The king, so kind and courteous, said: ‘Listen, sir. You’ve devoted much to the practice of arms, I think – indeed I’m sure
you have. And this test proves to me that of all men now living in the world none can surpass you in combat or in battle; but you’ve not yet done enough to have God bestow on you the honour and perfect courtesy, the wisdom and the chivalry, to enable us to say with confidence that of all knights you’re the most endowed with all high qualities.’

Perceval was so taken aback that he didn’t know what to say; and he sighed so very deeply that all those seated at dinner marvelled.

The Second Continuation of Perceval