he is but a day behind. But have you a plan, Allan?"

"It has but just come to me--this possible plan. It may be that he can
be emissary from Arthur to the Duke of Gascony for such purpose as may
be devised. And we go with him as knights. We _know not_, of
course, that a pretender sits where the Duke of Gascony should. And I
fancy that this Dolphus will be right well pleased to welcome us and
if we seemingly appear not too scrupulous ourselves we can worm the
story from him and act thereon."

"It can be done, if the plan is well thought out. Only dear lad, I
doubt whether thy face will not count against you in any pretended
villainy. Think you not so, madame?"

The Lady Jeanne smiled. It was strange to see her smile but it gave
proof that she was lighter hearted.

"I think that Sir Dolphus is not the kind to think that there are any
who hold aught but villianous thoughts," she replied.

"So then, we must need delay until Merlin comes."

"Think you the king will be provoked at our use of him and his court?"
Sir Galahad asked.

"Aye, that I do. Provoked that he was not with us to share in the
adventure." Launcelot laughingly replied.

"Lady," Sir Launcelot addressed her in a moment's pause. "You had
little need to worry when this knight became your champion. He is