could himself adventure so much the more readily. He would have been
abashed to do so with knights such as his own lord or Sir Launcelot
and Sir Gawaine.

Sir Launcelot found the boy soon after.

"When you return, and I think it will not be for more than a year,
mayhap, two, the King will dub you knight, so I think. Remember Allan,
to be worthy for the things ahead and remember, too, that I am at beck
and call, if you need me, if so be you can find me.

"This journey will be the great test. I pray that you return and prove
what I think you will be. Sir Percival, I understand has armor, sword,
lance and spear for you. I shall furnish you with shield. So go you
your way and remember that there are few knights who will be found
stouter or more skillful than Gareth."

Allan found Gareth soon thereafter and thanked him for letting him go
with him. Then did the three, Sir Gareth, Breunor le Noire and Allan
plan for many things. The blood of youth raced in their veins even as
they planned. Many things would they do. Britain would hear of these
three, so they hoped.

A goodly trio, of a truth, they made as they rode forth the next day,
the maid Linet with them, and only Walker following behind. Three most
worshipful knights watched them as they made their way down the long
road and disappeared from view.

Perhaps, too, it was only chance that led them again past the castle
of Sir Percival. There Allan made point to enter the same promising to