By the time he had won the two bridges he was full spent and weary,
wherefore he bethinketh him of the lion, the manner whereof his uncle
had told him. Then looketh he toward the entrance of the gateway and
seeth the white lion, that stood upright on his two hinder feet, for
that he was fain to see him. Perceval looketh him full between the two
eyes, and understandeth that the lion is minded by the will of God to
do him to wit that the knights of the third bridge are so hardy and of
such strength that they may not be overcome of a single knight and our
Lord God of his holy bounty open not the way, but that he must fain
take the mule and carry the banner if he would conquer them. Perceval
understandeth the white lion's intent, and giveth God thanks thereof
and draweth him back, and Joseus the young man likewise. As soon as
they look back, they see that the first bridge is already lifted up
behind them.