"Jaufry the Knight and the Fair Brunissende: A Tale of the Times of King Arthur" by Mary Lafon is a romantic chivalric novel likely written in the mid-19th century. This tale unfolds during the legendary times of King Arthur and follows the adventures of the brave knight Jaufry, as he navigates challenges and quests in his pursuit to prove himself and rescue the fair Brunissende.

At the start of the story, we find King Arthur and his noble knights gathered for Pentecost, eagerly awaiting adventures. King Arthur, known for his valor and wisdom, leads them in seeking out an adventure. A call for help leads Arthur to a fearsome creature, and in this unexpected encounter, he finds himself precariously at the mercy of the beast. His nephew, Sir Gawain, and the other knights rally to rescue him, setting the stage for Jaufry's own adventures and escapades in proving his bravery and valor, while the opening establishes a strong sense of the chivalric ideals and camaraderie of the Arthurian legends.