Suddenly, as he saw the tower of St. Paul's church through the trees, he bethought him of the sword in the stone, about which many men had spoken in his hearing.
'I will ride thither,' said he, 'and see if I may get that sword for my brother, for he shall not be without a sword this day.'
When he came to the churchyard, he tied his horse to the stile, and went through the grave-mounds to the tent wherein was the sword. He found the place unwatched, and the flashing sword was sticking by the point in the stone.
Lightly he grasped the handle of the sword with one hand, and it came forth straightway!
Then, glad that his brother should not be without a sword, he swiftly gat upon his horse and rode on, and delivered the sword to Sir Kay, and thought no more of aught but the splendid knights and richly garbed lords that were at the jousts.
But Sir Kay looked at the sword, and the writing, and knew it was the sword of the stone, and marvelled how young Arthur had possessed himself thereof; and being of a covetous and sour mind he thought how he might make advantage for himself. He went to his father, Sir Ector, and said:
'Lo, father, this is the sword of the stone, and surely am I rightful king.'
Sir Ector knew the sword and marvelled, but his look was stern as he gazed into the crafty eyes of his son.
'Come ye with me,' he said, and all three rode to the church, and alit from their horses and went in.
Sir Ector strode up the aisle to the altar, and turning to his son, said sternly: