Lancilotto thought it certain he would have died had it not been for Sir Astore and Sir Briobris, Sir Bordo, Sir Brunoro, and Sir Lionello. They, seeing that Lancilotto was exhausted and that Tristano would not let him rest, and knowing that if the battle lasted much longer Tristano would killed him, were very worried and had great fear of losing him. Therefore they all left their own frays and came to help Lancilotto against Tristano.

Tristano defended himself bravely against them, and acted with great boldness and vigor of heart, responding to all who attacked him, striking out with his good sword. As for them, they were all trying to kill him. Soon Palamidesso, the Knight of the Ill-cut Coat, Prezzivale, Sagris, and Gariette, who were on the side against Lancilotto, began a cruel battle against the others.

Tristano, seeing the five knights who had come to his aid, spoke great and arrogant words which showed his boldness of heart: "Ah, knights, what business is it of yours to come in such a hurry? Know that your coming will take the honor and prize of the battle away from me."

He said this because when he had seen the five knights who came against him he had comforted himself in his heart, and had found new strength to strike even more strongly, so that he thought he would scatter them.

La Tavola Ritonda