As they did so they beheld near them a knight, who came up unarmed save a sword, and saluted them with all courtesy.
"Fair sirs," he said, "I pray you, as knights-errant, to come and see my castle, and take such fare as you may find there. This I heartily request."
"That shall we willingly do, and thank you for your courtesy," they answered, and rode with him to his castle, which was near by.
Here they entered a richly-furnished hall, and, having laid off their armor, took their seats at a well-laden table. But when the host saw Tristram's face, he knew him, and first grew pale and then angry of countenance.
"Sir, mine host," said Tristram, on seeing this threatening aspect, "what is wrong with you, I pray?"
"I know you, Tristram de Lyonesse," answered the knight, hotly. "You slew my brother. Honor demands that I shall not seek revenge here, but I give you warning that I will kill you when I meet you outside my castle."
"I have no knowledge of you or your brother," answered Tristram. "But no man can say that I ever killed any one except in fair and open fight. If I have done as you say I stand ready to make what amends are in my power."
"I desire no amends," rejoined the knight. "But I warn you to keep from me."
Tristram at this rose from the table and asked for his arms, his companions following him. Seeking their horses they rode away, but they had not gone far from the castle when Dinadan saw a knight following them, who was well armed, but bore no shield.
"Take care of yourself, Sir Tristram," he said. "Yonder comes our host to call you to account."