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diff --git a/8447-h/8447-h.htm b/8447-h/8447-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..4b8085f --- /dev/null +++ b/8447-h/8447-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,3472 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="iso-8859-1"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + Morien, by Jessie L. Weston, + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> + + +<pre> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Romance of Morien, by Jessie L. Weston + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Romance of Morien + +Author: Jessie L. Weston + + +Release Date: July, 2005 [EBook #8447] +This file was first posted on July 11, 2003 +Last Updated: May 10, 2013 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE ROMANCE OF MORIEN *** + + + + +Text file produced by David Starner, David Widger, and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + + + +</pre> + + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + MORIEN + </h1> + <h3> + A Metrical Romance Rendered Into English Prose From The Medićval Dutch + </h3> + <h3> + Arthurian Romances No. IV. + </h3> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Jessie L. Weston, + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + With designs by Caroline Watts. + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <div class="middle"> + <p> + Additional Arthurian Romances: + </p> + <br /> + <p> + I. Sir Gawain And The Green Knight. + </p> + <p> + A Middle-English Romance retold in Modern Prose, with Introduction and + Notes, by JESSIE L. WESTON. With Designs by M. M. CRAWFORD. 1898. 2s. + net. + </p> + <br /> + <p> + II. Tristan And Iseult. + </p> + <p> + Rendered into English from the German of Gottfried of Strassburg by + JESSIE L. WESTON. With Designs by CAROLINE WATTS. Two vols. 1899. 4s. + net. + </p> + <br /> + <p> + III. Guingamor, Lanval, Tyolet, Le Bisclaveret. + </p> + <p> + Four Lays rendered into English Prose from the French of Marie de France + and others by JESSIE L. WESTON. With Designs by CAROLINE WATTS. 1900. + 2s. net. [Illustration: They deemed they had seen the Foul Fiend + himself] + </p> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + <b>CONTENTS</b> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> MORIEN </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> AMEN. NOTES </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PREFACE + </h2> + <p> + The metrical romance of which the following pages offer a prose + translation is contained in the medićval Dutch version of the <i>Lancelot</i>, + where it occupies upwards of five thousand lines, forming the conclusion + of the first existing volume of that compilation. So far as our present + knowledge extends, it is found nowhere else. + </p> + <p> + Nor do we know the date of the original poem, or the name of the author. + The Dutch MS. is of the commencement of the fourteenth century, and + appears to represent a compilation similar to that with which Sir Thomas + Malory has made us familiar, <i>i.e.</i>, a condensed rendering of a + number of Arthurian romances which in their original form were independent + of each other. Thus, in the Dutch <i>Lancelot</i> we have not only the + latter portion of the <i>Lancelot</i> proper, the <i>Queste</i>, and the + <i>Morte Arthur</i>, the ordinary component parts of the prose <i>Lancelot</i> + in its most fully developed form, but also a portion of a <i>Perceval</i> + romance, having for its basis a version near akin to, if not identical + with, the poem of Chrétien de Troyes, and a group of episodic romances, + some of considerable length, the majority of which have not yet been + discovered elsewhere. [Footnote: <i>Cf</i>. my <i>Legend of Sir Lancelot + du Lac</i>; Grimm Library, vol. xii., chapter ix., where a brief summary + of the contents of the Dutch <i>Lancelot</i> is given.] + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately, the first volume of this compilation, which was originally + in four parts, has been lost; consequently we are without any of the + indications, so often to be found in the opening lines of similar + compositions, as to the personality of the compiler, or the material at + his disposal; but judging from those sections in which comparison is + possible, the <i>Lancelot</i>, <i>Queste</i>, and <i>Morte Arthur</i>, the + entire work is a translation, and a very faithful translation, of a French + original. It is quite clear that the Dutch compiler understood his text + well, and though possibly somewhat hampered by the necessity of turning + prose into verse (this version, contrary to the otherwise invariable rule + of the later <i>Lancelot</i> romances, being rhymed), he renders it with + remarkable fidelity. The natural inference, and that drawn by M. Gaston + Paris, who, so far, appears to be the only scholar who has seriously + occupied himself with this interesting version, is that those episodic + romances, of which we possess no other copy, are also derived from a + French source. Most probably, so far as these shorter romances are + concerned, the originals would be metrical, not prose versions, as in the + case of the <i>Lancelot</i> sections. + </p> + <p> + It is true that with regard to the romance here translated, <i>Morien</i>, + the Dutch scholars responsible for the two editions in which it has + appeared, MM. Jonckbloet and Te Winkel, the former the editor of the whole + compilation, the latter of this section only, are both inclined to regard + the poem as an original Dutch composition; but M. Gaston Paris, in his + summary of the romance (<i>Histoire Litteraire</i>, vol. xxx. p. 247) + rejects this theory as based on inadequate grounds. It must be admitted + that an original Arthurian romance of the twelfth or thirteenth century, + when at latest such a poem would be written, in a language other than + French, is so far unknown to us; and although as a matter of fact the + central <i>motif</i> of the poem, the representation of a Moor as near + akin to the Grail Winner, Sir Perceval, has not been preserved in any + known French text, while it does exist in a famous German version, I for + one find no difficulty in believing that the tradition existed in French, + and that the original version of our poem was a metrical romance in that + tongue. + </p> + <p> + So far as the story of <i>Morien</i> is concerned, the form is probably + later than the tradition it embodies. In its present shape it is certainly + posterior to the appearance of the Galahad <i>Queste</i>, to which it + contains several direct references; such are the hermit's allusion to the + predicted circumstances of his death, which are related in full in the <i>Queste</i>; + the prophecy that Perceval shall "aid" in the winning of the Holy Grail, a + quest of which in the earlier version he is sole achiever; and the + explicit statements of the closing lines as to Galahad's arrival at Court, + his filling the Siege Perilous, and achieving the Adventures of the Round + Table. As the romance now stands it is an introduction to the <i>Queste</i>, + with which volume iii. (volume ii. of the extant version) of the Dutch <i>Lancelot</i> + opens. + </p> + <p> + But the opening lines of the present version show clearly that in one + important point, at least, the story has undergone a radical modification. + Was it the Dutch translator or his source who substituted Agloval, + Perceval's brother, for the tradition which made Perceval himself the + father of the hero? M. Gaston Paris takes the former view; but I am + inclined to think that the alteration was already in the French source. + The Grail of Sir Agloval's vision is the Grail of Castle Corbenic and the + <i>Queste</i>; unless we are to consider this vision as the addition of + the Dutch compiler (who, when we are in a position to test his work does + not interpolate such additions), we must, I think, admit that the romance + in the form in which it reached him was already at a stage in which + Perceval could not, without violence to the then existing conception of + his character, be considered as the father, or the brother, of Morien. To + reconstruct the original story it would be necessary not merely to + eliminate all mention of Agloval, as suggested by M. Gaston Paris, but the + Grail references would also require modification. As it stands, the poem + is a curious mixture of conflicting traditions. + </p> + <p> + In this connection it appears to me that the evidence of the <i>Parzival</i> + is of primary importance; the circumstances attending the birth of + Feirefis are exactly parallel with those of Morien—in both a + Christian knight wins the love of a Moorish princess; in both he leaves + her before the birth of her son, in the one case with a direct, in the + other with a conditional, promise to return, which promise is in neither + instance kept; in both the lad, when grown to manhood, sets out to seek + his father; in both he apparently makes a practice of fighting with every + one whom he meets; in the one version he is brother, in the other son or + nephew, to Perceval. The points of difference are that whereas Morien is + black all over, save his teeth, Feirefis is parti-coloured, black and + white—a curious conception, which seems to point to an earlier stage + of thought; Morien is a Christian, Feirefis a heathen—the more + probable version. + </p> + <p> + It is easy to understand why the hero ceased to be considered Perceval's + son—the opening lines of the poem describe the situation perfectly; + but I do not think it has been sufficiently realised that precisely the + same causes which would operate to the suppression of this relationship + would equally operate to the suppression of that of the <i>Parzival</i>. + Perceval, the virgin winner of the Grail, could not have a <i>liaison</i> + with a Moorish princess, but neither could Perceval's father, the direct + descendant of Joseph of Arimathea, and hereditary holder of the Grail. The + <i>Early History</i> of that talisman, as related by Robert de Borron, + once generally accepted, the relationship of <i>brother</i> was as + impossible as that of <i>son</i>. + </p> + <p> + It seems clear that if a genuine tradition of a Moor as near kinsman to + Perceval really existed—and I see no reason to doubt that it did—it + must have belonged to the Perceval story prior to the development of the + Grail tradition, <i>e.g.</i>, to such a stage as that hinted at by the + chess-board adventure of the "Didot" <i>Perceval</i> and Gautier's poem, + when the hero was as ready to take advantage of his <i>bonnes fortunes</i> + as other heroes of popular folk tales. + </p> + <p> + Further, judging from these stories it would seem probable that the + requisite modification began with the earlier generation, <i>i.e.</i>, + Perceval himself still retaining traces of his secular and folk-tale + origin, while his father and mother have already been brought under the + influence of the ecclesiasticised Grail tradition. That this would be the + case appears only probable when we recall the vague and conflicting + traditions as to the hero's parentage; it was Perceval himself, and not + his father or his mother, who was the important factor in the tale; hence + the change in his character was a matter of gradual evolution. Thus I am + of opinion that the Moor as Perceval's brother is likely to be an earlier + conception than the Moor as Perceval's son. It is, I think, noticeable + that the romance containing this feature, the <i>Parzival</i>, also, + contrary to the <i>Early History</i> versions, connects him with the Grail + through his mother, instead of through his father. + </p> + <p> + The <i>Morien</i> is for me a welcome piece of evidence in support of the + theory that sees in the poem of Wolfram von Eschenbach the survival of a + genuine variant of the <i>Perceval</i> story, differing in important + particulars from that preserved by Chrétien de Troyes, and based upon a + French original, now, unfortunately, lost. + </p> + <p> + For this, if for no other reason, the poem would, it seems to me, be worth + introducing to a wider circle of readers than that to which in its present + form it can appeal. The students of old Dutch are few in number, and the + bewildering extent of the <i>Lancelot</i> compilation, amounting as it + does, even in its incomplete state, to upwards of 90,000 lines, is + sufficient in itself to deter many from its examination. <i>Morien</i> in + its original form is, and can be, known to but few. But not only does it + represent a tradition curious and interesting in itself, it has other + claims to attention; even in a translation it is by no means ill written; + it is simple, direct, and the adventures are not drawn out to wearisome + length by the introduction of unnecessary details. The characterisation + too, is good; the hero is well realised, and Gawain, in particular, + appears in a most favourable light, one far more in accordance with the + earlier than with the later stage of Arthurian tradition; the contrast + between his courteous self-restraint and the impetuous ardour of the young + savage is well conceived, and the manner in which he and Gareth contrive + to check and manage the turbulent youth without giving him cause for + offence is very cleverly indicated. Lancelot is a much more shadowy + personage; if, as suggested above, the original story took shape at a + period before he had attained to his full popularity, and references to + his valour were added later we can understand this. It is noticeable that + the adventure assigned to him is much less original in character, and told + with far less detail than that ascribed to Gawain. + </p> + <p> + The romance as we have it presents, as remarked before, a curious mixture + of earlier and later elements. None of the adventures it relates are + preserved in any English text. Alike as a representative of a lost + tradition, and for its own intrinsic merit it has seemed to me, though + perhaps inferior in literary charm to the romances previously published in + this series, to be yet not unworthy of inclusion among them. + </p> + <p> + BOURNEMOUTH, <i>July</i> 1901 + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + MORIEN + </h2> + <p> + <i>Herein doth the adventure tell of a knight who was named Morien. Some + of the books give us to wit that he was Perceval's son, and some say that + he was son to Agloval, who was Perceval's brother, so that he was nephew + unto that good knight. Now we find it written for a truth that Perceval + and Galahad alike died virgin knights in the quest of the Holy Grail; and + for that cause I say of Perceval that in sooth he was not Morien's father, + but that rather was Morien his brother's son. And of a Moorish princess + was he begotten at that time when Agloval sought far and wide for + Lancelot, who was lost, as ye have read here afore.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>I ween that he who made the tale of Lancelot and set it in rhyme + forgot, and was heedless of, the fair adventure of Morien. I marvel much + that they who were skilled in verse and the making of rhymes did not bring + the story to its rightful ending.</i> Now as at this time King Arthur + abode in Britain, and held high court, that his fame might wax the + greater; and as the noble folk sat at the board and ate, there came riding + a knight; for 'twas the custom in Arthur's days that while the king held + court no door, small nor great, should be shut, but all men were free to + come and go as they willed. + </p> + <p> + Thus the knight came riding where the high folk sat, and would fain have + dismounted, but so sorely was he wounded that he might not do so. In sooth + he was in evil case, for he had more than ten wounds, and from the least + of them a man might scarce recover; he came in such guise that his weapons + and his vesture and his steed, which was fair and tall, were all dyed red + with his own blood. The knight was sad at heart and sorely wounded, yet he + greeted, as best he might, all the lords then in the hall; but more he + might not speak, for the pain of his wounds. + </p> + <p> + Then my lord, Sir Gawain, who did full many a courtesy (for such was his + wont all his life long), so soon as he saw the knight, sprang up with no + delay, and lifted him from the saddle and set him upon the ground, but he + might neither sit, nor walk, nor so much as stand upon his feet, but fell + upon the earth. + </p> + <p> + Then Sir Gawain bade them carry him softly on a couch to the side of the + hall in the sight of the chief guests, that they might hear his tale. But + since he might scarce speak he made him to be disarmed, and stripped to + the skin, and wrapped in warm coverings and gave him a sop steeped in + clear wine. + </p> + <p> + Then Sir Gawain began to search his wounds, for in those days, so far as + God suffered the sun to shine might no man find one so skilled in + leech-craft, for that man whom he took in his care, were the life but left + in him, would neither lack healing nor die of any wound. + </p> + <p> + Then spake the knight who lay there: "Woe is me, for I may neither eat nor + drink; my heart beginneth to sink, mine eyes fail me, methinks I am about + to die! Yet might I live, and would God grant to me that all ye who sit + here beside me might hear my words, I had fain spoken with the king, whom + I sought as best I might, in that I would not be forsworn; needs must I + come hither!" + </p> + <p> + Then quoth Sir Gawain the good: "Sir Knight, have ye no dread of death as + at this time, for I shall help you to a respite." He drew forth from his + pouch a root that had this virtue, that it stayed the flow of blood and + strengthened the feeble; he placed it in the knight's mouth, and bade him + eat a little; therewith was his heart lightened, and he began to eat and + to drink, and forgat somewhat of his pain. + </p> + <p> + Erst when the service was ended came King Arthur to the knight as he lay, + and said: "God give ye good-day, dear Sir Knight; tell me who hath wounded + ye so sorely, and how came ye by your hurt? Did the knight who wrought + such harm depart from ye unscathed?" + </p> + <p> + Then spake the knight to the king, who stood before him: "That will I tell + ye, for I am sworn and pledged thereto. 'Tis seven years past that I lost + all my goods, and poverty pressed me so sorely that I knew not what I + might do. Thus would I keep myself by robbery. My tithes had I sold, I had + spent all my goods, and pledged all my heritage, so that of all that my + father left when he departed from this world there remained to me nothing. + Naught, not a straw, had I left. Yet had I given much in largesse, for I + had frequented many a tourney and Table Round where I had scattered my + goods; whosoever craved aught of me, whether for want or for reward, were + he page, were he messenger, never did he depart empty-handed. Never did I + fail any who besought aid of me. Thus I spent all my goods. Then must I + fare through the land; and did I meet folk (though at first I shamed me) + whomsoever I met, whether pilgrim or merchant, did he bear goods or money + with him, so did I deal with him that I won it for myself. But little + might escape me. I have done many an evil deed! Now is it three days past + since, as I fared on my way, a knight met me, and I deemed his steed so + good that I coveted it above all things, but when I laid hands upon the + bridle and bade the knight dismount then was he ready with his sword and + repaid me with such a blow that I forgot who I was and all that had + befallen me; so fierce was the stroke he dealt me! And though I betook me + to arms they profited me not a jot; his blows were so heavy, they weighed + even as lead. He pierced through my harness, as ye may see in many places, + smiting through flesh and bone. But from me did he receive no blow that + might turn to his loss. Therefore must I yield myself to him, and swear by + my troth, would I save my life, to come hither to ye as swiftly as I + might, and delay no whit, but yield me your prisoner. And this have I now + done, and I yield myself to your grace, Sir King, avowing my misdeeds that + I have wrought in this world, whether in thought or deed." + </p> + <p> + Then quoth the king: "Wit ye well who he was, and how he was hight, who + sent ye hither? Of what fashion was his steed, and what tokens did he + bear?" + </p> + <p> + And the knight answered: "Of that ye would ask me may I tell ye naught, + save only that the knight's steed and armour were red as blood, and he + seemed to me of Wales by his speech, and by all I might discern of him. + Thereto is he of such might that I ween his equal may scarce be found in + Christendom; that may I also say in truth, since such ill chance befell me + that I met with him when my intent was evil, and not good." + </p> + <p> + Then King Arthur cried aloud that all might hear him, that the knight was + surely none other than Sir Perceval. He tore his hair, and demeaned + himself as one sorely vexed, and spake: "Though I be lord of riches yet + may I say that I am friendless! This may I say forsooth; since I lost + Perceval, and the ill chance befell me that he had the will and the desire + to seek the Grail and the spear (which he may not find) many a wounded + knight hath he sent as captive to my court, whom, for their misdoing, he + hath vanquished by his might. Ever shall he be thanked therefor. Now have + I no knight so valiant of mind that for my sake will seek Perceval and + bring him to court. Yet I and my court and my country alike are shamed and + dishonoured in that we have so long lacked his presence, and for this am I + above measure sorrowful." + </p> + <p> + Then spake Sir Kay the seneschal: "God-wot I shall fetch Perceval, whether + he will or no, and bring hither to court him whom ye praise so highly, and + believe me well, were he wrought of iron, by the God who made me I will + bring him living or dead! Does this content ye, my lord king?" + </p> + <p> + Then stood Arthur and laughed aloud, and likewise did all the knights who + heard Sir Kay speak. And the king said: "Sir Kay, let this talk be; ye + should of right be shamed when ye hear the Welshman's name! Have ye + altogether forgot how ye boasted yourself aforetime, even as ye have now + done, and then how ye met Perceval, whom ye had scarce sought? There were + ye ill-counselled; ye thought to bring him without his will, but the + knight was not so feeble, he gave ye a blow that brake your collar-bone + and thrust ye from your steed, feet upward, with little honour! Had he so + willed he had slain ye. Idle boasting is great shame. An I hear ye make + further boast of seeking knights I shall owe ye small thanks. Little would + he heed your compelling! In such quest must another ride would I be + comforted by the coming of this knight!" + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Gawain, "Ye mind me of an old saying, Sir Kay, how if some men + grow old, and God should spare them even to an hundred years, then would + they be but the more foolish—such an one, methinks, are ye! Now + believe ye my tale; did ye once find Perceval, an ye thought to say to him + other than he chose to hear, by the Lord above us ye dare not do it for + the king's crown, who is lord of this land, he would put ye to such great + shame! Of long time, and full well, do I know his ways! When he is well + entreated, and men do naught to vex him, then is he gentle as a lamb, but + an ye rouse him to wrath then is he the fiercest wight of God's making—in + such wise is he fashioned. Gentle and courteous is he to all the world, + rich and poor, so long as men do him no wrong, but let his temper be + changed, and nowhere shall ye find his fellow!" + </p> + <p> + After this manner also spake Sir Lancelot, and all who were in the hall + took up the word of Sir Gawain, and praised Perceval. But there were many + in the court heavy at heart, and sore vexed with the king their lord for + that he held them so cheap. + </p> + <p> + Quoth the Father of Adventure, "By the might of our Lord, and by His name, + who ruleth in heaven, henceforth I will not rest in one place more than + one night or two, but will ride ever till I have found Perceval, or learnt + certain tidings of his doings; and I will bring him to court an he be + minded to ride with me—further will I not vaunt myself." + </p> + <p> + Then spake Arthur, "God wot, here have I both joy and sorrow. Fain am I to + behold Perceval, an such fortune befall me, and ill may I spare thee. Thus + have I joy and sorrow. Yet, nephew, trow me well, I were loth to bid thee + break thine oath; now, therefore, make ready as befits thee, and depart as + swiftly as may be, and seek me Perceval." + </p> + <p> + With these words up sprang Sir Lancelot of the Lake, and stepped forward, + and spake, and said he would adventure himself and take what fortune + should send, and go seek Perceval hither and thither through all lands; + "And may I but find that proud knight, an it lieth in my power, hither + will I bring him! Now will I make me ready, and ride hence without longer + tarrying; methinks, from the king's word, an he have Perceval he shall be + freed from care—so will I ride hence for his honour." + </p> + <p> + Quoth Arthur the king: "Sir Lancelot, of this thing it behoves ye take + better rede; lightly might it turn to my shame if all my knights rode + forth, and I thereafter were beset with strife and warfare, as full oft + hath chanced aforetime! So might it in sooth be mine undoing. It hath + chanced afore this that I had lost crown and lands, save for my knights; + by them have I been victorious!" + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Lancelot: "By the Lord who made me, and who shall be Doom's-man + at the last day, come what may thereof, since Sir Gawain rideth hence 'tis + not I will bide behind! Rather will I try what may chance, and adventure + all that God hath given me, for he sought me with all his power when I was + in secret case, and brought me once more to court—for that do I owe + him faith and fellowship." + </p> + <p> + Then they all wept, wives and maidens, knights and squires, when they knew + Sir Lancelot would ride thence. + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain, who forgat not the wounded knight and his need of healing, + went to him as he lay, and bound up his wounds, and so tended him at that + time that he was healed ere long—needs must he be healed, even + against his will, on whom Sir Gawain laid hands. All they of the court + were sad and sorry at their departing; that eve they ate but little, for + thinking of the knights who should ride forth with the morning. + </p> + <p> + But now will we be silent on their lamentations, and tell henceforth of + Sir Gawain and Sir Lancelot, who rode both on their way. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The adventure doeth us to wit that in the morning, so soon as it was day, + they rode forth together through many a waste land, over many a heath and + high hill, adown many a valley to seek Sir Perceval, but little did it + profit them, for of him might they learn naught. Thus were they sorely + vexed. + </p> + <p> + On the ninth day there came riding towards them a knight on a goodly + steed, and well armed withal. He was all black, even as I tell ye: his + head, his body, and his hands were all black, saving only his teeth. His + shield and his armour were even those of a Moor, and black as a raven. He + rode his steed at full gallop, with many a forward bound. When he beheld + the knights, and drew nigh to them, and the one had greeted the other, he + cried aloud to Sir Lancelot: "Knight, now give me to wit of one thing + which I desire, or guard ye against my spear. The truth will I know. I + shall tell ye herewith my custom; what knight soever I may meet, were he + stronger than five men, and I knew it well, yet would I not hold my hand + for fear or favour, but he should answer me, or I should fight against + him. Now, Sir Knight, give me answer, by your troth, so truly as ye know, + to that which I shall ask ye, and delay not, otherwise may ye well rue + it!" + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Lancelot: "I were liefer dead than that a knight should force me + to do that to which I had no mind—so were the shame equal. Hold to + your custom an ye will; I were more fain to fight than to let ye be, if + but to fell your pride. I ask naught but peace, yet will I chastise your + discourtesy, or die in that will!" + </p> + <p> + The Moor, who was wroth with Sir Lancelot, abode not still, but reined + back his steed, and laid his spear in rest as one who was keen to fight. + Sir Gawain drew on one side, since the twain would fight, and thought in + himself, as was right and courteous, that it were folly, and the custom of + no good knight, for twain to fall on one man, since life stood not at + stake. 'Twere time enough for him to take hand therein, and stand by his + comrade, did he see him hard pressed. Therefore stood Sir Gawain still, as + one who had no mind to fight, nor to break the laws of courtesy. + Nevertheless he deemed that this was a devil rather than a man whom they + had come upon! Had they not heard him call upon God no man had dared face + him, deeming that he was the devil or one of his fellows out of hell, for + that his steed was so great, and he was taller even than Sir Lancelot, and + black withal, as I said afore. + </p> + <p> + Thus came the two together, the Moor and Sir Lancelot; each had a great + spear and brake it in two, as a reed, yet neither felled the other, but + each abode upon his steed. Then each drew his sword from its sheath, and + set to work therewith, and of a sooth, had not God Himself so willed it + both had died there; so mighty were their strokes that by right no man + should escape alive. Had it been midnight, and dark as night is wont to + be, yet had ye seen the grass and the flowers by the light of the sparks + that flew so thick from helmet and sword and fell upon the earth. The + smith that wrought their weapons I say he wrought them not amiss, he + merited a fairer reward than Arthur ever gave to any man for such desert. + </p> + <p> + The knight and Sir Lancelot, neither would yield to the other till Sir + Gawain parted them by his prayer, and made them withdraw each from the + other, for great pity he deemed it should either there be slain; yet so + fell were the blows that they smote, and so great their wrath withal, that + he saw well did the strife endure but short while longer they had received + such wounds as should be the death of one, or it might well be of both. + </p> + <p> + When Sir Gawain had parted the twain, whom he saw to be weary enow, he + spake to the Moor: "'Tis an ill custom this to which ye are given; ye + shall here renounce it. Had ye but asked in courteous wise that which ye + have a mind to know, this knight had hearkened, and had answered ye of + right goodwill; he had not refused, that do I know well. Ye be both rash + and foolish, and one of the twain, ye, or he, shall lose by it, and from + that do I dissent, an ye show me not better reason therefore." + </p> + <p> + Quoth the Moor: "How come ye to speak thus to me? Wot ye that I be afraid + to fight against the twain of ye; or that I have held my hand through fear + of death? Were the one of ye Sir Lancelot, and the other King Arthur's + sister's son (these twain are wont to be praised above all in Arthur's + court as I have ofttimes heard, though never have I seen them), yet would + I not yield a foot to them!" + </p> + <p> + Then thought Sir Gawain with himself, "We were foolish and unwise an we + failed to show courtesy to one who praises us so highly." + </p> + <p> + But Sir Lancelot had great lust either to win the fight or to play it to a + loss, and Sir Gawain, who was well ware of this, prayed him straitly, by + the love he bare to him, and to King Arthur his lord, that for their + honour he should hold his peace awhile, and let him say his will: "And + this I charge ye, by the faith ye owe to my lady, my uncle's wife." + </p> + <p> + Sir Lancelot spake: "Of a sooth, an ye had not thus charged me I should + have avenged myself or here been slain, in that this knight forced the + strife upon me without cause, and loaded me with blows; but in that ye so + conjure me, I am he that will harm no man for profit to myself save that + he first attack me. And since it seemeth good to ye I will e'en lay the + strife in respite. God grant me good counsel therein, since I do it not + for cowardice, but for love of ye and for your prayer." + </p> + <p> + Thus stood the three in the open, and Sir Gawain spake to the Moor: "Ye be + foolish in that ye do such things—now, neither we nor ye are harmed, + yet might ye lightly do that which should cost ye your life. Tell me what + ye seek, and I will give ye good counsel withal. If I may I shall tell ye + that which ye should courteously have asked of this knight, who never yet + was so hardly bestead by any man that he fell from his steed." + </p> + <p> + Quoth the Moor: "Ye say well. Now I pray ye by all who own the laws of + knighthood, and by Sir Gawain afore all, since he is reckoned the best, he + and Sir Lancelot, wherever it may be, in whatever need, far and wide + throughout the world, of all men are these twain most praised (I myself + know naught save that which I have heard tell), know ye aught of Sir + Agloval, brother to Sir Perceval of Wales? Of him have I asked many, this + long while past; I have ridden hither and thither this half year, and here + and there have I sought him. For this have I dared many a peril, and here + will I lie dead save that ye twain tell me, in friendship or in fight, if + ye know aught of Sir Agloval. Now have we had enow of this talk; 'tis full + time ye answer, or we take up our strife once again, and see the which of + us hath the sooner his full." + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain hearkened, and smiled at the black knight's speech, and spake + soothfastly: "Now tell me what ye will of Sir Agloval that ye thus seek + him, and thereafter will I tell ye that which I know." + </p> + <p> + And the Moor answered straightway: "So will I tell ye all. Sir Agloval is + my father, 'twas he begat me. And more will I tell ye; it chanced + aforetime as ye may now learn, when he came into the land of the Moors; + there through his valiant deeds he won the heart of a maiden, she was my + mother, by my troth. So far went the matter between them through their + words and through his courtesy, and because he was so fair to look upon, + that she gave him all his will—the which brought her small reward, + and great sorrow. Each plighted their troth to the other ere she granted + him her favours. Therein was she ill-counselled, for he forsook her + thereafter—'tis more than fourteen years past; and when he parted + from her she bare me, though he knew it not. He told her his quest, + whereof he was sore troubled, and how it came about that he must needs + leave her, and that will I now tell ye. My father was seeking a noble + knight, who was lost as at that time, and who was hight Sir Lancelot. + Still more may I tell ye; he told my mother that he and many of his + fellows had sworn a great oath to seek Sir Lancelot, and their quest + should endure two years or more an they found him not, or could learn no + tidings of him. Nor should they tarry in any land more than one night or + two. This vexed my father sorely, that for this cause, and to keep his + oath, he must needs leave my mother. But ere he departed he sware to her + that he would return when he had achieved his quest; but he kept not his + oath. Thus have I sought him in many a court. All this did my lady mother + tell me, and also of the troth-plight. Little good hath it done me that he + be my father, and that he sware to my mother, ere he departed, that for + her honour, and for her profit, he would return to her without fail. Doth + he live, God send him mocking (this I pray in all humility), but an he be + already dead, then may God forgive him his sins. I and my mother are + disinherited, since that he hath deserted us, of great goods and of a fair + heritage, that which fell to her from her father have we lost altogether. + It hath been denied us by the law of the land. Thereto was I greatly + shamed, for they called me fatherless, and I could shew naught against it, + nor tell them who it was that begat me, since my father had thus fled. So + did I cause myself to be dubbed knight, and sware a great oath (I were + loth to break it) that never should I meet a knight but I would fight him, + or he should tell me if he perchance knew any tidings of my father, that I + might learn somewhat concerning him. Did I meet mine own brother, I would + not break mine oath, nor my vow; and till now have I kept it well, nor + broken it by my default. And here would I bid ye twain, if ye would part + from me in friendship, that ye tell me what ye may know thereof, out and + out, by your troth, and therewith end this talk. Otherwise let us end this + matter even as we began it, for there liveth no knight under the sun for + whom I would break mine oath, were it for my hurt, or for my profit." + </p> + <p> + Then was there neither of the twain, Sir Gawain nor Sir Lancelot, but the + tears fell from their eyes when they heard the knight's tale. Such pity + had they for him, they waxed pale, and red, and discovered their faces, + when they heard his plaint. + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Lancelot: "By my good days, nevermore will I be wrathful, nor + bear rancour against ye for any lack of courtesy; ye need no longer stand + on guard against me, my heart is not evil towards ye, and we will counsel + ye well." + </p> + <p> + Then was the black knight blithe, and drew near to Sir Lancelot, and bared + his head, which was black as pitch; that was the fashion of his land—Moors + are black as burnt brands. But in all that men would praise in a knight + was he fair; after his kind. Though he were black, what was he the worse? + In him was naught unsightly; he was taller by half a foot than any knight + who stood beside him, and as yet was he scarce more than a child! It + pleased him so well when he heard them speak thus of Sir Agloval that he + knelt him straightway on the earth; but Sir Gawain raised him up, and told + him their tidings, how they were but as messengers, and belonged to the + court of King Arthur, which was of high renown, and that they rode at that + time seeking Sir Perceval and Sir Agloval, since the king desired them + both. "And his mind is to see and speak with them; may we by any means + persuade those noble knights we shall return straightway to the king's + court, an it be so that they will ride with us (further will we not vaunt + ourselves, 'tis of our good will, and their pleasure), thereby shall the + king be the more honoured. They belong to the Round Table, and have done + so of long time; both are of the king's court, and knights of high renown. + Now an ye will work wisely, and shun your own harm, ye will mount, and + ride to King Arthur's court, and delay not. I hope in God that Sir Agloval + shall come thither within short space, or that ye shall hear tidings of + him; for there come full oft tidings from afar. Go ye to court without + tarrying, the king will receive ye well. Tell him, and give him to wit who + ye be, and whence ye come, and the quest upon which ye ride; he will not + let ye depart ere we come and bring with us your father, an God prosper + us. Should ye ride thus through the land, and fight with every knight whom + ye may meet, ye will need great good fortune to win every conflict without + mischance or ill-hap! They who will be ever fighting, and ne'er avoid a + combat, an they hold such custom for long, though at whiles they escape, + yet shall they find their master, who will perforce change their mood! Now + Sir Knight do our bidding, for your own honour's sake, and ride ye to + court; grant us this grace, for ere ye have abode long time there I hope + that ye shall behold your father or receive tidings of him. But till that + time abide ye at the court, there shall ye be well at ease in many ways. + Now promise us this; we shall seek your father, and may we find him, and + God give us honour in our quest, then will we return as swiftly as may be, + and rejoice ye and the king!" + </p> + <p> + When the Moor heard these words he laughed with heart and mouth (his teeth + were white as chalk, otherwise was he altogether black), and he spake, + "God our Father reward ye, noble knights, for the good will and the honour + ye have done me, and also for the great comfort wherewith ye have + lightened mine heart that long hath been all too heavy. An my steed fail + me not I shall ride whither ye bid me to this king whom ye praise so + highly." + </p> + <p> + With that he pledged to the knights hand and knighthood, and called God to + witness that he would do their bidding, faithfully, and without dispute, + so long as he might live. + </p> + <p> + Then quoth Sir Lancelot: "Knight, an ye be in any need, when ye come into + Arthur's land,—I ween 'tis all unknown to ye,—speak but of us + twain whom ye see here and men shall do ye naught but honour and courtesy, + where'er ye come, in any place. And when ye come to the king, ere ye tell + him aught beside, say that ye have seen and have spoken with us; and trow + me, without fail, ye shall be well received!" The Moor spake: "'Tis well + said—God reward ye for this courtesy; but were it your will and + pleasing to ye that I knew the names of ye two then i'sooth were I the + blither withal!" + </p> + <p> + Then straightway Sir Gawain did him to wit who they were, and how they + were hight; and the Moor made no delay, but fell on his knees before them. + Sir Gawain raised him up, but the Moor laid his hands together and spake, + "God the Father of all, and Ruler of the World, grant that I may amend my + misdoing to your honour. Sir Lancelot, very dear lord, I own myself right + guilty, for I did evil, and naught else!" + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain spake: "Take ye not to heart that which has here chanced, it + shall be naught the worse for ye." + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain and Sir Lancelot were both mounted upon their steeds. The Moor + spake: "'Tis labour lost. Such good knights as ye be, since ye at this + time fare to seek my father, by the power of our Lord I will not stay + behind; 'twere shame an I did. I shall ride with ye twain!" + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Gawain: "Then must ye lay aside all outrageousness, and ride + peaceably on your way, and whatever knight shall meet ye, and greet ye + courteously, him shall ye greet and let pass on his way without strife or + contention; and be his friend an he hath done ye no wrong—this do I + counsel ye straitly. But he that is fierce and fell towards ye or towards + another, on him shall ye prove your prowess, and humble his pride, if ye + may. And honour all women, and keep them from shame, first and last, as + best ye may. Be courteous and of gentle bearing to all ye meet who be + well-mannered toward ye, and he who hath no love for virtue against him + spare neither sword, nor spear, nor shield!" + </p> + <p> + The Moor spake: "Since that ye will it so, I will at your bidding forbear, + otherwise might I rue it! May God be gracious to me." + </p> + <p> + So rode they all three together till they came to a parting of the ways + where stood a fair cross, and thereon letters red as blood. Sir Gawain was + learned in clerkly lore, he read the letters wherein was writ that here + was the border of Arthur's land, and let any man who came to the cross, + and who bare the name of knight, bethink him well, since he might not ride + far without strife and conflict, and the finding of such adventures as + might lightly turn to his harm, or even to his death—the land was of + such customs. + </p> + <p> + This did Sir Gawain tell to the twain. Then they saw, by the parting of + the ways, a hermit's cell, fairly builded, and the knights bethought them + that they would turn them thither that they might hear and see, and know + what the words boded. + </p> + <p> + There saw they the hermit, who seemed to them a right good man; and they + dismounted at his little window, and asked his tidings, if perchance a + knight in red armour had passed that way? And the good man answered and + said 'twas but the other day, afore noon, that he had seen two knights who + were wondrous like unto each other. "Of a truth it seemed to me, by their + features and by their gestures, that they should be brothers. Their steeds + seemed beyond measure weary. They came that self-same road that cometh + from that land that men here call Britain; they were both in seeming men + of might, and the one had steed and armour that were even red as blood. + They dismounted, both of them, at the foot of that cross ye see there. + There many a judgment is given. There did a knight lose his life, he and + his wife with him; well did they deserve that their memory should be held + in honour by the friends of our Lord, for they made a right good ending! + They had sought the shrine of a saint, with them they had money and + steeds, beside other goods, as befitted folk of high degree. Here did they + fall in with a company of robbers, who slew the good knight, and took his + steed and his money, and all that he had. Of this was his wife so + sorrowful that for grief and woe her heart brake, and so did they die + here, the twain of them, even at the cross roads, where ye see the fair + cross, where now many a judgment is spoken. 'Twas made through the + knight's will. Hither come folk stripped and bare-foot, doing penance for + their sins; and they who pass ahorse or afoot have here had many a prayer + granted. The knights of whom ye ask did there their orisons, as well + became them, but I may not tell ye whither they went at their departing; + in sooth I know naught, for I said my prayers here within and forgat them. + But they were tall and strong, and the one wore red armour, and the other + bare the badge of King Arthur." + </p> + <p> + Then were the knights sorely grieved, and kindled as a coal for sorrow, in + that they might not know, by any craft, whitherward they rode. Then they + asked the manner of the land, and whither led the roads which they saw + before them. + </p> + <p> + Then answered the good hermit, "I will tell ye as best I may. The road by + which ye came, that do ye know; and the road that runneth straight + therefrom that will ye shun, an ye heed my counsel. 'Tis a land of + ill-fame, where men follow evil customs; their best, 'tis but others' + worst! He who will keep his horse, his weapons and his life will shun that + road. And the right-hand way goeth to a wild waste land, wherein no man + dwelleth; an I bethink me well 'tis over a year and a day since I saw man + or woman come from thence. An it so befall that ye fare thitherward ye + shall find such a marvel that would ye dare the venture, and amend the + wrong it shall cost ye life and limb, that do I tell ye here. For there + shall ye find the most fell beast ever man heard or read of; take ye good + heed thereof, 'tis the Foul Fiend himself, that know I well, that roameth + in the guise of a beast. Against him may no weapon serve, there was never + spear so sharp nor sword so well tempered, as I know of a truth, that may + harm that devil, but it will break or bend as hath full oft been proven in + time past. Now hath the beast chosen his dwelling in a little forest, + there will he abide all night, but the day he prowleth by straight and + winding ways. He devoureth man and beast alike, nor may I tell ye the + marvels I have heard concerning him. He hath laid waste a broad land, and + driven thereout all the country-folk, so that none remain. Now have I told + ye the truth concerning these two roads, and what may befall ye therein; + for the third, it leadeth hereby to the sea coast; I know not what I may + say more." + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Lancelot: "By the Lord who made me, Sir Gawain, we must needs + depart from each other here and now, would we find these knights. And I + will dare that which I deem the most perilous venture. Ye shall ride + straightway whichever road ye will, otherwise shall we lose the knights + who were lately here, they shall not have ridden far as yet. And if it be + that ye find them, then I charge and conjure ye, by my will and your + valour, that if ye may, ye shall bring them with ye and return hither to + this place. Do this, Sir Knight, for my prayer. And do the hermit to wit + how matters have gone with ye, that he may tell me the truth thereof if + peradventure I too come hither, and the knight shall go with ye, and God + keep ye both since we be now come to this point. Do him honour as a good + man and true, in whatsoever place ye may be, this I pray ye of your + valour." + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain gave him answer: "Dear comrade, I am fain to do your bidding, + and may God keep us in life and limb, and in worldly honour. Now choose ye + first which road ye will take, for here will we abide no longer." + </p> + <p> + Then said Sir Lancelot: "I ween that 'tis the most pressing need to go + fight against the beast whereof the good man telleth us; methinks 'twere + well that I ride thither." + </p> + <p> + And the hermit answered: "Alas, Sir Knight, ye be so fair that I deem + below the throne one might scarce find your equal, and will ye brave a + venture which no man may achieve! The folk hath fled out of the land, none + may withstand that beast, no shaft is so fell as the venom which he + shooteth on all who near him; and the man whom it reacheth, and upon whom + it shall light (I am he who lieth not), he dieth ere the third day be + past, had he never a wound upon him. This hath been the worse for many. + Then is the beast greater than a horse, and runneth more swiftly than any + horse may. Ye are wise an ye shun the fiend. This do I tell ye beforehand. + Had he not chosen his lair, and did he wander from the land, as well might + be, by the Lord who made us he had laid the world waste! Ye would do well + to turn back." + </p> + <p> + But 'twas labour lost; not for all the riches that belonged to King Arthur + would he have taken back his word and his covenant, for any prayer that + might be made him, nor have yielded aught through fear. + </p> + <p> + Then would the knights take leave of each other that they might depart. + The Moor spake to the twain: "For what do ye take me? Am I a lesser or a + weaker man than either of ye that Sir Gawain must needs ride with me? I + will not have it so. There is no knight so bold but I dare well withstand + him. I know well what is unfitting. Now say whither ye will betake ye, and + send me what road ye will; I will dare the venture, be it never so + perilous. By my knighthood, and by all who follow Christendom, I shall + adventure alone, and take that which may chance." + </p> + <p> + Then said Sir Gawain: "It liketh me ill that ye sware such an oath, yet + since such is your will, take ye the road that leadeth to the sea (this + seemeth to me the best), ride swiftly and spare not, but seek your father. + And do in all things after my counsel; if any man meet ye, when ye have + given him courteous greeting, ask him if he saw riding, or otherwise met + with, two knights, the one of whom ware red armour, and the other bare + King Arthur's badge. This shall ye first beseech of them. When ye come to + the crossing, pray that men tell ye the truth, and ask for the sea-coast + withal, wherever ye come. And if so be that men understand ye not then + return straightway to this place, and follow the road which I shall take, + swiftly, and with no delay. We might lightly depart so far from each other + that we met not again. But follow me soon, and not too late; and do + according as I counsel ye, and I tell ye truly, no harm shall befall ye." + </p> + <p> + The Moor spake: "God reward ye." Then took they leave each of the other, + and departed asunder. Now will I tell ye how it fared with Sir Gawain. + </p> + <p> + The adventure telleth us forthwith that when prime was now already past + Sir Gawain came to a wide and deep river. 'Twas a great stream, and deep, + and the current ran swift and strong. Then Sir Gawain marked well, and + took heed, how on the further side, in a land of which he knew naught, + there came a knight riding on a fair steed, and armed as if for combat. + Before him he drave captive a maiden. Sir Gawain beheld how he smote her, + many a time and oft, blow upon blow, with his fist that weighed heavily + for the mailed gauntlet that he ware. Pain enough did he make her bear for + that she desired not to ride with him. He smote her many a time and oft + with his shield as he would revenge himself upon her in unseemly fashion. + The maiden ware a robe of green silk, that was rent in many places, 'twas + the cruel knight had wrought the mischief. She rode a sorry hack, bare + backed, and her matchless hair, which was yellow as silk, hung even to the + horse's croup—but in sooth she had lost well nigh the half thereof, + which that fell knight had afore torn out. 'Twas past belief, the maiden's + sorrow and shame; how she scarce might bear to be smitten by the cruel + knight; she wept and wrung her hands. + </p> + <p> + This Sir Gawain beheld, and he deemed 'twere shame an he avenged not her + wrong. He looked before and behind and saw no bridge, great or small, by + which he might cross over, nor saw he living soul of whom he might ask, + then did he delay no longer, but turned his bridle, and set his horse + toward the river bank; he struck his spurs sharply and sprang into the + midst of the stream. The good steed breasted the current, swimming as best + it might and brought its master to the further side. 'Twas great marvel + that they were not drowned, horse and man, for the river was deep, and the + stream ran swiftly. + </p> + <p> + When Sir Gawain came to the other side of the river, which was both wide + and deep, then saw he a great company of folk riding after the knight who + bare away the maiden by force, and thus misused her, but he wist not if it + was to aid the knight that they thus followed him, or to wreak vengeance + on him. He saw many men clad in hauberks, but they were as yet a good mile + distant. Sir Gawain rode swiftly after the maiden who went afore, whom the + knight thus mishandled, to avenge her wrong; and as he drew near so that + she might see him, she smote her hands together more than before, and + cried to Gawain, "Noble knight, for the honour of womanhood, save me! This + knight doeth me undeserved shame. Did there come hither any friend of God + who would help me in this my need, an he had slain his own father it + should be forgiven him!" + </p> + <p> + Her prayers and entreaties, her tears and lamentations, would have stirred + any man to pity; she cried upon Sir Gawain as he came riding into the + plain, to come to her aid and fell the knight's pride. As Sir Gawain heard + her his heart was rent with sorrow and compassion and he spake to that + evil knight: "Sir Knight, 'tis folly and discourtesy that which ye do to + this maiden; were ye wise ye would forbear; even had the maiden wronged + ye, ye should deal courteously; he hath small honour who thus smiteth a + maiden." + </p> + <p> + Then said the cruel knight: "For ye, fool and meddler, whether ye be + knight or no, will I not stay my hand, nay, rather for your shame, will I + chastise her the more; and should ye but speak another word to her I shall + thrust ye straightway from your steed with my spear!" + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Gawain: "Then were I but afoot Sir Knight! Natheless I counsel + ye, an ye be wise, that ye spare the maiden. Ye will find me not so craven + this day as to let ye harm her; I shall defend her and avenge her wrong if + my life be risked upon it. But, Sir Knight, hearken to my prayer, for God + and for your honour, and the sake of knighthood!" + </p> + <p> + But that evil knight answered and said he would in no wise do this: "An ye + get not hence, and fly, by heaven it shall be your doomsday! I have no + need of your sermons." + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Gawain: "An ye be so bold, lay but your hand again upon her, and + I shall take so stern a pledge as, wist ye, shall dismay your heart, an it + cost me my life. Let the maiden go in peace, or be on your guard against + my spear, for I defy ye!" + </p> + <p> + The other was high and scornful that Sir Gawain so threatened him. He + thought to quell his pride, and rode against him straightway, and Sir + Gawain, on his side, did even the same. They came together so keenly that + both spears brake, and the crash might be heard afar; they came together + so swiftly that the knight was thrust from his saddle, and fell to the + ground, and he fell so heavily that he felt the smart in every limb, and + lay in anguish from the fall—so stayed he prone upon the ground. + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain took the horse whereon the knight had ridden. He forgat not his + courtesy, but gave it into the hand of the maiden, and drew forth his good + sword. Therewith was the knight come to himself, and had taken his sword, + and stood up as best he might. Evil was his thought, and he cried: + "Vassal, how were ye so bold as to do me this hurt and this shame? My + father is lord of this land, and after him shall it be mine. Think not to + escape, 'tis folly that which ye do. Even to day shall ye be repaid by + those who follow me, and chastised in such wise as ye would not have for + all the riches King Arthur holds or ne'er may hold! My men will be here + anon and ye shall not escape, for in this land hath no man power or might + to withstand me." + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain spake: "That may I well believe, and therefore are ye so cruel + and so outrageous. That one who is noble of birth, and rich withal, should + be false of heart, by my troth, 'tis great pity and bringeth many to + shame. Now ye are not yet at such a pass but that I may teach ye + moderation ere ye part from me. Methinks that to-day ye shall rue the evil + ye have done. I counsel ye, an ye be wise, that ye make known to me + wherein this lady hath wronged ye. Hath she indeed deserved that ye be + thus cruel, then 'tis a matter 'twixt ye twain, I meddle no further. But + hath the maiden not deserved this, then hold your hand, and make peace + with me, otherwise is your life forfeit were ye never so highly born. I + take the maiden with me when I ride hence." The knight would not hearken, + and the maiden spake: "Noble knight I will tell ye wherefore he doeth me + this wrong. He would have me for his love, why should I deny the truth? + 'Tis many a day since he first spake to me, but I would not hearken to + him, other sorrows vexed me; poverty grieveth me sore; thereto have I + griefs that I may not lightly tell. My father was a knight, and a good + man, and of high birth in this land. Dear Sir Knight, I will tell thee + openly, though it be shame. My father hath lain sick, seven year long, and + hath lost his goods, and now lieth in sore straits; he may neither ride + nor walk nor stand upon his feet, he suffereth much. Now have I nursed and + tended and otherwise served my father—friends hath he few save + myself, and I had fain stayed by him and kept him all my life, doing for + him all that within me lay. To-day came this knight within our hold, which + is sore broken down and ruined, and hath done me sore wrong. He took me + thence by force, ere I was well aware, nor stayed his hand for God or man. + Thus did he carry me away, and now he doeth me this shame. He hath left + his folk behind that they may hinder my friends, lest they follow him to + his hurt. I fear lest they be here anon. And should they find ye here ye + may scarce escape. Would ye save your life, then, Sir Knight, make a swift + end of this combat. I fear it dureth over long an ye will aid me, by our + Lord's grace. So bethink ye, Sir Knight, what ye may do." + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Gawain: "An ye be wise, Sir Knight, ye will now speak; here will + I tarry no longer. Will ye right this maiden of the wrong ye have done + her, or fight with me? The one or the other must ye do. An ye will, I will + alight and meet ye afoot, or ye may mount your steed again, by covenant + that ye flee not, nor escape, but abide your fortune." + </p> + <p> + The knight made answer: "Now do ye hold me over feeble, an ye think I + shall thus yield. Ye will do well to dismount straightway, an ye have lust + to fight." He covered himself with his shield, and drew forth his sword + from the scabbard. Sir Gawain dismounted, whether he liked it well or ill, + and let his horse that men call the Gringalet, stand beside him; never a + foot would that steed stir till its lord came, and once more laid hand on + it. Forthwith they betook them to fight, and dealt each other fierce + thrusts, with mighty and strong strokes, so that one saw their blood + stream out through the mails of their hauberk, and the sparks sprang out + when the helmets were smitten till they seemed to glow even as doth hot + iron when it be thrust into the furnace, and waxeth red from the fire; so + fierce were the blows which each dealt to the other. That which most + sorely vexed Sir Gawain was that his sword scarce seemed worth a groat, + the knight's armour was so good that Sir Gawain's weapon was stayed upon + it. Though one saw the blood well through, yet had the hauberk never a + score. This Sir Gawain deemed a great marvel. He fetched a mighty blow + upward and smote the knight above the hauberk, in the neck, to the very + middle of the throat. Therewith was the matter ended for him; his head + fell forward upon his breast, and he fell dead beneath the blow. + </p> + <p> + His friends and kinsmen had beheld from afar and came therewith, sore + distressed and very wrath when they saw their lord thus lying dead upon + the field. Sir Gawain, the good and the valiant, was once more mounted + upon Gringalet. There might he fear no foe; the steed was so strong and so + great, and even as his lord had need would the horse watch and follow + every sign that he might give. + </p> + <p> + Those who had come thither, and had, as it were, found Sir Gawain in the + very act of slaying, were of one mind that they should beset him, behind + and afore, on horse and afoot, and if it might be take his life. And Sir + Gawain who saw that he was sore bestead, commended himself to the grace of + God with a good heart and received his foes with drawn sword. With each + blow that he smote he wounded one, or two, and wrought them much harm. + None might withstand him, and he that wrought the most valiantly he abode + there dead, or went hence so sorely wounded that he might never more find + healing. Thus Gawain, the Father of Adventure, so daunted them with the + blows that he smote that many drew aside and turned from the strife with + deep wounds and wide. 'Twas a good cause for which Sir Gawain fought, and + for which he desired vengeance, and for that did it fall to his profit. He + brought many of them in sore stress, some of life, some of limb. With that + there came riding a company of the maiden's folk, who were fain to avenge + her shame. So soon as she beheld them, and they drew nigh, was she glad + and blithe and drew aside from the strife where Sir Gawain did right + manfully. The maiden turned to her own folk, and betook her with that + company again to her father. They were right joyful that she was once more + in their power, and they left Sir Gawain on the field where he was sore + bestead—they durst not take part with him against their overlord, so + greatly did they fear his kin. + </p> + <p> + But Sir Gawain, who marked this not, went smiting blow after blow on all + that came nigh him, and so blinded and drave them backward with his + strokes that he was left alone on the field. So weary and so weak were + they that they lay all along the road, discomfited, prone on the earth, as + those who have sore need of rest. But few of them were whole, for Sir + Gawain had so wounded them that men may well tell the tale from now even + unto Doomsday! + </p> + <p> + Then thought Sir Gawain within himself, since he had so long wielded his + weapons and no man durst withstand him further he might find no better + counsel than to fare on his way. He thanked God of true heart that he had + thus won honour on this evil folk, and that he had escaped with his life, + and free from mortal wound, he and his steed, and that God had thus + protected them. Men say oft, and 'tis true, as was here well proven, that + he who recks not of his ways, but doeth that which is displeasing alike to + God and to the world, he was born in an evil hour. + </p> + <p> + Now when Sir Gawain had won the fight, and God had shown him favour by + granting him good knighthood and the discomfiting of his foes, the day was + well past nones, and Sir Gawain, the bold, had neither eaten nor drunk, + nor done aught save fight that day and receive great blows. He rode on his + way sore perplexed and unknowing where he might seek for lodging. So long + did he ride that he was ware how it drew towards evening, and therewith + did he behold a castle. Never was a man more oppressed with hunger and + thirst and weariness; and he thought in his heart that he could do naught + better than ride thither, and see if by hap he might find lodging for the + night. + </p> + <p> + He found by the castle moat the lord of that burg and many of his folk + with him; when he had dismounted on the turf he greeted them courteously, + and the lord answered "God reward ye." + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Gawain, "Were it your command, and your will and pleasure, right + gladly would I abide here within this night! I know not otherwise how I + may win shelter. I have ridden all this day, and have seen naught save + wilderness and waste land, and there found I no man with whom I might + abide the night." + </p> + <p> + And the host spake, "So may good befall me in soul and body as I shall + give to you in friendship, even to the uttermost, all that belongeth unto + this even; lodging will I give ye, and food, ham and venison. My lodging + is ever free, and ne'er refused to any knight who would fain be my guest. + He hath safe conduct, good and sure, against all whom he may meet in this + land, were it against mine own son, whom I love above all who own the laws + of knighthood. My safe conduct is so well assured that whosoe'er should + wrong my guest it should cost him his life and all that he had, had he not + more than good fortune! This on my knighthood and by the Blessed Maid, Our + Lady!" + </p> + <p> + But Sir Gawain, the Father of Adventure, who was wont to be received with + honour, wist not that the knight whom he had slain was son to the lord of + the castle. Now first shall ye hear of marvellous adventures whereof some + be good and some evil. + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain had come to that point that he deemed he was well assured of + shelter for the night, nor was he on guard against his heavy mischance. + The host, who would do his guest all honour, took the knight by the hand, + and led him through three portals into a fair hall where he was received + with courteous words. They disarmed him straightway, and stabled his steed + right well. The host bade them take in ward Sir Gawain's armour and his + sword; too far did they carry them! For that was he vexed and wrathful, + and he would not it had so chanced for all his host's halls, were they of + wroughten gold! For as they sat at table and ate and drank and had enow of + all the earth might bear for the sustenance of man, and forgat thereby all + sorrow, they heard sore wailing and lamentation, and the smiting together + of hands, and knew not what it might mean. They heard folk who stood + without the walls, at the master gate, who cried with loud voice, "Alas, + alas! Undo and let us in!" + </p> + <p> + Then Sir Gawain's mood was changed, and his heart forbade him that sorrow + and mischief drew near. He changed colour and grew red. The lord gave + command from within that they should ask what company stood without, and + what tidings they bare. Then they sprang to the gate, and opened it, even + as their lord bade. + </p> + <p> + Then came they in, who stood without, bearing a bier, and making so great + cry and lamentation that men heard it far and near through the open + doorways. So came they into the hall, a great company of folk, and cried + with a loud voice to the lord of the castle, "Alas, master, here lieth + dead the best knight that one might find in the wide world, even your dear + son. There liveth not his like on earth, so strong, so bold, so skilled in + valiant deeds!" + </p> + <p> + Then was all the burg aghast; and the host, the father of the knight who + lay dead upon the bier, felt his heart die within him. Scarce might he + find words; and he cried, "Who hath robbed him of life, mine own dear son, + whom I loved above all the world? How came he by his death? I fear me + 'twas by his own deed, for well I know that he was fierce of heart, and + spared neither foe nor friend. I fear lest he have merited his death. Now + do I conjure ye all here present, by God, our Righteous Father (so spake + the lord of the castle) that ye speak, and make known to me the whole + truth; fain would I hear how he came by his death, my dear son, who lieth + here, and for whom my heart doth sorely grieve." + </p> + <p> + Then said they all who brought the dead man thither, that forsooth 'twas a + stranger knight who did this by his great valour; "Though we saw it not + with our eyes, yet may we well bear witness to the death of many of our + folk; and others are so sorely wounded that they may never more be healed. + Man may scarce tell all the mischief wrought by that stranger knight who + slew your son, the best knight on earth; nor may we tell who he might be." + But Sir Gawain, who was there within, and knew well that he was guilty, + saw that he might scarce escape either by will or by valour, since he had + laid aside his weapons and stood all unarmed in his robes; thereof was he + grieved at heart. + </p> + <p> + As they stood and spake thus, sudden they saw the blood of the knight who + lay there dead, and which afore was stanched, leap forth afresh, and run + crimson down the hall. With this were they ware of Sir Gawain, their + lord's guest, and all they who were there present said, the one taking up + the tale of the other, that forsooth he who had slain the knight was + within that hall, as might be seen of men, for the blood had ceased to + flow a little after midday, nor had any man seen the wounds bleed since. + Now was it open and manifest to all that he was there who had done the + deed. Herein were they all of one mind who were there present, and they + drew together and looked upon Sir Gawain the Father of Adventure, with + fierce and cruel eyes. + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain saw many an unfriendly countenance turned towards him. They + straitly prayed their lord that he would make the knight known to them; + how he came thither; who he was, whence he came, and whither he went, and + what might be his name? + </p> + <p> + Then spake the host: "He is my guest, and he hath my safe conduct, good + and fast, the while he is within; and be ye sure of this, that if any + wrong him by word or deed, he shall rue it in such wise that it shall cost + him goods and life. Nor will I change for prayer of man or woman. My + surety that I will hold to every guest standeth so fast that no word I + have spoken shall be broken with my knowledge or my will. Have patience + and hold ye still, on peril of your lives and goods. I know so good + counsel withal that I may speedily be ware of him who hath wrought this + deed." + </p> + <p> + Then he called together his folk to one side of the hall, and said that + his oath and his safe conduct might in no wise be broken, for his son were + thereby but ill-avenged, valiant knight though he was. He might well rue + it if he slew his guest, for thereof should he have great shame wherever + men told the tale. "I shall avenge him more discreetly, if I be + well-assured of the truth that my guest hath indeed wrought this murder + and this great outrage." + </p> + <p> + He spake further to his folk: "Now do ye all my bidding. Ye shall abide + here within this hall; no man shall follow me a foot, but do ye even as I + command. I will lead my guest without, and ye shall close the door behind + us. Doth the dead man cease to bleed, then shall we all be well-assured + that he hath done the deed; and thereafter shall I take counsel how I may + avenge my son, fittingly, and without shame." Then all agreed to his + counsel, and held their peace. + </p> + <p> + Thus came the host to where Sir Gawain stood, and spake: "Sir Knight, be + not wroth that my folk entreat ye not better. We are in grief, as ye see, + and therefore are ye the worse served. Now shall ye come with me, and I + shall amend what hath here been lacking. My folk and my household make + great lamentation, as ye see, and I with them. Now come with me, and tarry + not; I will lead ye hence where ye may be at ease, and sleep softly till + the daylight. Here would we make our moan." + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain thought within himself he was sorely over-matched within those + (to be bare of weapons 'tis a heavy blow at need), and he knew well that + the folk looked on him with unfriendly eyes, and that none were on his + side, that might be seen from their mien; and therefore he thought within + himself that there was no better counsel save to put himself in his host's + grace, and do that which he bade him. He had no weapon upon him, and there + were within of his host's folk full five hundred men whom he saw to be + armed. Thus he went his way with his host, whether the adventure should + turn to his harm or to his helping. The lord of the castle led him through + the doorway, and his men locked it as they went forth. + </p> + <p> + Then quoth the lord of those within: "Sir Knight and dear guest, I will + that ye be right well entreated here within this night." He led him to a + strong tower, wherein were fair beds. He bade them bear tapers before + them, and all that he knew or could in any wise deem needful for Sir + Gawain, his guest. The host, sorely mourning, bade them pour out clear + wine, and make ready a fair couch whereon he might sleep even as he had + the will thereto. He left with him squires enow, and turned him again to + the castle. + </p> + <p> + Then did they bear the dead man from where he lay, his wounds were + stanched, and bled no whit. Then said all who saw it it booted not to seek + another man, they were well assured 'twas their guest had slain him. The + word ran through the hall; and the host turned him again to where he had + left his guest, as if he marked naught. He made no sign to his folk, but + locked the door of the tower so fast that none might come therein to Sir + Gawain to do him harm, nor overpower him, so safely was he in his keeping. + Also, I tell ye, he himself kept the keys of the strong tower wherein he + had locked his guest. He would bethink him what 'twere best to do ere he + let him be slain or maimed; thus did he hold him within his fortress. + </p> + <p> + What might Sir Gawain do? He must even abide his fate; he had come thither + as guest, and now was he locked in a strong tower, within many doors, and + in a strange place withal. He was bare of arms, and had he revealed + himself and demanded his weapons they had scarce given them to him; rather + had they slain him, and drawn blood-guiltiness upon themselves had not God + protected him. + </p> + <p> + Thus was Sir Gawain a captive, and knew not what he might do. 'Twixt + constraint and ill-fortune the night seemed to him over long; though he + feared him no whit yet he deemed his end was come. He knew well that the + folk were evil-disposed and bare malice and rancour towards him for the + sake of the dead man who lay there, in that they had seen his wounds bleed + afresh, and had thereby known his slayer. Thus was his heart sorely + troubled. + </p> + <p> + Now leave we speaking of Sir Gawain. The host was within the hall, with + his folk until daylight; with sorrow and lamentation did they pass the + night, bemoaning their bitter loss. For though the knight had well + deserved his death yet had he there many friends who lamented the loss + that they had thereby suffered. They were loth to own that he was evil and + cruel of heart. + </p> + <p> + So soon as they saw the fair day light the host took counsel with his folk + that they might advise him well by what means, and in what way, they might + avenge themselves for their heavy loss. Said the host, their lord, did he + let the guest, whom he held there captive, and who had smitten his son to + death, depart in safety, "Men would say I were but a coward, and durst not + avenge myself, and would speak scorn of me; so many have seen how the + matter fell out that it may not well remain hidden. Yet should I slay my + guest then from henceforward would they cry shame upon me in every land + where the tale be told." + </p> + <p> + Thus was he of two minds, and thought in his heart that to save himself + from shame 'twere best to let his guest depart so soon as he arose, armed + in all points as he came thither, and harm him in no wise, but bring him, + unhurt by any man, without the borders of his land and his safe conduct, + and there bid him farewell and return hither; while that his friends, who + would fain see him avenged, waylaid Sir Gawain, and wrought their will + upon him, and, if they would, slew him. Or if they took him captive they + might deal with him as they thought best, either by burning him in the + fire, to cool their rage, or by breaking him upon the wheel—as might + seem best to them at the time. "Thus shall I put the shame from me, that + neither near nor afar, now or henceforward, men make scorn of me. This + seemeth to me the wisest rede in this matter, howsoe'er it stand!" + </p> + <p> + This did he tell to his folk, and it pleased them well, and they spake + with one mouth that he had found the best counsel. They made no further + questioning, but armed themselves, and rode forth, as they who would + waylay Sir Gawain, when his host had sent him on his way. Thus they went + forth from thence a great company, and well armed. Very wrathful were + they, and they went right willingly. The host who would follow them called + to him his seneschal, who was cruel and cunning, and bade him carry his + armour to their guest straightway, and deliver it to him as if he should + ride thence as soon as he had arisen, and delay no whit. + </p> + <p> + Straightway the seneschal betook him to a fair chamber (hearken ye to an + evil tale!) where he found Sir Gawain's weapons and his good armour. He + stole from Sir Gawain his good sword, that which he placed in its sheath + was not worth twopence; he cut the straps of the harness well nigh in + twain in the midst, and made a great score in the stirrup leathers so + cunningly that no man might see or know aught thereof beneath the covering + of the harness. And the saddle-girths did the traitor so handle that Sir + Gawain was sore grieved there-for ere he had ridden a mile; he would not + that it had so chanced for all King Arthur's kingdom—that shall ye + hear anon. + </p> + <p> + When the seneschal who had wrought this treason had brought Sir Gawain's + weapons and his horse that had been well cared for that night—they + deemed it should be theirs ere long, 'twas a strong steed and well + standing, and since they thought to have their pleasure of it they gave it + provender enow—the host bade them undo the door and hold Sir + Gawain's steed there without. The harness was in place, whereof I have + told ye that it was so traitorously handled; then came forth the knight, + who had arisen, and clad himself in fair robes, and descended the + stairway. Little thought had he of the treason which in short while befell + him. The seneschal held in his hand the false sword, well hidden in its + sheath, and the while Sir Gawain made him ready did he gird it at his side—for + that was the knight thereafter unblithe. + </p> + <p> + The while they thus made ready came the lord of the castle to Sir Gawain, + and said: "Ye are early astir Sir Knight; how comes it that ye be thus + hurried at this time? Scarce have ye slept, and arisen, ere ye would ride + hence. Have ye heard Mass, and broken your fast ere ye depart?" + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Gawain: "Dear mine host, I grieve that ye yet sorrow; so may God + guard me and bring me to His grace when I die as I truly mourn for your + mischance. I will it were yet to do!" Quoth Sir Gawain the bold: "Though + 'twere hard and painful to me yet would I for seven years long wear + haircloth next my body, wherever I fared, for this that ye have received + me so well. Nevertheless be ye sure of a truth—I may not deny it + this day for any man, how strong soever he might be, nor through fear of + any that may hear me, foe or friend—but I must needs say in sooth + your son had merited his death many a time and oft ere the day came that + he died! Now may God have mercy upon him! And God reward ye for the great + good, and the honour, that ye do to me, all ye here, in that I have been + at your charges." + </p> + <p> + Then was the host sore vexed, and he said: "I will do ye no harm for aught + that hath chanced by ye; nevertheless, there be here many a man who had + fain fallen upon ye, but I tell ye I will not that aught befall ye here; + nor that my peace be broken, nor vengeance taken upon ye. I shall go with + ye as ye ride hence, and ride with ye so far that ye be not led astray by + any who remain behind. I were loth that harm befell ye." + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain spake: "For that may God, who ruleth over all, reward ye." He + took the bridle in his hand and rode forth, the host nigh to him; and at + his side went he who had betrayed him aforehand. Now cometh great sorrow + upon Sir Gawain. He deemed that he had safe conduct, but he had lost from + its sheath his sword, which had been stolen from him; and that which the + seneschal had put in its place when he drew forth the good brand was more + brittle than glass. Thereto had he cunningly handled the harness, girths + and stirrup-leather, whereof Sir Gawain knew naught, and the lord of the + castle had sent afore the strongest and most valiant of his folk, to + waylay Sir Gawain, and to take his life, A man's heart might well fail him + for doubt, and great fear, did he come in such a pass, and know no wile + whereby he might escape. + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain, who knew naught of these tricks and snares rode on his way, + discoursing of many things with his host, until they drew nigh to the + place where his foes lay, ambushed in the thicket, who would fain slay + him. When he came nigh to the place the host took leave of the knight, and + turned him again towards the castle. Sir Gawain sat upon his steed and + deemed that he should ride thence without strife or combat. As he laid his + hand on the saddle-bow, and thrust his feet into the stirrups and thought + to rise in the saddle, the girths brake asunder, the saddle turned over + the left stirrup beneath the horse, and left him standing. Then Sir Gawain + saw a great company of folk spring forth and come towards him with all + their might. Some came from the ditches where they had lain hidden, some + out of bushes, some out of thickets, and some came forth from the hollow + ways. God confound traitors, since He may not mend them! + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain abode not still; he saw well that he was betrayed, and + over-matched. He drew forth from its sheath the sword, which was little + worth to him, and deemed he would defend himself, as he oft had done + aforetime, against those who would harm him. But ere he might smite three + blows that sword brake, as it were tin—this was an ill beginning + would a man defend his life. This Sir Gawain saw, and was dismayed, he + wist well that he was betrayed. They who would harm him came upon him from + every side, a great company and fierce, all thirsting for his life; there + was a great clash of swords; they thrust at him with their spears. His + sword protected him not a whit—he who gave it to him God give him + woe! It brake in twain at the hilt, and fell into the sand. Sir Gawain + stood empty-handed, small chance had he of escape, and they who beset him + were chosen men, over-strong and over-fierce, as was there well proven. + Like as a wild boar defends himself against the hounds that pursue him, + even so did Sir Gawain defend himself, but it helped him naught. They + harmed him most who stood afar, and thrust at him with spears to sate + their rage. There was among them no sword so good but had Sir Gawain held + it, and smote with it three such blows as he was oft wont to deal with his + own, it had broken, or bent, and profited them no whit. But of those + things which had stood him in good stead many a time before, when he was + hard beset, his good steed, and his sword, the which was a very haven, of + these was he now robbed. + </p> + <p> + Thus was Sir Gawain overcome, and me thinks 'twas little marvel! There + lives no man so strong or so valiant but he may some time be vanquished by + force, or by fraud. Sir Gawain must needs yield him; he was felled to the + ground, yet were there some to whom it cost their life ere he was captive, + and some it cost a limb, or twain, that might never more be healed; and he + himself was so sore mis-handled that all he ware, whether it were armour + or other clothing, was rent in many a place, so that the flesh might be + seen. There lived on earth no man so wise that he might aid him in this + stress, nor leech who might heal him; yet, an God will, he shall be healed + of his smart and of his shame. + </p> + <p> + They bound Sir Gawain's hands, and set him on a sorry hack, and to anger + him they led beside him Gringalet, his steed. This they did that he might + be the more sorrowful when he beheld his horse, which he had now lost, and + his own life withal! For of this would they deprive him, and make him to + die a shameful death; burn him they would, or break him upon the wheel, + that they might wreak their vengeance upon him. There were among them + knights and squires, the richest, and the most nobly born after the lord + of the land; and all had sworn an oath that they would lead Sir Gawain to + the cross-roads, at the entering in of their land for the greater shaming + of King Arthur's Court. To this had they pledged themselves, that they + would there slay him without respite or delay; and were it not that 'twere + shame to themselves, and too great dishonour to one who bare the name of + knight, they had hung him by the neck, on the border of the two lands, to + shame King Arthur; so that all his folk who were of the knightly order, + and dwelt at his court, and sought for adventure, should shun their land + when they heard the tidings of the vengeance wrought by them upon + knights-errant who would prove their fate within those borders. + </p> + <p> + Thus it fell out that they brought Sir Gawain on the horse, sorely wounded + and mishandled, within the nearness of half a mile, so that the knight + knew he was nigh to the cell of the Hermit of whom at that self-same + cross-road he had asked tidings of King Arthur's knights, and of that bad + and evil land where many were brought to shame. And they who had brought + him thither were of one mind that they should make a wheel, and break the + knight upon it at the Cross by the parting of the ways whereof I have told + ye afore. + </p> + <p> + Now shall I leave speaking of this matter till I come again thereto, and + will forthwith tell ye how it fared with Morien when the three had parted + asunder, as I told ye afore (Sir Gawain, Morien, and Sir Lancelot, he was + the third), since they would fain make proof of that which the Hermit had + told them. Now will I tell ye of Morien ere that I end the tale of Sir + Gawain. Now doth the adventure tell that Morien, that bold knight, rode + the seaward way, and came safely to the passage of the ford nigh unto the + open sea. And all the day he met no man of whom he might ask concerning + his father; 'twas labour wasted, for all who saw him fled from him. Little + good might his asking do him, since none who might walk or ride would + abide his coming. But he saw there the hoof-prints of horses, which lay + before him and were but newly made; by this he deemed that his father had + passed that way but a short while before. + </p> + <p> + Thus he followed the hoof-tracks to the passage of the sea. That night had + he neither rest nor slumber, nor found he place where he might shelter, or + where it seemed to him he might ask for food or lodging beneath a roof. + </p> + <p> + The morning early, even as it dawned and men might see clearly and well + (which comforted him much), he came safely ahorse to where one might make + the crossing, but he saw never a soul; no man dwelt thereabout, for the + robbers had laid waste the land, and driven away the folk so that none + remained. 'Twas all heath and sand, and no land beside; there grew neither + barley nor wheat. He saw and heard no man, nor did folk come and go there, + but he saw ships at anchor, and shipmen therein, who were wont to take + over those folk who would cross into Ireland. + </p> + <p> + Morien came riding over the sea-sand, and cried with a loud voice + shipward: "Ye who be within tell me that which I ask lest it be to your + own loss, as also I would fain know for my own profit and rejoicing. Know + ye if any within these few days past have carried a knight over the + water?" + </p> + <p> + But all they who lay in the ships, when they beheld Morien who had doffed + his helm, were so afeard for him that they might neither hear nor + understand question nor answer. They were altogether in fear of him, since + he was so tall, and black withal. Each man turned his boat seaward, and + put off from the shore, for Morien was to look upon even as if he were + come out of hell. They deemed they had seen the Foul Fiend himself, who + would fain deçeive them, so they departed as swiftly as they might and + would in no wise abide his coming. Then must Morien turn him again, for + none would hearken to his speech nor tell him that which he fain would + know; all were of one mind that 'twas the Devil, and none else, who rode + there upon the sand, so they fled with one consent from the shore. + </p> + <p> + Morien saw well that his labour was in vain, for would he make the + crossing there was no man would abide his coming or receive him into his + boat. Thus must he needs turn him back, and great lamentation did he make + thereof. He saw the footprints where two horses had ridden afore him, and + ever he hoped that 'twas his father who rode there, and that he had + crossed the water, but he thought within himself: "What doth it profit a + man to labour if he know it to be in vain? None will take me over the + water since I am a Moor, and of other countenance than the dwellers in + this land; this my journey is for naught. I may not do better than return + to the Hermit, that good man, there where I parted from my comrades." He + had neither eaten nor drunk since that he rode thence; his head was dazed + with hunger and with grief. He looked behind and afore, and saw nowhere + where food was in preparing, nor saw he man nor woman, nor creature that + had life, upon the seashore. + </p> + <p> + Then he rode swiftly upon the backward trail till he came once more to the + parting of the ways; there found he carpenter-folk hewing and shaping + timber, whereof they had made a great wheel. He saw a knight sitting upon + the ground, in sore distress, naked and covered with blood; he had been + brought thither to be broken upon the wheel, so soon as it might be made + ready. Well might his heart misgive him! + </p> + <p> + Morien who came thither saw the gleam of many a hauberk; there were armed + folk enow! Others there were who were but in evil case, unarmed, and + unclad, who were scarce whole. Their limbs were bandaged, some the arm, + some the leg, some the head, and stained with blood. And Sir Gawain, who + sat there sore mishandled, knew that well, and as Morien came nigh, he + cried, so that all might hear: "Dear my comrade, ye be welcome. God give + me joy of your coming hither! I am Gawain, your comrade; little did I + foresee this mischance when we parted, you and I, at this cross-way! Have + pity upon the sore stress in which ye see me. May God who hath power over + us all strengthen ye well; would that He might here show forth His power!" + </p> + <p> + When Morien who was hard beset by them who stood there heard this, never + might one hear in book or song that any man smote such fierce blows as he + smote with the sword which he drew forth. Do what he might with that sword + it suffered neither dint nor scar; he smote straight to the mid-ward; nor + was their harness so good that it might withstand him. Thereto helped his + great strength, that he fought so fiercely against them who withstood him, + and smote such ghastly wounds that nevermore might they be healed, nor + salved by the hand of any leech. He clave many to the teeth, through helm + and coif, so that they fell to the ground. And ever as he cast his eyes + around and they lighted upon Sir Gawain, who was in such evil case, his + courage waxed so great that were the Devil himself against him he had + slain him even as a man; might he die, he had there lost his life. Sir + Gawain sat by the wayside in sorry plight, with his hands bound; but the + good knight Morien so drave aback the folk who had brought him thither + that they had little thought for him. He defended him so well with his + mighty blows that none might come at him to harm him; he felled them by + twos and by threes, some under their horses, some beside them. The space + began to widen round Sir Gawain and Morien; for all there deemed that he + came forth from hell, and was hight Devil, in that he so quelled them and + felled them underfoot that many hereafter spake thereof. That men thrust + and smote at him troubled him little, therein was he like to his father, + the noble knight Sir Agloval; he held parley with no man, but smote ever, + blow after blow, on all who came nigh him. His blows were so mighty; did a + spear fly towards him, to harm him, it troubled him no whit, but he smote + it in twain as it were a reed; naught might endure before him. He ware a + hauberk that bold overstrong hero, wherewith he was none too heavy laden, + yet none might harm him with any weapon they brought thither. Then might + ye see the blood run red upon the ground for the good knight's sword + spared neither horse nor man. There might ye see lying heads and hands, + arms and legs; some hewn from the body, some smitten in twain. They who + might escape death fared little better, for good fortune had departed from + them—thus many chose their end. He who came betimes to the conflict, + and fled without waiting to see what might chance further, he was blithe! + Thus were they put to rout, and either slain or driven from the field, or + helpless of limb; some who came thither ahorse had lost their steeds, and + must rue their journey. They might no longer ride, but must go hence + afoot. + </p> + <p> + Then Morien dismounted, and took Sir Gawain in his arms, and said full + oft, "Alas, my comrade, how were ye thus betrayed? I fear physician may + aid ye never more, ye have wounds so many and so sore." + </p> + <p> + With that he had unbound his hands; and Sir Gawain said: "Of physician + have I no need." He thanked God and Morien a hundredfold, that he was thus + delivered from peril, and comforted in his need; his heart was light + within him, and he said he should speedily mend might he but have repose + for two days, and neither walk nor ride; by the help of God, and by + leechcraft and the aid of certain herbs the virtue of which he knew well, + so might he regain all his strength. + </p> + <p> + Now had they left upon the field Gringalet and certain other steeds, the + masters whereof were slain or had fled afar. Gringalet was bare of + harness, he had lost his saddle as ye heard afore, and therefore no man + had mounted him. He who had brought him thither had forgat him upon that + field, his journey had been dearly bought and he lay there dead in the + green grass. And Sir Gawain when he was ware of that was fain to forget + all his pain. He arose from where he sat, and went towards his steed, and + as he looked upon him his heart rose high within him, and he deemed that + he was well-nigh healed. And even as he came Gringalet knew his lord, nor + would flee from him, but came towards him, and for very friendship seized + him with his teeth. + </p> + <p> + Then did they abide no longer, but betook them to the hermit who had been + sore afeard for all that he heard and saw through the window of his cell. + He knew the two knights well, when he heard their tale, and how that they + were even the same who had but lately passed his way, and he spake to the + Father of Adventure: "Even so did I foretell ye when ye would ride toward + that land, and I prayed ye to refrain. But that would ye not do, and so + have ye come to harm therein! They who are fain to despise counsel + ofttimes do so to their own mischief. But since it hath so befallen, think + ye what may best profit ye, and abide overnight with me, here within; for + an ye depart hence I know not where ye may find shelter. That evil beast + whereof I spake when ye were here afore hath so laid waste the land that + no man dwelleth herein. If I still dwell here 'tis that I have no need to + flee nor to fear death ere my day come, when as it hath been foretold and + declared I shall break the rule of my order. A long tale is ill to hear, I + will weary ye not, but see that naught be lacking to your ease. Ye shall + stable your steeds, and abide this night within my chapel. That which I + have will I give ye, for the love of God and the honour of knighthood." + Then Sir Gawain and Morien his comrade thanked him much, and went their + way to the chapel, where they abode throughout the day; each told to the + other his adventures as they had befallen, neither more nor less. The + hermit tended the horses well with all that was needful to them; he bade + the lad who served him, as a good man doth his friend, bring forth all the + store that he had within, and fetch water from the spring, and warm it to + Sir Gawain's liking that he might therewith wash his limbs, and cleanse + them from the blood. He had upon him no mortal wound, so good was his + hauberk, otherwise had he lost his life from the blows he had received. + </p> + <p> + With that came the hermit into the chapel, and spake, and told them how he + had heard tidings from pilgrims who had come thither that the Red Knight + and his companions had but late ridden the road that led toward the sea + coast, though he had marked it not; 'twas but yesterday he had been told + thereof. + </p> + <p> + Then spake the knight Morien and said by his troth he had even followed + the hoof prints of horses that were but newly made till he came to where + one must needs cross over the water; "and then did I lose all sign of + their further track; but howsoever I might pray, or call upon those who + lay there in their ships, when they saw me they were terrified as hares, + and would tell me nought, the fools, of that I asked them! One and all + fled, and put them out to sea. Methinks they were afraid of me. But by the + faith that I owe to God and Our Lady, and the honour of knighthood, it + shall avail them naught that they thus refuse me; I shall turn again from + here, and otherwise take my way; may I but find on shore one of those who + were there, and who belongeth to the ships, in sooth he were born in an + evil hour! An he carry me not over the water I will thrust him through + with my spear, or deal him such a stroke with my sword, that he shall fall + dead upon the earth. My heart forbode me that he who went before me was my + father! But in all my journey I met no living soul of whom I might ask + aught. Then I began to wax fearful, for hunger beset me, and therein I + found neither man nor woman, nor aught but heather and waste land wherein + I was a stranger. No man might I see or hear, no wheat or barley grew + there; 'tis the truth I tell ye, thither cometh no man save that he desire + to cross the wide water in the ships that there lie ready. Thus had I my + pain for naught. But whatsoe'er befall me since that I have heard from our + host, that good man, that my father in sooth rode that way I shall follow + hard after, if so be that I may but cross over, and will but await + tomorrow's dawn. Since that I have heard he rideth not so far ahead I may + well overtake him, an my steed, which is so swift, and strong, and good, + foil me not!" + </p> + <p> + "God speed ye!" quoth Sir Gawain. Such was indeed his counsel, and he sore + lamented his own evil plight. But ill had it chanced with him; within the + castle had they stolen from him his good sword wherewith he should defend + himself. God give him shame who stole it! His saddle-girth, his + stirrup-leathers, were cut midway through; as he thought to sit upon his + steed they brake clean in twain, and left him standing upon his feet. This + did Sir Gawain tell them there, even as ye have heard aforetime. If his + heart were heavy when he took count of this, 'twas small marvel! + </p> + <p> + Then did they wash Sir Gawain's limbs, and he himself searched his wounds. + So good a leech might no man find since the day of Mother Eve as was Sir + Gawain; whatever wound he tended, 'twas healed even as ye looked upon it! + </p> + <p> + That night had they all the comfort that the hermit might prepare till + that they saw the fair day dawn and the sun begin to rise. Sir Gawain was + somewhat troubled, since he lacked alike arms and clothing: also his + wounds, which were sore, pained him the more. Nor did there live any near + at hand whom he knew, and who might give them what was lacking. Neither + bread, meat, nor wine had they; naught remained to the hermit, he had + given the knights all his store. Morien's heart was set upon following his + father, and Sir Gawain was of a mind to ride in quest of Sir Lancelot, and + learn how it had fared with him. He was loth to delay or abide there, for + he would fain, so soon as he might ride, fare in search of his comrade. + Yet must he tarry a day ere he might mount his steed, such was his stress + from the wounds he had received—sooth, it was a marvel that he + escaped! And now food had failed them, and that was a sore lack. Even had + they money or pledge to offer there dwelt none that side of the border, as + they too well knew, but their bitter foes, who had fain wrought them woe. + 'Twas seven miles and more hard riding, ere they might find village or + fort in King Arthur's land. Hereof was Sir Gawain troubled. He might + neither ride nor walk for his own aid. Thus both were ill at ease and sore + oppressed. + </p> + <p> + Morien was loth to remain, yet he thought it shame to forsake his comrade, + Sir Gawain, and thus he abode with him in the chapel. + </p> + <p> + Then as Morien stood by the window, it seemed to him that he saw a knight + come riding in great haste, on a horse tall and swift; he was well armed, + and seemed a goodly knight withal. Morien spake to Sir Gawain as he lay + there. "What may this be? Here cometh a knight, and I know not whither he + goeth!" + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain abode not still, but went as best he might to the window; he + looked upon the knight, and deemed by his armour and the tokens whereby a + man may be known of men, that 'twas his own brother, Sir Gariët, the son + alike of his father and of his mother. He came riding, as one sore + pressed, on that self-same road that led from Britain. The more Sir Gawain + looked upon him the more he deemed he knew him; and when he came nigh to + the Hermitage he knew well the arms that he bare. Then was Sir Gawain + gladder at heart than I may tell ye, for Sir Gariët his brother, that + strong and valiant knight, brought with him that of which they were sorely + in need, bread and meat, and wine fresh and clear. + </p> + <p> + 'Twas sore need brought him hither, as ye shall now hear: They of Britain + had lost King Arthur their lord, and were in sore danger of losing all + their land, therefore had they sent Sir Gariët to seek Sir Gawain, and Sir + Lancelot, since they twain were without peer, the most valiant knights of + the court. Sir Perceval might well be accounted the third, but 'twas not + for long that he practised knighthood; nevertheless he brought many into + sore stress, even as ye have heard. + </p> + <p> + When Sir Gariët had come before the hermitage, Sir Gawain came forth with + haste from the chapel on to the road, as one who was blithe beyond measure + when he beheld his brother; and he said, "God give ye good day, that ye + come, brother, and that I see ye! Never was I so joyful of aught, since + that I was born." + </p> + <p> + Sir Gariët alighted on the turf when he saw his brother; and as he came + nigh to him he took him in his arms saying: "Alas, brother, woe is me! How + hath this so chanced? Methinks ye have suffered harm, and been in such + sore strife that 'tis a marvel an ye be healed, and escape with life, ye + seem to me in such evil case." Thus spake Sir Gariët. And Sir Gawain said, + "I have never a limb but feeleth the smart of wounds, yet am I whole of + heart, and shall heal myself right well. But let that tale be, and make + known to me the errand upon which ye ride that ye be now come hither. Fain + would I know the truth." + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Gariët, "That will I tell ye." + </p> + <p> + Thus went the twain into the chapel, where they found that good man, the + hermit, and Morien, who was black of face and of limb. Then was Sir Gariët + somewhat in fear, when he saw him so great of limb and of such + countenance. This marked well his brother, Sir Gawain, and he gave him to + wit of the knight, and of his name, who he was, and whence he came, ere he + asked him aught; for he saw well that he somewhat misdoubted him when he + saw the good knight Morien of such countenance. + </p> + <p> + So sat they down together, and each bade the other welcome, and made much + joy of their meeting. But Sir Gawain was more desirous than I may tell ye + of knowing wherefore Sir Gariët, his brother, came thither, till he + brought him to that point that he spake the truth concerning what had + chanced to King Arthur, and told how the worst had befallen him. "King + Arthur is taken captive! As he fared on a day to hunt in a great forest, + as he was wont to do, there came upon him the greatest company of armed + men that I may tell ye of, in these few words, who were all the King of + the Saxons' men. They were in such force that they took King Arthur, who + foresaw naught of this, and had but few folk with him, as he but went + a-hunting. Thereof are his people sore troubled, and the queen above all—she + is well nigh distraught in that the king is captive. She knows not whither + the folk who took him in the forest have led him, or what may since have + befallen him. Thereof is many a heart sorrowful. The forest standeth by + the sea shore, whence came the folk who took the king by force, and led + him whither they would. They who rode with King Arthur were unarmed, and + defenceless; their strength was not worth a groat. Thereto have we another + woe; the Irish King hath come into the land, and made war; one town hath + he already won, and layeth siege to another. He hath made his boast that + he will win all Arthur's land, hill and vale, castle and town (this is his + intent), and bring all under his hand ere he quit our land. Of this is the + queen sore afraid, and they who be with her, they look not to escape. Had + ye, brother, been in the land, and Perceval, and Lancelot, then had we + never come to such a pass, for there liveth no man so bold that he durst + withstand ye three in any venture that might chance. Now hath my lady the + queen taken counsel, and sent messengers far and near into every land to + seek ye and Lancelot in this her sore need. And I be one of these + messengers, and have ridden as swiftly as my steed might bear me from + Arthur's Court hitherward, and ever have I sought tidings of ye, till at + length men told me, and I knew that ye twain had come over to this cross, + to this parting of the ways. And beyond the border did men tell me that + would I ride hither I must fare for long upon the road ere I found a soul, + man or woman, who lived, and was of the faith of Christendom. Against this + did I prepare myself, and brought with me food, meat and bread, lest I had + need thereof, and cool clear wine in two flasks that hang here by my + saddle, that I might lay my hand on them when I had need thereto." + </p> + <p> + Then laughed Sir Gawain the bold when he heard him speak of food, and said + that he had come thither in a good hour since they had no victuals, much + or little, nor drink there within, nor knew they where they might find any + had he brought none with him. But God had thought upon them betimes, and + Mary, His Blessed Mother. + </p> + <p> + Then quoth Sir Gariët his brother, "Let us eat and drink, and begin our + meal, as we have need to do—but where is Sir Lancelot, that I see + him not here? Sir Gawain, brother, tell me, for fain would I know the + truth?" + </p> + <p> + And Sir Gawain spake, "He rode hence a while ago to seek Sir Perceval." + </p> + <p> + Sir Gariët answered and said, "That ye vex yourselves thus to seek him, + 'tis labour lost, for tidings have come to court that Perceval hath become + hermit, and doeth penance for his sins. He hath learnt the truth; did he + seek till Doomsday that which he went forth to seek, the spear and the + grail, he would find them not; that cometh altogether from his sin against + his mother whereas he left her in the forest, and would no more remain + with women—then did she die for sorrow. That sin hath hindered him, + did he otherwise come upon them, of winning the spear and the grail. He + must be pure and clean from all stain, from all sin (so is it now declared + for truth) who would have the spear at his will, and the grail. For sorrow + at this hath Perceval betaken himself to a hermitage, thereof have tidings + come to court, even as he willed that it should be made known. And + concerning his brother Sir Agloval, of him did they tell that he lay sick, + with his uncle, sorely wounded; but the messenger did us to wit that he + was like to be healed, that do I tell ye, Sir Gawain. Now let us eat, and + go on our way to the queen with honour, that doth my lady require of ye + and of Sir Lancelot, upon your faith to her. But I am sore vexed that he + hath thus escaped me!" + </p> + <p> + When Morien, the son of Sir Agloval, had heard and understood this tale, + he asked forthwith if any there within could give him true tidings and + make known to him the road to the hermitage whither his uncle had betaken + himself, and where his father lay wounded; since he would fain know + thereof. + </p> + <p> + Their host quoth straightway, "He that had a boat at his will and a + favouring wind might be there ere even." He said that he knew the hermit; + "And 'twixt water and land 'tis a good fifteen mile thither, that do I + know for a truth, for oft-times have I heard men speak thereof since I + came hither. Now hearken to what I tell ye," (thus he spake to Morien) + "over the arm of the sea, there where ye cross, neither more nor less, on + the further shore is there a forest, to all seeming the greatest men may + wot of, and the wildest—'tis long withal and wide. But as ye come + thither, to one side, at the entering in of the forest, they who would + seek it may find the hermitage within but a short distance, even as it + were the mountance of a mile. Of this be ye sure, with never a doubt." + </p> + <p> + "So help me God," quoth Morien, "an it fall out according to my will there + shall I be ere even. And may I but see my father, an good luck befall me, + I turn not from that goal, e'en if I find the man who gave me life, but + ere I depart he shall keep the vow that he sware to my mother when he + aforetime parted from her, and left her sorrowing sore, even that he would + wed her, and make her his wife. Rather would I, ere even, be flayed with a + sharp knife than refrain from this. Were he twofold my father he might + well be in fear of death, should he fail to keep his oath, and ride with + me to the Moorish land." He began to make ready as one who would + straightway ride thence. + </p> + <p> + Then spake Sir Gariët, "An God will, it shall fall out better than ye say, + 'twixt ye and your father; we will eat and drink, and I rede ye, an ye be + wise, ye shall bethink ye well ere ye do aught save good to your father. I + conjure ye by the faith that ye owe to our Lady, and by the honour of + knighthood, that ye do my bidding, and let your thoughts be of good, and + not of evil, and hearken Sir Gawain's rede, thereof shall never harm + befall ye—he shall give ye the best counsel." + </p> + <p> + And Morien answered that were he fain to do. + </p> + <p> + Herewith they left speaking of this matter, and Sir Gariët brought forth a + napkin, white and clean, and spread it before the knights, as is meet for + noble folk, and those worthy of honour. Then he brought forth more than + seven loaves, white as snow, that he had with him, and laid them upon the + napkin before the knights. He brought forth ham and venison that he had + bidden make ready, there, where he had lain over night, since that men + told him he drew near to the wilderness whither had gone the knights whom + he sought, and who rode before him. Since he was upon their track he had + risen long ere 'twas day, and now came thither with the sun-rising. He + brought forth also clear wine, two good bottles full. He was not + altogether dull in that he had so well bethought him, and brought food + with him lest peradventure he have need thereof. 'Twas right welcome to + them who now partook of it; and through these good victuals forgat they + all their tribulation, as they ate and drank. They were above measure + joyful, those three knights, at that time, and with them the hermit, for + they would in no wise forget him, but he must eat and drink with them. + </p> + <p> + When the meal was ended then Morien thought to ride on his way. But the + good knight Sir Gariët said, "Sir Knight ye will do better to abide than + to depart in this haste, in short while shall ye have trouble an ye seek + your father. Follow ye our counsel; 'tis now high day, did ye come in + safety to the ships it would be o'er late ere ye came to the other side." + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Gawain his brother, as one wise in counsel, "Knight I will tell + ye what ye shall do; from haste cometh seldom good that abideth to honour. + Therefore tarry over night with us, since ye may not achieve your goal + this day; and I will make ready my weapons as best I may; I must needs be + better healed ere I have strength to ride whither I would. Tomorrow shall + it fare better with me. Then will we ride, without delay, so soon as it be + daylight. If God will I shall be more at ease in limbs and at heart, and I + shall have less pain than I have as at this while. I have no mind to abide + here behind ye, nor to hinder ye and cause ye to delay when ye would fain + ride hence, as I know right well! Here have I foes nigh at hand, who have + wrought me harm, and were ready to do yet more did they know me to be + here, in this place." + </p> + <p> + Then did Morien after his counsel, and abode there throughout the night, + and told all the adventures that had befallen him. And Sir Gawain made + ready his harness and his weapons, and scoured and polished them, and + tested them where they were mishandled. But that which grieved him the + most was his sorrow for his good sword which he had thus lost, for it was + a sword of choice. + </p> + <p> + What boots it to make long my tale? The morrow as the day dawned, and shed + beauty over hill and vale, they rode forth together, and Sir Gawain the + Father of Adventure with them. They would not spare themselves. Then said + Sir Gawain he would fare in quest of Sir Lancelot who departed with him + from court when he left King Arthur, since he might not well, for his + honour, return without him. He wist not how it had gone with him; and + would fain learn how his venture had fallen out and return in short space, + would God prosper him, and bring Sir Lancelot with him to the aid of the + queen. On this was his mind set, nor would he do otherwise, for any man's + prayer. + </p> + <p> + With this was Sir Gariët but ill-pleased; he said Sir Gawain would do + better to return, and take the place of his uncle, and care for the land + and comfort the folk. But this he would not do, howsoe'er he prayed him, + but said he must first seek Sir Lancelot, and learn if harm had befallen + him. Sir Gariët gave him his sword, which was good and bright; then took + they leave, each of the other, for Sir Gawain would not return ere he had + spoken with Sir Lancelot, saying that the good fellowship betwixt them + twain should not be broken by his default; but that he would bring him + again to the court of King Arthur, and keep his covenant. + </p> + <p> + When they were thus made ready, armed and fittingly clad, they mounted + their steeds as they who would ride on their way. They took leave of the + good man, their host, and departed thence. + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain had chosen his road, and Sir Gariët and Sir Morien bare him + company for a space, as it were the mountance of a mile. Each spake his + mind to the other. Sir Gawain said he would return with Sir Lancelot as + swiftly as he might, and put to shame the folk who had led his uncle + captive; and he quoth, "Brother, tell this to my lady the queen, and bear + her greeting in all good faith and loyalty. 'Tis not my will that ye ride + further, nor tarry longer with me, since 'twill profit ye naught!" + </p> + <p> + Then Sir Gariët and Sir Morien turned their bridle. They commended Sir + Gawain to the care of God and all His saints, and so did he them. Each saw + the other's tears spring from their eyes and run down even to their beards + when they parted asunder. I may not tell ye how oft and how warmly Sir + Gawain thanked Morien, that he had saved his life that day on the field, + where he had of a surety been slain had not God and that good knight come + to his aid. Now will I here cease speaking of Sir Gawain and tell of Sir + Morien. The adventure doeth us to wit that when Sir Morien and Sir Gariët + had parted from Sir Gawain, they rode once more to the crossways, for they + had made a compact that they should not part before that they had found + his father, Sir Agloval. Thus they rode both together, for Morien sware an + oath that, would Sir Gariët ride with him, he would e'en pray his uncle + and his father to come to the aid of the queen, King Arthur's wife, and + help her to win back her land. On this covenant and on this behest would + Sir Gariët ride with him and bear Morien company. + </p> + <p> + As they came to the ships, Morien told him how it had fared with him + before when he thought to make the crossing, and he said that he found no + living soul among all that he saw there who would let him into his ship, + since he seemed to them so huge, and black withal. + </p> + <p> + "They counted themselves for lost, deeming that I were the devil, and were + sore afeard, and put out to sea. Now see, Sir Gariët, what counsel ye may + find, and how we may so contrive that we cross the water; doubt ye not + that an they once behold me and know me they will straightway set sail + again and put to sea. I fear me we may not cross over!" + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Gariët: "By what ye tell me, methinks 'twere better that I ride + on ahead, and hire me a ship. Ye shall follow on softly; and let me once + come therein, and have my steed aboard and the boatman in my power, he + shall not depart hence ere that ye be come thither. May my soul be lost if + he do!" Further spake the knight Sir Gariët: "Even should he be beside + himself when he first see ye, I shall not let him free ere he have taken + us to the further shore, or I shall have from him such forfeit 'twere + better for him to be sunken and drowned in the depths of the sea!" + </p> + <p> + Then answered Morien: "Ye have found the best counsel that may be devised. + Now ride ye without delay, and hire us a boat, good and strong, that may + well carry us over the water. I shall abide behind, and wait till ye have + done your part. I will do even as ye shall counsel!" + </p> + <p> + Thus they agreed together, and Sir Gariët rode alone till he came to the + ships, where he found a boat that pleased him well. He offered the boatman + money enow to take him to the further side with no delay. He gave him the + gold in his hand, and he made him ready and hoisted sail and rigging. Of + this did he swiftly repent. Even as the steed was aboard and all was ready + for the crossing came Morien riding, blacker than any son of man whom + Christian eyes had e'er beheld. And the boatman was fain to flee when he + beheld him and he drew nigh to him, for he had seen him aforetime. He + deemed that he should surely die of fear, and scarce might move a limb. + </p> + <p> + Then Sir Gariët asked him: "Sir boatman, what aileth thee? By Heaven, it + availeth thee naught; thou shall ferry us over swiftly. Now make us no + ado, or this shall be thy last day. By the Lord who made us, of what art + thou afraid? This is not the devil! Hell hath he never seen! 'Tis but my + comrade; let him in. I counsel thee straitly!" + </p> + <p> + Then must the boatman obey, though he liked it but ill. He saw that better + might not be: he might neither leap out of the boat nor otherwise escape. + So soon as he had in his boat Morien, of whom he was sore afraid, in that + he was so huge, and had shipped his steed, which was in seeming + over-strong, he pushed the boat from shore and put out to sea. He feared + him greatly, even as one who deems that he is lost. + </p> + <p> + When Morien had sat himself down he did off his helmet of steel. Then the + boatman deemed that he was a dead man, and prayed for mercy, beholding his + face, for he though he might scarce be a Christian. Sir Gariët asked of + him tidings, if there had passed that way two knights, of whom the one + bestrode a red horse and wore red armour, and the other bare the badge of + King Arthur. If he might tell him aught of them he besought him to do so; + an he knew where they yet abode he would give him great thanks. + </p> + <p> + The boatman said: "'Tis not long since that they were even in my boat; the + one knight ware red armour and had with him a red steed, and the other was + wounded and bare King Arthur's badge; and I know full well," quoth the + boatman, "the knights who bear that badge, by that same token shall ye + yourself be one of King Arthur's knights. They would both cross over, and + I ferried them to the further side. 'Twas to them an unknown land; that + did I hear well from their speech. Methought that they were ill at ease, I + wist not wherefore. I saw that the one wept so that the tears fell thick + adown his face. And when I had brought them to the other side the knight, + who was glad thereof, asked me if I knew where stood a hermitage wherein a + hermit dwelt. That did I shew him—no more and no less." + </p> + <p> + Thus fared they, having heard the tale and speaking of the twain, till + that they touched the sand. Then did the boatman shew them the way they + should ride thence to where the hermitage stood, and declared to them the + road. Thus left they the boatman, who was much rejoiced to be safely quit + of them. But the knights went on their way till they knew that they drew + near to the hermitage, and came even unto it. Then they dismounted, and + made fast their steeds before the door, and cried with a loud voice to + those within: "Let us in! Open of your goodwill!" A lad came to the door + and asked them what they desired, and if aught ailed them that they + required aid. + </p> + <p> + Then Sir Gariët spake, and said that an it were pleasing to them, they + would fain have speech with the hermit and with Sir Agloval. And the + messenger went his way to the twain, and told them how two knights stood + without the gate. "The one is a goodly man to look upon and well armed, + and so, forsooth, is the other, but his armour and his limbs, so far as I + might see, were blacker than soot or pitch. I wot not if ye know aught of + them or of their errand. They said that they would fain speak with ye, and + they prayed me straitly, the twain of them, that I should come hither and + tell ye this." + </p> + <p> + Sir Agloval, who deemed this passing strange, went, as best he might, to + the gate, and his uncle the hermit followed him with no delay. Sir Agloval + looked through the wicket, and was ware of Sir Gariët, Sir Gawain's + brother, and bethought him how that he belonged to King Arthur's court and + was worthy of great honour, for though he were not so well known + throughout the land as was his brother Sir Gawain, yet was he a strong + knight and bold, and a doer of valiant deeds. + </p> + <p> + When they beheld each other they gave fair and courteous greeting, the one + to the other, and Sir Gariët spake. "May He who can do all things shew + favour and honour to ye Sir Knight, and to all who be with ye there + within!" + </p> + <p> + Sir Agloval looked upon Morien, and marked right well the fashion of him, + and marvelled within himself what manner of knight he might well be who + bare such guise. And Morien stood before him and asked him if he yet + remembered how, seeking for Sir Lancelot, he came into the land of the + Moors, and how he there loved a maiden, and plighted to her his troth, and + how she granted to him her favours ere he departed from her upon his + quest. He asked him if he yet thought thereupon, how, when he departed + from the land he pledged his word to her that he would return, so soon as + might be, to the country of the Moors, for her profit and for her honour? + Did he yet think upon this? + </p> + <p> + Sir Agloval made answer: "Sir Knight, I make no denial, yet have I but + seldom been at rest. I rode in quest of Sir Lancelot awhile; and + thereafter had I but little respite, since I brought my brother to court, + where he was held in high honour, and so soon as he was made knight must I + ride forth with him upon a journey which he would in no wise delay; for he + was fain to avenge the harm done to our father many a year agone—that + must ye understand. My brother knew well that our foes had taken to + themselves the heritage that should have been ours, when they drave my + father forth. This would he avenge, and spare not, and herein had we much + strife ere we might regain it; but now have we done so much that we have + won back our heritage and slain all those who had possessed themselves of + our land. That so many years have fled since I sware to the maiden that I + would return to her, that came of necessity. Now have I failed to keep + mine oath, and needs must that I bethink me well, and seek counsel in the + matter. I know not, and have no true tidings, whether that lady of whom ye + speak be living or dead; naught do I know thereof!" + </p> + <p> + Quoth Morien: "But I shall tell ye more thereof! She to whom ye gave your + troth yet liveth and is my mother, and ye, Sir Knight, are my father! If + ye will come with me, at her prayer and mine, then will ye do well and + courteously. Ye begat me upon her who should be your wife, had ye kept + your oath. Now bethink ye well, and say if ye will come or no. When ye + parted from my mother she bare me though she knew it not. Thus, Sir + Knight, did the matter fall out." + </p> + <p> + Sir Agloval made answer: "By Heaven Sir Knight, I believe ye, every whit. + That which the lady claimeth from me, in that I have thus betrayed her and + foresworn mine oath, that will I make good, by the help of God. I will yet + win her grace. Come ye to me here within to mine uncle and my brother, + they shall counsel us well when they hear our tale—so shall we be + more at ease." + </p> + <p> + With that he undid the wicket. 'Twould have done any heart good, who + understood their speech, to see how Sir Agloval and Morien embraced and + kissed each other. Any heart would have been the gladder who had seen and + heard their gestures and their words, and in what love and friendship they + betook themselves within, where they were right well received. Sir Agloval + forthwith made known to his uncle and to Sir Perceval the true tale of his + doings, and how that his son had come hither. + </p> + <p> + When Sir Perceval heard this, never did knight receive so glad a welcome + as that which he gave unto his nephew; so likewise did the hermit. 'Twas + bliss and fair speech there betwixt those knights, and in their honour did + they bring forth such food and drink as was there within, and did all they + might for their comfort. That even was there naught but gladness; each + made great joy of the other, and erst as the knights were weary did they + get them to sleep, as men are wont to do, till the day brake, and the sun + shone forth. + </p> + <p> + The knights lay longer abed than did the hermit, who had said and sung his + orisons and his Mass ere day had dawned, or that the knights had arisen + and done on their garments. Then spake Morien to his father, even as ye + shall hear, and said he would ride thence, and was fain to know, without + contention, if he would come with him to his mother, and do that which he + promised when he departed from her, for the sake of God and of his own + honour, and for their profit. He told how they had been deprived of their + rightful heritage which had fallen to his mother from her father. "'Twas + altogether denied her by the law of the land; yet 'twas the shame rather + than the loss that grieved her, in that men called her son fatherless, and + she might bring no proof of her word, nor shew them to their face the man + who had begotten me!" + </p> + <p> + Then said Sir Agloval, his father: "I will tell ye out and out how the + thing stands with me, and tell ye all my counsel. Believe me well, I will + not lie to ye in one word." And Morien hearkened and answered that he + believed him fully. + </p> + <p> + Thus they abode that day with the hermit, and were better served, in all + that men might prepare for them, than I may well tell ye; and Morien + prayed his father straitly that he would delay not, but would tell him + what was in his thought and in his intent. Thus did he urge his father, + till Sir Agloval told him all his mind. + </p> + <p> + He said that he beheld a vision in a dream; it seemed to him that he rode + throughout the day in a land where he saw naught but wilderness and wood, + and trees, many and fair. By whiles he rode through hail and snow, by + whiles through noontide heat, so that he was sore vexed. Whiles he saw the + sun shine bright, whiles it was as if the twilight fell. He saw all kinds + of beasts run through the forest, and folk, young and old, go up and down + the woods. All this did he see in his dream, but nowhere in all this land + did he come to where he might find shelter. But as it drew towards + evening, and the light failed, did he think to see a tower, so strongly + builded that none by force might lightly win their way within; but no + doorway might he see, only, as it were, another tower that stood there. + Within this he beheld a stairway, that wound upward to a doorway at the + end. The door seemed to him high as a church, and of wrought ironwork. + Were a man sick he might well be healed by the light that streamed forth + from within, for, as he saw and looked upon it, it seemed as it might well + be Heaven. And every step of the stairway was of good red gold. And he + thought within himself that since those steps were so fair he might well + set foot thereon, and tell the tale of them, how many they might be, that + hereafter he might speak of the great marvel he had seen. But as he had + counted sixty, and would set foot upon the next, lo! he saw none of all + those he had left below him, save that upon which he stood, and on which + his foot was set, and above him he saw naught. And it seemed to him that + the door was distant from the step as high as one might shoot with a bow. + Thus might he go neither forward nor backward. Then he beheld, and on the + ground beneath were serpents and wild bears, even as if they would tear + him; they gnashed their teeth as if they would seize him, and gaped with + their jaws as they would swallow him. It seemed to him as if they were + even at his heels, and he saw the snakes and dragons all twist themselves + upwards. "And as I was thus fearful the step brake beneath me, and I fell + downwards." From his great discomfort and his fear of the dragons he + awoke, and slept no more. + </p> + <p> + The dream vexed him sorely whenever he thought thereon; he was angry and + wroth, and wist not what the portent of the vision might be. But his heart + forbode him that pain and mischief, and sore labour withal, drew nigh to + him. Then it fell out that he met with a learned clerk, to whom he told + the vision even as it had appeared to him; and when he had hearkened to + his tale, and understood it well, he interpreted it in this wise: + "Concerning our lands, great and small, that we thereof should be in great + stress and fear ere we might win to them again; for strong were the + castles and mighty the armies, therefore did the vision foretell ill to my + brother and myself each and singly. And further he spake concerning my + brother Perceval, and the Spear, and the Grail; for that golden stairway + betokened the Holy Grail, and that Perceval should aid in the winning + thereof, and in that service should he die. Thus did he foretell me. And + the door that stood above and the stairway itself both alike betokened the + heavenly kingdom, as might well be known by the light that shone within; + and the steps that lay before it they betokened the days of Perceval's + life. 'This I tell ye of a truth, each betokeneth a day, or a week, or it + may be a month; but of this be ye sure, and doubt not, so long shall he + live, and then shall he yield up his life. And that the steps brake + beneath ye, 'twas for your sins; ye had well-nigh climbed them had not sin + laid hold on ye. The bears, and the dragons, and the serpents that there + lay in wait, know ye well that they gave sure and certain sign that the + fiends deemed they had ye for their own in that hour, and would carry ye + to Hell.'" Thus did the wise master make known to him his dream, and bade + him thereof take warning and order his ways with wisdom, and that + speedily, and delay not, for here should he abide no long time, but drew + nigh to his end. + </p> + <p> + "Dear son," quoth Sir Agloval, "then did my brother cease his quest for + the Spear and the Grail, and the adventure on which he was bound, and came + hither as swiftly as he might to mine uncle the hermit, and clothed + himself in this habit, through that which the clerk foretold me. Thus are + we here together, and my brother would fain amend his life. Nor am I yet + whole; for I was wounded wellnigh to death, and bruised and mishandled, so + that I had no power left, and am yet scarce healed. Thus would I abide + here awhile with my brother and mine uncle, that my wounds might be + tended, and that with them I might save my soul. Now ye will that I + journey with ye to your mother in the Moorish land, and I were fain to + ride thither were I but healed. Yet is there another matter. I would + gladly go with ye, that may ye know of a truth, for your honour, and to do + away your shame, were it not that I thus brought about my death; + nevertheless, I have trust in mine uncle, who is so wise, that he shall + make my peace with God, and bring me to eternal bliss. Now, son, bethink + ye of our profit, yours and mine, according to that which has befallen me, + and that ye have now heard even as I tell ye. Counsel me as it seemeth ye + best; since that I be your father, according as matters went afore 'twixt + me and your mother, it behoves ye well so to do." + </p> + <p> + Then quoth Morien: "Were ye better healed I would ride gladly, but it + becometh me well to shun aught that might do ye harm or mischief. I can + give ye none other counsel than that ye abide here till ye be once more + whole. King Arthur is captive and his land is beset and in sore stress. + Here is his nephew Sir Gariët, who hath come hither with me, and now that + I have learnt the truth I shall ride with him to court, to do him honour, + and there abide till that ye be whole and healed; and I will return hither + in the hour that I know ye be cured of your wounds and may keep the oath + that ye sware to my mother, that ye be praised of men and in favour with + God. So shall my mother once more be possessed of the lands of which she + hath been disinherited, and which she hath this long time lacked. I shall + depart and ye shall abide here, where may all good befall ye! I will aid + the queen, and God grant that I may win such fame as shall be for the + bettering of her cause and mine own honour and profit. I shall return, be + ye sure of it, when the time is ripe, and shall ever think of ye as my + father." + </p> + <p> + Then all thanked Morien, deeming that as at that time no better counsel + might be found; and Sir Gariët and Morien alike besought of Sir Perceval + that he would ride with them, to aid the queen and release King Arthur, + and bring comfort to his land. This he sware to do would his uncle grant + him leave thereto. Then did they all, and Sir Agloval with them, so + straitly pray the uncle that he granted their request, and never might ye + see at any time folk so blithe as were these knights in that Sir Perceval + would ride with them. Thus did they take their leave and wend on their + way. But now will I leave speaking of them and tell how it fared with Sir + Lancelot, who would slay the evil beast. Now doth the adventure tell us + that when Sir Lancelot departed from Sir Gawain at the cross-roads he + delayed not, but rode that same hour till he came to the waste land + wherein the beast had wrought havoc. Now in that land there dwelt a maiden + who had caused it to be made known far and wide that whosoever might slay + that beast him would she take for her husband. Never might man behold a + fairer maiden, and the land was all in her own power. Now there dwelt also + therein a traitor, a knight who loved the maiden, but had little mind to + risk his life for her; he kept close watch upon that beast if so be that + any man should slay it that he might play the traitor, so should the + slayer pay with his life for the deed, and he should spread abroad that he + himself had, of a verity, slain the monster. + </p> + <p> + Thus Sir Lancelot rode so far into the land that he came nigh to the place + where he had heard that the fearful beast had made its lair. There did he + see many a helm, and spear, and weapon of the knights it had slain, whose + bones lay there stripped of flesh, which the monster had devoured; he + might well be afraid! So soon as Lancelot might know where the beast was + wont to lie, he made haste thitherward, and so soon as it was ware of his + coming it came flying in such guise as it had been the Devil, and set upon + Sir Lancelot straightway. It feared neither sword nor spear, nor armour, + nor might of man. And Lancelot smote at the monster so that his spear + brake in twain, yet had he not bruised it a whit, or pierced its hide; + then he drew forth his sword and smote with great force, but he harmed it + not, and it seized Lancelot by the throat and scored him in such wise that + the knight was wroth thereof, for it tare a great rent through the hauberk + even to the flesh, and wounded him sore. Many a time did Sir Lancelot + strike and smite at the beast, but never a groat might he harm it; but the + monster fell upon Sir Lancelot and scored him even to the feet, and dealt + him many a wound, and breathed out venom upon him; had it not been for a + ring which Sir Lancelot ware upon his finger he had fallen dead where he + stood from the poison. Then the monster sprang towards him with gaping + jaws, as it were fain to swallow him, and Lancelot watched his chance, and + thrust his sword into its mouth, and clave the heart in sunder, and the + beast gave a cry so terrible that 'twas heard a good two mile off. + </p> + <p> + Then the traitor who spied all from afar, when he heard the cry delayed + not, but rode swiftly towards the lair, for he knew well from the cry that + the monster was slain. When he came to the place he found Sir Lancelot + sitting, binding up his wounds, which were many and deep. The knight began + to bemoan his plight, and went towards him saying that he would bind his + wounds for him. That cowardly and wicked knight, he came even to Sir + Lancelot's side, and snatched stealthily at his sword, and sprang backward + and smote at him, wounding him so that he fell as one dead. + </p> + <p> + When the false traitor saw this he deemed that he was dead, and left him + lying, and went there, where the monster lay, and smote off the right + foot, thinking to take it to the maiden of whom I have told ye, that he + might therewith win her to wife. + </p> + <p> + But in this while had Sir Gawain ridden so far that he had learned the + truth how that Sir Lancelot had found the beast, and at this time he had + followed upon his tracks and came unto the lair even as the traitor had + wounded Sir Lancelot, and cut off the foot, and was mounted upon Sir + Lancelot's steed, which that good knight, Sir Gawain, knew right well. + </p> + <p> + So soon as he saw the stranger upon the steed, and Lancelot, who lay there + wounded, he rode fast towards him, and drew out his good sword, and cried, + "Abide ye still, Sir Murderer, for this beast have ye slain my comrade, + that do I see right well." That false and cruel knight had fain ridden + thence, but Sir Gawain was so nigh to him that he could not avoid, and + smote at him so fiercely that he must needs abide, and draw bridle, and + pray for mercy. + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain was of a mind to bring him to Sir Lancelot ere he made terms + with him. Thus they came together, and Lancelot, who was now recovered + from the swoon in which he had lain, and was ware of Sir Gawain, cried to + him concerning the traitor who had smitten him all unarmed, "Dear comrade, + slay him. I shall die the easier, knowing that he be already dead." As he + spake thus, Sir Gawain made no more ado but smote off the traitor's head. + </p> + <p> + Then did he forthwith go to bemoan his comrade, and quoth, "Sir Knight, + may ye not be healed? Tell me now the truth; I will aid ye as I may." Then + Sir Lancelot did him to wit how he had fared with the beast, and how the + traitor had thereafter wounded him. "And this hath wrought me the greater + harm; yet might I but find a place wherein to rest methinks I might well + be healed." + </p> + <p> + Then was Sir Gawain glad at heart, and he bound up his wounds forthwith + with herbs of such virtue as should stay the bleeding; and he took Sir + Lancelot and set him upon his steed, and turned him again towards the + hermit's cell as best he might, for 'twas in both their minds that might + they but come thither Sir Gawain should surely heal him. Thus did they + ride until they had found the hermitage, and scarce had they come thither + when they were ware of Morien with Sir Gariët and Sir Perceval, who came + thither as at that time. + </p> + <p> + Then was there joy and gladness manifold. The Hermit made ready food for + his guests, and prepared a couch for Sir Lancelot as best he might. Each + told the other how matters had fallen out with them, and Morien gave them + to wit how it had fared with his father. + </p> + <p> + That night were they well entreated by the hermit, but the morrow so soon + as Sir Lancelot heard how it went with the queen, even should he gain the + world thereby he had remained no longer, neither for wounds nor for + weariness, for, he said, he was surely healed, and was fain to be at + strife. Thus must they all ride forth, whether they would or no, with the + early morning, for they might not lose a day. Sir Gawain would tend Sir + Lancelot's wounds even as they rode on their way. + </p> + <p> + Thus they journeyed till they heard true tidings of their lady, the queen; + how that she was beset on all sides by the King of Ireland. He had burnt + and laid waste so much men scarce knew the tale thereof, and the queen had + he beset in a castle to which he himself laid siege. For he had sworn a + great oath, nor would he lightly break it, that might he win the castle he + should spare no man of all that were within, but should put such shame + upon them, and on the queen, that men should speak thereof for all time. + Thus had the king sworn by his crown, and by all that may bind a king, + that he would do them bitter shame. + </p> + <p> + When the knights of whom I tell ye came into Arthur's land they saw there + a castle, around which ran a swift water, broad and deep. He who builded + that burg was well counselled. The castle was of grey hewn stone. King + Arthur had never a stronghold in the losing of which he had lost so much, + and this was not yet lost. But the folk that were within had no more than + a day's grace left to them, on the morrow must they fare forth, for would + they defend it no quarter should be shown them, but they should be seethed + or roasted alive. This had the king sworn and on the morrow would he come + thither; he had laid waste the country and destroyed the churches, and + made many widows and orphans; all the land was in terror for the harm thus + wrought upon them. The knights who came thither saw the folk as they fled + with all their goods and their foodstuff, they deemed theirs was a lost + cause. They met many folk, men women and children who would flee the land; + they drave their cattle before them and were laden with their goods; some + were ahorse, some afoot, 'twas the best they might do to their thinking. + </p> + <p> + Then Sir Gariët gave courteous greeting to one whom he met, and asked who + were this folk, and wherefore they fled thus in haste? And the goodman + answered straight-way: "They deem that all is lost; the King cometh hither + to this castle that standeth here, and the people of the land know not + what they may do, they must lose their goods and all they possess. Here + hath a great misfortune chanced, the ordeal hath gone over us; King Arthur + hath been taken captive and we know not where he may be, he was waylaid + and betrayed in a forest, whither he went to hunt, and we saw him never + more. The King of Ireland hath seized upon all this land, he who would + save his life must perforce yield to him, for he hath with him a mighty + army and our folk are defenceless. We lack leaders—Sir Gawain and + Sir Lancelot have both of them left the land, and thereof hath great shame + come to us—we are without king, or leaders, or counsel." + </p> + <p> + Quoth Morien: "This castle that standeth here, is there yet any man + within?" + </p> + <p> + The goodman said: "I tell ye there are ten knights within (and they have + naught but death before them), and a great company of foot soldiers. Now + must they reap that mischance which hath fallen upon the land. They might + well have held the castle for a year to come, so strong is it, and they + have within weapons and victuals, and men enough for the defence—it + might scarce be taken by force so long as they had food, nor might any man + lightly make his way therein. But methinks God hath forsaken us. The king + hath sworn an oath that if need be he will besiege the castle seven years, + and all they who withstand him, and whom he shall find within at his + coming thither, shall lose their lives; this hath he made known to them. + And their wives and their children, though their lives be spared, shall be + deprived of their goods and their heritage. Thus, since we may not hope + for aid, we are forsaking the castle and taking to flight." + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Gawain: "Good friend, God reward ye for your tidings." + </p> + <p> + Then Sir Gawain bethought him that 'twere best they rode within the castle + which was a fair burg, and strong; and that they should there greet the + knights and strangers who might be within, bidding them trust in God that + He would bring their matter to a good ending. The knights were right well + received, for all knew them well, and made great rejoicing over the coming + of Sir Gawain and Sir Lancelot. Then did Sir Gawain give them to wit of + the good knight Sir Morien, what he had done for them, and how he was one + of the best knights the sun ever shone upon. Thus spake Sir Gawain. + </p> + <p> + Then said Sir Morien: "'Tis good that we abide here within, and brave the + venture for the sake of the king our lord. 'Twere a sin and a disgrace to + yield up the castle, we should better adventure our lives and see the + matter to an end." + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain and Sir Lancelot took up the word and said: "He who faileth his + king 'tis right that men speak shame of him thereafter throughout the + world. Would ye have good fortune ye must await what cometh, and I have + good hope that heaven shall shortly send us help. Here may we well win + fame for ourselves and uphold the honour of our lord King Arthur. Though + he be now a captive yet, an God will, he shall escape. My heart and my + mind fore-tell me that will we but hold out here within it shall be to our + honour!" + </p> + <p> + Thus did Sir Gawain and Sir Lancelot admonish them, even as I tell ye, and + when they had hearkened to their words those who were within, and had + thought to depart, when they knew what was the mind of those knights, + sware that never a knight nor squire, nor man-at-arms would give himself + up, or forsake that good castle. Morien's counsel seemed to them good, and + although he were not fair to look upon yet when he stood upon his feet it + seemed to them that had he the chance he might put to the rout a whole + army! Each man there gave his surety to abide with them at that time, nor + to surrender through fear of death, but to hearken to other counsel. + </p> + <p> + When all had sworn the oath, and given surety, then did they shut fast the + portals upon all their food and all the aid they might win against the + king and his army who were nigh at hand. + </p> + <p> + Ere the day darkened came the king himself, in great wrath, and with him + many knights who belonged to his household, and many other folk, warlike + to behold, and came even to the castle. Then the king demanded of those + who were within if they would yield up the burg, and thus save their + lives. And they within answered that so long as life remained to them they + would not give up the castle, or betray their rightful lord. Then swore + the king an oath that an they yielded them not up straight-way they should + in no wise escape the uttermost that he might do unto them. But for that + they cared little, and made them ready for the defence. They thought to + remain upon the battlements, and throw from the castle stones so great and + so heavy that the king should be driven from the walls out on to the open + field where he had pitched his tents. + </p> + <p> + With that had the night fallen, and they who had come into the land set up + tents and pavilions, and would lodge in the green-wood. When they of + within saw that they took counsel together, and said did they leave them + in peace that night the king would, doubtless, send for a greater force of + knights and other folk, and assemble a mighty army, and it were better + that they should now adventure themselves, and ride forth from the castle + ere they were yet more outnumbered. Hereof had they bethought them ere yet + they came to counsel. + </p> + <p> + Sir Lancelot spake thus: "Flee we may not, nor dare we hope for aid, nor + may we surrender the castle; in this way shall we profit better." Thus + were they that night within the castle, neither with game nor with revel, + but they held together as true knights and good comrades. They ate and + drank of such victuals as they had, and never a man of them wavered as it + drew nigh to the dawning; they were fain to do great deeds; each looked to + his armour as one who will fight for his life, and gave his steed a feed + of corn. + </p> + <p> + What boots it to make long my tale? With the dawning of the day were they + of within ready, each man well armed and mounted on a good steed. They + rode out betimes, and bade undo the gates. Thus did they ride forth in all + their strength. + </p> + <p> + They who kept shield-watch without were ware of them, and led their + company against them, but it harmed them naught. Morien's weapons were so + strong; 'twas he led the vanguard, nor would he yield an inch when he + began the strife. Never might one behold mortal man who smote such + strokes. They fought their way through that camp. Sir Gawain, Sir + Perceval, and Sir Lancelot smote many to death, and came even to the + king's tents, and seized their weapons, shields, and spears, ere his folk + might come at their arms. They knew not what had befallen them. No quarter + would the knights give. They who were with the king slept sound in their + ranks, and were sore afeard when they awoke and beheld the armed men who + beset them with stern intent; they had many a sore wound ere they fled + from the field. + </p> + <p> + They took the king by main force; there was no man at his side but was + glad and blithe might he escape with his life. The king must yield himself + a prisoner, thereto did need compel him, otherwise had he been slain and + all his folk with him. + </p> + <p> + They led the king within the castle, and shut him fast in a tower. Never + had they so welcome a guest, nor one at whose coming they were so blithe. + They on the field must escape as best they might. Little did they reck of + all they brought with them; he might win it who had a mind thereto. When + the fight was ended King Arthur's men had taken captive much folk and the + King of Ireland. Matters had gone well for them. They held there within + that which they deemed many would buy dearly, nor count the gold therefor, + nor might they well tell how they had lost it. But 'twas their dread of + Morien's mighty blows, and of Sir Lancelot, Sir Gawain, and Sir Perceval, + who, on the field, had brought many in sore terror and dread of death. + </p> + <p> + So brought they their guests within the walls, and shut fast their gates, + and hung out their shields, as men who might well defend themselves. Then + when men beheld Sir Gawain's badge, and Sir Lancelot's pennon beside it, + tidings of the combat ran far and wide through the land. The king's folk + who lay there were sore vexed thereat. So soon as they who had besieged + the queen heard what had chanced they drew off their forces; and all they + who served the king, and who came with him into the lands, were greatly + shamed, and desired of Sir Gawain in what wise they might make peace. + </p> + <p> + Sir Gawain took counsel with his comrades, and this was their rede, that + they must bring King Arthur there before their eyes ere they might make + terms for their lord, the king. "Then shall we have such good counsel on + all points that peace may thereby be made." + </p> + <p> + Wherefore should I make my tale over long? Little as they liked it they + must needs bring King Arthur thither, and thereby make terms for the king, + their lord. When the tidings ran through the land that the King of Ireland + was captive, and that King Arthur was brought thither to treat with him, + then was there so great a gathering of Britons that they surrounded + Arthur, and took him from the men of Ireland, and brought him with armed + hand into the castle despite them all. Thus did it fall out well for King + Arthur, since he thus escaped, and held captive the king who had erstwhile + made him a prisoner. + </p> + <p> + Now shall ye hear of the King of Ireland, who lay thus in the prison of + the knights. When he heard and beheld with his eyes that King Arthur was + in very deed free, then did he betake himself to him straight-way, and + offered him goods and gold that he might be set at liberty, and he sware + that he would be the king's man, and hold all his lands henceforward from + him, and would depart from the kingdom with all his folk. Thus must the + king, being captive, stand at King Arthur's pleasure to pay him such + ransom as he might think good. Of him will I speak no more. + </p> + <p> + Now was King Arthur so blithe thereof that he bid hold a great court, that + he might give largesse to all who desired. Thither came many, but none + were there of such renown, or who had wrought such valiant deeds, as Sir + Perceval and Morien. The reward that Arthur gave them was exceeding great. + Sir Gawain told the king all the matter of Morien and of his father, and + the chance that had parted them. All this did he tell afore the folk, + wherefore was Morien much gazed upon. Now will I leave this tale and tell + ye how Morien rode again to his father, whom he had left sick with his + uncle, as I gave ye to wit afore. + </p> + <p> + The adventure maketh known that when the strife was ended, and Arthur's + land once more at peace, Morien bethought him that he would make his + father be wedded to the lady, his mother; and he prayed his uncle to + journey with him if he would, and Sir Perceval was right willing thereto. + Further, said Sir Gawain and Sir Lancelot, that they twain would ride with + them for honour and for good fellowship. For this did Morien thank them + much. Thus they departed and went their way towards the hermitage. They + rode blithely in company, telling of many things that had chanced here and + elsewhere, until they came to the seashore, where they took ship and + crossed over; and when they had passed the water they came straightway to + Perceval's uncle, who received them with right goodwill. + </p> + <p> + By this was Sir Agloval whole, who had been wounded, and Morien asked him + straightway if he were rightly healed, and would now keep the oath which + he had aforetime sworn unto his mother. Sir Agloval answered that he was + whole and sound, and ready thereto. "The troth that I swear to your mother + will I keep what time as it shall please ye. As God is my witness I be + altogether ready to do this." + </p> + <p> + Quoth Sir Perceval, "Then wherefore delay? Your son is so good a knight, + and stout a warrior, that ye may well thank heaven that ye begat him. Make + you ready straightway, and we will fare with ye. Sir Gawain and Sir + Lancelot be come hither in faith and good fellowship, and with us will + they journey to the Moorish land." + </p> + <p> + Then was there no longer delaying, but they made them ready for the + journey, and went their way with Sir Morien, who knew the road better than + any man of them all. They rode so long that they came thither; and when + they of the land heard tell how that Morien had brought his father with + him they assembled themselves together, and some were for refusing them + entry into the kingdom, since they would fain keep the heritage for + themselves. But when Morien heard this he waxed so wrathful that he drew + his sword and rode among them where there was the greatest press, and slew + there fifteen of the nobles who were fain to deny him his inheritance. + </p> + <p> + When the others knew of this they came to him and besought his grace, and + yielded to him all his heritage, and gave it into the hand of his mother, + and became her men, to hold their lands henceforward from her. When this + was done, and they had proclaimed her queen over all the kingdom of the + Moors, then did they hold the bridal feast of Sir Agloval and the queen, + and thus were they wedded to each other. There was bliss and great + rejoicing fourteen days, even till nightfall did they hold high feast with + open doors; never a portal was shut. There was feasting and great + merriment; there were all well served with everything on earth that they + might desire. Many rich gifts were given, good steeds, raiment of fair + colours, many shillings, many pounds, great plenty of all things by which + men may the more blithely live. The minstrels and the heralds received + great largesse, for there was gold enow; each had that which he desired. + </p> + <p> + There would Sir Gawain and Sir Lancelot abide till that the feast was + ended; be ye sure that Sir Perceval and Sir Agloval the bridegroom prayed + them thus to honour the bridal, and this they did, in right courteous + wise. No man of them all, were he poor or rich, but had enough and to + spare. + </p> + <p> + What more shall I say hereof? When the feast was ended, and all the nobles + departed, and all had taken leave, then was it in the mind of Sir Gawain, + Sir Lancelot, and Sir Perceval to betake them straightway to King Arthur's + court, for 'twas nigh to Pentecost, and the king (thus do I read the tale) + would hold high court (greater was never held) on behalf of Galahad, Sir + Lancelot's son, for that this hero should then come to court, and receive + the honour of knighthood. And thereof did the tale wax great; how that he + should achieve the quest of the Grail, and all the adventures, small and + great, which appertained to the Round Table, for 'twas said that he should + sit in the Perilous Seat, wherein durst never man sit. To behold these + marvels would many a man come to court, for the king had bidden all the + great folk of the land thither, and many a knight of praise had obeyed his + command. + </p> + <p> + And for this cause would not Sir Lancelot and Sir Gawain and Sir Perceval + remain afar, but took their leave of Sir Agloval and of Morien and of his + mother, and rode on their way till they came to King Arthur at Camelot, + where he abode, as it pleased him well to do when he would fain be at + peace. And when the king heard of the coming of these three knights, then + was he right joyful at that time; and when he learnt concerning Sir + Agloval, how his wedding feast had been held, and of the valiant deeds + that Morien had done in his own land, then were king and queen alike glad + at heart. + </p> + <p> + Here will I leave this tale and speak further concerning the Grail, and + the winning thereof. That shall ye find set forth in the book that + followeth hereafter; the other part, that which concerneth Lancelot, here + cometh to an end. Now do I pray God in words straitly, that He have mercy + upon me when my life shall come to an end, and bring my soul to His + heavenly kingdom. May He grant this my prayer! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + AMEN. NOTES + </h2> + <div class="middle"> + <p> + 1. INTRODUCTION.—In the preface I have dwelt with some fulness on + the interesting questions connected with these opening lines; here it + will be sufficient to point out that in the earlier versions of the <i>Perceval</i> + story the hero is either the only, or the sole surviving, son of his + parents. The introduction of a brother, as a definite character, belongs + to the later stages of Arthurian tradition. The brothers vary in number + and name, but the most noted are Sir Agloval and Sir Lamorak, who appear + to belong to distinct lines of development, Sir Agloval belonging mainly + to the <i>Lancelot</i>, Sir Lamorak to the <i>Tristan</i> tradition. So + far I have not met with the latter in any version of the prose <i>Lancelot</i>, + though Dr. Sommer in his <i>Studies on the Sources of Malory</i>, refers + to him as mentioned in that romance; in the <i>Tristan</i>, on the + contrary, he is a leading figure. The <i>Morien</i> story, as I have + remarked in the preface, has obviously been modified by the influence of + the later <i>Lancelot</i> legend, hence, probably, the <i>rôle</i> + assigned to Agloval. + </p> + <p> + 2. PAGE 20.—<i>Gawain as physician</i>. The representation of + Gawain as an expert in medical skill is an interesting feature which + appears to belong to early tradition. The references in the poem before + us are the most copious and explicit, but we also find the same + accomplishment referred to in the romance of <i>Lancelot et le cerf au + pied blanc</i> (D. L. vol. ii. 1. 22825) where Gawain instructs the + physician as to the proper treatment of Lancelot's wounds; and the <i>Parzival</i> + of Wolfram von Eschenbach (Book X. 1. 104) also refers to this + tradition. It is noticeable that Chrétien de Troyes in the parallel + passage of his poem has no such allusion, nor can I recall any passage + in the works of that poet which indicates any knowledge, on his part, of + this characteristic of Gawain. This is one of the points of variance + between Chrétien and Wolfram which, slight in itself, offers when + examined valuable evidence as to a difference of sources. + </p> + <p> + 3. PAGE 24.—<i>The boast of Sir Kay.</i> Arthur's reproof to Kay + is a reference to the well-known adventure related both by Chrétien and + Wolfram and found moreover in the <i>Peredur</i>. The hero, thrown into + a love-trance by the sight of blood-drops on the snow, gives no answer + to the challenge addressed to him successively by Segramore and Kay, and + being rudely attacked by these knights overthrows them both. The + allusion to this incident, which is not related in the prose <i>Lancelot</i>, + shows clearly that while, on the whole, he is harmonising his romance + with the indications of the later traditions, the writer is yet quite + conversant with the earlier forms. + </p> + <p> + 4. PAGE 26.—<i>The Father of Adventure.</i> "Der Aventuren Fader." + The Middle English poem of <i>Sir Gawain and the Green Knight</i> (No. 1 + of this Series) speaks of the knight in somewhat similar terms as "the + fine father of courtesy." Gawain was from the first the adventurous + hero, <i>par excellence</i> of the cycle, but I know no other instance + in which this characteristic is so quaintly and forcibly expressed. + </p> + <p> + 5. PAGE 28.—<i>In secret case</i>. The original words are "in + hemeliker stede." To which particular adventure of Lancelot this refers + it is not easy to decide; on more than one occasion he disappears from + court, and the knights headed by Gawain, ride in quest of him. Perhaps + this refers to his imprisonment by Morgain le Fay (<i>cf</i>. summary of + <i>D.L.</i> in <i>Legend of Sir Lancelot du Lac</i>. Grimm's Library + XII. pp. 236-7). + </p> + <p> + 6. PAGE 35.—<i>Sir Agloval, he is my father.</i> This should be + compared with the account of Gamuret's wooing and desertion of the + Moorish queen, Belakane, in Book I. of the <i>Parzival</i>; also with + the meeting of the unknown brothers in Book XV. of the same poem. It is + perhaps worth noticing as indicative of the source of the tradition that + Wolfram distinctly states that his Moor speaks in <i>French</i>. + </p> + <p> + 7. PAGE 67,—<i>The slain and the slayer</i>. The belief that the + blood of a corpse would flow afresh, did the murderer approach it, was + very prevalent in the middle ages. In Chretien de Troyes' <i>Chevalier + au lion</i> (ll. 1177 et seq.) we find a similar situation, complicated + by the fact that Yvain (the slayer) protected by a magic ring is + invisible to the bystanders. The best known instance, however, is + probably that of the <i>Nibelungenlied</i> where Kriemhild's suspicions + that Hagen is Siegfred's murderer are in this manner verified. + </p> + <p> + 8. PAGE 91.—<i>I have no call to flee, nor to fear death</i>. This + is evidently the hermit whom Lancelot in the <i>Queste</i> finds dead + under circumstances agreeing with those here hinted at. The story will + be found in Malory Book XV. + </p> + <p> + 9. PAGE 102.—<i>That cometh altogether from his sin against his + mother</i>. The reason here alleged for Perceval's failure to find the + Grail is that given by Chrétien and Wolfram, and is another indication + of the writer's familiarity with the early <i>Perceval</i> story. + </p> + <p> + 10. PAGE 116.—<i>Sir Agloval's explanation, (a) The Lancelot quest</i>. + The special quest here referred to is that undertaken in search of + Lancelot when he fled from court in a frenzy, induced by Guinevere's + jealousy of King Pelles' daughter. During this quest Agloval visits his + mother, sees Perceval, and brings him to court (<i>cf. Legend of Sir + Lancelot</i> pp. 161-2). + </p> + <p> + <i>(b) The lost heritage</i>. The fact that Perceval regains possession + of the heritage of which he has, before his birth, been deprived is + recorded in certain of the <i>Perceval</i> romances; the <i>Parzival</i> + of Wolfram von Eschenbach, the prose <i>Perceval li Gallois</i>, and the + English <i>Sir Percyvelle of Galles</i>, but it is not found in + Chrétien. It is clear, to a close observer, that the compiler of the + Dutch <i>Lancelot</i> knew the early <i>Perceval</i> tradition in a form + closer to the version of the German, than that of the French poet. Later + on, in the <i>Queste</i> section, he introduces a reference to this + inheritance, where none exists in the French versions I have examined (<i>cf. + Legend of Sir Lancelot</i> p. 174). + </p> + <p> + 11. PAGE 127.—<i>Lancelot's adventure with the beast.</i> This is + a condensed account of the well known story of <i>The Fahe Claimant</i>. + Two versions of this story have already been given in this series, the + dragon adventure in <i>Tristan</i> (No. II) and that of the stag in <i>Tyolet</i> + (No. III.); this is inferior to either, but appears to combine + characteristics of both. I have discussed it fully in Chapter III. of + the <i>Lancelot</i> studies, before referred to, and have there compared + it with the similar adventure also attributed to that knight in the + Dutch compilation. + </p> + <p> + 12. PAGE 128.—<i>Had it not been for a ring which Lancelot wore.</i> + This is evidently the ring given him by the Lady of the Lake, and + referred to in <i>The Charrette</i> (ll. 2348 et seq). It had the power + of detecting enchantments. + </p> + <p> + 13. PAGE 142.—<i>King Arthur—held captive the king, who had + erst made him a prisoner.</i> There seems to be a confusion here; from + Gariet's account it was the King of the Saxons who captured Arthur; here + he has disappeared and everything is attributed to the King of Ireland. + Probably they were allies; but it is also possible that confusion may + have arisen from the fact that the King of Dublin was at one time, as in + the Tristan legend, a Viking, and the poet has not distinguished clearly + between the nationalities of these sea-robbers. If so, it would seem to + indicate an early date for this particular story. + </p> + </div> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's The Romance of Morien, by Jessie L. 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