t to enter, but though there was
neither door nor bar he might not pass the threshold. But from without
he heard wondrous voices singing, and saw a light shining brighter
than any that he had seen before, and visions such as he scarcely
dared to look upon. And he resolved greatly to amend his sins, and to
bring peace and order into his kingdom. So he set forth, strengthened
and comforted, and after divers more adventures returned to his
Court.

II

THE COMING OF THE HOLY GRAAL

It was on the eve of Pentecost that all the Knights of the Table Round
met together at Camelot, and a great feast was made ready for them.
And as they sat at supper they heard a loud noise, as of the crashing
of thunder, and it seemed as if the roof would fall on them. Then, in
the midst of the thunder, there entered a sunbeam, brighter by seven
times than the brightest day, and its brightness was not of this
world. The Knights held their peace, but every man looked at his
neighbour, and his countenance shone fairer than ever it had done
before. As they sat dumb, for their tongues felt as if they could
speak nothing, there floated in the hall the Holy Graal, and over it a
veil of white samite, so that none might see it nor who bare it. But
sweet odours filled the place, and every Knight had set before him the
food he loved best; and after that the Holy Vessel departed suddenly,
they wist not where. When it had gone their tongues were loosened, and
the King gave thanks for the wonders that they had been permitted to
see. After that he had finished, Sir Gawaine stood up and vowed to
depart the next morning in quest of the Holy Graal, and not to return
until he had seen it. 'But if after a year and a day I may not speed
in my quest,' said he, 'I shall come again, for I shall know that the
sight of it is not for me.' And many of the Knights there sitting
swore a like vow.

But King Arthur, when he heard this, was sore displeased. 'Alas!'
cried he unto Sir Gawaine, 'you have undone me by your vow. For
through you is broken up the fairest fellowship, and the truest of
knighthood, that ever the world saw, and when they have once departed
they shall meet no more at the Table Round, for many shall die in the
quest. It grieves me sore, for I have loved them as well as my own
life.' So he spoke, and paused, and tears came into his eyes. 'Ah,
Gawaine, Gawaine! you have set me in great sorrow.'

'Comfort yourself,' said Sir Lancelot, 'for we shall