and saw it, and stared astonished, and was wordless awhile; the Chapman scowled, but durst not say aught, for he knew not how the Knight would take it; and as for the Knight, he leaned across to the Chapman and spake to him softly, not taking his eyes off the Maiden the while: Chapman, wilt thou tell me what this is, this wonder of women? whether is it a queen of some far country, or an image made by wizardry? The Chapman, taken at unawares, had no lie handy, so he said: This is my war-taken thrall, and she hath been with me but some three hours. Said the Knight, still speaking softly: Thy thrall? Then mayst do with her what thou wilt. Tell me wilt thou not sell her, and to me? The Chapman was somewhat slow to answer, for he feared the Knight, and durst not buy the slaking of his lust with the peril of death. And moreover he deemed it a thing to be looked for that, if he sold her not, the bold Knight would take her from him perforce, so that he should lose both wealth and woman. Again, it came into his mind that if he sold her he might yet take an occasion to steal her again; so he said in a surly voice: I took her not to sell her again, but to keep her and make her one of my household. Yea, said the Knight, and wilt thou bring her to the church and wed her before the priest with ring and book? The Chapman answered nought, and the Knight held his peace awhile; but presently he spake to the Maiden kindly, and said: Sweet Maiden, wouldst thou draw nigher to me, for I would speak with
20
