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.