Le Morte Darthur, Chapter 435 summary

What happens

1. On the evening before combat, Sir Bors confirms his promise to defend the queen unless a better knight replaces him.
2. At the meadow beside Westminster, the queen enters the constable’s custody, and a fire is prepared for her possible execution.
3. Sir Mador accuses the queen of treason against Sir Patrise, while Sir Bors declares her innocent and prepares to fight.
4. As Sir Mador challenges the king to send his champion, Sir Bors rides toward the lists.
5. An unknown knight arrives on a white horse, claims the combat, and asks Sir Bors to withdraw.
6. Sir Bors tells King Arthur that the newcomer takes his place and releases him from his obligation.

In this chapter

What to notice

Bors treats the newcomer’s arrival as fulfillment of the condition attached to his promise. The queen’s defense passes to an unidentified champion.

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