The Knight waited but a few moments when his hostess came into the
room.

"You are gracious, Sir Galahad. I doubt whether there can be any help
for me. Yet I shall tell you my story for there still may be hope for
so wretched a person as myself."

"My lady, it is the duty of all true knights to be of help to those in
distress. Wherefore, I hold but to my knightly vow, in my promise of
service to you."

The Lady Jeanne made no answer, seemingly she had not heard him. Sir
Galahad watched her, saw her look which seemed afar, saw the dark rims
around her eyes. They spoke of many hours of weeping.

Now she turned to him.

"I think, my lord, this storm that seems as if it will not cease has
been sent by God. Strange though it may seem it brings me hope, dim
though that hope may be, yet I treasure it. Little reason for hope
have I had.

"Think me not rude, Sir Galahad, and think not that I question your
valor or skill. But this is task for no lone knight, for my enemy is
strong and powerful. I may be selfish too, in that I draw you into my
troubles but I am like one who drowning, must need snatch at a straw.
And many knights would hesitate long to offer service where the cause
is as hopeless as mine seemingly is. Nor will I blame you or hold you,
if after my story is done, you find no way in which you can help me.