So Merlin was sent for, and fair desired of all the barons to give them best counsel.

I shall say you, said Merlin, I warn you all, your enemies are passing strong for you, and they are good men of arms as be alive, and by this time they have gotten to them four kings more, and a mighty duke; and unless that our king have more chivalry with him than he may make within the bounds of his own realm, an he fight with them in battle, he shall be overcome and slain.

What were best to do in this cause?
said all the barons.

I shall tell you, said Merlin, mine advice; there are two brethren beyond the sea, and they be kings both, and marvellous good men of their hands; and that one hight King Ban of Benwick, and that other hight King Bors of Gaul, that is France.

And on these two kings warreth a mighty man of men, the King Claudas, and striveth with them for a castle, and great war is betwixt them.