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.