THE TESTING OF SIR GAWAYNE
All Hallowe’en
What follows takes place at King Arthur’s Court in merry Carlisle, on the Eve of All-Hallowmass when strange things happen ... when the wicked crafts of sorcery work havoc with knightly adventure, and when enchantments bring about marvelous endings in affairs of love. We find ourselves looking backward through the years upon a scene that renews itself before our eyes in the castle hall. On one side is the banqueting-hall, and this way the servants pass to the kitchen [kitching we shall hear it called by Sir Kay, the steward or Seneschal.] On the other side the members of the Court pass to their sleeping-chambers or to the massive door that opens to the outer world. A window gives, first, the light of late afternoon in autumn, then moonlight, and finally a bright dawn. A fire on the great hearth affords a cheerful glow. When it is necessary to light the hall servants will set torches in their sockets against the wall. The walls are adorned with trophies of the chase, and with the arms of knight-errantry. A table, settees, a few plain chairs, and throne-chairs for the King and Queen suffice for furnishing. We shall now and then be taxed in our memory of French and Latin to understand some of the expressions we shall hear ... as, for instance, when someone bidding others leave the room cries, “Avoid! Avoid!” or when the word “quest” is used at one time as we should say “question,” and at another for “adventure.” We shall observe, too, that forms we have been taught to consider common or ungrammatical, obtained then in polite language, such as “afore” where we now say “before,” or the double negative, “not never.” This is something that should make us hesitate before we criticise the speech of simple people, country-folk, and ask ourselves if their homely phrase is not after all but a survival of the elegance of days gone by. It will interest us furthermore to note how in these days of chivalry when religion, love, and deeds of arms are the topics of the chronicler how freely, though not lightly, the names of Holy Persons are invoked in conversation. The Characters whom we shall see enact the little drama are King Arthur and his lovely Queen Guinevere, several Knights of the Round Table, including Sir Kay, the gruff steward or Seneschal, Sir Bors, Sir Bleoberis, Sir Meliogrance, and Sir Gawayne about whom the story concerns itself. Then there is the Knight the rescue of whom nearly cost Arthur his realm, his life, and his queen. Also there is the Little Page who for his precocious valour was dubbed knight and thereafter known as Sir Griflet, and there is the Outrageous Giant who was but the gallant Knight Déliveré under a spell of enchantment. Among the ladies we find Dame Laurel, and the Damosel who rode in such breathless haste to Arthur’s court, seeking aid for her captive Knight. And, most important is the Déliverance La Belle Pilgrim who was mocked at for being “a loathly lady.” And of course there are Pages and Servants and Gentlemen and Women in waiting and Squires and all the royal rest.
The Queen is seated at her embroidery-frame, some of her Ladies similarly occupied about her. The Damosel sits near trying to fix her thoughts upon a scroll that she however does not read. Some of the Knights are occupying themselves peacefully in divers ways, two playing a game of chess. Someone sings to the harp. Meanwhile the Little Page keeps watch at the window.
Guinevere.
Are there no signs yet of my lord that he doth return?
The Page.
Not yet, madam!
Guinevere.
Alas! Evensong time is overpassed, and my lord comes not!
The Damosel.
Now is my heart more heavier than ever it was before for the sorrow I have brought upon the gentlest and fairest lady of the world!
Guinevere.
Ah, you do well to let fall down your head for shame, for we had never been in this sorry pass if you had never come hitherward, praying King Arthur for succour for your knight!
The Damosel.
Ah, Madam, I pray you of mercy to mis-say me no more, for my heart is like to brast with its own woe!
Sir Kay.
Madam, you are greatly to blame so to rebuke the damosel, for, wit ye well, of his own will my Lord King Arthur did seek and take him upon that hard adventure he is gone upon!
Guinevere.
So God me help, it is all the greater shame to all you noble knights that your fellowship should suffer your king to take such an adventure upon him to his destruction! [The Knights exclaim, crying, “Gramercy, Madam! Now by my head, etc.” But much wrought up, the Queen continues.] Ah, now, I see well that all coward knights be not dead, sith you, Sir Bors, and you, Sir Bleoberis, sit playing at the chess, the while my dear Lord, your King, may be mishandled and smitten down, horse and man, or villainously wounded, or, peradventure, slain!
[The Two Knights thus addressed start up, angrily.]
Sir Bleoberis.
Gramercy, Madam! It passeth bounds that you should put the suspection of cowardice on me, and there is no knight under heaven that dare make it good on me!
Sir Bors.
Madam, you are a woman, and may not fight, but let now some worshipful knight of our fellowship take on himself your quarrel, and call me coward, and here is my glove to prove the contrary with my hands upon his body! [Throws down his glove.]
Sir Meliogrance.
Then here am I known to all men as Sir Meliogrance, and I will take on me my lady the Queen’s quarrel, and I will joust with you, Sir Bleoberis, and you, Sir Bors, proving you recreant knights with my hands upon your bodies! [He throws down his glove.]
The Damosel.
[Moans.] Now am I right heavy for the sorrow I have brought upon King Arthur’s Court!
A Little Page.
[Runs forward, challengingly.] Now though hardly of years to bear a shield, yet if some worshipful knight of this fellowship will dub me his knight, then will I too take on me the Queen’s quarrel, jousting with the knights of these worshipful knights’ following, for leaver would I be cut into an hundred pieces than that my dear Lady should be gainsayed! [The closing words, spoken almost with sobs.]
Some of the Ladies.
Oh, spoken like a sweet and noble child!
[Many of the Knights laugh.]
Sir Bors.
[Affecting to shudder.] Boo-oo! My gentlemen had best look well to their arms, now that a raging lion is come among us!
[A Fellow-Page giggles tauntingly at our hero who turns on him.]
The Little Page.
I am of gentle blood, and but for lack of beard, as well entitled to bear arms as any of this worshipful fellowship, and if anyone is so venturesome that he would say the contrary I will make it good with my body upon his body, with these two hands tearing him limb from limb! [The Giggling Page retreats, affrighted.]
Sir Bleoberis.
[With impatience.] Is this a pages’ affair or a quarrel among knights of worship and renown?
Guinevere.
[With emotion.] Peace, my good Griflet! And you, gentlemen, forbear! I spake over hastily!
Sir Kay.
Peace, daffish knights! Pick up your gloves! See ye not that the Queen is distraught and clean out of her wits with anxiousness for the safety of the King?... Madam, you do ill to begrudge King Arthur his lone questings, sith all men of high courage find it merry to serve under a chieftain that will put his person in adventure as other poor knights do! [To this there is a general murmur of assent.] And now, as the tables have been spread this long while, for the third time of asking, will it pleasure you to sit down to supper?
[Another general murmur shows that this suggestion meets with favour.]
Guinevere.
Let those eat and drink who can! My heart is too heavy, but go you all, my lords and ladies, gentlemen and gentlewomen! Sit you down to meat and enjoy the feast! Later will I sup privily with my lord on his return!... As for you, worshipful knights, let me who provoked the quarrel between you heal it without the letting of good blood!
[Before the would-be combatants can prevent her she herself picks up and restores their thrown-down gloves. All do her fitting obeisance, and pass into the banqueting-hall with the exception of the Damosel and the Little Page.]
Sir Bleoberis.
[As they go out, to Sir Bors.] Gramercy, but a good game was spoiled! I had you mated in three moves!
Sir Bors.
Not so! I had your queen in forfeit!
Sir Bleoberis.
Ah, the Queen, the Queen! ’Tis ever the Queen that will make or mar the fortunes of the King!
[From the banqueting-hall one hears the sounds of merry-making subdued, and the strains of minstrelsy, as an heroic lay is sung to the accompaniment of the harp.]
Guinevere.
Now let saddle horses, and guided by you, good damosel, I will follow after my lord!... Hark! I hear an horn!... Arthur!
[The winding notes of the horn are heard.]
The Little Page.
[At the window.] Nay, Madam! It is but Sir Gawayne who returns from hunting!
Guinevere.
Sir Gawayne! Let send for him! [The Page hastens out.] It may be he brings tidings of my Lord!
[The Page returns, attending on Sir Gawayne.]
Sir Gawayne.
[Kneeling to kiss the hand of the Queen.] Fair Queen and dear Aunt Guinevere! But wherefore do I find you in such heavy cheer with the tears upon your cheeks?
Guinevere.
Ah, Gawayne! Your dear Uncle, my good Lord, the King.... But sit we down and ye shall hear! [They sit.] It was yestreen at the undern hour that we sat here, listening to minstrelsy! All of a sudden the King cried out, “Now by the Holy Rood the third day hence will be All-Hallowmass! Now by the faith of my body and on my head as anointed king will I not set me down to meat on All-Hallowmass until I shall have taken on me and brought to a good end some high quest that shall bring to me and my goodly fellowship great worship and renown!” Hardly had he so spoken when riding into the hall came this damosel who thereon alighted from her palfrey and threw herself flatling at my good lord’s feet and lay there grovelling and praying him for succour for her knight!
Damosel.
[Weeping.] Alas that ever I came!
Guinevere.
Fie upon you for weeping when tears are all no boot! Relate your errand to Sir Gawayne!
The Damosel.
It fortuned in this wise: my troth was plighted that I should be wedded to a passing fair gentleman and knight of haut renown, a true lover and deserving of a good end! As together we rode forth, planning for our marriage, we passed through a dark forest till we happed upon a grimly castle! As we gazed upon its towers wondering who might dwell therein out rushed a churlish knight, Oh, a mighty giant, one of the world’s perilous fighters, seven times the height of mortal man, and with the strength of seven men! [In spite of his bravado the Little Page shivers audibly.] Nathless all undaunted my knight dressed his shield and set his spear, crying, “How now, rude Saracen! An ye be a true fighter come and prove it, spear to spear, and sword to sword, and body to body!” But the miscreant laughed in mockage, and set on my poor love, belabouring him with a huge club, and dragged him down from his saddle, shivering his spear, and shattering his sword, and splitting his helm clear through to the brain-pan! [At this the Little Page shudders in delighted horror.] Ah, little page, I see well now that ye like this tale, but I do assure you it is no matter for enjoyment!... And all this while I shrieked shrilly and kneeled in the mire before the churlish wight, with my two hands lifted, praying him for the love of Heaven to have mercy on my knight! But the murtherous monster only laughed the louder, with a great noise like thunder, spitting flames from his enormous mouth, and bound my knight hand and feet and threw him into the dungeon keep, the while I, leaping on my palfrey, made my escape, riding hither, like the wind, to merry Carlisle, to King Arthur’s court, clear into this very hall, and threw myself at the King’s feet, praying succour for my love! [Weeps.]
Guinevere.
And did my Lord stay his hand? “Gramercy,” cried he, “but this is the quest that even now I prayed for! Nor by the faith of my body as anointed king will I set me down to meat on All-Hallowmass or ever I shall have brought it to a good end!” And then he made no more words, but took his shield and buckled it about his neck, and girt on his good sword Excalibur, and lightly he took his horse and leaped upon him, and departed on his way! And, though it is but a little faring hence, last night went by, and to-day the hour of evensong is overpassed, and he comes not back! [Weeps.]
Sir Gawayne.
[Walks, perturbed.] Now meseemeth for to tempt God it is no wisdom, and the King hath put this realm into the greatest domage that ever realm was in by jeoparding his life in hazard with a giant!
Guinevere.
Ye say truth!—Gawayne—[She advances toward the knight, and speaks impressively.] All other knights of the good fellowship say that it would put rebukes on Arthur, shaming him through England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland, for to seek to rescue him in an adventure he has made oath to enterprise alone! But I say, not so, sithen it is no mortal man he has to do with, but a churlish wight, an outrageous giant, armed with the craft of sorcery!
Sir Gawayne.
[Struck by this argument.] By my head that sounds like a good counsel!
Guinevere.
[Following up her advantage.] Then by your knighthood and fealty do I charge ye, take upon yourself this matter!
Sir Gawayne.
[With due solemnity.] That will I do, and that will I swear to do, by my blood; as a Knight of the Round Table, and on the Four Evangelists! [He kisses the hand of the Queen and is about to go, but pauses, as the winding notes of a horn are heard. All exclaim.]
All.
[Excited.] Hark! An horn!
The Little Page.
[Excited, at the window.] Madam, it is the King who rides hither attended by a knight, their horses all-to-beswet!
Guinevere.
Arthur ... God be praised!
Sir Gawayne.
[At the same time.] Thanks be to Heaven, the King!
The Damosel.
My knight, thank Heaven!
[All hasten to meet the arrivals, meanwhile the harping in the banquet hall is stilled, and the banqueters crowd in, exclaiming joyfully, for the King’s safe return.]
Sir Kay.
[Announcing it to the others.] It is Arthur who comes back from his quest ... and the Knight to his damosel! Ah, now there will be clippings and kissings and calling of sweet names, I warrant!
[Arthur and Guinevere enter, attended by Sir Gawayne and the Little Page, and followed by the Damosel and her Knight. Now ensues a moment of excited welcome, and general greeting. Attendants bring torches.]
Arthur.
[To Guinevere, as they enter.] Ah, my dear love, it was indeed an adventure of great marvel ... greater hath no knight never happed upon, I dare be sworn!
Guinevere.
And, thanks be to God, you came through it unscathed! [She places him tenderly in his chair of state, and looks at him with scrutiny.] Not so! For here is blood upon your hand!... Haste, now! Let bring water and a healing salve! [Giving orders.]
Arthur.
It is not needed! It is but a little scratch of which I shall be hastily whole, by the will of God!
Guinevere.
Come, then, relate your adventure! But you must be a-hungered and athirst!... Let make a banquet of royalness as great as may be, in honour of my Lord’s return! [Going toward the banquet-hall.]
Arthur.
[Detaining her.] Stay! This is no time for feastings! [This announcement causes a sensation.] Bring me a little deal of water, for my tongue is parched! [He drains the cup which is brought to him, while all look on, struck from his far from joyous tone.]
Sir Bleoberis.
[To Sir Bors.] What ails the King? Think you he has been mischieved in some sort?
Sir Bors.
Truly his countenance is heavy as did he see himself like to be soonly in checkmate!
Arthur.
[Refreshed by the draught.] Ah! Later will I have meat and wine. But first must I lay bare my breast, making clean avowals! My lords and ladies, gentlemen and gentlewomen, you see here before you Arthur, King of Britain, having under my obeisance Wales, Ireland and Scotland, by the grace of God, and many other realms, also head of the worshipful fellowship of the Knights of the Round Table. And ... [He pauses, impressively] by the sinful crafts of the devil, a prisoner on parole; under pain of forfeiture of my lands, my life, my queen!
[This, as well may be imagined, causes a profound sensation.]
Several Knights and Ladies.
My lord, what say you!
Other Knights and Ladies.
Sir! What words be these!
Guinevere.
My lord ... Arthur!
Several Voices.
The Queen! Look to the Queen!... Oh, almost she fell down in a swound!
Guinevere.
[Recovering herself.] It is naught.... My Lord, I pray you that you will expound your fearsome rede!
Arthur.
That will I do!... Let all be seated. [All obey the King, whereupon Arthur explains.] How I took oath on my head as anointed king not to set me down to meat on All-Hallowmass or I had undertaken some haut quest already do ye know. [All assent.] Also know ye how this damosel came riding hither into this hall, seeking succour for her knight! [Again All assent.] And none is there that knows not how forthwith I enterprised the matter! [Again All assent.] Now hear ye how I fared with it! [All settle themselves like children to whom a thrilling tale is to be told.] Arrived afore the grimly tower I blew my horn and cried, “How now, Sir Knight, an ye be a fair fighter come, prove it, spear to spear and sword to sword, and body to body!” Whereon rushed forth the most outrageous churl and greatest murtherer was ever seen, with a huge laughter like thunder, and spitting flames of fire from his monstrous mouth! And by sorcery he cast an evil spell on me, so that its scabbard would not loose my sword Excalibur, and my arm fell helpless to my side like as it had been the arm of a dead corp! [The Ladies and the younger Pages shudder audibly.] “How, now, King Arthur,” cried the rude churl, “I have you at a vantage, so best yield yourself without ado!” “Now not ever, nor never on my head,” I answered him, “for I had leaver to be hacked to bits than cry mercy of such a fiendly knight that it is no true knight at all!” [General exclamations of approval greet this, many crying, “Oh well said!” ... “Spoken in kingly-wise!” etc.] “Then,” said he, “you leese, not alone your life the which you seem to hold so light, but also your realms, and your queen!” [Again there is a shuddering sensation.] Well, for to curtail a long tale short, “Come,” said he, “I will release the knight the which to deliver you came, and suffer you to depart as you came upon certain conditions!” “Name them,” said I. “That you shall promise by the Holy Rood that you will not set you down to meat on All-Hallowmass until you shall have brought me the answer to a rede that I shall now propound to you!” “I assent to these,” I said!
[All breathe a long sigh of relief, with exclamations of thankfulness that all has turned out so well.]
Guinevere.
Now, scarce can I wait to go to the Minster to do my thankings to God for such deliverance!... But the rede, my Lord! The rede!
All.
Aye, Sir, the rede!
Arthur.
Well may you ask! “What is it that all women most desire?”
All.
[Repeat, as it were a lesson.] “What is it that all women most desire?”
Guinevere.
“What is it that all women most desire?” Oh, my dear love, as if there could be but one answer to that! All women most desire what I, most fortunate of women, have: A loving husband which is also a true and faithful knight of worship and renown!
[Many of those present concur in this, saying, “In sooth the Queen speaks for all!” and, “Now, could there be two minds about that!” and, “Gramercy, so also say I!” Others, however, differ, murmuring, “I doubt that is right!” and, “What is truth for one may not be truth for other!” and the like. Guinevere notices this and exclaims, saying] How now! It seems we are not all of one opinion!
Dame Laurel.
Madam, is it permitted that we may speak freely, each the thought in mind?
Guinevere.
In sooth, Dame Laurel, I ordain and command that ye do so, for so only shall we arrive at true conclusions!
Dame Laurel.
Then, above the desire of a woman for a loving husband and worshipful knight do I set the desire of all women to be beautiful! [There is a murmur of assent from many. The Dame continues.] For in the end beauty wins the husband, and so, possessing one, shall the woman be ensured of both! [This provokes a general laugh.]
Guinevere.
Many minds, many counsels, it would seem! Let now a clerkly scribe set down in writing these divers answers to our quest, to the end that my Lord may take his choice of them! [A Scribe prepares to write. Meanwhile, at a sign from Sir Kay a Servant brings food and wine to the King who sits and partakes of this. Guinevere continues her quest.] Our knights have not spoken! Sir Bors, what, say you, do all women most desire?
Sir Bors.
Madam, I know not what all women do most desire, but I do know what all women should most desire! [There is an expectant hush, as he pauses impressively.] To be pleasing in the eyes of their lords! [This provokes laughter, though some gentlemen seem to agree with the speaker.]
Dame Laurel.
Our thanks to you, Sir Bors!
Guinevere.
And what says Sir Bleoberis?
Sir Bleoberis.
To be richly beseen, Madam; to be arrayed with the goodliest guise, in silk attire, with precious stones, perfumes of sweet savour, and gold and silver, great plenty, for to spend!
[This is received with amusement, and protest from the Ladies.]
Sir Kay.
[Nods assent.] Ye say well! [To Sir Bleoberis.] And add to these things, good cheer; meat, and spiced drinkings, and sweet eatings out of measure!
[More mirth, and renewed protests. Cries of: “Fie on you, Sir Kay! For shame for an ungentle knight, Sir Kay! Oh, knight of the discourteous tongue, Sir Kay!” etc.]
Guinevere.
Meseemeth our faithful Seneschal hath a grutch against all ladies!... How sayeth Sir Meliogrance?
Sir Meliogrance.
Madam, I hold that all women in their hearts crave flattery, fair words and sooth, on the tongue of men! [This also provokes mirth, and some protest, whereupon the Knight turns on the Ladies.] Aye, and is there one among you will dare gainsay me?
Guinevere.
Now we know wherefore the shield of Sir Meliogrance is always kept so bright, sithence he pays for gentle service with fair words and sooth! Has any one withheld counsel? [Looks about the group.]
Several Ladies.
Sir Gawayne! Sir Gawayne has not spoken!
Sir Gawayne.
Now by the faith of my body should I be acquitted of answer! [This is greeted with cries of, “And wherefore, Sir Knight?” on which Sir Gawayne explains, addressing himself to the Queen.] Madam, by your own ordinance was not a quest of these ladies set upon me, for my dolorous mishap whereby I slew a lady, smiting off her head!... And by their judgment am not I upon covenant to be courteous to all ladies and to fight for their quarrels while ever I shall live?
[This is received with some amusement and with general assent to the justice of the plea.]
Guinevere.
So then, my good Lord! [She takes the parchment from the Scribe and hands this to the King.] Seal with your signet and let send to the churlish knight these true answers to his quest!
Arthur.
Alas, good dame! All these answers and more did I make incontinent, out of my own wit and with such simple cunning as it hath pleased Heaven to grant me. But.... [He sighs.]
Guinevere.
[With anxiety.] But! Aye, my good Lord; but?
Arthur.
Labour lost and in vain! [All exclaim, amazed.] For all my pains, the outrageous wight put great rebukes and mockage on me, and made sport at me, and miscalled me fool! [This produces a profound sensation.] And, an I bring him the true rede or ever I set me down to meat upon All-Hallowmass, my life is forfeit to him, and my lands, and fairest flower of my garland, my Queen!
[Sighs, and exclamations of sorrow are heard on all sides.]
The Damosel’s Knight.
[Weeping.] Alas, alas, that ever such a captive knight as I should have power by misadventure to bring sorrow upon the greatest king and most champion of all the world!
Sir Bleoberis.
[Starting up.] Shall our worshipful fellowship be shamed to the world’s end by a churlish Saracen that is an outrageous giant and no true knight? Let us gather a great host, well furnished and garnished of all manner of things that belong to the war, and let us do battle against him!
[This suggestion is greeted with general acclaim.]
Sir Bors.
Oh, well said! And as Sir Bleoberis has devised so let it be done!
Sir Meliogrance.
Aye, sir! [To Arthur.] In the name of our goodly fellowship let dress forthwith to the adventure!
The Little Page.
[Casting himself at Arthur’s feet.] Oh, Sir, for the love of Heaven I pray you give me the order of knighthood that I too may joust upon this quest!
Arthur.
A beardless boy, thou art full young and tender of age, methinketh, for to take so high an order upon thee!
The Little Page.
Sir, I beseech you! For leaver would I be cut into an hundred pieces than that my Queen should be devoured by an horrible giant!
Arthur.
Gramercy, it were pity to deny thee, for thou wilt be a passing good man and fearless knight when thou comest to age! [He draws his sword, and touches the lad’s shoulders with the flat of it, saying] In the name of high errantry, receive now the knighthood accolade! [Then he raises the new Knight to his feet, and kisses him on both cheeks, saying] Rise up, Sir Griflet! See to it that ye wear your new honours ever as beseems a chivalrous knight and honest gentleman! And God’s blessing be on ye! [Sir Griflet bows low, and returns to his place with becoming dignity, drawing himself up with great hauteur as he passes his fellow Page who before had mocked at him. Arthur now looks about the group.] Gramercy, there never was no king that had so noble knights and valiant as have I? But this is no matter for deeds of arms! For did I not carry my sword Excalibur, the which is the sharpest and marvelest that was ever in any knight’s hand! It is only by miracle that we can be delivered from the subtle crafts of enchantment, and discover the true rede to the outrageous monster’s quest: What is it that all women most desire?
[A great sigh goes up as all realise the truth of this.]
Guinevere.
[Takes a decision.] Now for the night let this quest overpass! Aye, my Lords.... [Addressing the Knights who seem to demur.] For this night let us leave of this dolorous matter! This night we will take our rest, and to-morrow betimes we will send messengers north and south and east and west, seeking good counsel! Come, avoid! Avoid! To your chambers, all! And who knows but in a marvelous dream shall be expounded to us, What is it that all women most desire?
[Taking Arthur by the hand she leads him out. All follow, repeating in some sort the question, “What is it ... Gramercy, now what is it that all women do most desire?” Sir Kay and the Servants remain, the former giving directions for barring doors, extinguishing torches, and the like.]
Sir Kay.
Bar well the door! [To one Servant.] For, sooth, this is the eve of All-Hallowmass, when all manner of strange visitants may be abroad!... How now, ye lazy lusks! [To other Servants who are stealthily gobbling up the leavings of the King’s repast.] Back to your kitching, ye turners of broaches and washers of dishes! In the divil’s name shall ye wax fat as a porke hog on good browesse, purveyance for a king! Back to your kitching, knaves! [In consternation the Servants make their escape, by way of the banqueting-hall. Alone, Sir Kay looks about to see that all is in order, kicks a forward log into place upon the hearth, then stands beside the chimney, lost in thought. Speaks as if thinking aloud.] What is it that all women do most desire? By my head I know not, and so to bed. [He is about to go, when there is a knock at the door, at first timid and hesitating, then gaining strength. The Knight starts.] Now who may that be? [A Shadow now crosses the moonlight that streams in through the window, and a voice is heard.]
The Voice.
Unshut the door! For the love of Heaven, good Seneschal, unshut the door!
Sir Kay.
By the faith of my body, ’tis a woman!
The Voice.
Gentle Knight Seneschal, of your charity, unshut the door!
Sir Kay.
Not I! For it was a gentlewoman and no knight that led Adam into deadly sin, and well I wot it is the foul fiend himself hath sent ye hither for to shame me in my stewardship! Aroint thee! Aroint thee! [He makes the sign of a cross in the air.]
The Voice.
Alas! [The Shadow disappears.]
Sir Kay.
Ha! No fiend in the guise of a gentlewoman shall so mischieve me! [He lays himself down on a bench and sleeps.]
[Enter Sir Gawayne, musing, shield in one hand, in the other a cloth.]
Sir Gawayne.
What is it that all women do most desire? Now by my knighthood it would seem a simple quest, yet it hath set the whole Court by the ears, and put the kingdom in jeopard ... and the Queen! [He sits near the window and polishes his shield.]
[Guinevere enters in sad meditation.]
Guinevere.
What is it all women do most desire? Fair Heaven, here am I a woman, with all I love in hazard for the answer, yet I know it not! [She sees Sir Gawayne in the shadow, and starts, exclaiming, then recognises him, reassured.] Sir Gawayne!
Sir Gawayne.
[Rising.] Madam! Doth aught ail you or the King?
Guinevere.
Finding my Lord restless and almost out of his mind, I gave him a potion of simples by which he fell on sleep! But I ... I cannot rest for sorrow, when, or ever the morrow is overpassed, we may all be chased from our lands and made to yield to a great mighty and outrageous giant!
Sir Gawayne.
[Polishing vigourously.] It shall go hard with the knavish churl or ever he carries out his foul intent, I warrant you, Madam!
Guinevere.
Ah, dear nephew, if it were a matter of prowess, then should we be making great joy and feasting! But how can fair chivalry prevail against the wicked crafts of sorcery?
[Again the knock at the door is heard. Both start and exclaim. The Shadow appears again at the window.]
The Voice.
Who dwell herein, I pray you of your charity unshut the door!
Guinevere.
A woman! Seeking shelter!
Sir Kay.
[Waking, and realising the state of affairs.] Madam, I pray you, withhold, for well am I sure it is no woman!
The Voice.
For the love of Heaven I pray you give me entertainment here!
Guinevere.
A very gentlewoman! A well-languaged lady!
Sir Kay.
An enchanter and multiplier of subtile words!
Sir Gawayne.
[Looking at the reflection in his shield.] Oh, but young and passing fair!
Sir Kay.
[In desperation.] A serpent! The divil in woman’s semblance!
Guinevere.
Now in truth, Sir Kay, you are the shamefulest knight of your tongue that now is living in the world, and an ye do not yourself unshut the door to this poor wight then will I myself!
Sir Kay.
On your own head be it, then!... [Strides to the door and throws it wide.] Who stands without, enter, by ordinance of the Queen! And under protest from the Seneschal! [All watch with interest, Sir Kay crossing himself, as the Stranger enters, showing herself to be a woman, bent and hobbling, close-muffled in scarlet cloak and hood. Sir Gawayne starts, realising that appearances have deceived him. Sir Kay mutters, mimicking the other.] O passing young and peerless fair! [All hang back, slightly fearful, scrutinising the Stranger.]
Guinevere.
[To Sir Kay.] This is no beggar asking alms! I charge you, Sir Kay, speak fair to her, and ask her who she may be, whence come, and on what errand?
Sir Kay.
Pray, fair damosel, of what kin come ye, and by what name may we know ye, and wherefore do you honour our poor Court with your gracious presence?
The Stranger.
Sir Kay, ye shall hold me excused, for not to you will I discover my blood, my name, and wherefore I am come!
Guinevere.
Gawayne, do you greet her and question her in seemly sort!
Sir Gawayne.
Lady, I pray you tell us, who may ye be, and whence, and on what cause hither come?
The Stranger.
Full fain will I answer you, Sir Gawayne! I come of a strange country, and I am hight Déliverance La Belle Pilgrim, and I bring you a great reward because you knew me to be young and passing fair!
Sir Kay.
[Laughs, scoffing.] Déliverance La Belle Pilgrim! Now on my head....
Guinevere.
Peace, Sir Kay! A truce to your mockage and scornings!... ’Tis but a poor daffish witless wight! [She advances hospitably.] Whoever ye be, ye are right heartily welcome! Give place, Gawayne, the hearth hereby! And you, gentle Knight Seneschal, let bring refreshing of good meats and drinks!
Sir Kay.
Now on my head, let beggars find sustenance in the kitching, nor seek to fare with great pride and bobbance among their betters!... Or let Sir Gawayne serve his lovely damosel!
Sir Gawayne.
Beware what thou sayest in disworship of me, or....
Sir Kay.
What, are ye not upon covenant sworn never to refuse courtesy to lady or gentlewoman?
Sir Gawayne.
Now sith ye have such despite of me I require ye to joust with me!
Sir Kay.
Oh, an ye seek an adventure you will find me soonly ready!
Guinevere.
Fie upon you both! Sir Kay, for the love of Heaven and the high order of knighthood forbear! Gawayne, hold thee still and say nothing!
Sir Gawayne.
But, Madam, an I revenge my fellow he will say dishonour of me!
Sir Kay.
I never was proved coward of none earthly knight in all my life!
Guinevere.
I beseech of you both, in the peril in which we now stand, to be friends!
Sir Kay.
[Reluctantly yielding.] I will hold you excused! [To the other Knight.]
Sir Gawayne.
[Equally reluctant.] All is pardoned on my part!
Sir Kay.
[With gruff friendliness, laughs.] The lion is of a more gentler nature than his roaring would beseem!
Sir Gawayne.
In my heart I thought not amiss against ye!
The Stranger.
[To the Queen.] Madam, I thank you of your great goodness to me! In recompensation I may do you some service! I need not meat nor drink. My errand is with the King! I crave speech with the King!
Guinevere.
[Surprised.] With the King?
Sir Kay.
[Whispers, to the Queen.] ’Ware, now! ’Tis the eve of All-Hallowmass!
Guinevere.
Speech with the King! Good dame, this would be a simple asking, but my Lord is now on sleep! Because he was restless and full of heaviness I gave him a potion, so that he will not awake till dawning! Not within three hours!
The Stranger.
Arthur wakens ... anon he comes this way!
Sir Kay.
Mark well my words, a sorcerous witch!
[At this moment Arthur enters slowly, as if in a trance. All exclaim.]
Guinevere.
[Goes to the King.] Dear love, I left ye soundly sleeping!
Arthur.
[Waking fully, with a start.] Guinevere! I had a marvellous vision, but it lacks interpretation! I dreamed one came knocking on this door ... a damosel passing young and of peerless loveliness who called herself Déliverance La Belle Pilgrim.... [He breaks off with a start and an exclamation, seeing the Stranger, saying,] By the faith of my body, ’tis the loathly lady!
The Stranger.
God keep ye, Arthur!
Arthur.
God keep ye, dame! [To the Others he explains in an undertone.] ’Tis a witless wight that I encountered in the forest, saying her prayers between an oak and an holly tree!
The Stranger.
Because of your bounty ye gave me alms and proffered me aid when I called after ye as I sat between oak and holly tree I am come to do ye a service, so that ye shall be glad that ye ever showed me goodness!... I would have speech with ye in privity!
[The Others seem about to protest against this.]
Arthur.
Whatsomever ye would say, may not this be said in open audience?
The Stranger.
[Shakes her head.] So would it lose its helping virtue!
Arthur.
[To the Others.] Then, avoid, a little while! I pray you all, avoid! [To the Queen.] Fear naught, dear love! An aged woman of an hundred winters, who knows but she may expound my vision, and discover to me what all women do most desire!
[Sir Gawayne gives his hand to Guinevere and leads her away.]
Sir Kay.
[Following, grumbling.] The original serpent! The divil himself!
The Stranger.
Sir, the signification of your dream is this: the dragon betokeneth the giant, being right horrible and abominable, whose peer for outrageousness ye never saw in all your days, and before the dawning will he come knocking on your doors to claim his forfeit, and unless ye make conditions with me for the true answer to his rede....
[At this juncture a terrible roaring is heard without, also resounding blows on the door. The Queen and the Two Knights come in running, crying, “The giant! The giant!”]
Guinevere.
[At the window.] Oh, an outrageous churl seven times the height of mortal man, and spitting flames of fire from his monstrous mouth!
Sir Kay.
[Running about, shouting.] Awake! Awake! Ho, there, and here, awake! Lazy lusks, ye ought to be ashamed so to sleep when knights have ado in the field!
Sir Gawayne.
[Also calling.] Awake, all men of arms! Ho, to the defence!
[Great confusion prevails. People come running from all sides, meanwhile the loud knocking and shouting is heard at intervals.]
The Stranger.
In vain! Arms profit ye naught! He has ye at a vantage!
The Giant.
[Outside.] How now, King Arthur! What is it that all women do most desire?
Arthur.
O help me, Heaven! What is it that all women do most desire?
Stranger.
That well can I tell to ye!
Arthur.
[Turning to her.] How now, dame? Beware what thou sayest, for thou speakest a great word!
The Stranger.
Sir, if God give me grace that I may speed you well, delivering you from this peril, in recompensation will ye give me a reward that I will ask of ye?
Arthur.
Certainly, so that it be not unreasonably asked, and may be honourably granted....
The Stranger.
That is well said!
Arthur.
Speak, then. Name your petition!
The Stranger.
I will ask my gift when I see my time!
Arthur.
Now, by my faith, but this is emprising an adventure in the dark!
The Giant.
[Without.] Arthur, for the second time of asking, what is it that all women do most desire?
[This produces great general consternation.]
The Stranger.
Arthur, for the second time of asking will ye entreat with me?
Guinevere.
Oh, my dear Lord, for the love of Heaven, whatsomever boon the dame seeketh, that grant to her, for there is none other remedy in the peril we are in!
[The Giant knocks louder than ever.]
Sir Griflet.
[Runs forward with sword and shield.] How, now, varlet! [To his former fellow-Page.] Attend me! Ho, now! On to the assay! [The doughty child is restrained by a fat Gentlewoman.]
The Stranger.
Fools, fools! Your pains and preparations are vain, for the deed shall never be achieved but by me!
Guinevere.
[Again beseeching the King who still demurs.] Dear love, bethink you of all that is in jeopard: your kingdom, your life, and me, your queen!
Arthur.
[Considering the Stranger.] Now, my heart giveth me to thee greatly that thou art come on a good errand, and greatly my conceit faileth me but thou shalt prove our true deliverance! Therefore....
The Stranger.
Ye will grant my boon? Upon covenant.... Sworn upon a book?
Arthur.
By the faith of my body and the Holy Rood!
The Stranger.
Then.... [Going to Arthur she whispers in his ear.]
The Giant.
[Without.] Arthur, for the third time of asking....
Arthur.
[Breaking into immoderate mirth, on hearing the Stranger’s whispered communication.] Oh, ho, ho! Let blow! Let blow! [While speaking he hastens to the window, the while horns are blown and great excitement prevails.] Hark, ye, varlet! Learn now from Arthur the true answer to your rede: What is it that all women do most desire? [There is an expectant hush, as the King pauses before announcing.] Their own sweet will, that they may do in all things as they list!
[Immoderate laughter seizes the assemblage, and all repeat.]
All.
[Stamping about and slapping knees, etc.] Oh, aye! All women do most desire their own sweet will, that they may do in all things as they list!
The Giant.
[Without, unable to believe his ears.] Eh? Eh? What word do I hear?
All.
[Shouting in concert and carefully syllabling.] All women most desire their own sweet will that they may do in all things as they list!
[At this The Giant utters a mighty roar of wrath and frustration, and falls to the ground with a tremendous thud; lies there groaning, and obviously writhing, a short space, then with one final yell gives up the ghost, All, meantime, mocking and with ejaculations recording the phases of his passing: “Aha, now! How like you that!... Mark how he flames and smokes with wrath!... Oh, what a fall! Almost he brings down the castle!... Hear him groan!... Ah, fellow; that wraths you finely!... Now he dies! He dies! He gives up the ghost!” They all dance about, exulting.]
Guinevere.
[Falling on Arthur’s neck.] Saved! Now am I more gladder than I ever was! Oh, my dear love! Mercifully saved!
Arthur.
[Embracing her.] Aye, saved indeed, give laudings and praisings unto God, and His messenger, La Belle Pilgrim Déliverance!
Guinevere.
Aye, soothly! And now let us put aside all sorrowful thoughts and speak of rejoicing!... Sir Kay, good Knight Seneschal, let make a great feast! Let there be harping and minstrelsy!... Let ceremony be overpassed, and all make good cheer!
All.
[Excited.] Aye; a feast! A feast!
[Harpings and song are heard in the banqueting-hall, and in joyous confusion the Lords and Ladies repair thither.]
Arthur.
[Offering his hand to the Stranger.] Lady!
The Stranger.
First, Sir King, as I have done well by ye and holpen ye out of the peril in which ye stood, I require of ye my reward!
Arthur.
Require or desire of me anything, dame! I wot not what your will is, but howbeit I promised ye largely, whatsomever ye demand ye shall have it without any fail!
The Stranger.
Then do I ask a noble knight, and full of prowess to take and wed me unto his wife!
Arthur and Guinevere.
[Start, amazed.] Good dame! What words are these?
Arthur.
Ye ask a Knight for husband! Now, on my head—!
Guinevere.
A damosel of an hundred years of age, would ye not do better to let make yourself a nun, and wear white clothes and black, and end your days in alms’ deeds and prayers and fastings in an abbey?
The Stranger.
I require upon covenant that ye grant my will!
Arthur.
Aye, dame; what the King hath promised on his avows shall not be gainsayed!... Ho, Sir Knights: Sir Kay, Sir Bors and Sir Bleoberis, Sir Gawayne and Sir Meliogrance, and all the worshipful company! [The Knights come hastening from the banqueting-hall, the Ladies also.] Which of ye will emprise an adventure of passing peril? [The Knights press forward eagerly, saying: “I, Sir King!... Sir, I am your fellow!... Oh, my liege, choose me!... Nay, then; me!” The King, however, finds it hard to break the news.] It is required of us upon covenant, in recompensation for our deliverance that one of ye.... Oh, how can I say the word! ... that one of ye shall take and wed this dame unto his wife!
[A horrified exclamation goes up from the Knights on this, while the Ladies seem inclined to laugh.]
Sir Bors.
Is not this questing in the dark? Will not the lady show us her visage?
Arthur.
Unwimple your visage, dame!
[Turning her face to the window, the Stranger raises her hood for a few seconds. All crowd forward to gaze on her, then turn away, the men with suppressed horror and the women with ill-suppressed mirth. Exclamations rise from all sides: “Oh, what an unlovely lady!... By my soul, a loathly lady!”]
Sir Meliogrance.
[His voice quaking with fear.] Is there no way but this? Leaver would I shed the best blood of my body than ... than.... [Breaks off, stammering, not wishing to be rude.]
Arthur.
There is none other way!
Sir Bors.
I am hors de combat! Already is my troth plighted to ... to ... to several ladies!
Sir Bleoberis.
[Hastily.] And mine! To the same ladies!
The Other Knights.
Cowards! Cowards!
Sir Griflet.
[Runs forward and casts himself at Arthur’s feet.] Sir, I never yet applied me to be married, but an it please ye, I will win worship in this wise!
[All the Ladies murmur admiringly, “Gallant child!”]
Arthur.
Rise, Sir Griflet! This adventure is for your elders ... your betters could not be!... Sir Kay....
Sir Kay.
[Hurriedly.] This is matter for Sir Gawayne! [This is greeted with a slight general exclamation; the Knight continues.] For the slaying of a lady by misadventure and smiting off her head is he not sworn upon the Four Evangelists never to refuse courtesy to lady ne gentlewoman so long as he shall live?
[All the Knights heartily assent to this.]
Sir Gawayne.
Now by faith of my body....
All the Knights.
[Hurriedly.] Aye! Sir Gawayne is the fellow for this adventure!
Guinevere.
[Imploring, hands out to him.] Dear nephew ... for the love of the high order of knighthood, assent to this, I beseech ye!
Sir Gawayne.
[After a pause.] I assent me!
[A sigh of relief goes up from all sides.]
Arthur.
Truly, nephew, ye have a mighty heart! [He presents the Stranger to the Knight.] Take her, and God be your speed!
Guinevere.
[To the assembled people.] Avoid! Avoid! Together will they be more at their hearts’ ease! [All go. The Queen continues, addressing the Stranger.] Lady, we will make ready in the goodliest wise that may be devised for the betrothal feast! [She and the King also go.]
[Left together Gawayne and Déliverance gaze on one another, then, involuntarily, the young man turns away and covers his face with his hands. He then resumes his interrupted task of polishing his shield. The Lady goes to him with a brisker step than we have yet seen her employ, and touches him on the shoulder. With a start and an ejaculation he looks up at her hopefully.]
Sir Gawayne.
Gramercy! The face in the shield!... Ah! [He sighs heavily.] ’Twas but a trick of fantasy! Woven of moonlight and dawn! [He goes on polishing.]
Déliverance.
Pluck up heart. All may yet be well!
Sir Gawayne.
All is well, madam. [He rises.] An ye have no commands for me I will go make me ready in seemly sort for our betrothal!
Déliverance.
Rather abide, and suffer me to do thankings unto thee, for much have ye done for me! An ye wist how ye have holpen a dolorous lady!
Sir Gawayne.
I but stand upon my knighthood, madam! [He is about to go, when there enters, confronting him, a young and gallant Knight, in full armour. Gawayne stops short, staring at him.] Now, by my head ... the face I saw in my shield! [He passes a hand over his puzzled brow.] Of whence be ye, and how called?
The Knight [Déliveré].
I am extract of noble blood. I am hight Déliveré! I am brother to this lady!
Sir Gawayne.
Brother to...! [He looks from one to the other, incredulous.]
Déliveré.
[Corroborating his own assertion.] To Déliverance La Belle Pilgrim!
Sir Gawayne.
Now by my head you speak a great wonder!
Déliveré.
By the crafts of sorcery I was turned into the outrageous giant, keeping the evil customs whereby Arthur and his Court were put in jeopard! My sister alone knew the true answer to my rede, but none could learn it or ever a worshipful knight should promise to take and wed her unto his wife! In this ye stand a proved knight of matchless chivalry! But an ye would save yourself unshamed from this marriage, come and joust with me!
Sir Gawayne.
[With a cry of joy.] Now Heaven be praised, right glad and blithe am I, for liefer an hundred times would I die with fighting worship than live with wedded woe! Come, Sir Knight, to the assay, and spare me not, for I warn thee I will not spare thee! Come and prove who will be first to say Ho! [Déliverance, who has hobbled back to the hearth, cowers in her chair, moaning. “Now am I the wofullest lady of the world!”] Now wherefore this dolorous moaning?
Déliverance.
I require thee, good knight, as thou art a gentleman, not to gainsay your avows to me!
Sir Gawayne.
[Pauses irresolute.] Now was ever knight in such plight, between fire and water as it might be!
Déliveré.
Coward! Coward!
Sir Gawayne.
[Starting to go to him.] Now by the faith of my body never will I yield me nor say the loth word!
Déliverance.
Traitor! Traitor!
Sir Gawayne.
[Stopping short.] Now by the Four Evangelists.... [He takes a sudden decision, and goes toward his bride.] Lady, love is free in himself, and never will be bound, but I shall be your servant and knight in right and wrong, and I shall never fail you to do as much as a knight may do, and I promise you faithfully that I shall be all the days of my life your knight!
Déliveré.
Coward!
“Look, Sir Knight! Behold the visage of your bride!”
Sir Gawayne.
Not so, Sir Déliveré, for, God wot, I have chosen the more perilous part!
Déliverance.
Now this gladdeth well my heart, for so have ye delivered me from the bondage of enchantment! Look, Sir Knight! Behold the visage of your bride! [Standing erect, and throwing back her hood she discloses the countenance of a young woman of great beauty.]
Sir Gawayne.
[With a cry of great joy.] Lady! The damosel I saw in my shield ... all passing young and peerless fair!... Sir Knights and Ladies! [He goes toward the banqueting-hall, calling:] Come, and witness a great marvel! [All come in, in great excitement, and from the other direction come the King and Queen, with their attendants, bringing a rich robe and sparkling jewels for the bride. Excitedly Sir Gawayne invites their attention to Déliverance.] Behold my bride ... the damosel I saw anon, all passing young and peerless fair! [But, even as he had turned from her, Déliverance drew her hood over her head, wrapped her mantle, huddling, about her bent shoulders, and relapsed into the form of an aged crone. All look amazed.]
Sir Kay.
[Takes her by the arm and turns her toward the light, then bursts into great laughter.] By my head, he’s clean out of his wits!... Passing fair? The loathly lady! [All echo this, and troop off, mocking Sir Gawayne.]
Guinevere.
[Who with the King remains.] The unlovely lady, the loathly lady passing fair? Poor, poor gentleman! He is under the spell of a dolorous enchantment!
Arthur.
Pray Heaven he may never get well of it!
Sir Gawayne.
[Sternly, to his bride.] What means this: now young and fair, now old and wizened? This is no stability!
Déliverance.
Alas, dear love! The spell is still on me, whereby I may be young and fair to you alone, and old and bent in company; or young and fair in company, and old and bent to you alone! It is for you to choose!
Sir Gawayne.
Oh, what a burden is thrust upon me! Alone with you to enjoy your delectable beauty, and in company to endure the tauntings and mockage of men ... or in company to have the envy of all for my lovely bride, and alone with you to discover a loathly crone of an hundred years of age! [He groans, throwing himself into a chair and covering his face.]
Déliveré.
[Sharply.] Choose ye now, or look well to yourself!
Sir Gawayne.
Leave that, Sir Déliveré!... [He goes to Déliverance.] I give it to thee, for my wedding-gift, the thing that all women do most desire ... your own will in this affair, to do as you may list!
Déliverance.
[Casting aside her mantle and throwing up her arms with a great cry of joy.] Oh, laudings and praisings to Heaven, for now is my cup of happiness brim-filled and running over!... Sir Gawayne, ye have passed the third and last test of chivalry, and so have delivered me forever from the crafts of sorcery!
Sir Gawayne.
[Overjoyed, almost in a whisper.] What! Is it true? Ye are all fair for all times, in company and for me alone?
Déliveré.
It is true! She is a full fair maid, good and gentle, and right well taught, so may each love other entirely!
[Arthur and Guinevere, who were standing at a distance, have joined the group, attracted by Déliverance’s cry, and now offer their felicitations. Guinevere kisses the bride, and places a jewel in her lovely hair and a chain about her fair neck.]
Arthur.
[To the two Servants, who stand at the entrance to the banqueting-hall.] Let blow! Let blow! [At a bugle blast from these All enter hurriedly. The King addresses them.] Now is greater worship than ever before won to our goodly fellowship, sithence our dear nephew Sir Gawayne hath passed the third and final test of chivalry!
[All exclaim rejoicing.]
Sir Kay.
But ... where is the loathly lady?
All.
Aye, where is the unlovely lady ... the loathly lady?
Arthur.
Yon stands she, freed forever from the evil spell of sorcery! And by the faith of my body I do think she is the fairest lady of the world but if it were Queen Guinevere!