rusty until the next war, and think of nothing but household affairs.
And, I pray you, tell me whether it is an excellence in a lady to have
the reputation of being without pity, or charity, or love, or mercy."

"Without charity or love," said Parlamente, "they should not be, but the
word 'mercy' sounds so ill among women that they cannot use it without
wounding their honour; for properly speaking 'mercy' means to grant a
favour sought, and we well know what the favour is that men desire."

"May it please you, madam," said Simontault, "there are some men who are
so reasonable that they crave nought but speech."

"You remind me," said Parlamente, "of one who was content with a glove."

"We must know who this easy lover was," said Hircan, "and so this time I
give my vote to you."

"It will give me pleasure to tell the tale," said Parlamente, "for it is
full of virtue."


[Illustration: 061.jpg Tailpiece]

[Illustration: 063a.jpg The English Lord seizing the Lady's Glove]

[The English Lord seizing the Lady's Glove]

[Illustration: 063.jpg Page Image]