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。
