"It has but just come to me--this possible plan. It may be that he can be emissary from Arthur to the Duke of Gascony for such purpose as may be devised. And we go with him as knights. We _know not_, of course, that a pretender sits where the Duke of Gascony should. And I fancy that this Dolphus will be right well pleased to welcome us and if we seemingly appear not too scrupulous ourselves we can worm the story from him and act thereon." "It can be done, if the plan is well thought out. Only dear lad, I doubt whether thy face will not count against you in any pretended villainy. Think you not so, madame?" The Lady Jeanne smiled. It was strange to see her smile but it gave proof that she was lighter hearted. "I think that Sir Dolphus is not the kind to think that there are any who hold aught but villianous thoughts," she replied. "So then, we must need delay until Merlin comes." "Think you the king will be provoked at our use of him and his court?" Sir Galahad asked. "Aye, that I do. Provoked that he was not with us to share in the adventure." Launcelot laughingly replied. "Lady," Sir Launcelot addressed her in a moment's pause. "You had little need to worry when this knight became your champion. He is overly modest. Gladly shall I help him." "God is good," the Lady Jeanne replied brokenly. "And He has placed me and my troubles in godly hands." And then she wept. And it seemed as if like a spring freshet, her thoughts, soul, and heart, were cleared and cleansed. CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT A Rescue "I seek speech with him who is Duke of Gascony. I bring him a message from Arthur, King of England." So spoke Merlin as he stood at the entrance of the great and splendid castle of the ruler of Gascony. By his side were the two knights, Galahad and Launcelot. The page Charles stood close by and somewhat behind them were the two squires, Walker and Gouvernail. "From England's king?" the Gascon knight questioned. And made as if he would further satisfy his curiosity. But changed his mind. "I pray you wait, good sir, until I tell my lord, your message." So then he went within the great hall. "A rash adventure, say I," and Merlin shook his head dolefully. "You were ever a croaker, good Merlin," replied Sir Launcelot. "See not the thing so dolefully, I pray you." "And think of the worth of what we accomplish," added Sir Galahad. "Here now comes the Gascon with his answer, I see. Let us listen to what he says." "We bid you welcome to Gascony and pray you to come within. My master sends his greetings and awaits you." They followed then their guide and so came within the great hall of state where Sir Dolphus awaited them. "Come you from England?" he asked. "That we do," replied Merlin, "and carry a message for the Duke." "There is no Duke of Gascony. He is dead. But I, by the will of all the nobles of the land, rule in place. If you have message from England's king honor is mine to receive it."