# How the second day Palomides forsook Sir Tristram, and went to the contrary part against him explained — Le Morte d’Arthur

> Chapter companion for Le Morte d’Arthur by Thomas Malory.

## What happens

On the second day of jousting, Sir Palomides feigns weariness to deceive Sir Tristram, then secretly joins the opposing side to win glory. Sir Tristram, urged by Sir Gareth, unleashes his full strength and outshines Palomides, drawing the admiration of King Arthur and Sir Launcelot.

## Themes in this chapter

### Betrayal and Treachery

Palomides deceives Tristram by feigning weariness and then joining the opposing side to steal glory.

### Honor and Reputation

Tristram's response to Palomides' envy demonstrates the importance of proving one's worth in combat.

## Character check-ins

### Sir Tristram de Liones

Demonstrates superior knightly prowess, outshining Palomides on the second day.

### Sir Palomides

Feigns weariness and betrays Tristram by joining the opposing side out of envy.

### Sir Gareth of Orkney

Encourages Tristram to assert his strength and reminds him of Dinadan's words.

### King Arthur

Observes the jousts and praises Tristram's skill, acknowledging him as surpassing Palomides.

### Sir Launcelot du Lake

Identifies Tristram to Arthur and affirms his exceptional knighthood.

## Key lines

> Yonder rideth a knight ye may see he doth knightly, for he hath strength and wind.

Look at that knight riding; you can see he fights like a true knight, with strength and endurance.

_Launcelot points out Tristram's superior knightly qualities to Arthur._

> I feel myself so weary, and so sore bruised of the deeds of yesterday, that I may not endure as I did yesterday.

I am so tired and battered from yesterday's fighting that I cannot perform as well today.

_Palomides lies to Tristram about his condition to mask his betrayal._

## Links

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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters