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THE KNIGHT'S TALE:

THE STORY OF PALAMON AND ARCITE.





In former days there lived a warrior named Theseus; he was King of Athens, and in his time had been so famous in deeds of arms, that he was the most renowned under the sun. He had conquered many a wealthy kingdom, and by his skill and knightly conduct had subdued the whole territory of the Amazons, which formerly was called Scythia. He married the young queen of that country (her name was Ippolita), and brought her and her young sister, Emily, home with him to Athens in great pomp and solemnity. And thus accompanied by song and triumph I leave this valiant king, riding into Athens, surrounded by his host in arms.