In those days it was the custom and practice that in an
attack two knights should not join against one; thus if they too
had assailed him, it would seem that they had acted
treacherously. Enide saw the robbers, and was seized with great
fear. "God," says she, "what can I say? Now my lord will be
either killed or made a prisoner; for there are three of them and
he is alone. The contest is not fair between one knight and
three. That fellow will strike him now at a disadvantage; for my
lord is off his guard. God, shall I be then such a craven as not
to dare to raise my voice? Such a coward I will not be: I will
not fail to speak to him." On the spot she turns about and calls
to him: "Fair sire, of what are you thinking? There come riding
after you three knights who press you hard. I greatly fear they
will do you harm." "What?" says Erec, "what's that you say? You
have surely been very bold to disdain my command and prohibition.
This time you shall be pardoned; but if it should happen another
time, you would not be forgiven." Then turning his shield and
lance, he rushes at the knight. The latter sees him coming and
challenges him. When Erec hears him, he defies him. Both give
spur and clash together, holding their lances at full extent.
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