"Alas!" said the squire, "ye are greatly to blame to have so displeased King Arthur."
"As for that," said Sir Balin, "I go now to find King Ryence, and destroy him or lose my life; for should I take him prisoner, and lead him to the court, perchance King Arthur would forgive me, and become my good and gracious lord."
"Where shall I meet thee again?" said the squire.
"In King Arthur's court," said Balin.
V
SIR BALIN FIGHTS WITH HIS BROTHER, SIR BALAN
Now there was a knight at the court more envious than the others of Sir Balin, for he counted himself one of the best knights in Britain. His name was Lancear; and going to the king, he begged leave to follow after Sir Balin and avenge the insult he had put upon the court. "Do thy best," replied the king, "for I am passing wroth with Balin."
In the meantime came Merlin, and was told of this adventure of the sword and lady of the lake.
"Now hear me," said he, "when I tell ye that this lady who hath brought the sword is the falsest damsel living."