Andseeingthekingtherestand，theknightDrewreinbeforehisfacetoalightInreverencemadeforlove’ssakebrightWithjoythatsethisfacealightAstheirswhosee，alive，above，Thesovereignoftheirsouls，whosenameTothemisevenaslove’sownflameToenkindlehopethatheedsnotfameAndknowsnolordbutlove。
AndArthursmiledonhim，andsaid，"Rightwelcomebethou：bymyhead，Iwouldnotwishmebettersped。
ForevenbutnowtherecameandfledBeforemelikeacloudthatfliesAknightthatmademostheavycheer，Iknownotwherefore；normayfearOrpitygivemyhearttohearOrlightenonmineeyes。
"Butevenforfear’sandpity’ssakeFainwereIthoushouldstovertakeAndfetchagainthisknightthatspakeNowordofansweringgracetomakeReplytominethathailedhim：thou，Byforceorbygoodwill，shaltbringHisfacebeforeme。""Yea，myking，"
QuothBalen，"andagreaterthingWerelessthanismyvow。
"IwouldthetaskrequiredandheardWereheavierthanyoursovereignwordHathlaidonme："andthencehespurredElateatheartasyouth，andstirredWithhopeasblitheasfiresaboy：
Andmanyamileherode，andfoundFarinaforest’sglimmeringboundThemanhesoughtafararoundAndseeingtookfireforjoy。
Andwithhimwentamaiden，fairAsflowersaflushwithAprilair。
AndBalenbadehimturnhimthereTotellthekingwhatwoestheywereThatbowedhimdownsosore：andheMadewoefulanswer："ThisshoulddoGreatscathetome，withnoughtforyouOfhelpthathopemighthearkentoForbootthatmaynotbe。"
AndBalenanswered："IwerelothTofightasoneperforcemadewrothWithonethatowesbyknighthood’soathOnelove，oneservice，andonetrothWithmetohimwhosegracioushandHoldsfastthehelmofknighthoodhereWherebyman’shopeandheartmaysteer：
IprayyouletnotsorroworfearAgainsthisbiddingstand。"
Thestrangeknightgazedonhim，andspake：
"Willyou，forArthur’sroyalsake，BewarrantformethatItakeNoscathefromstrifethatmanmaymake？
ThenwillIgowithyou。"AndheMadejoyousanswer："Yea，forI
Willbeyourwarrantorwilldie。"
AndthencetheyrodewithheartsashighAsmen’sthatsearchthesea。
Andasbynoon’slargelightthetwainBeforethetentedhalldrewrein，Suddenlyfellthestrangeknight，slainByonethatcameandwentagainAndnonemightseehim；buthisspearClovethroughthebody，swiftasfire，Themanwhosedoom，forefeltasdire，Haddarkenedallhislife’sdesire，Asonethatdeathhelddear。
Anddyingheturnedhisfaceandsaid，"LonowthywarrantthatmyheadShouldfallnot，followingforthwhereledAknightwhosepledgehathleftmedead。
ThisdarklingmanslayerhathtonameGarlon：takethoumygoodliersteed，Seeingthineislessofstrengthandspeed，Andride，ifthoubeknightindeed，Eventhitherwhencewecame。
"Andasthemaiden’sfairbehestShallbidyoufollowonmyquest，Follow：andwhenGod’swillseesbest，Revengemydeath，andletmerestAsonethatlivedanddiedaknight，Unstainedofshamealiveordead。"
AndBalen，wrungwithsorrow，said，"ThatshallIdo：myhandandheadIpledgetodoyouright。"
AndthencewithsorrowingheartandcheerHerode，ingriefthatcastoutfearLestdeathindarknessyetwerenear，AndborethetruncheonofthespearWherewiththewofulknightlayslainToherwithwhomherode，andsheStillbareitwithher，faintoseeWhatrighteousdoomofGod’smightbeThedarklingmanslayer’sbane。
AnddownadimdeepwoodlandwayTheyrodebetweentheboughsaswayWithflickeringwindswhoseflashandplayMadesunlightsunnierwherethedayLaughed，leapt，andflutteredlikeabirdCaughtinalightlooseleafynetThatearthforamorousheavenhadsetToholdandseethesundawnyetAndhearwhatmorningheard。
ThereinthesweetsoftshiftinglightAcrosstheirpassagerodeaknightFlushedhotfromhuntingasfromfight，Andseeingthesorrow-strickensightMadequestionofthemwhytheyrodeAsmournerssickatheartandsad，WhenallaliveaboutthembadeSweetearthforheaven’ssweetsakebegladAsheavenforearth’sloveglowed。
"Melistsnottellyou，"Balensaid。
Thestrangeknight’sfacegrewkeenandred"Now，mightmyhandbutkeepmyhead，EvenhereshouldoneoftwainliedeadWerehenobetterarmedthanI。"
AndBalenspakewithsmilingspeed，WherescornandcourtesykeptheedOfeither："Thatshouldlittleneed：
Nothereshalleitherdie。"
AndallthecausehetoldhimthroughAsonethatfearednotthoughheknewAll：andthestrangeknightspakeanew，Saying："IwillpartnomorefromyouWhilelifeshalllastme。"SotheywentWherehemightarmhimselftoride，AndrodeacrosswildwaysandwideTowhereagainstachurchyardsideAhermit’sharbourleant。
AndthereagainstthemridingcameFleetasthelightning’slaughandflameTheinvisibleevil，eventhesameTheysoughtandmightnotcursebynameAshell’sfoulchildonearthsetfree，Andsmotethestrangeknightthrough，andfled，Andleftthemournersbythedead。
"Alas，again，"SirBalensaid，"Thiswronghehathdonetome。"
AndtheretheylaidtheirdeadtosleepRoyally，lyingwherewildwindskeepKeenwatchandwailmoresoftanddeepThanwheremen’schoirsbidmusicweepAndsonglikeincenseheaveandswell。
Andforthagaintheyrode，andfoundBeforethem，direinsightandsound，AcastlegirtaboutandboundWithsorrowlikeaspell。
AboveitseemedthesunatnoonSadasawintrywitheringmoonThatshudderswhilethewastewind’stuneCravesevernonemayguesswhatboon，Butallmayknowtheboonfordire。
AndeveningonitsdarknessfellMoredarkthanverydeath’sfarewell，Andnightaboutithunglikehell，Whosefumethedawnmadefire。
AndBalenlighteddownandpassedWithinthegateway，whencenoblastRangasthesheerportcullis，castSuddenlydown，fell，andmadefastThegatebehindhim，whencehespiedAsuddenrageofmenwithoutAndravinofamurderousroutThatgirtthemaidenhardaboutWithdeathoneitherside。
Andseeingthatshameandperil，fearBadewrathandgriefawakeandhearWhatshameshouldsayinfame’swideearIfshe，bysorrowsealedmoredearThanjoymightmakeher，soshoulddie：
Andupthetower’scurledstairhesprangAsonethatfliesdeath’sdeadliestfang，AndleaptrightoutamidtheirgangAsfirefromheavenonhigh。
AndtheythereunderseeingtheknightUnhurtamongtheirpressalightAndbarehisswordforchanceoffightStoodfromhim，lothtostriveorsmite，Andbadehimheartheirwofulword，Thatnotthemaiden’sdeaththeysought；
ButtherethroughyearstoodireforthoughtHadlaintheirladystricken，andnoughtMighthealher：andheheard。
ForthereamaidencleanandwholeInvirginbodyandvirginsoul，Whosenamewaswritonroyalroll，ThatwouldbutstainasilverbowlWithofferingofherstainlessblood，Therewithmighthealher：sotheystayedForhope’ssadsakeeachblamelessmaidTherejourneyinginthatdolorousshadeWhosebloomwasbrightinbud。
NohurtnorharmtoheritwereIfsheshouldyieldasisterthereSometributeofherblood，andfareForthwiththisjoyathearttobear，ThatallunhurtandunafraidThisgraceshehadherebyGod’sgracewrought。
AndkindlingallwithkindlythoughtAndlovethatsawsavelove’sselfnought，Shone，smiled，andspakethemaid。
"Goodknightofmine，goodwillhaveI
TohelpthishealingthoughIdie。"
"Nay，"Balensaid，"butlovemaytryWhathelpinlivinglovemaylie-
IwillnotlosethelifeofherWhilemylifelasteth。"SoshegaveThetributelovewasfaintocrave，Butmightnothealthoughfaintosave，WereGod’sgracehelpfuller。
AnothermaidinlaterMaysWonwithherlifethatwofulpraise，Anddied。Butthey，whensurgingday’sDeeptidefulfilledthedawn’swideways，Rodeforth，andfoundbydayornightNochancetocrosstheirwayfaringTillwhentheysawthefourthdayspringAknight’shallgavethemharbouringRichasaking’shousemight。
AndwhiletheysatatmeatandspakeWordsbrightandkindasgracemightmakeSweetfortrueknighthood’skindlysake，TheyheardacrybesidethembreakThestill-souledjoyofblamelessrest。
"Whatnoiseisthis？"quothBalen。"Nay，"
Hisknightlyhostmadeanswer，"mayOurgriefnotgrieveyouthoughIsayHowhereIdwellunblest。
"NotmanyadayhaslivedanddiedSinceatatournaylateItriedMystrengthtosmiteandturnandrideAgainstaknightofkinglikepride，KingPellam’sbrother：twiceIsmoteThesplendourofhisstrengthtodust：
Andhe，fulfilledofhate’sfiercelust，Sworevengeance，pledgedforhelltotrust，Andkeenashell’swidethroat。
"InvisibleasthespiritofnightThatheavenandearthindepthandheightMayseenotbythemildmoon’slightNorevenwhenstarswouldgrantthemsight，Hewalksandslaysasplague’sblindbreathSlays：andmyson，whoseanguishhereMakesmoanperforcethatmarsourcheer，Hewounded，evenerelovemightfearThathatewerestrongasdeath。
"NormaymysonbewholetillheWhosestrokethroughhimhathstrickenmeShallgiveagainhisbloodtobeOurhealing：yetmaynomanseeThisfelon，clothedwithdarknessroundAndkeenaslightning’slife。"ThereonSpakeBalen，andhispresenceshoneEvenasthesun’swhenstarsaregoneThatheardawn’strumpetsound。
"ThatknightIknow：twoknightsofmine，Twocomrades，sealedbyfaith’sbrightsign，Whoseeyesasoursthatliveshouldshine，Anddrinkthegoldensunlight’swineWithjoy’sthanksgivingthattheylive，Hehathslainineventhesameblindwise：
WereallwidewealthbeneaththeskiesMine，mightImeethim，eyesoneyes，AllwouldIlaughtogive。"
Hishostmadeanswer，andhisgazeGrewbrightwithtrustasdawn’smoistmazeWithfire："Withinthesetwentydays，KingPellam，lordofLystenayse，Holdsfeastthroughallthiscountrycried，AndtherebeforetheknightlykingMaynoknightcomeexcepthebringForwitnessofhiswayfaringHisparamourorbride。
"Andtherethatday，sosoontoshine，Thisknight，yourfelonfoeandmine，Shallshow，full-flushedwithbloodredwine，ThefiercefalsefacewhereonwepineTowreakthewronghehathwroughtus，bareAsshameshouldseeandbrandit。""Then，"
SaidBalen，"shallhegiveagainHisbloodtohealyourson，andmenShallseedeathblindhimthere。"
"Forthwillwefareto-morrow，"saidHishost：andforth，assunriseled，Theyrode；andfifteendayswerefledEretowardtheirgoaltheirsteedshadsped。
AndtherealightingmighttheyfindForBalen’shostnoplacetorest，WhocamewithoutagentlerguestBesidehim：andthathousehold’shestBadeleavehisswordbehind。
"Nay，"Balensaid，"thatdoInot：
Mycountry’scustomstands，Godwot，Thatnonewhoselotisknighthood’slot，ToridewherechanceasfireishotWithhopeorpromisegivenoffight，Shallfailtokeep，forknighthood’spart，Hisweaponwithhimashisheart；
AndasIcamewillIdepart，Orholdhereinmyright。"
ThengatheleavetowearhisswordBesidethestrangeking’sfestalboardWherefeastedmanyaknightandlordInseemlinessoffairaccord：
AndBalenaskedofonebeside，"Istherenotinthiscourt，iffameKeepfaith，aknightthathathtonameGarlon？"andsayingthatwordofshame，Hescannedthatplaceofpride。
"Yonderhegoethagainstthelight，Hewiththefaceasswartasnight，"
Quoththeother："butheridestofightHidroundbycharmsfromallmen’ssight，Andmanyanobleknighthehathslain，BeingwraptindarknessdeepashellAndsilencedarkasshame。""Ah，well，"
SaidBalen，"isthathe？thespellMaybethesorcerer’sbane。"
ThenBalengazeduponhimlong，Andthought，"IfhereIwreakmywrong，AliveImaynotscape，sostrongThefelon’sfriendsabouthimthrong；
AndifIleavehimherealive，ThischanceperchancemaylifenotgiveAgain：muchevil，ifhelive，Heneedsmustdo，shouldfearforgiveWhenwrongsbidstrikeandstrive。"
AndGarlon，seeinghowBalen’seyeDweltonhimashisheartwaxedhighWithjoyinwrathtoseehimnigh，Rosewolf-likewithawolfishcryAndcrossedandsmotehimontheface，Saying，"Knight，whatwouldstthouwithme？Eat，Forshame，andgazenot：eatthymeatDothatthouartcomefor：standsthyseatNextoursofroyalrace？"
"Wellhastthousaid：thyrederingstrue；
ThatwhichIcameforwillIdo，"
QuothBalen：forthhisfleetswordflew，AndclovetheheadofGarlonthroughCleantotheshoulders。ThenhecriedLoudtohislady，"GivemehereThetruncheonoftheshamefulspearWherewithheslewyourknight，whenfearBadehateindarknessride。"
Andgladly，brightwithgriefmadeglad，Shegavethetruncheonashebade，Forstillshebareitwithher，sadAndstronginhopelesshopeshehad，Throughalldarkdaysofthwartingfear，ToseeifdoomshouldfallarightAndasGod’sfire-fraughtthundersmiteThathead，clothedroundwithhell-facednight，Barenowbeforeherhere。
AndBalensmotetherewiththedeadDarkfelon’sbodythrough，andsaidAloud，"Witheventhistruncheon，redWithbaserbloodthanbravemenbledWhominthyshamefulhanditslew，Thouhastslainanoblerknight，andnowItclingsandcleavesthybody：thouShallcleaveagainnobraveman’sbrow，Thoughhellwouldaidanew。"
Andtowardhishostheturnedandspake；
"Nowforyourson’slong-sufferingsakeBloodyemayfetchenough，andtakeWherewithtohealhishurt，andmakeDeathwarmaslife。"ThenroseacryLoudasthewind’swhenstormyspringMakesallthewoodlandrageandring：
"Thouhastslainmybrother，"saidtheking，"Andherewithhimshaltdie。"
"Ay？"Balenlaughedhimanswer。"Well，Doitthenthyself。"AndtheanswerfellFierceasablastofhatefromhell，"NomanofminethatwithmedwellShallstrikeattheebutItheirlordForloveofthismybrotherslain。"
AndPellamcaughtandgraspedamainAgrimgreatweapon，fierceandfainTofeedhishungeringsword。
Andeagerlyhesmote，andspedNotwell：forBalen’sblade，yetredWithlifebloodofthemurderousdead，BetweentheswordstrokeandhisheadShone，andthestrengthoftheeagerstrokeShoreitinsunder：thentheknight，Nakedandweaponlessforfight，RanseekinghimaswordtosmiteAshopewithinhimwoke。
AndsotheirflightfordeathwardfastFromchamberforthtochamberpassedWherelaynoweapon，tillthelastWhosedoorsmadewayforBalencastUponhimasasuddenspellWonderthatevenaslightningleaptAcrosshisheartandeyes，andsweptAsstormacrosshissoulthatkeptWildwatch，andwatchednotwell。
Fortherethedeedhedid，beingnearDeath’sdanger，breathlessasthedeerDrivenhardtobay，butvoidoffear，BroughtsorrowdownformanyayearOnmanyamaninmanyaland。
Allgloriousshonethatchamber，brightAsburnsatsunriseheaven’sownheight：
Withclothofgoldthebedwasdight，Thatflamedoneitherhand。
Andonehesawwithinitlie：
AtableofallcleargoldtherebyStoodstately，fairasmorning’seye，Withfourstrongsilverpillars，highAndfirmasfaithandhopemaybe：
Andonitshonethegifthesought，Aspearmostmarvellouslywrought，ThatwhenhiseyeandhandgripcaughtSmallfearathearthadhe。
RightonKingPellamthen，asfireTurnswhenthethwartingwindswaxhigher，Heturned，andsmotehimdown。SodireThestrokewas，whenhisheart’sdesireStruck，andhadallitsfillofhate，ThatasthekingfellswooningdownFellthewalls，rentfrombasetocrown，ProneasproneseasthatbreakanddrownShipsfraughtwithdoomforfreight。
Andthereforthreedays’silentspaceBalenandPellamfacetofaceLaydeadordeathlike，andtheplaceWasdeath’sblindkingdom，tillthegraceThatGodhadgiventhesacredseerForcounselorforcomfortledHisMerlinthither，andhesaid，Standingbetweenthequickanddead，"Riseup，andrestnothere。"
AndBalenroseandsethiseyesAgainsttheseer’sasonethattriesHisheartagainstthesea’sandsky’sAndfearsnotifhelivesordies，Saying，"Iwouldhavemydamosel，EreIfareforth，tofarewithme。"
AndsadlyMerlinanswered，"SeeWherenowshelies；deathknowsifsheShallnowfareillorwell。
"Andinthisworldwemeetnomore，Balen。"AndBalen，sorrowingsore，ThoughfearlessyettheheartheboreBeattowardthelifethatlaybefore，RodeforththroughmanyawildwastelandWheremencriedoutagainsthim，madWithgrievousfaithinfearthatbadeTheirwrathmakemoanfordoubttheyhadLesthellhadarmedhishand。
Forinthatchamber’swondrousshrineWaspartofChrist’sownblood，thewineShedofthetruetriumphalvineWhosegrowthbidsearth’sdeepdarknessshineAsheaven’sdeeplightthroughtheairandsea；
ThatmysterytowardournorthernshoreArimatheanJosephboreForhealingofoursinsofyore，Thatgraceeventheremightbe。
AndwiththatspearthereshrinedapartWasChrist’ssidesmittentotheheart。
Andfiercerthanthelightning’sdartThestrokewas，andthedeathlikesmartWherewith，nighdrainedofbloodandbreath，Thekinglaystrickenasonelongdead：
AndJoseph’swasthebloodthereshed，Fornearakinwashethatbled，Nearevenaslifetodeath。
AndthereforefellonallthatlandSorrow：forstilloneitherhand，AsBalenrodealoneandscannedBrightfieldsandcitiesbuilttostandTilltimeshouldbreakthem，deadmenlay；
AndloudandlongfromalltheirfolkLiving，onecrythatcursedhimbroke；
ThreecountrieshadhisdolorousstrokeSlain，orshouldsurelyslay。
VII
Inwinter，whentheyearburnslowAsfirewhereinnofirebrandsglow，AndwindsdishevelastheyblowThelovelystormywingsofsnow，TheheartsofnorthernmenburnbrightWithjoythatmocksthejoyofspringTohearallheaven’skeenclarionsringMusicthatbidsthespiritsingAnddaygivethanksfornight。
AloudanddarkashellorhateRoundBalen’sheadthewindoffateBlewstormandcloudfromdeath’swidegate：
ButjoyasgriefinhimwasgreatTofaceGod’sdoomandliveordie，Sorrowingforillwroughtunaware，RejoicingindesiretodareAllillthatinnocencemightbearWithchangelessheartandeye。
YetpassingfainhewaswhenpastThoselandsandwoesatlengthandlast。
Eighttimes，asthencehefaredforthfast，DawnroseandevenwasovercastWithstarrydarknessdearasday，BeforehisventurousquestmightmeetAdventure，seeingwithinasweetGreenlow-lyingforest，hushedinheat，Atowerthatbarredhisway。
Strongsummer，dumbwithrapture，boundWithgoldencalmthewoodlandsroundWherethroughtheknightforthfaringfoundAknightthatonthegreenwoodgroundSatmourning：fairhewastosee，AndmouldedasforloveorfightAmaiden’sdreamsmightframeherknight；
Butsadinjoy’sfar-floweringsightAsgrief’sblindthrallmightbe。
"Godsaveyou，"Balensoftlysaid，"WhatgriefbowsdownyourheartandheadThus，asonesorrowingforhisdead？
Tellme，ifhaplyImaysteadInaughtyoursorrow，thatImay。"
"Sirknight，"thatothersaid，"thywordMakesmygriefheavierthatIheard。"
AndpityandwonderinlystirredDrewBalenthenceaway。
AndsowithdrawnwithsilentspeedHesawthesadknight’sstatelysteed，Awar-horsemeetforwarrior’sneed，Thatnonewhopassedmightchoosebutheed，Sostronghestood，sogreat，sofair，Witheyesafireforflightorfight，Ajoytolookon，mildinmight，Andswiftandkeenandkindaslight，Andallasclearofcare。
AndBalen，gazingonhim，heardAgainhismaster’swofulwordSoundsorrowthroughthecalmunstirredByflutteringwindorflickeringbird，Thus："Ah，fairladyandfaithless，whyBreakthypledgedfaithtomeetme？soonAnhourbeyondthytrothplightnoonShallstrikemydeath-bell，andthyboonIsthis，thathereIdie。
"MycurseforallthygiftsmaybeHeavierthandeathornightonthee；
FornowthisswordthougavestmeShallsetmefromthybondagefree。"
Andtherethemanhaddiedself-slain，ButBalenleaptonhimandcaughtTheblindfiercehandthatfainhadwroughtSelf-murder，stungwithfireofthought，Asragemakesanguishfain。
Then，madforthwartedgrief，"LetgoMyhand，"thefoolofwrathandwoeCried，"orIslaythee。"ScarcetheglowInBalen’scheekandeyemightshow，Asdawnshowsdaywhileseasliechill，Heheard，thoughpitytooknotheed，Butsmiledandspake，"Thatshallnotneed：
WhatmanmaydotobidyouspeedI，soGodspeedme，will。"
Andtheothercravedhisname，beguiledByhopethatmadehismadnessmild。
AgainSirBalenspakeandsmiled：
"MynameisBalen，calledtheWildByknightswhomkingsandcourtsmaketameBecauseIridealoneafarAndfollowbutmysoulforstar。"
"Ah，sir，IknowtheknightyouareAndallyourfieryfame。
"TheknightthatbearstwoswordsIknow，Mostpraisedofallmen，friendandfoe，Forprowessofyourhands，thatshowDarkwarthewaywherebalefiresglowAndkindleglorylikethedawn’s。"
Sospakethesorrowingknight，andstoodAsonewhoseheartfreshhopemadegood：
AndforththeyrodebywoldandwoodAnddowntheglimmeringlawns。
AndBalencravedhisnamewhorodeBesidehim，wherethewildwoodglowedWithjoytofeelhownoontideflowedThroughgladeandglenandroughgreenroadTillearthgrewjoyfulasthesea。
"MynameisGarnyssheoftheMount，Apoorman’ssonofnoneaccount，"
Hesaid，"wherespringsofloftierfountLaughloudwithpridetobe。
"ButstrengthinweaknesslivesandstandsAsrocksthatrisethroughshiftingsands；
AndfortheprowessofmyhandsOnemademeknightandgavemelands，DukeHermel，lordfromfartonear，Ourprince；andshethatlovedme——sheIlove，anddeemedshelovedbutme，Hisdaughter，pledgedherfaithtobeErenowbesidemehere。"
AndBalen，briefofspeechaslightWhoseword，beheldofdepthandheight，Strikessilencethroughthestarsofnight，Spake，andhisfaceasdawn’sgrewbright，Forhopetohelpahappierman，"Howfarthenliesshehence？""Bythis，"
Herloversighedandsaid，"Iwis，Notsixfleetmilesthepassageis，Andstraightasthoughtcouldspan。"
Sorodetheyswiftandsure，andfoundAcastlewalledanddykedaround：
AndBalen，asawarriorboundOnsearchwherehopemightfeartosoundThedarknessofthedeepsofdoubt，MadeentrancethroughtheguardlessgateAslife，whilehopeinlifegrowsgreat，MakeswaybetweenthedoorsoffateThatdeathmaypassthereout。
Throughmanyagloriouschamber，wroughtForalldelightthatlove’sownthoughtMightdreamordwellin，BalensoughtAndfoundofallhelookedfornought，ForlikeashiningshellherbedShonevoidandvacantofher：thenceThroughdeviouswondersbrightanddenseHepassedandsawwithshame-strucksenseWhereshameandfaithlaydead。
Downinasweetsmallgarden，fairWithflowerfuljoyintheardentair，Hesaw，andragedwithloathing，whereShelaywithlove-dishevelledhairBeneathabroadbrightlaureltreeAndclaspedinamorousarmsaknight，TheunloveliestthathisscornfulsightHaddweltonyet；ashamethebrightBroadnoonmightshrinktosee。
Andthenceinwrathfulhopeheturned，Hotastheheartwithinhimburned，Tomeettheknightwhoselove，sospurnedAndspatonandmadenoughtof，yearnedAnddreamedandhopedandlivedinvain，Andsaid，"Ihavefoundhersleepingfast，"
AndledhimwheretheshadowscastFromleaveswherethroughlightwindsranpastScreenedherfromsunandrain。
ButGarnysshe，seeing，reeledashestoodLikeatree，kingliestofthewood，Halfhewnthrough：andtheburningbloodThroughlipsandnostrilsburstaflood：
AndgatheringbackhisrageandmightAsbrokenbreakersrallyandroarTheloudwinddownthatdrivesoffshore，Hesmotetheirheadsoff：therenomoreTheirlifemightshamethelight。
ThenturnedhebacktowardBalen，madWithgrief，andsaid，"ThegriefIhadWasnought：erethismylifewasglad：
Thouhastdonethisdeed：IwasbutsadAndfearfulhowmyhopemightfare：
Ihadlivedmysorrowdown，hadstthouNotshownmewhatIsawbutnow。"
ThesorrowandscornonBalen’sbrowBadesilencecurbhimthere。
AndBalenanswered："WhatIdidIdidtoheartentheeandbidThycourageknowthatshameshouldridAman’shighheartoflovethathidBlindshamewithinitscore：Godknows，Idid，tosetabondmanfree，ButasIwouldthouhadstdonebyme，ThatseeingwhatlovemustdietoseeLove’sendmightwellbewoe’s。"
"Alas，"thewofulweaklingsaid，"IhaveslainwhatmostIloved：IhaveshedThebloodmostnearmyheart：theheadLiescoldasearth，defiledanddead，Thatallmylifewaslightedby，Thatallmysoulboweddownbefore，Andnowmaybearwithlifenomore：
FornowmysorrowthatIboreIstwofold，andIdie。"
ThenwithhisredwetswordheroveHisbreastinsunder，whereitcloveLife，andnopulseagainstitstrove，SosureandstrongthedeepstrokedroveDeathward：andBalen，seeinghimdead，Rodethence，lestfolkwouldsayhehadslainThosethree；anderethreedaysagainHadseenthesun’smightwaxandwane，Farforthhehadspurredandsped。
AndridingpastacrosswhereonBroadgoldenletterswrittenshone，Saying，"NoknightbornmayridealoneForthtowardthiscastle，"andallthestoneGlowedinthesun’sglareevenasthoughBloodstaineditfromthecrucifiedDeadburdenofonethattherehaddied，AnoldhoarmanhesawbesideWhosefacewaswanaswoe。
"BalentheWild，"hesaid，"thiswayThywayliesnot：thouhastpassedto-dayThybands：butturnagain，andstayThypassage，whilethysoulhathswayWithinthee，andthroughGod’sgoodpowerItwillavailthee："andanonHislikenessasacloudwasgone，AndBalen’sheartwithinhimshoneClearasthecloudlesshour。
NorfatenorfearmightovercastThesoulnownearitspeaceatlast。
Suddenly，thenceasforthhepast，AmightyandadeadlyblastBlownofahunting-hornheheard，Aswhenthechasehathnoblysped。
"Thatblastisblownforme，"hesaid，"TheprizeamIwhoamyetnotdead，"
Andsmiledupontheword。
Astowardaroyalhart’sdeathrangThatnote，whencealltheloudwoodsangWithwingedandlivingsoundthatsprangLikefire，andkeenasfire’sownfangPiercedthesweetsilencethatitslew。
Butnoughtlikedeathorstrifewashere：
FairsemblanceandmostgoodlycheerTheymadehim，theywhosetroopdrewnearAsdeathamongthemdrew。
AhundredladieswellarrayedAndmanyaknightwellweaponedmadeThatkindlyshowofcheer：thegladeShoneroundthemtillitsveryshadeLightenedandlaughedfromgrovetolawnTohearandseethem：sotheybroughtWithinacastlefairasthoughtCoulddreamthatwizardhandshadwroughtTheguestamongthemdrawn。
Allmannerofgloriousjoywasthere：
Harpinganddancing，loudandfair，AndminstrelsythatmadeofairFire，solikefireitsraptureswere。
Thenthechiefladyspakeonhigh：
"Knightwiththetwoswords，oneoftwoMusthelpyouhereorfallfromyou：
ForneedsyounowmusthaveadoAndjoustwithonehereby。
"AgoodknightguardsanislandhereAgainstallswordsthatchancebringsnear，AndtherewithstrokeofswordandspearMustallforwhomthesehallsmakecheerFight，andredeemoryielduplife。"
"Anevilcustom，"Balensaid，"Isthis，thatnonewhomchancehathledHither，ifknighthoodcrownhishead，Maypassunstirredtostrife。"
"YoushallnothaveadotofightHeresaveagainstoneonlyknight，"
Shesaid，andallherfacegrewbrightAshell-fire，litwithhungrylightThatwickedlaughtertouchedwithflame。
"Well，sinceIshallthereto，"saidhe，"Iamreadyatheartasdeathforme：
FainwouldIbewheredeathshouldbeAndlifeshouldloseitsname。
"ButtravellingmenwhosegoalafarShinesasacloud-constrainingstarAreoftenweary，andwearierareTheirsteedsthatfeeleachfretandjarWherewiththewildwayswoundthem：yet，Albeitmyhorsebeweary，stillMyheartisnowiseweary；willSustainsiteventilldeathfulfilMytrustuponhimset。"
"Sir，"saidaknighttherebythatstood，"MeseemsyourshieldisnownotgoodButwornwithwarriorwork，norcouldSustaininstrifethestrokesitwould：
AlargerwillIlendyou。""Ay，ThereofIthankyou，"Balensaid，BeingsingleofheartasonethatreadNofacearightwhencefaithhadfled，Nordreamedthatfaithcouldfly。
AndsohetookthatshieldunknownAndleftfortreason’stouchhisown，Andtowardthatislandrodealone，NorheardtheblastagainsthimblownSoundinthewind’sandwater’ssound，Buthearkeningtowardthestream’sedgeheardNoughtsavethesoftstream’sripplingword，Gladwiththegladnessofabird，Thatsangtotheairaround。
Andthereagainstthewater-sideHesaw，fastmooredtorockandride，AfairgreatboatanearabideLikeonethatwaitstheturningtide，WhereinembarkedhishorseandhePassedovertowardnokindlystrand：
AndwheretheystoodagainonlandTherestoodamaidenhardathandWhoseeingthemwepttosee。
And"OknightBalen，"washercry，"Whyhaveyeleftyourownshield？whyComehitheroutoftimetodie？
Forhadyekeptyourshield，therebyYehadyetbeenknown，anddiednothere。
GreatpityitisofyouthisdayAseverwasofknight，ormayBeever，seeinginwar’sbrightwayPraiseknowsnotBalen’speer。"
AndBalensaid，"ThouhastheardmynameRight：itrepentethme，thoughshameMaytaxmenotwithbasemen’sblame，Thatever，hapwhatwill，IcameWithinthiscountry；yet，beingcome，ForshameImaynotturnagainNow，thatmyselfandnoblermenMayscornme：nowismorethanthen，Andfaithbidsfearbedumb。
"Beitlifeordeath，mychanceItake，Beitlife’stobuildordeath’stobreak：
Andfallwhatmay，melistsnotmakeMoanforsadlife’sordeath’ssadsake。"
Thenlookedheonhisarmour，gladAndhighofheart，andfounditstrong：
AndallhissoulbecameasongAndsoaredinprayerthatsoarednotlong，Forallthehopeithad。
ThensawhewhenceagainsthimcameAsteedwhosetrappingsshonelikeflame，AndhethatrodehimshowedthesameFiercecolour，brightasfireorfame，ButdarkthevisorswereasnightThathidfromBalenBalan’sface，AndhisfromBalan：God’sowngraceForsookthemforashadowyspaceWheredarknesscastoutlight。
ThetwoswordsgirtthatBalenbareGaveBalanforabreath’swhiletherePause，wonderingifindeeditwereBalenhisbrother，boundtodareThechanceofthatunhappyquest：
ButseeingnotashethoughttoseeHisshield，hedeemeditwasnothe，Andso，asfatebadesorrowbe，Theylaidtheirspearsinrest。
SomightywasthecoursetheyranWithspeartospearsogreatofspan，Eachfellbackstricken，manbyman，Horsebyhorse，bornedown：sothebanThatwroughtbydoomagainstthemwrought：
ButBalenbyhisfallingsteedWasbruisedthesorer，beingindeedWay-weary，likearain-bruisedreed，Withtravelerehefought。
AndBalenroseagainfromswoonFirst，andwenttowardhim：alltoosoonHetoothenrose，andtheevilboonOfstrengthcameback，andtheeviltuneOfbattleunnaturalmadeagainMadmusicasfordeath’swideearListeningandhungeringtowardthenearLastsighthatlifeordeathmighthearAtlastfromdyingmen。
BalansmoteBalenfirst，andcloveHisliftedshieldthatroseandstroveInvainagainstthestrokethatdroveDown：asthewebthatmorningwoveOfglimmeringpearlfromspraytosprayDieswhenthestrongsunstrikesit，soShrankthesteel，temperedthricetoshowStrength，asthemadmightoftheblowShoreBalen’shelmaway。
ThenturningasaturningwaveAgainsttheland-wind，blindandbraveInhopethatdreamsdespairmaysave，WitheventheunhappyswordthatgaveThegiftsoffameandfateinoneHesmotehisbrother，andtherehadnighFelledhim：andwhiletheybreathed，hiseyeGlancedup，andsawbeneaththeskySightsfairerthanthesun。
ThetowersofallthecastlethereStoodfullofladies，blitheandfairAstheearthbeneathandtheamorousairAboutthemandabovethemwere：
SotowardtheblindandfatefulfightAgainthosebrethrenwent，andsoreWereallthestrokestheysmoteandbore，Andbreathedagain，andfelloncemoreTobattleintheirsight。
WithbloodthateitherspiltandbledWasallthegroundtheyfoughtonred，Andeachknight’shauberkhewnandshredLefteachunmailedandnaked，shedFromoffthemevenasmantlescast：
Andofttheybreathed，anddrewbutbreathBriefasthewordstrongsorrowsaith，Andpouredanddrankthedraughtofdeath，Tillfatewasfullatlast。
AndBalan，youngerbornthanheWhomdarknessbadehimslay，andbeSlain，asinmistwherenonemayseeIfaughtabideorfallorflee，Drewbackalittleandlaidhimdown，Dying：butBalenstood，andsaid，AsonebetweenthequickanddeadMightstandandspeak，"Whatgoodknight’sheadHathwonthismortalcrown？
"Whatknightartthou？forneverI
WhonowbesidetheedeadshalldieFoundyettheknightafarornighThatmatchedme。"Thenhisbrother’seyeFlashedprideandlove；hespakeandsmiledAndfeltindeathlife’squickeningflame，Andanswered："Balanismyname，ThegoodknightBalen’sbrother；fameCallsandmiscallshimwild。"
ThecryfromBalen’slipsthatsprangSprangsharperthanhissword’sstrokerang。
Morekeenthandeath’sormemory’sfang，ThroughsenseandsoultheshudderingpangShivered：andscarcehehadcried，"AlasThateverIshouldseethisday，"
WhensorrowswoonedfromhimawayAsblindlybackhefell，andlayWheresleepletsanguishpass。
ButBalanroseonhandsandkneesAndcrawledbychildlikedimdegreesUptowardhisbrother，asabreezeCreepswinglessoversluggardseasWhenallthewind’sheartfailsit：soBeneaththeirmother’seyeshadhe，Ababethatlaughedwithjoytobe，MadetowardhimstandingbyherkneeForlove’ssakelongago。
Then，gatheringstrengthupforaspace，Fromoffhisbrother’sdyingfaceWithdyinghandsthatwroughtapaceWhiledeathandlifewouldgrantthemgraceHeloosedhishelmandknewnothim，Soscoredwithblooditwas，andhewnAthwartwithdarkeningwounds：butsoonLifestroveandshudderedthroughtheswoonWhereinitslightlaydim。
Andsorrowsetthesechainedwordsfree：
"OBalan，Omybrother！meThouhastslain，andI，mybrother，theeAndnowfarhence，onshoreandsea，Shallallthewideworldspeakofus。"
"Alas，"saidBalan，"thatImightNotknowyou，seeingtwoswordsweredightAboutyou；nowtheunansweringsightHathherefoundanswerthus。
"BecauseyouboreanothershieldThanyours，thatevenereyouthcouldwieldLikearmswithmanhood’striedandsteeledShoneasmystarofbattle-field，IdeemeditsurelymightnotbeMybrother。"ThenhisbrotherspakeFiercely："WouldGod，forthysolesake，Ihadmylifeagain，totakeRevengeforonlythee！
"ForallthisdeadlyworkwaswroughtOfonefalseknight’sfalsewordandthought，WhosemortalcraftandcounselcaughtAndsnaredmyfaithwhodoubtednought，Andmademeputmyshieldaway。
Ah，mightIlive，IwoulddestroyThatcastleforitscustoms：joyTheremakesofgriefadeadlytoy，Anddeathmakesnightofday。"
"Welldonewerethat，ifaughtweredoneWelleverherebeneaththesun，"
SaidBalan："betterworkwerenone：
ForhithersinceIcameandwonAwofulhonourbornofdeath，WhenheremyhapitwastoslayAknightwhokeptthisislandway，ImightnotpassbynightordayHence，asthistokensaith。
"Nomoreshouldstthou，forallthemightOfheartandhandthatsealstheeknightMostnobleofallthatseethelight，Brother，hadstthoubutslaininfightMe，andarisenunscathedandwhole，AswouldtoGodthouhadstrisen！thoughhereLightisasdarkness，hopeasfear，Andloveashate：andnonedrawsnearSavetowardamortalgoal。"
Then，fairasanypoison-flowerWhoseblossomblightsthewitheringbowerWhereonitsblastingbreathhaspower，ForthfaredtheladyofthetowerWithmanyaladyandmanyaknight，Andcameacrossthewater-wayEvenwhereondeath’sdimborderlayThosebrethrensentofhertoslayAnddieinkindlessfight。
AndallthosehardlightheartswereswayedWithpitypassinglikeashadeThatstaysnot，andmaybenotstayed，Tohearthemutualmoantheymade，Eachtobeholdhisbrotherdie，Saying，"Bothwecameoutofonetomb，Onestar-crossedmother’swofulwomb，Andsowithinonegrave-pit’sgloomUntimelyshallwelie。"
AndBalanprayed，asGodshouldblessThatladyforhergentleness，Thatwherethebattle’smortalstressHadmadeforthemperforcetopressThebedwhencenevermanmayriseTheytwain，freenowfromhopesandfears，Mightsleep；andshe，asonethathears，Bowedherbrighthead：andverytearsFellfromhercoldfierceeyes。
ThenBalenprayedhersendapriestTohouselthem，thateretheyceasedThehanseloftheheavenlyfeastThatfillswithlightfromtheansweringeastThesunsetofthelifeofmanMightblessthem，andtheirlipsbekissedWithdeath’srequickeningeucharist，Anddeath’sandlife’sdimsunlitmistPassasastreamthatran。
Andsotheirdyingritesweredone：
AndBalen，seeingthedeath-strucksunSink，spakeashewhosegoaliswon：
"Now，whenourtrophiedtombisone，Andoverusourtaleiswrit，Howtwothatlovedeachother，twoBornandbegottenbrethren，slewEachother，nonethatreadsanewShallchoosebutweepforit。
"AndnogoodknightandnogoodmanWhoseeyeshallevercometoscanTherecordoftheimperiousbanThatmadeourlifesosadaspanShallreadorhear，whoshallnotprayForusforever。"ThenanonDiedBalan；butthesunwasgone，Anddeepthestarsofmidnightshone，EreBalenpassedaway。
Andtherelowlying，ashouronhourFled，allhislifeinallitsflowerCamebackasinasunlitshowerOfdreams，whensweet-souledsleephaspowerOnlifelesssweetandgladtobe。
Hedrankthedraughtoflife’sfirstwineAgain：hesawthemoorlandshine，TheriotingrapidsoftheTyne，Thewoods，thecliffs，thesea。
Thejoythatlivesatheartandhome，Thejoytorest，thejoytoroam，Thejoyofcragsandscaursheclomb，TheraptureoftheencounteringfoamEmbracedandbreastedoftheboy，Thefirstgoodsteedhiskneesbestrode，ThefirstwildsoundofsongsthatflowedThroughearsthatthrilledandheartthatglowed，Fulfilledhisdeathwithjoy。
So，dyingnotasacowardthatdiesAnddaresnotlookindeath’sdimeyesStraightasthestarsonseasandskiesWhencemoonandsunrecoilandrise，Helookedonlifeanddeath，andslept。
AndtherewithmorningMerlincame，AndonthetombthattoldtheirfameHewrotebyBalan’sBalen’sname，Andgazedthereon，andwept。
ForallhisheartwithinhimyearnedWithpitylikeasfirethatburned。
ThefatehisfatefuleyediscernedFaroffnowdimmedit，ereheturnedHisfacetowardCamelot，totellArthurofallthestormsthatwokeRoundBalen，andthedolorousstroke，AndhowthatlastblindbattlebrokeTheconsummatedspell。
"Alas，"KingArthursaid，"thisdayIhaveheardtheworstthatwoemightsay：
ForinthisworldthatwanesawayIknownottwosuchknightsasthey。"
ThisisthetalethatmemorywritesOfmenwhosenameslikestarsshallstand，BalenandBalan，sureofhand，TwobrethrenofNorthumberland，Inlifeanddeathgoodknights。
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