He held a letter in
his hand which he gave to the king, who took it. The king had it
read in the hearing of all by one who made no mistake in reading
it. The reader knew full well how to communicate to them what
was written in the parchment: he says that Lancelot sends
greetings to the king as his kind lord, and thanks him for the
honour and kindness he has shown him, and that he now places
himself at the king's orders. And know that he is now hale and
hearty at King Arthur's court, and he bids him tell the Queen to
come thither, if she will consent, in company with my lord Gawain
and Kay. In proof of which, he affixed his signature which they
should recognise, as indeed they did. At this they were very
happy and glad; the whole court resounds with their jubilation,
and they say they will start next day as soon as it is light.
So, when the day broke, they make ready and prepare: they rise
and mount and start. With great joy and jubilee the king escorts
them for a long distance on their way. When he has conducted
them to the frontier and has seen them safely across the border,
he takes leave of the Queen, and likewise of all the rest. And
when he comes to take his leave, the Queen is careful to express
her gratitude for all the kindness he has shown to her, and
throwing her arms about his neck, she offers and promises him her
own service and that of her lord: no greater promise can she
make.
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