By the God of Power I conjure you, if ever I send
you a word, do you my bidding."
"Friend," said Iseult, "on the day that I see the ring, nor tower, nor
wall, nor stronghold will let me from doing the will of my friend."
"Why then," he said, "Iseult, may God reward you."
Their horses went abreast and he drew her towards him with his arm.
"Friend," said Iseult, "hear my last prayer: you will leave this land,
but wait some days; hide till you know how the King may treat me,
whether in wrath or kindness, for I am afraid. Friend, Orri the
woodman will entertain you hidden. Go you by night to the abandoned
cellar that you know and I will send Perinis there to say if anyone
misuse me."
"Friend, none would dare. I will stay hidden with Orri, and if any
misuse you let him fear me as the Enemy himself."
Now the two troops were near and they saluted, and the King rode a
bow-shot before his men and with him Dinas of Lidan; and when the
barons had come up, Tristan, holding Iseult's palfrey by the bridle,
bowed to the King and said:
"O King, I yield you here Iseult the Fair, and I summon you, before
the men of your land, that I may defend myself in your court, for I
have had no judgment. Let me have trial at arms, and if I am
conquered, burn me, but if I conquer, keep me by you, or, if you will
not, I will be off to some far country.
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