Then he turned to Gaheris and dealt him a blow that in like manner tumbled him from his saddle to the earth. This done, Tristram turned and rode into the castle, leaving them like dead men in the road.
Here he told La Belle Isolde of his several adventures. When he spoke of Dinadan, she asked,—
"Was it not he that made the song about King Mark?"
"The same," answered Tristram. "He is the greatest jester at Arthur's court, but a good knight withal, and I know no man whom I like better as a comrade."
"Why did you not bring him with you?"
"No need of that. He is seeking me through this country, and there is no fear that he will give up the search lightly."
As they spoke, a servant came and told Tristram that a knight-errant had entered the town, and described the device on his shield.
"That is our man now," said Tristram. "That is Dinadan. Send for him, Isolde, and you shall hear the merriest knight and the maddest talker that you ever spoke with. I pray you to make him heartily welcome, for he is a cherished friend of mine."
Then Isolde sent into the town with a message to Dinadan, begging that he would come to the castle and rest a while there, at a lady's wish.
"That will I, with a good will," answered Dinadan. "I were but a churl else."