Legends -- France; Legends -- Germany; Legends -- Rhine River Valley
At length a commotion passed through the assembly. A knight had entered
the lists whose name was not announced by the herald. It was whispered
that his identity was known only to the Archbishop, whose guest he
was. Of fine stature and handsome features, clad in splendid armour
and mounted on a richly caparisoned steed, he attracted not a little
attention, especially from the feminine portion of the assemblage. But
for none of the high-born ladies had he eyes, save for Guta, to whom his
glance was ever and anon directed, as though he looked to her to
bring him victory. The blushing looks of Guta showed that she was not
indifferent to the gallantry of the noble stranger, and, truly, in her
heart she wished him well. With clasped hands she watched the combatants
couch their lances and charge. Ah! victory had fallen to the unknown
knight. Soon it became evident that the mysterious stranger was to carry
off the prize of the tourney, for there was none to match him in skill
and prowess. As he rode past the place where Guta sat he lowered his
lance, and she, in her pleasure and confusion at this mark of especial
courtesy, dropped her glove, which the knight instantly picked up,
desiring to be allowed to keep it as a guerdon.
At the grand ball which followed the tourney the victor remained all
the evening at Guta's side, and would dance with no other maiden.
Young Falkenstein, pleased with the homage paid to his sister by the
distinguished stranger, invited him to visit them at Caub, an invitation
which the gentle Guta seconded, and which the mysterious knight accepted
with alacrity.
True to his promise, ere a week had elapsed he arrived at Caub,
accompanied by two attendants. His visit covered three days, during
which time his host and hostess did all in their power to make his stay
a pleasant one. Ere he took his departure he sought out Guta and made
known his love. The lady acknowledged that his affection was returned.
"Dearest Guta," said the knight, "I may not yet reveal to thee my name,
but if thou wilt await my coming, in three months I shall return to
claim my bride, and thou shalt know all."
"I will be true to thee," exclaimed Guta passionately. "Though a king
should woo me, I will be true to thee." And with that assurance from his
betrothed the knight rode away.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Elsewhere in the archive
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account