They told him that he had long been expected, and after arraying him in a jeweled garment, sent by Queen Repanse de Joie, they conducted him into a large, brilliantly illumined hall.

There four hundred knights were seated on soft cushions, before small tables each laid for four guests; and as they saw him enter a flash of joy passed over their grave and melancholy faces.

The high seat was occupied by a man wrapped in furs, who was evidently suffering from some painful disease.

He made a sign to Parzival to draw near, gave him a seat beside him, and presented him with a sword of exquisite workmanship.

To Parzival's surprise this man bade him welcome also, and repeated that he had long been expected.