Then began a mighty battle, in which many great sword-strokes were made, and much blood was lost by both antagonists. After the affray had long continued the two warriors by chance struck so evenly together that their swords met in mid air, and the weapon of the knight smote that of Arthur into two pieces.
"You are in my power," cried the knight. "Yield you as overcome and recreant, or you shall die."
"As for death," said Arthur, "it will be welcome when it comes, but I had rather die than be so shamed."
Thus saying, he leaped upon his foeman, took him by the middle with a vigorous grip, and threw him to the earth. Then he tore off his helmet. The knight, however, was much the larger and stronger man, and in his turn brought Arthur under him, deprived him of his helmet, and lifted his sword to strike off his head.
At this perilous moment Merlin advanced.
"Knight, hold thy hand," he cried. "You little know in what peril you put this realm, or who the warrior is beneath your sword."
"Who is he?" asked the knight.
"He is King Arthur."
Then would the knight have slain Arthur for fear of his wrath, and raised his sword again to do so, but at that moment Merlin threw him into an enchanted sleep.
"What have you done, Merlin?" cried Arthur. "God grant you have not slain this worthy knight by your craft! I would yield a year of my dominion to have him alive again."