Now it fell at this time King Arthur and the knights of the Table Round, And many another hero, at Dianasdron were found. And in sooth no lie I tell ye when I say that this plain so good Bare of tent-poles a greater number than the trees in Spessart's wood. 600 For 'twas ever the wont of King Arthur the high feast of Pentecost To keep with his knights and vassals, and of maidens a goodly host. There were many a noble banner, and many a warlike shield With coat of arms emblazoned, and fair tents stood adown the field; 'Twould be thought of the world a marvel, who should make all the travelling gear 605 For such wondrous host of ladies as those that were gathered here! And I think me that never a maiden but had counted it to her shame If no knight mid the knights around her she might as her lover claim! Came I myself to such gathering, an such youthful knights were there, I were loth if my wife beside me thro' such tumult were fain to fare-- 610 (Nay, when folk thus come together far liefer were I away) May be one might speak unto her, and some such words would say-- 'With love of her was he smitten, and ne'er might he healing know Save that she herself should heal him. Yea, an but her will were so, Her knight would he be for ever, to serve her his whole life long' 615 I were swift, with my wife beside me, to flee from such foolish throng! Yet enough of myself have I spoken--Now hear how King Arthur's tent Might be known apart from the others; before it on gladness bent He feasted, the king, with his vassals whose hearts never falsehood knew, And with many a stately maiden, whose thoughts aye to jousting flew, 620 As if with darts they sported, and their friend 'gainst the foe would aim, And if ill befell their hero with sweet words to his aid they came. Then the youthful King Klamidé in the ring would he bridle draw; His steel-clad limbs and charger the wife of King Arthur saw, His helmet and good shield cloven her maidens they saw right well-- 625 So he came to the court, (who had sent him small need have I here to tell.) So sprang he adown from his charger, and they thronged him on either hand Ere he came where she sat whom he sought for, Kunnewaaré of fair Lalande.