Then entered in (to their joy complete!)

And willingly took the offered seat.

And soon before him a meal was spread,

Of chestnuts, of goat's milk cheese, and bread;

While one with her pitcher went to bring

Some water fresh from the ice-cold spring.

He could not taste of the food prepared

Till he his errand to both declared.

Said he: "My friends, I have come to-day

With something grave on my mind to say,

And more to hear; and I pray you now

To answer truly, and not allow

A feeling, whether of pride or shame,

Or any shrinking from praise or blame,

To change the answer you both may give,

Of what you are and of how you live."

Then she with distaff still at her side,

Of speech more ready, at once replied.

In years the elder, but not in face,

She kept a little of youthful grace:

 Prev. P 40/198 next