He continued his ride, and next met a squire, who said,—
"Sir knight, I bring you defiance from the knights in the castle, who forbid you to go farther till they learn your purpose."
"You may tell it to them, if you will. I come to destroy the wicked customs of this castle."
"Sir, if you abide by that, you will have enough to do."
"Go now and bear them my answer."
Then the squire returned to the castle, from which there soon after rode seven knights, in full armor. When they saw Galahad they cried,—
"Knight, be on your guard, for you have come to your death."
"What!" asked Galahad, "will you all assail me at once?"
"That shall we; so defend yourself."
Then Galahad rode against them and smote the foremost such a blow that he nearly broke his neck. The others rode on him together, each striking his shield with might. But their spears broke and he still held his seat.