possible connection Arthur could have had with France, for I
always thought that the fleur-de-lis was not borne by any
British sovereign until after the hundred years' war was begun.
Since King Arthur is supposed to have lived in the fifth or
sixth century it seems strange to me that he should have been
supplied with a shield bearing a device of a so much later
period. Since I know nothing of heraldry, I have been much
puzzled by this, and would be very grateful for an explanation.
I should like to mention three books which I enjoyed so much
when I read them that I am sure they would be appreciated by
many. They are Miss Yonge's "Dove in the Eagle's Nest," and a
"Chaplet of Pearls," and the "Caged Lion."

Wishing THE GREAT ROUND WORLD continued success,

I remain your devoted reader,
KATHERINE P.
NEW YORK CITY, May 26, 1897.


MY DEAR KATHERINE:

In reference to your question about the fleur-de-lis on King Arthur's
shield.

It can have no heraldic meaning whatever, because armorial bearings were
not in use in England until long after the Norman Conquest.

The kings and the great barons chose certain devices for their seals; but
the same device was not used by the members of a family, nor was it handed