Syr Bevis of Hampton

¶ THE HISTORIE OF Beuis of Hampton . LYsten Lordings and hold you still , of doubty men tell you I will , That haue ben in many a stoure , & held vp England in great honor , That before this time hath bene , by a knight it is that I meane , sir Beuis of Hamtō the knight hight , that neuer was proued a coward in fight . And by his father that hight sir Guy , a goodly knight and full hardy , And how sir Guy betrayed was , through his wife , alas , alas , That time was Guy of great renown , Earle he was of South-hampton , In Christendome farre and néere , of doughtines was not his peere . None was so hardy nor so strong , he loued the right and not the wrong , While sir Guy was yong & light , known he was for a doughty knight , In euery land he rode and yede , for to winne him price and méed , In fraunce , in flanders & in Almain , in Brabant , in Cicele & in Britain . In Denmark , Gallice & in Gascoyne , in Hungarie , Calabre & Burgon , In Pole , in Normandy and Mayn , in Turky , Nabrant and in Spayn , In Eastland , Norway & in Picardie , in Scotland , Wales & in Lumbardy In christendom & also in hethines , ful wel is known sir Guyes worthines In all the lands of Christentie , was none found so good as hée , While he was yong and iolife , would sir Guy wed no wife , But when that he was olde , he waxed féeble , croked and cold , Than toke he his leaue of Chiualrie , and dwelled in England certainly . In that time king Edgar anon , sent after Sir Guy full soone , For sir Guy was true and wise , and known for a knight of prise , He made him high steward of his land , & whatsoeuer he said it shuld stand , He kéept well England in his daies , and set peace and stable lawes . That no man was so hardy , to doo an other villany , Vpon a day thought sir Guy , that he would wed some faire Lady , And haue betwéene thē some Children fair , that of his land might be heir The king of Scotland in that tide , had a daughter of much pride . The Emperoures brother of Almayn , loued that lady as men sain , And so did Guy God him saue , and of her Father he did her craue , The king of Scotland for thy , gaue his daughter vnto sir Guy , Against the wil of his daughter bright , she had leuer haue had the other knight For hée was yong and bolde , but sir Guy was waxen olde , Alas that euer hée her to him chose , his owne lyfe for to lose , Sir Guy wedded that Lady frée , & brought her hom to his country , So long to bed he her ladde , that a manchild together they had . Beuis they called that childe bold , hée was no more then seuen yéere olde , When that his father he was slain , with sir Murdure of Almain , That Lady bethought her vpon a day , vnto her selfe gan shée say , My lord is olde & may not worch , all day he bideth in the Church . What for brusing and what for age , he loueth not with me to rage , But had I taken a yong knight , that he had not béene brused in fight , He wuld loue mée both day & night , & make mée all the mirth hée might , Truly it shal be thus no while , I shall let slay him with some guile . After the messenger the Lady send , that before had béene her friend , She said thou shalt on my message , thy selfe alone without any page , So that thou kéepe my counsail , I shall quite well thy trauail , Madame he said holde you still , for I will do after your will . The Lady was then glad and fain , goe thou she said into Almain , And greet wel from mée sir Murdure , brother to the Emperour , And bid him in the first day , of the month of May , That he in the Forest bée , well armed with his meynye . Bid him that it be not leued , but that my Lord be there hedded , And send it mée for a present , my Lord shall naked to him be sent , If he me loue that shall I sée , goe forth and gréet him thus by mée , The Messenger to the Water yéede , alas the winde was all for speed . Into Almain he was brought , to the Court he went he forgot it nought , And asked soone of one an other , til he came to the Emperours Brother , And tooke the letter into his hand , the Lord it read as he there found , Now truly may I well sée , how that Lady loueth mée . Gladder I am though I it say , then any tongue tell may , All her will I meane to do , gréet her well and say to her so , Haue héere a stéed for thy trauaile , with treasure charged without faile , And if it stand in main and might , I my selfe shall make thée a knight , The messenger thanked him then , and to England hée is gone , To Hampton he came so in feare , of his enemies that wer there , And said my Lady God thée see , well sir Murdure gréeteth thée , Glad he is of thy message , full well he hath quit my voyage . And certainely he will be prest , with a great hoast in your Forrest Thy Lord to assail with main , and might , thy loue to winne lady bright , When the messenger had all said , the Lady held her well apayd , In the first day of May , the Lady fayned her sicke and lay . She made a man her Lord to call , and saide an euill did her befall , The Earle for her had sorow & thought , & asked her if she would ought , Sir shée said might I it get , of a wilde Bore I faine would eat , Dame he said and loue mine , where mighe I finde the wild swine . That might once glad thée , sir in your Forrest bréedeth hée , Dame he said make good solace , for to that Forrest I will goe chace , And shée said with treason then , blessed be thou of all men , The Earle a courser gan bestride , his sword he hanged by his side . There might no man with him rin , he was the formost man therein . Alas that he had béene ware , of his enemies that were there ,

But when he came to the Forrest , and in chase after the beast , Him thought he heard sir Murdure , cry aloud sir Guy thou traytour . And priked out before the hoast , for pomping pride to make great boast , And to sir Guy gan he say , yeald thée traytour for by my faye , Thou and thy sonne both dead shal be , for the loue of thy Lady frée , For I her loued or thou her knew , if thou her haue it shall thée rew . Sir Guy him answered with reason , and said alas héere is treason , Yet will I so God mée mend , héere in my right mée defend , Either then gan other defie , then spurred his stéede good sir Guy , And smote sir Murdure with a spear , out of his saddle he gan him bear . Traitour he said ye and coward vnbolde , wéenest thou though I be olde , That I should of thée be ashamed , with the sir Guy his sword out wrested , And would haue slain that false knight , had not succour come ful right , Sir Murdures men hyed them so , against sir Guy they were full thro . Soothly sir Guy defend him can , an hundreth hée slew with his hands than , Had he béen well armed iwis , all the maistry had béen his . By than sir Murdure was horsed again , Sir Guyes horse they had slain , Alas his horse was slain that ylke stound , sir Guy was felled to the ground . For had his horse liued that tide , he had abated all their pride , When sir Guy was on foote without lesse , all they gan about him presse , You neuer heard of an olde man ere , that fought so long as he did ther , Then knéeled Guy to sir Murdure , and said mercy and succour . And sayd Murdure for thy gentry , thus cowardly let me not dye , But lend mée horse armour and shéeld , and let mée dye here in the féeld , And if with mée thou wilt doo so , I thée forgiue if thou mée slo , Then cryed they all in this wise , slay him that hee neuer rise . With that sir Murdure to him yede , and soone smote of his head , To a knight hée tooke his hed in hand , goe he said and beare this sond , To the Countesse that is so bright , & say I come to her boure this night , The knight went to that Lady gent , & said Madame haue this present . My Lord thée sent it sir Murdure , this night he commeth vnto thy bour , This gift she said is lefe to mée , and thanked sir Murdure of his gentry , And say I am all at his will , Early and late loud and still , The messenger went his way , and tolde his Lord what she did say .

How Beauis keept sheepe vpon the down , & how that he left his sheepe and went to his Fathers house and how he slew the Porter , with other things that he did there .

NOw will we of yong Beuis tel , how he was & how him befell , Alas he said and all for séen , that I had not with my father béene , To haue hope him in that stoure , against that false théefe sir Murdure , To his mother he ran and said , why hast thou my Father betraid . I will be auenged on his bane , alas that euer thou were woman , And all whores for thy sake , to the deuill of hell I them betake , But an oth mother I do sweare , If euer I may armes beare , I shall be auenged with might & mayn , on thē that haue my father slayn . His mother his words vnderstood , and gaue him a buffet on the hood , To the ground he fel that was harme , his master tooke him vp by the arme , Men call his master sir Sabere , that child to him was life and déere , For Sabere was sir Guyes brother , in England was none such an other . Home with the childe Sabere went , the Lady after him sent , Sabere she said for well or for woe , my sonne Beuis looke that thou slo , For I shall neuer glad bée , that day that I him sée , Sir Sabere was not well apayd , but graunted as the Lady said . Home he went with Lordes few , and for a while a Pig he slew , Beuis clothes that was so good , he sprinkled with pigges blood , Sir Sabere then all for drede , clothed the childe in a poore wéed , And said Beuis thou must kéepe , vpon the féeld all my shéepe . Till the spousage be brought to end , & then will wée to Wales wend , There is an Erle sibbe to thée , thou shalt there dwell and with him be , When thou art bigge & armes to bear , & hast strength harnesse to wear , Thē maist thou claim thine heritage , & auenge thy father be thou of age . Then shall I help thée for to fight , with dint of sword to win thy right , Therfore my shéepe sée thou forth driue , the no man know thou art on liue , Foorth went Beuis with Sabers shéep , vnto the féeld & sore gan wéep , When Beuis a high vpon a down , he looked vp to South-hamptoun . And as he beheld toward the Towre , trumpets he heard and Tabour , Harping there was & much blisse , in the place the should haue béene his , Lord he said of mée thou art gouernor , was not I an erles son of honour , I will no longer dwell in this downe , I will home to Southhamptoun . And will now sée for thy , what Murdure doth with that Lady , He ran fast on his yate , till he came to sir Murdures gate , Porter he said take none ill , for into the hall on message I will , Fye rebauld said the Porter tho , whorson harlot home thou goe . Ther was neuer man but he wer mad , the on message wuld send such a lad , Whorson said Beuis if I be one , yet Harlot was I neuer none , Thou shalt neuer strange man despise , haue this hée said for thy seruise , Such a stroke he him graffe , that the braine claue to the staffe .

Beuis into the Hall went , with ragged clothes and sléeues rent , All about hée gan beholde , to sir Murdure he spake wordes bolde , False théefe what doost thou héer , why hast thou slain my father déer , My mother it is that thou hast tane , wend foorth in the diuels name . And if thou dwell against my leue , I trust to God I shall thée gréene , Then said sir Murdure hould you still , thou canst no good but much ill , Beuis hit sir Murdure at that word , that be sowned at the bourd , An other stroke he strok sadly ; with that the Lady began to cry . Then Beuis would no longer abide , for knights rose on euery side , For yong Beuis woe there was , they tooke him not but let him passe , Beuis went home I you hete , he met his maister amids the stréete , What now Beuis said Sabere , for Gods sake what doost thou heere . Beaten I haue my stepfather , and slain I haue his owne Porter , Then said Sabere thou art to blame , ther I get both harme and shame , But betide what may betide , once againe I will thée hide , Sabere him to chamber led , of the Countesse he was a drede . The Countesse would neuer blin , vntill she came to Saberes Inne , Sabere she said where is become , that vncouth lad that strong fellon , Dame he said he is dead , at your counsaile and at your read , loe his clothes are all blood , thou lyest said she as thou were wood . But thou me that lad take , thou shalt suffer for his sake , Beuis heard that she him threat , to her he lept with hart great , And said to her Dame , do my maister for me no shame , The Lady said thou art bolde , now to me thy life is solde , Sabere and an other knight , she called to her anon right , Him to them betooke she , and bad them cast him into the sea , And cast the boy amids the streame , & Sabere though thou be his came , But if thou drown this glutton , thou shalt abyd for that treason . Gladly my Lady certes said he , the childe they led vnto the sea , they wuld not drowne him for ought , but an other thing they haue thought .

How Beauis was soulde vnto the Paynims and caryed ouer the Sea into Armeny , and was presented vnto King Ermine .

THey found ships both more and lesse , of Panimes & of heathenesse , they sold the child with much thought , & to the paynimes Beues they raught Beuis hart waxed colde , for he was to Paynims solde , But yet him lyst not to rage , ouer they made good voyage . their saile they draw the wind was good , they sayled foorth as they wer wod Till they came to the riuer , Into the lande of Armony , The king Ermine of that land , his wife was I vnderstand , He had a daughter faire and bright , Iosian that faire mayde hight . His visage was whyte as lilly flour , therein ranne the red coulour , With bright browes & eyes shéene , with haire as gold were on the gréene , With comely nose and lippes swéet , with louely mouth and faire féet , With téeth white and euen sette , her handes were swéet as vyolet , With gentle body withouten lacke , well shapen both belly and backe With smal hands & fingers long , nothing of hir was shapen wrong . Wherefore should I hir not deceiue , there was neuer one fairer on liue , The Marchants are to the court gone , & presented that king with Beuis anon Therfore the king was faine & blith , & thanked the Marchants an hundred sith , By Mahound said the king I were gaye , would the child forsake his laye , For by Mahound that sitteth on hie , yet saw I neuer childe with eye That bare so much fairenesse , neither in length nor in brodenesse , Child he said thy name tell me , wher thou wert borne & in what country , Sir he said Beuis is my name , wher I was borne think I no shame . In England my mother bare me , at South-hampton vpon the sea , My father thereof was Earle a while , my mother let slay him by a guile , And hath me sold to the Paynimes , a wickeder woman may none be iwis , And I may liue certinly , I shall auenge my father sir Guy . The king of Armony sayd ful wel , of Guy of Hampton I haue heard tel , Many a Paynime and sarasine , he hath slaine with much paine , Beuis he said I haue no heir , but a daughter that is faire , And thou wilt thy Lord forsake , and to Apolin our God thée betake I shall giue her to be thy wife , and all my land after my life , Sir he said that will I nought , for all things that euer was wrought , Neither for gift that may be , nor for thy daughter that is so frée , I did my selfe great dishonour , if I should forsake my creatour . The king had him in no fiaunce , for he was stedfast in his creuence , The king said Beuis while the art swain , thou shalt be my chamberlaine , When thou art dubbed a knight , thou shalt beare my banner in fight , Beues aunswered milde and still , what ye me bid doe I will . Beuis was loued of squire & knight , for he was courteus both day & night Iosian gan Beuis for to loue , ouer all things that was aboue , when Beuis was xiiii . yeare olde , knight nor Squire was none so bolde , That against Beuis durst ride , ne with no weapon him to abide . The first déede withouten lesse , that Beuis did in Hathenesse , It befell vpon Christmas day , how it was I will you say , Beuis rode to fielde him to solace , and sixtie Sarasines alas , A Sarasin gan to Beuis say , Beuis he said what hight this day , Beuis aunswered ywis , I wote not what it is , For I was but seuen yéere olde , to the Hathens when I was solde , Therefore felow blame not me , if I wote not what day it be , The Sarasines said and lough , we can tell thée well inough , This day is Christmas day , that thy God as men say , This day thou shouldst thy God honour , with some Nobles as we do ou● Beuis vnto a Sarasine said , of Christendome I haue a brayd , I wold I wer as wel armed in this place , as euer sir Guy my father was ,

For his loue that ware the crowne of thorne , & on this holy day was borne , Would I iust with all the rout , then should men sée without doubt , Whether he wer stronger in heauen , or all the Mahounds that you can name Herken fellowes said a Sarasine , how he dispiseth Appoline . Yet weneth this Christen hound , that he would bring vs to the ground : We wil no longer haue respite , who so doth best shal be séen now right . Turne thée Beuis , we thée defie , there is nought els but thou shalt die . All at once on him they swong , and gaue him wounds wide and long . Beuis had no weapon great nor small , wherewith he might defend him withal . Ther was no boot for him to pray , but let him do the best he may Beuis was light and quicke , and to a Sarasine he lept And with his fist he stroke fast , that his chéeke bone all to brast . A Sarasines sword he toke in hand , & felled al that before him wuld stand . There men might sée much woe , when Beuis began to goe , To some he gaue such woundes , that they lay grinning like houndes . The Sarasines were wight & slie , and assailed Beuis with great enuie About Beuis the Sarasines did leape , as they had bin a flocke of shéepe . Of some he gan the womes downe teare , that the guts trailed here & there . There was no Sarasine that he hit , but his body asunder he cut . Ther might none fly by no side , but Beuis made him to abide . And Beuis within a litle stound , the sixtie Sarasins brought to ground . Great game had Beuis to sée then , the dead Sarasins to lie and grinne . Here is séene said Beuis in this stound , that God is stronger then Mahound . The Sarasines stéedes homeward ran , without taking of any man . And Beuis homeward gan ride , with bloudy woundes on each side . He stabled vp his horse thoe , and to his chamber gan he goe . To the fresh earth he layd him flat , for to stench his woundes with that . Tydinges came to king Ermine , that in despight of his God Appoline How Beuis had slain his men sixtie , vnto the king great shame & villany The king swore neuer to eate bread , if it were so till he were dead . When Iosian it heard she was ful woe , and to hir father gan she goe : And said you ought not to giue iudgement , till both parties be present . Beuis is so mild of moob , I wote he did no man but good . By Mahound and by Termagaunt , but if it were his defendaunt . When we haue heard both parties , then it is time to do iustice . Then said the king bring both to me , as Iosian saith so shall it be . Iosian called foorth two knightes , goe your waies , she said foorth rightes , To Beuis Chamber that is so frée , and bid him come & speake with me . To the chamber they went as she thē bad , eather other by the hand they lad When they came to the chamber dore , the one knight went in before . And said Beuis is it thy will , to come speake with Iosian thy fill . Beuis lookt vp with grim visage , fie he said on your message . I will not once stirre off this ground , to speake with an heathen hound . Vnchristened houndes I read you flée , or I your hart blood shal sée . The knightes hyed them fast away , and vnto Iosian gan they say , Lady , Beuis called thée hound , thrise within a litle stound : We would not oft wend to him for all the cittie , he looketh so grimme . Yes said Iosian , come with me , and certaine I shall your warrant bée . With the maide foorth went they , to the chamber where Beuis lay : Beuis looked vp anone , and Iosian in her armes twaine Tooke Beuis and kissed him swéete , his mallice she said she would wéet . She sayd , Beuis lemman thyne ore , thou art hurt wondrous sore . There is not in all Paynins land , better salue I vnderstand , Than I haue brought this stound , for to heale therewith thy wound , Beuis rose vp at her bidding , and went foorth before the king . On Beuis was told there that tide , thirtie woundes long and wide King Ermine framed the truth and heard , how Beuis & the Sarasins farde He had such ruth and pitie , that the teares ran down plentie . He sayd , daughter Iosian , Heale Beuis woundes if thou can , I would not as I vnderstand , lose his life for all my land . Iosian gan Beuis to chamber lead , to stop the wounds they should not bléed . With salues & drinks she healed thē soft , & euer among she kissed him oft . So within a litle stound , Beuis was whole and sound .

¶ How Beuis in a morning rose and went to the Forest , and slew the wilde Bore .

AWyld bore was there about , all men of him had great doubt , And all the men that he tooke , with his tusks he all to shooke , The bore was much & wondrous long , his head was great & so was his tong euery man was grieued both knight & king , for to come in his meting , Lord said Beuis vpon a day , whether it be as men doe say , Certes my hart shall neuer be sore , till I haue foughten with the bore , Beuis rose vp early vpon a day , and saddeled his good palfray , Be tooke a swoord stiffe and strong , a good shield and a speare long , And then he pricked ouer the fielde , Iosian saw and all behelde , when Beuis came to the wood he shoke , his shield about his necke he tooke His horse he tyed to a thorne , and began to blow with his horne : All about the Forrest he sought , but the bore found he nought , Till he came to the Deuils denne , there found he slaine many men : That in the wood the bore slew , the bloud he dranke , and the flesh he gnew . Rise he said thou foule beast , against me battaile sée thou heast . When the bore of Beuis had an eye , he set his bristles all on hye . And stared with his eies all hollow , as he would sir Beuis swallow . Of thée said Beuis I haue meruaile , well I haue set my trauaile . A speare to him Beuis did beare , in seuen péeces he burst it there . All to weake that speare was wrought , for in the bore boote it nought . His sword he drew him to were , but there might no dint him feare . Beuis thought at each dint , that he had smitten vpon a flint . The bore smote at Beuis so hard , that he was néere faint coward . Without rest fought they , till it was noone on the day . Lord said Beuis helpe and mercie , I am so weary me thinke I die . The bore was féeble and faint also , and from Beuis gan he goe . Then sayd Beuis yet will not Iesu , that I should lose my vertue . Betide sayd Beuis what may betide , the one of vs shall death abide . Beuis met the bore in the plaine , the bore saw that he turned agayne . As he came gaping all to wonder , the ouer grone he smote asunder . In at the mouth the bore he bare , and cloue his hart asunder there . And with his sword all in hast , the bores head he off cast . And on a tronche●●n of a speare , the head he sticked for to beare . That saw the fosters of that forrest , that Beuis had slaine that foule beast . They sayd , wée haue great disdaine that he hath this bore slaine . Goe we to him we shall him slay , and take the head from him away . Then shall we haue all the honours , right as we were conquerours , As Beuis should from the forrest ride , they him beset on euery side . The twelue fosters were armed each one , and Beuis was naked al alone . When Beuis wold hand on his sword lay , the scaberd he found the sword was away . For he had left his sword thore , where he slew the wilde bore . Then had he nought to weare , but the troncheon of a speare . The Fosters smote he downe , with the stroke of a troncheowne . Nine Fosters he slew at dintes thrée , and other thrée away gan flée . Beuis went with the head away : all saw Iosian where she lay . Such loue on him she cast , that neuer failed , but euer did last . The head of that wilde swine , Beuis presented king Exmine . Then at the first rose Beuis price , that was both curteous and wise . SOne after not long during , came a messenger to Ermine king , From king Bradmound of Damas , that swore by Mahound & Golyas , But if king Ermine bleue , send Iosian to be his wife . In many wayes he would him noy , and all his land robbe and distroy . And said in the first day of Maye , He should come and hold his day . And take away his daughter then , and all his landes destroy and bren . King Ermine he was wood & wroth , & sent after Erles & Barons both , And told them without faile , that king Bradmound bad them battaile . A word spake Iosian the bright , by Mahound sir were Beuis a knight , He would succour you right well , my selfe saw where he did fell Nine Fosters at dintes thrée , and other thrée away gan flée . Yet had he nought to weare , but the truncheon of a speare . Therfore sayd the king shall we not let , but Beuis shall to vs be fet . And then he dubbed sir Beuis a knight , & made him harnes for to fight . Full well they gan for him puruay , with a great hoast against that day . Beuis said the king , helpe at this néed , for all my men thou shalt lead . Arme thée right & take thy shield , for king Bradmound bideth in the field . Beuis did on he act owne , that had worthied many a towne . An hauberk Iosiā to him brought , a better ha●berk was neuer wrought . A helmet she gaue him good and faire , there might nothing it appaire . Then to him that faire maid gaue , Morglay a sword both fine and braue . There was no better vnder the Sun , many a land therewith was won . Iosian gaue to him such a stéed , the best that euer on ground yéede . Full well I can his name you tell , men called this stéed Arundell . No horse in the world was so strong , that might him follow a furlong . When Beuis in his saddle did light Iosian smiled that was so bright . Beuis did his horne then blow , for that his hoast might him know . Beuis had with him I vnderstand , of bold Barons twenty thousand . And yet king Bradmound their foe , had thrise as many men and moe . When Beuis came into the field , king B●admound stood and all beheld . A loude laughter laughed he then , when he saw ther was no more men . Either of the hoasts gan other defie , they shot arrowes on either partie . With bowes and alblasters of vice , they slew fast on either parties . And when they were thus in fighting , there was earnest and no gaming King Bradmounds banner bare Radison , he was as strong as any you . Beuis at him had great enuie either of them did the other defie . They smote their stéeds which spurs of gold , Arundel ran right as they wald Both the parties stood & beheld , how either hit other in midst of their shield . Radisons speare all to brast , Beuis speare held and smot fast . That through the shield and a●●on , he bare the great king Radison , The speare burst and he fel downe , in his breast he felt the troncheon . Then king Bradmound was abashed , for in Radison all they trusted . For they thought he was so maine , that no man might stand him againe . About sir Beuis they came redely , to auenge his death on the other party . And Beuis had game , & thought ful good , to bath Morglay in their bloud . Men might sée in that stound , an hundred Sarasines brought to ground . A litle further he rode tho , and slew twice as many inoe . The Sarasines that with Beuis were , helped him fast with their power . Men might sée ouer all , heads trundle like a ball . Many Sarasines might men méet , with guts trailing about their féete . Some all headles gan flée , and some all shankles aboue the knée , And some their heads off he sent , and some noseles away went . And some fled with so great wounds , that they lay grinning like to hounds . A thousand stéedes men might sée then , with dead Sarasines away renne . And all the sicke and whole , had bene before at Beuis dole . Bradmound sée his men misfare , two of Beuis knightes he tooke there . And led them foorth , and then he fled : Beuis saw that they were bested , And sayd abyde thou olde wretch , art thou come Iosian to fetch . Yéeld thy prisoners vnto mée , I will deliuer them from thée . Such stroke he gaue Bradmound , that man and horse fell to the ground . Mercy sayd Bradmond thyne ore , let me liue and smite me no more . The Citie with castles & towres , I shall thée giue with great honours . Nay said Beuis I wil none of thyne , but become the kings man of Ermine . And doo homage and fealtie , for other wages there shall none bée . Well said Bradmound I had leuer do so , then here to dye with pain , & woe , Beuis charged him in his lay , that he would neuer by night or by day , Wayte king Ermine any treason , but be euer ready at his summon . And hold him of his landes as chéefe , be thou loth or be thou léefe . Beuis was Ermines atturney , to receiue homage on that day . When Beuis had done he let him goe , alas why did he not him sloe . For soone after as you may heare , he serued him in worse manere . The knights that he tooke from Bradmound , Beuis led foorth with him the stound . For great loue he would not blin , but both he led vnto his Inne . And gaue them of meat & drinke the best , and in his bed did bid them rest . And when sir Beuis had done so , vnto the King he then did goe . And said , sir K. make good visage , for K. Bradmound hath done thée homage . And holds thée for chéefe in field & towne , & wil be ready at thy somowns . The king Ermine was glad and blithe , and blessed Beuis often sith : And said faire daughter Iosian , I pray thée soone vnarme this man Lead him to a chamber , Mahound him saue , for therein he may rest haue . And serue him both of meat and drinke , of the best that you may thinke . Then faire Iosian was right glad , and to her chamber him she led . And Beuis was set soft on a bed , the bordes were layd and tables spred . When shée had vnarmed Beuis , at a boord she set him ywis . And made them well at ease and fine , with rich meat and noble wine . When they had well eaten , and on a bed togither sitten . Iosian that was so true , thought shée would her loue renne . She sayd , Beuis I vow to thée , aboue all thinges I do loue thée . And if thou loue mée not againe , I shall be dead through woe and paine . Then said Beuis bée thou still , mée thinks thou speakest without skill . Thou mayst haue all vnliche , the king Bradmound that is so riche . In all the world is no man , neither King , Duke , or Soudan , But they would haue thée to their Quéene , & if they had thée once séene . I am a knight of strange land , and haue no more then I in stand . Mercy Beuis said Iosian , I had rather haue thée for my lemman , Thy body in thy shirt naked , then all the good that Mahound maked . Beuis shée sayd , tell mée thy thought : Beuis sat still and said nought Shée fell downe and wept sore , saying thou saidst here before , Ther is no king that mée hath séen , but that hée would haue mée to quéene . And thou thinkst on mée great spight , wend thou out of my chamber right . More comely it were thée like , for to hedge and make a dike , Then now for to bée dubbed a knight , & to dwell among maydens bright . Goe churle , and euill mayst thou fare , Mahound giue thée sorrow & care . Damosell he sayd , I am no churle , my father was both knight and Erle , To my countrey I will mée hye , neuer after thou shalt mée sée . Thou gauest mée horse , take him héere , I kéepe not to bée in danger . Beuis went foorth hée would not blinne , till hée came into his Inne . Sore gréeued as hée were blamed , for Iosian had him so ashamed . The two knights that Beuis loued , asked him who had him gréeued . Beuis sayd neither good nor ill , but sat him downe and held him still . When Beuis went Iosian fro , then did begin all the woe . Then she called the Chamberlaine Boniface , and his helpe in that case . To Beuis on message shée him send , and sayd shée would al things amend , All that shée did say truly , and pray him for to come to mée . Boniface his waye is gone , to Beuis Chamber is hée come . And sayd that Iosian had him send , and that she would all amend . And al that shée had sayd loud and still , so that you would come her till . Beuis sayd why should I do so ? shée bad mée wend her chamber fro . A robe gaue Beuis to the messenger , with other wéedes faire and cléere , Well furred of great valour , haue this hée said for thy labour : And gréet well thy Lady from mée , and say I will her neuer sée . Boniface thanked him then , and to Iosian went againe . Hée sayd my Lady make good chéere , for Beuis will no more come héere . Certes Madam yée did vnright , for to missay a noble knight . For it was neuer a churles déed , to giue a messenger such a wéed . If Beuis will not come to mée , I will not blin while I him sée . befall me therfore well or woe , vnto his chamber wil I goe . Iosian would no longer blin , till she came to Beuis Inne , When Beuis heard her without , as he should sléepe he began to route . Beuis shée sayd awhile awake , I am come peace to make . Faire Damosell then said hée , let me alone , and goe from me . I am weary of fighting ful sore , so will I for loue no more . Mercy she said my lemman swéet , shée fell down and began to wéepe . Forgiue me that I haue missayd , I wil that yée be well apayd . My false gods I will forsake , and Christendome for thée to take . On that couenant said Beuis than , I will thée loue faire Iosian . He kissed her to accordement , and therefore was Beuis shent . The two knights were ther that stound , the Beuis took from K. Bradmound . They heard all their couenant , and went to the king in an instant . And sayd , Beuis this same day , hath made Iosian forsake her lay . And surely he will lye her bye , except ye séek some remedy . And least that he be sent away , he will distroy all your lay . It is true by All hallows , deliuer a théefe from the gallowes , He shall thée waite to robbe or slo , so it fared by these knights two . Beuis deliuered them from perill , and they requited him full ill . Alas then sayd Ermine the king , sore I am grieued at this tyding . Sithen that Beuis came me till , much he hath done at my will . I would not for all Armeny , Sée any do Beuis villany . but I would faine auenged be , so that the deed I might not see . And then a Sarafine to him said , ther may be in parchment made , A letter vnto king Bradmound , and bid that he be brought to ground . As he is true knight to you sworne , and by beuis shal the letter be borne . And by Mahound I dare say , Beuis shal neuer goe quite away . When this was brought vnto the ende , the king did after Beuis send . And said thou shalt go foorth right , & be true messenger as thou art knight . And beare king Bradmound this letter , & euermore thou shalt be the better . Some other els should sure beare it , but it shal turn thée to great profit . Sir , let me haue Arundell and good Morglay , I dare vndertake the way . Be Bradmound neuer so wrath or wood , I shall make my partie good . Wherfore said Ermin thenkest thou so ? thou shalt but on my message go . Take therefore an easie hackney , that may beare thée easily away . It becommeth no messenger to leade , on message so vncomely such a stéed . But Beuis thou shalt to me sweare , that thou shalt truly my letters beare . And if thou art true man liefe , vndoe not the print of my briefe . Nay said Beuis on Christen Rood : he tooke his letter and foorth yode , Vpon an ambling hackney , leauing at home Arundell and Morglay . Iesu him comfort and rede , vpon him he beareth his owne déede . LEaue we now of Beuis here , and speake we of his eame Sabere . After that Beuis was from him sold , his hart for him waxed cold . He called to him his sonne Terrye , and bad him wend to espye . To Sarasines land both farre and néere , if he might ought of Beuis heare . Palmers wéed thou shalt weare , so maist thou better after him spere . He gaue him treasure for to spend , when that is done God can more send . Foorth then gan child Terrye fare , to Sarasines land till he came there . In many a land he hath sought , but of Beuis he heard nought . Till it befell vpon a day , as afterward I shall you say .

How Beuis went on message to king Bradmound , and how hee fought in the Cittie of Damas against the Sarasines that made sacrifice to Idols , and how he tare them downe and cast them into the durt and afterward was taken and put in prison .

TVrne againe wher we were before , of Beuis of Hampton to speake more . Beuis rode foorth and passed fast , toward the citie of Damas . He rode dayes and nights both , and rested not without othe , He rode as fast as he might ride , two or thrée morrowes tide . Then list he both to drinke and eate , as a weary man doth after heate . To sléepe he had lust the Romaines tels , that might he get and nothing els . Beuis lay downe to sléepe a stound , and let his horse baite on the ground . When he awoke out of his sléepe , no longer he abode , but vp he did leape . He came to a Forest faire and brode , and thetherwardes as he rode , He saw a Palmer sit him néere , with bread and wine at his dinner . Baken curlewes had he three , though hee seemed poore to be . The Palmer saw beuis was a knight , he vailed his bonnet as it was right And said to him faire loue myne , is it your will to come and dine ? For my will is so giuen to thee , therefore sir knight forgiue it mee . Thou shalt wish me ful euen , to a man that I can name , Beuis sayd to him agayne , hunger hath done me much payne . Beuis eat and dranke good plentie , while he would sit and therat be . Then to speake beuis Began , Palmer he sayd art thou a Christian ? Where wert thou borne , tell to me , and what thou dost in this countrie ? Then said the Palmer ye shal vnderstand , that I was borne in England . At Southhampton vpon the sea , and am come into this countrye , To séek after a child I plyght , Forsooth beuis he hight . I shall him séek till I him finde , though I him séek to the worlds end . To bring him to England , to helpe my father with his hand . Against his stepfather for to fight , to win his heritage and right . What hight thy father Palmer ? sir men call him Saber . Sir he hath bin euer in strife , sith sir Guy of Hamptons life . I left him in an I le full good , that is inclosed with the salt flood . And euery yeare a day certaine , he fighteth with sir Murdure of Almaine For to win his heritage , he doth for him great voyage . Tell me therefore if you can , wish me right vnto that man . Then said Beuis with milde cheare , Beuis haue I knowne this ten yeare . It is not thrée dayes at all , sithen we were both in one hall . Ther is no man by Gods ore , in Christendome that I loue more . We were fellowes for thy , he told me his father hight sir Guy . Sir said the Palmer that is he , for Gods loue let me him see . Nay sayd Beuis it may not be so , for on a message must I goe . but goe thou to England againe , helpe thy father with might and mayne . For when I haue my message done , I shall speake with Beuis ful soone . And tell him as I vnderstand , and make him to hye into England . Perchaunce Beuis is my frend , I shall with him to England wend . Sir sayd the Palmer in his language , to whom do ye ride on message . To king Bradmound sayd Beuis I wend , he is my foe and not my frend . Sayd the Palmer if thy will bée , wilt thou let me thy letter sée . Nay sayd Beuis so mote I goe , so thought I not my selfe to doe . It shall neuer vndone bée , till king Bradmound doth it see . They tooke their leaue and foorth gan goe , either kissed other of thē two . The Palmer went to England ward , and Beuis did ride on forward . Towardes the Citie of Damace , the which was a full faire place : There was K. Bradmounds pallace , was neuer none richer the story sayes . For both the windowes & the walles , was painted with gold , towers & hals . Pillers & dores were al of brasse , windowes of lattin were set with glasse . It was so riche in many wise , that it was like to Paradice . About the place there was a dyke , for breadth and depth were few it like . Ouer the ditch a bridge there lay , that man and beast might passe way . Vnder the bridge were sixtie belles , right as the Romaines telles . That there might no man passe in , but all they rang with a ginne . At the bridge end there was a tower , painted with gold and asoure : Ritch it was for to behold , thereon stood an Eagle of gold : His eies were of precious stones , of great vertue for the nones . The stones were so ritch and bright , that all the place shone with light . When Beuis was néere vnto the citie , of that place meruailed he . For sithen Beuis borne was , saw he neuer such a place . When Beuis came the citie within , great mirth and noyse he saw begin . The Sarasines then should sacrafice , to their Maumets in this wise . And Beuis came néere for to sée , saying what deuill of hell doe yée ? Why make you Mahound this present , and dispise God Omnipotent ? I shall witte before I goe , what Mahound can say or doe . Beuis lept vnto Mahound , and tooke him right by the crowne , And cast him amidst the mire , and bad them take vp their syre . The Sarasines that by Beuis stood , for yre & téene they were néere wood . They swore all he should abye , for he despysed their Mawmetry . There was no more for them to say , but all at once on him they lay . Beuis saw that , his sword he drew , and all that would abyde he slew . Then rose the crye in the citie , and Sarasines gathered great plentie . About sir Beuis they gathered , because Mahound he despysed . Beuis then did make a stoure , at each stroke he felled foure . With the Sarasines he fought so fast , that two hundred to ground he cast . Within a while men might méete , heads tumbling in the stréete . To the pallace they ranne flying , for to haue succoure of the king . And sayd , sir wee are sore noyed , for the citie is néere destroyed , Through a knight that hether is come , all our Gods he hath puld down , And troden them vnder his féete , in the mire amids the stréete . And all thy men he hath slayne , that euer did fight him againe . Sir king but we haue counsell of thée , he will destroy all the citie . King Bradmound sayd , by my God , be he a deuill , or be he wood , What is he I will goe sée , arme you right and come with me . Foorth they went all the rout , of the kinges Pallace without doubt . Right on the bridge the Romaines sayes , they met him going to the pallace . When Beuis saw the king with crowne , vpon his knées he knéeled downe . And gaue him vp the déed with his hand , & sayd , Iesus that I vnderstand , That shaped al the world so round , now giue thée sorrow king Bradmound . But Mahound and Apolyne , and Termagaunt which be Gods thyne : Let them giue thée now their blessing , that short life , and euill ending . Well thée gréeteth king Ermine , and sendeth thée a letter in parchmine . And biddeth thée his bidding doe , as thou art sworne him vnto . The king of Beuis receiued the déed , and gaue it to a clearke to reade . The letter bad he should him slo , and that he should not goe him fro : For certis if he passe away , he will destroy all your lay . When king Bradmound heard of this , he made therfore great ioy & blisse . He said , Beuis welcom to court with shame , we shall teach thée a new game . Thou art he that made me thrall , not onely me but my men all . Thou slewest & broughtest my men to ground , xx . M. within a litle stound . And hast in despyte of Mahound , slayne my men in this stound . But euer blessed may Mahound be , that sent thée hether vnto me . For I will be auenged soone , of all the sorrow thou hast me done . But wite me not Beuis verament , but blame him that thée hether sent . Some said he should be slayne , and some he should be quicke flayne . Some said , draw him through the citie , and some said hang him on a trée . Beuis he stood still and heard , of all the treason how it farde . And said sir king it is no réede , to iudge me to a dogs déede . A knight I am as well as you , therefore take your counsaile now , And graunt me armour and stéede , sword and speare good at néede . Sure helme and stalworth shield , and bring me safe into the field . And arme your men lesse and more , sixtie thousand if they wore . And let me die in battayle right , as is the manner of a knight . Then the Sarasines cryed all , and to the king gan they call , And sayd he shall thy men downe fold , if thou graunt him battaile bold . Graunt him prison through our read , let him be there till he be dead . For in your prison be Dragons two , and other wormes many moe . And were he in your prison brought , vnto noone liueth he nought . Bring him thether they all said then , and not in field among your men . Then spake king Bradmound , bring him downe vnto the ground : For he shall dye with much sorrow , all Christendom shal not him borow . About Beuis gan they driue , as Bées do about an hiue . When Beuis saw none other rest , then he began to doe his best . With his sword he stood at defence , against them all in their presence . Sir Beuis fought that it was wonder , till his sword burst in sunder . Alas sayd Beuis and well away , now I want good Morglay . But neuerthelesse Beuis , brought to ground with his fistes : Sixtie Sarasines to ground he cast , after that his sword did brast . But euer they gathered moe and moe , and tooke Beuis with much woe . And bound together his handes so fast , the al his fingers on blood out brast . They led him straight into the hall , and set him downe in a knights stall . A knight him fed with meat & drinke , whatsoeuer he would after thinke . The king bad Beuis eat fast , for this he sayd shall be thy last . An hundreth Sarasines stood then , about Beuis with swordes drawne . In chaunce if his handes out brast , then should he make them all agast . When Beuis had eaten & made him glad , into the prison they made him be lad . When he was at the ground , Beuis handes they vnbound . For they were sure and fast , that he should not make them agast . In the prison when he came downe , there he found a short trunchone . In his handes the same he tooke , and saued his life so sayth the booke . A water through the prison ranne , and bare the filth from the man . He had not bene there but a whyle , not the mountenance of a mile . But two Dragons of much might , against sir Beuis came to fight . Fast fought both he and they , all the night and all the day . The two Dragons neuer stayde , till they had Beuis weary made . But by the other day at noone , these two Dragons were fordone . His staffe was broken all away , but litle in his hand did stay . When these two Dragons were dead , then could Beuis no better read . But thanked Iesu that all shall winne , of all the care that he was in . Seuen winters he was thore , meate he had euermore . But once a day without lesse , of Wheat branne he had a messe . For to length withall his life , in pouertie and in great strife . Bread of corne eate he none , but of water he had great wone . Rats and Mice and such small chere , was his meat that seauen yeare . Thus is Beuis in prison ground , God bring him out whole and sound .

¶ How Iosian demaunded her father for sir Beuis , and of the sorrow that shee made . SPeake we of Iosian that mayd , vnto her father how she sayd . Sir Beuis she sayd where is he , ful long me thinketh til I him sée . Daughter he sayd I vnderstand , that he is gone into England . And liueth on his heritage , he hath a wife of great parentage . A kinges daughter wedded hath he , a marchant ywis told it mée . Then was Iosian full woe , and to her chamber gan she goe . And wept sore for sir Beuis , and thought some treason here is . There is no man can tell the sorrow , that she made both euen & morow .

¶ How King Iour wedded faire Iosian .

OF Mambrant the king called Iour , a ritch king & of great treasure : Is come fayre I sian to wedde , and of her father he him spedde . That graunted her to his wife , and his land after his life . When Iosian heard she should be Quéene , against her wil it was I wéene . She had leuer withouten lesse , to haue bene sir Beuis countesse . Neuerthelesse , sith it is so , against her father she durst not doe . Euer she said , good sir Beuis , hinde knight of Southhampton is . Haddest thou neuer me forsake , but some treason did it make . I shall neuer so vntrue be , as thou art Beuis vnto me . I shall goe now and make me a writte , through a clarke wise of witte . That no man shall haue grace , while these letters are in place . Against my will to lye me by , nor do me shame nor villany . She caused the letters to be wrought , on the maner as she had thought . And put it about her necke , so that no man should her checke . When it was to the time sped , that king Iour should her wedde : He sent for many noble men , or the Soudan of Babilon then . And for the Soudan of Persy , it is no time their names to discrye . And prayed them both with him to be , when he should wed that lady frée When this feast should beginne , euery knight went to his Inne . When the feast was all done , king Iour would home come . With Iosian the lady bright , that euer was true both day and night . Iosian was brought to him there , with much thought and much care . King Ermine tooke Arundell , and sadled him goodly and well . And tooke with him good Morglay , and to king Iour gan he say . Haue here I giue thee this steed , stalworth and good at neede . Haue here Morglay of steele broune , both they were Beuis of Hampton . King Iour thanked him then , and pricked foorth before his men . They were not fully at Mambrant , but the king said by Termagant , That he would into the citie ride , on Arundell before his bride . On Arundell when he was brought , Arundell had in his thought , That it was not sir Beuis , that on his backe did sitte ywis . He leaped ouer ditch and thorne , ouer bryer and ouer corne , Would he neuer blinne running , till he had cast downe the king . So sore to ground he him cast , that his backe all to brast . And had not soone come succour , he had then slaine king Iour . They tooke the horse with much slight , and led him to the pallace right . With great ropes they him bound , there was no meat before him found . Neither otes nor water cleere , there he stood that seuen yeare . But that Iosian him brought , and that wist the king right nought . For his men could not him read , with staruing for to haue him dead . IOsian is now Quéene , Beuis in prison with much déene . Strange wordes were ther beforn , he cursed the time that he was borne . His haire hanged long and side , full simple then was his pride . On a day Beuis would sléepe , an Adder great did on him créepe . And stinged him sore without lye , vpon his brow aboue his eye . Beuis waked and loud gan crye , and said Iesu my Lord mercie . This Adder hath bitten me sore , out of my life I would I wore . Helpe Lord and if it be thy will , and let me neuer in prison spill . With that an Angell come is , and appeared vnto Beuis . Gods Angell he saw by his slight , by whom the worme lost her sight . And before him all to brast , Beuis saw it and laught fast . Sir Beuis was féeble and faint , to Iesu Christ he made complaint . And vnto his mother Mary , and rufully began to crye . Lord he said of heauen King , that shapedst me and euery thing : What offence haue I done to thée , that hence thou wilt not helpe me ? The Sarasines do me much woe , haue mercy on me O Lord do so . Now giue me grace heauen to winne , and out of prison that I am in . The two wardes heard his complaint , how féeble he was and how faint . The one said hearest thou this felowne , how he dispiseth our Mahound ? He wéeneth that his God may him saue , and succour thinketh he to haue . But by Mahound it shall not gaine , I shall not rest till he be slaine . And sodainly at that word , he let a lampe downe by a cord . And sayd , come downe when I call , to helpe what euer me befall . Then a sword he tooke by his syde , and by the rope downe did glide : And smote Beuis that stound , that he felled him to the ground . Lord sayd Beuis , why dost thou so ? now is my heart in full great woe . Had I my sword good Morglay , and Arundell my good Palfray : For all Damas with their treason , would I not giue one button . And now the most wretch of all , at one stroke doth make me fall . Now were I worthy to behanged , but if I were of it reuenged . Beuis with his fist smote so fast , that his necke all to brast . The other cryed that was aboue , and sayd fellow for my loue , Hast thou of me any néede , that I may come thée to réede . Yea sayd Beuis all for guile , come hether to me a litle while . 〈◇〉 I must néedes haue thy read , or that Beuis be all dead . The other Warden no longer abode , but downe the rope he slode . And saw Beuis whole and sound , and his fellow dead on the ground . He would haue fled vp that tide , nay said Beuis thou must abide . Beuis with his fellowes brand , smote asunder through Gods hand , The rope aboue the Sarasines head , that to prison to his fellow he yede . Then was Beuis glad and faine , his two wardens he had slayne . Thrée dayes he lay and nought eate , he thought that life nothing swéete . Yet was Beuis wont each day , while that he in prison lay , Of wheat bran to haue a messe , therewith his hunger to redresse . But when his wardens were fordone , bread ne bran eat he none . That pennance was full strong , he thought he liued all to long . Iesu Christ sir Beuis said , helpe me with a litle bread . The rope may I not reach , but if thou me wish or teach . Too high he smote the rope asunder , if he it reach it were great wonder But yet by Gods might , Beuis skipped he was ful light . And gate the rope in his hand , and came vp I vnderstand . When he came vp he saw no light , for it was about midnight . But well he heard in the stable , Gromes sing and make bable . Vnto the stable dore he went , and smote it open at a dint . A doore barre he tooke in hand , and slew all that he there fand . A good stéed then foorth he brought , and sadled him well ynough . Beuis rode to the gate ful euen , and called the Porter with milde steuen . Rise Porter anon he said , Beuis of Hampton hath vs betraid . Sone after the gates were vnlockt , and with that Beuis out lept . The Porter straight his way tooke , vnto the prison for to looke . He found the wardens slaine ywis , and Beuis foorth escaped is . The Porter said , by my snout , the same was Beuis I let out . The Porter went to the king and said , how that Beuis had him betrayd . And slaine his wardens both in fear , the king made sorrow & heuy cheare . There were fiue kings in the Pallaice , that made him homage the story saies . To them Bradmound made his mone , they armed them euery one . A knight there was proud and fierce , men called him sir Graunders . An horse he had of great price , the which was called Trunchefice . He was worth his weight in gold , he would so run vpon the molde . Sir Graunders was the first dight , on Trunchefice vp he light , And rode after sir Beuis , well he thought to winne the price . When he was past Damace , he saw Beuis ride apace . He said turne thée Dogges whelpe , thy God shall thée nothing helpe . Through thée shal I get renowne , if thou be Beuis of Southhamptowne . Then Beuis vnto him did say : it is no maistry me to slay . For if that here I slaine bée , it is through hunger , and not through thée . But neuerthelesse we will assay , how well thou wilt thy duty pay . Beuis turned him well and fayre , and rode together with great ayre . Such a stroke he gaue Graundere , that through helme & hauberke cléere , Hart and bodie he claue asunder , there helped no armour , that was wonder . Right to the saddle , be head myne , he cloue him downe lyke a swyne . Beuis Trunchefice soone bestrode , he left his owne and foorth he rode . King Bradmound with all his hoast , came ryding after with great bost . And so fast followed they , that Beuis was driuen to the sea . He said , if I fight so many agayne , for hunger & féeblenes I shal be slaine . Yet will I to water flye ywis , and let God worke what his will is . Then to be slayne among them all : helpe me Lord , for now I call . Beuis made his horse to skippe , fortie foote in sea he leapt The Sarasines saw that after came , how the horse with Beuis swame . By the helpe of the Lord of might , the horse bare ouer that noble knight . When he was the water past , the horse him rested and shoke him fast . And for féeblenes in that stound , sir Beuis fell on the ground . Lord sayd Beuis how hungry am I , and if I were king of Armony , I would giue it without read , for one shiuer of browne bread . FOrth rode Beuis with great ayre , till he came to a castle fayre . A Lady ouer the wall lay , dame sayd Beuis I thée pray , For his loue that dyed on trée , one meales meat giue to me . The Lady answeared him tho , from my gate I read thée goe . An other place is better then here , for here thou gettest a cold dinner . For my Lord is a Gyaunt , and beléeueth in Mahound and Termagaunt . And if he know thou be a Christian , he will thée slay with much paine . For God sayd Beuis , and swore an othe , whether he be liefe or loath , Here will I meate eate , to dye therefore but I it get . The Lady was abashed withall , and went downe into the hall : And told her Lord that was so stout , how a man had sworne without . That he would there eate his fill , in the despite of thy will . Yea sayd the Gyaunt , will he so , a dore barre he tooke in his hand tho : And out vnto sir Beuis he brayde , and thus vnto him he sayd . What art thou fellow , art thou wise ? where stolest thou Trunchefice ?

That thou sittest vppon there , he was my brothers sir Grandere . God knoweth then sayd Beuis , I shore sir Graunders crowne ywis . When we met last in battayle , I made him Deacon withouten fayle . And if that thou wilt order take , a Priest sayd Beuis I shall thée make . Alas said the Gyaunt for sir Grandere , his death shalt thou abide ful déere . To sir Beuis he smote full sore , but of Beuis he fay●● thore . And hit Trunchefice in that stound , that he fell dead vnto the ground . Beuis start vp without respite , and to the Gyant gan he smite . Such a stroke was not sée●e in no land , sithen Oliuer dyed and Rouland . The Gyaunt saw the Beuis was strong , he drew out a dart sharpe & long . Through Beuis shoulder he did it shoote , the bloud ran downe to his foot . When sir Beuis saw the bloud , for yre and téene he waxed wood . He smote the Gyant then full ill , with all his might and all his will . And such a stroke he him lent , that helme and head from body went . Breast and bodie he cloue downe , with a stroke of his fawchowne . Now sayd Beuis by Moone & Sun , I trow my meat I haue wel woon . Dame said Beuis stay no more , but giue me meat I hunger sore . And thus much take thou of me , of meat and drinke no niggard bée . The Lady durst not him withstand , she led Beuis by the hand . And serued him of bread and wine , and afterward of meates fine . And of each messe ywis , she brought vnto sir Beuis . He made her eate first for thy , she should do him no villany . And drinke the first of the wine , least she had put poyson therein . When Beuis had eaten ynough , a white kerchife he drough . And stopt therwith his wound , to stay the bléeding in that stound . Beuis into the stable yéede , and sadled a goodly stéede . There would he no longer abyde ; he tooke his way and foorth did ryde . Then sir Beuis foorth rode , till he came foorth all abroad , Vnto a fayre gréene place , Lord sayd Beuis blessed be thy grace . And now I wold that Bradmound king , were here with me & al his spring , On this gréene , men should sée , whether I would from him flie . Foorth rode Beuis by the streame , till he came to Hierusalem . And to the patriarch he went ful swift , and of his sinnes he him bereft . Of Iosian to him he told the strife , that by right should haue bene his wife . The Patriarch for his great truth , wept for him and thought great ruth . He kept with him Beuis sole , till he was both sound and whole . And forbode him on his life , that he should neuer wedde a wife . But if she were a mayden cléene : nay sayd Beuis as I wéene . When it came vnto the night Beuis tooke leaue like a gentle knight . On the morow when it was day , Beuis rode foorth on his way . And as he rode him selfe alone he bethought whither to gone . Whether shall I to England fare , nay what should I do there . Vnlesse I might an h●●● gather , for to slay my stepfather . I will he sayd to Ar●iony , to know the cause wherefore and why , That the king did this treason , for my goodnes agaynst all reason . As Beuis rode foorth right , he ouertooke another knight . That would goe foorth to Arniony , and Beuis bare him company . As they rode at the last , either beheld the other fast . And either then the other knew , for sometimes they were fellowes true . Together they kissed after that , he asked Beuis of his estate . God knoweth said Beuis and lough , I haue had sorrow ynough . And suffered both hunger and cold , and other paines manifold . Through the treason of king Ermine , & sure I would requite his paine , Were not his daughter Iosian , this day would I be his bane . Iosian he said is a wife , against her will with much strife . Seauen yeare it is by Termagant , sithen king Iour of Mambrant . Iosian in Mambrant did wedde , both to boure and eke to bedde . He hath thy sword good Morglay , and Arundell thy good palfray . Where is Mambrant said Beuis thore ? sir he said it is yonder before . To Mambrant ye can not reach to day , but turne you must another way . Euer he rode foorth certaine , till he came to Mambrant plaine . MAmbrant is a ritch citie , faire and louely for to sée . When sir Beuis of Southhamptowne , came within that ritch towne . With a Palmer there he méet , full faire either other gan gréete . Palmer he said where is the king ? sir he said foorth on hunting . With many knights stout and kéene , Palmer he said wher is the Quéene ? Sir he said in hir towre , Palmer he said Paramour , Wilt thou giue me thy wéede , for my clothing and my stéede ? Would God sayd the Palmer , that ye had made that chaunge sir . Beuis gaue his horse fine , for the Palmers slauine . Beuis went to the castle gate , many Palmers he found thereat . Beuis said brethren déere , for what thing abide you here ? They answered him that there stood , we stand here to haue some good . Beuis said who shall it doe ? the Quéene they said we beléeue so . For all that she hath found here , euery day this seauen yeare , Good chéere them doth shée make , once a day for Gods sake . This almes giueth she by my crowne , for Beuis loue of Southhamptowne . Then said Beuis for Christes lore , tell me now ye Palmers poore , When this almes shall be done , sir they said at after noone . Beuis said it is but early day , he went from them anone away . He thought he would goe spie and see , how that it might best bée . As he came vnder a turret , that vnder the castle was set . He heard Iosian wéepe and crye , thether he went for to spye . Alas she said , for good Beuis , the gentle knight of Southampton is . Alas shall I neuer sée that day , that once with him speake I may ? But Iesu Christ I take me till , helpe me and if it be thy will , Euery day for seauen yeare , Iosian that Lady fayre , Was wont such sorrow to make , for sir Beuis of Hamptons sake . Soone she start to the gate thore , for to bring the Palmers poore . Beuis hyed him fast to the gate , least he should haue come too late . The Palmers pressed in fast , Beuis abode and was last . To the hall she led them euery one , but vnto Beuis sayd Iosian anone . Thou séemest most best to me , for I desire to talke with thée . Begin thou the boord Palmer , and merily goe thou vnto thy dinner . When the Palmers were all set , meate and drinke she did them fet . Then gan she to Beuis say , tell me Palmer now by thy fay , Hast thou heard any man tell , in any land where it befell , Either in field or towne , of sir Beuis of Southhamptowne ? I shall make them ritch without leasing , that of him can tell any thing . Yea Dame said Beuis and lough , sir Beuis I know well ynough . At home in his countrie , I am an Earle and so is he . For he loueth me ouer all , for either was other promigall . At home he gan me much to tell , of an horse that hight Arundell . I haue asked in many a land , for that horse I vnderstand . And sought him both farre and néere , and each man sayth he is here . As yée loue that same knight , of that horse let me haue sight . The Quéene without any fable , led Beuis into the stable . The Quéene gan Beuis behold , and vnto Boniface she told . I trow she sayd by my crowne , this is Beuis of Southhamptowne . But Beuis beard was neuer shorne , since he was of his mother borne . When Beuis into the stable came , anone to Arundell he ranne , And sayd Arundell God thée saue , without the towne I would thée haue . With thée came I neuer to Mābrant , but with me thou shouldest to England . Arundell in sunder burst chaines seauen , when he heard sir Beuis steuen . And foorth he ranne out of the place , and neyghed and made great race . Alas sayd Iosian tho , for Arundell I am full woe . For he will be many a mans bane , or that he agayne be tane . Nay sayd Beuis and lough , I can take him well ynough . If that yée will geue me leaue , I shall him take without griefe . To take the horse she him prayed , and lead him vp the Lady sayd . That there be no more distaunce , with that I shall thée aduaunce . I graunt sayd Beuis by Gods dome , when Arundel saw his maister come , He would neuer start nor leape , till Beuis on his backe did skippe . Beuis on Arundels backe he threw , and thereby Iosian him knew . She sayd Beuis loue déere , ride not from me in no manner . Thou promised me to wife to take , when I my false gods did forsake . Helpe Beuis at this néede , for thou hast Arundell thy stéede . I shall fetch thy sword Morglay , and lead me with thée away . Said Beuis thou mightest me blame , it may me turne vnto shame . I lay for thée in prison strong , seauen winters that was long . And the Patriarch on my life , charged me neuer to take wife . But she were a maiden cléene . And seauen yeare thou hast bene a Quéene . And euery night a knight by thée , how shouldest thou a mayden bée ? Mercie sir Beuis then sayd she , haue me home to your countrie . If you finde me not a true woman , in all that you say can , Send me hether to my foe , my selfe all naked and no moe . I graunt quoth Beuis that thou do goe , on the couenant that it be so . Hye thée fast and make thée prest , and if with me goe thou list . Boniface stood a litle beside , and said sir it were best abide . Sir Beuis he sayd it is great perill , yée shall be taught a better skill . The king is gone on his playing , and soone he wil come fro hunting . And if he finde we be away , he will pursue vs night and day , With all his great chiualrie , of courage stout and hardie . Yée shall be drawne through the towne , and hanged as a false felowne . Sir Beuis I do you read , Arundell to stable yée lead . And at the gate ye shall abyde , for when the king doth in ride , He wil aske you of tydinges , where you haue bene and in what landes . Yée shall tell him redely , that you came out of Surry . And that the land is greatly noyed , townes be burnt and men distroyed . And that king Bradwine is , in point to loose his landes ywis . Through Siracke and his men , of Antioch the ritch citie then . Looke yée tell him none other , for king Bradwine is his brother . And when he heareth this tyding , he wil goe thether with great hasting . With all his power and all his hoast , then may we goe with litle boast . Now sayd Beuis I hould me appayed , he led vp his horse as he sayd . Soone after came the king from hunting , and of Beuis he asked tyding . And all to him told Beuis thore , as Boniface told him before . I haue great wonder said king Iour , that he sendeth not hether for succour . The messengers were taken fiue , sir sayd Beuis by my life , That came from king Bradwine , I tell thée by Gods payne . King Siracke hath them in hould , I trow it be not Bradwine told . Now said king Iour , I will hye me to that stoure . For all I can to helpe my brother , in his right against the other , King Iour gathered a great partie , foorth he went into Surry . But his steward sir Grassy , he left at home full readily . Then came together in that case , Beuis , Iosian and Boniface . Now it is time said Beuis to goe , nay said Boniface , ye shal not do so . The kings steward sir Grassy , is made kéeper of my Lady . I know a grasse said he ywis , that of such vertue is , All those that thereof drinke , it shall make their eies to winke . And make them sléepe through might , all a day and all a nyght . Had Grassy dronk this grasse in wine , thē might we goe with counsail mine . When Boniface had done this thing , vp he rose without leasing . On the morow withouten misse , Iosian , Boniface , and Beuis , They them puruayed as they wold , both of siluer and of gold . They hyed them foorth on their way , sir Grassy awoke on the other day . When he wist the Quéene was gone , with the Palmer he made great mone . He made his men them to dight , and gathered great power for to fight . Then he rode foorth all by déene , after the Palmer and the Quéene . All Mambrant after them drough , weapened and armed well ynough . On euery syde a great rout , they beset Beuis round about , Then said Beuis to Boniface , thou séest we be in strange case . Thou shalt with hir abide here still , till I goe fight with them my fill . They shall abye if that I may , for I haue rested many a day . Had you neuer so good gaming , as ye shall sée when we are lamming . Nay sayd Boniface to him tho , forsooth it shall not be so . I shall you bring in lesse doubt , the land is beset round about . A litle beside vs here , is a caue in a rocke néere . Were we once , therein brought , we néede not care for them ought . To the caue they came at last , Grassy searched and ouer them past . He went againe where he came fro , with great care and much woe . All night in that caue they were , without meat or drinke there . Iosian hungred on the morow sore , & to sir Beuis she complained thore . Beuis sayd to Boniface , kéepe thou Iosian in this place . For I will goe vpon this hill , to sée if I may ought kill , That we may on coales cast , for Iosian may euill fast . Foorth went Beuis in that stound , with him he led a good greyhound . And when sir Beuis went them fro , within the caue came Lyons two . Grenning & ramping with their féet , & both on Boniface did they leape . His horse vnto him he drought , and armed him well ynough . And gaue vnto them battayle right , but all too féeble was his might . For anone they him slew , and his horse all to gnew . When they had eaten of that man , they went both to Iosian . And layd their heads vppon hir arme , but they would do hir no harme . For it is the Lyons kinde ywis , a kinges daughter that mayd is , Harme ne scath none to doe , therefore lay the lyons so . When Beuis came from hunting , in the caue at the beginning . As he went in for the nones , saw a man gnawen to the bones , Into the caue then went he , to sée what chaunce there might bée . Iosian sate in much doubt , and two Lyons hir about . A sir sayd Iosian tho , come and reuenge of these two . For right now haue they slayne , Boniface your chamberlaine . The one Lyon will I hold , whyles yée make the other cold . About the necke shée tooke the one , and Beuis bad hir let him goe . I say Iosian let them be , for I sée well a mayden be yée . What maistry is it them to slo , in handes when ye hold them so ? Let them come to me both , or els forsooth I will be wroth . She let goe the Lyon without misse , and both they assaulted sir Beuis . strong and perillous was the fight , betwéene the Lyons and the knight . They gaue him wounds long & wide , his armour they tore on euery side . Beuis thereat was fell and wroth , at one stroke he slew them both . For Boniface full woe was he , but when he saw no boot would bée . He tooke vp Iosian that tyde , and on his way foorth gan ride . They had not ridden but a while , not the mountenance of a mile . But they met with a Gyaunt , with a full sory semblaunt . He was both mighty and strong , he was full thirtie foot long . He was bristeled like a sow , a foot there was betwéene each brow . His lips wer great they hanged aside , his eies were holow his mouth wide . He was lothly to looke on , he was lyker a deuill then a man . His staffe was a yong Oke , he would giue a great stroke . Beuis wondrod I you plight , and asked him what he hight . My name sayd he is Ascapart , sir Grassy sent me hetherward , For to bring you home agayne , and now I am glad and fayne , That I haue you here found , for together you shall be bound . So shall you be led to Mambrant , with a full sory semblant . Yet sayd Beuis , thou maist faile , by me thou mayst dye in battaile . Of Arundell Beuis downe light , and tooke him to his Lady bright . And Beuis with a bould hart , with Morglay assayled Ascapart . Betwixt them two was great fight , sir Beuis was nimble and light . And start away his dint fro , when Ascapart at him did throw . If his hart would brast , he could not one on Beuis fast . For if he had smitten sir Beuis ones , he would haue brast all his bones .

Beuis skipped here and thore , and gaue him woundes wide and sore . Then Ascapart was full woe , and smote at sir Beuis tho . He smote to hit sir Beuis crowne , his foot slipt and he fell downe . And ere that he aryse might , Beuis with his sword was dight , To haue smitten off his head , but Iosian did it forbidde . Sir she said ye shall him saue , and let him liue to be our knaue , Dame he saide he will vs betray , I will be his borow she said nay , Ascapart made Beuis homage , and became sir Beuis page , Then they went foorth all thrée , till they came vnto the sea . A dromound they found there , to Christendome ready they were ,

There were Sarasines great plenty , and warned Beuis there to be , When Ascapart heard of that , anone to him he tooke his bat , He droue them out with much harme , & bare Arundell vnder his arme , Beuis & Iosian to shippe he bare , he drew vp sayle and made them fare , They sayled foorth south to sine , vnto the heauen of Coleyne . Beuis went into the land , and soone a friend there he fand , The bishop of the towne Percas , to sir Beuis sibbe he was , Beuis gréet well the bishop bold , and what he was he him told , The bishop then was well apayd , my déere cosin welcome he sayd . To sée you heere I am full fayne , my minde gaue me you wer slayne , Whence he sayd is thy Lady shéene , sir Beuis said in Heathenes a quéene , For her I haue suffered much payne , & she wuld become a Christian fayne He said what is this bad visage , sir said Beuis he is my page . He must be christened also , though he be both blacke and blo , The bishop Christened Iosian , that was as white as any swanne , For Ascapart was made a Phunt , and when he should therein be put , He lept ouer the bench , and said churle wilt thou me drench , The diuell of hell thy bane be , I am too much to be chrstened of thee , The folke had good game and lough , but the bishop was wroth inough .

¶ How Beuis slew a fierce and dreadfull Dragon in the Land of Colayne . NOw is Beuis in Colayne land , through the might of Christs hand , There he gate great renowne , by the slaying of a Dragon , For when Launcelot du lake , fought with the burning drake , Guy of Warwike I vnderstand , slew a Dragon in England , But such a Dragon was neuer séene , as sir Beuis slew men wéene , Beuis went to bed at night , with much ioy and torch bright , And after his first sleeping , he heard a rufull crying , The voice sayd in his cry , Iesu my Lord on me haue mercy . I rotte he saide bone by bone , my death is comming me vpon , Beuis therefore had great sorow , he asked them there on the morow , He asked them what was the cry , they aunswered and told why , They sayd it was a noble knight , that was strong and bolde in fight . And as he rode through the towne , he met with a fell Dragon , That with venime on him throwne , the knight lay all to blowne , And I shall tell you all the case , how the Dragon came to this place , In the towne of Calaboure men tell , where two Dragons great & fell , These two Dragons there can fight , seuen yéere both day and night , And destroyed both man and beast , on euery side both west and East ,

Ther was one in that land , that was full of Gods sond , He made request to God aboue , thut he should for his mothers loue , Delyuer out by his holy grace , these two Dragons from this place , Then these two Dragons down fell , they had no power there to dwell , Than they flew to Tuscayne , many men there haue they slayne , From Thuskaine into Lomberdy , there they did great villany , The one Dragon by Gods dome , flew to the court of Rome , He there rested his coursed bones , some say in a caue of stones , Men say he is there yet , enclosed with Clearkes wit , The other Dragon we vnderstand , flew hither into Colayne land , Within a mile lyeth he , but a mile from the sea , All Colayne Land round about , haue of him great doubt , That Dragon was heere this night , & hath destroyed the said knight , Lord Christ side Beuis tho , may no man that Dragon slo , Certaine they sayd without fable , all Christendom is not for him able , But if Michaell came downe , shall no man slay that Dragon , Sir Beuis called Ascapart him to , and asked him what to do , And sayd wilt thou with me go , for to see that Dragon wee two , by chaunce if wee with him fight , we may him slay by Gods might , I am ready sayd Ascapart truely , haue done anone let vs thether hye . Beuis armed him & foorth did ride , and Ascapart by his side , When they were past the Citie , and were néere where he should be , The Dragon cast vp such a yell , that would haue feared the diuel of hell , Ascapart said with heauy chéere , hearest thou what I do heare , Yes said Beuis haue no doubt , the Dragon is héere about , Boldly shall we to him goe , by Gods grace we shall him slo , Beuis rode foorth a good pace , where he trowed the Dragon was , Forsooth saide Ascapart tho , I will homewards againe goe . For I would not for all Pauy , sée that diuell that made that cry , What diuel said Beuis art thou mad , I thought nothing might make thee adrad For shame wilt thou afrayed be , of any thing or thou it sée , Sir he said with heuy chéere , I will him neuer sée nor heare , Well said Beuis wilt thou so , I will him slay or I go , Ascapart furder would he nought , but Beuis rode foorth and sought , And when the Dragon that foule is , had a sight of sir Beuis , He cast vp a loud cry , as it had thundred in the sky . He turned his belly toward the sun , it was bigger then any tunne , His scales wes brighter then the glasse , & harder they wer thē any brasse , betwéene his shoulder and his tayle , was forty foote without fayle , He weltred out of his den , and Beuis pricked his stéede then , And to him a speare he thrust , that all to shiuers it brust , The Dragon gan Beuis assayle , & smot sir Beuis with his tayle , Then downe went horse and man , two ribbes of Beuis brused than , Vp start Beuis with good will , and after ranne the Dragon till , And good Morglay out brayd , and on the Dragon fast he layd , but for no stroke that he did strike , would not Morglay on him bite , The Dragon was gréeued sore , and smote at Beuis more and more And gaue him many a great wound , and felled him oft to the ground , What for wery and what for faint , sir Beuis was néere attaint , The Dragon sewed on Beuis so hard , that as he would haue fled backwrd , There was a well as I wéene , and he stumbed right therein , Then was Beuis afrayed and woe , lest the Dragon should him slo , Or that he might away passe , when he in that well was , Then was the well of such vertue , through the might of Christ Iesu . For sometime dwelled in that lond , a Virgin full of Christs sond , That had bene bathed in that well , that euer after as men tell , Might no venimous worme come therein , by the vertue of that Virgin , Nigh it seauen foote and more , then Beuis was glad therefore , When he sawe the Dragon fell , had no power to come to the well , Then was he glad without fayle , and rested a while for his auayle , And dranke of that water his fill , and then he lept out with good will , And with Morglay his brand , assayled the Dragon I vnderstand , On the Dragon he smote so fast , where that he hit the scales brast , The Dragon than faynted sore , and cast a galon and more , Out of his mouth of venime strong , and one sir Beuis he it flong , Which was so venimous ywis , that when it was on sir Beuis . His armour burst in that stound , and he fell dead to the ground , There was no life on him séene , he lay as a dead man on the gréene , The Dragon smot him without faile , that he tourned top and tayle , but thereoff he tooke no kéepe , he lay as a dead man on sléepe , He smote Beuis as I you tell , the dint smote him into the well , That was of great vertue that time , for it would suffer no venime , Through vertue of the Virgin , that once was bathed therin , When Beuis was at the ground , the water made him whole & sound , And quenched all the venim away , this well saued Beuis that day , When he féelt him whole and light , and knew that well of great might Then was he a ioyfull man , he was as fresh as when he began , He knéeled downe in that place , to Iesu Christ he called for grace , That he would send him might , to slay the Dragon in fight , Beuis blessed him and foorth yode , and lept out with hart full good , And Beuis to the Dragon gone is , and the Dragon also to Beuis , Long and hard was the fight , betwext the Dragon and the knight , But euer when Beuis was hurt sore , he went to the wel & washed him thore , He was as whole as any man , & euer as fresh as when he began , The Dragon saw that might not auayle , beside the well to hold battaile , He thought he would with some wile , out of that place Beuis beguile , He would haue flowen thē away , & Beuis lept after with good Morglay , And hit him vnder the wing , as he was in his flying , There he was tender without skale , and Beuis thought to be his bale , He smote after as I you say , with his good sword Morglay , Vp to the hilts Morglay yode , through hart , liuer , bone and bloud , To the ground fell the Dragon , great ioy sir Beuis begon . Vnder the scales all on hight , he smote his head foorth right , And put it vpon a speare , and vnneth he might it beare , He went to Colaine that tide , with great ioy and much pride , When they of the citie sawe Beuis , come with the dragons head ywis , All the bells gan they ring , priestes and clearkes then did sing , And brought Beuis to the towne , with procession and renowne , Then was Beuis name in honour , euery man had him in fauour , In euery land is spred , sir Beuis price and laud , Glad was the Bishop tho , that sir Beuis had borne him so , ¶ Beuis did goe vpon a day , to the bishop where he lay , And sayd what is your réede sir , I would go venge my father , Of that wicked felon , that slew him by treason , If I might by any ginne , my herytage agayne to winne , And sir ye be my fathers brother , and sir Sabere is the other , Of you two I must haue counsaile , for surely I will him assaile , Sir saide the Bishop anone right , sir Sabere is a doughty knight , For euery yéere a day certayne , he fighteth thy stepfather agayne , With a great baronage , for to winne thine heritage , I wil thée finde at my costage , an hundred at my wage , And go to Sabere thy eame right , he is in the yle of wight , Sir he sayd God haue mercy , but let these men soone be ready , Sir Beuis rode foorth to Iosian , and tooke his leaue of his lemman , And siaid my Lady I must goe , for to wreake me of my foe , For to winne vnto my hand , all my heritage and my land , And héere still shall you be , and Ascapart shall be with thée , Ye shall haue or I wend , mony ynough for to spend , Iosian saw it would not be so , she kissed him and foorth go , Forth went Beuis with his rout , of hardy men , bolde and stout , That the bishop him gaue , so long on the sea they draue , Till they came to the towne , but two mile from southhampton , Then said Beuis to them tho , is héere any man that will goe , Vnto sir Murdure of Almayne , and saye there is come an Almaine , With doughty knights without distaunce , the best of the realme of Fraunce , And say we be come into this land , for we be done to vnderstand , There should be great war & fight , betwéene him and a nother knight , And he will with him holde , we will defend him be he so bould , And if he will not do so , we will to the other go , A knight went foorth on that message , that gentle was of lynage , When he came to the Castell gate , the porter let him in thereat , And to sir Murdure was he lad , and told him as Beuis bad , Murdure then was full faine , he rose vp and went them agayne , And brought sir Beuis into the hall , and fayre saluted them all , Beuis was sir Murdures fere , forsooth that night at supper , His owne mother without leasing , made sir Beuis great feasting , Murdure asked what he hight , Geraurd he said you plight , Geraurd he sayd ywis , this Countes had or this , And Earle her had or I hir wed , he gate a child by her in bed , When the Earle to death was brought , the boy anone waxed nought , His father was of noble bloud , and his mother in all things good , The boy when he came to age , solde to me his heritage , He spent his siluer with much blame , and went out of the land for shame , Now commeth his vncle an hardy knight , that dwelleth in the yle of Wight And challengeth his heritage , with a full bould baronage , And often times with his great rout , destroyeth our land round about , This is the cause sir Gerard , that eiher warre on other so hard , When sir Murdure had all said , Beuis sat still and was euell apayed , And thought Lord whether shall I slo , this false traytour or I goe . Nay sayd Beuis and why , it will turne me to villany , For men might déeme by reason , that I him slew by treason , It would me tourne to cowardise , if I him slay in this wise , Therefore I will not assaile , I will him slaye in playne battaile , When Beuis a while had sitten still , sir he sayd will you heare my skill I haue hither company brought , but in armour be the nought , They might not with them armour lede , but it noyed them as they yede , And few horses ywis haue we , we left for caryage on the sea , Lend me horse and armour then , for to harneis all my men , And if we haue shipping so , and that we may to the yle goe , This night will I liue or dye , on them that is mine enimie , And so within a lyttle whyle , you shall heare a quaynt guyle . Sir Murdure did as he bad , and the men with armour clad , And ordeyned them shipping good , and brought them vnto the flood , And foorth they went all by light , till they came to the yle of Wight , Sabere out of his Castel lay , and hard much noyse and great aray , And saw a ship to land was right , with an hundred heads with helms bright , And had wonder what they were , but Beuis displayed his banner there . For to make glad sir Sabere , of his father sir Guyes armere , For many a time there beforne , were those armes in battaile borne , Sabere knew the cognisaunce , and then he made good semblaunce , And said certis I vnderstand , that yonder is Beuis commen to land , Sabere went thether all in hast , where the ship was made fast , And welcomed Beuis with ioy & blisse , and either of them other kisse , And thanked God of his grace , that Beuis was come to that place , Forth went Beuis with Sabere , with their men all in feare , Beuis tould his eame there , how he deceiued his stepfather , Beuis asked foorthwith than , if there were euer a man , The which dare goe as hote , vnto Southhampton in a bote , And tell Murdure this night , that he was not a french knight . Neither that he hight Gerrard , that made with him that forward , But say he was Beuis of renowne , right heyre to Southhampton , And say the Countesse is my dame , the diuell giue them both shame , And say he will aduenged be , for slaying of his father sir Guy . And who so will do for me this , shal be well rewarded iwis , vp start a knight with bold visage , which vndertooke that message , And armed him all so hote , and went soone into a bote , When he came to the other side , vnto the Castle did he ride . And found sir Murdure at his supper , with good semblaunt & great chéere , The knight on his knées him set , and sir Murdure fayre he gréete , And said sir Murdure I bring , this for a certeine tiding , That the knight is not Gerrard , that made with thee this forward , He hight Beuis of Southhampton , he is the Ladyes owne sonne , I heard him so to Sabere speake , his fathers death he will wreake , And winne he will his heritage , on thē that haue done him outrage , When sir Murdure heard that word , he cast his knife ouer boord , To haue smitten the messenger , but he fayled as you may heare , And smote his sonne on the brest , that he neuer spake with clearke nor priest , Then rose there a noyse and cry , the messenger then not for folly , Thought not good to dwell there long , but out he lept them among . And smote his horse with the spures , and sprang out at the doores , Faire and well he gan him dight , till he came to the yle of Wight , And tould sir Beuis and sir Sabere , how sir Murdure sat at supper , His owne sonne for yre he slough , Beuis had good game and lough , And gaue the messenger in hand , sixty Floryes for his tydan . d

¶ How a knight that hight Miles came & woed Iosian ; and wedded her against her will .

LEt we of them be still than , and speake we now of Iosian , That in Colayne dwelled still , where she had not all her will , There dwelled a knight that hight Mile , in the land of Colayne that while , To Iosian his loue he cast , and woed her wondrous fast , But al his speach tourned to nought , for nothing cold chaunge hir thought The earle was wroth in his manner , for Iosian made him in great danger And in his anger he downe him set , & to Iosian spake words great , I shall do with thée my will , whether it make the well or ill , Sir sayd Iosian thy best let be , I dread thée nought so may I thée , For if thou goe to my hart , I affye me in Ascapart . Certis though Earle Mile , I shall him some manner beguile . When he saw he migh not spéede , vp he rose and foorth yede . He made a letter be written right , on this manner it was dight . From Beuis as the letter would , that Ascapart come should . Vnto a Castle in an yle , being from Colayne but a myle . When Ascapart heard that sond , he tooke a bat in his hand . And went foorth with the messenger , in great hast till he came there . When he was well within , the messenger knew a quaint gin . Within he left Ascapart , and locked the gates to him hard . He rowed himselfe to land againe , and tould sir Myles of that traine . Then had the Earle no dread , but againe to Iosian yede . And said Lady make no mone , for Ascapart is from the gone . In a Castle within the sea , fast locked sure is he . Then was she full ill apaied , and to a messenger she saide . Go thou to ship this ylke night , and passe foorth to the yle of Wight . And bid sir Beuis for any thing , come to me without letting . And he will haue me on liue , therefore do thou go blyue . I shall thée thy reward pay , do thy errand without delay , The messenger went foorth away , there was no more then to say , And sir Mile after than , came vnto fayre Iosian . And first would haue lyne her by , good sir she said graunt me mercy . For I haue sworne by God truly , that no man shall lye me by . Although therefore I lose my life , vntil he wedde me as his wife , And thou wilt me spouse and wed , thou shalt haue me to thy bedde . Gladly my Lady then said he , to morrow shall we wedded be . He kissed her anone as his rights , and sent after barons and knights . That should be of his priuitie , at his wedding for to be . For he would be wedded priuely , the next morning very early , On the morrow he forgot nought , but they to the church were brought . They earely them began to wedde , both to boord and eke to bedde , When the wedding was all done , by that it was hye none . Earles and barons were soone set , and rich meate were foorth set . There lacked none certainely , of rich meate and minstrelsie . When it drew toward the night , a rich supper there was dight . And afterward verament , a knight and she to chamber went . Vpon her bed where she sat , the Earle came to hir with that . With barons a great company , with pye meate and with spicery . When they had dronken the wine , sir said Iosian and loue mine , Let no persone here be , this night to heare our priuitie , Neither knight maiden nor swayne , my selfe shal be your chamberlayne . He said lemman it . shal be so , man and maide he made out go . He shut the doore well and fast , and set him downe at the last . To haue a curtaine it was law , before the bed he did it draw , Then on a girdell without leasing , she made a knot riding . About his necke she drewit thore , and strangled him without more . Then on a beame she hanged him hy , and let him hang for his folly . The night passed in that wise , the barons gan for to arise . Some on hunting & some to the church , & workmen rose to worke . The halfe day past without fayle , the barons had of him meruayle . Some said let him be still , of Iosian he hath his will . The midday when it drew to noone a baron spake then soone . I meruaile how may this bée , I will goe to the chamber and sée . He smote the doore then so fast , that all to péeces he it brast . Arise he said thou Earle Mile , for thou hast slept a great while . Thy head aketh I wote well , thou hast neede of a candell . Nay said she I vndertake , his head shall neuer more ake . I haue charmed him for that sore , that his head shall neuer ake more . Now I haue vnknit the wedding , younder mayst thou sée him hang . He shal neuer woman spill , do with me what so euer ye will . All they made great sorrow , the other day on the morrow . Se was dight verament , in a fire to be brent . Without the towne was set a stake , a great fire did they make . In a Castle lay Ascapart , and ouer the wal looked thetherward . And had great wonder truly , what that fire might signifie . He thought in his hart then , that Iosian some wo was in . Of the Castle where he was lockt , a touret he had all to broke . He was so wo and woode , that he lept into the floode . And fast by him also hote , came a Fysher with his bote . And Ascapart tooke the bote in hand , and rowed it vnto the land . Towards the foolke he gan looke , Beuis , came after and him ouertooke . And saide théefe where hast thou be , where is my quéene I left with thée , Sir Beuis Lord mercy he sayd , the Earle Mile hath me betrayd . Toward the fire they hyed them bliue , the preist than Iosian shriue . Christs blessing haue he among , for he taryed her so long . When the fire was all ready , in her smock she stood thereby . Right as they should hir bren , on Arundell Beuis gan ren , And in his hand good Morglay , and Ascapart went an other way . And all they about found , Beuis and he slew to the ground , There was neither knight ne swaine , that passed away vnslayne , And what made the false Earle Mile , for his treason and his gile , Beuis tooke with him than , both Ascapart and Iosian , And went foorth anone right , till they came to the yle of wight , Sir Sabere , welcomed with good hart , both Beuis , Iosian , and Ascapart .

¶ How sir Beuis and sir Sabere his eame sent their messengers far and wide , for men of armes to succour them in that tide , against sir Murdure , that held Beuis heritage by treason , that was imagined by the wicked woman his mother , and how in the fielde Ascapart bare Sir Murdure and his horse , maugre of all his host into the castle , and how he was sodden to death in a Caudron .

SAbere and Beuis sent their sond , wide about in euery land , After right great chiualry , of stalworth knights and hardy , That they might finde them , yea , both stout and hardy men , Spared they neither siluer nor gold , for the best men haue they would . Beuis was curteise and frée , to euery man in his degrée , There came Earles and barons iwis , for to succour sir Beuis , There came knights squiers & pages , each one had of him good wages , And rich giftes more and lesse , each man after his doughtinesse , Therefore each man to him sought , he tooke & left what he best thought , Euer he chase him of the best , that he could finde either east or west , Sir Murdure much sorow made he , when he saw Beuis had such a meny The Countesse said dread ye nought , of good counsayle I am thought , Ye shall send in certaine , after the power of Almaine , Also you shall send your sond , after my father into Scotland , He will come to you readely , with a full great company , And we may haue many mo , out of England and wales also , Wherfore should ye dread then , while ye may haue so many men , If Beuis sée you haue this rout , he will flye away for doubt , Sir Murdure did by her counsaile , the messenger went without faile , That afterward without leasing , to Hampton came Prince and King , There came with the king of Scotland , the number of seuen thousand , There came out of Almaine , with sir Morys of Viane , Sixty thousand with helmes bright , and well armed for to fight , And sir Murdure had also , thrée thousand men and more , Now lordings said sir Murdure , that hither come me to succour , Often ye haue heard speake pardy , of the strife betwéene Sabere & me , Now to helpe him for to fight , beuis of Hampton a noble knight , Well I thought he had béene dead , what is therefore best I read , He threateneth me to be slayne , and that he will win his land agayne , A Gyant with him he hath brought , an earthly man séemeth he nought , Neither of flesh nor yet of fell , for he is lyke the Diuell of hell , Men call him Ascapart throughout , of him forsooth I haue great doubt , But Lordings he said arme you well , both of yron and eke of stéele , Though Ascapart be stif and sterke , many hands make light worke , When his hoast was armed and dight , they shiped to the yle of wight , And all the yle was then bespred , with the power sir Murdure ledde , Sir Sabere looked out at a tower , and saw the hoast of sir Murdure , And all smartly downe gan he go , for to tell sir Beuis so , And saide Beuis now counsaile , I trow it would vs auayle . In this Castle to hould vs still , and to defend vs from ill . For such an hoast as hath Murdure , saw I neuer in any stour . Do away Sabere sayd Beuis tho , for if they had as many mo . Against vs they haue no might , they haue the wrong and we the right . Arme you all Beuis gan cry , that we were armed hastely . And ye shall haue sir Sabere , thrée thousand vnder your banner . And I as many shall lead , of doughty men good at néede . For I will haue the forward , and then he said to Ascapart . Thou shalt dwell not for thy , with thrée thousand men hardy . When we haue medled a stound , and each brought other to ground . And that the stoure is most strong , hye the thether and dwell not long . For thrée thousand of fresh men , good déedes shall they do then . Beuis then his horne did blow , for all men should him know . By that blowing sir Murdure , knew they gathered the stoure . He said lordings without fayle , now commeth our foe to battaile . Be ye hardy and stout also , for we be as many mo . Two battailes did they make , the king of Scotland one gan take . Sir Murdure the other lad , either of them ten thousand had . The first that of the castel came out , was sir Beuis with his rout . And Sabere with his company , came after full boldly . Either hoast gan other defy , and euery man to other ready . Sir Morys of Viane , rode fast sir Sabere againe . And Sabere met him ywis , and such a stroke he gaue Morys . That quite away gan he cleaue , from the shoulder arme and sléeue . Before the preace went sir Beuis , on euery side he slew iwis . There might none him withstand , that saw the king of Scotland . He pressed in with his rout , and beset Beuis round about . Beuis then began to play , and made roume with Morglay . He would not stint then so , till he went the king to . And such a stroke he him let , that horse and man to ground went . But such succour came to him tho , at that time Beuis might not him slo . But or he was horsed againe , an hundred men had Beuis slayne . Foorth procéedeth Beuis in the throng , on euery side downe he slong . He neuer stinted in that stoure , till he came to sir Murdure . Traitour he said with great enuy , turne the now I thée defy . When Murdure saw he was bested , he tourned his backe & wold haue fled And Beuis smot after with good Morglay , but fayled him there well away . For by his back the stroke fell downe , & hit it vpon his saddel cropowne And smote it asunder to the ground , horse and sadle both in that stound . But there came hastely succour , and horsed againe sir Murdure . And boldy then did he abide , the people dyed on euery side . Beuis rode foorth on Arundell , on euery side he did them fell . Some lay bléeding as a swine , and some began then to pine . And some their visage did pare , that men might sée their téeth bare . There went none vnmarkt away , that he might hit with Morglay . For sore agrieued was he , where he had one they had thrée . But Beuis and Sabere bare them so , against one they slew two . When the throng was heard , than came foorth Ascapart . All on foote I you swere , for there might no horse him beare . He tooke his staffe in his hand , and slew downe all that he fand . When Ascapart came with his rout , then had sir Murdure great doubt . For he brought with him then , thrée thousand of fresh men . And felled downe on euery side , and slew all that would abide . Great pitie men might haue séene , of the murther that there hath béene . Fearefull they were of Ascapart , for he smote so sore and hard . That thrée thousand they might sée , flye and drowne them in the sea . Beuis called Ascapart him till , and said fellow heare my skill . Looke that thou take good héede , of him that rideth on the white stéede . And beare him aliue vnto the tower , for that same is sir Murdure . Yes said Ascapart tho , we shall shriue him or we go . Ascapart with his staffe , many their deaths wound he gaffe . With great strength & much payn , he came to sir Murdure of almaine . And all on horse as he sat there , vnder his arme he gan him beare . Than began Murdures men to hie , to rescue him he should not dye . The king of Scotland with his rout , beset Ascapart round about . And when sir Beuis and sir Sabere , came there with their power . And slew all that would stand , to the number of thrée thousand . And maugre if they had sworne , Murdure was to the castle borne . The king of Scotland was then beset , when he sawe Murdure to the castle fet And all his meny downe smite , he turned to his backe as lite . Then they would no longer abide , but slew them downe on euery side . Sir Beuis and sir Sabere , chased them with their power . And fast followed he , and many fled into the sea . And they that stoode him againe , they were all maimed and slaine . Some their shanks by the knée , and some quartered in thrée . Some their nose and some their lip , the king of Scotland had a ship , And fled away by the west , to the place that liked them best , Beuis and Sabere turned againe , into the Castle glad and faine , Sir Beuis without any let , made a caudron on the fire be set , Full of pich and brimstone , a worse death was neuer none , When the caudron boyled hard , Murdure was cast into the midward , That death dyed he sekerly , for the death of good sir Guy , Thereof heard the Countesse , that sir Murdure dead was , she stood aboue in a toure , so wo she was for sir Murdure , she threw hir selfe downe & broke hir neck , I beshrew that therfore doth reck When sir Beuis tidings heard , of his mother how she farde , As sory was he for her , as he was for his stepfather , Soone after sir Beuis , Come to Southhampton is , To take possession of his landes , that had béene long out of his hands , The burgesses with much pride , against sir Beuis gan they ride , And brought sir Beuis fayre and well , to Hampton to his owne Castell Of Hampton all the baronage , came and did Beuis homage , Then was Beuis glad and faine , that he had his enemies slayne , Sent after the bishop of Colaine , than Beuis the sooth to sayne , That he would for any thing , to be at his wedding , When he was there come , two knightes had Iosian anone , To church than they hir led , the bishop himselfe on the booke red , And vnto Beuis was wedded bliue , to the ending of their liue , Now hath Beuis recouered his state , two children by her he gat , The first night together in feare , as you shall afterward heare , Sabere counsailed him there , to go to London to king Edgare , To make him homage as reason would , for his lands to chaleng & hold , Sir Beuis did after counsayling , and went foorth before the king , And profered that king to do him homage , as it fell to his heritage , King Edgare he asked what he hight , and what he claimed for his right , Sir he said my name is Beuis , the Earledome of southhampton it is , After my father sir Guy , that was slyne for his Lady , With sir Murdure of Almaine , and thanked be God he is slaine , Beuis said the king I hold me paid , I graunt that thou hast said , His marshall tooke the king in hand , and said deliuer me thy wand , For sir Guy his father was my marshal , and sir Beuis his sonne he shal The yard to Beuis the king taketh , and his marshall him maketh , ¶ Beuis is now of great might , beloued both of king and knight , Each man both Earle and Baron , loued and dread Beuis of Hampton . For largely would he spend , and giftes both giue and send , To euery man after his estate , no man had cause him to hate . He was so curteous and so kinde , that euery man was his friend . Saue sir Bryan of Cornwayle , he hated Beuis without fayle . For Beuis had these offices , that sometime were his . In the Somer at Whitsontide , when knightes doe on horsebacke ride . A course they made vppon a day , stéedes and palfrayes to assay . Which horse that best may runne , thrée mile the course was then . He that best ride could , should haue fortie pound of gold . Sir Beuis was appayed well , for much he trusted in Arundell . On the morow when it was light , thither came both Baron and Knight . With faire stéedes and much pride , that in that course would ride . Two knightes were stolne before , a large halfe mile and more . That none of his fellowes wote , Beuis with the spurres smote . On Arundell so sayth the booke , and amid the way them ouertooke . He had ridden the course in a while , or they though he had rid a mile . Now hath Beuis the price woon , through Arundell that well did runne . Wherefore with that and other cattell , he made the castle of Arundell . The horse was praised in that case , for both swift and lusty he was . The kinges sonne and his heire , thought the horse good and fayre . And to Beuis then he hyed , and prayed him to haue his stéede . No sayd Beuis for no gold , but aske me else what you would , At your will you shall it haue , but Arundell do you not craue . For any prayer you may pray , will I giue my stéede away . The kinges sonne when he it saw , that his minde he could not draw . Without any more fable , he went vnto sir Beuis stable . For he would the horse vntye , but when he came somewhat nye . That Arundell also hote , with his hinder foot he smote , That he droue out his brayne , so he lay there dead slayne . There was dole and much wéeping , when tydinges came to the king . Foortwith the king verament , made to be set his Parliament . And began for to ordayne , that sir Beuis should be slayne . And be drawne with wilde beastes , his Barons would not his heastes . They sayd that it were no skill , but Arundell should be at his will . For he slew thy sonne so , but nought to Beuis may we doe . Nay sayd Beuis for no castell , would I let slay Arundell . For he is good euery where , yet had I rather the land forsweare . Then sir Brian of Cornewell said , sir this is my counsell . That ye doe one of the two , I assent said Beuis tho . Before you all I giue héere , mine heritage to Sabere . Sir Beuis deliuered vp the wand , and there he forswore England . A fortnight had he respite , for to wend all in delight . And he after might be found , he should be taken and fast bound . On this maner they were at one , and to Hampton he rode anone . And together told he thore , of the case both lesse and more , It is no longer but to morne , for we may not héere soiourne . Beuis and Iosian made all ready , and took their leaue for to ferry . Saberes sonne that hight Terry , Beuis tooke with him for company . Ascapart that false théefe , and for him he had much griefe . He thought héere I do dwell , and get nothing but great trauell . But if I might by Termagaunt , bring Iosian to Mambrant . I should be welcome the king till , and haue a inough at my will . This Ascapart false was he , for Beuis was falne in pouertie . When a man is in pouertie fall , few friendes méeteth he with all .

¶ How Beuis and faire Iosian tooke their way into a straunge land , and how she trauailed in a Forest , and was delyuered of two children . And how Ascapart that false Fellon after his deliueraunce , came and bare her away , and after that how Beuis came to a great Iusting and Turnament and won the price .

NOw Beuis and Iosian foorth gan ride , till they came to a forrest side . And Iosian that was so milde , in that wood trauailed with childe . Beuis & Tarry downe gan light , & with their swords a lodge they dight . And brought Iosian therein , for they could no better ginne . Sir Beuis gan her seruice bed , for to helpe her at her néede . She thanked him and said nay , for Gods loue go hence away . Go and play you with Terry , and let me worke & our Lady . shall neuer womans priuitie , to man be shewed for me . Beuis and Terry went foorth there , for they would not per paines heare . And Ascapart tooke another way , on reason thought these aye . After that Beuis was gone her fro , she was deliuered of children two . When Ascapart heard that case , that Iosian deliuered was . To the lodge he went there , and Iosian away did beare . There might no prayers her borow , I wonder her hart burst not for sorow For he swore by Termagant , he would her lead to Mambrant . When Beuis had heere long taryed , againe to the Lodge he him hied . In the lodge found he no mo , but young small children two . Than wist he not what to say , whan he saw Iosian was away . Alas then said Beuis , Ascapart hath done treason ywis . Sir Beuis fell downe in a traunce , and sir Terry did him vphaunce . When Beuis saw no better would be , his rich mantle then tooke he . and lapped the two children therein , for they were some deale of his kin . No longer then would he abide , he tooke his children & foorth gan ride , A foster in the wood he met , sir Beuis him asked and faire him gréet . Fellow said Beuis than , sawest thou ought of such a man . Lead a woman by any way , sir said the fosser nay . What manner of man art thou bacheler , sir he saide I am a foster . Wilt thou said Beuis so Christ thée shield , do christe héere an hethen child But right now was it borne , full early it hath the mother lorne . And kéepe it but this seauen yéere , for ten marke haue if héere . Gladly saide the foster tho , he tooke the child and the siluer also . And said what shall I call him sir knight , Guy he said as my father hight And when it is seuen yéere , of each land do thou enquire . After Beuis of Hampton , my name is so by my crowne . And bring the child to me , and well rewarded shalt thou be . Gladly sir he said ywis , he went his waies and Beuis his . Foorh they rod so saith the booke , and an other man they ouertooke . And asked what man was he , he said a fisher of the sea . And Beuis with good semblaunt made with him the same couenaunt . That he should on this manner , his other sonne to kepe this vii . yeare . The fisher graunted as Beuis sayd , he tooke the childe and held him payde . After himselfe in that while , he christened the childe , and hight him Myle . Foorth rode Beuis by dale and downe , till they came to Castle towne . He tooke his Inne as a curteous knight , and fast to supper he him dight . At a window Beuis looked out , he saw in the stréetes all about . Stéedes trapped faire and bright , Dukes and Earles , and many a knight Out of the windowes on euery syde , armes were hanged fayre & wyde . Haroldes gan the armes soone discrye , and therof Beuis meruailed greatly . And asked his hoast thereof tyding , sir he said heard ye nothing , Of the great iusting that shall be , to morow in this Citie ? The Dukes daughter and his heire , she is maiden good and fayre . Her father is now néere dead , therefore it is giuen her to rede . A great Iusting for to trye , that he that hath the maistery , Shall this mayt haue to wed , and her land to guyd and led . Now sayd Beuis to Terry , shall we iust for that Lady ? Yes said Terry God forbid else , if it were sooth as he vs telles . Beuis gaue the man for his tyding , of grotes twentie shilling . On the morow when it was day light , then rose both baron , squire , & knight . Faire tokens they gan on them throw , wherby the Lady should thē know . Sir Beuis and sir Terry , armed themselues full hastily . Sir Beuis bare colours of paiment , a red Lyon of gold rampant . And foorth rode Terry and hée , to the iusting where it should bée . The faire Lady Elinoure , ouer the castle lay that houre . And the Iusting shée beheld , what knight did best in the field . Then the knightes began to ride , each to other on euery side . And Beuis rode first againe , the Emperours sonne of Almayne . To him Beuis bare so fast , that horse and man to ground he cast . The Erle of Florence stoutly than , against Beuis in hast ranne . And Beuis met him in the field , and hit him amiddes the shield . That two yardes brode and more , he cast him from his horse thore . Then came foorth Duke Antony , who was Duke of Burgony . He was strong and of great price , and thus he said to sir Beuis . Turne thée here and make defence , I will auenge the Earle Florence , Then Beuis would no longer abide , but smote Arundell vnder the side . Each to other then droue , that their shaftes all to roue . But sir Beuis so hard him thrust , that his shoulder bone all to brust . Therefore he was agrieued sore , for that day he might iust no more . And then rode foorth sir Terry , to the kinges brother of Hungary . And gaue him such a rebowne , that horse and man fell downe . Then came the Earle Hamant , and to Terry made assent . Terry hit him amiddes the shield , and bare him quite into the field . There was no knight redily , that might sir Beuis and Terry . Full narrowly the other sought , but sir Beuis spared them nought . The steward of the same land , sir Beuis cast on the sand . And that reioyst faire Elinore , for the boast he made before . And many Beuis bare throughout , so that they stood in great doubt . They stinted not till it was night , that they wanted the day light . Then they ceased their playing , on the morow they heard tiding , That all the praise and renowne , was giuen to Beuis of Hampton . Dame Elinor would not blinne , till Beuis came to hir Inne . She said sir by my counsaile , you shall me wedde without faile . Each to other for terme of life . Nay sayd Beuis I haue a wife . He told how she was taken away , thorow treason I you say , And for her he was full woe : now she said sith it is so . You shall all this seauen yeare , be my Lord in cleane manner . And if you finde her not by than , I will thée haue before any man . And the next to thée truely , is the good knight sir Terry . And if this may stand me in stéede , I graunt said Beuis to this déede . And thus was he her gouernour , and led the land in great honour . As Sabere slept all night in bed , he thought of Beuis that was bestéed . Through Ascapart his swaine , and how he had sir Beuis slaine . When he waked his hart was cold , his dreame to his wife he tolde . Sir she said as I wéene , Beuis is brought into some téene . For as I trow by my life , he hath lost childe and wife . Through Ascapart that false théefe , Beuis is in some griefe . I shall them séeke said Sabere , twelue knightes he did attire , In Palmers wéede by saint Iohn , well armed euery one . All armed sure and well , both of Iron and stéele . Foorth they went more and lesse , till they came to heathenesse . When Iosian was nigh Mambrant , Iesu Christ be hir warrant . She met Sabere in the visage , and said Palmer in her language , I pray you of succour and read , vnlesse you helpe I am but dead . Certes Iosian said Sabere , it liketh me that you be here . For of you Madame verament , I shall make Beuis a present . He was a gréeued with Ascapart , and assailed him full hard . They him beset on euery side , but none would his dints abide . From his strokes they did shonne , and start againe as knights anone . He had great strokes and sore , as one was héere and the other thore . And as he smote after a knight , Sabere ran to him full right . And with a sword without doubt , he bare Ascapart throughout . And he fell dead to the ground , glad was Iosian in that flound . Sir Sabere tooke Iosian than , that was as white as any Swan . Her body that was faire and gent , he noynted with an oyntment . And made her yelow and greene , that before was faire and shéene . That no man should her know , therefore he discoulered her so . And sithen Beuis they sought , but tidings of him found they nought . That wil be found , found shal be , on a day they went through the Citie . And led Iosian to her Inne , and he went foorth some meate to win● Saber went to the Castle gate , and met his sonne Terry there at● He prayed him in the honer of the roode , that he would giue him some good . Terry beheld him as bliue , and said Palmer so may I thriue . There shall no meat be for thée to déere , for thou art like my father fabere Sabere said he , by Gods grace , so my mother said I was . When Terry saw that it was hée , he ranne to him with heart frée . And kissed him and asked father , what made him to come thether . Sabere said sonne thou shalt sée , what thing I haue brought with mée . Foorth they went together in feare , till they came to the Inne of Sabere . Then Sabere and Terry with good intent , washed away the oyntment . Faire and well they her dight , and brought her to the Castle right . And tooke her than to Beuis in hond , there came neuer to thē such a sond . Ther came the Fisher and the Foster , with two children cléere . For they held Beuis couenant right , he made each of them a knight , And than wedded for sir Terry , of that land the faire Ladie . There was a rich feast ywisse , on euery side ioy and blisse . THis beginneth a new tiding , of king Iour and Ermine king . Betwéene them gan battaile make , and all was for Iosians sake . A Palmer told Beuis thereof tiding , and sir Beuis all hying . Sent after great chiualrie , of doughtie knights and hardie . That he had not knowne before , and all they to him swore . When Beuis gathered his company , he tooke his leaue of sir Terry . And Terry profered with him for to goe , but Beuis said it should not so . Sabere thy father shal wend with me , If I haue néede I shal send to thée . Guy and Miles to horse gan dight , with stalworth swordes for to fight . And Beuis with all his company , went foorth to Armony . Of his comming the king was blith , and cryed mercy an hundreth sith . And said if thou wilt forgiue mée , I wil be Christened for loue of thée . On that couenant he gaue him a kisse , that they be accorded ywis . Without any other dome , Beuis then sent for the bishop of Rome . That he should send his clarkes good , Sabere them bishopped or they yood That they might with cléere clargie , Christen the land of Armony . For the kings graunt they had , the bishop it heard and he was glad . And hath sent after his saw , clearkes that were wise in the law . They christened Ermine with their hand , & sithen all the people of the land In many a place Beuis gan worch , Abbies and many a good Church . So was the land of Armony , through Beuis christened truely , King Iour heard of that sand , that Beuis was come to land . A great hoast made he tho , fortie thousands Sarasins and mo . And to Armony went he then , and there began to robbe and brenne . When Beuis heard that he was come , a great host they did them anone . And rode king Iour againe , with all his power might and maine . It was a faire fight to them that beheld , when both parties met in the field . The field shone wondrous bright , with bassenets that were light . But soone after they were other , when both the hosts were together . On both parts the Romains saies , they shot arrowes with bow turkais . Quarrels with alblasters & cast stones , ther was a dolful sight for the nones For arrowes were ther great plentie , there might not one hoast an other sée With swords bright that well can byte , each man gan other smite . But when they handled both the same , there was earnest and no game . And Beuis with Morglay stirred so , that all he hit he smote in two . The Sarasins gan Beuis to defie , and came thick about him redely . Therewith he was well apayed & lough , on euery side he downe thē slough So many he slew in that fight , to his stirrop they lay vpright . He rode foorth when he them left , and there he slew as many eft . Sabere his came though he were old , he shewed that he was strong & bold . He slew before him ten and twelue , till he came to the king himselfe . And then Maugre of Mahound , he bare the king downe . Then Sarasins folowed on a heap , to king Iour gan they leap . And with force horsed him againe , and all at once on Sabere they laine . Beuis saw Sabere was in doubt , and pressed foorth among the rout . And rescued him in that stour , and himselfe went to king Iour . And led him foorth all with force , and betooke sir Sabere his horse , Into the tower they did him bring , and presented Iour vnto the king . Sabere led him all quicke , the Sarasines followed full thicke . But such strokes gaue sir Beuis , that king Iour away led is . For any thing they might doe , and when they saw that it was so , They would no longer there abyde , Beuis and his men did after ride . And made on them so hard a chase , that ten thousand slayne there was . Many a knight in that field , were séene dead vnder their shield , And many a Sarasine that day , with deathes woundes went away . Many steedes men might sée , without maisters away flée . And Sarasines men might heare , curse Mahound they had such feare . When they had made that chase , they returned with great felace . And sir Beuis right anone , made cast king Iour in prison . Then king Iour sir Beuis prayed , that his raunsome might be payde . And for a raunsome giue he wold , twentie tunnes of redde golde . And thrée hundreth heads of silke , as many stéedes white as milke . An hundred cuppes of gold fine , and as many of Musculine . All this raunsome I shall thée giue , if thou now wilt let me liue . Let thy seruant it bring , and I shall saue thy life sir king . For so much I dread not thée , but for this treasure thou shalt goe frée . Then was king Iour faine , for it to send his chamberlayne . And he brought it without delay , and for his king he did it pay . OF king Iour let we be , and of king Ermine speake we , That should passe out of this life , and sent after his sonne blyue . For Guy was Beuis eldest sonne , vpon his head he set the crowne . And made him king of Armony , and soone after hastily , Dyed king Ermine the hend , to heauen might his soule wend . Vnto sir Beuis came Sabere , and tooke his leaue home to fare . To England wonly he goe bliue , to his children and his wife . Beuis bad him tarry verament , Sabere would not but home went . Now is king Iour in Mambrant , and doth sweare by Termagant , That he would him well aduaunce , that might steale by any chaunce . Good Arundell with some treason , from sir Beuis of Southhampton . And he might Arundell steale , I trow men might with him deale , There was a théefe hight Robian , a quaint knaue and a foule felon . He tooke on him the maystry , and went foorth to Armony . With his charmes and his craft , of Arundell Beuis he beraft . And brought him into the towre , and presented him to king Iour . Then was he well apayed , that Beuis was so betrayed . Wo was Beuis the sooth to say , when he missed Arundell away . As Sabere slept at night tide , he thought he saw Beuis ride . And Arundell downe him cast , that two of his ribbes there brast . When he waked he was afrayed , vnto his wife the dreame he said . Sir said she ye doe wrong , ye dwell from Beuis all to long . By him that was of Mary borne , I trow he hath his horse forlorne . Then Sabere for sir Beuis sake , burdon and scrip gan to take . He went foorth with good semblant , vntill he came to Mambrant . Thether he went for to spye , and left the land of Armony . Sir Sabere came by a riuer , where men did beasts water . Where he saw as he abod , on Arundell how Robyan rode . Sabere said by heauen king , true is now my dreaming . Felow he said so Christ mée réede , this may be called a stéede . He is brested without doubt , good fellow tourne thée about . And as he tourned him there , vp behind lept sir Sabere . And slew the théefe Robyan , with the ende of his tronchone . He would no longer there abide , the Sarasins to the court gan ride . And to the king they did tell , how one had gotten Arundell . Then rose the cry in the Cittie , that they should after them hie . They rode after fast in band , to the number of thrée thousand . And full narrowly him beset , Iosian stoode in a turet . All the folke beheld she well , and one riding on Arundell . Vnto the hall she hyed her downe , and said sir without the towne . Commeth one riding on your stéede , and surely he is in great dread . He is beset without doubt , with men of armes a great rout . Iesu said Beuis a while him saue , and succour should he soone haue . First on horse was sir Guy , his brother Miles and sir Terry . And sir Beuis fast hied he , with all knights of that Citie . He hied him fast in that stoure , and brought Sabere good succour . And slew the Sarasins downe right , that none of them scape might . Good game had Sabere to be séene , how they lay sprawling on the gréene . TIdings came to king Iour , that his men were slaine in stoure . He made to send hastely , after his brother king of Surry . And told him how his men were dead , and asked him counsell & rad . I shall thée say quod Bradwin , thou art holden a noble Sarafin . In Pauy or in heathinnsse , is none to thée of doughtines . Therefore I counsaile you so , ye do the battaile betwéene you two . And make ready my fauchowne , and make my sacrifice to Mahoune . That he send thée ouer hand , and forsooth I vnderstand . That thou wilt a conquerour bée , and we will wend all with thée . And stand with thee we will the while , and helpe thée in thy perill . Now said king Iour I assent , and then smartly foorth they went . And made Mahound sacrifice , with all the Sarasins that were wise . And they prayed withouten mis , their king might be saued from Beuis . When the king had so done , to arme him he went full soone . And went foorth to armony , with thrée thousand men hardy . Soone had Beuis tidings then , of king Iour and his men . He tooke with him his sonnes two , Sabere and Terry and other mo . And rode king Iour again , when Iour saw Beuis he was faine . And said to Beuis I vnderstand , why ye be come into this land . First he rauished me of my wife , and since bereft my men their life . Therefore haue I taken counsaile , betwéene vs bold tattaile . If thou me slay by Termagant , I graunt to thée the land of Mambrant And if I thée slay not for thy , wilt thou graunt me Armony . Beuis graunted as he had told , and vndertooke the battaile bold . Into a place gan they ryde , enclosed with water on euery side . They drew their swords hastely , and smote together with great enuie . Their shields were brused that they bare , their helmes crased their browes tare Together they went another way , & Beuis hit Iour with Morglay . That his helme gan downe pare , there men might sée his head bare . And a quarter of his shield , fell downe in the field . Horse and man he downe gan driue , and fell to the ground that bliue . Vp lept king Iour and stoode , and cryed on Mahound as he were woode . And smote at Beuis with a fauchowne , that Beuis of Arundel lighted downe And right as Beuis downe lighting , Iour him smote without leysing . Aboue sir Beuis helme on hye , that the crest downe gan flye . And brused the helme in sunder , sir Beuis knéeled and that was wonder Sir Beuis than was grieued sore , vp he lept without any more . And gaue king Iour such a clout , he neuer rose after without doubt , The Sarasins were wo that stond , when they saw Iour dead on the ground . That he should neuer rise nor go , therefore they were full sory and wo . The other people would haue fled , but Guy and Miles in that stéed . Slew them more and lesse , or they might the water passe . And some they drencht in that flood , there was none quicke againe yood . Sir Beuis of purueiaunce , he tooke king Iours countenaunce . And made them it on them throw , the no man might from Iour him know A greater power with him too , and went to Mambraunt that Cittie . When they within the towre , saw the comming of king Ioure . All they were glad and faine , and opened the gates againe . And Beuis to the citie gan ride , with great ioy and much pride . And through that quint gin , that rich citie gan they win . And made them all become his men , and did him homage then . And they cursed their Mawmetrie , and beleued in God and our Lady . And who that would not do so , immediately he did him slo . NOw is Beuis king of that land , that sometime king Iour had in hand Iosian that was bright & shéene , twise thereof she hath ben Quéene Beuis and Sabere vppon a day , with haukes and hounds went to play . As they came by a riuer , soone they met a messenger . He asked them after a knight , that sir Saber was by right . Anon sir Sabere gan foorth spring , and said messenger what tiding . Sir he said Edgar our king , through his stewards counsailing . He hath disherited thine heire , certes said Sabere that is not faire . He rode to Beuis and said tho , and asked him leaue for to go . Beuis said vnto sir Sabere , I will also goe thether . With Iosian , Miles and sir Guy , and thy sonne sir Terry . Thereof was sir Sabere glad , for great power with him he had . And so went foorth to England , with men of armes ten thousand . And sailed to Southhampton , with many knights of renowne . Saberes wife and Robert her heire , welcomed them all full faire . And they did them to vnderstand , how all sir Sabers land . The king arested without faile , through sir Brians counsaile , Who saith he may take them away , for Arundell his sonne did slay . Then said Beuis by God on liue , we will hie thether bliue . Beuis rode foorth with little boast , at Putneth he felt his hoast . It is from London miles thrée , where he left his company . And rode himselfe to London , saue twelue knights all alone . Then he went to king Edgar , and asked him in what manner . He had disherited sir Sabere , and his sonne that was his heire . I deliuered him mine heritage , héere before your baronage . The king said to him right soone , sir Beuis if ought be misdoone . It shal be mended in a parliament , with Earles and barons assent . All the knights that were there , to sir Beuis made good chéere . Saue sir Brian , foule him be fall , he was his most foe of all Sir said Brian to the king , is not this a wondrous thing . That this for banished swaine , is come into England againe . Ye ought him to hand and draw , as a traitour against the law . The king would pardon sir Beuis , but the Steward against it is . Beuis was both wroth and wood , & aunswered neither ill nor good . He tooke his lodging in the towne , and at his meat sate him downe . Then sir Briant foorth went he , and made a cry through the citie . All those that armes might beare , and fight with shield and speare . That they should arme them anone , to auenge the kings sonne . Then were the gates lockt , windowes and dores fast stopt , Chaines drawen in euery stréete , to let sir Beuis you may wéete . When Beuis heard that treason , vp he lept as a Lyon . Full soone he earmed him tho , and bad his men for to goe . Vnto Putneth some priuy way , and to my sonnes do ye say . That they hie them hether bliue , if they will haue me on llue . For whiles I fight héere without , ye may go void of doubt . Beuis lept on Arundell , he had no longer time to dwell . The first he met without fayle , was sir Bryan of Cornewayle . He had with him a great rout , and beset Beuis round about . And so sir Beuis said to Brian , turne thée as thou art a man . Thou art an olde knight of warre , and to him he bare a speare . So hard to Beuis he it droue , that the shield all to roue . Then he houed and beheld , how the Steward broke the shéeld . Now said Beuis will I smite , and began that déede to quite . He smote Arundell vnder the side , and with Morglay in that tide . He hit Bryan on the crowne , and to the saddle cloue him downe . Beuis sterred him in that stound , two hundred he cast to ground . He rode foorth into Broadstréete , many Lumberds did he méete . And assailed Beuis wonders fast , on euery side he them downe cast . Beuis had béene in many a land , and many battaile had in hand . Yet he was neuer so woe a man , in any battaile as he was than . But he defended him full well , and many of them he did fell . On euery side downe he them cast , and did ride among them fast . Till he came to the Cheape , where he found men on a heape . Then againe began the fight , betwéene the citie and the knight . Beuis said that was so good , to the folke that there stood . I réede that ye vnlock the gate , and let me scape out there at . For if I dye héere within , little worship should you win . All against him did they crye , yéelde thée Beuis or thou shalt dye . Beuis fought as he were wood , and bathed Morglay in their blood . sixe hundred men he cast to ground , and had neither wem nor wound . But much blood of that man , through sweat of his body came . Then it drew toward night , the people were still ready to fight . Then began Arundell his stéede , to help sir Beuis at his néede . by twentie foote on euery side , durst no man that horse abyde . And so lasted than that fight , betwene them all a somers night . Sir Beuis knights I vnderstand , to Putneth brought their sond . That Beuis sons shuld by thē bliue , if they wold haue their father a liue . When Iosian heard them speake of Beuis , in a sowne fallen she is . Sir Myles her sonne and sir Guy , tooke her vp certainly . Sonnes she said what is your réede , for certis your father is dead . The best réede that I can , is that we slay euary man . Nay said Myles we will not doe so , vnto our father will we go . And bring him good succour , if he be liuing in that stoure . And if that he slaine be , we will reuenged be truly . We will destroy all that cittie , soone they were all readie . Sir Guy destroyed Arum bright , he was heauy and not light . Sir Beuis with his owne hand , wanne it in the holy land . And a noble sword gan he take , that was sir Launcelots Du lake . Miles had Arundell in his hand , that some time ought Rowland . His horse as swift as a swallow , there might no horse him follow . Ships tooke he that tide , and ouer the temes gan they ride . And brought with them to the citie , ten thousand knights frée . They came at a water side , with much ioy and great pride . At Ludgate they gan ariue , and slew all that they found a liue . Certes Lordings I you say , by that sprang the light of the day . Beuis was so wearie in that fight , that vnne this he might sit vpright . There dwelt a lumberd in that towne , a doughtie man of great renowne . And he gathered a great hoast , and rode foorth with great boast . And in his hand a good fauchowne , that was made of stéele browne . And foorth he pricked to sir Beuis , and said , wilt thou aske no trewes . And than anon with his fauchone , he hit Beuis vpon the crowne . Beuis for faintnesse laid him low , and leaned vpon his saddle bow . That saw Beuis sonne sir Guy , and gan prick with great enuie . With his sword drawen in his hand , and to the Lumbard sent his sand . So hard on his head he it let , that through helme and basonet . Man and horse in that stound , he smote a sunder to the ground . The point on the pauement glent , that the fire out went . Sir Beuis for that stroke lough , and good comfort to him drought . He thanked God omnipotent , that him helpe from heauen sent . Arundell for ioy nighed right , and helped Beuis for to fight . Sir Beuis turned him in that while , and saw his other sonne sir Myle . Came pricking with a great rout , with many armed men him about . He néeded neuer to séeke lech , that sir Miles might ouer rech . Men might heare crownes cracke , when Beuis sonnes gan on take . So hard they gan together méefe , that the bloud ran in euery stréete . So many men were dead , that Chepeside was of blood read . For there was slaine I vnderstand , to the number of thirtie thousand . Through the false stewards read , and yet he was the first dead . It is true without lesing , of falsehood commeth no good ending . In euery stréete men might sée , men in great paine to dye . Heads quartered with the thées , shankes cut of by the knées . Hands and armes both cut out , heads with healms trembling about . Dead bodies quartered in thrée , that it was great paine for to sée . When Beuis his enemies had destroyed , vnto Putneth he him hied . Iosian was neuer so faine , as when she saw Beuis againe . Beuis tooke Iosian full soone , and to soouthhampton came anon . There he thought without faile , to abyde the king battaile .

How the king tooke trwes with Beuis , and wedded his daughter to Miles , and made him Lord of Cornwall , that which longed to sir Brian the kings steward which Beuis slew in the Citie of London .

TIdings came to Edgare , of the fighting that was there . King Edgare did full rights , send after barons and knights . And said by my stewards réed , many of my men were dead . I am now an olde man , and Beuis much of warre can . He came hether from farre , with great power on me to warre . Two sonnes he hath brought , how to agrée I take great thought . Miles shall wed my daughter frée , and so our strife asswaged shall bée . He shall be Earle of Cornewaile , that was sir Brians without faile , All they counsailed them so , a messenger the king sent tho . To Beuis of Southhampton , and bad him come to London . I will it be ordained so , to make a league betwéene vs two , Miles shall wed my daughter frée , and Earle of Cornewall shall he bée , Beuis is to London come , the wedding presently begon , The Lady to the Church was led , and to sir Miles was she wed , The king gaue Miles in spousaile , the earledome of Cornewaile , There wes mirth at their spousing , turnament and great iusting , At the spousaile in that maner , the king and Beuis sat full néere . Now will Beuis home wend , he tooke his leaue of the king so hend . And the Lords in that while , and also of his sonne sir Mile . He betooke his sonne to sir Sabere , that he should him teach and lere . Beuis is gone and sir Guy , Iosion and eke sir Terry . Beuis left to them their land , and betooke them to Gods hand . Vnto Mambrant he did fare , and seuen yéere he liued there . Then waxed Iosian sicke and lay , and Beuis also as I you say . Bishops and friers came bliue , Beuis and Iosian for to shriue . When Beuis & Iosian the good , were humbled vnto God in mood . Each turned to other without bost . and both they yéelded vp the Ghost . Much sorow made sir Guy , but it was no boote truely . For we must be dead ywis , when that Christes will is . Sir Guy to stable went he , Arundell his horse to sée . When he came there he found no read , for Arundell was also dead . For Guy thought meruaile the loth to say , that all they dyed vpon a day . Sir Guy did ordaine and make , for sir Beuis and Iosians sake . A place of religion and price , to sing for Iosian and Beuis . And tombed them together in feare , king and Quéene as they were . Iesu Christ in the Trinitie , on their soules haue mercy . Thus endeth Beuis of Southhampton , king and knight of great renowne And they that haue heard this talking , Iesu graunt them good ending . And bring vs all to heauen blisse , that euer shall last and neuer misse . Vnto blesse bring vs hée , that for vs dyed vpon the trée .

Amen .