"Then remove your helms, that I may see what guests I have."
No sooner were their helmets off than Tristram sprang hastily to his feet.
"Madam, arise," he cried; "this is none less than my lord King Arthur; and this my very dear friend Sir Lancelot."
Then the king and queen kissed, and Lancelot and Tristram warmly embraced, while deep joy filled all hearts there. At the request of Isolde the visitors removed their armor and joined them at their meal.
"Many is the day that I have longed to see you," said Arthur to Isolde, "for much praise have I heard of you, and not without warrant. For a nobler match for beauty and valor than you and Sir Tristram the world does not hold."
"We thank you heartily," replied Tristram and Isolde. "Such praise from King Arthur is the highest honor that men's lips could give."
Then they talked of other things, but mainly of the tournament.
"Why were you against us?" asked Arthur. "You are a Knight of the Round Table, and have fought to-day against your own."
"Here is Dinadan, and your own nephew Gareth. You must blame them for that," said Tristram, smiling.