And Peredur replied, "First let me in.

I am of Arthur's Court. Long have I ridd'n

Through miles and miles of melancholy woods.

The night begins to storm. And I would rest."

Then said the youth, sad mirth about his mouth,

"Rest shalt thou; yea: and since thou, haply, hast

Fasted all day, thou shalt break bread with us."—

Then he retired from the grated slide:

Undid harsh chains and shot back stubborn bolts;

And, stiff with rust, the snarling hinges swung.