Walter Scott

t was about the year 1468, when their feuds were at the highest, though a dubious and hollow truce, as frequently happened, existed for the time betwixt them, that the present narrative opens.

Sovereign of Love and of Beauty

with the reverse of his lance, the trial of skill was made with what were called the arms of courtesy,

fight with sharp weapons, as in actual battle.

breaking five lances

until the signal was given by Prince John t

his shield was a young oak-tree pulled up by the roots, with the Spanish word Desdichado, signifyin

Prince and marshals, announcing that day's honours to the Disinherited Knight.