"Let's have none of that: a promise to fulfill love doesn't require any witnesses, and even less a notary. What a miserable state we'd be in if we had to have it in writing every time! There wouldn't be enough paper in the world! Do you know how it's done? In the dark and without witnesses, because the lodging is never missed." "Oh, this madwoman!" said the princess. "Do you always have to talk to me about the same thing?" No matter how much Tirant spoke to her, no matter how he pleaded, she would do nothing for him. When they were in the chambers, the emperor called Carmesina and said to her: "Tell me, my daughter, those things Plaerdemavida said--where do they come from?" "I'm sure I don't know, my lord," said the princess. "I never spoke of such a thing to her. But this madwoman is impertinent and she says anything that comes into her head." "She's no madwoman," said the emperor. "In fact, she's the most sensible maiden in my court. She's a good girl, and she always gives good advice. Haven't you noticed when you've come to the council chambers that when you make her talk she is always very discreet? Would you like to have our captain for your husband?" The princess blushed shamefully, and could not utter a word. After a moment, when she had recovered, she said: "My lord, when your captain has finished conquering the Moors, then I will do whatever Your Majesty commands me." Tirant went to the duchess' chamber, and sent for Plaerdemavida. When she was there, he said: "Oh, genteel lady! I don't know what help you can give me: My soul is in discord with my body, and unless you can cure my illness I don't care whether I live or die." "I'll do it tonight," said Plaerdemavida, "if you do as I say." "Command me, maiden," said Tirant, "and may God increase your honor. The things you said when the emperor was here, about the princess and me: who told you to say them?"