Three Knight Tales Jakob Streit Waldorf Publications

Chatham, NY 12037
38 Main Street
2
Three Knight Tales
by
JAKOB STREIT

Translated by Nina Kuettel

Illustrated by Bruno Bischofberger

 Printed with support from the Waldorf Curriculum Fund

Published by:
Waldorf Publications
Research Institute for Waldorf Education
38 Main Street
Chatham, NY 12037

Title: Three Knight Tales

Author: Jakob Streit
Translator: Nina Kuettel
Illustrator: Bruno Bischofberger
Editor: David Mitchell
Copy Editor and Proofreader: Ann Erwin
Cover: Bruno Bischofberger and David Mitchell
© 2012 by AWSNA, 2013 by Waldorf Publications
ISBN 978-1-936367-24-5

Originally published in German by Novalis Verlag

Schaffhausen, 1994
ISBN 3-7214-4508-2
 Contents
Henry the Afflicted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Where Is the Right Doctor?
On the Farm
The Second Trip to Salerno
The Way Home

Gerald the Good . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

What the Emperor Heard about Him
The Trip to Cologne
Gerald’s Story
The Unusual Trade
What Happened in Cologne
The Stranger Nobody Knew
How Gerald almost Became King

Magelone the Beautiful . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

The Tournament
Peter Speaks with Magelone
Magelone and the Nanny
How the Nanny Met the Knight in the Church
The Knight Visits Magelone

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 Sir Frederick von der Krone Appears at Court
How Peter Tested Beautiful Magelone
The Escape
Magelone Searches for the Knight
Magelone’s Pilgrimage
An Unusual Fish Is Caught
How Peter Asked the Sultan for Permission to Return Home
Peter’s Journey Home
Peter Arrives at the Hospital of Magelon
The Count and Countess Find Their Son
Days of Celebration

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 Henry the Afflicted
An old fairy tale told anew, taken from Hartmann von der Aue

At a castle in Swabia there was a big celebration when Henry von der
Aue, the young son of an Earl, was knighted. He promised to stand by the
poor and embattled people and to always fight for truth and justice. But
a shadow hung over the festivities: Henry had neither father nor mother
who could lead him to the altar when he took his knightÕs oath. His mother
had died in his younger years, and his father had given his life in a Crusade
to Jerusalem. But it was as if his dead parents were helping him from
another world so that goodness, justice, and valor filled his whole being.
Along with the lofty castle, his parents also left him large parcels of
land and many farms, so many in fact that he was called Henry the Rich.
However, Henry himself was often troubled that he was bound by so much
material wealth when what he longed for was to go out into the world
in search of adventure and to prove himself as a knight by fighting for
justice. Henry was not much more than twenty years old.
A loyal assistant, known as the Hofmeister, presided at the castle and
managed everything, even when Henry visited foreign lands. He had been
in service to HenryÕs father as well.
As the celebration with all the knights games came to a close, there
were more than a few disappointed young noble ladies. Some of the

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 beautiful ones had hoped to be given the young, rich knightÕs silk band to
wear as a symbol of enduring friendship and loyalty. He had sung aloud
so beautifully and their hearts were drawn to him. But Henry did not want
to tie himself to home because he felt compelled to go out into the world.
So, Henry bid farewell to the castle and its staff. His loyal weapons
bearer, Odo, accompanied him, armed with silver and gold. The Book of
Chronicles does not record at which castles he was a guest, what lands he
visited, or what earthly pleasures he enjoyed. Wherever he went it was
spoken of him that Henry the Rich was a fortunate man. Many honors
were bestowed upon him. Because of his fame and the praise given him by
everyone he met, he slowly developed an exaggerated view of himself and
became spoiled, and, secretly, prideful conceit was growing within him.
Once Henry and Odo were spending some time at a hunting lodge
owned by Earl von Hohenfels. HenryÕs arms bearer did double duty as his
treasurer and paymaster. He had entrusted Odo with all of his money.
One day when Henry wanted to throw a big party at the lodge, Odo said:
ÒSir, our gold is almost gone. Only pieces of silver are left, and that is not
enough to pay for a large party.Ó
Henry erupted: ÒThe festival is already ordered! Ride home to my
castle as quickly as you can. The Hofmeister shall give you a thousand
pieces of gold.Ó
Odo did not dare argue and answered: ÒSir, I will get on my horse
immediately, but it will be a week before I return. It is a long way home.Ó
A short time later Odo was riding hard away from the lodge.
That evening when Sir Henry was alone in his room, he lay sleepless
on his bed and stared at the lit candle next to him. It was nearly burned
out and flickering. It seemed to Henry as if he himself was such a flickering
flame, unsteadily wandering around in the world, threatening to burn out.
As he was thinking thus, staring ahead, the light went out and he lay in
darkness. A strange exhaustion sank into his limbs. He fell into a dream
and saw again the flickering candle. A moth circled the light, nearly diving

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into it. With his hand he shooed the moth away again and again. Then
the candle began to grow. In an unguarded moment the moth flew into the
firelight and burned up. The flame burned very brightly. A butterfly came
out of it with all the colors of the rainbow, flew out the open window and
into a world of sunshine.
When Henry awoke the next morning, the heaviness in his limbs was
still there. With effort he got up and left his room to get something to eat
and drink. Sir Henry was sick in bed for many days. He was still not well
when Odo returned with the gold delivery. The knightÕs pain grew worse
and worse. The party had to be canceled.
Someone went to fetch a doctor from a nearby town. When he saw
the spots and distortions on the knightÕs skin, he made the sign of the
cross and spoke the terrifying words: ÒIt is leprosy.Ó
Henry knew then that he could not remain at Hohenfels. He asked the
doctor: ÒIs there no medicine to heal this horrible disease?Ó
The doctor answered: ÒI donÕt know of any. God help you.Ó
But Henry asked again: ÒAmong all the wise men of this world, is
there none that can help me?Ó
The doctor answered: ÒThe most learned men are far away from here
on a seacoast in the city of Montpellier. It is said that many diseases have
been healed there.Ó
Odo, the good arms bearer, felt sorry for his master. He said: ÒSir
Henry, I will take you to the ends of the Earth if I must to find a cure. We
will travel to Montpellier.Ó Though riding was tiresome for the sick man,
they started on their journey.

Where Is the Right Doctor?

After many weeks, Odo and Sir Henry glimpsed the towers of the city
of Montpellier. Odo cried: ÒSee, there are five towers stretching toward
Heaven. Here there is hope.Ó The knightÕs gold served to open the doors to
the best doctors and learned men, but none of them could help him.

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 One of them said: ÒDown at the harbor there is a ship that has come
over from Salerno in Italy. There is supposedly a man there who is the only
person who can heal leprosy in some cases. If you are not afraid of the
long sea voyage to Italy, then give him a try!Ó
Sir Henry was undecided, so he asked the Odo for his opinion. Odo
replied: ÒSir, I am only an uneducated servant, but I think we should
respond to any hope given to us. A sea voyage will lead us to many
beautiful things in this world. If you return home now you will have only
your sore affliction.Ó
So they sold their horses and boarded the ship that was returning to
Naples and Salerno. During the long voyage Henry had plenty of time to
contemplate his life and his illness. It had broken into his life like a dark
thundercloud. But he had not forgotten his dream on the night he became
ill, of the moth in the flame that had come out a butterfly, a butterfly of
hope. He could not talk about it with anyone, not even Odo, who prayed to
the Sun for him day after day on the deck, and read every wish in his eyes.
When they arrived in Salerno, they asked the innkeeper how it was
with the doctors in this city. There was supposed to be one who even
knew about treating leprosy. ÒIt is said that his name is Piguno,Ó replied
the innkeeper. ÒHe was a long time in Arabia and brought back unusual
medicinal knowledge with him. He heals with blood and blood-letting
mostly. There are a lot of rumors about him, but he is of good character.Ó
Odo sent Master Piguno a message and soon was allowed to speak
with him. Sir Henry would be able to see him. Master Piguno examined the
patient for a long time. He took three drops of HenryÕs blood and mixed it
in a glass with all kinds of tinctures. Then he held it up to the sunlight and
gazed into the play of colors. Henry waited patiently. Finally, the doctor
turned to him and said: ÒIt is a special kind of leprosy. It is curable, and, at
the same time, incurable.Ó
Perplexed, Henry asked: ÒWhat am I to understand? If there is a
medicine that can cure me, I will give you gold and goods.Ó

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 The Master replied: ÒIt is in no manÕs power to procure this medicine.
How I would like to help you, if it could be purchased.Ó Sir Henry pressed
the doctor to at least name the medicine. He would search the world over
to find it. Master Piguno answered: ÒThe only thing that can heal you is
the heartÕs blood of a pure maiden who willingly goes to her death for
you. That you will not find in this world.Ó
After the doctor finished speaking, Henry buried his face in his hands,
sank in a chair, and stammered: ÒOh, if only my mother had never given
birth to me.Ó
The doctor softly laid his hand on the young manÕs shoulder and said:
ÒGod sent this illness to you as a test, and He alone can be your doctor.
Sickness on the Earth can become health in Heaven.Ó
Sir Henry went outside to where Odo was waiting. Odo could see the
anxiety on the sick manÕs face, and these words escaped his lips: ÒPoor
Henry.Ó

On the Farm
It was a difficult return trip under clouds without hope, but Odo and
Sir Henry arrived back home. The ill Henry could think of nothing but
slowly preparing himself to die. ÔIf all of my joy is taken away,Õ he thought,
ÔI will make others happy by way of my enormous wealth.Õ He began to
give away his goods to the poor and did not forget the church so that
everyone got a share. He gave Odo a nice farm. Henry himself went to one
of his smaller estates and lived with the family who rented it. Their name
was Goodman, and they had invited the sick knight to live out his last days
at their peaceful abode. The children of the family were all willing to serve
him and keep him company.
When Sir Henry arrived at the farmhouse, he was given a nice room
all to himself. Besides three lively boys, there were the girls Mary and little
Annie. It was soon apparent that no one was more eager than Mary to
care for the poor knight. In the spring she would bring him the first flowers

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 and set fragrant violets next to his bed. Yes, in her childish delight, she
would make flower crowns, press them on his head, and address him as
Sir Flower King. Henry would smile and let it all happen. He called her his
Flower Queen. She fed him the first strawberries and early cherries, put
ladybugs on his hand, caught a little lizard for him, and held up a kitten for
him to look at. Mary often sat at his feet while the ill knight told the little
girl fairy tales or stories about heroes and knights. One time a traveling
merchant came to the area, and Henry bought Mary a small mirror, a silk
scarf, and a silver ring. And so he won the girlÕs heart completely. She was
always thinking about how she could bring joy to the poor man whom she
loved so much.
The knight had been with the Goodman family already for three
years. His ailment began to bring him more and more distress. Odo had
once mentioned to Mr. Goodman that the doctor in Salerno had heard of
a remedy that was impossible to find. The farmer had given that a lot of
thought.
It was wintertime. One evening Mr. Goodman went into Sir HenryÕs
room to put a big oak log on the fire for the night. The room was bathed
in weak light from the candle. The farmer sat down by the poor man to
pass a little time with him. He leaned forward to ask: ÒSir, when you were
in Salerno visiting the wise doctor, could he give you no advice about
easing your plight? That surprises me since there is so much wisdom in
the world!Ó
Sir Henry replied: ÒLook, Mr. Goodman, when I was healthy and rich,
I only had sense for earthly things, seeking fame and honor. And so I
was gripped by pride. God made it so. In Salerno I found out that there
is a rare remedy, but that no man on Earth can get it. I would need to
find a maiden who is pure in heart and would willingly go to her death
for me. Her heartÕs blood would become my medicine. But this is totally
impossible, and so I bring my affliction to my loyal friend, Death.Ó

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 The farmer and the knight had not noticed in the dim light that
Mary had quietly entered the room and was sitting silently in a corner by
the warm fire. She heard Sir HenryÕs words and remembered every last
syllable. His suffering sank deep into her heart. Still unnoticed, she crept
away and went to bed.
In the middle of the night, when everyone else was asleep, Mary was
still awake. The picture of the poor, sick knight was always before her, a
warm light shining from his eyes into hers. The thought that he must soon
die brought her to such pitiful sobbing that her parents were awakened.
Her mother came to her: ÒWhat is wrong, Mary?Ó But she was unable to
speak.
Her father pressed her: ÒTell us! Has someone hurt you?Ó
When she could find the words, she replied: ÒMy dear parents, I feel so
badly about our poor Sir Henry, that he must die soon.Ó
Her father said: ÒWe feel just as badly as you, but it is in GodÕs hands.Ó
Mary responded: ÒDid not Sir Henry say that he could still be saved?
Dear Mother and Father, please give me leave. I am a maiden, and I have
courage. Before I see him destroyed, I would gladly die for him.Ó
Now Father and Mother were very much in shock. Angry words came
from FatherÕs mouth: ÒYou are a silly, inexperienced thing and you donÕt
know what dying Ð what death really means. Keep your mouth shut! Get
rid of those crazy thoughts.Ó
Her mother pleaded and her father threatened. Mary remained silent,
but her heart spoke all the louder: ÔI will die for the good knight so that he
can regain his health and life.Õ
Her parents went back to bed. After Mary had thought through
everything and her decision was firmly rooted in her innermost self, a
peaceful rest came over her, and she sank into a deep sleep. But when
she awoke she was sure of one thing: ÔI may not speak of this to Sir Henry
until my parents are ready to give me leave.Õ The good knight would never
accept it against the wishes of her parents.

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 In the following days Mary strived to convince her parents that she
was obeying a higher voice in offering her life for the knight. ÒYou have
four other children to be a support for you so that I may become a child
of God.Ó She was so determined and fearless in wanting to give her life
that her parents, who had never seen or heard any such things from any
of their children, began to question if it was possible that Mary really was
listening to a higher voice.
One night MaryÕs mother had a strange dream. She saw Mary in a
white dress resting upon her bed. A dark cross lay on her chest. Four doves
flew through the window, took the four sides of the cross in their beaks,
flew upward toward the light, and disappeared. But Mary opened her
eyes and smiled. Her mother awoke. In spite of the pain, this dream had
brought deep comfort to her soul. She was filled with the knowledge: ÒGod
will guide us.Ó From then on she did not contradict the girl any more, and
she said to her husband: ÒLet her go to the knight. Mary is guided by GodÕs
hand.Ó
When the girl heard this she went to the knightÕs room early in the
morning. Quietly, she said: ÒSir, are you still sleeping?Ó
ÒNo, dear Mary. But tell me, why are you here so early today?Ó
ÒOh, Sir, I bring you good news. Your affliction can be healed! You said
yourself that if you could find a maiden who would die for you, you could
get well. With GodÕs help, I am the maiden who will gladly go to my death
for your sake. On this Earth, you are worth more than I.Ó
Full of expectation, Mary looked at the knight. He lay there perfectly
still. His eyes were wide open. Tears welled up, and he looked intently
at the girl who was in the first bloom of young maidenhood. Finally, he
found the words: ÒDear child, you were made for life, and not death, not
for a long time to come. You may not grant this to me. Your father and
mother could not bear to part with you, and you must not do this to them.
You have done so much good to me. I live from your good deeds. Do what
they advise you.Ó Henry thought he could persuade Mary to give up her
childish idea.

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 But she responded: ÒSir, I have spoken to my parents about this. They
will honor my decision.Ó
But the knight wanted to hear it from the parents themselves, so Mary
went to get them. Her mother said: ÒSir today is the third day since she
kneeled before us pleading with us to grant her freedom to do this thing,
until finally we have agreed. May God allow you to be healed through her.
She will travel with you to Salerno.Ó
The parents took their child in their arms as if they were already
saying goodbye. When the poor, ill Henry saw how deeply the three spoke
from their hearts, the parents from sorrow and the girl from joy, thoughts
welled up in him like waves of despair and salvation. He closed his eyes
and was long silent. But Mary was in such a heightened state of joyful
excitement that she sat on the patientÕs bed, took his right hand in hers,
and stroking his blond hair with her left hand, she whispered: ÒIÕm looking
forward to the journey.Ó
After some anxious moments, and when the storm in his soul had
settled a little, the sick man opened his eyes. He gave heartfelt thanks to
the three people at his bedside for their loyalty and goodness, and it was
decided that he and Mary would journey to Salerno.

The Second Trip to Salerno

In the days that followed, Sir Henry put together all the things
necessary for a long trip. The maiden got a beautiful horse and fine
clothing such as she had never worn in her life.
It was a bitter parting when the parents had to say goodbye to their
daughter and the knight. But the hope that was in the motherÕs heart did
not fail: The white doves would help!
How delightfully MaryÕs eyes gazed upon the beautiful world all
around her. Yes, even poor Henry was infected with her happiness and
cheerful demeanor so that he bore the tiresomeness of the journey better
than he thought he would. He hid his ailment under his cloak. His hair and

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 beard covered his face. Indeed, along the way, many people thought they
had met a happy couple.
The closer they came to the city of Salerno, the quieter Henry became.
Master Piguno was highly surprised to see the poor, sick man again after
so long a time. He was even more surprised when the knight revealed to
him that the maiden with him wanted to offer herself as a blood sacrifice
for him. The doctor thought perhaps the maiden had been forced into
giving up her life. He asked to be alone with her. He must know the truth!
After he had spoken about the pain that stood before her, he said: ÒAre
you not afraid to give up your life? You can tell me quite frankly: Were you
forced to undertake this journey? Were you bullied into saying yes? Be
aware that any coercion erases the power of the sacrifice!Ó
The maiden answered: ÒI have journeyed here in freedom. In freedom
I go to my death. In Him whose name this will happen, He who willingly
died for all mankind.Ó
Now that the doctor saw that the maiden could not be dissuaded, he
took her back to the sick knight and said: ÒShe makes the sacrifice for you
willingly. So that I may prepare everything, leave now and come to me
again tomorrow.Ó
The two went hand in hand from the inn to the cathedral in the city
and knelt by the altar. They stayed for the High Mass in the evening and
afterward lost hold of each other in the crowd. Henry looked for Mary for
a long time. Finally he found her in a small side chapel where a painting of
Mother Mary stood on the altar. Two doves were pictured on her shoulders
and her heart was pierced with a sword of pain. Henry did not dare to
disturb the praying girl. After she finally stood up, she silently gave him
her hand and remained silent as he led her back to the inn. She neither ate
nor drank. Her last earthly meal would be the blessed communion bread
that the priest had handed her in the cathedral.
The next morning Doctor Piguno led the young maiden into a special
chamber, and told the knight to wait in a chair in front of the door. Poor

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17
 Henry had not shut his eyes the whole night. His pity for Mary became
greater and greater so that he thought about rejecting the sacrifice. But
how could he do that to the pure-hearted girl? Suddenly Henry heard a
rustling noise as if a knife was being unsheathed. It was like an explosion
within him! He banged his fists on the locked door and screamed: ÒOpen
the door, Piguno.Ó
The doctor replied: ÒWhat you have to say to me you can say through
the keyhole.Ó
ÒNo,Ó cried Henry. ÒOpen it.Ó His urging was so insistent that the
doctor unlocked the door. ÒGive back the girl to me unharmed! You will
get your silver coins. I will not accept her sacrifice. I will bear my illness
as before.Ó In spite of the maidenÕs wailing, who was pleading for death,
Henry was resolved. At midday he left Salerno with the weeping girl.

The Way Home

The following night Sir Henry was gripped by a strange fever. In the
morning he felt well enough. But the next night his body seemed on fire
again. It was the third day that Henry noticed all the pain on his skin and
limbs was practically gone. The open wounds had healed. His forehead
and face were free of scars. Immense happiness welled up inside him: ÔIÕm
going to get well!Õ Day by day his body became stronger and handsomer.
Mary shared his happiness. But he said to her: ÒYou see, Mary, your
soul-blood sacrifice healed me through the mercy of Him Who healed the
sick and the leprous in Jerusalem.Ó
They had journeyed for three weeks, when the last signs of the disease
disappeared from Sir HenryÕs body. Oh, how well Mary had cared for the
wounds of the sick man and now he could show her a healthy body. He
took the maiden in his arms and said: ÒDear Mary, at one time you were
my Flower Queen and I your Flower King. Let us now be united in this
new life as bride and groom!Ó He kissed her. She kissed him. And so, their
engagement was sealed.

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 You can imagine what happiness and amazement the return of the
healthy knight and Mary caused at home! Henry returned to his castle
immediately. An envoy in a coach and horses was dispatched to fetch
MaryÕs parents and siblings. The reunion was not celebrated with a
glittering party, but rather in quiet gratitude. Henry gave the farm where
he had so long lain in his sickbed to MaryÕs parents. The wedding took
place in the chapel at the castle where once upon a time Henry had been
knighted. The morning of the wedding he told his bride about his dream
of the moth that fell into the flame and flew out again as a butterfly. And
later, Henry would often call his wife: My dear Butterfly!
But one time she responded: ÒI believe you are one also, because both
of us have been through the fire of pain.Ó Sir Henry could not disagree.

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20
 Gerald the Good
adapted from Rudolf von Ems

Once upon a time there was an Emperor named Otto. Among the people
he was only ever referred to as the Red Emperor. Not because his mantle
was red. He owned such a cloak, but he also had a blue one, a white one,
and even a black one. No, that was not it. His hair and beard had an
unusual reddish copper hue, hence, the Red Emperor.
He had already spent more than half his life living in wealth and
splendor when, one day, his wife Otegebe said to him: ÒMy dear husband,
it is about time that you sponsored a work that will be pleasing to God. A
small portion of your riches would be enough to support an archbishopric.
The bishopÕs seat should be in the city of Magdeburg. Build a monastery,
a church, and donate land!Ó
That is exactly what happened. When the construction was complete
the church bells rang to declare praise and glory to the Red Emperor
throughout the land. It echoed a thousand times in the EmperorÕs ears. He
was pleased and thought it was a good thing he had done.
And yet, the Red Emperor was not happy. Years earlier he had spilled
much blood in the Crusades, and in spite of all his good works, his soul
was not at peace. He thought: ÔIf only God would give me a sign that I have
a place of honor in the Book of Life in which is written all things.Õ

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 One evening the Emperor was going to the cathedral with a small
entourage. He sent a guard ahead with these instructions: ÒIf there are
any parishioners or priests still in the church, send them away. Guard the
towers to make sure I can pray alone and undisturbed!Ó
And that is what happened. The Emperor strode into the sanctuary
completely alone. Through the stained glass windows, the last rays of
sunshine shone colorful light on the kneeling Emperor as he was reciting
the Trinity Prayer. In silent supplication he asked God to repay him for his
good works and give him certainty that his good deeds would outweigh
the evil he had done in his life. At that moment the Emperor perceived
the clear voice of a Divine Messenger: ÒEmperor Otto! In this world God
has given you high honor and immeasurable goods. Why do you give an
accounting before God of everything you have given away when you,
like all mankind, received everything you have from God? GodÕs Eye tests
hearts. You have done your works out of worldly pride. Behold, a trader
from your kingdom can better stand before God than the Royal Crown!Ó
The Emperor was deeply shocked by these words. It seemed to him as
if he had heard a tone of anger in the angelÕs voice. He replied: ÒOh, tell
me, Messenger of God, the name of this trader that I may find him and
learn from him.Ó
ÒHe is Gerald the Good of Cologne. His soul is without falsehood and
written in the Book of Life.Ó
ÒWhat is it that has given him such high esteem before God that he is
named as an example to me, the Emperor?Ó
ÒIf you want to know, then travel to him in these days and have him
tell you his story. It will be to your benefit!Ó After these words, the voice
was silent.
When the Emperor looked around him, the light in the windows was
gone. Dark twilight surrounded him. At the altar the reddish glow of the
Eternal Flame flickered as if flapping wings had created a breath of wind.
Lost in thought, the Emperor arose from his knees: ÔWhat kind of story

22
must it be? I want to find out!Õ He felt his way through the dark room to
the portal. The waiting sentries escorted him back to the castle.

The Trip to Cologne

The next morning the Emperor informed his servants that he was
leaving immediately on a secret journey to the city of Cologne with only a
few trusted men. A fast messenger must ride ahead to announce the royal
visit to the Prince-Bishop of Cologne. So, Emperor Otto was honorably
received at the BishopÕs palace, and the bells of the city rang out their
welcome.
The Bishop asked the Emperor: ÒWhy have you honored our city of
Cologne with such a surprising visit and with such a small entourage?Ó
The Emperor answered: ÒA secret affliction has brought me here. I am
seeking the counsel of a citizen of this city.Ó
ÒVenerable Emperor, is there anything I can do for you?Ó
ÒYes. Ask the citizens of the city to gather in your palace courtyard
tomorrow. Let the bells of the town hall ring to bring them here.Ó The
Bishop wondered what it all meant, but he asked no further questions and
sent the message throughout the city.
The next morning, after the bells started ringing, the citizens
streamed to the BishopÕs palace dressed in their best clothes. They sat in
the courtyard on benches that had been arranged for them. The Emperor
graciously greeted the citizenry. His gaze swept the courtyard, as some
were still trickling in. Suddenly he noticed an older man, very tall and
straight. Wherever he walked he was shown great respect. All the benches
were occupied so the man found a place at the back of the courtyard next
to a stone column. Emperor Otto turned to the Bishop, pointed to the well-
dressed gentleman, and asked for his name. ÒThe people call him Gerald
the Good. He is a rich merchant trader. It was granted to him that he has
been able to do much good in his life. Ó

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24
 The Red Emperor now stood and gave a signal. A horn blast brought
quiet to the gathered crowd. The Emperor spoke loudly into the courtyard:
ÒCitizens of Cologne, I have ridden here to seek your counsel. Let me
choose one man from among you to be my advisor!Ó
Immediately many people pressed to the front. City councilmen, the
mayor, and noblemen all cried out: ÒWe are willingly at your service!Ó
But the Emperor saw that Gerald was about to slip away behind the
stone column. In a loud voice he shouted above the crowd: ÒGerald the
Trader, I choose him.Ó
And even though he was reluctant, Gerald followed the Emperor into
the palace. He went with him into the princely chamber, and the Emperor
barred the large, richly carved door behind them.
As they sat opposite each other and GeraldÕs large, questioning eyes
were on the him, the Emperor looked down at the floor and said: ÒTell me
openly and honestly how you came to have the name ÔGerald the Good.ÕÓ
ÒOh, my Lord, I have not earned it. The people just have a way of
saying things. Every man does some good and some bad.Ó
ÒDo not avoid answering me, Gerald! I have my reasons for asking
you. You may not deny my request. Please, tell me everything about your
life.Ó Gerald could not refuse. While the citizens of Cologne were returning
to their homes, he began his story:

Gerald’s Story
My father was a merchant in this city. When he died, all of his riches
came to me. I could have lived comfortably from the abundance, but my
spirit drove me to the trade routes by land and sea. I had a beloved son.
I thought that someday his name among the people should be Gerald the
Rich. Yes, so vain was I.
When my son was grown and showed himself to be trustworthy, I put
the greater portion of everything I owned in his name. I, myself, followed
an inner compulsion to once more ready a ship for a great traderÕs voyage
overseas to foreign lands.

25
 I hired capable sailors and a clerk to keep a record of the accounts. We
sailed first to Prussia, Livonia, and Russia. There I traded for costly furs
that would decorate the cloaks of princes in Saracen. I went there to the
cities of Damascus and Nineveh. The profits were immense, and it seemed
as if I would go home twice as rich as when I left. So, we set sail for home.
For twelve days and nights a great, powerful storm chased us down.
Neither sun nor stars showed themselves. We lost all sense of direction.
On the thirteenth day we dropped anchor at the coast. The wind abated.
The clouds parted. We saw a high mountain before us. It was enormous
and unknown to us.
I ordered a sailor to climb the mountain to get a view of our
surroundings. Upon his return he reported: ÒOn the other side of the
mountain is an expanse of rich, well-cultivated land. A large city with
defense towers borders a bay. There is also the mouth of a wide river
arched with bridges that empties into the bay. If we sail around the
western cliffs we will be in a protected harbor in a few hours.Ó
We were a little nervous as we came into the unfamiliar harbor. I did
not forget to put my silver and gold pieces in a secret hideaway on the
ship. Our entrance into the harbor went unhindered. We were readily
given a place at the dock to berth our ship. It seemed they were used to
visits from foreign traders. When I saw the masses of people on shore, my
eyes searched for someone I could approach about protection for my ship.
Then I saw a noble warrior striding through the crowds. He had a small
group of men following behind him. I quickly went over to him. He stood
still and took the measure of my foreign appearance with a calm gaze.
I bowed and greeted him using a few broken sentences in the Saracen
language. He politely asked me if I understood French.
ÒYes, sir, I speak French and am well acquainted with France.Ó
ÒAre you French? How do you come to be in this city?Ó
ÒNo, I come from Germany and carry out trade in foreign countries. I
have just arrived in the harbor in my ship.Ó

26
 When the gentleman understood this, he asked: ÒSo, you are a
Christian, and wishing to sell and trade your wares? The King of this land
of Morocco has given me, his servant, control and authority over this city.
In his name I grant you protection.Ó After he said this, he waved to two of
his attendants who immediately took me to a good inn. They told me the
name of their master, Stranmur, Earl of this city of Castelgunt.
I silently thanked God that after the many days of trouble, I found this
man with whom I formed an immediate friendship, almost like brothers.

The Unusual Trade

The next day I was again with Stranmur and he said: ÒGerald, you
have a rich cargo in your ship. Will you show it to me?Ó Naturally, I was
happy to oblige. He was enchanted with the costly fabric, carpets, and
furs that I brought out for him. ÒIf you like,Ó he said, ÒI also will show you
my treasure at the castle. If it appeals to you, perhaps we can make a
trade.Ó
I was curious and followed Stranmur back to his castle. I was thinking
about items made from gold and silver that he would show me. But he
did not bring out any such goods. We came to a chamber that a servant
unlocked. It was a wide, bare room. Completely amazed, my gaze rested
upon twelve young knights who sat bound in chains. Their mournful eyes
looked up at us for a short moment and then sank again to the floor. Were
they prisoners of war? slaves? Their pale eyes and skin showed they were
not from this part of the world. One could see they were suffering badly
from their fate.
Since I stood there as if rooted to the spot, the Earl took my arm and
indicated we should proceed further. He led me to another chamber. What
I found there was even more painful: twelve elderly, aristocratic knights in
chains. They all sat there in misery. Not one of them so much as lifted his
head when we entered.

27
 But the Earl was already urging me to yet another door. What I
saw before me this time shook me to the foundation of my soul. Fifteen
noblewomen sat on the floor. They too were prisoners and in misery. Their
whispering stopped when we entered the room. From the middle of the
group a maiden stood up who was very beautiful. She had light blond
hair Ð a child of the North. I took a step toward the women as a show of
sympathy for them. Stranmur pulled me back decisively. The door was
locked behind us.
I knew that people were traded as slaves in Saracen, but how had
all these aristocrats from Europe ended up StranmurÕs prisoners? He
addressed me about that: ÒGerald, have you taken a good look at my
treasure? Are you ready to make a trade with me?Ó
I replied: ÒBefore that, tell me how they came into your hands?Ó
ÒI will tell you. Do you know England?Ó
ÒCertainly, I know it and I speak its language.Ó
ÒThese knights were born there. They went with the young Prince
William of England in two ships to Norway to take back the daughter
of King Raimund to England as his bride. A storm that lasted for weeks
drove them through open seas until they landed here at Castelgunt in my
harbor. So, according to the law of the land, they are my property. They
are not traders like you, and have no right to free entry. However, the
royal William is not among them. He was aboard another ship that was
lost. If you would like to buy these prisoners from me, then I will hand
them over to you. You can pay me with the goods on your ship that I have
so admired. It is a good business deal for you. When you return these
prisoners to their homes, after they were thought to be dead, surely you
will be generously rewarded. The King of Norway will be especially happy
to have his daughter back and you will be paid a princely sum.Ó
My composure was so addled by this adventure and StranmurÕs offer
that I begged him to give me one day to think about my answer. When
I retired that evening, thoughts were swirling around in my head until

28
about midnight. Should I really trade for human beings as if they were
property? In my mindÕs eye I saw all the wonderful colors of the fabrics
and rugs from Damascus and Nineveh, and I felt the soft fur and the fine
leather for which I had traded. What wealth it would mean in my home
city of Cologne! And then I saw again the mournful, miserable prisoners in
their dirty, ragged clothes. Yes, Stranmur would get the better deal if this
trade went through. From deep in my heart, I called out to God to give me
a sign about what I should do. In the middle of the night I fell into a kind
of half-sleep and I heard the voice of an angel. His words rang through my
soul: ÒWhat good you do to a poor creature in My Name, you have done
to Me. Blessed are the merciful!Ó I tried to see the invisible speaker with
my eyes, but I was staring into darkness and could hear only the rush of
the waves from the sea.
The next morning, Stranmur was waiting. ÒTell me, my good friend,
have you thought about it? What has your conscience advised you?Ó
ÒEarl Stranmur,Ó I replied just as cheerily, Òhow can I do business
without having first spoken to the prisoners? Please, allow me to ask their
opinion. Only, for my sake, I ask that you remove their chains for this
conversation. They should stand before me free and without restraint.Ó
ÒI will do this for you because there is no guile in you.Ó He immediately
ordered that the chains be loosened from the prisoners, but warned that
they should be closely guarded. So I was led into the chambers with guards
posted at the door.
The prisoners could now walk freely for the first time in more than
half a year. The two groups of knights, young and old, embraced. When
I entered I heard sobbing mixed with cheers so that I also was moved
to tears. The prisoners seemed shy of me since I appeared to them as a
stranger. When it was quiet again and I found the words, I spoke to them
in their native tongue, English. I gave them a friendly greeting, and they
immediately rushed toward me, touching my hands, my cloak, as if they
had to make sure of this miracle: A stranger, here, speaking to them in
their own language!

29
 ÒAre you a Christian?Ó they wanted to know. When I nodded, I
was taken into their arms, their tears, and their pain. They were beside
themselves, kissing my hands and shoes.
It was a little while before I could talk to them again. ÒYou knights,
your plight has deeply affected me. I will tell you who I am. A trader from
Cologne, I landed my ship here two days ago. Good fortune was smiling
on me when I met the Earl of this city. He allowed me to talk to you. Earl
Stranmur has seen the precious goods on my ship and has made me an
offer of trade: my goods for you prisoners. I am prepared to make this
trade, to free you, and bring you back to your homeland.Ó
The pandemonium that erupted was almost indescribable. The young
knights sprang in the air, beat their chests with their fists, stomped and
screamed, crazy with happiness. The older ones dropped to my feet, and
some of them broke into prayers of gratitude.
When the excitement had subsided a little, a dignified knight had a
word to say: ÒUnknown benefactor, allow us to become your prisoners
as Christ wills it. We will repay you twice the goods you give for us when
we are home again. Remember, a Princess travels with us. Her father will
reward you. Let us go to her now.Ó I ordered one of the guards to open
the door to the womenÕs chamber and asked the honorable knight to
announce me to the Princess.
Shortly after that I was accompanied to the noblewomen, and I came
upon a scene that I will never forget. In the middle of the weeping maidens
sat the Princess. She gave me a sunny smile and offered me her hand in
greeting as if I were her father. The knights, young and old, were pressed
behind me. What a welcome! The power of hope had turned their tears of
sadness to those of joy and quiet elation. I explained what it was about
to the Princess and her maidens as I had with the knights. They wished to
sink to their knees before me in worshipful gratitude, but I would not allow
it. They called me a rescuing tool of the Most High God who had heard
their prayers, and they named me ÔGood Father.Õ Such sounds of sorrow,

30
happiness, and thankfulness all at the same time I am sure had never been
heard before within the walls of that castle. It is a wonder they did not
shift the floor beneath our feet.
A little while later I was sitting across from Earl Stranmur, and he
inquired: ÒHow is it now? Do you agree to my offer?Ó
ÒYes, sir, but I must attach one condition to the arrangement.Ó
ÒName it, and I will consider whether it is good and feasible.Ó
ÒThe prisonerÕs weapons and their few travel belongings were taken
from them. Everything should be returned, as well as the ship, so they
may sail back to England. Travel provisions should also be made in good
supply.Ó
ÒYou have considered well, Gerald. Agreed; they shall have everything
you ask.Ó We sealed the agreement with a handshake.
Soon I had all my precious cargo unloaded from the hold. But the ship
was now sitting much too high in the water so I had sandbags and rocks
brought into the cargo hold until it was again sitting well. In the meantime
the freed prisoners refreshed themselves with a bath and were given new
clothing.
The next morning I gathered them all together for a church service
conducted by my shipÕs priest and record keeper. We came together for a
farewell meal with Stranmur and his men. In the name of Allah, his God,
he gave us a travel blessing.
Under favorable winds our two ships sailed closely together for
nearly twelve days. The coast became more familiar to us. We came to a
port. Here our ways must part Ð theirs to England and mine to Utrecht in
Holland and then on to Cologne. When we had dropped anchor, I had the
food stores divided up equally between both ships. But the English captain
said to me: ÒThe Princess of NorwayÕs chaperones were killed when her
groomÕs ship went down in the storm. He was also lost. She has only two
maidservants with her on the ship. All the others are English. What will
happen to her?Ó

31
 I made a decision: ÒThe Princess will remain on my ship. I will find a
trustworthy trader to take her back to her homeland.Ó
When we were saying goodbye, two older gentlemen wished to offer
themselves as security for their debt and remain on my ship until I received
payment from England. But I refused: ÒAll of you must go to England
together! I will leave the reward to Him who has guided us so faithfully
thus far. Godspeed!Ó
The sails waved further and further in the distance until they
disappeared from our view. My ship set a course for our dear home.

What Happened in Cologne

Once back in Cologne, I sent a messenger ahead to tell my wife and
son the good news about our arrival. I ordered him to keep quiet about
everything else. He was allowed to say only that I had precious cargo with
me. The news spread like wildfire since many had already given up on my
return. Friends and relatives hurried to the ship to greet me and have a
look at the Ôprecious cargo.Õ The Princess and her ladies remained in the
shipÕs cabin while I showed the curious onlookers my cargo of sandbags
and rocks.
ÒFor HeavenÕs sake,Ó cried my good wife, Òwere you plundered by
pirates?! Where is the treasure the messenger was talking about?Ó
Now I went to the cabin and got the Princess with her two ladies-
in-waiting. As she stepped out in her youthful beauty, rapid whispers of
speculation spread through the little group. In a few words, I explained
her origins and how fate had brought her to us. The three women became
honored guests in my home. It did not take long for my wife to love the
Princess as if she were her own daughter.
To stave off boredom, the Princess got busy sewing and embroidering
silk garments that were highly coveted by the noblewomen of the land.
By way of a trader from Holland, I was able to send a letter to the King of
Norway and tell him about his daughter. Even though she always appeared

32
cheerful, sometimes, when she thought she was unobserved, I could see
that homesickness and worry about her lost bridegroom plagued her.
A year went by. No message was received from either England or
Norway. It was feared that not only her groom but also her father were no
longer alive. She had been away from home now for almost three years. So
it happened that an idea began to form in my mind. My son was without
a wife. It was not lost on me that he often gazed in admiration at the
noble maiden. One day I gathered my courage and spoke to her: ÒWorthy
Maiden, I am concerned about your future. Since your bridegroom is
missing and there is no word from your father, what will become of you?
Would it not be better for you to give your hand to my son in marriage and
take your place among the rich merchant class?Ó
I could see that she was trying not to show her feelings. But she
answered in a measured tone: ÒDear Sir and Father! Your son deserves the
greatest happiness. I would gladly grant your request, only give me one
more year. If my Prince is alive, then he will surely find his way here by
then. He is still very dear to me.Ó
ÒSo be it, Princess,Ó I answered. ÒWe shall wait with you one year.Ó
The seasons changed. Winter was at an end. The Maiden Princess
had become even more beloved to us all. When the year was almost over
I gently reminded her about our conversation. She said: ÒI remain true to
my word. What you expect of me, dear Father, shall take place.Ó I rejoiced
over our good fortune to have her with us always and for my son to have
such an honorable wife.
The wedding was to be a big celebration since the whole city was
honored by the bride. The ceremony was to take place at Pentecost. The
Bishop and many aristocrats from the surrounding castles accepted their
invitations. More than three hundred earls and knights would compete
against each other in a great tournament for my sonÕs wedding. I gave
my son, who also was well able to compete, horses and armor. Everything
was made ready to host a large number of guests.

33
 The festive day grew closer. The noblemen I had invited rode in with
their men. My son greeted them at the cityÕs main gate. After he had been
tested in the necessary skills, my son was initiated into the knighthood.
After the Holy Mass, I walked the bride down the aisle to my waiting son.
She was wed to him in the cathedral before the masses of people.
The large courtyard in front of my house had been prepared for the
tournament. Now the large group of guests, in a festive mood, moved
to the grandstand where the games would be held. Honorable knights
swung their bright banners. The coats of arms on the horsesÕ blankets
enlivened the colorful picture. The Bishop sat next to the young bride
while my son and I went about the pleasant duties of hosting the festival.
After the Bishop had blessed the knightsÕ swords, music sounded forth
from many flutes and drums. Skilled fiddlers played loudly to direct our
attention to the parade of knights making its way around the tournament
field. Noblewomen waved their handkerchiefs and threw flowers to their
favorites. But when the games began, the only sound was from the banners
whooshing in the breeze. Then we heard the clanging of the shields and
cuffs of armor. The bright May sunshine shone on the heated contests.
Fiery shouts erupted from the grandstand to acknowledge the courage of
the contestants.

The Stranger Nobody Knew

Every so often I would ride along the length of the field to see about
the well-being of my guests. I saw someone standing close to my loved
ones whose appearance did not blend in with the crowd. He was a young
man dressed in poor clothing with no stockings. He was leaning on a
post and staring straight ahead. In spite of his dirty, untidy dress and his
wild hair, I was overcome by the expression of deep sadness on his face.
Deprivation and hardship spoke from his aristocratic features. He was tall
and well-proportioned. I noticed that he never turned his gaze from my
sonÕs bride. I clearly saw tears trickling from his pale eyes. What did this

34
obviously troubled pilgrim want at our celebratory gathering? I went over
to him and talked to him, saying that today of all days everyone should be
enjoying themselves. ÒGod be with you, worthy pilgrim!Ó
ÒI thank you, honored Sir!Ó
ÒMay I know what is troubling you, stranger?Ó
ÒI beg your pardon, Sir?Ó
ÒYou must be hungry. Have you had anything to eat yet?Ó
ÒI have not eaten, and yet, I have eaten too much.Ó
ÒI do not understand. Today I hope to make everyone happy and joyful.
Come with me!Ó Reluctantly, he followed me into my house. I encouraged
him to tell me what was really bothering him: ÒIf possible, as your host, I
would like to turn an unhappy man into a happy one.Ó
The stranger seemed to gain trust in me and began, somewhat
hesitantly, to speak: ÒI have lived in sorrow a long time. My name is
William. I was the Prince of England. After a voyage to the King of Norway,
I received the hand of his daughter, Irene, as my bride. She accepted my
ring, and I hers. But the wedding was supposed to take place in England,
within the community of my noblemen. He put his daughter on board my
ship with English attendants and crew. In order to show me honor, the
King had prepared a Norwegian ship for me with Norwegian noblemen on
board. Sailing back to England there was a terrible storm. We lost sight
of the other ship as well as all sense of direction. We wrecked on rocky
shoals.
ÒThe crew drowned around me. I was able to swim to a wooden
rafter. After many hours I reached the land of Denmark. I searched the
entire coastline, looking for my lost companions and my bride. I traveled
through exotic lands with strange people. Nowhere did I find them. Again
and again her living image appeared in my mindÕs eye and bade me to
continue journeying from place to place. Today I have found my Princess
Ð and I see she is anotherÕs bride. Heartache and grief overpowered me.
And then you spoke to me. Now I know that she is well. I must learn to live

35
 with the loss.Ó So the stranger ended his story, and once again I saw tears
welling up in his eyes.
As for me, it seemed as if the whole world had been turned upside
down, and words nearly failed me. ÒStay here as my guest! Get some
rest,Ó I stammered. ÒI will be back very soon.Ó I hurried to instruct two
servants to see to the needs of the stranger, to draw him a bath and give
him some nice clothes to wear.
Was it jubilation or pain that was gathering in my chest? I made
haste to the grandstand where the crowd was still intent on watching the
games. I sat down next to the Bishop and whispered to him: ÒReverend, it
has just come to my attention that we have a guest who needs your help.Ó
He gave me a skeptical look, unwilling to leave the festivities: ÒGerald,
surely no one has need of me now!Ó
ÒReverend, it is William, the Prince of England!Ó
The Bishop surely thought I had drunk too much wine, and he replied:
ÒMy dear Gerald, a different joke would be more appropriate today than
to touch upon such unpleasantness!Ó
ÒNo, dear Bishop, upon my life, William has shown up here today as a
destitute pilgrim. I have just spoken with him. I am certain of his identity.
We have been given a sign from God! William is the true bridegroom of
the Princess. The King of Norway gave his blessing to their engagement.Ó
The Bishop looked at me, dumbfounded. When he had recovered his
thoughts, he slowly repeated my words: ÒA sign from God?Ó I suggested
we go find my son so that we could discuss everything with him.
A short time later we three were sitting together. I carefully explained
to my son about the arrival of young Prince William, whom we had all
thought was dead, and that it was a sign from God that he arrived here
before my sonÕs wedded life with the Princess had actually begun. All the
color drained from my sonÕs face. He wordlessly stared straight ahead.
The Bishop spoke to him: ÒYou see, dear Gerald, God brought the two of
them together overseas in Norway. What God brings together, no man
should tear apart!Ó

36
 He calmly listened to both of us, and then he broke down in rueful
lamentation over his ruined happiness. He loved his bride very much. I
said to him: ÒPull yourself together, my son! You are called upon to make
a great sacrifice. Do it in the name of Christ!Ó
After going back and forth in his mind, and arguing with himself, he
had a request: ÒFather, I would like to see the stranger and speak to him!Ó
When we entered his room, we saw that the pilgrim had undergone
a great transformation. He stood before us in rich garb. His hair was
arranged in the courtly style. His whole attitude shone with knightly
perfection. I introduced him to my son. They both looked intently at one
another. Then young Gerald offered him his hand in welcome. I left them
alone, for there should be no witnesses to their conversation.
A good while later they came together to the grandstand, in brotherly
harmony, it seemed to me. Many heads and eyes turned toward the
magnificent, unknown knight. I walked to them. My son turned him over
to me, muttered a few words of excuse, and took his leave. I led William
to the Bishop and the Princess and we sat with them. The games were in
full force. Irene had not yet looked the stranger in the eyes. She whispered
to me: ÒDear Father, who is this unknown person you have brought to sit
with us?Ó
ÒHe is no unknown. It is William, Prince of England.Ó
Her hands flew to her face and she cried: ÒOh, Father, why have you
spoiled this beautiful day with a bad joke?! For HeavenÕs sake, please, let
us have an end to it!Ó
ÒDearest daughter, look at him. As God as my witness, I am not
joking.Ó I stepped back a little so that she could see him better.
When she showed him her face, his eyes shone brilliantly, and he
smiled. She shuddered, and the blood drained from her cheeks. It seemed
as if her soul was floating out of her body, like a dream. William jumped
up and caught the faint girl in his arms. When she came to herself again,
her head was resting in WilliamÕs lap. His worried face was bent close to
hers. ÒWilliam,Ó she whispered. He pulled her to him and kissed her.

37
 ÒIrene, nothing shall part us ever again, neither life nor death!Ó
While this was going on, I had spoken a few words of explanation
to the bemused witnesses. Since there was an intermission in the games
for some dinner, a large group of participants surrounded the couple and
shared in their happiness. But I did not see my son anywhere. He was
deeply shaken by the sudden turn of his good fortune. He must slowly
come to grips with the fact that he must now give up his beloved bride.
I found him in his chamber and comforted him as much as a father can:
ÒYou must make the sacrifice, and I as well. Destiny has determined it!Ó
I agreed with the new couple that the Archbishop would bless them
in marriage the following day. He willingly performed a second ceremony.
The festivities were prolonged for another day, and the royal couple was
shown much honor from all present.
When this day also came to an end and all the guests had ridden
away, the young Prince took my son and myself aside and said: ÒI need
your advice. My thoughts are with England, my home. A short time ago
I heard the news that during my long absence my father passed away.
A few of the dukes think they should be King in my place. Fighting has
broken out among them. If I do not return home quickly, the country will
suffer calamity.Ó
I said to him: ÒIf it is agreeable to you, I will ready a ship and take you
back to England myself. I will also put together a good, strong troop of
men to go with us.Ó

How Gerald almost Became King

King William was pleased with my offer. Just one week later we were
on a ship heading down the Rhine River. We reached the open sea in good
time, and we arrived in London earlier than we had hoped. I entreated the
King and Queen to stay on board ship for the time being, and I would go
ashore to find out how things stood. I took a few men with me and looked
for a hostel in the city. I noticed there were so many people filling the

38
streets. I inquired of the innkeeper: ÒIs there a tournament or some other
festivity going on in the city?Ó
ÒNo, there is supposed to be a big council taking place. King William is
dead. We are a land with no leader. There is no one to fight injustice. The
nobles want to choose a new king.Ó The innkeeper pointed me toward the
palace where the council of knights was to take place.
As a trader I had long been fluent in the English language. Since I was
wearing expensive clothes, everyone took me for a powerful lord. At my
request a palace guard let me into the great hall where the knights had
just gathered, and I sat down as if I were one of them. I realized that the
knights I had freed in that far-off foreign city of Castelgunt were all here.
It would do no good to confer with them. Some knights were looking at
me, puzzled, but none of them recognized me. A speaker stood: ÒMy fellow
knights, since we have found no one among us to replace the deceased
William to whom all of us would declare loyalty as our new king, we must
adjourn this council until tomorrow.Ó
I stood up. A surprised murmur rippled through the rows of knights. I
began: ÒHonorable Knights, I ask your forbearance to listen to what I have
to say. I am in a position to offer a solution to your difficulties. There is a
knight in this land who would meet the approval of everyone here.Ó
I was interrupted by loud voices: ÒFirst tell us who you are, unknown
speaker!Ó
ÒI travel from overseas as Gerald of Cologne.Ó
At that moment many recognized me, jumped up, pressed forward,
hugged me, and said: ÒGerald, of course, you should be our King! You
would bring us peace!Ó
There was such a tumult! I wanted to explain myself and continue
with my speech, but there was such a joyous uproar I could not make
myself heard. Four of them lifted me above their shoulders and carried me
to the empty throne at one end of the hall. And one of the older gentlemen
set the KingÕs crown on my head as if I had forgotten my hat.

39
 I let a few minutes go by so they would calm down. They had already
begun to kneel before the throne to show their loyalty to me. Finally I was
able to shout above the noise. I took the crown in both my hands and said:
ÒDear, noble knights, I bring you good news. Your young King William is
alive. Queen Irene has married him. I tell you the truth. They have come
with me in my ship, over the sea,and up the Thames River. King William
is in London!Ó
The cries of jubilance were deafening. I stood there with the crown
held high like a lighthouse in a storm. People started shouting: ÒWhere is
he? Bring the horses and banners and trumpets!Ó Some had already run
outside to share the news with the people. So now the shouts of joy could
be heard all around the palace.
I sent a message to my ship by way of one of the men with me, to tell
the King and Queen to prepare for visitors. A parade of men had formed
outside in the palace square. I was in front with all the knights, and the
people followed behind. The parade made its way toward the Thames.
No more than halfway, the King and Queen came to meet us. There was
such a greeting among those who had missed each other for so long that
I do not have the words to describe it. Soon all the bells in the city were
ringing.
The next day all the aristocrats in London gathered at the cathedral.
The Archbishop crowned William and Irene in a solemn ceremony. For
days and nights the people celebrated. Following the coronation, there
was a council meeting where all the knights declared their loyalty and
gratitude to the King. So, peaceful order was restored to the kingdom.
William sent a messenger to Norway to report the news to King Raimund,
the QueenÕs father. He was invited to undertake the journey to England.
The royal couple moved into the KingÕs palace and I was their guest.
All the freed knights brought goods to my ship in order to repay me for
ransoming them from Earl Stranmur. It was amazing how much love and
respect was shown to me.

40
 In the next few weeks the KingÕs court was filled with noble knights,
soldiers, and servants. The kingdom shone with new brilliance. A short time
later King Raimund of Norway, along with his entourage, arrived with two
ships at the mouth of the Thames. His welcoming became another reason
for a peopleÕs festival. The father took his daughter in his arms again and
again, she whom he had believed lost forever. Their laughter and tears of
joy were a wonderful sight. There were tournaments and games in honor
of the Norwegians. King Raimund became a dear friend of mine.
There was but one dark spot that needed to be dealt with. William
had to hold a court of judgment. During his absence some ambitious
knights and earls had confiscated large swaths of land and oppressed
many people. They were brought before the King to pass judgment on
them. He looked solemnly upon the guilty ones and said: ÒYou have denied
your loyalty and broken the peace while my companions and I were out
of the country. As punishment I am banishing you into the unknown. You
will never again set foot on EnglandÕs shores!Ó
No words or lamentations would help. The sentence was passed and in
force. The prisoners were locked up in The Tower. The next day they were
to be taken on a large fishing boat to the shores of France and banished.
All twenty-four knights who had been rescued from the Saracens were
present, and King William spoke for the second time: ÒHonored Knights,
on this day when the evil-doers have been punished, we also would like to
think of the man who saved us all and gave away much rich merchandise.
We will reward him many times over with silver and gold to make up for
what he lost. First of all, we will award him the Dukedom of Kent. As a
duke among us, he will receive honor and wealth.Ó
I was deeply shocked by the KingÕs words. I sought neither honor nor
the burden of such wealth as a dukedom would bring. So I interrupted the
proceedings: ÒDear, good Sire,Ó I addressed the King, ÒI thank you for your
generosity! But I was not born to be a duke. I have another suggestion, a
request, for how you may repay me.Ó

41
 ÒSpeak, Gerald,Ó he responded. ÒAny desire will be granted.Ó
ÒWhat I desire, good King, is that you show mercy to the knights who
are to be banished into homelessness. Grant them clemency and allow
them to return to their homes in your kingdom and live in peace. They will
certainly be loyal, thankful servants to Your Majesty. Granting this request
would be my greatest reward.Ó
For a few moments the King stared at the floor in front of him. There
was complete silence and every whisper was swallowed. When he slowly
raised his head, his eyes were clear, and he said: ÒGerald, for your sake
I will lift the ban. Their evil acts are forgiven. We will live with them in
peace.Ó
Shortly thereafter the banished ones were brought back into the court
to hear the new judgment. They fell to their knees and thanked the King
for his mercy and promised, with tears, their steadfast loyalty.
The day came when I and my shipÕs crew said goodbye to England. I
hugged the royal couple, and we gave each other GodÕs blessing, Who had
so wonderfully guided our destiny.

 
What shall I say further, my Emperor? I was welcomed home again.
My son found a loving wife. My only concern, noble Emperor, is that I
have taken up too much of your time with my story. God grant us the
good grace that during our days on Earth we never forget the World of
Eternity!Ó
ÒSo be it,Ó the Emperor asserted. He gripped both the storytellerÕs
hands: ÒYes, you really are ÔGerald the GoodÕ! From now on I will be able to
tread lifeÕs path in the light that your heart and way has revealed to me.Ó

42
 Magelone the Beautiful

The following historical account of Sir Peter, the son of a Count from the
Provence region in France, and the beautiful Magelone, a KingÕs daughter
from Naples, Italy, was first written down in French in the year 1453 and
translated into German in 1535. At the time of the story, Provence, along
with the other southern regions of France, had turned to the Christian
faith. The area was ruled by Count Ceriso, whose wife was the daughter
of Alvaros of Dalborn.

 

A long time ago in Provence there was a ruling Count by the name of
Ceriso. His castle was visited often by noble knights. His wife had borne
him an only son and they named him Peter. When Peter was grown into
a young man, he soon overtook all of his companions in the knightly
skills. Nobody threw a lance as reliably as he; nobody rode his steed so
confidently over the fields. He was friendly with everyone and beloved
throughout the land. The people said of him: ÒThe CountÕs son is very
noble and has his heart in the right place. He will be a very fine gentleman
someday.Ó His father and mother were very proud with their son.
One day the aristocracy of the region held a contest of weapons at
the CountÕs castle, a tournament, as it was called. Many visitors and
experienced knights came to measure their strength and skill against one
another in the fighting contests. The young, skilled Peter won more than

43
 anyone else. He used his lance to throw every opponent out of his saddle
into the sand. The others were amazed, and there was much praise for
PeterÕs ability. In the evening it happened that all the knights were sitting
happily around the table telling tales about their hunts and adventures.
One of them asked politely: ÒDo you know who the most beautiful maiden
in all the land is?Ó They went back and forth, but the knights could not
agree.
Finally, the young man answered his own question, and said: ÒThe
most beautiful maiden I have ever seen is Magelone, the daughter of the
King of Naples. Some knights have asked for her hand, but she has not
opened her heart to anyone.Ó
One of the knights mused to Peter: ÒSir Peter, now that you have
proven yourself so admirably in the tournament, you should get out into
the world and have a look around. You would certainly become famous
and bring home a beautiful bride.Ó Peter liked the sound of these words.
He thought about it. For a while now his heart had been urging him to ask
his parents to allow him to go out into the world. He had seen so little of it.
A few days later, after the visiting knights had moved on, Peter found
his parents in the castle gardens, sitting together on a bench and talking
about their son. He walked up to them, bowed in greeting, and said: ÒMy
dear parents, will you hear me? I have something I want to talk to you
about.Ó
Surprised, his father replied: ÒSpeak, my son.Ó
Peter began: ÒGood Mother, you have taken such good care of me
since I was a young child. And you, beloved Father, when I was bigger
and stronger, taught me everything about being a knight. You have fed
my body and my soul. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. But, now
that I am become a knight, I feel powerfully compelled to go out into the
world. Allow me to go away and see the world. Please do not be upset, but
I would like to practice my skills in many different lands and come home
with fame and honor so that you may be proud of me.Ó

44
 After his speech the parents looked at each other in shocked surprise.
Then his father said: ÒDear Peter, you are our only son. If something
should happen to you, we would have nobody to rule after me.Ó
In an unsteady voice his mother said: ÒPeter, you are our one and only
great happiness. Please do not leave us! You have already earned a good
name, and a beautiful estate will be your inheritance. There is no greater
castle far and wide than ours. Stay with us and speak no more of the
world. It has already brought many knights to ruin.Ó
Peter was very disappointed when he heard this. With eyes on the
ground he replied: ÒOh, what better can a young knight do than see the
world! Father, you were also once in foreign places.Ó Peter knelt before his
parents in all humility and took their hands in his, silently pleading with
them.
The Count and Countess could well see that they could not stop Peter
from carrying out his plans. His father said: ÒStand up, Peter. Sit here
beside me and listen to what I once told myself. I will allow you to go out
into the world for one year. But take care that you stay on the right path
and do not fall into misadventure. If you do so, GodÕs help will always be
with you. Take a good horse and weapons. You should also have enough
gold and silver with you. Use it on your travels for what you need and to
help others.Ó
When Peter heard these words, he jumped up and gave his parents
a joyous hug. His father went back to the castle to prepare the things
Peter would need. In a few days everything was ready for his journey into
foreign lands. His mother invited him into her sitting room, where she
gave him one more tearful hug and three precious rings. He thanked her
for the wonderful gift. His father provided him with a young, fiery stallion.
At their farewell, his father and mother reminded him: ÒDo not forget that
we are always thinking of you and waiting for you. Return to us, body and
soul, as our loyal son.Ó

45
 It was a very early morning hour when Peter rode away. The fluttering,
white handkerchief his mother used to wave him goodbye grew further
and further away.
After a long time riding, he came to the city of Naples. The beautiful
Magelone lived there in a castle by the sea. Peter dismounted from his
horse in front of a hostel in the city. He asked the innkeeper about the
traditions and customs in the royal castle and wanted to know if foreign
knights were allowed entrance. The innkeeper looked at him: ÒA few days
ago a friend of the King arrived, Heinrich von Caprana, a bold warrior. For
this coming Sunday, the King has announced a tournament in his honor.Ó
Peter asked: ÒMay unknown knights also take part in the games?Ó
ÒYes, yes,Ó the innkeeper said. ÒBut they have to be skilled. The best
knights in the land will meet there.Ó Peter was happy to hear this news,
and he decided to be a contestant at the games. He found a youth to act
as his page and take care of his horse, and he hired him as his servant.

The Tournament
Sunday arrived. Peter got up early and wondered if he would see
Magelone today. He put on his armor and decorated his horse with
colorful plumes. Two shining keys fashioned out of silver shone brilliantly
on his helmet as a symbol of his name, Peter, for the Apostle Peter who
carried the Keys to Heaven. His horseÕs blanket, a gift from his mother,
was also embroidered with keys. And so Sir Peter the Knight presented a
very impressive picture.
When the trumpets blasted from the castle tower, all the knights
gathered at the arena. Soon after, and with great fanfare, the King drove
out with his wife in a coach. They went to the raised dais overlooking the
field and took their places. Princess Magelone sat close to her parents,
surrounded by noblewomen. Peter rode in accompanied by his page. He
placed himself a little to the side of the large crowd of knights. Nobody
greeted him, for he was an unknown stranger.

46
 A herald stepped forward. The crowd was silent. At the KingÕs
command he announced: ÒWhosoever wishes to champion a fair maiden
and be the first to break his spear, come forward to do battle.Ó
Heinrich von Caprana quickly galloped into the arena. One of the
KingÕs battle-hardened knights lined up opposite him, and an intense
battle began. The dust swirled up and Sir Heinrich was able to knock the
KingÕs knight out of his saddle. As he lay in a heap on the ground, his lance
accidentally struck Sir HeinrichÕs horse between the legs and Sir Heinrich
fell with his horse to the ground. The onlookers thought that the KingÕs
knight had unseated Sir Heinrich, and they cheered him as victor. But it
had been an unfortunate accident and against the rules. When the KingÕs
knight was sitting in his saddle again, he looked proudly around as if he
had legitimately won when the truth was he had broken the rules. Peter
was annoyed because he had seen exactly what had really happened to
Sir Heinrich.
But the KingÕs herald had already stepped forward to announce a new
contest. Peter spurred his horse and galloped to the middle of the field.
The KingÕs knight took a brash stance against him. Peter was angry and
he threw his lance so hard that the knight was knocked off his horse at the
first blow. The audience was in awe at the skill of the unknown Knight of
the Keys, and even the King praised him. He asked his courtiers who the
young fighter was, but nobody knew anything about him. The King sent
his own herald to the stranger.
Peter answered him: ÒTell your master and King I have sworn an oath
to tell no one my name. All I will say is that I am a nobleman from France
and I am in search of honorable adventures in the world.Ó
The King was only half satisfied with this answer. As the tournament
continued, Peter put the best fighters into the sand, one after the other.
The women cheered loudly for the Knight of the Keys and threw flowers
at his feet. Even the beautiful Magelone was pleased with the gallantry of
this unknown knight. The King awarded Peter first prize, a well-wrought

47
 sword. While the onlookers were walking away from the field, everyone
was talking about the surprising win of the Knight of the Keys. But Peter
simply returned to the inn.

Peter Speaks with Magelone

That evening when Magelone was in her room, she could not stop
thinking about the brave Knight of the Keys. His humility, his courage, and
just the way he looked had impressed her very much. And so it happened
that in her heart she began to love him. The next day she said to the King:
ÒI was very pleased with the knights tournament. Father, would you
sponsor another such contest?Ó
Magelone was secretly hoping that the Knight of the Keys would come
again and take part. The King agreed and gave orders to organize a second
tournament. As the trumpets blasted, Peter rode in with the others.
As he had before, Heinrich von Caprana opened the games. He wanted
to remedy the dishonor of his loss to the KingÕs knight the first time. The
false winner proudly came out opposite him. Soon the sand was flying as
the horses bore down on their opponents. Heinrich thrust his lance with
such force that the KingÕs knight flew in a wide arc to the sandy ground
and limped away from the field. Caprana successfully fought against all
but the Knight of the Keys. Again, Peter showed himself to be a noble
fighter; nobody could beat him.
The King invited him to the castle for a midday meal. Peter was very
happy and thought: ÔSoon I will see the beautiful Magelone up close and
can greet her.Õ At the table the best contestants were always seated across
from the KingÕs daughter. This time it was the Knight of the Keys. Rare
and exquisite food was brought out, but Peter paid it little attention. He
was drawn to look at the beautiful Magelone again and again. In his heart
he thought: ÔThere was never a more precious maiden on Earth. Whoever
wins her love will be the luckiest man alive.Õ After the meal, all the invited
guests took their leave.

48
 Magelone took the opportunity to speak alone with Peter: ÒThe King
and all the people of the Court say good things about you and your skills
as a knight. Please, come often to visit us in the castle. I would like you to
tell me about your homeland.Ó Before Peter saw what she was doing, she
handed him the rose that had decorated her dress. She gave him a friendly
nod and quickly walked away.
Peter shoved the rose inside his doublet because just then the King
walked up to him and asked about his origins and his family. Peter did
not give away his identity, but only replied: ÒI am a knight from France. I
would like to gain honor and fame by competing in tournaments.Ó
ÒIt seems you will be successful,Ó said the King. He took his leave in a
friendly manner and left the hall with his entourage. Peter went back to
the inn. He put the red rose in a water jug because he wanted to enjoy this
symbol of friendship for a few more days.

Magelone and the Nanny

The following night Peter could find neither rest nor sleep. He could
not stop thinking about Magelone and how friendly she had been to him.
It was the same for Magelone. In her room she thought about the Knight
of the Keys and wondered from where he came. She carried his image in
her heart.
Magelone had a nanny from the time she was a young child with
whom she could talk about anything that was on her mind. One day she
said to her: ÒDear Nanny, I would like to tell you something in confidence.
You may not repeat it to anyone.Ó
Nanny replied: ÒI have noticed for some time that something is
bothering you. Speak openly from your heart and do not fear. Your words
are safe with me.Ó
Magelone began: ÒAt the tournament I fell in love with the Knight of
the Keys. I can never forget him. The times he is far from me are very sad.
At the table I can hardly touch my food, and I cannot stop thinking about

49
 him. I do not sleep well at night. Is it not possible that I could become his
bride?Ó
The nanny was quite shocked by these words and did not know how
she should answer. Finally she gathered her courage and said: ÒDear child,
you may not think of this again. How shall a princess become the wife of a
stranger, an unknown knight?! If this reached your fatherÕs ear, he would
be very angry. Erase his image from your memory! Forget him.Ó
When Magelone understood that her nanny was extinguishing all
hope, a shiver went through her whole body, and she sobbed: ÒOh, Nanny,
I fear if you cannot help me, terrible misfortune will come over me.Ó When
she had said this, her senses seemed to leave her, and she fainted.
The nanny tried to get Magelone to come around for a long time.
Finally she opened her eyes. When her thoughts had returned she
whispered: ÒBelieve me, good Nanny. The Knight of the Keys is from a
noble house. I can see it in his fine features. Go to him and ask him, in my
name, from where he comes.Ó The nanny realized how great the maidenÕs
love was and so she finally agreed to ask the knight.

How the Nanny Met the Knight in the Church

That same day the nanny went to church and noticed the knight there,
praying. As he was about to leave, she stepped out from behind a column
and stopped him. Peter had often seen her with Magelone, and he knew
her well enough to give her a friendly greeting. She spoke quietly to him:
ÒSir Knight, I am amazed that you keep your family and name a secret. I
know that the King, and especially the Princess, would be very happy to
hear about your origins.Ó
Peter immediately suspected that Magelone had sent the nanny on
a mission to ask him about his family. He answered: ÒDear woman, ever
since I left home I have promised myself to tell no one about family origins.
Because the KingÕs daughter has now turned her friendly attention to me,
I will tell her that I come from a noble family in France. For now, I would

50
prefer to say no more. But, I ask you, please do me a small favor. Take this
ring to the Princess.Ó He gave the nanny one of the three rings his mother
had given him as a farewell gift.
ÒNoble Knight,Ó said the nanny, ÒI will gladly take her this token.Ó
They both left the church.
When the nanny returned to Magelone, she gave her the ring and
reported what the knight had to say about himself. The Princess was very
happy with the gift, and she said: ÒYes, I was sure that he was from a
noble house. My heart perceived it from the first moment I saw him. And
I thought: ÔThis knight will be my happy destiny!Õ I would rather die in
misery than ever have to forget him.Ó
The nanny was taken aback by these words and warned Magelone
again: ÒBe careful, my dear child, that this strange knight does not lead
you to unhappiness.Ó
Magelone retorted: ÒYou should not refer to him as a Ôstranger.Õ He is
my heartÕs closest companion.Ó
The old woman said sternly: ÒWhat I say is said out of concern for you
and your parents.Ó
The next day the knight made an effort to see the nanny in the church
again; he wanted to speak with her. When he noticed her, he went straight
up to her and was told that Magelone was very pleased with the ring
and wished to send her heartfelt thanks. Peter was encouraged and said:
ÒMay I tell you in confidence that the KingÕs daughter has totally won my
heart? Please do not be angry when I ask you to reveal my sentiment to
the beautiful Magelone.Ó
The nanny was pleased that the knight was speaking so openly with
her, and she replied: ÒI might do that, if you mean it from the bottom of
your heart.Ó
The knight assured her: ÒIf I do not really mean it, may a terrible end
befall me!Ó

51
 ÒWhy do you keep your identity secret? Surely, if you come from
nobility, a wedding would be the fulfillment of your love. You see, Magelone
is completely devoted to you, and her opinions are always on your side.Ó
ÒPlease help me to see the Princess and speak with her. I wish to tell
her everything about myself, but in private.Ó The nanny agreed. He gave
her the second ring for the Princess.
The nanny found Magelone in her room and told her what the knight
had said. She gave her the second ring, which was even more beautiful than
the first. The KingÕs daughter could hardly contain herself for happiness:
ÒDear Nanny, I beg you, do not delay in creating an opportunity for us to
meet as soon as possible.Ó The nanny was worried but she hoped to be
able to bring everything about as they wished.
The very next day she sought out the knight and found him again in
the church, which he had been visiting very regularly of late. Peter walked
up to her with a friendly greeting. She relayed MageloneÕs thanks and
told him how anxious Magelone was to speak with him: ÒCome tomorrow
afternoon through the small door in the back of the garden. I will take you
to her.Ó

The Knight Visits Magelone

At the agreed upon hour Peter was at the garden door. The nanny
looked all around to be sure no one else was about, and then she led him
to MageloneÕs room. Suddenly he had the KingÕs daughter before him in
all her beauty. He struggled to find just the right words and gave her a
polite bow as was the custom when greeting royalty. The nanny withdrew
to a room next door; the two of them should be undisturbed during their
conversation.
Magelone rose, held her hand out to Peter, and said: ÒNoble Knight,
you are welcome! How happy I am that you have come to see me and tell
me your name and family heritage.Ó She indicated a chair for him to sit.

52
 The knight replied: ÒGracious Princess, you have my heartfelt thanks
that you have so kindly invited me to speak with you. When I left home I
promised myself that I would travel throughout the land as an unknown
knight, and, until today, I have kept that promise. But, I wish to tell you:
I am Peter, a knight of France. My father is a Count from Provence and
a close relative of the King of France. As an only son, I left my father
and mother because I heard your name mentioned by some other knights
as the most beautiful princess of our time. I secretly hoped to gain your
favor. It was for you that I fought with such zeal in the tournament.Ó
After this speech, Magelone answered him: ÒNoble Knight, I thank
God that He gave us such a fortunate day in which we discovered our
great love for one another. However, it would be wise if we remained quiet
about it for the time being. Accept this gift as a symbol of my eternal
loyalty to you.Ó She hung a gold chain around his neck. Peter knelt before
her, promised his loyalty in return, and gave her the third ring from his
mother to seal their engagement.
The nanny was waiting impatiently for Magelone to call her because
she feared when the King heard about this friendship there would be bad
days ahead. Peter took his leave. Magelone waved to him from a window
high in the tower. He returned to his hostel in a very happy frame of mind.
From then on he often went to the KingÕs Court to exchange secret glances
with the beautiful Magelone. It almost always happened that the King
waved him over to join the company of the other courtiers. That is why he
often spoke to the Queen as well as her daughter. But nobody knew that
he and Magelone were secretly engaged.

Sir Frederick von der Krone Appears at Court

At this time, in the country of Romania, there lived a knight who was
very rich and powerful. He was known by the name of Frederick von der
Krone. He had gotten it into his head that he would have the beautiful
Magelone as his bride. So he traveled to Naples and revealed his plans

53
 to the King. They soon came to an agreement. But Magelone paid no
attention to him. So Sir Frederick decided to hold a grand tournament at
the Naples Court. The King willingly agreed, and Frederick believed his
valor at the games would win over MageloneÕs heart.
Heralds proclaimed throughout the land that on the day celebrating
the birth of Mother Mary there would be a brilliant tournament held in
Naples. Large numbers of noble Counts and Princes rode to the city. The
Knight of the Keys was already there. The knights who had ridden far
were able to rest for six days before the tournament began. The morning
of the festival day, all the knights went to Mass at the church and from
there, in all their regalia, went to the festival field. The King took his place,
surrounded by noblemen. Magelone took a seat to the side, close to her
mother. Among the ladies of the Court, MageloneÕs beauty shone forth
like the Morning Star at dawn.
The knights awaited the KingÕs signal to begin. The first to show
himself in his splendid armor was Sir Frederick von der Krone. A colorful
row of noble knights from many different countries followed him. Sir Peter
was the very last knight in the parade. Magelone was happy and proud to
see him. The King signaled the herald to blow the horn.
Sir Frederick was the first to ride out. He called out loudly to the
onlookers: ÒThis day I will show my strength and skill in honor of the
beautiful Magelone.Ó The son of the King of England was his opponent.
They came at each other so hard that both lances cracked in two.
Other knights came to fight. One of the very best was Lancelot of
Valois. Now the Knight of the Keys came onto the field as LancelotÕs
opponent. The experienced knights fought hard against each other; so
hard that both their horses fell and had to be replaced before they could
continue the contest. Magelone cringed when she saw PeterÕs horse
tumble, but he was soon back in the arena. Finally he was able to throw
Lancelot so squarely to the ground that he did not get up and had to be
carried back to his hostel.

54
 It happened that among the knights who had not yet fought there
was one named Jacob of Provence. He was related to Peter. They had not
seen each other in years so Sir Jacob did not recognize Sir Peter. But Peter
immediately realized who he was. He thought: ÔI will not fight against
him. I do not wish to injure him.Õ When Sir Jacob prepared to do battle,
Peter sent the herald to him with the message that he did not wish to cross
lances with Sir Jacob.
Jacob was surprised and told the herald: ÒThat is the custom only
among family or cowards. If he is a relative, then he should make himself
known. Otherwise I will know him to be a coward.Ó But Peter did not want
to reveal his identity so, as hard as it was, he decided to dispatch the rider
from his horse as quickly as possible to avoid hurting him badly in the
contest. The joust began. Jacob of Provence rode hard against Sir Peter.
He was forcefully thrown to the sand along with the splinters of his lance.
After this defeat he walked away from the arena, never realizing that his
opponent had been his relative.
Many other knights tried unsuccessfully to unseat Sir Peter. Frederick
von der Krone was the last to come against him. He proudly spurred his
horse. There was the loud clanging noise of iron on iron. Sand and dust
swirled all around, and when it settled, there lay Sir Frederick, trying very
hard to stand up. But he could not.
Everyone had a very high opinion of Sir Peter, Knight of the Keys,
this day, and the King showed him great favor. But nobody was sure
of Sir PeterÕs real identity. The King sent his best doctor to care for the
wounded; he was very busy that day. The King continued the festivities
with the knights for another fourteen days; then they all returned to their
homes. Everywhere they told the tale of the bold knight with the silver
keys. Frederick von der Krone, however, stayed at the KingÕs castle and
every day he sought to win MageloneÕs favor.

55
 How Peter Tested Beautiful Magelone
When things had quieted down at the KingÕs Court, Sir Peter secretly
returned to Magelone because they did not want to be separated for long.
Peter said to her: ÒPrecious Magelone, you know that for your sake, I have
been a very long time away from my father and mother. They are surely
very worried about me. That is why I am asking you to allow me to travel
home for some time so that I may relieve their fears.Ó
When Magelone heard these words, her eyes filled with tears, and the
blood drained from her face. Finally, she spoke: ÒI understand very well
that you are right and you must return home to your parents. But, believe
me, if I lose you, my life would soon be over.Ó
The maidenÕs lament hurt PeterÕs heart: ÒMagelone, do not cry. I will
not leave you. Come with me to my parentÕs castle. I will lead you there in
honor. We may not tarry, for it seems to me that your father has promised
your hand to Frederick von der Krone.Ó
Magelone replied: ÒYes, I have noticed that my father desires my
engagement to Sir Frederick. But I will be betrothed to no other than you.
I will come with you, wherever that may be. Let us be on our way secretly
and not delay any longer.Ó They agreed to ride away in three days.
Peter said: ÒI will gather what is necessary and meet you with the
horses outside the small garden gate. I will take care to get strong, fast
horses. The King will certainly not delay in following us when he realizes
we are gone.Ó They did not say one word of their plans to the nanny. In
all secrecy they prepared themselves for their journey. Peter also did not
forget to have new shoes put on the horses.

The Escape
At the agreed upon hour, when night had already blanketed the castle,
Peter carefully made his way to the garden gate with three horses. One of
the horses carried packs of bread and other food so that they would not
need to stay at hostels during their travel. Magelone was waiting for Peter

56
behind some flowering bushes. She had a number of gold and silver pieces,
as well as precious stones with her.
They mounted the horses and rode quietly at first, and then faster
and faster away from the castle. It was a starry, bright night, and the
moon was shining. They galloped at a quick pace until daybreak. Then
they went into thick forest that was close to the sea. Nobody could find
them here. Deep in the woods, in a green clearing, Peter helped Magelone
from her horse. He removed the horsesÕ bridles and let them graze in the
meadow. The two young people sat in the shade, discussing their escape,
and praying for GodÕs protection. Magelone was dead tired from the hard
ride to which her body was not accustomed. She was longing to rest. As
soon as she lay down, she fell fast asleep.
Back at the castle in Naples, no one had yet noticed anything amiss.
Only the nanny wondered why Magelone had not yet called her to her
room because the Sun had been up for hours. She listened at the door but
could hear nothing. She thought Magelone must be sleeping and waited
another hour. Finally, she feared that Magelone had taken ill, and she
softly opened the bedroom door. When she went to the bed and saw that
it was untouched Ð nobody had slept in it this night Ð a shiver of fear went
through her, and she thought that the knight had kidnapped the KingÕs
daughter. She sent a fast messenger to the inn. He soon returned with the
news that the knight had settled his account and said good-bye yesterday
evening.
A wretched look on her face, the nanny hurried to the Queen and
reported what she had seen in MageloneÕs room. The Queen, the King,
and the whole Court erupted in frenzy. Since they knew that the Knight of
the Keys had departed suddenly, the King also assumed he had kidnapped
Magelone. He ordered his fastest riders to get underway. They quickly
gathered their weapons and hurried in all directions to chase down the
runaways. The King commanded: ÒBring back the knight alive; he shall
experience my wrath.Ó

57
 But as hard as the riders searched, they found no trace of the knight
and maiden. Some returned after three days, others after six, and even
fifteen days. What use was the KingÕs anger or the QueenÕs sadness?
Magelone was still lost.
In the meantime, she was sleeping in the forest by the sea, and Peter
gazed with much love upon her beauty. He noticed she had tucked a red
handkerchief in her dress. Curious, he gently pulled it out. What was this?
The handkerchief was tied up with thread, hiding something inside. He
felt the three rings he had given Magelone. He gazed at them and then
wrapped them back inside the handkerchief, tied it up, and put the bundle
on a rock by his side. Joyfully, he thought about how much his mother
would like Magelone, his bride. At that moment a raven went craw, craw,
craw, flying above the forest. It looked down and saw the red bundle lying
on the rock. It must have thought it was prey because it dived toward the
rock and grabbed the handkerchief in its beak midflight to take back to its
nest. Peter was startled by the rush of wings. Too late! The bird climbed
into the air with the rings.
Peter quickly rolled up his cloak, put it under the sleeping girlÕs head,
and hurried to follow the raven. It had perched up in a tree to have a look
at its haul of treasure. Peter threw rocks at it, but the bird did not let the
handkerchief fall. Instead, it flew away toward the ocean. Peter followed it
further and further, but no amount of rock throwing helped.
The bird flew to some boulders on the shoreline that jutted up over the
waves. When it landed, the packet fell into the water, and the bird flew
away into the distance. The red handkerchief floated on the surface for a
few minutes and then sank from sight, the rings still inside.
Peter ran along the shore, looking for some kind of rowboat. A good
distance away he found an old boat that a fisherman had probably
abandoned because there were no oars in it. He found a long stick, jumped
in the boat, and paddled over toward the boulders. Before he reached
the place, the last little tip of red sank before his eyes. In the meantime, a

58
59
 strong wind had come up from land and was slowly driving the little boat
out to sea. In spite of his greatest efforts, Peter could do nothing against it
with his small paddle stick.
Soon the waves began to froth and foam. Dark clouds were forming.
The storm wind drove Peter far out into the open sea. He paddled
desperately, but he could see that he was quickly getting further and
further away from shore. Then he thought about flinging himself into
the torrent of water, but that would have been the end of him for sure.
The waves were now breaking over the little boat and his clothes became
soaking wet. It was carried on the waves like a nutshell.
Through all the danger, PeterÕs thoughts were only for Magelone.
What would become of her when she awoke in the forest and saw that he
was gone? She, the delicate daughter of a King, lost in a strange land? In
the midst of the storm, he began to pray: ÒHave mercy on me, oh God, not
for my sake, but for the sake of an unlucky maiden!Ó
After many hours, the wind died down. The storm clouds dispersed.
Seemingly endless ocean surrounded Peter on all sides. He did not see even
a sliver of land anywhere. All sense of direction was lost. Even if he had
oars, what use would they be? He was completely exhausted. He half-
heartedly gazed over the gray water. It was getting toward evening, and
he saw a fairly large boat in the distance. Had the sailors seen or heard
him? He saw the boat was being steered toward him. But it was a pirate
ship from Africa. Very soon they came along side his little boat, threw a
rope down, and pulled Peter on board. He fell to the deck, half-dead, and
lost consciousness.
The pirates had a lively conversation in their foreign tongue. The
captain of the ship said: ÒThe nice clothes and gold chain show me we have
made a good catch.Ó Because the saved man was young and handsome
the captain decided: ÒWe will take this stranger to the Sultan of Babylon
as a slave.Ó The pirates were friendly to Peter and gave him food and
water. Since they could not converse with him, he was all alone with his
troubles.

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 The ship sailed on towards Africa. After a few weeks they dropped
anchor at Alexandria. The captain had the cargo unloaded. After a long
journey, he and Peter arrived at the palace of the Sultan of Babylon. The
stranger with the blond hair made a big impression in the city because in
Babylon the people had black hair. The captain got an interpreter to ask
Peter if he knew how to serve at table. Peter said yes because he thought
the best way to gain his freedom would be through compliance. The Sultan
ordered that he be trained in all the intricacies of service in the palace.
Peter learned quickly. He was superior to all others in skill and
courtesy. In a short time the Sultan was as good to Peter as if he were
his own son. Peter quickly learned to speak Greek and Turkish. He buried
his terrible trouble deep in his heart and was friendly to everyone. But at
night when he was alone in his room, staring at the stars in the night sky,
the pain of it all overwhelmed him. Where was Magelone? Would they be
lost to each other forever?
Now we will hear how it went with Magelone.

Magelone Searches for the Knight

After Peter left Magelone, she continued to sleep until the evening
breeze from the sea rustling through the trees awakened her. She opened
her eyes and thought Peter was still beside her. She said: ÒDear Peter, I
must have slept a long time.Ó Since nobody answered her, she sat up and
looked around. Then she noticed PeterÕs rolled up cloak that had been
under her head. Her heart nearly stood still from shock: ÒPeter! Peter!Ó But
nobody replied. The wind carried away her desperate cries. She climbed
a hill, and then hurried down to the seashore. But she could not find
him. She searched and called until her voice was hoarse. Fear and pain
overwhelmed her soul. She became dizzy. Her feet would no longer carry
her. Powerless, she sank to the ground.
After the stormy, blowing wind died down, the birds began to chirp
gently. The air quietly stirred the leaves on the trees. The peaceful stillness
of the forest only made her feel worse. In tears, she whispered: ÒHas he

61
 left me forever? Does he no longer love me? Did he run from me or is
he wandering around in the wilderness somewhere? Could a wild animal
have attacked him?Ó Slowly she stood up and began searching the forest
again. Once in a while she stood still and listened for any sound from
him. Suddenly she heard a noise. It was the horses. She found all three of
them together. And PeterÕs helmet and sword were still hanging on the
branch where he had put them. Now she knew that he had not left her
voluntarily. It grew dark. With great effort she climbed a tree and looked
through the branches down to the sea. She decided to spend the night
there because she was afraid of wild animals. The cool, nighttime breeze
fanned the mournful maiden and carried her pain through the dark trees.
The abandoned girl stared silently at the stars. Like messengers of Divine
Providence, they seemed to whisper to her: ÒNo man is ever completely
lost.Ó She felt comforted. She said to herself: ÔI will not return home. I will
wander the Earth as a pilgrim and never give up searching for my knight.Õ
After a long, wakeful night, that was her decision.

Magelone’s Pilgrimage
As the new day dawned, Magelone climbed down from the tree and
went to the horses. They were still tied up but were restless because they
were thirsty. Magelone spoke to them like they were friends: ÒYour master
is lost. We are abandoned. What shall we do?Ó
The horses pawed the ground with their hooves and tugged at the
reins. She untied them and said: ÒGo free into the world and may you find
a good master.Ó The animals quickly trotted into the forest.
Magelone bundled her jewelry and goods into a cloth and carried
it on her arm. She walked through the woods for a long time until she
came to a road that led to Rome. But she remained to the side of the
road close to bushes and trees so that she could hide herself quickly if any
travelers appeared. At this time in history there were many uncivilized
people wandering the countryside. After a while she saw a simple pilgrim.

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She thought to herself: ÔI would like to trade my striking, rich clothing for
a simple robe.Õ So she walked toward the pilgrim on the road and asked:
ÒDear woman, would you trade your clothing for mine?Ó
The pilgrim stared at her in amazement. Finally, she replied: ÒNoble
lady, please do not make fun of my poor dress.Ó
Magelone answered: ÒDear woman, I am not ridiculing you. I am
speaking from the heart. I am asking you in earnest.Ó The pilgrim thought
for a few moments. Perhaps the beautiful maiden wished to turn her back
on the glittering riches of the world and make a pilgrimage in all humility.
So, she agreed to make the trade. She realized that she could sell the
clothing for good money in the next town. The two women went a little
away from the road and exchanged their clothing. The pilgrim was thrilled
to put on the precious dress.
When Magelone had put on her poor piece of cloth, the other woman
said as she was leaving: ÒMiss, your fine features do not fit with the
grubby robe.Ó So Magelone took some moist, brown dirt in her hand and
rubbed it into her tender skin from forehead to cheeks. Now nobody would
recognize her as a princess.
Magelone started on her way to Rome. This city had hundreds of
churches. The largest and most splendid among them was St. PeterÕs
Cathedral.
As soon as the young maiden arrived in the city she went immediately
to St. PeterÕs, sunk to her knees before the altar, and prayed. In her
distress and defeat she thought about the suffering of Christ and prayed
for comfort. She also begged for protection for her knight, Peter, and
asked that their paths would once again cross. She spent many days in a
pilgrimÕs hostel and often went to St. PeterÕs. She tirelessly searched the
masses of people in case she would suddenly see Peter.
After a long time the thought occurred to her that she should travel
to Provence, PeterÕs homeland: ÔI can find out something about him there.
Surely, if he is still alive, he will go there.Õ

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 After a long journey she came to the city of Genoa and asked about
the surest and shortest way to Provence. She was told that as a pilgrim,
all alone, it was best to go by sea. She located a large ship in the harbor
that was outfitting for a trip to Provence. The captain of the vessel was
willing to take the pilgrim as a passenger. After a long voyage, the ship
dropped anchor in PeterÕs homeland. There was a city there close to shore.
Magelone was not used to sea travel and it had been very hard on her. She
dragged herself through the streets. She was exhausted and sat down on
the steps of an unknown house.
The lady of the house, a friendly woman, invited the pilgrim in for
food and drink. They started talking and Magelone told her about her
journey from Rome. Magelone asked what life was like in this land. The
woman explained: ÒYou are in Provence. A powerful Count rules the land.
He keeps the order and peace and the people live here together with no
great difficulties. The Countess cares for the poor. Only one thing causes
her sorrow and affliction; it is a heavy burden. About two years ago her
son, Peter, went out into the world. Since then nobody has heard anything
from him. It is feared something terrible has happened to him, if he is not
dead. Even as a boy everyone loved him. He was so clever and yet not at
all haughty.Ó
When Magelone heard that her knight, Peter, had not returned home,
tears streamed down her face. Her hostess thought she must have a good,
sympathetic heart. She invited her to stay the night. But Magelone could
not sleep. She thought: ÔI am a weak maiden. How can I continue to wander
around unknown lands? It would be better if I could find some quiet place
nearby where I could serve God and mankind.Õ
The next morning the woman told her there was an island nearby
where many ships from foreign countries stopped. Sick passengers
were taken off the ships and put up in a poor hostel there. ÔOh,Õ thought
Magelone, Ôperhaps they could use my help.Õ She thanked the woman for
the hospitality and went straight away to the island.

64
 She liked the place. She sold all of her valuable jewelry that she had
carried with her. From the proceeds she hired some men to build a hospital
and a small chapel. The altar was dedicated to St. Peter. Soon the little
church became known as St. Peter of Magelon. Other women came to the
island and helped care for the sick. Many people regained their health.
Magelone became well-respected in the region as a charitable woman.
News of MageloneÕs good works was heard even in the Castle at Provence.
The Count and Countess wished to see the new hospital and chapel. One
day they traveled to the island. Magelone welcomed them ceremoniously.
Her manner was very pleasing to them. The Countess especially warmed
up to Magelone, and she even spoke of her private pain about her lost son,
Peter.
Magelone comforted the Countess with these words: ÒDo not lose
hope. The world is so big. Perhaps he has been delayed in some foreign
country and one day he will return.Ó The Countess was grateful for
MageloneÕs empathy. She decided she would visit her often, especially
when her heart was heavy.

An Unusual Fish Is Caught

It happened that fishermen let down their nets very close to the
island. One day they caught a large, rare fish that was called a sea wolf.
It was highly prized for its wonderful flavor. The fishermen took it to the
Castle. When the cook was preparing the fish she found a knotted, red
handkerchief in its belly. The find was quickly taken to the Countess. She
examined it closely, and what was inside? The three rings she had once
given to her son before he left on his journey. She recognized them at once
and bitter tears came to her eyes: ÒOh, how awful!Ó she cried. ÒNow I am
more convinced than ever that my son is dead. All hope of ever seeing him
again is lost. He is certainly drowned in the deep sea.Ó The Count also
recognized the rings, and his pain was very great. The untimely death of
the young Count seemed so doubtless that the father ordered his servants

65
 to hang black banners from all the castle towers as a sign of mourning.
The incident with the fish quickly spread throughout the land and the
people greatly mourned the loss of the young Count.
Not long after that the Countess went for a visit to the hospital on the
island. She told Magelone what had happened with the fish and the rings
in every detail. She also showed her the rings. MageloneÕs heart nearly
leapt from her chest when she saw the familiar rings again. But she did
not let on to the Countess that she knew anything and instead tried to
comfort the grieving mother. ÒMadam,Ó she said, Òplease do not think
that it is hopeless. When faced with uncertain evidence, one must hope
for the best. Perhaps the rings accidentally fell into the water while your
son was on a sea voyage. Or perhaps he gave them to someone else and
that person lost them. Our earthly belongings are so fleeting.Ó Magelone
comforted the Countess with these words, and also herself. After the
Countess left, Magelone knelt by the altar and begged God that if Peter
yet lived, he would soon come home.

How Peter Asked the Sultan for Permission to Return Home

Peter had been at the SultanÕs court for a long time now. He was well-
loved by his master, as if he were a son. Peter was required to be at his
side almost always, to serve him and keep him in good humor. But PeterÕs
heart was always with the beautiful Magelone. He had no idea what had
become of her. The worry nagged at his mind. One day he decided to
wait for just the right moment to ask for permission to visit his father
and mother. It happened that the Sultan was having a big celebration
for his birthday. He was in a better mood than usual and handing out
extravagant gifts. He said to Peter: ÒBlond slave, today you also may ask
for a gift.Ó
Peter thought: ÔNow I will try my luck.Õ He fell at the rulerÕs feet and
said: ÒMaster, I am happy about your generosity. You know that I have
served you loyally. Today, grant me one desire! I have only one wish.Ó

66
 The Sultan, in a jovial frame of mind, said: ÒDear Peter, you may
speak freely what is in your heart. Ask from me what you will, and I will
do everything in my power to fulfill it.Ó
Peter gathered his courage and asked: ÒYour Highness, will you allow
me to return to my homeland to visit my mother and father and my
friends? Since I have been at your Court, I have heard nothing about them.
They must be very worried about me.Ó
A frown creased the SultanÕs forehead when he heard PeterÕs plea.
Almost involuntarily he replied: ÒGood friend, I tell you, do not think about
leaving me. You will never find a place where you have it better than here.
I have in mind to promote you so that you will become the second most
important man in my Kingdom. If I had known beforehand what you
would ask me, I would have never agreed. But since a Sultan must hold to
his word, I will give you permission to undertake this journey and visit your
parents.Ó The very same day the Sultan had a letter of recommendation
drawn up for Peter, stamped with many official seals. The letter stated
that anyone Peter encountered during his travels should be of service to
him. The Sultan also gave him gold, silver and jewelry as gifts for when
he arrived home. An entourage with camels would accompany him to
Alexandria where he would find a ship.
So Peter was able to get permission to travel. As he was leaving there
were many long faces at the palace because they had come to love Peter.
After a long journey through lands and deserts, he came to the city of
Alexandria. He showed his letter to the SultanÕs governor. The governor
showed great respect to Peter and took him to a palace where he would
stay. Peter packed all the gifts very carefully inside fourteen different
barrels. He had the barrels topped with salt and in that way, he hid the
silver, gold, and jewelry inside.

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 Peter’s Journey Home
Peter found a ship in the harbor at Alexandria that was about to sail
for Provence. He asked the shipÕs captain: ÒWill you take me and my cargo
on this voyage? It is barrels of salt.Ó The captain answered that Peter could
come as a passenger, but there was already enough salt in Provence, so he
would not need to take his cargo. But since Peter was willing to pay a large
sum for the passage, the captain was satisfied.
A good wind came up in the night, the anchor was hoisted, and
the ship looked lively going out to sea. The voyage proceeded without
any storms, and after a few days they dropped anchor at the Island of
Sagona. The sailors were to refill their barrels with fresh water from a well
on the island. Peter went ashore and was fascinated by the rare flowers
blooming all over the island. He found one that had especially wonderful
perfume and dazzling color. He picked the flower and thought: ÔThe way
this flower is far above the others in beauty, so is Magelone far above all
others in beauty and demeanor. Is she still alive?Õ In spite of his happiness
at returning home, he still felt the pain of knowing he could never gaze
upon Magelone again.
Lost in his sad thoughts, he sank down to the ground under some
bushes and completely forgot about the ship. The Sun was bright and hot.
Peter was overcome by drowsiness. In the meantime a brisk wind had come
up. The captain loudly signaled that the ship was about to get underway,
but Peter slept too soundly and did not hear the signal. It was not until the
next day, when they were already on the high sea, that anyone noticed
Peter was missing. They did not know if he had fallen overboard or was
left behind on the island. Since the wind was very favorable, the captain
did not want to turn around. So the ship sailed on.
When they came to the harbor on coast of Provence, the sailors
unloaded the cargo. What should they do with the salt casks? One sailor
said: ÒThere is a hospital on that small island. Maybe they would be happy
to have the salt.Ó So later that evening, the captain had them take it there.

68
 The mistress of the hospital thanked them very much for the
wonderful gift. Some days later, when they were in need of salt, Magelone
opened a barrel and found a great gold treasure inside. She was amazed
and opened up the other barrels to find all the other precious goods as
well. She wondered who was the charitable person who had given them
such riches. For a long time the hospital had been too small to really meet
their needs, but now Magelone hired workers to build on an addition. The
little chapel was also enlarged. After the building was finished, the Count
and Countess went to the island to view the new construction. As before,
Magelone comforted the parents. Why was she able to do that so well?
She herself had given up her parents as well as a kingdom Ð all for love.

 

Peter slept for many hours on the island. When he awoke and opened
his eyes, he saw with great horror that it was no longer daytime. He ran to
the shore where he had left the ship. It was nowhere in sight. He thought
maybe it was hidden by the darkness and he began to shout, trying to
get someoneÕs attention onboard. Nobody answered. Then he was
overwhelmed with disappointment. ÒWill my days of terrible misfortune
never end? ItÕs been one unlucky event after another. I lost Magelone, I
was forced into service at the SultanÕs Court, and now, the ship has left me
here and all my goods are on board.Ó
Peter walked aimlessly around the island. He found neither abode nor
any other sign of human habitation. He wandered through wilderness for
days on end. Finally he returned to the shore and hoped to discover a ship
sailing by and somehow attract its attention.
One day he was lying on the beach when a large fishing vessel arrived
offshore. They were here to replenish their water supply. The sailors found
the lone man sleeping. PeterÕs strength was fading and he had a high fever.
They tried to help him and gave him bread and wine. He was brought to
the ship and they sailed on to a town further away on the island. They

69
 carried him to an inn. His illness went on for months. But slowly Peter
began to recuperate.
One day it happened that he was walking along the beach. He still
tired very easily. He came upon a ship and heard the crew speaking in
his mother tongue. He walked up to them and asked when they would
be sailing home. They said it would be in two daysÕ time at the latest.
Peter visited the captain and asked him to take him along since he was
from Provence and was on the island only because he had been so ill. The
captain was willing but explained that he would be taking a detour to a
foreign harbor. Peter was satisfied with that, and on the second day he
started out to sea with them.
On the voyage the sailors talked about the hospital and church of
St. Peter of Magelon. When he heard the name Magelon, Peter listened
intently. He asked for more details about the place. One of the sailors said:
ÒWhen we get there you should stay in the hospital until you are fully
recovered. You would not be better cared for anywhere.Ó Peter thought
about this advice and decided he did not wish to return to his father and
mother as a sick man. Since he was not yet completely over his illness,
he would go to this hospital. He had already long given up hope of ever
hearing anything of Magelone again.

Peter Arrives at the Hospital of Magelon

Peter arrived at the island and went ashore. His first stop was the
hospital chapel where he thanked God in prayer that he was at last close to
his home. Then he knocked at the door of the hospital and was graciously
received. It was customary to wash the feet of all newcomers and Peter
was no exception. The mistress made her rounds visiting patients in the
evening. She had heard a sigh coming from Peter so she walked to his
bedside and asked: ÒDear friend, do have need of anything?Ó
He quietly answered: ÒMy heart is afflicted with sadness at the many
misfortunes I have suffered.Ó

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 ÒTell me all about it and lighten your burden.Ó
So, without naming names, Peter began to tell his story: ÒThere was
once a rich son who heard of a beautiful maiden who lived in a foreign
land. He wanted to meet her so he left his father and mother. Although
he kept his true identity secret, he was able to win her love and wanted
to make her his bride and return to his home. They traveled in secret and
in haste. As they were taking a rest break in a forest, a bird flew down
and stole the packet with the three rings the knight had given her. He
chased after the bird clear to the seashore, found a small boat and was
soon driven out to sea by a stormy wind.Ó Peter told every detail including
about his time with the Sultan and about the ill-fated voyage home.
Magelone had recognized her dearest friend right from the beginning
of his story. Her heart was beating fast and hard, but she kept silent and
listened to PeterÕs story. She almost could not believe this miracle and
feared her senses were playing a trick on her. And yet, she well knew it
was her long-lost love by the sound of his voice, the gestures of his hands,
even though the light in the room was dim. In his face, ravaged by illness,
she saw the features she had known so well. She did not want to shock
him in his weakened state so she simply said: ÒGodÕs ways are wonderful.
Trust them.Ó Since she could no longer hold back her tears, she quickly
took her leave. On this evening the other women who nursed the sick in
the hospital noticed that their mistress was at the altar in the church until
late in the night.
Early the next morning she clothed herself in a splendid dress befitting
a KingÕs daughter. Then she told someone to bring the traveler from
yesterday into her chambers. She covered her face with a delicate veil,
her wavy hair flowing over her shoulders. When Peter entered the room,
he stood still in the doorway in complete awe. He was filled with a quiet
premonition.
Then the veiled woman began to speak: ÒIf you have not forgotten the
daughter of the King of Naples, then look upon her.Ó She gently removed

71
 the veil from her face. Peter recognized Magelone immediately, the one
he would have gone to the ends of the Earth to find, and here she was
practically on his doorstep. In tears, he took her in his arms. It took a little
while longer for them both to find words. There was so much to tell about
the long years they had been apart! Magelone told him about his parentsÕ
visits and about the very curious and wonderful gift of the salt barrels.
They forgot all about the time, until a bell rang signaling it was midday.
They agreed they would say nothing yet of their reunion. Peter needed
a few more daysÕ care so he would be completely over his illness. In the
meantime Magelone wanted to visit his parents and prepare them for the
good news.
After they discussed their plan, Magelone put on her working clothes
once again. The next day she left the hospital to go to the castle. She
was happily received and treated as an honored guest, for the Count and
Countess had grown to love her. After they had conversed for a while,
Magelone began to tell them the reason for her visit: ÒMy Lord and Lady,
I have come to you to tell you something that has been revealed to me. It
will give you great happiness and renewed hope. An angel came to me. He
brought with him a young knight by the name of Peter. It is certain that he
is your long-lost son. So, I ask you now to please remove all the mourning
banners from the castle. Your son has returned!Ó
Once the news had sunk in, there were no bounds to the joy of the
Count and Countess. They had all signs of mourning removed and replaced
with bright, colorful banners. As Magelone was leaving, she said: ÒPlease
come next Sunday to the St. Peter of Magelon Church.Ó They accepted the
invitation, and Magelone returned to the island.

The Count and Countess Find Their Son

During this time Peter was waiting impatiently for Magelone to get
back. She told him what she had accomplished and that his parents would
be there the following Sunday.

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 Sunday morning the Count and Countess attended mass at St. Peter
of Magelon Church. When it was over, Magelone invited her guests to her
private quarters. Peter was waiting there for his parents. As his father
and mother entered the room, Peter rushed toward them. They knew
their son immediately and there were hugs and tears all round. It was
so joyful that words can hardly describe it. All their troubles melted into
pure happiness. While Peter told his parents about all his adventures and
mishaps, Magelone went into another room. She dressed herself in her
fine clothing, worthy of a princess, and appeared transformed before the
Count and Countess. They wondered from where the beautiful maiden
had suddenly appeared. They did not recognize Magelone. Peter took her
hand, walked with her to his parents and said: ÒThis is my dear fiancŽe.
She is Magelone, daughter of the King of Naples. We were lost to each
other, and an ocean lay between us. Bitter was the time of our separation.
But now we may be together again!Ó

Days of Celebration
The rumor of PeterÕs return spread quickly throughout the region and
a large crowd of people gathered at the Church of Magelon. After the
parents heard the strange tale of the engaged couple, they gave them
their blessing. They all made their way to the altar, knelt in prayer, and
thanked God that the long trial was over.
Then many messengers were sent to ride throughout the land to
invite guests to the wedding. Emissaries were sent to the SultanÕs Court
in Babylon and presented him with a large ransom for PeterÕs freedom.
The Sultan, however, did not wish to accept it and would rather have had
Peter back at his palace. Another emissary traveled to the King of Naples.
His anger had long ago subsided. Now, he only mourned the loss of his
daughter. With great joy he traveled with a large entourage by ship to
Provence to attend the wedding.

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 The wedding day finally arrived. The Bishop blessed the marriage of
the sorely-tested couple in the church and Magelone was again given the
three rings recovered from the belly of the fish. Beautiful Magelone was
beloved by all. The people enjoyed the feasting and entertainments that
lasted for fourteen days. There were tournaments and dances. Everyone
wanted to give their well-wishes to the bride and groom.
The parents enjoyed their new-found good fortune for another ten
years. When they passed away, Peter had them buried at the Church of
Magelon. A son was born to the young couple. In later years he proved to
be as brave and strong as his father. Peter ruled over two lands: as King
of Naples and Count of Provence. Peter and Magelone were good rulers
and stewards of their lands, and they showed their love for their people.
After a good long life together they too passed away and their remains
also were buried at the hospital church. And this church still stands today
in honor of the Holy Trinity.

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Three Knight Tales Jakob Streit Waldorf Publications

Chatham, NY 12037
38 Main Street