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154 MOONFOLK.
the shore, wherein were the three queens who were his
friends and sisters; and that he, with them, sailed away
and away to the Island of Avilion, which lies within the
splendors of the moon.
Under the sculptured gateway and through the great
court rode the knights and ladies.
They dismounted at
the wide open doors of the palace, beside which stood
armed warders, their weapons lowered respectfully in
presence of the king. Sir Percivale lifted Rhoda from
his horse, and taking her by the hand, led her forward
into the hall, saying pleasantly
:
" Come then, little one, thou shalt be my fair lady
for this day, and evening, if thou wilt, for there is to be
a feast, and after that music and dancing. Every knight
is mated with a lady who is to be his chief companion and
charge throughout the whole.
Wilt thou honor me so
far?"
" Thank you, sir," replied Rhoda timidly ;
" if the
king is willing, I shall be very happy
to sit with
you."
" "Well said, my little maid. The king first always;
though much 1 marvel that thou so soon hast learned
"
our ways. And what may I call thee ?
" Rhoda, if
you please, sir."
" Rhoda ? That means a rose, and thou shalt bestow
upon me a rose from out this vase, and I, wearing it,
shall show to all men that I and none other am thy
chosen knight."