“‘Aweary of their mocking And jests at last I grew, And much I thought and pondered What brave deed I might do, Their cruel scorn to silence; And when I heard the news, A chance such prize of winning How could I well refuse? So, thro’ the brooding midnight, The while the others slept, Across the fields and pastures All silently I crept; And when mine eyes I lifted At breaking of the day, I saw afar the mountain, Toward which I took my way. And on, and on I journeyed, Till, just as night came down, I passed into the forest Among the shadows brown. Then up the winding pathway I hurried on, in fear, ’Till, through the darkness shining Forth from a ruin near, A light I spied, and thither I turned, in hope I might Find food—for I was hungry— And shelter for the night. I reached the door, and ent’ring (I thought the place an inn, For there were sounds of feasting And merriment within), Fierce men, with cruel weapons, A table gathered ’round, Sprang up and seized me, helpless, And with these fetters bound. “What brings thee here, thou stripling?” In anger questioned they. “O sirs,” I answered, trembling, “I’ve journeyed all the day; For food, and rest, and shelter I chanced to turn this way, But since I am not welcome, Let me pass on, I pray.” “Ha, not so fast, young villain! We know that is a lie. What errand brings thee hither? Confess thou art a spy!” “It is a peaceful errand, O sirs,” I answered then; “I seek nine gallant horsemen. And have ye heard of them? They rode this way, nor ever Returned, and I would bring Some tidings of the missing To our good lord, the King.” At that, with peals of laughter The dreary place did ring. “Thou’lt see thy gallant horsemen Ere thou shalt see the King!” They said, and roughly dragged me Along the banquet-hall, And up into this lonesome tower, And chained me to the wall. “Lie there, lie there and rest thee!” They cried in mocking tones; “Thou’rt welcome to thy lodging— And the lichens on the stones!”