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.