she would take it very ill of thee that thou hast allowed so simple a man to wound thee.” Saith Zibrid: “I would not count it an honour, if I allowed a worse man than myself to take me.” Saith Stilfrid: “Please God, thou hast to find that I am as good a man as thyself, and I will be thy match in all things, save that roses do not fall in showers from me; know that Stilfrid will spoil all that.”
They brought them spears for the third time, and they rode against each other. Stilfrid gave him a mighty stroke and Zibrid was carried on one side by the spear. Stilfrid sprang from his horse, wrathfully drew his sword, and going up to Zibrid began to give him great buffets, till the pearls began to spring on high. Zibrid recovered himself and began to stand on his defence, and a strong battle began between them; from noon to vespers they smote each other till sparks flew from their swords. The kings and princes marvelled thereat and gazed intently upon the battle. “Alas,” said they, “for those young knights! they cannot remain alive.” The King of England encouraged Zibrid, saying: “Recollect thyself, O
