Andseeingthekingtherestand，theknightDrewreinbeforehisfacetoalightInreverencemadeforlove’ssakebrightWithjoythatsethisfacealightAstheirswhosee，alive，above，Thesovereignoftheirsouls，whosenameTothemisevenaslove’sownflameToenkindlehopethatheedsnotfameAndknowsnolordbutlove。
　　AndArthursmiledonhim，andsaid，"Rightwelcomebethou：bymyhead，Iwouldnotwishmebettersped。
　　ForevenbutnowtherecameandfledBeforemelikeacloudthatfliesAknightthatmademostheavycheer，Iknownotwherefore；normayfearOrpitygivemyhearttohearOrlightenonmineeyes。
　　"Butevenforfear’sandpity’ssakeFainwereIthoushouldstovertakeAndfetchagainthisknightthatspakeNowordofansweringgracetomakeReplytominethathailedhim：thou，Byforceorbygoodwill，shaltbringHisfacebeforeme。""Yea，myking，"
　　QuothBalen，"andagreaterthingWerelessthanismyvow。
　　"IwouldthetaskrequiredandheardWereheavierthanyoursovereignwordHathlaidonme："andthencehespurredElateatheartasyouth，andstirredWithhopeasblitheasfiresaboy：
　　Andmanyamileherode，andfoundFarinaforest’sglimmeringboundThemanhesoughtafararoundAndseeingtookfireforjoy。
　　Andwithhimwentamaiden，fairAsflowersaflushwithAprilair。
　　AndBalenbadehimturnhimthereTotellthekingwhatwoestheywereThatbowedhimdownsosore：andheMadewoefulanswer："ThisshoulddoGreatscathetome，withnoughtforyouOfhelpthathopemighthearkentoForbootthatmaynotbe。"
　　AndBalenanswered："IwerelothTofightasoneperforcemadewrothWithonethatowesbyknighthood’soathOnelove，oneservice，andonetrothWithmetohimwhosegracioushandHoldsfastthehelmofknighthoodhereWherebyman’shopeandheartmaysteer：
　　IprayyouletnotsorroworfearAgainsthisbiddingstand。"
　　Thestrangeknightgazedonhim，andspake：
　　"Willyou，forArthur’sroyalsake，BewarrantformethatItakeNoscathefromstrifethatmanmaymake？
　　ThenwillIgowithyou。"AndheMadejoyousanswer："Yea，forI
　　Willbeyourwarrantorwilldie。"
　　AndthencetheyrodewithheartsashighAsmen’sthatsearchthesea。
　　Andasbynoon’slargelightthetwainBeforethetentedhalldrewrein，Suddenlyfellthestrangeknight，slainByonethatcameandwentagainAndnonemightseehim；buthisspearClovethroughthebody，swiftasfire，Themanwhosedoom，forefeltasdire，Haddarkenedallhislife’sdesire，Asonethatdeathhelddear。
　　Anddyingheturnedhisfaceandsaid，"LonowthywarrantthatmyheadShouldfallnot，followingforthwhereledAknightwhosepledgehathleftmedead。
　　ThisdarklingmanslayerhathtonameGarlon：takethoumygoodliersteed，Seeingthineislessofstrengthandspeed，Andride，ifthoubeknightindeed，Eventhitherwhencewecame。
　　"Andasthemaiden’sfairbehestShallbidyoufollowonmyquest，Follow：andwhenGod’swillseesbest，Revengemydeath，andletmerestAsonethatlivedanddiedaknight，Unstainedofshamealiveordead。"
　　AndBalen，wrungwithsorrow，said，"ThatshallIdo：myhandandheadIpledgetodoyouright。"
　　AndthencewithsorrowingheartandcheerHerode，ingriefthatcastoutfearLestdeathindarknessyetwerenear，AndborethetruncheonofthespearWherewiththewofulknightlayslainToherwithwhomherode，andsheStillbareitwithher，faintoseeWhatrighteousdoomofGod’smightbeThedarklingmanslayer’sbane。
　　AnddownadimdeepwoodlandwayTheyrodebetweentheboughsaswayWithflickeringwindswhoseflashandplayMadesunlightsunnierwherethedayLaughed，leapt，andflutteredlikeabirdCaughtinalightlooseleafynetThatearthforamorousheavenhadsetToholdandseethesundawnyetAndhearwhatmorningheard。
　　ThereinthesweetsoftshiftinglightAcrosstheirpassagerodeaknightFlushedhotfromhuntingasfromfight，Andseeingthesorrow-strickensightMadequestionofthemwhytheyrodeAsmournerssickatheartandsad，WhenallaliveaboutthembadeSweetearthforheaven’ssweetsakebegladAsheavenforearth’sloveglowed。
　　"Melistsnottellyou，"Balensaid。
　　Thestrangeknight’sfacegrewkeenandred"Now，mightmyhandbutkeepmyhead，EvenhereshouldoneoftwainliedeadWerehenobetterarmedthanI。"
　　AndBalenspakewithsmilingspeed，WherescornandcourtesykeptheedOfeither："Thatshouldlittleneed：
　　Nothereshalleitherdie。"
　　AndallthecausehetoldhimthroughAsonethatfearednotthoughheknewAll：andthestrangeknightspakeanew，Saying："IwillpartnomorefromyouWhilelifeshalllastme。"SotheywentWherehemightarmhimselftoride，AndrodeacrosswildwaysandwideTowhereagainstachurchyardsideAhermit’sharbourleant。
　　AndthereagainstthemridingcameFleetasthelightning’slaughandflameTheinvisibleevil，eventhesameTheysoughtandmightnotcursebynameAshell’sfoulchildonearthsetfree，Andsmotethestrangeknightthrough，andfled，Andleftthemournersbythedead。
　　"Alas，again，"SirBalensaid，"Thiswronghehathdonetome。"
　　AndtheretheylaidtheirdeadtosleepRoyally，lyingwherewildwindskeepKeenwatchandwailmoresoftanddeepThanwheremen’schoirsbidmusicweepAndsonglikeincenseheaveandswell。
　　Andforthagaintheyrode，andfoundBeforethem，direinsightandsound，AcastlegirtaboutandboundWithsorrowlikeaspell。
　　AboveitseemedthesunatnoonSadasawintrywitheringmoonThatshudderswhilethewastewind’stuneCravesevernonemayguesswhatboon，Butallmayknowtheboonfordire。
　　AndeveningonitsdarknessfellMoredarkthanverydeath’sfarewell，Andnightaboutithunglikehell，Whosefumethedawnmadefire。
　　AndBalenlighteddownandpassedWithinthegateway，whencenoblastRangasthesheerportcullis，castSuddenlydown，fell，andmadefastThegatebehindhim，whencehespiedAsuddenrageofmenwithoutAndravinofamurderousroutThatgirtthemaidenhardaboutWithdeathoneitherside。
　　Andseeingthatshameandperil，fearBadewrathandgriefawakeandhearWhatshameshouldsayinfame’swideearIfshe，bysorrowsealedmoredearThanjoymightmakeher，soshoulddie：
　　Andupthetower’scurledstairhesprangAsonethatfliesdeath’sdeadliestfang，AndleaptrightoutamidtheirgangAsfirefromheavenonhigh。
　　AndtheythereunderseeingtheknightUnhurtamongtheirpressalightAndbarehisswordforchanceoffightStoodfromhim，lothtostriveorsmite，Andbadehimheartheirwofulword，Thatnotthemaiden’sdeaththeysought；
　　ButtherethroughyearstoodireforthoughtHadlaintheirladystricken，andnoughtMighthealher：andheheard。
　　ForthereamaidencleanandwholeInvirginbodyandvirginsoul，Whosenamewaswritonroyalroll，ThatwouldbutstainasilverbowlWithofferingofherstainlessblood，Therewithmighthealher：sotheystayedForhope’ssadsakeeachblamelessmaidTherejourneyinginthatdolorousshadeWhosebloomwasbrightinbud。
　　NohurtnorharmtoheritwereIfsheshouldyieldasisterthereSometributeofherblood，andfareForthwiththisjoyathearttobear，ThatallunhurtandunafraidThisgraceshehadherebyGod’sgracewrought。
　　AndkindlingallwithkindlythoughtAndlovethatsawsavelove’sselfnought，Shone，smiled，andspakethemaid。
　　"Goodknightofmine，goodwillhaveI
　　TohelpthishealingthoughIdie。"
　　"Nay，"Balensaid，"butlovemaytryWhathelpinlivinglovemaylie-
　　IwillnotlosethelifeofherWhilemylifelasteth。"SoshegaveThetributelovewasfaintocrave，Butmightnothealthoughfaintosave，WereGod’sgracehelpfuller。
　　AnothermaidinlaterMaysWonwithherlifethatwofulpraise，Anddied。Butthey，whensurgingday’sDeeptidefulfilledthedawn’swideways，Rodeforth，andfoundbydayornightNochancetocrosstheirwayfaringTillwhentheysawthefourthdayspringAknight’shallgavethemharbouringRichasaking’shousemight。
　　AndwhiletheysatatmeatandspakeWordsbrightandkindasgracemightmakeSweetfortrueknighthood’skindlysake，TheyheardacrybesidethembreakThestill-souledjoyofblamelessrest。
　　"Whatnoiseisthis？"quothBalen。"Nay，"
　　Hisknightlyhostmadeanswer，"mayOurgriefnotgrieveyouthoughIsayHowhereIdwellunblest。
　　"NotmanyadayhaslivedanddiedSinceatatournaylateItriedMystrengthtosmiteandturnandrideAgainstaknightofkinglikepride，KingPellam’sbrother：twiceIsmoteThesplendourofhisstrengthtodust：
　　Andhe，fulfilledofhate’sfiercelust，Sworevengeance，pledgedforhelltotrust，Andkeenashell’swidethroat。
　　"InvisibleasthespiritofnightThatheavenandearthindepthandheightMayseenotbythemildmoon’slightNorevenwhenstarswouldgrantthemsight，Hewalksandslaysasplague’sblindbreathSlays：andmyson，whoseanguishhereMakesmoanperforcethatmarsourcheer，Hewounded，evenerelovemightfearThathatewerestrongasdeath。
　　"NormaymysonbewholetillheWhosestrokethroughhimhathstrickenmeShallgiveagainhisbloodtobeOurhealing：yetmaynomanseeThisfelon，clothedwithdarknessroundAndkeenaslightning’slife。"ThereonSpakeBalen，andhispresenceshoneEvenasthesun’swhenstarsaregoneThatheardawn’strumpetsound。
　　"ThatknightIknow：twoknightsofmine，Twocomrades，sealedbyfaith’sbrightsign，Whoseeyesasoursthatliveshouldshine，Anddrinkthegoldensunlight’swineWithjoy’sthanksgivingthattheylive，Hehathslainineventhesameblindwise：
　　WereallwidewealthbeneaththeskiesMine，mightImeethim，eyesoneyes，AllwouldIlaughtogive。"
　　Hishostmadeanswer，andhisgazeGrewbrightwithtrustasdawn’smoistmazeWithfire："Withinthesetwentydays，KingPellam，lordofLystenayse，Holdsfeastthroughallthiscountrycried，AndtherebeforetheknightlykingMaynoknightcomeexcepthebringForwitnessofhiswayfaringHisparamourorbride。
　　"Andtherethatday，sosoontoshine，Thisknight，yourfelonfoeandmine，Shallshow，full-flushedwithbloodredwine，ThefiercefalsefacewhereonwepineTowreakthewronghehathwroughtus，bareAsshameshouldseeandbrandit。""Then，"
　　SaidBalen，"shallhegiveagainHisbloodtohealyourson，andmenShallseedeathblindhimthere。"
　　"Forthwillwefareto-morrow，"saidHishost：andforth，assunriseled，Theyrode；andfifteendayswerefledEretowardtheirgoaltheirsteedshadsped。
　　AndtherealightingmighttheyfindForBalen’shostnoplacetorest，WhocamewithoutagentlerguestBesidehim：andthathousehold’shestBadeleavehisswordbehind。
　　"Nay，"Balensaid，"thatdoInot：
　　Mycountry’scustomstands，Godwot，Thatnonewhoselotisknighthood’slot，ToridewherechanceasfireishotWithhopeorpromisegivenoffight，Shallfailtokeep，forknighthood’spart，Hisweaponwithhimashisheart；
　　AndasIcamewillIdepart，Orholdhereinmyright。"
　　ThengatheleavetowearhisswordBesidethestrangeking’sfestalboardWherefeastedmanyaknightandlordInseemlinessoffairaccord：
　　AndBalenaskedofonebeside，"Istherenotinthiscourt，iffameKeepfaith，aknightthathathtonameGarlon？"andsayingthatwordofshame，Hescannedthatplaceofpride。
　　"Yonderhegoethagainstthelight，Hewiththefaceasswartasnight，"
　　Quoththeother："butheridestofightHidroundbycharmsfromallmen’ssight，Andmanyanobleknighthehathslain，BeingwraptindarknessdeepashellAndsilencedarkasshame。""Ah，well，"
　　SaidBalen，"isthathe？thespellMaybethesorcerer’sbane。"
　　ThenBalengazeduponhimlong，Andthought，"IfhereIwreakmywrong，AliveImaynotscape，sostrongThefelon’sfriendsabouthimthrong；
　　AndifIleavehimherealive，ThischanceperchancemaylifenotgiveAgain：muchevil，ifhelive，Heneedsmustdo，shouldfearforgiveWhenwrongsbidstrikeandstrive。"
　　AndGarlon，seeinghowBalen’seyeDweltonhimashisheartwaxedhighWithjoyinwrathtoseehimnigh，Rosewolf-likewithawolfishcryAndcrossedandsmotehimontheface，Saying，"Knight，whatwouldstthouwithme？Eat，Forshame，andgazenot：eatthymeatDothatthouartcomefor：standsthyseatNextoursofroyalrace？"
　　"Wellhastthousaid：thyrederingstrue；
　　ThatwhichIcameforwillIdo，"
　　QuothBalen：forthhisfleetswordflew，AndclovetheheadofGarlonthroughCleantotheshoulders。ThenhecriedLoudtohislady，"GivemehereThetruncheonoftheshamefulspearWherewithheslewyourknight，whenfearBadehateindarknessride。"
　　Andgladly，brightwithgriefmadeglad，Shegavethetruncheonashebade，Forstillshebareitwithher，sadAndstronginhopelesshopeshehad，Throughalldarkdaysofthwartingfear，ToseeifdoomshouldfallarightAndasGod’sfire-fraughtthundersmiteThathead，clothedroundwithhell-facednight，Barenowbeforeherhere。
　　AndBalensmotetherewiththedeadDarkfelon’sbodythrough，andsaidAloud，"Witheventhistruncheon，redWithbaserbloodthanbravemenbledWhominthyshamefulhanditslew，Thouhastslainanoblerknight，andnowItclingsandcleavesthybody：thouShallcleaveagainnobraveman’sbrow，Thoughhellwouldaidanew。"
　　Andtowardhishostheturnedandspake；
　　"Nowforyourson’slong-sufferingsakeBloodyemayfetchenough，andtakeWherewithtohealhishurt，andmakeDeathwarmaslife。"ThenroseacryLoudasthewind’swhenstormyspringMakesallthewoodlandrageandring：
　　"Thouhastslainmybrother，"saidtheking，"Andherewithhimshaltdie。"
　　"Ay？"Balenlaughedhimanswer。"Well，Doitthenthyself。"AndtheanswerfellFierceasablastofhatefromhell，"NomanofminethatwithmedwellShallstrikeattheebutItheirlordForloveofthismybrotherslain。"
　　AndPellamcaughtandgraspedamainAgrimgreatweapon，fierceandfainTofeedhishungeringsword。
　　Andeagerlyhesmote，andspedNotwell：forBalen’sblade，yetredWithlifebloodofthemurderousdead，BetweentheswordstrokeandhisheadShone，andthestrengthoftheeagerstrokeShoreitinsunder：thentheknight，Nakedandweaponlessforfight，RanseekinghimaswordtosmiteAshopewithinhimwoke。
　　AndsotheirflightfordeathwardfastFromchamberforthtochamberpassedWherelaynoweapon，tillthelastWhosedoorsmadewayforBalencastUponhimasasuddenspellWonderthatevenaslightningleaptAcrosshisheartandeyes，andsweptAsstormacrosshissoulthatkeptWildwatch，andwatchednotwell。
　　Fortherethedeedhedid，beingnearDeath’sdanger，breathlessasthedeerDrivenhardtobay，butvoidoffear，BroughtsorrowdownformanyayearOnmanyamaninmanyaland。
　　Allgloriousshonethatchamber，brightAsburnsatsunriseheaven’sownheight：
　　Withclothofgoldthebedwasdight，Thatflamedoneitherhand。
　　Andonehesawwithinitlie：
　　AtableofallcleargoldtherebyStoodstately，fairasmorning’seye，Withfourstrongsilverpillars，highAndfirmasfaithandhopemaybe：
　　Andonitshonethegifthesought，Aspearmostmarvellouslywrought，ThatwhenhiseyeandhandgripcaughtSmallfearathearthadhe。
　　RightonKingPellamthen，asfireTurnswhenthethwartingwindswaxhigher，Heturned，andsmotehimdown。SodireThestrokewas，whenhisheart’sdesireStruck，andhadallitsfillofhate，ThatasthekingfellswooningdownFellthewalls，rentfrombasetocrown，ProneasproneseasthatbreakanddrownShipsfraughtwithdoomforfreight。
　　Andthereforthreedays’silentspaceBalenandPellamfacetofaceLaydeadordeathlike，andtheplaceWasdeath’sblindkingdom，tillthegraceThatGodhadgiventhesacredseerForcounselorforcomfortledHisMerlinthither，andhesaid，Standingbetweenthequickanddead，"Riseup，andrestnothere。"
　　AndBalenroseandsethiseyesAgainsttheseer’sasonethattriesHisheartagainstthesea’sandsky’sAndfearsnotifhelivesordies，Saying，"Iwouldhavemydamosel，EreIfareforth，tofarewithme。"
　　AndsadlyMerlinanswered，"SeeWherenowshelies；deathknowsifsheShallnowfareillorwell。
　　"Andinthisworldwemeetnomore，Balen。"AndBalen，sorrowingsore，ThoughfearlessyettheheartheboreBeattowardthelifethatlaybefore，RodeforththroughmanyawildwastelandWheremencriedoutagainsthim，madWithgrievousfaithinfearthatbadeTheirwrathmakemoanfordoubttheyhadLesthellhadarmedhishand。
　　Forinthatchamber’swondrousshrineWaspartofChrist’sownblood，thewineShedofthetruetriumphalvineWhosegrowthbidsearth’sdeepdarknessshineAsheaven’sdeeplightthroughtheairandsea；
　　ThatmysterytowardournorthernshoreArimatheanJosephboreForhealingofoursinsofyore，Thatgraceeventheremightbe。
　　AndwiththatspearthereshrinedapartWasChrist’ssidesmittentotheheart。
　　Andfiercerthanthelightning’sdartThestrokewas，andthedeathlikesmartWherewith，nighdrainedofbloodandbreath，Thekinglaystrickenasonelongdead：
　　AndJoseph’swasthebloodthereshed，Fornearakinwashethatbled，Nearevenaslifetodeath。
　　AndthereforefellonallthatlandSorrow：forstilloneitherhand，AsBalenrodealoneandscannedBrightfieldsandcitiesbuilttostandTilltimeshouldbreakthem，deadmenlay；
　　AndloudandlongfromalltheirfolkLiving，onecrythatcursedhimbroke；
　　ThreecountrieshadhisdolorousstrokeSlain，orshouldsurelyslay。
　　VII
　　Inwinter，whentheyearburnslowAsfirewhereinnofirebrandsglow，AndwindsdishevelastheyblowThelovelystormywingsofsnow，TheheartsofnorthernmenburnbrightWithjoythatmocksthejoyofspringTohearallheaven’skeenclarionsringMusicthatbidsthespiritsingAnddaygivethanksfornight。
　　AloudanddarkashellorhateRoundBalen’sheadthewindoffateBlewstormandcloudfromdeath’swidegate：
　　ButjoyasgriefinhimwasgreatTofaceGod’sdoomandliveordie，Sorrowingforillwroughtunaware，RejoicingindesiretodareAllillthatinnocencemightbearWithchangelessheartandeye。
　　YetpassingfainhewaswhenpastThoselandsandwoesatlengthandlast。
　　Eighttimes，asthencehefaredforthfast，DawnroseandevenwasovercastWithstarrydarknessdearasday，BeforehisventurousquestmightmeetAdventure，seeingwithinasweetGreenlow-lyingforest，hushedinheat，Atowerthatbarredhisway。
　　Strongsummer，dumbwithrapture，boundWithgoldencalmthewoodlandsroundWherethroughtheknightforthfaringfoundAknightthatonthegreenwoodgroundSatmourning：fairhewastosee，AndmouldedasforloveorfightAmaiden’sdreamsmightframeherknight；
　　Butsadinjoy’sfar-floweringsightAsgrief’sblindthrallmightbe。
　　"Godsaveyou，"Balensoftlysaid，"WhatgriefbowsdownyourheartandheadThus，asonesorrowingforhisdead？
　　Tellme，ifhaplyImaysteadInaughtyoursorrow，thatImay。"
　　"Sirknight，"thatothersaid，"thywordMakesmygriefheavierthatIheard。"
　　AndpityandwonderinlystirredDrewBalenthenceaway。
　　AndsowithdrawnwithsilentspeedHesawthesadknight’sstatelysteed，Awar-horsemeetforwarrior’sneed，Thatnonewhopassedmightchoosebutheed，Sostronghestood，sogreat，sofair，Witheyesafireforflightorfight，Ajoytolookon，mildinmight，Andswiftandkeenandkindaslight，Andallasclearofcare。
　　AndBalen，gazingonhim，heardAgainhismaster’swofulwordSoundsorrowthroughthecalmunstirredByflutteringwindorflickeringbird，Thus："Ah，fairladyandfaithless，whyBreakthypledgedfaithtomeetme？soonAnhourbeyondthytrothplightnoonShallstrikemydeath-bell，andthyboonIsthis，thathereIdie。
　　"MycurseforallthygiftsmaybeHeavierthandeathornightonthee；
　　FornowthisswordthougavestmeShallsetmefromthybondagefree。"
　　Andtherethemanhaddiedself-slain，ButBalenleaptonhimandcaughtTheblindfiercehandthatfainhadwroughtSelf-murder，stungwithfireofthought，Asragemakesanguishfain。
　　Then，madforthwartedgrief，"LetgoMyhand，"thefoolofwrathandwoeCried，"orIslaythee。"ScarcetheglowInBalen’scheekandeyemightshow，Asdawnshowsdaywhileseasliechill，Heheard，thoughpitytooknotheed，Butsmiledandspake，"Thatshallnotneed：
　　WhatmanmaydotobidyouspeedI，soGodspeedme，will。"
　　Andtheothercravedhisname，beguiledByhopethatmadehismadnessmild。
　　AgainSirBalenspakeandsmiled：
　　"MynameisBalen，calledtheWildByknightswhomkingsandcourtsmaketameBecauseIridealoneafarAndfollowbutmysoulforstar。"
　　"Ah，sir，IknowtheknightyouareAndallyourfieryfame。
　　"TheknightthatbearstwoswordsIknow，Mostpraisedofallmen，friendandfoe，Forprowessofyourhands，thatshowDarkwarthewaywherebalefiresglowAndkindleglorylikethedawn’s。"
　　Sospakethesorrowingknight，andstoodAsonewhoseheartfreshhopemadegood：
　　AndforththeyrodebywoldandwoodAnddowntheglimmeringlawns。
　　AndBalencravedhisnamewhorodeBesidehim，wherethewildwoodglowedWithjoytofeelhownoontideflowedThroughgladeandglenandroughgreenroadTillearthgrewjoyfulasthesea。
　　"MynameisGarnyssheoftheMount，Apoorman’ssonofnoneaccount，"
　　Hesaid，"wherespringsofloftierfountLaughloudwithpridetobe。
　　"ButstrengthinweaknesslivesandstandsAsrocksthatrisethroughshiftingsands；
　　AndfortheprowessofmyhandsOnemademeknightandgavemelands，DukeHermel，lordfromfartonear，Ourprince；andshethatlovedme——sheIlove，anddeemedshelovedbutme，Hisdaughter，pledgedherfaithtobeErenowbesidemehere。"
　　AndBalen，briefofspeechaslightWhoseword，beheldofdepthandheight，Strikessilencethroughthestarsofnight，Spake，andhisfaceasdawn’sgrewbright，Forhopetohelpahappierman，"Howfarthenliesshehence？""Bythis，"
　　Herloversighedandsaid，"Iwis，Notsixfleetmilesthepassageis，Andstraightasthoughtcouldspan。"
　　Sorodetheyswiftandsure，andfoundAcastlewalledanddykedaround：
　　AndBalen，asawarriorboundOnsearchwherehopemightfeartosoundThedarknessofthedeepsofdoubt，MadeentrancethroughtheguardlessgateAslife，whilehopeinlifegrowsgreat，MakeswaybetweenthedoorsoffateThatdeathmaypassthereout。
　　Throughmanyagloriouschamber，wroughtForalldelightthatlove’sownthoughtMightdreamordwellin，BalensoughtAndfoundofallhelookedfornought，ForlikeashiningshellherbedShonevoidandvacantofher：thenceThroughdeviouswondersbrightanddenseHepassedandsawwithshame-strucksenseWhereshameandfaithlaydead。
　　Downinasweetsmallgarden，fairWithflowerfuljoyintheardentair，Hesaw，andragedwithloathing，whereShelaywithlove-dishevelledhairBeneathabroadbrightlaureltreeAndclaspedinamorousarmsaknight，TheunloveliestthathisscornfulsightHaddweltonyet；ashamethebrightBroadnoonmightshrinktosee。
　　Andthenceinwrathfulhopeheturned，Hotastheheartwithinhimburned，Tomeettheknightwhoselove，sospurnedAndspatonandmadenoughtof，yearnedAnddreamedandhopedandlivedinvain，Andsaid，"Ihavefoundhersleepingfast，"
　　AndledhimwheretheshadowscastFromleaveswherethroughlightwindsranpastScreenedherfromsunandrain。
　　ButGarnysshe，seeing，reeledashestoodLikeatree，kingliestofthewood，Halfhewnthrough：andtheburningbloodThroughlipsandnostrilsburstaflood：
　　AndgatheringbackhisrageandmightAsbrokenbreakersrallyandroarTheloudwinddownthatdrivesoffshore，Hesmotetheirheadsoff：therenomoreTheirlifemightshamethelight。
　　ThenturnedhebacktowardBalen，madWithgrief，andsaid，"ThegriefIhadWasnought：erethismylifewasglad：
　　Thouhastdonethisdeed：IwasbutsadAndfearfulhowmyhopemightfare：
　　Ihadlivedmysorrowdown，hadstthouNotshownmewhatIsawbutnow。"
　　ThesorrowandscornonBalen’sbrowBadesilencecurbhimthere。
　　AndBalenanswered："WhatIdidIdidtoheartentheeandbidThycourageknowthatshameshouldridAman’shighheartoflovethathidBlindshamewithinitscore：Godknows，Idid，tosetabondmanfree，ButasIwouldthouhadstdonebyme，ThatseeingwhatlovemustdietoseeLove’sendmightwellbewoe’s。"
　　"Alas，"thewofulweaklingsaid，"IhaveslainwhatmostIloved：IhaveshedThebloodmostnearmyheart：theheadLiescoldasearth，defiledanddead，Thatallmylifewaslightedby，Thatallmysoulboweddownbefore，Andnowmaybearwithlifenomore：
　　FornowmysorrowthatIboreIstwofold，andIdie。"
　　ThenwithhisredwetswordheroveHisbreastinsunder，whereitcloveLife，andnopulseagainstitstrove，SosureandstrongthedeepstrokedroveDeathward：andBalen，seeinghimdead，Rodethence，lestfolkwouldsayhehadslainThosethree；anderethreedaysagainHadseenthesun’smightwaxandwane，Farforthhehadspurredandsped。
　　AndridingpastacrosswhereonBroadgoldenletterswrittenshone，Saying，"NoknightbornmayridealoneForthtowardthiscastle，"andallthestoneGlowedinthesun’sglareevenasthoughBloodstaineditfromthecrucifiedDeadburdenofonethattherehaddied，AnoldhoarmanhesawbesideWhosefacewaswanaswoe。
　　"BalentheWild，"hesaid，"thiswayThywayliesnot：thouhastpassedto-dayThybands：butturnagain，andstayThypassage，whilethysoulhathswayWithinthee，andthroughGod’sgoodpowerItwillavailthee："andanonHislikenessasacloudwasgone，AndBalen’sheartwithinhimshoneClearasthecloudlesshour。
　　NorfatenorfearmightovercastThesoulnownearitspeaceatlast。
　　Suddenly，thenceasforthhepast，AmightyandadeadlyblastBlownofahunting-hornheheard，Aswhenthechasehathnoblysped。
　　"Thatblastisblownforme，"hesaid，"TheprizeamIwhoamyetnotdead，"
　　Andsmiledupontheword。
　　Astowardaroyalhart’sdeathrangThatnote，whencealltheloudwoodsangWithwingedandlivingsoundthatsprangLikefire，andkeenasfire’sownfangPiercedthesweetsilencethatitslew。
　　Butnoughtlikedeathorstrifewashere：
　　FairsemblanceandmostgoodlycheerTheymadehim，theywhosetroopdrewnearAsdeathamongthemdrew。
　　AhundredladieswellarrayedAndmanyaknightwellweaponedmadeThatkindlyshowofcheer：thegladeShoneroundthemtillitsveryshadeLightenedandlaughedfromgrovetolawnTohearandseethem：sotheybroughtWithinacastlefairasthoughtCoulddreamthatwizardhandshadwroughtTheguestamongthemdrawn。
　　Allmannerofgloriousjoywasthere：
　　Harpinganddancing，loudandfair，AndminstrelsythatmadeofairFire，solikefireitsraptureswere。
　　Thenthechiefladyspakeonhigh：
　　"Knightwiththetwoswords，oneoftwoMusthelpyouhereorfallfromyou：
　　ForneedsyounowmusthaveadoAndjoustwithonehereby。
　　"AgoodknightguardsanislandhereAgainstallswordsthatchancebringsnear，AndtherewithstrokeofswordandspearMustallforwhomthesehallsmakecheerFight，andredeemoryielduplife。"
　　"Anevilcustom，"Balensaid，"Isthis，thatnonewhomchancehathledHither，ifknighthoodcrownhishead，Maypassunstirredtostrife。"
　　"YoushallnothaveadotofightHeresaveagainstoneonlyknight，"
　　Shesaid，andallherfacegrewbrightAshell-fire，litwithhungrylightThatwickedlaughtertouchedwithflame。
　　"Well，sinceIshallthereto，"saidhe，"Iamreadyatheartasdeathforme：
　　FainwouldIbewheredeathshouldbeAndlifeshouldloseitsname。
　　"ButtravellingmenwhosegoalafarShinesasacloud-constrainingstarAreoftenweary，andwearierareTheirsteedsthatfeeleachfretandjarWherewiththewildwayswoundthem：yet，Albeitmyhorsebeweary，stillMyheartisnowiseweary；willSustainsiteventilldeathfulfilMytrustuponhimset。"
　　"Sir，"saidaknighttherebythatstood，"MeseemsyourshieldisnownotgoodButwornwithwarriorwork，norcouldSustaininstrifethestrokesitwould：
　　AlargerwillIlendyou。""Ay，ThereofIthankyou，"Balensaid，BeingsingleofheartasonethatreadNofacearightwhencefaithhadfled，Nordreamedthatfaithcouldfly。
　　AndsohetookthatshieldunknownAndleftfortreason’stouchhisown，Andtowardthatislandrodealone，NorheardtheblastagainsthimblownSoundinthewind’sandwater’ssound，Buthearkeningtowardthestream’sedgeheardNoughtsavethesoftstream’sripplingword，Gladwiththegladnessofabird，Thatsangtotheairaround。
　　Andthereagainstthewater-sideHesaw，fastmooredtorockandride，AfairgreatboatanearabideLikeonethatwaitstheturningtide，WhereinembarkedhishorseandhePassedovertowardnokindlystrand：
　　AndwheretheystoodagainonlandTherestoodamaidenhardathandWhoseeingthemwepttosee。
　　And"OknightBalen，"washercry，"Whyhaveyeleftyourownshield？whyComehitheroutoftimetodie？
　　Forhadyekeptyourshield，therebyYehadyetbeenknown，anddiednothere。
　　GreatpityitisofyouthisdayAseverwasofknight，ormayBeever，seeinginwar’sbrightwayPraiseknowsnotBalen’speer。"
　　AndBalensaid，"ThouhastheardmynameRight：itrepentethme，thoughshameMaytaxmenotwithbasemen’sblame，Thatever，hapwhatwill，IcameWithinthiscountry；yet，beingcome，ForshameImaynotturnagainNow，thatmyselfandnoblermenMayscornme：nowismorethanthen，Andfaithbidsfearbedumb。
　　"Beitlifeordeath，mychanceItake，Beitlife’stobuildordeath’stobreak：
　　Andfallwhatmay，melistsnotmakeMoanforsadlife’sordeath’ssadsake。"
　　Thenlookedheonhisarmour，gladAndhighofheart，andfounditstrong：
　　AndallhissoulbecameasongAndsoaredinprayerthatsoarednotlong，Forallthehopeithad。
　　ThensawhewhenceagainsthimcameAsteedwhosetrappingsshonelikeflame，AndhethatrodehimshowedthesameFiercecolour，brightasfireorfame，ButdarkthevisorswereasnightThathidfromBalenBalan’sface，AndhisfromBalan：God’sowngraceForsookthemforashadowyspaceWheredarknesscastoutlight。
　　ThetwoswordsgirtthatBalenbareGaveBalanforabreath’swhiletherePause，wonderingifindeeditwereBalenhisbrother，boundtodareThechanceofthatunhappyquest：
　　ButseeingnotashethoughttoseeHisshield，hedeemeditwasnothe，Andso，asfatebadesorrowbe，Theylaidtheirspearsinrest。
　　SomightywasthecoursetheyranWithspeartospearsogreatofspan，Eachfellbackstricken，manbyman，Horsebyhorse，bornedown：sothebanThatwroughtbydoomagainstthemwrought：
　　ButBalenbyhisfallingsteedWasbruisedthesorer，beingindeedWay-weary，likearain-bruisedreed，Withtravelerehefought。
　　AndBalenroseagainfromswoonFirst，andwenttowardhim：alltoosoonHetoothenrose，andtheevilboonOfstrengthcameback，andtheeviltuneOfbattleunnaturalmadeagainMadmusicasfordeath’swideearListeningandhungeringtowardthenearLastsighthatlifeordeathmighthearAtlastfromdyingmen。
　　BalansmoteBalenfirst，andcloveHisliftedshieldthatroseandstroveInvainagainstthestrokethatdroveDown：asthewebthatmorningwoveOfglimmeringpearlfromspraytosprayDieswhenthestrongsunstrikesit，soShrankthesteel，temperedthricetoshowStrength，asthemadmightoftheblowShoreBalen’shelmaway。
　　ThenturningasaturningwaveAgainsttheland-wind，blindandbraveInhopethatdreamsdespairmaysave，WitheventheunhappyswordthatgaveThegiftsoffameandfateinoneHesmotehisbrother，andtherehadnighFelledhim：andwhiletheybreathed，hiseyeGlancedup，andsawbeneaththeskySightsfairerthanthesun。
　　ThetowersofallthecastlethereStoodfullofladies，blitheandfairAstheearthbeneathandtheamorousairAboutthemandabovethemwere：
　　SotowardtheblindandfatefulfightAgainthosebrethrenwent，andsoreWereallthestrokestheysmoteandbore，Andbreathedagain，andfelloncemoreTobattleintheirsight。
　　WithbloodthateitherspiltandbledWasallthegroundtheyfoughtonred，Andeachknight’shauberkhewnandshredLefteachunmailedandnaked，shedFromoffthemevenasmantlescast：
　　Andofttheybreathed，anddrewbutbreathBriefasthewordstrongsorrowsaith，Andpouredanddrankthedraughtofdeath，Tillfatewasfullatlast。
　　AndBalan，youngerbornthanheWhomdarknessbadehimslay，andbeSlain，asinmistwherenonemayseeIfaughtabideorfallorflee，Drewbackalittleandlaidhimdown，Dying：butBalenstood，andsaid，AsonebetweenthequickanddeadMightstandandspeak，"Whatgoodknight’sheadHathwonthismortalcrown？
　　"Whatknightartthou？forneverI
　　WhonowbesidetheedeadshalldieFoundyettheknightafarornighThatmatchedme。"Thenhisbrother’seyeFlashedprideandlove；hespakeandsmiledAndfeltindeathlife’squickeningflame，Andanswered："Balanismyname，ThegoodknightBalen’sbrother；fameCallsandmiscallshimwild。"
　　ThecryfromBalen’slipsthatsprangSprangsharperthanhissword’sstrokerang。
　　Morekeenthandeath’sormemory’sfang，ThroughsenseandsoultheshudderingpangShivered：andscarcehehadcried，"AlasThateverIshouldseethisday，"
　　WhensorrowswoonedfromhimawayAsblindlybackhefell，andlayWheresleepletsanguishpass。
　　ButBalanroseonhandsandkneesAndcrawledbychildlikedimdegreesUptowardhisbrother，asabreezeCreepswinglessoversluggardseasWhenallthewind’sheartfailsit：soBeneaththeirmother’seyeshadhe，Ababethatlaughedwithjoytobe，MadetowardhimstandingbyherkneeForlove’ssakelongago。
　　Then，gatheringstrengthupforaspace，Fromoffhisbrother’sdyingfaceWithdyinghandsthatwroughtapaceWhiledeathandlifewouldgrantthemgraceHeloosedhishelmandknewnothim，Soscoredwithblooditwas，andhewnAthwartwithdarkeningwounds：butsoonLifestroveandshudderedthroughtheswoonWhereinitslightlaydim。
　　Andsorrowsetthesechainedwordsfree：
　　"OBalan，Omybrother！meThouhastslain，andI，mybrother，theeAndnowfarhence，onshoreandsea，Shallallthewideworldspeakofus。"
　　"Alas，"saidBalan，"thatImightNotknowyou，seeingtwoswordsweredightAboutyou；nowtheunansweringsightHathherefoundanswerthus。
　　"BecauseyouboreanothershieldThanyours，thatevenereyouthcouldwieldLikearmswithmanhood’striedandsteeledShoneasmystarofbattle-field，IdeemeditsurelymightnotbeMybrother。"ThenhisbrotherspakeFiercely："WouldGod，forthysolesake，Ihadmylifeagain，totakeRevengeforonlythee！
　　"ForallthisdeadlyworkwaswroughtOfonefalseknight’sfalsewordandthought，WhosemortalcraftandcounselcaughtAndsnaredmyfaithwhodoubtednought，Andmademeputmyshieldaway。
　　Ah，mightIlive，IwoulddestroyThatcastleforitscustoms：joyTheremakesofgriefadeadlytoy，Anddeathmakesnightofday。"
　　"Welldonewerethat，ifaughtweredoneWelleverherebeneaththesun，"
　　SaidBalan："betterworkwerenone：
　　ForhithersinceIcameandwonAwofulhonourbornofdeath，WhenheremyhapitwastoslayAknightwhokeptthisislandway，ImightnotpassbynightordayHence，asthistokensaith。
　　"Nomoreshouldstthou，forallthemightOfheartandhandthatsealstheeknightMostnobleofallthatseethelight，Brother，hadstthoubutslaininfightMe，andarisenunscathedandwhole，AswouldtoGodthouhadstrisen！thoughhereLightisasdarkness，hopeasfear，Andloveashate：andnonedrawsnearSavetowardamortalgoal。"
　　Then，fairasanypoison-flowerWhoseblossomblightsthewitheringbowerWhereonitsblastingbreathhaspower，ForthfaredtheladyofthetowerWithmanyaladyandmanyaknight，Andcameacrossthewater-wayEvenwhereondeath’sdimborderlayThosebrethrensentofhertoslayAnddieinkindlessfight。
　　AndallthosehardlightheartswereswayedWithpitypassinglikeashadeThatstaysnot，andmaybenotstayed，Tohearthemutualmoantheymade，Eachtobeholdhisbrotherdie，Saying，"Bothwecameoutofonetomb，Onestar-crossedmother’swofulwomb，Andsowithinonegrave-pit’sgloomUntimelyshallwelie。"
　　AndBalanprayed，asGodshouldblessThatladyforhergentleness，Thatwherethebattle’smortalstressHadmadeforthemperforcetopressThebedwhencenevermanmayriseTheytwain，freenowfromhopesandfears，Mightsleep；andshe，asonethathears，Bowedherbrighthead：andverytearsFellfromhercoldfierceeyes。
　　ThenBalenprayedhersendapriestTohouselthem，thateretheyceasedThehanseloftheheavenlyfeastThatfillswithlightfromtheansweringeastThesunsetofthelifeofmanMightblessthem，andtheirlipsbekissedWithdeath’srequickeningeucharist，Anddeath’sandlife’sdimsunlitmistPassasastreamthatran。
　　Andsotheirdyingritesweredone：
　　AndBalen，seeingthedeath-strucksunSink，spakeashewhosegoaliswon：
　　"Now，whenourtrophiedtombisone，Andoverusourtaleiswrit，Howtwothatlovedeachother，twoBornandbegottenbrethren，slewEachother，nonethatreadsanewShallchoosebutweepforit。
　　"AndnogoodknightandnogoodmanWhoseeyeshallevercometoscanTherecordoftheimperiousbanThatmadeourlifesosadaspanShallreadorhear，whoshallnotprayForusforever。"ThenanonDiedBalan；butthesunwasgone，Anddeepthestarsofmidnightshone，EreBalenpassedaway。
　　Andtherelowlying，ashouronhourFled，allhislifeinallitsflowerCamebackasinasunlitshowerOfdreams，whensweet-souledsleephaspowerOnlifelesssweetandgladtobe。
　　Hedrankthedraughtoflife’sfirstwineAgain：hesawthemoorlandshine，TheriotingrapidsoftheTyne，Thewoods，thecliffs，thesea。
　　Thejoythatlivesatheartandhome，Thejoytorest，thejoytoroam，Thejoyofcragsandscaursheclomb，TheraptureoftheencounteringfoamEmbracedandbreastedoftheboy，Thefirstgoodsteedhiskneesbestrode，ThefirstwildsoundofsongsthatflowedThroughearsthatthrilledandheartthatglowed，Fulfilledhisdeathwithjoy。
　　So，dyingnotasacowardthatdiesAnddaresnotlookindeath’sdimeyesStraightasthestarsonseasandskiesWhencemoonandsunrecoilandrise，Helookedonlifeanddeath，andslept。
　　AndtherewithmorningMerlincame，AndonthetombthattoldtheirfameHewrotebyBalan’sBalen’sname，Andgazedthereon，andwept。
　　ForallhisheartwithinhimyearnedWithpitylikeasfirethatburned。
　　ThefatehisfatefuleyediscernedFaroffnowdimmedit，ereheturnedHisfacetowardCamelot，totellArthurofallthestormsthatwokeRoundBalen，andthedolorousstroke，AndhowthatlastblindbattlebrokeTheconsummatedspell。
　　"Alas，"KingArthursaid，"thisdayIhaveheardtheworstthatwoemightsay：
　　ForinthisworldthatwanesawayIknownottwosuchknightsasthey。"
　　ThisisthetalethatmemorywritesOfmenwhosenameslikestarsshallstand，BalenandBalan，sureofhand，TwobrethrenofNorthumberland，Inlifeanddeathgoodknights。