“See that the cup of gold that the monkey broke be mended.” I loved not
this task, since it seemed a shame to me that so grievous a beast should
have his food from so fair a cup, while many of his betters had none.
Soon after my mistress was wedded to my Lord Duc, the great fair of St.
Denis was set out in the meadow, “Pré aux Clercs.” Thither went we with
the King, Queen, and all the court. Such marvels as were spread out
there for sale! Jewels and stuffs wrought with gold and gems; pictures
and holy books painted in colours and with gold; carvings made from
wood, and from the great white teeth of strange beasts which they saith
live in the sea; cups of gold shaped like unto lilies and roses; swords
and spears, battle-axes and shields, armour and horse-trappings, till
one knew not which way to turn.
If it was a fine show in daytime, my certes, what a sight it was at
night! Every stall was ablaze with torches, and there were crowds of
strange peoples of divers colours and from far-away lands, with soldiers
and singers on every hand.
My mistress had never seen before such a sight, no more than I; and she
chose many a rich and curious toy, and my Lord Duc smiled, and gave her
all her heart’s desire.
Yet think not that my Lady had ever gauds and merry doings in her mind.
Being but young, she loved these well, as what young maid does not? But
her heart was ever loyal to her friends, as presently I shall set forth.