And asks had he by force or treaty won, And when and where and how, that faulchion bright;
And Mandricardo said that he had done Fierce battle for that sword with Brava's knight;
Who feigned himself of sober sense foregone, Hoping that so he should conceal his fright:
-- "For I on him would ceaseless war have made,"
(He added) "while he kept the goodly blade."