this knight seem mindful of the words spoken by Sir Percival for he
made no answer and lost none of his brooding air.

Yet, of a sudden, he seemed to awaken. For Sir Percival who had not
been able to place him at first, had at last realized who the stranger
was.

"Who are you?" the other questioned in turn rubbing his eyes. "And
these other knights? But then, I know you all. How came you here, Sir
Percival?"

When he was told, some of his dejection left him.

"Mine was truly a great unhappiness. These four robber knights did
beset me. And when I was overcome they demanded great ransom which I
had no means wherewith to satisfy. Then, when I heard the tale of how
long these fellow prisoners had been here I was greatly discouraged as
to carrying out my intent to prove to King Arthur my worthiness for
knighthood."

In the meanwhile, Sir Launcelot and Allan had made their way to where
the imprisoned yeomen and hinds had been kept. Here there were more
than fifty and a sad sight they were. It brought a great gulp of pity
into Allan's throat and unbidden tears came to his eyes. Sir Launcelot
too was moved. Some of the prisoners were so weak they could hardly
move. Wonkin had found his brother almost at once and theirs was a
happy meeting.

"Go you up, good Allan, and order that food be brought for these
wretches. And see to it that there is plenty of it."