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 fell with hideous might. He, ignorant of their quality, put spurs to his horse, and at a start was between them both. 'Ho!' cried he, drawing his sword, 'no more, on pain of death. By mighty Mars, he that strikes another blow does it with penalty of his head. But say, who are ye, who are thus boldly fighting here, as if in the actual lists, without judge or other officer?'

To whom Palamon answered hastily:—'Sir, there need few words. We have both deserved death: we are two unfortunate wretches burthened with our lives; as, therefore, you are a just judge, grant us neither refuge nor mercy. Slay me first, but let him follow—or rather let him first die; for, though you little know it, this is Arcite your mortal foe, whom you banished from Athens: this, his return, alone, merits death. This same Arcite came to your gate and passed under the name of Philostrate. For years has he put this deceit upon you; he has been promoted to be your chief Squire, and presumes to love the fair Lady Emily. And since the day is come that I myself shall die, I plainly confess that I am that woful