Green Knight, page 7

If you're just dropping in, you might want to see the index to this picture book version of Sir Gawaine and the Green Knight. Though this is the first page of a section, it doesn't make a great place to start.

This scene with the pale lady hasn't changed much from its first draft, but the rest of her part is changing a lot.

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For three days Gawaine lay in darkness
Before he moved from dream to dream
Deep in feathers he lay drowsing
Through the curtains morning streamed

He sat up, for through the hangings
He saw the lady standing close
Her hair fell white around her shoulders
Shining ermine trimmed her robes

Forgive me, lady, stammered Gawaine
I fear that I was overcome
With hunger, cold, and fear's heart-sickness
I am lost -- my road's been long

Then you must rest with me a little
The lady flashed a fleeting smile
You must join our twelve day feasting
And linger here a little while

I dare not linger, Gawaine answered
I gave my word -- I must leave soon
To lose my life in the Green Chapel
Before the darkening of the moon

That is a strange quest, said the lady
But still, you need not rush away
I know the way to the Green Chapel
You can be there within a day

Then I have won! Gawaine cried
And sank down, sobbing, to the bed
I shall meet the Knight at New Year's
To win my name, and lose my head.

Gladly, lady, would I stay here
As the white moon quickly wanes
To live my last here in your castle
With wine and music, meat and games