Second Part
SECOND PART
ARGUMENT
Here beginneth the second part of the Filostrato, in which Troilus maketh known his love to Pandarus, cousin of Cressida, who comforteth him and discovereth his secret love to Cressida and with prayers and with flattery induceth her to love Troilus. And in the first place, after much talk, Troilus discloseth wholly his love to Pandarus, a noble Trojan youth.
1.
While Troilus was thus one day quite alone in his room, engaged in thought, there suddenly arrived a young Trojan of high lineage and of abundant spirits, who, seeing him lie stretched out upon his couch and full of tears, cried: " What is the matter, dear friend? Hath the bitter time already thus vanquished thee? "
2.
" Pandarus, " saith Troilus, " what fortune hath brought thee here to see me die? If our friendship hath any power, may it please thee to depart hence, for I know that to see me die will be more grievous to thee than aught else. And I am not to remain longer in life, so much is my vigor overcome and dissipated.
3.
" Think not that Troy besieged or the travail of arms or any fear is the occasion of my present distress. This is among other things my least care. Something else constraineth me to wish to die, wherefore I grieve at my misfortune. That this is so, feel no concern, friend, for I conceal it for the best and do not tell it thee. "
4.
Pandarus' pity then increased and his desire to know it. Wherefore he continued: " If our friendship, as was wont, is now a pleasure to thee, discover to me what is the cruelty that maketh thee so much wish to die. It is not the act of a friend to keep anything hidden from his friend.
5.
" I wish to share this affliction with thee, if I am not able to give comfort to thy distress, for it is fitting to share everything with a friend, both sorrow and delight. And I believe that thou knowest well whether I have loved thee in right and in wrong, and whether I would do for thee any great service, let it be what it will and in what act. "
6.
Troilus then drew a deep sigh and said: " Pandarus, since it pleaseth thee to hear my sufferings, I will tell thee in a word what undoeth me, not because I hope that a peaceful end can be put by thee to my desire, but only to satisfy thy urgent entreaty, which I know not how to refuse.
7.
" Love, against whom he who defendeth himself the sooner is taken and laboreth in vain, so inflameth my heart with a fond delight that I have on his account put far from me every other god. And this so distresseth me that, as thou canst see, I have a thousand times with difficulty restrained my hand from taking my life.
8.
" Let it suffice thee, my dear friend, to hear of my sorrows, which will never more be disclosed. And I pray thee by the gods, if thou hast any fidelity to our love, that thou discover not this desire to anyone else, because much trouble might follow me on that account. Thou knowest what thou hast wished; go away, and leave me here to fight with my distress. "
9.
" O, " said Pandarus, " how hast thou been able to keep so great a fire as this hidden from me, for I would have given thee counsel or aid and found some means to thy peace? " And to him Troilus said: " How should I have had it from thee, whom I have always seen sorrowful for love, and who dost not know how to help thyself therein? How thinkest thou then to satisfy me? "
10.
Pandarus said: " Troilus, I know that thou speakest the truth. But oftentimes it happeneth that he who knoweth not how to protect himself from poison, by good counsel safeguardeth another. Of old the one-eyed man hath been seen to walk where the man of full vision walketh not well. Although a man taketh not good counsel, he can give it in another's peril.
11.
" I have loved unhappily and to my sorrow still love. This happeneth because I have not, as thou, loved another secretly. What the gods will, shall at the last be done. The love that I have ever borne thee, I bear thee, and shall bear thee, nor ever shall he be who shall know what may be told me by thee.
12.
" Therefore have confidence in me, my friend, and tell me who is the cause of this thy so grievous and hard living, nor ever fear that I shall reprove thee for loving. For the wise of old have in their sage discourses declared as touching this matter that love of the heart could never be taken away, unless self-freed in the course of long time.
13.
" Leave thy anguish, leave thy sighs, and by talking assuage thy grief. The sufferings of those who do so, pass, and much too doth the intensity diminish when he who is the lover, seeth companions in like desires. I, as thou knowest, love against my will, nor can my suffering be removed nor increased.
14.
" Perhaps she that tormenteth thee will be such an one that I shall be able to work somewhat to thy pleasure — and I would satisfy thy wish, if I could, more than ever I would mine own. Thou shalt see it. Let me hear who she is for whom thou hast this pain. Arise, lie not down, consider that thou canst talk with me as with thine own self. "
15.
Troilus stood somewhat in quandary. And after drawing a deep sigh and turning all a burning red in his face for shame, he replied: " Dear friend, a very honorable reason hath kept me from making my love manifest and clear to thee, for she who hath brought me to this pass is a relative of thine. " And not a word more did he say.
16.
And he fell back flat upon his couch, weeping bitterly and hiding his face. And to him Pandarus said: " Well-tried friend, little faith hath planted such suspicion in thy breast. Come, cease this wretched plaint of thine, that I be not slain. If she whom thou lovest were my sister, to the best of my ability shouldst thou have thy pleasure of her.
17.
" Get up, tell me, say who she is, tell it me quickly, so that I, who would wish naught else, may find a way to thy comfort. Is she a lady of mine house? Tell me quickly, for if she is the one that I am thinking to myself that she be, I do not believe that the sixth day will pass before I shall deliver thee from so grievous state. "
18.
Troilus answered nothing to this but each moment muffled his face the more closely. And yet when he heard what Pandarus promised, he conceived somewhat more hope in his breast, and felt inclined to speak, and then held back, so greatly ashamed was he of discovering it to him. But under Pandarus' urgency he turned toward him and gave vent to these words:
19.
" My Pandarus, I would wish that I were already dead when I consider to what straits Love hath reduced me. Had I been able to conceal it without doing thee wrong, I would not indeed have dissembled. But I am no longer able. If thou art as discerning as thou art wont to be, thou canst see that Love hath not decreed that man love by rule, regardless of her whom his heart chooseth.
20.
" Others, as thou knowest, are wont to love their sisters, and sisters their brothers, and daughters sometimes their fathers, and fathers-in-law their daughters-in-law, and even, as is wont at times to happen, stepmothers their stepsons. But Love hath seized me for thy cousin, to my sore distress, for Cressida, I say. " And when he had said this, he fell back upon his couch face-downward in tears.
21.
When Pandarus heard her named, he laughed and thus he spake: " My friend, I pray thee by the gods not to be disheartened. Love hath placed thy desire in a quarter such that he could not place it better. For she is truly worthy of it, if I am any judge of good qualities, or of greatness of soul, or of merit, or of beauty.
22.
" No lady was ever more deserving, none was ever livelier and more entertaining, none more pleasing nor more gracious, none of larger soul among all that ever have been. Nor is there task so lofty that she would not undertake as willingly as any king or would lack courage to carry to completion, provided only she had the power.
23.
" Only one trait, somewhat troublesome to thee, hath my cousin beyond those mentioned, that she is more virtuous than other ladies, and holdeth matters of love more in contempt. But if naught else annoy us, believe me, I will with my soft words find a way to cope with this, to the relief of thy necessity. Possess thy soul in patience, curbing well thy warm desire.
24.
" Well canst thou then see that Love hath placed thee in a station worthy of thy mettle. Stand firm therefore in the act proposed and have good hope of thy cure, which I believe will follow soon, if thou do not forfeit it with thy plaint. Thou art worthy of her and she of thee, and I will employ all my cunning in this matter.
25.
" Think not, Troilus, that I do not fully realize that affairs so conducted are not becoming to a worthy lady and what may come therefrom to me, to her, and to hers, if such a thing ever reach people's ears as that she, on whose person honor was wont to dwell, hath, for thus obeying the dictates of Love, become, by our folly, an object of reproach.
26.
" But as long as desire hath been checked in its action and everything like unto it held secret, it seemeth to me reasonable to maintain that each lover may follow his high desires, provided only he be discreet in deed and in semblance, without causing any shame to those to whom shame and honor are matters of concern.
27.
" I believe indeed that in desire every woman liveth amorously and that nothing but fear of shame restraineth her. And if to such anguish a full remedy may properly be given, foolish is he that doth not ravish her. And little in my opinion doth the punishment vex her. My cousin is a widow and hath desires; if she should deny it, I would not believe her.
28.
" Therefore, since I know thee wise and reasonable, I can please her and both of you and give you each equal comfort, provided you undertake to keep it secret, and it will be as though it were not. I would do wrong if in this matter I did not all in my power to serve thee. Be thou discreet then in keeping such doings concealed from others. "
29.
Troilus listened to Pandarus so well satisfied in mind that he seemed to him to be already well-nigh delivered from his anguish. And he waxed again more ardent in his love. But after he had been silent for a while, he turned to Pandarus and said to him: " I believe what thou sayest of this lady but the difficulty appeareth to mine eyes all the greater on this account.
30.
" Furthermore how will the ardor that I bear within grow less since I have never seen her take notice of my love? She will not believe it, if thou tellest it to her. Moreover, for fear of thee, she will blame this passion and thou wilt accomplish naught. And if she had it in her heart, to show thee that she is honest, she would not be willing to listen to thee.
31.
" Furthermore, Pandarus, I would not have thee believe that I would desire of such a lady aught unbecoming, but only that she consent that I love her. This would be a sovereign favor to me, if I should obtain it. Seek for this, and more I do not ask of thee. " Then he looked down somewhat abashed.
32.
And to him Pandarus laughingly replied: " There is no harm in what thou sayest. Leave the matter to me, for I have at hand love-enkindling words and speeches of like quality. Of old have I known, under unusual conditions, how to bring more arduous tasks to accomplishment. This labor will all be mine and the sweet result I wish to be thine. "
33.
Troilus leaped nimbly to the ground from his couch, embracing and kissing him, swearing that to win in triumph the war against the Greeks would be naught to him when compared to this passion that so much bindeth him: " My Pandarus, I put myself in thy hands, thou philosopher, thou friend, thou knowest all that is needed to put an end to my distress. "
34.
Pandarus, anxious to serve the youth, whom he loved much, left him to his own devices, and betook himself to where Cressida dwelt. As she saw him come toward her, she stood up and greeted him from afar, and Pandarus her, and he took her by the hand, and led her with him into an apartment.
35.
There he contented himself for a while with laughter and with sweet words, with many jests and with familiar talk, in the fashion usual at such times between relatives, as one who wisheth to come to his point with further arguments, if he may, and began to look into her lovely face very fixedly.
36.
Cressida, who observed this, said with a smile: " Cousin, hast thou never seen me, that thou art gazing at me so intently? " To her Pandarus replied: " Well thou knowest that I have seen thee and hope to continue to see thee. But thou appearest to me exceptionally beautiful and hast, as it seemeth to me, more to praise the gods for than any other fair lady. "
37.
Cressida said: " What meaneth this? Why more now than in the past? " To her Pandarus replied gaily and promptly: " Because thine is the most fortune-favored face that ever lady had in this world, if I mistake not. I have heard that it pleaseth a very proper man so immeasurably that he is undone by it. "
38.
Upon hearing what Pandarus said, Cressida blushed somewhat bashfully and looked like a morning rose. Then she addressed to Pandarus these words: " Mock not at me, for I should be glad of every good that should come to thee. The man I pleased must have had little to occupy his attention, for never on any other occasion did this happen to me since I was born. "
39.
" Let us dismiss all jests, " said Pandarus then. " Tell me, art thou aware of him? " To this she replied: " No more of one man than of another, as I hope to live. It is true that I see pass here from time to time someone who ever gazeth at my door, nor know I if he come in search of a sight of me or be musing at something else. "
40.
Then said Pandarus: " Who is this man? " To him Cressida said: " Truly I know him not, nor can I tell thee further of him. " Pandarus, perceiving that she is not speaking of Troilus but of someone else, forthwith replied to her thus: " He whom thou hast wounded is not a man not known by all. "
41.
" Who, then, is he who taketh such pleasure in seeing me? " said Cressida. To her Pandarus replied: " Lady, since he who circumscribed the world made the first man, I do not believe that he ever put a more perfect soul in anyone than is the soul of him who loveth thee so much that it would never be possible to tell thee how much.
42.
" He is lofty of soul and of speech, very virtuous, and jealous of honor, wise in native sense beyond another, and without a superior in knowledge, valiant and high spirited, and open in countenance. I could not tell thee all his worth. Ah, how fortunate is thy beauty, since such a man valueth it more than anything else!
43.
" Well is the jewel placed in the ring, if thou art wise as thou art fair. If thou become his, as he hath become thine, well will the star be joined with the sun. Nor ever was youth joined so well with maid as thou wilt be with him, if thou wilt be wise. Well for thee if thou wilt recognize it.
44.
" Once only hath everyone who liveth in the world fortune, if he knoweth how to seize it. Let him who abandoneth it when it cometh, bewail his misfortune by himself, without blaming another. Thy lovely and most beautiful face hath found it for thee. Know now how to use it. Let me weep, since I was born in an evil hour and was displeasing to the gods, to the world, and to fortune. "
45.
" Dost thou tempt me or dost thou speak the truth, " said Cressida, " or art thou out of thy senses? Who hath any right to have perfect pleasure of me, if he should not first become my husband? But tell me, who is this man? Is he who is so smitten with me a stranger or an inhabitant of our city? Tell me if thou art willing, if thou canst reconcile it with thy sense of duty to tell me, and do not cry " ah me" without occasion. "
46.
Pandarus said: " He is a citizen, nor of the lesser, and my great friend. From his breast, by the power, mayhap, of destiny, have I drawn what I have disclosed to thee. He liveth in wretched and miserable woe, so doth the splendor of thy countenance inflame him. And that thou mayest know who so much loveth thee, Troilus is he who desireth thee so much. "
47.
Cressida then paused, looking at Pandarus, and turned such color as doth the air when in the morning it groweth pale, and with difficulty restrained the tears that came to her eyes ready to gush forth. Then, as her lost courage returned, she murmured to herself, and spake thus to Pandarus in sighs:
48.
" I would have thought, Pandarus, if I had ever fallen into such folly that Troilus had ever come into my desire, that thou wouldst have beaten me, not merely restrained me, as one who should seek my honor. O God help me! What will others do now that thou strivest to make me follow the precepts of Love?
49.
" Well I know that Troilus is great and brave and every great lady should be happy with him. But since my husband was taken away from me, my wishes have ever been far removed from Love, and I have still a heavy heart for his grievous death, and shall have whilst I live, calling to memory his departure.
50.
" And if anyone should have my love, certainly to him would I give it, provided only I thought that it would please him. But as thou shouldst clearly know, the fancies which he hath now, often occur, and last four or five days, and then pass lightly away, love changing as thought changeth.
51.
" Therefore let me lead such a life as fortune may have prepared for me. He will easily find a lady, both submissive and gentle, to love at his pleasure. It, is meet for me to remain virtuous. By the gods, Pandarus, pray do not let this reply seem grievous to thee. Strive to comfort him with new pleasure and with other diversions. "
52.
Pandarus thought himself abused when he heard the remarks of the damsel and got up to leave. Then he stopped, turned to her, and said: " I have commended to thee, Cressida, one whom I would commend to my own sister, or to my daughter, or to my wife, if I had one, an I hope for the joys of Heaven.
53.
" For I believe that Troilus is worth a greater thing than thy love. Yesterday I saw him reduced to such straits because of this love that I pitied him greatly. Perhaps thou dost not believe it and therefore art not concerned about it. Well I know that thou wouldst perforce pity him, if thou knew what I know of his passion. Ah, have pity upon him for love of me.
54.
" I do not believe that there is in the world any man more worthy of confidence than he or more faithful. In loyalty he hath not his equal nor beyond thee doth he desire or look. And although thou art dressed in dark attire, thou art still young and hast the privilege of loving. Lose no time, consider that old age or death will take away all thy beauty. "
55.
" Alas, " said Cressida, " thou speakest the truth. Thus do the years little by little bear us forward. The greater number die before the path granted by the celestial fire is completed. But let us now stop thinking of this, and tell me whether I may still have solace and joy of love, and in what way thou didst first take note of Troilus. "
56.
Pandarus then smiled and replied: " I will tell it thee, since thou wishest to know it. The day before yesterday, while things were quiet because of the truce then made, Troilus desired that I should go with him for amusement through the shady woods. When we were seated there, he began to talk with me of love and then to sing to himself.
57.
" I was not near him, but hearing him murmur, I turned my attention toward him, and as far as I can remember, he complained to Love of his torment, saying: " My lord, already in my visage and in my sighs appeareth that which I feel in my heart by reason of the gentle longing which hath seized me because of her beauty.
58.
" " Thou takest thy station in that place where I bear pictured the image which pleaseth me more than aught else. There behold the soul which lieth pensive, conquered by thy radiance, which holdeth it bound about and engirded, whilst it calleth ever for that sweet peace which the fair and lovely eyes of this lady, dear lord, can alone give it.
59.
" " Then by the gods, if my dying distresseth thee, make this fair creature sensible of it, and by supplicating her, obtain that joy which is wont to give relief to thy subjects. Ah, do not desire, my lord, that I die. Behold how my vanquished soul doth ever cry out day and night, such fear hath it lest she slay it.
60.
" " Dost thou hesitate to kindle thy flames beneath her dark mantle, my lord? No greater glory will be thine than this. Enter into her heart with that desire which dwelleth in mine and tormenteth me. Ah, bring it to pass, I pray thee, merciful lord, that by thy mediation her sweet sighs may bring comfort to my desires."
61.
" After he said this, he sighed deeply and bowed his head, saying I know not what. Then almost in tears he lapsed into silence. Into me, when I saw this, there entered a suspicion of what the matter was, and I made up my mind, when a more fitting opportunity should arise, to ask him some day smilingly what his song might mean and then of the occasion.
62.
" But only today did the time for this occur, when I found him all alone. I entered his room on the chance that he might be there. He was upon his couch, and seeing me, retired elsewhere. Wherefore I became somewhat suspicious, and came nearer, and found that he wept bitterly and bitterly lamented.
63.
" I comforted him as best I knew how. And with unaccustomed art and diverse artifice I extorted from him what was the matter, having first given my faith in pledge that I would never tell it to any man. This grief of his moved me and for his sake I come to thee, to whom I have in brief discharged his request in every particular.
64.
" What wilt thou do? Wilt thou remain proud and let him who loveth thee beyond any care for himself, come to so cruel death, to miserable destiny, or wretched hap, that so proper a man perish for loving thee? Wert thou only not dear to him for thy lovely figure and for thine eyes, thou mightest perchance still save him from bitter death. "
65.
Cressida then said: " From afar didst thou discover the secret of his breast, although he held it in a firm grip what time thou didst find him weeping upon his couch. So may the gods make him well and happy and me also, as pity hath come to me by reason of what thou hast said. I am not cruel, as it seemeth to thee, nor so devoid of pity. "
66.
She remained silent awhile and sighed deeply and then already wounded continued: " I perceive in what direction thy compassionate desire tendeth. I will do what thou asketh because I am sure to please thee thereby and he is worth it. Let it suffice thee if I see him. But in order to avoid shame and perhaps worse, pray that he be discreet and do what may not be a reproach to me nor to him as well. "
67.
" Sister mine, " said Pandarus then, " thou speakest well and I will make this request of him. Truly, I do not believe that he will fail, I know him to be so well-mannered and discreet, unless it happen by some unlucky accident. And this the gods forbid. I will contrive thee such recompense as shall be to thy pleasure. Fare thee well and do thy duty. "
68.
After Pandarus departed, Cressida retired alone to her room, revolving in her heart every little word and message of Pandarus in the form in which it had been told. In joyful mood she discourseth and talketh with herself, and in so doing often sigheth, and pictureth Troilus in her mind beyond her wont.
69.
" I am young, fair, lovely, and carefree, a widow, rich, noble, and beloved. I have no children and lead an undisturbed life. Why should I not be in love? If perchance regard for my reputation forbid it me, I shall be prudent and keep my desire so hidden that it will not be known that I have ever entertained love in my heart.
70.
" Every hour my youth taketh flight. Am I to lose it so miserably? I do not know a single lady in this land without a lover. Most people, as I know and see, fall in love. Shall I lose my time for nothing? To do as others is no sin and I cannot incur the
reproach of anyone.
71.
" Who will ever desire me, if I grow old? Certainly no one. And to regret then is naught but to suffer increase of woe. It doth no good to repent of it afterward or to say in grief: " Why didst thou not love?" Well is it therefore to make provision in season. This lover of thine is handsome, well-bred, wise; and clever, and fresher than garden lily,
72.
" Of royal blood and of highest worth, and thy cousin Pandarus praiseth him so much to thee. What doest thou then? Why not receive him somewhat within thine heart, as he hath thee? Why not give thy love to him? Hearest thou not the pitifulness of his plaint? O how much happiness wilt thou have with him, besides, if thou love him as he loveth thee!
73.
" Now is not the time for a husband, and if it were, to keep one's liberty is a much wiser part. Love that springeth from so complete friendship is ever more pleasing to lovers. Beauty, however great, soon palleth upon married men, who desire to have every day something fresh.
74.
" Water acquired by stealth is sweeter far than wine had in abundance. So the joy of love, when hidden, ever surpasseth that of the husband held perpetually in arms. Therefore with zest receive the sweet lover, who hath come to thee at the certain behest of the gods, and give satisfaction to his burning desire. "
75.
She ceased awhile. Then she turned her thoughts in the opposite direction, saying: " What dost thou purpose to do, wretched one? Knowest thou not how bad is the life that one liveth with one's lover when passion languisheth, for there must ever be in it continuance of woes, of sighs, and grieving, with jealousy added, which is far worse than wretched death?
76.
" As for this man who now loveth thee, he is of much higher rank than thou. This amorous desire of his will pass and he will hold thee ever in abuse and will leave thee wretched, full of shame and confusion. Be careful what thou doest. Good sense, when it cometh too late, never was, nor is, nor ever will be of any avail.
77.
" But granting that this love be destined to last for a long time, how canst thou be sure that it is destined to remain concealed? 'Tis vain to trust to fortune and well to realize how impotent is human counsel when need ariseth. If it be discovered openly, thou canst regard thy reputation, which heretofore hath been excellent, as lost for ever.
78.
" Therefore leave such loves to those who delight in them. " After she said this, she began to sigh violently, nor was she able to banish the fair image of Troilus from her chaste breast. Therefore she returned to her first impression, now blaming, now praising, and in such vacillation made with herself long delay.
79.
Pandarus, who after parting from Cressida had felt satisfied, had, without going elsewhere, repaired directly to Troilus, and began from afar to say to him: " Comfort thyself, brother, for I have, I believe, accomplished a great part of thy desire. " And he sat down and straightway told him quickly what had happened.
80.
As little flowers, bowed and closed by the chill of night, when whitened by the sun, open all and straighten upon their stems, so at that moment did Troilus recover from his weary spirits, and glancing heavenward began as one enfranchised: " Praised be thy supreme power, fair Venus, and that of thy son Love. "
81.
Then he embraced Pandarus fully a thousand times, and kissed him as much again, so happy that he would not have been made more so had he been given a thousand Troys. And very softly he went thence, with Pandarus alone, to behold the beauty of Cressida, watching intently if he saw any new behavior in her by reason of Pandarus' words.
82.
She was standing at one of her windows and was perchance expecting what happened. Not harsh nor forbidding did she show herself toward Troilus as he looked at her, but at all times cast toward him modest glances over her right shoulder. Troilus departed, delighted thereat, giving thanks to Pandarus and to the gods.
83.
And that indifference which was holding Cressida at cross-purposes with herself vanished, as she praised to herself his manner, his pleasing actions, and his courtesy, and so suddenly was she captivated that she desired him above every other good, and grieved much at the time lost when she had not known his love.
84.
Troilus singeth and maketh joyful, jousteth, spendeth, and giveth freely, and often reneweth and changeth his apparel, loving more fervently every hour. And for diversion's sake he findeth it not an irksome task to pursue love, to eye Cressida discreetly, and she, no less discreet, showed herself to him from time to time lovely and light-hearted.
85.
But as through continual experience we note the more the wood, the greater the fire, so if hope happeneth to increase, oft love increaseth too. From then on with greater force than usual felt Troilus in his captive heart the goad of high desire. Thenceforth sighs and torments came back stronger than before.
86.
Thereof Troilus did many times make plaint to Pandarus, saying: " Woe is me! Cressida hath with her fair eyes so taken away my life that I expect to die from the fervent desire that so presseth upon my heart that in it I glow and burn. Ah, what shall I do, I who alone ought to be satisfied with her great courtesy?
87.
" She looketh at me and permitteth me to look modestly at her. This should suffice my inflamed desires. But my eager appetite would wish I know not what more. So poorly regulated are the ardors that excite it that he who should not experience it, would not believe how much this flame, which waxeth greater every hour, tormenteth me.
88.
" What shall I do then? I know not what to do, if not to call upon thee, fair Cressida. Thou alone art she who canst aid me, thou priceless lady; thou alone art she who canst quench my fire. O sweet light and dear flame of my heart. Might I pass a winter's night with thee, I would then remain an hundred and fifty in hell.
89.
" What shall I do, Pandarus? Sayest thou naught? Thou beholdest me glow in such a fire and dost appear to have no thought for the sighs wherein I burn. Help me, I pray thee dearly, tell me what I shall do, give me a word of advice. For if from thee or from her I have not succor, I am caught in the snares of death. "
90.
Pandarus then said: " I see well and hear all thou sayest, nor have I feigned nor ever shall feign to give aid to all thy sufferings, and ever am I prepared to do for thee not only what is fitting, but anything, without being urged either by force or by prayer. Let me behold openly thy warm desire.
91.
" I know that in everything thou art six times as discerning as I. But nevertheless, if I were in thy place, I would write to her in mine own hand all about mine anguish, and, beyond this, I would beseech her by the gods, and by Love, and by her courtesy, that she should care for me. And if thou write this, I will bear it to her without delay.
92.
" And besides this, to the extent of my power I will pray her to have pity upon thee. What she will reply thou shalt see. Already my soul believeth of a certainty that her reply will be sure to please thee. Therefore write and put therein all thy faith, all thy grief, and then thy desire. Omit nothing; tell all. "
93.
This advice pleased Troilus greatly, but as a timid lover he replied: " Ah me, Pandarus, thou shalt see, inasmuch as ladies are observed to be shamefaced, that Cressida for shame will reject with angry words the writing which thou shalt carry, and we shall be in a far worse plight. "
94.
To this Pandarus: " If it pleaseth thee, do what I tell thee, and then leave matters to me. For, an Love be not my enemy, I will bring thee, I believe, a reply written in her own hand. If it displeaseth thee, timid and sad mayest thou remain because of it. If thou wilt persist in thy misery, it will not be my task to content thee. "
95.
Then said Troilus: " Be it as thou pleasest. I will go and write. And I pray Love of his courtesy that he make fruitful the writing, the letter, and the journey. " And he went thence to his room, and like a wise man at once wrote to his dearest lady a letter. And thus he said:
96.
" How can he who is placed in torment, in heavy sorrow, and in grievous state, as I am for thee, lady, give good health to anyone? Certainly it should not be expected of him. Therefore I am departing from the practice of others. Thou shalt lack good health from me only for this reason, because I have it not to give, unless thou givest it to me.
97.
" I cannot escape what Love wisheth, who before now hath emboldened lowlier than I. He constraineth me to write the words, as thou shalt see, and wisheth to be implicitly obeyed by me, as he is wont to be. Therefore if I make a mistake in this letter, let his be the blame, and grant pardon to me, I pray thee, my sweet hope.
98.
" Thy lofty beauty, and the splendor of thy lovely eyes and of thine accomplished manners, thy dear modesty, and thy womanly worth, thy ways and actions, more praised than others, have in my mind so established him for lord and thee for lady that no other accident save death would ever be strong enough to pluck you out of it.
99.
" And do what I may, the beautiful image of thee bringeth ever into my heart a thought which driveth forth any other which speaketh of anyone else than of thee alone, although of any other one my soul hath indeed no care, since it is made handmaid of thy worth, in which alone my hope is fixed. Thy name is ever on my lips, and toucheth my heart every hour with greater desire.
100.
" From all this, lady, there ariseth a fire which tortureth my soul day and night, without allowing me to find opportunity for rest. Mine eyes weep and my breast sigheth thereat, and little by little I feel myself consumed by this ardor that stirreth about within me. For this reason it behooveth me to have recourse solely to thy virtue, if I wish to have relief.
101.
" Thou alone, when thou wishest, canst give these sore torments sweet peace. Thou alone, my lady, canst give this painful affliction surcease. Thou alone with tender ministrations canst remove from me the torture that so undoeth me. Thou alone, as my lady, canst accomplish what my heart desireth.
102.
" Therefore if ever anyone by pure fidelity, if ever by great love, if by desire always to serve well in every case, whether good or evil, deserved grace, grant that I be one of them, dear my lady, grant that I be one of them, I who for refuge come to thee, as to her who is the cause of all my sighs.
103.
" I know well that I have never deserved by my service that for which I come. But thou alone, who hast wounded my heart, thou and none other, canst, when thou wilt, make me worthy of a greater thing. O desired weal of my heart, lay aside the lofty disdain of thy great spirit, and be condescending toward me, in so much as thou art gentle in thine actions.
104.
" Certain I am that thou wilt be merciful as thou art fair, and that my sore distress, discreetly amiable and gracious one, who dost not wish that I perish in my misery for loving thee so much, will turn, delectable lady, to sweet joy. I beseech thee for it, if my prayer availeth, by that love for which thou mayest by now have more concern.
105.
" Although a small gift, with little ability, and much less worth, I am without fail all thine. Wise as thou art, thou wilt understand, if I do not speak adequately, that I am not a talker. In like manner I hope that thine acts will be much better and greater than my deserts. May Love dispose thine heart to this.
106.
" I had many more things in mind to say but in order not to annoy thee, I will suppress them. In conclusion I pray the sweet lord Love that, as he hath placed thee in my delight, so with the same willingness he place me in thy desire, that, as I am thine, so thou mayest at some time become mine and may never be taken away from me. "
107.
Then after writing all these things on a paper, he folded it in order, and wetted the seal against his tearful cheeks. Then he sealed it and put it in Pandarus' hands. First he kissed it a hundred times and more, saying: " Letter mine, how blissful wilt thou be, into the hand of such a lady shalt thou come! "
108.
Pandarus took the pitiful letter and went off to Cressida. When she saw him coming she left the company in which she was, and went part way to meet him, appearing in sight as doth an oriental pearl, overcome alike with fear and with desire. From afar they saluted one another and then took each other by the hand.
109.
Then said Cressida: " What business now bringeth thee here? Hast thou further news? " To her Pandarus replied: " Lady, for thee have I news good and favorable, but not for someone else, as can show thee these wretched writings of him whom I seem to see die for thee, so little dost thou care for him.
110.
" Take them away and peruse them diligently. Any answer will make him happy. " Cressida stood timorously, without taking them, and her gentle aspect changed a little. Then she said softly: " My Pandarus, an I hope Love may give thee peace, have some little regard for me as well as for the youth.
111.
" Consider whether what thou now asketh is fitting, and do thou thyself be judge of this, and take thought whether in accepting these I do right, and whether thy request is altogether modest, and whether, in order to alleviate the pain of another, it is desirable to do that which is in itself an immodest act. Ah, do not leave them with me, my Pandarus, take them back for the love of the gods. "
112.
Pandarus was somewhat disturbed by this and said: " A strange thing is this to consider that at what is most desired by her sex each lady should, in the presence of others, show herself annoyed and vexed. I have spoken to thee so much of this matter that thenceforth thou shouldst not play the prude with me. I beseech thee not to deny me this. "
113.
Cressida smiled when she heard him, and took them, and thrust them into her bosom. Then she said to him: " When I have time, I shall peruse them to the best of my ability. If in doing this I do less than well, my inability to do less than thy pleasure is the reason. May the gods bear witness thereof from heaven and make provision for my simple-mindedness. "
114.
Pandarus gave them to her and left. She was very eager to see what they said, and when she found opportunity, she left her other companions in their seats, and went away to her room, and after unfolding them, read and reread them with delight, and clearly perceived that Troilus was much more on fire than appeared in his outward demeanor.
115.
This was a comfort to her because she felt the soul in her heart transfixed. Wherefore she lived very disconsolate, although it did not appear at all outwardly. And after carefully noting every word that was written, she praised and thanked Love for it, saying to herself: " It is fitting that I find time and place to quench this fire.
116.
" For if I let it multiply into too great heat, my hidden desire might appear in my colorless face, which would be no small disgrace to me. And I on my part have no intent to die or to let another die, when with delight I can avoid my own and another's distress.
117.
" I shall certainly not remain so disposed as I have been up to the present. If Pandarus return for the answer, I shall give it to him amiably and agreeably, if it should cost me something, as it doth not. Nor can I ever more be called cruel by Troilus. Would that I were now in his sweet arms, pressed face to face with him! "
118.
After frequent promptings from Troilus Pandarus returned to Cressida and said with a smile: " Lady, what thinkest thou of my friend's writing? " She turned red at once and said naught save: " The gods know. " Pandarus said to her: " Hast thou replied? " To him she said jestingly: " So soon? "
119.
" If I am ever to go on thine errand, " said Pandarus, " see now that thou do it. " And she to him: " I do not know how to do it well. " " Ah, " said Pandarus, " try to satisfy him. Love is a good instructor. I have so great a desire to comfort him that upon my faith thou wouldst not believe it. Thy reply alone could do this. "
120.
" I will do it because it pleaseth thee so much. But may the gods grant that matters go well! " " Ah, so they will, " said Pandarus, " inasmuch as he, to whom it giveth more pleasure than anything else, is worth it. " Then he departed. And in the least frequented corner of her room she sat down to write in the following manner:
121.
" To thee, discreet and powerful friend, whom Love greatly infatuateth for me, as a man unduly enamored of me, Cressida, her honor preserved, sendeth greeting, and thereafter humbly recommendeth herself to thy high worthiness, being anxious to please thee provided my honor and chastity be safe.
122.
" I have received from him who loveth thee so perfectly that he careth not any more for any honor of mine or for my good name, pages full of thy writing. In them I read thy wretched life not without grief, as I hope to have the fortune which is dear to me. Although they are adorned with tears, I have pondered them diligently.
123.
" And as I think everything over reasonably, and weigh thine affliction, and thy request, thy faith, and thy hope, I do not see how I can satisfy thy request very suitably, wishing as I do to have full regard to what is most to be desired in the world, namely, to live and die in good repute.
124.
" Although it would be well to please thee, if the world were what it ought to be, yet since it is what it is, we must perforce make the best of it. If we were to do otherwise, extreme suffering might follow. Despite myself must I put aside the pity I felt for thee, whereby thou wilt gain but little satisfaction from me.
125.
" But so great is the virtue which I perceive in thee that I know thou wilt see clearly what is proper for me, and that thou wilt be satisfied with my reply, and wilt moderate thy severe grief, which greatly displeaseth and troubleth my heart. In truth, if it were not unbecoming, willingly would I do what would please thee.
126.
" Of little worth, as thou canst see, is the writing and the art in this letter. I would wish that it might bring thee more pleasure but what is wished can do but little good. The power to do will perhaps sometime take the place of good intentions. If it doth not displease thee, give a little respite to thy sorrow at my not having replied to all thou hast said.
127.
" There is no need for the protestations which thou makest, for I am certain that thou wouldst perform everything. And me indeed, though of little worth, thou couldst and canst have for thine even more than a thousand times, an the cruel fire do not burn me, which I am certain thou wouldst not wish. I say no more, save to pray the gods to satisfy thy desire and mine. "
128.
When she had spoken in such wise, she folded it, and sealed it, and gave it to Pandarus. Starting at once in search of the youth Troilus, he went off with it to him, and gave it to him with the greatest delight. He took it, read in haste what had been written therein, sighing the while and suffering change of heart according to the words.
129.
But at last, repeating to himself every thing she had written, he said to himself: " If I understand her, Love constraineth her, but as a guilty person she still goeth skulking behind the shield. But if Love give me strength to suffer, she cannot delay long before coming to quite different speech. "
130.
And Pandarus, with whom he discussed the whole matter, agreed with him. Therefore he taketh fresh heart more than ever, leaving somewhat his sad affliction, and hopeth that the hour is soon to come that must bring reward to his suffering. This he imploreth and day and night beseecheth, as one whose heart is set on this alone.
131.
From day to day his ardor increased, and although hope helped to sustain him, he was still heavy at heart. And it must be supposed that it troubled him greatly. Wherefore it may be guessed that many a time he wrote letters in great fervor. To these there came to him reply, now gentle and now harsh, now often and now seldom.
132.
Therefore he often complained of love, and of fortune, which he held his enemy. Oftentimes he said to himself: " Alas, if the nettle of love should a little more prick her, as it pierceth and tormenteth me, my life, bereft of solace, would quickly come to the gracious port to which before I come, I shall be dead. "
133.
Pandarus, who perceived the flames enkindled in the breast of him whom he loved, was often liberal of his prayers to Cressida, and related to her without concealment all that he observed of Troilus. Although glad to hear it, she said: " I can do naught else; I am doing for him what thou didst enjoin upon me, my dear brother. "
134.
" This is not enough, " replied Pandarus. " I wish thee to comfort and speak to him. " To him Cressida said in reply: " This mean I never to do for him, for the crown of my virtue I intend on no account to give him. As a brother shall I love him ever because of his great goodness and because of his noble nature. "
135.
Pandarus replied: " This crown the priests commend in those of you from whom they cannot take it. Each of them talketh like a saint and then surpriseth all of you that he can in sleep. No one will ever know about Troilus. He now suffereth much and hath only the prospect of thy gift to console him. Very ill doeth he who can act well and doth not, for the wiser a man is, the more doth the loss of time displease him. "
136.
Cressida said: " I know that his virtue is tender of my honor, and that he would not ask of me other than he ought, so great is his worthiness. I swear to thee by my hope of salvation that I am, apart from what thou asketh of me, a thousand times more his than I am my own, so much doth his courtesy delight me. "
137.
" If he pleaseth thee, what art thou in search of? Ah, lay aside this harshness! Dost thou intend that he die of love? Well wilt thou be able to hold thy beauty dear, if thou slay such a man. Ah, tell me, when dost thou wish that he come to thee, to whom this privilege is a greater prize than the heavens have to offer? Tell me, how, and where? Do not try to conquer all thy scruples. "
138.
" Ah me, alas! To what hast thou led me, my Pandarus, and what dost thou wish that I do? Thou hast broken and shattered my sense of shame. I dare not look thee in the face. Ah me, wretched one that I am! When shall I have it again? My blood turneth ice about my heart, when I think of what thou askest, and thou hast no care thereat, and seest it clearly.
139.
" I would wish that I had been dead the day that I so much hearkened to thee here in this apartment. Thou didst put in my heart a desire that I believe will hardly ever depart from it. It will be the occasion of losing my honor, alas, and of infinite woes. I can do no more. Since it is to thy pleasure, I am disposed to do thy will.
140.
" But if any request have value in thy sight, I pray thee, sweet and dear my brother, that all that each of us hath said and done, be kept secret. Thou canst well see what might follow, if such a passion should come to light. Speak to him of it, and apprize him of it. As opportunity offereth, I will do what your pleasure desireth. "
141.
Pandarus replied: " Guard thy lips, for neither he, on his part, nor I will ever tell it. " " Dost thou now, " she said, " consider me so foolish, because thou seest me tremble all over with fear lest it be known? But since the honor and the shame that we shall have from it toucheth thee as well as me, I shall dismiss the matter from my mind, and do thou henceforth in regard to it as it pleaseth thee. "
142.
Pandarus said: " Do not doubt that in this matter we shall exercise very good caution. When dost thou wish that he come to speak to thee? Let us now draw this business to a head. To do it quickly, since it is to be done, will be much better. Love is much more easily hidden after the deed, when you shall have arranged together what you will need to do. "
143.
" Thou knowest, " said Cressida, " that there are ladies and other people with me in this house. Some of them are to go to the coming festival. Then I shall remain with him. I hope that this delay cause him no anxiety. Of the manner of his coming I shall then talk with thee. See only that he be prudent and know well how to conceal his desires. "
ARGUMENT
Here beginneth the second part of the Filostrato, in which Troilus maketh known his love to Pandarus, cousin of Cressida, who comforteth him and discovereth his secret love to Cressida and with prayers and with flattery induceth her to love Troilus. And in the first place, after much talk, Troilus discloseth wholly his love to Pandarus, a noble Trojan youth.
1.
While Troilus was thus one day quite alone in his room, engaged in thought, there suddenly arrived a young Trojan of high lineage and of abundant spirits, who, seeing him lie stretched out upon his couch and full of tears, cried: " What is the matter, dear friend? Hath the bitter time already thus vanquished thee? "
2.
" Pandarus, " saith Troilus, " what fortune hath brought thee here to see me die? If our friendship hath any power, may it please thee to depart hence, for I know that to see me die will be more grievous to thee than aught else. And I am not to remain longer in life, so much is my vigor overcome and dissipated.
3.
" Think not that Troy besieged or the travail of arms or any fear is the occasion of my present distress. This is among other things my least care. Something else constraineth me to wish to die, wherefore I grieve at my misfortune. That this is so, feel no concern, friend, for I conceal it for the best and do not tell it thee. "
4.
Pandarus' pity then increased and his desire to know it. Wherefore he continued: " If our friendship, as was wont, is now a pleasure to thee, discover to me what is the cruelty that maketh thee so much wish to die. It is not the act of a friend to keep anything hidden from his friend.
5.
" I wish to share this affliction with thee, if I am not able to give comfort to thy distress, for it is fitting to share everything with a friend, both sorrow and delight. And I believe that thou knowest well whether I have loved thee in right and in wrong, and whether I would do for thee any great service, let it be what it will and in what act. "
6.
Troilus then drew a deep sigh and said: " Pandarus, since it pleaseth thee to hear my sufferings, I will tell thee in a word what undoeth me, not because I hope that a peaceful end can be put by thee to my desire, but only to satisfy thy urgent entreaty, which I know not how to refuse.
7.
" Love, against whom he who defendeth himself the sooner is taken and laboreth in vain, so inflameth my heart with a fond delight that I have on his account put far from me every other god. And this so distresseth me that, as thou canst see, I have a thousand times with difficulty restrained my hand from taking my life.
8.
" Let it suffice thee, my dear friend, to hear of my sorrows, which will never more be disclosed. And I pray thee by the gods, if thou hast any fidelity to our love, that thou discover not this desire to anyone else, because much trouble might follow me on that account. Thou knowest what thou hast wished; go away, and leave me here to fight with my distress. "
9.
" O, " said Pandarus, " how hast thou been able to keep so great a fire as this hidden from me, for I would have given thee counsel or aid and found some means to thy peace? " And to him Troilus said: " How should I have had it from thee, whom I have always seen sorrowful for love, and who dost not know how to help thyself therein? How thinkest thou then to satisfy me? "
10.
Pandarus said: " Troilus, I know that thou speakest the truth. But oftentimes it happeneth that he who knoweth not how to protect himself from poison, by good counsel safeguardeth another. Of old the one-eyed man hath been seen to walk where the man of full vision walketh not well. Although a man taketh not good counsel, he can give it in another's peril.
11.
" I have loved unhappily and to my sorrow still love. This happeneth because I have not, as thou, loved another secretly. What the gods will, shall at the last be done. The love that I have ever borne thee, I bear thee, and shall bear thee, nor ever shall he be who shall know what may be told me by thee.
12.
" Therefore have confidence in me, my friend, and tell me who is the cause of this thy so grievous and hard living, nor ever fear that I shall reprove thee for loving. For the wise of old have in their sage discourses declared as touching this matter that love of the heart could never be taken away, unless self-freed in the course of long time.
13.
" Leave thy anguish, leave thy sighs, and by talking assuage thy grief. The sufferings of those who do so, pass, and much too doth the intensity diminish when he who is the lover, seeth companions in like desires. I, as thou knowest, love against my will, nor can my suffering be removed nor increased.
14.
" Perhaps she that tormenteth thee will be such an one that I shall be able to work somewhat to thy pleasure — and I would satisfy thy wish, if I could, more than ever I would mine own. Thou shalt see it. Let me hear who she is for whom thou hast this pain. Arise, lie not down, consider that thou canst talk with me as with thine own self. "
15.
Troilus stood somewhat in quandary. And after drawing a deep sigh and turning all a burning red in his face for shame, he replied: " Dear friend, a very honorable reason hath kept me from making my love manifest and clear to thee, for she who hath brought me to this pass is a relative of thine. " And not a word more did he say.
16.
And he fell back flat upon his couch, weeping bitterly and hiding his face. And to him Pandarus said: " Well-tried friend, little faith hath planted such suspicion in thy breast. Come, cease this wretched plaint of thine, that I be not slain. If she whom thou lovest were my sister, to the best of my ability shouldst thou have thy pleasure of her.
17.
" Get up, tell me, say who she is, tell it me quickly, so that I, who would wish naught else, may find a way to thy comfort. Is she a lady of mine house? Tell me quickly, for if she is the one that I am thinking to myself that she be, I do not believe that the sixth day will pass before I shall deliver thee from so grievous state. "
18.
Troilus answered nothing to this but each moment muffled his face the more closely. And yet when he heard what Pandarus promised, he conceived somewhat more hope in his breast, and felt inclined to speak, and then held back, so greatly ashamed was he of discovering it to him. But under Pandarus' urgency he turned toward him and gave vent to these words:
19.
" My Pandarus, I would wish that I were already dead when I consider to what straits Love hath reduced me. Had I been able to conceal it without doing thee wrong, I would not indeed have dissembled. But I am no longer able. If thou art as discerning as thou art wont to be, thou canst see that Love hath not decreed that man love by rule, regardless of her whom his heart chooseth.
20.
" Others, as thou knowest, are wont to love their sisters, and sisters their brothers, and daughters sometimes their fathers, and fathers-in-law their daughters-in-law, and even, as is wont at times to happen, stepmothers their stepsons. But Love hath seized me for thy cousin, to my sore distress, for Cressida, I say. " And when he had said this, he fell back upon his couch face-downward in tears.
21.
When Pandarus heard her named, he laughed and thus he spake: " My friend, I pray thee by the gods not to be disheartened. Love hath placed thy desire in a quarter such that he could not place it better. For she is truly worthy of it, if I am any judge of good qualities, or of greatness of soul, or of merit, or of beauty.
22.
" No lady was ever more deserving, none was ever livelier and more entertaining, none more pleasing nor more gracious, none of larger soul among all that ever have been. Nor is there task so lofty that she would not undertake as willingly as any king or would lack courage to carry to completion, provided only she had the power.
23.
" Only one trait, somewhat troublesome to thee, hath my cousin beyond those mentioned, that she is more virtuous than other ladies, and holdeth matters of love more in contempt. But if naught else annoy us, believe me, I will with my soft words find a way to cope with this, to the relief of thy necessity. Possess thy soul in patience, curbing well thy warm desire.
24.
" Well canst thou then see that Love hath placed thee in a station worthy of thy mettle. Stand firm therefore in the act proposed and have good hope of thy cure, which I believe will follow soon, if thou do not forfeit it with thy plaint. Thou art worthy of her and she of thee, and I will employ all my cunning in this matter.
25.
" Think not, Troilus, that I do not fully realize that affairs so conducted are not becoming to a worthy lady and what may come therefrom to me, to her, and to hers, if such a thing ever reach people's ears as that she, on whose person honor was wont to dwell, hath, for thus obeying the dictates of Love, become, by our folly, an object of reproach.
26.
" But as long as desire hath been checked in its action and everything like unto it held secret, it seemeth to me reasonable to maintain that each lover may follow his high desires, provided only he be discreet in deed and in semblance, without causing any shame to those to whom shame and honor are matters of concern.
27.
" I believe indeed that in desire every woman liveth amorously and that nothing but fear of shame restraineth her. And if to such anguish a full remedy may properly be given, foolish is he that doth not ravish her. And little in my opinion doth the punishment vex her. My cousin is a widow and hath desires; if she should deny it, I would not believe her.
28.
" Therefore, since I know thee wise and reasonable, I can please her and both of you and give you each equal comfort, provided you undertake to keep it secret, and it will be as though it were not. I would do wrong if in this matter I did not all in my power to serve thee. Be thou discreet then in keeping such doings concealed from others. "
29.
Troilus listened to Pandarus so well satisfied in mind that he seemed to him to be already well-nigh delivered from his anguish. And he waxed again more ardent in his love. But after he had been silent for a while, he turned to Pandarus and said to him: " I believe what thou sayest of this lady but the difficulty appeareth to mine eyes all the greater on this account.
30.
" Furthermore how will the ardor that I bear within grow less since I have never seen her take notice of my love? She will not believe it, if thou tellest it to her. Moreover, for fear of thee, she will blame this passion and thou wilt accomplish naught. And if she had it in her heart, to show thee that she is honest, she would not be willing to listen to thee.
31.
" Furthermore, Pandarus, I would not have thee believe that I would desire of such a lady aught unbecoming, but only that she consent that I love her. This would be a sovereign favor to me, if I should obtain it. Seek for this, and more I do not ask of thee. " Then he looked down somewhat abashed.
32.
And to him Pandarus laughingly replied: " There is no harm in what thou sayest. Leave the matter to me, for I have at hand love-enkindling words and speeches of like quality. Of old have I known, under unusual conditions, how to bring more arduous tasks to accomplishment. This labor will all be mine and the sweet result I wish to be thine. "
33.
Troilus leaped nimbly to the ground from his couch, embracing and kissing him, swearing that to win in triumph the war against the Greeks would be naught to him when compared to this passion that so much bindeth him: " My Pandarus, I put myself in thy hands, thou philosopher, thou friend, thou knowest all that is needed to put an end to my distress. "
34.
Pandarus, anxious to serve the youth, whom he loved much, left him to his own devices, and betook himself to where Cressida dwelt. As she saw him come toward her, she stood up and greeted him from afar, and Pandarus her, and he took her by the hand, and led her with him into an apartment.
35.
There he contented himself for a while with laughter and with sweet words, with many jests and with familiar talk, in the fashion usual at such times between relatives, as one who wisheth to come to his point with further arguments, if he may, and began to look into her lovely face very fixedly.
36.
Cressida, who observed this, said with a smile: " Cousin, hast thou never seen me, that thou art gazing at me so intently? " To her Pandarus replied: " Well thou knowest that I have seen thee and hope to continue to see thee. But thou appearest to me exceptionally beautiful and hast, as it seemeth to me, more to praise the gods for than any other fair lady. "
37.
Cressida said: " What meaneth this? Why more now than in the past? " To her Pandarus replied gaily and promptly: " Because thine is the most fortune-favored face that ever lady had in this world, if I mistake not. I have heard that it pleaseth a very proper man so immeasurably that he is undone by it. "
38.
Upon hearing what Pandarus said, Cressida blushed somewhat bashfully and looked like a morning rose. Then she addressed to Pandarus these words: " Mock not at me, for I should be glad of every good that should come to thee. The man I pleased must have had little to occupy his attention, for never on any other occasion did this happen to me since I was born. "
39.
" Let us dismiss all jests, " said Pandarus then. " Tell me, art thou aware of him? " To this she replied: " No more of one man than of another, as I hope to live. It is true that I see pass here from time to time someone who ever gazeth at my door, nor know I if he come in search of a sight of me or be musing at something else. "
40.
Then said Pandarus: " Who is this man? " To him Cressida said: " Truly I know him not, nor can I tell thee further of him. " Pandarus, perceiving that she is not speaking of Troilus but of someone else, forthwith replied to her thus: " He whom thou hast wounded is not a man not known by all. "
41.
" Who, then, is he who taketh such pleasure in seeing me? " said Cressida. To her Pandarus replied: " Lady, since he who circumscribed the world made the first man, I do not believe that he ever put a more perfect soul in anyone than is the soul of him who loveth thee so much that it would never be possible to tell thee how much.
42.
" He is lofty of soul and of speech, very virtuous, and jealous of honor, wise in native sense beyond another, and without a superior in knowledge, valiant and high spirited, and open in countenance. I could not tell thee all his worth. Ah, how fortunate is thy beauty, since such a man valueth it more than anything else!
43.
" Well is the jewel placed in the ring, if thou art wise as thou art fair. If thou become his, as he hath become thine, well will the star be joined with the sun. Nor ever was youth joined so well with maid as thou wilt be with him, if thou wilt be wise. Well for thee if thou wilt recognize it.
44.
" Once only hath everyone who liveth in the world fortune, if he knoweth how to seize it. Let him who abandoneth it when it cometh, bewail his misfortune by himself, without blaming another. Thy lovely and most beautiful face hath found it for thee. Know now how to use it. Let me weep, since I was born in an evil hour and was displeasing to the gods, to the world, and to fortune. "
45.
" Dost thou tempt me or dost thou speak the truth, " said Cressida, " or art thou out of thy senses? Who hath any right to have perfect pleasure of me, if he should not first become my husband? But tell me, who is this man? Is he who is so smitten with me a stranger or an inhabitant of our city? Tell me if thou art willing, if thou canst reconcile it with thy sense of duty to tell me, and do not cry " ah me" without occasion. "
46.
Pandarus said: " He is a citizen, nor of the lesser, and my great friend. From his breast, by the power, mayhap, of destiny, have I drawn what I have disclosed to thee. He liveth in wretched and miserable woe, so doth the splendor of thy countenance inflame him. And that thou mayest know who so much loveth thee, Troilus is he who desireth thee so much. "
47.
Cressida then paused, looking at Pandarus, and turned such color as doth the air when in the morning it groweth pale, and with difficulty restrained the tears that came to her eyes ready to gush forth. Then, as her lost courage returned, she murmured to herself, and spake thus to Pandarus in sighs:
48.
" I would have thought, Pandarus, if I had ever fallen into such folly that Troilus had ever come into my desire, that thou wouldst have beaten me, not merely restrained me, as one who should seek my honor. O God help me! What will others do now that thou strivest to make me follow the precepts of Love?
49.
" Well I know that Troilus is great and brave and every great lady should be happy with him. But since my husband was taken away from me, my wishes have ever been far removed from Love, and I have still a heavy heart for his grievous death, and shall have whilst I live, calling to memory his departure.
50.
" And if anyone should have my love, certainly to him would I give it, provided only I thought that it would please him. But as thou shouldst clearly know, the fancies which he hath now, often occur, and last four or five days, and then pass lightly away, love changing as thought changeth.
51.
" Therefore let me lead such a life as fortune may have prepared for me. He will easily find a lady, both submissive and gentle, to love at his pleasure. It, is meet for me to remain virtuous. By the gods, Pandarus, pray do not let this reply seem grievous to thee. Strive to comfort him with new pleasure and with other diversions. "
52.
Pandarus thought himself abused when he heard the remarks of the damsel and got up to leave. Then he stopped, turned to her, and said: " I have commended to thee, Cressida, one whom I would commend to my own sister, or to my daughter, or to my wife, if I had one, an I hope for the joys of Heaven.
53.
" For I believe that Troilus is worth a greater thing than thy love. Yesterday I saw him reduced to such straits because of this love that I pitied him greatly. Perhaps thou dost not believe it and therefore art not concerned about it. Well I know that thou wouldst perforce pity him, if thou knew what I know of his passion. Ah, have pity upon him for love of me.
54.
" I do not believe that there is in the world any man more worthy of confidence than he or more faithful. In loyalty he hath not his equal nor beyond thee doth he desire or look. And although thou art dressed in dark attire, thou art still young and hast the privilege of loving. Lose no time, consider that old age or death will take away all thy beauty. "
55.
" Alas, " said Cressida, " thou speakest the truth. Thus do the years little by little bear us forward. The greater number die before the path granted by the celestial fire is completed. But let us now stop thinking of this, and tell me whether I may still have solace and joy of love, and in what way thou didst first take note of Troilus. "
56.
Pandarus then smiled and replied: " I will tell it thee, since thou wishest to know it. The day before yesterday, while things were quiet because of the truce then made, Troilus desired that I should go with him for amusement through the shady woods. When we were seated there, he began to talk with me of love and then to sing to himself.
57.
" I was not near him, but hearing him murmur, I turned my attention toward him, and as far as I can remember, he complained to Love of his torment, saying: " My lord, already in my visage and in my sighs appeareth that which I feel in my heart by reason of the gentle longing which hath seized me because of her beauty.
58.
" " Thou takest thy station in that place where I bear pictured the image which pleaseth me more than aught else. There behold the soul which lieth pensive, conquered by thy radiance, which holdeth it bound about and engirded, whilst it calleth ever for that sweet peace which the fair and lovely eyes of this lady, dear lord, can alone give it.
59.
" " Then by the gods, if my dying distresseth thee, make this fair creature sensible of it, and by supplicating her, obtain that joy which is wont to give relief to thy subjects. Ah, do not desire, my lord, that I die. Behold how my vanquished soul doth ever cry out day and night, such fear hath it lest she slay it.
60.
" " Dost thou hesitate to kindle thy flames beneath her dark mantle, my lord? No greater glory will be thine than this. Enter into her heart with that desire which dwelleth in mine and tormenteth me. Ah, bring it to pass, I pray thee, merciful lord, that by thy mediation her sweet sighs may bring comfort to my desires."
61.
" After he said this, he sighed deeply and bowed his head, saying I know not what. Then almost in tears he lapsed into silence. Into me, when I saw this, there entered a suspicion of what the matter was, and I made up my mind, when a more fitting opportunity should arise, to ask him some day smilingly what his song might mean and then of the occasion.
62.
" But only today did the time for this occur, when I found him all alone. I entered his room on the chance that he might be there. He was upon his couch, and seeing me, retired elsewhere. Wherefore I became somewhat suspicious, and came nearer, and found that he wept bitterly and bitterly lamented.
63.
" I comforted him as best I knew how. And with unaccustomed art and diverse artifice I extorted from him what was the matter, having first given my faith in pledge that I would never tell it to any man. This grief of his moved me and for his sake I come to thee, to whom I have in brief discharged his request in every particular.
64.
" What wilt thou do? Wilt thou remain proud and let him who loveth thee beyond any care for himself, come to so cruel death, to miserable destiny, or wretched hap, that so proper a man perish for loving thee? Wert thou only not dear to him for thy lovely figure and for thine eyes, thou mightest perchance still save him from bitter death. "
65.
Cressida then said: " From afar didst thou discover the secret of his breast, although he held it in a firm grip what time thou didst find him weeping upon his couch. So may the gods make him well and happy and me also, as pity hath come to me by reason of what thou hast said. I am not cruel, as it seemeth to thee, nor so devoid of pity. "
66.
She remained silent awhile and sighed deeply and then already wounded continued: " I perceive in what direction thy compassionate desire tendeth. I will do what thou asketh because I am sure to please thee thereby and he is worth it. Let it suffice thee if I see him. But in order to avoid shame and perhaps worse, pray that he be discreet and do what may not be a reproach to me nor to him as well. "
67.
" Sister mine, " said Pandarus then, " thou speakest well and I will make this request of him. Truly, I do not believe that he will fail, I know him to be so well-mannered and discreet, unless it happen by some unlucky accident. And this the gods forbid. I will contrive thee such recompense as shall be to thy pleasure. Fare thee well and do thy duty. "
68.
After Pandarus departed, Cressida retired alone to her room, revolving in her heart every little word and message of Pandarus in the form in which it had been told. In joyful mood she discourseth and talketh with herself, and in so doing often sigheth, and pictureth Troilus in her mind beyond her wont.
69.
" I am young, fair, lovely, and carefree, a widow, rich, noble, and beloved. I have no children and lead an undisturbed life. Why should I not be in love? If perchance regard for my reputation forbid it me, I shall be prudent and keep my desire so hidden that it will not be known that I have ever entertained love in my heart.
70.
" Every hour my youth taketh flight. Am I to lose it so miserably? I do not know a single lady in this land without a lover. Most people, as I know and see, fall in love. Shall I lose my time for nothing? To do as others is no sin and I cannot incur the
reproach of anyone.
71.
" Who will ever desire me, if I grow old? Certainly no one. And to regret then is naught but to suffer increase of woe. It doth no good to repent of it afterward or to say in grief: " Why didst thou not love?" Well is it therefore to make provision in season. This lover of thine is handsome, well-bred, wise; and clever, and fresher than garden lily,
72.
" Of royal blood and of highest worth, and thy cousin Pandarus praiseth him so much to thee. What doest thou then? Why not receive him somewhat within thine heart, as he hath thee? Why not give thy love to him? Hearest thou not the pitifulness of his plaint? O how much happiness wilt thou have with him, besides, if thou love him as he loveth thee!
73.
" Now is not the time for a husband, and if it were, to keep one's liberty is a much wiser part. Love that springeth from so complete friendship is ever more pleasing to lovers. Beauty, however great, soon palleth upon married men, who desire to have every day something fresh.
74.
" Water acquired by stealth is sweeter far than wine had in abundance. So the joy of love, when hidden, ever surpasseth that of the husband held perpetually in arms. Therefore with zest receive the sweet lover, who hath come to thee at the certain behest of the gods, and give satisfaction to his burning desire. "
75.
She ceased awhile. Then she turned her thoughts in the opposite direction, saying: " What dost thou purpose to do, wretched one? Knowest thou not how bad is the life that one liveth with one's lover when passion languisheth, for there must ever be in it continuance of woes, of sighs, and grieving, with jealousy added, which is far worse than wretched death?
76.
" As for this man who now loveth thee, he is of much higher rank than thou. This amorous desire of his will pass and he will hold thee ever in abuse and will leave thee wretched, full of shame and confusion. Be careful what thou doest. Good sense, when it cometh too late, never was, nor is, nor ever will be of any avail.
77.
" But granting that this love be destined to last for a long time, how canst thou be sure that it is destined to remain concealed? 'Tis vain to trust to fortune and well to realize how impotent is human counsel when need ariseth. If it be discovered openly, thou canst regard thy reputation, which heretofore hath been excellent, as lost for ever.
78.
" Therefore leave such loves to those who delight in them. " After she said this, she began to sigh violently, nor was she able to banish the fair image of Troilus from her chaste breast. Therefore she returned to her first impression, now blaming, now praising, and in such vacillation made with herself long delay.
79.
Pandarus, who after parting from Cressida had felt satisfied, had, without going elsewhere, repaired directly to Troilus, and began from afar to say to him: " Comfort thyself, brother, for I have, I believe, accomplished a great part of thy desire. " And he sat down and straightway told him quickly what had happened.
80.
As little flowers, bowed and closed by the chill of night, when whitened by the sun, open all and straighten upon their stems, so at that moment did Troilus recover from his weary spirits, and glancing heavenward began as one enfranchised: " Praised be thy supreme power, fair Venus, and that of thy son Love. "
81.
Then he embraced Pandarus fully a thousand times, and kissed him as much again, so happy that he would not have been made more so had he been given a thousand Troys. And very softly he went thence, with Pandarus alone, to behold the beauty of Cressida, watching intently if he saw any new behavior in her by reason of Pandarus' words.
82.
She was standing at one of her windows and was perchance expecting what happened. Not harsh nor forbidding did she show herself toward Troilus as he looked at her, but at all times cast toward him modest glances over her right shoulder. Troilus departed, delighted thereat, giving thanks to Pandarus and to the gods.
83.
And that indifference which was holding Cressida at cross-purposes with herself vanished, as she praised to herself his manner, his pleasing actions, and his courtesy, and so suddenly was she captivated that she desired him above every other good, and grieved much at the time lost when she had not known his love.
84.
Troilus singeth and maketh joyful, jousteth, spendeth, and giveth freely, and often reneweth and changeth his apparel, loving more fervently every hour. And for diversion's sake he findeth it not an irksome task to pursue love, to eye Cressida discreetly, and she, no less discreet, showed herself to him from time to time lovely and light-hearted.
85.
But as through continual experience we note the more the wood, the greater the fire, so if hope happeneth to increase, oft love increaseth too. From then on with greater force than usual felt Troilus in his captive heart the goad of high desire. Thenceforth sighs and torments came back stronger than before.
86.
Thereof Troilus did many times make plaint to Pandarus, saying: " Woe is me! Cressida hath with her fair eyes so taken away my life that I expect to die from the fervent desire that so presseth upon my heart that in it I glow and burn. Ah, what shall I do, I who alone ought to be satisfied with her great courtesy?
87.
" She looketh at me and permitteth me to look modestly at her. This should suffice my inflamed desires. But my eager appetite would wish I know not what more. So poorly regulated are the ardors that excite it that he who should not experience it, would not believe how much this flame, which waxeth greater every hour, tormenteth me.
88.
" What shall I do then? I know not what to do, if not to call upon thee, fair Cressida. Thou alone art she who canst aid me, thou priceless lady; thou alone art she who canst quench my fire. O sweet light and dear flame of my heart. Might I pass a winter's night with thee, I would then remain an hundred and fifty in hell.
89.
" What shall I do, Pandarus? Sayest thou naught? Thou beholdest me glow in such a fire and dost appear to have no thought for the sighs wherein I burn. Help me, I pray thee dearly, tell me what I shall do, give me a word of advice. For if from thee or from her I have not succor, I am caught in the snares of death. "
90.
Pandarus then said: " I see well and hear all thou sayest, nor have I feigned nor ever shall feign to give aid to all thy sufferings, and ever am I prepared to do for thee not only what is fitting, but anything, without being urged either by force or by prayer. Let me behold openly thy warm desire.
91.
" I know that in everything thou art six times as discerning as I. But nevertheless, if I were in thy place, I would write to her in mine own hand all about mine anguish, and, beyond this, I would beseech her by the gods, and by Love, and by her courtesy, that she should care for me. And if thou write this, I will bear it to her without delay.
92.
" And besides this, to the extent of my power I will pray her to have pity upon thee. What she will reply thou shalt see. Already my soul believeth of a certainty that her reply will be sure to please thee. Therefore write and put therein all thy faith, all thy grief, and then thy desire. Omit nothing; tell all. "
93.
This advice pleased Troilus greatly, but as a timid lover he replied: " Ah me, Pandarus, thou shalt see, inasmuch as ladies are observed to be shamefaced, that Cressida for shame will reject with angry words the writing which thou shalt carry, and we shall be in a far worse plight. "
94.
To this Pandarus: " If it pleaseth thee, do what I tell thee, and then leave matters to me. For, an Love be not my enemy, I will bring thee, I believe, a reply written in her own hand. If it displeaseth thee, timid and sad mayest thou remain because of it. If thou wilt persist in thy misery, it will not be my task to content thee. "
95.
Then said Troilus: " Be it as thou pleasest. I will go and write. And I pray Love of his courtesy that he make fruitful the writing, the letter, and the journey. " And he went thence to his room, and like a wise man at once wrote to his dearest lady a letter. And thus he said:
96.
" How can he who is placed in torment, in heavy sorrow, and in grievous state, as I am for thee, lady, give good health to anyone? Certainly it should not be expected of him. Therefore I am departing from the practice of others. Thou shalt lack good health from me only for this reason, because I have it not to give, unless thou givest it to me.
97.
" I cannot escape what Love wisheth, who before now hath emboldened lowlier than I. He constraineth me to write the words, as thou shalt see, and wisheth to be implicitly obeyed by me, as he is wont to be. Therefore if I make a mistake in this letter, let his be the blame, and grant pardon to me, I pray thee, my sweet hope.
98.
" Thy lofty beauty, and the splendor of thy lovely eyes and of thine accomplished manners, thy dear modesty, and thy womanly worth, thy ways and actions, more praised than others, have in my mind so established him for lord and thee for lady that no other accident save death would ever be strong enough to pluck you out of it.
99.
" And do what I may, the beautiful image of thee bringeth ever into my heart a thought which driveth forth any other which speaketh of anyone else than of thee alone, although of any other one my soul hath indeed no care, since it is made handmaid of thy worth, in which alone my hope is fixed. Thy name is ever on my lips, and toucheth my heart every hour with greater desire.
100.
" From all this, lady, there ariseth a fire which tortureth my soul day and night, without allowing me to find opportunity for rest. Mine eyes weep and my breast sigheth thereat, and little by little I feel myself consumed by this ardor that stirreth about within me. For this reason it behooveth me to have recourse solely to thy virtue, if I wish to have relief.
101.
" Thou alone, when thou wishest, canst give these sore torments sweet peace. Thou alone, my lady, canst give this painful affliction surcease. Thou alone with tender ministrations canst remove from me the torture that so undoeth me. Thou alone, as my lady, canst accomplish what my heart desireth.
102.
" Therefore if ever anyone by pure fidelity, if ever by great love, if by desire always to serve well in every case, whether good or evil, deserved grace, grant that I be one of them, dear my lady, grant that I be one of them, I who for refuge come to thee, as to her who is the cause of all my sighs.
103.
" I know well that I have never deserved by my service that for which I come. But thou alone, who hast wounded my heart, thou and none other, canst, when thou wilt, make me worthy of a greater thing. O desired weal of my heart, lay aside the lofty disdain of thy great spirit, and be condescending toward me, in so much as thou art gentle in thine actions.
104.
" Certain I am that thou wilt be merciful as thou art fair, and that my sore distress, discreetly amiable and gracious one, who dost not wish that I perish in my misery for loving thee so much, will turn, delectable lady, to sweet joy. I beseech thee for it, if my prayer availeth, by that love for which thou mayest by now have more concern.
105.
" Although a small gift, with little ability, and much less worth, I am without fail all thine. Wise as thou art, thou wilt understand, if I do not speak adequately, that I am not a talker. In like manner I hope that thine acts will be much better and greater than my deserts. May Love dispose thine heart to this.
106.
" I had many more things in mind to say but in order not to annoy thee, I will suppress them. In conclusion I pray the sweet lord Love that, as he hath placed thee in my delight, so with the same willingness he place me in thy desire, that, as I am thine, so thou mayest at some time become mine and may never be taken away from me. "
107.
Then after writing all these things on a paper, he folded it in order, and wetted the seal against his tearful cheeks. Then he sealed it and put it in Pandarus' hands. First he kissed it a hundred times and more, saying: " Letter mine, how blissful wilt thou be, into the hand of such a lady shalt thou come! "
108.
Pandarus took the pitiful letter and went off to Cressida. When she saw him coming she left the company in which she was, and went part way to meet him, appearing in sight as doth an oriental pearl, overcome alike with fear and with desire. From afar they saluted one another and then took each other by the hand.
109.
Then said Cressida: " What business now bringeth thee here? Hast thou further news? " To her Pandarus replied: " Lady, for thee have I news good and favorable, but not for someone else, as can show thee these wretched writings of him whom I seem to see die for thee, so little dost thou care for him.
110.
" Take them away and peruse them diligently. Any answer will make him happy. " Cressida stood timorously, without taking them, and her gentle aspect changed a little. Then she said softly: " My Pandarus, an I hope Love may give thee peace, have some little regard for me as well as for the youth.
111.
" Consider whether what thou now asketh is fitting, and do thou thyself be judge of this, and take thought whether in accepting these I do right, and whether thy request is altogether modest, and whether, in order to alleviate the pain of another, it is desirable to do that which is in itself an immodest act. Ah, do not leave them with me, my Pandarus, take them back for the love of the gods. "
112.
Pandarus was somewhat disturbed by this and said: " A strange thing is this to consider that at what is most desired by her sex each lady should, in the presence of others, show herself annoyed and vexed. I have spoken to thee so much of this matter that thenceforth thou shouldst not play the prude with me. I beseech thee not to deny me this. "
113.
Cressida smiled when she heard him, and took them, and thrust them into her bosom. Then she said to him: " When I have time, I shall peruse them to the best of my ability. If in doing this I do less than well, my inability to do less than thy pleasure is the reason. May the gods bear witness thereof from heaven and make provision for my simple-mindedness. "
114.
Pandarus gave them to her and left. She was very eager to see what they said, and when she found opportunity, she left her other companions in their seats, and went away to her room, and after unfolding them, read and reread them with delight, and clearly perceived that Troilus was much more on fire than appeared in his outward demeanor.
115.
This was a comfort to her because she felt the soul in her heart transfixed. Wherefore she lived very disconsolate, although it did not appear at all outwardly. And after carefully noting every word that was written, she praised and thanked Love for it, saying to herself: " It is fitting that I find time and place to quench this fire.
116.
" For if I let it multiply into too great heat, my hidden desire might appear in my colorless face, which would be no small disgrace to me. And I on my part have no intent to die or to let another die, when with delight I can avoid my own and another's distress.
117.
" I shall certainly not remain so disposed as I have been up to the present. If Pandarus return for the answer, I shall give it to him amiably and agreeably, if it should cost me something, as it doth not. Nor can I ever more be called cruel by Troilus. Would that I were now in his sweet arms, pressed face to face with him! "
118.
After frequent promptings from Troilus Pandarus returned to Cressida and said with a smile: " Lady, what thinkest thou of my friend's writing? " She turned red at once and said naught save: " The gods know. " Pandarus said to her: " Hast thou replied? " To him she said jestingly: " So soon? "
119.
" If I am ever to go on thine errand, " said Pandarus, " see now that thou do it. " And she to him: " I do not know how to do it well. " " Ah, " said Pandarus, " try to satisfy him. Love is a good instructor. I have so great a desire to comfort him that upon my faith thou wouldst not believe it. Thy reply alone could do this. "
120.
" I will do it because it pleaseth thee so much. But may the gods grant that matters go well! " " Ah, so they will, " said Pandarus, " inasmuch as he, to whom it giveth more pleasure than anything else, is worth it. " Then he departed. And in the least frequented corner of her room she sat down to write in the following manner:
121.
" To thee, discreet and powerful friend, whom Love greatly infatuateth for me, as a man unduly enamored of me, Cressida, her honor preserved, sendeth greeting, and thereafter humbly recommendeth herself to thy high worthiness, being anxious to please thee provided my honor and chastity be safe.
122.
" I have received from him who loveth thee so perfectly that he careth not any more for any honor of mine or for my good name, pages full of thy writing. In them I read thy wretched life not without grief, as I hope to have the fortune which is dear to me. Although they are adorned with tears, I have pondered them diligently.
123.
" And as I think everything over reasonably, and weigh thine affliction, and thy request, thy faith, and thy hope, I do not see how I can satisfy thy request very suitably, wishing as I do to have full regard to what is most to be desired in the world, namely, to live and die in good repute.
124.
" Although it would be well to please thee, if the world were what it ought to be, yet since it is what it is, we must perforce make the best of it. If we were to do otherwise, extreme suffering might follow. Despite myself must I put aside the pity I felt for thee, whereby thou wilt gain but little satisfaction from me.
125.
" But so great is the virtue which I perceive in thee that I know thou wilt see clearly what is proper for me, and that thou wilt be satisfied with my reply, and wilt moderate thy severe grief, which greatly displeaseth and troubleth my heart. In truth, if it were not unbecoming, willingly would I do what would please thee.
126.
" Of little worth, as thou canst see, is the writing and the art in this letter. I would wish that it might bring thee more pleasure but what is wished can do but little good. The power to do will perhaps sometime take the place of good intentions. If it doth not displease thee, give a little respite to thy sorrow at my not having replied to all thou hast said.
127.
" There is no need for the protestations which thou makest, for I am certain that thou wouldst perform everything. And me indeed, though of little worth, thou couldst and canst have for thine even more than a thousand times, an the cruel fire do not burn me, which I am certain thou wouldst not wish. I say no more, save to pray the gods to satisfy thy desire and mine. "
128.
When she had spoken in such wise, she folded it, and sealed it, and gave it to Pandarus. Starting at once in search of the youth Troilus, he went off with it to him, and gave it to him with the greatest delight. He took it, read in haste what had been written therein, sighing the while and suffering change of heart according to the words.
129.
But at last, repeating to himself every thing she had written, he said to himself: " If I understand her, Love constraineth her, but as a guilty person she still goeth skulking behind the shield. But if Love give me strength to suffer, she cannot delay long before coming to quite different speech. "
130.
And Pandarus, with whom he discussed the whole matter, agreed with him. Therefore he taketh fresh heart more than ever, leaving somewhat his sad affliction, and hopeth that the hour is soon to come that must bring reward to his suffering. This he imploreth and day and night beseecheth, as one whose heart is set on this alone.
131.
From day to day his ardor increased, and although hope helped to sustain him, he was still heavy at heart. And it must be supposed that it troubled him greatly. Wherefore it may be guessed that many a time he wrote letters in great fervor. To these there came to him reply, now gentle and now harsh, now often and now seldom.
132.
Therefore he often complained of love, and of fortune, which he held his enemy. Oftentimes he said to himself: " Alas, if the nettle of love should a little more prick her, as it pierceth and tormenteth me, my life, bereft of solace, would quickly come to the gracious port to which before I come, I shall be dead. "
133.
Pandarus, who perceived the flames enkindled in the breast of him whom he loved, was often liberal of his prayers to Cressida, and related to her without concealment all that he observed of Troilus. Although glad to hear it, she said: " I can do naught else; I am doing for him what thou didst enjoin upon me, my dear brother. "
134.
" This is not enough, " replied Pandarus. " I wish thee to comfort and speak to him. " To him Cressida said in reply: " This mean I never to do for him, for the crown of my virtue I intend on no account to give him. As a brother shall I love him ever because of his great goodness and because of his noble nature. "
135.
Pandarus replied: " This crown the priests commend in those of you from whom they cannot take it. Each of them talketh like a saint and then surpriseth all of you that he can in sleep. No one will ever know about Troilus. He now suffereth much and hath only the prospect of thy gift to console him. Very ill doeth he who can act well and doth not, for the wiser a man is, the more doth the loss of time displease him. "
136.
Cressida said: " I know that his virtue is tender of my honor, and that he would not ask of me other than he ought, so great is his worthiness. I swear to thee by my hope of salvation that I am, apart from what thou asketh of me, a thousand times more his than I am my own, so much doth his courtesy delight me. "
137.
" If he pleaseth thee, what art thou in search of? Ah, lay aside this harshness! Dost thou intend that he die of love? Well wilt thou be able to hold thy beauty dear, if thou slay such a man. Ah, tell me, when dost thou wish that he come to thee, to whom this privilege is a greater prize than the heavens have to offer? Tell me, how, and where? Do not try to conquer all thy scruples. "
138.
" Ah me, alas! To what hast thou led me, my Pandarus, and what dost thou wish that I do? Thou hast broken and shattered my sense of shame. I dare not look thee in the face. Ah me, wretched one that I am! When shall I have it again? My blood turneth ice about my heart, when I think of what thou askest, and thou hast no care thereat, and seest it clearly.
139.
" I would wish that I had been dead the day that I so much hearkened to thee here in this apartment. Thou didst put in my heart a desire that I believe will hardly ever depart from it. It will be the occasion of losing my honor, alas, and of infinite woes. I can do no more. Since it is to thy pleasure, I am disposed to do thy will.
140.
" But if any request have value in thy sight, I pray thee, sweet and dear my brother, that all that each of us hath said and done, be kept secret. Thou canst well see what might follow, if such a passion should come to light. Speak to him of it, and apprize him of it. As opportunity offereth, I will do what your pleasure desireth. "
141.
Pandarus replied: " Guard thy lips, for neither he, on his part, nor I will ever tell it. " " Dost thou now, " she said, " consider me so foolish, because thou seest me tremble all over with fear lest it be known? But since the honor and the shame that we shall have from it toucheth thee as well as me, I shall dismiss the matter from my mind, and do thou henceforth in regard to it as it pleaseth thee. "
142.
Pandarus said: " Do not doubt that in this matter we shall exercise very good caution. When dost thou wish that he come to speak to thee? Let us now draw this business to a head. To do it quickly, since it is to be done, will be much better. Love is much more easily hidden after the deed, when you shall have arranged together what you will need to do. "
143.
" Thou knowest, " said Cressida, " that there are ladies and other people with me in this house. Some of them are to go to the coming festival. Then I shall remain with him. I hope that this delay cause him no anxiety. Of the manner of his coming I shall then talk with thee. See only that he be prudent and know well how to conceal his desires. "
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