seen, but none such as this. They were afraid to answer, but sat
stone-still in a dead silence, as if overpowered by sleep;

"Not all from fear, but some for courtesy" (ll. 221-249).

Then Arthur before the high daïs salutes the Green Knight, bids him
welcome, and entreats him to stay awhile at his Court. The knight says
that his errand is not to abide in any dwelling, but to seek the most
valiant of the heroes of the Round Table that he may put his courage to
the proof, and thus satisfy himself as to the fame of Arthur's court.
"I come," he says, "in peace, as ye may see by this branch that I bear
here. Had I come with hostile intentions, I should not have left my
hauberk, helmet, shield, sharp spear, and other weapons behind me. But
because I desire no war, 'my weeds are softer.' If thou be so bold as
all men say, thou wilt grant me the request I am about to make." "Sir
courteous knight," replies Arthur, "if thou cravest battle only, here
failest thou not to fight." "Nay," says the Green Knight, "I seek no
fighting. Here about on this bench are only beardless children. Were I
arrayed in arms on a high steed no man here would be a match for me
(ll. 250-282). But it is now Christmas time, and this is the New Year,
and I see around me many brave ones;--if any be so bold in his blood
that dare strike a stroke for another, I shall give him this rich axe
to do with it whatever he pleases. I shall abide the first blow just as
I sit, and will stand him a stroke, stiff on this floor, provided that
I deal him another in return.

And yet give I him respite,
A twelvemonth and a day;
Now haste and let see tite (soon)
Dare any here-in ought say.'"