Each squire in turn now takes his place on a carpet
which is spread on the ground, and his friends and
relatives assist in girding on his armor and his sword.
Then comes the most trying moment of all. His father
or his lord advances and gives him what is called the
''accolade." At first this was a heavy blow with the
fist, given upon the squire's neck; but later it was
with the flat of a sword upon his shoulder. At the
same time the person who gives the accolade cries out :

"In the name of God, and St. Michael, and St.
George, I dub thee knight! Be brave and loyal!*'

The squire is now a knight, but the festival is not
yet over. The new-made knights must first give an
exhibition of their skill in riding and
handling their horses, and in striking with Sd^elStSS.
their lances marks which are set up for
them to ride at. Then comes fencing with their swords
on horseback. Perhaps this is followed by a regular
"tournament," in which knights, both old and new,
ride against one another in mimic warfare. With
closed helmets and lowered lances the knights charge
at one another, each seeking to unhorse his opponent.
Lances are shattered, armor battered, and sometimes
serious wounds are received in this rough sport ; while



172 TBE STOBY OF THE MIDDLE AGES

bright-eyed ladies sit besides the *' lists,'' to inspire
their knights to brave deeds in their honor. Then the
day is wound up with a great feast, and music, and the
distribution of presents.
