Now by my faith I know well that he will grieve some of the court of King Arthur; for on him knights will be bold, and deem that it is I, and that will beguile them; and because of his armor and shield I am sure I shall ride in peace.
And then soon after departed Sir Kay, and thanked his host.
As I laid the book down there was a knock at the door, and my stranger came in.

I gave him a pipe and a chair, and made him welcome.

I also comforted him with a hot Scotch whisky; gave him another one; then still another--hoping always for his story.
After a fourth persuader, he drifted into it himself, in a quite simple and natural way: THE STRANGER'S HISTORY I am an American.

I was born and reared in Hartford, in the State of Connecticut--anyway, just over the river, in the country.

So I am a Yankee of the Yankees--and practical; yes, and nearly barren of sentiment, I suppose--or poetry, in other words.