from a high tower, and therewithal from out the Castle-gate came forth a score of folk a-horseback and rode swiftly down to the bridge. Then Sir Mark said: Now light we down and meet the rest on this pleasant greensward, for they will like it better to come on us thus, so that they may have the better and the higher sight of us; and though there be little shade of trees here, yet this cool hour before the twilight all green places be pleasant this fair day. Even as he bade so did they, and it was anigh to the bridge, so that it was but a few minutes ere that folk were riding over toward them, and the Maiden could see at once of them that they were merry-faced and gay-clad. The two that rode first were young men, and one slim and very goodly, with the hair of his head plenteous and waving and brown, and little hair upon his pleasant, happy young face. He threw himself off his horse at once and ran straight up to the Blue Knight, and made obeisance to him, and took his hand and kissed it; but the Knight laid his hands on to his shoulders and shook him and rolled him about, looking kindly in his face the while, and then he cried out: Ha, Roland! by St. Christopher, but thou art glad to see me, lad! Is all well up there? All is well, Sir Mark, said the youngling, and I am like to be glad to see thee back safe and sound, when who knows what folly thou wilt have been mixed up with, so that thou mayst well be brought home any day between the four corners: and all is well up yonder. Hark to the
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