On their entrance into a retired and richly furnished chamber, Theobaldo took his guest by both hands, bent over them with a deep blush of anxiety and ardour on his countenance, and said,--“For Heaven’s sake, Sir Otto von Trautwangen, refuse not the earnest entreaty which I am now about to make to you. Allow me also to wear armour, and as your friend, your servant and squire, or in any way that you are pleased to appoint, to go with you into the world, and share in all your dangers.” Otto looked at him with wonder, then reminded him of his rich merchandize, his brilliant and luxurious house, insisting that his stars had destined him to play a very different part in the world from that of a knight-errant. “Say not so,” answered the merchant vehemently. “I am by birth a Milanese, and it has been proved already on the shields of German warriors, even against the attacks of emperors, that our citizens are not ignorant of warfare. There survives yet somewhat of the old Roman spirit among us. Besides, you must not judge the party at our last night’s banquet by their conversation alone. You perceived too, that I was dissatisfied and wearied therewith, though more for your sake than my own, because I perceived that you misunderstood them, and was offended.” “Nay,” answered Sir Otto, “I took no offence; but, as so much was said of gain and loss, of goods and prices, it appeared to my disordered fantasy as if the festivous entertainment which I then enjoyed, and the night’s lodging which had been promised me, were also like goods which I had purchased with the blood of the unfortunate Sir Heerdegen. Thus I was obliged to retire. I give you this explanation the more freely, because I have now recovered from the wild dreams by which I was then haunted, and against you and your friends have not one word of just complaint.” “You are in the right,” answered Theobaldo; “the various characters of mankind in this world may indeed be compared to the varied flowers, plants, and trees of the forest, which all differ from each other, and yet all contribute to one purpose. Their conversation no doubt differs from yours, even as their dresses contrast with your glittering armour; yet, in time of need, they are not found destitute of honour, generosity, and courage. You are in the right, therefore, not to despise these merchant citizens, although I for my part have resolved to desert them and try my fortune with you.” “Nay, dear Theobaldo,” replied Sir Otto, “allow me to dissuade you from this design. You are older, and have far more experience and judgment than I am possessed of. How then can I become your leader and instructor, or by what means could I compensate to you the loss of all those advantages which you enjoy here?” “Well,” answered Theobaldo, “if, as you say, I have more experience and judgment, you may with the less hesitation allow to me my own free choice in this matter.” “Besides,” resumed Sir Otto, “from