Gouvernail, his servant, was come with his apparel, he took
his leave at the widow, and mounted upon his horse, and
rode his way early on the morn. And by sudden adventure
Sir Tristram met with Sir Sagramore le Desirous, and
with Sir Dodinas le Savage. And these two knights met
with Sir Tristram and questioned with him, and asked
him if he would joust with them. Fair knights, said Sir
Tristram, with a good will I would joust with you, but I
have promised at a day set, near hand, to do battle with a
strong knight; and therefore I am loath to have ado with
you, for an it misfortuned me here to be hurt I should
not be able to do my battle which I promised. As for
that, said Sagramore, maugre your head, ye shall joust
with us or ye pass from us. Well, said Sir Tristram, if
ye enforce me thereto I must do what I may. And then
they dressed their shields, and came running together with
great ire. But through Sir Tristram's great force he
struck Sir Sagramore from his horse. Then he hurled his
horse farther, and said to Sir Dodinas: Knight, make thee
ready; and so through fine force Sir Tristram struck
Dodinas from his horse. And when he saw them lie on
the earth he took his bridle, and rode forth on his way,
and his man Gouvernail with him.

Anon as Sir Tristram was passed, Sir Sagramore and
Sir Dodinas gat again their horses, and mounted up lightly
and followed after Sir Tristram. And when Sir Tristram
saw them come so fast after him he returned with his horse
to them, and asked them what they would. It is not long
ago sithen I smote you to the earth at your own request