"That I doubt not," replied Merlin, "And no one else but the rightful
occupant may fill it for he that is so hardy as to try it, he will be
destroyed."

So Pentecost day came. And all but Merlin wondered as to who the
newcomer, who would fill this seat could be.

Early day found the new knights already seated. Early day, too, found
Allan, once again, after the many months away from the court,
returned. This was home to him--and close to three years had passed
since he had been there. He had learned much, he had searched thus far
in vain for the Holy Grail. Yet not altogether in vain, for he felt
within him that he was closer to his quest with the passing of each
day. The boy, now in young manhood, had indeed developed well. Broad
shouldered, slim-waisted, supple limbed, he gave little indication of
his strength, yet Walker riding close beside him, had watched him, had
trained him and had with great pride, noted his skill with lance,
sword and spear. Well he knew that this youth would soon be second to
none in ability to cope with foe or in friendly jousting as might
befall in tournament or elsewhere.

[Illustration: A Solitary Horseman]

Now on this Pentecost day, Allan had returned because it was wont that
he should do so and also because desire urged him thence. So then he
entered the great hall and because all of King Arthur's court were
within, none there were who knew him.

And once he found himself within, only Merlin the Wizard knew who he
was. The others knew him not, not even Sir Percival nor Sir Launcelot.