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He fell: Jaufry with naked blade was by his side; but as he saw him thus, so poorly sped,—
“Knight,” he exclaimed, “methinks thy hanging-trade is done.”
“Lord,” cried the wounded man, “unhappily 'tis true. Thou hast too well performed thy work for safety henceforth to be banished hence.”
“I will not trust to that,” quoth Jaufry; “or at least, it shan't prevent my hanging thee.”
“In Heaven's name, my lord, I crave thy grace!”
“And by what claim canst thou obtain it, thou who never yet hast granted it to man? Thou shalt find pity, such as those yonder found who once begged grace of thee.”
“If, good my lord, my head have erred, my heart been black and habits villanous, guard thee from following in my steps. I ask for mercy—that should I receive. Wilt thou, a man of lofty virtue, choose that ever the reproach should come to thee of hanging up a brave and courteous knight, such as I once did bear the title of?”