She was the first to rise, and all the others followed her, but
Simontault and Longarine ceased not to carry on their quarrel, yet so
gently that, without drawing of sword, Simontault won the victory, and
proved that the strongest passion was the sorest need.
At this point they entered the church, where the monks were waiting for
them.
Having heard vespers, they went to sup as much off words as meat, for
their converse lasted as long as they were at table, and throughout the
evening also, until Oisille told them that they might well retire and
give some rest to their minds. The five days that were past had been
filled with such brave stories, that she had great fear lest the sixth
should not be equal to them; for, even if they were to invent their
tales, it was not possible to tell any better than those true ones which
had already been related in the company.
Geburon, however, told her that, so long as the world lasted, things
would happen worthy of remembrance.
“For,” said he, “the wickedness of wicked men is always what it has been,
as also is the goodness of the good. So long as wickedness and good
reign upon earth, they will ever fill it with fresh actions, although it
be written that there is nothing new under the sun. (4) But we, who have
not been summoned to the intimate counsels of God, and who are ignorant
of first causes, deem all new things noteworthy in proportion as we
would not or could not ourselves accomplish them. So, be not afraid that
the days to come will not be in keeping with those that are past, and be
sure that on your own part you perform well your duty.”