Squires Tale Summary
The squire tells a tale of a King named Cambuskan. During the King’s birthday party a knight arrives, and offers the King four gifts. A brass horse that can take anybody anywhere in the world they desire within twenty-four hours. A magic mirror that shows approaching misfortunes, and the nature of friends and foes. A sword with one edge that can cut through any armor, and a blunt edge that can heal any wound caused by the sharp edge. A ring that allows anyone who wears it to understand every bird. The King’s daughter Cannace receives the ring. The horse remains in the hall where the party took place until the knight explains how to use it. The mirror and sword are locked in a tower. The morning after the party Cannace is walking with the ring on when she hears an injured falcon. The falcon begins telling Cannace that it once had a lover, but left her for a kite. Cannace felt bad for the falcon so she mixes up some herbs to heal the bird. After this event the tale comes to an open end.