“Janice kneeled and bowed her head.
“‘Oh, kindest of queens,’ she whispered. ‘I thank you for your favor. I am honored more than my dreams had ever hoped for. But I beg, Dear Lady, that you will not demand my acceptance.’
“‘I do not understand,’ said Guinivere.
“Then Janice told her that she did not love the Knight; that she loved the page who had saved her and who had loved her long and secretly. She went on:
“‘Dear Queen, on this, your birthday, when you are trying to make all the world happy, do not force me to accept the kind offer of this good Knight. Let me go back to my father’s garden.’
“As she spoke, Knight Alfred had become red and furious. He spoke, finally, saying:
“‘I take back my request, O Queen. I could never take to wife a hussy who would bestow her love upon a page. I do not wish her; I ask no other prize than your red ribbon and your kind thoughts.’
“‘Sir,’ said Guinivere, ‘your request shall be granted. And,’ she said, turning to the page, ‘you, sir. Do you love this girl?’
“‘As I love the music of the winds and the birds and your voice,’ said the page.
“‘Then,’ said Guinivere, ‘for your bravery you may have her and make her your wife.’