'That is truth!' said Beaumains, laughing, as he dropped the point of his weapon. 'But, Sir Lancelot, it doth me good to feel your wondrous skill and the strength of your arm. Yet, my lord, I have not shown the uttermost of mine.'
'By my faith, I believe ye,' cried Sir Lancelot, 'for I should have much ado to keep myself from shameful defeat if you should really push me to the utmost. Therefore I say that you need not fear any earthly knight.'
'I thank you for your good words,' replied Beaumains. 'And do you think I may hope at any time to become a proved knight?'
'Fight as you have fought with me, and I have no doubt of you.'
'Then, I pray you, my lord,' said Beaumains, 'give me the order of knighthood.'
'Ere I do that, you must tell me your name and of what kin you were born,' replied Sir Lancelot.
'If you will promise to tell no one, I will reveal it.'
Sir Lancelot gave his promise, and Beaumains, going closer, whispered some words into Sir Lancelot's ear.
'Ah, sir,' said Sir Lancelot, taking the young man's hand in his, 'I am glad I was not deceived. I knew you must come of great kin, and that you had not come to King Arthur for meat or drink. Kneel now, and I will make you knight.'
So Beaumains knelt before Sir Lancelot, who lightly touched him on the shoulder with his sword, naming him knight.