of the rider and pulled him from his horse. The two dashed against
each other on foot and with their swords battled so well that kings
and queens and knights and their ladies stood and beheld them. But
finally the Unknown smote his foe three mighty blows so that he fell
upon the earth groveling. Then did they all truly wonder at his skill
for Sir Palomides was thought by many to be the most skillful knight
in Britain.

A knight now brought horse for Sir Tristram, for now, all knew that it
must be he. So too was horse brought for Sir Palomides. Great was the
latter's ire and he came at Sir Tristram again. Full force, he bore
his lance at the other. And so anew they fought. Yet Sir Tristram was
the better of the two and soon with great strength he got Sir
Palomides by the neck with both hands and so pulled him clean out of
his saddle. Then in the presence of them all, and well they marveled
at his deed, he rode ten paces carrying the other in this manner and
let him fall as he might.

Sir Tristram turned now again and saw King Arthur with naked sword
ready for him. The former halted not, but rode straight at the King
with his lance. But as he came, the King by wondrous blow sent his
weapon flying and for a moment Sir Tristram was stunned. And as he sat
there upon his horse the King rained blows upon him and yet did the
latter draw forth his sword and assail the King so hard that he need
must give ground. Then were these two divided by the great throng. But
Sir Tristram, lion hearted, rode here and there and battled with all
who would. And of the knights who opposed him he was victor of eleven.
And all present marveled at him, at his strength and at his great
deeds.