The Decameron (Day 1 to Day 5): Containing an hundred pleasant NovelsBoccaccio, Giovanni
History
The Decameron (Day 1 to Day 5): Containing an hundred pleasant Novels
Boccaccio, Giovanni
Allegories; Frame stories; Plague -- Europe -- History -- Fiction; Storytelling -- Fiction
When the Pilgrime had finished his speeches, the Gentlewoman, who had
listened to them very attentively (because all the alleaged reasons
appeared to be plainely true) became verily perswaded, that all these
afflictions had falne on her and her Father, for the ingratefull
offence by her committed, and therefore thus replied. Worthy man, and
the friend to goodnesse, I know undoubtedly, that the words which you
have spoken are true, and also I understand by your demonstration, what
manner of people some of those religious persons are, whom heretofore I
have reputed to be Saints, but find them now to be far otherwise. And
to speake truly, I perceive the fault to be great and grievous, wherein
I have offended against _Thebaldo_, and would (if I could) willingly
make amends, even in such manner as you have advised. But how is it
possible to be done? _Thebaldo_ being dead, can be no more recalled to
this life; and therefore, I know not what promise I should make, in a
matter which is not to be performed. Whereto, the Pilgrime without any
longer pausing, thus answered.
Madam, by such revelations as have beene shewne to me, I know for a
certainety, that _Thebaldo_ is not dead, but living, in health, and
in good estate; if he had the fruition of your grace and favour. Take
heede what you say Sir (quoth the Gentlewoman) for I saw him lie
slaine before my doore, his body having received many wounds, which
I folded in mine armes, and washed his face with my brinish teares;
whereby (perhaps) the scandall arose, that flew abroade to my disgrace.
Beleeve me Madam, (replied the Pilgrime) say what you will, I dare
assure you that _Thebaldo_ is living, and if you dare make promise,
concerning what hath beene formerly requested, and keepe it inviolably;
I make no doubt, but you your selfe shall shortly see him. I promise
it (quoth shee) and binde my selfe thereto by a sacred oath, to keepe
it faithfully: for never could any thing happen, to yeeld me the like
contentment, as to see my Father free from danger, and _Thebaldo_
living.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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