And as Allan with flaming cheeks and glorious pride went to his place
far in the rear of the hall the King turned to the assemblage.

"Merlin is here but departs from us tomorrow for many a day. He has
had a great dream which affects this court and us and which must be
told to all of you. So he has asked us to call you and this we have
done. Stand up now Merlin, wisest of men and truest of counselors.
Speak."

Up rose Merlin and for wonder as to what his dream might be all held
their breath.

"But the other night came Joseph of Armathea to me while I slept. And
he chided me that in all Britain so few of all the true and brave
knights had thought to seek the wondrous Holy Grail which once was
pride of all England.

"And me thought I heard him say, 'Truly do I misdoubt the valor of
these knights who seek adventure and glory.'

"'Yet.' said I, 'doubt not their valor for can I give surety for it.
For Holy Grail, every varlet, let alone those of true blood, would
give his life and count it more than worthy.'

"'So shall it be!' replied Sir Joseph. 'For the Holy Grail will be
found. Whether knight or varlet shall the finder be, I will not say.
But this I tell you now. He who finds it shall be pure of heart and
noble beyond all men. From whence he cometh, who he is, I will not
say. Remember this, Merlin, brave and noble knights there are now in