xxxv) Meanwhile, the King was in war, and by Gouvernail's counsel he prayed Tristram to help him because his son was wounded. Tristram promised to do what he could, and issued out of the town with as many people as he found. That day he slew more than 100 knights and by great might and force slew Earl Grip with his own hands. All Brittany spoke of his deeds. Howel embraced him and offered to resign all his kingdom to him, but Tristram said that he just owed his life to his daughter.

The king and his son made him and Isoud love each other, and because of all the pleasance, cheer and riches, he almost forgot La Beale Isoud and agreed to marry her Isoud la Blanche Mains. They married solemnly. But while in bed he remembered his previous lady that he was dismayed and had no other desire than clipping and kissing his wife, according to the French book. (8,xxxvi)

One day Sir Suppinabiles returned from the court of King Arthur. Tristram asked if he heard anything of him, and he said that Launcelot spoke shamefully for him, because he was false to his lady, and from now on would be his mortal enemy wherever they willmeet. Tristram was dismayed because he was the knight he loved most and was ashamed that noble knights defamed him. (8,xxxvii)

## Isle of Servage

One day Tristram took a small barget and had a sail with his wife and her brother. But when they got far from the coast, a wind drove them to the Isle of Servage; the barget broke and Isoud was hurt. They attempted to enter a forest. There he met Segwarides and a damsel by a well. Saluting each other, Segwarides mentioned his hatred, but recognises his nobility and asked for his friendship because they will need each other in that valley. Then he brought him to a Cornish lady who told him that the valley was dangerous and all knights who came were imprisoned or killed. Tristram told to her his exploits against Marhaus, Blamore and Palamides, and promised to save the island. (8,xxxviii)

The fishers of the island told him that there was a knight of King Arthur who was rescued from the rocks. Tristram asked his name but they didn't know it, only that he isn't afraid of the lord of the island despite their counsel. Tristram asked them to bring him to see who he is. The next morning he was brought and although he was dressed with the fisher's clothes, Tristram saw it was Lamorak and smiled. He said that he looks tired and that he wanted to know him, and asked his name. Lamorak asked him if he was the lord of the island before saying his name, and Tristram said that he isn't Nabon, but his enemy. Then Lamorak said his name and Tristram said that he know him, and said his name. Lamorak remembered how he refused to fight, and Tristram explained that he was shamed to fight out of kindness, as Lamorak already was tired; and he repaid his kindness bringing trouble to the ladies of King Mark in his despite. Lamorak said that didn't care for Mark's court; Tristram said that his malice didn't do much harm and proposed him to win worship against Nabon. Lamorak recognised his nobility, and repented for his ungentleness. (8,xxxviii)

Nabon made cry of jousts in his castle. Lamorak with Tristram, Kehydius and Segwarides were brought by the locals because nobody dared to do otherwise. Lamorak did the greatest deeds, and Nabon asked to duel with him, but because he got tired, Nabon offered to fight with one of his fellows.

### Fight with Nabon

Tristram stepped forth asking for horse and sure armor, and Nabon directed him to a pavilion in order to sport; before going, Tristram threatened him to play well or he will teach him a new play. Tristram armed himself as he though best to fight on foot, knowing that Nabon would not fight with a spear. They fought long until Nabon asked his name and saying that he is Tristram, Nabon said he desired to fight with him. They continued eagerly and finally slew Nabon, and immediately leapt to his son and cut off his said. All country said to hold of him, but he refused because Lamorak did grater deeds. Lamorak also refused as he didn't deserve it as well. So Tristram gave the lordship to the one who didn't deserve it that much, Segwarides. (8,xxxix)

Later, he sent a damosel with a letter to Launcelot, explaining his wedding with Isoud: he defended himself, saying he was a true knight and never was fleshly with her; and in a very courteous and gentle way he asked him to remain his good friend, and to defend him whenever he sees La Beale Isoud. He also hoped to meet her and Launcelot soon to talk. (9,v)

## Later life

Tristram killed the giant Taulas of Cornwall while out of his mind. He also took Earl Fergus under his service. (4,xxv)

During the Roman War, Sir Tristram was left with King Mark for the love of Beale Isoud. (5,iii)

Still before joining the Round Table, he heard the call for a jousts on the Assumption of our Lady and with Sir Dinas he went to the Castle Dangerous to fight for Lady Lionesse under Sir Ironside. (7,xxvi) During the tournament he came with Dinas and Sadok, and he encountered with Bedivere, and smote him to the earth with his horse. (7,xxviii) Then swords were drawn and he met with Gawaine, whom he pulled from his horse, and put him to the worst. He saw how a knight of many colours first jousted and after fought so well with a sword, so he rode to Ironside and Persant and asked them what manner is he who puts himself in great pain without stop. Ironside told him that he is the lover the lady of the castle, who won Ironside when he besieged her and who also won Persant and his three brethren. Tristram asked his name and blood and Ironside said that he is Gareth from the court of King Arthur. Tristram admired his prowes and thought that if he is young he shall prove a full noble knight. They said that he is only a child, made knight by Launcelot. Then all of them rode together to help Gareth; and many strong strokes were given. (7,xxix)

He was invited to Gareth's wedding in Kink Kenadon on Michaelmas. On the second day of the jousts he jousted best, and he overthrew 40 knights, and did marvellous deeds of arms. But when these jousts were done, he and Lamorak departed suddenly without notice displeasing Arthur and the court. (7,xxxv)

## Legacy

Thanks to Tristram we have all these terms for hawking and hunting. The book of venery, of hawking, and hunting, is called the book of Sir Tristram. All gentlemen should honour Sir Tristram for the goodly terms that gentlemen have and use, that separate a gentleman from a yeoman and a yeoman from a villager. (7,iii)