"Let him live, then, Beaumains. He is a noble knight, and it is only by a chance blow that you have overcome him."
"It is enough that you ask it," said Beaumains. "Rise, sir knight, and thank this damsel for your life."
The red knight did so, and then prayed that they would enter his castle and spend the night there. To this they consented, but as they sat at supper the damsel continued to berate her champion, in such language that their host marvelled at the meekness of the knight.
In the morning the red knight came to Beaumains with his followers, and proffered to him his homage and fealty at all times.
"I thank you," said Beaumains, "but all I ask is, that when I demand it you shall go to Arthur's court, and yield yourself as his knight."
"I and my fellowship will ever be ready at your summons," replied the red knight.
Then Beaumains and the damsel resumed their journey, while she, as if in a fury of spite, berated him more vilely than ever before.
"Fair lady," he said, with all meekness, "you are discourteous to revile me as you do. What would you have of me? The knights that you have threatened me with are all dead or my vassals. When you see me beaten, then you may bid me go in shame and I will obey, but till then I will not leave you. I were worse than a fool to be driven off by insulting words when I am daily winning honor."
"You shall soon meet a knight who will test your boasted strength. So far you have fought with boys. Now you have a man who would try Arthur's self."
"Let him come," said Beaumains. "The better a man he is, the more honor shall I gain from a joust with him."