At the Summer Hunt this year, the ladies there assembled did, with much
grace, kindness, and good cheer, assent to offer their protection to the White Stag should
he return from the woods he then entered. Woods filled with experienced hunters and bold
dogs.
And with much courage they did fulfill that offer, for the hunters'
blood was hot from a long chase and, when the White Stag was finally trapped at the edge
of the woods, the hunters were determined to end the stag's running and thereby the day's
hunt. But by interposing their own bodies in protection of the White Stag, and with well
worded entreaties, they made good their pledge and the hunters gave way.
There are no words to express the humility and pride that follows being
shown such favor by ladies of such grace and nobility. And so the White Stag has asked me
to speak for him, and seeks to further show his gratitude with deeds rather than words.
In honor of the ladies here assembled, he would offer single combat to
all who may hear of this Challenge. And whereas two certain weapons have been known since
ancient times as being the least capable of offering deceit, and therefor the most capable
of bringing honor - it is with either of these weapons that the combat may be fought.
These two being the single sword, whether broad or short; and the spear, whatever its
length.
This Challenge shall hold until and including the day of the next
Summer Hunt, in such places and times as the White Stag may appear - of which no one may
say in advance.
To those who are victorious will be gifted a basket of fresh fruit - in
symbol of the bounty that noble ladies bring to our lands.
To those who yield shall be given this task - that they shall stand
before feast or court and speak of one who has inspired them to greater honor and glory.
And so, by honoring one lady, they shall honor all, and further prove their own courage
and courtesy. This to be done as soon as may be after the combat, and in any case, within
a month and a day therefrom.
But, Your Excellency, the White Stag fears that some may hesitate to
accept this challenge because of the task given them if they yield. For it is often true
that men avoid speaking to a gathered public, even though all should know that ladies
favor most those who speak with cautious sincerity above those who speak only with studied
eloquence. For this reason the White Stag asks that you assure those assembled, and those
who may consider this challenge, that they shall be judged above all on the sincerity of
their thoughts and the courage of their speech.
