At Tourney
Two blows at the passage and ten at the joining, more or less, and foul play is forbidden.
Whoso misses the target shall have no prize.
Whosoever strikes a horse shall have no prize.
He whose sword falls out of his hand shall have no prize.
He that uses any thing to fasten his sword to his hand shall have no prize.
Etc.
Now I am not adverse to fighting, but deciding quarrels by the fate of battle should be the last resort of a judicious people. At times, however, while observing those who take delight in such things, and seeing their skillfulness at arms, and seeing the splendor of the House, and the people so finely turned out, and the noble Lords of the Hammer dressed richly in black and white cloth, and the bright faces of those gathered who wish to prove their mettle, I find myself excited to personal bravery, and almost compelled to take up arms, and add myself to the lists of combatants in the Tourney.
But upon seeing the challengers wielding their weapons, and seeing their desire for victory and renown, that when they charge, it is to the full extent of their might, and with so much fury that their swords are near shivered to pieces at the clashing against their coats of mail, I quickly repent my folly, and confess myself unequal to personal combat, and I cannot challenge any one: all victory would belong to my adversary, because I would be slain on the field. And there is a Rule; although it is not written, I deem that it is a very good one, and this Rule states that it is illegal for any one to enter the contest who does not have any great skill of arms. So, I have not the honour to avail myself of the barbarous privilege of Tourney, or the favours extended to the victorious parties, but I do not need more honour or favours, because the badge of honour and distinction was already given to me, when I swore to serve Bar-en-Vanimar. And now I am a Lord, and wear the blue of my newly-appointed post, clothing of strong but plain silk, and it is necessary, that I might extend my knowledge and represent myself in the duties of my position, to exercise prudence. If the combat were only for trial of virtue and honour, then I would certainly add my name to the lists, but as it is not, I did not sign, knowing that I must consider custom, and my distinguished position.
