Then they thanked their host who, joyful, would give to their joy its vent, 195 And many a lovely lady in his presence danced well content, For goodly their dance to look on, and their ranks, with many a pair Of knight and lady, mingled, and grief fled from their faces fair. And oft 'twixt two gentle maidens might be seen a noble knight, And they who looked well upon them in their faces might read delight. 200 And whatever knight bethought him, and would of his lady pray Reward, if for love he served her, none said to his pleading Nay. Thus they who were poor in sorrow, and rich in joy's fairest dower, With sweet words, by sweet lips spoken, made gladsome the passing hour. Gawain and the Queen Arnivé, and Sangivé, the dance so fleet 205 Would look on in peace, for they danced not; then the Duchess she took her seat By the side of Gawain, and her white hand he held in his own a while, And they spake of this thing and the other, with many a glance and smile; He rejoiced that she thus had sought him, and his grief it waxed small and faint, And his joy it grew strong and mighty, nor vexed him with sorrow's plaint. 210 And great was the joy of the lady o'er the dance, and the merry feast, Yet less was the sorrow of Gawain, and his joy o'er her joy increased. Then spake the old Queen Arnivé, 'Sir Knight, now methinks 'twere best That thou get thee to bed, for sorely, I ween, shall thy wounds need rest Has the Duchess perchance bethought her to care for thy couch this night, 215 And tend thee herself, with such counsel and deed as shall seem her right?' Quoth Gawain, 'That thyself mayst ask her; I will do as shall please ye twain!' Then the Duchess she spake in answer, 'He shall in my charge remain. Let this folk to their couch betake them, I will tend in such sort his rest That never a loving lady dealt better by gallant guest; 220 And the other twain, my princes, in the care of the knights shall be, Florand, and the Duke of Gowerzein, for so seemeth it good to me.'