his services. And she that had long deemed there was no
deliverance for her, accepted them right gladly. So taking her by
the hand, he led her down to the hall, and there, standing at the
door, he proclaimed her the lawful lady of that castle and all its
lands, and himself ready to do battle in her cause. But none
answered his challenge, for those that had held with the Black
Knight, deprived of their leader, had lost heart, whereas they that
for their loyalty to their lady had been held in subjection,
gathered fast about Sir Owain, ready to do battle. So in short
space, Sir Owain drove forth the lawless invaders of the Countess'
lands, and called together her vassals that they might do homage
to her anew.

Thus he abode in the castle many days, seeking in all that he might
to do her service, until through all her lands order was restored,
and her right acknowledged. But when all was done, Sir Owain yet
tarried in the lady's castle; for he loved her much, but doubted
ever of her favour. So one day, Luned, the damsel who had come to
his aid on the day that he slew the Black Knight, said to him:
"Alas! Sir Knight, the time must come when ye will leave us. And
who will then defend my lady's fountain, which is the key to all
her lands? For who holds the fountain, holds the land also." "I
will never fail your lady while there is breath in my body," cried
Sir Owain. "Then were it well that ye stayed here ever," answered
Luned. "Gladly would I," answered Sir Owain, "if that I might." "Ye
might find a way if your wits were as sharp as your sword," she
answered, and laughing, left him, but herself sought her lady. Long
he pondered her words, and he was still deep in thought, when there
came to him the Countess, and said: "Sir Knight, I hear that ye
must leave us." "Nay, my lady," answered Sir Owain, "I will stay as
long as ye require my services." "There must ever be one to guard
the fountain, and he who guards the fountain, is lord of these
lands," answered the lady softly. Then Sir Owain found words at
last, and bending the knee, he said: "Lady, if ye love me, I will
stay and guard you and your lands; and if ye love me not, I will go
into my own country, and yet will I come again whensoever ye have
need of me. For never loved I any but you." Then the Countess bade
him stay, and calling her vassals together, she commanded all to do
homage to him, and took him for her husband in presence of them
all.

Thus Sir Owain won the