unto death, asprawl on the green about a mile from the castle.
Thinking that the man was but a villain, he would fain have called one
of the men-at-arms to give him aid, but that something drew him to
closer view. And then the boy felt certain that this was no villain
born for his face bespoke gentle breeding. So he himself hastened for
water and by much use of it the man soon opened his eyes and found
himself. So he studied the lad as he helped him to greater ease but
either through his great weakness or no desire he did not speak.

"Stranger," said Allan to the man, "if there is aught that I can do
for you or if I can help you in any way I give you offer of service.
Mayhap of the many knights who are here, there is one whose aid you
may justly claim."

The stranger held answer for many moments, then he spoke.

"There are those here, lad, whose service I may well accept for they
hold ties of blood to me. But I would not. Rather, if your patience
will bear with me, I would fain have your help so that I can appear in
the presence of the King this day. For so it is ordained and by
appearing there I shall find some part of my row accomplished. On this
holy day, I have boon to ask from your King."

"So shall I and right gladly lead you there. Good sir, my name is
Allan. I am page to Sir Percival, and I would bespeak your name."

"I beg of thee, Allan, think not that I am churlish and yet must I
withhold my name. For it is part of the vow I have made. Nor,
forsooth, am I therefore the less grateful."