I judged I might clear the den, now, and I did; cleared it of all but the family and myself.

Then I said: "Now, my friend, tell me your side of this matter; I know the other side." The man moved his head in sign of refusal.

But the woman looked pleased--as it seemed to me--pleased with my suggestion.

I went on-- "You know of me ?" "Yes.

All do, in Arthur's realms." "If my reputation has come to you right and straight, you should not be afraid to speak." The woman broke in, eagerly: "Ah, fair my lord, do thou persuade him! Thou canst an thou wilt.
Ah, he suffereth so; and it is for me--for _me_! And how can I bear it?
I would I might see him die--a sweet, swift death; oh, my Hugo, I cannot bear this one!" And she fell to sobbing and grovelling about my feet, and still imploring.