In short space the dance was ended, and the maidens in beauty bright Sat here and there, and between them sat many a gallant knight; And joy took her revenge on sorrow, and he who so sweetly spake 225 Words of love, from his gentle lady must a gracious answer take. Then the host must they hear, as he bade them the cup to the hall to bear, And the wooers bemoaned his bidding; yet the host he wooed with them here, And he bare of his love the burden, and the sitting he deemed too long, For his heart by love's power was tortured with anguish so fierce and strong. 230 And they drank the night-drink, and sadly to each other they bade goodnight, And the squires they must bear before them full many a taper bright. And the two gallant guests did Gawain commend to them each and all, And glad were the knights, and the heroes they led forth from out the hall. And the Duchess, with gracious kindness, wished fair rest to the princes twain, 235 And then to their sleeping chambers forth wended the maiden train, And as their fair breeding bade them, at the parting they curtseyed low: Queen Sangivé and her fair daughters they too to their rest would go. Then Bené, the maid, and Arnivé, they wrought with a willing hand That the host he might sleep in comfort, nor the Duchess aside did stand, 240 But she aided the twain, and Gawain was led of the helpers three To a chamber fair where his slumber that even should joyful be. Two couches alone did he see there, but no man to me hath told Of their decking, for other matters, I ween, doth this story hold. Quoth Arnivé unto the Duchess, 'Now, Lady, think thou how best 245 This knight whom thou broughtest hither, shall beneath this roof-tree rest, If aid at thine hand he craveth, to grant it shall honour thee; No more would I say, save this only, his wounds they shall bandaged be With such skill he might bear his armour--But if he bemoan his grief Then methinks it were good and fitting that thou bring to his woe relief. 250 If thou wakest anew his courage, then we all in his gladness share-- Now think thou no ill of my counsel, but have for thy knight good care!' Then the Queen Arnivé left them, (yet leave had she craved before,) And Bené she bare the taper, and Gawain he made fast the door.