But it is said that everything can be endured except ease, and that
none know what rest is until they have lost it. This foolish woman, who
laughed when her husband was merry, was fond of taking her rest under
any circumstances."

"I am sure," said Longarine, "that she loved her rest better than her
husband, since she took nothing that he did to heart."

"She did take to heart," said Parlamente, "those things which might have
been hurtful to his conscience and his health, but she would not dwell
upon trifles."

"When you speak of conscience," said Simontault "you make me laugh. 'Tis
a thing to which I would have no woman give heed."

"It would be a good thing," said Nomerfide, "if you had a wife like one
who, after her husband's death, proved that she loved her money better
than her conscience."

"I pray you," said Saffredent, "tell us that tale. I give you my vote."

"I had not intended," said Nomcrfide, "to relate so short a story, but,
since it is suited to the occasion, I will do so."


[Illustration: 042.jpg Tailpiece]

[Illustration: 043a.jpg The Servant selling the Horse with the Cat]

[The Servant selling the Horse with the Cat]