DEDICATION
TOMYMOTHER
Lovethatholdslifeanddeathinfee，DeepastheclearunsoundedseaAndsweetaslifeordeathcanbe，Laysheremyhope，myheart，andmeBeforeyou，silent，inasong。
Sincetheoldwildtale，madenew，foundgrace，Whenhalfsungthrough，beforeyourface，Itneedsmustliveaspringtidespace，WhileAprilsunsgrowstrong。
March24，1896。
THETALEOFBALEN
Inhawthorn-timetheheartgrowslight，Theworldissweetinsoundandsight，Gladthoughtsandbirdstakeflowerandflight，Theheatherkindlestowardthelight，Thewhinisfrankincenseandflame。
AndbeitforstrifeorbeitforloveThefalconquickensasthedoveWhenearthistouchedfromheavenaboveWithjoythatknowsnoname。
AndgladinspiritandsadinsoulWithdreamanddoubtofdaysthatrollAswavesthatraceandfindnogoalRodeonbybushandbrakeandboleAnorthernchildofearthandsea。
TheprideoflifebeforehimlayRadiant：theheavensofnightanddayShonelessthanshonebeforehiswayHiswaysanddaystobe。
AndallhislifeofbloodandbreathSangoutwithinhim：timeanddeathWereevenaswordsadreamersaithWhensleepwithinhimslackeneth，Andlightandlifeandspringwereone。
Thesteedbetweenhiskneesthatsprang，Themoorsandwoodsthatshoneandsang，Thehourswherethroughthespring’sbreathrang，Seemedagelessasthesun。
ButalwaythroughthebounteousbloomThatearthgivesthanksifheavenillumeHissoulforefeltashadowofdoom，HisheartforeknewagloomiergloomThanclosesallmen’sequalways，Albeitthespiritoflife’slightspringWithprideofheartupheldhim，kingAndlordofhourslikesnakesthatstingAndnightsthatdarkendays。
AndasthestrongspringroundhimgrewStronger，andallblithewindsthatblewBlither，andflowersthatfloweredanewMoregladofsunandairanddew，TheshadowlightenedonhissoulAndbrightenedintodeathanddiedLikewinter，asthebloomwaxedwideFromwoodsideontoriversideAndsouthwardgoaltogoal。
AlongthewanderingwaysofTyne，BybeechandbirchandthornthatshineAndlaughwhenlife’srequickeningwineMakesnightandnoonanddawndivineAndstirsinalltheveinsofspring，AndpastthebrighteningbanksofTees，HerodeasonethatbreathesandseesAsunmoreblithe，amerrierbreeze，Alifethathailshimking。
AnddownthesofteningsouththatknowsNomorehowgladtheheatherglows，Norhow，whenwinter’sclarionblowsAcrossthebrightNorthumbriansnows，Sea-mistsfromeastandwestwardmeet，PastAvonsenselessyetofsongAndThamesthatborebutswansinthrongHerodeelateinheartandstrongIntrustofdaysassweet。
SocamehethroughtoCamelot，Glad，thoughforshamehisheartwaxedhot，ForhopewithinitwitherednotToseetheshaftitdreamedofshotFairtowardtheglimmeringgoaloffame，AndallKingArthur’sknightliestthereApprovedhimknightly，swifttodareAndkeentobidtheirrecordsbearSirBalen’snorthernname。
SirBalenofNorthumberlandGatgracebeforethekingtostandHighashisheartwas，andhishandWroughthonourtowardthestrangenorthstrandThatsenthimsouthsogoodlyaknight。
Andenvy，sickwithsenseofsin，BeganaspoisonousherbsbeginToworkinbasemen’sblood，akinTomen’sofnoblermight。
Andevensofellitthathisdoom，Forallhisbrightlife’skindlingbloomAndlightthattooknothoughtforgloom，FellasabreathfromtheopeningtombFullonhimerehewistorthought。
Foronceachurlofroyalseed，KingArthur’skinsman，faintindeedAndloudinwordthatknewnotheed，Spakeshamewhereshamewasnought。
\"WhatdothonehereinCamelotWhosebirthwasnorthward？WotwenotAsallhisbrethrenbordererswotHowblindofheart，howkeenandhot，Thewildnorthlivesandhatesthesouth？
MenofthenarrowingmarchthatknowsNoughtsavethestrengthofstormsandsnows，WhatwouldthesecarleswhereknighthoodblowsAtrumpofkinglikemouth？\"
SwiftfromhisplaceleaptBalen，smoteTheliaracrosshisface，andwroteHiswrathinblooduponthebloatBrutecheekthatchallengedshamefornoteHowvileaking-bornknavemightbe。
Forthsprangtheirswords，andBalenslewTheknaveerewellonewitnessknewOfallthatroundthemstoodordrewWhatsightwastheretosee。
Thenspakethegreatking’swrathfulwillAdoomforsixdarkmonthstofillWhereincloseprisonheldhim，stillAndsteadfast-souledforgoodorill。
ButwhenthosewearydayslaydeadHislordliestknightsandbaronsspakeBeforethekingforBalen’ssakeGoodspeechandwise，offorcetobreakThebondsthatbowedhishead。
II
Inlinden-timetheheartishighForprideofsummerpassingbyWithlordlylaughterinhereye；
AheavysplendourintheskyUpliftsandbowsitdownagain。
ThespringhadwanedfromwoodandwoldSinceBalenlefthisprisonholdAndlowlier-heartedthanofoldBehelditwaxandwane。
ThoughhumbleheartandpoorarrayKeptnotfromspiritandsenseawayTheirnoblenature，norcouldslayThepridetheybadebutpauseandstayTilltimeshouldbringitstrusttoflower，Yetevenfornobleshame’ssake，bornOfhopethatsmiledonhateandscorn，HeheldhimstillaseartheremornRingforthherrapturoushour。
ButevenasearthwhendawntakesflightAndbeatsherwingsofdewylightFullinthefalteringfaceofnight，HissoulawoketoclaimbyrightThelifeanddeathofdeedanddoom，WhenoncebeforethekingtherecameAmaidencladwithgriefandshameAndanguishburningherlikeflameThatfeedsonflowersinbloom。
Beneatharoyalmantle，fairWithgoodlyworkoflustrousvair，GirtfastagainsthersideshebareAswordwhoseweightbadeallmenthereQuailtobeholdherfaceagain。
SaveofapassingperfectknightNotgreataloneinforceandfightItmightnotbeforanymightDrawnforth，andendherpain。
Sosaidshe：thenKingArthurspake：
\"AlbeitindeedIdarenottakeSuchpraiseonme，forknighthood’ssakeAndloveofladieswillImakeAssayifbetternonemaybe。\"
BygirdleandbysheathhecaughtThesheathedandgirdedsword，andwroughtWithstrengthwhoseforceavailedhimnoughtTosaveandsetherfree。
Againshespake：\"NoneedtosetThemightthatmanhasmatchednotyetAgainstit：hewhosehandshallgetGracetoreleasethebondsthatfretMybosomandmygirdlesteadWithlittlestrainofstrengthorstrifeShallbringmeasfromdeathtolifeAndwintosisterortowifeFamethatoutlivesmendead。\"
ThenbadethekinghisknightsassayThismysterythatbeforehimlayAndmockedhismightofmanhood。\"Nay，\"
Quothshe，\"themanthattakesawayThisburdenlaidonmemustbeAknightofrecordcleanandfairAssunlightandtheflowerfulair，BysireandmotherborntobearAnametoshamenotme。\"
ThenforthstrodeLauncelot，andlaidThemighty-mouldedhandthatmadeStrongknightsreelbacklikebirdsaffrayedBystormthatsmotethemastheystrayedAgainstthehiltthatyieldednot。
ThenTristram，brightandsadandkindAsonethatboreinnoblemindLovethatmadelightasdarknessblind，FaredevenasLauncelot。
ThenLamoracke，withhardiercheer，AsonethatheldallhopeandfearWherethroughthespiritofmanmaysteerInlifeanddeathlessdarkordear，Laidhandthereon，andfaredasthey。
WithhalfasmilehishandhedrewBackfromthespell-boundthing，andthrewWithhalfaglancehisheartanewTowardnosuchblamelessmay。
BetweenIseultandGuenevereSatoneofnameashightohear，ButdarklierdoomedthantheywhosecheerForeshowednotyetthedeadlieryearThatbidsthequeenliestheadbowdown，ThequeenMorgauseofOrkney：theyWithscarceaflashoftheeyecouldsayTheverywordofdawn，whendayGivesearthandheaventheircrown。
ButbrightanddarkasnightornoonAndloweringasastorm-flushedmoonWhencloudsandthwartingwindsdistuneThemusicofthemidnight，soonTodiefromdarkeningstartostarAndleaveasilenceintheskiesThatyearnstilldawnfindvoiceandrise，ShonestrangeasfateMorgause，witheyesThatdweltondaysafar。
AglancethatshotonLamorackeAsfromastorm-cloudbrightandblack。
Fireswiftandblindasdeath’sowntrackTurnedfleetasflameonArthurbackFromhimwhosehandforsookthehilt：
AndoneinbloodandoneinsinTheirheartscaughtfireofpainwithinAndknewnogoalforthemtowinButdeaththatguerdonsguilt。
ThenGawain，sweetofsoulandgayAsAprilerehedreamsofMay，Strove，andprevailednot：thenSirKay，Thesnake-souledenvier，vileastheyThatfawnandfoamandlurkandlie，SireofthebastardbandwhosebroodWasalwayfoundatservilefeudWithhonour，faintandfalseandlewd，Scarcegraspedandputitby。
ThenweptforwoethedamselboundWithironandwithanguishround，ThatnonetohelphergriefwasfoundOrloosetheinextricablyinwoundGrimcursethatgirtherlifewithgriefAndmadeaburdenofherbreath，Harshasthebitternessofdeath。
ThenspakethekingasonethatsaithWordsbitterereventhanbrief。
\"MethoughtthewideroundworldcouldbringBeforethefaceofqueenorkingNoknightsmorefitforfametosingThanfillthisfullRoundTable’sringWithhonourhigherthanprideofplace：
Butnowmyheartiswrungtoknow，Damsel，thatnonewhomfamecanshowFindsgracetohealorhelpthywoe：
Godgivesthemnotthegrace。\"
Thenfromthelowliestplacethereby，Withheart-enkindledcheekandeyeMostlikethestarandkindlingskyThatsaythesundawn’shourishighWhenrapturetremblesthroughthesea，StrodeBaleninhispoorarrayForth，andtookheartofgracetoprayThedamselsufferevenhimtoassayHispowertosetherfree。
Nay，howshouldheavail，shesaid，Aversewithscorn-avertedhead，Wheretheseavailednot？nonehadspedOfallthesemightiermenthatledThelistswhereinhemightnotride，Andhowshouldlessmenspeed？Buthe，Withlordlierprideofcourtesy，PutforthhishandandsetherfreeFrompainandhumbledpride。
ButontheswordhegazedelateWithhopesethigherthanfearorfate，Ordoubtofdarklingdaysinwait；
AndwhenherthankfulpraisewaxedgreatAndcravedofhimtheswordagain，Hewouldnotgiveit。\"Nay，formineItistillforcemaymakeitthine。\"
AsmilethatshoneasdeathmayshineSpaketowardhimbaleandbane。
Strangelightningflickeredfromhereyes。
\"GentleandgoodinknightliestguiseAndmeetforquestofstrangeempriseThouhasthereapprovedthee：yetnotwiseTokeeptheswordfromme，Iwis。
ForwithitthoushaltsurelyslayOfallthatlookuponthedayThemanbestlovedofthee，andlayThineownlifedownforhis。\"
\"WhatchanceGodsends，thatchanceItake，\"
Hesaid。Thensoftandstillshespake；
\"IwouldbutforthineonlysakeHavebacktheswordofthee，andbreakThelinksofdoomthatbindtheeround。
Butseeingthouwiltnothaveitso，Myheartforthineiswrungwithwoe。\"
\"God’swill，\"quothhe，\"itis，weknow，Wherewithourlivesarebound。\"
\"Repentitmustthousoon，\"shesaid，\"WhowouldstnotheartheredeIreadForthineandnotformysake，spedInvainaswatersheavenwardshedFromspringsthatfalteranddepartEarthward。GodbidsnottheebelieveTruth，andthewebthylifemustweaveForeventhisswordtocloseandcleaveHangsheavyroundmyheart。\"
Sopassedshemourningforth。Buthe，WithheartofspringinghopesetfreeAsbirdsthatbreastandbravethesea，BadehorseandarmsandarmourbeMadestraightwayreadytowardthefray。
NorevenmightArthur’sroyalprayerWithholdhim，butwithfrankandfairThanksgivingandleave-takingthereHeturnedhimthenceaway。
III
Astheeastwind，whenthemorning’sbreastGleamslikeabird’sthatleavesthenest，Afledgelinghalcyon’sboundonquest，DriveswaveonwaveonwavetowestTillalltheseabelifeandlight，Sotime’smutebreath，thatbringstobloomAllflowersthatstrewthedeadspring’stomb，DrivesdayondayondaytodoomTillallman’sdaybenight。
BriefasthebreakingofawaveThathurlsonmanhisthunderousgraveErefearfindbreathtocryorcraveLifethatnochancemayspareorsave，ThelightofjoyandgloryshoneEvenasindreamswheredeathseemsdeadRoundBalen’shope-exaltedhead，Shone，passed，andlightenedasitfledTheshadowofdoomthereon。
Forasheboundhimthencetofare，BeforethestatelypresencethereAladylikeawindflowerfair，GirtonwithraimentstrangeandrareThatrippledwhisperingroundher，came。
Herclearcoldeyes，allglassygrey，SeemedlitnotwiththelightofdayButtouchedwithgleamsthatwanedawayOfquelledandfadingflame。
Beforethekingshebowedandspake：
\"King，forthineoldfaith’splightedsakeTometheladyofthelake，IcomeintrustoftheetotakeTheguerdonofthegiftIgave，ThyswordExcalibur。\"AndheMadeanswer：\"Beitwhate’eritbe，Ifminetogive，Igiveitthee，Norneedisthinetocrave。\"
AswhenagleamofwickedlightTurnshalfalow-lyingwaterbrightThatmoansbeneaththeshiveringnightWithsenseofevilsoundandsightAndwhisperingwitchcraft’sbatedbreath，Herwanfacequickenedasshesaid：
\"Thisknightthatwonthesword——hisheadIcraveorhersthatbroughtit。Dead，Letthesebeoneindeath。\"
\"Notwithminehonourthismaybe；
Askallsavethisthouwilt，\"quothhe，\"Andhavethyfulldesire。\"ButsheMadeanswer：\"NoughtwillIofthee，Noughtifnotthis。\"ThenBalenturned，AndsawthesorceresshardbesideBywhosefellcrafthismotherdied：
Threeyearshehadsoughther，andhereespiedHisheartagainstheryearned。
\"Illbethoumet，\"hesaid，\"whoseireWouldslakewithbloodthysoul’sdesire：
Bytheemymotherdiedinfire；
Diethoubymeadeathlessdire。\"
Sharpflashedhisswordforth，fleetasflame，Andshoreawayhersorceroushead。
\"Alasforshame，\"thehighkingsaid，\"Thatonefoundoncemyfriendliesdead；
Alasforallourshame！
\"Thoushouldsthavehereforborneher；yea，WereallthewrongsthatbidmenslayThine，heapedtoohighforwrathtoweigh，NotherebeforemyfacetodayWasthinetherighttowreakthywrong。\"
StillstoodhethenasonethatfoundHisroseofhopebystormdiscrowned，AndallthejoythatgirthimroundBriefasabrokensong。
Yeterehepassedheturnedandspake：
\"King，onlyforthynoblersakeThanaughtofpowerman’spowermaytakeOrprideofplacethatpridemaybreakIbidthelordliermaninthee，Thatliveswithintheking，giveear。
ThisjusticedonebeforetheehereOnonethathell’sownheartholdsdear，Needsmightnotthisbutbe。
\"Albeit，forallthatpridewouldprove，Myheartbewrungtolosethylove，Ityetrepentsmenothereof：
Somanyaneagleandmanyadove，Somanyaknight，somanyamay，Thiswater-snakeofpoisonoustongueTodeathbywordsandwileshathstung，Thathertheirslayer，fromhell’slakesprung，Ididnotilltoslay。\"
\"Yea，\"saidtheking，\"toohighofheartTostandbeforeakingthouart；
YetirksitmetobidtheepartAndtakethypenanceforthypart，ThatGodmayputuponthypride。\"
ThenBalentooktheseveredheadAndtowardhishostryturnedandspedAsonethatknewnotquickfromdeadNorgoodfromeviltide。
HebadehissquirebeforehimstandAndtakethatsanguinespoilinhandAndbearitfarbyshoreandstrandTillallingladNorthumberlandThatlovedhim，seeingit，allmightknowHisdeadliestfoewasdead，andhearHowfreefromprisonasfromfearHedweltintrustoftheansweringyearTobringhimwealforwoe。
\"Andtellthem，nowItakemywayTomeetinbattle，ifImay，KingRyonsofNorthWales，andslayThatkingofkerneswhosefieryswayDothallthemarchesdiredespiteThatserveKingArthur：soshallheAgainbegraciouslordtome，AndIthatleavetheemeetwiththeeOncemoreinArthur’ssight。\"
Sospakeheeretheyparted，norTookshameorfeartocounsellor，Asonewhomnonelaidambushfor；
AndwistnothowSirLaunceor，Thewildking’ssonofIreland，hotAndhighinwrathtoknowthatoneStoodhigherinfamebeforethesun，EvenBalen，sincetheswordwaswon，DrewnighfromCamelot。
Forthence，inheatofhateandpride，Asonethatmanmightbidnotbide，Hecravedthehighking’sgracetorideOnquestofBalenfarandwideAndwreakthewronghiswrathhadwrought。
\"Yea，\"Arthursaid，\"forsuchdespiteWasdonemeneverinmysightAsthisthinehandshallnowrequiteIftrustavailusaught。\"
Buterehepassed，ineagermoodTofeedhishatewithbitterfood，Beforetheking’sfaceMerlinstoodAndheardhistaleofillandgood，OfBalen，andtheswordachieved，Andwhenceitsmoteasheaven’sredireThatdirefuldameofdoomasdire；
Andhowtheking’swrathturnedtofireThegriefwherewithhegrieved。
Anddarkeningashegaveitear，ThestillfaceofthesacredseerWaxedwanwithwrathandnotwithfear，AndeverchangeditscloudiercheerTillallhisfacewasverynight。
\"Thisdamoselthatbroughtthesword，\"
Hesaid，\"beforethekingmylord，Andalltheseknightsabouthisboard，Hathdonethemalldespite。
\"ThefalsestdamoselsheisThatworksmenillonearth，Iwis，Andallhermindistowardbutthis，TokillaswithalyingkissTruth，andthelifeofnobletrust。
Abrotherhathshe，——seebutnowTheflameofshamethatbrandsherbrow！-
Atrueman，pureasfaith’sownvow，Whosehonourknowsnotrust。
\"ThisgoodknightfoundwithinherbowerAfelonandherparamour，Andslewhiminhisshamefulhour，AsrightgavemightandrighteouspowerTohandsthatwreakedsofoulawrong。
Then，forthehateherheartputon，ShesoughtbywayswheredeathhadgoneTheladyLyleofAvalon，Whosecraftsarestrangeandstrong。
\"Thesorceress，onewithherinthought，Gaveherthatswordofmagic，wroughtBycharmswhereofsweetheavenseesnought，ThathithergirtonhershebroughtTobebydoomherbrother’sbane。
AndgriefitistothinkhowheThatwonit，beingofheartsofreeAndperfectfoundinchivalry，Shallbythatswordlieslain。
GreatpityitisandstrangedespiteThatonewhoseeyesarestarstolightHonour，andshineasheaven’sownheight，Shouldperish，beingthegoodliestknightThateventheall-gloriousnorthhasborne。
NorshallmylordthekingbeholdAlordlierfriendofmightiermouldThanBalen，thoughhistalebetoldErenoonfulfilhismorn。\"
IV
AsmorninghearsbeforeitrunThemusicofthemountingsun，AndlaughstowatchhistrophieswonFromdarkness，andherhostsundone，Andallthenightbecomeabreath，NordreamsthatfearshouldhearandfleeThesummermenaceofthesea，Sohearsourhopewhatlifemaybe，Andknowsitnotfordeath。
EachdaythatslaysitshoursanddiesWeeps，laughs，andlightensonoureyes，Andseesandhearsnot：smilesandsighsAsflowersephemeralfallandriseAboutitsbirth，aboutitsway，Andpassasloveandsorrowpass，Asshadowsflashingdownaglass，Asdew-flowersblowinginflowerlessgrass，Ashopefromyesterday。
TheblossomofthesunnydewThatnowthestrongersunstrikesthroughFadesoffthebladewhereonitblewNofleetlierthantheflowersthatgrewOnhope’sgreensteminlife’sfiercelight。
NormighttheglorysoontositAwhileonBalen’screstalitOutshinetheshadowofdoomonitOrstaydeath’swingsfromflight。
DawnonagoldenmoorlandsideByholtandheathsawBalenrideAndLaunceorafter，prickedwithprideAndstungwithspurringenvy：wideAndfarhehadriddenathwartstrangelandsAndsoughtamissthemanhefoundAndcriedon，tillthestormysoundRangasarallyingtrumpetroundThatfiresmen’sheartsandhands。
Abidehebadehim：norwasneedTobidwhenBalenwheeledhissteedFiercely，lessfainbywordthandeedTobidhisenvierevilspeed，Andcried，\"Whatwiltthouwithme？\"LoudRangLaunceor’svehementanswer：\"Knight，ToavengeontheethediredespiteThouhastdoneusallinArthur’ssightIstandtowardArthurvowed。\"
\"Ay？\"Balensaid：\"albeitIseeIneedsmustdealinstrifewiththee，Lightisthewytethoulayestonme；
ForherIslewandsinnednot，sheWasdireinallmen’seyesasdeath，OrnonewerelotherfoundthanI
Bymetobidawomandie：
Asliefwereloyalmentolie，Orscornwhathonoursaith。\"
Asthearchedwave’sweightagainstthereefHurls，andishurledbacklikealeafStorm-shrivelled，anditsrageofgriefSpeaksalltheloudbroadseainbrief，Andquellsthehearkeningheartsofmen，OrasthecrashofoverfallsDownunderbluesmoothwaterbrawlsLikejarringsteelonruiningwalls，Sorangtheirmeetingthen。
Aswaveonwaveshocks，andconfoundsTheboundingbulkwhereonitboundsAndbreaksandshatteringseawardsoundsAscryingoftheoldsea’swolvesandhoundsThatmoanandravinandrageandwail，SosteedonsteedencounteringsheerShocked，andthestrengthofLaunceor’sspearShiveredonBalen’sshield，andfearBadehopewithinhimquail。
ButBalen’sspearthroughLaunceor’sshieldCloveasaploughsharecleavesthefieldAndpiercedthehauberktriple-steeled，Thathorsewithhorsemanstrickenreeled，Andasastorm-breachedrockfalls，fell。
AndBalenturnedhishorseagainAndwistnotyethisfoelayslain，AndsawhimdeadthatsoughthisbaneAndwroughtandfarednotwell。
Suddenly，whilehegazedandstood，Andmusedinmany-mindedmoodIflifeordeathwereevilorgood，ForthofacovertofawoodThatskirtedhalfthemoorlandleaFastrodeamaidenflower-likewhiteFulltowardthatfairwildplaceoffight，AnhungeredofthewofulsightGodgavehertheretosee。
Andseeingthemantherefallenanddead，ShecriedagainstthesunthatshedLightonthelivingworld，andsaid，\"OBalen，slayerwhosehandisred，Twobodiesandoneheartthouhastslain，Twoheartswithinonebody：aye，Twosoulsthouhastlost；bytheetheydie，CastoutofsightofearthandskyAndallthatmadethemfain。\"
Andfromthedeadhisswordshecaught，Andfellintrancethatwistofnought，Swooning：butsoftlyBalensoughtTowinfromhertheswordshethoughtTodieon，dyingbyLaunceor’sside。
AgainherwakeningwailoutbrokeAswildly，swordinhand，shewokeAndstruckoneswiftandbitterstrokeThathealedher，andshedied。
Andsorrowingfortheirstrangelove’ssakeRodeBalenforthbylawnandlake，Bymoorandmossandbriarandbrake，AndinhishearttheirsorrowspakeWhoselipsweredumbasdeath，andsaidMutewordsofpresageblindandvainAsrain-starsblurredandmarredbyrainTowanderersonamoonlessmainWherenightanddayseemdead。
ThentowardasunbrightwildwoodsideHelookedandsawbeneathitrideAknightwhosearmsafarespiedBynoteofnameandproofofprideBarewitnessofhisbrotherborn，HisbrotherBalan，hardathand，TwinflowerofbrightNorthumberland，Twinsea-birdoftheirloudsea-strand，Twinsong-birdoftheirmorn。
AhthenfromBalenpassedawayAlldreadofnight，alldoubtofday，Allcarewhatlifeordeathmightsay，AllthoughtofallworsemonthsthanMay：
OnlythemightofjoyinloveBrakeforthwithinhimasafire，AnddeepdelightindeepdesireOffar-flowndayswhosefull-souledquireRangroundfromtheairabove。
FromchoralearthandquiringairRangmemorieswingedlikesongsthatbearSweetgiftsforspiritandsensetoshare：
Fornoman’slifeknowslovemorefairAndfruitfulofmemorialthingsThanthisthedeepdearlovethatbreaksWithsenseoflifeonlife，andmakesThesundawnsunnierasitwakesWheremorningrounditrings。
\"Obrother，Omybrother！\"criedEachuponeach，andcastasideTheirhelmsunbracedthatmightnothideFromsightofmemorysingle-eyedThelikenessgravenoffaceandface，AndkissedandweptuponeachotherForjoyandpityofeitherbrother，Andloveengraftedbysireandmother，God’snaturalgiftofgrace。
AndeachwitheachtookcounselmeetForcomfort，makingsorrowsweet，Andgriefagoodlythingtogreet：
AndwordfromwordleaptlightandfleetTillalltheventuroustalewastold，AndhowinBalen’shopeitlayTomeetthewildWelshkingandslay，AndwinfromArthurbackforpayThegracehegaveofold。
\"AndthitherwillnotthouwithmeAndwinasgreatagraceforthee？\"
\"ThatwillIwell，\"quothBalan：\"weWillcleavetogether，boundandfree，Asbrethrenshould，beingtwainandone。\"
ButeretheypartedthencetherecameAcreaturewitheredaswithflame，Adwarfmismadeinnature’sshame，Betweenthemandthesun。
AndridingfleetasfiremayglideHefoundthedeadliesidebyside，Andwailedandrenthishairandcried，\"Whohathdonethisdeed？\"AndBaleneyedThestrangethingloathfully，andsaid，\"TheknightIslew，whofoundhimfainAndkeentoslayme：seeinghimslain，ThemaidIsoughttosaveinvain，Self-stricken，hereliesdead。
\"Soregriefwasminetoseeherdie，Andforhertruefaith’ssakeshallI
Love，andwithloveofheartmorehigh，AllwomenbettertillIdie。\"
\"Alas，\"thedwarfsaid，\"illfortheeInevilhourthisdeedwasdone：
FornowthequestshallbebegunAgainstthee，fromthedawningsunEventothesunsetsea。
\"Fromshoretomountain，dawntonight，ThekinsfolkofthisgreatdeadknightWillchasetheetothydeath。\"AlightOfswiftblithescornflashedanswerbrightAsfirefromBalen’seye。\"Forthat，Smallfearshallfretmyheart，\"quothhe：
\"ButthatmylordthekingshouldbeForthisdeadman’ssakewrothwithme，Weepmightitwellthereat。\"
Thenmurmuringpassedthedwarfaway，AndtowardtheknightsinfairarrayCameridingeastwardupthewayFromwheretheflower-softlowlandslayAkingwhosenamethesweetsouth-westHeldhighinhonour，andthelandThatbowedbeneathhisgentlehandWoreonitswildbrightnorthernstrandTintagelforacrest。
AndBalenhailedwithhomagedueKingMarkofCornwall，whenheknewThepennonthatbeforehimflew：
AndforthoseloversdeadandtrueThekingmademoantoheartheirdoom；
Andfortheirsorrow’ssakeheswareToseekinallthemarchesthereThechurchthatmanmightfindmostfairAndbuildthereintheirtomb。
V
Asthoughtfromthoughttakeswingandflies，AsmonthonmonthwithsunliteyesTramplesandtriumphsinitsrise，Aswavesmiteswavetodeathanddies，SochanceonhurtlingchancelikesteelStrikes，flashes，andisquenched，erefearCanwhisperhope，orhopecanhear，IfsorroworjoybefarornearFortimetohurtorheal。
SwiftasashadowandstrangeaslightThatcleavesintwaintheshadowofnightBeforethewide-wingedwordtakesflightThatthunderspeakstodepthandheightAndquellsthequiethourwithsound，TherecamebeforeKingMarkandstoodBetweenthemoorsideandthewoodThemanwhosewordGod’swillmadegood，Norguilewasinitfound。
AndMerlinsaidtoBalen：\"Lo，ThouhastwroughtthyselfagrievouswoeToletthisladydie，andknowThoumightsthavestayedherdeadlyblow。\"
AndBalenansweredhimandsaid，\"Nay，bymytruthtofaith，notI，Sofiercelyfainshewastodie；
Erewellherswordhadflashedonhigh，Self-slainshelaytheredead。\"
AgainandsadlyMerlinspake：
\"Myheartiswrungforthisdeed’ssake，ToknowtheethereforedoomedtotakeUponthinehandacurse，andmakeThreekingdomspinethroughtwelveyears’change，Inwantandwoe：forthoushaltsmiteThemanmostnobleandtruestknightThatlooksupontheliveworld’slightAdolorousstrokeandstrange。
\"AndnottillyearsshallroundtheirgoalMaythisman’swoundthouhastgivenbewhole。\"
AndBalen，strickenthroughthesoulBydark-wingedwordsofdoomanddole，Madeanswer：\"IfIwistitwereNoliebutsooththousayestofme，TheneventomakealiaroftheeWouldItooslaymyself，andseeHowdeathbidsdeadmenfare。\"
AndMerlintookhisleaveandpassedAndwasnot：andtheshadowasfastWentwithhimthathiswordhadcast，Toofleetforthoughtthereoftolast：
AndtherethosebrethrenbadeKingMarkFarewell：butfainwouldMarkhaveknownThestrongknight’snamewhohadoverthrownTheprideofLaunceor，whenitshoneBrightasitnowlaydark。
AndBalanforhisbrotherspake，Saying：\"Sir，albeithimlistnotbreakThesealofsecrettime，norshakeNightoffhimerehismorningwake，BythesetwoswordsheisgirtwithalMaymenthatpraisehim，knightsandlords，Callhimtheknightthatbearstwoswords，AndallthepraisehisfameaccordsMakeanswerwhentheycall。\"
Sopartedtheytowardeventide；
Andtendertwilight，heavy-eyed，SawdeepdownglimmeringwoodlandsrideBalenandBalansidebyside，TillwheretheleavesgrewdenseanddimAgaintheyspiedfromfardrawnearThepresenceofthesacredseer，ButsodisguisedandstrangeofcheerThatseeingtheyknewnothim。
\"Nowwhitherrideye，\"Merlinsaid，\"Throughshadowsthatthesunstrikesred，Erenightbebornordaybedead？\"
Butthey，fordoubthalftouchedwithdread，Wouldsaynotwheretheirgoalmightlie。
\"Andthou，\"saidBalen，\"whatartthou，Towalkwithshroudedeyeandbrow？\"
Hesaid：\"MelistsnotshowtheenowBynamewhatmanamI。\"
\"Illseenisthisofthee，\"saidthey，\"ThatthouarttrueinwordandwayNorfaintofearthefaceofday，WhowiltnotasatruemansayThenameitshamesnothimtobear。\"
Heanswered：\"Beitorbeitnotso，YetwhyyeridethiswayIknow，TomeetKingRyonsasafoe，Andhowyourhopeshallfare。
\"Well，ifyehearkentowardmyrede，Ill，ifyehearnot，shallyespeed。\"
\"Ah，now，\"theycried，\"thouartoursatneedWhatMerlinsaithwearefaintoheed。\"
\"Greatworshipshallyewin，\"saidhe，\"Andlookthatyedoknightlynow，Forgreatshallbeyourneed，Itrow。\"
AndBalensmiled：\"Byknighthood’svow，Thebestwemaywillwe。\"
ThenMerlinbadethemturnandtakeRest，fortheirgoodsteeds’wearysake，Betweenthehighwayandthebrake，Tillstarrymidnightbadethemwake：
Then\"Rise，\"hesaid，\"thekingisnigh，WhohathstolenfromallhishostawayWiththreescorehorseinarmedarray，ThegoodliestknightsthatbearhisswayAndholdhiskingdomhigh。
\"AndtwentyrideofthembeforeTobearhiserrand，erethedoorTurnofthenight，sealedfastnomore，Andsundawnbidthestarswaxhoar；
Forbythestarshineofto-nightHeseeksalemanwhereshewaitsHiscoming，darkandswiftasfate’s，AndhearkenstowardtheunopeninggatesThatyieldnothimtosight。
ThenthroughtheglimmeringgloomaroundAshadowysenseoflightandsoundMade，eretheproofthereofwerefound，Thebraveblitheheartswithinthembound，And\"Where，\"quothBalen，\"ridestheking？\"
Butsofterspaketheseer：\"Abide，Tillhithertowardyourspearsheride，WhereallthenarrowingwoodlandsideGrowsdensewithboughsthatcling。\"
ThereinthatstraiteningwaytheymetThewildWelshhostagainstthemset，Andsmotetheirstrongkingdown，ereyetHishurryinghordeofspearsmightgetFiercevantageofthem。ThenthefightGrewgreatandjoyousasitgrew，Forleftandrightthosebrethrenslew，TillallthelawnwaxedredwithdewMoredeepthandewsofnight。
AnderethefullfiercetalewasreadFullfortylaybeforethemdead，AndfastthehurtlingremnantfledAndwistnotwhitherfearhadled：
Andtowardthekingtheywentagain，Andwouldhaveslainhim：buthebowedBeforethem，cryinginfearaloudForgracetheygavehim，seeingtheproudWildkingbroughtlowestofmen。
AnderethewildwoodleaveswerestirredWithsongorwingofwakeningbird，InCamelotwasMerlin’swordWithjoyinjoyouswonderheardThattoldofArthur’sbitterestfoeDiskingdomedanddiscomfited。
\"Bywhom？\"thehighkingsmiledandsaid。
Heanswered：\"Erethedawnwaxred，To-morrowbidsyouknow。
\"TwoknightswhoseheartandhopeareoneAndfaintowinyourgracehavedoneThisworkwherebyifgracebewonTheirheartsshallhailtheenkindlingsunWithjoymorekeenanddeepthanday。\"
AnderethesundawndrankthedewThosebrethrenwiththeirprisonerdrewTotheouterguardtheygavehimtoAndpassedagainaway。
AndArthurcameastowardhisguestTogreethisfoe，andbadehimrestAsonereturnedfromnoblerquestAndwelcomefromthestormbrightwest，Butbywhatchancehefainwouldhear。
\"Thechancewashardandstrange，sirking，\"
QuothRyons，bowedinthanksgiving。
\"Whowonyou？\"Arthursaid：\"thethingIsworthawarrior’sear。\"
Thewildkingflushedwithprideandshame，Answering：\"IknownoteithernameOfthosethatthereagainstuscameAndwitheredallourstrengthlikeflame：
Theknightthatbearstwoswordsisone，Andonehisbrother：notonearthMaymenmeetmenofknightlierworthNormightierbornofmortalbirthThathailthesovereignsun。\"
AndArthursaid：\"IknowthemnotButmuchamIforthis，Godwet，Beholdentothem：LauncelotNorTristram，whenthewarwaxedhotAlongthemarcheseastandwest，Wroughtevernoblerworkthanthis。\"
\"Ah，\"Merlinsaid，\"sorepityitisAndstrangemischanceofdoom，Iwis，Thatdeathshouldmartheirquest。
\"Balen，theperfectknightthatwonTheswordwhosenameismalison，Andmadehisdeedhisdoom，isone：
NorhathhisbrotherBalandoneLessroyalservice：notonearthLivesthereanoblerknight，morestrongOfsoultowinmen’spraiseinsong，AlbeitthelightabidenotlongThatlightenedroundhisbirth。
\"Yea，andofallsadthingsIknowTheheaviestandthehighestinwoeIsthis，thedoomwhosedatebringslowToosoonintimelessoverthrowAheadsohigh，ahopesosure。
ThegreatestmoanforanyknightThateverwonfairfameinfightShallbeforBalen，seeinghismightMustnownotlongendure。\"
\"Alas，\"KingArthursaid，\"hehathshownSuchlovetome-wardthatthemoanMadeofhimshouldbeminealoneAboveallother，knowingitknownIhaveilldeserveditofhim。\"\"Nay，\"
SaidMerlin，\"heshalldoforyouMuchmore，whentimeshallbeanew，ThantimehathgivenhimchancetodoOrhopemaythinktosay。
\"ButnowmustbeyourpowerspurveyedTomeet，erenoonofmornbemadeTo-morrow，allthehostarrayedOfthiswildfoe’swildbrother，laidAroundagainstyou：seetoitwell，FornowIpartfromyou。\"Andsoon，Whensundawnslewthewitheringmoon，TwohostsweremettowintheboonWhosetaleisdeath’stotell。
AlordlytaleofknightsandlordsFordeathtotellbycountofswordsWhenwar’swildharpinallitschordsRangroyaltriumph，andthehordesOfhurtlingfoemenrockedandreeledAswaveswind-thwartedonthesea，Wastoldofallthattheremightbe，TillscarcemightbattlehearorseeThefortuneofthefield。
AndmanyaknightwonfamethatdayWheneventheserpentsoulofKayWaskindledtowardthefieryplayAsmightalion’sbeforprey，AndwonhimfamethatmightnotdieWithpassingofhisrancorousbreathButclungabouthislifeanddeathAsfirethatspeaksincloud，andsaithWhatstrongmenhearandfly。
AndgloriousworkswereArthur’sthere，Thatlitthebattle-darkenedair：
ButwhentheysawbeforethemfareLikestarsofstormtheknightthatbareTwoswordsabouthimgirtforfray，Balen，andBalanwithhim，thenStrongwondersmotethesoulsofmenIfheaven’sownhostorhell’sdeepdenHadsentthemforthtoslay。
Sokeentheyrodeacrossthefight，Sosharptheysmotetoleftandright，AndmadeofhurtlingdarknesslightWithlightningoftheirswords，tillflightAndfearbeforethemflewlikeflame，ThatArthur’sselfhadneverknown，Hesaid，sincefirsthisblastwasblown，SuchlordsofwarasthesealoneThatwhenceheknewnotcame。
ButwhilethefireofwarwaxedhotThewildkinghearkened，hearingnot，Throughstormofspearsandarrow-shot，ForsuccourtowardhimfromKingLotAndallhishostofsea-bornmen，Strongasthestrongstorm-bafflingbirdWhosecryroundOrkney’sheadlandsheardIsasthesea’sownsovereignwordThatmocksourmortalken。
ForMerlin’scraftofprophecy，Whowistthatoneoftwainmustdie，PutmightinhimtosaytherebyWhichheadshouldloseitscrown，andlieStricken，thoughlothheweretoknowThateitherlifeshouldwaneandfail；
YetmostmightArthur’sloveavail，AndstillwithsubtlytemperedtaleHiswileheldfastthefoe。
WithwovenwordsofmagicmightWhereinthesubtleshadowandlightChangedhopeandfeartillfeartookflight，HestayedKingLot’sfiercelustoffightTillallthewildWelshwarwasdrivenAsfoambeforethewindthatwakesWiththeall-awakeningsun，andbreaksStrongshipsthatruethemirthitmakesWhengracetoslayisgiven。
Andeverhotterlitandhigher，Asfirethatmeetsencounteringfire，WaxedinKingLothiskeendesireTobidrevengewithinhimtireOnArthur’sravagedfameandlife：
AcrossthewavesofwarbetweenFloatedandflashed，unseenandseen，ThelustrouslikenessofthequeenWhomshamehadsealedhiswife。
ButwhenthewofulwordwasbroughtThatwhilehetarried，doubtingnought，ThehopewaslostwhosegoalhesoughtAndallthefightheyearnedforfought，Hisheartwasrentforgriefandshame，AndhalfhishopewassetonflightTillwordwasgivenhimofaknightWhosaid：\"Theyarewearyandwornwithfight，Andwemorefreshthanflame。\"
AndbrightanddarkasnightanddayEreeitherfindtheunopeningwayClear，andforegotheunalteringsway，Thesadking’sfaceshone，frowning：\"Yea，IwouldthateveryknightofmineWoulddohispartasIshalldo，\"
Hesaid，\"tilldeathorlifeanewShalljudgebetweenusasisdueWithwiserdoomthanthine。\"
ThenthunderedalltheawakeningfieldWithcrashofhoststhatclashedandreeled，Bannertobanner，shieldtoshield，Andspeartosplinteringspear-shaft，steeledAsheartagainsthighheartofman，AshopeagainsthighhopeofknightTopluckthecrestandcrownoffightFromwar’sclenchedhandbystorm’swildlight，Forblessinggivenorban。
AllheartsofhearkeningmenthatheardThebantwin-bornwithblessing，stirredLikespringtidewaters，knewthewordWherebythesteedsofstormarespurredWithravenousrapturetodestroy，Andlaughedforloveofbattle，piercedWithpassionoftempestuousthirstAndhungeringhopetoassuageitfirstWithdraughtsofstormyjoy。
ButsheeraheadoftheirontideThatrockedandroaredfromsidetosideRodeasthelightning’slordmightrideKingLot，whoseheartwassettoabideAllperiloftheraginghour，AndallhishostofwarriorsbornWherelandsbywarringseasarewornWasonlybyhishandsupborneWhogavethemprideandpower。
Butasthesea’shandsmitestheshoreAndshattersallthestrengthsthatboreTheravageearthmaybearnomore，SosmotethehandofPellinoreCharging，aknightofArthur’schief，Andclovehisstrongsteed’sneckintwain，Andsmotehimsheerthroughbrowandbrain，Falling：andthereKingLotlayslain，Andknewnotwrathorgrief。
AndallthehostofOrkneyfled，Andmanyamother’ssonlaydead：
ButwhentheyraisedthestrickenheadWhenceprideandpowerandshamewerefledAndrageandanguishnowcastout，Andboreittowardakinglytomb，ThewifewhoselovehadwroughthisdoomCamethither，fairasmorning’sbloomAnddarkastwilight’sdoubt。
Andthereherfourstrongsonsandhis，GawainandGareth，GaherysAndAgravain，whosesword’ssharpkissWithsoundofhell’sownserpent’shissShouldonedayturnherlifetodeath，Stoodmourningwithher：butbytheseSeeingMordredasaseerthatsees，AnguishofterrorbentherkneesAndcaughthershudderingbreath。
ThesplendourofhersovereigneyesFlasheddarknessdeeperthantheskiesFeelorfearwhenthesunsetdiesOnhisthatfeltasmidnightriseTheirdoomuponthem，thereundoneByfaithinfearerethoughtcouldyieldAshadowysenseofdaysrevealed，Theravinofthefinalfield，Theterroroftheirson。
ForArthur’s，astheycaughtthelightThatsoughtanddurstnotseekhissight，Darkened，andallhisspirit’smightWitheredwithinhimevenasnightWitherswhensunrisethrillsthesea。
ButMordred’slightenedaswithfireThatsmotehismotherandhissireWithdarklingdoomanddeepdesireThatbadeitsdarknessbe。
AndheavierontheirheartstheweightSankofthefearthatbringsforthfate，ThebitterdoubtwhosewombisgreatWithallthegriefandloveandhateThatturntofiremen’sdaysonearth。
Andgloriouswasthefuneralmade，AnddarkthedeepeningdreadthatswayedTheirdarkeningsoulswhoselightgrewshadeWithsenseofdeathinbirth。
VI
Inautumn，whenthewindandseaRejoicetoliveandlaughtobe，AndscarcetheblastthatcurbsthetreeAndbidsbeforeitquailandfleeThefieryfoliage，whereitsbrandIsradiantasthesealofspring，Soundslessdelight，andwavesawingLesslustrous，life’sloudthanksgivingPutslifeinseaandland。
HighhopeinBalen’sheartalightLaughed，asfromallthatclamorousfightHepassedandsoughtnotArthur’ssight，WhofainhadfoundhiskingliestknightAndmadeamendforBalen’swrong。
ButMerlingavehissoultoseeFate，risingasashorewardsea，AndallthesorrowthatshouldbeErehopeorfearthoughtlong。
\"OwherearetheywhosehandsupboreMybattle，\"Arthursaid，\"beforeThewildWelshhost’swiderageandroar？
BalenandBalan，Pellinore，Wherearethey？\"Merlinansweredhim：
\"BalenshallbenotlongawayFromsightofyou，butnightnordayShallbringhisbrotherbacktosayIflifeburnbrightordim。\"
\"Now，bymyfaith，\"saidArthurthen，\"Twomarvellousknightsarethey，whosekenTowardbattlemakesthetwainasten，AndBalenmostofallbornmenPassethofprowessallIknowOreverfoundorsoughttosee：
WouldGodhewouldabidewithme，TofacethetimesforetoldoftheeAndallthelatterwoe。\"
FortherehadMerlinshownthekingThedoomthatsongsunbornshouldsing，ThegiftsthattimeshouldriseandbringOfblitheandbitterdaystospringAsweedsandflowersagainstthesun。
Andonthekingforfear’ssakefellSickness，andsorrowdeepashell，NorevenmightsleepbidfearfarewellIfgracetosleepwerewon。
DowninameadowgreenandstillHebadethefolkthatwroughthiswillPitchhispavilion，wherethechillSoftnightwouldletnotrestfulfilHisheartwhereindarkfearslaydeep。
AndsharpagainsthishearingcastCameasoundasofhorsehoofsfastPassing，thateretheirsoundwerepastArousedhimasfromsleep。
AndforthhelookedalongthegrassAndsawbeforehisportalpassAknightthatwailedaloud，\"AlasThatlifeshouldfindthisdolorouspassAndfindnoshieldfromdoomanddole！\"
Andhearingallhismoan，\"Abide，Fairsir，\"thekingaroseandcried，\"AndsaywhatsorrowbidsyourideSosorrowfulofsoul。\"
\"Myhurtmaynomanheal，Godwot，Andhelpofmanmayspeedmenot，\"
Thesadknightsaid，\"norchangemylot。\"
AndtowardthecastleofMelyotWhosetowersarosealeagueawayHepassedforthsorrowing：andanon，Erewellthewofulsightweregone，CameBalendownthemeadsthatshone，Strong，bright，andbraveasday。
