Page 56 - THE DECAMERON: A Visionary Journey in 100 Stories and 100 Etchings by Petru Russu

The Decameron The Second Day | The Eighth Novell The ladies sighed deeply over the various fortunes of the fair lady in Pamfilo's
story. Some sighed out of envy, others out of pity for the many nights of
Storyteller: Elissa
delight she experienced. When Pamfilo's story ended and the laughter
subsided, the queen turned to Elisa and asked her to share her story.
The Count of Antwerp, labouring under a false accusation goes into
Elisa, with cheerful courage, began: "The field before us is vast, offering
exile. He leaves his two children in England, and takes service in
countless stories of strange and somber episodes. Selecting one from this
Ireland. Returning to England an unknown man, he finds his sons
infinite store, I say: After the Roman Empire transferred from the Franks to
prosperous. He serves as a groom in the army of the King of France;
the Germans, great enmity and relentless warfare prevailed between the
his innocence is established and restorns the former honours.
two nations. The King of France and his son mustered all their forces and
allies to subjugate their enemies. Before taking the field, they appointed
Gautier, Count of Antwerp, as the governor of France. Gautier, a true knight
and sage counselor, was chosen for his wisdom and loyalty.

Count Gautier managed the administration wisely, discussing all matters
with the queen and her daughter-in-law, treating them as his paramount
ladies. Gautier, about forty years old, was the epitome of manly beauty,
courteous, chivalrous, and debonair. His wife had passed away, leaving him
with two young children. As the King and his son were away at war, Gautier
frequently consulted with the queen and the prince's lady on state affairs.
The prince's lady, impressed by Gautier's noble bearing and advantages,
developed a secret passion for him.

Seeing no reason why she shouldn't be gratified, she decided to reveal her
feelings. One day, she seized the opportunity and sent for Gautier under
the pretense of discussing indifferent topics. Gautier, unaware of her
intentions, presented himself and sat beside her. Overcome by passion,
she broke her silence, trembling and blushing, and spoke: "Dearest friend
and sweet lord, your sagacity must perceive the frailty of men and women,
which varies greatly. A poor person yielding to love's solicitations is more
reprehensible than a rich lady living in luxury. Possessing these boons of
fortune should acquit the possessor if she indulges in love. If she chooses
a wise and worthy lover, she should be exonerated. I claim the benefit of
my youth and my husband's absence, which incline me to love. I have been
unable to resist the promptings of the flesh and the power of love. Living in
ease and luxury, I have become a prey to passion. If discovered, I would be
dishonored, but I count the dishonor as nothing if it remains hidden. Love
1985 HAND COLORED AQUA TINTA / AQUA FORTE has guided me to you, the most handsome, courteous, and wise cavalier
29,5X19,5 CM. | 11¾X7½ IN. (IMAGE SIZE). in France. As you are without a wife, I find myself without a husband. In
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The Decameron