In preparing the Notes use has been made of Dr. Bötticher's Introduction to his translation of the _Parzival_, and the same writer's _Das Hohelied von Rittertum_; San Marte's translation has also been occasionally referred to. The Appendix on proper names has been mainly drawn up from Bartsch's article on the subject in _Germanistische Studien_; and that on the Angevin allusions from Miss Norgate's _England under the Angevin Kings_, though the statements have been verified by reference to the original chronicles. For all questions connected with the Perceval legend in its varying forms the authority consulted has been _Studies on the Legend of the Holy Grail_, by Mr. Alfred Nutt, to whom, personally, the translator is indebted for much valuable advice and assistance in preparing this book for publication. BOOK I GAMURET ARGUMENT In the Introduction the poet tells of the evil of doubt and unsteadfastness--against which he would warn both men and women; he will tell them a tale which shall speak of truth and steadfastness, and in which many strange marvels shall befall. Book I. tells how Gamuret of Anjou at the death of his father, King Gandein, refused to become his brother's vassal, and went forth to seek fame and love-guerdon for himself. How he fought under the Baruch before Alexandria, and came to Patelamunt. How Queen Belakané was accused of having caused the death of her lover Eisenhart, and was besieged by two armies, which Friedebrand, King of Scotland, Eisenhart's uncle, had brought against her. How Gamuret defeated her foemen, and married the Queen, and became King of Assagog and Zassamank. How he grew weary for lack of knightly deeds, and sailed away in secret from Queen Belakané, and left her a letter telling of his name and race. How Feirifis was born, and how Gamuret came to Seville. BOOK I GAMURET If unfaith in the heart find dwelling, then the soul it shall reap but woe; And shaming alike and honour are his who such doubt shall show, For it standeth in evil contrast with a true man's dauntless might, As one seeth the magpie's plumage, which at one while is black and white. And yet he may win to blessing; since I wot well that in his heart, 5 Hell's darkness, and light of Heaven, alike have their lot and part But he who is false and unsteadfast, he is black as the darkest night, And the soul that hath never wavered stainless _its_ hue and white!