And when he saw them lie on the earth he took his bridle, and rode forth on his way, and his man Gouvernail with him.
Anon as Sir Tristram was passed, Sir Sagramore and Sir Dodinas gat again their horses, and mounted up lightly and followed after Sir Tristram.
And when Sir Tristram saw them come so fast after him he returned with his horse to them, and asked them what they would.

It is not long ago sithen I smote you to the earth at your own request and desire: I would have ridden by you, but ye would not suffer me, and now meseemeth ye would do more battle with me.

That is truth, said Sir Sagramore and Sir Dodinas, for we will be revenged of the despite ye have done to us.

Fair knights, said Sir Tristram, that shall little need you, for all that I did to you ye caused it; wherefore I require you of your knighthood leave me as at this time, for I am sure an I do battle with you I shall not escape without great hurts, and as I suppose ye shall not escape all lotless.

And this is the cause why I am so loath to have ado with you; for I must fight within these three days with a good knight, and as valiant as any is now living, and if I be hurt I shall not be able to do battle with him.