"If that be so, I forgive you," said Tristram.
But when they reached the pavilion and had disarmed and washed, and were come to table, Isolde grew red with wrath on seeing Palamides.
"You traitor and felon!" she cried, "how dare you thrust yourself into this goodly company? You know not how falsely he has treated you, my lord Tristram. I saw it all. He watched you when you rode to your tent and donned the black armor. Then he changed armor with a wounded knight and rode back and wilfully changed sides, and drew sword upon you. I saw it all, my lord, and I impeach him of treason."
"Madam," said Palamides, calmly, "you may say what you will. I cannot in courtesy deny you. Yet by my knighthood I declare I knew not Sir Tristram."
"I will take your excuse," said Tristram, "though it seems a lame one. You spared me little in the field, but all that I have pardoned."
At this, Isolde held down her head in despite and said no more.
While they were still at table two knights rode to the pavilions, and entered in full armor.
"Fair sirs," said Tristram, "is this courtesy, to come upon us thus armed at our meal?"
"We come with no ill intent," said one, "but as your friends, Sir Tristram."
"I am come," said the other, "to greet you as a friend and comrade, and my companion is eager to see and welcome La Belle Isolde."