"I do not deny it," said Dagoucin, "but even were I beloved as much as I
love, my love would not be increased any more than it could be lessened,
were it not returned with equal warmth."

Upon this Parlamente, who suspected this fantasy of Dagoucin's, said--

"Take care, Dagoucin; I have known others besides you who preferred to
die rather than speak."

"Such persons, madam;" said Dagoucin, "I deem very happy."

"Doubtless," said Saffredent, "and worthy of a place among the innocents
of whom the Church sings:

'_Non loquendo sed moriendo confessi sunt_.' (4)

4 From the ritual for the Feast of the Holy Innocents.--M.

I have heard much of such timid lovers, but I have never yet seen one
die. And since I myself have escaped death after all the troubles I have
borne, I do not think that any one can die of love."

"Ah, Saffredent!" said Dagoucin, "how do you expect to be loved since
those who are of your opinion never die? Yet have I known a goodly
number who have died of no other ailment than perfect love."

"Since you know such stories," said Longarine, "I give you my vote to
tell us a pleasant one, which shall be the ninth of to-day."