Book 1, Canto 9 Summary

During their rest at what was formerly Orgoglio's castle, Una and Red Cross ask Arthur about his story. He tells them a bit about his life (Wales, Merlin, etc.) and also that he has fallen in love with Gloriana, the Faerie Queene, and is on a quest for her. The knights part company after a time, and Una and Red Cross continue on their way. They soon come across a knight, Trevisan, who is fleeing from Despayre, a gloomy old man who has already convinced Trevisan's fellow knight Terwin to commit suicide. Red Cross convinces Trevisan to lead him back to Despayre's cave so that he may confront the man. Trevisan complies, and they approach Despayre. Red Cross wants to exact revenge for Terwin (whose body lies nearby) but is waylaid by Despayre's questions. By the time Despayre is done talking...