"He is no devil," said Amadis, "but a right good knight, of whom I have heard heretofore."
By this time Quadragante was come up, and said to him: "Knight, you must tell me if you belong to the household of King Lisuarte."
"Why ask you?"
"Because I have defied him and all his household, and kill all of them whom I meet."
Amadis felt his anger rising, and replied: "You are one of those who hath challenged him?"
"I am; and I am he who will do to him and his all the evil in my power."
"And who are you?"
"My name is Don Quadragante; and I am brother to that King Abies who was foully slain by an unknown knight of Lisuarte's."
"Certes, Don Quadragante, notwithstanding your high lineage and your great prowess in arms, this is great folly in you to defy the best king in the world. They who undertake more than they can effect are rather rash than hardy. I am not this king's vassal, nor am I of his land, but for his goodness my heart is disposed to serve him, so that I may account myself among those whom you have defied; if you chuse battle with me, you may have it; if not, go your way."