caring for her father as of old, when the duke's messenger came to
summon her again to the palace.

She went readily and greeted her former husband with all humility. "I
wish my marriage with my young bride to be magnificently celebrated,"
said the duke. "You, Griselda, know all my tastes, as well as the
customs and the appurtenances of the palace. It is my will that you
take charge of the household matters for this wedding. Arrange the
rooms, order the banquet, and see that all things are done well and
promptly."

Griselda obeyed gladly. Not one look of envy or jealousy did she
give, not one impatient angry word did she speak, but managed the
servants, arranged the rooms, and looked to the cooking so carefully
that all the duke's guests marvelled at the excellence of the
preparations. Many wondered who this poor woman in tattered clothing
could be.

At last the new bride arrived. Her rich dress, polished manners, and
beautiful face won all men's hearts at once. "Indeed," they said,
"our master is no fool. This maid is younger and fairer than
Griselda, and she is, moreover, highly born." Yet no one knew from
whence this maid had come, or who her parents were. With her had come
her younger brother, a gallant youth, as handsome as she. The company
entered the palace. Griselda grew busier, for the feast must be
prepared, and guests accommodated, and all must be prompt and fair to
please the duke.

When all had taken their places for the feast, the duke called
Griselda and said, "How do you like my new bride? Is she not fair?"