Ivanhoe, Chapter 16 summary

What happens

1. After leaving the tournament, the Black Knight travels north, loses his way, and lets his tired horse choose a path.
2. The horse leads him to a hermitage, where the occupant refuses entry until the knight threatens to break down the door.
3. The Clerk of Copmanhurst admits him and offers peas and water, but his powerful appearance makes the knight question this diet.
4. Pressed by his guest, the Clerk produces a venison pie and wine, and both men eat and drink freely.
5. Questions about deer provoke a friendly challenge, and the Clerk opens a chest containing weapons and a harp.
6. The knight chooses the harp rather than combat, and the Clerk welcomes drinking and singing.

What to notice

The Clerk deflects questions about his provisions. His answer preserves the mystery of their source while encouraging his guest to share them.

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