On the fifth day came Clement to Ralph and said:
"Now will I bring thee to the Queen, and she is young, and so fair,
and withal so wise, that it seems to me not all so sure but that
the sight of her will make an end of thy quest once for all.
So that meseems thou mayest abide here in a life far better
than wandering amongst uncouth folk, perilous and cruel.
Yea, so thou mayst have it if thou wilt, being so exceeding goodly,
and wise, and well-spoken, and of high lineage."

Ralph heard and reddened, but gave him back no answer;
and they went together to the High House of the Queen,
which was like a piece of the Kingdom of Heaven for loveliness,
so many pillars as there were of bright marble stone,
and gilded, and the chapiters carved most excellently:
not many hangings on the walls, for the walls themselves were carven,
and painted with pictures in the most excellent manner;
the floors withal were so dainty that they seemed as if they
were made for none but the feet of the fairest of women.
And all this was set amidst of gardens, the like of which they
had never seen.

But they entered without more ado, and were brought by the pages
to the Lady's innermost chamber; and if the rest of the house
were goodly, this was goodlier, and a marvel, so that it seemed wrought
rather by goldsmiths and jewellers than by masons and carvers.
Yet indeed many had said with Clement that the Queen who sat there
was the goodliest part thereof.

Now she spake to Clement and said: "Hail, merchant!