Page:Poet Lore, volume 34, 1923.djvu/93

 And bring the unnamed hero to the court. So meeting, Sir Gawaine, that else had been Accounted the best knight in all the realm, Was overcome by Lancelot, and held In courteous treatment as became a knight; But when he asked the name and rank of him To whom he owed allegiance, Lancelot Stood lost, to tell him. Then, from forest paths That wound in sudden turn about a stream, A dwarf came riding who revealed his name As Lancelot du Lake. So, evermore He has been called. Then Gawaine to the court Conducted him, and he was made a knight. Guinevere.— And have you heard no rumours, Vivienne, Where this knight errant wanders, or what cause Detains him from our side? 'Twas not his wont To show discourtesy unto his queen. Enid.— Why, Madam, he has richly shown his love And duty, in the bounty he has sent And captives of his lance to do you grace. Such constancy you name—discourtesy! Guinevere.— We value those fair gifts, and yet meseems, Enid, that gifts will not replace the man. I would have both. Viorenne (Assuming hesitance).— Madam— I heard a tale— Guinevere.— Reveal it! Wherefore do you look on me So doubtful? Naught can touch on Lancelot We would not hear! Vivienne.— Your Grace commands. I speak. On good authority, but yet the source I cannot well disclose, the story rests. Guinevere.— Well, tell it! We will spare your 'broideries. Vivienne.— King Pelles has a hall in Corbenic, That stands, a sentinel above the sea,