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diff --git a/5946-h/5946-h.htm b/5946-h/5946-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5dc63c7 --- /dev/null +++ b/5946-h/5946-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,24802 @@ +<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" +"http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd"> +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en"> +<head> +<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=utf-8" /> +<meta http-equiv="Content-Style-Type" content="text/css" /> +<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The History of Don Quixote, Vol. II, by Miguel de Cervantes</title> +<link rel="coverpage" href="images/cover.jpg" /> +<style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + +body { margin-left: 20%; + margin-right: 20%; + text-align: justify; } + +p {text-indent: 1em; + margin-top: 0.25em; + margin-bottom: 0.25em; } + +p.poem {text-indent: 0%; + margin-left: 10%; + font-size: 90%; + margin-top: 1em; + margin-bottom: 1em; } + +p.noindent {text-indent: 0% } + + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> + +<div style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The History of Don Quixote, Volume II., Complete, by Miguel de Cervantes</div> +<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and +most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions +whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms +of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online +at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you +are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the +country where you are located before using this eBook. +</div> +<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: The History of Don Quixote, Volume II., Complete</div> +<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra</div> +<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Translator: John Ormsby</div> +<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: October 13, 2002 [eBook #5946]<br /> +[Most recently updated: March 1, 2022]</div> +<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</div> +<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Character set encoding: UTF-8</div> +<div style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Produced by: David Widger</div> +<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK DON QUIXOTE, VOL. II. ***</div> + +<h1>DON QUIXOTE</h1> + +<h2>by Miguel de Cervantes</h2> + +<h2>Volume II</h2> + +<h3>Translated by John Ormsby</h3> + + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="cover" src="images/cover.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/cover.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="spine.jpg (152K)" src="images/spine.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/spine.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h3> + Ebook Editor’s Note + </h3> + <blockquote> + <p> + The book cover and spine above and the images which follow were not part + of the original Ormsby translation—they are taken from the 1880 + edition of J. W. Clark, illustrated by Gustave Dore. Clark in his + edition states that, “The English text of ‘Don Quixote’ + adopted in this edition is that of Jarvis, with occasional corrections + from Motteaux.” See in the introduction below John Ormsby’s + critique of both the Jarvis and Motteaux translations. It has been + elected in the present Project Gutenberg edition to attach the famous + engravings of Gustave Dore to the Ormsby translation instead of the + Jarvis/Motteaux. The detail of many of the Dore engravings can be fully + appreciated only by utilizing the “Enlarge” button to expand + them to their original dimensions. Ormsby in his Preface has criticized + the fanciful nature of Dore’s illustrations; others feel these + woodcuts and steel engravings well match Quixote’s dreams. D.W. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p003.jpg (307K)" src="images/p003.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p003.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + CONTENTS + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /><a href="#ch1b">CHAPTER I</a> OF THE INTERVIEW THE CURATE AND + THE BARBER HAD WITH DON QUIXOTE ABOUT HIS MALADY <br /><br /><a href="#ch2b">CHAPTER + II</a> WHICH TREATS OF THE NOTABLE ALTERCATION WHICH SANCHO PANZA HAD WITH + DON QUIXOTE’S NIECE, AND HOUSEKEEPER, TOGETHER WITH OTHER + DROLLMATTERS <br /><br /><a href="#ch3b">CHAPTER III</a> OF THE LAUGHABLE + CONVERSATION THAT PASSED BETWEEN DON QUIXOTE, SANCHO PANZA, AND THE + BACHELOR SAMSON CARRASCO <br /><br /><a href="#ch4b">CHAPTER IV</a> IN WHICH + SANCHO PANZA GIVES A SATISFACTORY REPLY TO THE DOUBTS AND QUESTIONS OF THE + BACHELOR SAMSON CARRASCO, TOGETHER WITH OTHER MATTERS WORTH KNOWING AND + TELLING <br /><br /><a href="#ch5b">CHAPTER V</a> OF THE SHREWD AND DROLL + CONVERSATION THAT PASSED BETWEEN SANCHO PANZA AND HIS WIFE TERESA PANZA, + AND OTHER MATTERS WORTHY OF BEING DULY RECORDED <br /><br /><a href="#ch6b">CHAPTER + VI</a> OF WHAT TOOK PLACE BETWEEN DON QUIXOTE AND HIS NIECE AND + HOUSEKEEPER; ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT CHAPTERS IN THE WHOLE HISTORY <br /><br /><a + href="#ch7b">CHAPTER VII</a> OF WHAT PASSED BETWEEN DON QUIXOTE AND HIS + SQUIRE, TOGETHER WITH OTHER VERY NOTABLE INCIDENTS <br /><br /><a + href="#ch8b">CHAPTER VIII</a> WHEREIN IS RELATED WHAT BEFELL DON QUIXOTE + ON HIS WAY TO SEE HIS LADY DULCINEA DEL TOBOSO <br /><br /><a href="#ch9b">CHAPTER + IX</a> WHEREIN IS RELATED WHAT WILL BE SEEN THERE <br /><br /><a + href="#ch10b">CHAPTER X</a> WHEREIN IS RELATED THE CRAFTY DEVICE SANCHO + ADOPTED TO ENCHANT THE LADY DULCINEA, AND OTHER INCIDENTS AS LUDICROUS AS + THEY ARE TRUE <br /><br /><a href="#ch11b">CHAPTER XI</a> OF THE STRANGE + ADVENTURE WHICH THE VALIANT DON QUIXOTE HAD WITH THE CAR OR CART OF + “THE CORTES OF DEATH” <br /><br /><a href="#ch12b">CHAPTER XII</a> + OF THE STRANGE ADVENTURE WHICH BEFELL THE VALIANT DON QUIXOTE WITH THE + BOLD KNIGHT OF THE MIRRORS <br /><br /><a href="#ch13b">CHAPTER XIII</a> IN + WHICH IS CONTINUED THE ADVENTURE OF THE KNIGHT OF THE GROVE, TOGETHER WITH + THE SENSIBLE, ORIGINAL, AND TRANQUIL COLLOQUY THAT PASSED BETWEEN THE TWO + SQUIRES <br /><br /><a href="#ch14b">CHAPTER XIV</a> WHEREIN IS CONTINUED + THE ADVENTURE OF THE KNIGHT OF THE GROVE <br /><br /><a href="#ch15b">CHAPTER + XV</a> WHEREIN IT IS TOLD AND KNOWN WHO THE KNIGHT OF THE MIRRORS AND HIS + SQUIRE WERE <br /><br /><a href="#ch16b">CHAPTER XVI</a> OF WHAT BEFELL DON + QUIXOTE WITH A DISCREET GENTLEMAN OF LA MANCHA <br /><br /><a href="#ch17b">CHAPTER + XVII</a> WHEREIN IS SHOWN THE FURTHEST AND HIGHEST POINT WHICH THE + UNEXAMPLEDCOURAGE OF DON QUIXOTE REACHED OR COULD REACH; TOGETHER WITH THE + HAPPILY ACHIEVED ADVENTURE OF THE LIONS <br /><br /><a href="#ch18b">CHAPTER + XVIII</a> OF WHAT HAPPENED DON QUIXOTE IN THE CASTLE OR HOUSE OF THE + KNIGHT OF THE GREEN GABAN, TOGETHER WITH OTHER MATTERS OUT OF THE COMMON + <br /><br /><a href="#ch19b">CHAPTER XIX</a> IN WHICH IS RELATED THE + ADVENTURE OF THE ENAMOURED SHEPHERD, TOGETHER WITH OTHER TRULY DROLL + INCIDENTS <br /><br /><a href="#ch20b">CHAPTER XX</a> WHEREIN AN ACCOUNT IS + GIVEN OF THE WEDDING OF CAMACHO THE RICH, TOGETHER WITH THE INCIDENT OF + BASILIO THE POOR <br /><br /><a href="#ch21b">CHAPTER XXI</a> IN WHICH + CAMACHO’S WEDDING IS CONTINUED, WITH OTHER DELIGHTFUL INCIDENTS + <br /><br /><a href="#ch22b">CHAPTER XXII</a> WHEREIN IS RELATED THE GRAND + ADVENTURE OF THE CAVE OF MONTESINOS IN THE HEART OF LA MANCHA, WHICH THE + VALIANT DON QUIXOTE BROUGHT TO A HAPPY TERMINATION <br /><br /><a + href="#ch23b">CHAPTER XXIII</a> OF THE WONDERFUL THINGS THE INCOMPARABLE + DON QUIXOTE SAID HE SAW IN THE PROFOUND CAVE OF MONTESINOS, THE + IMPOSSIBILITY AND MAGNITUDE OF WHICH CAUSE THIS ADVENTURE TO BE DEEMED + APOCRYPHAL <br /><br /><a href="#ch24b">CHAPTER XXIV</a> WHEREIN ARE RELATED + A THOUSAND TRIFLING MATTERS, AS TRIVIAL AS THEY ARE NECESSARY TO THE RIGHT + UNDERSTANDING OF THIS GREAT HISTORY <br /><br /><a href="#ch25b">CHAPTER XXV</a> + WHEREIN IS SET DOWN THE BRAYING ADVENTURE, AND THE DROLL ONE OF THE + PUPPET-SHOWMAN, TOGETHER WITH THE MEMORABLE DIVINATIONS OF THE DIVINING + APE <br /><br /><a href="#ch26b">CHAPTER XXVI</a> WHEREIN IS CONTINUED THE + DROLL ADVENTURE OF THE PUPPET-SHOWMAN, TOGETHER WITH OTHER THINGS IN TRUTH + RIGHT GOOD <br /><br /><a href="#ch27b">CHAPTER XXVII</a> WHEREIN IT IS + SHOWN WHO MASTER PEDRO AND HIS APE WERE, TOGETHER WITH THE MISHAP DON + QUIXOTE HAD IN THE BRAYING ADVENTURE, WHICH HE DID NOT CONCLUDE AS HE + WOULD HAVE LIKED OR AS HE HAD EXPECTED <br /><br /><a href="#ch28b">CHAPTER + XXVIII</a> OF MATTERS THAT BENENGELI SAYS HE WHO READS THEM WILL KNOW, IF + HE READS THEM WITH ATTENTION <br /><br /><a href="#ch29b">CHAPTER XXIX</a> + OF THE FAMOUS ADVENTURE OF THE ENCHANTED BARK <br /><br /><a href="#ch30b">CHAPTER + XXX</a> OF DON QUIXOTE’S ADVENTURE WITH A FAIR HUNTRESS <br /><br /><a + href="#ch31b">CHAPTER XXXI</a> WHICH TREATS OF MANY AND GREAT MATTERS + <br /><br /><a href="#ch32b">CHAPTER XXXII</a> OF THE REPLY DON QUIXOTE GAVE + HIS CENSURER, WITH OTHER INCIDENTS, GRAVE AND DROLL <br /><br /><a + href="#ch33b">CHAPTER XXXIII</a> OF THE DELECTABLE DISCOURSE WHICH THE + DUCHESS AND HER DAMSELS HELD WITH SANCHO PANZA, WELL WORTH READING AND + NOTING <br /><br /><a href="#ch34b">CHAPTER XXXIV</a> WHICH RELATES HOW THEY + LEARNED THE WAY IN WHICH THEY WERE TO DISENCHANT THE PEERLESS DULCINEA DEL + TOBOSO, WHICH IS ONE OF THE RAREST ADVENTURES IN THIS BOOK <br /><br /><a + href="#ch35b">CHAPTER XXXV</a> WHEREIN IS CONTINUED THE INSTRUCTION GIVEN + TO DON QUIXOTE TOUCHING THE DISENCHANTMENT OF DULCINEA, TOGETHER WITH + OTHER MARVELLOUS INCIDENTS <br /><br /><a href="#ch36b">CHAPTER XXXVI</a> + WHEREIN IS RELATED THE STRANGE AND UNDREAMT-OF ADVENTURE OF THE DISTRESSED + DUENNA, ALIAS THE COUNTESS TRIFALDI, TOGETHER WITH A LETTER WHICH SANCHO + PANZA WROTE TO HIS WIFE, TERESA PANZA <br /><br /><a href="#ch37b">CHAPTER + XXXVII</a> WHEREIN IS CONTINUED THE NOTABLE ADVENTURE OF THE DISTRESSED + DUENNA <br /><br /><a href="#ch38b">CHAPTER XXXVIII</a> WHEREIN IS TOLD THE + DISTRESSED DUENNA’S TALE OF HER MISFORTUNES <br /><br /><a + href="#ch39b">CHAPTER XXXIX</a> IN WHICH THE TRIFALDI CONTINUES HER + MARVELLOUS AND MEMORABLE STORY <br /><br /><a href="#ch40b">CHAPTER XL</a> + OF MATTERS RELATING AND BELONGING TO THIS ADVENTURE AND TO THIS MEMORABLE + HISTORY <br /><br /><a href="#ch41b">CHAPTER XLI</a> OF THE ARRIVAL OF + CLAVILEÑO AND THE END OF THIS PROTRACTED ADVENTURE <br /><br /><a + href="#ch42b">CHAPTER XLII</a> OF THE COUNSELS WHICH DON QUIXOTE GAVE + SANCHO PANZA BEFORE HE SET OUT TO GOVERN THE ISLAND, TOGETHER WITH OTHER + WELL-CONSIDERED MATTERS <br /><br /><a href="#ch43b">CHAPTER XLIII</a> OF + THE SECOND SET OF COUNSELS DON QUIXOTE GAVE SANCHO PANZA <br /><br /><a + href="#ch44b">CHAPTER XLIV</a> HOW SANCHO PANZA WAS CONDUCTED TO HIS + GOVERNMENT, AND OF THE STRANGE ADVENTURE THAT BEFELL DON QUIXOTE IN THE + CASTLE <br /><br /><a href="#ch45b">CHAPTER XLV</a> OF HOW THE GREAT SANCHO + PANZA TOOK POSSESSION OF HIS ISLAND, AND OF HOW HE MADE A BEGINNING IN + GOVERNING <br /><br /><a href="#ch46b">CHAPTER XLVI</a> OF THE TERRIBLE BELL + AND CAT FRIGHT THAT DON QUIXOTE GOT IN THE COURSE OF THE ENAMOURED + ALTISIDORA’S WOOING <br /><br /><a href="#ch47b">CHAPTER XLVII</a> + WHEREIN IS CONTINUED THE ACCOUNT OF HOW SANCHO PANZA CONDUCTED HIMSELF IN + HIS GOVERNMENT <br /><br /><a href="#ch48b">CHAPTER XLVIII</a> OF WHAT + BEFELL DON QUIXOTE WITH DONA RODRIGUEZ, THE DUCHESS’S DUENNA, + TOGETHER WITH OTHER OCCURRENCES WORTHY OF RECORD AND ETERNAL REMEMBRANCE + <br /><br /><a href="#ch49b">CHAPTER XLIX</a> OF WHAT HAPPENED SANCHO IN + MAKING THE ROUND OF HIS ISLAND <br /><br /><a href="#ch50b">CHAPTER L</a> + WHEREIN IS SET FORTH WHO THE ENCHANTERS AND EXECUTIONERS WERE WHO FLOGGED + THE DUENNA AND PINCHED DON QUIXOTE, AND ALSO WHAT BEFELL THE PAGE WHO + CARRIED THE LETTER TO TERESA PANZA, SANCHO PANZA’S WIFE <br /><br /><a + href="#ch51b">CHAPTER LI</a> OF THE PROGRESS OF SANCHO’S GOVERNMENT, + AND OTHER SUCH ENTERTAINING MATTERS <br /><br /><a href="#ch52b">CHAPTER LII</a> + WHEREIN IS RELATED THE ADVENTURE OF THE SECOND DISTRESSED OR AFFLICTED + DUENNA, OTHERWISE CALLED DONA RODRIGUEZ <br /><br /><a href="#ch53b">CHAPTER + LIII</a> OF THE TROUBLOUS END AND TERMINATION SANCHO PANZA’S + GOVERNMENT CAME TO <br /><br /><a href="#ch54b">CHAPTER LIV</a> WHICH DEALS + WITH MATTERS RELATING TO THIS HISTORY AND NO OTHER <br /><br /><a + href="#ch55b">CHAPTER LV</a> OF WHAT BEFELL SANCHO ON THE ROAD, AND OTHER + THINGS THAT CANNOT BE SURPASSED <br /><br /><a href="#ch56b">CHAPTER LVI</a> + OF THE PRODIGIOUS AND UNPARALLELED BATTLE THAT TOOK PLACE BETWEEN DON + QUIXOTE OF LA MANCHA AND THE LACQUEY TOSILOS IN DEFENCE OF THE DAUGHTER OF + DONA RODRIGUEZ <br /><br /><a href="#ch57b">CHAPTER LVII</a> WHICH TREATS OF + HOW DON QUIXOTE TOOK LEAVE OF THE DUKE, AND OF WHAT FOLLOWED WITH THE + WITTY AND IMPUDENT ALTISIDORA, ONE OF THE DUCHESS’S DAMSELS <br /><br /><a + href="#ch58b">CHAPTER LVIII</a> WHICH TELLS HOW ADVENTURES CAME CROWDING + ON DON QUIXOTE IN SUCH NUMBERS THAT THEY GAVE ONE ANOTHER NO + BREATHING-TIME <br /><br /><a href="#ch59b">CHAPTER LIX</a> WHEREIN IS + RELATED THE STRANGE THING, WHICH MAY BE REGARDED AS AN ADVENTURE, THAT + HAPPENED DON QUIXOTE <br /><br /><a href="#ch60b">CHAPTER LX</a> OF WHAT + HAPPENED DON QUIXOTE ON HIS WAY TO BARCELONA <br /><br /><a href="#ch61b">CHAPTER + LXI</a> OF WHAT HAPPENED DON QUIXOTE ON ENTERING BARCELONA, TOGETHER WITH + OTHER MATTERS THAT PARTAKE OF THE TRUE RATHER THAN OF THE INGENIOUS <br /><br /><a + href="#ch62b">CHAPTER LXII</a> WHICH DEALS WITH THE ADVENTURE OF THE + ENCHANTED HEAD, TOGETHER WITH OTHER TRIVIAL MATTERS WHICH CANNOT BE LEFT + UNTOLD<br /><br /><a href="#ch63b">CHAPTER LXIII</a> OF THE MISHAP THAT + BEFELL SANCHO PANZA THROUGH THE VISIT TO THE GALLEYS, AND THE STRANGE + ADVENTURE OF THE FAIR MORISCO <br /><br /><a href="#ch64b">CHAPTER LXIV</a> + TREATING OF THE ADVENTURE WHICH GAVE DON QUIXOTE MORE UNHAPPINESS THAN ALL + THAT HAD HITHERTO BEFALLEN HIM <br /><br /><a href="#ch65b">CHAPTER LXV</a> + WHEREIN IS MADE KNOWN WHO THE KNIGHT OF THE WHITE MOON WAS; LIKEWISE DON + GREGORIO’S RELEASE, AND OTHER EVENTS <br /><br /><a href="#ch66b">CHAPTER + LXVI</a> WHICH TREATS OF WHAT HE WHO READS WILL SEE, OR WHAT HE WHO HAS IT + READ TO HIM WILL HEAR<br /><br /><a href="#ch67b">CHAPTER LXVII</a> OF THE + RESOLUTION DON QUIXOTE FORMED TO TURN SHEPHERD AND TAKE TO A LIFE IN THE + FIELDS WHILE THE YEAR FOR WHICH HE HAD GIVEN HIS WORD WAS RUNNING ITS + COURSE; WITH OTHER EVENTS TRULY DELECTABLE AND HAPPY <br /><br /><a + href="#ch68b">CHAPTER LXVIII</a> OF THE BRISTLY ADVENTURE THAT BEFELL DON + QUIXOTE <br /><br /><a href="#ch69b">CHAPTER LXIX</a> OF THE STRANGEST AND + MOST EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURE THAT BEFELL DON QUIXOTE IN THE WHOLE COURSE + OF THIS GREAT HISTORY <br /><br /><a href="#ch70b">CHAPTER LXX</a> WHICH + FOLLOWS SIXTY-NINE AND DEALS WITH MATTERS INDISPENSABLE FOR THE CLEAR + COMPREHENSION OF THIS HISTORY <br /><br /><a href="#ch71b">CHAPTER LXXI</a> + OF WHAT PASSED BETWEEN DON QUIXOTE AND HIS SQUIRE SANCHO ON THE WAY TO + THEIR VILLAGE <br /><br /><a href="#ch72b">CHAPTER LXXII</a> OF HOW DON + QUIXOTE AND SANCHO REACHED THEIR VILLAGE <br /><br /><a href="#ch73b">CHAPTER + LXXIII</a> OF THE OMENS DON QUIXOTE HAD AS HE ENTERED HIS OWN VILLAGE, AND + OTHER INCIDENTS THAT EMBELLISH AND GIVE A COLOUR TO THIS GREAT HISTORY + <br /><br /><a href="#ch74b">CHAPTER LXXIV</a> OF HOW DON QUIXOTE FELL SICK, + AND OF THE WILL HE MADE, AND HOW HE DIED <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2>DON QUIXOTE</h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + Volume II. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + DEDICATION OF VOLUME II. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h3> + TO THE COUNT OF LEMOS: + </h3> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + These days past, when sending Your Excellency my plays, that had appeared + in print before being shown on the stage, I said, if I remember well, that + Don Quixote was putting on his spurs to go and render homage to Your + Excellency. Now I say that “with his spurs, he is on his way.” + Should he reach destination methinks I shall have rendered some service to + Your Excellency, as from many parts I am urged to send him off, so as to + dispel the loathing and disgust caused by another Don Quixote who, under + the name of Second Part, has run masquerading through the whole world. And + he who has shown the greatest longing for him has been the great Emperor + of China, who wrote me a letter in Chinese a month ago and sent it by a + special courier. He asked me, or to be truthful, he begged me to send him + Don Quixote, for he intended to found a college where the Spanish tongue + would be taught, and it was his wish that the book to be read should be + the History of Don Quixote. He also added that I should go and be the + rector of this college. I asked the bearer if His Majesty had afforded a + sum in aid of my travel expenses. He answered, “No, not even in + thought.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, brother,” I replied, “you can return to your + China, post haste or at whatever haste you are bound to go, as I am not + fit for so long a travel and, besides being ill, I am very much without + money, while Emperor for Emperor and Monarch for Monarch, I have at Naples + the great Count of Lemos, who, without so many petty titles of colleges + and rectorships, sustains me, protects me and does me more favour than I + can wish for.” + </p> + <p> + Thus I gave him his leave and I beg mine from you, offering Your + Excellency the “Trabajos de Persiles y Sigismunda,” a book I + shall finish within four months, Deo volente, and which will be either the + worst or the best that has been composed in our language, I mean of those + intended for entertainment; at which I repent of having called it the + worst, for, in the opinion of friends, it is bound to attain the summit of + possible quality. May Your Excellency return in such health that is wished + you; Persiles will be ready to kiss your hand and I your feet, being as I + am, Your Excellency’s most humble servant. + </p> + <p> + From Madrid, this last day of October of the year one thousand six hundred + and fifteen. + </p> + <p> + At the service of Your Excellency: + </p> + <p> + MIGUEL DE CERVANTES SAAVEDRA + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + THE AUTHOR’S PREFACE + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="part2" id="part2"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="part2.jpg (130K)" src="images/part2.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/part2.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + God bless me, gentle (or it may be plebeian) reader, how eagerly must thou + be looking forward to this preface, expecting to find there retaliation, + scolding, and abuse against the author of the second Don Quixote—I + mean him who was, they say, begotten at Tordesillas and born at Tarragona! + Well then, the truth is, I am not going to give thee that satisfaction; + for, though injuries stir up anger in humbler breasts, in mine the rule + must admit of an exception. Thou wouldst have me call him ass, fool, and + malapert, but I have no such intention; let his offence be his punishment, + with his bread let him eat it, and there’s an end of it. What I + cannot help taking amiss is that he charges me with being old and + one-handed, as if it had been in my power to keep time from passing over + me, or as if the loss of my hand had been brought about in some tavern, + and not on the grandest occasion the past or present has seen, or the + future can hope to see. If my wounds have no beauty to the beholder’s + eye, they are, at least, honourable in the estimation of those who know + where they were received; for the soldier shows to greater advantage dead + in battle than alive in flight; and so strongly is this my feeling, that + if now it were proposed to perform an impossibility for me, I would rather + have had my share in that mighty action, than be free from my wounds this + minute without having been present at it. Those the soldier shows on his + face and breast are stars that direct others to the heaven of honour and + ambition of merited praise; and moreover it is to be observed that it is + not with grey hairs that one writes, but with the understanding, and that + commonly improves with years. I take it amiss, too, that he calls me + envious, and explains to me, as if I were ignorant, what envy is; for + really and truly, of the two kinds there are, I only know that which is + holy, noble, and high-minded; and if that be so, as it is, I am not likely + to attack a priest, above all if, in addition, he holds the rank of + familiar of the Holy Office. And if he said what he did on account of him + on whose behalf it seems he spoke, he is entirely mistaken; for I worship + the genius of that person, and admire his works and his unceasing and + strenuous industry. After all, I am grateful to this gentleman, the + author, for saying that my novels are more satirical than exemplary, but + that they are good; for they could not be that unless there was a little + of everything in them. + </p> + <p> + I suspect thou wilt say that I am taking a very humble line, and keeping + myself too much within the bounds of my moderation, from a feeling that + additional suffering should not be inflicted upon a sufferer, and that + what this gentleman has to endure must doubtless be very great, as he does + not dare to come out into the open field and broad daylight, but hides his + name and disguises his country as if he had been guilty of some lese + majesty. If perchance thou shouldst come to know him, tell him from me + that I do not hold myself aggrieved; for I know well what the temptations + of the devil are, and that one of the greatest is putting it into a man’s + head that he can write and print a book by which he will get as much fame + as money, and as much money as fame; and to prove it I will beg of you, in + your own sprightly, pleasant way, to tell him this story. + </p> + <p> + There was a madman in Seville who took to one of the drollest absurdities + and vagaries that ever madman in the world gave way to. It was this: he + made a tube of reed sharp at one end, and catching a dog in the street, or + wherever it might be, he with his foot held one of its legs fast, and with + his hand lifted up the other, and as best he could fixed the tube where, + by blowing, he made the dog as round as a ball; then holding it in this + position, he gave it a couple of slaps on the belly, and let it go, saying + to the bystanders (and there were always plenty of them): “Do your + worships think, now, that it is an easy thing to blow up a dog?”—Does + your worship think now, that it is an easy thing to write a book? + </p> + <p> + And if this story does not suit him, you may, dear reader, tell him this + one, which is likewise of a madman and a dog. + </p> + <p> + In Cordova there was another madman, whose way it was to carry a piece of + marble slab or a stone, not of the lightest, on his head, and when he came + upon any unwary dog he used to draw close to him and let the weight fall + right on top of him; on which the dog in a rage, barking and howling, + would run three streets without stopping. It so happened, however, that + one of the dogs he discharged his load upon was a cap-maker’s dog, + of which his master was very fond. The stone came down hitting it on the + head, the dog raised a yell at the blow, the master saw the affair and was + wroth, and snatching up a measuring-yard rushed out at the madman and did + not leave a sound bone in his body, and at every stroke he gave him he + said, “You dog, you thief! my lurcher! Don’t you see, you + brute, that my dog is a lurcher?” and so, repeating the word “lurcher” + again and again, he sent the madman away beaten to a jelly. The madman + took the lesson to heart, and vanished, and for more than a month never + once showed himself in public; but after that he came out again with his + old trick and a heavier load than ever. He came up to where there was a + dog, and examining it very carefully without venturing to let the stone + fall, he said: “This is a lurcher; ware!” In short, all the + dogs he came across, be they mastiffs or terriers, he said were lurchers; + and he discharged no more stones. Maybe it will be the same with this + historian; that he will not venture another time to discharge the weight + of his wit in books, which, being bad, are harder than stones. Tell him, + too, that I do not care a farthing for the threat he holds out to me of + depriving me of my profit by means of his book; for, to borrow from the + famous interlude of “The Perendenga,” I say in answer to him, + “Long life to my lord the Veintiquatro, and Christ be with us all.” + Long life to the great Conde de Lemos, whose Christian charity and + well-known generosity support me against all the strokes of my curst + fortune; and long life to the supreme benevolence of His Eminence of + Toledo, Don Bernardo de Sandoval y Rojas; and what matter if there be no + printing-presses in the world, or if they print more books against me than + there are letters in the verses of Mingo Revulgo! These two princes, + unsought by any adulation or flattery of mine, of their own goodness + alone, have taken it upon them to show me kindness and protect me, and in + this I consider myself happier and richer than if Fortune had raised me to + her greatest height in the ordinary way. The poor man may retain honour, + but not the vicious; poverty may cast a cloud over nobility, but cannot + hide it altogether; and as virtue of itself sheds a certain light, even + though it be through the straits and chinks of penury, it wins the esteem + of lofty and noble spirits, and in consequence their protection. Thou + needst say no more to him, nor will I say anything more to thee, save to + tell thee to bear in mind that this Second Part of “Don Quixote” + which I offer thee is cut by the same craftsman and from the same cloth as + the First, and that in it I present thee Don Quixote continued, and at + length dead and buried, so that no one may dare to bring forward any + further evidence against him, for that already produced is sufficient; and + suffice it, too, that some reputable person should have given an account + of all these shrewd lunacies of his without going into the matter again; + for abundance, even of good things, prevents them from being valued; and + scarcity, even in the case of what is bad, confers a certain value. I was + forgetting to tell thee that thou mayest expect the “Persiles,” + which I am now finishing, and also the Second Part of “Galatea.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="part2e" id="part2e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="part2e.jpg (37K)" src="images/part2e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch1b" id="ch1b"></a>CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE INTERVIEW THE CURATE AND THE BARBER HAD WITH DON QUIXOTE ABOUT HIS + MALADY + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p01a" id="p01a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p01a.jpg (156K)" src="images/p01a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p01a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Cide Hamete Benengeli, in the Second Part of this history, and third sally + of Don Quixote, says that the curate and the barber remained nearly a + month without seeing him, lest they should recall or bring back to his + recollection what had taken place. They did not, however, omit to visit + his niece and housekeeper, and charge them to be careful to treat him with + attention, and give him comforting things to eat, and such as were good + for the heart and the brain, whence, it was plain to see, all his + misfortune proceeded. The niece and housekeeper replied that they did so, + and meant to do so with all possible care and assiduity, for they could + perceive that their master was now and then beginning to show signs of + being in his right mind. This gave great satisfaction to the curate and + the barber, for they concluded they had taken the right course in carrying + him off enchanted on the ox-cart, as has been described in the First Part + of this great as well as accurate history, in the last chapter thereof. So + they resolved to pay him a visit and test the improvement in his + condition, although they thought it almost impossible that there could be + any; and they agreed not to touch upon any point connected with + knight-errantry so as not to run the risk of reopening wounds which were + still so tender. + </p> + <p> + They came to see him consequently, and found him sitting up in bed in a + green baize waistcoat and a red Toledo cap, and so withered and dried up + that he looked as if he had been turned into a mummy. They were very + cordially received by him; they asked him after his health, and he talked + to them about himself very naturally and in very well-chosen language. In + the course of their conversation they fell to discussing what they call + State-craft and systems of government, correcting this abuse and + condemning that, reforming one practice and abolishing another, each of + the three setting up for a new legislator, a modern Lycurgus, or a + brand-new Solon; and so completely did they remodel the State, that they + seemed to have thrust it into a furnace and taken out something quite + different from what they had put in; and on all the subjects they dealt + with, Don Quixote spoke with such good sense that the pair of examiners + were fully convinced that he was quite recovered and in his full senses. + </p> + <p> + The niece and housekeeper were present at the conversation and could not + find words enough to express their thanks to God at seeing their master so + clear in his mind; the curate, however, changing his original plan, which + was to avoid touching upon matters of chivalry, resolved to test Don + Quixote’s recovery thoroughly, and see whether it were genuine or + not; and so, from one subject to another, he came at last to talk of the + news that had come from the capital, and, among other things, he said it + was considered certain that the Turk was coming down with a powerful + fleet, and that no one knew what his purpose was, or when the great storm + would burst; and that all Christendom was in apprehension of this, which + almost every year calls us to arms, and that his Majesty had made + provision for the security of the coasts of Naples and Sicily and the + island of Malta. + </p> + <p> + To this Don Quixote replied, “His Majesty has acted like a prudent + warrior in providing for the safety of his realms in time, so that the + enemy may not find him unprepared; but if my advice were taken I would + recommend him to adopt a measure which at present, no doubt, his Majesty + is very far from thinking of.” + </p> + <p> + The moment the curate heard this he said to himself, “God keep thee + in his hand, poor Don Quixote, for it seems to me thou art precipitating + thyself from the height of thy madness into the profound abyss of thy + simplicity.” + </p> + <p> + But the barber, who had the same suspicion as the curate, asked Don + Quixote what would be his advice as to the measures that he said ought to + be adopted; for perhaps it might prove to be one that would have to be + added to the list of the many impertinent suggestions that people were in + the habit of offering to princes. + </p> + <p> + “Mine, master shaver,” said Don Quixote, “will not be + impertinent, but, on the contrary, pertinent.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t mean that,” said the barber, “but that + experience has shown that all or most of the expedients which are proposed + to his Majesty are either impossible, or absurd, or injurious to the King + and to the kingdom.” + </p> + <p> + “Mine, however,” replied Don Quixote, “is neither + impossible nor absurd, but the easiest, the most reasonable, the readiest + and most expeditious that could suggest itself to any projector’s + mind.” + </p> + <p> + “You take a long time to tell it, Señor Don Quixote,” said the + curate. + </p> + <p> + “I don’t choose to tell it here, now,” said Don Quixote, + “and have it reach the ears of the lords of the council to-morrow + morning, and some other carry off the thanks and rewards of my trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “For my part,” said the barber, “I give my word here and + before God that I will not repeat what your worship says, to King, Rook or + earthly man—an oath I learned from the ballad of the curate, who, in + the prelude, told the king of the thief who had robbed him of the hundred + gold crowns and his pacing mule.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not versed in stories,” said Don Quixote; “but I + know the oath is a good one, because I know the barber to be an honest + fellow.” + </p> + <p> + “Even if he were not,” said the curate, “I will go bail + and answer for him that in this matter he will be as silent as a dummy, + under pain of paying any penalty that may be pronounced.” + </p> + <p> + “And who will be security for you, señor curate?” said Don + Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “My profession,” replied the curate, “which is to keep + secrets.” + </p> + <p> + “Ods body!” said Don Quixote at this, “what more has his + Majesty to do but to command, by public proclamation, all the + knights-errant that are scattered over Spain to assemble on a fixed day in + the capital, for even if no more than half a dozen come, there may be one + among them who alone will suffice to destroy the entire might of the Turk. + Give me your attention and follow me. Is it, pray, any new thing for a + single knight-errant to demolish an army of two hundred thousand men, as + if they all had but one throat or were made of sugar paste? Nay, tell me, + how many histories are there filled with these marvels? If only (in an + evil hour for me: I don’t speak for anyone else) the famous Don + Belianis were alive now, or any one of the innumerable progeny of Amadis + of Gaul! If any these were alive to-day, and were to come face to face with + the Turk, by my faith, I would not give much for the Turk’s chance. + But God will have regard for his people, and will provide some one, who, + if not so valiant as the knights-errant of yore, at least will not be + inferior to them in spirit; but God knows what I mean, and I say no more.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas!” exclaimed the niece at this, “may I die if my + master does not want to turn knight-errant again;” to which Don + Quixote replied, “A knight-errant I shall die, and let the Turk come + down or go up when he likes, and in as strong force as he can, once more I + say, God knows what I mean.” But here the barber said, “I ask + your worships to give me leave to tell a short story of something that + happened in Seville, which comes so pat to the purpose just now that I + should like greatly to tell it.” Don Quixote gave him leave, and the + rest prepared to listen, and he began thus: + </p> + <p> + “In the madhouse at Seville there was a man whom his relations had + placed there as being out of his mind. He was a graduate of Osuna in canon + law; but even if he had been of Salamanca, it was the opinion of most + people that he would have been mad all the same. This graduate, after some + years of confinement, took it into his head that he was sane and in his + full senses, and under this impression wrote to the Archbishop, entreating + him earnestly, and in very correct language, to have him released from the + misery in which he was living; for by God’s mercy he had now + recovered his lost reason, though his relations, in order to enjoy his + property, kept him there, and, in spite of the truth, would make him out + to be mad until his dying day. The Archbishop, moved by repeated sensible, + well-written letters, directed one of his chaplains to make inquiry of the + madhouse as to the truth of the licentiate’s statements, and to have + an interview with the madman himself, and, if it should appear that he was + in his senses, to take him out and restore him to liberty. The chaplain + did so, and the governor assured him that the man was still mad, and that + though he often spoke like a highly intelligent person, he would in the + end break out into nonsense that in quantity and quality counterbalanced + all the sensible things he had said before, as might be easily tested by + talking to him. The chaplain resolved to try the experiment, and obtaining + access to the madman conversed with him for an hour or more, during the + whole of which time he never uttered a word that was incoherent or absurd, + but, on the contrary, spoke so rationally that the chaplain was compelled + to believe him to be sane. Among other things, he said the governor was + against him, not to lose the presents his relations made him for reporting + him still mad but with lucid intervals; and that the worst foe he had in + his misfortune was his large property; for in order to enjoy it his + enemies disparaged and threw doubts upon the mercy our Lord had shown him + in turning him from a brute beast into a man. In short, he spoke in such a + way that he cast suspicion on the governor, and made his relations appear + covetous and heartless, and himself so rational that the chaplain + determined to take him away with him that the Archbishop might see him, + and ascertain for himself the truth of the matter. Yielding to this + conviction, the worthy chaplain begged the governor to have the clothes in + which the licentiate had entered the house given to him. The governor + again bade him beware of what he was doing, as the licentiate was beyond a + doubt still mad; but all his cautions and warnings were unavailing to + dissuade the chaplain from taking him away. The governor, seeing that it + was the order of the Archbishop, obeyed, and they dressed the licentiate + in his own clothes, which were new and decent. He, as soon as he saw + himself clothed like one in his senses, and divested of the appearance of + a madman, entreated the chaplain to permit him in charity to go and take + leave of his comrades the madmen. The chaplain said he would go with him + to see what madmen there were in the house; so they went upstairs, and + with them some of those who were present. Approaching a cage in which + there was a furious madman, though just at that moment calm and quiet, the + licentiate said to him, ‘Brother, think if you have any commands for + me, for I am going home, as God has been pleased, in his infinite goodness + and mercy, without any merit of mine, to restore me my reason. I am now + cured and in my senses, for with God’s power nothing is impossible. + Have strong hope and trust in him, for as he has restored me to my + original condition, so likewise he will restore you if you trust in him. I + will take care to send you some good things to eat; and be sure you eat + them; for I would have you know I am convinced, as one who has gone + through it, that all this madness of ours comes of having the stomach + empty and the brains full of wind. Take courage! take courage! for + despondency in misfortune breaks down health and brings on death.’ + </p> + <p> + “To all these words of the licentiate another madman in a cage + opposite that of the furious one was listening; and raising himself up + from an old mat on which he lay stark naked, he asked in a loud voice who + it was that was going away cured and in his senses. The licentiate + answered, ‘It is I, brother, who am going; I have now no need to + remain here any longer, for which I return infinite thanks to Heaven that + has had so great mercy upon me.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Mind what you are saying, licentiate; don’t let the + devil deceive you,’ replied the madman. ‘Keep quiet, stay + where you are, and you will save yourself the trouble of coming back.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘I know I am cured,’ returned the licentiate, ‘and + that I shall not have to go stations again.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘You cured!’ said the madman; ‘well, we shall + see; God be with you; but I swear to you by Jupiter, whose majesty I + represent on earth, that for this crime alone, which Seville is committing + to-day in releasing you from this house, and treating you as if you were + in your senses, I shall have to inflict such a punishment on it as will be + remembered for ages and ages, amen. Dost thou not know, thou miserable + little licentiate, that I can do it, being, as I say, Jupiter the + Thunderer, who hold in my hands the fiery bolts with which I am able and + am wont to threaten and lay waste the world? But in one way only will I + punish this ignorant town, and that is by not raining upon it, nor on any + part of its district or territory, for three whole years, to be reckoned + from the day and moment when this threat is pronounced. Thou free, thou + cured, thou in thy senses! and I mad, I disordered, I bound! I will as + soon think of sending rain as of hanging myself. + </p> + <p> + “Those present stood listening to the words and exclamations of the + madman; but our licentiate, turning to the chaplain and seizing him by the + hands, said to him, ‘Be not uneasy, señor; attach no importance to + what this madman has said; for if he is Jupiter and will not send rain, I, + who am Neptune, the father and god of the waters, will rain as often as it + pleases me and may be needful.’ + </p> + <p> + “The governor and the bystanders laughed, and at their laughter the + chaplain was half ashamed, and he replied, ‘For all that, Señor + Neptune, it will not do to vex Señor Jupiter; remain where you are, and + some other day, when there is a better opportunity and more time, we will + come back for you.’ So they stripped the licentiate, and he was left + where he was; and that’s the end of the story.” + </p> + <p> + “So that’s the story, master barber,” said Don Quixote, + “which came in so pat to the purpose that you could not help telling + it? Master shaver, master shaver! how blind is he who cannot see through a + sieve. Is it possible that you do not know that comparisons of wit with + wit, valour with valour, beauty with beauty, birth with birth, are always + odious and unwelcome? I, master barber, am not Neptune, the god of the + waters, nor do I try to make anyone take me for an astute man, for I am + not one. My only endeavour is to convince the world of the mistake it + makes in not reviving in itself the happy time when the order of + knight-errantry was in the field. But our depraved age does not deserve to + enjoy such a blessing as those ages enjoyed when knights-errant took upon + their shoulders the defence of kingdoms, the protection of damsels, the + succour of orphans and minors, the chastisement of the proud, and the + recompense of the humble. With the knights of these days, for the most + part, it is the damask, brocade, and rich stuffs they wear, that rustle as + they go, not the chain mail of their armour; no knight now-a-days sleeps + in the open field exposed to the inclemency of heaven, and in full panoply + from head to foot; no one now takes a nap, as they call it, without + drawing his feet out of the stirrups, and leaning upon his lance, as the + knights-errant used to do; no one now, issuing from the wood, penetrates + yonder mountains, and then treads the barren, lonely shore of the sea—mostly + a tempestuous and stormy one—and finding on the beach a little bark + without oars, sail, mast, or tackling of any kind, in the intrepidity of + his heart flings himself into it and commits himself to the wrathful + billows of the deep sea, that one moment lift him up to heaven and the + next plunge him into the depths; and opposing his breast to the + irresistible gale, finds himself, when he least expects it, three thousand + leagues and more away from the place where he embarked; and leaping ashore + in a remote and unknown land has adventures that deserve to be written, + not on parchment, but on brass. But now sloth triumphs over energy, + indolence over exertion, vice over virtue, arrogance over courage, and + theory over practice in arms, which flourished and shone only in the + golden ages and in knights-errant. For tell me, who was more virtuous and + more valiant than the famous Amadis of Gaul? Who more discreet than + Palmerin of England? Who more gracious and easy than Tirante el Blanco? + Who more courtly than Lisuarte of Greece? Who more slashed or slashing + than Don Belianis? Who more intrepid than Perion of Gaul? Who more ready + to face danger than Felixmarte of Hircania? Who more sincere than + Esplandian? Who more impetuous than Don Cirongilio of Thrace? Who more + bold than Rodamonte? Who more prudent than King Sobrino? Who more daring + than Reinaldos? Who more invincible than Roland? and who more gallant and + courteous than Ruggiero, from whom the dukes of Ferrara of the present day + are descended, according to Turpin in his ‘Cosmography.’ All + these knights, and many more that I could name, señor curate, were + knights-errant, the light and glory of chivalry. These, or such as these, + I would have to carry out my plan, and in that case his Majesty would find + himself well served and would save great expense, and the Turk would be + left tearing his beard. And so I will stay where I am, as the chaplain + does not take me away; and if Jupiter, as the barber has told us, will not + send rain, here am I, and I will rain when I please. I say this that + Master Basin may know that I understand him.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, Señor Don Quixote,” said the barber, “I did not + mean it in that way, and, so help me God, my intention was good, and your + worship ought not to be vexed.” + </p> + <p> + “As to whether I ought to be vexed or not,” returned Don + Quixote, “I myself am the best judge.” + </p> + <p> + Hereupon the curate observed, “I have hardly said a word as yet; and + I would gladly be relieved of a doubt, arising from what Don Quixote has + said, that worries and works my conscience.” + </p> + <p> + “The señor curate has leave for more than that,” returned Don + Quixote, “so he may declare his doubt, for it is not pleasant to + have a doubt on one’s conscience.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then, with that permission,” said the curate, “I + say my doubt is that, all I can do, I cannot persuade myself that the + whole pack of knights-errant you, Señor Don Quixote, have mentioned, were + really and truly persons of flesh and blood, that ever lived in the world; + on the contrary, I suspect it to be all fiction, fable, and falsehood, and + dreams told by men awakened from sleep, or rather still half asleep.” + </p> + <p> + “That is another mistake,” replied Don Quixote, “into + which many have fallen who do not believe that there ever were such + knights in the world, and I have often, with divers people and on divers + occasions, tried to expose this almost universal error to the light of + truth. Sometimes I have not been successful in my purpose, sometimes I + have, supporting it upon the shoulders of the truth; which truth is so + clear that I can almost say I have with my own eyes seen Amadis of Gaul, + who was a man of lofty stature, fair complexion, with a handsome though + black beard, of a countenance between gentle and stern in expression, + sparing of words, slow to anger, and quick to put it away from him; and as + I have depicted Amadis, so I could, I think, portray and describe all the + knights-errant that are in all the histories in the world; for by the + perception I have that they were what their histories describe, and by the + deeds they did and the dispositions they displayed, it is possible, with + the aid of sound philosophy, to deduce their features, complexion, and + stature.” + </p> + <p> + “How big, in your worship’s opinion, may the giant Morgante + have been, Señor Don Quixote?” asked the barber. + </p> + <p> + “With regard to giants,” replied Don Quixote, “opinions + differ as to whether there ever were any or not in the world; but the Holy + Scripture, which cannot err by a jot from the truth, shows us that there + were, when it gives us the history of that big Philistine, Goliath, who + was seven cubits and a half in height, which is a huge size. Likewise, in + the island of Sicily, there have been found leg-bones and arm-bones so + large that their size makes it plain that their owners were giants, and as + tall as great towers; geometry puts this fact beyond a doubt. But, for all + that, I cannot speak with certainty as to the size of Morgante, though I + suspect he cannot have been very tall; and I am inclined to be of this + opinion because I find in the history in which his deeds are particularly + mentioned, that he frequently slept under a roof and as he found houses to + contain him, it is clear that his bulk could not have been anything + excessive.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said the curate, and yielding to the enjoyment + of hearing such nonsense, he asked him what was his notion of the features + of Reinaldos of Montalban, and Don Roland and the rest of the Twelve Peers + of France, for they were all knights-errant. + </p> + <p> + “As for Reinaldos,” replied Don Quixote, “I venture to + say that he was broad-faced, of ruddy complexion, with roguish and + somewhat prominent eyes, excessively punctilious and touchy, and given to + the society of thieves and scapegraces. With regard to Roland, or + Rotolando, or Orlando (for the histories call him by all these names), I + am of opinion, and hold, that he was of middle height, broad-shouldered, + rather bow-legged, swarthy-complexioned, red-bearded, with a hairy body + and a severe expression of countenance, a man of few words, but very + polite and well-bred.” + </p> + <p> + “If Roland was not a more graceful person than your worship has + described,” said the curate, “it is no wonder that the fair + Lady Angelica rejected him and left him for the gaiety, liveliness, and + grace of that budding-bearded little Moor to whom she surrendered herself; + and she showed her sense in falling in love with the gentle softness of + Medoro rather than the roughness of Roland.” + </p> + <p> + “That Angelica, señor curate,” returned Don Quixote, “was + a giddy damsel, flighty and somewhat wanton, and she left the world as + full of her vagaries as of the fame of her beauty. She treated with scorn + a thousand gentlemen, men of valour and wisdom, and took up with a + smooth-faced sprig of a page, without fortune or fame, except such + reputation for gratitude as the affection he bore his friend got for him. + The great poet who sang her beauty, the famous Ariosto, not caring to sing + her adventures after her contemptible surrender (which probably were not + over and above creditable), dropped her where he says: + </p> + <p> + How she received the sceptre of Cathay, Some bard of defter quill may sing + some day; + </p> + <p> + and this was no doubt a kind of prophecy, for poets are also called vates, + that is to say diviners; and its truth was made plain; for since then a + famous Andalusian poet has lamented and sung her tears, and another famous + and rare poet, a Castilian, has sung her beauty.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me, Señor Don Quixote,” said the barber here, “among + all those who praised her, has there been no poet to write a satire on + this Lady Angelica?” + </p> + <p> + “I can well believe,” replied Don Quixote, “that if + Sacripante or Roland had been poets they would have given the damsel a + trimming; for it is naturally the way with poets who have been scorned and + rejected by their ladies, whether fictitious or not, in short by those + whom they select as the ladies of their thoughts, to avenge themselves in + satires and libels—a vengeance, to be sure, unworthy of generous + hearts; but up to the present I have not heard of any defamatory verse + against the Lady Angelica, who turned the world upside down.” + </p> + <p> + “Strange,” said the curate; but at this moment they heard the + housekeeper and the niece, who had previously withdrawn from the + conversation, exclaiming aloud in the courtyard, and at the noise they all + ran out. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p01e" id="p01e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p01e.jpg (15K)" src="images/p01e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch2b" id="ch2b"></a>CHAPTER II. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHICH TREATS OF THE NOTABLE ALTERCATION WHICH SANCHO PANZA HAD WITH DON + QUIXOTE’S NIECE, AND HOUSEKEEPER, TOGETHER WITH OTHER DROLL MATTERS + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p02a" id="p02a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p02a.jpg (159K)" src="images/p02a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p02a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The history relates that the outcry Don Quixote, the curate, and the + barber heard came from the niece and the housekeeper exclaiming to Sancho, + who was striving to force his way in to see Don Quixote while they held + the door against him, “What does the vagabond want in this house? Be + off to your own, brother, for it is you, and no one else, that delude my + master, and lead him astray, and take him tramping about the country.” + </p> + <p> + To which Sancho replied, “Devil’s own housekeeper! it is I who + am deluded, and led astray, and taken tramping about the country, and not + thy master! He has carried me all over the world, and you are mightily + mistaken. He enticed me away from home by a trick, promising me an island, + which I am still waiting for.” + </p> + <p> + “May evil islands choke thee, thou detestable Sancho,” said + the niece; “What are islands? Is it something to eat, glutton and + gormandiser that thou art?” + </p> + <p> + “It is not something to eat,” replied Sancho, “but + something to govern and rule, and better than four cities or four + judgeships at court.” + </p> + <p> + “For all that,” said the housekeeper, “you don’t + enter here, you bag of mischief and sack of knavery; go govern your house + and dig your seed-patch, and give over looking for islands or shylands.” + </p> + <p> + The curate and the barber listened with great amusement to the words of + the three; but Don Quixote, uneasy lest Sancho should blab and blurt out a + whole heap of mischievous stupidities, and touch upon points that might + not be altogether to his credit, called to him and made the other two hold + their tongues and let him come in. Sancho entered, and the curate and the + barber took their leave of Don Quixote, of whose recovery they despaired + when they saw how wedded he was to his crazy ideas, and how saturated with + the nonsense of his unlucky chivalry; and said the curate to the barber, + “You will see, gossip, that when we are least thinking of it, our + gentleman will be off once more for another flight.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no doubt of it,” returned the barber; “but I do + not wonder so much at the madness of the knight as at the simplicity of + the squire, who has such a firm belief in all that about the island, that + I suppose all the exposures that could be imagined would not get it out of + his head.” + </p> + <p> + “God help them,” said the curate; “and let us be on the + look-out to see what comes of all these absurdities of the knight and + squire, for it seems as if they had both been cast in the same mould, and + the madness of the master without the simplicity of the man would not be + worth a farthing.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said the barber, “and I should like very + much to know what the pair are talking about at this moment.” + </p> + <p> + “I promise you,” said the curate, “the niece or the + housekeeper will tell us by-and-by, for they are not the ones to forget to + listen.” + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Don Quixote shut himself up in his room with Sancho, and when + they were alone he said to him, “It grieves me greatly, Sancho, that + thou shouldst have said, and sayest, that I took thee out of thy cottage, + when thou knowest I did not remain in my house. We sallied forth together, + we took the road together, we wandered abroad together; we have had the + same fortune and the same luck; if they blanketed thee once, they + belaboured me a hundred times, and that is the only advantage I have of + thee.” + </p> + <p> + “That was only reasonable,” replied Sancho, “for, by + what your worship says, misfortunes belong more properly to knights-errant + than to their squires.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou art mistaken, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “according + to the maxim quando caput dolet, etc.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t understand any language but my own,” said + Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “I mean to say,” said Don Quixote, “that when the head + suffers all the members suffer; and so, being thy lord and master, I am + thy head, and thou a part of me as thou art my servant; and therefore any + evil that affects or shall affect me should give thee pain, and what + affects thee give pain to me.” + </p> + <p> + “It should be so,” said Sancho; “but when I was + blanketed as a member, my head was on the other side of the wall, looking + on while I was flying through the air, and did not feel any pain whatever; + and if the members are obliged to feel the suffering of the head, it + should be obliged to feel their sufferings.” + </p> + <p> + “Dost thou mean to say now, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “that + I did not feel when they were blanketing thee? If thou dost, thou must not + say so or think so, for I felt more pain then in spirit than thou didst in + body. But let us put that aside for the present, for we shall have + opportunities enough for considering and settling the point; tell me, + Sancho my friend, what do they say about me in the village here? What do + the common people think of me? What do the hidalgos? What do the + caballeros? What do they say of my valour; of my achievements; of my + courtesy? How do they treat the task I have undertaken in reviving and + restoring to the world the now forgotten order of chivalry? In short, + Sancho, I would have thee tell me all that has come to thine ears on this + subject; and thou art to tell me, without adding anything to the good or + taking away anything from the bad; for it is the duty of loyal vassals to + tell the truth to their lords just as it is and in its proper shape, not + allowing flattery to add to it or any idle deference to lessen it. And I + would have thee know, Sancho, that if the naked truth, undisguised by + flattery, came to the ears of princes, times would be different, and other + ages would be reckoned iron ages more than ours, which I hold to be the + golden of these latter days. Profit by this advice, Sancho, and report to + me clearly and faithfully the truth of what thou knowest touching what I + have demanded of thee.” + </p> + <p> + “That I will do with all my heart, master,” replied Sancho, + “provided your worship will not be vexed at what I say, as you wish + me to say it out in all its nakedness, without putting any more clothes on + it than it came to my knowledge in.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not be vexed at all,” returned Don Quixote; “thou + mayest speak freely, Sancho, and without any beating about the bush.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then,” said he, “first of all, I have to tell you + that the common people consider your worship a mighty great madman, and me + no less a fool. The hidalgos say that, not keeping within the bounds of + your quality of gentleman, you have assumed the ‘Don,’ and + made a knight of yourself at a jump, with four vine-stocks and a couple of + acres of land, and never a shirt to your back. The caballeros say they do + not want to have hidalgos setting up in opposition to them, particularly + squire hidalgos who polish their own shoes and darn their black stockings + with green silk.” + </p> + <p> + “That,” said Don Quixote, “does not apply to me, for I + always go well dressed and never patched; ragged I may be, but ragged more + from the wear and tear of arms than of time.” + </p> + <p> + “As to your worship’s valour, courtesy, accomplishments, and + task, there is a variety of opinions. Some say, ‘mad but droll;’ + others, ‘valiant but unlucky;’ others, ‘courteous but + meddling,’ and then they go into such a number of things that they + don’t leave a whole bone either in your worship or in myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Recollect, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “that wherever + virtue exists in an eminent degree it is persecuted. Few or none of the + famous men that have lived escaped being calumniated by malice. Julius + Caesar, the boldest, wisest, and bravest of captains, was charged with + being ambitious, and not particularly cleanly in his dress, or pure in his + morals. Of Alexander, whose deeds won him the name of Great, they say that + he was somewhat of a drunkard. Of Hercules, him of the many labours, it is + said that he was lewd and luxurious. Of Don Galaor, the brother of Amadis + of Gaul, it was whispered that he was over-quarrelsome, and of his brother + that he was lachrymose. So that, O Sancho, amongst all these calumnies + against good men, mine may be let pass, since they are no more than thou + hast said.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s just where it is, body of my father!” + </p> + <p> + “Is there more, then?” asked Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “There’s the tail to be skinned yet,” said Sancho; + “all so far is cakes and fancy bread; but if your worship wants to + know all about the calumnies they bring against you, I will fetch you one + this instant who can tell you the whole of them without missing an atom; + for last night the son of Bartholomew Carrasco, who has been studying at + Salamanca, came home after having been made a bachelor, and when I went to + welcome him, he told me that your worship’s history is already + abroad in books, with the title of THE INGENIOUS GENTLEMAN DON QUIXOTE OF + LA MANCHA; and he says they mention me in it by my own name of Sancho + Panza, and the lady Dulcinea del Toboso too, and divers things that + happened to us when we were alone; so that I crossed myself in my wonder + how the historian who wrote them down could have known them.” + </p> + <p> + “I promise thee, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “the author + of our history will be some sage enchanter; for to such nothing that they + choose to write about is hidden.” + </p> + <p> + “What!” said Sancho, “a sage and an enchanter! Why, the + bachelor Samson Carrasco (that is the name of him I spoke of) says the + author of the history is called Cide Hamete Berengena.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a Moorish name,” said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “May be so,” replied Sancho; “for I have heard say that + the Moors are mostly great lovers of berengenas.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou must have mistaken the surname of this ‘Cide’—which + means in Arabic ‘Lord’—Sancho,” observed Don + Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “Very likely,” replied Sancho, “but if your worship + wishes me to fetch the bachelor I will go for him in a twinkling.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou wilt do me a great pleasure, my friend,” said Don + Quixote, “for what thou hast told me has amazed me, and I shall not + eat a morsel that will agree with me until I have heard all about it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I am off for him,” said Sancho; and leaving his master + he went in quest of the bachelor, with whom he returned in a short time, + and, all three together, they had a very droll colloquy. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p02e" id="p02e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p02e.jpg (23K)" src="images/p02e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch3b" id="ch3b"></a>CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE LAUGHABLE CONVERSATION THAT PASSED BETWEEN DON QUIXOTE, SANCHO + PANZA, AND THE BACHELOR SAMSON CARRASCO + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p03a" id="p03a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p03a.jpg (131K)" src="images/p03a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p03a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote remained very deep in thought, waiting for the bachelor + Carrasco, from whom he was to hear how he himself had been put into a book + as Sancho said; and he could not persuade himself that any such history + could be in existence, for the blood of the enemies he had slain was not + yet dry on the blade of his sword, and now they wanted to make out that + his mighty achievements were going about in print. For all that, he + fancied some sage, either a friend or an enemy, might, by the aid of + magic, have given them to the press; if a friend, in order to magnify and + exalt them above the most famous ever achieved by any knight-errant; if an + enemy, to bring them to naught and degrade them below the meanest ever + recorded of any low squire, though as he said to himself, the achievements + of squires never were recorded. If, however, it were the fact that such a + history were in existence, it must necessarily, being the story of a + knight-errant, be grandiloquent, lofty, imposing, grand and true. With + this he comforted himself somewhat, though it made him uncomfortable to + think that the author was a Moor, judging by the title of “Cide;” + and that no truth was to be looked for from Moors, as they are all + impostors, cheats, and schemers. He was afraid he might have dealt with + his love affairs in some indecorous fashion, that might tend to the + discredit and prejudice of the purity of his lady Dulcinea del Toboso; he + would have had him set forth the fidelity and respect he had always + observed towards her, spurning queens, empresses, and damsels of all + sorts, and keeping in check the impetuosity of his natural impulses. + Absorbed and wrapped up in these and divers other cogitations, he was + found by Sancho and Carrasco, whom Don Quixote received with great + courtesy. + </p> + <p> + The bachelor, though he was called Samson, was of no great bodily size, + but he was a very great wag; he was of a sallow complexion, but very + sharp-witted, somewhere about four-and-twenty years of age, with a round + face, a flat nose, and a large mouth, all indications of a mischievous + disposition and a love of fun and jokes; and of this he gave a sample as + soon as he saw Don Quixote, by falling on his knees before him and saying, + “Let me kiss your mightiness’s hand, Señor Don Quixote of La + Mancha, for, by the habit of St. Peter that I wear, though I have no more + than the first four orders, your worship is one of the most famous + knights-errant that have ever been, or will be, all the world over. A + blessing on Cide Hamete Benengeli, who has written the history of your + great deeds, and a double blessing on that connoisseur who took the + trouble of having it translated out of the Arabic into our Castilian + vulgar tongue for the universal entertainment of the people!” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote made him rise, and said, “So, then, it is true that + there is a history of me, and that it was a Moor and a sage who wrote it?” + </p> + <p> + “So true is it, señor,” said Samson, “that my belief is + there are more than twelve thousand volumes of the said history in print + this very day. Only ask Portugal, Barcelona, and Valencia, where they have + been printed, and moreover there is a report that it is being printed at + Antwerp, and I am persuaded there will not be a country or language in + which there will not be a translation of it.” + </p> + <p> + “One of the things,” here observed Don Quixote, “that + ought to give most pleasure to a virtuous and eminent man is to find + himself in his lifetime in print and in type, familiar in people’s + mouths with a good name; I say with a good name, for if it be the + opposite, then there is no death to be compared to it.” + </p> + <p> + “If it goes by good name and fame,” said the bachelor, “your + worship alone bears away the palm from all the knights-errant; for the + Moor in his own language, and the Christian in his, have taken care to set + before us your gallantry, your high courage in encountering dangers, your + fortitude in adversity, your patience under misfortunes as well as wounds, + the purity and continence of the platonic loves of your worship and my + lady Dona Dulcinea del Toboso-” + </p> + <p> + “I never heard my lady Dulcinea called Dona,” observed Sancho + here; “nothing more than the lady Dulcinea del Toboso; so here + already the history is wrong.” + </p> + <p> + “That is not an objection of any importance,” replied + Carrasco. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not,” said Don Quixote; “but tell me, señor + bachelor, what deeds of mine are they that are made most of in this + history?” + </p> + <p> + “On that point,” replied the bachelor, “opinions differ, + as tastes do; some swear by the adventure of the windmills that your + worship took to be Briareuses and giants; others by that of the fulling + mills; one cries up the description of the two armies that afterwards took + the appearance of two droves of sheep; another that of the dead body on + its way to be buried at Segovia; a third says the liberation of the galley + slaves is the best of all, and a fourth that nothing comes up to the + affair with the Benedictine giants, and the battle with the valiant + Biscayan.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me, señor bachelor,” said Sancho at this point, “does + the adventure with the Yanguesans come in, when our good Rocinante went + hankering after dainties?” + </p> + <p> + “The sage has left nothing in the ink-bottle,” replied Samson; + “he tells all and sets down everything, even to the capers that + worthy Sancho cut in the blanket.” + </p> + <p> + “I cut no capers in the blanket,” returned Sancho; “in + the air I did, and more of them than I liked.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no human history in the world, I suppose,” said Don + Quixote, “that has not its ups and downs, but more than others such + as deal with chivalry, for they can never be entirely made up of + prosperous adventures.” + </p> + <p> + “For all that,” replied the bachelor, “there are those + who have read the history who say they would have been glad if the author + had left out some of the countless cudgellings that were inflicted on + Señor Don Quixote in various encounters.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s where the truth of the history comes in,” said + Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “At the same time they might fairly have passed them over in + silence,” observed Don Quixote; “for there is no need of + recording events which do not change or affect the truth of a history, if + they tend to bring the hero of it into contempt. Æneas was not in truth + and earnest so pious as Virgil represents him, nor Ulysses so wise as + Homer describes him.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said Samson; “but it is one thing to + write as a poet, another to write as a historian; the poet may describe or + sing things, not as they were, but as they ought to have been; but the + historian has to write them down, not as they ought to have been, but as + they were, without adding anything to the truth or taking anything from + it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then,” said Sancho, “if this señor Moor goes in + for telling the truth, no doubt among my master’s drubbings mine are + to be found; for they never took the measure of his worship’s + shoulders without doing the same for my whole body; but I have no right to + wonder at that, for, as my master himself says, the members must share the + pain of the head.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a sly dog, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; “i’ + faith, you have no want of memory when you choose to remember.” + </p> + <p> + “If I were to try to forget the thwacks they gave me,” said + Sancho, “my weals would not let me, for they are still fresh on my + ribs.” + </p> + <p> + “Hush, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “and don’t + interrupt the bachelor, whom I entreat to go on and tell all that is said + about me in this history.” + </p> + <p> + “And about me,” said Sancho, “for they say, too, that I + am one of the principal presonages in it.” + </p> + <p> + “Personages, not presonages, friend Sancho,” said Samson. + </p> + <p> + “What! Another word-catcher!” said Sancho; “if that’s + to be the way we shall not make an end in a lifetime.” + </p> + <p> + “May God shorten mine, Sancho,” returned the bachelor, “if + you are not the second person in the history, and there are even some who + would rather hear you talk than the cleverest in the whole book; though + there are some, too, who say you showed yourself over-credulous in + believing there was any possibility in the government of that island + offered you by Señor Don Quixote.” + </p> + <p> + “There is still sunshine on the wall,” said Don Quixote; + “and when Sancho is somewhat more advanced in life, with the + experience that years bring, he will be fitter and better qualified for + being a governor than he is at present.” + </p> + <p> + “By God, master,” said Sancho, “the island that I cannot + govern with the years I have, I’ll not be able to govern with the + years of Methuselah; the difficulty is that the said island keeps its + distance somewhere, I know not where; and not that there is any want of + head in me to govern it.” + </p> + <p> + “Leave it to God, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “for all + will be and perhaps better than you think; no leaf on the tree stirs but + by God’s will.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said Samson; “and if it be God’s + will, there will not be any want of a thousand islands, much less one, for + Sancho to govern.” + </p> + <p> + “I have seen governors in these parts,” said Sancho, “that + are not to be compared to my shoe-sole; and for all that they are called + ‘your lordship’ and served on silver.” + </p> + <p> + “Those are not governors of islands,” observed Samson, “but + of other governments of an easier kind: those that govern islands must at + least know grammar.” + </p> + <p> + “I could manage the gram well enough,” said Sancho; “but + for the mar I have neither leaning nor liking, for I don’t know what + it is; but leaving this matter of the government in God’s hands, to + send me wherever it may be most to his service, I may tell you, señor + bachelor Samson Carrasco, it has pleased me beyond measure that the author + of this history should have spoken of me in such a way that what is said + of me gives no offence; for, on the faith of a true squire, if he had said + anything about me that was at all unbecoming an old Christian, such as I + am, the deaf would have heard of it.” + </p> + <p> + “That would be working miracles,” said Samson. + </p> + <p> + “Miracles or no miracles,” said Sancho, “let everyone + mind how he speaks or writes about people, and not set down at random the + first thing that comes into his head.” + </p> + <p> + “One of the faults they find with this history,” said the + bachelor, “is that its author inserted in it a novel called ‘The + Ill-advised Curiosity;’ not that it is bad or ill-told, but that it + is out of place and has nothing to do with the history of his worship + Señor Don Quixote.” + </p> + <p> + “I will bet the son of a dog has mixed the cabbages and the baskets,” + said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Then, I say,” said Don Quixote, “the author of my + history was no sage, but some ignorant chatterer, who, in a haphazard and + heedless way, set about writing it, let it turn out as it might, just as + Orbaneja, the painter of Ubeda, used to do, who, when they asked him what + he was painting, answered, ‘What it may turn out.’ Sometimes + he would paint a cock in such a fashion, and so unlike, that he had to + write alongside of it in Gothic letters, ‘This is a cock;’ + and so it will be with my history, which will require a commentary to + make it intelligible.” + </p> + <p> + “No fear of that,” returned Samson, “for it is so plain + that there is nothing in it to puzzle over; the children turn its leaves, + the young people read it, the grown men understand it, the old folk praise + it; in a word, it is so thumbed, and read, and got by heart by people of + all sorts, that the instant they see any lean hack, they say, ‘There + goes Rocinante.’ And those that are most given to reading it are the + pages, for there is not a lord’s ante-chamber where there is not a + ‘Don Quixote’ to be found; one takes it up if another lays it + down; this one pounces upon it, and that begs for it. In short, the said + history is the most delightful and least injurious entertainment that has + been hitherto seen, for there is not to be found in the whole of it even + the semblance of an immodest word, or a thought that is other than + Catholic.” + </p> + <p> + “To write in any other way,” said Don Quixote, “would + not be to write truth, but falsehood, and historians who have recourse to + falsehood ought to be burned, like those who coin false money; and I know + not what could have led the author to have recourse to novels and + irrelevant stories, when he had so much to write about in mine; no doubt + he must have gone by the proverb ‘with straw or with hay, + &c.,’ for by merely setting forth my thoughts, my sighs, my + tears, my lofty purposes, my enterprises, he might have made a volume as + large, or larger than all the works of El Tostado would make up. In fact, + the conclusion I arrive at, señor bachelor, is, that to write histories, + or books of any kind, there is need of great judgment and a ripe + understanding. To give expression to humour, and write in a strain of + graceful pleasantry, is the gift of great geniuses. The cleverest + character in comedy is the clown, for he who would make people take him + for a fool, must not be one. History is in a measure a sacred thing, for + it should be true, and where the truth is, there God is; but + notwithstanding this, there are some who write and fling books broadcast + on the world as if they were fritters.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no book so bad but it has something good in it,” + said the bachelor. + </p> + <p> + “No doubt of that,” replied Don Quixote; “but it often + happens that those who have acquired and attained a well-deserved + reputation by their writings, lose it entirely, or damage it in some + degree, when they give them to the press.” + </p> + <p> + “The reason of that,” said Samson, “is, that as printed + works are examined leisurely, their faults are easily seen; and the + greater the fame of the writer, the more closely are they scrutinised. Men + famous for their genius, great poets, illustrious historians, are always, + or most commonly, envied by those who take a particular delight and + pleasure in criticising the writings of others, without having produced + any of their own.” + </p> + <p> + “That is no wonder,” said Don Quixote; “for there are + many divines who are no good for the pulpit, but excellent in detecting + the defects or excesses of those who preach.” + </p> + <p> + “All that is true, Señor Don Quixote,” said Carrasco; “but + I wish such fault-finders were more lenient and less exacting, and did not + pay so much attention to the spots on the bright sun of the work they + grumble at; for if aliquando bonus dormitat Homerus, they should remember + how long he remained awake to shed the light of his work with as little + shade as possible; and perhaps it may be that what they find fault with + may be moles, that sometimes heighten the beauty of the face that bears + them; and so I say very great is the risk to which he who prints a book + exposes himself, for of all impossibilities the greatest is to write one + that will satisfy and please all readers.” + </p> + <p> + “That which treats of me must have pleased few,” said Don + Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “Quite the contrary,” said the bachelor; “for, as + stultorum infinitum est numerus, innumerable are those who have relished + the said history; but some have brought a charge against the author’s + memory, inasmuch as he forgot to say who the thief was who stole Sancho’s + Dapple; for it is not stated there, but only to be inferred from what is + set down, that he was stolen, and a little farther on we see Sancho + mounted on the same ass, without any reappearance of it. They say, too, + that he forgot to state what Sancho did with those hundred crowns that he + found in the valise in the Sierra Morena, as he never alludes to them + again, and there are many who would be glad to know what he did with them, + or what he spent them on, for it is one of the serious omissions of the + work.” + </p> + <p> + “Señor Samson, I am not in a humour now for going into accounts or + explanations,” said Sancho; “for there’s a sinking of + the stomach come over me, and unless I doctor it with a couple of sups of + the old stuff it will put me on the thorn of Santa Lucia. I have it at + home, and my old woman is waiting for me; after dinner I’ll come + back, and will answer you and all the world every question you may choose + to ask, as well about the loss of the ass as about the spending of the + hundred crowns;” and without another word or waiting for a reply he + made off home. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote begged and entreated the bachelor to stay and do penance with + him. The bachelor accepted the invitation and remained, a couple of young + pigeons were added to the ordinary fare, at dinner they talked chivalry, + Carrasco fell in with his host’s humour, the banquet came to an end, + they took their afternoon sleep, Sancho returned, and their conversation + was resumed. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p03e" id="p03e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p03e.jpg (49K)" src="images/p03e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch4b" id="ch4b"></a>CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + IN WHICH SANCHO PANZA GIVES A SATISFACTORY REPLY TO THE DOUBTS AND + QUESTIONS OF THE BACHELOR SAMSON CARRASCO, TOGETHER WITH OTHER MATTERS + WORTH KNOWING AND TELLING + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p04a" id="p04a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p04a.jpg (143K)" src="images/p04a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p04a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Sancho came back to Don Quixote’s house, and returning to the late + subject of conversation, he said, “As to what Señor Samson said, + that he would like to know by whom, or how, or when my ass was stolen, I + say in reply that the same night we went into the Sierra Morena, flying + from the Holy Brotherhood after that unlucky adventure of the galley + slaves, and the other of the corpse that was going to Segovia, my master + and I ensconced ourselves in a thicket, and there, my master leaning on + his lance, and I seated on my Dapple, battered and weary with the late + frays we fell asleep as if it had been on four feather mattresses; and I + in particular slept so sound, that, whoever he was, he was able to come + and prop me up on four stakes, which he put under the four corners of the + pack-saddle in such a way that he left me mounted on it, and took away + Dapple from under me without my feeling it.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p04b" id="p04b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p04b.jpg (270K)" src="images/p04b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p04b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “That is an easy matter,” said Don Quixote, “and it is + no new occurrence, for the same thing happened to Sacripante at the siege + of Albracca; the famous thief, Brunello, by the same contrivance, took his + horse from between his legs.” + </p> + <p> + “Day came,” continued Sancho, “and the moment I stirred + the stakes gave way and I fell to the ground with a mighty come down; I + looked about for the ass, but could not see him; the tears rushed to my + eyes and I raised such a lamentation that, if the author of our history + has not put it in, he may depend upon it he has left out a good thing. + Some days after, I know not how many, travelling with her ladyship the + Princess Micomicona, I saw my ass, and mounted upon him, in the dress of a + gipsy, was that Gines de Pasamonte, the great rogue and rascal that my + master and I freed from the chain.” + </p> + <p> + “That is not where the mistake is,” replied Samson; “it + is, that before the ass has turned up, the author speaks of Sancho as + being mounted on it.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know what to say to that,” said Sancho, “unless + that the historian made a mistake, or perhaps it might be a blunder of the + printer’s.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt that’s it,” said Samson; “but what + became of the hundred crowns? Did they vanish?” + </p> + <p> + To which Sancho answered, “I spent them for my own good, and my wife’s, + and my children’s, and it is they that have made my wife bear so + patiently all my wanderings on highways and byways, in the service of my + master, Don Quixote; for if after all this time I had come back to the + house without a rap and without the ass, it would have been a poor + look-out for me; and if anyone wants to know anything more about me, here + I am, ready to answer the king himself in person; and it is no affair of + anyone’s whether I took or did not take, whether I spent or did not + spend; for the whacks that were given me in these journeys were to be paid + for in money, even if they were valued at no more than four maravedis + apiece, another hundred crowns would not pay me for half of them. Let each + look to himself and not try to make out white black, and black white; for + each of us is as God made him, aye, and often worse.” + </p> + <p> + “I will take care,” said Carrasco, “to impress upon the + author of the history that, if he prints it again, he must not forget what + worthy Sancho has said, for it will raise it a good span higher.” + </p> + <p> + “Is there anything else to correct in the history, señor bachelor?” + asked Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “No doubt there is,” replied he; “but not anything that + will be of the same importance as those I have mentioned.” + </p> + <p> + “Does the author promise a second part at all?” said Don + Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “He does promise one,” replied Samson; “but he says he + has not found it, nor does he know who has got it; and we cannot say + whether it will appear or not; and so, on that head, as some say that no + second part has ever been good, and others that enough has been already + written about Don Quixote, it is thought there will be no second part; + though some, who are jovial rather than saturnine, say, ‘Let us have + more Quixotades, let Don Quixote charge and Sancho chatter, and no matter + what it may turn out, we shall be satisfied with that.’” + </p> + <p> + “And what does the author mean to do?” said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “What?” replied Samson; “why, as soon as he has found + the history which he is now searching for with extraordinary diligence, he + will at once give it to the press, moved more by the profit that may + accrue to him from doing so than by any thought of praise.” + </p> + <p> + Whereat Sancho observed, “The author looks for money and profit, + does he? It will be a wonder if he succeeds, for it will be only hurry, + hurry, with him, like the tailor on Easter Eve; and works done in a hurry + are never finished as perfectly as they ought to be. Let master Moor, or + whatever he is, pay attention to what he is doing, and I and my master + will give him as much grouting ready to his hand, in the way of adventures + and accidents of all sorts, as would make up not only one second part, but + a hundred. The good man fancies, no doubt, that we are fast asleep in the + straw here, but let him hold up our feet to be shod and he will see which + foot it is we go lame on. All I say is, that if my master would take my + advice, we would be now afield, redressing outrages and righting wrongs, + as is the use and custom of good knights-errant.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho had hardly uttered these words when the neighing of Rocinante fell + upon their ears, which neighing Don Quixote accepted as a happy omen, and + he resolved to make another sally in three or four days from that time. + Announcing his intention to the bachelor, he asked his advice as to the + quarter in which he ought to commence his expedition, and the bachelor + replied that in his opinion he ought to go to the kingdom of Aragon, and + the city of Saragossa, where there were to be certain solemn joustings at + the festival of St. George, at which he might win renown above all the + knights of Aragon, which would be winning it above all the knights of the + world. He commended his very praiseworthy and gallant resolution, but + admonished him to proceed with greater caution in encountering dangers, + because his life did not belong to him, but to all those who had need of + him to protect and aid them in their misfortunes. + </p> + <p> + “There’s where it is, what I abominate, Señor Samson,” + said Sancho here; “my master will attack a hundred armed men as a + greedy boy would half a dozen melons. Body of the world, señor bachelor! + there is a time to attack and a time to retreat, and it is not to be + always ‘Santiago, and close Spain!’ Moreover, I have heard it + said (and I think by my master himself, if I remember rightly) that the + mean of valour lies between the extremes of cowardice and rashness; and if + that be so, I don’t want him to fly without having good reason, or + to attack when the odds make it better not. But, above all things, I warn + my master that if he is to take me with him it must be on the condition + that he is to do all the fighting, and that I am not to be called upon to + do anything except what concerns keeping him clean and comfortable; in + this I will dance attendance on him readily; but to expect me to draw + sword, even against rascally churls of the hatchet and hood, is idle. I + don’t set up to be a fighting man, Señor Samson, but only the best + and most loyal squire that ever served knight-errant; and if my master Don + Quixote, in consideration of my many faithful services, is pleased to give + me some island of the many his worship says one may stumble on in these + parts, I will take it as a great favour; and if he does not give it to me, + I was born like everyone else, and a man must not live in dependence on + anyone except God; and what is more, my bread will taste as well, and + perhaps even better, without a government than if I were a governor; and + how do I know but that in these governments the devil may have prepared + some trip for me, to make me lose my footing and fall and knock my + grinders out? Sancho I was born and Sancho I mean to die. But for all + that, if heaven were to make me a fair offer of an island or something + else of the kind, without much trouble and without much risk, I am not + such a fool as to refuse it; for they say, too, ‘when they offer + thee a heifer, run with a halter; and ‘when good luck comes to thee, + take it in.’” + </p> + <p> + “Brother Sancho,” said Carrasco, “you have spoken like a + professor; but, for all that, put your trust in God and in Señor Don + Quixote, for he will give you a kingdom, not to say an island.” + </p> + <p> + “It is all the same, be it more or be it less,” replied + Sancho; “though I can tell Señor Carrasco that my master would not + throw the kingdom he might give me into a sack all in holes; for I have + felt my own pulse and I find myself sound enough to rule kingdoms and + govern islands; and I have before now told my master as much.” + </p> + <p> + “Take care, Sancho,” said Samson; “honours change + manners, and perhaps when you find yourself a governor you won’t + know the mother that bore you.” + </p> + <p> + “That may hold good of those that are born in the ditches,” + said Sancho, “not of those who have the fat of an old Christian four + fingers deep on their souls, as I have. Nay, only look at my disposition, + is that likely to show ingratitude to anyone?” + </p> + <p> + “God grant it,” said Don Quixote; “we shall see when the + government comes; and I seem to see it already.” + </p> + <p> + He then begged the bachelor, if he were a poet, to do him the favour of + composing some verses for him conveying the farewell he meant to take of + his lady Dulcinea del Toboso, and to see that a letter of her name was + placed at the beginning of each line, so that, at the end of the verses, + “Dulcinea del Toboso” might be read by putting together the + first letters. The bachelor replied that although he was not one of the + famous poets of Spain, who were, they said, only three and a half, he + would not fail to compose the required verses; though he saw a great + difficulty in the task, as the letters which made up the name were + seventeen; so, if he made four ballad stanzas of four lines each, there + would be a letter over, and if he made them of five, what they called + decimas or redondillas, there were three letters short; nevertheless he + would try to drop a letter as well as he could, so that the name “Dulcinea + del Toboso” might be got into four ballad stanzas. + </p> + <p> + “It must be, by some means or other,” said Don Quixote, + “for unless the name stands there plain and manifest, no woman would + believe the verses were made for her.” + </p> + <p> + They agreed upon this, and that the departure should take place in three + days from that time. Don Quixote charged the bachelor to keep it a secret, + especially from the curate and Master Nicholas, and from his niece and the + housekeeper, lest they should prevent the execution of his praiseworthy + and valiant purpose. Carrasco promised all, and then took his leave, + charging Don Quixote to inform him of his good or evil fortunes whenever + he had an opportunity; and thus they bade each other farewell, and Sancho + went away to make the necessary preparations for their expedition. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p04e" id="p04e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p04e.jpg (55K)" src="images/p04e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch5b" id="ch5b"></a>CHAPTER V. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE SHREWD AND DROLL CONVERSATION THAT PASSED BETWEEN SANCHO PANZA AND + HIS WIFE TERESA PANZA, AND OTHER MATTERS WORTHY OF BEING DULY RECORDED + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p05a" id="p05a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p05a.jpg (129K)" src="images/p05a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p05a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The translator of this history, when he comes to write this fifth chapter, + says that he considers it apocryphal, because in it Sancho Panza speaks in + a style unlike that which might have been expected from his limited + intelligence, and says things so subtle that he does not think it possible + he could have conceived them; however, desirous of doing what his task + imposed upon him, he was unwilling to leave it untranslated, and therefore + he went on to say: + </p> + <p> + Sancho came home in such glee and spirits that his wife noticed his + happiness a bowshot off, so much so that it made her ask him, “What + have you got, Sancho friend, that you are so glad?” + </p> + <p> + To which he replied, “Wife, if it were God’s will, I should be + very glad not to be so well pleased as I show myself.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t understand you, husband,” said she, “and + I don’t know what you mean by saying you would be glad, if it were + God’s will, not to be well pleased; for, fool as I am, I don’t + know how one can find pleasure in not having it.” + </p> + <p> + “Hark ye, Teresa,” replied Sancho, “I am glad because I + have made up my mind to go back to the service of my master Don Quixote, + who means to go out a third time to seek for adventures; and I am going + with him again, for my necessities will have it so, and also the hope that + cheers me with the thought that I may find another hundred crowns like + those we have spent; though it makes me sad to have to leave thee and the + children; and if God would be pleased to let me have my daily bread, + dry-shod and at home, without taking me out into the byways and + cross-roads—and he could do it at small cost by merely willing it—it + is clear my happiness would be more solid and lasting, for the happiness I + have is mingled with sorrow at leaving thee; so that I was right in saying + I would be glad, if it were God’s will, not to be well pleased.” + </p> + <p> + “Look here, Sancho,” said Teresa; “ever since you joined + on to a knight-errant you talk in such a roundabout way that there is no + understanding you.” + </p> + <p> + “It is enough that God understands me, wife,” replied Sancho; + “for he is the understander of all things; that will do; but mind, + sister, you must look to Dapple carefully for the next three days, so that + he may be fit to take arms; double his feed, and see to the pack-saddle + and other harness, for it is not to a wedding we are bound, but to go + round the world, and play at give and take with giants and dragons and + monsters, and hear hissings and roarings and bellowings and howlings; and + even all this would be lavender, if we had not to reckon with Yanguesans + and enchanted Moors.” + </p> + <p> + “I know well enough, husband,” said Teresa, “that + squires-errant don’t eat their bread for nothing, and so I will be + always praying to our Lord to deliver you speedily from all that hard + fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “I can tell you, wife,” said Sancho, “if I did not + expect to see myself governor of an island before long, I would drop down + dead on the spot.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, then, husband,” said Teresa; “let the hen live, + though it be with her pip, live, and let the devil take all the + governments in the world; you came out of your mother’s womb without + a government, you have lived until now without a government, and when it + is God’s will you will go, or be carried, to your grave without a + government. How many there are in the world who live without a government, + and continue to live all the same, and are reckoned in the number of the + people. The best sauce in the world is hunger, and as the poor are never + without that, they always eat with a relish. But mind, Sancho, if by good + luck you should find yourself with some government, don’t forget me + and your children. Remember that Sanchico is now full fifteen, and it is + right he should go to school, if his uncle the abbot has a mind to have + him trained for the Church. Consider, too, that your daughter Mari-Sancha + will not die of grief if we marry her; for I have my suspicions that she + is as eager to get a husband as you to get a government; and, after all, a + daughter looks better ill married than well whored.” + </p> + <p> + “By my faith,” replied Sancho, “if God brings me to get + any sort of a government, I intend, wife, to make such a high match for + Mari-Sancha that there will be no approaching her without calling her + ‘my lady.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, Sancho,” returned Teresa; “marry her to her equal, + that is the safest plan; for if you put her out of wooden clogs into + high-heeled shoes, out of her grey flannel petticoat into hoops and silk + gowns, out of the plain ‘Marica’ and ‘thou,’ into + ‘Dona So-and-so’ and ‘my lady,’ the girl won’t + know where she is, and at every turn she will fall into a thousand + blunders that will show the thread of her coarse homespun stuff.” + </p> + <p> + “Tut, you fool,” said Sancho; “it will be only to + practise it for two or three years; and then dignity and decorum will fit + her as easily as a glove; and if not, what matter? Let her be ‘my + lady,’ and never mind what happens.” + </p> + <p> + “Keep to your own station, Sancho,” replied Teresa; “don’t + try to raise yourself higher, and bear in mind the proverb that says, + ‘wipe the nose of your neigbbour’s son, and take him into your + house.’ A fine thing it would be, indeed, to marry our Maria to some + great count or grand gentleman, who, when the humour took him, would abuse + her and call her clown-bred and clodhopper’s daughter and spinning + wench. I have not been bringing up my daughter for that all this time, I + can tell you, husband. Do you bring home money, Sancho, and leave marrying + her to my care; there is Lope Tocho, Juan Tocho’s son, a stout, + sturdy young fellow that we know, and I can see he does not look sour at + the girl; and with him, one of our own sort, she will be well married, and + we shall have her always under our eyes, and be all one family, parents + and children, grandchildren and sons-in-law, and the peace and blessing of + God will dwell among us; so don’t you go marrying her in those + courts and grand palaces where they won’t know what to make of her, + or she what to make of herself.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, you idiot and wife for Barabbas,” said Sancho, “what + do you mean by trying, without why or wherefore, to keep me from marrying + my daughter to one who will give me grandchildren that will be called + ‘your lordship’? Look ye, Teresa, I have always heard my + elders say that he who does not know how to take advantage of luck when it + comes to him, has no right to complain if it gives him the go-by; and now + that it is knocking at our door, it will not do to shut it out; let us go + with the favouring breeze that blows upon us.” + </p> + <p> + It is this sort of talk, and what Sancho says lower down, that made the + translator of the history say he considered this chapter apocryphal. + </p> + <p> + “Don’t you see, you animal,” continued Sancho, “that + it will be well for me to drop into some profitable government that will + lift us out of the mire, and marry Mari-Sancha to whom I like; and you + yourself will find yourself called ‘Dona Teresa Panza,’ and + sitting in church on a fine carpet and cushions and draperies, in spite + and in defiance of all the born ladies of the town? No, stay as you are, + growing neither greater nor less, like a tapestry figure—Let us say + no more about it, for Sanchica shall be a countess, say what you will.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you sure of all you say, husband?” replied Teresa. + “Well, for all that, I am afraid this rank of countess for my + daughter will be her ruin. You do as you like, make a duchess or a + princess of her, but I can tell you it will not be with my will and + consent. I was always a lover of equality, brother, and I can’t bear + to see people give themselves airs without any right. They called me + Teresa at my baptism, a plain, simple name, without any additions or tags + or fringes of Dons or Donas; Cascajo was my father’s name, and as I + am your wife, I am called Teresa Panza, though by right I ought to be + called Teresa Cascajo; but ‘kings go where laws like,’ and I + am content with this name without having the ‘Don’ put on top + of it to make it so heavy that I cannot carry it; and I don’t want + to make people talk about me when they see me go dressed like a countess + or governor’s wife; for they will say at once, ‘See what airs + the slut gives herself! Only yesterday she was always spinning flax, and + used to go to mass with the tail of her petticoat over her head instead of + a mantle, and there she goes to-day in a hooped gown with her broaches and + airs, as if we didn’t know her!’ If God keeps me in my seven + senses, or five, or whatever number I have, I am not going to bring myself + to such a pass; go you, brother, and be a government or an island man, and + swagger as much as you like; for by the soul of my mother, neither my + daughter nor I are going to stir a step from our village; a respectable + woman should have a broken leg and keep at home; and to be busy at + something is a virtuous damsel’s holiday; be off to your adventures + along with your Don Quixote, and leave us to our misadventures, for God + will mend them for us according as we deserve it. I don’t know, I’m + sure, who fixed the ‘Don’ to him, what neither his father nor + grandfather ever had.” + </p> + <p> + “I declare thou hast a devil of some sort in thy body!” said + Sancho. “God help thee, what a lot of things thou hast strung + together, one after the other, without head or tail! What have Cascajo, + and the broaches and the proverbs and the airs, to do with what I say? + Look here, fool and dolt (for so I may call you, when you don’t + understand my words, and run away from good fortune), if I had said that + my daughter was to throw herself down from a tower, or go roaming the + world, as the Infanta Dona Urraca wanted to do, you would be right in not + giving way to my will; but if in an instant, in less than the twinkling of + an eye, I put the ‘Don’ and ‘my lady’ on her back, + and take her out of the stubble, and place her under a canopy, on a dais, + and on a couch, with more velvet cushions than all the Almohades of + Morocco ever had in their family, why won’t you consent and fall in + with my wishes?” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know why, husband?” replied Teresa; “because of + the proverb that says ‘who covers thee, discovers thee.’ At + the poor man people only throw a hasty glance; on the rich man they fix + their eyes; and if the said rich man was once on a time poor, it is then + there is the sneering and the tattle and spite of backbiters; and in the + streets here they swarm as thick as bees.” + </p> + <p> + “Look here, Teresa,” said Sancho, “and listen to what I + am now going to say to you; maybe you never heard it in all your life; and + I do not give my own notions, for what I am about to say are the opinions + of his reverence the preacher, who preached in this town last Lent, and + who said, if I remember rightly, that all things present that our eyes + behold, bring themselves before us, and remain and fix themselves on our + memory much better and more forcibly than things past.” + </p> + <p> + These observations which Sancho makes here are the other ones on account of + which the translator says he regards this chapter as apocryphal, inasmuch + as they are beyond Sancho’s capacity. + </p> + <p> + “Whence it arises,” he continued, “that when we see any + person well dressed and making a figure with rich garments and retinue of + servants, it seems to lead and impel us perforce to respect him, though + memory may at the same moment recall to us some lowly condition in which + we have seen him, but which, whether it may have been poverty or low + birth, being now a thing of the past, has no existence; while the only + thing that has any existence is what we see before us; and if this person + whom fortune has raised from his original lowly state (these were the very + words the padre used) to his present height of prosperity, be well bred, + generous, courteous to all, without seeking to vie with those whose + nobility is of ancient date, depend upon it, Teresa, no one will remember + what he was, and everyone will respect what he is, except indeed the + envious, from whom no fair fortune is safe.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not understand you, husband,” replied Teresa; “do + as you like, and don’t break my head with any more speechifying and + rethoric; and if you have revolved to do what you say-” + </p> + <p> + “Resolved, you should say, woman,” said Sancho, “not + revolved.” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t set yourself to wrangle with me, husband,” said + Teresa; “I speak as God pleases, and don’t deal in + out-of-the-way phrases; and I say if you are bent upon having a + government, take your son Sancho with you, and teach him from this time on + how to hold a government; for sons ought to inherit and learn the trades + of their fathers.” + </p> + <p> + “As soon as I have the government,” said Sancho, “I will + send for him by post, and I will send thee money, of which I shall have no + lack, for there is never any want of people to lend it to governors when + they have not got it; and do thou dress him so as to hide what he is and + make him look what he is to be.” + </p> + <p> + “You send the money,” said Teresa, “and I’ll dress + him up for you as fine as you please.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we are agreed that our daughter is to be a countess,” + said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “The day that I see her a countess,” replied Teresa, “it + will be the same to me as if I was burying her; but once more I say do as + you please, for we women are born to this burden of being obedient to our + husbands, though they be dogs;” and with this she began to weep in + earnest, as if she already saw Sanchica dead and buried. + </p> + <p> + Sancho consoled her by saying that though he must make her a countess, he + would put it off as long as possible. Here their conversation came to an + end, and Sancho went back to see Don Quixote, and make arrangements for + their departure. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p05e" id="p05e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p05e.jpg (49K)" src="images/p05e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p05e.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch6b" id="ch6b"></a>CHAPTER VI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF WHAT TOOK PLACE BETWEEN DON QUIXOTE AND HIS NIECE AND HOUSEKEEPER; ONE + OF THE MOST IMPORTANT CHAPTERS IN THE WHOLE HISTORY + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p06a" id="p06a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p06a.jpg (93K)" src="images/p06a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p06a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + While Sancho Panza and his wife, Teresa Cascajo, held the above irrelevant + conversation, Don Quixote’s niece and housekeeper were not idle, for + by a thousand signs they began to perceive that their uncle and master + meant to give them the slip the third time, and once more betake himself + to his, for them, ill-errant chivalry. They strove by all the means in + their power to divert him from such an unlucky scheme; but it was all + preaching in the desert and hammering cold iron. Nevertheless, among many + other representations made to him, the housekeeper said to him, “In + truth, master, if you do not keep still and stay quiet at home, and give + over roaming mountains and valleys like a troubled spirit, looking for + what they say are called adventures, but what I call misfortunes, I shall + have to make complaint to God and the king with loud supplication to send + some remedy.” + </p> + <p> + To which Don Quixote replied, “What answer God will give to your + complaints, housekeeper, I know not, nor what his Majesty will answer + either; I only know that if I were king I should decline to answer the + numberless silly petitions they present every day; for one of the greatest + among the many troubles kings have is being obliged to listen to all and + answer all, and therefore I should be sorry that any affairs of mine + should worry him.” + </p> + <p> + Whereupon the housekeeper said, “Tell us, señor, at his Majesty’s + court are there no knights?” + </p> + <p> + “There are,” replied Don Quixote, “and plenty of them; + and it is right there should be, to set off the dignity of the prince, and + for the greater glory of the king’s majesty.” + </p> + <p> + “Then might not your worship,” said she, “be one of + those that, without stirring a step, serve their king and lord in his + court?” + </p> + <p> + “Recollect, my friend,” said Don Quixote, “all knights + cannot be courtiers, nor can all courtiers be knights-errant, nor need + they be. There must be all sorts in the world; and though we may be all + knights, there is a great difference between one and another; for the + courtiers, without quitting their chambers, or the threshold of the court, + range the world over by looking at a map, without its costing them a + farthing, and without suffering heat or cold, hunger or thirst; but we, + the true knights-errant, measure the whole earth with our own feet, + exposed to the sun, to the cold, to the air, to the inclemencies of + heaven, by day and night, on foot and on horseback; nor do we only know + enemies in pictures, but in their own real shapes; and at all risks and on + all occasions we attack them, without any regard to childish points or + rules of single combat, whether one has or has not a shorter lance or + sword, whether one carries relics or any secret contrivance about him, + whether or not the sun is to be divided and portioned out, and other + niceties of the sort that are observed in set combats of man to man, that + you know nothing about, but I do. And you must know besides, that the true + knight-errant, though he may see ten giants, that not only touch the + clouds with their heads but pierce them, and that go, each of them, on two + tall towers by way of legs, and whose arms are like the masts of mighty + ships, and each eye like a great mill-wheel, and glowing brighter than a + glass furnace, must not on any account be dismayed by them. On the + contrary, he must attack and fall upon them with a gallant bearing and a + fearless heart, and, if possible, vanquish and destroy them, even though + they have for armour the shells of a certain fish, that they say are + harder than diamonds, and in place of swords wield trenchant blades of + Damascus steel, or clubs studded with spikes also of steel, such as I have + more than once seen. All this I say, housekeeper, that you may see the + difference there is between the one sort of knight and the other; and it + would be well if there were no prince who did not set a higher value on + this second, or more properly speaking first, kind of knights-errant; for, + as we read in their histories, there have been some among them who have + been the salvation, not merely of one kingdom, but of many.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, señor,” here exclaimed the niece, “remember that + all this you are saying about knights-errant is fable and fiction; and + their histories, if indeed they were not burned, would deserve, each of + them, to have a sambenito put on it, or some mark by which it might be + known as infamous and a corrupter of good manners.” + </p> + <p> + “By the God that gives me life,” said Don Quixote, “if + thou wert not my full niece, being daughter of my own sister, I would + inflict a chastisement upon thee for the blasphemy thou hast uttered that + all the world should ring with. What! can it be that a young hussy that + hardly knows how to handle a dozen lace-bobbins dares to wag her tongue + and criticise the histories of knights-errant? What would Señor Amadis say + if he heard of such a thing? He, however, no doubt would forgive thee, for + he was the most humble-minded and courteous knight of his time, and + moreover a great protector of damsels; but some there are that might have + heard thee, and it would not have been well for thee in that case; for + they are not all courteous or mannerly; some are ill-conditioned + scoundrels; nor is it everyone that calls himself a gentleman, that is so + in all respects; some are gold, others pinchbeck, and all look like + gentlemen, but not all can stand the touchstone of truth. There are men of + low rank who strain themselves to bursting to pass for gentlemen, and high + gentlemen who, one would fancy, were dying to pass for men of low rank; + the former raise themselves by their ambition or by their virtues, the + latter debase themselves by their lack of spirit or by their vices; and + one has need of experience and discernment to distinguish these two kinds + of gentlemen, so much alike in name and so different in conduct.” + </p> + <p> + “God bless me!” said the niece, “that you should know so + much, uncle—enough, if need be, to get up into a pulpit and go + preach in the streets—and yet that you should fall into a delusion + so great and a folly so manifest as to try to make yourself out vigorous + when you are old, strong when you are sickly, able to put straight what is + crooked when you yourself are bent by age, and, above all, a caballero + when you are not one; for though gentlefolk may be so, poor men are + nothing of the kind!” + </p> + <p> + “There is a great deal of truth in what you say, niece,” + returned Don Quixote, “and I could tell you somewhat about birth + that would astonish you; but, not to mix up things human and divine, I + refrain. Look you, my dears, all the lineages in the world (attend to what + I am saying) can be reduced to four sorts, which are these: those that had + humble beginnings, and went on spreading and extending themselves until + they attained surpassing greatness; those that had great beginnings and + maintained them, and still maintain and uphold the greatness of their + origin; those, again, that from a great beginning have ended in a point + like a pyramid, having reduced and lessened their original greatness till + it has come to nought, like the point of a pyramid, which, relatively to + its base or foundation, is nothing; and then there are those—and it + is they that are the most numerous—that have had neither an + illustrious beginning nor a remarkable mid-course, and so will have an end + without a name, like an ordinary plebeian line. Of the first, those that + had an humble origin and rose to the greatness they still preserve, the + Ottoman house may serve as an example, which from an humble and lowly + shepherd, its founder, has reached the height at which we now see it. For + examples of the second sort of lineage, that began with greatness and + maintains it still without adding to it, there are the many princes who + have inherited the dignity, and maintain themselves in their inheritance, + without increasing or diminishing it, keeping peacefully within the limits + of their states. Of those that began great and ended in a point, there are + thousands of examples, for all the Pharaohs and Ptolemies of Egypt, the + Caesars of Rome, and the whole herd (if I may apply such a word to them) + of countless princes, monarchs, lords, Medes, Assyrians, Persians, Greeks, + and barbarians, all these lineages and lordships have ended in a point and + come to nothing, they themselves as well as their founders, for it would + be impossible now to find one of their descendants, and, even should we + find one, it would be in some lowly and humble condition. Of plebeian + lineages I have nothing to say, save that they merely serve to swell the + number of those that live, without any eminence to entitle them to any + fame or praise beyond this. From all I have said I would have you gather, + my poor innocents, that great is the confusion among lineages, and that + only those are seen to be great and illustrious that show themselves so by + the virtue, wealth, and generosity of their possessors. I have said + virtue, wealth, and generosity, because a great man who is vicious will be + a great example of vice, and a rich man who is not generous will be merely + a miserly beggar; for the possessor of wealth is not made happy by + possessing it, but by spending it, and not by spending as he pleases, but + by knowing how to spend it well. The poor gentleman has no way of showing + that he is a gentleman but by virtue, by being affable, well-bred, + courteous, gentle-mannered, and kindly, not haughty, arrogant, or + censorious, but above all by being charitable; for by two maravedis given + with a cheerful heart to the poor, he will show himself as generous as he + who distributes alms with bell-ringing, and no one that perceives him to + be endowed with the virtues I have named, even though he know him not, + will fail to recognise and set him down as one of good blood; and it would + be strange were it not so; praise has ever been the reward of virtue, and + those who are virtuous cannot fail to receive commendation. There are two + roads, my daughters, by which men may reach wealth and honours; one is + that of letters, the other that of arms. I have more of arms than of + letters in my composition, and, judging by my inclination to arms, was + born under the influence of the planet Mars. I am, therefore, in a measure + constrained to follow that road, and by it I must travel in spite of all + the world, and it will be labour in vain for you to urge me to resist what + heaven wills, fate ordains, reason requires, and, above all, my own + inclination favours; for knowing as I do the countless toils that are the + accompaniments of knight-errantry, I know, too, the infinite blessings + that are attained by it; I know that the path of virtue is very narrow, + and the road of vice broad and spacious; I know their ends and goals are + different, for the broad and easy road of vice ends in death, and the + narrow and toilsome one of virtue in life, and not transitory life, but in + that which has no end; I know, as our great Castilian poet says, that- + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +It is by rugged paths like these they go +That scale the heights of immortality, +Unreached by those that falter here below.” + </pre> + <p> + “Woe is me!” exclaimed the niece, “my lord is a poet, + too! He knows everything, and he can do everything; I will bet, if he + chose to turn mason, he could make a house as easily as a cage.” + </p> + <p> + “I can tell you, niece,” replied Don Quixote, “if these + chivalrous thoughts did not engage all my faculties, there would be + nothing that I could not do, nor any sort of knickknack that would not + come from my hands, particularly cages and tooth-picks.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment there came a knocking at the door, and when they asked who + was there, Sancho Panza made answer that it was he. The instant the + housekeeper knew who it was, she ran to hide herself so as not to see him; + in such abhorrence did she hold him. The niece let him in, and his master + Don Quixote came forward to receive him with open arms, and the pair shut + themselves up in his room, where they had another conversation not + inferior to the previous one. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p06e" id="p06e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p06e.jpg (19K)" src="images/p06e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch7b" id="ch7b"></a>CHAPTER VII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF WHAT PASSED BETWEEN DON QUIXOTE AND HIS SQUIRE, TOGETHER WITH OTHER + VERY NOTABLE INCIDENTS + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p07a" id="p07a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p07a.jpg (140K)" src="images/p07a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p07a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The instant the housekeeper saw Sancho Panza shut himself in with her + master, she guessed what they were about; and suspecting that the result + of the consultation would be a resolve to undertake a third sally, she + seized her mantle, and in deep anxiety and distress, ran to find the + bachelor Samson Carrasco, as she thought that, being a well-spoken man, + and a new friend of her master’s, he might be able to persuade him + to give up any such crazy notion. She found him pacing the patio of his + house, and, perspiring and flurried, she fell at his feet the moment she + saw him. + </p> + <p> + Carrasco, seeing how distressed and overcome she was, said to her, “What + is this, mistress housekeeper? What has happened to you? One would think + you heart-broken.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, Señor Samson,” said she, “only that my master + is breaking out, plainly breaking out.” + </p> + <p> + “Whereabouts is he breaking out, señora?” asked Samson; + “has any part of his body burst?” + </p> + <p> + “He is only breaking out at the door of his madness,” she + replied; “I mean, dear señor bachelor, that he is going to break out + again (and this will be the third time) to hunt all over the world for + what he calls ventures, though I can’t make out why he gives them + that name. The first time he was brought back to us slung across the back + of an ass, and belaboured all over; and the second time he came in an + ox-cart, shut up in a cage, in which he persuaded himself he was + enchanted, and the poor creature was in such a state that the mother that + bore him would not have known him; lean, yellow, with his eyes sunk deep + in the cells of his skull; so that to bring him round again, ever so + little, cost me more than six hundred eggs, as God knows, and all the + world, and my hens too, that won’t let me tell a lie.” + </p> + <p> + “That I can well believe,” replied the bachelor, “for + they are so good and so fat, and so well-bred, that they would not say one + thing for another, though they were to burst for it. In short then, + mistress housekeeper, that is all, and there is nothing the matter, except + what it is feared Don Quixote may do?” + </p> + <p> + “No, señor,” said she. + </p> + <p> + “Well then,” returned the bachelor, “don’t be + uneasy, but go home in peace; get me ready something hot for breakfast, + and while you are on the way say the prayer of Santa Apollonia, that is if + you know it; for I will come presently and you will see miracles.” + </p> + <p> + “Woe is me,” cried the housekeeper, “is it the prayer of + Santa Apollonia you would have me say? That would do if it was the + toothache my master had; but it is in the brains, what he has got.” + </p> + <p> + “I know what I am saying, mistress housekeeper; go, and don’t + set yourself to argue with me, for you know I am a bachelor of Salamanca, + and one can’t be more of a bachelor than that,” replied + Carrasco; and with this the housekeeper retired, and the bachelor went to + look for the curate, and arrange with him what will be told in its proper + place. + </p> + <p> + While Don Quixote and Sancho were shut up together, they had a discussion + which the history records with great precision and scrupulous exactness. + Sancho said to his master, “Señor, I have educed my wife to let me + go with your worship wherever you choose to take me.” + </p> + <p> + “Induced, you should say, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; “not + educed.” + </p> + <p> + “Once or twice, as well as I remember,” replied Sancho, + “I have begged of your worship not to mend my words, if so be as you + understand what I mean by them; and if you don’t understand them to + say ‘Sancho,’ or ‘devil,’ ‘I don’t + understand thee; and if I don’t make my meaning plain, then you may + correct me, for I am so focile-” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t understand thee, Sancho,” said Don Quixote at + once; “for I know not what ‘I am so focile’ means.” + </p> + <p> + “‘So focile’ means I am so much that way,” replied + Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “I understand thee still less now,” said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “Well, if you can’t understand me,” said Sancho, “I + don’t know how to put it; I know no more, God help me.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, now I have hit it,” said Don Quixote; “thou wouldst + say thou art so docile, tractable, and gentle that thou wilt take what I + say to thee, and submit to what I teach thee.” + </p> + <p> + “I would bet,” said Sancho, “that from the very first + you understood me, and knew what I meant, but you wanted to put me out + that you might hear me make another couple of dozen blunders.” + </p> + <p> + “May be so,” replied Don Quixote; “but to come to the + point, what does Teresa say?” + </p> + <p> + “Teresa says,” replied Sancho, “that I should make sure + with your worship, and ‘let papers speak and beards be still,’ + for ‘he who binds does not wrangle,’ since one ‘take’ + is better than two ‘I’ll give thee’s;’ and I say a + woman’s advice is no great thing, and he who won’t take it is + a fool.” + </p> + <p> + “And so say I,” said Don Quixote; “continue, Sancho my + friend; go on; you talk pearls to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “The fact is,” continued Sancho, “that, as your worship + knows better than I do, we are all of us liable to death, and to-day we + are, and to-morrow we are not, and the lamb goes as soon as the sheep, and + nobody can promise himself more hours of life in this world than God may + be pleased to give him; for death is deaf, and when it comes to knock at + our life’s door, it is always urgent, and neither prayers, nor + struggles, nor sceptres, nor mitres, can keep it back, as common talk and + report say, and as they tell us from the pulpits every day.” + </p> + <p> + “All that is very true,” said Don Quixote; “but I cannot + make out what thou art driving at.” + </p> + <p> + “What I am driving at,” said Sancho, “is that your + worship settle some fixed wages for me, to be paid monthly while I am in + your service, and that the same be paid me out of your estate; for I don’t + care to stand on rewards which either come late, or ill, or never at all; + God help me with my own. In short, I would like to know what I am to get, + be it much or little; for the hen will lay on one egg, and many littles + make a much, and so long as one gains something there is nothing lost. To + be sure, if it should happen (what I neither believe nor expect) that your + worship were to give me that island you have promised me, I am not so + ungrateful nor so grasping but that I would be willing to have the revenue + of such island valued and stopped out of my wages in due promotion.” + </p> + <p> + “Sancho, my friend,” replied Don Quixote, “sometimes + proportion may be as good as promotion.” + </p> + <p> + “I see,” said Sancho; “I’ll bet I ought to have + said proportion, and not promotion; but it is no matter, as your worship + has understood me.” + </p> + <p> + “And so well understood,” returned Don Quixote, “that I + have seen into the depths of thy thoughts, and know the mark thou art + shooting at with the countless shafts of thy proverbs. Look here, Sancho, + I would readily fix thy wages if I had ever found any instance in the + histories of the knights-errant to show or indicate, by the slightest + hint, what their squires used to get monthly or yearly; but I have read + all or the best part of their histories, and I cannot remember reading of + any knight-errant having assigned fixed wages to his squire; I only know + that they all served on reward, and that when they least expected it, if + good luck attended their masters, they found themselves recompensed with + an island or something equivalent to it, or at the least they were left + with a title and lordship. If with these hopes and additional inducements + you, Sancho, please to return to my service, well and good; but to suppose + that I am going to disturb or unhinge the ancient usage of + knight-errantry, is all nonsense. And so, my Sancho, get you back to your + house and explain my intentions to your Teresa, and if she likes and you + like to be on reward with me, bene quidem; if not, we remain friends; for + if the pigeon-house does not lack food, it will not lack pigeons; and bear + in mind, my son, that a good hope is better than a bad holding, and a good + grievance better than a bad compensation. I speak in this way, Sancho, to + show you that I can shower down proverbs just as well as yourself; and in + short, I mean to say, and I do say, that if you don’t like to come + on reward with me, and run the same chance that I run, God be with you and + make a saint of you; for I shall find plenty of squires more obedient and + painstaking, and not so thickheaded or talkative as you are.” + </p> + <p> + When Sancho heard his master’s firm, resolute language, a cloud came + over the sky with him and the wings of his heart drooped, for he had made + sure that his master would not go without him for all the wealth of the + world; and as he stood there dumbfoundered and moody, Samson Carrasco came + in with the housekeeper and niece, who were anxious to hear by what + arguments he was about to dissuade their master from going to seek + adventures. The arch wag Samson came forward, and embracing him as he had + done before, said with a loud voice, “O flower of knight-errantry! O + shining light of arms! O honour and mirror of the Spanish nation! may God + Almighty in his infinite power grant that any person or persons, who would + impede or hinder thy third sally, may find no way out of the labyrinth of + their schemes, nor ever accomplish what they most desire!” And then, + turning to the housekeeper, he said, “Mistress housekeeper may just + as well give over saying the prayer of Santa Apollonia, for I know it is + the positive determination of the spheres that Señor Don Quixote shall + proceed to put into execution his new and lofty designs; and I should lay + a heavy burden on my conscience did I not urge and persuade this knight + not to keep the might of his strong arm and the virtue of his valiant + spirit any longer curbed and checked, for by his inactivity he is + defrauding the world of the redress of wrongs, of the protection of + orphans, of the honour of virgins, of the aid of widows, and of the + support of wives, and other matters of this kind appertaining, belonging, + proper and peculiar to the order of knight-errantry. On, then, my lord Don + Quixote, beautiful and brave, let your worship and highness set out to-day + rather than to-morrow; and if anything be needed for the execution of your + purpose, here am I ready in person and purse to supply the want; and were + it requisite to attend your magnificence as squire, I should esteem it the + happiest good fortune.” + </p> + <p> + At this, Don Quixote, turning to Sancho, said, “Did I not tell thee, + Sancho, there would be squires enough and to spare for me? See now who + offers to become one; no less than the illustrious bachelor Samson + Carrasco, the perpetual joy and delight of the courts of the Salamancan + schools, sound in body, discreet, patient under heat or cold, hunger or + thirst, with all the qualifications requisite to make a knight-errant’s + squire! But heaven forbid that, to gratify my own inclination, I should + shake or shatter this pillar of letters and vessel of the sciences, and + cut down this towering palm of the fair and liberal arts. Let this new + Samson remain in his own country, and, bringing honour to it, bring honour + at the same time on the grey heads of his venerable parents; for I will be + content with any squire that comes to hand, as Sancho does not deign to + accompany me.” + </p> + <p> + “I do deign,” said Sancho, deeply moved and with tears in his + eyes; “it shall not be said of me, master mine,” he continued, + “‘the bread eaten and the company dispersed.’ Nay, I + come of no ungrateful stock, for all the world knows, but particularly my + own town, who the Panzas from whom I am descended were; and, what is more, + I know and have learned, by many good words and deeds, your worship’s + desire to show me favour; and if I have been bargaining more or less about + my wages, it was only to please my wife, who, when she sets herself to + press a point, no hammer drives the hoops of a cask as she drives one to + do what she wants; but, after all, a man must be a man, and a woman a + woman; and as I am a man anyhow, which I can’t deny, I will be one + in my own house too, let who will take it amiss; and so there’s + nothing more to do but for your worship to make your will with its codicil + in such a way that it can’t be provoked, and let us set out at once, + to save Señor Samson’s soul from suffering, as he says his + conscience obliges him to persuade your worship to sally out upon the + world a third time; so I offer again to serve your worship faithfully and + loyally, as well and better than all the squires that served + knights-errant in times past or present.” + </p> + <p> + The bachelor was filled with amazement when he heard Sancho’s + phraseology and style of talk, for though he had read the first part of + his master’s history he never thought that he could be so droll as + he was there described; but now, hearing him talk of a “will and + codicil that could not be provoked,” instead of “will and + codicil that could not be revoked,” he believed all he had read of + him, and set him down as one of the greatest simpletons of modern times; + and he said to himself that two such lunatics as master and man the world + had never seen. In fine, Don Quixote and Sancho embraced one another and + made friends, and by the advice and with the approval of the great + Carrasco, who was now their oracle, it was arranged that their departure + should take place three days thence, by which time they could have all + that was requisite for the journey ready, and procure a closed helmet, + which Don Quixote said he must by all means take. Samson offered him one, + as he knew a friend of his who had it would not refuse it to him, though + it was more dingy with rust and mildew than bright and clean like + burnished steel. + </p> + <p> + The curses which both housekeeper and niece poured out on the bachelor + were past counting; they tore their hair, they clawed their faces, and in + the style of the hired mourners that were once in fashion, they raised a + lamentation over the departure of their master and uncle, as if it had + been his death. Samson’s intention in persuading him to sally forth + once more was to do what the history relates farther on; all by the advice + of the curate and barber, with whom he had previously discussed the + subject. Finally, then, during those three days, Don Quixote and Sancho + provided themselves with what they considered necessary, and Sancho having + pacified his wife, and Don Quixote his niece and housekeeper, at + nightfall, unseen by anyone except the bachelor, who thought fit to + accompany them half a league out of the village, they set out for El + Toboso, Don Quixote on his good Rocinante and Sancho on his old Dapple, + his alforjas furnished with certain matters in the way of victuals, and + his purse with money that Don Quixote gave him to meet emergencies. Samson + embraced him, and entreated him to let him hear of his good or evil + fortunes, so that he might rejoice over the former or condole with him + over the latter, as the laws of friendship required. Don Quixote promised + him he would do so, and Samson returned to the village, and the other two + took the road for the great city of El Toboso. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p07e" id="p07e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p07e.jpg (24K)" src="images/p07e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch8b" id="ch8b"></a>CHAPTER VIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS RELATED WHAT BEFELL DON QUIXOTE ON HIS WAY TO SEE HIS LADY + DULCINEA DEL TOBOSO + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p08a" id="p08a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p08a.jpg (65K)" src="images/p08a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p08a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “Blessed be Allah the all-powerful!” says Hamete Benengeli on + beginning this eighth chapter; “blessed be Allah!” he repeats + three times; and he says he utters these thanksgivings at seeing that he + has now got Don Quixote and Sancho fairly afield, and that the readers of + his delightful history may reckon that the achievements and humours of Don + Quixote and his squire are now about to begin; and he urges them to forget + the former chivalries of the ingenious gentleman and to fix their eyes on + those that are to come, which now begin on the road to El Toboso, as the + others began on the plains of Montiel; nor is it much that he asks in + consideration of all he promises, and so he goes on to say: + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote and Sancho were left alone, and the moment Samson took his + departure, Rocinante began to neigh, and Dapple to sigh, which, by both + knight and squire, was accepted as a good sign and a very happy omen; + though, if the truth is to be told, the sighs and brays of Dapple were + louder than the neighings of the hack, from which Sancho inferred that his + good fortune was to exceed and overtop that of his master, building, + perhaps, upon some judicial astrology that he may have known, though the + history says nothing about it; all that can be said is, that when he + stumbled or fell, he was heard to say he wished he had not come out, for + by stumbling or falling there was nothing to be got but a damaged shoe or + a broken rib; and, fool as he was, he was not much astray in this. + </p> + <p> + Said Don Quixote, “Sancho, my friend, night is drawing on upon us as + we go, and more darkly than will allow us to reach El Toboso by daylight; + for there I am resolved to go before I engage in another adventure, and + there I shall obtain the blessing and generous permission of the peerless + Dulcinea, with which permission I expect and feel assured that I shall + conclude and bring to a happy termination every perilous adventure; for + nothing in life makes knights-errant more valorous than finding themselves + favoured by their ladies.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p08b" id="p08b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p08b.jpg (283K)" src="images/p08b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p08b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “So I believe,” replied Sancho; “but I think it will be + difficult for your worship to speak with her or see her, at any rate where + you will be able to receive her blessing; unless, indeed, she throws it + over the wall of the yard where I saw her the time before, when I took her + the letter that told of the follies and mad things your worship was doing + in the heart of Sierra Morena.” + </p> + <p> + “Didst thou take that for a yard wall, Sancho,” said Don + Quixote, “where or at which thou sawest that never sufficiently + extolled grace and beauty? It must have been the gallery, corridor, or + portico of some rich and royal palace.” + </p> + <p> + “It might have been all that,” returned Sancho, “but to + me it looked like a wall, unless I am short of memory.” + </p> + <p> + “At all events, let us go there, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; + “for, so that I see her, it is the same to me whether it be over a + wall, or at a window, or through the chink of a door, or the grate of a + garden; for any beam of the sun of her beauty that reaches my eyes will + give light to my reason and strength to my heart, so that I shall be + unmatched and unequalled in wisdom and valour.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, to tell the truth, señor,” said Sancho, “when I + saw that sun of the lady Dulcinea del Toboso, it was not bright enough to + throw out beams at all; it must have been, that as her grace was sifting + that wheat I told you of, the thick dust she raised came before her face + like a cloud and dimmed it.” + </p> + <p> + “What! dost thou still persist, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, + “in saying, thinking, believing, and maintaining that my lady + Dulcinea was sifting wheat, that being an occupation and task entirely at + variance with what is and should be the employment of persons of + distinction, who are constituted and reserved for other avocations and + pursuits that show their rank a bowshot off? Thou hast forgotten, O + Sancho, those lines of our poet wherein he paints for us how, in their + crystal abodes, those four nymphs employed themselves who rose from their + loved Tagus and seated themselves in a verdant meadow to embroider those + tissues which the ingenious poet there describes to us, how they were + worked and woven with gold and silk and pearls; and something of this sort + must have been the employment of my lady when thou sawest her, only that + the spite which some wicked enchanter seems to have against everything of + mine changes all those things that give me pleasure, and turns them into + shapes unlike their own; and so I fear that in that history of my + achievements which they say is now in print, if haply its author was some + sage who is an enemy of mine, he will have put one thing for another, + mingling a thousand lies with one truth, and amusing himself by relating + transactions which have nothing to do with the sequence of a true history. + O envy, root of all countless evils, and cankerworm of the virtues! All + the vices, Sancho, bring some kind of pleasure with them; but envy brings + nothing but irritation, bitterness, and rage.” + </p> + <p> + “So I say too,” replied Sancho; “and I suspect in that + legend or history of us that the bachelor Samson Carrasco told us he saw, + my honour goes dragged in the dirt, knocked about, up and down, sweeping + the streets, as they say. And yet, on the faith of an honest man, I never + spoke ill of any enchanter, and I am not so well off that I am to be + envied; to be sure, I am rather sly, and I have a certain spice of the + rogue in me; but all is covered by the great cloak of my simplicity, + always natural and never acted; and if I had no other merit save that I + believe, as I always do, firmly and truly in God, and all the holy Roman + Catholic Church holds and believes, and that I am a mortal enemy of the + Jews, the historians ought to have mercy on me and treat me well in their + writings. But let them say what they like; naked was I born, naked I find + myself, I neither lose nor gain; nay, while I see myself put into a book + and passed on from hand to hand over the world, I don’t care a fig, + let them say what they like of me.” + </p> + <p> + “That, Sancho,” returned Don Quixote, “reminds me of + what happened to a famous poet of our own day, who, having written a + bitter satire against all the courtesan ladies, did not insert or name in + it a certain lady of whom it was questionable whether she was one or not. + She, seeing she was not in the list of the poet, asked him what he had + seen in her that he did not include her in the number of the others, + telling him he must add to his satire and put her in the new part, or else + look out for the consequences. The poet did as she bade him, and left her + without a shred of reputation, and she was satisfied by getting fame + though it was infamy. In keeping with this is what they relate of that + shepherd who set fire to the famous temple of Diana, by repute one of the + seven wonders of the world, and burned it with the sole object of making + his name live in after ages; and, though it was forbidden to name him, or + mention his name by word of mouth or in writing, lest the object of his + ambition should be attained, nevertheless it became known that he was + called Erostratus. And something of the same sort is what happened in the + case of the great emperor Charles V and a gentleman in Rome. The emperor + was anxious to see that famous temple of the Rotunda, called in ancient + times the temple ‘of all the gods,’ but now-a-days, by a + better nomenclature, ‘of all the saints,’ which is the best + preserved building of all those of pagan construction in Rome, and the one + which best sustains the reputation of mighty works and magnificence of its + founders. It is in the form of a half orange, of enormous dimensions, and + well lighted, though no light penetrates it save that which is admitted by + a window, or rather round skylight, at the top; and it was from this that + the emperor examined the building. A Roman gentleman stood by his side and + explained to him the skilful construction and ingenuity of the vast fabric + and its wonderful architecture, and when they had left the skylight he + said to the emperor, ‘A thousand times, your Sacred Majesty, the + impulse came upon me to seize your Majesty in my arms and fling myself + down from yonder skylight, so as to leave behind me in the world a name + that would last for ever.’ ‘I am thankful to you for not + carrying such an evil thought into effect,’ said the emperor, + ‘and I shall give you no opportunity in future of again putting your + loyalty to the test; and I therefore forbid you ever to speak to me or to + be where I am; and he followed up these words by bestowing a liberal + bounty upon him. My meaning is, Sancho, that the desire of acquiring fame + is a very powerful motive. What, thinkest thou, was it that flung Horatius + in full armour down from the bridge into the depths of the Tiber? What + burned the hand and arm of Mutius? What impelled Curtius to plunge into + the deep burning gulf that opened in the midst of Rome? What, in + opposition to all the omens that declared against him, made Julius Caesar + cross the Rubicon? And to come to more modern examples, what scuttled the + ships, and left stranded and cut off the gallant Spaniards under the + command of the most courteous Cortes in the New World? All these and a + variety of other great exploits are, were and will be, the work of fame + that mortals desire as a reward and a portion of the immortality their + famous deeds deserve; though we Catholic Christians and knights-errant + look more to that future glory that is everlasting in the ethereal regions + of heaven than to the vanity of the fame that is to be acquired in this + present transitory life; a fame that, however long it may last, must after + all end with the world itself, which has its own appointed end. So that, O + Sancho, in what we do we must not overpass the bounds which the Christian + religion we profess has assigned to us. We have to slay pride in giants, + envy by generosity and nobleness of heart, anger by calmness of demeanour + and equanimity, gluttony and sloth by the spareness of our diet and the + length of our vigils, lust and lewdness by the loyalty we preserve to + those whom we have made the mistresses of our thoughts, indolence by + traversing the world in all directions seeking opportunities of making + ourselves, besides Christians, famous knights. Such, Sancho, are the means + by which we reach those extremes of praise that fair fame carries with it.” + </p> + <p> + “All that your worship has said so far,” said Sancho, “I + have understood quite well; but still I would be glad if your worship + would dissolve a doubt for me, which has just this minute come into my + mind.” + </p> + <p> + “Solve, thou meanest, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; “say + on, in God’s name, and I will answer as well as I can.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me, señor,” Sancho went on to say, “those Julys or + Augusts, and all those venturous knights that you say are now dead—where + are they now?” + </p> + <p> + “The heathens,” replied Don Quixote, “are, no doubt, in + hell; the Christians, if they were good Christians, are either in + purgatory or in heaven.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good,” said Sancho; “but now I want to know—the + tombs where the bodies of those great lords are, have they silver lamps + before them, or are the walls of their chapels ornamented with crutches, + winding-sheets, tresses of hair, legs and eyes in wax? Or what are they + ornamented with?” + </p> + <p> + To which Don Quixote made answer: “The tombs of the heathens were + generally sumptuous temples; the ashes of Julius Caesar’s body were + placed on the top of a stone pyramid of vast size, which they now call in + Rome Saint Peter’s needle. The emperor Hadrian had for a tomb a + castle as large as a good-sized village, which they called the Moles + Adriani, and is now the castle of St. Angelo in Rome. The queen Artemisia + buried her husband Mausolus in a tomb which was reckoned one of the seven + wonders of the world; but none of these tombs, or of the many others of + the heathens, were ornamented with winding-sheets or any of those other + offerings and tokens that show that they who are buried there are saints.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s the point I’m coming to,” said Sancho; + “and now tell me, which is the greater work, to bring a dead man to + life or to kill a giant?” + </p> + <p> + “The answer is easy,” replied Don Quixote; “it is a + greater work to bring to life a dead man.” + </p> + <p> + “Now I have got you,” said Sancho; “in that case the + fame of them who bring the dead to life, who give sight to the blind, cure + cripples, restore health to the sick, and before whose tombs there are + lamps burning, and whose chapels are filled with devout folk on their + knees adoring their relics be a better fame in this life and in the other + than that which all the heathen emperors and knights-errant that have ever + been in the world have left or may leave behind them?” + </p> + <p> + “That I grant, too,” said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “Then this fame, these favours, these privileges, or whatever you + call it,” said Sancho, “belong to the bodies and relics of the + saints who, with the approbation and permission of our holy mother Church, + have lamps, tapers, winding-sheets, crutches, pictures, eyes and legs, by + means of which they increase devotion and add to their own Christian + reputation. Kings carry the bodies or relics of saints on their shoulders, + and kiss bits of their bones, and enrich and adorn their oratories and + favourite altars with them.” + </p> + <p> + “What wouldst thou have me infer from all thou hast said, Sancho?” + asked Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “My meaning is,” said Sancho, “let us set about becoming + saints, and we shall obtain more quickly the fair fame we are striving + after; for you know, señor, yesterday or the day before yesterday (for it + is so lately one may say so) they canonised and beatified two little + barefoot friars, and it is now reckoned the greatest good luck to kiss or + touch the iron chains with which they girt and tortured their bodies, and + they are held in greater veneration, so it is said, than the sword of + Roland in the armoury of our lord the King, whom God preserve. So that, + señor, it is better to be an humble little friar of no matter what order, + than a valiant knight-errant; with God a couple of dozen of penance + lashings are of more avail than two thousand lance-thrusts, be they given + to giants, or monsters, or dragons.” + </p> + <p> + “All that is true,” returned Don Quixote, “but we cannot + all be friars, and many are the ways by which God takes his own to heaven; + chivalry is a religion, there are sainted knights in glory.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Sancho, “but I have heard say that there are + more friars in heaven than knights-errant.” + </p> + <p> + “That,” said Don Quixote, “is because those in religious + orders are more numerous than knights.” + </p> + <p> + “The errants are many,” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Many,” replied Don Quixote, “but few they who deserve + the name of knights.” + </p> + <p> + With these, and other discussions of the same sort, they passed that night + and the following day, without anything worth mention happening to them, + whereat Don Quixote was not a little dejected; but at length the next day, + at daybreak, they descried the great city of El Toboso, at the sight of + which Don Quixote’s spirits rose and Sancho’s fell, for he did + not know Dulcinea’s house, nor in all his life had he ever seen her, + any more than his master; so that they were both uneasy, the one to see + her, the other at not having seen her, and Sancho was at a loss to know + what he was to do when his master sent him to El Toboso. In the end, Don + Quixote made up his mind to enter the city at nightfall, and they waited + until the time came among some oak trees that were near El Toboso; and + when the moment they had agreed upon arrived, they made their entrance + into the city, where something happened them that may fairly be called + something. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p08e" id="p08e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p08e.jpg (49K)" src="images/p08e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p08e.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch9b" id="ch9b"></a>CHAPTER IX. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS RELATED WHAT WILL BE SEEN THERE + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p09a" id="p09a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p09a.jpg (79K)" src="images/p09a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p09a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + ‘Twas at the very midnight hour—more or less—when Don + Quixote and Sancho quitted the wood and entered El Toboso. The town was in + deep silence, for all the inhabitants were asleep, and stretched on the + broad of their backs, as the saying is. The night was darkish, though + Sancho would have been glad had it been quite dark, so as to find in the + darkness an excuse for his blundering. All over the place nothing was to + be heard except the barking of dogs, which deafened the ears of Don + Quixote and troubled the heart of Sancho. Now and then an ass brayed, pigs + grunted, cats mewed, and the various noises they made seemed louder in the + silence of the night; all which the enamoured knight took to be of evil + omen; nevertheless he said to Sancho, “Sancho, my son, lead on to + the palace of Dulcinea, it may be that we shall find her awake.” + </p> + <p> + “Body of the sun! what palace am I to lead to,” said Sancho, + “when what I saw her highness in was only a very little house?” + </p> + <p> + “Most likely she had then withdrawn into some small apartment of her + palace,” said Don Quixote, “to amuse herself with damsels, as + great ladies and princesses are accustomed to do.” + </p> + <p> + “Señor,” said Sancho, “if your worship will have it in + spite of me that the house of my lady Dulcinea is a palace, is this an + hour, think you, to find the door open; and will it be right for us to go + knocking till they hear us and open the door; making a disturbance and + confusion all through the household? Are we going, do you fancy, to the + house of our wenches, like gallants who come and knock and go in at any + hour, however late it may be?” + </p> + <p> + “Let us first of all find out the palace for certain,” replied + Don Quixote, “and then I will tell thee, Sancho, what we had best + do; but look, Sancho, for either I see badly, or that dark mass that one + sees from here should be Dulcinea’s palace.” + </p> + <p> + “Then let your worship lead the way,” said Sancho, “perhaps + it may be so; though I see it with my eyes and touch it with my hands, I’ll + believe it as much as I believe it is daylight now.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote took the lead, and having gone a matter of two hundred paces + he came upon the mass that produced the shade, and found it was a great + tower, and then he perceived that the building in question was no palace, + but the chief church of the town, and said he, “It’s the + church we have lit upon, Sancho.” + </p> + <p> + “So I see,” said Sancho, “and God grant we may not light + upon our graves; it is no good sign to find oneself wandering in a + graveyard at this time of night; and that, after my telling your worship, + if I don’t mistake, that the house of this lady will be in an alley + without an outlet.” + </p> + <p> + “The curse of God on thee for a blockhead!” said Don Quixote; + “where hast thou ever heard of castles and royal palaces being built + in alleys without an outlet?” + </p> + <p> + “Señor,” replied Sancho, “every country has a way of its + own; perhaps here in El Toboso it is the way to build palaces and grand + buildings in alleys; so I entreat your worship to let me search about + among these streets or alleys before me, and perhaps, in some corner or + other, I may stumble on this palace—and I wish I saw the dogs eating + it for leading us such a dance.” + </p> + <p> + “Speak respectfully of what belongs to my lady, Sancho,” said + Don Quixote; “let us keep the feast in peace, and not throw the rope + after the bucket.” + </p> + <p> + “I’ll hold my tongue,” said Sancho, “but how am I + to take it patiently when your worship wants me, with only once seeing the + house of our mistress, to know always, and find it in the middle of the + night, when your worship can’t find it, who must have seen it + thousands of times?” + </p> + <p> + “Thou wilt drive me to desperation, Sancho,” said Don Quixote. + “Look here, heretic, have I not told thee a thousand times that I + have never once in my life seen the peerless Dulcinea or crossed the + threshold of her palace, and that I am enamoured solely by hearsay and by + the great reputation she bears for beauty and discretion?” + </p> + <p> + “I hear it now,” returned Sancho; “and I may tell you + that if you have not seen her, no more have I.” + </p> + <p> + “That cannot be,” said Don Quixote, “for, at any rate, + thou saidst, on bringing back the answer to the letter I sent by thee, + that thou sawest her sifting wheat.” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t mind that, señor,” said Sancho; “I must + tell you that my seeing her and the answer I brought you back were by + hearsay too, for I can no more tell who the lady Dulcinea is than I can + hit the sky.” + </p> + <p> + “Sancho, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “there are times for + jests and times when jests are out of place; if I tell thee that I have + neither seen nor spoken to the lady of my heart, it is no reason why thou + shouldst say thou hast not spoken to her or seen her, when the contrary is + the case, as thou well knowest.” + </p> + <p> + While the two were engaged in this conversation, they perceived some one + with a pair of mules approaching the spot where they stood, and from the + noise the plough made, as it dragged along the ground, they guessed him to + be some labourer who had got up before daybreak to go to his work, and so + it proved to be. He came along singing the ballad that says- + </p> + <p class="poem"> + Ill did ye fare, ye men of France,<br/> + In Roncesvalles chase— + </p> + <p> + “May I die, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, when he heard him, + “if any good will come to us to-night! Dost thou not hear what that + clown is singing?” + </p> + <p> + “I do,” said Sancho, “but what has Roncesvalles chase to + do with what we have in hand? He might just as well be singing the ballad + of Calainos, for any good or ill that can come to us in our business.” + </p> + <p> + By this time the labourer had come up, and Don Quixote asked him, “Can + you tell me, worthy friend, and God speed you, whereabouts here is the + palace of the peerless princess Dona Dulcinea del Toboso?” + </p> + <p> + “Señor,” replied the lad, “I am a stranger, and I have + been only a few days in the town, doing farm work for a rich farmer. In + that house opposite there live the curate of the village and the + sacristan, and both or either of them will be able to give your worship + some account of this lady princess, for they have a list of all the people + of El Toboso; though it is my belief there is not a princess living in the + whole of it; many ladies there are, of quality, and in her own house each + of them may be a princess.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, she I am inquiring for will be one of these, my friend,” + said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “May be so,” replied the lad; “God be with you, for here + comes the daylight;” and without waiting for any more of his + questions, he whipped on his mules. + </p> + <p> + Sancho, seeing his master downcast and somewhat dissatisfied, said to him, + “Señor, daylight will be here before long, and it will not do for us + to let the sun find us in the street; it will be better for us to quit the + city, and for your worship to hide in some forest in the neighbourhood, + and I will come back in the daytime, and I won’t leave a nook or + corner of the whole village that I won’t search for the house, + castle, or palace, of my lady, and it will be hard luck for me if I don’t + find it; and as soon as I have found it I will speak to her grace, and + tell her where and how your worship is waiting for her to arrange some + plan for you to see her without any damage to her honour and reputation.” + </p> + <p> + “Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “thou hast delivered a + thousand sentences condensed in the compass of a few words; I thank thee + for the advice thou hast given me, and take it most gladly. Come, my son, + let us go look for some place where I may hide, while thou dost return, as + thou sayest, to seek, and speak with my lady, from whose discretion and + courtesy I look for favours more than miraculous.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho was in a fever to get his master out of the town, lest he should + discover the falsehood of the reply he had brought to him in the Sierra + Morena on behalf of Dulcinea; so he hastened their departure, which they + took at once, and two miles out of the village they found a forest or + thicket wherein Don Quixote ensconced himself, while Sancho returned to + the city to speak to Dulcinea, in which embassy things befell him which + demand fresh attention and a new chapter. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p09e" id="p09e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p09e.jpg (34K)" src="images/p09e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch10b" id="ch10b"></a>CHAPTER X. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS RELATED THE CRAFTY DEVICE SANCHO ADOPTED TO ENCHANT THE LADY + DULCINEA, AND OTHER INCIDENTS AS LUDICROUS AS THEY ARE TRUE + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p10a" id="p10a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p10a.jpg (142K)" src="images/p10a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p10a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + When the author of this great history comes to relate what is set down in + this chapter he says he would have preferred to pass it over in silence, + fearing it would not be believed, because here Don Quixote’s madness + reaches the confines of the greatest that can be conceived, and even goes + a couple of bowshots beyond the greatest. But after all, though still + under the same fear and apprehension, he has recorded it without adding to + the story or leaving out a particle of the truth, and entirely + disregarding the charges of falsehood that might be brought against him; + and he was right, for the truth may run fine but will not break, and + always rises above falsehood as oil above water; and so, going on with his + story, he says that as soon as Don Quixote had ensconced himself in the + forest, oak grove, or wood near El Toboso, he bade Sancho return to the + city, and not come into his presence again without having first spoken on + his behalf to his lady, and begged of her that it might be her good + pleasure to permit herself to be seen by her enslaved knight, and deign to + bestow her blessing upon him, so that he might thereby hope for a happy + issue in all his encounters and difficult enterprises. Sancho undertook to + execute the task according to the instructions, and to bring back an + answer as good as the one he brought back before. + </p> + <p> + “Go, my son,” said Don Quixote, “and be not dazed when + thou findest thyself exposed to the light of that sun of beauty thou art + going to seek. Happy thou, above all the squires in the world! Bear in + mind, and let it not escape thy memory, how she receives thee; if she + changes colour while thou art giving her my message; if she is agitated + and disturbed at hearing my name; if she cannot rest upon her cushion, + shouldst thou haply find her seated in the sumptuous state chamber proper + to her rank; and should she be standing, observe if she poises herself now + on one foot, now on the other; if she repeats two or three times the reply + she gives thee; if she passes from gentleness to austerity, from asperity + to tenderness; if she raises her hand to smooth her hair though it be not + disarranged. In short, my son, observe all her actions and motions, for if + thou wilt report them to me as they were, I will gather what she hides in + the recesses of her heart as regards my love; for I would have thee know, + Sancho, if thou knowest it not, that with lovers the outward actions and + motions they give way to when their loves are in question are the faithful + messengers that carry the news of what is going on in the depths of their + hearts. Go, my friend, may better fortune than mine attend thee, and bring + thee a happier issue than that which I await in dread in this dreary + solitude.” + </p> + <p> + “I will go and return quickly,” said Sancho; “cheer up + that little heart of yours, master mine, for at the present moment you + seem to have got one no bigger than a hazel nut; remember what they say, + that a stout heart breaks bad luck, and that where there are no fletches + there are no pegs; and moreover they say, the hare jumps up where it’s + not looked for. I say this because, if we could not find my lady’s + palaces or castles to-night, now that it is daylight I count upon finding + them when I least expect it, and once found, leave it to me to manage her.” + </p> + <p> + “Verily, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “thou dost always + bring in thy proverbs happily, whatever we deal with; may God give me + better luck in what I am anxious about.” + </p> + <p> + With this, Sancho wheeled about and gave Dapple the stick, and Don Quixote + remained behind, seated on his horse, resting in his stirrups and leaning + on the end of his lance, filled with sad and troubled forebodings; and + there we will leave him, and accompany Sancho, who went off no less + serious and troubled than he left his master; so much so, that as soon as + he had got out of the thicket, and looking round saw that Don Quixote was + not within sight, he dismounted from his ass, and seating himself at the + foot of a tree began to commune with himself, saying, “Now, brother + Sancho, let us know where your worship is going. Are you going to look for + some ass that has been lost? Not at all. Then what are you going to look + for? I am going to look for a princess, that’s all; and in her for + the sun of beauty and the whole heaven at once. And where do you expect to + find all this, Sancho? Where? Why, in the great city of El Toboso. Well, + and for whom are you going to look for her? For the famous knight Don + Quixote of La Mancha, who rights wrongs, gives food to those who thirst + and drink to the hungry. That’s all very well, but do you know her + house, Sancho? My master says it will be some royal palace or grand + castle. And have you ever seen her by any chance? Neither I nor my master + ever saw her. And does it strike you that it would be just and right if + the El Toboso people, finding out that you were here with the intention of + going to tamper with their princesses and trouble their ladies, were to + come and cudgel your ribs, and not leave a whole bone in you? They would, + indeed, have very good reason, if they did not see that I am under orders, + and that ‘you are a messenger, my friend, no blame belongs to you.’ + Don’t you trust to that, Sancho, for the Manchegan folk are as + hot-tempered as they are honest, and won’t put up with liberties + from anybody. By the Lord, if they get scent of you, it will be worse for + you, I promise you. Be off, you scoundrel! Let the bolt fall. Why should I + go looking for three feet on a cat, to please another man; and what is + more, when looking for Dulcinea will be looking for Marica in Ravena, or + the bachelor in Salamanca? The devil, the devil and nobody else, has mixed + me up in this business!” + </p> + <p> + Such was the soliloquy Sancho held with himself, and all the conclusion he + could come to was to say to himself again, “Well, there’s + remedy for everything except death, under whose yoke we have all to pass, + whether we like it or not, when life’s finished. I have seen by a + thousand signs that this master of mine is a madman fit to be tied, and + for that matter, I too, am not behind him; for I’m a greater fool + than he is when I follow him and serve him, if there’s any truth in + the proverb that says, ‘Tell me what company thou keepest, and I’ll + tell thee what thou art,’ or in that other, ‘Not with whom + thou art bred, but with whom thou art fed.’ Well then, if he be mad, + as he is, and with a madness that mostly takes one thing for another, and + white for black, and black for white, as was seen when he said the + windmills were giants, and the monks’ mules dromedaries, flocks of + sheep armies of enemies, and much more to the same tune, it will not be + very hard to make him believe that some country girl, the first I come + across here, is the lady Dulcinea; and if he does not believe it, I’ll + swear it; and if he should swear, I’ll swear again; and if he + persists I’ll persist still more, so as, come what may, to have my + quoit always over the peg. Maybe, by holding out in this way, I may put a + stop to his sending me on messages of this kind another time; or maybe he + will think, as I suspect he will, that one of those wicked enchanters, who + he says have a spite against him, has changed her form for the sake of + doing him an ill turn and injuring him.” + </p> + <p> + With this reflection Sancho made his mind easy, counting the business as + good as settled, and stayed there till the afternoon so as to make Don + Quixote think he had time enough to go to El Toboso and return; and things + turned out so luckily for him that as he got up to mount Dapple, he spied, + coming from El Toboso towards the spot where he stood, three peasant girls + on three colts, or fillies—for the author does not make the point + clear, though it is more likely they were she-asses, the usual mount with + village girls; but as it is of no great consequence, we need not stop to + prove it. + </p> + <p> + To be brief, the instant Sancho saw the peasant girls, he returned full + speed to seek his master, and found him sighing and uttering a thousand + passionate lamentations. When Don Quixote saw him he exclaimed, “What + news, Sancho, my friend? Am I to mark this day with a white stone or a + black?” + </p> + <p> + “Your worship,” replied Sancho, “had better mark it with + ruddle, like the inscriptions on the walls of class rooms, that those who + see it may see it plain.” + </p> + <p> + “Then thou bringest good news,” said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “So good,” replied Sancho, “that your worship has only + to spur Rocinante and get out into the open field to see the lady Dulcinea + del Toboso, who, with two others, damsels of hers, is coming to see your + worship.” + </p> + <p> + “Holy God! what art thou saying, Sancho, my friend?” exclaimed + Don Quixote. “Take care thou art not deceiving me, or seeking by + false joy to cheer my real sadness.” + </p> + <p> + “What could I get by deceiving your worship,” returned Sancho, + “especially when it will so soon be shown whether I tell the truth + or not? Come, señor, push on, and you will see the princess our mistress + coming, robed and adorned—in fact, like what she is. Her damsels and + she are all one glow of gold, all bunches of pearls, all diamonds, all + rubies, all cloth of brocade of more than ten borders; with their hair + loose on their shoulders like so many sunbeams playing with the wind; and + moreover, they come mounted on three piebald cackneys, the finest sight + ever you saw.” + </p> + <p> + “Hackneys, you mean, Sancho,” said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “There is not much difference between cackneys and hackneys,” + said Sancho; “but no matter what they come on, there they are, the + finest ladies one could wish for, especially my lady the princess + Dulcinea, who staggers one’s senses.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us go, Sancho, my son,” said Don Quixote, “and in + guerdon of this news, as unexpected as it is good, I bestow upon thee the + best spoil I shall win in the first adventure I may have; or if that does + not satisfy thee, I promise thee the foals I shall have this year from my + three mares that thou knowest are in foal on our village common.” + </p> + <p> + “I’ll take the foals,” said Sancho; “for it is not + quite certain that the spoils of the first adventure will be good ones.” + </p> + <p> + By this time they had cleared the wood, and saw the three village lasses + close at hand. Don Quixote looked all along the road to El Toboso, and as + he could see nobody except the three peasant girls, he was completely + puzzled, and asked Sancho if it was outside the city he had left them. + </p> + <p> + “How outside the city?” returned Sancho. “Are your + worship’s eyes in the back of your head, that you can’t see + that they are these who are coming here, shining like the very sun at + noonday?” + </p> + <p> + “I see nothing, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “but three + country girls on three jackasses.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, may God deliver me from the devil!” said Sancho, “and + can it be that your worship takes three hackneys—or whatever they’re + called—as white as the driven snow, for jackasses? By the Lord, I + could tear my beard if that was the case!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I can only say, Sancho, my friend,” said Don Quixote, + “that it is as plain they are jackasses—or jennyasses—as + that I am Don Quixote, and thou Sancho Panza: at any rate, they seem to me + to be so.” + </p> + <p> + “Hush, señor,” said Sancho, “don’t talk that way, + but open your eyes, and come and pay your respects to the lady of your + thoughts, who is close upon us now;” and with these words he + advanced to receive the three village lasses, and dismounting from Dapple, + caught hold of one of the asses of the three country girls by the halter, + and dropping on both knees on the ground, he said, “Queen and + princess and duchess of beauty, may it please your haughtiness and + greatness to receive into your favour and good-will your captive knight + who stands there turned into marble stone, and quite stupefied and + benumbed at finding himself in your magnificent presence. I am Sancho + Panza, his squire, and he the vagabond knight Don Quixote of La Mancha, + otherwise called ‘The Knight of the Rueful Countenance.’” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote had by this time placed himself on his knees beside Sancho, + and, with eyes starting out of his head and a puzzled gaze, was regarding + her whom Sancho called queen and lady; and as he could see nothing in her + except a village lass, and not a very well-favoured one, for she was + platter-faced and snub-nosed, he was perplexed and bewildered, and did not + venture to open his lips. The country girls, at the same time, were + astonished to see these two men, so different in appearance, on their + knees, preventing their companion from going on. She, however, who had + been stopped, breaking silence, said angrily and testily, “Get out + of the way, bad luck to you, and let us pass, for we are in a hurry.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p10b" id="p10b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p10b.jpg (319K)" src="images/p10b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p10b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + To which Sancho returned, “Oh, princess and universal lady of El + Toboso, is not your magnanimous heart softened by seeing the pillar and + prop of knight-errantry on his knees before your sublimated presence?” + </p> + <p> + On hearing this, one of the others exclaimed, “Woa then! why, I’m + rubbing thee down, she-ass of my father-in-law! See how the lordlings come + to make game of the village girls now, as if we here could not chaff as + well as themselves. Go your own way, and let us go ours, and it will be + better for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Get up, Sancho,” said Don Quixote at this; “I see that + fortune, ‘with evil done to me unsated still,’ has taken + possession of all the roads by which any comfort may reach ‘this + wretched soul’ that I carry in my flesh. And thou, highest + perfection of excellence that can be desired, utmost limit of grace in + human shape, sole relief of this afflicted heart that adores thee, though + the malign enchanter that persecutes me has brought clouds and cataracts + on my eyes, and to them, and them only, transformed thy unparagoned beauty + and changed thy features into those of a poor peasant girl, if so be he + has not at the same time changed mine into those of some monster to render + them loathsome in thy sight, refuse not to look upon me with tenderness + and love; seeing in this submission that I make on my knees to thy + transformed beauty the humility with which my soul adores thee.” + </p> + <p> + “Hey-day! My grandfather!” cried the girl, “much I care + for your love-making! Get out of the way and let us pass, and we’ll + thank you.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho stood aside and let her go, very well pleased to have got so well + out of the hobble he was in. The instant the village lass who had done + duty for Dulcinea found herself free, prodding her “cackney” + with a spike she had at the end of a stick, she set off at full speed + across the field. The she-ass, however, feeling the point more acutely + than usual, began cutting such capers, that it flung the lady Dulcinea to + the ground; seeing which, Don Quixote ran to raise her up, and Sancho to + fix and girth the pack-saddle, which also had slipped under the ass’s + belly. The pack-saddle being secured, as Don Quixote was about to lift up + his enchanted mistress in his arms and put her upon her beast, the lady, + getting up from the ground, saved him the trouble, for, going back a + little, she took a short run, and putting both hands on the croup of the + ass she dropped into the saddle more lightly than a falcon, and sat + astride like a man, whereat Sancho said, “Rogue! but our lady is + lighter than a lanner, and might teach the cleverest Cordovan or Mexican + how to mount; she cleared the back of the saddle in one jump, and without + spurs she is making the hackney go like a zebra; and her damsels are no + way behind her, for they all fly like the wind;” which was the + truth, for as soon as they saw Dulcinea mounted, they pushed on after her, + and sped away without looking back, for more than half a league. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote followed them with his eyes, and when they were no longer in + sight, he turned to Sancho and said, “How now, Sancho? thou seest + how I am hated by enchanters! And see to what a length the malice and + spite they bear me go, when they seek to deprive me of the happiness it + would give me to see my lady in her own proper form. The fact is I was + born to be an example of misfortune, and the target and mark at which the + arrows of adversity are aimed and directed. Observe too, Sancho, that + these traitors were not content with changing and transforming my + Dulcinea, but they transformed and changed her into a shape as mean and + ill-favoured as that of the village girl yonder; and at the same time they + robbed her of that which is such a peculiar property of ladies of + distinction, that is to say, the sweet fragrance that comes of being + always among perfumes and flowers. For I must tell thee, Sancho, that when + I approached to put Dulcinea upon her hackney (as thou sayest it was, + though to me it appeared a she-ass), she gave me a whiff of raw garlic + that made my head reel, and poisoned my very heart.” + </p> + <p> + “O scum of the earth!” cried Sancho at this, “O + miserable, spiteful enchanters! O that I could see you all strung by the + gills, like sardines on a twig! Ye know a great deal, ye can do a great + deal, and ye do a great deal more. It ought to have been enough for you, + ye scoundrels, to have changed the pearls of my lady’s eyes into oak + galls, and her hair of purest gold into the bristles of a red ox’s + tail, and in short, all her features from fair to foul, without meddling + with her smell; for by that we might somehow have found out what was + hidden underneath that ugly rind; though, to tell the truth, I never + perceived her ugliness, but only her beauty, which was raised to the + highest pitch of perfection by a mole she had on her right lip, like a + moustache, with seven or eight red hairs like threads of gold, and more + than a palm long.” + </p> + <p> + “From the correspondence which exists between those of the face and + those of the body,” said Don Quixote, “Dulcinea must have + another mole resembling that on the thick of the thigh on that side on + which she has the one on her face; but hairs of the length thou hast + mentioned are very long for moles.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, all I can say is there they were as plain as could be,” + replied Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “I believe it, my friend,” returned Don Quixote; “for + nature bestowed nothing on Dulcinea that was not perfect and + well-finished; and so, if she had a hundred moles like the one thou hast + described, in her they would not be moles, but moons and shining stars. + But tell me, Sancho, that which seemed to me to be a pack-saddle as thou + wert fixing it, was it a flat-saddle or a side-saddle?” + </p> + <p> + “It was neither,” replied Sancho, “but a jineta saddle, + with a field covering worth half a kingdom, so rich is it.” + </p> + <p> + “And that I could not see all this, Sancho!” said Don Quixote; + “once more I say, and will say a thousand times, I am the most + unfortunate of men.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho, the rogue, had enough to do to hide his laughter, at hearing the + simplicity of the master he had so nicely befooled. At length, after a + good deal more conversation had passed between them, they remounted their + beasts, and followed the road to Saragossa, which they expected to reach + in time to take part in a certain grand festival which is held every year + in that illustrious city; but before they got there things happened to + them, so many, so important, and so strange, that they deserve to be + recorded and read, as will be seen farther on. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p10e" id="p10e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p10e.jpg (56K)" src="images/p10e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p10e.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch11b" id="ch11b"></a>CHAPTER XI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE STRANGE ADVENTURE WHICH THE VALIANT DON QUIXOTE HAD WITH THE CAR OR + CART OF “THE CORTES OF DEATH” + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p11a" id="p11a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p11a.jpg (172K)" src="images/p11a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p11a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Dejected beyond measure did Don Quixote pursue his journey, turning over + in his mind the cruel trick the enchanters had played him in changing his + lady Dulcinea into the vile shape of the village lass, nor could he think + of any way of restoring her to her original form; and these reflections so + absorbed him, that without being aware of it he let go Rocinante’s + bridle, and he, perceiving the liberty that was granted him, stopped at + every step to crop the fresh grass with which the plain abounded. + </p> + <p> + Sancho recalled him from his reverie. “Melancholy, señor,” + said he, “was made, not for beasts, but for men; but if men give way + to it overmuch they turn to beasts; control yourself, your worship; be + yourself again; gather up Rocinante’s reins; cheer up, rouse + yourself and show that gallant spirit that knights-errant ought to have. + What the devil is this? What weakness is this? Are we here or in France? + The devil fly away with all the Dulcineas in the world; for the well-being + of a single knight-errant is of more consequence than all the enchantments + and transformations on earth.” + </p> + <p> + “Hush, Sancho,” said Don Quixote in a weak and faint voice, + “hush and utter no blasphemies against that enchanted lady; for I + alone am to blame for her misfortune and hard fate; her calamity has come + of the hatred the wicked bear me.” + </p> + <p> + “So say I,” returned Sancho; “his heart rend in twain, I + trow, who saw her once, to see her now.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou mayest well say that, Sancho,” replied Don Quixote, + “as thou sawest her in the full perfection of her beauty; for the + enchantment does not go so far as to pervert thy vision or hide her + loveliness from thee; against me alone and against my eyes is the strength + of its venom directed. Nevertheless, there is one thing which has occurred + to me, and that is that thou didst ill describe her beauty to me, for, as + well as I recollect, thou saidst that her eyes were pearls; but eyes that + are like pearls are rather the eyes of a sea-bream than of a lady, and I + am persuaded that Dulcinea’s must be green emeralds, full and soft, + with two rainbows for eyebrows; take away those pearls from her eyes and + transfer them to her teeth; for beyond a doubt, Sancho, thou hast taken + the one for the other, the eyes for the teeth.” + </p> + <p> + “Very likely,” said Sancho; “for her beauty bewildered + me as much as her ugliness did your worship; but let us leave it all to + God, who alone knows what is to happen in this vale of tears, in this evil + world of ours, where there is hardly a thing to be found without some + mixture of wickedness, roguery, and rascality. But one thing, señor, + troubles me more than all the rest, and that is thinking what is to be + done when your worship conquers some giant, or some other knight, and + orders him to go and present himself before the beauty of the lady + Dulcinea. Where is this poor giant, or this poor wretch of a vanquished + knight, to find her? I think I can see them wandering all over El Toboso, + looking like noddies, and asking for my lady Dulcinea; and even if they + meet her in the middle of the street they won’t know her any more + than they would my father.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps, Sancho,” returned Don Quixote, “the + enchantment does not go so far as to deprive conquered and presented + giants and knights of the power of recognising Dulcinea; we will try by + experiment with one or two of the first I vanquish and send to her, + whether they see her or not, by commanding them to return and give me an + account of what happened to them in this respect.” + </p> + <p> + “I declare, I think what your worship has proposed is excellent,” + said Sancho; “and that by this plan we shall find out what we want + to know; and if it be that it is only from your worship she is hidden, the + misfortune will be more yours than hers; but so long as the lady Dulcinea + is well and happy, we on our part will make the best of it, and get on as + well as we can, seeking our adventures, and leaving Time to take his own + course; for he is the best physician for these and greater ailments.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote was about to reply to Sancho Panza, but he was prevented by a + cart crossing the road full of the most diverse and strange personages and + figures that could be imagined. He who led the mules and acted as carter + was a hideous demon; the cart was open to the sky, without a tilt or cane + roof, and the first figure that presented itself to Don Quixote’s + eyes was that of Death itself with a human face; next to it was an angel + with large painted wings, and at one side an emperor, with a crown, to all + appearance of gold, on his head. At the feet of Death was the god called + Cupid, without his bandage, but with his bow, quiver, and arrows; there + was also a knight in full armour, except that he had no morion or helmet, + but only a hat decked with plumes of divers colours; and along with these + there were others with a variety of costumes and faces. All this, + unexpectedly encountered, took Don Quixote somewhat aback, and struck + terror into the heart of Sancho; but the next instant Don Quixote was glad + of it, believing that some new perilous adventure was presenting itself to + him, and under this impression, and with a spirit prepared to face any + danger, he planted himself in front of the cart, and in a loud and + menacing tone, exclaimed, “Carter, or coachman, or devil, or + whatever thou art, tell me at once who thou art, whither thou art going, + and who these folk are thou carriest in thy wagon, which looks more like + Charon’s boat than an ordinary cart.” + </p> + <p> + To which the devil, stopping the cart, answered quietly, “Señor, we + are players of Angulo el Malo’s company; we have been acting the + play of ‘The Cortes of Death’ this morning, which is the + octave of Corpus Christi, in a village behind that hill, and we have to + act it this afternoon in that village which you can see from this; and as + it is so near, and to save the trouble of undressing and dressing again, + we go in the costumes in which we perform. That lad there appears as + Death, that other as an angel, that woman, the manager’s wife, plays + the queen, this one the soldier, that the emperor, and I the devil; and I + am one of the principal characters of the play, for in this company I take + the leading parts. If you want to know anything more about us, ask me and + I will answer with the utmost exactitude, for as I am a devil I am up to + everything.” + </p> + <p> + “By the faith of a knight-errant,” replied Don Quixote, + “when I saw this cart I fancied some great adventure was presenting + itself to me; but I declare one must touch with the hand what appears to + the eye, if illusions are to be avoided. God speed you, good people; keep + your festival, and remember, if you demand of me ought wherein I can + render you a service, I will do it gladly and willingly, for from a child + I was fond of the play, and in my youth a keen lover of the actor’s + art.” + </p> + <p> + While they were talking, fate so willed it that one of the company in a + mummers’ dress with a great number of bells, and armed with three + blown ox-bladders at the end of a stick, joined them, and this + merry-andrew approaching Don Quixote, began flourishing his stick and + banging the ground with the bladders and cutting capers with great + jingling of the bells, which untoward apparition so startled Rocinante + that, in spite of Don Quixote’s efforts to hold him in, taking the + bit between his teeth he set off across the plain with greater speed than + the bones of his anatomy ever gave any promise of. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p11b" id="p11b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p11b.jpg (327K)" src="images/p11b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p11b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Sancho, who thought his master was in danger of being thrown, jumped off + Dapple, and ran in all haste to help him; but by the time he reached him + he was already on the ground, and beside him was Rocinante, who had come + down with his master, the usual end and upshot of Rocinante’s + vivacity and high spirits. But the moment Sancho quitted his beast to go + and help Don Quixote, the dancing devil with the bladders jumped up on + Dapple, and beating him with them, more by the fright and the noise than + by the pain of the blows, made him fly across the fields towards the + village where they were going to hold their festival. Sancho witnessed + Dapple’s career and his master’s fall, and did not know which + of the two cases of need he should attend to first; but in the end, like a + good squire and good servant, he let his love for his master prevail over + his affection for his ass; though every time he saw the bladders rise in + the air and come down on the hind quarters of his Dapple he felt the pains + and terrors of death, and he would have rather had the blows fall on the + apples of his own eyes than on the least hair of his ass’s tail. In + this trouble and perplexity he came to where Don Quixote lay in a far + sorrier plight than he liked, and having helped him to mount Rocinante, he + said to him, “Señor, the devil has carried off my Dapple.” + </p> + <p> + “What devil?” asked Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “The one with the bladders,” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Then I will recover him,” said Don Quixote, “even if he + be shut up with him in the deepest and darkest dungeons of hell. Follow + me, Sancho, for the cart goes slowly, and with the mules of it I will make + good the loss of Dapple.” + </p> + <p> + “You need not take the trouble, señor,” said Sancho; “keep + cool, for as I now see, the devil has let Dapple go and he is coming back + to his old quarters;” and so it turned out, for, having come down + with Dapple, in imitation of Don Quixote and Rocinante, the devil made off + on foot to the town, and the ass came back to his master. + </p> + <p> + “For all that,” said Don Quixote, “it will be well to + visit the discourtesy of that devil upon some of those in the cart, even + if it were the emperor himself.” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t think of it, your worship,” returned Sancho; + “take my advice and never meddle with actors, for they are a + favoured class; I myself have known an actor taken up for two murders, and + yet come off scot-free; remember that, as they are merry folk who give + pleasure, everyone favours and protects them, and helps and makes much of + them, above all when they are those of the royal companies and under + patent, all or most of whom in dress and appearance look like princes.” + </p> + <p> + “Still, for all that,” said Don Quixote, “the player + devil must not go off boasting, even if the whole human race favours him.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he made for the cart, which was now very near the town, + shouting out as he went, “Stay! halt! ye merry, jovial crew! I want + to teach you how to treat asses and animals that serve the squires of + knights-errant for steeds.” + </p> + <p> + So loud were the shouts of Don Quixote, that those in the cart heard and + understood them, and, guessing by the words what the speaker’s + intention was, Death in an instant jumped out of the cart, and the + emperor, the devil carter and the angel after him, nor did the queen or + the god Cupid stay behind; and all armed themselves with stones and formed + in line, prepared to receive Don Quixote on the points of their pebbles. + Don Quixote, when he saw them drawn up in such a gallant array with + uplifted arms ready for a mighty discharge of stones, checked Rocinante + and began to consider in what way he could attack them with the least + danger to himself. As he halted Sancho came up, and seeing him disposed to + attack this well-ordered squadron, said to him, “It would be the + height of madness to attempt such an enterprise; remember, señor, that + against sops from the brook, and plenty of them, there is no defensive + armour in the world, except to stow oneself away under a brass bell; and + besides, one should remember that it is rashness, and not valour, for a + single man to attack an army that has Death in it, and where emperors + fight in person, with angels, good and bad, to help them; and if this + reflection will not make you keep quiet, perhaps it will to know for + certain that among all these, though they look like kings, princes, and + emperors, there is not a single knight-errant.” + </p> + <p> + “Now indeed thou hast hit the point, Sancho,” said Don + Quixote, “which may and should turn me from the resolution I had + already formed. I cannot and must not draw sword, as I have many a time + before told thee, against anyone who is not a dubbed knight; it is for + thee, Sancho, if thou wilt, to take vengeance for the wrong done to thy + Dapple; and I will help thee from here by shouts and salutary counsels.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no occasion to take vengeance on anyone, señor,” + replied Sancho; “for it is not the part of good Christians to + revenge wrongs; and besides, I will arrange it with my ass to leave his + grievance to my good-will and pleasure, and that is to live in peace as + long as heaven grants me life.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Don Quixote, “if that be thy determination, + good Sancho, sensible Sancho, Christian Sancho, honest Sancho, let us + leave these phantoms alone and turn to the pursuit of better and worthier + adventures; for, from what I see of this country, we cannot fail to find + plenty of marvellous ones in it.” + </p> + <p> + He at once wheeled about, Sancho ran to take possession of his Dapple, + Death and his flying squadron returned to their cart and pursued their + journey, and thus the dread adventure of the cart of Death ended happily, + thanks to the advice Sancho gave his master; who had, the following day, a + fresh adventure, of no less thrilling interest than the last, with an + enamoured knight-errant. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p11e" id="p11e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p11e.jpg (20K)" src="images/p11e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch12b" id="ch12b"></a>CHAPTER XII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE STRANGE ADVENTURE WHICH BEFELL THE VALIANT DON QUIXOTE WITH THE + BOLD KNIGHT OF THE MIRRORS + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p12a" id="p12a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p12a.jpg (98K)" src="images/p12a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p12a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The night succeeding the day of the encounter with Death, Don Quixote and + his squire passed under some tall shady trees, and Don Quixote at Sancho’s + persuasion ate a little from the store carried by Dapple, and over their + supper Sancho said to his master, “Señor, what a fool I should have + looked if I had chosen for my reward the spoils of the first adventure + your worship achieved, instead of the foals of the three mares. After all, + ‘a sparrow in the hand is better than a vulture on the wing.’” + </p> + <p> + “At the same time, Sancho,” replied Don Quixote, “if + thou hadst let me attack them as I wanted, at the very least the emperor’s + gold crown and Cupid’s painted wings would have fallen to thee as + spoils, for I should have taken them by force and given them into thy + hands.” + </p> + <p> + “The sceptres and crowns of those play-actor emperors,” said + Sancho, “were never yet pure gold, but only brass foil or tin.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said Don Quixote, “for it would not be + right that the accessories of the drama should be real, instead of being + mere fictions and semblances, like the drama itself; towards which, Sancho—and, + as a necessary consequence, towards those who represent and produce it—I + would that thou wert favourably disposed, for they are all instruments of + great good to the State, placing before us at every step a mirror in which + we may see vividly displayed what goes on in human life; nor is there any + similitude that shows us more faithfully what we are and ought to be than + the play and the players. Come, tell me, hast thou not seen a play acted + in which kings, emperors, pontiffs, knights, ladies, and divers other + personages were introduced? One plays the villain, another the knave, this + one the merchant, that the soldier, one the sharp-witted fool, another the + foolish lover; and when the play is over, and they have put off the + dresses they wore in it, all the actors become equal.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I have seen that,” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Well then,” said Don Quixote, “the same thing happens + in the comedy and life of this world, where some play emperors, others + popes, and, in short, all the characters that can be brought into a play; + but when it is over, that is to say when life ends, death strips them all + of the garments that distinguish one from the other, and all are equal in + the grave.” + </p> + <p> + “A fine comparison!” said Sancho; “though not so new but + that I have heard it many and many a time, as well as that other one of + the game of chess; how, so long as the game lasts, each piece has its own + particular office, and when the game is finished they are all mixed, + jumbled up and shaken together, and stowed away in the bag, which is much + like ending life in the grave.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou art growing less doltish and more shrewd every day, Sancho,” + said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” said Sancho; “it must be that some of your worship’s + shrewdness sticks to me; land that, of itself, is barren and dry, will + come to yield good fruit if you dung it and till it; what I mean is that + your worship’s conversation has been the dung that has fallen on the + barren soil of my dry wit, and the time I have been in your service and + society has been the tillage; and with the help of this I hope to yield + fruit in abundance that will not fall away or slide from those paths of + good breeding that your worship has made in my parched understanding.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote laughed at Sancho’s affected phraseology, and perceived + that what he said about his improvement was true, for now and then he + spoke in a way that surprised him; though always, or mostly, when Sancho + tried to talk fine and attempted polite language, he wound up by toppling + over from the summit of his simplicity into the abyss of his ignorance; + and where he showed his culture and his memory to the greatest advantage + was in dragging in proverbs, no matter whether they had any bearing or not + upon the subject in hand, as may have been seen already and will be + noticed in the course of this history. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p12b" id="p12b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p12b.jpg (298K)" src="images/p12b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p12b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + In conversation of this kind they passed a good part of the night, but + Sancho felt a desire to let down the curtains of his eyes, as he used to + say when he wanted to go to sleep; and stripping Dapple he left him at + liberty to graze his fill. He did not remove Rocinante’s saddle, as + his master’s express orders were, that so long as they were in the + field or not sleeping under a roof Rocinante was not to be stripped—the + ancient usage established and observed by knights-errant being to take off + the bridle and hang it on the saddle-bow, but to remove the saddle from + the horse—never! Sancho acted accordingly, and gave him the same + liberty he had given Dapple, between whom and Rocinante there was a + friendship so unequalled and so strong, that it is handed down by + tradition from father to son, that the author of this veracious history + devoted some special chapters to it, which, in order to preserve the + propriety and decorum due to a history so heroic, he did not insert + therein; although at times he forgets this resolution of his and describes + how eagerly the two beasts would scratch one another when they were + together and how, when they were tired or full, Rocinante would lay his + neck across Dapple’s, stretching half a yard or more on the other + side, and the pair would stand thus, gazing thoughtfully on the ground, + for three days, or at least so long as they were left alone, or hunger did + not drive them to go and look for food. I may add that they say the author + left it on record that he likened their friendship to that of Nisus and + Euryalus, and Pylades and Orestes; and if that be so, it may be perceived, + to the admiration of mankind, how firm the friendship must have been + between these two peaceful animals, shaming men, who preserve friendships + with one another so badly. This was why it was said- + </p> + <p> + For friend no longer is there friend; The reeds turn lances now. + </p> + <p> + And some one else has sung— + </p> + <p> + Friend to friend the bug, etc. + </p> + <p> + And let no one fancy that the author was at all astray when he compared + the friendship of these animals to that of men; for men have received many + lessons from beasts, and learned many important things, as, for example, + the clyster from the stork, vomit and gratitude from the dog, watchfulness + from the crane, foresight from the ant, modesty from the elephant, and + loyalty from the horse. + </p> + <p> + Sancho at last fell asleep at the foot of a cork tree, while Don Quixote + dozed at that of a sturdy oak; but a short time only had elapsed when a + noise he heard behind him awoke him, and rising up startled, he listened + and looked in the direction the noise came from, and perceived two men on + horseback, one of whom, letting himself drop from the saddle, said to the + other, “Dismount, my friend, and take the bridles off the horses, + for, so far as I can see, this place will furnish grass for them, and the + solitude and silence my love-sick thoughts need of.” As he said this + he stretched himself upon the ground, and as he flung himself down, the + armour in which he was clad rattled, whereby Don Quixote perceived that he + must be a knight-errant; and going over to Sancho, who was asleep, he + shook him by the arm and with no small difficulty brought him back to his + senses, and said in a low voice to him, “Brother Sancho, we have got + an adventure.” + </p> + <p> + “God send us a good one,” said Sancho; “and where may + her ladyship the adventure be?” + </p> + <p> + “Where, Sancho?” replied Don Quixote; “turn thine eyes + and look, and thou wilt see stretched there a knight-errant, who, it + strikes me, is not over and above happy, for I saw him fling himself off + his horse and throw himself on the ground with a certain air of dejection, + and his armour rattled as he fell.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Sancho, “how does your worship make out + that to be an adventure?” + </p> + <p> + “I do not mean to say,” returned Don Quixote, “that it + is a complete adventure, but that it is the beginning of one, for it is in + this way adventures begin. But listen, for it seems he is tuning a lute or + guitar, and from the way he is spitting and clearing his chest he must be + getting ready to sing something.” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, you are right,” said Sancho, “and no doubt he is + some enamoured knight.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no knight-errant that is not,” said Don Quixote; + “but let us listen to him, for, if he sings, by that thread we shall + extract the ball of his thoughts; because out of the abundance of the + heart the mouth speaketh.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho was about to reply to his master, but the Knight of the Grove’s + voice, which was neither very bad nor very good, stopped him, and + listening attentively the pair heard him sing this + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +SONNET + +Your pleasure, prithee, lady mine, unfold; +Declare the terms that I am to obey; +My will to yours submissively I mould, +And from your law my feet shall never stray. +Would you I die, to silent grief a prey? +Then count me even now as dead and cold; +Would you I tell my woes in some new way? +Then shall my tale by Love itself be told. +The unison of opposites to prove, +Of the soft wax and diamond hard am I; +But still, obedient to the laws of love, +Here, hard or soft, I offer you my breast, +Whate’er you grave or stamp thereon shall rest +Indelible for all eternity. + +</pre> + <p> + With an “Ah me!” that seemed to be drawn from the inmost + recesses of his heart, the Knight of the Grove brought his lay to an end, + and shortly afterwards exclaimed in a melancholy and piteous voice, + “O fairest and most ungrateful woman on earth! What! can it be, most + serene Casildea de Vandalia, that thou wilt suffer this thy captive knight + to waste away and perish in ceaseless wanderings and rude and arduous + toils? It is not enough that I have compelled all the knights of Navarre, + all the Leonese, all the Tartesians, all the Castilians, and finally all + the knights of La Mancha, to confess thee the most beautiful in the world?” + </p> + <p> + “Not so,” said Don Quixote at this, “for I am of La + Mancha, and I have never confessed anything of the sort, nor could I nor + should I confess a thing so much to the prejudice of my lady’s + beauty; thou seest how this knight is raving, Sancho. But let us listen, + perhaps he will tell us more about himself.” + </p> + <p> + “That he will,” returned Sancho, “for he seems in a mood + to bewail himself for a month at a stretch.” + </p> + <p> + But this was not the case, for the Knight of the Grove, hearing voices + near him, instead of continuing his lamentation, stood up and exclaimed in + a distinct but courteous tone, “Who goes there? What are you? Do you + belong to the number of the happy or of the miserable?” + </p> + <p> + “Of the miserable,” answered Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “Then come to me,” said he of the Grove, “and rest + assured that it is to woe itself and affliction itself you come.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote, finding himself answered in such a soft and courteous manner, + went over to him, and so did Sancho. + </p> + <p> + The doleful knight took Don Quixote by the arm, saying, “Sit down + here, sir knight; for, that you are one, and of those that profess + knight-errantry, it is to me a sufficient proof to have found you in this + place, where solitude and night, the natural couch and proper retreat of + knights-errant, keep you company.” To which Don made answer, “A + knight I am of the profession you mention, and though sorrows, + misfortunes, and calamities have made my heart their abode, the compassion + I feel for the misfortunes of others has not been thereby banished from + it. From what you have just now sung I gather that yours spring from love, + I mean from the love you bear that fair ingrate you named in your lament.” + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, they had seated themselves together on the hard ground + peaceably and sociably, just as if, as soon as day broke, they were not + going to break one another’s heads. + </p> + <p> + “Are you, sir knight, in love perchance?” asked he of the + Grove of Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “By mischance I am,” replied Don Quixote; “though the + ills arising from well-bestowed affections should be esteemed favours + rather than misfortunes.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” returned he of the Grove, “if scorn did + not unsettle our reason and understanding, for if it be excessive it looks + like revenge.” + </p> + <p> + “I was never scorned by my lady,” said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not,” said Sancho, who stood close by, “for + my lady is as a lamb, and softer than a roll of butter.” + </p> + <p> + “Is this your squire?” asked he of the Grove. + </p> + <p> + “He is,” said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “I never yet saw a squire,” said he of the Grove, “who + ventured to speak when his master was speaking; at least, there is mine, + who is as big as his father, and it cannot be proved that he has ever + opened his lips when I am speaking.” + </p> + <p> + “By my faith then,” said Sancho, “I have spoken, and am + fit to speak, in the presence of one as much, or even—but never mind—it + only makes it worse to stir it.” + </p> + <p> + The squire of the Grove took Sancho by the arm, saying to him, “Let + us two go where we can talk in squire style as much as we please, and + leave these gentlemen our masters to fight it out over the story of their + loves; and, depend upon it, daybreak will find them at it without having + made an end of it.” + </p> + <p> + “So be it by all means,” said Sancho; “and I will tell + your worship who I am, that you may see whether I am to be reckoned among + the number of the most talkative squires.” + </p> + <p> + With this the two squires withdrew to one side, and between them there + passed a conversation as droll as that which passed between their masters + was serious. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p12e" id="p12e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p12e.jpg (15K)" src="images/p12e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch13b" id="ch13b"></a>CHAPTER XIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + IN WHICH IS CONTINUED THE ADVENTURE OF THE KNIGHT OF THE GROVE, TOGETHER + WITH THE SENSIBLE, ORIGINAL, AND TRANQUIL COLLOQUY THAT PASSED BETWEEN THE + TWO SQUIRES + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p13a" id="p13a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p13a.jpg (126K)" src="images/p13a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p13a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The knights and the squires made two parties, these telling the story of + their lives, the others the story of their loves; but the history relates + first of all the conversation of the servants, and afterwards takes up + that of the masters; and it says that, withdrawing a little from the + others, he of the Grove said to Sancho, “A hard life it is we lead + and live, señor, we that are squires to knights-errant; verily, we eat our + bread in the sweat of our faces, which is one of the curses God laid on + our first parents.” + </p> + <p> + “It may be said, too,” added Sancho, “that we eat it in + the chill of our bodies; for who gets more heat and cold than the + miserable squires of knight-errantry? Even so it would not be so bad if we + had something to eat, for woes are lighter if there’s bread; but + sometimes we go a day or two without breaking our fast, except with the + wind that blows.” + </p> + <p> + “All that,” said he of the Grove, “may be endured and + put up with when we have hopes of reward; for, unless the knight-errant he + serves is excessively unlucky, after a few turns the squire will at least + find himself rewarded with a fine government of some island or some fair + county.” + </p> + <p> + “I,” said Sancho, “have already told my master that I + shall be content with the government of some island, and he is so noble + and generous that he has promised it to me ever so many times.” + </p> + <p> + “I,” said he of the Grove, “shall be satisfied with a + canonry for my services, and my master has already assigned me one.” + </p> + <p> + “Your master,” said Sancho, “no doubt is a knight in the + Church line, and can bestow rewards of that sort on his good squire; but + mine is only a layman; though I remember some clever, but, to my mind, + designing people, strove to persuade him to try and become an archbishop. + He, however, would not be anything but an emperor; but I was trembling all + the time lest he should take a fancy to go into the Church, not finding + myself fit to hold office in it; for I may tell you, though I seem a man, + I am no better than a beast for the Church.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, you are wrong there,” said he of the Grove; + “for those island governments are not all satisfactory; some are + awkward, some are poor, some are dull, and, in short, the highest and + choicest brings with it a heavy burden of cares and troubles which the + unhappy wight to whose lot it has fallen bears upon his shoulders. Far + better would it be for us who have adopted this accursed service to go + back to our own houses, and there employ ourselves in pleasanter + occupations—in hunting or fishing, for instance; for what squire in + the world is there so poor as not to have a hack and a couple of + greyhounds and a fishingrod to amuse himself with in his own village?” + </p> + <p> + “I am not in want of any of those things,” said Sancho; + “to be sure I have no hack, but I have an ass that is worth my + master’s horse twice over; God send me a bad Easter, and that the + next one I am to see, if I would swap, even if I got four bushels of + barley to boot. You will laugh at the value I put on my Dapple—for + dapple is the colour of my beast. As to greyhounds, I can’t want for + them, for there are enough and to spare in my town; and, moreover, there + is more pleasure in sport when it is at other people’s expense.” + </p> + <p> + “In truth and earnest, sir squire,” said he of the Grove, + “I have made up my mind and determined to have done with these + drunken vagaries of these knights, and go back to my village, and bring up + my children; for I have three, like three Oriental pearls.” + </p> + <p> + “I have two,” said Sancho, “that might be presented + before the Pope himself, especially a girl whom I am breeding up for a + countess, please God, though in spite of her mother.” + </p> + <p> + “And how old is this lady that is being bred up for a countess?” + asked he of the Grove. + </p> + <p> + “Fifteen, a couple of years more or less,” answered Sancho; + “but she is as tall as a lance, and as fresh as an April morning, + and as strong as a porter.” + </p> + <p> + “Those are gifts to fit her to be not only a countess but a nymph of + the greenwood,” said he of the Grove; “whoreson strumpet! what + pith the rogue must have!” + </p> + <p> + To which Sancho made answer, somewhat sulkily, “She’s no + strumpet, nor was her mother, nor will either of them be, please God, + while I live; speak more civilly; for one bred up among knights-errant, + who are courtesy itself, your words don’t seem to me to be very + becoming.” + </p> + <p> + “O how little you know about compliments, sir squire,” + returned he of the Grove. “What! don’t you know that when a + horseman delivers a good lance thrust at the bull in the plaza, or when + anyone does anything very well, the people are wont to say, ‘Ha, + whoreson rip! how well he has done it!’ and that what seems to be + abuse in the expression is high praise? Disown sons and daughters, señor, + who don’t do what deserves that compliments of this sort should be + paid to their parents.” + </p> + <p> + “I do disown them,” replied Sancho, “and in this way, + and by the same reasoning, you might call me and my children and my wife + all the strumpets in the world, for all they do and say is of a kind that + in the highest degree deserves the same praise; and to see them again I + pray God to deliver me from mortal sin, or, what comes to the same thing, + to deliver me from this perilous calling of squire into which I have + fallen a second time, decayed and beguiled by a purse with a hundred + ducats that I found one day in the heart of the Sierra Morena; and the + devil is always putting a bag full of doubloons before my eyes, here, + there, everywhere, until I fancy at every stop I am putting my hand on it, + and hugging it, and carrying it home with me, and making investments, and + getting interest, and living like a prince; and so long as I think of this + I make light of all the hardships I endure with this simpleton of a master + of mine, who, I well know, is more of a madman than a knight.” + </p> + <p> + “There’s why they say that ‘covetousness bursts the bag,’” + said he of the Grove; “but if you come to talk of that sort, there + is not a greater one in the world than my master, for he is one of those + of whom they say, ‘the cares of others kill the ass;’ for, in + order that another knight may recover the senses he has lost, he makes a + madman of himself and goes looking for what, when found, may, for all I + know, fly in his own face.” “And is he in love perchance?” + asked Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “He is,” said of the Grove, “with one Casildea de + Vandalia, the rawest and best roasted lady the whole world could produce; + but that rawness is not the only foot he limps on, for he has greater + schemes rumbling in his bowels, as will be seen before many hours are + over.” + </p> + <p> + “There’s no road so smooth but it has some hole or hindrance + in it,” said Sancho; “in other houses they cook beans, but in + mine it’s by the potful; madness will have more followers and + hangers-on than sound sense; but if there be any truth in the common + saying, that to have companions in trouble gives some relief, I may take + consolation from you, inasmuch as you serve a master as crazy as my own.” + </p> + <p> + “Crazy but valiant,” replied he of the Grove, “and more + roguish than crazy or valiant.” + </p> + <p> + “Mine is not that,” said Sancho; “I mean he has nothing + of the rogue in him; on the contrary, he has the soul of a pitcher; he has + no thought of doing harm to anyone, only good to all, nor has he any + malice whatever in him; a child might persuade him that it is night at + noonday; and for this simplicity I love him as the core of my heart, and I + can’t bring myself to leave him, let him do ever such foolish + things.” + </p> + <p> + “For all that, brother and señor,” said he of the Grove, + “if the blind lead the blind, both are in danger of falling into the + pit. It is better for us to beat a quiet retreat and get back to our own + quarters; for those who seek adventures don’t always find good ones.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho kept spitting from time to time, and his spittle seemed somewhat + ropy and dry, observing which the compassionate squire of the Grove said, + “It seems to me that with all this talk of ours our tongues are + sticking to the roofs of our mouths; but I have a pretty good loosener + hanging from the saddle-bow of my horse,” and getting up he came + back the next minute with a large bota of wine and a pasty half a yard + across; and this is no exaggeration, for it was made of a house rabbit so + big that Sancho, as he handled it, took it to be made of a goat, not to + say a kid, and looking at it he said, “And do you carry this with + you, señor?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, what are you thinking about?” said the other; “do + you take me for some paltry squire? I carry a better larder on my horse’s + croup than a general takes with him when he goes on a march.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho ate without requiring to be pressed, and in the dark bolted + mouthfuls like the knots on a tether, and said he, “You are a proper + trusty squire, one of the right sort, sumptuous and grand, as this banquet + shows, which, if it has not come here by magic art, at any rate has the + look of it; not like me, unlucky beggar, that have nothing more in my + alforjas than a scrap of cheese, so hard that one might brain a giant with + it, and, to keep it company, a few dozen carobs and as many more filberts + and walnuts; thanks to the austerity of my master, and the idea he has and + the rule he follows, that knights-errant must not live or sustain + themselves on anything except dried fruits and the herbs of the field.” + </p> + <p> + “By my faith, brother,” said he of the Grove, “my + stomach is not made for thistles, or wild pears, or roots of the woods; + let our masters do as they like, with their chivalry notions and laws, and + eat what those enjoin; I carry my prog-basket and this bota hanging to the + saddle-bow, whatever they may say; and it is such an object of worship + with me, and I love it so, that there is hardly a moment but I am kissing + and embracing it over and over again;” and so saying he thrust it + into Sancho’s hands, who raising it aloft pointed to his mouth, + gazed at the stars for a quarter of an hour; and when he had done drinking + let his head fall on one side, and giving a deep sigh, exclaimed, “Ah, + whoreson rogue, how catholic it is!” + </p> + <p> + “There, you see,” said he of the Grove, hearing Sancho’s + exclamation, “how you have called this wine whoreson by way of + praise.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Sancho, “I own it, and I grant it is no + dishonour to call anyone whoreson when it is to be understood as praise. + But tell me, señor, by what you love best, is this Ciudad Real wine?” + </p> + <p> + “O rare wine-taster!” said he of the Grove; “nowhere + else indeed does it come from, and it has some years’ age too.” + </p> + <p> + “Leave me alone for that,” said Sancho; “never fear but + I’ll hit upon the place it came from somehow. What would you say, + sir squire, to my having such a great natural instinct in judging wines + that you have only to let me smell one and I can tell positively its + country, its kind, its flavour and soundness, the changes it will undergo, + and everything that appertains to a wine? But it is no wonder, for I have + had in my family, on my father’s side, the two best wine-tasters + that have been known in La Mancha for many a long year, and to prove it I’ll + tell you now a thing that happened them. They gave the two of them some + wine out of a cask, to try, asking their opinion as to the condition, + quality, goodness or badness of the wine. One of them tried it with the + tip of his tongue, the other did no more than bring it to his nose. The + first said the wine had a flavour of iron, the second said it had a + stronger flavour of cordovan. The owner said the cask was clean, and that + nothing had been added to the wine from which it could have got a flavour + of either iron or leather. Nevertheless, these two great wine-tasters held + to what they had said. Time went by, the wine was sold, and when they came + to clean out the cask, they found in it a small key hanging to a thong of + cordovan; see now if one who comes of the same stock has not a right to + give his opinion in such like cases.” + </p> + <p> + “Therefore, I say,” said he of the Grove, “let us give + up going in quest of adventures, and as we have loaves let us not go + looking for cakes, but return to our cribs, for God will find us there if + it be his will.” + </p> + <p> + “Until my master reaches Saragossa,” said Sancho, “I’ll + remain in his service; after that we’ll see.” + </p> + <p> + The end of it was that the two squires talked so much and drank so much + that sleep had to tie their tongues and moderate their thirst, for to + quench it was impossible; and so the pair of them fell asleep clinging to + the now nearly empty bota and with half-chewed morsels in their mouths; + and there we will leave them for the present, to relate what passed + between the Knight of the Grove and him of the Rueful Countenance. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p13e" id="p13e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p13e.jpg (43K)" src="images/p13e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch14b" id="ch14b"></a>CHAPTER XIV. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS CONTINUED THE ADVENTURE OF THE KNIGHT OF THE GROVE + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p14a" id="p14a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p14a.jpg (120K)" src="images/p14a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p14a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Among the things that passed between Don Quixote and the Knight of the + Wood, the history tells us he of the Grove said to Don Quixote, “In + fine, sir knight, I would have you know that my destiny, or, more properly + speaking, my choice led me to fall in love with the peerless Casildea de + Vandalia. I call her peerless because she has no peer, whether it be in + bodily stature or in the supremacy of rank and beauty. This same Casildea, + then, that I speak of, requited my honourable passion and gentle + aspirations by compelling me, as his stepmother did Hercules, to engage in + many perils of various sorts, at the end of each promising me that, with + the end of the next, the object of my hopes should be attained; but my + labours have gone on increasing link by link until they are past counting, + nor do I know what will be the last one that is to be the beginning of the + accomplishment of my chaste desires. On one occasion she bade me go and + challenge the famous giantess of Seville, La Giralda by name, who is as + mighty and strong as if made of brass, and though never stirring from one + spot, is the most restless and changeable woman in the world. I came, I + saw, I conquered, and I made her stay quiet and behave herself, for + nothing but north winds blew for more than a week. Another time I was + ordered to lift those ancient stones, the mighty bulls of Guisando, an + enterprise that might more fitly be entrusted to porters than to knights. + Again, she bade me fling myself into the cavern of Cabra—an + unparalleled and awful peril—and bring her a minute account of all + that is concealed in those gloomy depths. I stopped the motion of the + Giralda, I lifted the bulls of Guisando, I flung myself into the cavern + and brought to light the secrets of its abyss; and my hopes are as dead as + dead can be, and her scorn and her commands as lively as ever. To be + brief, last of all she has commanded me to go through all the provinces of + Spain and compel all the knights-errant wandering therein to confess that + she surpasses all women alive to-day in beauty, and that I am the most + valiant and the most deeply enamoured knight on earth; in support of which + claim I have already travelled over the greater part of Spain, and have + there vanquished several knights who have dared to contradict me; but what + I most plume and pride myself upon is having vanquished in single combat + that so famous knight Don Quixote of La Mancha, and made him confess that + my Casildea is more beautiful than his Dulcinea; and in this one victory I + hold myself to have conquered all the knights in the world; for this Don + Quixote that I speak of has vanquished them all, and I having vanquished + him, his glory, his fame, and his honour have passed and are transferred + to my person; for + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +The more the vanquished hath of fair renown, +The greater glory gilds the victor’s crown. +</pre> + <p> + Thus the innumerable achievements of the said Don Quixote are now set down + to my account and have become mine.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote was amazed when he heard the Knight of the Grove, and was a + thousand times on the point of telling him he lied, and had the lie direct + already on the tip of his tongue; but he restrained himself as well as he + could, in order to force him to confess the lie with his own lips; so he + said to him quietly, “As to what you say, sir knight, about having + vanquished most of the knights of Spain, or even of the whole world, I say + nothing; but that you have vanquished Don Quixote of La Mancha I consider + doubtful; it may have been some other that resembled him, although there + are few like him.” + </p> + <p> + “How! not vanquished?” said he of the Grove; “by the + heaven that is above us I fought Don Quixote and overcame him and made him + yield; and he is a man of tall stature, gaunt features, long, lank limbs, + with hair turning grey, an aquiline nose rather hooked, and large black + drooping moustaches; he does battle under the name of ‘The + Countenance,’ and he has for squire a peasant called Sancho Panza; + he presses the loins and rules the reins of a famous steed called + Rocinante; and lastly, he has for the mistress of his will a certain + Dulcinea del Toboso, once upon a time called Aldonza Lorenzo, just as I + call mine Casildea de Vandalia because her name is Casilda and she is of + Andalusia. If all these tokens are not enough to vindicate the truth of + what I say, here is my sword, that will compel incredulity itself to give + credence to it.” + </p> + <p> + “Calm yourself, sir knight,” said Don Quixote, “and give + ear to what I am about to say to you. I would have you know that this Don + Quixote you speak of is the greatest friend I have in the world; so much + so that I may say I regard him in the same light as my own person; and + from the precise and clear indications you have given I cannot but think + that he must be the very one you have vanquished. On the other hand, I see + with my eyes and feel with my hands that it is impossible it can have been + the same; unless indeed it be that, as he has many enemies who are + enchanters, and one in particular who is always persecuting him, some one + of these may have taken his shape in order to allow himself to be + vanquished, so as to defraud him of the fame that his exalted achievements + as a knight have earned and acquired for him throughout the known world. + And in confirmation of this, I must tell you, too, that it is but ten + hours since these said enchanters his enemies transformed the shape and + person of the fair Dulcinea del Toboso into a foul and mean village lass, + and in the same way they must have transformed Don Quixote; and if all + this does not suffice to convince you of the truth of what I say, here is + Don Quixote himself, who will maintain it by arms, on foot or on horseback + or in any way you please.” + </p> + <p> + And so saying he stood up and laid his hand on his sword, waiting to see + what the Knight of the Grove would do, who in an equally calm voice said + in reply, “Pledges don’t distress a good payer; he who has + succeeded in vanquishing you once when transformed, Sir Don Quixote, may + fairly hope to subdue you in your own proper shape; but as it is not + becoming for knights to perform their feats of arms in the dark, like + highwaymen and bullies, let us wait till daylight, that the sun may behold + our deeds; and the conditions of our combat shall be that the vanquished + shall be at the victor’s disposal, to do all that he may enjoin, + provided the injunction be such as shall be becoming a knight.” + </p> + <p> + “I am more than satisfied with these conditions and terms,” + replied Don Quixote; and so saying, they betook themselves to where their + squires lay, and found them snoring, and in the same posture they were in + when sleep fell upon them. They roused them up, and bade them get the + horses ready, as at sunrise they were to engage in a bloody and arduous + single combat; at which intelligence Sancho was aghast and thunderstruck, + trembling for the safety of his master because of the mighty deeds he had + heard the squire of the Grove ascribe to his; but without a word the two + squires went in quest of their cattle; for by this time the three horses + and the ass had smelt one another out, and were all together. + </p> + <p> + On the way, he of the Grove said to Sancho, “You must know, brother, + that it is the custom with the fighting men of Andalusia, when they are + godfathers in any quarrel, not to stand idle with folded arms while their + godsons fight; I say so to remind you that while our masters are fighting, + we, too, have to fight, and knock one another to shivers.” + </p> + <p> + “That custom, sir squire,” replied Sancho, “may hold + good among those bullies and fighting men you talk of, but certainly not + among the squires of knights-errant; at least, I have never heard my + master speak of any custom of the sort, and he knows all the laws of + knight-errantry by heart; but granting it true that there is an express + law that squires are to fight while their masters are fighting, I don’t + mean to obey it, but to pay the penalty that may be laid on peacefully + minded squires like myself; for I am sure it cannot be more than two + pounds of wax, and I would rather pay that, for I know it will cost me + less than the lint I shall be at the expense of to mend my head, which I + look upon as broken and split already; there’s another thing that + makes it impossible for me to fight, that I have no sword, for I never + carried one in my life.” + </p> + <p> + “I know a good remedy for that,” said he of the Grove; “I + have here two linen bags of the same size; you shall take one, and I the + other, and we will fight at bag blows with equal arms.” + </p> + <p> + “If that’s the way, so be it with all my heart,” said + Sancho, “for that sort of battle will serve to knock the dust out of + us instead of hurting us.” + </p> + <p> + “That will not do,” said the other, “for we must put + into the bags, to keep the wind from blowing them away, half a dozen nice + smooth pebbles, all of the same weight; and in this way we shall be able + to baste one another without doing ourselves any harm or mischief.” + </p> + <p> + “Body of my father!” said Sancho, “see what marten and + sable, and pads of carded cotton he is putting into the bags, that our + heads may not be broken and our bones beaten to jelly! But even if they + are filled with toss silk, I can tell you, señor, I am not going to fight; + let our masters fight, that’s their lookout, and let us drink and + live; for time will take care to ease us of our lives, without our going + to look for fillips so that they may be finished off before their proper + time comes and they drop from ripeness.” + </p> + <p> + “Still,” returned he of the Grove, “we must fight, if it + be only for half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + “By no means,” said Sancho; “I am not going to be so + discourteous or so ungrateful as to have any quarrel, be it ever so small, + with one I have eaten and drunk with; besides, who the devil could bring + himself to fight in cold blood, without anger or provocation?” + </p> + <p> + “I can remedy that entirely,” said he of the Grove, “and + in this way: before we begin the battle, I will come up to your worship + fair and softly, and give you three or four buffets, with which I shall + stretch you at my feet and rouse your anger, though it were sleeping + sounder than a dormouse.” + </p> + <p> + “To match that plan,” said Sancho, “I have another that + is not a whit behind it; I will take a cudgel, and before your worship + comes near enough to waken my anger I will send yours so sound to sleep + with whacks, that it won’t waken unless it be in the other world, + where it is known that I am not a man to let my face be handled by anyone; + let each look out for the arrow—though the surer way would be to let + everyone’s anger sleep, for nobody knows the heart of anyone, and a + man may come for wool and go back shorn; God gave his blessing to peace + and his curse to quarrels; if a hunted cat, surrounded and hard pressed, + turns into a lion, God knows what I, who am a man, may turn into; and so + from this time forth I warn you, sir squire, that all the harm and + mischief that may come of our quarrel will be put down to your account.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good,” said he of the Grove; “God will send the + dawn and we shall be all right.” + </p> + <p> + And now gay-plumaged birds of all sorts began to warble in the trees, and + with their varied and gladsome notes seemed to welcome and salute the + fresh morn that was beginning to show the beauty of her countenance at the + gates and balconies of the east, shaking from her locks a profusion of + liquid pearls; in which dulcet moisture bathed, the plants, too, seemed to + shed and shower down a pearly spray, the willows distilled sweet manna, + the fountains laughed, the brooks babbled, the woods rejoiced, and the + meadows arrayed themselves in all their glory at her coming. But hardly + had the light of day made it possible to see and distinguish things, when + the first object that presented itself to the eyes of Sancho Panza was the + squire of the Grove’s nose, which was so big that it almost + overshadowed his whole body. It is, in fact, stated, that it was of + enormous size, hooked in the middle, covered with warts, and of a mulberry + colour like an egg-plant; it hung down two fingers’ length below his + mouth, and the size, the colour, the warts, and the bend of it, made his + face so hideous, that Sancho, as he looked at him, began to tremble hand + and foot like a child in convulsions, and he vowed in his heart to let + himself be given two hundred buffets, sooner than be provoked to fight + that monster. Don Quixote examined his adversary, and found that he + already had his helmet on and visor lowered, so that he could not see his + face; he observed, however, that he was a sturdily built man, but not very + tall in stature. Over his armour he wore a surcoat or cassock of what + seemed to be the finest cloth of gold, all bespangled with glittering + mirrors like little moons, which gave him an extremely gallant and + splendid appearance; above his helmet fluttered a great quantity of + plumes, green, yellow, and white, and his lance, which was leaning against + a tree, was very long and stout, and had a steel point more than a palm in + length. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote observed all, and took note of all, and from what he saw and + observed he concluded that the said knight must be a man of great + strength, but he did not for all that give way to fear, like Sancho Panza; + on the contrary, with a composed and dauntless air, he said to the Knight + of the Mirrors, “If, sir knight, your great eagerness to fight has + not banished your courtesy, by it I would entreat you to raise your visor + a little, in order that I may see if the comeliness of your countenance + corresponds with that of your equipment.” + </p> + <p> + “Whether you come victorious or vanquished out of this emprise, sir + knight,” replied he of the Mirrors, “you will have more than + enough time and leisure to see me; and if now I do not comply with your + request, it is because it seems to me I should do a serious wrong to the + fair Casildea de Vandalia in wasting time while I stopped to raise my + visor before compelling you to confess what you are already aware I + maintain.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then,” said Don Quixote, “while we are mounting + you can at least tell me if I am that Don Quixote whom you said you + vanquished.” + </p> + <p> + “To that we answer you,” said he of the Mirrors, “that + you are as like the very knight I vanquished as one egg is like another, + but as you say enchanters persecute you, I will not venture to say + positively whether you are the said person or not.” + </p> + <p> + “That,” said Don Quixote, “is enough to convince me that + you are under a deception; however, entirely to relieve you of it, let our + horses be brought, and in less time than it would take you to raise your + visor, if God, my lady, and my arm stand me in good stead, I shall see + your face, and you shall see that I am not the vanquished Don Quixote you + take me to be.” + </p> + <p> + With this, cutting short the colloquy, they mounted, and Don Quixote + wheeled Rocinante round in order to take a proper distance to charge back + upon his adversary, and he of the Mirrors did the same; but Don Quixote + had not moved away twenty paces when he heard himself called by the other, + and, each returning half-way, he of the Mirrors said to him, “Remember, + sir knight, that the terms of our combat are, that the vanquished, as I + said before, shall be at the victor’s disposal.” + </p> + <p> + “I am aware of it already,” said Don Quixote; “provided + what is commanded and imposed upon the vanquished be things that do not + transgress the limits of chivalry.” + </p> + <p> + “That is understood,” replied he of the Mirrors. + </p> + <p> + At this moment the extraordinary nose of the squire presented itself to + Don Quixote’s view, and he was no less amazed than Sancho at the + sight; insomuch that he set him down as a monster of some kind, or a human + being of some new species or unearthly breed. Sancho, seeing his master + retiring to run his course, did not like to be left alone with the nosy + man, fearing that with one flap of that nose on his own the battle would + be all over for him and he would be left stretched on the ground, either + by the blow or with fright; so he ran after his master, holding on to + Rocinante’s stirrup-leather, and when it seemed to him time to turn + about, he said, “I implore of your worship, señor, before you turn + to charge, to help me up into this cork tree, from which I will be able to + witness the gallant encounter your worship is going to have with this + knight, more to my taste and better than from the ground.” + </p> + <p> + “It seems to me rather, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “that + thou wouldst mount a scaffold in order to see the bulls without danger.” + </p> + <p> + “To tell the truth,” returned Sancho, “the monstrous + nose of that squire has filled me with fear and terror, and I dare not + stay near him.” + </p> + <p> + “It is,” said Don Quixote, “such a one that were I not + what I am it would terrify me too; so, come, I will help thee up where + thou wilt.” + </p> + <p> + While Don Quixote waited for Sancho to mount into the cork tree he of the + Mirrors took as much ground as he considered requisite, and, supposing Don + Quixote to have done the same, without waiting for any sound of trumpet or + other signal to direct them, he wheeled his horse, which was not more + agile or better-looking than Rocinante, and at his top speed, which was an + easy trot, he proceeded to charge his enemy; seeing him, however, engaged + in putting Sancho up, he drew rein, and halted in mid career, for which + his horse was very grateful, as he was already unable to go. Don Quixote, + fancying that his foe was coming down upon him flying, drove his spurs + vigorously into Rocinante’s lean flanks and made him scud along in + such style that the history tells us that on this occasion only was he + known to make something like running, for on all others it was a simple + trot with him; and with this unparalleled fury he bore down where he of + the Mirrors stood digging his spurs into his horse up to buttons, without + being able to make him stir a finger’s length from the spot where he + had come to a standstill in his course. At this lucky moment and crisis, + Don Quixote came upon his adversary, in trouble with his horse, and + embarrassed with his lance, which he either could not manage, or had no + time to lay in rest. Don Quixote, however, paid no attention to these + difficulties, and in perfect safety to himself and without any risk + encountered him of the Mirrors with such force that he brought him to the + ground in spite of himself over the haunches of his horse, and with so + heavy a fall that he lay to all appearance dead, not stirring hand or + foot. The instant Sancho saw him fall he slid down from the cork tree, and + made all haste to where his master was, who, dismounting from Rocinante, + went and stood over him of the Mirrors, and unlacing his helmet to see if + he was dead, and to give him air if he should happen to be alive, he saw—who + can say what he saw, without filling all who hear it with astonishment, + wonder, and awe? He saw, the history says, the very countenance, the very + face, the very look, the very physiognomy, the very effigy, the very image + of the bachelor Samson Carrasco! As soon as he saw it he called out in a + loud voice, “Make haste here, Sancho, and behold what thou art to + see but not to believe; quick, my son, and learn what magic can do, and + wizards and enchanters are capable of.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho came up, and when he saw the countenance of the bachelor Carrasco, + he fell to crossing himself a thousand times, and blessing himself as many + more. All this time the prostrate knight showed no signs of life, and + Sancho said to Don Quixote, “It is my opinion, señor, that in any + case your worship should take and thrust your sword into the mouth of this + one here that looks like the bachelor Samson Carrasco; perhaps in him you + will kill one of your enemies, the enchanters.” + </p> + <p> + “Thy advice is not bad,” said Don Quixote, “for of + enemies the fewer the better;” and he was drawing his sword to carry + into effect Sancho’s counsel and suggestion, when the squire of the + Mirrors came up, now without the nose which had made him so hideous, and + cried out in a loud voice, “Mind what you are about, Señor Don + Quixote; that is your friend, the bachelor Samson Carrasco, you have at + your feet, and I am his squire.” + </p> + <p> + “And the nose?” said Sancho, seeing him without the hideous + feature he had before; to which he replied, “I have it here in my + pocket,” and putting his hand into his right pocket, he pulled out a + masquerade nose of varnished pasteboard of the make already described; and + Sancho, examining him more and more closely, exclaimed aloud in a voice of + amazement, “Holy Mary be good to me! Isn’t it Tom Cecial, my + neighbour and gossip?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, to be sure I am!” returned the now unnosed squire; + “Tom Cecial I am, gossip and friend Sancho Panza; and I’ll + tell you presently the means and tricks and falsehoods by which I have + been brought here; but in the meantime, beg and entreat of your master not + to touch, maltreat, wound, or slay the Knight of the Mirrors whom he has + at his feet; because, beyond all dispute, it is the rash and ill-advised + bachelor Samson Carrasco, our fellow townsman.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment he of the Mirrors came to himself, and Don Quixote + perceiving it, held the naked point of his sword over his face, and said + to him, “You are a dead man, knight, unless you confess that the + peerless Dulcinea del Toboso excels your Casildea de Vandalia in beauty; + and in addition to this you must promise, if you should survive this + encounter and fall, to go to the city of El Toboso and present yourself + before her on my behalf, that she deal with you according to her good + pleasure; and if she leaves you free to do yours, you are in like manner + to return and seek me out (for the trail of my mighty deeds will serve you + as a guide to lead you to where I may be), and tell me what may have + passed between you and her—conditions which, in accordance with what + we stipulated before our combat, do not transgress the just limits of + knight-errantry.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess,” said the fallen knight, “that the dirty + tattered shoe of the lady Dulcinea del Toboso is better than the + ill-combed though clean beard of Casildea; and I promise to go and to + return from her presence to yours, and to give you a full and particular + account of all you demand of me.” + </p> + <p> + “You must also confess and believe,” added Don Quixote, + “that the knight you vanquished was not and could not be Don Quixote + of La Mancha, but some one else in his likeness, just as I confess and + believe that you, though you seem to be the bachelor Samson Carrasco, are + not so, but some other resembling him, whom my enemies have here put + before me in his shape, in order that I may restrain and moderate the + vehemence of my wrath, and make a gentle use of the glory of my victory.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess, hold, and think everything to be as you believe, hold, + and think it,” the crippled knight; “let me rise, I entreat + you; if, indeed, the shock of my fall will allow me, for it has left me in + a sorry plight enough.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote helped him to rise, with the assistance of his squire Tom + Cecial; from whom Sancho never took his eyes, and to whom he put + questions, the replies to which furnished clear proof that he was really + and truly the Tom Cecial he said; but the impression made on Sancho’s + mind by what his master said about the enchanters having changed the face + of the Knight of the Mirrors into that of the bachelor Samson Carrasco, + would not permit him to believe what he saw with his eyes. In fine, both + master and man remained under the delusion; and, down in the mouth, and + out of luck, he of the Mirrors and his squire parted from Don Quixote and + Sancho, he meaning to go look for some village where he could plaster and + strap his ribs. Don Quixote and Sancho resumed their journey to Saragossa, + and on it the history leaves them in order that it may tell who the Knight + of the Mirrors and his long-nosed squire were. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p14e" id="p14e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p14e.jpg (56K)" src="images/p14e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch15b" id="ch15b"></a>CHAPTER XV. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IT IS TOLD AND KNOWN WHO THE KNIGHT OF THE MIRRORS AND HIS SQUIRE + WERE + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p15a" id="p15a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p15a.jpg (122K)" src="images/p15a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p15a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote went off satisfied, elated, and vain-glorious in the highest + degree at having won a victory over such a valiant knight as he fancied + him of the Mirrors to be, and one from whose knightly word he expected to + learn whether the enchantment of his lady still continued; inasmuch as the + said vanquished knight was bound, under the penalty of ceasing to be one, + to return and render him an account of what took place between him and + her. But Don Quixote was of one mind, he of the Mirrors of another, for he + just then had no thought of anything but finding some village where he + could plaster himself, as has been said already. The history goes on to + say, then, that when the bachelor Samson Carrasco recommended Don Quixote + to resume his knight-errantry which he had laid aside, it was in + consequence of having been previously in conclave with the curate and the + barber on the means to be adopted to induce Don Quixote to stay at home in + peace and quiet without worrying himself with his ill-starred adventures; + at which consultation it was decided by the unanimous vote of all, and on + the special advice of Carrasco, that Don Quixote should be allowed to go, + as it seemed impossible to restrain him, and that Samson should sally + forth to meet him as a knight-errant, and do battle with him, for there + would be no difficulty about a cause, and vanquish him, that being looked + upon as an easy matter; and that it should be agreed and settled that the + vanquished was to be at the mercy of the victor. Then, Don Quixote being + vanquished, the bachelor knight was to command him to return to his + village and his house, and not quit it for two years, or until he received + further orders from him; all which it was clear Don Quixote would + unhesitatingly obey, rather than contravene or fail to observe the laws of + chivalry; and during the period of his seclusion he might perhaps forget + his folly, or there might be an opportunity of discovering some ready + remedy for his madness. Carrasco undertook the task, and Tom Cecial, a + gossip and neighbour of Sancho Panza’s, a lively, feather-headed + fellow, offered himself as his squire. Carrasco armed himself in the + fashion described, and Tom Cecial, that he might not be known by his + gossip when they met, fitted on over his own natural nose the false + masquerade one that has been mentioned; and so they followed the same + route Don Quixote took, and almost came up with him in time to be present + at the adventure of the cart of Death and finally encountered them in the + grove, where all that the sagacious reader has been reading about took + place; and had it not been for the extraordinary fancies of Don Quixote, + and his conviction that the bachelor was not the bachelor, señor bachelor + would have been incapacitated for ever from taking his degree of + licentiate, all through not finding nests where he thought to find birds. + </p> + <p> + Tom Cecial, seeing how ill they had succeeded, and what a sorry end their + expedition had come to, said to the bachelor, “Sure enough, Señor + Samson Carrasco, we are served right; it is easy enough to plan and set + about an enterprise, but it is often a difficult matter to come well out + of it. Don Quixote a madman, and we sane; he goes off laughing, safe, and + sound, and you are left sore and sorry! I’d like to know now which + is the madder, he who is so because he cannot help it, or he who is so of + his own choice?” + </p> + <p> + To which Samson replied, “The difference between the two sorts of + madmen is, that he who is so will he nil he, will be one always, while he + who is so of his own accord can leave off being one whenever he likes.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case,” said Tom Cecial, “I was a madman of my + own accord when I volunteered to become your squire, and, of my own + accord, I’ll leave off being one and go home.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s your affair,” returned Samson, “but to + suppose that I am going home until I have given Don Quixote a thrashing is + absurd; and it is not any wish that he may recover his senses that will + make me hunt him out now, but a wish for the sore pain I am in with my + ribs won’t let me entertain more charitable thoughts.” + </p> + <p> + Thus discoursing, the pair proceeded until they reached a town where it + was their good luck to find a bone-setter, with whose help the unfortunate + Samson was cured. Tom Cecial left him and went home, while he stayed + behind meditating vengeance; and the history will return to him again at + the proper time, so as not to omit making merry with Don Quixote now. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p15e" id="p15e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p15e.jpg (17K)" src="images/p15e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch16b" id="ch16b"></a>CHAPTER XVI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF WHAT BEFELL DON QUIXOTE WITH A DISCREET GENTLEMAN OF LA MANCHA + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p16a" id="p16a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p16a.jpg (85K)" src="images/p16a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p16a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote pursued his journey in the high spirits, satisfaction, and + self-complacency already described, fancying himself the most valorous + knight-errant of the age in the world because of his late victory. All the + adventures that could befall him from that time forth he regarded as + already done and brought to a happy issue; he made light of enchantments + and enchanters; he thought no more of the countless drubbings that had + been administered to him in the course of his knight-errantry, nor of the + volley of stones that had levelled half his teeth, nor of the ingratitude + of the galley slaves, nor of the audacity of the Yanguesans and the shower + of stakes that fell upon him; in short, he said to himself that could he + discover any means, mode, or way of disenchanting his lady Dulcinea, he + would not envy the highest fortune that the most fortunate knight-errant + of yore ever reached or could reach. + </p> + <p> + He was going along entirely absorbed in these fancies, when Sancho said to + him, “Isn’t it odd, señor, that I have still before my eyes + that monstrous enormous nose of my gossip, Tom Cecial?” + </p> + <p> + “And dost thou, then, believe, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, + “that the Knight of the Mirrors was the bachelor Carrasco, and his + squire Tom Cecial thy gossip?” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know what to say to that,” replied Sancho; + “all I know is that the tokens he gave me about my own house, wife + and children, nobody else but himself could have given me; and the face, + once the nose was off, was the very face of Tom Cecial, as I have seen it + many a time in my town and next door to my own house; and the sound of the + voice was just the same.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us reason the matter, Sancho,” said Don Quixote. “Come + now, by what process of thinking can it be supposed that the bachelor + Samson Carrasco would come as a knight-errant, in arms offensive and + defensive, to fight with me? Have I ever been by any chance his enemy? + Have I ever given him any occasion to owe me a grudge? Am I his rival, or + does he profess arms, that he should envy the fame I have acquired in + them?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but what are we to say, señor,” returned Sancho, + “about that knight, whoever he is, being so like the bachelor + Carrasco, and his squire so like my gossip, Tom Cecial? And if that be + enchantment, as your worship says, was there no other pair in the world + for them to take the likeness of?” + </p> + <p> + “It is all,” said Don Quixote, “a scheme and plot of the + malignant magicians that persecute me, who, foreseeing that I was to be + victorious in the conflict, arranged that the vanquished knight should + display the countenance of my friend the bachelor, in order that the + friendship I bear him should interpose to stay the edge of my sword and + might of my arm, and temper the just wrath of my heart; so that he who + sought to take my life by fraud and falsehood should save his own. And to + prove it, thou knowest already, Sancho, by experience which cannot lie or + deceive, how easy it is for enchanters to change one countenance into + another, turning fair into foul, and foul into fair; for it is not two + days since thou sawest with thine own eyes the beauty and elegance of the + peerless Dulcinea in all its perfection and natural harmony, while I saw + her in the repulsive and mean form of a coarse country wench, with + cataracts in her eyes and a foul smell in her mouth; and when the perverse + enchanter ventured to effect so wicked a transformation, it is no wonder + if he effected that of Samson Carrasco and thy gossip in order to snatch + the glory of victory out of my grasp. For all that, however, I console + myself, because, after all, in whatever shape he may have been, I have + been victorious over my enemy.” + </p> + <p> + “God knows what’s the truth of it all,” said Sancho; and + knowing as he did that the transformation of Dulcinea had been a device + and imposition of his own, his master’s illusions were not + satisfactory to him; but he did not like to reply lest he should say + something that might disclose his trickery. + </p> + <p> + As they were engaged in this conversation they were overtaken by a man who + was following the same road behind them, mounted on a very handsome + flea-bitten mare, and dressed in a gaban of fine green cloth, with tawny + velvet facings, and a montera of the same velvet. The trappings of the + mare were of the field and jineta fashion, and of mulberry colour and + green. He carried a Moorish cutlass hanging from a broad green and gold + baldric; the buskins were of the same make as the baldric; the spurs were + not gilt, but lacquered green, and so brightly polished that, matching as + they did the rest of his apparel, they looked better than if they had been + of pure gold. + </p> + <p> + When the traveller came up with them he saluted them courteously, and + spurring his mare was passing them without stopping, but Don Quixote + called out to him, “Gallant sir, if so be your worship is going our + road, and has no occasion for speed, it would be a pleasure to me if we + were to join company.” + </p> + <p> + “In truth,” replied he on the mare, “I would not pass + you so hastily but for fear that horse might turn restive in the company + of my mare.” + </p> + <p> + “You may safely hold in your mare, señor,” said Sancho in + reply to this, “for our horse is the most virtuous and well-behaved + horse in the world; he never does anything wrong on such occasions, and + the only time he misbehaved, my master and I suffered for it sevenfold; I + say again your worship may pull up if you like; for if she was offered to + him between two plates the horse would not hanker after her.” + </p> + <p> + The traveller drew rein, amazed at the trim and features of Don Quixote, + who rode without his helmet, which Sancho carried like a valise in front + of Dapple’s pack-saddle; and if the man in green examined Don + Quixote closely, still more closely did Don Quixote examine the man in + green, who struck him as being a man of intelligence. In appearance he was + about fifty years of age, with but few grey hairs, an aquiline cast of + features, and an expression between grave and gay; and his dress and + accoutrements showed him to be a man of good condition. What he in green + thought of Don Quixote of La Mancha was that a man of that sort and shape + he had never yet seen; he marvelled at the length of his hair, his lofty + stature, the lankness and sallowness of his countenance, his armour, his + bearing and his gravity—a figure and picture such as had not been + seen in those regions for many a long day. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote saw very plainly the attention with which the traveller was + regarding him, and read his curiosity in his astonishment; and courteous + as he was and ready to please everybody, before the other could ask him + any question he anticipated him by saying, “The appearance I present + to your worship being so strange and so out of the common, I should not be + surprised if it filled you with wonder; but you will cease to wonder when + I tell you, as I do, that I am one of those knights who, as people say, go + seeking adventures. I have left my home, I have mortgaged my estate, I + have given up my comforts, and committed myself to the arms of Fortune, to + bear me whithersoever she may please. My desire was to bring to life again + knight-errantry, now dead, and for some time past, stumbling here, falling + there, now coming down headlong, now raising myself up again, I have + carried out a great portion of my design, succouring widows, protecting + maidens, and giving aid to wives, orphans, and minors, the proper and + natural duty of knights-errant; and, therefore, because of my many valiant + and Christian achievements, I have been already found worthy to make my + way in print to well-nigh all, or most, of the nations of the earth. + Thirty thousand volumes of my history have been printed, and it is on the + high-road to be printed thirty thousand thousands of times, if heaven does + not put a stop to it. In short, to sum up all in a few words, or in a + single one, I may tell you I am Don Quixote of La Mancha, otherwise called + ‘The Knight of the Rueful Countenance;’ for though self-praise + is degrading, I must perforce sound my own sometimes, that is to say, when + there is no one at hand to do it for me. So that, gentle sir, neither this + horse, nor this lance, nor this shield, nor this squire, nor all these + arms put together, nor the sallowness of my countenance, nor my gaunt + leanness, will henceforth astonish you, now that you know who I am and + what profession I follow.” + </p> + <p> + With these words Don Quixote held his peace, and, from the time he took to + answer, the man in green seemed to be at a loss for a reply; after a long + pause, however, he said to him, “You were right when you saw + curiosity in my amazement, sir knight; but you have not succeeded in + removing the astonishment I feel at seeing you; for although you say, + señor, that knowing who you are ought to remove it, it has not done so; on + the contrary, now that I know, I am left more amazed and astonished than + before. What! is it possible that there are knights-errant in the world in + these days, and histories of real chivalry printed? I cannot realise the + fact that there can be anyone on earth now-a-days who aids widows, or + protects maidens, or defends wives, or succours orphans; nor should I + believe it had I not seen it in your worship with my own eyes. Blessed be + heaven! for by means of this history of your noble and genuine chivalrous + deeds, which you say has been printed, the countless stories of fictitious + knights-errant with which the world is filled, so much to the injury of + morality and the prejudice and discredit of good histories, will have been + driven into oblivion.” + </p> + <p> + “There is a good deal to be said on that point,” said Don + Quixote, “as to whether the histories of the knights-errant are + fiction or not.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, is there anyone who doubts that those histories are false?” + said the man in green. + </p> + <p> + “I doubt it,” said Don Quixote, “but never mind that + just now; if our journey lasts long enough, I trust in God I shall show + your worship that you do wrong in going with the stream of those who + regard it as a matter of certainty that they are not true.” + </p> + <p> + From this last observation of Don Quixote’s, the traveller began to + have a suspicion that he was some crazy being, and was waiting for him to + confirm it by something further; but before they could turn to any new + subject Don Quixote begged him to tell him who he was, since he himself + had rendered account of his station and life. To this, he in the green + gaban replied “I, Sir Knight of the Rueful Countenance, am a + gentleman by birth, native of the village where, please God, we are going + to dine to-day; I am more than fairly well off, and my name is Don Diego de + Miranda. I pass my life with my wife, children, and friends; my pursuits + are hunting and fishing, but I keep neither hawks nor greyhounds, nothing + but a tame partridge or a bold ferret or two; I have six dozen or so of + books, some in our mother tongue, some Latin, some of them history, others + devotional; those of chivalry have not as yet crossed the threshold of my + door; I am more given to turning over the profane than the devotional, so + long as they are books of honest entertainment that charm by their style + and attract and interest by the invention they display, though of these + there are very few in Spain. Sometimes I dine with my neighbours and + friends, and often invite them; my entertainments are neat and well served + without stint of anything. I have no taste for tattle, nor do I allow + tattling in my presence; I pry not into my neighbours’ lives, nor + have I lynx-eyes for what others do. I hear mass every day; I share my + substance with the poor, making no display of good works, lest I let + hypocrisy and vainglory, those enemies that subtly take possession of the + most watchful heart, find an entrance into mine. I strive to make peace + between those whom I know to be at variance; I am the devoted servant of + Our Lady, and my trust is ever in the infinite mercy of God our Lord.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho listened with the greatest attention to the account of the + gentleman’s life and occupation; and thinking it a good and a holy + life, and that he who led it ought to work miracles, he threw himself off + Dapple, and running in haste seized his right stirrup and kissed his foot + again and again with a devout heart and almost with tears. + </p> + <p> + Seeing this the gentleman asked him, “What are you about, brother? + What are these kisses for?” + </p> + <p> + “Let me kiss,” said Sancho, “for I think your worship is + the first saint in the saddle I ever saw all the days of my life.” + </p> + <p> + “I am no saint,” replied the gentleman, “but a great + sinner; but you are, brother, for you must be a good fellow, as your + simplicity shows.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho went back and regained his pack-saddle, having extracted a laugh + from his master’s profound melancholy, and excited fresh amazement + in Don Diego. Don Quixote then asked him how many children he had, and + observed that one of the things wherein the ancient philosophers, who were + without the true knowledge of God, placed the summum bonum was in the + gifts of nature, in those of fortune, in having many friends, and many and + good children. + </p> + <p> + “I, Señor Don Quixote,” answered the gentleman, “have + one son, without whom, perhaps, I should count myself happier than I am, + not because he is a bad son, but because he is not so good as I could + wish. He is eighteen years of age; he has been for six at Salamanca + studying Latin and Greek, and when I wished him to turn to the study of + other sciences I found him so wrapped up in that of poetry (if that can be + called a science) that there is no getting him to take kindly to the law, + which I wished him to study, or to theology, the queen of them all. I + would like him to be an honour to his family, as we live in days when our + kings liberally reward learning that is virtuous and worthy; for learning + without virtue is a pearl on a dunghill. He spends the whole day in + settling whether Homer expressed himself correctly or not in such and such + a line of the Iliad, whether Martial was indecent or not in such and such + an epigram, whether such and such lines of Virgil are to be understood in + this way or in that; in short, all his talk is of the works of these + poets, and those of Horace, Perseus, Juvenal, and Tibullus; for of the + moderns in our own language he makes no great account; but with all his + seeming indifference to Spanish poetry, just now his thoughts are absorbed + in making a gloss on four lines that have been sent him from Salamanca, + which I suspect are for some poetical tournament.” + </p> + <p> + To all this Don Quixote said in reply, “Children, señor, are + portions of their parents’ bowels, and therefore, be they good or + bad, are to be loved as we love the souls that give us life; it is for the + parents to guide them from infancy in the ways of virtue, propriety, and + worthy Christian conduct, so that when grown up they may be the staff of + their parents’ old age, and the glory of their posterity; and to + force them to study this or that science I do not think wise, though it + may be no harm to persuade them; and when there is no need to study for + the sake of pane lucrando, and it is the student’s good fortune that + heaven has given him parents who provide him with it, it would be my + advice to them to let him pursue whatever science they may see him most + inclined to; and though that of poetry is less useful than pleasurable, it + is not one of those that bring discredit upon the possessor. Poetry, + gentle sir, is, as I take it, like a tender young maiden of supreme + beauty, to array, bedeck, and adorn whom is the task of several other + maidens, who are all the rest of the sciences; and she must avail herself + of the help of all, and all derive their lustre from her. But this maiden + will not bear to be handled, nor dragged through the streets, nor exposed + either at the corners of the market-places, or in the closets of palaces. + She is the product of an Alchemy of such virtue that he who is able to + practise it, will turn her into pure gold of inestimable worth. He that + possesses her must keep her within bounds, not permitting her to break out + in ribald satires or soulless sonnets. She must on no account be offered + for sale, unless, indeed, it be in heroic poems, moving tragedies, or + sprightly and ingenious comedies. She must not be touched by the buffoons, + nor by the ignorant vulgar, incapable of comprehending or appreciating her + hidden treasures. And do not suppose, señor, that I apply the term vulgar + here merely to plebeians and the lower orders; for everyone who is + ignorant, be he lord or prince, may and should be included among the + vulgar. He, then, who shall embrace and cultivate poetry under the + conditions I have named, shall become famous, and his name honoured + throughout all the civilised nations of the earth. And with regard to what + you say, señor, of your son having no great opinion of Spanish poetry, I + am inclined to think that he is not quite right there, and for this + reason: the great poet Homer did not write in Latin, because he was a + Greek, nor did Virgil write in Greek, because he was a Latin; in short, + all the ancient poets wrote in the language they imbibed with their mother’s + milk, and never went in quest of foreign ones to express their sublime + conceptions; and that being so, the usage should in justice extend to all + nations, and the German poet should not be undervalued because he writes + in his own language, nor the Castilian, nor even the Biscayan, for writing + in his. But your son, señor, I suspect, is not prejudiced against Spanish + poetry, but against those poets who are mere Spanish verse writers, + without any knowledge of other languages or sciences to adorn and give + life and vigour to their natural inspiration; and yet even in this he may + be wrong; for, according to a true belief, a poet is born one; that is to + say, the poet by nature comes forth a poet from his mother’s womb; + and following the bent that heaven has bestowed upon him, without the aid + of study or art, he produces things that show how truly he spoke who said, + ‘Est Deus in nobis,’ etc. At the same time, I say that the + poet by nature who calls in art to his aid will be a far better poet, and + will surpass him who tries to be one relying upon his knowledge of art + alone. The reason is, that art does not surpass nature, but only brings it + to perfection; and thus, nature combined with art, and art with nature, + will produce a perfect poet. To bring my argument to a close, I would say + then, gentle sir, let your son go on as his star leads him, for being so + studious as he seems to be, and having already successfully surmounted the + first step of the sciences, which is that of the languages, with their + help he will by his own exertions reach the summit of polite literature, + which so well becomes an independent gentleman, and adorns, honours, and + distinguishes him, as much as the mitre does the bishop, or the gown the + learned counsellor. If your son write satires reflecting on the honour of + others, chide and correct him, and tear them up; but if he compose + discourses in which he rebukes vice in general, in the style of Horace, + and with elegance like his, commend him; for it is legitimate for a poet + to write against envy and lash the envious in his verse, and the other + vices too, provided he does not single out individuals; there are, + however, poets who, for the sake of saying something spiteful, would run + the risk of being banished to the coast of Pontus. If the poet be pure in + his morals, he will be pure in his verses too; the pen is the tongue of + the mind, and as the thought engendered there, so will be the things that + it writes down. And when kings and princes observe this marvellous science + of poetry in wise, virtuous, and thoughtful subjects, they honour, value, + exalt them, and even crown them with the leaves of that tree which the + thunderbolt strikes not, as if to show that they whose brows are honoured + and adorned with such a crown are not to be assailed by anyone.” + </p> + <p> + He of the green gaban was filled with astonishment at Don Quixote’s + argument, so much so that he began to abandon the notion he had taken up + about his being crazy. But in the middle of the discourse, it being not + very much to his taste, Sancho had turned aside out of the road to beg a + little milk from some shepherds, who were milking their ewes hard by; and + just as the gentleman, highly pleased, was about to renew the + conversation, Don Quixote, raising his head, perceived a cart covered with + royal flags coming along the road they were travelling; and persuaded that + this must be some new adventure, he called aloud to Sancho to come and + bring him his helmet. Sancho, hearing himself called, quitted the + shepherds, and, prodding Dapple vigorously, came up to his master, to whom + there fell a terrific and desperate adventure. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p16e" id="p16e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p16e.jpg (49K)" src="images/p16e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch17b" id="ch17b"></a>CHAPTER XVII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS SHOWN THE FURTHEST AND HIGHEST POINT WHICH THE UNEXAMPLED + COURAGE OF DON QUIXOTE REACHED OR COULD REACH; TOGETHER WITH THE HAPPILY + ACHIEVED ADVENTURE OF THE LIONS + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p17a" id="p17a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p17a.jpg (137K)" src="images/p17a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p17a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The history tells that when Don Quixote called out to Sancho to bring him + his helmet, Sancho was buying some curds the shepherds agreed to sell him, + and flurried by the great haste his master was in did not know what to do + with them or what to carry them in; so, not to lose them, for he had + already paid for them, he thought it best to throw them into his master’s + helmet, and acting on this bright idea he went to see what his master + wanted with him. He, as he approached, exclaimed to him: + </p> + <p> + “Give me that helmet, my friend, for either I know little of + adventures, or what I observe yonder is one that will, and does, call upon + me to arm myself.” + </p> + <p> + He of the green gaban, on hearing this, looked in all directions, but + could perceive nothing, except a cart coming towards them with two or + three small flags, which led him to conclude it must be carrying treasure + of the King’s, and he said so to Don Quixote. He, however, would not + believe him, being always persuaded and convinced that all that happened + to him must be adventures and still more adventures; so he replied to the + gentleman, “He who is prepared has his battle half fought; nothing + is lost by my preparing myself, for I know by experience that I have + enemies, visible and invisible, and I know not when, or where, or at what + moment, or in what shapes they will attack me;” and turning to + Sancho, he called for his helmet; and Sancho, as he had no time to take + out the curds, had to give it just as it was. Don Quixote took it, and + without perceiving what was in it thrust it down in hot haste upon his + head; but as the curds were pressed and squeezed the whey began to run all + over his face and beard, whereat he was so startled that he cried out to + Sancho: + </p> + <p> + “Sancho, what’s this? I think my head is softening, or my + brains are melting, or I am sweating from head to foot! If I am sweating + it is not indeed from fear. I am convinced beyond a doubt that the + adventure which is about to befall me is a terrible one. Give me something + to wipe myself with, if thou hast it, for this profuse sweat is blinding + me.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho held his tongue, and gave him a cloth, and gave thanks to God at + the same time that his master had not found out what was the matter. Don + Quixote then wiped himself, and took off his helmet to see what it was + that made his head feel so cool, and seeing all that white mash inside his + helmet he put it to his nose, and as soon as he had smelt it he exclaimed: + </p> + <p> + “By the life of my lady Dulcinea del Toboso, but it is curds thou + hast put here, thou treacherous, impudent, ill-mannered squire!” + </p> + <p> + To which, with great composure and pretended innocence, Sancho replied, + “If they are curds let me have them, your worship, and I’ll + eat them; but let the devil eat them, for it must have been he who put + them there. I dare to dirty your helmet! You have guessed the offender + finely! Faith, sir, by the light God gives me, it seems I must have + enchanters too, that persecute me as a creature and limb of your worship, + and they must have put that nastiness there in order to provoke your + patience to anger, and make you baste my ribs as you are wont to do. Well, + this time, indeed, they have missed their aim, for I trust to my master’s + good sense to see that I have got no curds or milk, or anything of the + sort; and that if I had it is in my stomach I would put it and not in the + helmet.” + </p> + <p> + “May be so,” said Don Quixote. All this the gentleman was + observing, and with astonishment, more especially when, after having wiped + himself clean, his head, face, beard, and helmet, Don Quixote put it on, + and settling himself firmly in his stirrups, easing his sword in the + scabbard, and grasping his lance, he cried, “Now, come who will, + here am I, ready to try conclusions with Satan himself in person!” + </p> + <p> + By this time the cart with the flags had come up, unattended by anyone + except the carter on a mule, and a man sitting in front. Don Quixote + planted himself before it and said, “Whither are you going, + brothers? What cart is this? What have you got in it? What flags are + those?” + </p> + <p> + To this the carter replied, “The cart is mine; what is in it is a + pair of wild caged lions, which the governor of Oran is sending to court + as a present to his Majesty; and the flags are our lord the King’s, + to show that what is here is his property.” + </p> + <p> + “And are the lions large?” asked Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “So large,” replied the man who sat at the door of the cart, + “that larger, or as large, have never crossed from Africa to Spain; + I am the keeper, and I have brought over others, but never any like these. + They are male and female; the male is in that first cage and the female in + the one behind, and they are hungry now, for they have eaten nothing + to-day, so let your worship stand aside, for we must make haste to the + place where we are to feed them.” + </p> + <p> + Hereupon, smiling slightly, Don Quixote exclaimed, “Lion-whelps to + me! to me whelps of lions, and at such a time! Then, by God! those + gentlemen who send them here shall see if I am a man to be frightened by + lions. Get down, my good fellow, and as you are the keeper open the cages, + and turn me out those beasts, and in the midst of this plain I will let + them know who Don Quixote of La Mancha is, in spite and in the teeth of + the enchanters who send them to me.” + </p> + <p> + “So, so,” said the gentleman to himself at this; “our + worthy knight has shown of what sort he is; the curds, no doubt, have + softened his skull and brought his brains to a head.” + </p> + <p> + At this instant Sancho came up to him, saying, “Señor, for God’s + sake do something to keep my master, Don Quixote, from tackling these + lions; for if he does they’ll tear us all to pieces here.” + </p> + <p> + “Is your master then so mad,” asked the gentleman, “that + you believe and are afraid he will engage such fierce animals?” + </p> + <p> + “He is not mad,” said Sancho, “but he is venturesome.” + </p> + <p> + “I will prevent it,” said the gentleman; and going over to Don + Quixote, who was insisting upon the keeper’s opening the cages, he + said to him, “Sir knight, knights-errant should attempt adventures + which encourage the hope of a successful issue, not those which entirely + withhold it; for valour that trenches upon temerity savours rather of + madness than of courage; moreover, these lions do not come to oppose you, + nor do they dream of such a thing; they are going as presents to his + Majesty, and it will not be right to stop them or delay their journey.” + </p> + <p> + “Gentle sir,” replied Don Quixote, “you go and mind your + tame partridge and your bold ferret, and leave everyone to manage his own + business; this is mine, and I know whether these gentlemen the lions come + to me or not;” and then turning to the keeper he exclaimed, “By + all that’s good, sir scoundrel, if you don’t open the cages + this very instant, I’ll pin you to the cart with this lance.” + </p> + <p> + The carter, seeing the determination of this apparition in armour, said to + him, “Please your worship, for charity’s sake, señor, let me + unyoke the mules and place myself in safety along with them before the + lions are turned out; for if they kill them on me I am ruined for life, + for all I possess is this cart and mules.” + </p> + <p> + “O man of little faith,” replied Don Quixote, “get down + and unyoke; you will soon see that you are exerting yourself for nothing, + and that you might have spared yourself the trouble.” + </p> + <p> + The carter got down and with all speed unyoked the mules, and the keeper + called out at the top of his voice, “I call all here to witness that + against my will and under compulsion I open the cages and let the lions + loose, and that I warn this gentleman that he will be accountable for all + the harm and mischief which these beasts may do, and for my salary and + dues as well. You, gentlemen, place yourselves in safety before I open, + for I know they will do me no harm.” + </p> + <p> + Once more the gentleman strove to persuade Don Quixote not to do such a + mad thing, as it was tempting God to engage in such a piece of folly. To + this, Don Quixote replied that he knew what he was about. The gentleman in + return entreated him to reflect, for he knew he was under a delusion. + </p> + <p> + “Well, señor,” answered Don Quixote, “if you do not like + to be a spectator of this tragedy, as in your opinion it will be, spur + your flea-bitten mare, and place yourself in safety.” + </p> + <p> + Hearing this, Sancho with tears in his eyes entreated him to give up an + enterprise compared with which the one of the windmills, and the awful one + of the fulling mills, and, in fact, all the feats he had attempted in the + whole course of his life, were cakes and fancy bread. “Look ye, + señor,” said Sancho, “there’s no enchantment here, nor + anything of the sort, for between the bars and chinks of the cage I have + seen the paw of a real lion, and judging by that I reckon the lion such a + paw could belong to must be bigger than a mountain.” + </p> + <p> + “Fear at any rate,” replied Don Quixote, “will make him + look bigger to thee than half the world. Retire, Sancho, and leave me; and + if I die here thou knowest our old compact; thou wilt repair to Dulcinea—I + say no more.” To these he added some further words that banished all + hope of his giving up his insane project. He of the green gaban would have + offered resistance, but he found himself ill-matched as to arms, and did + not think it prudent to come to blows with a madman, for such Don Quixote + now showed himself to be in every respect; and the latter, renewing his + commands to the keeper and repeating his threats, gave warning to the + gentleman to spur his mare, Sancho his Dapple, and the carter his mules, + all striving to get away from the cart as far as they could before the + lions broke loose. Sancho was weeping over his master’s death, for + this time he firmly believed it was in store for him from the claws of the + lions; and he cursed his fate and called it an unlucky hour when he + thought of taking service with him again; but with all his tears and + lamentations he did not forget to thrash Dapple so as to put a good space + between himself and the cart. The keeper, seeing that the fugitives were + now some distance off, once more entreated and warned him as before; but + he replied that he heard him, and that he need not trouble himself with + any further warnings or entreaties, as they would be fruitless, and bade + him make haste. + </p> + <p> + During the delay that occurred while the keeper was opening the first + cage, Don Quixote was considering whether it would not be well to do + battle on foot, instead of on horseback, and finally resolved to fight on + foot, fearing that Rocinante might take fright at the sight of the lions; + he therefore sprang off his horse, flung his lance aside, braced his + buckler on his arm, and drawing his sword, advanced slowly with marvellous + intrepidity and resolute courage, to plant himself in front of the cart, + commending himself with all his heart to God and to his lady Dulcinea. + </p> + <p> + It is to be observed, that on coming to this passage, the author of this + veracious history breaks out into exclamations. “O doughty Don + Quixote! high-mettled past extolling! Mirror, wherein all the heroes of + the world may see themselves! Second modern Don Manuel de Leon, once the + glory and honour of Spanish knighthood! In what words shall I describe + this dread exploit, by what language shall I make it credible to ages to + come, what eulogies are there unmeet for thee, though they be hyperboles + piled on hyperboles! On foot, alone, undaunted, high-souled, with but a + simple sword, and that no trenchant blade of the Perrillo brand, a shield, + but no bright polished steel one, there stoodst thou, biding and awaiting + the two fiercest lions that Africa’s forests ever bred! Thy own + deeds be thy praise, valiant Manchegan, and here I leave them as they + stand, wanting the words wherewith to glorify them!” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p17b" id="p17b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p17b.jpg (352K)" src="images/p17b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p17b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Here the author’s outburst came to an end, and he proceeded to take + up the thread of his story, saying that the keeper, seeing that Don + Quixote had taken up his position, and that it was impossible for him to + avoid letting out the male without incurring the enmity of the fiery and + daring knight, flung open the doors of the first cage, containing, as has + been said, the lion, which was now seen to be of enormous size, and grim + and hideous mien. The first thing he did was to turn round in the cage in + which he lay, and protrude his claws, and stretch himself thoroughly; he + next opened his mouth, and yawned very leisurely, and with near two palms’ + length of tongue that he had thrust forth, he licked the dust out of his + eyes and washed his face; having done this, he put his head out of the + cage and looked all round with eyes like glowing coals, a spectacle and + demeanour to strike terror into temerity itself. Don Quixote merely + observed him steadily, longing for him to leap from the cart and come to + close quarters with him, when he hoped to hew him in pieces. + </p> + <p> + So far did his unparalleled madness go; but the noble lion, more courteous + than arrogant, not troubling himself about silly bravado, after having + looked all round, as has been said, turned about and presented his + hind-quarters to Don Quixote, and very coolly and tranquilly lay down + again in the cage. Seeing this, Don Quixote ordered the keeper to take a + stick to him and provoke him to make him come out. + </p> + <p> + “That I won’t,” said the keeper; “for if I anger + him, the first he’ll tear in pieces will be myself. Be satisfied, + sir knight, with what you have done, which leaves nothing more to be said + on the score of courage, and do not seek to tempt fortune a second time. + The lion has the door open; he is free to come out or not to come out; but + as he has not come out so far, he will not come out to-day. Your worship’s + great courage has been fully manifested already; no brave champion, so it + strikes me, is bound to do more than challenge his enemy and wait for him + on the field; if his adversary does not come, on him lies the disgrace, + and he who waits for him carries off the crown of victory.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said Don Quixote; “close the door, my + friend, and let me have, in the best form thou canst, what thou hast seen + me do, by way of certificate; to wit, that thou didst open for the lion, + that I waited for him, that he did not come out, that I still waited for + him, and that still he did not come out, and lay down again. I am not + bound to do more; enchantments avaunt, and God uphold the right, the + truth, and true chivalry! Close the door as I bade thee, while I make + signals to the fugitives that have left us, that they may learn this + exploit from thy lips.” + </p> + <p> + The keeper obeyed, and Don Quixote, fixing on the point of his lance the + cloth he had wiped his face with after the deluge of curds, proceeded to + recall the others, who still continued to fly, looking back at every step, + all in a body, the gentleman bringing up the rear. Sancho, however, + happening to observe the signal of the white cloth, exclaimed, “May + I die, if my master has not overcome the wild beasts, for he is calling to + us.” + </p> + <p> + They all stopped, and perceived that it was Don Quixote who was making + signals, and shaking off their fears to some extent, they approached + slowly until they were near enough to hear distinctly Don Quixote’s + voice calling to them. They returned at length to the cart, and as they + came up, Don Quixote said to the carter, “Put your mules to once + more, brother, and continue your journey; and do thou, Sancho, give him + two gold crowns for himself and the keeper, to compensate for the delay + they have incurred through me.” + </p> + <p> + “That will I give with all my heart,” said Sancho; “but + what has become of the lions? Are they dead or alive?” + </p> + <p> + The keeper, then, in full detail, and bit by bit, described the end of the + contest, exalting to the best of his power and ability the valour of Don + Quixote, at the sight of whom the lion quailed, and would not and dared + not come out of the cage, although he had held the door open ever so long; + and showing how, in consequence of his having represented to the knight + that it was tempting God to provoke the lion in order to force him out, + which he wished to have done, he very reluctantly, and altogether against + his will, had allowed the door to be closed. + </p> + <p> + “What dost thou think of this, Sancho?” said Don Quixote. + “Are there any enchantments that can prevail against true valour? + The enchanters may be able to rob me of good fortune, but of fortitude and + courage they cannot.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho paid the crowns, the carter put to, the keeper kissed Don Quixote’s + hands for the bounty bestowed upon him, and promised to give an account of + the valiant exploit to the King himself, as soon as he saw him at court. + </p> + <p> + “Then,” said Don Quixote, “if his Majesty should happen + to ask who performed it, you must say THE KNIGHT OF THE LIONS; for it is + my desire that into this the name I have hitherto borne of Knight of the + Rueful Countenance be from this time forward changed, altered, + transformed, and turned; and in this I follow the ancient usage of + knights-errant, who changed their names when they pleased, or when it + suited their purpose.” + </p> + <p> + The cart went its way, and Don Quixote, Sancho, and he of the green gaban + went theirs. All this time, Don Diego de Miranda had not spoken a word, + being entirely taken up with observing and noting all that Don Quixote did + and said, and the opinion he formed was that he was a man of brains gone + mad, and a madman on the verge of rationality. The first part of his + history had not yet reached him, for, had he read it, the amazement with + which his words and deeds filled him would have vanished, as he would then + have understood the nature of his madness; but knowing nothing of it, he + took him to be rational one moment, and crazy the next, for what he said + was sensible, elegant, and well expressed, and what he did, absurd, rash, + and foolish; and said he to himself, “What could be madder than + putting on a helmet full of curds, and then persuading oneself that + enchanters are softening one’s skull; or what could be greater + rashness and folly than wanting to fight lions tooth and nail?” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote roused him from these reflections and this soliloquy by + saying, “No doubt, Señor Don Diego de Miranda, you set me down in + your mind as a fool and a madman, and it would be no wonder if you did, + for my deeds do not argue anything else. But for all that, I would have + you take notice that I am neither so mad nor so foolish as I must have + seemed to you. A gallant knight shows to advantage bringing his lance to + bear adroitly upon a fierce bull under the eyes of his sovereign, in the + midst of a spacious plaza; a knight shows to advantage arrayed in + glittering armour, pacing the lists before the ladies in some joyous + tournament, and all those knights show to advantage that entertain, + divert, and, if we may say so, honour the courts of their princes by + warlike exercises, or what resemble them; but to greater advantage than + all these does a knight-errant show when he traverses deserts, solitudes, + cross-roads, forests, and mountains, in quest of perilous adventures, bent + on bringing them to a happy and successful issue, all to win a glorious + and lasting renown. To greater advantage, I maintain, does the + knight-errant show bringing aid to some widow in some lonely waste, than + the court knight dallying with some city damsel. All knights have their + own special parts to play; let the courtier devote himself to the ladies, + let him add lustre to his sovereign’s court by his liveries, let him + entertain poor gentlemen with the sumptuous fare of his table, let him + arrange joustings, marshal tournaments, and prove himself noble, generous, + and magnificent, and above all a good Christian, and so doing he will + fulfil the duties that are especially his; but let the knight-errant + explore the corners of the earth and penetrate the most intricate + labyrinths, at each step let him attempt impossibilities, on desolate + heaths let him endure the burning rays of the midsummer sun, and the + bitter inclemency of the winter winds and frosts; let no lions daunt him, + no monsters terrify him, no dragons make him quail; for to seek these, to + attack those, and to vanquish all, are in truth his main duties. I, then, + as it has fallen to my lot to be a member of knight-errantry, cannot avoid + attempting all that to me seems to come within the sphere of my duties; + thus it was my bounden duty to attack those lions that I just now + attacked, although I knew it to be the height of rashness; for I know well + what valour is, that it is a virtue that occupies a place between two + vicious extremes, cowardice and temerity; but it will be a lesser evil for + him who is valiant to rise till he reaches the point of rashness, than to + sink until he reaches the point of cowardice; for, as it is easier for the + prodigal than for the miser to become generous, so it is easier for a rash + man to prove truly valiant than for a coward to rise to true valour; and + believe me, Señor Don Diego, in attempting adventures it is better to lose + by a card too many than by a card too few; for to hear it said, ‘such + a knight is rash and daring,’ sounds better than ‘such a + knight is timid and cowardly.’” + </p> + <p> + “I protest, Señor Don Quixote,” said Don Diego, “everything + you have said and done is proved correct by the test of reason itself; and + I believe, if the laws and ordinances of knight-errantry should be lost, + they might be found in your worship’s breast as in their own proper + depository and muniment-house; but let us make haste, and reach my + village, where you shall take rest after your late exertions; for if they + have not been of the body they have been of the spirit, and these + sometimes tend to produce bodily fatigue.” + </p> + <p> + “I take the invitation as a great favour and honour, Señor Don + Diego,” replied Don Quixote; and pressing forward at a better pace + than before, at about two in the afternoon they reached the village and + house of Don Diego, or, as Don Quixote called him, “The Knight of + the Green Gaban.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p17e" id="p17e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p17e.jpg (76K)" src="images/p17e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch18b" id="ch18b"></a>CHAPTER XVIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF WHAT HAPPENED DON QUIXOTE IN THE CASTLE OR HOUSE OF THE KNIGHT OF THE + GREEN GABAN, TOGETHER WITH OTHER MATTERS OUT OF THE COMMON + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p18a" id="p18a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p18a.jpg (133K)" src="images/p18a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p18a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote found Don Diego de Miranda’s house built in village + style, with his arms in rough stone over the street door; in the patio was + the store-room, and at the entrance the cellar, with plenty of wine-jars + standing round, which, coming from El Toboso, brought back to his memory + his enchanted and transformed Dulcinea; and with a sigh, and not thinking + of what he was saying, or in whose presence he was, he exclaimed- + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +“O ye sweet treasures, to my sorrow found! +Once sweet and welcome when ‘twas heaven’s good-will. + +“O ye Tobosan jars, how ye bring back to my memory the +sweet object of my bitter regrets!” + </pre> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p18b" id="p18b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p18b.jpg (300K)" src="images/p18b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p18b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The student poet, Don Diego’s son, who had come out with his mother + to receive him, heard this exclamation, and both mother and son were + filled with amazement at the extraordinary figure he presented; he, + however, dismounting from Rocinante, advanced with great politeness to ask + permission to kiss the lady’s hand, while Don Diego said, “Señora, + pray receive with your wonted kindness Señor Don Quixote of La Mancha, + whom you see before you, a knight-errant, and the bravest and wisest in + the world.” + </p> + <p> + The lady, whose name was Dona Christina, received him with every sign of + good-will and great courtesy, and Don Quixote placed himself at her + service with an abundance of well-chosen and polished phrases. Almost the + same civilities were exchanged between him and the student, who listening + to Don Quixote, took him to be a sensible, clear-headed person. + </p> + <p> + Here the author describes minutely everything belonging to Don Diego’s + mansion, putting before us in his picture the whole contents of a rich + gentleman-farmer’s house; but the translator of the history thought + it best to pass over these and other details of the same sort in silence, + as they are not in harmony with the main purpose of the story, the strong + point of which is truth rather than dull digressions. + </p> + <p> + They led Don Quixote into a room, and Sancho removed his armour, leaving + him in loose Walloon breeches and chamois-leather doublet, all stained + with the rust of his armour; his collar was a falling one of scholastic + cut, without starch or lace, his buskins buff-coloured, and his shoes + polished. He wore his good sword, which hung in a baldric of sea-wolf’s + skin, for he had suffered for many years, they say, from an ailment of the + kidneys; and over all he threw a long cloak of good grey cloth. But first + of all, with five or six buckets of water (for as regard the number of + buckets there is some dispute), he washed his head and face, and still the + water remained whey-coloured, thanks to Sancho’s greediness and + purchase of those unlucky curds that turned his master so white. Thus + arrayed, and with an easy, sprightly, and gallant air, Don Quixote passed + out into another room, where the student was waiting to entertain him + while the table was being laid; for on the arrival of so distinguished a + guest, Dona Christina was anxious to show that she knew how and was able + to give a becoming reception to those who came to her house. + </p> + <p> + While Don Quixote was taking off his armour, Don Lorenzo (for so Don Diego’s + son was called) took the opportunity to say to his father, “What are + we to make of this gentleman you have brought home to us, sir? For his + name, his appearance, and your describing him as a knight-errant have + completely puzzled my mother and me.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know what to say, my son,” replied. Don Diego; + “all I can tell thee is that I have seen him act the acts of the + greatest madman in the world, and heard him make observations so sensible + that they efface and undo all he does; do thou talk to him and feel the + pulse of his wits, and as thou art shrewd, form the most reasonable + conclusion thou canst as to his wisdom or folly; though, to tell the + truth, I am more inclined to take him to be mad than sane.” + </p> + <p> + With this Don Lorenzo went away to entertain Don Quixote as has been said, + and in the course of the conversation that passed between them Don Quixote + said to Don Lorenzo, “Your father, Señor Don Diego de Miranda, has + told me of the rare abilities and subtle intellect you possess, and, above + all, that you are a great poet.” + </p> + <p> + “A poet, it may be,” replied Don Lorenzo, “but a great + one, by no means. It is true that I am somewhat given to poetry and to + reading good poets, but not so much so as to justify the title of ‘great’ + which my father gives me.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not dislike that modesty,” said Don Quixote; “for + there is no poet who is not conceited and does not think he is the best + poet in the world.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no rule without an exception,” said Don Lorenzo; + “there may be some who are poets and yet do not think they are.” + </p> + <p> + “Very few,” said Don Quixote; “but tell me, what verses + are those which you have now in hand, and which your father tells me keep + you somewhat restless and absorbed? If it be some gloss, I know something + about glosses, and I should like to hear them; and if they are for a + poetical tournament, contrive to carry off the second prize; for the first + always goes by favour or personal standing, the second by simple justice; + and so the third comes to be the second, and the first, reckoning in this + way, will be third, in the same way as licentiate degrees are conferred at + the universities; but, for all that, the title of first is a great + distinction.” + </p> + <p> + “So far,” said Don Lorenzo to himself, “I should not + take you to be a madman; but let us go on.” So he said to him, + “Your worship has apparently attended the schools; what sciences + have you studied?” + </p> + <p> + “That of knight-errantry,” said Don Quixote, “which is + as good as that of poetry, and even a finger or two above it.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not know what science that is,” said Don Lorenzo, + “and until now I have never heard of it.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a science,” said Don Quixote, “that comprehends + in itself all or most of the sciences in the world, for he who professes + it must be a jurist, and must know the rules of justice, distributive and + equitable, so as to give to each one what belongs to him and is due to + him. He must be a theologian, so as to be able to give a clear and + distinctive reason for the Christian faith he professes, wherever it may + be asked of him. He must be a physician, and above all a herbalist, so as + in wastes and solitudes to know the herbs that have the property of + healing wounds, for a knight-errant must not go looking for some one to + cure him at every step. He must be an astronomer, so as to know by the + stars how many hours of the night have passed, and what clime and quarter + of the world he is in. He must know mathematics, for at every turn some + occasion for them will present itself to him; and, putting it aside that + he must be adorned with all the virtues, cardinal and theological, to come + down to minor particulars, he must, I say, be able to swim as well as + Nicholas or Nicolao the Fish could, as the story goes; he must know how to + shoe a horse, and repair his saddle and bridle; and, to return to higher + matters, he must be faithful to God and to his lady; he must be pure in + thought, decorous in words, generous in works, valiant in deeds, patient + in suffering, compassionate towards the needy, and, lastly, an upholder of + the truth though its defence should cost him his life. Of all these + qualities, great and small, is a true knight-errant made up; judge then, + Señor Don Lorenzo, whether it be a contemptible science which the knight + who studies and professes it has to learn, and whether it may not compare + with the very loftiest that are taught in the schools.” + </p> + <p> + “If that be so,” replied Don Lorenzo, “this science, I + protest, surpasses all.” + </p> + <p> + “How, if that be so?” said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “What I mean to say,” said Don Lorenzo, “is, that I + doubt whether there are now, or ever were, any knights-errant, and adorned + with such virtues.” + </p> + <p> + “Many a time,” replied Don Quixote, “have I said what I + now say once more, that the majority of the world are of opinion that + there never were any knights-errant in it; and as it is my opinion that, + unless heaven by some miracle brings home to them the truth that there + were and are, all the pains one takes will be in vain (as experience has + often proved to me), I will not now stop to disabuse you of the error you + share with the multitude. All I shall do is to pray to heaven to deliver + you from it, and show you how beneficial and necessary knights-errant were + in days of yore, and how useful they would be in these days were they but + in vogue; but now, for the sins of the people, sloth and indolence, + gluttony and luxury are triumphant.” + </p> + <p> + “Our guest has broken out on our hands,” said Don Lorenzo to + himself at this point; “but, for all that, he is a glorious madman, + and I should be a dull blockhead to doubt it.” + </p> + <p> + Here, being summoned to dinner, they brought their colloquy to a close. + Don Diego asked his son what he had been able to make out as to the wits + of their guest. To which he replied, “All the doctors and clever + scribes in the world will not make sense of the scrawl of his madness; he + is a madman full of streaks, full of lucid intervals.” + </p> + <p> + They went in to dinner, and the repast was such as Don Diego said on the + road he was in the habit of giving to his guests, neat, plentiful, and + tasty; but what pleased Don Quixote most was the marvellous silence that + reigned throughout the house, for it was like a Carthusian monastery. + </p> + <p> + When the cloth had been removed, grace said and their hands washed, Don + Quixote earnestly pressed Don Lorenzo to repeat to him his verses for the + poetical tournament, to which he replied, “Not to be like those + poets who, when they are asked to recite their verses, refuse, and when + they are not asked for them vomit them up, I will repeat my gloss, for + which I do not expect any prize, having composed it merely as an exercise + of ingenuity.” + </p> + <p> + “A discerning friend of mine,” said Don Quixote, “was of + opinion that no one ought to waste labour in glossing verses; and the + reason he gave was that the gloss can never come up to the text, and that + often or most frequently it wanders away from the meaning and purpose + aimed at in the glossed lines; and besides, that the laws of the gloss + were too strict, as they did not allow interrogations, nor ‘said he,’ + nor ‘I say,’ nor turning verbs into nouns, or altering the + construction, not to speak of other restrictions and limitations that + fetter gloss-writers, as you no doubt know.” + </p> + <p> + “Verily, Señor Don Quixote,” said Don Lorenzo, “I wish I + could catch your worship tripping at a stretch, but I cannot, for you slip + through my fingers like an eel.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t understand what you say, or mean by slipping,” + said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “I will explain myself another time,” said Don Lorenzo; + “for the present pray attend to the glossed verses and the gloss, + which run thus: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +Could ‘was’ become an ‘is’ for me, +Then would I ask no more than this; +Or could, for me, the time that is +Become the time that is to be!— + + + +GLOSS + +Dame Fortune once upon a day +To me was bountiful and kind; +But all things change; she changed her mind, +And what she gave she took away. +O Fortune, long I’ve sued to thee; +The gifts thou gavest me restore, +For, trust me, I would ask no more, +Could ‘was’ become an ‘is’ for me. + +No other prize I seek to gain, +No triumph, glory, or success, +Only the long-lost happiness, +The memory whereof is pain. +One taste, methinks, of bygone bliss +The heart-consuming fire might stay; +And, so it come without delay, +Then would I ask no more than this. + +I ask what cannot be, alas! +That time should ever be, and then +Come back to us, and be again, +No power on earth can bring to pass; +For fleet of foot is he, I wis, +And idly, therefore, do we pray +That what for aye hath left us may +Become for us the time that is. + +Perplexed, uncertain, to remain +‘Twixt hope and fear, is death, not life; +‘Twere better, sure, to end the strife, +And dying, seek release from pain. +And yet, thought were the best for me. +Anon the thought aside I fling, +And to the present fondly cling, +And dread the time that is to be.” + </pre> + <p> + When Don Lorenzo had finished reciting his gloss, Don Quixote stood up, + and in a loud voice, almost a shout, exclaimed as he grasped Don Lorenzo’s + right hand in his, “By the highest heavens, noble youth, but you are + the best poet on earth, and deserve to be crowned with laurel, not by + Cyprus or by Gaeta—as a certain poet, God forgive him, said—but + by the Academies of Athens, if they still flourished, and by those that + flourish now, Paris, Bologna, Salamanca. Heaven grant that the judges who + rob you of the first prize—that Phoebus may pierce them with his + arrows, and the Muses never cross the thresholds of their doors. Repeat me + some of your long-measure verses, señor, if you will be so good, for I + want thoroughly to feel the pulse of your rare genius.” + </p> + <p> + Is there any need to say that Don Lorenzo enjoyed hearing himself praised + by Don Quixote, albeit he looked upon him as a madman? power of flattery, + how far-reaching art thou, and how wide are the bounds of thy pleasant + jurisdiction! Don Lorenzo gave a proof of it, for he complied with Don + Quixote’s request and entreaty, and repeated to him this sonnet on + the fable or story of Pyramus and Thisbe. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +SONNET + +The lovely maid, she pierces now the wall; +Heart-pierced by her young Pyramus doth lie; +And Love spreads wing from Cyprus isle to fly, +A chink to view so wondrous great and small. +There silence speaketh, for no voice at all +Can pass so strait a strait; but love will ply +Where to all other power ‘twere vain to try; +For love will find a way whate’er befall. +Impatient of delay, with reckless pace +The rash maid wins the fatal spot where she +Sinks not in lover’s arms but death’s embrace. +So runs the strange tale, how the lovers twain +One sword, one sepulchre, one memory, +Slays, and entombs, and brings to life again. + +</pre> + <p> + “Blessed be God,” said Don Quixote when he had heard Don + Lorenzo’s sonnet, “that among the hosts there are of irritable + poets I have found one consummate one, which, señor, the art of this + sonnet proves to me that you are!” + </p> + <p> + For four days was Don Quixote most sumptuously entertained in Don Diego’s + house, at the end of which time he asked his permission to depart, telling + him he thanked him for the kindness and hospitality he had received in his + house, but that, as it did not become knights-errant to give themselves up + for long to idleness and luxury, he was anxious to fulfill the duties of + his calling in seeking adventures, of which he was informed there was an + abundance in that neighbourhood, where he hoped to employ his time until + the day came round for the jousts at Saragossa, for that was his proper + destination; and that, first of all, he meant to enter the cave of + Montesinos, of which so many marvellous things were reported all through + the country, and at the same time to investigate and explore the origin + and true source of the seven lakes commonly called the lakes of Ruidera. + </p> + <p> + Don Diego and his son commended his laudable resolution, and bade him + furnish himself with all he wanted from their house and belongings, as + they would most gladly be of service to him; which, indeed, his personal + worth and his honourable profession made incumbent upon them. + </p> + <p> + The day of his departure came at length, as welcome to Don Quixote as it + was sad and sorrowful to Sancho Panza, who was very well satisfied with + the abundance of Don Diego’s house, and objected to return to the + starvation of the woods and wilds and the short-commons of his ill-stocked + alforjas; these, however, he filled and packed with what he considered + needful. On taking leave, Don Quixote said to Don Lorenzo, “I know + not whether I have told you already, but if I have I tell you once more, + that if you wish to spare yourself fatigue and toil in reaching the + inaccessible summit of the temple of fame, you have nothing to do but to + turn aside out of the somewhat narrow path of poetry and take the still + narrower one of knight-errantry, wide enough, however, to make you an + emperor in the twinkling of an eye.” + </p> + <p> + In this speech Don Quixote wound up the evidence of his madness, but still + better in what he added when he said, “God knows, I would gladly + take Don Lorenzo with me to teach him how to spare the humble, and trample + the proud under foot, virtues that are part and parcel of the profession I + belong to; but since his tender age does not allow of it, nor his + praiseworthy pursuits permit it, I will simply content myself with + impressing it upon your worship that you will become famous as a poet if + you are guided by the opinion of others rather than by your own; because + no fathers or mothers ever think their own children ill-favoured, and this + sort of deception prevails still more strongly in the case of the children + of the brain.” + </p> + <p> + Both father and son were amazed afresh at the strange medley Don Quixote + talked, at one moment sense, at another nonsense, and at the pertinacity + and persistence he displayed in going through thick and thin in quest of + his unlucky adventures, which he made the end and aim of his desires. + There was a renewal of offers of service and civilities, and then, with + the gracious permission of the lady of the castle, they took their + departure, Don Quixote on Rocinante, and Sancho on Dapple. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p18e" id="p18e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p18e.jpg (18K)" src="images/p18e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch19b" id="ch19b"></a>CHAPTER XIX. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + IN WHICH IS RELATED THE ADVENTURE OF THE ENAMOURED SHEPHERD, TOGETHER WITH + OTHER TRULY DROLL INCIDENTS + </h3> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p19a.jpg (131K)" src="images/p19a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p19a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote had gone but a short distance beyond Don Diego’s + village, when he fell in with a couple of either priests or students, and + a couple of peasants, mounted on four beasts of the ass kind. One of the + students carried, wrapped up in a piece of green buckram by way of a + portmanteau, what seemed to be a little linen and a couple of pairs of + ribbed stockings; the other carried nothing but a pair of new + fencing-foils with buttons. The peasants carried divers articles that + showed they were on their way from some large town where they had bought + them, and were taking them home to their village; and both students and + peasants were struck with the same amazement that everybody felt who saw + Don Quixote for the first time, and were dying to know who this man, so + different from ordinary men, could be. Don Quixote saluted them, and after + ascertaining that their road was the same as his, made them an offer of + his company, and begged them to slacken their pace, as their young asses + travelled faster than his horse; and then, to gratify them, he told them + in a few words who he was and the calling and profession he followed, + which was that of a knight-errant seeking adventures in all parts of the + world. He informed them that his own name was Don Quixote of La Mancha, + and that he was called, by way of surname, the Knight of the Lions. + </p> + <p> + All this was Greek or gibberish to the peasants, but not so to the + students, who very soon perceived the crack in Don Quixote’s pate; + for all that, however, they regarded him with admiration and respect, and + one of them said to him, “If you, sir knight, have no fixed road, as + it is the way with those who seek adventures not to have any, let your + worship come with us; you will see one of the finest and richest weddings + that up to this day have ever been celebrated in La Mancha, or for many a + league round.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote asked him if it was some prince’s, that he spoke of it + in this way. “Not at all,” said the student; “it is the + wedding of a farmer and a farmer’s daughter, he the richest in all + this country, and she the fairest mortal ever set eyes on. The display + with which it is to be attended will be something rare and out of the + common, for it will be celebrated in a meadow adjoining the town of the + bride, who is called, par excellence, Quiteria the fair, as the bridegroom + is called Camacho the rich. She is eighteen, and he twenty-two, and they + are fairly matched, though some knowing ones, who have all the pedigrees + in the world by heart, will have it that the family of the fair Quiteria + is better than Camacho’s; but no one minds that now-a-days, for + wealth can solder a great many flaws. At any rate, Camacho is free-handed, + and it is his fancy to screen the whole meadow with boughs and cover it in + overhead, so that the sun will have hard work if he tries to get in to + reach the grass that covers the soil. He has provided dancers too, not + only sword but also bell-dancers, for in his own town there are those who + ring the changes and jingle the bells to perfection; of shoe-dancers I say + nothing, for of them he has engaged a host. But none of these things, nor + of the many others I have omitted to mention, will do more to make this a + memorable wedding than the part which I suspect the despairing Basilio + will play in it. This Basilio is a youth of the same village as Quiteria, + and he lived in the house next door to that of her parents, of which + circumstance Love took advantage to reproduce to the word the + long-forgotten loves of Pyramus and Thisbe; for Basilio loved Quiteria + from his earliest years, and she responded to his passion with countless + modest proofs of affection, so that the loves of the two children, Basilio + and Quiteria, were the talk and the amusement of the town. As they grew + up, the father of Quiteria made up his mind to refuse Basilio his wonted + freedom of access to the house, and to relieve himself of constant doubts + and suspicions, he arranged a match for his daughter with the rich + Camacho, as he did not approve of marrying her to Basilio, who had not so + large a share of the gifts of fortune as of nature; for if the truth be + told ungrudgingly, he is the most agile youth we know, a mighty thrower of + the bar, a first-rate wrestler, and a great ball-player; he runs like a + deer, and leaps better than a goat, bowls over the nine-pins as if by + magic, sings like a lark, plays the guitar so as to make it speak, and, + above all, handles a sword as well as the best.” + </p> + <p> + “For that excellence alone,” said Don Quixote at this, “the + youth deserves to marry, not merely the fair Quiteria, but Queen Guinevere + herself, were she alive now, in spite of Launcelot and all who would try + to prevent it.” + </p> + <p> + “Say that to my wife,” said Sancho, who had until now listened + in silence, “for she won’t hear of anything but each one + marrying his equal, holding with the proverb ‘each ewe to her like.’ + What I would like is that this good Basilio (for I am beginning to take a + fancy to him already) should marry this lady Quiteria; and a blessing and + good luck—I meant to say the opposite—on people who would + prevent those who love one another from marrying.” + </p> + <p> + “If all those who love one another were to marry,” said Don + Quixote, “it would deprive parents of the right to choose, and marry + their children to the proper person and at the proper time; and if it was + left to daughters to choose husbands as they pleased, one would be for + choosing her father’s servant, and another, some one she has seen + passing in the street and fancies gallant and dashing, though he may be a + drunken bully; for love and fancy easily blind the eyes of the judgment, + so much wanted in choosing one’s way of life; and the matrimonial + choice is very liable to error, and it needs great caution and the special + favour of heaven to make it a good one. He who has to make a long journey, + will, if he is wise, look out for some trusty and pleasant companion to + accompany him before he sets out. Why, then, should not he do the same who + has to make the whole journey of life down to the final halting-place of + death, more especially when the companion has to be his companion in bed, + at board, and everywhere, as the wife is to her husband? The companionship + of one’s wife is no article of merchandise, that, after it has been + bought, may be returned, or bartered, or changed; for it is an inseparable + accident that lasts as long as life lasts; it is a noose that, once you + put it round your neck, turns into a Gordian knot, which, if the scythe of + Death does not cut it, there is no untying. I could say a great deal more + on this subject, were I not prevented by the anxiety I feel to know if the + señor licentiate has anything more to tell about the story of Basilio.” + </p> + <p> + To this the student, bachelor, or, as Don Quixote called him, licentiate, + replied, “I have nothing whatever to say further, but that from the + moment Basilio learned that the fair Quiteria was to be married to Camacho + the rich, he has never been seen to smile, or heard to utter rational + word, and he always goes about moody and dejected, talking to himself in a + way that shows plainly he is out of his senses. He eats little and sleeps + little, and all he eats is fruit, and when he sleeps, if he sleeps at all, + it is in the field on the hard earth like a brute beast. Sometimes he + gazes at the sky, at other times he fixes his eyes on the earth in such an + abstracted way that he might be taken for a clothed statue, with its + drapery stirred by the wind. In short, he shows such signs of a heart + crushed by suffering, that all we who know him believe that when to-morrow + the fair Quiteria says ‘yes,’ it will be his sentence of + death.” + </p> + <p> + “God will guide it better,” said Sancho, “for God who + gives the wound gives the salve; nobody knows what will happen; there are + a good many hours between this and to-morrow, and any one of them, or any + moment, the house may fall; I have seen the rain coming down and the sun + shining all at one time; many a one goes to bed in good health who can’t + stir the next day. And tell me, is there anyone who can boast of having + driven a nail into the wheel of fortune? No, faith; and between a woman’s + ‘yes’ and ‘no’ I wouldn’t venture to put the + point of a pin, for there would not be room for it; if you tell me + Quiteria loves Basilio heart and soul, then I’ll give him a bag of + good luck; for love, I have heard say, looks through spectacles that make + copper seem gold, poverty wealth, and bleary eyes pearls.” + </p> + <p> + “What art thou driving at, Sancho? curses on thee!” said Don + Quixote; “for when thou takest to stringing proverbs and sayings + together, no one can understand thee but Judas himself, and I wish he had + thee. Tell me, thou animal, what dost thou know about nails or wheels, or + anything else?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, if you don’t understand me,” replied Sancho, + “it is no wonder my words are taken for nonsense; but no matter; I + understand myself, and I know I have not said anything very foolish in + what I have said; only your worship, señor, is always gravelling at + everything I say, nay, everything I do.” + </p> + <p> + “Cavilling, not gravelling,” said Don Quixote, “thou + prevaricator of honest language, God confound thee!” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t find fault with me, your worship,” returned + Sancho, “for you know I have not been bred up at court or trained at + Salamanca, to know whether I am adding or dropping a letter or so in my + words. Why! God bless me, it’s not fair to force a Sayago-man to + speak like a Toledan; maybe there are Toledans who do not hit it off when + it comes to polished talk.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said the licentiate, “for those who have + been bred up in the Tanneries and the Zocodover cannot talk like those who + are almost all day pacing the cathedral cloisters, and yet they are all + Toledans. Pure, correct, elegant and lucid language will be met with in + men of courtly breeding and discrimination, though they may have been born + in Majalahonda; I say of discrimination, because there are many who are + not so, and discrimination is the grammar of good language, if it be + accompanied by practice. I, sirs, for my sins have studied canon law at + Salamanca, and I rather pique myself on expressing my meaning in clear, + plain, and intelligible language.” + </p> + <p> + “If you did not pique yourself more on your dexterity with those + foils you carry than on dexterity of tongue,” said the other + student, “you would have been head of the degrees, where you are now + tail.” + </p> + <p> + “Look here, bachelor Corchuelo,” returned the licentiate, + “you have the most mistaken idea in the world about skill with the + sword, if you think it useless.” + </p> + <p> + “It is no idea on my part, but an established truth,” replied + Corchuelo; “and if you wish me to prove it to you by experiment, you + have swords there, and it is a good opportunity; I have a steady hand and + a strong arm, and these joined with my resolution, which is not small, + will make you confess that I am not mistaken. Dismount and put in practice + your positions and circles and angles and science, for I hope to make you + see stars at noonday with my rude raw swordsmanship, in which, next to + God, I place my trust that the man is yet to be born who will make me turn + my back, and that there is not one in the world I will not compel to give + ground.” + </p> + <p> + “As to whether you turn your back or not, I do not concern myself,” + replied the master of fence; “though it might be that your grave + would be dug on the spot where you planted your foot the first time; I + mean that you would be stretched dead there for despising skill with the + sword.” + </p> + <p> + “We shall soon see,” replied Corchuelo, and getting off his + ass briskly, he drew out furiously one of the swords the licentiate + carried on his beast. + </p> + <p> + “It must not be that way,” said Don Quixote at this point; + “I will be the director of this fencing match, and judge of this + often disputed question;” and dismounting from Rocinante and + grasping his lance, he planted himself in the middle of the road, just as + the licentiate, with an easy, graceful bearing and step, advanced towards + Corchuelo, who came on against him, darting fire from his eyes, as the + saying is. The other two of the company, the peasants, without dismounting + from their asses, served as spectators of the mortal tragedy. The cuts, + thrusts, down strokes, back strokes and doubles, that Corchuelo delivered + were past counting, and came thicker than hops or hail. He attacked like + an angry lion, but he was met by a tap on the mouth from the button of the + licentiate’s sword that checked him in the midst of his furious + onset, and made him kiss it as if it were a relic, though not as devoutly + as relics are and ought to be kissed. The end of it was that the + licentiate reckoned up for him by thrusts every one of the buttons of the + short cassock he wore, tore the skirts into strips, like the tails of a + cuttlefish, knocked off his hat twice, and so completely tired him out, + that in vexation, anger, and rage, he took the sword by the hilt and flung + it away with such force, that one of the peasants that were there, who was + a notary, and who went for it, made an affidavit afterwards that he sent + it nearly three-quarters of a league, which testimony will serve, and has + served, to show and establish with all certainty that strength is overcome + by skill. + </p> + <p> + Corchuelo sat down wearied, and Sancho approaching him said, “By my + faith, señor bachelor, if your worship takes my advice, you will never + challenge anyone to fence again, only to wrestle and throw the bar, for + you have the youth and strength for that; but as for these fencers as they + call them, I have heard say they can put the point of a sword through the + eye of a needle.” + </p> + <p> + “I am satisfied with having tumbled off my donkey,” said + Corchuelo, “and with having had the truth I was so ignorant of + proved to me by experience;” and getting up he embraced the + licentiate, and they were better friends than ever; and not caring to wait + for the notary who had gone for the sword, as they saw he would be a long + time about it, they resolved to push on so as to reach the village of + Quiteria, to which they all belonged, in good time. + </p> + <p> + During the remainder of the journey the licentiate held forth to them on + the excellences of the sword, with such conclusive arguments, and such + figures and mathematical proofs, that all were convinced of the value of + the science, and Corchuelo cured of his dogmatism. + </p> + <p> + It grew dark; but before they reached the town it seemed to them all as if + there was a heaven full of countless glittering stars in front of it. They + heard, too, the pleasant mingled notes of a variety of instruments, + flutes, drums, psalteries, pipes, tabors, and timbrels, and as they drew + near they perceived that the trees of a leafy arcade that had been + constructed at the entrance of the town were filled with lights unaffected + by the wind, for the breeze at the time was so gentle that it had not + power to stir the leaves on the trees. The musicians were the life of the + wedding, wandering through the pleasant grounds in separate bands, some + dancing, others singing, others playing the various instruments already + mentioned. In short, it seemed as though mirth and gaiety were frisking + and gambolling all over the meadow. Several other persons were engaged in + erecting raised benches from which people might conveniently see the plays + and dances that were to be performed the next day on the spot dedicated to + the celebration of the marriage of Camacho the rich and the obsequies of + Basilio. Don Quixote would not enter the village, although the peasant as + well as the bachelor pressed him; he excused himself, however, on the + grounds, amply sufficient in his opinion, that it was the custom of + knights-errant to sleep in the fields and woods in preference to towns, + even were it under gilded ceilings; and so turned aside a little out of + the road, very much against Sancho’s will, as the good quarters he + had enjoyed in the castle or house of Don Diego came back to his mind. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p19e" id="p19e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p19e.jpg (29K)" src="images/p19e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch20b" id="ch20b"></a>CHAPTER XX. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN AN ACCOUNT IS GIVEN OF THE WEDDING OF CAMACHO THE RICH, TOGETHER + WITH THE INCIDENT OF BASILIO THE POOR + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p20a" id="p20a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p20a.jpg (125K)" src="images/p20a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p20a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Scarce had the fair Aurora given bright Phoebus time to dry the liquid + pearls upon her golden locks with the heat of his fervent rays, when Don + Quixote, shaking off sloth from his limbs, sprang to his feet and called + to his squire Sancho, who was still snoring; seeing which Don Quixote ere + he roused him thus addressed him: “Happy thou, above all the + dwellers on the face of the earth, that, without envying or being envied, + sleepest with tranquil mind, and that neither enchanters persecute nor + enchantments affright. Sleep, I say, and will say a hundred times, without + any jealous thoughts of thy mistress to make thee keep ceaseless vigils, + or any cares as to how thou art to pay the debts thou owest, or find + to-morrow’s food for thyself and thy needy little family, to + interfere with thy repose. Ambition breaks not thy rest, nor doth this + world’s empty pomp disturb thee, for the utmost reach of thy anxiety + is to provide for thy ass, since upon my shoulders thou hast laid the + support of thyself, the counterpoise and burden that nature and custom + have imposed upon masters. The servant sleeps and the master lies awake + thinking how he is to feed him, advance him, and reward him. The distress + of seeing the sky turn brazen, and withhold its needful moisture from the + earth, is not felt by the servant but by the master, who in time of + scarcity and famine must support him who has served him in times of plenty + and abundance.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p20b" id="p20b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p20b.jpg (365K)" src="images/p20b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p20b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + To all this Sancho made no reply because he was asleep, nor would he have + wakened up so soon as he did had not Don Quixote brought him to his senses + with the butt of his lance. He awoke at last, drowsy and lazy, and casting + his eyes about in every direction, observed, “There comes, if I don’t + mistake, from the quarter of that arcade a steam and a smell a great deal + more like fried rashers than galingale or thyme; a wedding that begins + with smells like that, by my faith, ought to be plentiful and unstinting.” + </p> + <p> + “Have done, thou glutton,” said Don Quixote; “come, let + us go and witness this bridal, and see what the rejected Basilio does.” + </p> + <p> + “Let him do what he likes,” returned Sancho; “be he not + poor, he would marry Quiteria. To make a grand match for himself, and he + without a farthing; is there nothing else? Faith, señor, it’s my + opinion the poor man should be content with what he can get, and not go + looking for dainties in the bottom of the sea. I will bet my arm that + Camacho could bury Basilio in reals; and if that be so, as no doubt it is, + what a fool Quiteria would be to refuse the fine dresses and jewels + Camacho must have given her and will give her, and take Basilio’s + bar-throwing and sword-play. They won’t give a pint of wine at the + tavern for a good cast of the bar or a neat thrust of the sword. Talents + and accomplishments that can’t be turned into money, let Count + Dirlos have them; but when such gifts fall to one that has hard cash, I + wish my condition of life was as becoming as they are. On a good + foundation you can raise a good building, and the best foundation in the + world is money.” + </p> + <p> + “For God’s sake, Sancho,” said Don Quixote here, “stop + that harangue; it is my belief, if thou wert allowed to continue all thou + beginnest every instant, thou wouldst have no time left for eating or + sleeping; for thou wouldst spend it all in talking.” + </p> + <p> + “If your worship had a good memory,” replied Sancho, “you + would remember the articles of our agreement before we started from home + this last time; one of them was that I was to be let say all I liked, so + long as it was not against my neighbour or your worship’s authority; + and so far, it seems to me, I have not broken the said article.” + </p> + <p> + “I remember no such article, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; + “and even if it were so, I desire you to hold your tongue and come + along; for the instruments we heard last night are already beginning to + enliven the valleys again, and no doubt the marriage will take place in + the cool of the morning, and not in the heat of the afternoon.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho did as his master bade him, and putting the saddle on Rocinante and + the pack-saddle on Dapple, they both mounted and at a leisurely pace + entered the arcade. The first thing that presented itself to Sancho’s + eyes was a whole ox spitted on a whole elm tree, and in the fire at which + it was to be roasted there was burning a middling-sized mountain of + faggots, and six stewpots that stood round the blaze had not been made in + the ordinary mould of common pots, for they were six half wine-jars, each + fit to hold the contents of a slaughter-house; they swallowed up whole + sheep and hid them away in their insides without showing any more sign of + them than if they were pigeons. Countless were the hares ready skinned and + the plucked fowls that hung on the trees for burial in the pots, + numberless the wildfowl and game of various sorts suspended from the + branches that the air might keep them cool. Sancho counted more than sixty + wine skins of over six gallons each, and all filled, as it proved + afterwards, with generous wines. There were, besides, piles of the whitest + bread, like the heaps of corn one sees on the threshing-floors. There was + a wall made of cheeses arranged like open brick-work, and two cauldrons + full of oil, bigger than those of a dyer’s shop, served for cooking + fritters, which when fried were taken out with two mighty shovels, and + plunged into another cauldron of prepared honey that stood close by. Of + cooks and cook-maids there were over fifty, all clean, brisk, and blithe. + In the capacious belly of the ox were a dozen soft little sucking-pigs, + which, sewn up there, served to give it tenderness and flavour. The spices + of different kinds did not seem to have been bought by the pound but by + the quarter, and all lay open to view in a great chest. In short, all the + preparations made for the wedding were in rustic style, but abundant + enough to feed an army. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p20c" id="p20c"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p20c.jpg (415K)" src="images/p20c.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p20c.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Sancho observed all, contemplated all, and everything won his heart. The + first to captivate and take his fancy were the pots, out of which he would + have very gladly helped himself to a moderate pipkinful; then the wine + skins secured his affections; and lastly, the produce of the frying-pans, + if, indeed, such imposing cauldrons may be called frying-pans; and unable + to control himself or bear it any longer, he approached one of the busy + cooks and civilly but hungrily begged permission to soak a scrap of bread + in one of the pots; to which the cook made answer, “Brother, this is + not a day on which hunger is to have any sway, thanks to the rich Camacho; + get down and look about for a ladle and skim off a hen or two, and much + good may they do you.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t see one,” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Wait a bit,” said the cook; “sinner that I am! how + particular and bashful you are!” and so saying, he seized a bucket + and plunging it into one of the half jars took up three hens and a couple + of geese, and said to Sancho, “Fall to, friend, and take the edge + off your appetite with these skimmings until dinner-time comes.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p20d" id="p20d"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p20d.jpg (351K)" src="images/p20d.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p20d.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “I have nothing to put them in,” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Well then,” said the cook, “take spoon and all; for + Camacho’s wealth and happiness furnish everything.” + </p> + <p> + While Sancho fared thus, Don Quixote was watching the entrance, at one end + of the arcade, of some twelve peasants, all in holiday and gala dress, + mounted on twelve beautiful mares with rich handsome field trappings and a + number of little bells attached to their petrals, who, marshalled in + regular order, ran not one but several courses over the meadow, with + jubilant shouts and cries of “Long live Camacho and Quiteria! he as + rich as she is fair; and she the fairest on earth!” + </p> + <p> + Hearing this, Don Quixote said to himself, “It is easy to see these + folk have never seen my Dulcinea del Toboso; for if they had they would be + more moderate in their praises of this Quiteria of theirs.” + </p> + <p> + Shortly after this, several bands of dancers of various sorts began to + enter the arcade at different points, and among them one of sword-dancers + composed of some four-and-twenty lads of gallant and high-spirited mien, + clad in the finest and whitest of linen, and with handkerchiefs + embroidered in various colours with fine silk; and one of those on the + mares asked an active youth who led them if any of the dancers had been + wounded. “As yet, thank God, no one has been wounded,” said + he, “we are all safe and sound;” and he at once began to + execute complicated figures with the rest of his comrades, with so many + turns and so great dexterity, that although Don Quixote was well used to + see dances of the same kind, he thought he had never seen any so good as + this. He also admired another that came in composed of fair young maidens, + none of whom seemed to be under fourteen or over eighteen years of age, + all clad in green stuff, with their locks partly braided, partly flowing + loose, but all of such bright gold as to vie with the sunbeams, and over + them they wore garlands of jessamine, roses, amaranth, and honeysuckle. At + their head were a venerable old man and an ancient dame, more brisk and + active, however, than might have been expected from their years. The notes + of a Zamora bagpipe accompanied them, and with modesty in their + countenances and in their eyes, and lightness in their feet, they looked + the best dancers in the world. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p20e" id="p20e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p20e.jpg (361K)" src="images/p20e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p20e.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Following these there came an artistic dance of the sort they call “speaking + dances.” It was composed of eight nymphs in two files, with the god + Cupid leading one and Interest the other, the former furnished with wings, + bow, quiver and arrows, the latter in a rich dress of gold and silk of + divers colours. The nymphs that followed Love bore their names written on + white parchment in large letters on their backs. “Poetry” was + the name of the first, “Wit” of the second, “Birth” + of the third, and “Valour” of the fourth. Those that followed + Interest were distinguished in the same way; the badge of the first + announced “Liberality,” that of the second “Largess,” + the third “Treasure,” and the fourth “Peaceful + Possession.” In front of them all came a wooden castle drawn by four + wild men, all clad in ivy and hemp stained green, and looking so natural + that they nearly terrified Sancho. On the front of the castle and on each + of the four sides of its frame it bore the inscription “Castle of + Caution.” Four skillful tabor and flute players accompanied them, + and the dance having been opened, Cupid, after executing two figures, + raised his eyes and bent his bow against a damsel who stood between the + turrets of the castle, and thus addressed her: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +I am the mighty God whose sway +Is potent over land and sea. +The heavens above us own me; nay, +The shades below acknowledge me. +I know not fear, I have my will, +Whate’er my whim or fancy be; +For me there’s no impossible, +I order, bind, forbid, set free. + +</pre> + <p> + Having concluded the stanza he discharged an arrow at the top of the + castle, and went back to his place. Interest then came forward and went + through two more figures, and as soon as the tabors ceased, he said: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +But mightier than Love am I, +Though Love it be that leads me on, +Than mine no lineage is more high, +Or older, underneath the sun. +To use me rightly few know how, +To act without me fewer still, +For I am Interest, and I vow +For evermore to do thy will. + +</pre> + <p> + Interest retired, and Poetry came forward, and when she had gone through + her figures like the others, fixing her eyes on the damsel of the castle, + she said: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +With many a fanciful conceit, +Fair Lady, winsome Poesy +Her soul, an offering at thy feet, +Presents in sonnets unto thee. +If thou my homage wilt not scorn, +Thy fortune, watched by envious eyes, +On wings of poesy upborne +Shall be exalted to the skies. + +</pre> + <p> + Poetry withdrew, and on the side of Interest Liberality advanced, and + after having gone through her figures, said: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +To give, while shunning each extreme, +The sparing hand, the over-free, +Therein consists, so wise men deem, +The virtue Liberality. +But thee, fair lady, to enrich, +Myself a prodigal I’ll prove, +A vice not wholly shameful, which +May find its fair excuse in love. + +</pre> + <p> + In the same manner all the characters of the two bands advanced and + retired, and each executed its figures, and delivered its verses, some of + them graceful, some burlesque, but Don Quixote’s memory (though he + had an excellent one) only carried away those that have been just quoted. + All then mingled together, forming chains and breaking off again with + graceful, unconstrained gaiety; and whenever Love passed in front of the + castle he shot his arrows up at it, while Interest broke gilded pellets + against it. At length, after they had danced a good while, Interest drew + out a great purse, made of the skin of a large brindled cat and to all + appearance full of money, and flung it at the castle, and with the force + of the blow the boards fell asunder and tumbled down, leaving the damsel + exposed and unprotected. Interest and the characters of his band advanced, + and throwing a great chain of gold over her neck pretended to take her and + lead her away captive, on seeing which, Love and his supporters made as + though they would release her, the whole action being to the accompaniment + of the tabors and in the form of a regular dance. The wild men made peace + between them, and with great dexterity readjusted and fixed the boards of + the castle, and the damsel once more ensconced herself within; and with + this the dance wound up, to the great enjoyment of the beholders. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote asked one of the nymphs who it was that had composed and + arranged it. She replied that it was a beneficiary of the town who had a + nice taste in devising things of the sort. “I will lay a wager,” + said Don Quixote, “that the same bachelor or beneficiary is a + greater friend of Camacho’s than of Basilio’s, and that he is + better at satire than at vespers; he has introduced the accomplishments of + Basilio and the riches of Camacho very neatly into the dance.” + Sancho Panza, who was listening to all this, exclaimed, “The king is + my cock; I stick to Camacho.” “It is easy to see thou art a + clown, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “and one of that sort that + cry ‘Long life to the conqueror.’” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know of what sort I am,” returned Sancho, + “but I know very well I’ll never get such elegant skimmings + off Basilio’s pots as these I have got off Camacho’s;” + and he showed him the bucketful of geese and hens, and seizing one began + to eat with great gaiety and appetite, saying, “A fig for the + accomplishments of Basilio! As much as thou hast so much art thou worth, + and as much as thou art worth so much hast thou. As a grandmother of mine + used to say, there are only two families in the world, the Haves and the + Haven’ts; and she stuck to the Haves; and to this day, Señor Don + Quixote, people would sooner feel the pulse of ‘Have,’ than of + ‘Know;’ an ass covered with gold looks better than a horse + with a pack-saddle. So once more I say I stick to Camacho, the bountiful + skimmings of whose pots are geese and hens, hares and rabbits; but of + Basilio’s, if any ever come to hand, or even to foot, they’ll + be only rinsings.” + </p> + <p> + “Hast thou finished thy harangue, Sancho?” said Don Quixote. + “Of course I have finished it,” replied Sancho, “because + I see your worship takes offence at it; but if it was not for that, there + was work enough cut out for three days.” + </p> + <p> + “God grant I may see thee dumb before I die, Sancho,” said Don + Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “At the rate we are going,” said Sancho, “I’ll be + chewing clay before your worship dies; and then, maybe, I’ll be so + dumb that I’ll not say a word until the end of the world, or, at + least, till the day of judgment.” + </p> + <p> + “Even should that happen, O Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “thy + silence will never come up to all thou hast talked, art talking, and wilt + talk all thy life; moreover, it naturally stands to reason, that my death + will come before thine; so I never expect to see thee dumb, not even when + thou art drinking or sleeping, and that is the utmost I can say.” + </p> + <p> + “In good faith, señor,” replied Sancho, “there’s + no trusting that fleshless one, I mean Death, who devours the lamb as soon + as the sheep, and, as I have heard our curate say, treads with equal foot + upon the lofty towers of kings and the lowly huts of the poor. That lady + is more mighty than dainty, she is in no way squeamish, she devours all and + is ready for all, and fills her alforjas with people of all sorts, ages, + and ranks. She is no reaper that sleeps out the noontide; at all times she + is reaping and cutting down, as well the dry grass as the green; she never + seems to chew, but bolts and swallows all that is put before her, for she + has a canine appetite that is never satisfied; and though she has no + belly, she shows she has a dropsy and is athirst to drink the lives of all + that live, as one would drink a jug of cold water.” + </p> + <p> + “Say no more, Sancho,” said Don Quixote at this; “don’t + try to better it, and risk a fall; for in truth what thou hast said about + death in thy rustic phrase is what a good preacher might have said. I tell + thee, Sancho, if thou hadst discretion equal to thy mother wit, thou + mightst take a pulpit in hand, and go about the world preaching fine + sermons.” “He preaches well who lives well,” said + Sancho, “and I know no more theology than that.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor needst thou,” said Don Quixote, “but I cannot + conceive or make out how it is that, the fear of God being the beginning + of wisdom, thou, who art more afraid of a lizard than of him, knowest so + much.” + </p> + <p> + “Pass judgment on your chivalries, señor,” returned Sancho, + “and don’t set yourself up to judge of other men’s fears + or braveries, for I am as good a fearer of God as my neighbours; but leave + me to despatch these skimmings, for all the rest is only idle talk that we + shall be called to account for in the other world;” and so saying, + he began a fresh attack on the bucket, with such a hearty appetite that he + aroused Don Quixote’s, who no doubt would have helped him had he not + been prevented by what must be told farther on. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p20f" id="p20f"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p20f.jpg (41K)" src="images/p20f.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch21b" id="ch21b"></a>CHAPTER XXI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + IN WHICH CAMACHO’S WEDDING IS CONTINUED, WITH OTHER DELIGHTFUL + INCIDENTS + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p21a" id="p21a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p21a.jpg (118K)" src="images/p21a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p21a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + While Don Quixote and Sancho were engaged in the discussion set forth the + last chapter, they heard loud shouts and a great noise, which were uttered + and made by the men on the mares as they went at full gallop, shouting, to + receive the bride and bridegroom, who were approaching with musical + instruments and pageantry of all sorts around them, and accompanied by the + priest and the relatives of both, and all the most distinguished people of + the surrounding villages. When Sancho saw the bride, he exclaimed, “By + my faith, she is not dressed like a country girl, but like some fine court + lady; egad, as well as I can make out, the patena she wears rich coral, + and her green Cuenca stuff is thirty-pile velvet; and then the white linen + trimming—by my oath, but it’s satin! Look at her hands—jet + rings on them! May I never have luck if they’re not gold rings, and + real gold, and set with pearls as white as a curdled milk, and every one + of them worth an eye of one’s head! Whoreson baggage, what hair she + has! if it’s not a wig, I never saw longer or fairer all the days of + my life. See how bravely she bears herself—and her shape! Wouldn’t + you say she was like a walking palm tree loaded with clusters of dates? + for the trinkets she has hanging from her hair and neck look just like + them. I swear in my heart she is a brave lass, and fit ‘to pass over + the banks of Flanders.’” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote laughed at Sancho’s boorish eulogies and thought that, + saving his lady Dulcinea del Toboso, he had never seen a more beautiful + woman. The fair Quiteria appeared somewhat pale, which was, no doubt, + because of the bad night brides always pass dressing themselves out for + their wedding on the morrow. They advanced towards a theatre that stood on + one side of the meadow decked with carpets and boughs, where they were to + plight their troth, and from which they were to behold the dances and + plays; but at the moment of their arrival at the spot they heard a loud + outcry behind them, and a voice exclaiming, “Wait a little, ye, as + inconsiderate as ye are hasty!” At these words all turned round, and + perceived that the speaker was a man clad in what seemed to be a loose + black coat garnished with crimson patches like flames. He was crowned (as + was presently seen) with a crown of gloomy cypress, and in his hand he + held a long staff. As he approached he was recognised by everyone as the + gay Basilio, and all waited anxiously to see what would come of his words, + in dread of some catastrophe in consequence of his appearance at such a + moment. He came up at last weary and breathless, and planting himself in + front of the bridal pair, drove his staff, which had a steel spike at the + end, into the ground, and, with a pale face and eyes fixed on Quiteria, he + thus addressed her in a hoarse, trembling voice: + </p> + <p> + “Well dost thou know, ungrateful Quiteria, that according to the + holy law we acknowledge, so long as live thou canst take no husband; nor + art thou ignorant either that, in my hopes that time and my own exertions + would improve my fortunes, I have never failed to observe the respect due + to thy honour; but thou, casting behind thee all thou owest to my true + love, wouldst surrender what is mine to another whose wealth serves to + bring him not only good fortune but supreme happiness; and now to complete + it (not that I think he deserves it, but inasmuch as heaven is pleased to + bestow it upon him), I will, with my own hands, do away with the obstacle + that may interfere with it, and remove myself from between you. Long live + the rich Camacho! many a happy year may he live with the ungrateful + Quiteria! and let the poor Basilio die, Basilio whose poverty clipped the + wings of his happiness, and brought him to the grave!” + </p> + <p> + And so saying, he seized the staff he had driven into the ground, and + leaving one half of it fixed there, showed it to be a sheath that + concealed a tolerably long rapier; and, what may be called its hilt being + planted in the ground, he swiftly, coolly, and deliberately threw himself + upon it, and in an instant the bloody point and half the steel blade + appeared at his back, the unhappy man falling to the earth bathed in his + blood, and transfixed by his own weapon. + </p> + <p> + His friends at once ran to his aid, filled with grief at his misery and + sad fate, and Don Quixote, dismounting from Rocinante, hastened to support + him, and took him in his arms, and found he had not yet ceased to breathe. + They were about to draw out the rapier, but the priest who was standing by + objected to its being withdrawn before he had confessed him, as the + instant of its withdrawal would be that of this death. Basilio, however, + reviving slightly, said in a weak voice, as though in pain, “If thou + wouldst consent, cruel Quiteria, to give me thy hand as my bride in this + last fatal moment, I might still hope that my rashness would find pardon, + as by its means I attained the bliss of being thine.” + </p> + <p> + Hearing this the priest bade him think of the welfare of his soul rather + than of the cravings of the body, and in all earnestness implore God’s + pardon for his sins and for his rash resolve; to which Basilio replied + that he was determined not to confess unless Quiteria first gave him her + hand in marriage, for that happiness would compose his mind and give him + courage to make his confession. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote hearing the wounded man’s entreaty, exclaimed aloud that + what Basilio asked was just and reasonable, and moreover a request that + might be easily complied with; and that it would be as much to Señor + Camacho’s honour to receive the lady Quiteria as the widow of the + brave Basilio as if he received her direct from her father. + </p> + <p> + “In this case,” said he, “it will be only to say ‘yes,’ + and no consequences can follow the utterance of the word, for the nuptial + couch of this marriage must be the grave.” + </p> + <p> + Camacho was listening to all this, perplexed and bewildered and not + knowing what to say or do; but so urgent were the entreaties of Basilio’s + friends, imploring him to allow Quiteria to give him her hand, so that his + soul, quitting this life in despair, should not be lost, that they moved, + nay, forced him, to say that if Quiteria were willing to give it he was + satisfied, as it was only putting off the fulfillment of his wishes for a + moment. At once all assailed Quiteria and pressed her, some with prayers, + and others with tears, and others with persuasive arguments, to give her + hand to poor Basilio; but she, harder than marble and more unmoved than + any statue, seemed unable or unwilling to utter a word, nor would she have + given any reply had not the priest bade her decide quickly what she meant + to do, as Basilio now had his soul at his teeth, and there was no time for + hesitation. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p21b" id="p21b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p21b.jpg (374K)" src="images/p21b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p21b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + On this the fair Quiteria, to all appearance distressed, grieved, and + repentant, advanced without a word to where Basilio lay, his eyes already + turned in his head, his breathing short and painful, murmuring the name of + Quiteria between his teeth, and apparently about to die like a heathen and + not like a Christian. Quiteria approached him, and kneeling, demanded his + hand by signs without speaking. Basilio opened his eyes and gazing fixedly + at her, said, “O Quiteria, why hast thou turned compassionate at a + moment when thy compassion will serve as a dagger to rob me of life, for I + have not now the strength left either to bear the happiness thou givest me + in accepting me as thine, or to suppress the pain that is rapidly drawing + the dread shadow of death over my eyes? What I entreat of thee, O thou + fatal star to me, is that the hand thou demandest of me and wouldst give + me, be not given out of complaisance or to deceive me afresh, but that + thou confess and declare that without any constraint upon thy will thou + givest it to me as to thy lawful husband; for it is not meet that thou + shouldst trifle with me at such a moment as this, or have recourse to + falsehoods with one who has dealt so truly by thee.” + </p> + <p> + While uttering these words he showed such weakness that the bystanders + expected each return of faintness would take his life with it. Then + Quiteria, overcome with modesty and shame, holding in her right hand the + hand of Basilio, said, “No force would bend my will; as freely, + therefore, as it is possible for me to do so, I give thee the hand of a + lawful wife, and take thine if thou givest it to me of thine own free + will, untroubled and unaffected by the calamity thy hasty act has brought + upon thee.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I give it,” said Basilio, “not agitated or + distracted, but with unclouded reason that heaven is pleased to grant me, + thus do I give myself to be thy husband.” + </p> + <p> + “And I give myself to be thy wife,” said Quiteria, “whether + thou livest many years, or they carry thee from my arms to the grave.” + </p> + <p> + “For one so badly wounded,” observed Sancho at this point, + “this young man has a great deal to say; they should make him leave + off billing and cooing, and attend to his soul; for to my thinking he has + it more on his tongue than at his teeth.” + </p> + <p> + Basilio and Quiteria having thus joined hands, the priest, deeply moved + and with tears in his eyes, pronounced the blessing upon them, and + implored heaven to grant an easy passage to the soul of the newly wedded + man, who, the instant he received the blessing, started nimbly to his feet + and with unparalleled effrontery pulled out the rapier that had been + sheathed in his body. All the bystanders were astounded, and some, more + simple than inquiring, began shouting, “A miracle, a miracle!” + But Basilio replied, “No miracle, no miracle; only a trick, a trick!” + The priest, perplexed and amazed, made haste to examine the wound with + both hands, and found that the blade had passed, not through Basilio’s + flesh and ribs, but through a hollow iron tube full of blood, which he had + adroitly fixed at the place, the blood, as was afterwards ascertained, + having been so prepared as not to congeal. In short, the priest and + Camacho and most of those present saw they were tricked and made fools of. + The bride showed no signs of displeasure at the deception; on the + contrary, hearing them say that the marriage, being fraudulent, would not + be valid, she said that she confirmed it afresh, whence they all concluded + that the affair had been planned by agreement and understanding between + the pair, whereat Camacho and his supporters were so mortified that they + proceeded to revenge themselves by violence, and a great number of them + drawing their swords attacked Basilio, in whose protection as many more + swords were in an instant unsheathed, while Don Quixote taking the lead on + horseback, with his lance over his arm and well covered with his shield, + made all give way before him. Sancho, who never found any pleasure or + enjoyment in such doings, retreated to the wine-jars from which he had + taken his delectable skimmings, considering that, as a holy place, that + spot would be respected. + </p> + <p> + “Hold, sirs, hold!” cried Don Quixote in a loud voice; “we + have no right to take vengeance for wrongs that love may do to us: + remember love and war are the same thing, and as in war it is allowable + and common to make use of wiles and stratagems to overcome the enemy, so + in the contests and rivalries of love the tricks and devices employed to + attain the desired end are justifiable, provided they be not to the + discredit or dishonour of the loved object. Quiteria belonged to Basilio + and Basilio to Quiteria by the just and beneficent disposal of heaven. + Camacho is rich, and can purchase his pleasure when, where, and as it + pleases him. Basilio has but this ewe-lamb, and no one, however powerful + he may be, shall take her from him; these two whom God hath joined man + cannot separate; and he who attempts it must first pass the point of this + lance;” and so saying he brandished it so stoutly and dexterously + that he overawed all who did not know him. + </p> + <p> + But so deep an impression had the rejection of Quiteria made on Camacho’s + mind that it banished her at once from his thoughts; and so the counsels + of the priest, who was a wise and kindly disposed man, prevailed with him, + and by their means he and his partisans were pacified and tranquillised, + and to prove it put up their swords again, inveighing against the pliancy + of Quiteria rather than the craftiness of Basilio; Camacho maintaining + that, if Quiteria as a maiden had such a love for Basilio, she would have + loved him too as a married woman, and that he ought to thank heaven more + for having taken her than for having given her. + </p> + <p> + Camacho and those of his following, therefore, being consoled and + pacified, those on Basilio’s side were appeased; and the rich + Camacho, to show that he felt no resentment for the trick, and did not + care about it, desired the festival to go on just as if he were married in + reality. Neither Basilio, however, nor his bride, nor their followers + would take any part in it, and they withdrew to Basilio’s village; + for the poor, if they are persons of virtue and good sense, have those who + follow, honour, and uphold them, just as the rich have those who flatter + and dance attendance on them. With them they carried Don Quixote, + regarding him as a man of worth and a stout one. Sancho alone had a cloud + on his soul, for he found himself debarred from waiting for Camacho’s + splendid feast and festival, which lasted until night; and thus dragged + away, he moodily followed his master, who accompanied Basilio’s + party, and left behind him the flesh-pots of Egypt; though in his heart he + took them with him, and their now nearly finished skimmings that he + carried in the bucket conjured up visions before his eyes of the glory and + abundance of the good cheer he was losing. And so, vexed and dejected + though not hungry, without dismounting from Dapple he followed in the + footsteps of Rocinante. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p21c" id="p21c"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p21c.jpg (417K)" src="images/p21c.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p21c.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p21e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p21e.jpg (49K)" src="images/p21e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch22b" id="ch22b"></a>CHAPTER XXII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS RELATED THE GRAND ADVENTURE OF THE CAVE OF MONTESINOS IN THE + HEART OF LA MANCHA, WHICH THE VALIANT DON QUIXOTE BROUGHT TO A HAPPY + TERMINATION + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p22a" id="p22a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p22a.jpg (112K)" src="images/p22a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p22a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Many and great were the attentions shown to Don Quixote by the newly + married couple, who felt themselves under an obligation to him for coming + forward in defence of their cause; and they exalted his wisdom to the same + level with his courage, rating him as a Cid in arms, and a Cicero in + eloquence. Worthy Sancho enjoyed himself for three days at the expense of + the pair, from whom they learned that the sham wound was not a scheme + arranged with the fair Quiteria, but a device of Basilio’s, who + counted on exactly the result they had seen; he confessed, it is true, + that he had confided his idea to some of his friends, so that at the + proper time they might aid him in his purpose and insure the success of + the deception. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p22b" id="p22b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p22b.jpg (344K)" src="images/p22b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p22b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “That,” said Don Quixote, “is not and ought not to be + called deception which aims at virtuous ends;” and the marriage of + lovers he maintained to be a most excellent end, reminding them, however, + that love has no greater enemy than hunger and constant want; for love is + all gaiety, enjoyment, and happiness, especially when the lover is in the + possession of the object of his love, and poverty and want are the + declared enemies of all these; which he said to urge Señor Basilio to + abandon the practice of those accomplishments he was skilled in, for + though they brought him fame, they brought him no money, and apply himself + to the acquisition of wealth by legitimate industry, which will never fail + those who are prudent and persevering. The poor man who is a man of honour + (if indeed a poor man can be a man of honour) has a jewel when he has a + fair wife, and if she is taken from him, his honour is taken from him and + slain. The fair woman who is a woman of honour, and whose husband is poor, + deserves to be crowned with the laurels and crowns of victory and triumph. + Beauty by itself attracts the desires of all who behold it, and the royal + eagles and birds of towering flight stoop on it as on a dainty lure; but + if beauty be accompanied by want and penury, then the ravens and the kites + and other birds of prey assail it, and she who stands firm against such + attacks well deserves to be called the crown of her husband. “Remember, + O prudent Basilio,” added Don Quixote, “it was the opinion of + a certain sage, I know not whom, that there was not more than one good + woman in the whole world; and his advice was that each one should think + and believe that this one good woman was his own wife, and in this way he + would live happy. I myself am not married, nor, so far, has it ever + entered my thoughts to be so; nevertheless I would venture to give advice + to anyone who might ask it, as to the mode in which he should seek a wife + such as he would be content to marry. The first thing I would recommend + him, would be to look to good name rather than to wealth, for a good woman + does not win a good name merely by being good, but by letting it be seen + that she is so, and open looseness and freedom do much more damage to a + woman’s honour than secret depravity. If you take a good woman into + your house it will be an easy matter to keep her good, and even to make + her still better; but if you take a bad one you will find it hard work to + mend her, for it is no very easy matter to pass from one extreme to + another. I do not say it is impossible, but I look upon it as difficult.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho, listening to all this, said to himself, “This master of + mine, when I say anything that has weight and substance, says I might take + a pulpit in hand, and go about the world preaching fine sermons; but I say + of him that, when he begins stringing maxims together and giving advice + not only might he take a pulpit in hand, but two on each finger, and go + into the market-places to his heart’s content. Devil take you for a + knight-errant, what a lot of things you know! I used to think in my heart + that the only thing he knew was what belonged to his chivalry; but there + is nothing he won’t have a finger in.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho muttered this somewhat aloud, and his master overheard him, and + asked, “What art thou muttering there, Sancho?” + </p> + <p> + “I’m not saying anything or muttering anything,” said + Sancho; “I was only saying to myself that I wish I had heard what + your worship has said just now before I married; perhaps I’d say + now, ‘The ox that’s loose licks himself well.’” + </p> + <p> + “Is thy Teresa so bad then, Sancho?” + </p> + <p> + “She is not very bad,” replied Sancho; “but she is not + very good; at least she is not as good as I could wish.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou dost wrong, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “to speak + ill of thy wife; for after all she is the mother of thy children.” + “We are quits,” returned Sancho; “for she speaks ill of + me whenever she takes it into her head, especially when she is jealous; + and Satan himself could not put up with her then.” + </p> + <p> + In fine, they remained three days with the newly married couple, by whom + they were entertained and treated like kings. Don Quixote begged the + fencing licentiate to find him a guide to show him the way to the cave of + Montesinos, as he had a great desire to enter it and see with his own eyes + if the wonderful tales that were told of it all over the country were + true. The licentiate said he would get him a cousin of his own, a famous + scholar, and one very much given to reading books of chivalry, who would + have great pleasure in conducting him to the mouth of the very cave, and + would show him the lakes of Ruidera, which were likewise famous all over + La Mancha, and even all over Spain; and he assured him he would find him + entertaining, for he was a youth who could write books good enough to be + printed and dedicated to princes. The cousin arrived at last, leading an + ass in foal, with a pack-saddle covered with a parti-coloured carpet or + sackcloth; Sancho saddled Rocinante, got Dapple ready, and stocked his + alforjas, along with which went those of the cousin, likewise well filled; + and so, commending themselves to God and bidding farewell to all, they set + out, taking the road for the famous cave of Montesinos. + </p> + <p> + On the way Don Quixote asked the cousin of what sort and character his + pursuits, avocations, and studies were, to which he replied that he was by + profession a humanist, and that his pursuits and studies were making books + for the press, all of great utility and no less entertainment to the + nation. One was called “The Book of Liveries,” in which he + described seven hundred and three liveries, with their colours, mottoes, + and ciphers, from which gentlemen of the court might pick and choose any + they fancied for festivals and revels, without having to go a-begging for + them from anyone, or puzzling their brains, as the saying is, to have them + appropriate to their objects and purposes; “for,” said he, + “I give the jealous, the rejected, the forgotten, the absent, what + will suit them, and fit them without fail. I have another book, too, which + I shall call ‘Metamorphoses, or the Spanish Ovid,’ one of rare + and original invention, for imitating Ovid in burlesque style, I show in + it who the Giralda of Seville and the Angel of the Magdalena were, what + the sewer of Vecinguerra at Cordova was, what the bulls of Guisando, the + Sierra Morena, the Leganitos and Lavapies fountains at Madrid, not + forgetting those of the Piojo, of the Cano Dorado, and of the Priora; and + all with their allegories, metaphors, and changes, so that they are + amusing, interesting, and instructive, all at once. Another book I have + which I call ‘The Supplement to Polydore Vergil,’ which treats + of the invention of things, and is a work of great erudition and research, + for I establish and elucidate elegantly some things of great importance + which Polydore omitted to mention. He forgot to tell us who was the first + man in the world that had a cold in his head, and who was the first to try + salivation for the French disease, but I give it accurately set forth, and + quote more than five-and-twenty authors in proof of it, so you may + perceive I have laboured to good purpose and that the book will be of + service to the whole world.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho, who had been very attentive to the cousin’s words, said to + him, “Tell me, señor—and God give you luck in printing your + books—can you tell me (for of course you know, as you know + everything) who was the first man that scratched his head? For to my + thinking it must have been our father Adam.” + </p> + <p> + “So it must,” replied the cousin; “for there is no doubt + but Adam had a head and hair; and being the first man in the world he + would have scratched himself sometimes.” + </p> + <p> + “So I think,” said Sancho; “but now tell me, who was the + first tumbler in the world?” + </p> + <p> + “Really, brother,” answered the cousin, “I could not at + this moment say positively without having investigated it; I will look it + up when I go back to where I have my books, and will satisfy you the next + time we meet, for this will not be the last time.” + </p> + <p> + “Look here, señor,” said Sancho, “don’t give + yourself any trouble about it, for I have just this minute hit upon what I + asked you. The first tumbler in the world, you must know, was Lucifer, + when they cast or pitched him out of heaven; for he came tumbling into the + bottomless pit.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, friend,” said the cousin; and said Don + Quixote, “Sancho, that question and answer are not thine own; thou + hast heard them from some one else.” + </p> + <p> + “Hold your peace, señor,” said Sancho; “faith, if I take + to asking questions and answering, I’ll go on from this till + to-morrow morning. Nay! to ask foolish things and answer nonsense I needn’t + go looking for help from my neighbours.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou hast said more than thou art aware of, Sancho,” said Don + Quixote; “for there are some who weary themselves out in learning + and proving things that, after they are known and proved, are not worth a + farthing to the understanding or memory.” + </p> + <p> + In this and other pleasant conversation the day went by, and that night + they put up at a small hamlet whence it was not more than two leagues to + the cave of Montesinos, so the cousin told Don Quixote, adding, that if he + was bent upon entering it, it would be requisite for him to provide + himself with ropes, so that he might be tied and lowered into its depths. + Don Quixote said that even if it reached to the bottomless pit he meant to + see where it went to; so they bought about a hundred fathoms of rope, and + next day at two in the afternoon they arrived at the cave, the mouth of + which is spacious and wide, but full of thorn and wild-fig bushes and + brambles and briars, so thick and matted that they completely close it up + and cover it over. + </p> + <p> + On coming within sight of it the cousin, Sancho, and Don Quixote + dismounted, and the first two immediately tied the latter very firmly with + the ropes, and as they were girding and swathing him Sancho said to him, + “Mind what you are about, master mine; don’t go burying + yourself alive, or putting yourself where you’ll be like a bottle + put to cool in a well; it’s no affair or business of your worship’s + to become the explorer of this, which must be worse than a Moorish + dungeon.” + </p> + <p> + “Tie me and hold thy peace,” said Don Quixote, “for an + emprise like this, friend Sancho, was reserved for me;” and said the + guide, “I beg of you, Señor Don Quixote, to observe carefully and + examine with a hundred eyes everything that is within there; perhaps there + may be some things for me to put into my book of ‘Transformations.’” + </p> + <p> + “The drum is in hands that will know how to beat it well enough,” + said Sancho Panza. + </p> + <p> + When he had said this and finished the tying (which was not over the + armour but only over the doublet) Don Quixote observed, “It was + careless of us not to have provided ourselves with a small cattle-bell to + be tied on the rope close to me, the sound of which would show that I was + still descending and alive; but as that is out of the question now, in God’s + hand be it to guide me;” and forthwith he fell on his knees and in a + low voice offered up a prayer to heaven, imploring God to aid him and + grant him success in this to all appearance perilous and untried + adventure, and then exclaimed aloud, “O mistress of my actions and + movements, illustrious and peerless Dulcinea del Toboso, if so be the + prayers and supplications of this fortunate lover can reach thy ears, by + thy incomparable beauty I entreat thee to listen to them, for they but ask + thee not to refuse me thy favour and protection now that I stand in such + need of them. I am about to precipitate, to sink, to plunge myself into + the abyss that is here before me, only to let the world know that while + thou dost favour me there is no impossibility I will not attempt and + accomplish.” With these words he approached the cavern, and + perceived that it was impossible to let himself down or effect an entrance + except by sheer force or cleaving a passage; so drawing his sword he began + to demolish and cut away the brambles at the mouth of the cave, at the + noise of which a vast multitude of crows and choughs flew out of it so + thick and so fast that they knocked Don Quixote down; and if he had been + as much of a believer in augury as he was a Catholic Christian he would + have taken it as a bad omen and declined to bury himself in such a place. + He got up, however, and as there came no more crows, or night-birds like + the bats that flew out at the same time with the crows, the cousin and + Sancho giving him rope, he lowered himself into the depths of the dread + cavern; and as he entered it Sancho sent his blessing after him, making a + thousand crosses over him and saying, “God, and the Pena de Francia, + and the Trinity of Gaeta guide thee, flower and cream of knights-errant. + There thou goest, thou dare-devil of the earth, heart of steel, arm of + brass; once more, God guide thee and send thee back safe, sound, and + unhurt to the light of this world thou art leaving to bury thyself in the + darkness thou art seeking there;” and the cousin offered up almost + the same prayers and supplications. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p22c" id="p22c"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p22c.jpg (365K)" src="images/p22c.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p22c.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote kept calling to them to give him rope and more rope, and they + gave it out little by little, and by the time the calls, which came out of + the cave as out of a pipe, ceased to be heard they had let down the + hundred fathoms of rope. They were inclined to pull Don Quixote up again, + as they could give him no more rope; however, they waited about half an + hour, at the end of which time they began to gather in the rope again with + great ease and without feeling any weight, which made them fancy Don + Quixote was remaining below; and persuaded that it was so, Sancho wept + bitterly, and hauled away in great haste in order to settle the question. + When, however, they had come to, as it seemed, rather more than eighty + fathoms they felt a weight, at which they were greatly delighted; and at + last, at ten fathoms more, they saw Don Quixote distinctly, and Sancho + called out to him, saying, “Welcome back, señor, for we had begun to + think you were going to stop there to found a family.” But Don + Quixote answered not a word, and drawing him out entirely they perceived + he had his eyes shut and every appearance of being fast asleep. + </p> + <p> + They stretched him on the ground and untied him, but still he did not + awake; however, they rolled him back and forwards and shook and pulled him + about, so that after some time he came to himself, stretching himself just + as if he were waking up from a deep and sound sleep, and looking about him + he said, “God forgive you, friends; ye have taken me away from the + sweetest and most delightful existence and spectacle that ever human being + enjoyed or beheld. Now indeed do I know that all the pleasures of this + life pass away like a shadow and a dream, or fade like the flower of the + field. O ill-fated Montesinos! O sore-wounded Durandarte! O unhappy + Belerma! O tearful Guadiana, and ye O hapless daughters of Ruidera who + show in your waves the tears that flowed from your beauteous eyes!” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p22d" id="p22d"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p22d.jpg (318K)" src="images/p22d.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p22d.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The cousin and Sancho Panza listened with deep attention to the words of + Don Quixote, who uttered them as though with immense pain he drew them up + from his very bowels. They begged of him to explain himself, and tell them + what he had seen in that hell down there. + </p> + <p> + “Hell do you call it?” said Don Quixote; “call it by no + such name, for it does not deserve it, as ye shall soon see.” + </p> + <p> + He then begged them to give him something to eat, as he was very hungry. + They spread the cousin’s sackcloth on the grass, and put the stores + of the alforjas into requisition, and all three sitting down lovingly and + sociably, they made a luncheon and a supper of it all in one; and when the + sackcloth was removed, Don Quixote of La Mancha said, “Let no one + rise, and attend to me, my sons, both of you.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p22e" id="p22e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p22e.jpg (48K)" src="images/p22e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch23b" id="ch23b"></a>CHAPTER XXIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE WONDERFUL THINGS THE INCOMPARABLE DON QUIXOTE SAID HE SAW IN THE + PROFOUND CAVE OF MONTESINOS, THE IMPOSSIBILITY AND MAGNITUDE OF WHICH + CAUSE THIS ADVENTURE TO BE DEEMED APOCRYPHAL + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p23a" id="p23a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p23a.jpg (148K)" src="images/p23a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p23a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + It was about four in the afternoon when the sun, veiled in clouds, with + subdued light and tempered beams, enabled Don Quixote to relate, without + heat or inconvenience, what he had seen in the cave of Montesinos to his + two illustrious hearers, and he began as follows: + </p> + <p> + “A matter of some twelve or fourteen times a man’s height down + in this pit, on the right-hand side, there is a recess or space, roomy + enough to contain a large cart with its mules. A little light reaches it + through some chinks or crevices, communicating with it and open to the + surface of the earth. This recess or space I perceived when I was already + growing weary and disgusted at finding myself hanging suspended by the + rope, travelling downwards into that dark region without any certainty or + knowledge of where I was going, so I resolved to enter it and rest myself + for a while. I called out, telling you not to let out more rope until I + bade you, but you cannot have heard me. I then gathered in the rope you + were sending me, and making a coil or pile of it I seated myself upon it, + ruminating and considering what I was to do to lower myself to the bottom, + having no one to hold me up; and as I was thus deep in thought and + perplexity, suddenly and without provocation a profound sleep fell upon + me, and when I least expected it, I know not how, I awoke and found myself + in the midst of the most beautiful, delightful meadow that nature could + produce or the most lively human imagination conceive. I opened my eyes, I + rubbed them, and found I was not asleep but thoroughly awake. + Nevertheless, I felt my head and breast to satisfy myself whether it was I + myself who was there or some empty delusive phantom; but touch, feeling, + the collected thoughts that passed through my mind, all convinced me that + I was the same then and there that I am this moment. Next there presented + itself to my sight a stately royal palace or castle, with walls that + seemed built of clear transparent crystal; and through two great doors + that opened wide therein, I saw coming forth and advancing towards me a + venerable old man, clad in a long gown of mulberry-coloured serge that + trailed upon the ground. On his shoulders and breast he had a green satin + collegiate hood, and covering his head a black Milanese bonnet, and his + snow-white beard fell below his girdle. He carried no arms whatever, + nothing but a rosary of beads bigger than fair-sized filberts, each tenth + bead being like a moderate ostrich egg; his bearing, his gait, his dignity + and imposing presence held me spellbound and wondering. He approached me, + and the first thing he did was to embrace me closely, and then he said to + me, ‘For a long time now, O valiant knight Don Quixote of La Mancha, + we who are here enchanted in these solitudes have been hoping to see thee, + that thou mayest make known to the world what is shut up and concealed in + this deep cave, called the cave of Montesinos, which thou hast entered, an + achievement reserved for thy invincible heart and stupendous courage alone + to attempt. Come with me, illustrious sir, and I will show thee the + marvels hidden within this transparent castle, whereof I am the alcaide + and perpetual warden; for I am Montesinos himself, from whom the cave + takes its name.’ + </p> + <p> + “The instant he told me he was Montesinos, I asked him if the story + they told in the world above here was true, that he had taken out the + heart of his great friend Durandarte from his breast with a little dagger, + and carried it to the lady Belerma, as his friend when at the point of + death had commanded him. He said in reply that they spoke the truth in + every respect except as to the dagger, for it was not a dagger, nor + little, but a burnished poniard sharper than an awl.” + </p> + <p> + “That poniard must have been made by Ramon de Hoces the Sevillian,” + said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “I do not know,” said Don Quixote; “it could not have + been by that poniard maker, however, because Ramon de Hoces was a man of + yesterday, and the affair of Roncesvalles, where this mishap occurred, was + long ago; but the question is of no great importance, nor does it affect + or make any alteration in the truth or substance of the story.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said the cousin; “continue, Señor Don + Quixote, for I am listening to you with the greatest pleasure in the + world.” + </p> + <p> + “And with no less do I tell the tale,” said Don Quixote; + “and so, to proceed—the venerable Montesinos led me into the + palace of crystal, where, in a lower chamber, strangely cool and entirely + of alabaster, was an elaborately wrought marble tomb, upon which I beheld, + stretched at full length, a knight, not of bronze, or marble, or jasper, + as are seen on other tombs, but of actual flesh and bone. His right hand + (which seemed to me somewhat hairy and sinewy, a sign of great strength in + its owner) lay on the side of his heart; but before I could put any + question to Montesinos, he, seeing me gazing at the tomb in amazement, + said to me, ‘This is my friend Durandarte, flower and mirror of the + true lovers and valiant knights of his time. He is held enchanted here, as + I myself and many others are, by that French enchanter Merlin, who, they + say, was the devil’s son; but my belief is, not that he was the + devil’s son, but that he knew, as the saying is, a point more than + the devil. How or why he enchanted us, no one knows, but time will tell, + and I suspect that time is not far off. What I marvel at is, that I know + it to be as sure as that it is now day, that Durandarte ended his life in + my arms, and that, after his death, I took out his heart with my own + hands; and indeed it must have weighed more than two pounds, for, + according to naturalists, he who has a large heart is more largely endowed + with valour than he who has a small one. Then, as this is the case, and as + the knight did really die, how comes it that he now moans and sighs from + time to time, as if he were still alive?’ + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p23b" id="p23b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p23b.jpg (243K)" src="images/p23b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p23b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “As he said this, the wretched Durandarte cried out in a loud voice: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +O cousin Montesinos! +‘T was my last request of thee, +When my soul hath left the body, +And that lying dead I be, +With thy poniard or thy dagger +Cut the heart from out my breast, +And bear it to Belerma. +This was my last request.” + +</pre> + <p> + “On hearing which, the venerable Montesinos fell on his knees before + the unhappy knight, and with tearful eyes exclaimed, ‘Long since, + Señor Durandarte, my beloved cousin, long since have I done what you bade + me on that sad day when I lost you; I took out your heart as well as I + could, not leaving an atom of it in your breast, I wiped it with a lace + handkerchief, and I took the road to France with it, having first laid you + in the bosom of the earth with tears enough to wash and cleanse my hands + of the blood that covered them after wandering among your bowels; and more + by token, O cousin of my soul, at the first village I came to after + leaving Roncesvalles, I sprinkled a little salt upon your heart to keep it + sweet, and bring it, if not fresh, at least pickled, into the presence of + the lady Belerma, whom, together with you, myself, Guadiana your squire, + the duenna Ruidera and her seven daughters and two nieces, and many more + of your friends and acquaintances, the sage Merlin has been keeping + enchanted here these many years; and although more than five hundred have + gone by, not one of us has died; Ruidera and her daughters and nieces + alone are missing, and these, because of the tears they shed, Merlin, out + of the compassion he seems to have felt for them, changed into so many + lakes, which to this day in the world of the living, and in the province + of La Mancha, are called the Lakes of Ruidera. The seven daughters belong + to the kings of Spain and the two nieces to the knights of a very holy + order called the Order of St. John. Guadiana your squire, likewise + bewailing your fate, was changed into a river of his own name, but when he + came to the surface and beheld the sun of another heaven, so great was his + grief at finding he was leaving you, that he plunged into the bowels of + the earth; however, as he cannot help following his natural course, he + from time to time comes forth and shows himself to the sun and the world. + The lakes aforesaid send him their waters, and with these, and others that + come to him, he makes a grand and imposing entrance into Portugal; but for + all that, go where he may, he shows his melancholy and sadness, and takes + no pride in breeding dainty choice fish, only coarse and tasteless sorts, + very different from those of the golden Tagus. All this that I tell you + now, O cousin mine, I have told you many times before, and as you make no + answer, I fear that either you believe me not, or do not hear me, whereat + I feel God knows what grief. I have now news to give you, which, if it + serves not to alleviate your sufferings, will not in any wise increase + them. Know that you have here before you (open your eyes and you will see) + that great knight of whom the sage Merlin has prophesied such great + things; that Don Quixote of La Mancha I mean, who has again, and to better + purpose than in past times, revived in these days knight-errantry, long + since forgotten, and by whose intervention and aid it may be we shall be + disenchanted; for great deeds are reserved for great men.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘And if that may not be,’ said the wretched Durandarte + in a low and feeble voice, ‘if that may not be, then, my cousin, I + say “patience and shuffle;”’ and turning over on his + side, he relapsed into his former silence without uttering another word. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p23c" id="p23c"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p23c.jpg (331K)" src="images/p23c.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p23c.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “And now there was heard a great outcry and lamentation, accompanied + by deep sighs and bitter sobs. I looked round, and through the crystal + wall I saw passing through another chamber a procession of two lines of + fair damsels all clad in mourning, and with white turbans of Turkish + fashion on their heads. Behind, in the rear of these, there came a lady, + for so from her dignity she seemed to be, also clad in black, with a white + veil so long and ample that it swept the ground. Her turban was twice as + large as the largest of any of the others; her eyebrows met, her nose was + rather flat, her mouth was large but with ruddy lips, and her teeth, of + which at times she allowed a glimpse, were seen to be sparse and ill-set, + though as white as peeled almonds. She carried in her hands a fine cloth, + and in it, as well as I could make out, a heart that had been mummied, so + parched and dried was it. Montesinos told me that all those forming the + procession were the attendants of Durandarte and Belerma, who were + enchanted there with their master and mistress, and that the last, she who + carried the heart in the cloth, was the lady Belerma, who, with her + damsels, four days in the week went in procession singing, or rather + weeping, dirges over the body and miserable heart of his cousin; and that + if she appeared to me somewhat ill-favoured or not so beautiful as fame + reported her, it was because of the bad nights and worse days that she + passed in that enchantment, as I could see by the great dark circles round + her eyes, and her sickly complexion; ‘her sallowness, and the rings + round her eyes,’ said he, ‘are not caused by the periodical + ailment usual with women, for it is many months and even years since she + has had any, but by the grief her own heart suffers because of that which + she holds in her hand perpetually, and which recalls and brings back to + her memory the sad fate of her lost lover; were it not for this, hardly + would the great Dulcinea del Toboso, so celebrated in all these parts, and + even in the world, come up to her for beauty, grace, and gaiety.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Hold hard!’ said I at this, ‘tell your story as + you ought, Señor Don Montesinos, for you know very well that all + comparisons are odious, and there is no occasion to compare one person + with another; the peerless Dulcinea del Toboso is what she is, and the + lady Dona Belerma is what she is and has been, and that’s enough.’ + To which he made answer, ‘Forgive me, Señor Don Quixote; I own I was + wrong and spoke unadvisedly in saying that the lady Dulcinea could + scarcely come up to the lady Belerma; for it were enough for me to have + learned, by what means I know not, that you are her knight, to make me + bite my tongue out before I compared her to anything save heaven itself.’ + After this apology which the great Montesinos made me, my heart recovered + itself from the shock I had received in hearing my lady compared with + Belerma.” + </p> + <p> + “Still I wonder,” said Sancho, “that your worship did + not get upon the old fellow and bruise every bone of him with kicks, and + pluck his beard until you didn’t leave a hair in it.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, Sancho, my friend,” said Don Quixote, “it would + not have been right in me to do that, for we are all bound to pay respect + to the aged, even though they be not knights, but especially to those who + are, and who are enchanted; I only know I gave him as good as he brought + in the many other questions and answers we exchanged.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot understand, Señor Don Quixote,” remarked the cousin + here, “how it is that your worship, in such a short space of time as + you have been below there, could have seen so many things, and said and + answered so much.” + </p> + <p> + “How long is it since I went down?” asked Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “Little better than an hour,” replied Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “That cannot be,” returned Don Quixote, “because night + overtook me while I was there, and day came, and it was night again and + day again three times; so that, by my reckoning, I have been three days in + those remote regions beyond our ken.” + </p> + <p> + “My master must be right,” replied Sancho; “for as + everything that has happened to him is by enchantment, maybe what seems to + us an hour would seem three days and nights there.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s it,” said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “And did your worship eat anything all that time, señor?” + asked the cousin. + </p> + <p> + “I never touched a morsel,” answered Don Quixote, “nor + did I feel hunger, or think of it.” + </p> + <p> + “And do the enchanted eat?” said the cousin. + </p> + <p> + “They neither eat,” said Don Quixote; “nor are they + subject to the greater excrements, though it is thought that their nails, + beards, and hair grow.” + </p> + <p> + “And do the enchanted sleep, now, señor?” asked Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not,” replied Don Quixote; “at least, during + those three days I was with them not one of them closed an eye, nor did I + either.” + </p> + <p> + “The proverb, ‘Tell me what company thou keepest and I’ll + tell thee what thou art,’ is to the point here,” said Sancho; + “your worship keeps company with enchanted people that are always + fasting and watching; what wonder is it, then, that you neither eat nor + sleep while you are with them? But forgive me, señor, if I say that of all + this you have told us now, may God take me—I was just going to say + the devil—if I believe a single particle.” + </p> + <p> + “What!” said the cousin, “has Señor Don Quixote, then, + been lying? Why, even if he wished it he has not had time to imagine and + put together such a host of lies.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t believe my master lies,” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “If not, what dost thou believe?” asked Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “I believe,” replied Sancho, “that this Merlin, or those + enchanters who enchanted the whole crew your worship says you saw and + discoursed with down there, stuffed your imagination or your mind with all + this rigmarole you have been treating us to, and all that is still to + come.” + </p> + <p> + “All that might be, Sancho,” replied Don Quixote; “but + it is not so, for everything that I have told you I saw with my own eyes, + and touched with my own hands. But what will you say when I tell you now + how, among the countless other marvellous things Montesinos showed me (of + which at leisure and at the proper time I will give thee an account in the + course of our journey, for they would not be all in place here), he showed + me three country girls who went skipping and capering like goats over the + pleasant fields there, and the instant I beheld them I knew one to be the + peerless Dulcinea del Toboso, and the other two those same country girls + that were with her and that we spoke to on the road from El Toboso! I + asked Montesinos if he knew them, and he told me he did not, but he + thought they must be some enchanted ladies of distinction, for it was only + a few days before that they had made their appearance in those meadows; + but I was not to be surprised at that, because there were a great many + other ladies there of times past and present, enchanted in various strange + shapes, and among them he had recognised Queen Guinevere and her dame + Quintanona, she who poured out the wine for Lancelot when he came from + Britain.” + </p> + <p> + When Sancho Panza heard his master say this he was ready to take leave of + his senses, or die with laughter; for, as he knew the real truth about the + pretended enchantment of Dulcinea, in which he himself had been the + enchanter and concocter of all the evidence, he made up his mind at last + that, beyond all doubt, his master was out of his wits and stark mad, so + he said to him, “It was an evil hour, a worse season, and a + sorrowful day, when your worship, dear master mine, went down to the other + world, and an unlucky moment when you met with Señor Montesinos, who has + sent you back to us like this. You were well enough here above in your + full senses, such as God had given you, delivering maxims and giving + advice at every turn, and not as you are now, talking the greatest + nonsense that can be imagined.” + </p> + <p> + “As I know thee, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “I heed not + thy words.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor I your worship’s,” said Sancho, “whether you + beat me or kill me for those I have spoken, and will speak if you don’t + correct and mend your own. But tell me, while we are still at peace, how + or by what did you recognise the lady our mistress; and if you spoke to + her, what did you say, and what did she answer?” + </p> + <p> + “I recognised her,” said Don Quixote, “by her wearing + the same garments she wore when thou didst point her out to me. I spoke to + her, but she did not utter a word in reply; on the contrary, she turned + her back on me and took to flight, at such a pace that crossbow bolt could + not have overtaken her. I wished to follow her, and would have done so had + not Montesinos recommended me not to take the trouble as it would be + useless, particularly as the time was drawing near when it would be + necessary for me to quit the cavern. He told me, moreover, that in course + of time he would let me know how he and Belerma, and Durandarte, and all + who were there, were to be disenchanted. But of all I saw and observed + down there, what gave me most pain was, that while Montesinos was speaking + to me, one of the two companions of the hapless Dulcinea approached me on + one without my having seen her coming, and with tears in her eyes said to + me, in a low, agitated voice, ‘My lady Dulcinea del Toboso kisses + your worship’s hands, and entreats you to do her the favour of + letting her know how you are; and, being in great need, she also entreats + your worship as earnestly as she can to be so good as to lend her half a + dozen reals, or as much as you may have about you, on this new dimity + petticoat that I have here; and she promises to repay them very speedily.’ + I was amazed and taken aback by such a message, and turning to Señor + Montesinos I asked him, ‘Is it possible, Señor Montesinos, that + persons of distinction under enchantment can be in need?’ To which + he replied, ‘Believe me, Señor Don Quixote, that which is called + need is to be met with everywhere, and penetrates all quarters and reaches + everyone, and does not spare even the enchanted; and as the lady Dulcinea + del Toboso sends to beg those six reals, and the pledge is to all + appearance a good one, there is nothing for it but to give them to her, + for no doubt she must be in some great strait.’ ‘I will take + no pledge of her,’ I replied, ‘nor yet can I give her what she + asks, for all I have is four reals; which I gave (they were those which + thou, Sancho, gavest me the other day to bestow in alms upon the poor I + met along the road), and I said, ‘Tell your mistress, my dear, that + I am grieved to the heart because of her distresses, and wish I was a + Fucar to remedy them, and that I would have her know that I cannot be, and + ought not be, in health while deprived of the happiness of seeing her and + enjoying her discreet conversation, and that I implore her as earnestly as + I can, to allow herself to be seen and addressed by this her captive + servant and forlorn knight. Tell her, too, that when she least expects it + she will hear it announced that I have made an oath and vow after the + fashion of that which the Marquis of Mantua made to avenge his nephew + Baldwin, when he found him at the point of death in the heart of the + mountains, which was, not to eat bread off a tablecloth, and other + trifling matters which he added, until he had avenged him; and I will make + the same to take no rest, and to roam the seven regions of the earth more + thoroughly than the Infante Don Pedro of Portugal ever roamed them, until + I have disenchanted her.’ ‘All that and more, you owe my lady,’ + the damsel’s answer to me, and taking the four reals, instead of + making me a curtsey she cut a caper, springing two full yards into the + air.” + </p> + <p> + “O blessed God!” exclaimed Sancho aloud at this, “is it + possible that such things can be in the world, and that enchanters and + enchantments can have such power in it as to have changed my master’s + right senses into a craze so full of absurdity! O señor, señor, for God’s + sake, consider yourself, have a care for your honour, and give no credit + to this silly stuff that has left you scant and short of wits.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou talkest in this way because thou lovest me, Sancho,” + said Don Quixote; “and not being experienced in the things of the + world, everything that has some difficulty about it seems to thee + impossible; but time will pass, as I said before, and I will tell thee + some of the things I saw down there which will make thee believe what I + have related now, the truth of which admits of neither reply nor question.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p23e" id="p23e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p23e.jpg (54K)" src="images/p23e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch24b" id="ch24b"></a>CHAPTER XXIV. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN ARE RELATED A THOUSAND TRIFLING MATTERS, AS TRIVIAL AS THEY ARE + NECESSARY TO THE RIGHT UNDERSTANDING OF THIS GREAT HISTORY + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p24a" id="p24a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p24a.jpg (137K)" src="images/p24a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p24a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + He who translated this great history from the original written by its + first author, Cide Hamete Benengeli, says that on coming to the chapter + giving the adventures of the cave of Montesinos he found written on the + margin of it, in Hamete’s own hand, these exact words: + </p> + <p> + “I cannot convince or persuade myself that everything that is + written in the preceding chapter could have precisely happened to the + valiant Don Quixote; and for this reason, that all the adventures that + have occurred up to the present have been possible and probable; but as + for this one of the cave, I see no way of accepting it as true, as it + passes all reasonable bounds. For me to believe that Don Quixote could + lie, he being the most truthful gentleman and the noblest knight of his + time, is impossible; he would not have told a lie though he were shot to + death with arrows. On the other hand, I reflect that he related and told + the story with all the circumstances detailed, and that he could not in so + short a space have fabricated such a vast complication of absurdities; if, + then, this adventure seems apocryphal, it is no fault of mine; and so, + without affirming its falsehood or its truth, I write it down. Decide for + thyself in thy wisdom, reader; for I am not bound, nor is it in my power, + to do more; though certain it is they say that at the time of his death he + retracted, and said he had invented it, thinking it matched and tallied + with the adventures he had read of in his histories.” And then he + goes on to say: + </p> + <p> + The cousin was amazed as well at Sancho’s boldness as at the + patience of his master, and concluded that the good temper the latter + displayed arose from the happiness he felt at having seen his lady + Dulcinea, even enchanted as she was; because otherwise the words and + language Sancho had addressed to him deserved a thrashing; for indeed he + seemed to him to have been rather impudent to his master, to whom he now + observed, “I, Señor Don Quixote of La Mancha, look upon the time I + have spent in travelling with your worship as very well employed, for I + have gained four things in the course of it; the first is that I have made + your acquaintance, which I consider great good fortune; the second, that I + have learned what the cave of Montesinos contains, together with the + transformations of Guadiana and of the lakes of Ruidera; which will be of + use to me for the Spanish Ovid that I have in hand; the third, to have + discovered the antiquity of cards, that they were in use at least in the + time of Charlemagne, as may be inferred from the words you say Durandarte + uttered when, at the end of that long spell while Montesinos was talking + to him, he woke up and said, ‘Patience and shuffle.’ This + phrase and expression he could not have learned while he was enchanted, + but only before he had become so, in France, and in the time of the + aforesaid emperor Charlemagne. And this demonstration is just the thing + for me for that other book I am writing, the ‘Supplement to Polydore + Vergil on the Invention of Antiquities;’ for I believe he never + thought of inserting that of cards in his book, as I mean to do in mine, + and it will be a matter of great importance, particularly when I can cite + so grave and veracious an authority as Señor Durandarte. And the fourth + thing is, that I have ascertained the source of the river Guadiana, + heretofore unknown to mankind.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right,” said Don Quixote; “but I should like to + know, if by God’s favour they grant you a licence to print those + books of yours—which I doubt—to whom do you mean to dedicate + them?” + </p> + <p> + “There are lords and grandees in Spain to whom they can be + dedicated,” said the cousin. + </p> + <p> + “Not many,” said Don Quixote; “not that they are + unworthy of it, but because they do not care to accept books and incur the + obligation of making the return that seems due to the author’s + labour and courtesy. One prince I know who makes up for all the rest, and + more—how much more, if I ventured to say, perhaps I should stir up + envy in many a noble breast; but let this stand over for some more + convenient time, and let us go and look for some place to shelter + ourselves in to-night.” + </p> + <p> + “Not far from this,” said the cousin, “there is a + hermitage, where there lives a hermit, who they say was a soldier, and who + has the reputation of being a good Christian and a very intelligent and + charitable man. Close to the hermitage he has a small house which he built + at his own cost, but though small it is large enough for the reception of + guests.” + </p> + <p> + “Has this hermit any hens, do you think?” asked Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Few hermits are without them,” said Don Quixote; “for + those we see now-a-days are not like the hermits of the Egyptian deserts + who were clad in palm-leaves, and lived on the roots of the earth. But do + not think that by praising these I am disparaging the others; all I mean + to say is that the penances of those of the present day do not come up to + the asceticism and austerity of former times; but it does not follow from + this that they are not all worthy; at least I think them so; and at the + worst the hypocrite who pretends to be good does less harm than the open + sinner.” + </p> + <p> + At this point they saw approaching the spot where they stood a man on + foot, proceeding at a rapid pace, and beating a mule loaded with lances + and halberds. When he came up to them, he saluted them and passed on + without stopping. Don Quixote called to him, “Stay, good fellow; you + seem to be making more haste than suits that mule.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot stop, señor,” answered the man; “for the arms + you see I carry here are to be used to-morrow, so I must not delay; God be + with you. But if you want to know what I am carrying them for, I mean to + lodge to-night at the inn that is beyond the hermitage, and if you be + going the same road you will find me there, and I will tell you some + curious things; once more God be with you;” and he urged on his mule + at such a pace that Don Quixote had no time to ask him what these curious + things were that he meant to tell them; and as he was somewhat + inquisitive, and always tortured by his anxiety to learn something new, he + decided to set out at once, and go and pass the night at the inn instead + of stopping at the hermitage, where the cousin would have had them halt. + Accordingly they mounted and all three took the direct road for the inn, + which they reached a little before nightfall. On the road the cousin + proposed they should go up to the hermitage to drink a sup. The instant + Sancho heard this he steered his Dapple towards it, and Don Quixote and + the cousin did the same; but it seems Sancho’s bad luck so ordered + it that the hermit was not at home, for so a sub-hermit they found in the + hermitage told them. They called for some of the best. She replied that + her master had none, but that if they liked cheap water she would give it + with great pleasure. + </p> + <p> + “If I found any in water,” said Sancho, “there are wells + along the road where I could have had enough of it. Ah, Camacho’s + wedding, and plentiful house of Don Diego, how often do I miss you!” + </p> + <p> + Leaving the hermitage, they pushed on towards the inn, and a little + farther they came upon a youth who was pacing along in front of them at no + great speed, so that they overtook him. He carried a sword over his + shoulder, and slung on it a budget or bundle of his clothes apparently, + probably his breeches or pantaloons, and his cloak and a shirt or two; for + he had on a short jacket of velvet with a gloss like satin on it in + places, and had his shirt out; his stockings were of silk, and his shoes + square-toed as they wear them at court. His age might have been eighteen + or nineteen; he was of a merry countenance, and to all appearance of an + active habit, and he went along singing seguidillas to beguile the + wearisomeness of the road. As they came up with him he was just finishing + one, which the cousin got by heart and they say ran thus— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +I’m off to the wars +For the want of pence, +Oh, had I but money +I’d show more sense. +</pre> + <p> + The first to address him was Don Quixote, who said, “You travel very + airily, sir gallant; whither bound, may we ask, if it is your pleasure to + tell us?” + </p> + <p> + To which the youth replied, “The heat and my poverty are the reason + of my travelling so airily, and it is to the wars that I am bound.” + </p> + <p> + “How poverty?” asked Don Quixote; “the heat one can + understand.” + </p> + <p> + “Señor,” replied the youth, “in this bundle I carry + velvet pantaloons to match this jacket; if I wear them out on the road, I + shall not be able to make a decent appearance in them in the city, and I + have not the wherewithal to buy others; and so for this reason, as well as + to keep myself cool, I am making my way in this fashion to overtake some + companies of infantry that are not twelve leagues off, in which I shall + enlist, and there will be no want of baggage trains to travel with after + that to the place of embarkation, which they say will be Carthagena; I + would rather have the King for a master, and serve him in the wars, than + serve a court pauper.” + </p> + <p> + “And did you get any bounty, now?” asked the cousin. + </p> + <p> + “If I had been in the service of some grandee of Spain or personage + of distinction,” replied the youth, “I should have been safe + to get it; for that is the advantage of serving good masters, that out of + the servants’ hall men come to be ancients or captains, or get a + good pension. But I, to my misfortune, always served place-hunters and + adventurers, whose keep and wages were so miserable and scanty that half + went in paying for the starching of one’s collars; it would be a + miracle indeed if a page volunteer ever got anything like a reasonable + bounty.” + </p> + <p> + “And tell me, for heaven’s sake,” asked Don Quixote, + “is it possible, my friend, that all the time you served you never + got any livery?” + </p> + <p> + “They gave me two,” replied the page; “but just as when + one quits a religious community before making profession, they strip him + of the dress of the order and give him back his own clothes, so did my + masters return me mine; for as soon as the business on which they came to + court was finished, they went home and took back the liveries they had + given merely for show.” + </p> + <p> + “What spilorceria!—as an Italian would say,” said Don + Quixote; “but for all that, consider yourself happy in having left + court with as worthy an object as you have, for there is nothing on earth + more honourable or profitable than serving, first of all God, and then one’s + king and natural lord, particularly in the profession of arms, by which, + if not more wealth, at least more honour is to be won than by letters, as + I have said many a time; for though letters may have founded more great + houses than arms, still those founded by arms have I know not what + superiority over those founded by letters, and a certain splendour + belonging to them that distinguishes them above all. And bear in mind what + I am now about to say to you, for it will be of great use and comfort to + you in time of trouble; it is, not to let your mind dwell on the adverse + chances that may befall you; for the worst of all is death, and if it be a + good death, the best of all is to die. They asked Julius Caesar, the + valiant Roman emperor, what was the best death. He answered, that which is + unexpected, which comes suddenly and unforeseen; and though he answered + like a pagan, and one without the knowledge of the true God, yet, as far + as sparing our feelings is concerned, he was right; for suppose you are + killed in the first engagement or skirmish, whether by a cannon ball or + blown up by mine, what matters it? It is only dying, and all is over; and + according to Terence, a soldier shows better dead in battle, than alive + and safe in flight; and the good soldier wins fame in proportion as he is + obedient to his captains and those in command over him. And remember, my + son, that it is better for the soldier to smell of gunpowder than of + civet, and that if old age should come upon you in this honourable + calling, though you may be covered with wounds and crippled and lame, it + will not come upon you without honour, and that such as poverty cannot + lessen; especially now that provisions are being made for supporting and + relieving old and disabled soldiers; for it is not right to deal with them + after the fashion of those who set free and get rid of their black slaves + when they are old and useless, and, turning them out of their houses under + the pretence of making them free, make them slaves to hunger, from which + they cannot expect to be released except by death. But for the present I + won’t say more than get ye up behind me on my horse as far as the + inn, and sup with me there, and to-morrow you shall pursue your journey, + and God give you as good speed as your intentions deserve.” + </p> + <p> + The page did not accept the invitation to mount, though he did that to + supper at the inn; and here they say Sancho said to himself, “God be + with you for a master; is it possible that a man who can say things so + many and so good as he has said just now, can say that he saw the + impossible absurdities he reports about the cave of Montesinos? Well, + well, we shall see.” + </p> + <p> + And now, just as night was falling, they reached the inn, and it was not + without satisfaction that Sancho perceived his master took it for a real + inn, and not for a castle as usual. The instant they entered Don Quixote + asked the landlord after the man with the lances and halberds, and was + told that he was in the stable seeing to his mule; which was what Sancho + and the cousin proceeded to do for their beasts, giving the best manger + and the best place in the stable to Rocinante. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p24e" id="p24e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p24e.jpg (61K)" src="images/p24e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch25b" id="ch25b"></a>CHAPTER XXV. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS SET DOWN THE BRAYING ADVENTURE, AND THE DROLL ONE OF THE + PUPPET-SHOWMAN, TOGETHER WITH THE MEMORABLE DIVINATIONS OF THE DIVINING + APE + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p25a" id="p25a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p25a.jpg (154K)" src="images/p25a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p25a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote’s bread would not bake, as the common saying is, until + he had heard and learned the curious things promised by the man who + carried the arms. He went to seek him where the innkeeper said he was and + having found him, bade him say now at any rate what he had to say in + answer to the question he had asked him on the road. “The tale of my + wonders must be taken more leisurely and not standing,” said the + man; “let me finish foddering my beast, good sir; and then I’ll + tell you things that will astonish you.” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t wait for that,” said Don Quixote; “I’ll + help you in everything,” and so he did, sifting the barley for him + and cleaning out the manger; a degree of humility which made the other + feel bound to tell him with a good grace what he had asked; so seating + himself on a bench, with Don Quixote beside him, and the cousin, the page, + Sancho Panza, and the landlord, for a senate and an audience, he began his + story in this way: + </p> + <p> + “You must know that in a village four leagues and a half from this + inn, it so happened that one of the regidors, by the tricks and roguery of + a servant girl of his (it’s too long a tale to tell), lost an ass; + and though he did all he possibly could to find it, it was all to no + purpose. A fortnight might have gone by, so the story goes, since the ass + had been missing, when, as the regidor who had lost it was standing in the + plaza, another regidor of the same town said to him, ‘Pay me for + good news, gossip; your ass has turned up.’ ‘That I will, and + well, gossip,’ said the other; ‘but tell us, where has he + turned up?’ ‘In the forest,’ said the finder; ‘I + saw him this morning without pack-saddle or harness of any sort, and so + lean that it went to one’s heart to see him. I tried to drive him + before me and bring him to you, but he is already so wild and shy that + when I went near him he made off into the thickest part of the forest. If + you have a mind that we two should go back and look for him, let me put up + this she-ass at my house and I’ll be back at once.’ ‘You + will be doing me a great kindness,’ said the owner of the ass, + ‘and I’ll try to pay it back in the same coin.’ It is + with all these circumstances, and in the very same way I am telling it + now, that those who know all about the matter tell the story. Well then, + the two regidors set off on foot, arm in arm, for the forest, and coming + to the place where they hoped to find the ass they could not find him, nor + was he to be seen anywhere about, search as they might. Seeing, then, that + there was no sign of him, the regidor who had seen him said to the other, + ‘Look here, gossip; a plan has occurred to me, by which, beyond a + doubt, we shall manage to discover the animal, even if he is stowed away + in the bowels of the earth, not to say the forest. Here it is. I can bray + to perfection, and if you can ever so little, the thing’s as good as + done.’ ‘Ever so little did you say, gossip?’ said the + other; ‘by God, I’ll not give in to anybody, not even to the + asses themselves.’ ‘We’ll soon see,’ said the + second regidor, ‘for my plan is that you should go one side of the + forest, and I the other, so as to go all round about it; and every now and + then you will bray and I will bray; and it cannot be but that the ass will + hear us, and answer us if he is in the forest.’ To which the owner + of the ass replied, ‘It’s an excellent plan, I declare, + gossip, and worthy of your great genius;’ and the two separating as + agreed, it so fell out that they brayed almost at the same moment, and + each, deceived by the braying of the other, ran to look, fancying the ass + had turned up at last. When they came in sight of one another, said the + loser, ‘Is it possible, gossip, that it was not my ass that brayed?’ + ‘No, it was I,’ said the other. ‘Well then, I can tell + you, gossip,’ said the ass’s owner, ‘that between you + and an ass there is not an atom of difference as far as braying goes, for + I never in all my life saw or heard anything more natural.’ ‘Those + praises and compliments belong to you more justly than to me, gossip,’ + said the inventor of the plan; ‘for, by the God that made me, you + might give a couple of brays odds to the best and most finished brayer in + the world; the tone you have got is deep, your voice is well kept up as to + time and pitch, and your finishing notes come thick and fast; in fact, I + own myself beaten, and yield the palm to you, and give in to you in this + rare accomplishment.’ ‘Well then,’ said the owner, + ‘I’ll set a higher value on myself for the future, and + consider that I know something, as I have an excellence of some sort; for + though I always thought I brayed well, I never supposed I came up to the + pitch of perfection you say.’ ‘And I say too,’ said the + second, ‘that there are rare gifts going to loss in the world, and + that they are ill bestowed upon those who don’t know how to make use + of them.’ ‘Ours,’ said the owner of the ass, ‘unless + it is in cases like this we have now in hand, cannot be of any service to + us, and even in this God grant they may be of some use.’ So saying + they separated, and took to their braying once more, but every instant + they were deceiving one another, and coming to meet one another again, + until they arranged by way of countersign, so as to know that it was they + and not the ass, to give two brays, one after the other. In this way, + doubling the brays at every step, they made the complete circuit of the + forest, but the lost ass never gave them an answer or even the sign of + one. How could the poor ill-starred brute have answered, when, in the + thickest part of the forest, they found him devoured by wolves? As soon as + he saw him his owner said, ‘I was wondering he did not answer, for + if he wasn’t dead he’d have brayed when he heard us, or he’d + have been no ass; but for the sake of having heard you bray to such + perfection, gossip, I count the trouble I have taken to look for him well + bestowed, even though I have found him dead.’ ‘It’s in a + good hand, gossip,’ said the other; ‘if the abbot sings well, + the acolyte is not much behind him.’ So they returned disconsolate + and hoarse to their village, where they told their friends, neighbours, + and acquaintances what had befallen them in their search for the ass, each + crying up the other’s perfection in braying. The whole story came to + be known and spread abroad through the villages of the neighbourhood; and + the devil, who never sleeps, with his love for sowing dissensions and + scattering discord everywhere, blowing mischief about and making quarrels + out of nothing, contrived to make the people of the other towns fall to + braying whenever they saw anyone from our village, as if to throw the + braying of our regidors in our teeth. Then the boys took to it, which was + the same thing for it as getting into the hands and mouths of all the + devils of hell; and braying spread from one town to another in such a way + that the men of the braying town are as easy to be known as blacks are to + be known from whites, and the unlucky joke has gone so far that several + times the scoffed have come out in arms and in a body to do battle with + the scoffers, and neither king nor rook, fear nor shame, can mend matters. + To-morrow or the day after, I believe, the men of my town, that is, of the + braying town, are going to take the field against another village two + leagues away from ours, one of those that persecute us most; and that we + may turn out well prepared I have bought these lances and halberds you + have seen. These are the curious things I told you I had to tell, and if + you don’t think them so, I have got no others;” and with this + the worthy fellow brought his story to a close. + </p> + <p> + Just at this moment there came in at the gate of the inn a man entirely + clad in chamois leather, hose, breeches, and doublet, who said in a loud + voice, “Señor host, have you room? Here’s the divining ape and + the show of the Release of Melisendra just coming.” + </p> + <p> + “Ods body!” said the landlord, “why, it’s Master + Pedro! We’re in for a grand night!” I forgot to mention that + the said Master Pedro had his left eye and nearly half his cheek covered + with a patch of green taffety, showing that something ailed all that side. + “Your worship is welcome, Master Pedro,” continued the + landlord; “but where are the ape and the show, for I don’t see + them?” “They are close at hand,” said he in the chamois + leather, “but I came on first to know if there was any room.” + “I’d make the Duke of Alva himself clear out to make room for + Master Pedro,” said the landlord; “bring in the ape and the + show; there’s company in the inn to-night that will pay to see that + and the cleverness of the ape.” “So be it by all means,” + said the man with the patch; “I’ll lower the price, and be + well satisfied if I only pay my expenses; and now I’ll go back and + hurry on the cart with the ape and the show;” and with this he went + out of the inn. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote at once asked the landlord what this Master Pedro was, and + what was the show and what was the ape he had with him; which the landlord + replied, “This is a famous puppet-showman, who for some time past + has been going about this Mancha de Aragon, exhibiting a show of the + release of Melisendra by the famous Don Gaiferos, one of the best and + best-represented stories that have been seen in this part of the kingdom + for many a year; he has also with him an ape with the most extraordinary + gift ever seen in an ape or imagined in a human being; for if you ask him + anything, he listens attentively to the question, and then jumps on his + master’s shoulder, and pressing close to his ear tells him the + answer which Master Pedro then delivers. He says a great deal more about + things past than about things to come; and though he does not always hit + the truth in every case, most times he is not far wrong, so that he makes + us fancy he has got the devil in him. He gets two reals for every question + if the ape answers; I mean if his master answers for him after he has + whispered into his ear; and so it is believed that this same Master Pedro + is very rich. He is a ‘gallant man’ as they say in Italy, and + good company, and leads the finest life in the world; talks more than six, + drinks more than a dozen, and all by his tongue, and his ape, and his + show.” + </p> + <p> + Master Pedro now came back, and in a cart followed the show and the ape—a + big one, without a tail and with buttocks as bare as felt, but not + vicious-looking. As soon as Don Quixote saw him, he asked him, “Can + you tell me, sir fortune-teller, what fish do we catch, and how will it be + with us? See, here are my two reals,” and he bade Sancho give them + to Master Pedro; but he answered for the ape and said, “Señor, this + animal does not give any answer or information touching things that are to + come; of things past he knows something, and more or less of things + present.” + </p> + <p> + “Gad,” said Sancho, “I would not give a farthing to be + told what’s past with me, for who knows that better than I do + myself? And to pay for being told what I know would be mighty foolish. But + as you know things present, here are my two reals, and tell me, most + excellent sir ape, what is my wife Teresa Panza doing now, and what is she + diverting herself with?” + </p> + <p> + Master Pedro refused to take the money, saying, “I will not receive + payment in advance or until the service has been first rendered;” + and then with his right hand he gave a couple of slaps on his left + shoulder, and with one spring the ape perched himself upon it, and putting + his mouth to his master’s ear began chattering his teeth rapidly; + and having kept this up as long as one would be saying a credo, with + another spring he brought himself to the ground, and the same instant + Master Pedro ran in great haste and fell upon his knees before Don + Quixote, and embracing his legs exclaimed, “These legs do I embrace + as I would embrace the two pillars of Hercules, O illustrious reviver of + knight-errantry, so long consigned to oblivion! O never yet duly extolled + knight, Don Quixote of La Mancha, courage of the faint-hearted, prop of + the tottering, arm of the fallen, staff and counsel of all who are + unfortunate!” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p25b" id="p25b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p25b.jpg (373K)" src="images/p25b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p25b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote was thunderstruck, Sancho astounded, the cousin staggered, the + page astonished, the man from the braying town agape, the landlord in + perplexity, and, in short, everyone amazed at the words of the + puppet-showman, who went on to say, “And thou, worthy Sancho Panza, + the best squire and squire to the best knight in the world! Be of good + cheer, for thy good wife Teresa is well, and she is at this moment + hackling a pound of flax; and more by token she has at her left hand a jug + with a broken spout that holds a good drop of wine, with which she solaces + herself at her work.” + </p> + <p> + “That I can well believe,” said Sancho. “She is a lucky + one, and if it was not for her jealousy I would not change her for the + giantess Andandona, who by my master’s account was a very clever and + worthy woman; my Teresa is one of those that won’t let themselves + want for anything, though their heirs may have to pay for it.” + </p> + <p> + “Now I declare,” said Don Quixote, “he who reads much + and travels much sees and knows a great deal. I say so because what amount + of persuasion could have persuaded me that there are apes in the world + that can divine as I have seen now with my own eyes? For I am that very + Don Quixote of La Mancha this worthy animal refers to, though he has gone + rather too far in my praise; but whatever I may be, I thank heaven that it + has endowed me with a tender and compassionate heart, always disposed to + do good to all and harm to none.” + </p> + <p> + “If I had money,” said the page, “I would ask señor ape + what will happen to me in the peregrination I am making.” + </p> + <p> + To this Master Pedro, who had by this time risen from Don Quixote’s + feet, replied, “I have already said that this little beast gives no + answer as to the future; but if he did, not having money would be of no + consequence, for to oblige Señor Don Quixote, here present, I would give + up all the profits in the world. And now, because I have promised it, and + to afford him pleasure, I will set up my show and offer entertainment to + all who are in the inn, without any charge whatever.” As soon as he + heard this, the landlord, delighted beyond measure, pointed out a place + where the show might be fixed, which was done at once. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote was not very well satisfied with the divinations of the ape, + as he did not think it proper that an ape should divine anything, either + past or future; so while Master Pedro was arranging the show, he retired + with Sancho into a corner of the stable, where, without being overheard by + anyone, he said to him, “Look here, Sancho, I have been seriously + thinking over this ape’s extraordinary gift, and have come to the + conclusion that beyond doubt this Master Pedro, his master, has a pact, + tacit or express, with the devil.” + </p> + <p> + “If the packet is express from the devil,” said Sancho, + “it must be a very dirty packet no doubt; but what good can it do + Master Pedro to have such packets?” + </p> + <p> + “Thou dost not understand me, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; + “I only mean he must have made some compact with the devil to infuse + this power into the ape, that he may get his living, and after he has + grown rich he will give him his soul, which is what the enemy of mankind + wants; this I am led to believe by observing that the ape only answers + about things past or present, and the devil’s knowledge extends no + further; for the future he knows only by guesswork, and that not always; + for it is reserved for God alone to know the times and the seasons, and + for him there is neither past nor future; all is present. This being as it + is, it is clear that this ape speaks by the spirit of the devil; and I am + astonished they have not denounced him to the Holy Office, and put him to + the question, and forced it out of him by whose virtue it is that he + divines; because it is certain this ape is not an astrologer; neither his + master nor he sets up, or knows how to set up, those figures they call + judiciary, which are now so common in Spain that there is not a jade, or + page, or old cobbler, that will not undertake to set up a figure as + readily as pick up a knave of cards from the ground, bringing to nought + the marvellous truth of the science by their lies and ignorance. I know of + a lady who asked one of these figure schemers whether her little lap-dog + would be in pup and would breed, and how many and of what colour the + little pups would be. To which señor astrologer, after having set up his + figure, made answer that the bitch would be in pup, and would drop three + pups, one green, another bright red, and the third parti-coloured, + provided she conceived between eleven and twelve either of the day or + night, and on a Monday or Saturday; but as things turned out, two days + after this the bitch died of a surfeit, and señor planet-ruler had the + credit all over the place of being a most profound astrologer, as most of + these planet-rulers have.” + </p> + <p> + “Still,” said Sancho, “I would be glad if your worship + would make Master Pedro ask his ape whether what happened your worship in + the cave of Montesinos is true; for, begging your worship’s pardon, + I, for my part, take it to have been all flam and lies, or at any rate + something you dreamt.” + </p> + <p> + “That may be,” replied Don Quixote; “however, I will do + what you suggest; though I have my own scruples about it.” + </p> + <p> + At this point Master Pedro came up in quest of Don Quixote, to tell him + the show was now ready and to come and see it, for it was worth seeing. + Don Quixote explained his wish, and begged him to ask his ape at once to + tell him whether certain things which had happened to him in the cave of + Montesinos were dreams or realities, for to him they appeared to partake + of both. Upon this Master Pedro, without answering, went back to fetch the + ape, and, having placed it in front of Don Quixote and Sancho, said: + “See here, señor ape, this gentleman wishes to know whether certain + things which happened to him in the cave called the cave of Montesinos + were false or true.” On his making the usual sign the ape mounted on + his left shoulder and seemed to whisper in his ear, and Master Pedro said + at once, “The ape says that the things you saw or that happened to + you in that cave are, part of them false, part true; and that he only + knows this and no more as regards this question; but if your worship + wishes to know more, on Friday next he will answer all that may be asked + him, for his virtue is at present exhausted, and will not return to him + till Friday, as he has said.” + </p> + <p> + “Did I not say, señor,” said Sancho, “that I could not + bring myself to believe that all your worship said about the adventures in + the cave was true, or even the half of it?” + </p> + <p> + “The course of events will tell, Sancho,” replied Don Quixote; + “time, that discloses all things, leaves nothing that it does not + drag into the light of day, though it be buried in the bosom of the earth. + But enough of that for the present; let us go and see Master Pedro’s + show, for I am sure there must be something novel in it.” + </p> + <p> + “Something!” said Master Pedro; “this show of mine has + sixty thousand novel things in it; let me tell you, Señor Don Quixote, it + is one of the best-worth-seeing things in the world this day; but operibus + credite et non verbis, and now let’s get to work, for it is growing + late, and we have a great deal to do and to say and show.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote and Sancho obeyed him and went to where the show was already + put up and uncovered, set all around with lighted wax tapers which made it + look splendid and bright. When they came to it Master Pedro ensconced + himself inside it, for it was he who had to work the puppets, and a boy, a + servant of his, posted himself outside to act as showman and explain the + mysteries of the exhibition, having a wand in his hand to point to the + figures as they came out. And so, all who were in the inn being arranged + in front of the show, some of them standing, and Don Quixote, Sancho, the + page, and cousin, accommodated with the best places, the interpreter began + to say what he will hear or see who reads or hears the next chapter. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p25e" id="p25e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p25e.jpg (28K)" src="images/p25e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch26b" id="ch26b"></a>CHAPTER XXVI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS CONTINUED THE DROLL ADVENTURE OF THE PUPPET-SHOWMAN, TOGETHER + WITH OTHER THINGS IN TRUTH RIGHT GOOD + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p26a" id="p26a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p26a.jpg (157K)" src="images/p26a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p26a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + All were silent, Tyrians and Trojans; I mean all who were watching the + show were hanging on the lips of the interpreter of its wonders, when + drums and trumpets were heard to sound inside it and cannon to go off. The + noise was soon over, and then the boy lifted up his voice and said, + “This true story which is here represented to your worships is taken + word for word from the French chronicles and from the Spanish ballads that + are in everybody’s mouth, and in the mouth of the boys about the + streets. Its subject is the release by Señor Don Gaiferos of his wife + Melisendra, when a captive in Spain at the hands of the Moors in the city + of Sansuena, for so they called then what is now called Saragossa; and + there you may see how Don Gaiferos is playing at the tables, just as they + sing it— + </p> + +<p class="poem"> +At tables playing Don Gaiferos sits,<br/> +For Melisendra is forgotten now. +</p> + + <p> + And that personage who appears there with a crown on his head and a + sceptre in his hand is the Emperor Charlemagne, the supposed father of + Melisendra, who, angered to see his son-in-law’s inaction and + unconcern, comes in to chide him; and observe with what vehemence and + energy he chides him, so that you would fancy he was going to give him + half a dozen raps with his sceptre; and indeed there are authors who say + he did give them, and sound ones too; and after having said a great deal + to him about imperilling his honour by not effecting the release of his + wife, he said, so the tale runs, + </p> + +<p class="poem"> + Enough I’ve said, see to it now. + </p> + +<p class="noindent"> + Observe, too, how the emperor turns away, and leaves Don Gaiferos fuming; + and you see now how in a burst of anger, he flings the table and the board + far from him and calls in haste for his armour, and asks his cousin Don + Roland for the loan of his sword, Durindana, and how Don Roland refuses to + lend it, offering him his company in the difficult enterprise he is + undertaking; but he, in his valour and anger, will not accept it, and says + that he alone will suffice to rescue his wife, even though she were + imprisoned deep in the centre of the earth, and with this he retires to + arm himself and set out on his journey at once. Now let your worships turn + your eyes to that tower that appears there, which is supposed to be one of + the towers of the alcazar of Saragossa, now called the Aljaferia; that + lady who appears on that balcony dressed in Moorish fashion is the + peerless Melisendra, for many a time she used to gaze from thence upon the + road to France, and seek consolation in her captivity by thinking of Paris + and her husband. Observe, too, a new incident which now occurs, such as, + perhaps, never was seen. Do you not see that Moor, who silently and + stealthily, with his finger on his lip, approaches Melisendra from behind? + Observe now how he prints a kiss upon her lips, and what a hurry she is in + to spit, and wipe them with the white sleeve of her smock, and how she + bewails herself, and tears her fair hair as though it were to blame for + the wrong. Observe, too, that the stately Moor who is in that corridor is + King Marsilio of Sansuena, who, having seen the Moor’s insolence, at + once orders him (though his kinsman and a great favourite of his) to be + seized and given two hundred lashes, while carried through the streets of + the city according to custom, with criers going before him and officers of + justice behind; and here you see them come out to execute the sentence, + although the offence has been scarcely committed; for among the Moors + there are no indictments nor remands as with us.” + </p> + <p> + Here Don Quixote called out, “Child, child, go straight on with your + story, and don’t run into curves and slants, for to establish a fact + clearly there is need of a great deal of proof and confirmation;” + and said Master Pedro from within, “Boy, stick to your text and do + as the gentleman bids you; it’s the best plan; keep to your plain + song, and don’t attempt harmonies, for they are apt to break down + from being over fine.” + </p> + <p> + “I will,” said the boy, and he went on to say, “This + figure that you see here on horseback, covered with a Gascon cloak, is Don + Gaiferos himself, whom his wife, now avenged of the insult of the amorous + Moor, and taking her stand on the balcony of the tower with a calmer and + more tranquil countenance, has perceived without recognising him; and she + addresses her husband, supposing him to be some traveller, and holds with + him all that conversation and colloquy in the ballad that runs— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +If you, sir knight, to France are bound, +Oh! for Gaiferos ask— + +</pre> + <p> + which I do not repeat here because prolixity begets disgust; suffice it to + observe how Don Gaiferos discovers himself, and that by her joyful + gestures Melisendra shows us she has recognised him; and what is more, we + now see she lowers herself from the balcony to place herself on the + haunches of her good husband’s horse. But ah! unhappy lady, the edge + of her petticoat has caught on one of the bars of the balcony and she is + left hanging in the air, unable to reach the ground. But you see how + compassionate heaven sends aid in our sorest need; Don Gaiferos advances, + and without minding whether the rich petticoat is torn or not, he seizes + her and by force brings her to the ground, and then with one jerk places + her on the haunches of his horse, astraddle like a man, and bids her hold + on tight and clasp her arms round his neck, crossing them on his breast so + as not to fall, for the lady Melisendra was not used to that style of + riding. You see, too, how the neighing of the horse shows his satisfaction + with the gallant and beautiful burden he bears in his lord and lady. You + see how they wheel round and quit the city, and in joy and gladness take + the road to Paris. Go in peace, O peerless pair of true lovers! May you + reach your longed-for fatherland in safety, and may fortune interpose no + impediment to your prosperous journey; may the eyes of your friends and + kinsmen behold you enjoying in peace and tranquillity the remaining days + of your life—and that they may be as many as those of Nestor!” + </p> + <p> + Here Master Pedro called out again and said, “Simplicity, boy! None + of your high flights; all affectation is bad.” + </p> + <p> + The interpreter made no answer, but went on to say, “There was no + want of idle eyes, that see everything, to see Melisendra come down and + mount, and word was brought to King Marsilio, who at once gave orders to + sound the alarm; and see what a stir there is, and how the city is drowned + with the sound of the bells pealing in the towers of all the mosques.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, nay,” said Don Quixote at this; “on that point of + the bells Master Pedro is very inaccurate, for bells are not in use among + the Moors; only kettledrums, and a kind of small trumpet somewhat like our + clarion; to ring bells this way in Sansuena is unquestionably a great + absurdity.” + </p> + <p> + On hearing this, Master Pedro stopped ringing, and said, “Don’t + look into trifles, Señor Don Quixote, or want to have things up to a pitch + of perfection that is out of reach. Are there not almost every day a + thousand comedies represented all round us full of thousands of + inaccuracies and absurdities, and, for all that, they have a successful + run, and are listened to not only with applause, but with admiration and + all the rest of it? Go on, boy, and don’t mind; for so long as I + fill my pouch, no matter if I show as many inaccuracies as there are motes + in a sunbeam.” + </p> + <p> + “True enough,” said Don Quixote; and the boy went on: “See + what a numerous and glittering crowd of horsemen issues from the city in + pursuit of the two faithful lovers, what a blowing of trumpets there is, + what sounding of horns, what beating of drums and tabors; I fear me they + will overtake them and bring them back tied to the tail of their own + horse, which would be a dreadful sight.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p26b" id="p26b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p26b.jpg (342K)" src="images/p26b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p26b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote, however, seeing such a swarm of Moors and hearing such a din, + thought it would be right to aid the fugitives, and standing up he + exclaimed in a loud voice, “Never, while I live, will I permit foul + play to be practised in my presence on such a famous knight and fearless + lover as Don Gaiferos. Halt! ill-born rabble, follow him not nor pursue + him, or ye will have to reckon with me in battle!” and suiting the + action to the word, he drew his sword, and with one bound placed himself + close to the show, and with unexampled rapidity and fury began to shower + down blows on the puppet troop of Moors, knocking over some, decapitating + others, maiming this one and demolishing that; and among many more he + delivered one down stroke which, if Master Pedro had not ducked, made + himself small, and got out of the way, would have sliced off his head as + easily as if it had been made of almond-paste. Master Pedro kept shouting, + “Hold hard! Señor Don Quixote! can’t you see they’re not + real Moors you’re knocking down and killing and destroying, but only + little pasteboard figures! Look—sinner that I am!—how you’re + wrecking and ruining all that I’m worth!” But in spite of + this, Don Quixote did not leave off discharging a continuous rain of cuts, + slashes, downstrokes, and backstrokes, and at length, in less than the + space of two credos, he brought the whole show to the ground, with all its + fittings and figures shivered and knocked to pieces, King Marsilio badly + wounded, and the Emperor Charlemagne with his crown and head split in two. + The whole audience was thrown into confusion, the ape fled to the roof of + the inn, the cousin was frightened, and even Sancho Panza himself was in + mighty fear, for, as he swore after the storm was over, he had never seen + his master in such a furious passion. + </p> + <p> + The complete destruction of the show being thus accomplished, Don Quixote + became a little calmer, said, “I wish I had here before me now all + those who do not or will not believe how useful knights-errant are in the + world; just think, if I had not been here present, what would have become + of the brave Don Gaiferos and the fair Melisendra! Depend upon it, by this + time those dogs would have overtaken them and inflicted some outrage upon + them. So, then, long live knight-errantry beyond everything living on + earth this day!” + </p> + <p> + “Let it live, and welcome,” said Master Pedro at this in a + feeble voice, “and let me die, for I am so unfortunate that I can + say with King Don Rodrigo— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +Yesterday was I lord of Spain +To-day I’ve not a turret left +That I may call mine own. + +</pre> + <p> + Not half an hour, nay, barely a minute ago, I saw myself lord of kings and + emperors, with my stables filled with countless horses, and my trunks and + bags with gay dresses unnumbered; and now I find myself ruined and laid + low, destitute and a beggar, and above all without my ape, for, by my + faith, my teeth will have to sweat for it before I have him caught; and + all through the reckless fury of sir knight here, who, they say, protects + the fatherless, and rights wrongs, and does other charitable deeds; but + whose generous intentions have been found wanting in my case only, blessed + and praised be the highest heavens! Verily, knight of the rueful figure he + must be to have disfigured mine.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho Panza was touched by Master Pedro’s words, and said to him, + “Don’t weep and lament, Master Pedro; you break my heart; let + me tell you my master, Don Quixote, is so catholic and scrupulous a + Christian that, if he can make out that he has done you any wrong, he will + own it, and be willing to pay for it and make it good, and something over + and above.” + </p> + <p> + “Only let Señor Don Quixote pay me for some part of the work he has + destroyed,” said Master Pedro, “and I would be content, and + his worship would ease his conscience, for he cannot be saved who keeps + what is another’s against the owner’s will, and makes no + restitution.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said Don Quixote; “but at present I am + not aware that I have got anything of yours, Master Pedro.” + </p> + <p> + “What!” returned Master Pedro; “and these relics lying + here on the bare hard ground—what scattered and shattered them but + the invincible strength of that mighty arm? And whose were the bodies they + belonged to but mine? And what did I get my living by but by them?” + </p> + <p> + “Now am I fully convinced,” said Don Quixote, “of what I + had many a time before believed; that the enchanters who persecute me do + nothing more than put figures like these before my eyes, and then change + and turn them into what they please. In truth and earnest, I assure you + gentlemen who now hear me, that to me everything that has taken place here + seemed to take place literally, that Melisendra was Melisendra, Don + Gaiferos Don Gaiferos, Marsilio Marsilio, and Charlemagne Charlemagne. + That was why my anger was roused; and to be faithful to my calling as a + knight-errant I sought to give aid and protection to those who fled, and + with this good intention I did what you have seen. If the result has been + the opposite of what I intended, it is no fault of mine, but of those + wicked beings that persecute me; but, for all that, I am willing to + condemn myself in costs for this error of mine, though it did not proceed + from malice; let Master Pedro see what he wants for the spoiled figures, + for I agree to pay it at once in good and current money of Castile.” + </p> + <p> + Master Pedro made him a bow, saying, “I expected no less of the rare + Christianity of the valiant Don Quixote of La Mancha, true helper and + protector of all destitute and needy vagabonds; master landlord here and + the great Sancho Panza shall be the arbitrators and appraisers between + your worship and me of what these dilapidated figures are worth or may be + worth.” + </p> + <p> + The landlord and Sancho consented, and then Master Pedro picked up from + the ground King Marsilio of Saragossa with his head off, and said, “Here + you see how impossible it is to restore this king to his former state, so + I think, saving your better judgments, that for his death, decease, and + demise, four reals and a half may be given me.” + </p> + <p> + “Proceed,” said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “Well then, for this cleavage from top to bottom,” continued + Master Pedro, taking up the split Emperor Charlemagne, “it would not + be much if I were to ask five reals and a quarter.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s not little,” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Nor is it much,” said the landlord; “make it even, and + say five reals.” + </p> + <p> + “Let him have the whole five and a quarter,” said Don Quixote; + “for the sum total of this notable disaster does not stand on a + quarter more or less; and make an end of it quickly, Master Pedro, for it’s + getting on to supper-time, and I have some hints of hunger.” + </p> + <p> + “For this figure,” said Master Pedro, “that is without a + nose, and wants an eye, and is the fair Melisendra, I ask, and I am + reasonable in my charge, two reals and twelve maravedis.” + </p> + <p> + “The very devil must be in it,” said Don Quixote, “if + Melisendra and her husband are not by this time at least on the French + border, for the horse they rode on seemed to me to fly rather than gallop; + so you needn’t try to sell me the cat for the hare, showing me here + a noseless Melisendra when she is now, may be, enjoying herself at her + ease with her husband in France. God help every one to his own, Master + Pedro, and let us all proceed fairly and honestly; and now go on.” + </p> + <p> + Master Pedro, perceiving that Don Quixote was beginning to wander, and + return to his original fancy, was not disposed to let him escape, so he + said to him, “This cannot be Melisendra, but must be one of the + damsels that waited on her; so if I’m given sixty maravedis for her, + I’ll be content and sufficiently paid.” + </p> + <p> + And so he went on, putting values on ever so many more smashed figures, + which, after the two arbitrators had adjusted them to the satisfaction of + both parties, came to forty reals and three-quarters; and over and above + this sum, which Sancho at once disbursed, Master Pedro asked for two reals + for his trouble in catching the ape. + </p> + <p> + “Let him have them, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; “not to + catch the ape, but to get drunk; and two hundred would I give this minute + for the good news, to anyone who could tell me positively, that the lady + Dona Melisandra and Señor Don Gaiferos were now in France and with their + own people.” + </p> + <p> + “No one could tell us that better than my ape,” said Master + Pedro; “but there’s no devil that could catch him now; I + suspect, however, that affection and hunger will drive him to come looking + for me to-night; but to-morrow will soon be here and we shall see.” + </p> + <p> + In short, the puppet-show storm passed off, and all supped in peace and + good fellowship at Don Quixote’s expense, for he was the height of + generosity. Before it was daylight the man with the lances and halberds + took his departure, and soon after daybreak the cousin and the page came + to bid Don Quixote farewell, the former returning home, the latter + resuming his journey, towards which, to help him, Don Quixote gave him + twelve reals. Master Pedro did not care to engage in any more palaver with + Don Quixote, whom he knew right well; so he rose before the sun, and + having got together the remains of his show and caught his ape, he too + went off to seek his adventures. The landlord, who did not know Don + Quixote, was as much astonished at his mad freaks as at his generosity. To + conclude, Sancho, by his master’s orders, paid him very liberally, + and taking leave of him they quitted the inn at about eight in the morning + and took to the road, where we will leave them to pursue their journey, + for this is necessary in order to allow certain other matters to be set + forth, which are required to clear up this famous history. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p26e" id="p26e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p26e.jpg (34K)" src="images/p26e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch27b" id="ch27b"></a>CHAPTER XXVII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IT IS SHOWN WHO MASTER PEDRO AND HIS APE WERE, TOGETHER WITH THE + MISHAP DON QUIXOTE HAD IN THE BRAYING ADVENTURE, WHICH HE DID NOT CONCLUDE + AS HE WOULD HAVE LIKED OR AS HE HAD EXPECTED + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p27a" id="p27a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p27a.jpg (135K)" src="images/p27a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p27a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Cide Hamete, the chronicler of this great history, begins this chapter + with these words, “I swear as a Catholic Christian;” with + regard to which his translator says that Cide Hamete’s swearing as a + Catholic Christian, he being—as no doubt he was—a Moor, only + meant that, just as a Catholic Christian taking an oath swears, or ought + to swear, what is true, and tell the truth in what he avers, so he was + telling the truth, as much as if he swore as a Catholic Christian, in all + he chose to write about Quixote, especially in declaring who Master Pedro + was and what was the divining ape that astonished all the villages with + his divinations. He says, then, that he who has read the First Part of + this history will remember well enough the Gines de Pasamonte whom, with + other galley slaves, Don Quixote set free in the Sierra Morena: a kindness + for which he afterwards got poor thanks and worse payment from that + evil-minded, ill-conditioned set. This Gines de Pasamonte—Don + Ginesillo de Parapilla, Don Quixote called him—it was that stole + Dapple from Sancho Panza; which, because by the fault of the printers + neither the how nor the when was stated in the First Part, has been a + puzzle to a good many people, who attribute to the bad memory of the + author what was the error of the press. In fact, however, Gines stole him + while Sancho Panza was asleep on his back, adopting the plan and device + that Brunello had recourse to when he stole Sacripante’s horse from + between his legs at the siege of Albracca; and, as has been told, Sancho + afterwards recovered him. This Gines, then, afraid of being caught by the + officers of justice, who were looking for him to punish him for his + numberless rascalities and offences (which were so many and so great that + he himself wrote a big book giving an account of them), resolved to shift + his quarters into the kingdom of Aragon, and cover up his left eye, and + take up the trade of a puppet-showman; for this, as well as juggling, he + knew how to practise to perfection. From some released Christians + returning from Barbary, it so happened, he bought the ape, which he taught + to mount upon his shoulder on his making a certain sign, and to whisper, + or seem to do so, in his ear. Thus prepared, before entering any village + whither he was bound with his show and his ape, he used to inform himself + at the nearest village, or from the most likely person he could find, as + to what particular things had happened there, and to whom; and bearing + them well in mind, the first thing he did was to exhibit his show, + sometimes one story, sometimes another, but all lively, amusing, and + familiar. As soon as the exhibition was over he brought forward the + accomplishments of his ape, assuring the public that he divined all the + past and the present, but as to the future he had no skill. For each + question answered he asked two reals, and for some he made a reduction, + just as he happened to feel the pulse of the questioners; and when now and + then he came to houses where things that he knew of had happened to the + people living there, even if they did not ask him a question, not caring + to pay for it, he would make the sign to the ape and then declare that it + had said so and so, which fitted the case exactly. In this way he acquired + a prodigious name and all ran after him; on other occasions, being very + crafty, he would answer in such a way that the answers suited the + questions; and as no one cross-questioned him or pressed him to tell how + his ape divined, he made fools of them all and filled his pouch. The + instant he entered the inn he knew Don Quixote and Sancho, and with that + knowledge it was easy for him to astonish them and all who were there; but + it would have cost him dear had Don Quixote brought down his hand a little + lower when he cut off King Marsilio’s head and destroyed all his + horsemen, as related in the preceeding chapter. + </p> + <p> + So much for Master Pedro and his ape; and now to return to Don Quixote of + La Mancha. After he had left the inn he determined to visit, first of all, + the banks of the Ebro and that neighbourhood, before entering the city of + Saragossa, for the ample time there was still to spare before the jousts + left him enough for all. With this object in view he followed the road and + travelled along it for two days, without meeting any adventure worth + committing to writing until on the third day, as he was ascending a hill, + he heard a great noise of drums, trumpets, and musket-shots. At first he + imagined some regiment of soldiers was passing that way, and to see them + he spurred Rocinante and mounted the hill. On reaching the top he saw at + the foot of it over two hundred men, as it seemed to him, armed with + weapons of various sorts, lances, crossbows, partisans, halberds, and + pikes, and a few muskets and a great many bucklers. He descended the slope + and approached the band near enough to see distinctly the flags, make out + the colours and distinguish the devices they bore, especially one on a + standard or ensign of white satin, on which there was painted in a very + life-like style an ass like a little sard, with its head up, its mouth + open and its tongue out, as if it were in the act and attitude of braying; + and round it were inscribed in large characters these two lines— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +They did not bray in vain, +Our alcaldes twain. + +</pre> + <p> + From this device Don Quixote concluded that these people must be from the + braying town, and he said so to Sancho, explaining to him what was written + on the standard. At the same time be observed that the man who had told + them about the matter was wrong in saying that the two who brayed were + regidors, for according to the lines of the standard they were alcaldes. + To which Sancho replied, “Señor, there’s nothing to stick at + in that, for maybe the regidors who brayed then came to be alcaldes of + their town afterwards, and so they may go by both titles; moreover, it has + nothing to do with the truth of the story whether the brayers were + alcaldes or regidors, provided at any rate they did bray; for an alcalde + is just as likely to bray as a regidor.” They perceived, in short, + clearly that the town which had been twitted had turned out to do battle + with some other that had jeered it more than was fair or neighbourly. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote proceeded to join them, not a little to Sancho’s + uneasiness, for he never relished mixing himself up in expeditions of that + sort. The members of the troop received him into the midst of them, taking + him to be some one who was on their side. Don Quixote, putting up his + visor, advanced with an easy bearing and demeanour to the standard with + the ass, and all the chief men of the army gathered round him to look at + him, staring at him with the usual amazement that everybody felt on seeing + him for the first time. Don Quixote, seeing them examining him so + attentively, and that none of them spoke to him or put any question to + him, determined to take advantage of their silence; so, breaking his own, + he lifted up his voice and said, “Worthy sirs, I entreat you as + earnestly as I can not to interrupt an argument I wish to address to you, + until you find it displeases or wearies you; and if that come to pass, on + the slightest hint you give me I will put a seal upon my lips and a gag + upon my tongue.” + </p> + <p> + They all bade him say what he liked, for they would listen to him + willingly. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p27b" id="p27b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p27b.jpg (330K)" src="images/p27b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p27b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + With this permission Don Quixote went on to say, “I, sirs, am a + knight-errant whose calling is that of arms, and whose profession is to + protect those who require protection, and give help to such as stand in + need of it. Some days ago I became acquainted with your misfortune and the + cause which impels you to take up arms again and again to revenge + yourselves upon your enemies; and having many times thought over your + business in my mind, I find that, according to the laws of combat, you are + mistaken in holding yourselves insulted; for a private individual cannot + insult an entire community; unless it be by defying it collectively as a + traitor, because he cannot tell who in particular is guilty of the treason + for which he defies it. Of this we have an example in Don Diego Ordonez de + Lara, who defied the whole town of Zamora, because he did not know that + Vellido Dolfos alone had committed the treachery of slaying his king; and + therefore he defied them all, and the vengeance and the reply concerned + all; though, to be sure, Señor Don Diego went rather too far, indeed very + much beyond the limits of a defiance; for he had no occasion to defy the + dead, or the waters, or the fishes, or those yet unborn, and all the rest + of it as set forth; but let that pass, for when anger breaks out there’s + no father, governor, or bridle to check the tongue. The case being, then, + that no one person can insult a kingdom, province, city, state, or entire + community, it is clear there is no reason for going out to avenge the + defiance of such an insult, inasmuch as it is not one. A fine thing it + would be if the people of the clock town were to be at loggerheads every + moment with everyone who called them by that name,—or the Cazoleros, + Berengeneros, Ballenatos, Jaboneros, or the bearers of all the other names + and titles that are always in the mouth of the boys and common people! It + would be a nice business indeed if all these illustrious cities were to + take huff and revenge themselves and go about perpetually making trombones + of their swords in every petty quarrel! No, no; God forbid! There are four + things for which sensible men and well-ordered States ought to take up + arms, draw their swords, and risk their persons, lives, and properties. + The first is to defend the Catholic faith; the second, to defend one’s + life, which is in accordance with natural and divine law; the third, in + defence of one’s honour, family, and property; the fourth, in the + service of one’s king in a just war; and if to these we choose to + add a fifth (which may be included in the second), in defence of one’s + country. To these five, as it were capital causes, there may be added some + others that may be just and reasonable, and make it a duty to take up + arms; but to take them up for trifles and things to laugh at and be amused + by rather than offended, looks as though he who did so was altogether + wanting in common sense. Moreover, to take an unjust revenge (and there + cannot be any just one) is directly opposed to the sacred law that we + acknowledge, wherein we are commanded to do good to our enemies and to + love them that hate us; a command which, though it seems somewhat + difficult to obey, is only so to those who have in them less of God than + of the world, and more of the flesh than of the spirit; for Jesus Christ, + God and true man, who never lied, and could not and cannot lie, said, as + our law-giver, that his yoke was easy and his burden light; he would not, + therefore, have laid any command upon us that it was impossible to obey. + Thus, sirs, you are bound to keep quiet by human and divine law.” + </p> + <p> + “The devil take me,” said Sancho to himself at this, “but + this master of mine is a theologian; or, if not, faith, he’s as like + one as one egg is like another.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote stopped to take breath, and, observing that silence was still + preserved, had a mind to continue his discourse, and would have done so + had not Sancho interposed with his smartness; for he, seeing his master + pause, took the lead, saying, “My lord Don Quixote of La Mancha, who + once was called the Knight of the Rueful Countenance, but now is called + the Knight of the Lions, is a gentleman of great discretion who knows + Latin and his mother tongue like a bachelor, and in everything that he + deals with or advises proceeds like a good soldier, and has all the laws + and ordinances of what they call combat at his fingers’ ends; so you + have nothing to do but to let yourselves be guided by what he says, and on + my head be it if it is wrong. Besides which, you have been told that it is + folly to take offence at merely hearing a bray. I remember when I was a + boy I brayed as often as I had a fancy, without anyone hindering me, and + so elegantly and naturally that when I brayed all the asses in the town + would bray; but I was none the less for that the son of my parents who + were greatly respected; and though I was envied because of the gift by + more than one of the high and mighty ones of the town, I did not care two + farthings for it; and that you may see I am telling the truth, wait a bit + and listen, for this art, like swimming, once learnt is never forgotten;” + and then, taking hold of his nose, he began to bray so vigorously that all + the valleys around rang again. + </p> + <p> + One of those, however, that stood near him, fancying he was mocking them, + lifted up a long staff he had in his hand and smote him such a blow with + it that Sancho dropped helpless to the ground. Don Quixote, seeing him so + roughly handled, attacked the man who had struck him lance in hand, but so + many thrust themselves between them that he could not avenge him. Far from + it, finding a shower of stones rained upon him, and crossbows and muskets + unnumbered levelled at him, he wheeled Rocinante round and, as fast as his + best gallop could take him, fled from the midst of them, commending + himself to God with all his heart to deliver him out of this peril, in + dread every step of some ball coming in at his back and coming out at his + breast, and every minute drawing his breath to see whether it had gone + from him. The members of the band, however, were satisfied with seeing him + take to flight, and did not fire on him. They put up Sancho, scarcely + restored to his senses, on his ass, and let him go after his master; not + that he was sufficiently in his wits to guide the beast, but Dapple + followed the footsteps of Rocinante, from whom he could not remain a + moment separated. Don Quixote having got some way off looked back, and + seeing Sancho coming, waited for him, as he perceived that no one followed + him. The men of the troop stood their ground till night, and as the enemy + did not come out to battle, they returned to their town exulting; and had + they been aware of the ancient custom of the Greeks, they would have + erected a trophy on the spot. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p27e" id="p27e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p27e.jpg (47K)" src="images/p27e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p27e.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch28b" id="ch28b"></a>CHAPTER XXVIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF MATTERS THAT BENENGELI SAYS HE WHO READS THEM WILL KNOW, IF HE READS + THEM WITH ATTENTION + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p28a" id="p28a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p28a.jpg (111K)" src="images/p28a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p28a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + When the brave man flees, treachery is manifest and it is for wise men to + reserve themselves for better occasions. This proved to be the case with + Don Quixote, who, giving way before the fury of the townsfolk and the + hostile intentions of the angry troop, took to flight and, without a + thought of Sancho or the danger in which he was leaving him, retreated to + such a distance as he thought made him safe. Sancho, lying across his ass, + followed him, as has been said, and at length came up, having by this time + recovered his senses, and on joining him let himself drop off Dapple at + Rocinante’s feet, sore, bruised, and belaboured. Don Quixote + dismounted to examine his wounds, but finding him whole from head to foot, + he said to him, angrily enough, “In an evil hour didst thou take to + braying, Sancho! Where hast thou learned that it is well done to mention + the rope in the house of the man that has been hanged? To the music of + brays what harmonies couldst thou expect to get but cudgels? Give thanks + to God, Sancho, that they signed the cross on thee just now with a stick, + and did not mark thee per signum crucis with a cutlass.” + </p> + <p> + “I’m not equal to answering,” said Sancho, “for I + feel as if I was speaking through my shoulders; let us mount and get away + from this; I’ll keep from braying, but not from saying that + knights-errant fly and leave their good squires to be pounded like privet, + or made meal of at the hands of their enemies.” + </p> + <p> + “He does not fly who retires,” returned Don Quixote; “for + I would have thee know, Sancho, that the valour which is not based upon a + foundation of prudence is called rashness, and the exploits of the rash + man are to be attributed rather to good fortune than to courage; and so I + own that I retired, but not that I fled; and therein I have followed the + example of many valiant men who have reserved themselves for better times; + the histories are full of instances of this, but as it would not be any + good to thee or pleasure to me, I will not recount them to thee now.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho was by this time mounted with the help of Don Quixote, who then + himself mounted Rocinante, and at a leisurely pace they proceeded to take + shelter in a grove which was in sight about a quarter of a league off. + Every now and then Sancho gave vent to deep sighs and dismal groans, and + on Don Quixote asking him what caused such acute suffering, he replied + that, from the end of his back-bone up to the nape of his neck, he was so + sore that it nearly drove him out of his senses. + </p> + <p> + “The cause of that soreness,” said Don Quixote, “will + be, no doubt, that the staff wherewith they smote thee being a very long + one, it caught thee all down the back, where all the parts that are sore + are situated, and had it reached any further thou wouldst be sorer still.” + </p> + <p> + “By God,” said Sancho, “your worship has relieved me of + a great doubt, and cleared up the point for me in elegant style! Body o’ + me! is the cause of my soreness such a mystery that there’s any need + to tell me I am sore everywhere the staff hit me? If it was my ankles that + pained me there might be something in going divining why they did, but it + is not much to divine that I’m sore where they thrashed me. By my + faith, master mine, the ills of others hang by a hair; every day I am + discovering more and more how little I have to hope for from keeping + company with your worship; for if this time you have allowed me to be + drubbed, the next time, or a hundred times more, we’ll have the + blanketings of the other day over again, and all the other pranks which, + if they have fallen on my shoulders now, will be thrown in my teeth + by-and-by. I would do a great deal better (if I was not an ignorant brute + that will never do any good all my life), I would do a great deal better, + I say, to go home to my wife and children and support them and bring them + up on what God may please to give me, instead of following your worship + along roads that lead nowhere and paths that are none at all, with little + to drink and less to eat. And then when it comes to sleeping! Measure out + seven feet on the earth, brother squire, and if that’s not enough + for you, take as many more, for you may have it all your own way and + stretch yourself to your heart’s content. Oh that I could see burnt + and turned to ashes the first man that meddled with knight-errantry or at + any rate the first who chose to be squire to such fools as all the + knights-errant of past times must have been! Of those of the present day I + say nothing, because, as your worship is one of them, I respect them, and + because I know your worship knows a point more than the devil in all you + say and think.” + </p> + <p> + “I would lay a good wager with you, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, + “that now that you are talking on without anyone to stop you, you + don’t feel a pain in your whole body. Talk away, my son, say + whatever comes into your head or mouth, for so long as you feel no pain, + the irritation your impertinences give me will be a pleasure to me; and if + you are so anxious to go home to your wife and children, God forbid that I + should prevent you; you have money of mine; see how long it is since we + left our village this third time, and how much you can and ought to earn + every month, and pay yourself out of your own hand.” + </p> + <p> + “When I worked for Tom Carrasco, the father of the bachelor Samson + Carrasco that your worship knows,” replied Sancho, “I used to + earn two ducats a month besides my food; I can’t tell what I can + earn with your worship, though I know a knight-errant’s squire has + harder times of it than he who works for a farmer; for after all, we who + work for farmers, however much we toil all day, at the worst, at night, we + have our olla supper and sleep in a bed, which I have not slept in since I + have been in your worship’s service, if it wasn’t the short + time we were in Don Diego de Miranda’s house, and the feast I had + with the skimmings I took off Camacho’s pots, and what I ate, drank, + and slept in Basilio’s house; all the rest of the time I have been + sleeping on the hard ground under the open sky, exposed to what they call + the inclemencies of heaven, keeping life in me with scraps of cheese and + crusts of bread, and drinking water either from the brooks or from the + springs we come to on these by-paths we travel.” + </p> + <p> + “I own, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “that all thou sayest + is true; how much, thinkest thou, ought I to give thee over and above what + Tom Carrasco gave thee?” + </p> + <p> + “I think,” said Sancho, “that if your worship was to add + on two reals a month I’d consider myself well paid; that is, as far + as the wages of my labour go; but to make up to me for your worship’s + pledge and promise to me to give me the government of an island, it would + be fair to add six reals more, making thirty in all.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good,” said Don Quixote; “it is twenty-five days + since we left our village, so reckon up, Sancho, according to the wages + you have made out for yourself, and see how much I owe you in proportion, + and pay yourself, as I said before, out of your own hand.” + </p> + <p> + “O body o’ me!” said Sancho, “but your worship is + very much out in that reckoning; for when it comes to the promise of the + island we must count from the day your worship promised it to me to this + present hour we are at now.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, how long is it, Sancho, since I promised it to you?” + said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “If I remember rightly,” said Sancho, “it must be over + twenty years, three days more or less.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote gave himself a great slap on the forehead and began to laugh + heartily, and said he, “Why, I have not been wandering, either in + the Sierra Morena or in the whole course of our sallies, but barely two + months, and thou sayest, Sancho, that it is twenty years since I promised + thee the island. I believe now thou wouldst have all the money thou hast + of mine go in thy wages. If so, and if that be thy pleasure, I give it to + thee now, once and for all, and much good may it do thee, for so long as I + see myself rid of such a good-for-nothing squire I’ll be glad to be + left a pauper without a rap. But tell me, thou perverter of the squirely + rules of knight-errantry, where hast thou ever seen or read that any + knight-errant’s squire made terms with his lord, ‘you must + give me so much a month for serving you’? Plunge, scoundrel, rogue, + monster—for such I take thee to be—plunge, I say, into the + mare magnum of their histories; and if thou shalt find that any squire + ever said or thought what thou hast said now, I will let thee nail it on + my forehead, and give me, over and above, four sound slaps in the face. + Turn the rein, or the halter, of thy Dapple, and begone home; for one + single step further thou shalt not make in my company. O bread thanklessly + received! O promises ill-bestowed! O man more beast than human being! Now, + when I was about to raise thee to such a position, that, in spite of thy + wife, they would call thee ‘my lord,’ thou art leaving me? + Thou art going now when I had a firm and fixed intention of making thee + lord of the best island in the world? Well, as thou thyself hast said + before now, honey is not for the mouth of the ass. Ass thou art, ass thou + wilt be, and ass thou wilt end when the course of thy life is run; for I + know it will come to its close before thou dost perceive or discern that + thou art a beast.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho regarded Don Quixote earnestly while he was giving him this rating, + and was so touched by remorse that the tears came to his eyes, and in a + piteous and broken voice he said to him, “Master mine, I confess + that, to be a complete ass, all I want is a tail; if your worship will + only fix one on to me, I’ll look on it as rightly placed, and I’ll + serve you as an ass all the remaining days of my life. Forgive me and have + pity on my folly, and remember I know but little, and, if I talk much, it’s + more from infirmity than malice; but he who sins and mends commends + himself to God.” + </p> + <p> + “I should have been surprised, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, + “if thou hadst not introduced some bit of a proverb into thy speech. + Well, well, I forgive thee, provided thou dost mend and not show thyself + in future so fond of thine own interest, but try to be of good cheer and + take heart, and encourage thyself to look forward to the fulfillment of my + promises, which, by being delayed, does not become impossible.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho said he would do so, and keep up his heart as best he could. They + then entered the grove, and Don Quixote settled himself at the foot of an + elm, and Sancho at that of a beech, for trees of this kind and others like + them always have feet but no hands. Sancho passed the night in pain, for + with the evening dews the blow of the staff made itself felt all the more. + Don Quixote passed it in his never-failing meditations; but, for all that, + they had some winks of sleep, and with the appearance of daylight they + pursued their journey in quest of the banks of the famous Ebro, where that + befell them which will be told in the following chapter. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p28e" id="p28e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p28e.jpg (36K)" src="images/p28e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch29b" id="ch29b"></a>CHAPTER XXIX. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE FAMOUS ADVENTURE OF THE ENCHANTED BARK + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p29a" id="p29a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p29a.jpg (127K)" src="images/p29a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p29a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + By stages as already described or left undescribed, two days after + quitting the grove Don Quixote and Sancho reached the river Ebro, and the + sight of it was a great delight to Don Quixote as he contemplated and + gazed upon the charms of its banks, the clearness of its stream, the + gentleness of its current and the abundance of its crystal waters; and the + pleasant view revived a thousand tender thoughts in his mind. Above all, + he dwelt upon what he had seen in the cave of Montesinos; for though + Master Pedro’s ape had told him that of those things part was true, + part false, he clung more to their truth than to their falsehood, the very + reverse of Sancho, who held them all to be downright lies. + </p> + <p> + As they were thus proceeding, then, they discovered a small boat, without + oars or any other gear, that lay at the water’s edge tied to the + stem of a tree growing on the bank. Don Quixote looked all round, and + seeing nobody, at once, without more ado, dismounted from Rocinante and + bade Sancho get down from Dapple and tie both beasts securely to the trunk + of a poplar or willow that stood there. Sancho asked him the reason of + this sudden dismounting and tying. Don Quixote made answer, “Thou + must know, Sancho, that this bark is plainly, and without the possibility + of any alternative, calling and inviting me to enter it, and in it go to + give aid to some knight or other person of distinction in need of it, who + is no doubt in some sore strait; for this is the way of the books of + chivalry and of the enchanters who figure and speak in them. When a knight + is involved in some difficulty from which he cannot be delivered save by + the hand of another knight, though they may be at a distance of two or + three thousand leagues or more one from the other, they either take him up + on a cloud, or they provide a bark for him to get into, and in less than + the twinkling of an eye they carry him where they will and where his help + is required; and so, Sancho, this bark is placed here for the same + purpose; this is as true as that it is now day, and ere this one passes + tie Dapple and Rocinante together, and then in God’s hand be it to + guide us; for I would not hold back from embarking, though barefooted + friars were to beg me.” + </p> + <p> + “As that’s the case,” said Sancho, “and your + worship chooses to give in to these—I don’t know if I may call + them absurdities—at every turn, there’s nothing for it but to + obey and bow the head, bearing in mind the proverb, ‘Do as thy + master bids thee, and sit down to table with him;’ but for all that, + for the sake of easing my conscience, I warn your worship that it is my + opinion this bark is no enchanted one, but belongs to some of the + fishermen of the river, for they catch the best shad in the world here.” + </p> + <p> + As Sancho said this, he tied the beasts, leaving them to the care and + protection of the enchanters with sorrow enough in his heart. Don Quixote + bade him not be uneasy about deserting the animals, “for he who + would carry themselves over such longinquous roads and regions would take + care to feed them.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t understand that logiquous,” said Sancho, + “nor have I ever heard the word all the days of my life.” + </p> + <p> + “Longinquous,” replied Don Quixote, “means far off; but + it is no wonder thou dost not understand it, for thou art not bound to + know Latin, like some who pretend to know it and don’t.” + </p> + <p> + “Now they are tied,” said Sancho; “what are we to do + next?” + </p> + <p> + “What?” said Don Quixote, “cross ourselves and weigh + anchor; I mean, embark and cut the moorings by which the bark is held;” + and the bark began to drift away slowly from the bank. But when Sancho saw + himself somewhere about two yards out in the river, he began to tremble + and give himself up for lost; but nothing distressed him more than hearing + Dapple bray and seeing Rocinante struggling to get loose, and said he to + his master, “Dapple is braying in grief at our leaving him, and + Rocinante is trying to escape and plunge in after us. O dear friends, + peace be with you, and may this madness that is taking us away from you, + turned into sober sense, bring us back to you.” And with this he + fell weeping so bitterly, that Don Quixote said to him, sharply and + angrily, “What art thou afraid of, cowardly creature? What art thou + weeping at, heart of butter-paste? Who pursues or molests thee, thou soul + of a tame mouse? What dost thou want, unsatisfied in the very heart of + abundance? Art thou, perchance, tramping barefoot over the Riphaean + mountains, instead of being seated on a bench like an archduke on the + tranquil stream of this pleasant river, from which in a short space we + shall come out upon the broad sea? But we must have already emerged and + gone seven hundred or eight hundred leagues; and if I had here an + astrolabe to take the altitude of the pole, I could tell thee how many we + have travelled, though either I know little, or we have already crossed or + shall shortly cross the equinoctial line which parts the two opposite + poles midway.” + </p> + <p> + “And when we come to that line your worship speaks of,” said + Sancho, “how far shall we have gone?” + </p> + <p> + “Very far,” said Don Quixote, “for of the three hundred + and sixty degrees that this terraqueous globe contains, as computed by + Ptolemy, the greatest cosmographer known, we shall have travelled one-half + when we come to the line I spoke of.” + </p> + <p> + “By God,” said Sancho, “your worship gives me a nice + authority for what you say, putrid Dolly something transmogrified, or + whatever it is.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote laughed at the interpretation Sancho put upon “computed,” + and the name of the cosmographer Ptolemy, and said he, “Thou must + know, Sancho, that with the Spaniards and those who embark at Cadiz for + the East Indies, one of the signs they have to show them when they have + passed the equinoctial line I told thee of, is, that the lice die upon + everybody on board the ship, and not a single one is left, or to be found + in the whole vessel if they gave its weight in gold for it; so, Sancho, + thou mayest as well pass thy hand down thy thigh, and if thou comest upon + anything alive we shall be no longer in doubt; if not, then we have + crossed.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t believe a bit of it,” said Sancho; “still, + I’ll do as your worship bids me; though I don’t know what need + there is for trying these experiments, for I can see with my own eyes that + we have not moved five yards away from the bank, or shifted two yards from + where the animals stand, for there are Rocinante and Dapple in the very + same place where we left them; and watching a point, as I do now, I swear + by all that’s good, we are not stirring or moving at the pace of an + ant.” + </p> + <p> + “Try the test I told thee of, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, + “and don’t mind any other, for thou knowest nothing about + colures, lines, parallels, zodiacs, ecliptics, poles, solstices, + equinoxes, planets, signs, bearings, the measures of which the celestial + and terrestrial spheres are composed; if thou wert acquainted with all + these things, or any portion of them, thou wouldst see clearly how many + parallels we have cut, what signs we have seen, and what constellations we + have left behind and are now leaving behind. But again I tell thee, feel + and hunt, for I am certain thou art cleaner than a sheet of smooth white + paper.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho felt, and passing his hand gently and carefully down to the hollow + of his left knee, he looked up at his master and said, “Either the + test is a false one, or we have not come to where your worship says, nor + within many leagues of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, how so?” asked Don Quixote; “hast thou come upon + aught?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, and aughts,” replied Sancho; and shaking his fingers he + washed his whole hand in the river along which the boat was quietly + gliding in midstream, not moved by any occult intelligence or invisible + enchanter, but simply by the current, just there smooth and gentle. + </p> + <p> + They now came in sight of some large water mills that stood in the middle + of the river, and the instant Don Quixote saw them he cried out, “Seest + thou there, my friend? there stands the castle or fortress, where there + is, no doubt, some knight in durance, or ill-used queen, or infanta, or + princess, in whose aid I am brought hither.” + </p> + <p> + “What the devil city, fortress, or castle is your worship talking + about, señor?” said Sancho; “don’t you see that those + are mills that stand in the river to grind corn?” + </p> + <p> + “Hold thy peace, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; “though they + look like mills they are not so; I have already told thee that + enchantments transform things and change their proper shapes; I do not + mean to say they really change them from one form into another, but that + it seems as though they did, as experience proved in the transformation of + Dulcinea, sole refuge of my hopes.” + </p> + <p> + By this time, the boat, having reached the middle of the stream, began to + move less slowly than hitherto. The millers belonging to the mills, when + they saw the boat coming down the river, and on the point of being sucked + in by the draught of the wheels, ran out in haste, several of them, with + long poles to stop it, and being all mealy, with faces and garments + covered with flour, they presented a sinister appearance. They raised loud + shouts, crying, “Devils of men, where are you going to? Are you mad? + Do you want to drown yourselves, or dash yourselves to pieces among these + wheels?” + </p> + <p> + “Did I not tell thee, Sancho,” said Don Quixote at this, + “that we had reached the place where I am to show what the might of + my arm can do? See what ruffians and villains come out against me; see + what monsters oppose me; see what hideous countenances come to frighten + us! You shall soon see, scoundrels!” And then standing up in the + boat he began in a loud voice to hurl threats at the millers, exclaiming, + “Ill-conditioned and worse-counselled rabble, restore to liberty and + freedom the person ye hold in durance in this your fortress or prison, + high or low or of whatever rank or quality he be, for I am Don Quixote of + La Mancha, otherwise called the Knight of the Lions, for whom, by the + disposition of heaven above, it is reserved to give a happy issue to this + adventure;” and so saying he drew his sword and began making passes + in the air at the millers, who, hearing but not understanding all this + nonsense, strove to stop the boat, which was now getting into the rushing + channel of the wheels. Sancho fell upon his knees devoutly appealing to + heaven to deliver him from such imminent peril; which it did by the + activity and quickness of the millers, who, pushing against the boat with + their poles, stopped it, not, however, without upsetting and throwing Don + Quixote and Sancho into the water; and lucky it was for Don Quixote that + he could swim like a goose, though the weight of his armour carried him + twice to the bottom; and had it not been for the millers, who plunged in + and hoisted them both out, it would have been Troy town with the pair of + them. As soon as, more drenched than thirsty, they were landed, Sancho + went down on his knees and with clasped hands and eyes raised to heaven, + prayed a long and fervent prayer to God to deliver him evermore from the + rash projects and attempts of his master. The fishermen, the owners of the + boat, which the mill-wheels had knocked to pieces, now came up, and seeing + it smashed they proceeded to strip Sancho and to demand payment for it + from Don Quixote; but he with great calmness, just as if nothing had + happened him, told the millers and fishermen that he would pay for the + bark most cheerfully, on condition that they delivered up to him, free and + unhurt, the person or persons that were in durance in that castle of + theirs. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p29b" id="p29b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p29b.jpg (314K)" src="images/p29b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p29b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “What persons or what castle art thou talking of, madman? Art thou + for carrying off the people who come to grind corn in these mills?” + </p> + <p> + “That’s enough,” said Don Quixote to himself, “it + would be preaching in the desert to attempt by entreaties to induce this + rabble to do any virtuous action. In this adventure two mighty enchanters + must have encountered one another, and one frustrates what the other + attempts; one provided the bark for me, and the other upset me; God help + us, this world is all machinations and schemes at cross purposes one with + the other. I can do no more.” And then turning towards the mills he + said aloud, “Friends, whoe’er ye be that are immured in that + prison, forgive me that, to my misfortune and yours, I cannot deliver you + from your misery; this adventure is doubtless reserved and destined for + some other knight.” + </p> + <p> + So saying he settled with the fishermen, and paid fifty reals for the + boat, which Sancho handed to them very much against the grain, saying, + “With a couple more bark businesses like this we shall have sunk our + whole capital.” + </p> + <p> + The fishermen and the millers stood staring in amazement at the two + figures, so very different to all appearance from ordinary men, and were + wholly unable to make out the drift of the observations and questions Don + Quixote addressed to them; and coming to the conclusion that they were + madmen, they left them and betook themselves, the millers to their mills, + and the fishermen to their huts. Don Quixote and Sancho returned to their + beasts, and to their life of beasts, and so ended the adventure of the + enchanted bark. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p29e" id="p29e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p29e.jpg (54K)" src="images/p29e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch30b" id="ch30b"></a>CHAPTER XXX. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF DON QUIXOTE’S ADVENTURE WITH A FAIR HUNTRESS + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p30a" id="p30a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p30a.jpg (134K)" src="images/p30a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p30a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + They reached their beasts in low spirits and bad humour enough, knight and + squire, Sancho particularly, for with him what touched the stock of money + touched his heart, and when any was taken from him he felt as if he was + robbed of the apples of his eyes. In fine, without exchanging a word, they + mounted and quitted the famous river, Don Quixote absorbed in thoughts of + his love, Sancho in thinking of his advancement, which just then, it + seemed to him, he was very far from securing; for, fool as he was, he saw + clearly enough that his master’s acts were all or most of them + utterly senseless; and he began to cast about for an opportunity of + retiring from his service and going home some day, without entering into + any explanations or taking any farewell of him. Fortune, however, ordered + matters after a fashion very much the opposite of what he contemplated. + </p> + <p> + It so happened that the next day towards sunset, on coming out of a wood, + Don Quixote cast his eyes over a green meadow, and at the far end of it + observed some people, and as he drew nearer saw that it was a hawking + party. Coming closer, he distinguished among them a lady of graceful mien, + on a pure white palfrey or hackney caparisoned with green trappings and a + silver-mounted side-saddle. The lady was also in green, and so richly and + splendidly dressed that splendour itself seemed personified in her. On her + left hand she bore a hawk, a proof to Don Quixote’s mind that she + must be some great lady and the mistress of the whole hunting party, which + was the fact; so he said to Sancho, “Run Sancho, my son, and say to + that lady on the palfrey with the hawk that I, the Knight of the Lions, + kiss the hands of her exalted beauty, and if her excellence will grant me + leave I will go and kiss them in person and place myself at her service + for aught that may be in my power and her highness may command; and mind, + Sancho, how thou speakest, and take care not to thrust in any of thy + proverbs into thy message.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p30b" id="p30b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p30b.jpg (334K)" src="images/p30b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p30b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “You’ve got a likely one here to thrust any in!” said + Sancho; “leave me alone for that! Why, this is not the first time in + my life I have carried messages to high and exalted ladies.” + </p> + <p> + “Except that thou didst carry to the lady Dulcinea,” said Don + Quixote, “I know not that thou hast carried any other, at least in + my service.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” replied Sancho; “but pledges don’t + distress a good payer, and in a house where there’s plenty supper is + soon cooked; I mean there’s no need of telling or warning me about + anything; for I’m ready for everything and know a little of + everything.” + </p> + <p> + “That I believe, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; “go and good + luck to thee, and God speed thee.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho went off at top speed, forcing Dapple out of his regular pace, and + came to where the fair huntress was standing, and dismounting knelt before + her and said, “Fair lady, that knight that you see there, the Knight + of the Lions by name, is my master, and I am a squire of his, and at home + they call me Sancho Panza. This same Knight of the Lions, who was called + not long since the Knight of the Rueful Countenance, sends by me to say + may it please your highness to give him leave that, with your permission, + approbation, and consent, he may come and carry out his wishes, which are, + as he says and I believe, to serve your exalted loftiness and beauty; and + if you give it, your ladyship will do a thing which will redound to your + honour, and he will receive a most distinguished favour and happiness.” + </p> + <p> + “You have indeed, squire,” said the lady, “delivered + your message with all the formalities such messages require; rise up, for + it is not right that the squire of a knight so great as he of the Rueful + Countenance, of whom we have heard a great deal here, should remain on his + knees; rise, my friend, and bid your master welcome to the services of + myself and the duke my husband, in a country house we have here.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho got up, charmed as much by the beauty of the good lady as by her + high-bred air and her courtesy, but, above all, by what she had said about + having heard of his master, the Knight of the Rueful Countenance; for if + she did not call him Knight of the Lions it was no doubt because he had so + lately taken the name. “Tell me, brother squire,” asked the + duchess (whose title, however, is not known), “this master of yours, + is he not one of whom there is a history extant in print, called ‘The + Ingenious Gentleman, Don Quixote of La Mancha,’ who has for the lady + of his heart a certain Dulcinea del Toboso?” + </p> + <p> + “He is the same, señora,” replied Sancho; “and that + squire of his who figures, or ought to figure, in the said history under + the name of Sancho Panza, is myself, unless they have changed me in the + cradle, I mean in the press.” + </p> + <p> + “I am rejoiced at all this,” said the duchess; “go, + brother Panza, and tell your master that he is welcome to my estate, and + that nothing could happen to me that could give me greater pleasure.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho returned to his master mightily pleased with this gratifying + answer, and told him all the great lady had said to him, lauding to the + skies, in his rustic phrase, her rare beauty, her graceful gaiety, and her + courtesy. Don Quixote drew himself up briskly in his saddle, fixed himself + in his stirrups, settled his visor, gave Rocinante the spur, and with an + easy bearing advanced to kiss the hands of the duchess, who, having sent + to summon the duke her husband, told him while Don Quixote was approaching + all about the message; and as both of them had read the First Part of this + history, and from it were aware of Don Quixote’s crazy turn, they + awaited him with the greatest delight and anxiety to make his + acquaintance, meaning to fall in with his humour and agree with everything + he said, and, so long as he stayed with them, to treat him as a + knight-errant, with all the ceremonies usual in the books of chivalry they + had read, for they themselves were very fond of them. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote now came up with his visor raised, and as he seemed about to + dismount Sancho made haste to go and hold his stirrup for him; but in + getting down off Dapple he was so unlucky as to hitch his foot in one of + the ropes of the pack-saddle in such a way that he was unable to free it, + and was left hanging by it with his face and breast on the ground. Don + Quixote, who was not used to dismount without having the stirrup held, + fancying that Sancho had by this time come to hold it for him, threw + himself off with a lurch and brought Rocinante’s saddle after him, + which was no doubt badly girthed, and saddle and he both came to the + ground; not without discomfiture to him and abundant curses muttered + between his teeth against the unlucky Sancho, who had his foot still in + the shackles. The duke ordered his huntsmen to go to the help of knight + and squire, and they raised Don Quixote, sorely shaken by his fall; and + he, limping, advanced as best he could to kneel before the noble pair. + This, however, the duke would by no means permit; on the contrary, + dismounting from his horse, he went and embraced Don Quixote, saying, + “I am grieved, Sir Knight of the Rueful Countenance, that your first + experience on my ground should have been such an unfortunate one as we + have seen; but the carelessness of squires is often the cause of worse + accidents.” + </p> + <p> + “That which has happened me in meeting you, mighty prince,” + replied Don Quixote, “cannot be unfortunate, even if my fall had not + stopped short of the depths of the bottomless pit, for the glory of having + seen you would have lifted me up and delivered me from it. My squire, God’s + curse upon him, is better at unloosing his tongue in talking impertinence + than in tightening the girths of a saddle to keep it steady; but however I + may be, fallen or raised up, on foot or on horseback, I shall always be at + your service and that of my lady the duchess, your worthy consort, worthy + queen of beauty and paramount princess of courtesy.” + </p> + <p> + “Gently, Señor Don Quixote of La Mancha,” said the duke; + “where my lady Dona Dulcinea del Toboso is, it is not right that + other beauties should be praised.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho, by this time released from his entanglement, was standing by, and + before his master could answer he said, “There is no denying, and it + must be maintained, that my lady Dulcinea del Toboso is very beautiful; + but the hare jumps up where one least expects it; and I have heard say + that what we call nature is like a potter that makes vessels of clay, and + he who makes one fair vessel can as well make two, or three, or a hundred; + I say so because, by my faith, my lady the duchess is in no way behind my + mistress the lady Dulcinea del Toboso.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote turned to the duchess and said, “Your highness may + conceive that never had knight-errant in this world a more talkative or a + droller squire than I have, and he will prove the truth of what I say, if + your highness is pleased to accept of my services for a few days.” + </p> + <p> + To which the duchess made answer, “that worthy Sancho is droll I + consider a very good thing, because it is a sign that he is shrewd; for + drollery and sprightliness, Señor Don Quixote, as you very well know, do + not take up their abode with dull wits; and as good Sancho is droll and + sprightly I here set him down as shrewd.” + </p> + <p> + “And talkative,” added Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “So much the better,” said the duke, “for many droll + things cannot be said in few words; but not to lose time in talking, come, + great Knight of the Rueful Countenance-” + </p> + <p> + “Of the Lions, your highness must say,” said Sancho, “for + there is no Rueful Countenance nor any such character now.” + </p> + <p> + “He of the Lions be it,” continued the duke; “I say, let + Sir Knight of the Lions come to a castle of mine close by, where he shall + be given that reception which is due to so exalted a personage, and which + the duchess and I are wont to give to all knights-errant who come there.” + </p> + <p> + By this time Sancho had fixed and girthed Rocinante’s saddle, and + Don Quixote having got on his back and the duke mounted a fine horse, they + placed the duchess in the middle and set out for the castle. The duchess + desired Sancho to come to her side, for she found infinite enjoyment in + listening to his shrewd remarks. Sancho required no pressing, but pushed + himself in between them and the duke, who thought it rare good fortune to + receive such a knight-errant and such a homely squire in their castle. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p30e" id="p30e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p30e.jpg (54K)" src="images/p30e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch31b" id="ch31b"></a>CHAPTER XXXI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHICH TREATS OF MANY AND GREAT MATTERS + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p31a" id="p31a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p31a.jpg (155K)" src="images/p31a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p31a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Supreme was the satisfaction that Sancho felt at seeing himself, as it + seemed, an established favourite with the duchess, for he looked forward + to finding in her castle what he had found in Don Diego’s house and + in Basilio’s; he was always fond of good living, and always seized + by the forelock any opportunity of feasting himself whenever it presented + itself. The history informs us, then, that before they reached the country + house or castle, the duke went on in advance and instructed all his + servants how they were to treat Don Quixote; and so the instant he came up + to the castle gates with the duchess, two lackeys or equerries, clad in + what they call morning gowns of fine crimson satin reaching to their feet, + hastened out, and catching Don Quixote in their arms before he saw or + heard them, said to him, “Your highness should go and take my lady + the duchess off her horse.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p31b" id="p31b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p31b.jpg (334K)" src="images/p31b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p31b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote obeyed, and great bandying of compliments followed between the + two over the matter; but in the end the duchess’s determination + carried the day, and she refused to get down or dismount from her palfrey + except in the arms of the duke, saying she did not consider herself worthy + to impose so unnecessary a burden on so great a knight. At length the duke + came out to take her down, and as they entered a spacious court two fair + damsels came forward and threw over Don Quixote’s shoulders a large + mantle of the finest scarlet cloth, and at the same instant all the + galleries of the court were lined with the men-servants and women-servants + of the household, crying, “Welcome, flower and cream of + knight-errantry!” while all or most of them flung pellets filled + with scented water over Don Quixote and the duke and duchess; at all which + Don Quixote was greatly astonished, and this was the first time that he + thoroughly felt and believed himself to be a knight-errant in reality and + not merely in fancy, now that he saw himself treated in the same way as he + had read of such knights being treated in days of yore. + </p> + <p> + Sancho, deserting Dapple, hung on to the duchess and entered the castle, + but feeling some twinges of conscience at having left the ass alone, he + approached a respectable duenna who had come out with the rest to receive + the duchess, and in a low voice he said to her, “Señora Gonzalez, or + however your grace may be called—” + </p> + <p> + “I am called Dona Rodriguez de Grijalba,” replied the duenna; + “what is your will, brother?” To which Sancho made answer, + “I should be glad if your worship would do me the favour to go out + to the castle gate, where you will find a grey ass of mine; make them, if + you please, put him in the stable, or put him there yourself, for the poor + little beast is rather easily frightened, and cannot bear being alone at + all.” + </p> + <p> + “If the master is as wise as the man,” said the duenna, + “we have got a fine bargain. Be off with you, brother, and bad luck + to you and him who brought you here; go, look after your ass, for we, the + duennas of this house, are not used to work of that sort.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then, in troth,” returned Sancho, “I have heard my + master, who is the very treasure-finder of stories, telling the story of + Lancelot when he came from Britain, say that ladies waited upon him and + duennas upon his hack; and, if it comes to my ass, I wouldn’t change + him for Señor Lancelot’s hack.” + </p> + <p> + “If you are a jester, brother,” said the duenna, “keep + your drolleries for some place where they’ll pass muster and be paid + for; for you’ll get nothing from me but a fig.” + </p> + <p> + “At any rate, it will be a very ripe one,” said Sancho, + “for you won’t lose the trick in years by a point too little.” + </p> + <p> + “Son of a bitch,” said the duenna, all aglow with anger, + “whether I’m old or not, it’s with God I have to reckon, + not with you, you garlic-stuffed scoundrel!” and she said it so + loud, that the duchess heard it, and turning round and seeing the duenna + in such a state of excitement, and her eyes flaming so, asked whom she was + wrangling with. + </p> + <p> + “With this good fellow here,” said the duenna, “who has + particularly requested me to go and put an ass of his that is at the + castle gate into the stable, holding it up to me as an example that they + did the same I don’t know where—that some ladies waited on one + Lancelot, and duennas on his hack; and what is more, to wind up with, he + called me old.” + </p> + <p> + “That,” said the duchess, “I should have considered the + greatest affront that could be offered me;” and addressing Sancho, + she said to him, “You must know, friend Sancho, that Dona Rodriguez + is very youthful, and that she wears that hood more for authority and + custom’s sake than because of her years.” + </p> + <p> + “May all the rest of mine be unlucky,” said Sancho, “if + I meant it that way; I only spoke because the affection I have for my ass + is so great, and I thought I could not commend him to a more kind-hearted + person than the lady Dona Rodriguez.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote, who was listening, said to him, “Is this proper + conversation for the place, Sancho?” + </p> + <p> + “Señor,” replied Sancho, “every one must mention what he + wants wherever he may be; I thought of Dapple here, and I spoke of him + here; if I had thought of him in the stable I would have spoken there.” + </p> + <p> + On which the duke observed, “Sancho is quite right, and there is no + reason at all to find fault with him; Dapple shall be fed to his heart’s + content, and Sancho may rest easy, for he shall be treated like himself.” + </p> + <p> + While this conversation, amusing to all except Don Quixote, was + proceeding, they ascended the staircase and ushered Don Quixote into a + chamber hung with rich cloth of gold and brocade; six damsels relieved him + of his armour and waited on him like pages, all of them prepared and + instructed by the duke and duchess as to what they were to do, and how + they were to treat Don Quixote, so that he might see and believe they were + treating him like a knight-errant. When his armour was removed, there + stood Don Quixote in his tight-fitting breeches and chamois doublet, lean, + lanky, and long, with cheeks that seemed to be kissing each other inside; + such a figure, that if the damsels waiting on him had not taken care to + check their merriment (which was one of the particular directions their + master and mistress had given them), they would have burst with laughter. + They asked him to let himself be stripped that they might put a shirt on + him, but he would not on any account, saying that modesty became + knights-errant just as much as valour. However, he said they might give + the shirt to Sancho; and shutting himself in with him in a room where + there was a sumptuous bed, he undressed and put on the shirt; and then, + finding himself alone with Sancho, he said to him, “Tell me, thou + new-fledged buffoon and old booby, dost thou think it right to offend and + insult a duenna so deserving of reverence and respect as that one just + now? Was that a time to bethink thee of thy Dapple, or are these noble + personages likely to let the beasts fare badly when they treat their + owners in such elegant style? For God’s sake, Sancho, restrain + thyself, and don’t show the thread so as to let them see what a + coarse, boorish texture thou art of. Remember, sinner that thou art, the + master is the more esteemed the more respectable and well-bred his + servants are; and that one of the greatest advantages that princes have + over other men is that they have servants as good as themselves to wait on + them. Dost thou not see—shortsighted being that thou art, and + unlucky mortal that I am!—that if they perceive thee to be a coarse + clown or a dull blockhead, they will suspect me to be some impostor or + swindler? Nay, nay, Sancho friend, keep clear, oh, keep clear of these + stumbling-blocks; for he who falls into the way of being a chatterbox and + droll, drops into a wretched buffoon the first time he trips; bridle thy + tongue, consider and weigh thy words before they escape thy mouth, and + bear in mind we are now in quarters whence, by God’s help, and the + strength of my arm, we shall come forth mightily advanced in fame and + fortune.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho promised him with much earnestness to keep his mouth shut, and to + bite off his tongue before he uttered a word that was not altogether to + the purpose and well considered, and told him he might make his mind easy + on that point, for it should never be discovered through him what they + were. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote dressed himself, put on his baldric with his sword, threw the + scarlet mantle over his shoulders, placed on his head a montera of green + satin that the damsels had given him, and thus arrayed passed out into the + large room, where he found the damsels drawn up in double file, the same + number on each side, all with the appliances for washing the hands, which + they presented to him with profuse obeisances and ceremonies. Then came + twelve pages, together with the seneschal, to lead him to dinner, as his + hosts were already waiting for him. They placed him in the midst of them, + and with much pomp and stateliness they conducted him into another room, + where there was a sumptuous table laid with but four covers. The duchess + and the duke came out to the door of the room to receive him, and with + them a grave ecclesiastic, one of those who rule noblemen’s houses; + one of those who, not being born magnates themselves, never know how to + teach those who are how to behave as such; one of those who would have the + greatness of great folk measured by their own narrowness of mind; one of + those who, when they try to introduce economy into the household they + rule, lead it into meanness. One of this sort, I say, must have been the + grave churchman who came out with the duke and duchess to receive Don + Quixote. + </p> + <p> + A vast number of polite speeches were exchanged, and at length, taking Don + Quixote between them, they proceeded to sit down to table. The duke + pressed Don Quixote to take the head of the table, and, though he refused, + the entreaties of the duke were so urgent that he had to accept it. + </p> + <p> + The ecclesiastic took his seat opposite to him, and the duke and duchess + those at the sides. All this time Sancho stood by, gaping with amazement + at the honour he saw shown to his master by these illustrious persons; and + observing all the ceremonious pressing that had passed between the duke + and Don Quixote to induce him to take his seat at the head of the table, + he said, “If your worship will give me leave I will tell you a story + of what happened in my village about this matter of seats.” + </p> + <p> + The moment Sancho said this Don Quixote trembled, making sure that he was + about to say something foolish. Sancho glanced at him, and guessing his + thoughts, said, “Don’t be afraid of my going astray, señor, or + saying anything that won’t be pat to the purpose; I haven’t + forgotten the advice your worship gave me just now about talking much or + little, well or ill.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no recollection of anything, Sancho,” said Don + Quixote; “say what thou wilt, only say it quickly.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then,” said Sancho, “what I am going to say is so + true that my master Don Quixote, who is here present, will keep me from + lying.” + </p> + <p> + “Lie as much as thou wilt for all I care, Sancho,” said Don + Quixote, “for I am not going to stop thee, but consider what thou + art going to say.” + </p> + <p> + “I have so considered and reconsidered,” said Sancho, “that + the bell-ringer’s in a safe berth; as will be seen by what follows.” + </p> + <p> + “It would be well,” said Don Quixote, “if your + highnesses would order them to turn out this idiot, for he will talk a + heap of nonsense.” + </p> + <p> + “By the life of the duke, Sancho shall not be taken away from me for + a moment,” said the duchess; “I am very fond of him, for I + know he is very discreet.” + </p> + <p> + “Discreet be the days of your holiness,” said Sancho, “for + the good opinion you have of my wit, though there’s none in me; but + the story I want to tell is this. There was an invitation given by a + gentleman of my town, a very rich one, and one of quality, for he was one + of the Alamos of Medina del Campo, and married to Dona Mencia de Quinones, + the daughter of Don Alonso de Maranon, Knight of the Order of Santiago, + that was drowned at the Herradura—him there was that quarrel about + years ago in our village, that my master Don Quixote was mixed up in, to + the best of my belief, that Tomasillo the scapegrace, the son of Balbastro + the smith, was wounded in.—Isn’t all this true, master mine? + As you live, say so, that these gentlefolk may not take me for some lying + chatterer.” + </p> + <p> + “So far,” said the ecclesiastic, “I take you to be more + a chatterer than a liar; but I don’t know what I shall take you for + by-and-by.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou citest so many witnesses and proofs, Sancho,” said Don + Quixote, “that I have no choice but to say thou must be telling the + truth; go on, and cut the story short, for thou art taking the way not to + make an end for two days to come.” + </p> + <p> + “He is not to cut it short,” said the duchess; “on the + contrary, for my gratification, he is to tell it as he knows it, though he + should not finish it these six days; and if he took so many they would be + to me the pleasantest I ever spent.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then, sirs, I say,” continued Sancho, “that this + same gentleman, whom I know as well as I do my own hands, for it’s + not a bowshot from my house to his, invited a poor but respectable + labourer—” + </p> + <p> + “Get on, brother,” said the churchman; “at the rate you + are going you will not stop with your story short of the next world.” + </p> + <p> + “I’ll stop less than half-way, please God,” said Sancho; + “and so I say this labourer, coming to the house of the gentleman I + spoke of that invited him—rest his soul, he is now dead; and more by + token he died the death of an angel, so they say; for I was not there, for + just at that time I had gone to reap at Tembleque—” + </p> + <p> + “As you live, my son,” said the churchman, “make haste + back from Tembleque, and finish your story without burying the gentleman, + unless you want to make more funerals.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then, it so happened,” said Sancho, “that as the + pair of them were going to sit down to table—and I think I can see + them now plainer than ever—” + </p> + <p> + Great was the enjoyment the duke and duchess derived from the irritation + the worthy churchman showed at the long-winded, halting way Sancho had of + telling his story, while Don Quixote was chafing with rage and vexation. + </p> + <p> + “So, as I was saying,” continued Sancho, “as the pair of + them were going to sit down to table, as I said, the labourer insisted + upon the gentleman’s taking the head of the table, and the gentleman + insisted upon the labourer’s taking it, as his orders should be + obeyed in his house; but the labourer, who plumed himself on his + politeness and good breeding, would not on any account, until the + gentleman, out of patience, putting his hands on his shoulders, compelled + him by force to sit down, saying, ‘Sit down, you stupid lout, for + wherever I sit will be the head to you; and that’s the story, and, + troth, I think it hasn’t been brought in amiss here.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote turned all colours, which, on his sunburnt face, mottled it + till it looked like jasper. The duke and duchess suppressed their laughter + so as not altogether to mortify Don Quixote, for they saw through Sancho’s + impertinence; and to change the conversation, and keep Sancho from + uttering more absurdities, the duchess asked Don Quixote what news he had + of the lady Dulcinea, and if he had sent her any presents of giants or + miscreants lately, for he could not but have vanquished a good many. + </p> + <p> + To which Don Quixote replied, “Señora, my misfortunes, though they + had a beginning, will never have an end. I have vanquished giants and I + have sent her caitiffs and miscreants; but where are they to find her if + she is enchanted and turned into the most ill-favoured peasant wench that + can be imagined?” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know,” said Sancho Panza; “to me she + seems the fairest creature in the world; at any rate, in nimbleness and + jumping she won’t give in to a tumbler; by my faith, señora duchess, + she leaps from the ground on to the back of an ass like a cat.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you seen her enchanted, Sancho?” asked the duke. + </p> + <p> + “What, seen her!” said Sancho; “why, who the devil was + it but myself that first thought of the enchantment business? She is as + much enchanted as my father.” + </p> + <p> + The ecclesiastic, when he heard them talking of giants and caitiffs and + enchantments, began to suspect that this must be Don Quixote of La Mancha, + whose story the duke was always reading; and he had himself often reproved + him for it, telling him it was foolish to read such fooleries; and + becoming convinced that his suspicion was correct, addressing the duke, he + said very angrily to him, “Señor, your excellence will have to give + account to God for what this good man does. This Don Quixote, or Don + Simpleton, or whatever his name is, cannot, I imagine, be such a blockhead + as your excellence would have him, holding out encouragement to him to go + on with his vagaries and follies.” Then turning to address Don + Quixote he said, “And you, num-skull, who put it into your head that + you are a knight-errant, and vanquish giants and capture miscreants? Go + your ways in a good hour, and in a good hour be it said to you. Go home + and bring up your children if you have any, and attend to your business, + and give over going wandering about the world, gaping and making a + laughing-stock of yourself to all who know you and all who don’t. + Where, in heaven’s name, have you discovered that there are or ever + were knights-errant? Where are there giants in Spain or miscreants in La + Mancha, or enchanted Dulcineas, or all the rest of the silly things they + tell about you?” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote listened attentively to the reverend gentleman’s words, + and as soon as he perceived he had done speaking, regardless of the + presence of the duke and duchess, he sprang to his feet with angry looks + and an agitated countenance, and said—But the reply deserves a + chapter to itself. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p31e" id="p31e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p31e.jpg (46K)" src="images/p31e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch32b" id="ch32b"></a>CHAPTER XXXII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE REPLY DON QUIXOTE GAVE HIS CENSURER, WITH OTHER INCIDENTS, GRAVE + AND DROLL + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p32a" id="p32a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p32a.jpg (152K)" src="images/p32a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p32a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote, then, having risen to his feet, trembling from head to foot + like a man dosed with mercury, said in a hurried, agitated voice, “The + place I am in, the presence in which I stand, and the respect I have and + always have had for the profession to which your worship belongs, hold and + bind the hands of my just indignation; and as well for these reasons as + because I know, as everyone knows, that a gownsman’s weapon is the + same as a woman’s, the tongue, I will with mine engage in equal + combat with your worship, from whom one might have expected good advice + instead of foul abuse. Pious, well-meant reproof requires a different + demeanour and arguments of another sort; at any rate, to have reproved me + in public, and so roughly, exceeds the bounds of proper reproof, for that + comes better with gentleness than with rudeness; and it is not seemly to + call the sinner roundly blockhead and booby, without knowing anything of + the sin that is reproved. Come, tell me, for which of the stupidities you + have observed in me do you condemn and abuse me, and bid me go home and + look after my house and wife and children, without knowing whether I have + any? Is nothing more needed than to get a footing, by hook or by crook, in + other people’s houses to rule over the masters (and that, perhaps, + after having been brought up in all the straitness of some seminary, and + without having ever seen more of the world than may lie within twenty or + thirty leagues round), to fit one to lay down the law rashly for chivalry, + and pass judgment on knights-errant? Is it, haply, an idle occupation, or + is the time ill-spent that is spent in roaming the world in quest, not of + its enjoyments, but of those arduous toils whereby the good mount upwards + to the abodes of everlasting life? If gentlemen, great lords, nobles, men + of high birth, were to rate me as a fool I should take it as an + irreparable insult; but I care not a farthing if clerks who have never + entered upon or trod the paths of chivalry should think me foolish. Knight + I am, and knight I will die, if such be the pleasure of the Most High. + Some take the broad road of overweening ambition; others that of mean and + servile flattery; others that of deceitful hypocrisy, and some that of + true religion; but I, led by my star, follow the narrow path of + knight-errantry, and in pursuit of that calling I despise wealth, but not + honour. I have redressed injuries, righted wrongs, punished insolences, + vanquished giants, and crushed monsters; I am in love, for no other reason + than that it is incumbent on knights-errant to be so; but though I am, I + am no carnal-minded lover, but one of the chaste, platonic sort. My + intentions are always directed to worthy ends, to do good to all and evil + to none; and if he who means this, does this, and makes this his practice + deserves to be called a fool, it is for your highnesses to say, O most + excellent duke and duchess.” + </p> + <p> + “Good, by God!” cried Sancho; “say no more in your own + defence, master mine, for there’s nothing more in the world to be + said, thought, or insisted on; and besides, when this gentleman denies, as + he has, that there are or ever have been any knights-errant in the world, + is it any wonder if he knows nothing of what he has been talking about?” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps, brother,” said the ecclesiastic, “you are that + Sancho Panza that is mentioned, to whom your master has promised an + island?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I am,” said Sancho, “and what’s more, I am + one who deserves it as much as anyone; I am one of the sort—‘Attach + thyself to the good, and thou wilt be one of them,’ and of those, + ‘Not with whom thou art bred, but with whom thou art fed,’ and + of those, ‘Who leans against a good tree, a good shade covers him;’ + I have leant upon a good master, and I have been for months going about + with him, and please God I shall be just such another; long life to him + and long life to me, for neither will he be in any want of empires to + rule, or I of islands to govern.” + </p> + <p> + “No, Sancho my friend, certainly not,” said the duke, “for + in the name of Señor Don Quixote I confer upon you the government of one + of no small importance that I have at my disposal.” + </p> + <p> + “Go down on thy knees, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “and + kiss the feet of his excellence for the favour he has bestowed upon thee.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho obeyed, and on seeing this the ecclesiastic stood up from table + completely out of temper, exclaiming, “By the gown I wear, I am + almost inclined to say that your excellence is as great a fool as these + sinners. No wonder they are mad, when people who are in their senses + sanction their madness! I leave your excellence with them, for so long as + they are in the house, I will remain in my own, and spare myself the + trouble of reproving what I cannot remedy;” and without uttering + another word, or eating another morsel, he went off, the entreaties of the + duke and duchess being entirely unavailing to stop him; not that the duke + said much to him, for he could not, because of the laughter his + uncalled-for anger provoked. + </p> + <p> + When he had done laughing, he said to Don Quixote, “You have replied + on your own behalf so stoutly, Sir Knight of the Lions, that there is no + occasion to seek further satisfaction for this, which, though it may look + like an offence, is not so at all, for, as women can give no offence, no + more can ecclesiastics, as you very well know.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said Don Quixote, “and the reason is, + that he who is not liable to offence cannot give offence to anyone. Women, + children, and ecclesiastics, as they cannot defend themselves, though they + may receive offence cannot be insulted, because between the offence and + the insult there is, as your excellence very well knows, this difference: + the insult comes from one who is capable of offering it, and does so, and + maintains it; the offence may come from any quarter without carrying + insult. To take an example: a man is standing unsuspectingly in the street + and ten others come up armed and beat him; he draws his sword and quits + himself like a man, but the number of his antagonists makes it impossible + for him to effect his purpose and avenge himself; this man suffers an + offence but not an insult. Another example will make the same thing plain: + a man is standing with his back turned, another comes up and strikes him, + and after striking him takes to flight, without waiting an instant, and + the other pursues him but does not overtake him; he who received the blow + received an offence, but not an insult, because an insult must be + maintained. If he who struck him, though he did so sneakingly and + treacherously, had drawn his sword and stood and faced him, then he who + had been struck would have received offence and insult at the same time; + offence because he was struck treacherously, insult because he who struck + him maintained what he had done, standing his ground without taking to + flight. And so, according to the laws of the accursed duel, I may have + received offence, but not insult, for neither women nor children can + maintain it, nor can they wound, nor have they any way of standing their + ground, and it is just the same with those connected with religion; for + these three sorts of persons are without arms offensive or defensive, and + so, though naturally they are bound to defend themselves, they have no + right to offend anybody; and though I said just now I might have received + offence, I say now certainly not, for he who cannot receive an insult can + still less give one; for which reasons I ought not to feel, nor do I feel, + aggrieved at what that good man said to me; I only wish he had stayed a + little longer, that I might have shown him the mistake he makes in + supposing and maintaining that there are not and never have been any + knights-errant in the world; had Amadis or any of his countless + descendants heard him say as much, I am sure it would not have gone well + with his worship.” + </p> + <p> + “I will take my oath of that,” said Sancho; “they would + have given him a slash that would have slit him down from top to toe like + a pomegranate or a ripe melon; they were likely fellows to put up with + jokes of that sort! By my faith, I’m certain if Reinaldos of + Montalvan had heard the little man’s words he would have given him + such a spank on the mouth that he wouldn’t have spoken for the next + three years; ay, let him tackle them, and he’ll see how he’ll + get out of their hands!” + </p> + <p> + The duchess, as she listened to Sancho, was ready to die with laughter, + and in her own mind she set him down as droller and madder than his + master; and there were a good many just then who were of the same opinion. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote finally grew calm, and dinner came to an end, and as the cloth + was removed four damsels came in, one of them with a silver basin, another + with a jug also of silver, a third with two fine white towels on her + shoulder, and the fourth with her arms bared to the elbows, and in her + white hands (for white they certainly were) a round ball of Naples soap. + The one with the basin approached, and with arch composure and impudence, + thrust it under Don Quixote’s chin, who, wondering at such a + ceremony, said never a word, supposing it to be the custom of that country + to wash beards instead of hands; he therefore stretched his out as far as + he could, and at the same instant the jug began to pour and the damsel + with the soap rubbed his beard briskly, raising snow-flakes, for the soap + lather was no less white, not only over the beard, but all over the face, + and over the eyes of the submissive knight, so that they were perforce + obliged to keep shut. The duke and duchess, who had not known anything + about this, waited to see what came of this strange washing. The barber + damsel, when she had him a hand’s breadth deep in lather, pretended + that there was no more water, and bade the one with the jug go and fetch + some, while Señor Don Quixote waited. She did so, and Don Quixote was left + the strangest and most ludicrous figure that could be imagined. All those + present, and there were a good many, were watching him, and as they saw + him there with half a yard of neck, and that uncommonly brown, his eyes + shut, and his beard full of soap, it was a great wonder, and only by great + discretion, that they were able to restrain their laughter. The damsels, + the concocters of the joke, kept their eyes down, not daring to look at + their master and mistress; and as for them, laughter and anger struggled + within them, and they knew not what to do, whether to punish the audacity + of the girls, or to reward them for the amusement they had received from + seeing Don Quixote in such a plight. + </p> + <p> + At length the damsel with the jug returned and they made an end of washing + Don Quixote, and the one who carried the towels very deliberately wiped + him and dried him; and all four together making him a profound obeisance + and curtsey, they were about to go, when the duke, lest Don Quixote should + see through the joke, called out to the one with the basin saying, “Come + and wash me, and take care that there is water enough.” The girl, + sharp-witted and prompt, came and placed the basin for the duke as she had + done for Don Quixote, and they soon had him well soaped and washed, and + having wiped him dry they made their obeisance and retired. It appeared + afterwards that the duke had sworn that if they had not washed him as they + had Don Quixote he would have punished them for their impudence, which + they adroitly atoned for by soaping him as well. + </p> + <p> + Sancho observed the ceremony of the washing very attentively, and said to + himself, “God bless me, if it were only the custom in this country + to wash squires’ beards too as well as knights’. For by God + and upon my soul I want it badly; and if they gave me a scrape of the + razor besides I’d take it as a still greater kindness.” + </p> + <p> + “What are you saying to yourself, Sancho?” asked the duchess. + </p> + <p> + “I was saying, señora,” he replied, “that in the courts + of other princes, when the cloth is taken away, I have always heard say + they give water for the hands, but not lye for the beard; and that shows + it is good to live long that you may see much; to be sure, they say too + that he who lives a long life must undergo much evil, though to undergo a + washing of that sort is pleasure rather than pain.” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t be uneasy, friend Sancho,” said the duchess; + “I will take care that my damsels wash you, and even put you in the + tub if necessary.” + </p> + <p> + “I’ll be content with the beard,” said Sancho, “at + any rate for the present; and as for the future, God has decreed what is + to be.” + </p> + <p> + “Attend to worthy Sancho’s request, seneschal,” said the + duchess, “and do exactly what he wishes.” + </p> + <p> + The seneschal replied that Señor Sancho should be obeyed in everything; + and with that he went away to dinner and took Sancho along with him, while + the duke and duchess and Don Quixote remained at table discussing a great + variety of things, but all bearing on the calling of arms and + knight-errantry. + </p> + <p> + The duchess begged Don Quixote, as he seemed to have a retentive memory, + to describe and portray to her the beauty and features of the lady + Dulcinea del Toboso, for, judging by what fame trumpeted abroad of her + beauty, she felt sure she must be the fairest creature in the world, nay, + in all La Mancha. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote sighed on hearing the duchess’s request, and said, + “If I could pluck out my heart, and lay it on a plate on this table + here before your highness’s eyes, it would spare my tongue the pain + of telling what can hardly be thought of, for in it your excellence would + see her portrayed in full. But why should I attempt to depict and describe + in detail, and feature by feature, the beauty of the peerless Dulcinea, + the burden being one worthy of other shoulders than mine, an enterprise + wherein the pencils of Parrhasius, Timantes, and Apelles, and the graver + of Lysippus ought to be employed, to paint it in pictures and carve it in + marble and bronze, and Ciceronian and Demosthenian eloquence to sound its + praises?” + </p> + <p> + “What does Demosthenian mean, Señor Don Quixote?” said the + duchess; “it is a word I never heard in all my life.” + </p> + <p> + “Demosthenian eloquence,” said Don Quixote, “means the + eloquence of Demosthenes, as Ciceronian means that of Cicero, who were the + two most eloquent orators in the world.” + </p> + <p> + “True,” said the duke; “you must have lost your wits to + ask such a question. Nevertheless, Señor Don Quixote would greatly gratify + us if he would depict her to us; for never fear, even in an outline or + sketch she will be something to make the fairest envious.” + </p> + <p> + “I would do so certainly,” said Don Quixote, “had she + not been blurred to my mind’s eye by the misfortune that fell upon + her a short time since, one of such a nature that I am more ready to weep + over it than to describe it. For your highnesses must know that, going a + few days back to kiss her hands and receive her benediction, approbation, + and permission for this third sally, I found her altogether a different + being from the one I sought; I found her enchanted and changed from a + princess into a peasant, from fair to foul, from an angel into a devil, + from fragrant to pestiferous, from refined to clownish, from a dignified + lady into a jumping tomboy, and, in a word, from Dulcinea del Toboso into + a coarse Sayago wench.” + </p> + <p> + “God bless me!” said the duke aloud at this, “who can + have done the world such an injury? Who can have robbed it of the beauty + that gladdened it, of the grace and gaiety that charmed it, of the modesty + that shed a lustre upon it?” + </p> + <p> + “Who?” replied Don Quixote; “who could it be but some + malignant enchanter of the many that persecute me out of envy—that + accursed race born into the world to obscure and bring to naught the + achievements of the good, and glorify and exalt the deeds of the wicked? + Enchanters have persecuted me, enchanters persecute me still, and + enchanters will continue to persecute me until they have sunk me and my + lofty chivalry in the deep abyss of oblivion; and they injure and wound me + where they know I feel it most. For to deprive a knight-errant of his lady + is to deprive him of the eyes he sees with, of the sun that gives him + light, of the food whereby he lives. Many a time before have I said it, + and I say it now once more, a knight-errant without a lady is like a tree + without leaves, a building without a foundation, or a shadow without the + body that causes it.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no denying it,” said the duchess; “but still, + if we are to believe the history of Don Quixote that has come out here + lately with general applause, it is to be inferred from it, if I mistake + not, that you never saw the lady Dulcinea, and that the said lady is + nothing in the world but an imaginary lady, one that you yourself begot + and gave birth to in your brain, and adorned with whatever charms and + perfections you chose.” + </p> + <p> + “There is a good deal to be said on that point,” said Don + Quixote; “God knows whether there be any Dulcinea or not in the + world, or whether she is imaginary or not imaginary; these are things the + proof of which must not be pushed to extreme lengths. I have not begotten + nor given birth to my lady, though I behold her as she needs must be, a + lady who contains in herself all the qualities to make her famous + throughout the world, beautiful without blemish, dignified without + haughtiness, tender and yet modest, gracious from courtesy and courteous + from good breeding, and lastly, of exalted lineage, because beauty shines + forth and excels with a higher degree of perfection upon good blood than + in the fair of lowly birth.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said the duke; “but Señor Don Quixote + will give me leave to say what I am constrained to say by the story of his + exploits that I have read, from which it is to be inferred that, granting + there is a Dulcinea in El Toboso, or out of it, and that she is in the + highest degree beautiful as you have described her to us, as regards the + loftiness of her lineage she is not on a par with the Orianas, + Alastrajareas, Madasimas, or others of that sort, with whom, as you well + know, the histories abound.” + </p> + <p> + “To that I may reply,” said Don Quixote, “that Dulcinea + is the daughter of her own works, and that virtues rectify blood, and that + lowly virtue is more to be regarded and esteemed than exalted vice. + Dulcinea, besides, has that within her that may raise her to be a crowned + and sceptred queen; for the merit of a fair and virtuous woman is capable + of performing greater miracles; and virtually, though not formally, she + has in herself higher fortunes.” + </p> + <p> + “I protest, Señor Don Quixote,” said the duchess, “that + in all you say, you go most cautiously and lead in hand, as the saying is; + henceforth I will believe myself, and I will take care that everyone in my + house believes, even my lord the duke if needs be, that there is a + Dulcinea in El Toboso, and that she is living to-day, and that she is + beautiful and nobly born and deserves to have such a knight as Señor Don + Quixote in her service, and that is the highest praise that it is in my + power to give her or that I can think of. But I cannot help entertaining a + doubt, and having a certain grudge against Sancho Panza; the doubt is + this, that the aforesaid history declares that the said Sancho Panza, when + he carried a letter on your worship’s behalf to the said lady + Dulcinea, found her sifting a sack of wheat; and more by token it says it + was red wheat; a thing which makes me doubt the loftiness of her lineage.” + </p> + <p> + To this Don Quixote made answer, “Señora, your highness must know + that everything or almost everything that happens me transcends the + ordinary limits of what happens to other knights-errant; whether it be + that it is directed by the inscrutable will of destiny, or by the malice + of some jealous enchanter. Now it is an established fact that all or most + famous knights-errant have some special gift, one that of being proof + against enchantment, another that of being made of such invulnerable flesh + that he cannot be wounded, as was the famous Roland, one of the twelve + peers of France, of whom it is related that he could not be wounded except + in the sole of his left foot, and that it must be with the point of a + stout pin and not with any other sort of weapon whatever; and so, when + Bernardo del Carpio slew him at Roncesvalles, finding that he could not + wound him with steel, he lifted him up from the ground in his arms and + strangled him, calling to mind seasonably the death which Hercules + inflicted on Antaeus, the fierce giant that they say was the son of Terra. + I would infer from what I have mentioned that perhaps I may have some gift + of this kind, not that of being invulnerable, because experience has many + times proved to me that I am of tender flesh and not at all impenetrable; + nor that of being proof against enchantment, for I have already seen + myself thrust into a cage, in which all the world would not have been able + to confine me except by force of enchantments. But as I delivered myself + from that one, I am inclined to believe that there is no other that can + hurt me; and so, these enchanters, seeing that they cannot exert their + vile craft against my person, revenge themselves on what I love most, and + seek to rob me of life by maltreating that of Dulcinea in whom I live; and + therefore I am convinced that when my squire carried my message to her, + they changed her into a common peasant girl, engaged in such a mean + occupation as sifting wheat; I have already said, however, that that wheat + was not red wheat, nor wheat at all, but grains of orient pearl. And as a + proof of all this, I must tell your highnesses that, coming to El Toboso a + short time back, I was altogether unable to discover the palace of + Dulcinea; and that the next day, though Sancho, my squire, saw her in her + own proper shape, which is the fairest in the world, to me she appeared to + be a coarse, ill-favoured farm-wench, and by no means a well-spoken one, + she who is propriety itself. And so, as I am not and, so far as one can + judge, cannot be enchanted, she it is that is enchanted, that is smitten, + that is altered, changed, and transformed; in her have my enemies revenged + themselves upon me, and for her shall I live in ceaseless tears, until I + see her in her pristine state. I have mentioned this lest anybody should + mind what Sancho said about Dulcinea’s winnowing or sifting; for, as + they changed her to me, it is no wonder if they changed her to him. + Dulcinea is illustrious and well-born, and of one of the gentle families + of El Toboso, which are many, ancient, and good. Therein, most assuredly, + not small is the share of the peerless Dulcinea, through whom her town + will be famous and celebrated in ages to come, as Troy was through Helen, + and Spain through La Cava, though with a better title and tradition. For + another thing; I would have your graces understand that Sancho Panza is + one of the drollest squires that ever served knight-errant; sometimes + there is a simplicity about him so acute that it is an amusement to try + and make out whether he is simple or sharp; he has mischievous tricks that + stamp him rogue, and blundering ways that prove him a booby; he doubts + everything and believes everything; when I fancy he is on the point of + coming down headlong from sheer stupidity, he comes out with something + shrewd that sends him up to the skies. After all, I would not exchange him + for another squire, though I were given a city to boot, and therefore I am + in doubt whether it will be well to send him to the government your + highness has bestowed upon him; though I perceive in him a certain + aptitude for the work of governing, so that, with a little trimming of his + understanding, he would manage any government as easily as the king does + his taxes; and moreover, we know already ample experience that it does not + require much cleverness or much learning to be a governor, for there are a + hundred round about us that scarcely know how to read, and govern like + gerfalcons. The main point is that they should have good intentions and be + desirous of doing right in all things, for they will never be at a loss + for persons to advise and direct them in what they have to do, like those + knight-governors who, being no lawyers, pronounce sentences with the aid + of an assessor. My advice to him will be to take no bribe and surrender no + right, and I have some other little matters in reserve, that shall be + produced in due season for Sancho’s benefit and the advantage of the + island he is to govern.” + </p> + <p> + The duke, duchess, and Don Quixote had reached this point in their + conversation, when they heard voices and a great hubbub in the palace, and + Sancho burst abruptly into the room all glowing with anger, with a + straining-cloth by way of a bib, and followed by several servants, or, + more properly speaking, kitchen-boys and other underlings, one of whom + carried a small trough full of water, that from its colour and impurity + was plainly dishwater. The one with the trough pursued him and followed + him everywhere he went, endeavouring with the utmost persistence to thrust + it under his chin, while another kitchen-boy seemed anxious to wash his + beard. + </p> + <p> + “What is all this, brothers?” asked the duchess. “What + is it? What do you want to do to this good man? Do you forget he is a + governor-elect?” + </p> + <p> + To which the barber kitchen-boy replied, “The gentleman will not let + himself be washed as is customary, and as my lord and the señor his master + have been.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I will,” said Sancho, in a great rage; “but I’d + like it to be with cleaner towels, clearer lye, and not such dirty hands; + for there’s not so much difference between me and my master that he + should be washed with angels’ water and I with devil’s lye. + The customs of countries and princes’ palaces are only good so long + as they give no annoyance; but the way of washing they have here is worse + than doing penance. I have a clean beard, and I don’t require to be + refreshed in that fashion, and whoever comes to wash me or touch a hair of + my head, I mean to say my beard, with all due respect be it said, I’ll + give him a punch that will leave my fist sunk in his skull; for cirimonies + and soapings of this sort are more like jokes than the polite attentions + of one’s host.” + </p> + <p> + The duchess was ready to die with laughter when she saw Sancho’s + rage and heard his words; but it was no pleasure to Don Quixote to see him + in such a sorry trim, with the dingy towel about him, and the hangers-on + of the kitchen all round him; so making a low bow to the duke and duchess, + as if to ask their permission to speak, he addressed the rout in a + dignified tone: “Holloa, gentlemen! you let that youth alone, and go + back to where you came from, or anywhere else if you like; my squire is as + clean as any other person, and those troughs are as bad as narrow + thin-necked jars to him; take my advice and leave him alone, for neither + he nor I understand joking.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho took the word out of his mouth and went on, “Nay, let them + come and try their jokes on the country bumpkin, for it’s about as + likely I’ll stand them as that it’s now midnight! Let them + bring me a comb here, or what they please, and curry this beard of mine, + and if they get anything out of it that offends against cleanliness, let + them clip me to the skin.” + </p> + <p> + Upon this, the duchess, laughing all the while, said, “Sancho Panza + is right, and always will be in all he says; he is clean, and, as he says + himself, he does not require to be washed; and if our ways do not please + him, he is free to choose. Besides, you promoters of cleanliness have been + excessively careless and thoughtless, I don’t know if I ought not to + say audacious, to bring troughs and wooden utensils and kitchen + dishclouts, instead of basins and jugs of pure gold and towels of holland, + to such a person and such a beard; but, after all, you are ill-conditioned + and ill-bred, and spiteful as you are, you cannot help showing the grudge + you have against the squires of knights-errant.” + </p> + <p> + The impudent servitors, and even the seneschal who came with them, took + the duchess to be speaking in earnest, so they removed the straining-cloth + from Sancho’s neck, and with something like shame and confusion of + face went off all of them and left him; whereupon he, seeing himself safe + out of that extreme danger, as it seemed to him, ran and fell on his knees + before the duchess, saying, “From great ladies great favours may be + looked for; this which your grace has done me to-day cannot be requited + with less than wishing I was dubbed a knight-errant, to devote myself all + the days of my life to the service of so exalted a lady. I am a labouring + man, my name is Sancho Panza, I am married, I have children, and I am + serving as a squire; if in any one of these ways I can serve your + highness, I will not be longer in obeying than your grace in commanding.” + </p> + <p> + “It is easy to see, Sancho,” replied the duchess, “that + you have learned to be polite in the school of politeness itself; I mean + to say it is easy to see that you have been nursed in the bosom of Señor + Don Quixote, who is, of course, the cream of good breeding and flower of + ceremony—or cirimony, as you would say yourself. Fair be the + fortunes of such a master and such a servant, the one the cynosure of + knight-errantry, the other the star of squirely fidelity! Rise, Sancho, my + friend; I will repay your courtesy by taking care that my lord the duke + makes good to you the promised gift of the government as soon as possible.” + </p> + <p> + With this, the conversation came to an end, and Don Quixote retired to + take his midday sleep; but the duchess begged Sancho, unless he had a very + great desire to go to sleep, to come and spend the afternoon with her and + her damsels in a very cool chamber. Sancho replied that, though he + certainly had the habit of sleeping four or five hours in the heat of the + day in summer, to serve her excellence he would try with all his might not + to sleep even one that day, and that he would come in obedience to her + command, and with that he went off. The duke gave fresh orders with + respect to treating Don Quixote as a knight-errant, without departing even + in smallest particular from the style in which, as the stories tell us, + they used to treat the knights of old. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p32e" id="p32e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p32e.jpg (16K)" src="images/p32e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch33b" id="ch33b"></a>CHAPTER XXXIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE DELECTABLE DISCOURSE WHICH THE DUCHESS AND HER DAMSELS HELD WITH + SANCHO PANZA, WELL WORTH READING AND NOTING + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p33a" id="p33a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p33a.jpg (138K)" src="images/p33a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p33a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The history records that Sancho did not sleep that afternoon, but in order + to keep his word came, before he had well done dinner, to visit the + duchess, who, finding enjoyment in listening to him, made him sit down + beside her on a low seat, though Sancho, out of pure good breeding, wanted + not to sit down; the duchess, however, told him he was to sit down as + governor and talk as squire, as in both respects he was worthy of even the + chair of the Cid Ruy Diaz the Campeador. Sancho shrugged his shoulders, + obeyed, and sat down, and all the duchess’s damsels and duennas + gathered round him, waiting in profound silence to hear what he would say. + It was the duchess, however, who spoke first, saying: + </p> + <p> + “Now that we are alone, and that there is nobody here to overhear + us, I should be glad if the señor governor would relieve me of certain + doubts I have, rising out of the history of the great Don Quixote that is + now in print. One is: inasmuch as worthy Sancho never saw Dulcinea, I mean + the lady Dulcinea del Toboso, nor took Don Quixote’s letter to her, + for it was left in the memorandum book in the Sierra Morena, how did he + dare to invent the answer and all that about finding her sifting wheat, + the whole story being a deception and falsehood, and so much to the + prejudice of the peerless Dulcinea’s good name, a thing that is not + at all becoming the character and fidelity of a good squire?” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p33b" id="p33b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p33b.jpg (326K)" src="images/p33b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p33b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + At these words, Sancho, without uttering one in reply, got up from his + chair, and with noiseless steps, with his body bent and his finger on his + lips, went all round the room lifting up the hangings; and this done, he + came back to his seat and said, “Now, señora, that I have seen that + there is no one except the bystanders listening to us on the sly, I will + answer what you have asked me, and all you may ask me, without fear or + dread. And the first thing I have got to say is, that for my own part I + hold my master Don Quixote to be stark mad, though sometimes he says + things that, to my mind, and indeed everybody’s that listens to him, + are so wise, and run in such a straight furrow, that Satan himself could + not have said them better; but for all that, really, and beyond all + question, it’s my firm belief he is cracked. Well, then, as this is + clear to my mind, I can venture to make him believe things that have + neither head nor tail, like that affair of the answer to the letter, and + that other of six or eight days ago, which is not yet in history, that is + to say, the affair of the enchantment of my lady Dulcinea; for I made him + believe she is enchanted, though there’s no more truth in it than + over the hills of Ubeda.” + </p> + <p> + The duchess begged him to tell her about the enchantment or deception, so + Sancho told the whole story exactly as it had happened, and his hearers + were not a little amused by it; and then resuming, the duchess said, + “In consequence of what worthy Sancho has told me, a doubt starts up + in my mind, and there comes a kind of whisper to my ear that says, ‘If + Don Quixote be mad, crazy, and cracked, and Sancho Panza his squire knows + it, and, notwithstanding, serves and follows him, and goes trusting to his + empty promises, there can be no doubt he must be still madder and sillier + than his master; and that being so, it will be cast in your teeth, señora + duchess, if you give the said Sancho an island to govern; for how will he + who does not know how to govern himself know how to govern others?’” + </p> + <p> + “By God, señora,” said Sancho, “but that doubt comes + timely; but your grace may say it out, and speak plainly, or as you like; + for I know what you say is true, and if I were wise I should have left my + master long ago; but this was my fate, this was my bad luck; I can’t + help it, I must follow him; we’re from the same village, I’ve + eaten his bread, I’m fond of him, I’m grateful, he gave me his + ass-colts, and above all I’m faithful; so it’s quite + impossible for anything to separate us, except the pickaxe and shovel. And + if your highness does not like to give me the government you promised, God + made me without it, and maybe your not giving it to me will be all the + better for my conscience, for fool as I am I know the proverb ‘to + her hurt the ant got wings,’ and it may be that Sancho the squire + will get to heaven sooner than Sancho the governor. ‘They make as + good bread here as in France,’ and ‘by night all cats are + grey,’ and ‘a hard case enough his, who hasn’t broken + his fast at two in the afternoon,’ and ‘there’s no + stomach a hand’s breadth bigger than another,’ and the same + can be filled ‘with straw or hay,’ as the saying is, and + ‘the little birds of the field have God for their purveyor and + caterer,’ and ‘four yards of Cuenca frieze keep one warmer + than four of Segovia broad-cloth,’ and ‘when we quit this + world and are put underground the prince travels by as narrow a path as + the journeyman,’ and ‘the Pope’s body does not take up + more feet of earth than the sacristan’s,’ for all that the one + is higher than the other; for when we go to our graves we all pack + ourselves up and make ourselves small, or rather they pack us up and make + us small in spite of us, and then—good night to us. And I say once + more, if your ladyship does not like to give me the island because I’m + a fool, like a wise man I will take care to give myself no trouble about + it; I have heard say that ‘behind the cross there’s the devil,’ + and that ‘all that glitters is not gold,’ and that from among + the oxen, and the ploughs, and the yokes, Wamba the husbandman was taken + to be made King of Spain, and from among brocades, and pleasures, and + riches, Roderick was taken to be devoured by adders, if the verses of the + old ballads don’t lie.” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure they don’t lie!” exclaimed Dona Rodriguez, + the duenna, who was one of the listeners. “Why, there’s a + ballad that says they put King Rodrigo alive into a tomb full of toads, + and adders, and lizards, and that two days afterwards the king, in a + plaintive, feeble voice, cried out from within the tomb- + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +They gnaw me now, they gnaw me now, +There where I most did sin. + +</pre> + <p> + And according to that the gentleman has good reason to say he would rather + be a labouring man than a king, if vermin are to eat him.” + </p> + <p> + The duchess could not help laughing at the simplicity of her duenna, or + wondering at the language and proverbs of Sancho, to whom she said, + “Worthy Sancho knows very well that when once a knight has made a + promise he strives to keep it, though it should cost him his life. My lord + and husband the duke, though not one of the errant sort, is none the less + a knight for that reason, and will keep his word about the promised + island, in spite of the envy and malice of the world. Let Sancho be of + good cheer; for when he least expects it he will find himself seated on + the throne of his island and seat of dignity, and will take possession of + his government that he may discard it for another of three-bordered + brocade. The charge I give him is to be careful how he governs his + vassals, bearing in mind that they are all loyal and well-born.” + </p> + <p> + “As to governing them well,” said Sancho, “there’s + no need of charging me to do that, for I’m kind-hearted by nature, + and full of compassion for the poor; there’s no stealing the loaf + from him who kneads and bakes;’ and by my faith it won’t do to + throw false dice with me; I am an old dog, and I know all about ‘tus, + tus;’ I can be wide-awake if need be, and I don’t let clouds + come before my eyes, for I know where the shoe pinches me; I say so, + because with me the good will have support and protection, and the bad + neither footing nor access. And it seems to me that, in governments, to + make a beginning is everything; and maybe, after having been governor a + fortnight, I’ll take kindly to the work and know more about it than + the field labour I have been brought up to.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, Sancho,” said the duchess, “for no one + is born ready taught, and the bishops are made out of men and not out of + stones. But to return to the subject we were discussing just now, the + enchantment of the lady Dulcinea, I look upon it as certain, and something + more than evident, that Sancho’s idea of practising a deception upon + his master, making him believe that the peasant girl was Dulcinea and that + if he did not recognise her it must be because she was enchanted, was all + a device of one of the enchanters that persecute Don Quixote. For in truth + and earnest, I know from good authority that the coarse country wench who + jumped up on the ass was and is Dulcinea del Toboso, and that worthy + Sancho, though he fancies himself the deceiver, is the one that is + deceived; and that there is no more reason to doubt the truth of this, + than of anything else we never saw. Señor Sancho Panza must know that we + too have enchanters here that are well disposed to us, and tell us what + goes on in the world, plainly and distinctly, without subterfuge or + deception; and believe me, Sancho, that agile country lass was and is + Dulcinea del Toboso, who is as much enchanted as the mother that bore her; + and when we least expect it, we shall see her in her own proper form, and + then Sancho will be disabused of the error he is under at present.” + </p> + <p> + “All that’s very possible,” said Sancho Panza; “and + now I’m willing to believe what my master says about what he saw in + the cave of Montesinos, where he says he saw the lady Dulcinea del Toboso + in the very same dress and apparel that I said I had seen her in when I + enchanted her all to please myself. It must be all exactly the other way, + as your ladyship says; because it is impossible to suppose that out of my + poor wit such a cunning trick could be concocted in a moment, nor do I + think my master is so mad that by my weak and feeble persuasion he could + be made to believe a thing so out of all reason. But, señora, your + excellence must not therefore think me ill-disposed, for a dolt like me is + not bound to see into the thoughts and plots of those vile enchanters. I + invented all that to escape my master’s scolding, and not with any + intention of hurting him; and if it has turned out differently, there is a + God in heaven who judges our hearts.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said the duchess; “but tell me, Sancho, + what is this you say about the cave of Montesinos, for I should like to + know.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho upon this related to her, word for word, what has been said already + touching that adventure, and having heard it the duchess said, “From + this occurrence it may be inferred that, as the great Don Quixote says he + saw there the same country wench Sancho saw on the way from El Toboso, it + is, no doubt, Dulcinea, and that there are some very active and + exceedingly busy enchanters about.” + </p> + <p> + “So I say,” said Sancho, “and if my lady Dulcinea is + enchanted, so much the worse for her, and I’m not going to pick a + quarrel with my master’s enemies, who seem to be many and spiteful. + The truth is that the one I saw was a country wench, and I set her down to + be a country wench; and if that was Dulcinea it must not be laid at my + door, nor should I be called to answer for it or take the consequences. + But they must go nagging at me at every step—‘Sancho said it, + Sancho did it, Sancho here, Sancho there,’ as if Sancho was nobody + at all, and not that same Sancho Panza that’s now going all over the + world in books, so Samson Carrasco told me, and he’s at any rate one + that’s a bachelor of Salamanca; and people of that sort can’t + lie, except when the whim seizes them or they have some very good reason + for it. So there’s no occasion for anybody to quarrel with me; and + then I have a good character, and, as I have heard my master say, ‘a + good name is better than great riches;’ let them only stick me into + this government and they’ll see wonders, for one who has been a good + squire will be a good governor.” + </p> + <p> + “All worthy Sancho’s observations,” said the duchess, + “are Catonian sentences, or at any rate out of the very heart of + Michael Verino himself, who florentibus occidit annis. In fact, to speak + in his own style, ‘under a bad cloak there’s often a good + drinker.’” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, señora,” said Sancho, “I never yet drank out of + wickedness; from thirst I have very likely, for I have nothing of the + hypocrite in me; I drink when I’m inclined, or, if I’m not + inclined, when they offer it to me, so as not to look either strait-laced + or ill-bred; for when a friend drinks one’s health what heart can be + so hard as not to return it? But if I put on my shoes I don’t dirty + them; besides, squires to knights-errant mostly drink water, for they are + always wandering among woods, forests and meadows, mountains and crags, + without a drop of wine to be had if they gave their eyes for it.” + </p> + <p> + “So I believe,” said the duchess; “and now let Sancho go + and take his sleep, and we will talk by-and-by at greater length, and + settle how he may soon go and stick himself into the government, as he + says.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho once more kissed the duchess’s hand, and entreated her to let + good care be taken of his Dapple, for he was the light of his eyes. + </p> + <p> + “What is Dapple?” said the duchess. + </p> + <p> + “My ass,” said Sancho, “which, not to mention him by + that name, I’m accustomed to call Dapple; I begged this lady duenna + here to take care of him when I came into the castle, and she got as angry + as if I had said she was ugly or old, though it ought to be more natural + and proper for duennas to feed asses than to ornament chambers. God bless + me! what a spite a gentleman of my village had against these ladies!” + </p> + <p> + “He must have been some clown,” said Dona Rodriguez the + duenna; “for if he had been a gentleman and well-born he would have + exalted them higher than the horns of the moon.” + </p> + <p> + “That will do,” said the duchess; “no more of this; + hush, Dona Rodriguez, and let Señor Panza rest easy and leave the + treatment of Dapple in my charge, for as he is a treasure of Sancho’s, + I’ll put him on the apple of my eye.” + </p> + <p> + “It will be enough for him to be in the stable,” said Sancho, + “for neither he nor I are worthy to rest a moment in the apple of + your highness’s eye, and I’d as soon stab myself as consent to + it; for though my master says that in civilities it is better to lose by a + card too many than a card too few, when it comes to civilities to asses we + must mind what we are about and keep within due bounds.” + </p> + <p> + “Take him to your government, Sancho,” said the duchess, + “and there you will be able to make as much of him as you like, and + even release him from work and pension him off.” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t think, señora duchess, that you have said anything + absurd,” said Sancho; “I have seen more than two asses go to + governments, and for me to take mine with me would be nothing new.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho’s words made the duchess laugh again and gave her fresh + amusement, and dismissing him to sleep she went away to tell the duke the + conversation she had had with him, and between them they plotted and + arranged to play a joke upon Don Quixote that was to be a rare one and + entirely in knight-errantry style, and in that same style they practised + several upon him, so much in keeping and so clever that they form the best + adventures this great history contains. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p33e" id="p33e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p33e.jpg (34K)" src="images/p33e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch34b" id="ch34b"></a>CHAPTER XXXIV. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHICH RELATES HOW THEY LEARNED THE WAY IN WHICH THEY WERE TO DISENCHANT + THE PEERLESS DULCINEA DEL TOBOSO, WHICH IS ONE OF THE RAREST ADVENTURES IN + THIS BOOK + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p34a" id="p34a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p34a.jpg (141K)" src="images/p34a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p34a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Great was the pleasure the duke and duchess took in the conversation of + Don Quixote and Sancho Panza; and, more bent than ever upon the plan they + had of practising some jokes upon them that should have the look and + appearance of adventures, they took as their basis of action what Don + Quixote had already told them about the cave of Montesinos, in order to + play him a famous one. But what the duchess marvelled at above all was + that Sancho’s simplicity could be so great as to make him believe as + absolute truth that Dulcinea had been enchanted, when it was he himself + who had been the enchanter and trickster in the business. Having, + therefore, instructed their servants in everything they were to do, six + days afterwards they took him out to hunt, with as great a retinue of + huntsmen and beaters as a crowned king. + </p> + <p> + They presented Don Quixote with a hunting suit, and Sancho with another of + the finest green cloth; but Don Quixote declined to put his on, saying + that he must soon return to the hard pursuit of arms, and could not carry + wardrobes or stores with him. Sancho, however, took what they gave him, + meaning to sell it at the first opportunity. + </p> + <p> + The appointed day having arrived, Don Quixote armed himself, and Sancho + arrayed himself, and mounted on his Dapple (for he would not give him up + though they offered him a horse), he placed himself in the midst of the + troop of huntsmen. The duchess came out splendidly attired, and Don + Quixote, in pure courtesy and politeness, held the rein of her palfrey, + though the duke wanted not to allow him; and at last they reached a wood + that lay between two high mountains, where, after occupying various posts, + ambushes, and paths, and distributing the party in different positions, + the hunt began with great noise, shouting, and hallooing, so that, between + the baying of the hounds and the blowing of the horns, they could not hear + one another. The duchess dismounted, and with a sharp boar-spear in her + hand posted herself where she knew the wild boars were in the habit of + passing. The duke and Don Quixote likewise dismounted and placed + themselves one at each side of her. Sancho took up a position in the rear + of all without dismounting from Dapple, whom he dared not desert lest some + mischief should befall him. Scarcely had they taken their stand in a line + with several of their servants, when they saw a huge boar, closely pressed + by the hounds and followed by the huntsmen, making towards them, grinding + his teeth and tusks, and scattering foam from his mouth. As soon as he saw + him Don Quixote, bracing his shield on his arm, and drawing his sword, + advanced to meet him; the duke with boar-spear did the same; but the + duchess would have gone in front of them all had not the duke prevented + her. Sancho alone, deserting Dapple at the sight of the mighty beast, took + to his heels as hard as he could and strove in vain to mount a tall oak. + As he was clinging to a branch, however, half-way up in his struggle to + reach the top, the bough, such was his ill-luck and hard fate, gave way, + and caught in his fall by a broken limb of the oak, he hung suspended in + the air unable to reach the ground. Finding himself in this position, and + that the green coat was beginning to tear, and reflecting that if the + fierce animal came that way he might be able to get at him, he began to + utter such cries, and call for help so earnestly, that all who heard him + and did not see him felt sure he must be in the teeth of some wild beast. + In the end the tusked boar fell pierced by the blades of the many spears + they held in front of him; and Don Quixote, turning round at the cries of + Sancho, for he knew by them that it was he, saw him hanging from the oak + head downwards, with Dapple, who did not forsake him in his distress, + close beside him; and Cide Hamete observes that he seldom saw Sancho Panza + without seeing Dapple, or Dapple without seeing Sancho Panza; such was + their attachment and loyalty one to the other. Don Quixote went over and + unhooked Sancho, who, as soon as he found himself on the ground, looked at + the rent in his huntingcoat and was grieved to the heart, for he thought + he had got a patrimonial estate in that suit. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile they had slung the mighty boar across the back of a mule, and + having covered it with sprigs of rosemary and branches of myrtle, they + bore it away as the spoils of victory to some large field-tents which had + been pitched in the middle of the wood, where they found the tables laid + and dinner served, in such grand and sumptuous style that it was easy to + see the rank and magnificence of those who had provided it. Sancho, as he + showed the rents in his torn suit to the duchess, observed, “If we + had been hunting hares, or after small birds, my coat would have been safe + from being in the plight it’s in; I don’t know what pleasure + one can find in lying in wait for an animal that may take your life with + his tusk if he gets at you. I recollect having heard an old ballad sung + that says, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +By bears be thou devoured, as erst +Was famous Favila.” + + +</pre> + <p> + “That,” said Don Quixote, “was a Gothic king, who, going + a-hunting, was devoured by a bear.” + </p> + <p> + “Just so,” said Sancho; “and I would not have kings and + princes expose themselves to such dangers for the sake of a pleasure + which, to my mind, ought not to be one, as it consists in killing an + animal that has done no harm whatever.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite the contrary, Sancho; you are wrong there,” said the + duke; “for hunting is more suitable and requisite for kings and + princes than for anybody else. The chase is the emblem of war; it has + stratagems, wiles, and crafty devices for overcoming the enemy in safety; + in it extreme cold and intolerable heat have to be borne, indolence and + sleep are despised, the bodily powers are invigorated, the limbs of him + who engages in it are made supple, and, in a word, it is a pursuit which + may be followed without injury to anyone and with enjoyment to many; and + the best of it is, it is not for everybody, as field-sports of other sorts + are, except hawking, which also is only for kings and great lords. + Reconsider your opinion therefore, Sancho, and when you are governor take + to hunting, and you will find the good of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay,” said Sancho, “the good governor should have a + broken leg and keep at home;” it would be a nice thing if, after + people had been at the trouble of coming to look for him on business, the + governor were to be away in the forest enjoying himself; the government + would go on badly in that fashion. By my faith, señor, hunting and + amusements are more fit for idlers than for governors; what I intend to + amuse myself with is playing all fours at Eastertime, and bowls on Sundays + and holidays; for these huntings don’t suit my condition or agree + with my conscience.” + </p> + <p> + “God grant it may turn out so,” said the duke; “because + it’s a long step from saying to doing.” + </p> + <p> + “Be that as it may,” said Sancho, “‘pledges don’t + distress a good payer,’ and ‘he whom God helps does better + than he who gets up early,’ and ‘it’s the tripes that + carry the feet and not the feet the tripes;’ I mean to say that if + God gives me help and I do my duty honestly, no doubt I’ll govern + better than a gerfalcon. Nay, let them only put a finger in my mouth, and + they’ll see whether I can bite or not.” + </p> + <p> + “The curse of God and all his saints upon thee, thou accursed + Sancho!” exclaimed Don Quixote; “when will the day come—as + I have often said to thee—when I shall hear thee make one single + coherent, rational remark without proverbs? Pray, your highnesses, leave + this fool alone, for he will grind your souls between, not to say two, but + two thousand proverbs, dragged in as much in season, and as much to the + purpose as—may God grant as much health to him, or to me if I want + to listen to them!” + </p> + <p> + “Sancho Panza’s proverbs,” said the duchess, “though + more in number than the Greek Commander’s, are not therefore less to + be esteemed for the conciseness of the maxims. For my own part, I can say + they give me more pleasure than others that may be better brought in and + more seasonably introduced.” + </p> + <p> + In pleasant conversation of this sort they passed out of the tent into the + wood, and the day was spent in visiting some of the posts and + hiding-places, and then night closed in, not, however, as brilliantly or + tranquilly as might have been expected at the season, for it was then + midsummer; but bringing with it a kind of haze that greatly aided the + project of the duke and duchess; and thus, as night began to fall, and a + little after twilight set in, suddenly the whole wood on all four sides + seemed to be on fire, and shortly after, here, there, on all sides, a vast + number of trumpets and other military instruments were heard, as if + several troops of cavalry were passing through the wood. The blaze of the + fire and the noise of the warlike instruments almost blinded the eyes and + deafened the ears of those that stood by, and indeed of all who were in + the wood. Then there were heard repeated lelilies after the fashion of the + Moors when they rush to battle; trumpets and clarions brayed, drums beat, + fifes played, so unceasingly and so fast that he could not have had any + senses who did not lose them with the confused din of so many instruments. + The duke was astounded, the duchess amazed, Don Quixote wondering, Sancho + Panza trembling, and indeed, even they who were aware of the cause were + frightened. In their fear, silence fell upon them, and a postillion, in + the guise of a demon, passed in front of them, blowing, in lieu of a + bugle, a huge hollow horn that gave out a horrible hoarse note. + </p> + <p> + “Ho there! brother courier,” cried the duke, “who are + you? Where are you going? What troops are these that seem to be passing + through the wood?” + </p> + <p> + To which the courier replied in a harsh, discordant voice, “I am the + devil; I am in search of Don Quixote of La Mancha; those who are coming + this way are six troops of enchanters, who are bringing on a triumphal car + the peerless Dulcinea del Toboso; she comes under enchantment, together + with the gallant Frenchman Montesinos, to give instructions to Don Quixote + as to how, she the said lady, may be disenchanted.” + </p> + <p> + “If you were the devil, as you say and as your appearance indicates,” + said the duke, “you would have known the said knight Don Quixote of + La Mancha, for you have him here before you.” + </p> + <p> + “By God and upon my conscience,” said the devil, “I + never observed it, for my mind is occupied with so many different things + that I was forgetting the main thing I came about.” + </p> + <p> + “This demon must be an honest fellow and a good Christian,” + said Sancho; “for if he wasn’t he wouldn’t swear by God + and his conscience; I feel sure now there must be good souls even in hell + itself.” + </p> + <p> + Without dismounting, the demon then turned to Don Quixote and said, + “The unfortunate but valiant knight Montesinos sends me to thee, the + Knight of the Lions (would that I saw thee in their claws), bidding me + tell thee to wait for him wherever I may find thee, as he brings with him + her whom they call Dulcinea del Toboso, that he may show thee what is + needful in order to disenchant her; and as I came for no more I need stay + no longer; demons of my sort be with thee, and good angels with these + gentles;” and so saying he blew his huge horn, turned about and went + off without waiting for a reply from anyone. + </p> + <p> + They all felt fresh wonder, but particularly Sancho and Don Quixote; + Sancho to see how, in defiance of the truth, they would have it that + Dulcinea was enchanted; Don Quixote because he could not feel sure whether + what had happened to him in the cave of Montesinos was true or not; and as + he was deep in these cogitations the duke said to him, “Do you mean + to wait, Señor Don Quixote?” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” replied he; “here will I wait, fearless and + firm, though all hell should come to attack me.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then, if I see another devil or hear another horn like the + last, I’ll wait here as much as in Flanders,” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + Night now closed in more completely, and many lights began to flit through + the wood, just as those fiery exhalations from the earth, that look like + shooting-stars to our eyes, flit through the heavens; a frightful noise, + too, was heard, like that made by the solid wheels the ox-carts usually + have, by the harsh, ceaseless creaking of which, they say, the bears and + wolves are put to flight, if there happen to be any where they are + passing. In addition to all this commotion, there came a further + disturbance to increase the tumult, for now it seemed as if in truth, on + all four sides of the wood, four encounters or battles were going on at + the same time; in one quarter resounded the dull noise of a terrible + cannonade, in another numberless muskets were being discharged, the shouts + of the combatants sounded almost close at hand, and farther away the + Moorish lelilies were raised again and again. In a word, the bugles, the + horns, the clarions, the trumpets, the drums, the cannon, the musketry, + and above all the tremendous noise of the carts, all made up together a + din so confused and terrific that Don Quixote had need to summon up all + his courage to brave it; but Sancho’s gave way, and he fell fainting + on the skirt of the duchess’s robe, who let him lie there and + promptly bade them throw water in his face. This was done, and he came to + himself by the time that one of the carts with the creaking wheels reached + the spot. It was drawn by four plodding oxen all covered with black + housings; on each horn they had fixed a large lighted wax taper, and on + the top of the cart was constructed a raised seat, on which sat a + venerable old man with a beard whiter than the very snow, and so long that + it fell below his waist; he was dressed in a long robe of black buckram; + for as the cart was thickly set with a multitude of candles it was easy to + make out everything that was on it. Leading it were two hideous demons, + also clad in buckram, with countenances so frightful that Sancho, having + once seen them, shut his eyes so as not to see them again. As soon as the + cart came opposite the spot the old man rose from his lofty seat, and + standing up said in a loud voice, “I am the sage Lirgandeo,” + and without another word the cart then passed on. Behind it came another + of the same form, with another aged man enthroned, who, stopping the cart, + said in a voice no less solemn than that of the first, “I am the + sage Alquife, the great friend of Urganda the Unknown,” and passed + on. Then another cart came by at the same pace, but the occupant of the + throne was not old like the others, but a man stalwart and robust, and of + a forbidding countenance, who as he came up said in a voice far hoarser + and more devilish, “I am the enchanter Archelaus, the mortal enemy + of Amadis of Gaul and all his kindred,” and then passed on. Having + gone a short distance the three carts halted and the monotonous noise of + their wheels ceased, and soon after they heard another, not noise, but + sound of sweet, harmonious music, of which Sancho was very glad, taking it + to be a good sign; and said he to the duchess, from whom he did not stir a + step, or for a single instant, “Señora, where there’s music + there can’t be mischief.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor where there are lights and it is bright,” said the + duchess; to which Sancho replied, “Fire gives light, and it’s + bright where there are bonfires, as we see by those that are all round us + and perhaps may burn us; but music is a sign of mirth and merrymaking.” + </p> + <p> + “That remains to be seen,” said Don Quixote, who was listening + to all that passed; and he was right, as is shown in the following + chapter. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p34e" id="p34e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p34e.jpg (47K)" src="images/p34e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch35b" id="ch35b"></a>CHAPTER XXXV. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS CONTINUED THE INSTRUCTION GIVEN TO DON QUIXOTE TOUCHING THE + DISENCHANTMENT OF DULCINEA, TOGETHER WITH OTHER MARVELLOUS INCIDENTS + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p35a" id="p35a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p35a.jpg (108K)" src="images/p35a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p35a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + They saw advancing towards them, to the sound of this pleasing music, what + they call a triumphal car, drawn by six grey mules with white linen + housings, on each of which was mounted a penitent, robed also in white, + with a large lighted wax taper in his hand. The car was twice or, perhaps, + three times as large as the former ones, and in front and on the sides + stood twelve more penitents, all as white as snow and all with lighted + tapers, a spectacle to excite fear as well as wonder; and on a raised + throne was seated a nymph draped in a multitude of silver-tissue veils + with an embroidery of countless gold spangles glittering all over them, + that made her appear, if not richly, at least brilliantly, apparelled. She + had her face covered with thin transparent sendal, the texture of which + did not prevent the fair features of a maiden from being distinguished, + while the numerous lights made it possible to judge of her beauty and of + her years, which seemed to be not less than seventeen but not to have yet + reached twenty. Beside her was a figure in a robe of state, as they call + it, reaching to the feet, while the head was covered with a black veil. + But the instant the car was opposite the duke and duchess and Don Quixote + the music of the clarions ceased, and then that of the lutes and harps on + the car, and the figure in the robe rose up, and flinging it apart and + removing the veil from its face, disclosed to their eyes the shape of + Death itself, fleshless and hideous, at which sight Don Quixote felt + uneasy, Sancho frightened, and the duke and duchess displayed a certain + trepidation. Having risen to its feet, this living death, in a sleepy + voice and with a tongue hardly awake, held forth as follows: + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p35b" id="p35b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p35b.jpg (232K)" src="images/p35b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p35b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +I am that Merlin who the legends say +The devil had for father, and the lie +Hath gathered credence with the lapse of time. +Of magic prince, of Zoroastric lore +Monarch and treasurer, with jealous eye +I view the efforts of the age to hide +The gallant deeds of doughty errant knights, +Who are, and ever have been, dear to me. + Enchanters and magicians and their kind +Are mostly hard of heart; not so am I; +For mine is tender, soft, compassionate, +And its delight is doing good to all. +In the dim caverns of the gloomy Dis, +Where, tracing mystic lines and characters, +My soul abideth now, there came to me +The sorrow-laden plaint of her, the fair, +The peerless Dulcinea del Toboso. +I knew of her enchantment and her fate, +From high-born dame to peasant wench transformed +And touched with pity, first I turned the leaves +Of countless volumes of my devilish craft, +And then, in this grim grisly skeleton +Myself encasing, hither have I come +To show where lies the fitting remedy +To give relief in such a piteous case. + O thou, the pride and pink of all that I wear +The adamantine steel! O shining light, +O beacon, polestar, path and guide of all +Who, scorning slumber and the lazy down, +Adopt the toilsome life of bloodstained arms! +To thee, great hero who all praise transcends, +La Mancha’s lustre and Iberia’s star, +Don Quixote, wise as brave, to thee I say— +For peerless Dulcinea del Toboso +Her pristine form and beauty to regain, +‘T is needful that thy esquire Sancho shall, +On his own sturdy buttocks bared to heaven, +Three thousand and three hundred lashes lay, +And that they smart and sting and hurt him well. +Thus have the authors of her woe resolved. +And this is, gentles, wherefore I have come. + +</pre> + <p> + “By all that’s good,” exclaimed Sancho at this, “I’ll + just as soon give myself three stabs with a dagger as three, not to say + three thousand, lashes. The devil take such a way of disenchanting! I don’t + see what my backside has got to do with enchantments. By God, if Señor + Merlin has not found out some other way of disenchanting the lady Dulcinea + del Toboso, she may go to her grave enchanted.” + </p> + <p> + “But I’ll take you, Don Clown stuffed with garlic,” said + Don Quixote, “and tie you to a tree as naked as when your mother + brought you forth, and give you, not to say three thousand three hundred, + but six thousand six hundred lashes, and so well laid on that they won’t + be got rid of if you try three thousand three hundred times; don’t + answer me a word or I’ll tear your soul out.” + </p> + <p> + On hearing this Merlin said, “That will not do, for the lashes + worthy Sancho has to receive must be given of his own free will and not by + force, and at whatever time he pleases, for there is no fixed limit + assigned to him; but it is permitted him, if he likes to commute by half + the pain of this whipping, to let them be given by the hand of another, + though it may be somewhat weighty.” + </p> + <p> + “Not a hand, my own or anybody else’s, weighty or weighable, + shall touch me,” said Sancho. “Was it I that gave birth to the + lady Dulcinea del Toboso, that my backside is to pay for the sins of her + eyes? My master, indeed, that’s a part of her—for, he’s + always calling her ‘my life’ and ‘my soul,’ and + his stay and prop—may and ought to whip himself for her and take all + the trouble required for her disenchantment. But for me to whip myself! + Abernuncio!” + </p> + <p> + As soon as Sancho had done speaking the nymph in silver that was at the + side of Merlin’s ghost stood up, and removing the thin veil from her + face disclosed one that seemed to all something more than exceedingly + beautiful; and with a masculine freedom from embarrassment and in a voice + not very like a lady’s, addressing Sancho directly, said, “Thou + wretched squire, soul of a pitcher, heart of a cork tree, with bowels of + flint and pebbles; if, thou impudent thief, they bade thee throw thyself + down from some lofty tower; if, enemy of mankind, they asked thee to + swallow a dozen of toads, two of lizards, and three of adders; if they + wanted thee to slay thy wife and children with a sharp murderous scimitar, + it would be no wonder for thee to show thyself stubborn and squeamish. But + to make a piece of work about three thousand three hundred lashes, what + every poor little charity-boy gets every month—it is enough to + amaze, astonish, astound the compassionate bowels of all who hear it, nay, + all who come to hear it in the course of time. Turn, O miserable, + hard-hearted animal, turn, I say, those timorous owl’s eyes upon + these of mine that are compared to radiant stars, and thou wilt see them + weeping trickling streams and rills, and tracing furrows, tracks, and + paths over the fair fields of my cheeks. Let it move thee, crafty, + ill-conditioned monster, to see my blooming youth—still in its + teens, for I am not yet twenty—wasting and withering away beneath + the husk of a rude peasant wench; and if I do not appear in that shape + now, it is a special favour Señor Merlin here has granted me, to the sole + end that my beauty may soften thee; for the tears of beauty in distress + turn rocks into cotton and tigers into ewes. Lay on to that hide of thine, + thou great untamed brute, rouse up thy lusty vigour that only urges thee + to eat and eat, and set free the softness of my flesh, the gentleness of + my nature, and the fairness of my face. And if thou wilt not relent or + come to reason for me, do so for the sake of that poor knight thou hast + beside thee; thy master I mean, whose soul I can this moment see, how he + has it stuck in his throat not ten fingers from his lips, and only waiting + for thy inflexible or yielding reply to make its escape by his mouth or go + back again into his stomach.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote on hearing this felt his throat, and turning to the duke he + said, “By God, señor, Dulcinea says true, I have my soul stuck here + in my throat like the nut of a crossbow.” + </p> + <p> + “What say you to this, Sancho?” said the duchess. + </p> + <p> + “I say, señora,” returned Sancho, “what I said before; + as for the lashes, abernuncio!” + </p> + <p> + “Abrenuncio, you should say, Sancho, and not as you do,” said + the duke. + </p> + <p> + “Let me alone, your highness,” said Sancho. “I’m + not in a humour now to look into niceties or a letter more or less, for + these lashes that are to be given me, or I’m to give myself, have so + upset me, that I don’t know what I’m saying or doing. But I’d + like to know of this lady, my lady Dulcinea del Toboso, where she learned + this way she has of asking favours. She comes to ask me to score my flesh + with lashes, and she calls me soul of a pitcher, and great untamed brute, + and a string of foul names that the devil is welcome to. Is my flesh + brass? or is it anything to me whether she is enchanted or not? Does she + bring with her a basket of fair linen, shirts, kerchiefs, socks—not + that I wear any—to coax me? No, nothing but one piece of abuse after + another, though she knows the proverb they have here that ‘an ass + loaded with gold goes lightly up a mountain,’ and that ‘gifts + break rocks,’ and ‘praying to God and plying the hammer,’ + and that ‘one “take” is better than two “I’ll + give thee’s.”’ Then there’s my master, who ought + to stroke me down and pet me to make me turn wool and carded cotton; he + says if he gets hold of me he’ll tie me naked to a tree and double + the tale of lashes on me. These tender-hearted gentry should consider that + it’s not merely a squire, but a governor they are asking to whip + himself; just as if it was ‘drink with cherries.’ Let them + learn, plague take them, the right way to ask, and beg, and behave + themselves; for all times are not alike, nor are people always in good + humour. I’m now ready to burst with grief at seeing my green coat + torn, and they come to ask me to whip myself of my own free will, I having + as little fancy for it as for turning cacique.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then, the fact is, friend Sancho,” said the duke, + “that unless you become softer than a ripe fig, you shall not get + hold of the government. It would be a nice thing for me to send my + islanders a cruel governor with flinty bowels, who won’t yield to + the tears of afflicted damsels or to the prayers of wise, magisterial, + ancient enchanters and sages. In short, Sancho, either you must be whipped + by yourself, or they must whip you, or you shan’t be governor.” + </p> + <p> + “Señor,” said Sancho, “won’t two days’ grace + be given me in which to consider what is best for me?” + </p> + <p> + “No, certainly not,” said Merlin; “here, this minute, + and on the spot, the matter must be settled; either Dulcinea will return + to the cave of Montesinos and to her former condition of peasant wench, or + else in her present form shall be carried to the Elysian fields, where she + will remain waiting until the number of stripes is completed.” + </p> + <p> + “Now then, Sancho!” said the duchess, “show courage, and + gratitude for your master Don Quixote’s bread that you have eaten; + we are all bound to oblige and please him for his benevolent disposition + and lofty chivalry. Consent to this whipping, my son; to the devil with + the devil, and leave fear to milksops, for ‘a stout heart breaks bad + luck,’ as you very well know.” + </p> + <p> + To this Sancho replied with an irrelevant remark, which, addressing + Merlin, he made to him, “Will your worship tell me, Señor Merlin—when + that courier devil came up he gave my master a message from Señor + Montesinos, charging him to wait for him here, as he was coming to arrange + how the lady Dona Dulcinea del Toboso was to be disenchanted; but up to + the present we have not seen Montesinos, nor anything like him.” + </p> + <p> + To which Merlin made answer, “The devil, Sancho, is a blockhead and + a great scoundrel; I sent him to look for your master, but not with a + message from Montesinos but from myself; for Montesinos is in his cave + expecting, or more properly speaking, waiting for his disenchantment; for + there’s the tail to be skinned yet for him; if he owes you anything, + or you have any business to transact with him, I’ll bring him to you + and put him where you choose; but for the present make up your mind to + consent to this penance, and believe me it will be very good for you, for + soul as well for body—for your soul because of the charity with + which you perform it, for your body because I know that you are of a + sanguine habit and it will do you no harm to draw a little blood.” + </p> + <p> + “There are a great many doctors in the world; even the enchanters + are doctors,” said Sancho; “however, as everybody tells me the + same thing—though I can’t see it myself—I say I am + willing to give myself the three thousand three hundred lashes, provided I + am to lay them on whenever I like, without any fixing of days or times; + and I’ll try and get out of debt as quickly as I can, that the world + may enjoy the beauty of the lady Dulcinea del Toboso; as it seems, + contrary to what I thought, that she is beautiful after all. It must be a + condition, too, that I am not to be bound to draw blood with the scourge, + and that if any of the lashes happen to be fly-flappers they are to count. + Item, that, in case I should make any mistake in the reckoning, Señor + Merlin, as he knows everything, is to keep count, and let me know how many + are still wanting or over the number.” + </p> + <p> + “There will be no need to let you know of any over,” said + Merlin, “because, when you reach the full number, the lady Dulcinea + will at once, and that very instant, be disenchanted, and will come in her + gratitude to seek out the worthy Sancho, and thank him, and even reward + him for the good work. So you have no cause to be uneasy about stripes too + many or too few; heaven forbid I should cheat anyone of even a hair of his + head.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then, in God’s hands be it,” said Sancho; “in + the hard case I’m in I give in; I say I accept the penance on the + conditions laid down.” + </p> + <p> + The instant Sancho uttered these last words the music of the clarions + struck up once more, and again a host of muskets were discharged, and Don + Quixote hung on Sancho’s neck kissing him again and again on the + forehead and cheeks. The duchess and the duke expressed the greatest + satisfaction, the car began to move on, and as it passed the fair Dulcinea + bowed to the duke and duchess and made a low curtsey to Sancho. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p35c" id="p35c"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p35c.jpg (284K)" src="images/p35c.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p35c.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + And now bright smiling dawn came on apace; the flowers of the field, + revived, raised up their heads, and the crystal waters of the brooks, + murmuring over the grey and white pebbles, hastened to pay their tribute + to the expectant rivers; the glad earth, the unclouded sky, the fresh + breeze, the clear light, each and all showed that the day that came + treading on the skirts of morning would be calm and bright. The duke and + duchess, pleased with their hunt and at having carried out their plans so + cleverly and successfully, returned to their castle resolved to follow up + their joke; for to them there was no reality that could afford them more + amusement. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p35e" id="p35e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p35e.jpg (10K)" src="images/p35e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch36b" id="ch36b"></a>CHAPTER XXXVI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS RELATED THE STRANGE AND UNDREAMT-OF ADVENTURE OF THE DISTRESSED + DUENNA, ALIAS THE COUNTESS TRIFALDI, TOGETHER WITH A LETTER WHICH SANCHO + PANZA WROTE TO HIS WIFE, TERESA PANZA + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p36a" id="p36a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p36a.jpg (150K)" src="images/p36a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p36a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The duke had a majordomo of a very facetious and sportive turn, and he it + was that played the part of Merlin, made all the arrangements for the late + adventure, composed the verses, and got a page to represent Dulcinea; and + now, with the assistance of his master and mistress, he got up another of + the drollest and strangest contrivances that can be imagined. + </p> + <p> + The duchess asked Sancho the next day if he had made a beginning with his + penance task which he had to perform for the disenchantment of Dulcinea. + He said he had, and had given himself five lashes overnight. + </p> + <p> + The duchess asked him what he had given them with. + </p> + <p> + He said with his hand. + </p> + <p> + “That,” said the duchess, “is more like giving oneself + slaps than lashes; I am sure the sage Merlin will not be satisfied with + such tenderness; worthy Sancho must make a scourge with claws, or a cat-o’-nine + tails, that will make itself felt; for it’s with blood that letters + enter, and the release of so great a lady as Dulcinea will not be granted + so cheaply, or at such a paltry price; and remember, Sancho, that works of + charity done in a lukewarm and half-hearted way are without merit and of + no avail.” + </p> + <p> + To which Sancho replied, “If your ladyship will give me a proper + scourge or cord, I’ll lay on with it, provided it does not hurt too + much; for you must know, boor as I am, my flesh is more cotton than hemp, + and it won’t do for me to destroy myself for the good of anybody + else.” + </p> + <p> + “So be it by all means,” said the duchess; “to-morrow I’ll + give you a scourge that will be just the thing for you, and will + accommodate itself to the tenderness of your flesh, as if it was its own + sister.” + </p> + <p> + Then said Sancho, “Your highness must know, dear lady of my soul, + that I have a letter written to my wife, Teresa Panza, giving her an + account of all that has happened me since I left her; I have it here in my + bosom, and there’s nothing wanting but to put the address to it; I’d + be glad if your discretion would read it, for I think it runs in the + governor style; I mean the way governors ought to write.” + </p> + <p> + “And who dictated it?” asked the duchess. + </p> + <p> + “Who should have dictated but myself, sinner as I am?” said + Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “And did you write it yourself?” said the duchess. + </p> + <p> + “That I didn’t,” said Sancho; “for I can neither + read nor write, though I can sign my name.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us see it,” said the duchess, “for never fear but + you display in it the quality and quantity of your wit.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho drew out an open letter from his bosom, and the duchess, taking it, + found it ran in this fashion: + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + SANCHO PANZA’S LETTER TO HIS WIFE, TERESA PANZA + </p> + <p> + If I was well whipped I went mounted like a gentleman; if I have got a + good government it is at the cost of a good whipping. Thou wilt not + understand this just now, my Teresa; by-and-by thou wilt know what it + means. I may tell thee, Teresa, I mean thee to go in a coach, for that + is a matter of importance, because every other way of going is going on + all-fours. Thou art a governor’s wife; take care that nobody + speaks evil of thee behind thy back. I send thee here a green hunting + suit that my lady the duchess gave me; alter it so as to make a + petticoat and bodice for our daughter. Don Quixote, my master, if I am + to believe what I hear in these parts, is a madman of some sense, and a + droll blockhead, and I am in no way behind him. We have been in the cave + of Montesinos, and the sage Merlin has laid hold of me for the + disenchantment of Dulcinea del Toboso, her that is called Aldonza + Lorenzo over there. With three thousand three hundred lashes, less five, + that I’m to give myself, she will be left as entirely disenchanted + as the mother that bore her. Say nothing of this to anyone; for, make + thy affairs public, and some will say they are white and others will say + they are black. I shall leave this in a few days for my government, to + which I am going with a mighty great desire to make money, for they tell + me all new governors set out with the same desire; I will feel the pulse + of it and will let thee know if thou art to come and live with me or + not. Dapple is well and sends many remembrances to thee; I am not going + to leave him behind though they took me away to be Grand Turk. My lady + the duchess kisses thy hands a thousand times; do thou make a return + with two thousand, for as my master says, nothing costs less or is + cheaper than civility. God has not been pleased to provide another + valise for me with another hundred crowns, like the one the other day; + but never mind, my Teresa, the bell-ringer is in safe quarters, and all + will come out in the scouring of the government; only it troubles me + greatly what they tell me—that once I have tasted it I will eat my + hands off after it; and if that is so it will not come very cheap to me; + though to be sure the maimed have a benefice of their own in the alms + they beg for; so that one way or another thou wilt be rich and in luck. + God give it to thee as he can, and keep me to serve thee. From this + castle, the 20th of July, 1614. + </p> + <p> + Thy husband, the governor. + </p> + <p> + SANCHO PANZA + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + When she had done reading the letter the duchess said to Sancho, “On + two points the worthy governor goes rather astray; one is in saying or + hinting that this government has been bestowed upon him for the lashes + that he is to give himself, when he knows (and he cannot deny it) that + when my lord the duke promised it to him nobody ever dreamt of such a + thing as lashes; the other is that he shows himself here to be very + covetous; and I would not have him a money-seeker, for ‘covetousness + bursts the bag,’ and the covetous governor does ungoverned justice.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t mean it that way, señora,” said Sancho; “and + if you think the letter doesn’t run as it ought to do, it’s + only to tear it up and make another; and maybe it will be a worse one if + it is left to my gumption.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” said the duchess, “this one will do, and I + wish the duke to see it.” + </p> + <p> + With this they betook themselves to a garden where they were to dine, and + the duchess showed Sancho’s letter to the duke, who was highly + delighted with it. They dined, and after the cloth had been removed and + they had amused themselves for a while with Sancho’s rich + conversation, the melancholy sound of a fife and harsh discordant drum + made itself heard. All seemed somewhat put out by this dull, confused, + martial harmony, especially Don Quixote, who could not keep his seat from + pure disquietude; as to Sancho, it is needless to say that fear drove him + to his usual refuge, the side or the skirts of the duchess; and indeed and + in truth the sound they heard was a most doleful and melancholy one. While + they were still in uncertainty they saw advancing towards them through the + garden two men clad in mourning robes so long and flowing that they + trailed upon the ground. As they marched they beat two great drums which + were likewise draped in black, and beside them came the fife player, black + and sombre like the others. Following these came a personage of gigantic + stature enveloped rather than clad in a gown of the deepest black, the + skirt of which was of prodigious dimensions. Over the gown, girdling or + crossing his figure, he had a broad baldric which was also black, and from + which hung a huge scimitar with a black scabbard and furniture. He had his + face covered with a transparent black veil, through which might be + descried a very long beard as white as snow. He came on keeping step to + the sound of the drums with great gravity and dignity; and, in short, his + stature, his gait, the sombreness of his appearance and his following + might well have struck with astonishment, as they did, all who beheld him + without knowing who he was. With this measured pace and in this guise he + advanced to kneel before the duke, who, with the others, awaited him + standing. The duke, however, would not on any account allow him to speak + until he had risen. The prodigious scarecrow obeyed, and standing up, + removed the veil from his face and disclosed the most enormous, the + longest, the whitest and the thickest beard that human eyes had ever + beheld until that moment, and then fetching up a grave, sonorous voice + from the depths of his broad, capacious chest, and fixing his eyes on the + duke, he said: + </p> + <p> + “Most high and mighty señor, my name is Trifaldin of the White + Beard; I am squire to the Countess Trifaldi, otherwise called the + Distressed Duenna, on whose behalf I bear a message to your highness, + which is that your magnificence will be pleased to grant her leave and + permission to come and tell you her trouble, which is one of the strangest + and most wonderful that the mind most familiar with trouble in the world + could have imagined; but first she desires to know if the valiant and + never vanquished knight, Don Quixote of La Mancha, is in this your castle, + for she has come in quest of him on foot and without breaking her fast + from the kingdom of Kandy to your realms here; a thing which may and ought + to be regarded as a miracle or set down to enchantment; she is even now at + the gate of this fortress or plaisance, and only waits for your permission + to enter. I have spoken.” And with that he coughed, and stroked down + his beard with both his hands, and stood very tranquilly waiting for the + response of the duke, which was to this effect: “Many days ago, + worthy squire Trifaldin of the White Beard, we heard of the misfortune of + my lady the Countess Trifaldi, whom the enchanters have caused to be + called the Distressed Duenna. Bid her enter, O stupendous squire, and tell + her that the valiant knight Don Quixote of La Mancha is here, and from his + generous disposition she may safely promise herself every protection and + assistance; and you may tell her, too, that if my aid be necessary it will + not be withheld, for I am bound to give it to her by my quality of knight, + which involves the protection of women of all sorts, especially widowed, + wronged, and distressed dames, such as her ladyship seems to be.” + </p> + <p> + On hearing this Trifaldin bent the knee to the ground, and making a sign + to the fifer and drummers to strike up, he turned and marched out of the + garden to the same notes and at the same pace as when he entered, leaving + them all amazed at his bearing and solemnity. Turning to Don Quixote, the + duke said, “After all, renowned knight, the mists of malice and + ignorance are unable to hide or obscure the light of valour and virtue. I + say so, because your excellence has been barely six days in this castle, + and already the unhappy and the afflicted come in quest of you from lands + far distant and remote, and not in coaches or on dromedaries, but on foot + and fasting, confident that in that mighty arm they will find a cure for + their sorrows and troubles; thanks to your great achievements, which are + circulated all over the known earth.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish, señor duke,” replied Don Quixote, “that blessed + ecclesiastic, who at table the other day showed such ill-will and bitter + spite against knights-errant, were here now to see with his own eyes + whether knights of the sort are needed in the world; he would at any rate + learn by experience that those suffering any extraordinary affliction or + sorrow, in extreme cases and unusual misfortunes do not go to look for a + remedy to the houses of jurists or village sacristans, or to the knight + who has never attempted to pass the bounds of his own town, or to the + indolent courtier who only seeks for news to repeat and talk of, instead + of striving to do deeds and exploits for others to relate and record. + Relief in distress, help in need, protection for damsels, consolation for + widows, are to be found in no sort of persons better than in + knights-errant; and I give unceasing thanks to heaven that I am one, and + regard any misfortune or suffering that may befall me in the pursuit of so + honourable a calling as endured to good purpose. Let this duenna come and + ask what she will, for I will effect her relief by the might of my arm and + the dauntless resolution of my bold heart.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p36e" id="p36e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p36e.jpg (22K)" src="images/p36e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch37b" id="ch37b"></a>CHAPTER XXXVII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS CONTINUED THE NOTABLE ADVENTURE OF THE DISTRESSED DUENNA + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p37a" id="p37a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p37a.jpg (94K)" src="images/p37a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p37a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The duke and duchess were extremely glad to see how readily Don Quixote + fell in with their scheme; but at this moment Sancho observed, “I + hope this señora duenna won’t be putting any difficulties in the way + of the promise of my government; for I have heard a Toledo apothecary, who + talked like a goldfinch, say that where duennas were mixed up nothing good + could happen. God bless me, how he hated them, that same apothecary! And + so what I’m thinking is, if all duennas, of whatever sort or + condition they may be, are plagues and busybodies, what must they be that + are distressed, like this Countess Three-skirts or Three-tails!—for + in my country skirts or tails, tails or skirts, it’s all one.” + </p> + <p> + “Hush, friend Sancho,” said Don Quixote; “since this + lady duenna comes in quest of me from such a distant land she cannot be + one of those the apothecary meant; moreover this is a countess, and when + countesses serve as duennas it is in the service of queens and empresses, + for in their own houses they are mistresses paramount and have other + duennas to wait on them.” + </p> + <p> + To this Dona Rodriguez, who was present, made answer, “My lady the + duchess has duennas in her service that might be countesses if it was the + will of fortune; ‘but laws go as kings like;’ let nobody speak + ill of duennas, above all of ancient maiden ones; for though I am not one + myself, I know and am aware of the advantage a maiden duenna has over one + that is a widow; but ‘he who clipped us has kept the scissors.’” + </p> + <p> + “For all that,” said Sancho, “there’s so much to + be clipped about duennas, so my barber said, that ‘it will be better + not to stir the rice even though it sticks.’” + </p> + <p> + “These squires,” returned Dona Rodriguez, “are always + our enemies; and as they are the haunting spirits of the antechambers and + watch us at every step, whenever they are not saying their prayers (and + that’s often enough) they spend their time in tattling about us, + digging up our bones and burying our good name. But I can tell these + walking blocks that we will live in spite of them, and in great houses + too, though we die of hunger and cover our flesh, be it delicate or not, + with widow’s weeds, as one covers or hides a dunghill on a + procession day. By my faith, if it were permitted me and time allowed, I + could prove, not only to those here present, but to all the world, that + there is no virtue that is not to be found in a duenna.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no doubt,” said the duchess, “that my good Dona + Rodriguez is right, and very much so; but she had better bide her time for + fighting her own battle and that of the rest of the duennas, so as to + crush the calumny of that vile apothecary, and root out the prejudice in + the great Sancho Panza’s mind.” + </p> + <p> + To which Sancho replied, “Ever since I have sniffed the governorship + I have got rid of the humours of a squire, and I don’t care a wild + fig for all the duennas in the world.” + </p> + <p> + They would have carried on this duenna dispute further had they not heard + the notes of the fife and drums once more, from which they concluded that + the Distressed Duenna was making her entrance. The duchess asked the duke + if it would be proper to go out to receive her, as she was a countess and + a person of rank. + </p> + <p> + “In respect of her being a countess,” said Sancho, before the + duke could reply, “I am for your highnesses going out to receive + her; but in respect of her being a duenna, it is my opinion you should not + stir a step.” + </p> + <p> + “Who bade thee meddle in this, Sancho?” said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “Who, señor?” said Sancho; “I meddle for I have a right + to meddle, as a squire who has learned the rules of courtesy in the school + of your worship, the most courteous and best-bred knight in the whole + world of courtliness; and in these things, as I have heard your worship + say, as much is lost by a card too many as by a card too few, and to one + who has his ears open, few words.” + </p> + <p> + “Sancho is right,” said the duke; “we’ll see what + the countess is like, and by that measure the courtesy that is due to her.” + </p> + <p> + And now the drums and fife made their entrance as before; and here the + author brought this short chapter to an end and began the next, following + up the same adventure, which is one of the most notable in the history. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p37e" id="p37e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p37e.jpg (21K)" src="images/p37e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch38b" id="ch38b"></a>CHAPTER XXXVIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS TOLD THE DISTRESSED DUENNA’S TALE OF HER MISFORTUNES + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p38a" id="p38a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p38a.jpg (54K)" src="images/p38a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p38a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Following the melancholy musicians there filed into the garden as many as + twelve duennas, in two lines, all dressed in ample mourning robes + apparently of milled serge, with hoods of fine white gauze so long that + they allowed only the border of the robe to be seen. Behind them came the + Countess Trifaldi, the squire Trifaldin of the White Beard leading her by + the hand, clad in the finest unnapped black baize, such that, had it a + nap, every tuft would have shown as big as a Martos chickpea; the tail, or + skirt, or whatever it might be called, ended in three points which were + borne up by the hands of three pages, likewise dressed in mourning, + forming an elegant geometrical figure with the three acute angles made by + the three points, from which all who saw the peaked skirt concluded that + it must be because of it the countess was called Trifaldi, as though it + were Countess of the Three Skirts; and Benengeli says it was so, and that + by her right name she was called the Countess Lobuna, because wolves bred + in great numbers in her country; and if, instead of wolves, they had been + foxes, she would have been called the Countess Zorruna, as it was the + custom in those parts for lords to take distinctive titles from the thing + or things most abundant in their dominions; this countess, however, in + honour of the new fashion of her skirt, dropped Lobuna and took up + Trifaldi. + </p> + <p> + The twelve duennas and the lady came on at procession pace, their faces + being covered with black veils, not transparent ones like Trifaldin’s, + but so close that they allowed nothing to be seen through them. As soon as + the band of duennas was fully in sight, the duke, the duchess, and Don + Quixote stood up, as well as all who were watching the slow-moving + procession. The twelve duennas halted and formed a lane, along which the + Distressed One advanced, Trifaldin still holding her hand. On seeing this + the duke, the duchess, and Don Quixote went some twelve paces forward to + meet her. She then, kneeling on the ground, said in a voice hoarse and + rough, rather than fine and delicate, “May it please your highnesses + not to offer such courtesies to this your servant, I should say to this + your handmaid, for I am in such distress that I shall never be able to + make a proper return, because my strange and unparalleled misfortune has + carried off my wits, and I know not whither; but it must be a long way + off, for the more I look for them the less I find them.” + </p> + <p> + “He would be wanting in wits, señora countess,” said the duke, + “who did not perceive your worth by your person, for at a glance it + may be seen it deserves all the cream of courtesy and flower of polite + usage;” and raising her up by the hand he led her to a seat beside + the duchess, who likewise received her with great urbanity. Don Quixote + remained silent, while Sancho was dying to see the features of Trifaldi + and one or two of her many duennas; but there was no possibility of it + until they themselves displayed them of their own accord and free will. + </p> + <p> + All kept still, waiting to see who would break silence, which the + Distressed Duenna did in these words: “I am confident, most mighty + lord, most fair lady, and most discreet company, that my most miserable + misery will be accorded a reception no less dispassionate than generous + and condolent in your most valiant bosoms, for it is one that is enough to + melt marble, soften diamonds, and mollify the steel of the most hardened + hearts in the world; but ere it is proclaimed to your hearing, not to say + your ears, I would fain be enlightened whether there be present in this + society, circle, or company, that knight immaculatissimus, Don Quixote de + la Manchissima, and his squirissimus Panza.” + </p> + <p> + “The Panza is here,” said Sancho, before anyone could reply, + “and Don Quixotissimus too; and so, most distressedest Duenissima, + you may say what you willissimus, for we are all readissimus to do you any + servissimus.” + </p> + <p> + On this Don Quixote rose, and addressing the Distressed Duenna, said, + “If your sorrows, afflicted lady, can indulge in any hope of relief + from the valour or might of any knight-errant, here are mine, which, + feeble and limited though they be, shall be entirely devoted to your + service. I am Don Quixote of La Mancha, whose calling it is to give aid to + the needy of all sorts; and that being so, it is not necessary for you, + señora, to make any appeal to benevolence, or deal in preambles, only to + tell your woes plainly and straightforwardly: for you have hearers that + will know how, if not to remedy them, to sympathise with them.” + </p> + <p> + On hearing this, the Distressed Duenna made as though she would throw + herself at Don Quixote’s feet, and actually did fall before them and + said, as she strove to embrace them, “Before these feet and legs I + cast myself, O unconquered knight, as before, what they are, the + foundations and pillars of knight-errantry; these feet I desire to kiss, + for upon their steps hangs and depends the sole remedy for my misfortune, + O valorous errant, whose veritable achievements leave behind and eclipse + the fabulous ones of the Amadises, Esplandians, and Belianises!” + Then turning from Don Quixote to Sancho Panza, and grasping his hands, she + said, “O thou, most loyal squire that ever served knight-errant in + this present age or ages past, whose goodness is more extensive than the + beard of Trifaldin my companion here of present, well mayest thou boast + thyself that, in serving the great Don Quixote, thou art serving, summed + up in one, the whole host of knights that have ever borne arms in the + world. I conjure thee, by what thou owest to thy most loyal goodness, that + thou wilt become my kind intercessor with thy master, that he speedily + give aid to this most humble and most unfortunate countess.” + </p> + <p> + To this Sancho made answer, “As to my goodness, señora, being as + long and as great as your squire’s beard, it matters very little to + me; may I have my soul well bearded and moustached when it comes to quit + this life, that’s the point; about beards here below I care little + or nothing; but without all these blandishments and prayers, I will beg my + master (for I know he loves me, and, besides, he has need of me just now + for a certain business) to help and aid your worship as far as he can; + unpack your woes and lay them before us, and leave us to deal with them, + for we’ll be all of one mind.” + </p> + <p> + The duke and duchess, as it was they who had made the experiment of this + adventure, were ready to burst with laughter at all this, and between + themselves they commended the clever acting of the Trifaldi, who, + returning to her seat, said, “Queen Dona Maguncia reigned over the + famous kingdom of Kandy, which lies between the great Trapobana and the + Southern Sea, two leagues beyond Cape Comorin. She was the widow of King + Archipiela, her lord and husband, and of their marriage they had issue the + Princess Antonomasia, heiress of the kingdom; which Princess Antonomasia + was reared and brought up under my care and direction, I being the oldest + and highest in rank of her mother’s duennas. Time passed, and the + young Antonomasia reached the age of fourteen, and such a perfection of + beauty, that nature could not raise it higher. Then, it must not be + supposed her intelligence was childish; she was as intelligent as she was + fair, and she was fairer than all the world; and is so still, unless the + envious fates and hard-hearted sisters three have cut for her the thread + of life. But that they have not, for Heaven will not suffer so great a + wrong to Earth, as it would be to pluck unripe the grapes of the fairest + vineyard on its surface. Of this beauty, to which my poor feeble tongue + has failed to do justice, countless princes, not only of that country, but + of others, were enamoured, and among them a private gentleman, who was at + the court, dared to raise his thoughts to the heaven of so great beauty, + trusting to his youth, his gallant bearing, his numerous accomplishments + and graces, and his quickness and readiness of wit; for I may tell your + highnesses, if I am not wearying you, that he played the guitar so as to + make it speak, and he was, besides, a poet and a great dancer, and he + could make birdcages so well, that by making them alone he might have + gained a livelihood, had he found himself reduced to utter poverty; and + gifts and graces of this kind are enough to bring down a mountain, not to + say a tender young girl. But all his gallantry, wit, and gaiety, all his + graces and accomplishments, would have been of little or no avail towards + gaining the fortress of my pupil, had not the impudent thief taken the + precaution of gaining me over first. First, the villain and heartless + vagabond sought to win my good-will and purchase my compliance, so as to + get me, like a treacherous warder, to deliver up to him the keys of the + fortress I had in charge. In a word, he gained an influence over my mind, + and overcame my resolutions with I know not what trinkets and jewels he + gave me; but it was some verses I heard him singing one night from a + grating that opened on the street where he lived, that, more than anything + else, made me give way and led to my fall; and if I remember rightly they + ran thus: + </p> + +<p class="poem"> +From that sweet enemy of mine<br/> + My bleeding heart hath had its wound;<br/> + And to increase the pain I’m bound<br/> +To suffer and to make no sign. +</p> + + <p> + The lines seemed pearls to me and his voice sweet as syrup; and + afterwards, I may say ever since then, looking at the misfortune into + which I have fallen, I have thought that poets, as Plato advised, ought to + be banished from all well-ordered States; at least the amatory ones, for + they write verses, not like those of ‘The Marquis of Mantua,’ + that delight and draw tears from the women and children, but sharp-pointed + conceits that pierce the heart like soft thorns, and like the lightning + strike it, leaving the raiment uninjured. Another time he sang: + </p> + +<p class="poem"> +Come Death, so subtly veiled that I<br/> + Thy coming know not, how or when,<br/> + Lest it should give me life again<br/> +To find how sweet it is to die. +</p> + +<p class="noindent"> + —and other verses and burdens of the same sort, such as enchant when sung + and fascinate when written. And then, when they condescend to compose a + sort of verse that was at that time in vogue in Kandy, which they call + seguidillas! Then it is that hearts leap and laughter breaks forth, and + the body grows restless and all the senses turn quicksilver. And so I say, + sirs, that these troubadours richly deserve to be banished to the isles of + the lizards. Though it is not they that are in fault, but the simpletons + that extol them, and the fools that believe in them; and had I been the + faithful duenna I should have been, his stale conceits would have never + moved me, nor should I have been taken in by such phrases as ‘in + death I live,’ ‘in ice I burn,’ ‘in flames I + shiver,’ ‘hopeless I hope,’ ‘I go and stay,’ + and paradoxes of that sort which their writings are full of. And then when + they promise the Phoenix of Arabia, the crown of Ariadne, the horses of + the Sun, the pearls of the South, the gold of Tibar, and the balsam of + Panchaia! Then it is they give a loose to their pens, for it costs them + little to make promises they have no intention or power of fulfilling. But + where am I wandering to? Woe is me, unfortunate being! What madness or + folly leads me to speak of the faults of others, when there is so much to + be said about my own? Again, woe is me, hapless that I am! it was not + verses that conquered me, but my own simplicity; it was not music made me + yield, but my own imprudence; my own great ignorance and little caution + opened the way and cleared the path for Don Clavijo’s advances, for + that was the name of the gentleman I have referred to; and so, with my + help as go-between, he found his way many a time into the chamber of the + deceived Antonomasia (deceived not by him but by me) under the title of a + lawful husband; for, sinner though I was, I would not have allowed him to + approach the edge of her shoe-sole without being her husband. No, no, not + that; marriage must come first in any business of this sort that I take in + hand. But there was one hitch in this case, which was that of inequality + of rank, Don Clavijo being a private gentleman, and the Princess + Antonomasia, as I said, heiress to the kingdom. The entanglement remained + for some time a secret, kept hidden by my cunning precautions, until I + perceived that a certain expansion of waist in Antonomasia must before + long disclose it, the dread of which made us all there take counsel + together, and it was agreed that before the mischief came to light, Don + Clavijo should demand Antonomasia as his wife before the Vicar, in virtue + of an agreement to marry him made by the princess, and drafted by my wit + in such binding terms that the might of Samson could not have broken it. + The necessary steps were taken; the Vicar saw the agreement, and took the + lady’s confession; she confessed everything in full, and he ordered + her into the custody of a very worthy alguacil of the court.” + </p> + <p> + “Are there alguacils of the court in Kandy, too,” said Sancho + at this, “and poets, and seguidillas? I swear I think the world is + the same all over! But make haste, Señora Trifaldi; for it is late, and I + am dying to know the end of this long story.” + </p> + <p> + “I will,” replied the countess. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p38e" id="p38e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p38e.jpg (22K)" src="images/p38e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch39b" id="ch39b"></a>CHAPTER XXXIX. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + IN WHICH THE TRIFALDI CONTINUES HER MARVELLOUS AND MEMORABLE STORY + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p39a" id="p39a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p39a.jpg (96K)" src="images/p39a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p39a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + By every word that Sancho uttered, the duchess was as much delighted as + Don Quixote was driven to desperation. He bade him hold his tongue, and + the Distressed One went on to say: “At length, after much + questioning and answering, as the princess held to her story, without + changing or varying her previous declaration, the Vicar gave his decision + in favour of Don Clavijo, and she was delivered over to him as his lawful + wife; which the Queen Dona Maguncia, the Princess Antonomasia’s + mother, so took to heart, that within the space of three days we buried + her.” + </p> + <p> + “She died, no doubt,” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Of course,” said Trifaldin; “they don’t bury + living people in Kandy, only the dead.” + </p> + <p> + “Señor Squire,” said Sancho, “a man in a swoon has been + known to be buried before now, in the belief that he was dead; and it + struck me that Queen Maguncia ought to have swooned rather than died; + because with life a great many things come right, and the princess’s + folly was not so great that she need feel it so keenly. If the lady had + married some page of hers, or some other servant of the house, as many + another has done, so I have heard say, then the mischief would have been + past curing. But to marry such an elegant accomplished gentleman as has + been just now described to us—indeed, indeed, though it was a folly, + it was not such a great one as you think; for according to the rules of my + master here—and he won’t allow me to lie—as of men of + letters bishops are made, so of gentlemen knights, specially if they be + errant, kings and emperors may be made.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou art right, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “for with a + knight-errant, if he has but two fingers’ breadth of good fortune, + it is on the cards to become the mightiest lord on earth. But let señora + the Distressed One proceed; for I suspect she has got yet to tell us the + bitter part of this so far sweet story.” + </p> + <p> + “The bitter is indeed to come,” said the countess; “and + such bitter that colocynth is sweet and oleander toothsome in comparison. + The queen, then, being dead, and not in a swoon, we buried her; and hardly + had we covered her with earth, hardly had we said our last farewells, + when, quis talia fando temperet a lachrymis? over the queen’s grave + there appeared, mounted upon a wooden horse, the giant Malambruno, + Maguncia’s first cousin, who besides being cruel is an enchanter; + and he, to revenge the death of his cousin, punish the audacity of Don + Clavijo, and in wrath at the contumacy of Antonomasia, left them both + enchanted by his art on the grave itself; she being changed into an ape of + brass, and he into a horrible crocodile of some unknown metal; while + between the two there stands a pillar, also of metal, with certain + characters in the Syriac language inscribed upon it, which, being + translated into Kandian, and now into Castilian, contain the following + sentence: ‘These two rash lovers shall not recover their former + shape until the valiant Manchegan comes to do battle with me in single + combat; for the Fates reserve this unexampled adventure for his mighty + valour alone.’ This done, he drew from its sheath a huge broad + scimitar, and seizing me by the hair he made as though he meant to cut my + throat and shear my head clean off. I was terror-stricken, my voice stuck + in my throat, and I was in the deepest distress; nevertheless I summoned + up my strength as well as I could, and in a trembling and piteous voice I + addressed such words to him as induced him to stay the infliction of a + punishment so severe. He then caused all the duennas of the palace, those + that are here present, to be brought before him; and after having dwelt + upon the enormity of our offence, and denounced duennas, their characters, + their evil ways and worse intrigues, laying to the charge of all what I + alone was guilty of, he said he would not visit us with capital + punishment, but with others of a slow nature which would be in effect + civil death for ever; and the very instant he ceased speaking we all felt + the pores of our faces opening, and pricking us, as if with the points of + needles. We at once put our hands up to our faces and found ourselves in + the state you now see.” + </p> + <p> + Here the Distressed One and the other duennas raised the veils with which + they were covered, and disclosed countenances all bristling with beards, + some red, some black, some white, and some grizzled, at which spectacle + the duke and duchess made a show of being filled with wonder. Don Quixote + and Sancho were overwhelmed with amazement, and the bystanders lost in + astonishment, while the Trifaldi went on to say: “Thus did that + malevolent villain Malambruno punish us, covering the tenderness and + softness of our faces with these rough bristles! Would to heaven that he + had swept off our heads with his enormous scimitar instead of obscuring + the light of our countenances with these wool-combings that cover us! For + if we look into the matter, sirs (and what I am now going to say I would + say with eyes flowing like fountains, only that the thought of our + misfortune and the oceans they have already wept, keep them as dry as + barley spears, and so I say it without tears), where, I ask, can a duenna + with a beard go to? What father or mother will feel pity for her? Who will + help her? For, if even when she has a smooth skin, and a face tortured by + a thousand kinds of washes and cosmetics, she can hardly get anybody to + love her, what will she do when she shows a countenance turned into a + thicket? Oh duennas, companions mine! it was an unlucky moment when we + were born and an ill-starred hour when our fathers begot us!” And as + she said this she showed signs of being about to faint. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p39e" id="p39e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p39e.jpg (27K)" src="images/p39e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch40b" id="ch40b"></a>CHAPTER XL. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF MATTERS RELATING AND BELONGING TO THIS ADVENTURE AND TO THIS MEMORABLE + HISTORY + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p40a" id="p40a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p40a.jpg (129K)" src="images/p40a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p40a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Verily and truly all those who find pleasure in histories like this ought + show their gratitude to Cide Hamete, its original author, for the + scrupulous care he has taken to set before us all its minute particulars, + not leaving anything, however trifling it may be, that he does not make + clear and plain. He portrays the thoughts, he reveals the fancies, he + answers implied questions, clears up doubts, sets objections at rest, and, + in a word, makes plain the smallest points the most inquisitive can desire + to know. O renowned author! O happy Don Quixote! O famous famous droll + Sancho! All and each, may ye live countless ages for the delight and + amusement of the dwellers on earth! + </p> + <p> + The history goes on to say that when Sancho saw the Distressed One faint + he exclaimed: “I swear by the faith of an honest man and the shades + of all my ancestors the Panzas, that never I did see or hear of, nor has + my master related or conceived in his mind, such an adventure as this. A + thousand devils—not to curse thee—take thee, Malambruno, for + an enchanter and a giant! Couldst thou find no other sort of punishment + for these sinners but bearding them? Would it not have been better—it + would have been better for them—to have taken off half their noses + from the middle upwards, even though they’d have snuffled when they + spoke, than to have put beards on them? I’ll bet they have not the + means of paying anybody to shave them.” + </p> + <p> + “That is the truth, señor,” said one of the twelve; “we + have not the money to get ourselves shaved, and so we have, some of us, + taken to using sticking-plasters by way of an economical remedy, for by + applying them to our faces and plucking them off with a jerk we are left + as bare and smooth as the bottom of a stone mortar. There are, to be sure, + women in Kandy that go about from house to house to remove down, and trim + eyebrows, and make cosmetics for the use of the women, but we, the duennas + of my lady, would never let them in, for most of them have a flavour of + agents that have ceased to be principals; and if we are not relieved by + Señor Don Quixote we shall be carried to our graves with beards.” + </p> + <p> + “I will pluck out my own in the land of the Moors,” said Don + Quixote, “if I don’t cure yours.” + </p> + <p> + At this instant the Trifaldi recovered from her swoon and said, “The + chink of that promise, valiant knight, reached my ears in the midst of my + swoon, and has been the means of reviving me and bringing back my senses; + and so once more I implore you, illustrious errant, indomitable sir, to + let your gracious promises be turned into deeds.” + </p> + <p> + “There shall be no delay on my part,” said Don Quixote. + “Bethink you, señora, of what I must do, for my heart is most eager + to serve you.” + </p> + <p> + “The fact is,” replied the Distressed One, “it is five + thousand leagues, a couple more or less, from this to the kingdom of + Kandy, if you go by land; but if you go through the air and in a straight + line, it is three thousand two hundred and twenty-seven. You must know, + too, that Malambruno told me that, whenever fate provided the knight our + deliverer, he himself would send him a steed far better and with less + tricks than a post-horse; for he will be that same wooden horse on which + the valiant Pierres carried off the fair Magalona; which said horse is + guided by a peg he has in his forehead that serves for a bridle, and flies + through the air with such rapidity that you would fancy the very devils + were carrying him. This horse, according to ancient tradition, was made by + Merlin. He lent him to Pierres, who was a friend of his, and who made long + journeys with him, and, as has been said, carried off the fair Magalona, + bearing her through the air on its haunches and making all who beheld them + from the earth gape with astonishment; and he never lent him save to those + whom he loved or those who paid him well; and since the great Pierres we + know of no one having mounted him until now. From him Malambruno stole him + by his magic art, and he has him now in his possession, and makes use of + him in his journeys which he constantly makes through different parts of + the world; he is here to-day, to-morrow in France, and the next day in + Potosi; and the best of it is the said horse neither eats nor sleeps nor + wears out shoes, and goes at an ambling pace through the air without + wings, so that he whom he has mounted upon him can carry a cup full of + water in his hand without spilling a drop, so smoothly and easily does he + go, for which reason the fair Magalona enjoyed riding him greatly.” + </p> + <p> + “For going smoothly and easily,” said Sancho at this, “give + me my Dapple, though he can’t go through the air; but on the ground + I’ll back him against all the amblers in the world.” + </p> + <p> + They all laughed, and the Distressed One continued: “And this same + horse, if so be that Malambruno is disposed to put an end to our + sufferings, will be here before us ere the night shall have advanced half + an hour; for he announced to me that the sign he would give me whereby I + might know that I had found the knight I was in quest of, would be to send + me the horse wherever he might be, speedily and promptly.” + </p> + <p> + “And how many is there room for on this horse?” asked Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Two,” said the Distressed One, “one in the saddle, and + the other on the croup; and generally these two are knight and squire, + when there is no damsel that’s being carried off.” + </p> + <p> + “I’d like to know, Señora Distressed One,” said Sancho, + “what is the name of this horse?” + </p> + <p> + “His name,” said the Distressed One, “is not the same as + Bellerophon’s horse that was called Pegasus, or Alexander the Great’s, + called Bucephalus, or Orlando Furioso’s, the name of which was + Brigliador, nor yet Bayard, the horse of Reinaldos of Montalvan, nor + Frontino like Ruggiero’s, nor Bootes or Peritoa, as they say the + horses of the sun were called, nor is he called Orelia, like the horse on + which the unfortunate Rodrigo, the last king of the Goths, rode to the + battle where he lost his life and his kingdom.” + </p> + <p> + “I’ll bet,” said Sancho, “that as they have given + him none of these famous names of well-known horses, no more have they + given him the name of my master’s Rocinante, which for being apt + surpasses all that have been mentioned.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said the bearded countess, “still it + fits him very well, for he is called Clavileño the Swift, which name is in + accordance with his being made of wood, with the peg he has in his + forehead, and with the swift pace at which he travels; and so, as far as + name goes, he may compare with the famous Rocinante.” + </p> + <p> + “I have nothing to say against his name,” said Sancho; “but + with what sort of bridle or halter is he managed?” + </p> + <p> + “I have said already,” said the Trifaldi, “that it is + with a peg, by turning which to one side or the other the knight who rides + him makes him go as he pleases, either through the upper air, or skimming + and almost sweeping the earth, or else in that middle course that is + sought and followed in all well-regulated proceedings.” + </p> + <p> + “I’d like to see him,” said Sancho; “but to fancy + I’m going to mount him, either in the saddle or on the croup, is to + ask pears of the elm tree. A good joke indeed! I can hardly keep my seat + upon Dapple, and on a pack-saddle softer than silk itself, and here they’d + have me hold on upon haunches of plank without pad or cushion of any sort! + Gad, I have no notion of bruising myself to get rid of anyone’s + beard; let each one shave himself as best he can; I’m not going to + accompany my master on any such long journey; besides, I can’t give + any help to the shaving of these beards as I can to the disenchantment of + my lady Dulcinea.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you can, my friend,” replied the Trifaldi; “and so + much, that without you, so I understand, we shall be able to do nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “In the king’s name!” exclaimed Sancho, “what have + squires got to do with the adventures of their masters? Are they to have + the fame of such as they go through, and we the labour? Body o’ me! + if the historians would only say, ‘Such and such a knight finished + such and such an adventure, but with the help of so and so, his squire, + without which it would have been impossible for him to accomplish it;’ + but they write curtly, “Don Paralipomenon of the Three Stars + accomplished the adventure of the six monsters;’ without mentioning + such a person as his squire, who was there all the time, just as if there + was no such being. Once more, sirs, I say my master may go alone, and much + good may it do him; and I’ll stay here in the company of my lady the + duchess; and maybe when he comes back, he will find the lady Dulcinea’s + affair ever so much advanced; for I mean in leisure hours, and at idle + moments, to give myself a spell of whipping without so much as a hair to + cover me.” + </p> + <p> + “For all that you must go if it be necessary, my good Sancho,” + said the duchess, “for they are worthy folk who ask you; and the + faces of these ladies must not remain overgrown in this way because of + your idle fears; that would be a hard case indeed.” + </p> + <p> + “In the king’s name, once more!” said Sancho; “If + this charitable work were to be done for the sake of damsels in + confinement or charity-girls, a man might expose himself to some + hardships; but to bear it for the sake of stripping beards off duennas! + Devil take it! I’d sooner see them all bearded, from the highest to + the lowest, and from the most prudish to the most affected.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very hard on duennas, Sancho my friend,” said the + duchess; “you incline very much to the opinion of the Toledo + apothecary. But indeed you are wrong; there are duennas in my house that + may serve as patterns of duennas; and here is my Dona Rodriguez, who will + not allow me to say otherwise.” + </p> + <p> + “Your excellence may say it if you like,” said the Rodriguez; + “for God knows the truth of everything; and whether we duennas are + good or bad, bearded or smooth, we are our mothers’ daughters like + other women; and as God sent us into the world, he knows why he did, and + on his mercy I rely, and not on anybody’s beard.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Señora Rodriguez, Señora Trifaldi, and present company,” + said Don Quixote, “I trust in Heaven that it will look with kindly + eyes upon your troubles, for Sancho will do as I bid him. Only let + Clavileño come and let me find myself face to face with Malambruno, and I + am certain no razor will shave you more easily than my sword shall shave + Malambruno’s head off his shoulders; for ‘God bears with the + wicked, but not for ever.’” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” exclaimed the Distressed One at this, “may all the + stars of the celestial regions look down upon your greatness with benign + eyes, valiant knight, and shed every prosperity and valour upon your + heart, that it may be the shield and safeguard of the abused and + downtrodden race of duennas, detested by apothecaries, sneered at by + squires, and made game of by pages. Ill betide the jade that in the flower + of her youth would not sooner become a nun than a duenna! Unfortunate + beings that we are, we duennas! Though we may be descended in the direct + male line from Hector of Troy himself, our mistresses never fail to + address us as ‘you’ if they think it makes queens of them. O + giant Malambruno, though thou art an enchanter, thou art true to thy + promises. Send us now the peerless Clavileño, that our misfortune may be + brought to an end; for if the hot weather sets in and these beards of ours + are still there, alas for our lot!” + </p> + <p> + The Trifaldi said this in such a pathetic way that she drew tears from the + eyes of all and even Sancho’s filled up; and he resolved in his + heart to accompany his master to the uttermost ends of the earth, if so be + the removal of the wool from those venerable countenances depended upon + it. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p40e" id="p40e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p40e.jpg (13K)" src="images/p40e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch41b" id="ch41b"></a>CHAPTER XLI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE ARRIVAL OF CLAVILEÑO AND THE END OF THIS PROTRACTED ADVENTURE + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p41a" id="p41a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p41a.jpg (138K)" src="images/p41a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p41a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + And now night came, and with it the appointed time for the arrival of the + famous horse Clavileño, the non-appearance of which was already beginning + to make Don Quixote uneasy, for it struck him that, as Malambruno was so + long about sending it, either he himself was not the knight for whom the + adventure was reserved, or else Malambruno did not dare to meet him in + single combat. But lo! suddenly there came into the garden four wild-men + all clad in green ivy bearing on their shoulders a great wooden horse. + They placed it on its feet on the ground, and one of the wild-men said, + “Let the knight who has heart for it mount this machine.” + </p> + <p> + Here Sancho exclaimed, “I don’t mount, for neither have I the + heart nor am I a knight.” + </p> + <p> + “And let the squire, if he has one,” continued the wild-man, + “take his seat on the croup, and let him trust the valiant + Malambruno; for by no sword save his, nor by the malice of any other, + shall he be assailed. It is but to turn this peg the horse has in his + neck, and he will bear them through the air to where Malambruno awaits + them; but lest the vast elevation of their course should make them giddy, + their eyes must be covered until the horse neighs, which will be the sign + of their having completed their journey.” + </p> + <p> + With these words, leaving Clavileño behind them, they retired with easy + dignity the way they came. As soon as the Distressed One saw the horse, + almost in tears she exclaimed to Don Quixote, “Valiant knight, the + promise of Malambruno has proved trustworthy; the horse has come, our + beards are growing, and by every hair in them all of us implore thee to + shave and shear us, as it is only mounting him with thy squire and making + a happy beginning with your new journey.” + </p> + <p> + “That I will, Señora Countess Trifaldi,” said Don Quixote, + “most gladly and with right goodwill, without stopping to take a + cushion or put on my spurs, so as not to lose time, such is my desire to + see you and all these duennas shaved clean.” + </p> + <p> + “That I won’t,” said Sancho, “with good-will or + bad-will, or any way at all; and if this shaving can’t be done + without my mounting on the croup, my master had better look out for + another squire to go with him, and these ladies for some other way of + making their faces smooth; I’m no witch to have a taste for + travelling through the air. What would my islanders say when they heard + their governor was going, strolling about on the winds? And another thing, + as it is three thousand and odd leagues from this to Kandy, if the horse + tires, or the giant takes huff, we’ll be half a dozen years getting + back, and there won’t be isle or island in the world that will know + me: and so, as it is a common saying ‘in delay there’s danger,’ + and ‘when they offer thee a heifer run with a halter,’ these + ladies’ beards must excuse me; ‘Saint Peter is very well in + Rome;’ I mean I am very well in this house where so much is made of + me, and I hope for such a good thing from the master as to see myself a + governor.” + </p> + <p> + “Friend Sancho,” said the duke at this, “the island that + I have promised you is not a moving one, or one that will run away; it has + roots so deeply buried in the bowels of the earth that it will be no easy + matter to pluck it up or shift it from where it is; you know as well as I + do that there is no sort of office of any importance that is not obtained + by a bribe of some kind, great or small; well then, that which I look to + receive for this government is that you go with your master Don Quixote, + and bring this memorable adventure to a conclusion; and whether you return + on Clavileño as quickly as his speed seems to promise, or adverse fortune + brings you back on foot travelling as a pilgrim from hostel to hostel and + from inn to inn, you will always find your island on your return where you + left it, and your islanders with the same eagerness they have always had + to receive you as their governor, and my good-will will remain the same; + doubt not the truth of this, Señor Sancho, for that would be grievously + wronging my disposition to serve you.” + </p> + <p> + “Say no more, señor,” said Sancho; “I am a poor squire + and not equal to carrying so much courtesy; let my master mount; bandage + my eyes and commit me to God’s care, and tell me if I may commend + myself to our Lord or call upon the angels to protect me when we go + towering up there.” + </p> + <p> + To this the Trifaldi made answer, “Sancho, you may freely commend + yourself to God or whom you will; for Malambruno though an enchanter is a + Christian, and works his enchantments with great circumspection, taking + very good care not to fall out with anyone.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then,” said Sancho, “God and the most holy Trinity + of Gaeta give me help!” + </p> + <p> + “Since the memorable adventure of the fulling mills,” said Don + Quixote, “I have never seen Sancho in such a fright as now; were I + as superstitious as others his abject fear would cause me some little + trepidation of spirit. But come here, Sancho, for with the leave of these + gentles I would say a word or two to thee in private;” and drawing + Sancho aside among the trees of the garden and seizing both his hands he + said, “Thou seest, brother Sancho, the long journey we have before + us, and God knows when we shall return, or what leisure or opportunities + this business will allow us; I wish thee therefore to retire now to thy + chamber, as though thou wert going to fetch something required for the + road, and in a trice give thyself if it be only five hundred lashes on + account of the three thousand three hundred to which thou art bound; it + will be all to the good, and to make a beginning with a thing is to have + it half finished.” + </p> + <p> + “By God,” said Sancho, “but your worship must be out of + your senses! This is like the common saying, ‘You see me with child, + and you want me a virgin.’ Just as I’m about to go sitting on + a bare board, your worship would have me score my backside! Indeed, your + worship is not reasonable. Let us be off to shave these duennas; and on + our return I promise on my word to make such haste to wipe off all that’s + due as will satisfy your worship; I can’t say more.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I will comfort myself with that promise, my good Sancho,” + replied Don Quixote, “and I believe thou wilt keep it; for indeed + though stupid thou art veracious.” + </p> + <p> + “I’m not voracious,” said Sancho, “only peckish; + but even if I was a little, still I’d keep my word.” + </p> + <p> + With this they went back to mount Clavileño, and as they were about to do + so Don Quixote said, “Cover thine eyes, Sancho, and mount; for one + who sends for us from lands so far distant cannot mean to deceive us for + the sake of the paltry glory to be derived from deceiving persons who + trust in him; though all should turn out the contrary of what I hope, no + malice will be able to dim the glory of having undertaken this exploit.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us be off, señor,” said Sancho, “for I have taken + the beards and tears of these ladies deeply to heart, and I shan’t + eat a bit to relish it until I have seen them restored to their former + smoothness. Mount, your worship, and blindfold yourself, for if I am to go + on the croup, it is plain the rider in the saddle must mount first.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said Don Quixote, and, taking a handkerchief + out of his pocket, he begged the Distressed One to bandage his eyes very + carefully; but after having them bandaged he uncovered them again, saying, + “If my memory does not deceive me, I have read in Virgil of the + Palladium of Troy, a wooden horse the Greeks offered to the goddess + Pallas, which was big with armed knights, who were afterwards the + destruction of Troy; so it would be as well to see, first of all, what + Clavileño has in his stomach.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no occasion,” said the Distressed One; “I will + be bail for him, and I know that Malambruno has nothing tricky or + treacherous about him; you may mount without any fear, Señor Don Quixote; + on my head be it if any harm befalls you.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote thought that to say anything further with regard to his safety + would be putting his courage in an unfavourable light; and so, without + more words, he mounted Clavileño, and tried the peg, which turned easily; + and as he had no stirrups and his legs hung down, he looked like nothing + so much as a figure in some Roman triumph painted or embroidered on a + Flemish tapestry. + </p> + <p> + Much against the grain, and very slowly, Sancho proceeded to mount, and, + after settling himself as well as he could on the croup, found it rather + hard, and not at all soft, and asked the duke if it would be possible to + oblige him with a pad of some kind, or a cushion; even if it were off the + couch of his lady the duchess, or the bed of one of the pages; as the + haunches of that horse were more like marble than wood. On this the + Trifaldi observed that Clavileño would not bear any kind of harness or + trappings, and that his best plan would be to sit sideways like a woman, + as in that way he would not feel the hardness so much. + </p> + <p> + Sancho did so, and, bidding them farewell, allowed his eyes to be + bandaged, but immediately afterwards uncovered them again, and looking + tenderly and tearfully on those in the garden, bade them help him in his + present strait with plenty of Paternosters and Ave Marias, that God might + provide some one to say as many for them, whenever they found themselves + in a similar emergency. + </p> + <p> + At this Don Quixote exclaimed, “Art thou on the gallows, thief, or + at thy last moment, to use pitiful entreaties of that sort? Cowardly, + spiritless creature, art thou not in the very place the fair Magalona + occupied, and from which she descended, not into the grave, but to become + Queen of France; unless the histories lie? And I who am here beside thee, + may I not put myself on a par with the valiant Pierres, who pressed this + very spot that I now press? Cover thine eyes, cover thine eyes, abject + animal, and let not thy fear escape thy lips, at least in my presence.” + </p> + <p> + “Blindfold me,” said Sancho; “as you won’t let me + commend myself or be commended to God, is it any wonder if I am afraid + there is a region of devils about here that will carry us off to + Peralvillo?” + </p> + <p> + They were then blindfolded, and Don Quixote, finding himself settled to + his satisfaction, felt for the peg, and the instant he placed his fingers + on it, all the duennas and all who stood by lifted up their voices + exclaiming, “God guide thee, valiant knight! God be with thee, + intrepid squire! Now, now ye go cleaving the air more swiftly than an + arrow! Now ye begin to amaze and astonish all who are gazing at you from + the earth! Take care not to wobble about, valiant Sancho! Mind thou fall + not, for thy fall will be worse than that rash youth’s who tried to + steer the chariot of his father the Sun!” + </p> + <p> + As Sancho heard the voices, clinging tightly to his master and winding his + arms round him, he said, “Señor, how do they make out we are going + up so high, if their voices reach us here and they seem to be speaking + quite close to us?” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t mind that, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; “for + as affairs of this sort, and flights like this are out of the common + course of things, you can see and hear as much as you like a thousand + leagues off; but don’t squeeze me so tight or thou wilt upset me; + and really I know not what thou hast to be uneasy or frightened at, for I + can safely swear I never mounted a smoother-going steed all the days of my + life; one would fancy we never stirred from one place. Banish fear, my + friend, for indeed everything is going as it ought, and we have the wind + astern.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s true,” said Sancho, “for such a strong + wind comes against me on this side, that it seems as if people were + blowing on me with a thousand pair of bellows;” which was the case; + they were puffing at him with a great pair of bellows; for the whole + adventure was so well planned by the duke, the duchess, and their + majordomo, that nothing was omitted to make it perfectly successful. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote now, feeling the blast, said, “Beyond a doubt, Sancho, + we must have already reached the second region of the air, where the hail + and snow are generated; the thunder, the lightning, and the thunderbolts + are engendered in the third region, and if we go on ascending at this + rate, we shall shortly plunge into the region of fire, and I know not how + to regulate this peg, so as not to mount up where we shall be burned.” + </p> + <p> + And now they began to warm their faces, from a distance, with tow that + could be easily set on fire and extinguished again, fixed on the end of a + cane. On feeling the heat Sancho said, “May I die if we are not + already in that fire place, or very near it, for a good part of my beard + has been singed, and I have a mind, señor, to uncover and see whereabouts + we are.” + </p> + <p> + “Do nothing of the kind,” said Don Quixote; “remember + the true story of the licentiate Torralva that the devils carried flying + through the air riding on a stick with his eyes shut; who in twelve hours + reached Rome and dismounted at Torre di Nona, which is a street of the + city, and saw the whole sack and storming and the death of Bourbon, and + was back in Madrid the next morning, where he gave an account of all he + had seen; and he said moreover that as he was going through the air, the + devil bade him open his eyes, and he did so, and saw himself so near the + body of the moon, so it seemed to him, that he could have laid hold of it + with his hand, and that he did not dare to look at the earth lest he + should be seized with giddiness. So that, Sancho, it will not do for us to + uncover ourselves, for he who has us in charge will be responsible for us; + and perhaps we are gaining an altitude and mounting up to enable us to + descend at one swoop on the kingdom of Kandy, as the saker or falcon does + on the heron, so as to seize it however high it may soar; and though it + seems to us not half an hour since we left the garden, believe me we must + have travelled a great distance.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know how that may be,” said Sancho; “all + I know is that if the Señora Magallanes or Magalona was satisfied with + this croup, she could not have been very tender of flesh.” + </p> + <p> + The duke, the duchess, and all in the garden were listening to the + conversation of the two heroes, and were beyond measure amused by it; and + now, desirous of putting a finishing touch to this rare and well-contrived + adventure, they applied a light to Clavileño’s tail with some tow, + and the horse, being full of squibs and crackers, immediately blew up with + a prodigious noise, and brought Don Quixote and Sancho Panza to the ground + half singed. By this time the bearded band of duennas, the Trifaldi and + all, had vanished from the garden, and those that remained lay stretched + on the ground as if in a swoon. Don Quixote and Sancho got up rather + shaken, and, looking about them, were filled with amazement at finding + themselves in the same garden from which they had started, and seeing such + a number of people stretched on the ground; and their astonishment was + increased when at one side of the garden they perceived a tall lance + planted in the ground, and hanging from it by two cords of green silk a + smooth white parchment on which there was the following inscription in + large gold letters: “The illustrious knight Don Quixote of La Mancha + has, by merely attempting it, finished and concluded the adventure of the + Countess Trifaldi, otherwise called the Distressed Duenna; Malambruno is + now satisfied on every point, the chins of the duennas are now smooth and + clean, and King Don Clavijo and Queen Antonomasia in their original form; + and when the squirely flagellation shall have been completed, the white + dove shall find herself delivered from the pestiferous gerfalcons that + persecute her, and in the arms of her beloved mate; for such is the decree + of the sage Merlin, arch-enchanter of enchanters.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as Don Quixote had read the inscription on the parchment he + perceived clearly that it referred to the disenchantment of Dulcinea, and + returning hearty thanks to heaven that he had with so little danger + achieved so grand an exploit as to restore to their former complexion the + countenances of those venerable duennas, he advanced towards the duke and + duchess, who had not yet come to themselves, and taking the duke by the + hand he said, “Be of good cheer, worthy sir, be of good cheer; it’s + nothing at all; the adventure is now over and without any harm done, as + the inscription fixed on this post shows plainly.” + </p> + <p> + The duke came to himself slowly and like one recovering consciousness + after a heavy sleep, and the duchess and all who had fallen prostrate + about the garden did the same, with such demonstrations of wonder and + amazement that they would have almost persuaded one that what they + pretended so adroitly in jest had happened to them in reality. The duke + read the placard with half-shut eyes, and then ran to embrace Don Quixote + with open arms, declaring him to be the best knight that had ever been + seen in any age. Sancho kept looking about for the Distressed One, to see + what her face was like without the beard, and if she was as fair as her + elegant person promised; but they told him that, the instant Clavileño + descended flaming through the air and came to the ground, the whole band + of duennas with the Trifaldi vanished, and that they were already shaved + and without a stump left. + </p> + <p> + The duchess asked Sancho how he had fared on that long journey, to which + Sancho replied, “I felt, señora, that we were flying through the + region of fire, as my master told me, and I wanted to uncover my eyes for + a bit; but my master, when I asked leave to uncover myself, would not let + me; but as I have a little bit of curiosity about me, and a desire to know + what is forbidden and kept from me, quietly and without anyone seeing me I + drew aside the handkerchief covering my eyes ever so little, close to my + nose, and from underneath looked towards the earth, and it seemed to me + that it was altogether no bigger than a grain of mustard seed, and that + the men walking on it were little bigger than hazel nuts; so you may see + how high we must have got to then.” + </p> + <p> + To this the duchess said, “Sancho, my friend, mind what you are + saying; it seems you could not have seen the earth, but only the men + walking on it; for if the earth looked to you like a grain of mustard + seed, and each man like a hazel nut, one man alone would have covered the + whole earth.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said Sancho, “but for all that I got a + glimpse of a bit of one side of it, and saw it all.” + </p> + <p> + “Take care, Sancho,” said the duchess, “with a bit of + one side one does not see the whole of what one looks at.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t understand that way of looking at things,” said + Sancho; “I only know that your ladyship will do well to bear in mind + that as we were flying by enchantment so I might have seen the whole earth + and all the men by enchantment whatever way I looked; and if you won’t + believe this, no more will you believe that, uncovering myself nearly to + the eyebrows, I saw myself so close to the sky that there was not a palm + and a half between me and it; and by everything that I can swear by, + señora, it is mighty great! And it so happened we came by where the seven + goats are, and by God and upon my soul, as in my youth I was a goatherd in + my own country, as soon as I saw them I felt a longing to be among them + for a little, and if I had not given way to it I think I’d have + burst. So I come and take, and what do I do? without saying anything to + anybody, not even to my master, softly and quietly I got down from + Clavileño and amused myself with the goats—which are like violets, + like flowers—for nigh three-quarters of an hour; and Clavileño never + stirred or moved from one spot.” + </p> + <p> + “And while the good Sancho was amusing himself with the goats,” + said the duke, “how did Señor Don Quixote amuse himself?” + </p> + <p> + To which Don Quixote replied, “As all these things and such like + occurrences are out of the ordinary course of nature, it is no wonder that + Sancho says what he does; for my own part I can only say that I did not + uncover my eyes either above or below, nor did I see sky or earth or sea + or shore. It is true I felt that I was passing through the region of the + air, and even that I touched that of fire; but that we passed farther I + cannot believe; for the region of fire being between the heaven of the + moon and the last region of the air, we could not have reached that heaven + where the seven goats Sancho speaks of are without being burned; and as we + were not burned, either Sancho is lying or Sancho is dreaming.” + </p> + <p> + “I am neither lying nor dreaming,” said Sancho; “only + ask me the tokens of those same goats, and you’ll see by that + whether I’m telling the truth or not.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell us them then, Sancho,” said the duchess. + </p> + <p> + “Two of them,” said Sancho, “are green, two blood-red, + two blue, and one a mixture of all colours.” + </p> + <p> + “An odd sort of goat, that,” said the duke; “in this + earthly region of ours we have no such colours; I mean goats of such + colours.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s very plain,” said Sancho; “of course there + must be a difference between the goats of heaven and the goats of the + earth.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me, Sancho,” said the duke, “did you see any + he-goat among those goats?” + </p> + <p> + “No, señor,” said Sancho; “but I have heard say that + none ever passed the horns of the moon.” + </p> + <p> + They did not care to ask him anything more about his journey, for they saw + he was in the vein to go rambling all over the heavens giving an account + of everything that went on there, without having ever stirred from the + garden. Such, in short, was the end of the adventure of the Distressed + Duenna, which gave the duke and duchess laughing matter not only for the + time being, but for all their lives, and Sancho something to talk about + for ages, if he lived so long; but Don Quixote, coming close to his ear, + said to him, “Sancho, as you would have us believe what you saw in + heaven, I require you to believe me as to what I saw in the cave of + Montesinos; I say no more.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p41e" id="p41e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p41e.jpg (38K)" src="images/p41e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch42b" id="ch42b"></a>CHAPTER XLII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE COUNSELS WHICH DON QUIXOTE GAVE SANCHO PANZA BEFORE HE SET OUT TO + GOVERN THE ISLAND, TOGETHER WITH OTHER WELL-CONSIDERED MATTERS + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p42a" id="p42a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p42a.jpg (120K)" src="images/p42a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p42a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The duke and duchess were so well pleased with the successful and droll + result of the adventure of the Distressed One, that they resolved to carry + on the joke, seeing what a fit subject they had to deal with for making it + all pass for reality. So having laid their plans and given instructions to + their servants and vassals how to behave to Sancho in his government of + the promised island, the next day, that following Clavileño’s + flight, the duke told Sancho to prepare and get ready to go and be + governor, for his islanders were already looking out for him as for the + showers of May. + </p> + <p> + Sancho made him an obeisance, and said, “Ever since I came down from + heaven, and from the top of it beheld the earth, and saw how little it is, + the great desire I had to be a governor has been partly cooled in me; for + what is there grand in being ruler on a grain of mustard seed, or what + dignity or authority in governing half a dozen men about as big as hazel + nuts; for, so far as I could see, there were no more on the whole earth? + If your lordship would be so good as to give me ever so small a bit of + heaven, were it no more than half a league, I’d rather have it than + the best island in the world.” + </p> + <p> + “Recollect, Sancho,” said the duke, “I cannot give a bit + of heaven, no not so much as the breadth of my nail, to anyone; rewards + and favours of that sort are reserved for God alone. What I can give I + give you, and that is a real, genuine island, compact, well proportioned, + and uncommonly fertile and fruitful, where, if you know how to use your + opportunities, you may, with the help of the world’s riches, gain + those of heaven.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then,” said Sancho, “let the island come; and I’ll + try and be such a governor, that in spite of scoundrels I’ll go to + heaven; and it’s not from any craving to quit my own humble + condition or better myself, but from the desire I have to try what it + tastes like to be a governor.” + </p> + <p> + “If you once make trial of it, Sancho,” said the duke, “you’ll + eat your fingers off after the government, so sweet a thing is it to + command and be obeyed. Depend upon it when your master comes to be emperor + (as he will beyond a doubt from the course his affairs are taking), it + will be no easy matter to wrest the dignity from him, and he will be sore + and sorry at heart to have been so long without becoming one.” + </p> + <p> + “Señor,” said Sancho, “it is my belief it’s a good + thing to be in command, if it’s only over a drove of cattle.” + </p> + <p> + “May I be buried with you, Sancho,” said the duke, “but + you know everything; I hope you will make as good a governor as your + sagacity promises; and that is all I have to say; and now remember + to-morrow is the day you must set out for the government of the island, + and this evening they will provide you with the proper attire for you to + wear, and all things requisite for your departure.” + </p> + <p> + “Let them dress me as they like,” said Sancho; “however + I’m dressed I’ll be Sancho Panza.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s true,” said the duke; “but one’s + dress must be suited to the office or rank one holds; for it would not do + for a jurist to dress like a soldier, or a soldier like a priest. You, + Sancho, shall go partly as a lawyer, partly as a captain, for, in the + island I am giving you, arms are needed as much as letters, and letters as + much as arms.” + </p> + <p> + “Of letters I know but little,” said Sancho, “for I don’t + even know the A B C; but it is enough for me to have the Christus in my + memory to be a good governor. As for arms, I’ll handle those they + give me till I drop, and then, God be my help!” + </p> + <p> + “With so good a memory,” said the duke, “Sancho cannot + go wrong in anything.” + </p> + <p> + Here Don Quixote joined them; and learning what passed, and how soon + Sancho was to go to his government, he with the duke’s permission + took him by the hand, and retired to his room with him for the purpose of + giving him advice as to how he was to demean himself in his office. As + soon as they had entered the chamber he closed the door after him, and + almost by force made Sancho sit down beside him, and in a quiet tone thus + addressed him: “I give infinite thanks to heaven, friend Sancho, + that, before I have met with any good luck, fortune has come forward to + meet thee. I who counted upon my good fortune to discharge the recompense + of thy services, find myself still waiting for advancement, while thou, + before the time, and contrary to all reasonable expectation, seest thyself + blessed in the fulfillment of thy desires. Some will bribe, beg, solicit, + rise early, entreat, persist, without attaining the object of their suit; + while another comes, and without knowing why or wherefore, finds himself + invested with the place or office so many have sued for; and here it is + that the common saying, ‘There is good luck as well as bad luck in + suits,’ applies. Thou, who, to my thinking, art beyond all doubt a + dullard, without early rising or night watching or taking any trouble, + with the mere breath of knight-errantry that has breathed upon thee, seest + thyself without more ado governor of an island, as though it were a mere + matter of course. This I say, Sancho, that thou attribute not the favour + thou hast received to thine own merits, but give thanks to heaven that + disposes matters beneficently, and secondly thanks to the great power the + profession of knight-errantry contains in itself. With a heart, then, + inclined to believe what I have said to thee, attend, my son, to thy Cato + here who would counsel thee and be thy polestar and guide to direct and + pilot thee to a safe haven out of this stormy sea wherein thou art about + to ingulf thyself; for offices and great trusts are nothing else but a + mighty gulf of troubles. + </p> + <p> + “First of all, my son, thou must fear God, for in the fear of him is + wisdom, and being wise thou canst not err in aught. + </p> + <p> + “Secondly, thou must keep in view what thou art, striving to know + thyself, the most difficult thing to know that the mind can imagine. If + thou knowest thyself, it will follow thou wilt not puff thyself up like + the frog that strove to make himself as large as the ox; if thou dost, the + recollection of having kept pigs in thine own country will serve as the + ugly feet for the wheel of thy folly.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s the truth,” said Sancho; “but that was + when I was a boy; afterwards when I was something more of a man it was + geese I kept, not pigs. But to my thinking that has nothing to do with it; + for all who are governors don’t come of a kingly stock.” + </p> + <p> + “True,” said Don Quixote, “and for that reason those who + are not of noble origin should take care that the dignity of the office + they hold be accompanied by a gentle suavity, which wisely managed will + save them from the sneers of malice that no station escapes. + </p> + <p> + “Glory in thy humble birth, Sancho, and be not ashamed of saying + thou art peasant-born; for when it is seen thou art not ashamed no one + will set himself to put thee to the blush; and pride thyself rather upon + being one of lowly virtue than a lofty sinner. Countless are they who, + born of mean parentage, have risen to the highest dignities, pontifical + and imperial, and of the truth of this I could give thee instances enough + to weary thee. + </p> + <p> + “Remember, Sancho, if thou make virtue thy aim, and take a pride in + doing virtuous actions, thou wilt have no cause to envy those who have + princely and lordly ones, for blood is an inheritance, but virtue an + acquisition, and virtue has in itself alone a worth that blood does not + possess. + </p> + <p> + “This being so, if perchance anyone of thy kinsfolk should come to + see thee when thou art in thine island, thou art not to repel or slight + him, but on the contrary to welcome him, entertain him, and make much of + him; for in so doing thou wilt be approved of heaven (which is not pleased + that any should despise what it hath made), and wilt comply with the laws + of well-ordered nature. + </p> + <p> + “If thou carriest thy wife with thee (and it is not well for those + that administer governments to be long without their wives), teach and + instruct her, and strive to smooth down her natural roughness; for all + that may be gained by a wise governor may be lost and wasted by a boorish + stupid wife. + </p> + <p> + “If perchance thou art left a widower—a thing which may happen—and + in virtue of thy office seekest a consort of higher degree, choose not one + to serve thee for a hook, or for a fishing-rod, or for the hood of thy + ‘won’t have it;’ for verily, I tell thee, for all the + judge’s wife receives, the husband will be held accountable at the + general calling to account; where he will have repay in death fourfold, + items that in life he regarded as naught. + </p> + <p> + “Never go by arbitrary law, which is so much favoured by ignorant + men who plume themselves on cleverness. + </p> + <p> + “Let the tears of the poor man find with thee more compassion, but + not more justice, than the pleadings of the rich. + </p> + <p> + “Strive to lay bare the truth, as well amid the promises and + presents of the rich man, as amid the sobs and entreaties of the poor. + </p> + <p> + “When equity may and should be brought into play, press not the + utmost rigour of the law against the guilty; for the reputation of the + stern judge stands not higher than that of the compassionate. + </p> + <p> + “If perchance thou permittest the staff of justice to swerve, let it + be not by the weight of a gift, but by that of mercy. + </p> + <p> + “If it should happen to thee to give judgment in the cause of one + who is thine enemy, turn thy thoughts away from thy injury and fix them on + the justice of the case. + </p> + <p> + “Let not thine own passion blind thee in another man’s cause; + for the errors thou wilt thus commit will be most frequently irremediable; + or if not, only to be remedied at the expense of thy good name and even of + thy fortune. + </p> + <p> + “If any handsome woman come to seek justice of thee, turn away thine + eyes from her tears and thine ears from her lamentations, and consider + deliberately the merits of her demand, if thou wouldst not have thy reason + swept away by her weeping, and thy rectitude by her sighs. + </p> + <p> + “Abuse not by word him whom thou hast to punish in deed, for the + pain of punishment is enough for the unfortunate without the addition of + thine objurgations. + </p> + <p> + “Bear in mind that the culprit who comes under thy jurisdiction is + but a miserable man subject to all the propensities of our depraved + nature, and so far as may be in thy power show thyself lenient and + forbearing; for though the attributes of God are all equal, to our eyes + that of mercy is brighter and loftier than that of justice. + </p> + <p> + “If thou followest these precepts and rules, Sancho, thy days will + be long, thy fame eternal, thy reward abundant, thy felicity unutterable; + thou wilt marry thy children as thou wouldst; they and thy grandchildren + will bear titles; thou wilt live in peace and concord with all men; and, + when life draws to a close, death will come to thee in calm and ripe old + age, and the light and loving hands of thy great-grandchildren will close + thine eyes. + </p> + <p> + “What I have thus far addressed to thee are instructions for the + adornment of thy mind; listen now to those which tend to that of the body.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p42e" id="p42e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p42e.jpg (17K)" src="images/p42e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch43b" id="ch43b"></a>CHAPTER XLIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE SECOND SET OF COUNSELS DON QUIXOTE GAVE SANCHO PANZA + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p43a" id="p43a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p43a.jpg (129K)" src="images/p43a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p43a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Who, hearing the foregoing discourse of Don Quixote, would not have set + him down for a person of great good sense and greater rectitude of + purpose? But, as has been frequently observed in the course of this great + history, he only talked nonsense when he touched on chivalry, and in + discussing all other subjects showed that he had a clear and unbiassed + understanding; so that at every turn his acts gave the lie to his + intellect, and his intellect to his acts; but in the case of these second + counsels that he gave Sancho, he showed himself to have a lively turn of + humour, and displayed conspicuously his wisdom, and also his folly. + </p> + <p> + Sancho listened to him with the deepest attention, and endeavoured to fix + his counsels in his memory, like one who meant to follow them and by their + means bring the full promise of his government to a happy issue. Don + Quixote, then, went on to say: + </p> + <p> + “With regard to the mode in which thou shouldst govern thy person + and thy house, Sancho, the first charge I have to give thee is to be + clean, and to cut thy nails, not letting them grow as some do, whose + ignorance makes them fancy that long nails are an ornament to their hands, + as if those excrescences they neglect to cut were nails, and not the + talons of a lizard-catching kestrel—a filthy and unnatural abuse. + </p> + <p> + “Go not ungirt and loose, Sancho; for disordered attire is a sign of + an unstable mind, unless indeed the slovenliness and slackness is to be + set down to craft, as was the common opinion in the case of Julius Caesar. + </p> + <p> + “Ascertain cautiously what thy office may be worth; and if it will + allow thee to give liveries to thy servants, give them respectable and + serviceable, rather than showy and gay ones, and divide them between thy + servants and the poor; that is to say, if thou canst clothe six pages, + clothe three and three poor men, and thus thou wilt have pages for heaven + and pages for earth; the vainglorious never think of this new mode of + giving liveries. + </p> + <p> + “Eat not garlic nor onions, lest they find out thy boorish origin by + the smell; walk slowly and speak deliberately, but not in such a way as to + make it seem thou art listening to thyself, for all affectation is bad. + </p> + <p> + “Dine sparingly and sup more sparingly still; for the health of the + whole body is forged in the workshop of the stomach. + </p> + <p> + “Be temperate in drinking, bearing in mind that wine in excess keeps + neither secrets nor promises. + </p> + <p> + “Take care, Sancho, not to chew on both sides, and not to eruct in + anybody’s presence.” + </p> + <p> + “Eruct!” said Sancho; “I don’t know what that + means.” + </p> + <p> + “To eruct, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “means to belch, + and that is one of the filthiest words in the Spanish language, though a + very expressive one; and therefore nice folk have had recourse to the + Latin, and instead of belch say eruct, and instead of belches say + eructations; and if some do not understand these terms it matters little, + for custom will bring them into use in the course of time, so that they + will be readily understood; this is the way a language is enriched; custom + and the public are all-powerful there.” + </p> + <p> + “In truth, señor,” said Sancho, “one of the counsels and + cautions I mean to bear in mind shall be this, not to belch, for I’m + constantly doing it.” + </p> + <p> + “Eruct, Sancho, not belch,” said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “Eruct, I shall say henceforth, and I swear not to forget it,” + said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Likewise, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “thou must not + mingle such a quantity of proverbs in thy discourse as thou dost; for + though proverbs are short maxims, thou dost drag them in so often by the + head and shoulders that they savour more of nonsense than of maxims.” + </p> + <p> + “God alone can cure that,” said Sancho; “for I have more + proverbs in me than a book, and when I speak they come so thick together + into my mouth that they fall to fighting among themselves to get out; that’s + why my tongue lets fly the first that come, though they may not be pat to + the purpose. But I’ll take care henceforward to use such as befit + the dignity of my office; for ‘in a house where there’s + plenty, supper is soon cooked,’ and ‘he who binds does not + wrangle,’ and ‘the bell-ringer’s in a safe berth,’ + and ‘giving and keeping require brains.’” + </p> + <p> + “That’s it, Sancho!” said Don Quixote; “pack, + tack, string proverbs together; nobody is hindering thee! ‘My mother + beats me, and I go on with my tricks.’ I am bidding thee avoid + proverbs, and here in a second thou hast shot out a whole litany of them, + which have as much to do with what we are talking about as ‘over the + hills of Ubeda.’ Mind, Sancho, I do not say that a proverb aptly + brought in is objectionable; but to pile up and string together proverbs + at random makes conversation dull and vulgar. + </p> + <p> + “When thou ridest on horseback, do not go lolling with thy body on + the back of the saddle, nor carry thy legs stiff or sticking out from the + horse’s belly, nor yet sit so loosely that one would suppose thou + wert on Dapple; for the seat on a horse makes gentlemen of some and grooms + of others. + </p> + <p> + “Be moderate in thy sleep; for he who does not rise early does not + get the benefit of the day; and remember, Sancho, diligence is the mother + of good fortune, and indolence, its opposite, never yet attained the + object of an honest ambition. + </p> + <p> + “The last counsel I will give thee now, though it does not tend to + bodily improvement, I would have thee carry carefully in thy memory, for I + believe it will be no less useful to thee than those I have given thee + already, and it is this—never engage in a dispute about families, at + least in the way of comparing them one with another; for necessarily one + of those compared will be better than the other, and thou wilt be hated by + the one thou hast disparaged, and get nothing in any shape from the one + thou hast exalted. + </p> + <p> + “Thy attire shall be hose of full length, a long jerkin, and a cloak + a trifle longer; loose breeches by no means, for they are becoming neither + for gentlemen nor for governors. + </p> + <p> + “For the present, Sancho, this is all that has occurred to me to + advise thee; as time goes by and occasions arise my instructions shall + follow, if thou take care to let me know how thou art circumstanced.” + </p> + <p> + “Señor,” said Sancho, “I see well enough that all these + things your worship has said to me are good, holy, and profitable; but + what use will they be to me if I don’t remember one of them? To be + sure that about not letting my nails grow, and marrying again if I have + the chance, will not slip out of my head; but all that other hash, muddle, + and jumble—I don’t and can’t recollect any more of it + than of last year’s clouds; so it must be given me in writing; for + though I can’t either read or write, I’ll give it to my + confessor, to drive it into me and remind me of it whenever it is + necessary.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, sinner that I am!” said Don Quixote, “how bad it + looks in governors not to know how to read or write; for let me tell thee, + Sancho, when a man knows not how to read, or is left-handed, it argues one + of two things; either that he was the son of exceedingly mean and lowly + parents, or that he himself was so incorrigible and ill-conditioned that + neither good company nor good teaching could make any impression on him. + It is a great defect that thou labourest under, and therefore I would have + thee learn at any rate to sign thy name.” + </p> + <p> + “I can sign my name well enough,” said Sancho, “for + when I was steward of the brotherhood in my village I learned to make + certain letters, like the marks on bales of goods, which they told me + made out my name. Besides I can pretend my right hand is disabled and + make some one else sign for me, for ‘there’s a remedy for + everything except death;’ and as I shall be in command and hold the + staff, I can do as I like; moreover, ‘he who has the alcalde for + his father—,’ and I’ll be governor, and that’s + higher than alcalde. Only come and see! Let them make light of me and + abuse me; ‘they’ll come for wool and go back shorn;’ + ‘whom God loves, his house is known to Him;’ ‘the silly + sayings of the rich pass for saws in the world;’ and as I’ll + be rich, being a governor, and at the same time generous, as I mean to + be, no fault will be seen in me. ‘Only make yourself honey and the + flies will suck you;’ ‘as much as thou hast so much art thou + worth,’ as my grandmother used to say; and ‘thou canst have + no revenge of a man of substance.’” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, God’s curse upon thee, Sancho!” here exclaimed Don + Quixote; “sixty thousand devils fly away with thee and thy proverbs! + For the last hour thou hast been stringing them together and inflicting + the pangs of torture on me with every one of them. Those proverbs will + bring thee to the gallows one day, I promise thee; thy subjects will take + the government from thee, or there will be revolts among them. Tell me, + where dost thou pick them up, thou booby? How dost thou apply them, thou + blockhead? For with me, to utter one and make it apply properly, I have to + sweat and labour as if I were digging.” + </p> + <p> + “By God, master mine,” said Sancho, “your worship is + making a fuss about very little. Why the devil should you be vexed if I + make use of what is my own? And I have got nothing else, nor any other + stock in trade except proverbs and more proverbs; and here are three just + this instant come into my head, pat to the purpose and like pears in a + basket; but I won’t repeat them, for ‘sage silence is called + Sancho.’” + </p> + <p> + “That, Sancho, thou art not,” said Don Quixote; “for not + only art thou not sage silence, but thou art pestilent prate and + perversity; still I would like to know what three proverbs have just now + come into thy memory, for I have been turning over mine own—and it + is a good one—and none occurs to me.” + </p> + <p> + “What can be better,” said Sancho, “than ‘never + put thy thumbs between two back teeth;’ and ‘to “get out + of my house” and “what do you want with my wife?” there + is no answer;’ and ‘whether the pitcher hits the stone, or the + stone the pitcher, it’s a bad business for the pitcher;’ all + which fit to a hair? For no one should quarrel with his governor, or him + in authority over him, because he will come off the worst, as he does who + puts his finger between two back and if they are not back teeth it makes + no difference, so long as they are teeth; and to whatever the governor may + say there’s no answer, any more than to ‘get out of my house’ + and ‘what do you want with my wife?’ and then, as for that + about the stone and the pitcher, a blind man could see that. So that he + ‘who sees the mote in another’s eye had need to see the beam + in his own,’ that it be not said of himself, ‘the dead woman + was frightened at the one with her throat cut;’ and your worship + knows well that ‘the fool knows more in his own house than the wise + man in another’s.’” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “the fool knows + nothing, either in his own house or in anybody else’s, for no wise + structure of any sort can stand on a foundation of folly; but let us say + no more about it, Sancho, for if thou governest badly, thine will be the + fault and mine the shame; but I comfort myself with having done my duty in + advising thee as earnestly and as wisely as I could; and thus I am + released from my obligations and my promise. God guide thee, Sancho, and + govern thee in thy government, and deliver me from the misgiving I have + that thou wilt turn the whole island upside down, a thing I might easily + prevent by explaining to the duke what thou art and telling him that all + that fat little person of thine is nothing else but a sack full of + proverbs and sauciness.” + </p> + <p> + “Señor,” said Sancho, “if your worship thinks I’m + not fit for this government, I give it up on the spot; for the mere black + of the nail of my soul is dearer to me than my whole body; and I can live + just as well, simple Sancho, on bread and onions, as governor, on + partridges and capons; and what’s more, while we’re asleep we’re + all equal, great and small, rich and poor. But if your worship looks into + it, you will see it was your worship alone that put me on to this business + of governing; for I know no more about the government of islands than a + buzzard; and if there’s any reason to think that because of my being + a governor the devil will get hold of me, I’d rather go Sancho to + heaven than governor to hell.” + </p> + <p> + “By God, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “for those last + words thou hast uttered alone, I consider thou deservest to be governor of + a thousand islands. Thou hast good natural instincts, without which no + knowledge is worth anything; commend thyself to God, and try not to swerve + in the pursuit of thy main object; I mean, always make it thy aim and + fixed purpose to do right in all matters that come before thee, for heaven + always helps good intentions; and now let us go to dinner, for I think my + lord and lady are waiting for us.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p43e" id="p43e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p43e.jpg (41K)" src="images/p43e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch44b" id="ch44b"></a>CHAPTER XLIV. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + HOW SANCHO PANZA WAS CONDUCTED TO HIS GOVERNMENT, AND OF THE STRANGE + ADVENTURE THAT BEFELL DON QUIXOTE IN THE CASTLE + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p44a" id="p44a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p44a.jpg (140K)" src="images/p44a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p44a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + It is stated, they say, in the true original of this history, that when + Cide Hamete came to write this chapter, his interpreter did not translate + it as he wrote it—that is, as a kind of complaint the Moor made + against himself for having taken in hand a story so dry and of so little + variety as this of Don Quixote, for he found himself forced to speak + perpetually of him and Sancho, without venturing to indulge in digressions + and episodes more serious and more interesting. He said, too, that to go + on, mind, hand, pen always restricted to writing upon one single subject, + and speaking through the mouths of a few characters, was intolerable + drudgery, the result of which was never equal to the author’s + labour, and that to avoid this he had in the First Part availed himself of + the device of novels, like “The Ill-advised Curiosity,” and + “The Captive Captain,” which stand, as it were, apart from the + story; the others are given there being incidents which occurred to Don + Quixote himself and could not be omitted. He also thought, he says, that + many, engrossed by the interest attaching to the exploits of Don Quixote, + would take none in the novels, and pass them over hastily or impatiently + without noticing the elegance and art of their composition, which would be + very manifest were they published by themselves and not as mere adjuncts + to the crazes of Don Quixote or the simplicities of Sancho. Therefore in + this Second Part he thought it best not to insert novels, either separate + or interwoven, but only episodes, something like them, arising out of the + circumstances the facts present; and even these sparingly, and with no + more words than suffice to make them plain; and as he confines and + restricts himself to the narrow limits of the narrative, though he has + ability; capacity, and brains enough to deal with the whole universe, he + requests that his labours may not be despised, and that credit be given + him, not alone for what he writes, but for what he has refrained from + writing. + </p> + <p> + And so he goes on with his story, saying that the day Don Quixote gave the + counsels to Sancho, the same afternoon after dinner he handed them to him + in writing so that he might get some one to read them to him. They had + scarcely, however, been given to him when he let them drop, and they fell + into the hands of the duke, who showed them to the duchess and they were + both amazed afresh at the madness and wit of Don Quixote. To carry on the + joke, then, the same evening they despatched Sancho with a large following + to the village that was to serve him for an island. It happened that the + person who had him in charge was a majordomo of the duke’s, a man of + great discretion and humour—and there can be no humour without + discretion—and the same who played the part of the Countess Trifaldi + in the comical way that has been already described; and thus qualified, + and instructed by his master and mistress as to how to deal with Sancho, + he carried out their scheme admirably. Now it came to pass that as soon as + Sancho saw this majordomo he seemed in his features to recognise those of + the Trifaldi, and turning to his master, he said to him, “Señor, + either the devil will carry me off, here on this spot, righteous and + believing, or your worship will own to me that the face of this majordomo + of the duke’s here is the very face of the Distressed One.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote regarded the majordomo attentively, and having done so, said + to Sancho, “There is no reason why the devil should carry thee off, + Sancho, either righteous or believing—and what thou meanest by that + I know not; the face of the Distressed One is that of the majordomo, but + for all that the majordomo is not the Distressed One; for his being so + would involve a mighty contradiction; but this is not the time for going + into questions of the sort, which would be involving ourselves in an + inextricable labyrinth. Believe me, my friend, we must pray earnestly to + our Lord that he deliver us both from wicked wizards and enchanters.” + </p> + <p> + “It is no joke, señor,” said Sancho, “for before this I + heard him speak, and it seemed exactly as if the voice of the Trifaldi was + sounding in my ears. Well, I’ll hold my peace; but I’ll take + care to be on the look-out henceforth for any sign that may be seen to + confirm or do away with this suspicion.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou wilt do well, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “and thou + wilt let me know all thou discoverest, and all that befalls thee in thy + government.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho at last set out attended by a great number of people. He was + dressed in the garb of a lawyer, with a gaban of tawny watered camlet over + all and a montera cap of the same material, and mounted a la gineta upon a + mule. Behind him, in accordance with the duke’s orders, followed + Dapple with brand new ass-trappings and ornaments of silk, and from time + to time Sancho turned round to look at his ass, so well pleased to have + him with him that he would not have changed places with the emperor of + Germany. On taking leave he kissed the hands of the duke and duchess and + got his master’s blessing, which Don Quixote gave him with tears, + and he received blubbering. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p44b" id="p44b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p44b.jpg (341K)" src="images/p44b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p44b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Let worthy Sancho go in peace, and good luck to him, Gentle Reader; and + look out for two bushels of laughter, which the account of how he behaved + himself in office will give thee. In the meantime turn thy attention to + what happened his master the same night, and if thou dost not laugh + thereat, at any rate thou wilt stretch thy mouth with a grin; for Don + Quixote’s adventures must be honoured either with wonder or with + laughter. + </p> + <p> + It is recorded, then, that as soon as Sancho had gone, Don Quixote felt + his loneliness, and had it been possible for him to revoke the mandate and + take away the government from him he would have done so. The duchess + observed his dejection and asked him why he was melancholy; because, she + said, if it was for the loss of Sancho, there were squires, duennas, and + damsels in her house who would wait upon him to his full satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + “The truth is, señora,” replied Don Quixote, “that I do + feel the loss of Sancho; but that is not the main cause of my looking sad; + and of all the offers your excellence makes me, I accept only the + good-will with which they are made, and as to the remainder I entreat of + your excellence to permit and allow me alone to wait upon myself in my + chamber.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, Señor Don Quixote,” said the duchess, “that + must not be; four of my damsels, as beautiful as flowers, shall wait upon + you.” + </p> + <p> + “To me,” said Don Quixote, “they will not be flowers, + but thorns to pierce my heart. They, or anything like them, shall as soon + enter my chamber as fly. If your highness wishes to gratify me still + further, though I deserve it not, permit me to please myself, and wait + upon myself in my own room; for I place a barrier between my inclinations + and my virtue, and I do not wish to break this rule through the generosity + your highness is disposed to display towards me; and, in short, I will + sleep in my clothes, sooner than allow anyone to undress me.” + </p> + <p> + “Say no more, Señor Don Quixote, say no more,” said the + duchess; “I assure you I will give orders that not even a fly, not + to say a damsel, shall enter your room. I am not the one to undermine the + propriety of Señor Don Quixote, for it strikes me that among his many + virtues the one that is pre-eminent is that of modesty. Your worship may + undress and dress in private and in your own way, as you please and when + you please, for there will be no one to hinder you; and in your chamber + you will find all the utensils requisite to supply the wants of one who + sleeps with his door locked, to the end that no natural needs compel you + to open it. May the great Dulcinea del Toboso live a thousand years, and + may her fame extend all over the surface of the globe, for she deserves to + be loved by a knight so valiant and so virtuous; and may kind heaven + infuse zeal into the heart of our governor Sancho Panza to finish off his + discipline speedily, so that the world may once more enjoy the beauty of + so grand a lady.” + </p> + <p> + To which Don Quixote replied, “Your highness has spoken like what + you are; from the mouth of a noble lady nothing bad can come; and Dulcinea + will be more fortunate, and better known to the world by the praise of + your highness than by all the eulogies the greatest orators on earth could + bestow upon her.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, Señor Don Quixote,” said the duchess, it is + nearly supper-time, and the duke is probably waiting; come let us go to + supper, and retire to rest early, for the journey you made yesterday from + Kandy was not such a short one but that it must have caused you some + fatigue.” + </p> + <p> + “I feel none, señora,” said Don Quixote, “for I would go + so far as to swear to your excellence that in all my life I never mounted + a quieter beast, or a pleasanter paced one, than Clavileño; and I don’t + know what could have induced Malambruno to discard a steed so swift and so + gentle, and burn it so recklessly as he did.” + </p> + <p> + “Probably,” said the duchess, “repenting of the evil he + had done to the Trifaldi and company, and others, and the crimes he must + have committed as a wizard and enchanter, he resolved to make away with + all the instruments of his craft; and so burned Clavileño as the chief + one, and that which mainly kept him restless, wandering from land to land; + and by its ashes and the trophy of the placard the valour of the great Don + Quixote of La Mancha is established for ever.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote renewed his thanks to the duchess; and having supped, retired + to his chamber alone, refusing to allow anyone to enter with him to wait + on him, such was his fear of encountering temptations that might lead or + drive him to forget his chaste fidelity to his lady Dulcinea; for he had + always present to his mind the virtue of Amadis, that flower and mirror of + knights-errant. He locked the door behind him, and by the light of two wax + candles undressed himself, but as he was taking off his stockings—O + disaster unworthy of such a personage!—there came a burst, not of + sighs, or anything belying his delicacy or good breeding, but of some two + dozen stitches in one of his stockings, that made it look like a + window-lattice. The worthy gentleman was beyond measure distressed, and at + that moment he would have given an ounce of silver to have had half a + drachm of green silk there; I say green silk, because the stockings were + green. + </p> + <p> + Here Cide Hamete exclaimed as he was writing, “O poverty, poverty! I + know not what could have possessed the great Cordovan poet to call thee + ‘holy gift ungratefully received.’ Although a Moor, I know + well enough from the intercourse I have had with Christians that holiness + consists in charity, humility, faith, obedience, and poverty; but for all + that, I say he must have a great deal of godliness who can find any + satisfaction in being poor; unless, indeed, it be the kind of poverty one + of their greatest saints refers to, saying, ‘possess all things as + though ye possessed them not;’ which is what they call poverty in + spirit. But thou, that other poverty—for it is of thee I am speaking + now—why dost thou love to fall out with gentlemen and men of good + birth more than with other people? Why dost thou compel them to smear the + cracks in their shoes, and to have the buttons of their coats, one silk, + another hair, and another glass? Why must their ruffs be always crinkled + like endive leaves, and not crimped with a crimping iron?” (From + this we may perceive the antiquity of starch and crimped ruffs.) Then he + goes on: “Poor gentleman of good family! always cockering up his + honour, dining miserably and in secret, and making a hypocrite of the + toothpick with which he sallies out into the street after eating nothing + to oblige him to use it! Poor fellow, I say, with his nervous honour, + fancying they perceive a league off the patch on his shoe, the + sweat-stains on his hat, the shabbiness of his cloak, and the hunger of + his stomach!” + </p> + <p> + All this was brought home to Don Quixote by the bursting of his stitches; + however, he comforted himself on perceiving that Sancho had left behind a + pair of travelling boots, which he resolved to wear the next day. At last + he went to bed, out of spirits and heavy at heart, as much because he + missed Sancho as because of the irreparable disaster to his stockings, the + stitches of which he would have even taken up with silk of another colour, + which is one of the greatest signs of poverty a gentleman can show in the + course of his never-failing embarrassments. He put out the candles; but + the night was warm and he could not sleep; he rose from his bed and opened + slightly a grated window that looked out on a beautiful garden, and as he + did so he perceived and heard people walking and talking in the garden. He + set himself to listen attentively, and those below raised their voices so + that he could hear these words: + </p> + <p> + “Urge me not to sing, Emerencia, for thou knowest that ever since + this stranger entered the castle and my eyes beheld him, I cannot sing but + only weep; besides my lady is a light rather than a heavy sleeper, and I + would not for all the wealth of the world that she found us here; and even + if she were asleep and did not waken, my singing would be in vain, if this + strange Æneas, who has come into my neighbourhood to flout me, sleeps on + and wakens not to hear it.” + </p> + <p> + “Heed not that, dear Altisidora,” replied a voice; “the + duchess is no doubt asleep, and everybody in the house save the lord of + thy heart and disturber of thy soul; for just now I perceived him open the + grated window of his chamber, so he must be awake; sing, my poor sufferer, + in a low sweet tone to the accompaniment of thy harp; and even if the + duchess hears us we can lay the blame on the heat of the night.” + </p> + <p> + “That is not the point, Emerencia,” replied Altisidora, + “it is that I would not that my singing should lay bare my heart, + and that I should be thought a light and wanton maiden by those who know + not the mighty power of love; but come what may; better a blush on the + cheeks than a sore in the heart;” and here a harp softly touched + made itself heard. As he listened to all this Don Quixote was in a state + of breathless amazement, for immediately the countless adventures like + this, with windows, gratings, gardens, serenades, lovemakings, and + languishings, that he had read of in his trashy books of chivalry, came to + his mind. He at once concluded that some damsel of the duchess’s was + in love with him, and that her modesty forced her to keep her passion + secret. He trembled lest he should fall, and made an inward resolution not + to yield; and commending himself with all his might and soul to his lady + Dulcinea he made up his mind to listen to the music; and to let them know + he was there he gave a pretended sneeze, at which the damsels were not a + little delighted, for all they wanted was that Don Quixote should hear + them. So having tuned the harp, Altisidora, running her hand across the + strings, began this ballad: + </p> + +<p class="poem"> +O thou that art above in bed,<br/> + Between the holland sheets,<br/> +A-lying there from night till morn,<br/> + With outstretched legs asleep;<br/> +<br/> +O thou, most valiant knight of all<br/> + The famed Manchegan breed,<br/> +Of purity and virtue more<br/> + Than gold of Araby;<br/> +<br/> +Give ear unto a suffering maid,<br/> + Well-grown but evil-starr’d,<br/> +For those two suns of thine have lit<br/> + A fire within her heart.<br/> +<br/> +Adventures seeking thou dost rove,<br/> + To others bringing woe;<br/> +Thou scatterest wounds, but, ah, the balm<br/> + To heal them dost withhold!<br/> +<br/> +Say, valiant youth, and so may God<br/> + Thy enterprises speed,<br/> +Didst thou the light mid Libya’s sands<br/> + Or Jaca’s rocks first see?<br/> +<br/> +Did scaly serpents give thee suck?<br/> + Who nursed thee when a babe?<br/> +Wert cradled in the forest rude,<br/> + Or gloomy mountain cave?<br/> +<br/> +O Dulcinea may be proud,<br/> + That plump and lusty maid;<br/> +For she alone hath had the power<br/> + A tiger fierce to tame.<br/> +<br/> +And she for this shall famous be<br/> + From Tagus to Jarama,<br/> +From Manzanares to Genil,<br/> + From Duero to Arlanza.<br/> +<br/> +Fain would I change with her, and give<br/> + A petticoat to boot,<br/> +The best and bravest that I have,<br/> + All trimmed with gold galloon.<br/> +<br/> +O for to be the happy fair<br/> + Thy mighty arms enfold,<br/> +Or even sit beside thy bed<br/> + And scratch thy dusty poll!<br/> +<br/> +I rave,—to favours such as these<br/> + Unworthy to aspire;<br/> +Thy feet to tickle were enough<br/> + For one so mean as I.<br/> +<br/> +What caps, what slippers silver-laced,<br/> + Would I on thee bestow!<br/> +What damask breeches make for thee;<br/> + What fine long holland cloaks!<br/> +<br/> +And I would give thee pearls that should<br/> + As big as oak-galls show;<br/> +So matchless big that each might well<br/> + Be called the great “Alone.”<br/> +<br/> +Manchegan Nero, look not down<br/> + From thy Tarpeian Rock<br/> +Upon this burning heart, nor add<br/> + The fuel of thy wrath.<br/> +<br/> +A virgin soft and young am I,<br/> + Not yet fifteen years old;<br/> +(I’m only three months past fourteen,<br/> + I swear upon my soul).<br/> +<br/> +I hobble not nor do I limp,<br/> + All blemish I’m without,<br/> +And as I walk my lily locks<br/> + Are trailing on the ground.<br/> +<br/> +And though my nose be rather flat,<br/> + And though my mouth be wide,<br/> +My teeth like topazes exalt<br/> + My beauty to the sky.<br/> +<br/> +Thou knowest that my voice is sweet,<br/> + That is if thou dost hear;<br/> +And I am moulded in a form<br/> + Somewhat below the mean.<br/> +<br/> +These charms, and many more, are thine,<br/> + Spoils to thy spear and bow all;<br/> +A damsel of this house am I,<br/> + By name Altisidora.<br/> +</p> + + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p44c" id="p44c"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p44c.jpg (266K)" src="images/p44c.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p44c.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Here the lay of the heart-stricken Altisidora came to an end, while the + warmly wooed Don Quixote began to feel alarm; and with a deep sigh he said + to himself, “O that I should be such an unlucky knight that no + damsel can set eyes on me but falls in love with me! O that the peerless + Dulcinea should be so unfortunate that they cannot let her enjoy my + incomparable constancy in peace! What would ye with her, ye queens? Why do + ye persecute her, ye empresses? Why ye pursue her, ye virgins of from + fourteen to fifteen? Leave the unhappy being to triumph, rejoice and glory + in the lot love has been pleased to bestow upon her in surrendering my + heart and yielding up my soul to her. Ye love-smitten host, know that to + Dulcinea only I am dough and sugar-paste, flint to all others; for her I + am honey, for you aloes. For me Dulcinea alone is beautiful, wise, + virtuous, graceful, and high-bred, and all others are ill-favoured, + foolish, light, and low-born. Nature sent me into the world to be hers and + no other’s; Altisidora may weep or sing, the lady for whose sake + they belaboured me in the castle of the enchanted Moor may give way to + despair, but I must be Dulcinea’s, boiled or roast, pure, courteous, + and chaste, in spite of all the magic-working powers on earth.” And + with that he shut the window with a bang, and, as much out of temper and + out of sorts as if some great misfortune had befallen him, stretched + himself on his bed, where we will leave him for the present, as the great + Sancho Panza, who is about to set up his famous government, now demands + our attention. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p44e" id="p44e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p44e.jpg (145K)" src="images/p44e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p44a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch45b" id="ch45b"></a>CHAPTER XLV. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF HOW THE GREAT SANCHO PANZA TOOK POSSESSION OF HIS ISLAND, AND OF HOW HE + MADE A BEGINNING IN GOVERNING + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p45a" id="p45a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p45a.jpg (141K)" src="images/p45a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p45a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + O perpetual discoverer of the antipodes, torch of the world, eye of + heaven, sweet stimulator of the water-coolers! Thimbraeus here, Phoebus + there, now archer, now physician, father of poetry, inventor of music; + thou that always risest and, notwithstanding appearances, never settest! + To thee, O Sun, by whose aid man begetteth man, to thee I appeal to help + me and lighten the darkness of my wit that I may be able to proceed with + scrupulous exactitude in giving an account of the great Sancho Panza’s + government; for without thee I feel myself weak, feeble, and uncertain. + </p> + <p> + To come to the point, then—Sancho with all his attendants arrived at + a village of some thousand inhabitants, and one of the largest the duke + possessed. They informed him that it was called the island of Barataria, + either because the name of the village was Baratario, or because of the + joke by way of which the government had been conferred upon him. On + reaching the gates of the town, which was a walled one, the municipality + came forth to meet him, the bells rang out a peal, and the inhabitants + showed every sign of general satisfaction; and with great pomp they + conducted him to the principal church to give thanks to God, and then with + burlesque ceremonies they presented him with the keys of the town, and + acknowledged him as perpetual governor of the island of Barataria. The + costume, the beard, and the fat squat figure of the new governor + astonished all those who were not in on the secret, and even all who were, + and they were not a few. Finally, leading him out of the church they + carried him to the judgment seat and seated him on it, and the duke’s + majordomo said to him, “It is an ancient custom in this island, + señor governor, that he who comes to take possession of this famous island + is bound to answer a question which shall be put to him, and which must be + a somewhat knotty and difficult one; and by his answer the people take the + measure of their new governor’s wit, and hail with joy or deplore + his arrival accordingly.” + </p> + <p> + While the majordomo was making this speech Sancho was gazing at several + large letters inscribed on the wall opposite his seat, and as he could not + read he asked what that was that was painted on the wall. The answer was, + “Señor, there is written and recorded the day on which your lordship + took possession of this island, and the inscription says, ‘This day, + the so-and-so of such-and-such a month and year, Señor Don Sancho Panza + took possession of this island; many years may he enjoy it.’” + </p> + <p> + “And whom do they call Don Sancho Panza?” asked Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Your lordship,” replied the majordomo; “for no other + Panza but the one who is now seated in that chair has ever entered this + island.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then, let me tell you, brother,” said Sancho, “I + haven’t got the ‘Don,’ nor has any one of my family ever + had it; my name is plain Sancho Panza, and Sancho was my father’s + name, and Sancho was my grandfather’s and they were all Panzas, + without any Dons or Donas tacked on; I suspect that in this island there + are more Dons than stones; but never mind; God knows what I mean, and + maybe if my government lasts four days I’ll weed out these Dons that + no doubt are as great a nuisance as the midges, they’re so plenty. + Let the majordomo go on with his question, and I’ll give the best + answer I can, whether the people deplore or not.” + </p> + <p> + At this instant there came into court two old men, one carrying a cane by + way of a walking-stick, and the one who had no stick said, “Señor, + some time ago I lent this good man ten gold-crowns in gold to gratify him + and do him a service, on the condition that he was to return them to me + whenever I should ask for them. A long time passed before I asked for + them, for I would not put him to any greater straits to return them than + he was in when I lent them to him; but thinking he was growing careless + about payment I asked for them once and several times; and not only will + he not give them back, but he denies that he owes them, and says I never + lent him any such crowns; or if I did, that he repaid them; and I have no + witnesses either of the loan, or the payment, for he never paid me; I want + your worship to put him to his oath, and if he swears he returned them to + me I forgive him the debt here and before God.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p45b" id="p45b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p45b.jpg (400K)" src="images/p45b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p45b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “What say you to this, good old man, you with the stick?” said + Sancho. + </p> + <p> + To which the old man replied, “I admit, señor, that he lent them to + me; but let your worship lower your staff, and as he leaves it to my oath, + I’ll swear that I gave them back, and paid him really and truly.” + </p> + <p> + The governor lowered the staff, and as he did so the old man who had the + stick handed it to the other old man to hold for him while he swore, as if + he found it in his way; and then laid his hand on the cross of the staff, + saying that it was true the ten crowns that were demanded of him had been + lent him; but that he had with his own hand given them back into the hand + of the other, and that he, not recollecting it, was always asking for + them. + </p> + <p> + Seeing this the great governor asked the creditor what answer he had to + make to what his opponent said. He said that no doubt his debtor had told + the truth, for he believed him to be an honest man and a good Christian, + and he himself must have forgotten when and how he had given him back the + crowns; and that from that time forth he would make no further demand upon + him. + </p> + <p> + The debtor took his stick again, and bowing his head left the court. + Observing this, and how, without another word, he made off, and observing + too the resignation of the plaintiff, Sancho buried his head in his bosom + and remained for a short space in deep thought, with the forefinger of his + right hand on his brow and nose; then he raised his head and bade them + call back the old man with the stick, for he had already taken his + departure. They brought him back, and as soon as Sancho saw him he said, + “Honest man, give me that stick, for I want it.” + </p> + <p> + “Willingly,” said the old man; “here it is señor,” + and he put it into his hand. + </p> + <p> + Sancho took it and, handing it to the other old man, said to him, “Go, + and God be with you; for now you are paid.” + </p> + <p> + “I, señor!” returned the old man; “why, is this cane + worth ten gold-crowns?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the governor, “or if not I am the greatest + dolt in the world; now you will see whether I have got the headpiece to + govern a whole kingdom;” and he ordered the cane to be broken in + two, there, in the presence of all. It was done, and in the middle of it + they found ten gold-crowns. All were filled with amazement, and looked + upon their governor as another Solomon. They asked him how he had come to + the conclusion that the ten crowns were in the cane; he replied, that + observing how the old man who swore gave the stick to his opponent while + he was taking the oath, and swore that he had really and truly given him + the crowns, and how as soon as he had done swearing he asked for the stick + again, it came into his head that the sum demanded must be inside it; and + from this he said it might be seen that God sometimes guides those who + govern in their judgments, even though they may be fools; besides he had + himself heard the curate of his village mention just such another case, + and he had so good a memory, that if it was not that he forgot everything + he wished to remember, there would not be such a memory in all the island. + To conclude, the old men went off, one crestfallen, and the other in high + contentment, all who were present were astonished, and he who was + recording the words, deeds, and movements of Sancho could not make up his + mind whether he was to look upon him and set him down as a fool or as a + man of sense. + </p> + <p> + As soon as this case was disposed of, there came into court a woman + holding on with a tight grip to a man dressed like a well-to-do cattle + dealer, and she came forward making a great outcry and exclaiming, “Justice, + señor governor, justice! and if I don’t get it on earth I’ll + go look for it in heaven. Señor governor of my soul, this wicked man + caught me in the middle of the fields here and used my body as if it was + an ill-washed rag, and, woe is me! got from me what I had kept these + three-and-twenty years and more, defending it against Moors and + Christians, natives and strangers; and I always as hard as an oak, and + keeping myself as pure as a salamander in the fire, or wool among the + brambles, for this good fellow to come now with clean hands to handle me!” + </p> + <p> + “It remains to be proved whether this gallant has clean hands or + not,” said Sancho; and turning to the man he asked him what he had + to say in answer to the woman’s charge. + </p> + <p> + He all in confusion made answer, “Sirs, I am a poor pig dealer, and + this morning I left the village to sell (saving your presence) four pigs, + and between dues and cribbings they got out of me little less than the + worth of them. As I was returning to my village I fell in on the road with + this good dame, and the devil who makes a coil and a mess out of + everything, yoked us together. I paid her fairly, but she not contented + laid hold of me and never let go until she brought me here; she says I + forced her, but she lies by the oath I swear or am ready to swear; and + this is the whole truth and every particle of it.” + </p> + <p> + The governor on this asked him if he had any money in silver about him; he + said he had about twenty ducats in a leather purse in his bosom. The + governor bade him take it out and hand it to the complainant; he obeyed + trembling; the woman took it, and making a thousand salaams to all and + praying to God for the long life and health of the señor governor who had + such regard for distressed orphans and virgins, she hurried out of court + with the purse grasped in both her hands, first looking, however, to see + if the money it contained was silver. + </p> + <p> + As soon as she was gone Sancho said to the cattle dealer, whose tears were + already starting and whose eyes and heart were following his purse, + “Good fellow, go after that woman and take the purse from her, by + force even, and come back with it here;” and he did not say it to + one who was a fool or deaf, for the man was off like a flash of lightning, + and ran to do as he was bid. + </p> + <p> + All the bystanders waited anxiously to see the end of the case, and + presently both man and woman came back at even closer grips than before, + she with her petticoat up and the purse in the lap of it, and he + struggling hard to take it from her, but all to no purpose, so stout was + the woman’s defence, she all the while crying out, “Justice + from God and the world! see here, señor governor, the shamelessness and + boldness of this villain, who in the middle of the town, in the middle of + the street, wanted to take from me the purse your worship bade him give + me.” + </p> + <p> + “And did he take it?” asked the governor. + </p> + <p> + “Take it!” said the woman; “I’d let my life be + taken from me sooner than the purse. A pretty child I’d be! It’s + another sort of cat they must throw in my face, and not that poor scurvy + knave. Pincers and hammers, mallets and chisels would not get it out of my + grip; no, nor lions’ claws; the soul from out of my body first!” + </p> + <p> + “She is right,” said the man; “I own myself beaten and + powerless; I confess I haven’t the strength to take it from her;” + and he let go his hold of her. + </p> + <p> + Upon this the governor said to the woman, “Let me see that purse, my + worthy and sturdy friend.” She handed it to him at once, and the + governor returned it to the man, and said to the unforced mistress of + force, “Sister, if you had shown as much, or only half as much, + spirit and vigour in defending your body as you have shown in defending + that purse, the strength of Hercules could not have forced you. Be off, + and God speed you, and bad luck to you, and don’t show your face in + all this island, or within six leagues of it on any side, under pain of + two hundred lashes; be off at once, I say, you shameless, cheating shrew.” + </p> + <p> + The woman was cowed and went off disconsolately, hanging her head; and the + governor said to the man, “Honest man, go home with your money, and + God speed you; and for the future, if you don’t want to lose it, see + that you don’t take it into your head to yoke with anybody.” + The man thanked him as clumsily as he could and went his way, and the + bystanders were again filled with admiration at their new governor’s + judgments and sentences. + </p> + <p> + Next, two men, one apparently a farm labourer, and the other a tailor, for + he had a pair of shears in his hand, presented themselves before him, and + the tailor said, “Señor governor, this labourer and I come before + your worship by reason of this honest man coming to my shop yesterday (for + saving everybody’s presence I’m a passed tailor, God be + thanked), and putting a piece of cloth into my hands and asking me, + ‘Señor, will there be enough in this cloth to make me a cap?’ + Measuring the cloth I said there would. He probably suspected—as I + supposed, and I supposed right—that I wanted to steal some of the + cloth, led to think so by his own roguery and the bad opinion people have + of tailors; and he told me to see if there would be enough for two. I + guessed what he would be at, and I said ‘yes.’ He, still + following up his original unworthy notion, went on adding cap after cap, + and I ‘yes’ after ‘yes,’ until we got as far as + five. He has just this moment come for them; I gave them to him, but he + won’t pay me for the making; on the contrary, he calls upon me to + pay him, or else return his cloth.” + </p> + <p> + “Is all this true, brother?” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” replied the man; “but will your worship make him + show the five caps he has made me?” + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart,” said the tailor; and drawing his hand + from under his cloak he showed five caps stuck upon the five fingers of + it, and said, “there are the caps this good man asks for; and by God + and upon my conscience I haven’t a scrap of cloth left, and I’ll + let the work be examined by the inspectors of the trade.” + </p> + <p> + All present laughed at the number of caps and the novelty of the suit; + Sancho set himself to think for a moment, and then said, “It seems + to me that in this case it is not necessary to deliver long-winded + arguments, but only to give off-hand the judgment of an honest man; and so + my decision is that the tailor lose the making and the labourer the cloth, + and that the caps go to the prisoners in the gaol, and let there be no + more about it.” + </p> + <p> + If the previous decision about the cattle dealer’s purse excited the + admiration of the bystanders, this provoked their laughter; however, the + governor’s orders were after all executed. All this, having been + taken down by his chronicler, was at once despatched to the duke, who was + looking out for it with great eagerness; and here let us leave the good + Sancho; for his master, sorely troubled in mind by Altisidora’s + music, has pressing claims upon us now. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p45e" id="p45e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p45e.jpg (11K)" src="images/p45e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch46b" id="ch46b"></a>CHAPTER XLVI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE TERRIBLE BELL AND CAT FRIGHT THAT DON QUIXOTE GOT IN THE COURSE OF + THE ENAMOURED ALTISIDORA’S WOOING + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p46a" id="p46a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p46a.jpg (58K)" src="images/p46a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p46a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + We left Don Quixote wrapped up in the reflections which the music of the + enamourned maid Altisidora had given rise to. He went to bed with them, + and just like fleas they would not let him sleep or get a moment’s + rest, and the broken stitches of his stockings helped them. But as Time is + fleet and no obstacle can stay his course, he came riding on the hours, + and morning very soon arrived. Seeing which Don Quixote quitted the soft + down, and, nowise slothful, dressed himself in his chamois suit and put on + his travelling boots to hide the disaster to his stockings. He threw over + him his scarlet mantle, put on his head a montera of green velvet trimmed + with silver edging, flung across his shoulder the baldric with his good + trenchant sword, took up a large rosary that he always carried with him, + and with great solemnity and precision of gait proceeded to the + antechamber where the duke and duchess were already dressed and waiting + for him. But as he passed through a gallery, Altisidora and the other + damsel, her friend, were lying in wait for him, and the instant Altisidora + saw him she pretended to faint, while her friend caught her in her lap, + and began hastily unlacing the bosom of her dress. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote observed it, and approaching them said, “I know very + well what this seizure arises from.” + </p> + <p> + “I know not from what,” replied the friend, “for + Altisidora is the healthiest damsel in all this house, and I have never + heard her complain all the time I have known her. A plague on all the + knights-errant in the world, if they be all ungrateful! Go away, Señor Don + Quixote; for this poor child will not come to herself again so long as you + are here.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p46b" id="p46b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p46b.jpg (320K)" src="images/p46b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p46b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + To which Don Quixote returned, “Do me the favour, señora, to let a + lute be placed in my chamber to-night; and I will comfort this poor maiden + to the best of my power; for in the early stages of love a prompt + disillusion is an approved remedy;” and with this he retired, so as + not to be remarked by any who might see him there. + </p> + <p> + He had scarcely withdrawn when Altisidora, recovering from her swoon, said + to her companion, “The lute must be left, for no doubt Don Quixote + intends to give us some music; and being his it will not be bad.” + </p> + <p> + They went at once to inform the duchess of what was going on, and of the + lute Don Quixote asked for, and she, delighted beyond measure, plotted + with the duke and her two damsels to play him a trick that should be + amusing but harmless; and in high glee they waited for night, which came + quickly as the day had come; and as for the day, the duke and duchess + spent it in charming conversation with Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + When eleven o’clock came, Don Quixote found a guitar in his chamber; + he tried it, opened the window, and perceived that some persons were + walking in the garden; and having passed his fingers over the frets of the + guitar and tuned it as well as he could, he spat and cleared his chest, + and then with a voice a little hoarse but full-toned, he sang the + following ballad, which he had himself that day composed: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +Mighty Love the hearts of maidens +Doth unsettle and perplex, +And the instrument he uses +Most of all is idleness. + +Sewing, stitching, any labour, +Having always work to do, +To the poison Love instilleth +Is the antidote most sure. + +And to proper-minded maidens +Who desire the matron’s name +Modesty’s a marriage portion, +Modesty their highest praise. + +Men of prudence and discretion, +Courtiers gay and gallant knights, +With the wanton damsels dally, +But the modest take to wife. +There are passions, transient, fleeting, +Loves in hostelries declar’d, +Sunrise loves, with sunset ended, +When the guest hath gone his way. + +Love that springs up swift and sudden, +Here to-day, to-morrow flown, +Passes, leaves no trace behind it, +Leaves no image on the soul. + +Painting that is laid on painting +Maketh no display or show; +Where one beauty’s in possession +There no other can take hold. + +Dulcinea del Toboso +Painted on my heart I wear; +Never from its tablets, never, +Can her image be eras’d. + +The quality of all in lovers +Most esteemed is constancy; +‘T is by this that love works wonders, +This exalts them to the skies. + +</pre> + <p> + Don Quixote had got so far with his song, to which the duke, the duchess, + Altisidora, and nearly the whole household of the castle were listening, + when all of a sudden from a gallery above that was exactly over his window + they let down a cord with more than a hundred bells attached to it, and + immediately after that discharged a great sack full of cats, which also + had bells of smaller size tied to their tails. Such was the din of the + bells and the squalling of the cats, that though the duke and duchess were + the contrivers of the joke they were startled by it, while Don Quixote + stood paralysed with fear; and as luck would have it, two or three of the + cats made their way in through the grating of his chamber, and flying from + one side to the other, made it seem as if there was a legion of devils at + large in it. They extinguished the candles that were burning in the room, + and rushed about seeking some way of escape; the cord with the large bells + never ceased rising and falling; and most of the people of the castle, not + knowing what was really the matter, were at their wits’ end with + astonishment. Don Quixote sprang to his feet, and drawing his sword, began + making passes at the grating, shouting out, “Avaunt, malignant + enchanters! avaunt, ye witchcraft-working rabble! I am Don Quixote of La + Mancha, against whom your evil machinations avail not nor have any power.” + And turning upon the cats that were running about the room, he made + several cuts at them. They dashed at the grating and escaped by it, save + one that, finding itself hard pressed by the slashes of Don Quixote’s + sword, flew at his face and held on to his nose tooth and nail, with the + pain of which he began to shout his loudest. The duke and duchess hearing + this, and guessing what it was, ran with all haste to his room, and as the + poor gentleman was striving with all his might to detach the cat from his + face, they opened the door with a master-key and went in with lights and + witnessed the unequal combat. The duke ran forward to part the combatants, + but Don Quixote cried out aloud, “Let no one take him from me; leave + me hand to hand with this demon, this wizard, this enchanter; I will teach + him, I myself, who Don Quixote of La Mancha is.” The cat, however, + never minding these threats, snarled and held on; but at last the duke + pulled it off and flung it out of the window. Don Quixote was left with a + face as full of holes as a sieve and a nose not in very good condition, + and greatly vexed that they did not let him finish the battle he had been + so stoutly fighting with that villain of an enchanter. They sent for some + oil of John’s wort, and Altisidora herself with her own fair hands + bandaged all the wounded parts; and as she did so she said to him in a low + voice. “All these mishaps have befallen thee, hardhearted knight, + for the sin of thy insensibility and obstinacy; and God grant thy squire + Sancho may forget to whip himself, so that that dearly beloved Dulcinea of + thine may never be released from her enchantment, that thou mayest never + come to her bed, at least while I who adore thee am alive.” + </p> + <p> + To all this Don Quixote made no answer except to heave deep sighs, and + then stretched himself on his bed, thanking the duke and duchess for their + kindness, not because he stood in any fear of that bell-ringing rabble of + enchanters in cat shape, but because he recognised their good intentions + in coming to his rescue. The duke and duchess left him to repose and + withdrew greatly grieved at the unfortunate result of the joke; as they + never thought the adventure would have fallen so heavy on Don Quixote or + cost him so dear, for it cost him five days of confinement to his bed, + during which he had another adventure, pleasanter than the late one, which + his chronicler will not relate just now in order that he may turn his + attention to Sancho Panza, who was proceeding with great diligence and + drollery in his government. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p46e" id="p46e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p46e.jpg (65K)" src="images/p46e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch47b" id="ch47b"></a>CHAPTER XLVII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS CONTINUED THE ACCOUNT OF HOW SANCHO PANZA CONDUCTED HIMSELF IN + HIS GOVERNMENT + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p47a" id="p47a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p47a.jpg (139K)" src="images/p47a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p47a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The history says that from the justice court they carried Sancho to a + sumptuous palace, where in a spacious chamber there was a table laid out + with royal magnificence. The clarions sounded as Sancho entered the room, + and four pages came forward to present him with water for his hands, which + Sancho received with great dignity. The music ceased, and Sancho seated + himself at the head of the table, for there was only that seat placed, and + no more than one cover laid. A personage, who it appeared afterwards was a + physician, placed himself standing by his side with a whalebone wand in + his hand. They then lifted up a fine white cloth covering fruit and a + great variety of dishes of different sorts; one who looked like a student + said grace, and a page put a laced bib on Sancho, while another who played + the part of head carver placed a dish of fruit before him. But hardly had + he tasted a morsel when the man with the wand touched the plate with it, + and they took it away from before him with the utmost celerity. The + carver, however, brought him another dish, and Sancho proceeded to try it; + but before he could get at it, not to say taste it, already the wand had + touched it and a page had carried it off with the same promptitude as the + fruit. Sancho seeing this was puzzled, and looking from one to another + asked if this dinner was to be eaten after the fashion of a jugglery + trick. + </p> + <p> + To this he with the wand replied, “It is not to be eaten, señor + governor, except as is usual and customary in other islands where there + are governors. I, señor, am a physician, and I am paid a salary in this + island to serve its governors as such, and I have a much greater regard + for their health than for my own, studying day and night and making myself + acquainted with the governor’s constitution, in order to be able to + cure him when he falls sick. The chief thing I have to do is to attend at + his dinners and suppers and allow him to eat what appears to me to be fit + for him, and keep from him what I think will do him harm and be injurious + to his stomach; and therefore I ordered that plate of fruit to be removed + as being too moist, and that other dish I ordered to be removed as being + too hot and containing many spices that stimulate thirst; for he who + drinks much kills and consumes the radical moisture wherein life consists.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then,” said Sancho, “that dish of roast partridges + there that seems so savoury will not do me any harm.” + </p> + <p> + To this the physician replied, “Of those my lord the governor shall + not eat so long as I live.” + </p> + <p> + “Why so?” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “Because,” replied the doctor, “our master Hippocrates, + the polestar and beacon of medicine, says in one of his aphorisms omnis + saturatio mala, perdicis autem pessima, which means ‘all repletion + is bad, but that of partridge is the worst of all.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case,” said Sancho, “let señor doctor see among + the dishes that are on the table what will do me most good and least harm, + and let me eat it, without tapping it with his stick; for by the life of + the governor, and so may God suffer me to enjoy it, but I’m dying of + hunger; and in spite of the doctor and all he may say, to deny me food is + the way to take my life instead of prolonging it.” + </p> + <p> + “Your worship is right, señor governor,” said the physician; + “and therefore your worship, I consider, should not eat of those + stewed rabbits there, because it is a furry kind of food; if that veal + were not roasted and served with pickles, you might try it; but it is out + of the question.” + </p> + <p> + “That big dish that is smoking farther off,” said Sancho, + “seems to me to be an olla podrida, and out of the diversity of + things in such ollas, I can’t fail to light upon something tasty and + good for me.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p47b" id="p47b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p47b.jpg (372K)" src="images/p47b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p47b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “Absit,” said the doctor; “far from us be any such base + thought! There is nothing in the world less nourishing than an olla + podrida; to canons, or rectors of colleges, or peasants’ weddings + with your ollas podridas, but let us have none of them on the tables of + governors, where everything that is present should be delicate and + refined; and the reason is, that always, everywhere and by everybody, + simple medicines are more esteemed than compound ones, for we cannot go + wrong in those that are simple, while in the compound we may, by merely + altering the quantity of the things composing them. But what I am of + opinion the governor should eat now in order to preserve and fortify his + health is a hundred or so of wafer cakes and a few thin slices of conserve + of quinces, which will settle his stomach and help his digestion.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho on hearing this threw himself back in his chair and surveyed the + doctor steadily, and in a solemn tone asked him what his name was and + where he had studied. + </p> + <p> + He replied, “My name, señor governor, is Doctor Pedro Recio de + Aguero I am a native of a place called Tirteafuera which lies between + Caracuel and Almodovar del Campo, on the right-hand side, and I have the + degree of doctor from the university of Osuna.” + </p> + <p> + To which Sancho, glowing all over with rage, returned, “Then let + Doctor Pedro Recio de Malaguero, native of Tirteafuera, a place that’s + on the right-hand side as we go from Caracuel to Almodovar del Campo, + graduate of Osuna, get out of my presence at once; or I swear by the sun I’ll + take a cudgel, and by dint of blows, beginning with him, I’ll not + leave a doctor in the whole island; at least of those I know to be + ignorant; for as to learned, wise, sensible physicians, them I will + reverence and honour as divine persons. Once more I say let Pedro Recio + get out of this or I’ll take this chair I am sitting on and break it + over his head. And if they call me to account for it, I’ll clear + myself by saying I served God in killing a bad doctor—a general + executioner. And now give me something to eat, or else take your + government; for a trade that does not feed its master is not worth two + beans.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor was dismayed when he saw the governor in such a passion, and he + would have made a Tirteafuera out of the room but that the same instant a + post-horn sounded in the street; and the carver putting his head out of + the window turned round and said, “It’s a courier from my lord + the duke, no doubt with some despatch of importance.” + </p> + <p> + The courier came in all sweating and flurried, and taking a paper from his + bosom, placed it in the governor’s hands. Sancho handed it to the + majordomo and bade him read the superscription, which ran thus: To Don + Sancho Panza, Governor of the Island of Barataria, into his own hands or + those of his secretary. Sancho when he heard this said, “Which of + you is my secretary?” “I am, señor,” said one of those + present, “for I can read and write, and am a Biscayan.” + “With that addition,” said Sancho, “you might be + secretary to the emperor himself; open this paper and see what it says.” + The new-born secretary obeyed, and having read the contents said the + matter was one to be discussed in private. Sancho ordered the chamber to + be cleared, the majordomo and the carver only remaining; so the doctor and + the others withdrew, and then the secretary read the letter, which was as + follows: + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + It has come to my knowledge, Señor Don Sancho Panza, that certain + enemies of mine and of the island are about to make a furious attack + upon it some night, I know not when. It behoves you to be on the alert + and keep watch, that they surprise you not. I also know by trustworthy + spies that four persons have entered the town in disguise in order to + take your life, because they stand in dread of your great capacity; keep + your eyes open and take heed who approaches you to address you, and eat + nothing that is presented to you. I will take care to send you aid if + you find yourself in difficulty, but in all things you will act as may + be expected of your judgment. From this place, the Sixteenth of August, + at four in the morning. + </p> + <p> + Your friend, + </p> + <p> + THE DUKE + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Sancho was astonished, and those who stood by made believe to be so too, + and turning to the majordomo he said to him, “What we have got to do + first, and it must be done at once, is to put Doctor Recio in the lock-up; + for if anyone wants to kill me it is he, and by a slow death and the worst + of all, which is hunger.” + </p> + <p> + “Likewise,” said the carver, “it is my opinion your + worship should not eat anything that is on this table, for the whole was a + present from some nuns; and as they say, ‘behind the cross there’s + the devil.’” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t deny it,” said Sancho; “so for the + present give me a piece of bread and four pounds or so of grapes; no + poison can come in them; for the fact is I can’t go on without + eating; and if we are to be prepared for these battles that are + threatening us we must be well provisioned; for it is the tripes that + carry the heart and not the heart the tripes. And you, secretary, answer + my lord the duke and tell him that all his commands shall be obeyed to the + letter, as he directs; and say from me to my lady the duchess that I kiss + her hands, and that I beg of her not to forget to send my letter and + bundle to my wife Teresa Panza by a messenger; and I will take it as a + great favour and will not fail to serve her in all that may lie within my + power; and as you are about it you may enclose a kiss of the hand to my + master Don Quixote that he may see I am grateful bread; and as a good + secretary and a good Biscayan you may add whatever you like and whatever + will come in best; and now take away this cloth and give me something to + eat, and I’ll be ready to meet all the spies and assassins and + enchanters that may come against me or my island.” + </p> + <p> + At this instant a page entered saying, “Here is a farmer on + business, who wants to speak to your lordship on a matter of great + importance, he says.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s very odd,” said Sancho, “the ways of these + men on business; is it possible they can be such fools as not to see that + an hour like this is no hour for coming on business? We who govern and we + who are judges—are we not men of flesh and blood, and are we not to + be allowed the time required for taking rest, unless they’d have us + made of marble? By God and on my conscience, if the government remains in + my hands (which I have a notion it won’t), I’ll bring more + than one man on business to order. However, tell this good man to come in; + but take care first of all that he is not some spy or one of my assassins.” + </p> + <p> + “No, my lord,” said the page, “for he looks like a + simple fellow, and either I know very little or he is as good as good + bread.” + </p> + <p> + “There is nothing to be afraid of,” said the majordomo, + “for we are all here.” + </p> + <p> + “Would it be possible, carver,” said Sancho, “now that + Doctor Pedro Recio is not here, to let me eat something solid and + substantial, if it were even a piece of bread and an onion?” + </p> + <p> + “To-night at supper,” said the carver, “the shortcomings + of the dinner shall be made good, and your lordship shall be fully + contented.” + </p> + <p> + “God grant it,” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + The farmer now came in, a well-favoured man that one might see a thousand + leagues off was an honest fellow and a good soul. The first thing he said + was, “Which is the lord governor here?” + </p> + <p> + “Which should it be,” said the secretary, “but he who is + seated in the chair?” + </p> + <p> + “Then I humble myself before him,” said the farmer; and going + on his knees he asked for his hand, to kiss it. Sancho refused it, and + bade him stand up and say what he wanted. The farmer obeyed, and then + said, “I am a farmer, señor, a native of Miguelturra, a village two + leagues from Ciudad Real.” + </p> + <p> + “Another Tirteafuera!” said Sancho; “say on, brother; I + know Miguelturra very well I can tell you, for it’s not very far + from my own town.” + </p> + <p> + “The case is this, señor,” continued the farmer, “that + by God’s mercy I am married with the leave and licence of the holy + Roman Catholic Church; I have two sons, students, and the younger is + studying to become bachelor, and the elder to be licentiate; I am a + widower, for my wife died, or more properly speaking, a bad doctor killed + her on my hands, giving her a purge when she was with child; and if it had + pleased God that the child had been born, and was a boy, I would have put + him to study for doctor, that he might not envy his brothers the bachelor + and the licentiate.” + </p> + <p> + “So that if your wife had not died, or had not been killed, you + would not now be a widower,” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “No, señor, certainly not,” said the farmer. + </p> + <p> + “We’ve got that much settled,” said Sancho; “get + on, brother, for it’s more bed-time than business-time.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then,” said the farmer, “this son of mine who is + going to be a bachelor, fell in love in the said town with a damsel called + Clara Perlerina, daughter of Andres Perlerino, a very rich farmer; and + this name of Perlerines does not come to them by ancestry or descent, but + because all the family are paralytics, and for a better name they call + them Perlerines; though to tell the truth the damsel is as fair as an + Oriental pearl, and like a flower of the field, if you look at her on the + right side; on the left not so much, for on that side she wants an eye + that she lost by small-pox; and though her face is thickly and deeply + pitted, those who love her say they are not pits that are there, but the + graves where the hearts of her lovers are buried. She is so cleanly that + not to soil her face she carries her nose turned up, as they say, so that + one would fancy it was running away from her mouth; and with all this she + looks extremely well, for she has a wide mouth; and but for wanting ten or + a dozen teeth and grinders she might compare and compete with the + comeliest. Of her lips I say nothing, for they are so fine and thin that, + if lips might be reeled, one might make a skein of them; but being of a + different colour from ordinary lips they are wonderful, for they are + mottled, blue, green, and purple—let my lord the governor pardon me + for painting so minutely the charms of her who some time or other will be + my daughter; for I love her, and I don’t find her amiss.” + </p> + <p> + “Paint what you will,” said Sancho; “I enjoy your + painting, and if I had dined there could be no dessert more to my taste + than your portrait.” + </p> + <p> + “That I have still to furnish,” said the farmer; “but a + time will come when we may be able if we are not now; and I can tell you, + señor, if I could paint her gracefulness and her tall figure, it would + astonish you; but that is impossible because she is bent double with her + knees up to her mouth; but for all that it is easy to see that if she + could stand up she’d knock her head against the ceiling; and she + would have given her hand to my bachelor ere this, only that she can’t + stretch it out, for it’s contracted; but still one can see its + elegance and fine make by its long furrowed nails.” + </p> + <p> + “That will do, brother,” said Sancho; “consider you have + painted her from head to foot; what is it you want now? Come to the point + without all this beating about the bush, and all these scraps and + additions.” + </p> + <p> + “I want your worship, señor,” said the farmer, “to do me + the favour of giving me a letter of recommendation to the girl’s + father, begging him to be so good as to let this marriage take place, as + we are not ill-matched either in the gifts of fortune or of nature; for to + tell the truth, señor governor, my son is possessed of a devil, and there + is not a day but the evil spirits torment him three or four times; and + from having once fallen into the fire, he has his face puckered up like a + piece of parchment, and his eyes watery and always running; but he has the + disposition of an angel, and if it was not for belabouring and pummelling + himself he’d be a saint.” + </p> + <p> + “Is there anything else you want, good man?” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “There’s another thing I’d like,” said the farmer, + “but I’m afraid to mention it; however, out it must; for after + all I can’t let it be rotting in my breast, come what may. I mean, + señor, that I’d like your worship to give me three hundred or six + hundred ducats as a help to my bachelor’s portion, to help him in + setting up house; for they must, in short, live by themselves, without + being subject to the interferences of their fathers-in-law.” + </p> + <p> + “Just see if there’s anything else you’d like,” + said Sancho, “and don’t hold back from mentioning it out of + bashfulness or modesty.” + </p> + <p> + “No, indeed there is not,” said the farmer. + </p> + <p> + The moment he said this the governor started to his feet, and seizing the + chair he had been sitting on exclaimed, “By all that’s good, + you ill-bred, boorish Don Bumpkin, if you don’t get out of this at + once and hide yourself from my sight, I’ll lay your head open with + this chair. You whoreson rascal, you devil’s own painter, and is it + at this hour you come to ask me for six hundred ducats! How should I have + them, you stinking brute? And why should I give them to you if I had them, + you knave and blockhead? What have I to do with Miguelturra or the whole + family of the Perlerines? Get out I say, or by the life of my lord the + duke I’ll do as I said. You’re not from Miguelturra, but some + knave sent here from hell to tempt me. Why, you villain, I have not yet + had the government half a day, and you want me to have six hundred ducats + already!” + </p> + <p> + The carver made signs to the farmer to leave the room, which he did with + his head down, and to all appearance in terror lest the governor should + carry his threats into effect, for the rogue knew very well how to play + his part. + </p> + <p> + But let us leave Sancho in his wrath, and peace be with them all; and let + us return to Don Quixote, whom we left with his face bandaged and doctored + after the cat wounds, of which he was not cured for eight days; and on one + of these there befell him what Cide Hamete promises to relate with that + exactitude and truth with which he is wont to set forth everything + connected with this great history, however minute it may be. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p47e" id="p47e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p47e.jpg (12K)" src="images/p47e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch48b" id="ch48b"></a>CHAPTER XLVIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF WHAT BEFELL DON QUIXOTE WITH DONA RODRIGUEZ, THE DUCHESS’S + DUENNA, TOGETHER WITH OTHER OCCURRENCES WORTHY OF RECORD AND ETERNAL + REMEMBRANCE + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p48a" id="p48a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p48a.jpg (131K)" src="images/p48a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p48a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Exceedingly moody and dejected was the sorely wounded Don Quixote, with + his face bandaged and marked, not by the hand of God, but by the claws of + a cat, mishaps incidental to knight-errantry. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p48b" id="p48b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p48b.jpg (316K)" src="images/p48b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p48b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Six days he remained without appearing in public, and one night as he lay + awake thinking of his misfortunes and of Altisidora’s pursuit of + him, he perceived that some one was opening the door of his room with a + key, and he at once made up his mind that the enamoured damsel was coming + to make an assault upon his chastity and put him in danger of failing in + the fidelity he owed to his lady Dulcinea del Toboso. “No,” + said he, firmly persuaded of the truth of his idea (and he said it loud + enough to be heard), “the greatest beauty upon earth shall not avail + to make me renounce my adoration of her whom I bear stamped and graved in + the core of my heart and the secret depths of my bowels; be thou, lady + mine, transformed into a clumsy country wench, or into a nymph of golden + Tagus weaving a web of silk and gold, let Merlin or Montesinos hold thee + captive where they will; where’er thou art, thou art mine, and where’er + I am, must be thine.” The very instant he had uttered these words, + the door opened. He stood up on the bed wrapped from head to foot in a + yellow satin coverlet, with a cap on his head, and his face and his + moustaches tied up, his face because of the scratches, and his moustaches + to keep them from drooping and falling down, in which trim he looked the + most extraordinary scarecrow that could be conceived. He kept his eyes + fixed on the door, and just as he was expecting to see the love-smitten + and unhappy Altisidora make her appearance, he saw coming in a most + venerable duenna, in a long white-bordered veil that covered and enveloped + her from head to foot. Between the fingers of her left hand she held a + short lighted candle, while with her right she shaded it to keep the light + from her eyes, which were covered by spectacles of great size, and she + advanced with noiseless steps, treading very softly. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote kept an eye upon her from his watchtower, and observing her + costume and noting her silence, he concluded that it must be some witch or + sorceress that was coming in such a guise to work him some mischief, and + he began crossing himself at a great rate. The spectre still advanced, and + on reaching the middle of the room, looked up and saw the energy with + which Don Quixote was crossing himself; and if he was scared by seeing + such a figure as hers, she was terrified at the sight of his; for the + moment she saw his tall yellow form with the coverlet and the bandages + that disfigured him, she gave a loud scream, and exclaiming, “Jesus! + what’s this I see?” let fall the candle in her fright, and + then finding herself in the dark, turned about to make off, but stumbling + on her skirts in her consternation, she measured her length with a mighty + fall. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p48c" id="p48c"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p48c.jpg (249K)" src="images/p48c.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p48c.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote in his trepidation began saying, “I conjure thee, + phantom, or whatever thou art, tell me what thou art and what thou wouldst + with me. If thou art a soul in torment, say so, and all that my powers can + do I will do for thee; for I am a Catholic Christian and love to do good + to all the world, and to this end I have embraced the order of + knight-errantry to which I belong, the province of which extends to doing + good even to souls in purgatory.” + </p> + <p> + The unfortunate duenna hearing herself thus conjured, by her own fear + guessed Don Quixote’s and in a low plaintive voice answered, “Señor + Don Quixote—if so be you are indeed Don Quixote—I am no + phantom or spectre or soul in purgatory, as you seem to think, but Dona + Rodriguez, duenna of honour to my lady the duchess, and I come to you with + one of those grievances your worship is wont to redress.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me, Señora Dona Rodriguez,” said Don Quixote, “do + you perchance come to transact any go-between business? Because I must + tell you I am not available for anybody’s purpose, thanks to the + peerless beauty of my lady Dulcinea del Toboso. In short, Señora Dona + Rodriguez, if you will leave out and put aside all love messages, you may + go and light your candle and come back, and we will discuss all the + commands you have for me and whatever you wish, saving only, as I said, + all seductive communications.” + </p> + <p> + “I carry nobody’s messages, señor,” said the duenna; + “little you know me. Nay, I’m not far enough advanced in years + to take to any such childish tricks. God be praised I have a soul in my + body still, and all my teeth and grinders in my mouth, except one or two + that the colds, so common in this Aragon country, have robbed me of. But + wait a little, while I go and light my candle, and I will return + immediately and lay my sorrows before you as before one who relieves those + of all the world;” and without staying for an answer she quitted the + room and left Don Quixote tranquilly meditating while he waited for her. A + thousand thoughts at once suggested themselves to him on the subject of + this new adventure, and it struck him as being ill done and worse advised + in him to expose himself to the danger of breaking his plighted faith to + his lady; and said he to himself, “Who knows but that the devil, + being wily and cunning, may be trying now to entrap me with a duenna, + having failed with empresses, queens, duchesses, marchionesses, and + countesses? Many a time have I heard it said by many a man of sense that + he will sooner offer you a flat-nosed wench than a roman-nosed one; and + who knows but this privacy, this opportunity, this silence, may awaken my + sleeping desires, and lead me in these my latter years to fall where I + have never tripped? In cases of this sort it is better to flee than to + await the battle. But I must be out of my senses to think and utter such + nonsense; for it is impossible that a long, white-hooded spectacled duenna + could stir up or excite a wanton thought in the most graceless bosom in + the world. Is there a duenna on earth that has fair flesh? Is there a + duenna in the world that escapes being ill-tempered, wrinkled, and + prudish? Avaunt, then, ye duenna crew, undelightful to all mankind. Oh, + but that lady did well who, they say, had at the end of her reception room + a couple of figures of duennas with spectacles and lace-cushions, as if at + work, and those statues served quite as well to give an air of propriety + to the room as if they had been real duennas.” + </p> + <p> + So saying he leaped off the bed, intending to close the door and not allow + Señora Rodriguez to enter; but as he went to shut it Señora Rodriguez + returned with a wax candle lighted, and having a closer view of Don + Quixote, with the coverlet round him, and his bandages and night-cap, she + was alarmed afresh, and retreating a couple of paces, exclaimed, “Am + I safe, sir knight? for I don’t look upon it as a sign of very great + virtue that your worship should have got up out of bed.” + </p> + <p> + “I may well ask the same, señora,” said Don Quixote; “and + I do ask whether I shall be safe from being assailed and forced?” + </p> + <p> + “Of whom and against whom do you demand that security, sir knight?” + said the duenna. + </p> + <p> + “Of you and against you I ask it,” said Don Quixote; “for + I am not marble, nor are you brass, nor is it now ten o’clock in the + morning, but midnight, or a trifle past it I fancy, and we are in a room + more secluded and retired than the cave could have been where the + treacherous and daring Æneas enjoyed the fair soft-hearted Dido. But give + me your hand, señora; I require no better protection than my own + continence, and my own sense of propriety; as well as that which is + inspired by that venerable head-dress;” and so saying he kissed her + right hand and took it in his own, she yielding it to him with equal + ceremoniousness. And here Cide Hamete inserts a parenthesis in which he + says that to have seen the pair marching from the door to the bed, linked + hand in hand in this way, he would have given the best of the two tunics + he had. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote finally got into bed, and Dona Rodriguez took her seat on a + chair at some little distance from his couch, without taking off her + spectacles or putting aside the candle. Don Quixote wrapped the bedclothes + round him and covered himself up completely, leaving nothing but his face + visible, and as soon as they had both regained their composure he broke + silence, saying, “Now, Señora Dona Rodriguez, you may unbosom + yourself and out with everything you have in your sorrowful heart and + afflicted bowels; and by me you shall be listened to with chaste ears, and + aided by compassionate exertions.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe it,” replied the duenna; “from your worship’s + gentle and winning presence only such a Christian answer could be + expected. The fact is, then, Señor Don Quixote, that though you see me + seated in this chair, here in the middle of the kingdom of Aragon, and in + the attire of a despised outcast duenna, I am from the Asturias of Oviedo, + and of a family with which many of the best of the province are connected + by blood; but my untoward fate and the improvidence of my parents, who, I + know not how, were unseasonably reduced to poverty, brought me to the + court of Madrid, where as a provision and to avoid greater misfortunes, my + parents placed me as seamstress in the service of a lady of quality, and I + would have you know that for hemming and sewing I have never been + surpassed by any all my life. My parents left me in service and returned + to their own country, and a few years later went, no doubt, to heaven, for + they were excellent good Catholic Christians. I was left an orphan with + nothing but the miserable wages and trifling presents that are given to + servants of my sort in palaces; but about this time, without any + encouragement on my part, one of the esquires of the household fell in + love with me, a man somewhat advanced in years, full-bearded and + personable, and above all as good a gentleman as the king himself, for he + came of a mountain stock. We did not carry on our loves with such secrecy + but that they came to the knowledge of my lady, and she, not to have any + fuss about it, had us married with the full sanction of the holy mother + Roman Catholic Church, of which marriage a daughter was born to put an end + to my good fortune, if I had any; not that I died in childbirth, for I + passed through it safely and in due season, but because shortly afterwards + my husband died of a certain shock he received, and had I time to tell you + of it I know your worship would be surprised;” and here she began to + weep bitterly and said, “Pardon me, Señor Don Quixote, if I am + unable to control myself, for every time I think of my unfortunate husband + my eyes fill up with tears. God bless me, with what an air of dignity he + used to carry my lady behind him on a stout mule as black as jet! for in + those days they did not use coaches or chairs, as they say they do now, + and ladies rode behind their squires. This much at least I cannot help + telling you, that you may observe the good breeding and punctiliousness of + my worthy husband. As he was turning into the Calle de Santiago in Madrid, + which is rather narrow, one of the alcaldes of the Court, with two + alguacils before him, was coming out of it, and as soon as my good squire + saw him he wheeled his mule about and made as if he would turn and + accompany him. My lady, who was riding behind him, said to him in a low + voice, ‘What are you about, you sneak, don’t you see that I am + here?’ The alcalde like a polite man pulled up his horse and said to + him, ‘Proceed, señor, for it is I, rather, who ought to accompany my + lady Dona Casilda’—for that was my mistress’s name. + Still my husband, cap in hand, persisted in trying to accompany the + alcalde, and seeing this my lady, filled with rage and vexation, pulled + out a big pin, or, I rather think, a bodkin, out of her needle-case and + drove it into his back with such force that my husband gave a loud yell, + and writhing fell to the ground with his lady. Her two lacqueys ran to + rise her up, and the alcalde and the alguacils did the same; the + Guadalajara gate was all in commotion—I mean the idlers congregated + there; my mistress came back on foot, and my husband hurried away to a + barber’s shop protesting that he was run right through the guts. The + courtesy of my husband was noised abroad to such an extent, that the boys + gave him no peace in the street; and on this account, and because he was + somewhat shortsighted, my lady dismissed him; and it was chagrin at this I + am convinced beyond a doubt that brought on his death. I was left a + helpless widow, with a daughter on my hands growing up in beauty like the + sea-foam; at length, however, as I had the character of being an excellent + needlewoman, my lady the duchess, then lately married to my lord the duke, + offered to take me with her to this kingdom of Aragon, and my daughter + also, and here as time went by my daughter grew up and with her all the + graces in the world; she sings like a lark, dances quick as thought, foots + it like a gipsy, reads and writes like a schoolmaster, and does sums like + a miser; of her neatness I say nothing, for the running water is not + purer, and her age is now, if my memory serves me, sixteen years five + months and three days, one more or less. To come to the point, the son of + a very rich farmer, living in a village of my lord the duke’s not + very far from here, fell in love with this girl of mine; and in short, how + I know not, they came together, and under the promise of marrying her he + made a fool of my daughter, and will not keep his word. And though my lord + the duke is aware of it (for I have complained to him, not once but many + and many a time, and entreated him to order the farmer to marry my + daughter), he turns a deaf ear and will scarcely listen to me; the reason + being that as the deceiver’s father is so rich, and lends him money, + and is constantly going security for his debts, he does not like to offend + or annoy him in any way. Now, señor, I want your worship to take it upon + yourself to redress this wrong either by entreaty or by arms; for by what + all the world says you came into it to redress grievances and right wrongs + and help the unfortunate. Let your worship put before you the unprotected + condition of my daughter, her youth, and all the perfections I have said + she possesses; and before God and on my conscience, out of all the damsels + my lady has, there is not one that comes up to the sole of her shoe, and + the one they call Altisidora, and look upon as the boldest and gayest of + them, put in comparison with my daughter, does not come within two leagues + of her. For I would have you know, señor, all is not gold that glitters, + and that same little Altisidora has more forwardness than good looks, and + more impudence than modesty; besides being not very sound, for she has + such a disagreeable breath that one cannot bear to be near her for a + moment; and even my lady the duchess—but I’ll hold my tongue, + for they say that walls have ears.” + </p> + <p> + “For heaven’s sake, Dona Rodriguez, what ails my lady the + duchess?” asked Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “Adjured in that way,” replied the duenna, “I cannot + help answering the question and telling the whole truth. Señor Don + Quixote, have you observed the comeliness of my lady the duchess, that + smooth complexion of hers like a burnished polished sword, those two + cheeks of milk and carmine, that gay lively step with which she treads or + rather seems to spurn the earth, so that one would fancy she went + radiating health wherever she passed? Well then, let me tell you she may + thank, first of all God, for this, and next, two issues that she has, one + in each leg, by which all the evil humours, of which the doctors say she + is full, are discharged.” + </p> + <p> + “Blessed Virgin!” exclaimed Don Quixote; “and is it + possible that my lady the duchess has drains of that sort? I would not + have believed it if the barefoot friars had told it me; but as the lady + Dona Rodriguez says so, it must be so. But surely such issues, and in such + places, do not discharge humours, but liquid amber. Verily, I do believe + now that this practice of opening issues is a very important matter for + the health.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote had hardly said this, when the chamber door flew open with a + loud bang, and with the start the noise gave her Dona Rodriguez let the + candle fall from her hand, and the room was left as dark as a wolf’s + mouth, as the saying is. Suddenly the poor duenna felt two hands seize her + by the throat, so tightly that she could not croak, while some one else, + without uttering a word, very briskly hoisted up her petticoats, and with + what seemed to be a slipper began to lay on so heartily that anyone would + have felt pity for her; but although Don Quixote felt it he never stirred + from his bed, but lay quiet and silent, nay apprehensive that his turn for + a drubbing might be coming. Nor was the apprehension an idle one; for + leaving the duenna (who did not dare to cry out) well basted, the silent + executioners fell upon Don Quixote, and stripping him of the sheet and the + coverlet, they pinched him so fast and so hard that he was driven to + defend himself with his fists, and all this in marvellous silence. The + battle lasted nearly half an hour, and then the phantoms fled; Dona + Rodriguez gathered up her skirts, and bemoaning her fate went out without + saying a word to Don Quixote, and he, sorely pinched, puzzled, and + dejected, remained alone, and there we will leave him, wondering who could + have been the perverse enchanter who had reduced him to such a state; but + that shall be told in due season, for Sancho claims our attention, and the + methodical arrangement of the story demands it. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p48e" id="p48e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p48e.jpg (28K)" src="images/p48e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch49b" id="ch49b"></a>CHAPTER XLIX. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF WHAT HAPPENED SANCHO IN MAKING THE ROUND OF HIS ISLAND + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p49a" id="p49a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p49a.jpg (170K)" src="images/p49a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p49a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + We left the great governor angered and irritated by that + portrait-painting rogue of a farmer who, instructed by the majordomo, as + the majordomo was by the duke, tried to practise upon him; he however, + fool, boor, and clown as he was, held his own against them all, saying to + those round him and to Doctor Pedro Recio, who as soon as the private + business of the duke’s letter was disposed of had returned to the + room, “Now I see plainly enough that judges and governors ought to + be and must be made of brass not to feel the importunities of the + applicants that at all times and all seasons insist on being heard, and + having their business despatched, and their own affairs and no others + attended to, come what may; and if the poor judge does not hear them and + settle the matter—either because he cannot or because that is not + the time set apart for hearing them—forthwith they abuse him, and + run him down, and gnaw at his bones, and even pick holes in his pedigree. + You silly, stupid applicant, don’t be in a hurry; wait for the + proper time and season for doing business; don’t come at + dinner-hour, or at bed-time; for judges are only flesh and blood, and + must give to Nature what she naturally demands of them; all except + myself, for in my case I give her nothing to eat, thanks to Señor Doctor + Pedro Recio Tirteafuera here, who would have me die of hunger, and + declares that death to be life; and the same sort of life may God give + him and all his kind—I mean the bad doctors; for the good ones + deserve palms and laurels.” + </p> + <p> + All who knew Sancho Panza were astonished to hear him speak so elegantly, + and did not know what to attribute it to unless it were that office and + grave responsibility either smarten or stupefy men’s wits. At last + Doctor Pedro Recio Agilers of Tirteafuera promised to let him have supper + that night though it might be in contravention of all the aphorisms of + Hippocrates. With this the governor was satisfied and looked forward to + the approach of night and supper-time with great anxiety; and though time, + to his mind, stood still and made no progress, nevertheless the hour he so + longed for came, and they gave him a beef salad with onions and some + boiled calves’ feet rather far gone. At this he fell to with greater + relish than if they had given him francolins from Milan, pheasants from + Rome, veal from Sorrento, partridges from Moron, or geese from Lavajos, + and turning to the doctor at supper he said to him, “Look here, + señor doctor, for the future don’t trouble yourself about giving me + dainty things or choice dishes to eat, for it will be only taking my + stomach off its hinges; it is accustomed to goat, cow, bacon, hung beef, + turnips and onions; and if by any chance it is given these palace dishes, + it receives them squeamishly, and sometimes with loathing. What the + head-carver had best do is to serve me with what they call ollas podridas + (and the rottener they are the better they smell); and he can put whatever + he likes into them, so long as it is good to eat, and I’ll be + obliged to him, and will requite him some day. But let nobody play pranks + on me, for either we are or we are not; let us live and eat in peace and + good-fellowship, for when God sends the dawn, he sends it for all. I mean + to govern this island without giving up a right or taking a bribe; let + everyone keep his eye open, and look out for the arrow; for I can tell + them ‘the devil’s in Cantillana,’ and if they drive me + to it they’ll see something that will astonish them. Nay! make + yourself honey and the flies eat you.” + </p> + <p> + “Of a truth, señor governor,” said the carver, “your + worship is in the right of it in everything you have said; and I promise + you in the name of all the inhabitants of this island that they will serve + your worship with all zeal, affection, and good-will, for the mild kind of + government you have given a sample of to begin with, leaves them no ground + for doing or thinking anything to your worship’s disadvantage.” + </p> + <p> + “That I believe,” said Sancho; “and they would be great + fools if they did or thought otherwise; once more I say, see to my feeding + and my Dapple’s for that is the great point and what is most to the + purpose; and when the hour comes let us go the rounds, for it is my + intention to purge this island of all manner of uncleanness and of all + idle good-for-nothing vagabonds; for I would have you know that lazy + idlers are the same thing in a State as the drones in a hive, that eat up + the honey the industrious bees make. I mean to protect the husbandman, to + preserve to the gentleman his privileges, to reward the virtuous, and + above all to respect religion and honour its ministers. What say you to + that, my friends? Is there anything in what I say, or am I talking to no + purpose?” + </p> + <p> + “There is so much in what your worship says, señor governor,” + said the majordomo, “that I am filled with wonder when I see a man + like your worship, entirely without learning (for I believe you have none + at all), say such things, and so full of sound maxims and sage remarks, + very different from what was expected of your worship’s intelligence + by those who sent us or by us who came here. Every day we see something + new in this world; jokes become realities, and the jokers find the tables + turned upon them.” + </p> + <p> + Night came, and with the permission of Doctor Pedro Recio, the governor + had supper. They then got ready to go the rounds, and he started with the + majordomo, the secretary, the head-carver, the chronicler charged with + recording his deeds, and alguacils and notaries enough to form a + fair-sized squadron. In the midst marched Sancho with his staff, as fine a + sight as one could wish to see, and but a few streets of the town had been + traversed when they heard a noise as of a clashing of swords. They + hastened to the spot, and found that the combatants were but two, who + seeing the authorities approaching stood still, and one of them exclaimed, + “Help, in the name of God and the king! Are men to be allowed to rob + in the middle of this town, and rush out and attack people in the very + streets?” + </p> + <p> + “Be calm, my good man,” said Sancho, “and tell me what + the cause of this quarrel is; for I am the governor.” + </p> + <p> + Said the other combatant, “Señor governor, I will tell you in a very + few words. Your worship must know that this gentleman has just now won + more than a thousand reals in that gambling house opposite, and God knows + how. I was there, and gave more than one doubtful point in his favour, + very much against what my conscience told me. He made off with his + winnings, and when I made sure he was going to give me a crown or so at + least by way of a present, as it is usual and customary to give men of + quality of my sort who stand by to see fair or foul play, and back up + swindles, and prevent quarrels, he pocketed his money and left the house. + Indignant at this I followed him, and speaking to him fairly and civilly + asked him to give me if it were only eight reals, for he knows I am an + honest man and that I have neither profession nor property, for my parents + never brought me up to any or left me any; but the rogue, who is a greater + thief than Cacus and a greater sharper than Andradilla, would not give me + more than four reals; so your worship may see how little shame and + conscience he has. But by my faith if you had not come up I’d have + made him disgorge his winnings, and he’d have learned what the range + of the steel-yard was.” + </p> + <p> + “What say you to this?” asked Sancho. The other replied that + all his antagonist said was true, and that he did not choose to give him + more than four reals because he very often gave him money; and that those + who expected presents ought to be civil and take what is given them with a + cheerful countenance, and not make any claim against winners unless they + know them for certain to be sharpers and their winnings to be unfairly + won; and that there could be no better proof that he himself was an honest + man than his having refused to give anything; for sharpers always pay + tribute to lookers-on who know them. + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said the majordomo; “let your worship + consider what is to be done with these men.” + </p> + <p> + “What is to be done,” said Sancho, “is this; you, the + winner, be you good, bad, or indifferent, give this assailant of yours a + hundred reals at once, and you must disburse thirty more for the poor + prisoners; and you who have neither profession nor property, and hang + about the island in idleness, take these hundred reals now, and some time + of the day to-morrow quit the island under sentence of banishment for ten + years, and under pain of completing it in another life if you violate the + sentence, for I’ll hang you on a gibbet, or at least the hangman + will by my orders; not a word from either of you, or I’ll make him + feel my hand.” + </p> + <p> + The one paid down the money and the other took it, and the latter quitted + the island, while the other went home; and then the governor said, “Either + I am not good for much, or I’ll get rid of these gambling houses, + for it strikes me they are very mischievous.” + </p> + <p> + “This one at least,” said one of the notaries, “your + worship will not be able to get rid of, for a great man owns it, and what + he loses every year is beyond all comparison more than what he makes by + the cards. On the minor gambling houses your worship may exercise your + power, and it is they that do most harm and shelter the most barefaced + practices; for in the houses of lords and gentlemen of quality the + notorious sharpers dare not attempt to play their tricks; and as the vice + of gambling has become common, it is better that men should play in houses + of repute than in some tradesman’s, where they catch an unlucky + fellow in the small hours of the morning and skin him alive.” + </p> + <p> + “I know already, notary, that there is a good deal to be said on + that point,” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + And now a tipstaff came up with a young man in his grasp, and said, + “Señor governor, this youth was coming towards us, and as soon as he + saw the officers of justice he turned about and ran like a deer, a sure + proof that he must be some evil-doer; I ran after him, and had it not been + that he stumbled and fell, I should never have caught him.” + </p> + <p> + “What did you run for, fellow?” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + To which the young man replied, “Señor, it was to avoid answering + all the questions officers of justice put.” + </p> + <p> + “What are you by trade?” + </p> + <p> + “A weaver.” + </p> + <p> + “And what do you weave?” + </p> + <p> + “Lance heads, with your worship’s good leave.” + </p> + <p> + “You’re facetious with me! You plume yourself on being a wag? + Very good; and where were you going just now?” + </p> + <p> + “To take the air, señor.” + </p> + <p> + “And where does one take the air in this island?” + </p> + <p> + “Where it blows.” + </p> + <p> + “Good! your answers are very much to the point; you are a smart + youth; but take notice that I am the air, and that I blow upon you + a-stern, and send you to gaol. Ho there! lay hold of him and take him off; + I’ll make him sleep there to-night without air.” + </p> + <p> + “By God,” said the young man, “your worship will make me + sleep in gaol just as soon as make me king.” + </p> + <p> + “Why shan’t I make thee sleep in gaol?” said Sancho. + “Have I not the power to arrest thee and release thee whenever I + like?” + </p> + <p> + “All the power your worship has,” said the young man, “won’t + be able to make me sleep in gaol.” + </p> + <p> + “How? not able!” said Sancho; “take him away at once + where he’ll see his mistake with his own eyes, even if the gaoler is + willing to exert his interested generosity on his behalf; for I’ll + lay a penalty of two thousand ducats on him if he allows him to stir a + step from the prison.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s ridiculous,” said the young man; “the fact + is, all the men on earth will not make me sleep in prison.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me, you devil,” said Sancho, “have you got any + angel that will deliver you, and take off the irons I am going to order + them to put upon you?” + </p> + <p> + “Now, señor governor,” said the young man in a sprightly + manner, “let us be reasonable and come to the point. Granted your + worship may order me to be taken to prison, and to have irons and chains + put on me, and to be shut up in a cell, and may lay heavy penalties on the + gaoler if he lets me out, and that he obeys your orders; still, if I don’t + choose to sleep, and choose to remain awake all night without closing an + eye, will your worship with all your power be able to make me sleep if I + don’t choose?” + </p> + <p> + “No, truly,” said the secretary, “and the fellow has + made his point.” + </p> + <p> + “So then,” said Sancho, “it would be entirely of your + own choice you would keep from sleeping; not in opposition to my will?” + </p> + <p> + “No, señor,” said the youth, “certainly not.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then, go, and God be with you,” said Sancho; “be + off home to sleep, and God give you sound sleep, for I don’t want to + rob you of it; but for the future, let me advise you don’t joke with + the authorities, because you may come across some one who will bring down + the joke on your own skull.” + </p> + <p> + The young man went his way, and the governor continued his round, and + shortly afterwards two tipstaffs came up with a man in custody, and said, + “Señor governor, this person, who seems to be a man, is not so, but + a woman, and not an ill-favoured one, in man’s clothes.” They + raised two or three lanterns to her face, and by their light they + distinguished the features of a woman to all appearance of the age of + sixteen or a little more, with her hair gathered into a gold and green + silk net, and fair as a thousand pearls. They scanned her from head to + foot, and observed that she had on red silk stockings with garters of + white taffety bordered with gold and pearl; her breeches were of green and + gold stuff, and under an open jacket or jerkin of the same she wore a + doublet of the finest white and gold cloth; her shoes were white and such + as men wear; she carried no sword at her belt, but only a richly + ornamented dagger, and on her fingers she had several handsome rings. In + short, the girl seemed fair to look at in the eyes of all, and none of + those who beheld her knew her, the people of the town said they could not + imagine who she was, and those who were in on the secret of the jokes that + were to be practised upon Sancho were the ones who were most surprised, + for this incident or discovery had not been arranged by them; and they + watched anxiously to see how the affair would end. + </p> + <p> + Sancho was fascinated by the girl’s beauty, and he asked her who she + was, where she was going, and what had induced her to dress herself in + that garb. She with her eyes fixed on the ground answered in modest + confusion, “I cannot tell you, señor, before so many people what it + is of such consequence to me to have kept secret; one thing I wish to be + known, that I am no thief or evildoer, but only an unhappy maiden whom the + power of jealousy has led to break through the respect that is due to + modesty.” + </p> + <p> + Hearing this the majordomo said to Sancho, “Make the people stand + back, señor governor, that this lady may say what she wishes with less + embarrassment.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho gave the order, and all except the majordomo, the head-carver, and + the secretary fell back. Finding herself then in the presence of no more, + the damsel went on to say, “I am the daughter, sirs, of Pedro Perez + Mazorca, the wool-farmer of this town, who is in the habit of coming very + often to my father’s house.” + </p> + <p> + “That won’t do, señora,” said the majordomo; “for + I know Pedro Perez very well, and I know he has no child at all, either + son or daughter; and besides, though you say he is your father, you add + then that he comes very often to your father’s house.” + </p> + <p> + “I had already noticed that,” said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + “I am confused just now, sirs,” said the damsel, “and I + don’t know what I am saying; but the truth is that I am the daughter + of Diego de la Llana, whom you must all know.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, that will do,” said the majordomo; “for I know + Diego de la Llana, and know that he is a gentleman of position and a rich + man, and that he has a son and a daughter, and that since he was left a + widower nobody in all this town can speak of having seen his daughter’s + face; for he keeps her so closely shut up that he does not give even the + sun a chance of seeing her; and for all that report says she is extremely + beautiful.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true,” said the damsel, “and I am that daughter; + whether report lies or not as to my beauty, you, sirs, will have decided + by this time, as you have seen me;” and with this she began to weep + bitterly. + </p> + <p> + On seeing this the secretary leant over to the head-carver’s ear, + and said to him in a low voice, “Something serious has no doubt + happened this poor maiden, that she goes wandering from home in such a + dress and at such an hour, and one of her rank too.” “There + can be no doubt about it,” returned the carver, “and moreover + her tears confirm your suspicion.” Sancho gave her the best comfort + he could, and entreated her to tell them without any fear what had + happened her, as they would all earnestly and by every means in their + power endeavour to relieve her. + </p> + <p> + “The fact is, sirs,” said she, “that my father has kept + me shut up these ten years, for so long is it since the earth received my + mother. Mass is said at home in a sumptuous chapel, and all this time I + have seen but the sun in the heaven by day, and the moon and the stars by + night; nor do I know what streets are like, or plazas, or churches, or + even men, except my father and a brother I have, and Pedro Perez the + wool-farmer; whom, because he came frequently to our house, I took it into + my head to call my father, to avoid naming my own. This seclusion and the + restrictions laid upon my going out, were it only to church, have been + keeping me unhappy for many a day and month past; I longed to see the + world, or at least the town where I was born, and it did not seem to me + that this wish was inconsistent with the respect maidens of good quality + should have for themselves. When I heard them talking of bull-fights + taking place, and of javelin games, and of acting plays, I asked my + brother, who is a year younger than myself, to tell me what sort of things + these were, and many more that I had never seen; he explained them to me + as well as he could, but the only effect was to kindle in me a still + stronger desire to see them. At last, to cut short the story of my ruin, I + begged and entreated my brother—O that I had never made such an + entreaty—” And once more she gave way to a burst of weeping. + </p> + <p> + “Proceed, señora,” said the majordomo, “and finish your + story of what has happened to you, for your words and tears are keeping us + all in suspense.” + </p> + <p> + “I have but little more to say, though many a tear to shed,” + said the damsel; “for ill-placed desires can only be paid for in + some such way.” + </p> + <p> + The maiden’s beauty had made a deep impression on the head-carver’s + heart, and he again raised his lantern for another look at her, and + thought they were not tears she was shedding, but seed-pearl or dew of the + meadow, nay, he exalted them still higher, and made Oriental pearls of + them, and fervently hoped her misfortune might not be so great a one as + her tears and sobs seemed to indicate. The governor was losing patience at + the length of time the girl was taking to tell her story, and told her not + to keep them waiting any longer; for it was late, and there still remained + a good deal of the town to be gone over. + </p> + <p> + She, with broken sobs and half-suppressed sighs, went on to say, “My + misfortune, my misadventure, is simply this, that I entreated my brother + to dress me up as a man in a suit of his clothes, and take me some night, + when our father was asleep, to see the whole town; he, overcome by my + entreaties, consented, and dressing me in this suit and himself in clothes + of mine that fitted him as if made for him (for he has not a hair on his + chin, and might pass for a very beautiful young girl), to-night, about an + hour ago, more or less, we left the house, and guided by our youthful and + foolish impulse we made the circuit of the whole town, and then, as we + were about to return home, we saw a great troop of people coming, and my + brother said to me, ‘Sister, this must be the round, stir your feet + and put wings to them, and follow me as fast as you can, lest they + recognise us, for that would be a bad business for us;’ and so + saying he turned about and began, I cannot say to run but to fly; in less + than six paces I fell from fright, and then the officer of justice came up + and carried me before your worships, where I find myself put to shame + before all these people as whimsical and vicious.” + </p> + <p> + “So then, señora,” said Sancho, “no other mishap has + befallen you, nor was it jealousy that made you leave home, as you said at + the beginning of your story?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing has happened me,” said she, “nor was it + jealousy that brought me out, but merely a longing to see the world, which + did not go beyond seeing the streets of this town.” + </p> + <p> + The appearance of the tipstaffs with her brother in custody, whom one of + them had overtaken as he ran away from his sister, now fully confirmed the + truth of what the damsel said. He had nothing on but a rich petticoat and + a short blue damask cloak with fine gold lace, and his head was uncovered + and adorned only with its own hair, which looked like rings of gold, so + bright and curly was it. The governor, the majordomo, and the carver went + aside with him, and, unheard by his sister, asked him how he came to be in + that dress, and he with no less shame and embarrassment told exactly the + same story as his sister, to the great delight of the enamoured carver; + the governor, however, said to them, “In truth, young lady and + gentleman, this has been a very childish affair, and to explain your folly + and rashness there was no necessity for all this delay and all these tears + and sighs; for if you had said we are so-and-so, and we escaped from our + father’s house in this way in order to ramble about, out of mere + curiosity and with no other object, there would have been an end of the + matter, and none of these little sobs and tears and all the rest of it.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said the damsel, “but you see the + confusion I was in was so great it did not let me behave as I ought.” + </p> + <p> + “No harm has been done,” said Sancho; “come, we will + leave you at your father’s house; perhaps they will not have missed + you; and another time don’t be so childish or eager to see the + world; for a respectable damsel should have a broken leg and keep at home; + and the woman and the hen by gadding about are soon lost; and she who is + eager to see is also eager to be seen; I say no more.” + </p> + <p> + The youth thanked the governor for his kind offer to take them home, and + they directed their steps towards the house, which was not far off. On + reaching it the youth threw a pebble up at a grating, and immediately a + woman-servant who was waiting for them came down and opened the door to + them, and they went in, leaving the party marvelling as much at their + grace and beauty as at the fancy they had for seeing the world by night + and without quitting the village; which, however, they set down to their + youth. + </p> + <p> + The head-carver was left with a heart pierced through and through, and he + made up his mind on the spot to demand the damsel in marriage of her + father on the morrow, making sure she would not be refused him as he was a + servant of the duke’s; and even to Sancho ideas and schemes of + marrying the youth to his daughter Sanchica suggested themselves, and he + resolved to open the negotiation at the proper season, persuading himself + that no husband could be refused to a governor’s daughter. And so + the night’s round came to an end, and a couple of days later the + government, whereby all his plans were overthrown and swept away, as will + be seen farther on. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p49e" id="p49e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p49e.jpg (55K)" src="images/p49e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch50b" id="ch50b"></a>CHAPTER L. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS SET FORTH WHO THE ENCHANTERS AND EXECUTIONERS WERE WHO FLOGGED + THE DUENNA AND PINCHED DON QUIXOTE, AND ALSO WHAT BEFELL THE PAGE WHO + CARRIED THE LETTER TO TERESA PANZA, SANCHO PANZA’S WIFE + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p50a" id="p50a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p50a.jpg (104K)" src="images/p50a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p50a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Cide Hamete, the painstaking investigator of the minute points of this + veracious history, says that when Dona Rodriguez left her own room to go + to Don Quixote’s, another duenna who slept with her observed her, + and as all duennas are fond of prying, listening, and sniffing, she + followed her so silently that the good Rodriguez never perceived it; and + as soon as the duenna saw her enter Don Quixote’s room, not to fail + in a duenna’s invariable practice of tattling, she hurried off that + instant to report to the duchess how Dona Rodriguez was closeted with Don + Quixote. The duchess told the duke, and asked him to let her and + Altisidora go and see what the said duenna wanted with Don Quixote. The + duke gave them leave, and the pair cautiously and quietly crept to the + door of the room and posted themselves so close to it that they could hear + all that was said inside. But when the duchess heard how the Rodriguez had + made public the Aranjuez of her issues she could not restrain herself, nor + Altisidora either; and so, filled with rage and thirsting for vengeance, + they burst into the room and tormented Don Quixote and flogged the duenna + in the manner already described; for indignities offered to their charms + and self-esteem mightily provoke the anger of women and make them eager + for revenge. The duchess told the duke what had happened, and he was much + amused by it; and she, in pursuance of her design of making merry and + diverting herself with Don Quixote, despatched the page who had played the + part of Dulcinea in the negotiations for her disenchantment (which Sancho + Panza in the cares of government had forgotten all about) to Teresa Panza + his wife with her husband’s letter and another from herself, and + also a great string of fine coral beads as a present. + </p> + <p> + Now the history says this page was very sharp and quick-witted; and eager + to serve his lord and lady he set off very willingly for Sancho’s + village. Before he entered it he observed a number of women washing in a + brook, and asked them if they could tell him whether there lived there a + woman of the name of Teresa Panza, wife of one Sancho Panza, squire to a + knight called Don Quixote of La Mancha. At the question a young girl who + was washing stood up and said, “Teresa Panza is my mother, and that + Sancho is my father, and that knight is our master.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then, miss,” said the page, “come and show me + where your mother is, for I bring her a letter and a present from your + father.” + </p> + <p> + “That I will with all my heart, señor,” said the girl, who + seemed to be about fourteen, more or less; and leaving the clothes she was + washing to one of her companions, and without putting anything on her head + or feet, for she was bare-legged and had her hair hanging about her, away + she skipped in front of the page’s horse, saying, “Come, your + worship, our house is at the entrance of the town, and my mother is there, + sorrowful enough at not having had any news of my father this ever so + long.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said the page, “I am bringing her such good news + that she will have reason to thank God.” + </p> + <p> + And then, skipping, running, and capering, the girl reached the town, but + before going into the house she called out at the door, “Come out, + mother Teresa, come out, come out; here’s a gentleman with letters + and other things from my good father.” At these words her mother + Teresa Panza came out spinning a bundle of flax, in a grey petticoat (so + short was it one would have fancied “they to her shame had cut it + short”), a grey bodice of the same stuff, and a smock. She was not + very old, though plainly past forty, strong, healthy, vigorous, and + sun-dried; and seeing her daughter and the page on horseback, she + exclaimed, “What’s this, child? What gentleman is this?” + </p> + <p> + “A servant of my lady, Dona Teresa Panza,” replied the page; + and suiting the action to the word he flung himself off his horse, and + with great humility advanced to kneel before the lady Teresa, saying, + “Let me kiss your hand, Señora Dona Teresa, as the lawful and only + wife of Señor Don Sancho Panza, rightful governor of the island of + Barataria.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, señor, get up, do that,” said Teresa; “for I’m + not a bit of a court lady, but only a poor country woman, the daughter of + a clodcrusher, and the wife of a squire-errant and not of any governor at + all.” + </p> + <p> + “You are,” said the page, “the most worthy wife of a + most arch-worthy governor; and as a proof of what I say accept this letter + and this present;” and at the same time he took out of his pocket a + string of coral beads with gold clasps, and placed it on her neck, and + said, “This letter is from his lordship the governor, and the other + as well as these coral beads from my lady the duchess, who sends me to + your worship.” + </p> + <p> + Teresa stood lost in astonishment, and her daughter just as much, and the + girl said, “May I die but our master Don Quixote’s at the + bottom of this; he must have given father the government or county he so + often promised him.” + </p> + <p> + “That is the truth,” said the page; “for it is through + Señor Don Quixote that Señor Sancho is now governor of the island of + Barataria, as will be seen by this letter.” + </p> + <p> + “Will your worship read it to me, noble sir?” said Teresa; + “for though I can spin I can’t read, not a scrap.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor I either,” said Sanchica; “but wait a bit, and I’ll + go and fetch some one who can read it, either the curate himself or the + bachelor Samson Carrasco, and they’ll come gladly to hear any news + of my father.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no need to fetch anybody,” said the page; “for + though I can’t spin I can read, and I’ll read it;” and + so he read it through, but as it has been already given it is not inserted + here; and then he took out the other one from the duchess, which ran as + follows: + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + Friend Teresa,—Your husband Sancho’s good qualities, of + heart as well as of head, induced and compelled me to request my husband + the duke to give him the government of one of his many islands. I am + told he governs like a gerfalcon, of which I am very glad, and my lord + the duke, of course, also; and I am very thankful to heaven that I have + not made a mistake in choosing him for that same government; for I would + have Señora Teresa know that a good governor is hard to find in this + world and may God make me as good as Sancho’s way of governing. + Herewith I send you, my dear, a string of coral beads with gold clasps; + I wish they were Oriental pearls; but “he who gives thee a bone + does not wish to see thee dead;” a time will come when we shall + become acquainted and meet one another, but God knows the future. + Commend me to your daughter Sanchica, and tell her from me to hold + herself in readiness, for I mean to make a high match for her when she + least expects it. They tell me there are big acorns in your village; + send me a couple of dozen or so, and I shall value them greatly as + coming from your hand; and write to me at length to assure me of your + health and well-being; and if there be anything you stand in need of, it + is but to open your mouth, and that shall be the measure; and so God + keep you. + </p> + <p> + From this place. Your loving friend, THE DUCHESS. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + “Ah, what a good, plain, lowly lady!” said Teresa when she + heard the letter; “that I may be buried with ladies of that sort, + and not the gentlewomen we have in this town, that fancy because they are + gentlewomen the wind must not touch them, and go to church with as much + airs as if they were queens, no less, and seem to think they are disgraced + if they look at a farmer’s wife! And see here how this good lady, + for all she’s a duchess, calls me ‘friend,’ and treats + me as if I was her equal—and equal may I see her with the tallest + church-tower in La Mancha! And as for the acorns, señor, I’ll send + her ladyship a peck and such big ones that one might come to see them as a + show and a wonder. And now, Sanchica, see that the gentleman is + comfortable; put up his horse, and get some eggs out of the stable, and + cut plenty of bacon, and let’s give him his dinner like a prince; + for the good news he has brought, and his own bonny face deserve it all; + and meanwhile I’ll run out and give the neighbours the news of our + good luck, and father curate, and Master Nicholas the barber, who are and + always have been such friends of thy father’s.” + </p> + <p> + “That I will, mother,” said Sanchica; “but mind, you + must give me half of that string; for I don’t think my lady the + duchess could have been so stupid as to send it all to you.” + </p> + <p> + “It is all for thee, my child,” said Teresa; “but let me + wear it round my neck for a few days; for verily it seems to make my heart + glad.” + </p> + <p> + “You will be glad too,” said the page, “when you see the + bundle there is in this portmanteau, for it is a suit of the finest cloth, + that the governor only wore one day out hunting and now sends, all for + Señora Sanchica.” + </p> + <p> + “May he live a thousand years,” said Sanchica, “and the + bearer as many, nay two thousand, if needful.” + </p> + <p> + With this Teresa hurried out of the house with the letters, and with the + string of beads round her neck, and went along thrumming the letters as if + they were a tambourine, and by chance coming across the curate and Samson + Carrasco she began capering and saying, “None of us poor now, faith! + We’ve got a little government! Ay, let the finest fine lady tackle + me, and I’ll give her a setting down!” + </p> + <p> + “What’s all this, Teresa Panza,” said they; “what + madness is this, and what papers are those?” + </p> + <p> + “The madness is only this,” said she, “that these are + the letters of duchesses and governors, and these I have on my neck are + fine coral beads, with ave-marias and paternosters of beaten gold, and I + am a governess.” + </p> + <p> + “God help us,” said the curate, “we don’t + understand you, Teresa, or know what you are talking about.” + </p> + <p> + “There, you may see it yourselves,” said Teresa, and she + handed them the letters. + </p> + <p> + The curate read them out for Samson Carrasco to hear, and Samson and he + regarded one another with looks of astonishment at what they had read, and + the bachelor asked who had brought the letters. Teresa in reply bade them + come with her to her house and they would see the messenger, a most + elegant youth, who had brought another present which was worth as much + more. The curate took the coral beads from her neck and examined them + again and again, and having satisfied himself as to their fineness he fell + to wondering afresh, and said, “By the gown I wear I don’t + know what to say or think of these letters and presents; on the one hand I + can see and feel the fineness of these coral beads, and on the other I + read how a duchess sends to beg for a couple of dozen of acorns.” + </p> + <p> + “Square that if you can,” said Carrasco; “well, let’s + go and see the messenger, and from him we’ll learn something about + this mystery that has turned up.” + </p> + <p> + They did so, and Teresa returned with them. They found the page sifting a + little barley for his horse, and Sanchica cutting a rasher of bacon to be + paved with eggs for his dinner. His looks and his handsome apparel pleased + them both greatly; and after they had saluted him courteously, and he + them, Samson begged him to give them his news, as well of Don Quixote as + of Sancho Panza, for, he said, though they had read the letters from + Sancho and her ladyship the duchess, they were still puzzled and could not + make out what was meant by Sancho’s government, and above all of an + island, when all or most of those in the Mediterranean belonged to his + Majesty. + </p> + <p> + To this the page replied, “As to Señor Sancho Panza’s being a + governor there is no doubt whatever; but whether it is an island or not + that he governs, with that I have nothing to do; suffice it that it is a + town of more than a thousand inhabitants; with regard to the acorns I may + tell you my lady the duchess is so unpretending and unassuming that, not + to speak of sending to beg for acorns from a peasant woman, she has been + known to send to ask for the loan of a comb from one of her neighbours; + for I would have your worships know that the ladies of Aragon, though they + are just as illustrious, are not so punctilious and haughty as the + Castilian ladies; they treat people with greater familiarity.” + </p> + <p> + In the middle of this conversation Sanchica came in with her skirt full of + eggs, and said she to the page, “Tell me, señor, does my father wear + trunk-hose since he has been governor?” + </p> + <p> + “I have not noticed,” said the page; “but no doubt he + wears them.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! my God!” said Sanchica, “what a sight it must be to + see my father in tights! Isn’t it odd that ever since I was born I + have had a longing to see my father in trunk-hose?” + </p> + <p> + “As things go you will see that if you live,” said the page; + “by God he is in the way to take the road with a sunshade if the + government only lasts him two months more.” + </p> + <p> + The curate and the bachelor could see plainly enough that the page spoke + in a waggish vein; but the fineness of the coral beads, and the hunting + suit that Sancho sent (for Teresa had already shown it to them) did away + with the impression; and they could not help laughing at Sanchica’s + wish, and still more when Teresa said, “Señor curate, look about if + there’s anybody here going to Madrid or Toledo, to buy me a hooped + petticoat, a proper fashionable one of the best quality; for indeed and + indeed I must do honour to my husband’s government as well as I can; + nay, if I am put to it and have to, I’ll go to Court and set a coach + like all the world; for she who has a governor for her husband may very + well have one and keep one.” + </p> + <p> + “And why not, mother!” said Sanchica; “would to God it + were to-day instead of to-morrow, even though they were to say when they + saw me seated in the coach with my mother, ‘See that rubbish, that + garlic-stuffed fellow’s daughter, how she goes stretched at her ease + in a coach as if she was a she-pope!’ But let them tramp through the + mud, and let me go in my coach with my feet off the ground. Bad luck to + backbiters all over the world; ‘let me go warm and the people may + laugh.’ Do I say right, mother?” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure you do, my child,” said Teresa; “and all + this good luck, and even more, my good Sancho foretold me; and thou wilt + see, my daughter, he won’t stop till he has made me a countess; for + to make a beginning is everything in luck; and as I have heard thy good + father say many a time (for besides being thy father he’s the father + of proverbs too), ‘When they offer thee a heifer, run with a halter; + when they offer thee a government, take it; when they would give thee a + county, seize it; when they say, “Here, here!” to thee with + something good, swallow it.’ Oh no! go to sleep, and don’t + answer the strokes of good fortune and the lucky chances that are knocking + at the door of your house!” + </p> + <p> + “And what do I care,” added Sanchica, “whether anybody + says when he sees me holding my head up, ‘The dog saw himself in + hempen breeches,’ and the rest of it?” + </p> + <p> + Hearing this the curate said, “I do believe that all this family of + the Panzas are born with a sackful of proverbs in their insides, every one + of them; I never saw one of them that does not pour them out at all times + and on all occasions.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said the page, “for Señor Governor + Sancho utters them at every turn; and though a great many of them are not + to the purpose, still they amuse one, and my lady the duchess and the duke + praise them highly.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you still maintain that all this about Sancho’s + government is true, señor,” said the bachelor, “and that there + actually is a duchess who sends him presents and writes to him? Because + we, although we have handled the present and read the letters, don’t + believe it and suspect it to be something in the line of our + fellow-townsman Don Quixote, who fancies that everything is done by + enchantment; and for this reason I am almost ready to say that I’d + like to touch and feel your worship to see whether you are a mere + ambassador of the imagination or a man of flesh and blood.” + </p> + <p> + “All I know, sirs,” replied the page, “is that I am a + real ambassador, and that Señor Sancho Panza is governor as a matter of + fact, and that my lord and lady the duke and duchess can give, and have + given him this same government, and that I have heard it said Sancho Panza + bears himself very stoutly therein; whether there be any enchantment in + all this or not, it is for your worships to settle between you; for that’s + all I know by the oath I swear, and that is by the life of my parents whom + I have still alive, and love dearly.” + </p> + <p> + “It may be so,” said the bachelor; “but dubitat + Augustinus.” + </p> + <p> + “Doubt who will,” said the page; “what I have told you + is the truth, and that will always rise above falsehood as oil above + water; if not operibus credite, et non verbis. Let one of you come with + me, and he will see with his eyes what he does not believe with his ears.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s for me to make that trip,” said Sanchica; “take + me with you, señor, behind you on your horse; for I’ll go with all + my heart to see my father.” + </p> + <p> + “Governors’ daughters,” said the page, “must not + travel along the roads alone, but accompanied by coaches and litters and a + great number of attendants.” + </p> + <p> + “By God,” said Sanchica, “I can go just as well mounted + on a she-ass as in a coach; what a dainty lass you must take me for!” + </p> + <p> + “Hush, girl,” said Teresa; “you don’t know what + you’re talking about; the gentleman is quite right, for ‘as + the time so the behaviour;’ when it was Sancho it was ‘Sancha;’ + when it is governor it’s ‘señora;’ I don’t know if + I’m right.” + </p> + <p> + “Señora Teresa says more than she is aware of,” said the page; + “and now give me something to eat and let me go at once, for I mean + to return this evening.” + </p> + <p> + “Come and do penance with me,” said the curate at this; + “for Señora Teresa has more will than means to serve so worthy a + guest.” + </p> + <p> + The page refused, but had to consent at last for his own sake; and the + curate took him home with him very gladly, in order to have an opportunity + of questioning him at leisure about Don Quixote and his doings. The + bachelor offered to write the letters in reply for Teresa; but she did not + care to let him mix himself up in her affairs, for she thought him + somewhat given to joking; and so she gave a cake and a couple of eggs to a + young acolyte who was a penman, and he wrote for her two letters, one for + her husband and the other for the duchess, dictated out of her own head, + which are not the worst inserted in this great history, as will be seen + farther on. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p50e" id="p50e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p50e.jpg (19K)" src="images/p50e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch51b" id="ch51b"></a>CHAPTER LI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE PROGRESS OF SANCHO’S GOVERNMENT, AND OTHER SUCH ENTERTAINING + MATTERS + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p51a" id="p51a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p51a.jpg (188K)" src="images/p51a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p51a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Day came after the night of the governor’s round; a night which the + head-carver passed without sleeping, so were his thoughts of the face and + air and beauty of the disguised damsel, while the majordomo spent what was + left of it in writing an account to his lord and lady of all Sancho said + and did, being as much amazed at his sayings as at his doings, for there + was a mixture of shrewdness and simplicity in all his words and deeds. The + señor governor got up, and by Doctor Pedro Recio’s directions they + made him break his fast on a little conserve and four sups of cold water, + which Sancho would have readily exchanged for a piece of bread and a bunch + of grapes; but seeing there was no help for it, he submitted with no + little sorrow of heart and discomfort of stomach; Pedro Recio having + persuaded him that light and delicate diet enlivened the wits, and that + was what was most essential for persons placed in command and in + responsible situations, where they have to employ not only the bodily + powers but those of the mind also. + </p> + <p> + By means of this sophistry Sancho was made to endure hunger, and hunger so + keen that in his heart he cursed the government, and even him who had + given it to him; however, with his hunger and his conserve he undertook to + deliver judgments that day, and the first thing that came before him was a + question that was submitted to him by a stranger, in the presence of the + majordomo and the other attendants, and it was in these words: “Señor, + a large river separated two districts of one and the same lordship—will + your worship please to pay attention, for the case is an important and a + rather knotty one? Well then, on this river there was a bridge, and at one + end of it a gallows, and a sort of tribunal, where four judges commonly + sat to administer the law which the lord of river, bridge and the lordship + had enacted, and which was to this effect, ‘If anyone crosses by + this bridge from one side to the other he shall declare on oath where he + is going to and with what object; and if he swears truly, he shall be + allowed to pass, but if falsely, he shall be put to death for it by + hanging on the gallows erected there, without any remission.’ Though + the law and its severe penalty were known, many persons crossed, but in + their declarations it was easy to see at once they were telling the truth, + and the judges let them pass free. It happened, however, that one man, + when they came to take his declaration, swore and said that by the oath he + took he was going to die upon that gallows that stood there, and nothing + else. The judges held a consultation over the oath, and they said, ‘If + we let this man pass free he has sworn falsely, and by the law he ought to + die; but if we hang him, as he swore he was going to die on that gallows, + and therefore swore the truth, by the same law he ought to go free.’ + It is asked of your worship, señor governor, what are the judges to do + with this man? For they are still in doubt and perplexity; and having + heard of your worship’s acute and exalted intellect, they have sent + me to entreat your worship on their behalf to give your opinion on this + very intricate and puzzling case.” + </p> + <p> + To this Sancho made answer, “Indeed those gentlemen the judges that + send you to me might have spared themselves the trouble, for I have more + of the obtuse than the acute in me; but repeat the case over again, so + that I may understand it, and then perhaps I may be able to hit the point.” + </p> + <p> + The querist repeated again and again what he had said before, and then + Sancho said, “It seems to me I can set the matter right in a moment, + and in this way; the man swears that he is going to die upon the gallows; + but if he dies upon it, he has sworn the truth, and by the law enacted + deserves to go free and pass over the bridge; but if they don’t hang + him, then he has sworn falsely, and by the same law deserves to be hanged.” + </p> + <p> + “It is as the señor governor says,” said the messenger; + “and as regards a complete comprehension of the case, there is + nothing left to desire or hesitate about.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then I say,” said Sancho, “that of this man they + should let pass the part that has sworn truly, and hang the part that has + lied; and in this way the conditions of the passage will be fully complied + with.” + </p> + <p> + “But then, señor governor,” replied the querist, “the + man will have to be divided into two parts; and if he is divided of course + he will die; and so none of the requirements of the law will be carried + out, and it is absolutely necessary to comply with it.” + </p> + <p> + “Look here, my good sir,” said Sancho; “either I’m + a numskull or else there is the same reason for this passenger dying as + for his living and passing over the bridge; for if the truth saves him the + falsehood equally condemns him; and that being the case it is my opinion + you should say to the gentlemen who sent you to me that as the arguments + for condemning him and for absolving him are exactly balanced, they should + let him pass freely, as it is always more praiseworthy to do good than to + do evil; this I would give signed with my name if I knew how to sign; and + what I have said in this case is not out of my own head, but one of the + many precepts my master Don Quixote gave me the night before I left to + become governor of this island, that came into my mind, and it was this, + that when there was any doubt about the justice of a case I should lean to + mercy; and it is God’s will that I should recollect it now, for it + fits this case as if it was made for it.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said the majordomo; “and I maintain that + Lycurgus himself, who gave laws to the Lacedemonians, could not have + pronounced a better decision than the great Panza has given; let the + morning’s audience close with this, and I will see that the señor + governor has dinner entirely to his liking.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s all I ask for—fair play,” said Sancho; + “give me my dinner, and then let it rain cases and questions on me, + and I’ll despatch them in a twinkling.” + </p> + <p> + The majordomo kept his word, for he felt it against his conscience to kill + so wise a governor by hunger; particularly as he intended to have done + with him that same night, playing off the last joke he was commissioned to + practise upon him. + </p> + <p> + It came to pass, then, that after he had dined that day, in opposition to + the rules and aphorisms of Doctor Tirteafuera, as they were taking away + the cloth there came a courier with a letter from Don Quixote for the + governor. Sancho ordered the secretary to read it to himself, and if there + was nothing in it that demanded secrecy to read it aloud. The secretary + did so, and after he had skimmed the contents he said, “It may well + be read aloud, for what Señor Don Quixote writes to your worship deserves + to be printed or written in letters of gold, and it is as follows.” + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + DON QUIXOTE OF LA MANCHA’S LETTER TO SANCHO PANZA, GOVERNOR OF THE + ISLAND OF BARATARIA. + </p> + <p> + When I was expecting to hear of thy stupidities and blunders, friend + Sancho, I have received intelligence of thy displays of good sense, for + which I give special thanks to heaven that can raise the poor from the + dunghill and of fools to make wise men. They tell me thou dost govern as + if thou wert a man, and art a man as if thou wert a beast, so great is + the humility wherewith thou dost comport thyself. But I would have thee + bear in mind, Sancho, that very often it is fitting and necessary for + the authority of office to resist the humility of the heart; for the + seemly array of one who is invested with grave duties should be such as + they require and not measured by what his own humble tastes may lead him + to prefer. Dress well; a stick dressed up does not look like a stick; I + do not say thou shouldst wear trinkets or fine raiment, or that being a + judge thou shouldst dress like a soldier, but that thou shouldst array + thyself in the apparel thy office requires, and that at the same time it + be neat and handsome. To win the good-will of the people thou governest + there are two things, among others, that thou must do; one is to be + civil to all (this, however, I told thee before), and the other to take + care that food be abundant, for there is nothing that vexes the heart of + the poor more than hunger and high prices. Make not many proclamations; + but those thou makest take care that they be good ones, and above all + that they be observed and carried out; for proclamations that are not + observed are the same as if they did not exist; nay, they encourage the + idea that the prince who had the wisdom and authority to make them had + not the power to enforce them; and laws that threaten and are not + enforced come to be like the log, the king of the frogs, that frightened + them at first, but that in time they despised and mounted upon. Be a + father to virtue and a stepfather to vice. Be not always strict, nor yet + always lenient, but observe a mean between these two extremes, for in + that is the aim of wisdom. Visit the gaols, the slaughter-houses, and + the market-places; for the presence of the governor is of great + importance in such places; it comforts the prisoners who are in hopes of + a speedy release, it is the bugbear of the butchers who have then to + give just weight, and it is the terror of the market-women for the same + reason. Let it not be seen that thou art (even if perchance thou art, + which I do not believe) covetous, a follower of women, or a glutton; for + when the people and those that have dealings with thee become aware of + thy special weakness they will bring their batteries to bear upon thee + in that quarter, till they have brought thee down to the depths of + perdition. Consider and reconsider, con and con over again the advices + and the instructions I gave thee before thy departure hence to thy + government, and thou wilt see that in them, if thou dost follow them, + thou hast a help at hand that will lighten for thee the troubles and + difficulties that beset governors at every step. Write to thy lord and + lady and show thyself grateful to them, for ingratitude is the daughter + of pride, and one of the greatest sins we know of; and he who is + grateful to those who have been good to him shows that he will be so to + God also who has bestowed and still bestows so many blessings upon him. + </p> + <p> + My lady the duchess sent off a messenger with thy suit and another + present to thy wife Teresa Panza; we expect the answer every moment. I + have been a little indisposed through a certain scratching I came in + for, not very much to the benefit of my nose; but it was nothing; for if + there are enchanters who maltreat me, there are also some who defend me. + Let me know if the majordomo who is with thee had any share in the + Trifaldi performance, as thou didst suspect; and keep me informed of + everything that happens thee, as the distance is so short; all the more + as I am thinking of giving over very shortly this idle life I am now + leading, for I was not born for it. A thing has occurred to me which I + am inclined to think will put me out of favour with the duke and + duchess; but though I am sorry for it I do not care, for after all I + must obey my calling rather than their pleasure, in accordance with the + common saying, amicus Plato, sed magis amica veritas. I quote this Latin + to thee because I conclude that since thou hast been a governor thou + wilt have learned it. Adieu; God keep thee from being an object of pity + to anyone. + </p> + <p> + Thy friend, DON QUIXOTE OF LA MANCHA. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Sancho listened to the letter with great attention, and it was praised and + considered wise by all who heard it; he then rose up from table, and + calling his secretary shut himself in with him in his own room, and + without putting it off any longer set about answering his master Don + Quixote at once; and he bade the secretary write down what he told him + without adding or suppressing anything, which he did, and the answer was + to the following effect. + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + SANCHO PANZA’S LETTER TO DON QUIXOTE OF LA MANCHA. + </p> + <p> + The pressure of business is so great upon me that I have no time to + scratch my head or even to cut my nails; and I have them so long—God + send a remedy for it. I say this, master of my soul, that you may not be + surprised if I have not until now sent you word of how I fare, well or + ill, in this government, in which I am suffering more hunger than when + we two were wandering through the woods and wastes. + </p> + <p> + My lord the duke wrote to me the other day to warn me that certain spies + had got into this island to kill me; but up to the present I have not + found out any except a certain doctor who receives a salary in this town + for killing all the governors that come here; he is called Doctor Pedro + Recio, and is from Tirteafuera; so you see what a name he has to make me + dread dying under his hands. This doctor says of himself that he does + not cure diseases when there are any, but prevents them coming, and the + medicines he uses are diet and more diet until he brings one down to + bare bones; as if leanness was not worse than fever. + </p> + <p> + In short he is killing me with hunger, and I am dying myself of + vexation; for when I thought I was coming to this government to get my + meat hot and my drink cool, and take my ease between holland sheets on + feather beds, I find I have come to do penance as if I was a hermit; and + as I don’t do it willingly I suspect that in the end the devil + will carry me off. + </p> + <p> + So far I have not handled any dues or taken any bribes, and I don’t + know what to think of it; for here they tell me that the governors that + come to this island, before entering it have plenty of money either + given to them or lent to them by the people of the town, and that this + is the usual custom not only here but with all who enter upon + governments. + </p> + <p> + Last night going the rounds I came upon a fair damsel in man’s + clothes, and a brother of hers dressed as a woman; my head-carver has + fallen in love with the girl, and has in his own mind chosen her for a + wife, so he says, and I have chosen the youth for a son-in-law; to-day + we are going to explain our intentions to the father of the pair, who is + one Diego de la Llana, a gentleman and an old Christian as much as you + please. + </p> + <p> + I have visited the market-places, as your worship advises me, and + yesterday I found a stall-keeper selling new hazel nuts and proved her + to have mixed a bushel of old empty rotten nuts with a bushel of new; I + confiscated the whole for the children of the charity-school, who will + know how to distinguish them well enough, and I sentenced her not to + come into the market-place for a fortnight; they told me I did bravely. + I can tell your worship it is commonly said in this town that there are + no people worse than the market-women, for they are all barefaced, + unconscionable, and impudent, and I can well believe it from what I have + seen of them in other towns. + </p> + <p> + I am very glad my lady the duchess has written to my wife Teresa Panza + and sent her the present your worship speaks of; and I will strive to + show myself grateful when the time comes; kiss her hands for me, and + tell her I say she has not thrown it into a sack with a hole in it, as + she will see in the end. I should not like your worship to have any + difference with my lord and lady; for if you fall out with them it is + plain it must do me harm; and as you give me advice to be grateful it + will not do for your worship not to be so yourself to those who have + shown you such kindness, and by whom you have been treated so hospitably + in their castle. + </p> + <p> + That about the scratching I don’t understand; but I suppose it + must be one of the ill-turns the wicked enchanters are always doing your + worship; when we meet I shall know all about it. I wish I could send + your worship something; but I don’t know what to send, unless it + be some very curious clyster pipes, to work with bladders, that they + make in this island; but if the office remains with me I’ll find + out something to send, one way or another. If my wife Teresa Panza + writes to me, pay the postage and send me the letter, for I have a very + great desire to hear how my house and wife and children are going on. + And so, may God deliver your worship from evil-minded enchanters, and + bring me well and peacefully out of this government, which I doubt, for + I expect to take leave of it and my life together, from the way Doctor + Pedro Recio treats me. + </p> + <p> + Your worship’s servant SANCHO PANZA THE GOVERNOR. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + The secretary sealed the letter, and immediately dismissed the courier; + and those who were carrying on the joke against Sancho putting their heads + together arranged how he was to be dismissed from the government. Sancho + spent the afternoon in drawing up certain ordinances relating to the good + government of what he fancied the island; and he ordained that there were + to be no provision hucksters in the State, and that men might import wine + into it from any place they pleased, provided they declared the quarter it + came from, so that a price might be put upon it according to its quality, + reputation, and the estimation it was held in; and he that watered his + wine, or changed the name, was to forfeit his life for it. He reduced the + prices of all manner of shoes, boots, and stockings, but of shoes in + particular, as they seemed to him to run extravagantly high. He + established a fixed rate for servants’ wages, which were becoming + recklessly exorbitant. He laid extremely heavy penalties upon those who + sang lewd or loose songs either by day or night. He decreed that no blind + man should sing of any miracle in verse, unless he could produce authentic + evidence that it was true, for it was his opinion that most of those the + blind men sing are trumped up, to the detriment of the true ones. He + established and created an alguacil of the poor, not to harass them, but + to examine them and see whether they really were so; for many a sturdy + thief or drunkard goes about under cover of a make-believe crippled limb + or a sham sore. In a word, he made so many good rules that to this day + they are preserved there, and are called The constitutions of the great + governor Sancho Panza. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p51e" id="p51e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p51e.jpg (32K)" src="images/p51e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch52b" id="ch52b"></a>CHAPTER LII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS RELATED THE ADVENTURE OF THE SECOND DISTRESSED OR AFFLICTED + DUENNA, OTHERWISE CALLED DONA RODRIGUEZ + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p52a" id="p52a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p52a.jpg (131K)" src="images/p52a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p52a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Cide Hamete relates that Don Quixote being now cured of his scratches felt + that the life he was leading in the castle was entirely inconsistent with + the order of chivalry he professed, so he determined to ask the duke and + duchess to permit him to take his departure for Saragossa, as the time of + the festival was now drawing near, and he hoped to win there the suit of + armour which is the prize at festivals of the sort. But one day at table + with the duke and duchess, just as he was about to carry his resolution + into effect and ask for their permission, lo and behold suddenly there + came in through the door of the great hall two women, as they afterwards + proved to be, draped in mourning from head to foot, one of whom + approaching Don Quixote flung herself at full length at his feet, pressing + her lips to them, and uttering moans so sad, so deep, and so doleful that + she put all who heard and saw her into a state of perplexity; and though + the duke and duchess supposed it must be some joke their servants were + playing off upon Don Quixote, still the earnest way the woman sighed and + moaned and wept puzzled them and made them feel uncertain, until Don + Quixote, touched with compassion, raised her up and made her unveil + herself and remove the mantle from her tearful face. She complied and + disclosed what no one could have ever anticipated, for she disclosed the + countenance of Dona Rodriguez, the duenna of the house; the other female + in mourning being her daughter, who had been made a fool of by the rich + farmer’s son. All who knew her were filled with astonishment, and + the duke and duchess more than any; for though they thought her a + simpleton and a weak creature, they did not think her capable of crazy + pranks. Dona Rodriguez, at length, turning to her master and mistress said + to them, “Will your excellences be pleased to permit me to speak to + this gentleman for a moment, for it is requisite I should do so in order + to get successfully out of the business in which the boldness of an + evil-minded clown has involved me?” + </p> + <p> + The duke said that for his part he gave her leave, and that she might + speak with Señor Don Quixote as much as she liked. + </p> + <p> + She then, turning to Don Quixote and addressing herself to him said, + “Some days since, valiant knight, I gave you an account of the + injustice and treachery of a wicked farmer to my dearly beloved daughter, + the unhappy damsel here before you, and you promised me to take her part + and right the wrong that has been done her; but now it has come to my + hearing that you are about to depart from this castle in quest of such + fair adventures as God may vouchsafe to you; therefore, before you take + the road, I would that you challenge this froward rustic, and compel him + to marry my daughter in fulfillment of the promise he gave her to become + her husband before he seduced her; for to expect that my lord the duke + will do me justice is to ask pears from the elm tree, for the reason I + stated privately to your worship; and so may our Lord grant you good + health and forsake us not.” + </p> + <p> + To these words Don Quixote replied very gravely and solemnly, “Worthy + duenna, check your tears, or rather dry them, and spare your sighs, for I + take it upon myself to obtain redress for your daughter, for whom it would + have been better not to have been so ready to believe lovers’ + promises, which are for the most part quickly made and very slowly + performed; and so, with my lord the duke’s leave, I will at once go + in quest of this inhuman youth, and will find him out and challenge him + and slay him, if so be he refuses to keep his promised word; for the chief + object of my profession is to spare the humble and chastise the proud; I + mean, to help the distressed and destroy the oppressors.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no necessity,” said the duke, “for your + worship to take the trouble of seeking out the rustic of whom this worthy + duenna complains, nor is there any necessity, either, for asking my leave + to challenge him; for I admit him duly challenged, and will take care that + he is informed of the challenge, and accepts it, and comes to answer it in + person to this castle of mine, where I shall afford to both a fair field, + observing all the conditions which are usually and properly observed in + such trials, and observing too justice to both sides, as all princes who + offer a free field to combatants within the limits of their lordships are + bound to do.” + </p> + <p> + “Then with that assurance and your highness’s good leave,” + said Don Quixote, “I hereby for this once waive my privilege of + gentle blood, and come down and put myself on a level with the lowly birth + of the wrong-doer, making myself equal with him and enabling him to enter + into combat with me; and so, I challenge and defy him, though absent, on + the plea of his malfeasance in breaking faith with this poor damsel, who + was a maiden and now by his misdeed is none; and say that he shall fulfill + the promise he gave her to become her lawful husband, or else stake his + life upon the question.” + </p> + <p> + And then plucking off a glove he threw it down in the middle of the hall, + and the duke picked it up, saying, as he had said before, that he accepted + the challenge in the name of his vassal, and fixed six days thence as the + time, the courtyard of the castle as the place, and for arms the customary + ones of knights, lance and shield and full armour, with all the other + accessories, without trickery, guile, or charms of any sort, and examined + and passed by the judges of the field. “But first of all,” he + said, “it is requisite that this worthy duenna and unworthy damsel + should place their claim for justice in the hands of Don Quixote; for + otherwise nothing can be done, nor can the said challenge be brought to a + lawful issue.” + </p> + <p> + “I do so place it,” replied the duenna. + </p> + <p> + “And I too,” added her daughter, all in tears and covered with + shame and confusion. + </p> + <p> + This declaration having been made, and the duke having settled in his own + mind what he would do in the matter, the ladies in black withdrew, and the + duchess gave orders that for the future they were not to be treated as + servants of hers, but as lady adventurers who came to her house to demand + justice; so they gave them a room to themselves and waited on them as they + would on strangers, to the consternation of the other women-servants, who + did not know where the folly and imprudence of Dona Rodriguez and her + unlucky daughter would stop. + </p> + <p> + And now, to complete the enjoyment of the feast and bring the dinner to a + satisfactory end, lo and behold the page who had carried the letters and + presents to Teresa Panza, the wife of the governor Sancho, entered the + hall; and the duke and duchess were very well pleased to see him, being + anxious to know the result of his journey; but when they asked him the + page said in reply that he could not give it before so many people or in a + few words, and begged their excellences to be pleased to let it wait for a + private opportunity, and in the meantime amuse themselves with these + letters; and taking out the letters he placed them in the duchess’s + hand. One bore by way of address, Letter for my lady the Duchess + So-and-so, of I don’t know where; and the other To my husband Sancho + Panza, governor of the island of Barataria, whom God prosper longer than + me. The duchess’s bread would not bake, as the saying is, until she + had read her letter; and having looked over it herself and seen that it + might be read aloud for the duke and all present to hear, she read out as + follows. + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + TERESA PANZA’S LETTER TO THE DUCHESS. + </p> + <p> + The letter your highness wrote me, my lady, gave me great pleasure, for + indeed I found it very welcome. The string of coral beads is very fine, + and my husband’s hunting suit does not fall short of it. All this + village is very much pleased that your ladyship has made a governor of + my good man Sancho; though nobody will believe it, particularly the + curate, and Master Nicholas the barber, and the bachelor Samson + Carrasco; but I don’t care for that, for so long as it is true, as + it is, they may all say what they like; though, to tell the truth, if + the coral beads and the suit had not come I would not have believed it + either; for in this village everybody thinks my husband a numskull, and + except for governing a flock of goats, they cannot fancy what sort of + government he can be fit for. God grant it, and direct him according as + he sees his children stand in need of it. I am resolved with your + worship’s leave, lady of my soul, to make the most of this fair + day, and go to Court to stretch myself at ease in a coach, and make all + those I have envying me already burst their eyes out; so I beg your + excellence to order my husband to send me a small trifle of money, and + to let it be something to speak of, because one’s expenses are + heavy at the Court; for a loaf costs a real, and meat thirty maravedis a + pound, which is beyond everything; and if he does not want me to go let + him tell me in time, for my feet are on the fidgets to be off; and my + friends and neighbours tell me that if my daughter and I make a figure + and a brave show at Court, my husband will come to be known far more by + me than I by him, for of course plenty of people will ask, “Who + are those ladies in that coach?” and some servant of mine will + answer, “The wife and daughter of Sancho Panza, governor of the + island of Barataria;” and in this way Sancho will become known, + and I’ll be thought well of, and “to Rome for everything.” + I am as vexed as vexed can be that they have gathered no acorns this + year in our village; for all that I send your highness about half a peck + that I went to the wood to gather and pick out one by one myself, and I + could find no bigger ones; I wish they were as big as ostrich eggs. + </p> + <p> + Let not your high mightiness forget to write to me; and I will take care + to answer, and let you know how I am, and whatever news there may be in + this place, where I remain, praying our Lord to have your highness in + his keeping and not to forget me. + </p> + <p> + Sancha my daughter, and my son, kiss your worship’s hands. + </p> + <p> + She who would rather see your ladyship than write to you, + </p> + <p> + Your servant,<br /> TERESA PANZA. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + All were greatly amused by Teresa Panza’s letter, but particularly + the duke and duchess; and the duchess asked Don Quixote’s opinion + whether they might open the letter that had come for the governor, which + she suspected must be very good. Don Quixote said that to gratify them he + would open it, and did so, and found that it ran as follows. + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + TERESA PANZA’S LETTER TO HER HUSBAND SANCHO PANZA. + </p> + <p> + I got thy letter, Sancho of my soul, and I promise thee and swear as a + Catholic Christian that I was within two fingers’ breadth of going + mad I was so happy. I can tell thee, brother, when I came to hear that + thou wert a governor I thought I should have dropped dead with pure joy; + and thou knowest they say sudden joy kills as well as great sorrow; and + as for Sanchica thy daughter, she leaked from sheer happiness. I had + before me the suit thou didst send me, and the coral beads my lady the + duchess sent me round my neck, and the letters in my hands, and there + was the bearer of them standing by, and in spite of all this I verily + believed and thought that what I saw and handled was all a dream; for + who could have thought that a goatherd would come to be a governor of + islands? Thou knowest, my friend, what my mother used to say, that one + must live long to see much; I say it because I expect to see more if I + live longer; for I don’t expect to stop until I see thee a farmer + of taxes or a collector of revenue, which are offices where, though the + devil carries off those who make a bad use of them, still they make and + handle money. My lady the duchess will tell thee the desire I have to go + to the Court; consider the matter and let me know thy pleasure; I will + try to do honour to thee by going in a coach. + </p> + <p> + Neither the curate, nor the barber, nor the bachelor, nor even the + sacristan, can believe that thou art a governor, and they say the whole + thing is a delusion or an enchantment affair, like everything belonging + to thy master Don Quixote; and Samson says he must go in search of thee + and drive the government out of thy head and the madness out of Don + Quixote’s skull; I only laugh, and look at my string of beads, and + plan out the dress I am going to make for our daughter out of thy suit. + I sent some acorns to my lady the duchess; I wish they had been gold. + Send me some strings of pearls if they are in fashion in that island. + Here is the news of the village; La Berrueca has married her daughter to + a good-for-nothing painter, who came here to paint anything that might + turn up. The council gave him an order to paint his Majesty’s arms + over the door of the town-hall; he asked two ducats, which they paid him + in advance; he worked for eight days, and at the end of them had nothing + painted, and then said he had no turn for painting such trifling things; + he returned the money, and for all that has married on the pretence of + being a good workman; to be sure he has now laid aside his paint-brush + and taken a spade in hand, and goes to the field like a gentleman. Pedro + Lobo’s son has received the first orders and tonsure, with the + intention of becoming a priest. Minguilla, Mingo Silvato’s + granddaughter, found it out, and has gone to law with him on the score + of having given her promise of marriage. Evil tongues say she is with + child by him, but he denies it stoutly. There are no olives this year, + and there is not a drop of vinegar to be had in the whole village. A + company of soldiers passed through here; when they left they took away + with them three of the girls of the village; I will not tell thee who + they are; perhaps they will come back, and they will be sure to find + those who will take them for wives with all their blemishes, good or + bad. Sanchica is making bonelace; she earns eight maravedis a day clear, + which she puts into a moneybox as a help towards house furnishing; but + now that she is a governor’s daughter thou wilt give her a portion + without her working for it. The fountain in the plaza has run dry. A + flash of lightning struck the gibbet, and I wish they all lit there. I + look for an answer to this, and to know thy mind about my going to the + Court; and so, God keep thee longer than me, or as long, for I would not + leave thee in this world without me. + </p> + <p> + Thy wife,<br /> TERESA PANZA. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + The letters were applauded, laughed over, relished, and admired; and then, + as if to put the seal to the business, the courier arrived, bringing the + one Sancho sent to Don Quixote, and this, too, was read out, and it raised + some doubts as to the governor’s simplicity. The duchess withdrew to + hear from the page about his adventures in Sancho’s village, which + he narrated at full length without leaving a single circumstance + unmentioned. He gave her the acorns, and also a cheese which Teresa had + given him as being particularly good and superior to those of Tronchon. + The duchess received it with greatest delight, in which we will leave her, + to describe the end of the government of the great Sancho Panza, flower + and mirror of all governors of islands. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p52e" id="p52e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p52e.jpg (13K)" src="images/p52e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch53b" id="ch53b"></a>CHAPTER LIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE TROUBLOUS END AND TERMINATION SANCHO PANZA’S GOVERNMENT CAME + TO + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p53a" id="p53a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p53a.jpg (109K)" src="images/p53a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p53a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + To fancy that in this life anything belonging to it will remain for ever + in the same state is an idle fancy; on the contrary, in it everything + seems to go in a circle, I mean round and round. The spring succeeds the + summer, the summer the fall, the fall the autumn, the autumn the winter, + and the winter the spring, and so time rolls with never-ceasing wheel. Man’s + life alone, swifter than time, speeds onward to its end without any hope + of renewal, save it be in that other life which is endless and boundless. + Thus saith Cide Hamete the Mahometan philosopher; for there are many that + by the light of nature alone, without the light of faith, have a + comprehension of the fleeting nature and instability of this present life + and the endless duration of that eternal life we hope for; but our author + is here speaking of the rapidity with which Sancho’s government came + to an end, melted away, disappeared, vanished as it were in smoke and + shadow. For as he lay in bed on the night of the seventh day of his + government, sated, not with bread and wine, but with delivering judgments + and giving opinions and making laws and proclamations, just as sleep, in + spite of hunger, was beginning to close his eyelids, he heard such a noise + of bell-ringing and shouting that one would have fancied the whole island + was going to the bottom. He sat up in bed and remained listening intently + to try if he could make out what could be the cause of so great an uproar; + not only, however, was he unable to discover what it was, but as countless + drums and trumpets now helped to swell the din of the bells and shouts, he + was more puzzled than ever, and filled with fear and terror; and getting + up he put on a pair of slippers because of the dampness of the floor, and + without throwing a dressing gown or anything of the kind over him he + rushed out of the door of his room, just in time to see approaching along + a corridor a band of more than twenty persons with lighted torches and + naked swords in their hands, all shouting out, “To arms, to arms, + señor governor, to arms! The enemy is in the island in countless numbers, + and we are lost unless your skill and valour come to our support.” + </p> + <p> + Keeping up this noise, tumult, and uproar, they came to where Sancho stood + dazed and bewildered by what he saw and heard, and as they approached one + of them called out to him, “Arm at once, your lordship, if you would + not have yourself destroyed and the whole island lost.” + </p> + <p> + “What have I to do with arming?” said Sancho. “What do I + know about arms or supports? Better leave all that to my master Don + Quixote, who will settle it and make all safe in a trice; for I, sinner + that I am, God help me, don’t understand these scuffles.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, señor governor,” said another, “what slackness of + mettle this is! Arm yourself; here are arms for you, offensive and + defensive; come out to the plaza and be our leader and captain; it falls + upon you by right, for you are our governor.” + </p> + <p> + “Arm me then, in God’s name,” said Sancho, and they at + once produced two large shields they had come provided with, and placed + them upon him over his shirt, without letting him put on anything else, + one shield in front and the other behind, and passing his arms through + openings they had made, they bound him tight with ropes, so that there he + was walled and boarded up as straight as a spindle and unable to bend his + knees or stir a single step. In his hand they placed a lance, on which he + leant to keep himself from falling, and as soon as they had him thus fixed + they bade him march forward and lead them on and give them all courage; + for with him for their guide and lamp and morning star, they were sure to + bring their business to a successful issue. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p53b" id="p53b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p53b.jpg (332K)" src="images/p53b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p53b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “How am I to march, unlucky being that I am?” said Sancho, + “when I can’t stir my knee-caps, for these boards I have bound + so tight to my body won’t let me. What you must do is carry me in + your arms, and lay me across or set me upright in some postern, and I’ll + hold it either with this lance or with my body.” + </p> + <p> + “On, señor governor!” cried another, “it is fear more + than the boards that keeps you from moving; make haste, stir yourself, for + there is no time to lose; the enemy is increasing in numbers, the shouts + grow louder, and the danger is pressing.” + </p> + <p> + Urged by these exhortations and reproaches the poor governor made an + attempt to advance, but fell to the ground with such a crash that he + fancied he had broken himself all to pieces. There he lay like a tortoise + enclosed in its shell, or a side of bacon between two kneading-troughs, or + a boat bottom up on the beach; nor did the gang of jokers feel any + compassion for him when they saw him down; so far from that, extinguishing + their torches they began to shout afresh and to renew the calls to arms + with such energy, trampling on poor Sancho, and slashing at him over the + shield with their swords in such a way that, if he had not gathered + himself together and made himself small and drawn in his head between the + shields, it would have fared badly with the poor governor, as, squeezed + into that narrow compass, he lay, sweating and sweating again, and + commending himself with all his heart to God to deliver him from his + present peril. Some stumbled over him, others fell upon him, and one there + was who took up a position on top of him for some time, and from thence as + if from a watchtower issued orders to the troops, shouting out, “Here, + our side! Here the enemy is thickest! Hold the breach there! Shut that + gate! Barricade those ladders! Here with your stink-pots of pitch and + resin, and kettles of boiling oil! Block the streets with feather beds!” + In short, in his ardour he mentioned every little thing, and every + implement and engine of war by means of which an assault upon a city is + warded off, while the bruised and battered Sancho, who heard and suffered + all, was saying to himself, “O if it would only please the Lord to + let the island be lost at once, and I could see myself either dead or out + of this torture!” Heaven heard his prayer, and when he least + expected it he heard voices exclaiming, “Victory, victory! The enemy + retreats beaten! Come, señor governor, get up, and come and enjoy the + victory, and divide the spoils that have been won from the foe by the + might of that invincible arm.” + </p> + <p> + “Lift me up,” said the wretched Sancho in a woebegone voice. + They helped him to rise, and as soon as he was on his feet said, “The + enemy I have beaten you may nail to my forehead; I don’t want to + divide the spoils of the foe, I only beg and entreat some friend, if I + have one, to give me a sup of wine, for I’m parched with thirst, and + wipe me dry, for I’m turning to water.” + </p> + <p> + They rubbed him down, fetched him wine and unbound the shields, and he + seated himself upon his bed, and with fear, agitation, and fatigue he + fainted away. Those who had been concerned in the joke were now sorry they + had pushed it so far; however, the anxiety his fainting away had caused + them was relieved by his returning to himself. He asked what o’clock + it was; they told him it was just daybreak. He said no more, and in + silence began to dress himself, while all watched him, waiting to see what + the haste with which he was putting on his clothes meant. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p53c" id="p53c"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p53c.jpg (389K)" src="images/p53c.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p53c.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + He got himself dressed at last, and then, slowly, for he was sorely + bruised and could not go fast, he proceeded to the stable, followed by all + who were present, and going up to Dapple embraced him and gave him a + loving kiss on the forehead, and said to him, not without tears in his + eyes, “Come along, comrade and friend and partner of my toils and + sorrows; when I was with you and had no cares to trouble me except mending + your harness and feeding your little carcass, happy were my hours, my + days, and my years; but since I left you, and mounted the towers of + ambition and pride, a thousand miseries, a thousand troubles, and four + thousand anxieties have entered into my soul;” and all the while he + was speaking in this strain he was fixing the pack-saddle on the ass, + without a word from anyone. Then having Dapple saddled, he, with great + pain and difficulty, got up on him, and addressing himself to the + majordomo, the secretary, the head-carver, and Pedro Recio the doctor and + several others who stood by, he said, “Make way, gentlemen, and let + me go back to my old freedom; let me go look for my past life, and raise + myself up from this present death. I was not born to be a governor or + protect islands or cities from the enemies that choose to attack them. + Ploughing and digging, vinedressing and pruning, are more in my way than + defending provinces or kingdoms. Saint Peter is very well at Rome; + I mean each of us is best following the trade he was born to. A + reaping-hook fits my hand better than a governor’s sceptre; I’d + rather have my fill of gazpacho than be subject to the misery of a + meddling doctor who kills me with hunger, and I’d rather lie in + summer under the shade of an oak, and in winter wrap myself in a double + sheepskin jacket in freedom, than go to bed between holland sheets and + dress in sables under the restraint of a government. God be with your + worships, and tell my lord the duke that ‘naked I was born, naked I + find myself, I neither lose nor gain;’ I mean that without a + farthing I came into this government, and without a farthing I go out of + it, very different from the way governors commonly leave other islands. + Stand aside and let me go; I have to plaster myself, for I believe every + one of my ribs is crushed, thanks to the enemies that have been trampling + over me to-night.” + </p> + <p> + “That is unnecessary, señor governor,” said Doctor Recio, + “for I will give your worship a draught against falls and bruises + that will soon make you as sound and strong as ever; and as for your diet + I promise your worship to behave better, and let you eat plentifully of + whatever you like.” + </p> + <p> + “You spoke late,” said Sancho. “I’d as soon turn + Turk as stay any longer. Those jokes won’t pass a second time. By + God I’d as soon remain in this government, or take another, even if + it was offered me between two plates, as fly to heaven without wings. I am + of the breed of the Panzas, and they are every one of them obstinate, and + if they once say ‘odds,’ odds it must be, no matter if it is + evens, in spite of all the world. Here in this stable I leave the ant’s + wings that lifted me up into the air for the swifts and other birds to eat + me, and let’s take to level ground and our feet once more; and if + they’re not shod in pinked shoes of cordovan, they won’t want + for rough sandals of hemp; ‘every ewe to her like,’ ‘and + let no one stretch his leg beyond the length of the sheet;’ and now + let me pass, for it’s growing late with me.” + </p> + <p> + To this the majordomo said, “Señor governor, we would let your + worship go with all our hearts, though it sorely grieves us to lose you, + for your wit and Christian conduct naturally make us regret you; but it is + well known that every governor, before he leaves the place where he has + been governing, is bound first of all to render an account. Let your + worship do so for the ten days you have held the government, and then you + may go and the peace of God go with you.” + </p> + <p> + “No one can demand it of me,” said Sancho, “but he whom + my lord the duke shall appoint; I am going to meet him, and to him I will + render an exact one; besides, when I go forth naked as I do, there is no + other proof needed to show that I have governed like an angel.” + </p> + <p> + “By God the great Sancho is right,” said Doctor Recio, “and + we should let him go, for the duke will be beyond measure glad to see him.” + </p> + <p> + They all agreed to this, and allowed him to go, first offering to bear him + company and furnish him with all he wanted for his own comfort or for the + journey. Sancho said he did not want anything more than a little barley + for Dapple, and half a cheese and half a loaf for himself; for the + distance being so short there was no occasion for any better or bulkier + provant. They all embraced him, and he with tears embraced all of them, + and left them filled with admiration not only at his remarks but at his + firm and sensible resolution. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p53e" id="p53e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p53e.jpg (56K)" src="images/p53e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch54b" id="ch54b"></a>CHAPTER LIV. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHICH DEALS WITH MATTERS RELATING TO THIS HISTORY AND NO OTHER + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p54a" id="p54a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p54a.jpg (109K)" src="images/p54a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p54a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The duke and duchess resolved that the challenge Don Quixote had, for the + reason already mentioned, given their vassal, should be proceeded with; + and as the young man was in Flanders, whither he had fled to escape having + Dona Rodriguez for a mother-in-law, they arranged to substitute for him a + Gascon lacquey, named Tosilos, first of all carefully instructing him in + all he had to do. Two days later the duke told Don Quixote that in four + days from that time his opponent would present himself on the field of + battle armed as a knight, and would maintain that the damsel lied by half + a beard, nay a whole beard, if she affirmed that he had given her a + promise of marriage. Don Quixote was greatly pleased at the news, and + promised himself to do wonders in the lists, and reckoned it rare good + fortune that an opportunity should have offered for letting his noble + hosts see what the might of his strong arm was capable of; and so in high + spirits and satisfaction he awaited the expiration of the four days, which + measured by his impatience seemed spinning themselves out into four + hundred ages. Let us leave them to pass as we do other things, and go and + bear Sancho company, as mounted on Dapple, half glad, half sad, he paced + along on his road to join his master, in whose society he was happier than + in being governor of all the islands in the world. Well then, it so + happened that before he had gone a great way from the island of his + government (and whether it was island, city, town, or village that he + governed he never troubled himself to inquire) he saw coming along the + road he was travelling six pilgrims with staves, foreigners of that sort + that beg for alms singing; who as they drew near arranged themselves in a + line and lifting up their voices all together began to sing in their own + language something that Sancho could not understand, with the exception of one word + which sounded plainly “alms,” from which he gathered that it + was alms they asked for in their song; and being, as Cide Hamete says, + remarkably charitable, he took out of his alforjas the half loaf and half + cheese he had been provided with, and gave them to them, explaining to + them by signs that he had nothing else to give them. They received them + very gladly, but exclaimed, “Geld! Geld!” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t understand what you want of me, good people,” + said Sancho. + </p> + <p> + On this one of them took a purse out of his bosom and showed it to Sancho, + by which he comprehended they were asking for money, and putting his thumb + to his throat and spreading his hand upwards he gave them to understand + that he had not the sign of a coin about him, and urging Dapple forward he + broke through them. But as he was passing, one of them who had been + examining him very closely rushed towards him, and flinging his arms round + him exclaimed in a loud voice and good Spanish, “God bless me! What’s + this I see? Is it possible that I hold in my arms my dear friend, my good + neighbour Sancho Panza? But there’s no doubt about it, for I’m + not asleep, nor am I drunk just now.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho was surprised to hear himself called by his name and find himself + embraced by a foreign pilgrim, and after regarding him steadily without + speaking he was still unable to recognise him; but the pilgrim perceiving + his perplexity cried, “What! and is it possible, Sancho Panza, that + thou dost not know thy neighbour Ricote, the Morisco shopkeeper of thy + village?” + </p> + <p> + Sancho upon this looking at him more carefully began to recall his + features, and at last recognised him perfectly, and without getting off + the ass threw his arms round his neck saying, “Who the devil could + have known thee, Ricote, in this mummer’s dress thou art in? Tell + me, who has frenchified thee, and how dost thou dare to return to Spain, + where if they catch thee and recognise thee it will go hard enough with + thee?” + </p> + <p> + “If thou dost not betray me, Sancho,” said the pilgrim, + “I am safe; for in this dress no one will recognise me; but let us + turn aside out of the road into that grove there where my comrades are + going to eat and rest, and thou shalt eat with them there, for they are + very good fellows; I’ll have time enough to tell thee then all that + has happened me since I left our village in obedience to his Majesty’s + edict that threatened such severities against the unfortunate people of my + nation, as thou hast heard.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho complied, and Ricote having spoken to the other pilgrims they + withdrew to the grove they saw, turning a considerable distance out of the + road. They threw down their staves, took off their pilgrim’s cloaks + and remained in their under-clothing; they were all good-looking young + fellows, except Ricote, who was a man somewhat advanced in years. They + carried alforjas all of them, and all apparently well filled, at least + with things provocative of thirst, such as would summon it from two + leagues off. They stretched themselves on the ground, and making a + tablecloth of the grass they spread upon it bread, salt, knives, walnut, + scraps of cheese, and well-picked ham-bones which if they were past + gnawing were not past sucking. They also put down a black dainty called, + they say, caviar, and made of the eggs of fish, a great thirst-wakener. + Nor was there any lack of olives, dry, it is true, and without any + seasoning, but for all that toothsome and pleasant. But what made the best + show in the field of the banquet was half a dozen botas of wine, for each + of them produced his own from his alforjas; even the good Ricote, who from + a Morisco had transformed himself into a German or Dutchman, took out his, + which in size might have vied with the five others. They then began to eat + with very great relish and very leisurely, making the most of each morsel—very + small ones of everything—they took up on the point of the knife; and + then all at the same moment raised their arms and botas aloft, the mouths + placed in their mouths, and all eyes fixed on heaven just as if they were + taking aim at it; and in this attitude they remained ever so long, wagging + their heads from side to side as if in acknowledgment of the pleasure they + were enjoying while they decanted the bowels of the bottles into their own + stomachs. + </p> + <p> + Sancho beheld all, “and nothing gave him pain;” so far from + that, acting on the proverb he knew so well, “when thou art at Rome + do as thou seest,” he asked Ricote for his bota and took aim like + the rest of them, and with not less enjoyment. Four times did the botas + bear being uplifted, but the fifth it was all in vain, for they were drier + and more sapless than a rush by that time, which made the jollity that had + been kept up so far begin to flag. + </p> + <p> + Every now and then some one of them would grasp Sancho’s right hand + in his own saying, “Espanoli y Tudesqui tuto uno: bon compano;” + and Sancho would answer, “Bon compano, jur a Di!” and then go + off into a fit of laughter that lasted an hour, without a thought for the + moment of anything that had befallen him in his government; for cares have + very little sway over us while we are eating and drinking. At length, the + wine having come to an end with them, drowsiness began to come over them, + and they dropped asleep on their very table and tablecloth. Ricote and + Sancho alone remained awake, for they had eaten more and drunk less, and + Ricote drawing Sancho aside, they seated themselves at the foot of a + beech, leaving the pilgrims buried in sweet sleep; and without once + falling into his own Morisco tongue Ricote spoke as follows in pure + Castilian: + </p> + <p> + “Thou knowest well, neighbour and friend Sancho Panza, how the + proclamation or edict his Majesty commanded to be issued against those of + my nation filled us all with terror and dismay; me at least it did, + insomuch that I think before the time granted us for quitting Spain was + out, the full force of the penalty had already fallen upon me and upon my + children. I decided, then, and I think wisely (just like one who knows + that at a certain date the house he lives in will be taken from him, and + looks out beforehand for another to change into), I decided, I say, to + leave the town myself, alone and without my family, and go to seek out + some place to remove them to comfortably and not in the hurried way in + which the others took their departure; for I saw very plainly, and so did + all the older men among us, that the proclamations were not mere threats, + as some said, but positive enactments which would be enforced at the + appointed time; and what made me believe this was what I knew of the base + and extravagant designs which our people harboured, designs of such a + nature that I think it was a divine inspiration that moved his Majesty to + carry out a resolution so spirited; not that we were all guilty, for some + there were true and steadfast Christians; but they were so few that they + could make no head against those who were not; and it was not prudent to + cherish a viper in the bosom by having enemies in the house. In short it + was with just cause that we were visited with the penalty of banishment, a + mild and lenient one in the eyes of some, but to us the most terrible that + could be inflicted upon us. Wherever we are we weep for Spain; for after + all we were born there and it is our natural fatherland. Nowhere do we + find the reception our unhappy condition needs; and in Barbary and all the + parts of Africa where we counted upon being received, succoured, and + welcomed, it is there they insult and ill-treat us most. We knew not our + good fortune until we lost it; and such is the longing we almost all of us + have to return to Spain, that most of those who like myself know the + language, and there are many who do, come back to it and leave their wives + and children forsaken yonder, so great is their love for it; and now I + know by experience the meaning of the saying, sweet is the love of one’s + country. + </p> + <p> + “I left our village, as I said, and went to France, but though they + gave us a kind reception there I was anxious to see all I could. I crossed + into Italy, and reached Germany, and there it seemed to me we might live + with more freedom, as the inhabitants do not pay any attention to trifling + points; everyone lives as he likes, for in most parts they enjoy liberty + of conscience. I took a house in a town near Augsburg, and then joined + these pilgrims, who are in the habit of coming to Spain in great numbers + every year to visit the shrines there, which they look upon as their + Indies and a sure and certain source of gain. They travel nearly all over + it, and there is no town out of which they do not go full up of meat and + drink, as the saying is, and with a real, at least, in money, and they + come off at the end of their travels with more than a hundred crowns + saved, which, changed into gold, they smuggle out of the kingdom either in + the hollow of their staves or in the patches of their pilgrim’s + cloaks or by some device of their own, and carry to their own country in + spite of the guards at the posts and passes where they are searched. Now + my purpose is, Sancho, to carry away the treasure that I left buried, + which, as it is outside the town, I shall be able to do without risk, and + to write, or cross over from Valencia, to my daughter and wife, who I know + are at Algiers, and find some means of bringing them to some French port + and thence to Germany, there to await what it may be God’s will to + do with us; for, after all, Sancho, I know well that Ricota my daughter + and Francisca Ricota my wife are Catholic Christians, and though I am not + so much so, still I am more of a Christian than a Moor, and it is always + my prayer to God that he will open the eyes of my understanding and show + me how I am to serve him; but what amazes me and I cannot understand is + why my wife and daughter should have gone to Barbary rather than to + France, where they could live as Christians.” + </p> + <p> + To this Sancho replied, “Remember, Ricote, that may not have been + open to them, for Juan Tiopieyo thy wife’s brother took them, and + being a true Moor he went where he could go most easily; and another thing + I can tell thee, it is my belief thou art going in vain to look for what + thou hast left buried, for we heard they took from thy brother-in-law and + thy wife a great quantity of pearls and money in gold which they brought + to be passed.” + </p> + <p> + “That may be,” said Ricote; “but I know they did not + touch my hoard, for I did not tell them where it was, for fear of + accidents; and so, if thou wilt come with me, Sancho, and help me to take + it away and conceal it, I will give thee two hundred crowns wherewith thou + mayest relieve thy necessities, and, as thou knowest, I know they are + many.” + </p> + <p> + “I would do it,” said Sancho; “but I am not at all + covetous, for I gave up an office this morning in which, if I was, I might + have made the walls of my house of gold and dined off silver plates before + six months were over; and so for this reason, and because I feel I would + be guilty of treason to my king if I helped his enemies, I would not go + with thee if instead of promising me two hundred crowns thou wert to give + me four hundred here in hand.” + </p> + <p> + “And what office is this thou hast given up, Sancho?” asked + Ricote. + </p> + <p> + “I have given up being governor of an island,” said Sancho, + “and such a one, faith, as you won’t find the like of easily.” + </p> + <p> + “And where is this island?” said Ricote. + </p> + <p> + “Where?” said Sancho; “two leagues from here, and it is + called the island of Barataria.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense! Sancho,” said Ricote; “islands are away out + in the sea; there are no islands on the mainland.” + </p> + <p> + “What? No islands!” said Sancho; “I tell thee, friend + Ricote, I left it this morning, and yesterday I was governing there as I + pleased like a sagittarius; but for all that I gave it up, for it seemed + to me a dangerous office, a governor’s.” + </p> + <p> + “And what hast thou gained by the government?” asked Ricote. + </p> + <p> + “I have gained,” said Sancho, “the knowledge that I am + no good for governing, unless it is a drove of cattle, and that the riches + that are to be got by these governments are got at the cost of one’s + rest and sleep, ay and even one’s food; for in islands the governors + must eat little, especially if they have doctors to look after their + health.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t understand thee, Sancho,” said Ricote; “but + it seems to me all nonsense thou art talking. Who would give thee islands + to govern? Is there any scarcity in the world of cleverer men than thou + art for governors? Hold thy peace, Sancho, and come back to thy senses, + and consider whether thou wilt come with me as I said to help me to take + away treasure I left buried (for indeed it may be called a treasure, it is + so large), and I will give thee wherewithal to keep thee, as I told thee.” + </p> + <p> + “And I have told thee already, Ricote, that I will not,” said + Sancho; “let it content thee that by me thou shalt not be betrayed, + and go thy way in God’s name and let me go mine; for I know that + well-gotten gain may be lost, but ill-gotten gain is lost, itself and its + owner likewise.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not press thee, Sancho,” said Ricote; “but tell + me, wert thou in our village when my wife and daughter and brother-in-law + left it?” + </p> + <p> + “I was so,” said Sancho; “and I can tell thee thy + daughter left it looking so lovely that all the village turned out to see + her, and everybody said she was the fairest creature in the world. She + wept as she went, and embraced all her friends and acquaintances and those + who came out to see her, and she begged them all to commend her to God and + Our Lady his mother, and this in such a touching way that it made me weep + myself, though I’m not much given to tears commonly; and, faith, + many a one would have liked to hide her, or go out and carry her off on + the road; but the fear of going against the king’s command kept them + back. The one who showed himself most moved was Don Pedro Gregorio, the + rich young heir thou knowest of, and they say he was deep in love with + her; and since she left he has not been seen in our village again, and we + all suspect he has gone after her to steal her away, but so far nothing + has been heard of it.” + </p> + <p> + “I always had a suspicion that gentleman had a passion for my + daughter,” said Ricote; “but as I felt sure of my Ricota’s + virtue it gave me no uneasiness to know that he loved her; for thou must + have heard it said, Sancho, that the Morisco women seldom or never engage + in amours with the old Christians; and my daughter, who I fancy thought + more of being a Christian than of lovemaking, would not trouble herself + about the attentions of this heir.” + </p> + <p> + “God grant it,” said Sancho, “for it would be a bad + business for both of them; but now let me be off, friend Ricote, for I + want to reach where my master Don Quixote is to-night.” + </p> + <p> + “God be with thee, brother Sancho,” said Ricote; “my + comrades are beginning to stir, and it is time, too, for us to continue + our journey;” and then they both embraced, and Sancho mounted + Dapple, and Ricote leant upon his staff, and so they parted. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p54e" id="p54e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p54e.jpg (40K)" src="images/p54e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch55b" id="ch55b"></a>CHAPTER LV. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF WHAT BEFELL SANCHO ON THE ROAD, AND OTHER THINGS THAT CANNOT BE + SURPASSED + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p55a" id="p55a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p55a.jpg (126K)" src="images/p55a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p55a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The length of time he delayed with Ricote prevented Sancho from reaching + the duke’s castle that day, though he was within half a league of it + when night, somewhat dark and cloudy, overtook him. This, however, as it + was summer time, did not give him much uneasiness, and he turned aside out + of the road intending to wait for morning; but his ill luck and hard fate + so willed it that as he was searching about for a place to make himself as + comfortable as possible, he and Dapple fell into a deep dark hole that lay + among some very old buildings. As he fell he commended himself with all + his heart to God, fancying he was not going to stop until he reached the + depths of the bottomless pit; but it did not turn out so, for at little + more than thrice a man’s height Dapple touched bottom, and he found + himself sitting on him without having received any hurt or damage + whatever. He felt himself all over and held his breath to try whether he + was quite sound or had a hole made in him anywhere, and finding himself + all right and whole and in perfect health he was profuse in his thanks to + God our Lord for the mercy that had been shown him, for he made sure he + had been broken into a thousand pieces. He also felt along the sides of + the pit with his hands to see if it were possible to get out of it without + help, but he found they were quite smooth and afforded no hold anywhere, + at which he was greatly distressed, especially when he heard how + pathetically and dolefully Dapple was bemoaning himself, and no wonder he + complained, nor was it from ill-temper, for in truth he was not in a very + good case. “Alas,” said Sancho, “what unexpected + accidents happen at every step to those who live in this miserable world! + Who would have said that one who saw himself yesterday sitting on a + throne, governor of an island, giving orders to his servants and his + vassals, would see himself to-day buried in a pit without a soul to help + him, or servant or vassal to come to his relief? Here must we perish with + hunger, my ass and myself, if indeed we don’t die first, he of his + bruises and injuries, and I of grief and sorrow. At any rate I’ll + not be as lucky as my master Don Quixote of La Mancha, when he went down + into the cave of that enchanted Montesinos, where he found people to make + more of him than if he had been in his own house; for it seems he came in + for a table laid out and a bed ready made. There he saw fair and pleasant + visions, but here I’ll see, I imagine, toads and adders. Unlucky + wretch that I am, what an end my follies and fancies have come to! They’ll + take up my bones out of this, when it is heaven’s will that I’m + found, picked clean, white and polished, and my good Dapple’s with + them, and by that, perhaps, it will be found out who we are, at least by + such as have heard that Sancho Panza never separated from his ass, nor his + ass from Sancho Panza. Unlucky wretches, I say again, that our hard fate + should not let us die in our own country and among our own people, where + if there was no help for our misfortune, at any rate there would be some + one to grieve for it and to close our eyes as we passed away! O comrade + and friend, how ill have I repaid thy faithful services! Forgive me, and + entreat Fortune, as well as thou canst, to deliver us out of this + miserable strait we are both in; and I promise to put a crown of laurel on + thy head, and make thee look like a poet laureate, and give thee double + feeds.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p55b" id="p55b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p55b.jpg (273K)" src="images/p55b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p55b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + In this strain did Sancho bewail himself, and his ass listened to him, but + answered him never a word, such was the distress and anguish the poor + beast found himself in. At length, after a night spent in bitter moanings + and lamentations, day came, and by its light Sancho perceived that it was + wholly impossible to escape out of that pit without help, and he fell to + bemoaning his fate and uttering loud shouts to find out if there was + anyone within hearing; but all his shouting was only crying in the + wilderness, for there was not a soul anywhere in the neighbourhood to hear + him, and then at last he gave himself up for dead. Dapple was lying on his + back, and Sancho helped him to his feet, which he was scarcely able to + keep; and then taking a piece of bread out of his alforjas which had + shared their fortunes in the fall, he gave it to the ass, to whom it was + not unwelcome, saying to him as if he understood him, “With bread + all sorrows are less.” + </p> + <p> + And now he perceived on one side of the pit a hole large enough to admit a + person if he stooped and squeezed himself into a small compass. Sancho + made for it, and entered it by creeping, and found it wide and spacious on + the inside, which he was able to see as a ray of sunlight that penetrated + what might be called the roof showed it all plainly. He observed too that + it opened and widened out into another spacious cavity; seeing which he + made his way back to where the ass was, and with a stone began to pick + away the clay from the hole until in a short time he had made room for the + beast to pass easily, and this accomplished, taking him by the halter, he + proceeded to traverse the cavern to see if there was any outlet at the + other end. He advanced, sometimes in the dark, sometimes without light, + but never without fear; “God Almighty help me!” said he to + himself; “this that is a misadventure to me would make a good + adventure for my master Don Quixote. He would have been sure to take these + depths and dungeons for flowery gardens or the palaces of Galiana, and + would have counted upon issuing out of this darkness and imprisonment into + some blooming meadow; but I, unlucky that I am, hopeless and spiritless, + expect at every step another pit deeper than the first to open under my + feet and swallow me up for good; ‘welcome evil, if thou comest + alone.’” + </p> + <p> + In this way and with these reflections he seemed to himself to have + travelled rather more than half a league, when at last he perceived a dim + light that looked like daylight and found its way in on one side, showing + that this road, which appeared to him the road to the other world, led to + some opening. + </p> + <p> + Here Cide Hamete leaves him, and returns to Don Quixote, who in high + spirits and satisfaction was looking forward to the day fixed for the + battle he was to fight with him who had robbed Dona Rodriguez’s + daughter of her honour, for whom he hoped to obtain satisfaction for the + wrong and injury shamefully done to her. It came to pass, then, that + having sallied forth one morning to practise and exercise himself in what + he would have to do in the encounter he expected to find himself engaged + in the next day, as he was putting Rocinante through his paces or pressing + him to the charge, he brought his feet so close to a pit that but for + reining him in tightly it would have been impossible for him to avoid + falling into it. He pulled him up, however, without a fall, and coming a + little closer examined the hole without dismounting; but as he was looking + at it he heard loud cries proceeding from it, and by listening attentively + was able to make out that he who uttered them was saying, “Ho, above + there! is there any Christian that hears me, or any charitable gentleman + that will take pity on a sinner buried alive, on an unfortunate + disgoverned governor?” + </p> + <p> + It struck Don Quixote that it was the voice of Sancho Panza he heard, + whereat he was taken aback and amazed, and raising his own voice as much + as he could, he cried out, “Who is below there? Who is that + complaining?” + </p> + <p> + “Who should be here, or who should complain,” was the answer, + “but the forlorn Sancho Panza, for his sins and for his ill-luck + governor of the island of Barataria, squire that was to the famous knight + Don Quixote of La Mancha?” + </p> + <p> + When Don Quixote heard this his amazement was redoubled and his + perturbation grew greater than ever, for it suggested itself to his mind + that Sancho must be dead, and that his soul was in torment down there; and + carried away by this idea he exclaimed, “I conjure thee by + everything that as a Catholic Christian I can conjure thee by, tell me who + thou art; and if thou art a soul in torment, tell me what thou wouldst + have me do for thee; for as my profession is to give aid and succour to + those that need it in this world, it will also extend to aiding and + succouring the distressed of the other, who cannot help themselves.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case,” answered the voice, “your worship who + speaks to me must be my master Don Quixote of La Mancha; nay, from the + tone of the voice it is plain it can be nobody else.” + </p> + <p> + “Don Quixote I am,” replied Don Quixote, “he whose + profession it is to aid and succour the living and the dead in their + necessities; wherefore tell me who thou art, for thou art keeping me in + suspense; because, if thou art my squire Sancho Panza, and art dead, since + the devils have not carried thee off, and thou art by God’s mercy in + purgatory, our holy mother the Roman Catholic Church has intercessory + means sufficient to release thee from the pains thou art in; and I for my + part will plead with her to that end, so far as my substance will go; + without further delay, therefore, declare thyself, and tell me who thou + art.” + </p> + <p> + “By all that’s good,” was the answer, “and by the + birth of whomsoever your worship chooses, I swear, Señor Don Quixote of La + Mancha, that I am your squire Sancho Panza, and that I have never died all + my life; but that, having given up my government for reasons that would + require more time to explain, I fell last night into this pit where I am + now, and Dapple is witness and won’t let me lie, for more by token + he is here with me.” + </p> + <p> + Nor was this all; one would have fancied the ass understood what Sancho + said, because that moment he began to bray so loudly that the whole cave + rang again. + </p> + <p> + “Famous testimony!” exclaimed Don Quixote; “I know that + bray as well as if I was its mother, and thy voice too, my Sancho. Wait + while I go to the duke’s castle, which is close by, and I will bring + some one to take thee out of this pit into which thy sins no doubt have + brought thee.” + </p> + <p> + “Go, your worship,” said Sancho, “and come back quick + for God’s sake; for I cannot bear being buried alive any longer, and + I’m dying of fear.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote left him, and hastened to the castle to tell the duke and + duchess what had happened Sancho, and they were not a little astonished at + it; they could easily understand his having fallen, from the confirmatory + circumstance of the cave which had been in existence there from time + immemorial; but they could not imagine how he had quitted the government + without their receiving any intimation of his coming. To be brief, they + fetched ropes and tackle, as the saying is, and by dint of many hands and + much labour they drew up Dapple and Sancho Panza out of the darkness into + the light of day. A student who saw him remarked, “That’s the + way all bad governors should come out of their governments, as this sinner + comes out of the depths of the pit, dead with hunger, pale, and I suppose + without a farthing.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho overheard him and said, “It is eight or ten days, brother + growler, since I entered upon the government of the island they gave me, + and all that time I never had a bellyful of victuals, no not for an hour; + doctors persecuted me and enemies crushed my bones; nor had I any + opportunity of taking bribes or levying taxes; and if that be the case, as + it is, I don’t deserve, I think, to come out in this fashion; but + ‘man proposes and God disposes;’ and God knows what is best, + and what suits each one best; and ‘as the occasion, so the + behaviour;’ and ‘let nobody say “I won’t drink of + this water;”’ and ‘where one thinks there are flitches, + there are no pegs;’ God knows my meaning and that’s enough; I + say no more, though I could.” + </p> + <p> + “Be not angry or annoyed at what thou hearest, Sancho,” said + Don Quixote, “or there will never be an end of it; keep a safe + conscience and let them say what they like; for trying to stop slanderers’ + tongues is like trying to put gates to the open plain. If a governor comes + out of his government rich, they say he has been a thief; and if he comes + out poor, that he has been a noodle and a blockhead.” + </p> + <p> + “They’ll be pretty sure this time,” said Sancho, “to + set me down for a fool rather than a thief.” + </p> + <p> + Thus talking, and surrounded by boys and a crowd of people, they reached + the castle, where in one of the corridors the duke and duchess stood + waiting for them; but Sancho would not go up to see the duke until he had + first put up Dapple in the stable, for he said he had passed a very bad + night in his last quarters; then he went upstairs to see his lord and + lady, and kneeling before them he said, “Because it was your + highnesses’ pleasure, not because of any desert of my own, I went to + govern your island of Barataria, which ‘I entered naked, and naked I + find myself; I neither lose nor gain.’ Whether I have governed well + or ill, I have had witnesses who will say what they think fit. I have + answered questions, I have decided causes, and always dying of hunger, for + Doctor Pedro Recio of Tirteafuera, the island and governor doctor, would + have it so. Enemies attacked us by night and put us in a great quandary, + but the people of the island say they came off safe and victorious by the + might of my arm; and may God give them as much health as there’s + truth in what they say. In short, during that time I have weighed the + cares and responsibilities governing brings with it, and by my reckoning I + find my shoulders can’t bear them, nor are they a load for my loins + or arrows for my quiver; and so, before the government threw me over I + preferred to throw the government over; and yesterday morning I left the + island as I found it, with the same streets, houses, and roofs it had when + I entered it. I asked no loan of anybody, nor did I try to fill my pocket; + and though I meant to make some useful laws, I made hardly any, as I was + afraid they would not be kept; for in that case it comes to the same thing + to make them or not to make them. I quitted the island, as I said, without + any escort except my ass; I fell into a pit, I pushed on through it, until + this morning by the light of the sun I saw an outlet, but not so easy a + one but that, had not heaven sent me my master Don Quixote, I’d have + stayed there till the end of the world. So now my lord and lady duke and + duchess, here is your governor Sancho Panza, who in the bare ten days he + has held the government has come by the knowledge that he would not give + anything to be governor, not to say of an island, but of the whole world; + and that point being settled, kissing your worships’ feet, and + imitating the game of the boys when they say, ‘leap thou, and give + me one,’ I take a leap out of the government and pass into the + service of my master Don Quixote; for after all, though in it I eat my + bread in fear and trembling, at any rate I take my fill; and for my part, + so long as I’m full, it’s all alike to me whether it’s + with carrots or with partridges.” + </p> + <p> + Here Sancho brought his long speech to an end, Don Quixote having been the + whole time in dread of his uttering a host of absurdities; and when he + found him leave off with so few, he thanked heaven in his heart. The duke + embraced Sancho and told him he was heartily sorry he had given up the + government so soon, but that he would see that he was provided with some + other post on his estate less onerous and more profitable. The duchess + also embraced him, and gave orders that he should be taken good care of, + as it was plain to see he had been badly treated and worse bruised. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p55e" id="p55e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p55e.jpg (18K)" src="images/p55e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch56b" id="ch56b"></a>CHAPTER LVI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE PRODIGIOUS AND UNPARALLELED BATTLE THAT TOOK PLACE BETWEEN DON + QUIXOTE OF LA MANCHA AND THE LACQUEY TOSILOS IN DEFENCE OF THE DAUGHTER OF + DONA RODRIGUEZ + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p56a" id="p56a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p56a.jpg (158K)" src="images/p56a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p56a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The duke and duchess had no reason to regret the joke that had been played + upon Sancho Panza in giving him the government; especially as their + majordomo returned the same day, and gave them a minute account of almost + every word and deed that Sancho uttered or did during the time; and to + wind up with, eloquently described to them the attack upon the island and + Sancho’s fright and departure, with which they were not a little + amused. After this the history goes on to say that the day fixed for the + battle arrived, and that the duke, after having repeatedly instructed his + lacquey Tosilos how to deal with Don Quixote so as to vanquish him without + killing or wounding him, gave orders to have the heads removed from the + lances, telling Don Quixote that Christian charity, on which he plumed + himself, could not suffer the battle to be fought with so much risk and + danger to life; and that he must be content with the offer of a + battlefield on his territory (though that was against the decree of the + holy Council, which prohibits all challenges of the sort) and not push + such an arduous venture to its extreme limits. Don Quixote bade his + excellence arrange all matters connected with the affair as he pleased, as + on his part he would obey him in everything. The dread day, then, having + arrived, and the duke having ordered a spacious stand to be erected facing + the court of the castle for the judges of the field and the appellant + duennas, mother and daughter, vast crowds flocked from all the villages + and hamlets of the neighbourhood to see the novel spectacle of the battle; + nobody, dead or alive, in those parts having ever seen or heard of such a + one. + </p> + <p> + The first person to enter the field and the lists was the master of the + ceremonies, who surveyed and paced the whole ground to see that there was + nothing unfair and nothing concealed to make the combatants stumble or + fall; then the duennas entered and seated themselves, enveloped in mantles + covering their eyes, nay even their bosoms, and displaying no slight + emotion as Don Quixote appeared in the lists. Shortly afterwards, + accompanied by several trumpets and mounted on a powerful steed that + threatened to crush the whole place, the great lacquey Tosilos made his + appearance on one side of the courtyard with his visor down and stiffly + cased in a suit of stout shining armour. The horse was a manifest + Frieslander, broad-backed and flea-bitten, and with half a hundred of wool + hanging to each of his fetlocks. The gallant combatant came well primed by + his master the duke as to how he was to bear himself against the valiant + Don Quixote of La Mancha; being warned that he must on no account slay + him, but strive to shirk the first encounter so as to avoid the risk of + killing him, as he was sure to do if he met him full tilt. He crossed the + courtyard at a walk, and coming to where the duennas were placed stopped + to look at her who demanded him for a husband; the marshal of the field + summoned Don Quixote, who had already presented himself in the courtyard, + and standing by the side of Tosilos he addressed the duennas, and asked + them if they consented that Don Quixote of La Mancha should do battle for + their right. They said they did, and that whatever he should do in that + behalf they declared rightly done, final and valid. By this time the duke + and duchess had taken their places in a gallery commanding the enclosure, + which was filled to overflowing with a multitude of people eager to see + this perilous and unparalleled encounter. The conditions of the combat + were that if Don Quixote proved the victor his antagonist was to marry the + daughter of Dona Rodriguez; but if he should be vanquished his opponent + was released from the promise that was claimed against him and from all + obligations to give satisfaction. The master of the ceremonies apportioned + the sun to them, and stationed them, each on the spot where he was to + stand. The drums beat, the sound of the trumpets filled the air, the earth + trembled under foot, the hearts of the gazing crowd were full of anxiety, + some hoping for a happy issue, some apprehensive of an untoward ending to + the affair, and lastly, Don Quixote, commending himself with all his heart + to God our Lord and to the lady Dulcinea del Toboso, stood waiting for + them to give the necessary signal for the onset. Our lacquey, however, was + thinking of something very different; he only thought of what I am now + going to mention. + </p> + <p> + It seems that as he stood contemplating his enemy she struck him as the + most beautiful woman he had ever seen all his life; and the little blind + boy whom in our streets they commonly call Love had no mind to let slip + the chance of triumphing over a lacquey heart, and adding it to the list + of his trophies; and so, stealing gently upon him unseen, he drove a dart + two yards long into the poor lacquey’s left side and pierced his + heart through and through; which he was able to do quite at his ease, for + Love is invisible, and comes in and goes out as he likes, without anyone + calling him to account for what he does. Well then, when they gave the + signal for the onset our lacquey was in an ecstasy, musing upon the beauty + of her whom he had already made mistress of his liberty, and so he paid no + attention to the sound of the trumpet, unlike Don Quixote, who was off the + instant he heard it, and, at the highest speed Rocinante was capable of, + set out to meet his enemy, his good squire Sancho shouting lustily as he + saw him start, “God guide thee, cream and flower of knights-errant! + God give thee the victory, for thou hast the right on thy side!” But + though Tosilos saw Don Quixote coming at him he never stirred a step from + the spot where he was posted; and instead of doing so called loudly to the + marshal of the field, to whom when he came up to see what he wanted he + said, “Señor, is not this battle to decide whether I marry or do not + marry that lady?” “Just so,” was the answer. “Well + then,” said the lacquey, “I feel qualms of conscience, and I + should lay a heavy burden upon it if I were to proceed any further with + the combat; I therefore declare that I yield myself vanquished, and that I + am willing to marry the lady at once.” + </p> + <p> + The marshal of the field was lost in astonishment at the words of Tosilos; + and as he was one of those who were privy to the arrangement of the affair + he knew not what to say in reply. Don Quixote pulled up in mid career when + he saw that his enemy was not coming on to the attack. The duke could not + make out the reason why the battle did not go on; but the marshal of the + field hastened to him to let him know what Tosilos said, and he was amazed + and extremely angry at it. In the meantime Tosilos advanced to where Dona + Rodriguez sat and said in a loud voice, “Señora, I am willing to + marry your daughter, and I have no wish to obtain by strife and fighting + what I can obtain in peace and without any risk to my life.” + </p> + <p> + The valiant Don Quixote heard him, and said, “As that is the case I + am released and absolved from my promise; let them marry by all means, and + as ‘God our Lord has given her, may Saint Peter add his blessing.’” + </p> + <p> + The duke had now descended to the courtyard of the castle, and going up to + Tosilos he said to him, “Is it true, sir knight, that you yield + yourself vanquished, and that moved by scruples of conscience you wish to + marry this damsel?” + </p> + <p> + “It is, señor,” replied Tosilos. + </p> + <p> + “And he does well,” said Sancho, “for what thou hast to + give to the mouse, give to the cat, and it will save thee all trouble.” + </p> + <p> + Tosilos meanwhile was trying to unlace his helmet, and he begged them to + come to his help at once, as his power of breathing was failing him, and + he could not remain so long shut up in that confined space. They removed + it in all haste, and his lacquey features were revealed to public gaze. At + this sight Dona Rodriguez and her daughter raised a mighty outcry, + exclaiming, “This is a trick! This is a trick! They have put + Tosilos, my lord the duke’s lacquey, upon us in place of the real + husband. The justice of God and the king against such trickery, not to say + roguery!” + </p> + <p> + “Do not distress yourselves, ladies,” said Don Quixote; + “for this is no trickery or roguery; or if it is, it is not the duke + who is at the bottom of it, but those wicked enchanters who persecute me, + and who, jealous of my reaping the glory of this victory, have turned your + husband’s features into those of this person, who you say is a + lacquey of the duke’s; take my advice, and notwithstanding the + malice of my enemies marry him, for beyond a doubt he is the one you wish + for a husband.” + </p> + <p> + When the duke heard this all his anger was near vanishing in a fit of + laughter, and he said, “The things that happen to Señor Don Quixote + are so extraordinary that I am ready to believe this lacquey of mine is + not one; but let us adopt this plan and device; let us put off the + marriage for, say, a fortnight, and let us keep this person about whom we + are uncertain in close confinement, and perhaps in the course of that time + he may return to his original shape; for the spite which the enchanters + entertain against Señor Don Quixote cannot last so long, especially as it + is of so little advantage to them to practise these deceptions and + transformations.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, señor,” said Sancho, “those scoundrels are well + used to changing whatever concerns my master from one thing into another. + A knight that he overcame some time back, called the Knight of the + Mirrors, they turned into the shape of the bachelor Samson Carrasco of our + town and a great friend of ours; and my lady Dulcinea del Toboso they have + turned into a common country wench; so I suspect this lacquey will have to + live and die a lacquey all the days of his life.” + </p> + <p> + Here the Rodriguez’s daughter exclaimed, “Let him be who he + may, this man that claims me for a wife; I am thankful to him for the + same, for I had rather be the lawful wife of a lacquey than the cheated + mistress of a gentleman; though he who played me false is nothing of the + kind.” + </p> + <p> + To be brief, all the talk and all that had happened ended in Tosilos being + shut up until it was seen how his transformation turned out. All hailed + Don Quixote as victor, but the greater number were vexed and disappointed + at finding that the combatants they had been so anxiously waiting for had + not battered one another to pieces, just as the boys are disappointed when + the man they are waiting to see hanged does not come out, because the + prosecution or the court has pardoned him. The people dispersed, the duke + and Don Quixote returned to the castle, they locked up Tosilos, Dona + Rodriguez and her daughter remained perfectly contented when they saw that + any way the affair must end in marriage, and Tosilos wanted nothing else. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p56e" id="p56e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p56e.jpg (46K)" src="images/p56e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch57b" id="ch57b"></a>CHAPTER LVII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHICH TREATS OF HOW DON QUIXOTE TOOK LEAVE OF THE DUKE, AND OF WHAT + FOLLOWED WITH THE WITTY AND IMPUDENT ALTISIDORA, ONE OF THE DUCHESS’S + DAMSELS + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p57a" id="p57a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p57a.jpg (119K)" src="images/p57a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p57a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote now felt it right to quit a life of such idleness as he was + leading in the castle; for he fancied that he was making himself sorely + missed by suffering himself to remain shut up and inactive amid the + countless luxuries and enjoyments his hosts lavished upon him as a knight, + and he felt too that he would have to render a strict account to heaven of + that indolence and seclusion; and so one day he asked the duke and duchess + to grant him permission to take his departure. They gave it, showing at + the same time that they were very sorry he was leaving them. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p57b" id="p57b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p57b.jpg (370K)" src="images/p57b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p57b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The duchess gave his wife’s letters to Sancho Panza, who shed tears + over them, saying, “Who would have thought that such grand hopes as + the news of my government bred in my wife Teresa Panza’s breast + would end in my going back now to the vagabond adventures of my master Don + Quixote of La Mancha? Still I’m glad to see my Teresa behaved as she + ought in sending the acorns, for if she had not sent them I’d have + been sorry, and she’d have shown herself ungrateful. It is a comfort + to me that they can’t call that present a bribe; for I had got the + government already when she sent them, and it’s but reasonable that + those who have had a good turn done them should show their gratitude, if + it’s only with a trifle. After all I went into the government naked, + and I come out of it naked; so I can say with a safe conscience—and + that’s no small matter—‘naked I was born, naked I find + myself, I neither lose nor gain.’” + </p> + <p> + Thus did Sancho soliloquise on the day of their departure, as Don Quixote, + who had the night before taken leave of the duke and duchess, coming out + made his appearance at an early hour in full armour in the courtyard of + the castle. The whole household of the castle were watching him from the + corridors, and the duke and duchess, too, came out to see him. Sancho was + mounted on his Dapple, with his alforjas, valise, and proven supremely + happy because the duke’s majordomo, the same that had acted the part + of the Trifaldi, had given him a little purse with two hundred gold crowns + to meet the necessary expenses of the road, but of this Don Quixote knew + nothing as yet. While all were, as has been said, observing him, suddenly + from among the duennas and handmaidens the impudent and witty Altisidora + lifted up her voice and said in pathetic tones: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +Give ear, cruel knight; +Draw rein; where’s the need +Of spurring the flanks +Of that ill-broken steed? +From what art thou flying? +No dragon I am, +Not even a sheep, +But a tender young lamb. +Thou hast jilted a maiden +As fair to behold +As nymph of Diana +Or Venus of old. + +Bireno, Æneas, what worse shall I call thee? + +Barabbas go with thee! All evil befall thee! + +In thy claws, ruthless robber, +Thou bearest away +The heart of a meek +Loving maid for thy prey, +Three kerchiefs thou stealest, +And garters a pair, +From legs than the whitest +Of marble more fair; +And the sighs that pursue thee +Would burn to the ground +Two thousand Troy Towns, +If so many were found. + +Bireno, Æneas, what worse shall I call thee? + +Barabbas go with thee! All evil befall thee! + +May no bowels of mercy +To Sancho be granted, +And thy Dulcinea +Be left still enchanted, +May thy falsehood to me +Find its punishment in her, +For in my land the just +Often pays for the sinner. +May thy grandest adventures +Discomfitures prove, +May thy joys be all dreams, +And forgotten thy love. + +Bireno, Æneas, what worse shall I call thee? + +Barabbas go with thee! All evil befall thee! + +May thy name be abhorred +For thy conduct to ladies, +From London to England, +From Seville to Cadiz; +May thy cards be unlucky, +Thy hands contain ne’er a +King, seven, or ace +When thou playest primera; +When thy corns are cut +May it be to the quick; +When thy grinders are drawn +May the roots of them stick. + +Bireno, Æneas, what worse shall I call thee? + +Barabbas go with thee! All evil befall thee! + +</pre> + <p> + All the while the unhappy Altisidora was bewailing herself in the above + strain Don Quixote stood staring at her; and without uttering a word in + reply to her he turned round to Sancho and said, “Sancho my friend, + I conjure thee by the life of thy forefathers tell me the truth; say, hast + thou by any chance taken the three kerchiefs and the garters this + love-sick maid speaks of?” + </p> + <p> + To this Sancho made answer, “The three kerchiefs I have; but the + garters, as much as ‘over the hills of Ubeda.’” + </p> + <p> + The duchess was amazed at Altisidora’s assurance; she knew that she + was bold, lively, and impudent, but not so much so as to venture to make + free in this fashion; and not being prepared for the joke, her + astonishment was all the greater. The duke had a mind to keep up the + sport, so he said, “It does not seem to me well done in you, sir + knight, that after having received the hospitality that has been offered + you in this very castle, you should have ventured to carry off even three + kerchiefs, not to say my handmaid’s garters. It shows a bad heart + and does not tally with your reputation. Restore her garters, or else I + defy you to mortal combat, for I am not afraid of rascally enchanters + changing or altering my features as they changed his who encountered you + into those of my lacquey, Tosilos.” + </p> + <p> + “God forbid,” said Don Quixote, “that I should draw my + sword against your illustrious person from which I have received such + great favours. The kerchiefs I will restore, as Sancho says he has them; + as to the garters that is impossible, for I have not got them, neither has + he; and if your handmaiden here will look in her hiding-places, depend + upon it she will find them. I have never been a thief, my lord duke, nor + do I mean to be so long as I live, if God cease not to have me in his + keeping. This damsel by her own confession speaks as one in love, for + which I am not to blame, and therefore need not ask pardon, either of her + or of your excellence, whom I entreat to have a better opinion of me, and + once more to give me leave to pursue my journey.” + </p> + <p> + “And may God so prosper it, Señor Don Quixote,” said the + duchess, “that we may always hear good news of your exploits; God + speed you; for the longer you stay, the more you inflame the hearts of the + damsels who behold you; and as for this one of mine, I will so chastise + her that she will not transgress again, either with her eyes or with her + words.” + </p> + <p> + “One word and no more, O valiant Don Quixote, I ask you to hear,” + said Altisidora, “and that is that I beg your pardon about the theft + of the garters; for by God and upon my soul I have got them on, and I have + fallen into the same blunder as he did who went looking for his ass being + all the while mounted on it.” + </p> + <p> + “Didn’t I say so?” said Sancho. “I’m a + likely one to hide thefts! Why if I wanted to deal in them, opportunities + came ready enough to me in my government.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote bowed his head, and saluted the duke and duchess and all the + bystanders, and wheeling Rocinante round, Sancho following him on Dapple, + he rode out of the castle, shaping his course for Saragossa. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p57e" id="p57e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p57e.jpg (71K)" src="images/p57e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch58b" id="ch58b"></a>CHAPTER LVIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHICH TELLS HOW ADVENTURES CAME CROWDING ON DON QUIXOTE IN SUCH NUMBERS + THAT THEY GAVE ONE ANOTHER NO BREATHING-TIME + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p58a" id="p58a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p58a.jpg (105K)" src="images/p58a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p58a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + When Don Quixote saw himself in open country, free, and relieved from the + attentions of Altisidora, he felt at his ease, and in fresh spirits to + take up the pursuit of chivalry once more; and turning to Sancho, he said, + “Freedom, Sancho, is one of the most precious gifts that heaven has + bestowed upon men; no treasures that the earth holds buried or the sea + conceals can compare with it; for freedom, as for honour, life may and + should be ventured; and on the other hand, captivity is the greatest evil + that can fall to the lot of man. I say this, Sancho, because thou hast + seen the good cheer, the abundance we have enjoyed in this castle we are + leaving; well then, amid those dainty banquets and snow-cooled beverages I + felt as though I were undergoing the straits of hunger, because I did not + enjoy them with the same freedom as if they had been mine own; for the + sense of being under an obligation to return benefits and favours received + is a restraint that checks the independence of the spirit. Happy he, to + whom heaven has given a piece of bread for which he is not bound to give + thanks to any but heaven itself!” + </p> + <p> + “For all your worship says,” said Sancho, “it is not + becoming that there should be no thanks on our part for two hundred gold + crowns that the duke’s majordomo has given me in a little purse + which I carry next my heart, like a warming plaster or comforter, to meet + any chance calls; for we shan’t always find castles where they’ll + entertain us; now and then we may light upon roadside inns where they’ll + cudgel us.” + </p> + <p> + In conversation of this sort the knight and squire errant were pursuing + their journey, when, after they had gone a little more than half a league, + they perceived some dozen men dressed like labourers stretched upon their + cloaks on the grass of a green meadow eating their dinner. They had beside + them what seemed to be white sheets concealing some objects under them, + standing upright or lying flat, and arranged at intervals. Don Quixote + approached the diners, and, saluting them courteously first, he asked them + what it was those cloths covered. “Señor,” answered one of the + party, “under these cloths are some images carved in relief intended + for a retablo we are putting up in our village; we carry them covered up + that they may not be soiled, and on our shoulders that they may not be + broken.” + </p> + <p> + “With your good leave,” said Don Quixote, “I should like + to see them; for images that are carried so carefully no doubt must be + fine ones.” + </p> + <p> + “I should think they were!” said the other; “let the + money they cost speak for that; for as a matter of fact there is not one + of them that does not stand us in more than fifty ducats; and that your + worship may judge; wait a moment, and you shall see with your own eyes;” + and getting up from his dinner he went and uncovered the first image, + which proved to be one of Saint George on horseback with a serpent + writhing at his feet and the lance thrust down its throat with all that + fierceness that is usually depicted. The whole group was one blaze of + gold, as the saying is. On seeing it Don Quixote said, “That knight + was one of the best knights-errant the army of heaven ever owned; he was + called Don Saint George, and he was moreover a defender of maidens. Let us + see this next one.” + </p> + <p> + The man uncovered it, and it was seen to be that of Saint Martin on his + horse, dividing his cloak with the beggar. The instant Don Quixote saw it + he said, “This knight too was one of the Christian adventurers, but + I believe he was generous rather than valiant, as thou mayest perceive, + Sancho, by his dividing his cloak with the beggar and giving him half of + it; no doubt it was winter at the time, for otherwise he would have given + him the whole of it, so charitable was he.” + </p> + <p> + “It was not that, most likely,” said Sancho, “but that + he held with the proverb that says, ‘For giving and keeping there’s + need of brains.’” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote laughed, and asked them to take off the next cloth, underneath + which was seen the image of the patron saint of the Spains seated on + horseback, his sword stained with blood, trampling on Moors and treading + heads underfoot; and on seeing it Don Quixote exclaimed, “Ay, this + is a knight, and of the squadrons of Christ! This one is called Don Saint + James the Moorslayer, one of the bravest saints and knights the world ever + had or heaven has now.” + </p> + <p> + They then raised another cloth which it appeared covered Saint Paul + falling from his horse, with all the details that are usually given in + representations of his conversion. When Don Quixote saw it, rendered in + such lifelike style that one would have said Christ was speaking and Paul + answering, “This,” he said, “was in his time the + greatest enemy that the Church of God our Lord had, and the greatest + champion it will ever have; a knight-errant in life, a steadfast saint in + death, an untiring labourer in the Lord’s vineyard, a teacher of the + Gentiles, whose school was heaven, and whose instructor and master was + Jesus Christ himself.” + </p> + <p> + There were no more images, so Don Quixote bade them cover them up again, + and said to those who had brought them, “I take it as a happy omen, + brothers, to have seen what I have; for these saints and knights were of + the same profession as myself, which is the calling of arms; only there is + this difference between them and me, that they were saints, and fought + with divine weapons, and I am a sinner and fight with human ones. They won + heaven by force of arms, for heaven suffereth violence; and I, so far, + know not what I have won by dint of my sufferings; but if my Dulcinea del + Toboso were to be released from hers, perhaps with mended fortunes and a + mind restored to itself I might direct my steps in a better path than I am + following at present.” + </p> + <p> + “May God hear and sin be deaf,” said Sancho to this. + </p> + <p> + The men were filled with wonder, as well at the figure as at the words of + Don Quixote, though they did not understand one half of what he meant by + them. They finished their dinner, took their images on their backs, and + bidding farewell to Don Quixote resumed their journey. + </p> + <p> + Sancho was amazed afresh at the extent of his master’s knowledge, as + much as if he had never known him, for it seemed to him that there was no + story or event in the world that he had not at his fingers’ ends and + fixed in his memory, and he said to him, “In truth, master mine, if + this that has happened to us to-day is to be called an adventure, it has + been one of the sweetest and pleasantest that have befallen us in the + whole course of our travels; we have come out of it unbelaboured and + undismayed, neither have we drawn sword nor have we smitten the earth with + our bodies, nor have we been left famishing; blessed be God that he has + let me see such a thing with my own eyes!” + </p> + <p> + “Thou sayest well, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “but + remember all times are not alike nor do they always run the same way; and + these things the vulgar commonly call omens, which are not based upon any + natural reason, will by him who is wise be esteemed and reckoned happy + accidents merely. One of these believers in omens will get up of a + morning, leave his house, and meet a friar of the order of the blessed + Saint Francis, and, as if he had met a griffin, he will turn about and go + home. With another Mendoza the salt is spilt on his table, and gloom is + spilt over his heart, as if nature was obliged to give warning of coming + misfortunes by means of such trivial things as these. The wise man and the + Christian should not trifle with what it may please heaven to do. Scipio + on coming to Africa stumbled as he leaped on shore; his soldiers took it + as a bad omen; but he, clasping the soil with his arms, exclaimed, ‘Thou + canst not escape me, Africa, for I hold thee tight between my arms.’ + Thus, Sancho, meeting those images has been to me a most happy occurrence.” + </p> + <p> + “I can well believe it,” said Sancho; “but I wish your + worship would tell me what is the reason that the Spaniards, when they are + about to give battle, in calling on that Saint James the Moorslayer, say + ‘Santiago and close Spain!’ Is Spain, then, open, so that it + is needful to close it; or what is the meaning of this form?” + </p> + <p> + “Thou art very simple, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; “God, + look you, gave that great knight of the Red Cross to Spain as her patron + saint and protector, especially in those hard struggles the Spaniards had + with the Moors; and therefore they invoke and call upon him as their + defender in all their battles; and in these he has been many a time seen + beating down, trampling under foot, destroying and slaughtering the + Hagarene squadrons in the sight of all; of which fact I could give thee + many examples recorded in truthful Spanish histories.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho changed the subject, and said to his master, “I marvel, + señor, at the boldness of Altisidora, the duchess’s handmaid; he + whom they call Love must have cruelly pierced and wounded her; they say he + is a little blind urchin who, though blear-eyed, or more properly speaking + sightless, if he aims at a heart, be it ever so small, hits it and pierces + it through and through with his arrows. I have heard it said too that the + arrows of Love are blunted and robbed of their points by maidenly modesty + and reserve; but with this Altisidora it seems they are sharpened rather + than blunted.” + </p> + <p> + “Bear in mind, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “that love is + influenced by no consideration, recognises no restraints of reason, and is + of the same nature as death, that assails alike the lofty palaces of kings + and the humble cabins of shepherds; and when it takes entire possession of + a heart, the first thing it does is to banish fear and shame from it; and + so without shame Altisidora declared her passion, which excited in my mind + embarrassment rather than commiseration.” + </p> + <p> + “Notable cruelty!” exclaimed Sancho; “unheard-of + ingratitude! I can only say for myself that the very smallest loving word + of hers would have subdued me and made a slave of me. The devil! What a + heart of marble, what bowels of brass, what a soul of mortar! But I can’t + imagine what it is that this damsel saw in your worship that could have + conquered and captivated her so. What gallant figure was it, what bold + bearing, what sprightly grace, what comeliness of feature, which of these + things by itself, or what all together, could have made her fall in love + with you? For indeed and in truth many a time I stop to look at your + worship from the sole of your foot to the topmost hair of your head, and I + see more to frighten one than to make one fall in love; moreover I have + heard say that beauty is the first and main thing that excites love, and + as your worship has none at all, I don’t know what the poor creature + fell in love with.” + </p> + <p> + “Recollect, Sancho,” replied Don Quixote, “there are two + sorts of beauty, one of the mind, the other of the body; that of the mind + displays and exhibits itself in intelligence, in modesty, in honourable + conduct, in generosity, in good breeding; and all these qualities are + possible and may exist in an ugly man; and when it is this sort of beauty + and not that of the body that is the attraction, love is apt to spring up + suddenly and violently. I, Sancho, perceive clearly enough that I am not + beautiful, but at the same time I know I am not hideous; and it is enough + for an honest man not to be a monster to be an object of love, if only he + possesses the endowments of mind I have mentioned.” + </p> + <p> + While engaged in this discourse they were making their way through a wood + that lay beyond the road, when suddenly, without expecting anything of the + kind, Don Quixote found himself caught in some nets of green cord + stretched from one tree to another; and unable to conceive what it could + be, he said to Sancho, “Sancho, it strikes me this affair of these + nets will prove one of the strangest adventures imaginable. May I die if + the enchanters that persecute me are not trying to entangle me in them and + delay my journey, by way of revenge for my obduracy towards Altisidora. + Well then let me tell them that if these nets, instead of being green + cord, were made of the hardest diamonds, or stronger than that wherewith + the jealous god of blacksmiths enmeshed Venus and Mars, I would break them + as easily as if they were made of rushes or cotton threads.” But + just as he was about to press forward and break through all, suddenly from + among some trees two shepherdesses of surpassing beauty presented + themselves to his sight—or at least damsels dressed like + shepherdesses, save that their jerkins and sayas were of fine brocade; + that is to say, the sayas were rich farthingales of gold embroidered + tabby. Their hair, that in its golden brightness vied with the beams of + the sun itself, fell loose upon their shoulders and was crowned with + garlands twined with green laurel and red everlasting; and their years to + all appearance were not under fifteen nor above eighteen. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p58b" id="p58b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p58b.jpg (452K)" src="images/p58b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p58b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Such was the spectacle that filled Sancho with amazement, fascinated Don + Quixote, made the sun halt in his course to behold them, and held all four + in a strange silence. One of the shepherdesses, at length, was the first + to speak and said to Don Quixote, “Hold, sir knight, and do not + break these nets; for they are not spread here to do you any harm, but + only for our amusement; and as I know you will ask why they have been put + up, and who we are, I will tell you in a few words. In a village some two + leagues from this, where there are many people of quality and rich + gentlefolk, it was agreed upon by a number of friends and relations to + come with their wives, sons and daughters, neighbours, friends and + kinsmen, and make holiday in this spot, which is one of the pleasantest in + the whole neighbourhood, setting up a new pastoral Arcadia among + ourselves, we maidens dressing ourselves as shepherdesses and the youths + as shepherds. We have prepared two eclogues, one by the famous poet + Garcilasso, the other by the most excellent Camoens, in its own Portuguese + tongue, but we have not as yet acted them. Yesterday was the first day of + our coming here; we have a few of what they say are called field-tents + pitched among the trees on the bank of an ample brook that fertilises all + these meadows; last night we spread these nets in the trees here to snare + the silly little birds that startled by the noise we make may fly into + them. If you please to be our guest, señor, you will be welcomed heartily + and courteously, for here just now neither care nor sorrow shall enter.” + </p> + <p> + She held her peace and said no more, and Don Quixote made answer, “Of + a truth, fairest lady, Actaeon when he unexpectedly beheld Diana bathing + in the stream could not have been more fascinated and wonderstruck than I + at the sight of your beauty. I commend your mode of entertainment, and + thank you for the kindness of your invitation; and if I can serve you, you + may command me with full confidence of being obeyed, for my profession is + none other than to show myself grateful, and ready to serve persons of all + conditions, but especially persons of quality such as your appearance + indicates; and if, instead of taking up, as they probably do, but a small + space, these nets took up the whole surface of the globe, I would seek out + new worlds through which to pass, so as not to break them; and that ye may + give some degree of credence to this exaggerated language of mine, know + that it is no less than Don Quixote of La Mancha that makes this + declaration to you, if indeed it be that such a name has reached your + ears.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! friend of my soul,” instantly exclaimed the other + shepherdess, “what great good fortune has befallen us! Seest thou + this gentleman we have before us? Well then let me tell thee he is the + most valiant and the most devoted and the most courteous gentleman in all + the world, unless a history of his achievements that has been printed and + I have read is telling lies and deceiving us. I will lay a wager that this + good fellow who is with him is one Sancho Panza his squire, whose + drolleries none can equal.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s true,” said Sancho; “I am that same droll + and squire you speak of, and this gentleman is my master Don Quixote of La + Mancha, the same that’s in the history and that they talk about.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, my friend,” said the other, “let us entreat him to + stay; for it will give our fathers and brothers infinite pleasure; I too + have heard just what thou hast told me of the valour of the one and the + drolleries of the other; and what is more, of him they say that he is the + most constant and loyal lover that was ever heard of, and that his lady is + one Dulcinea del Toboso, to whom all over Spain the palm of beauty is + awarded.” + </p> + <p> + “And justly awarded,” said Don Quixote, “unless, indeed, + your unequalled beauty makes it a matter of doubt. But spare yourselves + the trouble, ladies, of pressing me to stay, for the urgent calls of my + profession do not allow me to take rest under any circumstances.” + </p> + <p> + At this instant there came up to the spot where the four stood a brother + of one of the two shepherdesses, like them in shepherd costume, and as + richly and gaily dressed as they were. They told him that their companion + was the valiant Don Quixote of La Mancha, and the other Sancho his squire, + of whom he knew already from having read their history. The gay shepherd + offered him his services and begged that he would accompany him to their + tents, and Don Quixote had to give way and comply. And now the game was + started, and the nets were filled with a variety of birds that deceived by + the colour fell into the danger they were flying from. Upwards of thirty + persons, all gaily attired as shepherds and shepherdesses, assembled on + the spot, and were at once informed who Don Quixote and his squire were, + whereat they were not a little delighted, as they knew of him already + through his history. They repaired to the tents, where they found tables + laid out, and choicely, plentifully, and neatly furnished. They treated + Don Quixote as a person of distinction, giving him the place of honour, + and all observed him, and were full of astonishment at the spectacle. At + last the cloth being removed, Don Quixote with great composure lifted up + his voice and said: + </p> + <p> + “One of the greatest sins that men are guilty of is—some will + say pride—but I say ingratitude, going by the common saying that + hell is full of ingrates. This sin, so far as it has lain in my power, I + have endeavoured to avoid ever since I have enjoyed the faculty of reason; + and if I am unable to requite good deeds that have been done me by other + deeds, I substitute the desire to do so; and if that be not enough I make + them known publicly; for he who declares and makes known the good deeds + done to him would repay them by others if it were in his power, and for + the most part those who receive are the inferiors of those who give. Thus, + God is superior to all because he is the supreme giver, and the offerings + of man fall short by an infinite distance of being a full return for the + gifts of God; but gratitude in some degree makes up for this deficiency + and shortcoming. I therefore, grateful for the favour that has been + extended to me here, and unable to make a return in the same measure, + restricted as I am by the narrow limits of my power, offer what I can and + what I have to offer in my own way; and so I declare that for two full + days I will maintain in the middle of this highway leading to Saragossa, + that these ladies disguised as shepherdesses, who are here present, are + the fairest and most courteous maidens in the world, excepting only the + peerless Dulcinea del Toboso, sole mistress of my thoughts, be it said + without offence to those who hear me, ladies and gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + On hearing this Sancho, who had been listening with great attention, cried + out in a loud voice, “Is it possible there is anyone in the world + who will dare to say and swear that this master of mine is a madman? Say, + gentlemen shepherds, is there a village priest, be he ever so wise or + learned, who could say what my master has said; or is there knight-errant, + whatever renown he may have as a man of valour, that could offer what my + master has offered now?” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote turned upon Sancho, and with a countenance glowing with anger + said to him, “Is it possible, Sancho, there is anyone in the whole + world who will say thou art not a fool, with a lining to match, and I know + not what trimmings of impertinence and roguery? Who asked thee to meddle + in my affairs, or to inquire whether I am a wise man or a blockhead? Hold + thy peace; answer me not a word; saddle Rocinante if he be unsaddled; and + let us go to put my offer into execution; for with the right that I have + on my side thou mayest reckon as vanquished all who shall venture to + question it;” and in a great rage, and showing his anger plainly, he + rose from his seat, leaving the company lost in wonder, and making them + feel doubtful whether they ought to regard him as a madman or a rational + being. In the end, though they sought to dissuade him from involving + himself in such a challenge, assuring him they admitted his gratitude as + fully established, and needed no fresh proofs to be convinced of his + valiant spirit, as those related in the history of his exploits were + sufficient, still Don Quixote persisted in his resolve; and mounted on + Rocinante, bracing his buckler on his arm and grasping his lance, he + posted himself in the middle of a high road that was not far from the + green meadow. Sancho followed on Dapple, together with all the members of + the pastoral gathering, eager to see what would be the upshot of his + vainglorious and extraordinary proposal. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote, then, having, as has been said, planted himself in the middle + of the road, made the welkin ring with words to this effect: “Ho ye + travellers and wayfarers, knights, squires, folk on foot or on horseback, + who pass this way or shall pass in the course of the next two days! Know + that Don Quixote of La Mancha, knight-errant, is posted here to maintain + by arms that the beauty and courtesy enshrined in the nymphs that dwell in + these meadows and groves surpass all upon earth, putting aside the lady of + my heart, Dulcinea del Toboso. Wherefore, let him who is of the opposite + opinion come on, for here I await him.” + </p> + <p> + Twice he repeated the same words, and twice they fell unheard by any + adventurer; but fate, that was guiding affairs for him from better to + better, so ordered it that shortly afterwards there appeared on the road a + crowd of men on horseback, many of them with lances in their hands, all + riding in a compact body and in great haste. No sooner had those who were + with Don Quixote seen them than they turned about and withdrew to some + distance from the road, for they knew that if they stayed some harm might + come to them; but Don Quixote with intrepid heart stood his ground, and + Sancho Panza shielded himself with Rocinante’s hind-quarters. The + troop of lancers came up, and one of them who was in advance began + shouting to Don Quixote, “Get out of the way, you son of the devil, + or these bulls will knock you to pieces!” + </p> + <p> + “Rabble!” returned Don Quixote, “I care nothing for + bulls, be they the fiercest Jarama breeds on its banks. Confess at once, + scoundrels, that what I have declared is true; else ye have to deal with + me in combat.” + </p> + <p> + The herdsman had no time to reply, nor Don Quixote to get out of the way + even if he wished; and so the drove of fierce bulls and tame bullocks, + together with the crowd of herdsmen and others who were taking them to be + penned up in a village where they were to be run the next day, passed over + Don Quixote and over Sancho, Rocinante and Dapple, hurling them all to the + earth and rolling them over on the ground. Sancho was left crushed, Don + Quixote scared, Dapple belaboured and Rocinante in no very sound + condition. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p58c" id="p58c"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p58c.jpg (399K)" src="images/p58c.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p58c.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + They all got up, however, at length, and Don Quixote in great haste, + stumbling here and falling there, started off running after the drove, + shouting out, “Hold! stay! ye rascally rabble, a single knight + awaits you, and he is not of the temper or opinion of those who say, + ‘For a flying enemy make a bridge of silver.’” The + retreating party in their haste, however, did not stop for that, or heed + his menaces any more than last year’s clouds. Weariness brought Don + Quixote to a halt, and more enraged than avenged he sat down on the road + to wait until Sancho, Rocinante and Dapple came up. When they reached him + master and man mounted once more, and without going back to bid farewell + to the mock or imitation Arcadia, and more in humiliation than + contentment, they continued their journey. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p58e" id="p58e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p58e.jpg (68K)" src="images/p58e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p58e.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch59b" id="ch59b"></a>CHAPTER LIX. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS RELATED THE STRANGE THING, WHICH MAY BE REGARDED AS AN + ADVENTURE, THAT HAPPENED DON QUIXOTE + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p59a" id="p59a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p59a.jpg (126K)" src="images/p59a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p59a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + A clear limpid spring which they discovered in a cool grove relieved Don + Quixote and Sancho of the dust and fatigue due to the unpolite behaviour + of the bulls, and by the side of this, having turned Dapple and Rocinante + loose without headstall or bridle, the forlorn pair, master and man, + seated themselves. Sancho had recourse to the larder of his alforjas and + took out of them what he called the prog; Don Quixote rinsed his mouth and + bathed his face, by which cooling process his flagging energies were + revived. Out of pure vexation he remained without eating, and out of pure + politeness Sancho did not venture to touch a morsel of what was before + him, but waited for his master to act as taster. Seeing, however, that, + absorbed in thought, he was forgetting to carry the bread to his mouth, he + said never a word, and trampling every sort of good breeding under foot, + began to stow away in his paunch the bread and cheese that came to his + hand. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p59b" id="p59b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p59b.jpg (370K)" src="images/p59b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p59b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “Eat, Sancho my friend,” said Don Quixote; “support + life, which is of more consequence to thee than to me, and leave me to die + under the pain of my thoughts and pressure of my misfortunes. I was born, + Sancho, to live dying, and thou to die eating; and to prove the truth of + what I say, look at me, printed in histories, famed in arms, courteous in + behaviour, honoured by princes, courted by maidens; and after all, when I + looked forward to palms, triumphs, and crowns, won and earned by my + valiant deeds, I have this morning seen myself trampled on, kicked, and + crushed by the feet of unclean and filthy animals. This thought blunts my + teeth, paralyses my jaws, cramps my hands, and robs me of all appetite for + food; so much so that I have a mind to let myself die of hunger, the + cruelest death of all deaths.” + </p> + <p> + “So then,” said Sancho, munching hard all the time, “your + worship does not agree with the proverb that says, ‘Let Martha die, + but let her die with a full belly.’ I, at any rate, have no mind to + kill myself; so far from that, I mean to do as the cobbler does, who + stretches the leather with his teeth until he makes it reach as far as he + wants. I’ll stretch out my life by eating until it reaches the end + heaven has fixed for it; and let me tell you, señor, there’s no + greater folly than to think of dying of despair as your worship does; take + my advice, and after eating lie down and sleep a bit on this green + grass-mattress, and you will see that when you awake you’ll feel + something better.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote did as he recommended, for it struck him that Sancho’s + reasoning was more like a philosopher’s than a blockhead’s, + and said he, “Sancho, if thou wilt do for me what I am going to tell + thee my ease of mind would be more assured and my heaviness of heart not + so great; and it is this; to go aside a little while I am sleeping in + accordance with thy advice, and, making bare thy carcase to the air, to + give thyself three or four hundred lashes with Rocinante’s reins, on + account of the three thousand and odd thou art to give thyself for the + disenchantment of Dulcinea; for it is a great pity that the poor lady + should be left enchanted through thy carelessness and negligence.” + </p> + <p> + “There is a good deal to be said on that point,” said Sancho; + “let us both go to sleep now, and after that, God has decreed what + will happen. Let me tell your worship that for a man to whip himself in + cold blood is a hard thing, especially if the stripes fall upon an + ill-nourished and worse-fed body. Let my lady Dulcinea have patience, and + when she is least expecting it, she will see me made a riddle of with + whipping, and ‘until death it’s all life;’ I mean that I + have still life in me, and the desire to make good what I have promised.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote thanked him, and ate a little, and Sancho a good deal, and + then they both lay down to sleep, leaving those two inseparable friends + and comrades, Rocinante and Dapple, to their own devices and to feed + unrestrained upon the abundant grass with which the meadow was furnished. + They woke up rather late, mounted once more and resumed their journey, + pushing on to reach an inn which was in sight, apparently a league off. I + say an inn, because Don Quixote called it so, contrary to his usual + practice of calling all inns castles. They reached it, and asked the + landlord if they could put up there. He said yes, with as much comfort and + as good fare as they could find in Saragossa. They dismounted, and Sancho + stowed away his larder in a room of which the landlord gave him the key. + He took the beasts to the stable, fed them, and came back to see what + orders Don Quixote, who was seated on a bench at the door, had for him, + giving special thanks to heaven that this inn had not been taken for a + castle by his master. Supper-time came, and they repaired to their room, + and Sancho asked the landlord what he had to give them for supper. To this + the landlord replied that his mouth should be the measure; he had only to + ask what he would; for that inn was provided with the birds of the air and + the fowls of the earth and the fish of the sea. + </p> + <p> + “There’s no need of all that,” said Sancho; “if + they’ll roast us a couple of chickens we’ll be satisfied, for + my master is delicate and eats little, and I’m not over and above + gluttonous.” + </p> + <p> + The landlord replied he had no chickens, for the kites had stolen them. + </p> + <p> + “Well then,” said Sancho, “let señor landlord tell them + to roast a pullet, so that it is a tender one.” + </p> + <p> + “Pullet! My father!” said the landlord; “indeed and in + truth it’s only yesterday I sent over fifty to the city to sell; but + saving pullets ask what you will.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case,” said Sancho, “you will not be without + veal or kid.” + </p> + <p> + “Just now,” said the landlord, “there’s none in + the house, for it’s all finished; but next week there will be enough + and to spare.” + </p> + <p> + “Much good that does us,” said Sancho; “I’ll lay a + bet that all these short-comings are going to wind up in plenty of bacon + and eggs.” + </p> + <p> + “By God,” said the landlord, “my guest’s wits must + be precious dull; I tell him I have neither pullets nor hens, and he wants + me to have eggs! Talk of other dainties, if you please, and don’t + ask for hens again.” + </p> + <p> + “Body o’ me!” said Sancho, “let’s settle the + matter; say at once what you have got, and let us have no more words about + it.” + </p> + <p> + “In truth and earnest, señor guest,” said the landlord, + “all I have is a couple of cow-heels like calves’ feet, or a + couple of calves’ feet like cowheels; they are boiled with + chick-peas, onions, and bacon, and at this moment they are crying ‘Come + eat me, come eat me.” + </p> + <p> + “I mark them for mine on the spot,” said Sancho; “let + nobody touch them; I’ll pay better for them than anyone else, for I + could not wish for anything more to my taste; and I don’t care a pin + whether they are feet or heels.” + </p> + <p> + “Nobody shall touch them,” said the landlord; “for the + other guests I have, being persons of high quality, bring their own cook + and caterer and larder with them.” + </p> + <p> + “If you come to people of quality,” said Sancho, “there’s + nobody more so than my master; but the calling he follows does not allow + of larders or store-rooms; we lay ourselves down in the middle of a + meadow, and fill ourselves with acorns or medlars.” + </p> + <p> + Here ended Sancho’s conversation with the landlord, Sancho not + caring to carry it any farther by answering him; for he had already asked + him what calling or what profession it was his master was of. + </p> + <p> + Supper-time having come, then, Don Quixote betook himself to his room, the + landlord brought in the stew-pan just as it was, and he sat himself down + to sup very resolutely. It seems that in another room, which was next to + Don Quixote’s, with nothing but a thin partition to separate it, he + overheard these words, “As you live, Señor Don Jeronimo, while they + are bringing supper, let us read another chapter of the Second Part of + ‘Don Quixote of La Mancha.’” + </p> + <p> + The instant Don Quixote heard his own name he started to his feet and + listened with open ears to catch what they said about him, and heard the + Don Jeronimo who had been addressed say in reply, “Why would you + have us read that absurd stuff, Don Juan, when it is impossible for anyone + who has read the First Part of the history of ‘Don Quixote of La + Mancha’ to take any pleasure in reading this Second Part?” + </p> + <p> + “For all that,” said he who was addressed as Don Juan, “we + shall do well to read it, for there is no book so bad but it has something + good in it. What displeases me most in it is that it represents Don + Quixote as now cured of his love for Dulcinea del Toboso.” + </p> + <p> + On hearing this Don Quixote, full of wrath and indignation, lifted up his + voice and said, “Whoever he may be who says that Don Quixote of La + Mancha has forgotten or can forget Dulcinea del Toboso, I will teach him + with equal arms that what he says is very far from the truth; for neither + can the peerless Dulcinea del Toboso be forgotten, nor can forgetfulness + have a place in Don Quixote; his motto is constancy, and his profession to + maintain the same with his life and never wrong it.” + </p> + <p> + “Who is this that answers us?” said they in the next room. + </p> + <p> + “Who should it be,” said Sancho, “but Don Quixote of La + Mancha himself, who will make good all he has said and all he will say; + for pledges don’t trouble a good payer.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho had hardly uttered these words when two gentlemen, for such they + seemed to be, entered the room, and one of them, throwing his arms round + Don Quixote’s neck, said to him, “Your appearance cannot leave + any question as to your name, nor can your name fail to identify your + appearance; unquestionably, señor, you are the real Don Quixote of La + Mancha, cynosure and morning star of knight-errantry, despite and in + defiance of him who has sought to usurp your name and bring to naught your + achievements, as the author of this book which I here present to you has + done;” and with this he put a book which his companion carried into + the hands of Don Quixote, who took it, and without replying began to run + his eye over it; but he presently returned it saying, “In the little + I have seen I have discovered three things in this author that deserve to + be censured. The first is some words that I have read in the preface; the + next that the language is Aragonese, for sometimes he writes without + articles; and the third, which above all stamps him as ignorant, is that + he goes wrong and departs from the truth in the most important part of the + history, for here he says that my squire Sancho Panza’s wife is + called Mari Gutierrez, when she is called nothing of the sort, but Teresa + Panza; and when a man errs on such an important point as this there is + good reason to fear that he is in error on every other point in the + history.” + </p> + <p> + “A nice sort of historian, indeed!” exclaimed Sancho at this; + “he must know a deal about our affairs when he calls my wife Teresa + Panza, Mari Gutierrez; take the book again, señor, and see if I am in it + and if he has changed my name.” + </p> + <p> + “From your talk, friend,” said Don Jeronimo, “no doubt + you are Sancho Panza, Señor Don Quixote’s squire.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I am,” said Sancho; “and I’m proud of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, then,” said the gentleman, “this new author does + not handle you with the decency that displays itself in your person; he + makes you out a heavy feeder and a fool, and not in the least droll, and a + very different being from the Sancho described in the First Part of your + master’s history.” + </p> + <p> + “God forgive him,” said Sancho; “he might have left me + in my corner without troubling his head about me; ‘let him who knows + how ring the bells; ‘Saint Peter is very well in Rome.’” + </p> + <p> + The two gentlemen pressed Don Quixote to come into their room and have + supper with them, as they knew very well there was nothing in that inn fit + for one of his sort. Don Quixote, who was always polite, yielded to their + request and supped with them. Sancho stayed behind with the stew. and + invested with plenary delegated authority seated himself at the head of + the table, and the landlord sat down with him, for he was no less fond of + cow-heel and calves’ feet than Sancho was. + </p> + <p> + While at supper Don Juan asked Don Quixote what news he had of the lady + Dulcinea del Toboso, was she married, had she been brought to bed, or was + she with child, or did she in maidenhood, still preserving her modesty and + delicacy, cherish the remembrance of the tender passion of Señor Don + Quixote? + </p> + <p> + To this he replied, “Dulcinea is a maiden still, and my passion more + firmly rooted than ever, our intercourse unsatisfactory as before, and her + beauty transformed into that of a foul country wench;” and then he + proceeded to give them a full and particular account of the enchantment of + Dulcinea, and of what had happened him in the cave of Montesinos, together + with what the sage Merlin had prescribed for her disenchantment, namely + the scourging of Sancho. + </p> + <p> + Exceedingly great was the amusement the two gentlemen derived from hearing + Don Quixote recount the strange incidents of his history; and if they were + amazed by his absurdities they were equally amazed by the elegant style in + which he delivered them. On the one hand they regarded him as a man of wit + and sense, and on the other he seemed to them a maundering blockhead, and + they could not make up their minds whereabouts between wisdom and folly + they ought to place him. + </p> + <p> + Sancho having finished his supper, and left the landlord in the X + condition, repaired to the room where his master was, and as he came in + said, “May I die, sirs, if the author of this book your worships + have got has any mind that we should agree; as he calls me glutton + (according to what your worships say) I wish he may not call me drunkard + too.” + </p> + <p> + “But he does,” said Don Jeronimo; “I cannot remember, + however, in what way, though I know his words are offensive, and what is + more, lying, as I can see plainly by the physiognomy of the worthy Sancho + before me.” + </p> + <p> + “Believe me,” said Sancho, “the Sancho and the Don + Quixote of this history must be different persons from those that appear + in the one Cide Hamete Benengeli wrote, who are ourselves; my master + valiant, wise, and true in love, and I simple, droll, and neither glutton + nor drunkard.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe it,” said Don Juan; “and were it possible, an + order should be issued that no one should have the presumption to deal + with anything relating to Don Quixote, save his original author Cide + Hamete; just as Alexander commanded that no one should presume to paint + his portrait save Apelles.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p60b" id="p60b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p60b.jpg (336K)" src="images/p60b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p60b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “Let him who will paint me,” said Don Quixote; “but let + him not abuse me; for patience will often break down when they heap + insults upon it.” + </p> + <p> + “None can be offered to Señor Don Quixote,” said Don Juan, + “that he himself will not be able to avenge, if he does not ward it + off with the shield of his patience, which, I take it, is great and + strong.” + </p> + <p> + A considerable portion of the night passed in conversation of this sort, + and though Don Juan wished Don Quixote to read more of the book to see + what it was all about, he was not to be prevailed upon, saying that he + treated it as read and pronounced it utterly silly; and, if by any chance + it should come to its author’s ears that he had it in his hand, he + did not want him to flatter himself with the idea that he had read it; for + our thoughts, and still more our eyes, should keep themselves aloof from + what is obscene and filthy. + </p> + <p> + They asked him whither he meant to direct his steps. He replied, to + Saragossa, to take part in the harness jousts which were held in that city + every year. Don Juan told him that the new history described how Don + Quixote, let him be who he might, took part there in a tilting at the + ring, utterly devoid of invention, poor in mottoes, very poor in costume, + though rich in sillinesses. + </p> + <p> + “For that very reason,” said Don Quixote, “I will not + set foot in Saragossa; and by that means I shall expose to the world the + lie of this new history writer, and people will see that I am not the Don + Quixote he speaks of.” + </p> + <p> + “You will do quite right,” said Don Jeronimo; “and there + are other jousts at Barcelona in which Señor Don Quixote may display his + prowess.” + </p> + <p> + “That is what I mean to do,” said Don Quixote; “and as + it is now time, I pray your worships to give me leave to retire to bed, + and to place and retain me among the number of your greatest friends and + servants.” + </p> + <p> + “And me too,” said Sancho; “maybe I’ll be good for + something.” + </p> + <p> + With this they exchanged farewells, and Don Quixote and Sancho retired to + their room, leaving Don Juan and Don Jeronimo amazed to see the medley he + made of his good sense and his craziness; and they felt thoroughly + convinced that these, and not those their Aragonese author described, were + the genuine Don Quixote and Sancho. Don Quixote rose betimes, and bade + adieu to his hosts by knocking at the partition of the other room. Sancho + paid the landlord magnificently, and recommended him either to say less + about the providing of his inn or to keep it better provided. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p59e" id="p59e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p59e.jpg (48K)" src="images/p59e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch60b" id="ch60b"></a>CHAPTER LX. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF WHAT HAPPENED DON QUIXOTE ON HIS WAY TO BARCELONA + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p60a" id="p60a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p60a.jpg (129K)" src="images/p60a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p60a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + It was a fresh morning giving promise of a cool day as Don Quixote quitted + the inn, first of all taking care to ascertain the most direct road to + Barcelona without touching upon Saragossa; so anxious was he to make out + this new historian, who they said abused him so, to be a liar. Well, as it + fell out, nothing worthy of being recorded happened him for six days, at + the end of which, having turned aside out of the road, he was overtaken by + night in a thicket of oak or cork trees; for on this point Cide Hamete is + not as precise as he usually is on other matters. + </p> + <p> + Master and man dismounted from their beasts, and as soon as they had + settled themselves at the foot of the trees, Sancho, who had had a good + noontide meal that day, let himself, without more ado, pass the gates of + sleep. But Don Quixote, whom his thoughts, far more than hunger, kept + awake, could not close an eye, and roamed in fancy to and fro through all + sorts of places. At one moment it seemed to him that he was in the cave of + Montesinos and saw Dulcinea, transformed into a country wench, skipping + and mounting upon her she-ass; again that the words of the sage Merlin + were sounding in his ears, setting forth the conditions to be observed and + the exertions to be made for the disenchantment of Dulcinea. He lost all + patience when he considered the laziness and want of charity of his squire + Sancho; for to the best of his belief he had only given himself five + lashes, a number paltry and disproportioned to the vast number required. + At this thought he felt such vexation and anger that he reasoned the + matter thus: “If Alexander the Great cut the Gordian knot, saying, + ‘To cut comes to the same thing as to untie,’ and yet did not + fail to become lord paramount of all Asia, neither more nor less could + happen now in Dulcinea’s disenchantment if I scourge Sancho against + his will; for, if it is the condition of the remedy that Sancho shall + receive three thousand and odd lashes, what does it matter to me whether + he inflicts them himself, or some one else inflicts them, when the + essential point is that he receives them, let them come from whatever + quarter they may?” + </p> + <p> + With this idea he went over to Sancho, having first taken Rocinante’s + reins and arranged them so as to be able to flog him with them, and began + to untie the points (the common belief is he had but one in front) by + which his breeches were held up; but the instant he approached him Sancho + woke up in his full senses and cried out, “What is this? Who is + touching me and untrussing me?” + </p> + <p> + “It is I,” said Don Quixote, “and I come to make good + thy shortcomings and relieve my own distresses; I come to whip thee, + Sancho, and wipe off some portion of the debt thou hast undertaken. + Dulcinea is perishing, thou art living on regardless, I am dying of hope + deferred; therefore untruss thyself with a good will, for mine it is, + here, in this retired spot, to give thee at least two thousand lashes.” + </p> + <p> + “Not a bit of it,” said Sancho; “let your worship keep + quiet, or else by the living God the deaf shall hear us; the lashes I + pledged myself to must be voluntary and not forced upon me, and just now I + have no fancy to whip myself; it is enough if I give you my word to flog + and flap myself when I have a mind.” + </p> + <p> + “It will not do to leave it to thy courtesy, Sancho,” said Don + Quixote, “for thou art hard of heart and, though a clown, tender of + flesh;” and at the same time he strove and struggled to untie him. + </p> + <p> + Seeing this Sancho got up, and grappling with his master he gripped him + with all his might in his arms, giving him a trip with the heel stretched + him on the ground on his back, and pressing his right knee on his chest + held his hands in his own so that he could neither move nor breathe. + </p> + <p> + “How now, traitor!” exclaimed Don Quixote. “Dost thou + revolt against thy master and natural lord? Dost thou rise against him who + gives thee his bread?” + </p> + <p> + “I neither put down king, nor set up king,” said Sancho; + “I only stand up for myself who am my own lord; if your worship + promises me to be quiet, and not to offer to whip me now, I’ll let + you go free and unhindered; if not— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +Traitor and Dona Sancha’s foe, +Thou diest on the spot.” + +</pre> + <p> + Don Quixote gave his promise, and swore by the life of his thoughts not to + touch so much as a hair of his garments, and to leave him entirely free + and to his own discretion to whip himself whenever he pleased. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p60c" id="p60c"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p60c.jpg (250K)" src="images/p60c.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p60c.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Sancho rose and removed some distance from the spot, but as he was about + to place himself leaning against another tree he felt something touch his + head, and putting up his hands encountered somebody’s two feet with + shoes and stockings on them. He trembled with fear and made for another + tree, where the very same thing happened to him, and he fell a-shouting, + calling upon Don Quixote to come and protect him. Don Quixote did so, and + asked him what had happened to him, and what he was afraid of. Sancho + replied that all the trees were full of men’s feet and legs. Don + Quixote felt them, and guessed at once what it was, and said to Sancho, + “Thou hast nothing to be afraid of, for these feet and legs that + thou feelest but canst not see belong no doubt to some outlaws and + freebooters that have been hanged on these trees; for the authorities in + these parts are wont to hang them up by twenties and thirties when they + catch them; whereby I conjecture that I must be near Barcelona;” and + it was, in fact, as he supposed; with the first light they looked up and + saw that the fruit hanging on those trees were freebooters’ bodies. + </p> + <p> + And now day dawned; and if the dead freebooters had scared them, their + hearts were no less troubled by upwards of forty living ones, who all of a + sudden surrounded them, and in the Catalan tongue bade them stand and wait + until their captain came up. Don Quixote was on foot with his horse + unbridled and his lance leaning against a tree, and in short completely + defenceless; he thought it best therefore to fold his arms and bow his + head and reserve himself for a more favourable occasion and opportunity. + The robbers made haste to search Dapple, and did not leave him a single + thing of all he carried in the alforjas and in the valise; and lucky it + was for Sancho that the duke’s crowns and those he brought from home + were in a girdle that he wore round him; but for all that these good folk + would have stripped him, and even looked to see what he had hidden between + the skin and flesh, but for the arrival at that moment of their captain, + who was about thirty-four years of age apparently, strongly built, above + the middle height, of stern aspect and swarthy complexion. He was mounted + upon a powerful horse, and had on a coat of mail, with four of the pistols + they call petronels in that country at his waist. He saw that his squires + (for so they call those who follow that trade) were about to rifle Sancho + Panza, but he ordered them to desist and was at once obeyed, so the girdle + escaped. He wondered to see the lance leaning against the tree, the shield + on the ground, and Don Quixote in armour and dejected, with the saddest + and most melancholy face that sadness itself could produce; and going up + to him he said, “Be not so cast down, good man, for you have not + fallen into the hands of any inhuman Busiris, but into Roque Guinart’s, + which are more merciful than cruel.” + </p> + <p> + “The cause of my dejection,” returned Don Quixote, “is + not that I have fallen into thy hands, O valiant Roque, whose fame is + bounded by no limits on earth, but that my carelessness should have been + so great that thy soldiers should have caught me unbridled, when it is my + duty, according to the rule of knight-errantry which I profess, to be + always on the alert and at all times my own sentinel; for let me tell + thee, great Roque, had they found me on my horse, with my lance and + shield, it would not have been very easy for them to reduce me to + submission, for I am Don Quixote of La Mancha, he who hath filled the + whole world with his achievements.” + </p> + <p> + Roque Guinart at once perceived that Don Quixote’s weakness was more + akin to madness than to swagger; and though he had sometimes heard him + spoken of, he never regarded the things attributed to him as true, nor + could he persuade himself that such a humour could become dominant in the + heart of man; he was extremely glad, therefore, to meet him and test at + close quarters what he had heard of him at a distance; so he said to him, + “Despair not, valiant knight, nor regard as an untoward fate the + position in which thou findest thyself; it may be that by these slips thy + crooked fortune will make itself straight; for heaven by strange + circuitous ways, mysterious and incomprehensible to man, raises up the + fallen and makes rich the poor.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote was about to thank him, when they heard behind them a noise as + of a troop of horses; there was, however, but one, riding on which at a + furious pace came a youth, apparently about twenty years of age, clad in + green damask edged with gold and breeches and a loose frock, with a hat + looped up in the Walloon fashion, tight-fitting polished boots, gilt + spurs, dagger and sword, and in his hand a musketoon, and a pair of + pistols at his waist. + </p> + <p> + Roque turned round at the noise and perceived this comely figure, which + drawing near thus addressed him, “I came in quest of thee, valiant + Roque, to find in thee if not a remedy at least relief in my misfortune; + and not to keep thee in suspense, for I see thou dost not recognise me, I + will tell thee who I am; I am Claudia Jeronima, the daughter of Simon + Forte, thy good friend, and special enemy of Clauquel Torrellas, who is + thine also as being of the faction opposed to thee. Thou knowest that this + Torrellas has a son who is called, or at least was not two hours since, + Don Vicente Torrellas. Well, to cut short the tale of my misfortune, I + will tell thee in a few words what this youth has brought upon me. He saw + me, he paid court to me, I listened to him, and, unknown to my father, I + loved him; for there is no woman, however secluded she may live or close + she may be kept, who will not have opportunities and to spare for + following her headlong impulses. In a word, he pledged himself to be mine, + and I promised to be his, without carrying matters any further. Yesterday + I learned that, forgetful of his pledge to me, he was about to marry + another, and that he was to go this morning to plight his troth, + intelligence which overwhelmed and exasperated me; my father not being at + home I was able to adopt this costume you see, and urging my horse to + speed I overtook Don Vicente about a league from this, and without waiting + to utter reproaches or hear excuses I fired this musket at him, and these + two pistols besides, and to the best of my belief I must have lodged more + than two bullets in his body, opening doors to let my honour go free, + enveloped in his blood. I left him there in the hands of his servants, who + did not dare and were not able to interfere in his defence, and I come to + seek from thee a safe-conduct into France, where I have relatives with + whom I can live; and also to implore thee to protect my father, so that + Don Vicente’s numerous kinsmen may not venture to wreak their + lawless vengeance upon him.” + </p> + <p> + Roque, filled with admiration at the gallant bearing, high spirit, comely + figure, and adventure of the fair Claudia, said to her, “Come, + señora, let us go and see if thy enemy is dead; and then we will consider + what will be best for thee.” Don Quixote, who had been listening to + what Claudia said and Roque Guinart said in reply to her, exclaimed, + “Nobody need trouble himself with the defence of this lady, for I + take it upon myself. Give me my horse and arms, and wait for me here; I + will go in quest of this knight, and dead or alive I will make him keep + his word plighted to so great beauty.” + </p> + <p> + “Nobody need have any doubt about that,” said Sancho, “for + my master has a very happy knack of matchmaking; it’s not many days + since he forced another man to marry, who in the same way backed out of + his promise to another maiden; and if it had not been for his persecutors + the enchanters changing the man’s proper shape into a lacquey’s + the said maiden would not be one this minute.” + </p> + <p> + Roque, who was paying more attention to the fair Claudia’s adventure + than to the words of master or man, did not hear them; and ordering his + squires to restore to Sancho everything they had stripped Dapple of, he + directed them to return to the place where they had been quartered during + the night, and then set off with Claudia at full speed in search of the + wounded or slain Don Vicente. They reached the spot where Claudia met him, + but found nothing there save freshly spilt blood; looking all round, + however, they descried some people on the slope of a hill above them, and + concluded, as indeed it proved to be, that it was Don Vicente, whom either + dead or alive his servants were removing to attend to his wounds or to + bury him. They made haste to overtake them, which, as the party moved + slowly, they were able to do with ease. They found Don Vicente in the arms + of his servants, whom he was entreating in a broken feeble voice to leave + him there to die, as the pain of his wounds would not suffer him to go any + farther. Claudia and Roque threw themselves off their horses and advanced + towards him; the servants were overawed by the appearance of Roque, and + Claudia was moved by the sight of Don Vicente, and going up to him half + tenderly half sternly, she seized his hand and said to him, “Hadst + thou given me this according to our compact thou hadst never come to this + pass.” + </p> + <p> + The wounded gentleman opened his all but closed eyes, and recognising + Claudia said, “I see clearly, fair and mistaken lady, that it is + thou that hast slain me, a punishment not merited or deserved by my + feelings towards thee, for never did I mean to, nor could I, wrong thee in + thought or deed.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not true, then,” said Claudia, “that thou wert + going this morning to marry Leonora the daughter of the rich Balvastro?” + </p> + <p> + “Assuredly not,” replied Don Vicente; “my cruel fortune + must have carried those tidings to thee to drive thee in thy jealousy to + take my life; and to assure thyself of this, press my hands and take me + for thy husband if thou wilt; I have no better satisfaction to offer thee + for the wrong thou fanciest thou hast received from me.” + </p> + <p> + Claudia wrung his hands, and her own heart was so wrung that she lay + fainting on the bleeding breast of Don Vicente, whom a death spasm seized + the same instant. Roque was in perplexity and knew not what to do; the + servants ran to fetch water to sprinkle their faces, and brought some and + bathed them with it. Claudia recovered from her fainting fit, but not so + Don Vicente from the paroxysm that had overtaken him, for his life had + come to an end. On perceiving this, Claudia, when she had convinced + herself that her beloved husband was no more, rent the air with her sighs + and made the heavens ring with her lamentations; she tore her hair and + scattered it to the winds, she beat her face with her hands and showed all + the signs of grief and sorrow that could be conceived to come from an + afflicted heart. “Cruel, reckless woman!” she cried, “how + easily wert thou moved to carry out a thought so wicked! O furious force + of jealousy, to what desperate lengths dost thou lead those that give thee + lodging in their bosoms! O husband, whose unhappy fate in being mine hath + borne thee from the marriage bed to the grave!” + </p> + <p> + So vehement and so piteous were the lamentations of Claudia that they drew + tears from Roque’s eyes, unused as they were to shed them on any + occasion. The servants wept, Claudia swooned away again and again, and the + whole place seemed a field of sorrow and an abode of misfortune. In the + end Roque Guinart directed Don Vicente’s servants to carry his body + to his father’s village, which was close by, for burial. Claudia + told him she meant to go to a monastery of which an aunt of hers was + abbess, where she intended to pass her life with a better and everlasting + spouse. He applauded her pious resolution, and offered to accompany her + whithersoever she wished, and to protect her father against the kinsmen of + Don Vicente and all the world, should they seek to injure him. Claudia + would not on any account allow him to accompany her; and thanking him for + his offers as well as she could, took leave of him in tears. The servants + of Don Vicente carried away his body, and Roque returned to his comrades, + and so ended the love of Claudia Jeronima; but what wonder, when it was + the insuperable and cruel might of jealousy that wove the web of her sad + story? + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p60d" id="p60d"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p60d.jpg (439K)" src="images/p60d.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p60d.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Roque Guinart found his squires at the place to which he had ordered them, + and Don Quixote on Rocinante in the midst of them delivering a harangue to + them in which he urged them to give up a mode of life so full of peril, as + well to the soul as to the body; but as most of them were Gascons, rough + lawless fellows, his speech did not make much impression on them. Roque on + coming up asked Sancho if his men had returned and restored to him the + treasures and jewels they had stripped off Dapple. Sancho said they had, + but that three kerchiefs that were worth three cities were missing. + </p> + <p> + “What are you talking about, man?” said one of the bystanders; + “I have got them, and they are not worth three reals.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true,” said Don Quixote; “but my squire values + them at the rate he says, as having been given me by the person who gave + them.” + </p> + <p> + Roque Guinart ordered them to be restored at once; and making his men fall + in in line he directed all the clothing, jewellery, and money that they + had taken since the last distribution to be produced; and making a hasty + valuation, and reducing what could not be divided into money, he made + shares for the whole band so equitably and carefully, that in no case did + he exceed or fall short of strict distributive justice. + </p> + <p> + When this had been done, and all left satisfied, Roque observed to Don + Quixote, “If this scrupulous exactness were not observed with these + fellows there would be no living with them.” + </p> + <p> + Upon this Sancho remarked, “From what I have seen here, justice is + such a good thing that there is no doing without it, even among the + thieves themselves.” + </p> + <p> + One of the squires heard this, and raising the butt-end of his harquebuss + would no doubt have broken Sancho’s head with it had not Roque + Guinart called out to him to hold his hand. Sancho was frightened out of + his wits, and vowed not to open his lips so long as he was in the company + of these people. + </p> + <p> + At this instant one or two of those squires who were posted as sentinels + on the roads, to watch who came along them and report what passed to their + chief, came up and said, “Señor, there is a great troop of people + not far off coming along the road to Barcelona.” + </p> + <p> + To which Roque replied, “Hast thou made out whether they are of the + sort that are after us, or of the sort we are after?” + </p> + <p> + “The sort we are after,” said the squire. + </p> + <p> + “Well then, away with you all,” said Roque, “and bring + them here to me at once without letting one of them escape.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p60e" id="p60e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p60e.jpg (420K)" src="images/p60e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p60e.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + They obeyed, and Don Quixote, Sancho, and Roque, left by themselves, + waited to see what the squires brought, and while they were waiting Roque + said to Don Quixote, “It must seem a strange sort of life to Señor + Don Quixote, this of ours, strange adventures, strange incidents, and all + full of danger; and I do not wonder that it should seem so, for in truth I + must own there is no mode of life more restless or anxious than ours. What + led me into it was a certain thirst for vengeance, which is strong enough + to disturb the quietest hearts. I am by nature tender-hearted and kindly, + but, as I said, the desire to revenge myself for a wrong that was done me + so overturns all my better impulses that I keep on in this way of life in + spite of what conscience tells me; and as one depth calls to another, and + one sin to another sin, revenges have linked themselves together, and I + have taken upon myself not only my own but those of others: it pleases + God, however, that, though I see myself in this maze of entanglements, I + do not lose all hope of escaping from it and reaching a safe port.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote was amazed to hear Roque utter such excellent and just + sentiments, for he did not think that among those who followed such trades + as robbing, murdering, and waylaying, there could be anyone capable of a + virtuous thought, and he said in reply, “Señor Roque, the beginning + of health lies in knowing the disease and in the sick man’s + willingness to take the medicines which the physician prescribes; you are + sick, you know what ails you, and heaven, or more properly speaking God, + who is our physician, will administer medicines that will cure you, and + cure gradually, and not of a sudden or by a miracle; besides, sinners of + discernment are nearer amendment than those who are fools; and as your + worship has shown good sense in your remarks, all you have to do is to + keep up a good heart and trust that the weakness of your conscience will + be strengthened. And if you have any desire to shorten the journey and put + yourself easily in the way of salvation, come with me, and I will show you + how to become a knight-errant, a calling wherein so many hardships and + mishaps are encountered that if they be taken as penances they will lodge + you in heaven in a trice.” + </p> + <p> + Roque laughed at Don Quixote’s exhortation, and changing the + conversation he related the tragic affair of Claudia Jeronima, at which + Sancho was extremely grieved; for he had not found the young woman’s + beauty, boldness, and spirit at all amiss. + </p> + <p> + And now the squires despatched to make the prize came up, bringing with + them two gentlemen on horseback, two pilgrims on foot, and a coach full of + women with some six servants on foot and on horseback in attendance on + them, and a couple of muleteers whom the gentlemen had with them. The + squires made a ring round them, both victors and vanquished maintaining + profound silence, waiting for the great Roque Guinart to speak. He asked + the gentlemen who they were, whither they were going, and what money they + carried with them; “Señor,” replied one of them, “we are + two captains of Spanish infantry; our companies are at Naples, and we are + on our way to embark in four galleys which they say are at Barcelona under + orders for Sicily; and we have about two or three hundred crowns, with + which we are, according to our notions, rich and contented, for a soldier’s + poverty does not allow a more extensive hoard.” + </p> + <p> + Roque asked the pilgrims the same questions he had put to the captains, + and was answered that they were going to take ship for Rome, and that + between them they might have about sixty reals. He asked also who was in + the coach, whither they were bound and what money they had, and one of the + men on horseback replied, “The persons in the coach are my lady Dona + Guiomar de Quinones, wife of the regent of the Vicaria at Naples, her + little daughter, a handmaid and a duenna; we six servants are in + attendance upon her, and the money amounts to six hundred crowns.” + </p> + <p> + “So then,” said Roque Guinart, “we have got here nine + hundred crowns and sixty reals; my soldiers must number some sixty; see + how much there falls to each, for I am a bad arithmetician.” As soon + as the robbers heard this they raised a shout of “Long life to Roque + Guinart, in spite of the lladres that seek his ruin!” + </p> + <p> + The captains showed plainly the concern they felt, the regent’s lady + was downcast, and the pilgrims did not at all enjoy seeing their property + confiscated. Roque kept them in suspense in this way for a while; but he + had no desire to prolong their distress, which might be seen a bowshot + off, and turning to the captains he said, “Sirs, will your worships + be pleased of your courtesy to lend me sixty crowns, and her ladyship the + regent’s wife eighty, to satisfy this band that follows me, for + ‘it is by his singing the abbot gets his dinner;’ and then you + may at once proceed on your journey, free and unhindered, with a + safe-conduct which I shall give you, so that if you come across any other + bands of mine that I have scattered in these parts, they may do you no + harm; for I have no intention of doing injury to soldiers, or to any + woman, especially one of quality.” + </p> + <p> + Profuse and hearty were the expressions of gratitude with which the + captains thanked Roque for his courtesy and generosity; for such they + regarded his leaving them their own money. Señora Dona Guiomar de Quinones + wanted to throw herself out of the coach to kiss the feet and hands of the + great Roque, but he would not suffer it on any account; so far from that, + he begged her pardon for the wrong he had done her under pressure of the + inexorable necessities of his unfortunate calling. The regent’s lady + ordered one of her servants to give the eighty crowns that had been + assessed as her share at once, for the captains had already paid down + their sixty. The pilgrims were about to give up the whole of their little + hoard, but Roque bade them keep quiet, and turning to his men he said, + “Of these crowns two fall to each man and twenty remain over; let + ten be given to these pilgrims, and the other ten to this worthy squire + that he may be able to speak favourably of this adventure;” and then + having writing materials, with which he always went provided, brought to + him, he gave them in writing a safe-conduct to the leaders of his bands; + and bidding them farewell let them go free and filled with admiration at + his magnanimity, his generous disposition, and his unusual conduct, and + inclined to regard him as an Alexander the Great rather than a notorious + robber. + </p> + <p> + One of the squires observed in his mixture of Gascon and Catalan, “This + captain of ours would make a better friar than highwayman; if he wants to + be so generous another time, let it be with his own property and not ours.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p60f" id="p60f"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p60f.jpg (426K)" src="images/p60f.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p60f.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The unlucky wight did not speak so low but that Roque overheard him, and + drawing his sword almost split his head in two, saying, “That is the + way I punish impudent saucy fellows.” They were all taken aback, and + not one of them dared to utter a word, such deference did they pay him. + Roque then withdrew to one side and wrote a letter to a friend of his at + Barcelona, telling him that the famous Don Quixote of La Mancha, the + knight-errant of whom there was so much talk, was with him, and was, he + assured him, the drollest and wisest man in the world; and that in four + days from that date, that is to say, on Saint John the Baptist’s + Day, he was going to deposit him in full armour mounted on his horse + Rocinante, together with his squire Sancho on an ass, in the middle of the + strand of the city; and bidding him give notice of this to his friends the + Niarros, that they might divert themselves with him. He wished, he said, + his enemies the Cadells could be deprived of this pleasure; but that was + impossible, because the crazes and shrewd sayings of Don Quixote and the + humours of his squire Sancho Panza could not help giving general pleasure + to all the world. He despatched the letter by one of his squires, who, + exchanging the costume of a highwayman for that of a peasant, made his way + into Barcelona and gave it to the person to whom it was directed. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p60g" id="p60g"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p60g.jpg (42K)" src="images/p60g.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch61b" id="ch61b"></a>CHAPTER LXI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF WHAT HAPPENED DON QUIXOTE ON ENTERING BARCELONA, TOGETHER WITH OTHER + MATTERS THAT PARTAKE OF THE TRUE RATHER THAN OF THE INGENIOUS + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p61a" id="p61a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p61a.jpg (143K)" src="images/p61a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p61a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote passed three days and three nights with Roque, and had he + passed three hundred years he would have found enough to observe and + wonder at in his mode of life. At daybreak they were in one spot, at + dinner-time in another; sometimes they fled without knowing from whom, at + other times they lay in wait, not knowing for what. They slept standing, + breaking their slumbers to shift from place to place. There was nothing + but sending out spies and scouts, posting sentinels and blowing the + matches of harquebusses, though they carried but few, for almost all used + flintlocks. Roque passed his nights in some place or other apart from his + men, that they might not know where he was, for the many proclamations the + viceroy of Barcelona had issued against his life kept him in fear and + uneasiness, and he did not venture to trust anyone, afraid that even his + own men would kill him or deliver him up to the authorities; of a truth, a + weary miserable life! At length, by unfrequented roads, short cuts, and + secret paths, Roque, Don Quixote, and Sancho, together with six squires, + set out for Barcelona. They reached the strand on Saint John’s Eve + during the night; and Roque, after embracing Don Quixote and Sancho (to + whom he presented the ten crowns he had promised but had not until then + given), left them with many expressions of good-will on both sides. + </p> + <p> + Roque went back, while Don Quixote remained on horseback, just as he was, + waiting for day, and it was not long before the countenance of the fair + Aurora began to show itself at the balconies of the east, gladdening the + grass and flowers, if not the ear, though to gladden that too there came + at the same moment a sound of clarions and drums, and a din of bells, and + a tramp, tramp, and cries of “Clear the way there!” of some + runners, that seemed to issue from the city. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p61b" id="p61b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p61b.jpg (271K)" src="images/p61b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p61b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The dawn made way for the sun that with a face broader than a buckler + began to rise slowly above the low line of the horizon; Don Quixote and + Sancho gazed all round them; they beheld the sea, a sight until then + unseen by them; it struck them as exceedingly spacious and broad, much + more so than the lakes of Ruidera which they had seen in La Mancha. They + saw the galleys along the beach, which, lowering their awnings, displayed + themselves decked with streamers and pennons that trembled in the breeze + and kissed and swept the water, while on board the bugles, trumpets, and + clarions were sounding and filling the air far and near with melodious + warlike notes. Then they began to move and execute a kind of skirmish upon + the calm water, while a vast number of horsemen on fine horses and in + showy liveries, issuing from the city, engaged on their side in a somewhat + similar movement. The soldiers on board the galleys kept up a ceaseless + fire, which they on the walls and forts of the city returned, and the + heavy cannon rent the air with the tremendous noise they made, to which + the gangway guns of the galleys replied. The bright sea, the smiling + earth, the clear air—though at times darkened by the smoke of the + guns—all seemed to fill the whole multitude with unexpected delight. + Sancho could not make out how it was that those great masses that moved + over the sea had so many feet. + </p> + <p> + And now the horsemen in livery came galloping up with shouts and + outlandish cries and cheers to where Don Quixote stood amazed and + wondering; and one of them, he to whom Roque had sent word, addressing him + exclaimed, “Welcome to our city, mirror, beacon, star and cynosure + of all knight-errantry in its widest extent! Welcome, I say, valiant Don + Quixote of La Mancha; not the false, the fictitious, the apocryphal, that + these latter days have offered us in lying histories, but the true, the + legitimate, the real one that Cide Hamete Benengeli, flower of historians, + has described to us!” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote made no answer, nor did the horsemen wait for one, but + wheeling again with all their followers, they began curvetting round Don + Quixote, who, turning to Sancho, said, “These gentlemen have plainly + recognised us; I will wager they have read our history, and even that + newly printed one by the Aragonese.” + </p> + <p> + The cavalier who had addressed Don Quixote again approached him and said, + “Come with us, Señor Don Quixote, for we are all of us your servants + and great friends of Roque Guinart’s;” to which Don Quixote + returned, “If courtesy breeds courtesy, yours, sir knight, is + daughter or very nearly akin to the great Roque’s; carry me where + you please; I will have no will but yours, especially if you deign to + employ it in your service.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p61c" id="p61c"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p61c.jpg (448K)" src="images/p61c.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p61c.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The cavalier replied with words no less polite, and then, all closing in + around him, they set out with him for the city, to the music of the + clarions and the drums. As they were entering it, the wicked one, who is + the author of all mischief, and the boys who are wickeder than the wicked + one, contrived that a couple of these audacious irrepressible urchins + should force their way through the crowd, and lifting up, one of them + Dapple’s tail and the other Rocinante’s, insert a bunch of + furze under each. The poor beasts felt the strange spurs and added to + their anguish by pressing their tails tight, so much so that, cutting a + multitude of capers, they flung their masters to the ground. Don Quixote, + covered with shame and out of countenance, ran to pluck the plume from his + poor jade’s tail, while Sancho did the same for Dapple. His + conductors tried to punish the audacity of the boys, but there was no + possibility of doing so, for they hid themselves among the hundreds of + others that were following them. Don Quixote and Sancho mounted once more, + and with the same music and acclamations reached their conductor’s + house, which was large and stately, that of a rich gentleman, in short; + and there for the present we will leave them, for such is Cide Hamete’s + pleasure. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p61e" id="p61e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p61e.jpg (32K)" src="images/p61e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch62b" id="ch62b"></a>CHAPTER LXII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHICH DEALS WITH THE ADVENTURE OF THE ENCHANTED HEAD, TOGETHER WITH OTHER + TRIVIAL MATTERS WHICH CANNOT BE LEFT UNTOLD + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p62a" id="p62a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p62a.jpg (156K)" src="images/p62a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p62a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote’s host was one Don Antonio Moreno by name, a gentleman + of wealth and intelligence, and very fond of diverting himself in any fair + and good-natured way; and having Don Quixote in his house he set about + devising modes of making him exhibit his mad points in some harmless + fashion; for jests that give pain are no jests, and no sport is worth + anything if it hurts another. The first thing he did was to make Don + Quixote take off his armour, and lead him, in that tight chamois suit we + have already described and depicted more than once, out on a balcony + overhanging one of the chief streets of the city, in full view of the + crowd and of the boys, who gazed at him as they would at a monkey. The + cavaliers in livery careered before him again as though it were for him + alone, and not to enliven the festival of the day, that they wore it, and + Sancho was in high delight, for it seemed to him that, how he knew not, he + had fallen upon another Camacho’s wedding, another house like Don + Diego de Miranda’s, another castle like the duke’s. Some of + Don Antonio’s friends dined with him that day, and all showed honour + to Don Quixote and treated him as a knight-errant, and he becoming puffed + up and exalted in consequence could not contain himself for satisfaction. + Such were the drolleries of Sancho that all the servants of the house, and + all who heard him, were kept hanging upon his lips. While at table Don + Antonio said to him, “We hear, worthy Sancho, that you are so fond + of manjar blanco and forced-meat balls, that if you have any left, you + keep them in your bosom for the next day.” + </p> + <p> + “No, señor, that’s not true,” said Sancho, “for I + am more cleanly than greedy, and my master Don Quixote here knows well + that we two are used to live for a week on a handful of acorns or nuts. To + be sure, if it so happens that they offer me a heifer, I run with a + halter; I mean, I eat what I’m given, and make use of opportunities + as I find them; but whoever says that I’m an out-of-the-way eater or + not cleanly, let me tell him that he is wrong; and I’d put it in a + different way if I did not respect the honourable beards that are at the + table.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed,” said Don Quixote, “Sancho’s moderation + and cleanliness in eating might be inscribed and graved on plates of + brass, to be kept in eternal remembrance in ages to come. It is true that + when he is hungry there is a certain appearance of voracity about him, for + he eats at a great pace and chews with both jaws; but cleanliness he is + always mindful of; and when he was governor he learned how to eat + daintily, so much so that he eats grapes, and even pomegranate pips, with + a fork.” + </p> + <p> + “What!” said Don Antonio, “has Sancho been a governor?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” said Sancho, “and of an island called Barataria. I + governed it to perfection for ten days; and lost my rest all the time; and + learned to look down upon all the governments in the world; I got out of + it by taking to flight, and fell into a pit where I gave myself up for + dead, and out of which I escaped alive by a miracle.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote then gave them a minute account of the whole affair of Sancho’s + government, with which he greatly amused his hearers. + </p> + <p> + On the cloth being removed Don Antonio, taking Don Quixote by the hand, + passed with him into a distant room in which there was nothing in the way + of furniture except a table, apparently of jasper, resting on a pedestal + of the same, upon which was set up, after the fashion of the busts of the + Roman emperors, a head which seemed to be of bronze. Don Antonio traversed + the whole apartment with Don Quixote and walked round the table several + times, and then said, “Now, Señor Don Quixote, that I am satisfied + that no one is listening to us, and that the door is shut, I will tell you + of one of the rarest adventures, or more properly speaking strange things, + that can be imagined, on condition that you will keep what I say to you in + the remotest recesses of secrecy.” + </p> + <p> + “I swear it,” said Don Quixote, “and for greater + security I will put a flag-stone over it; for I would have you know, Señor + Don Antonio” (he had by this time learned his name), “that you + are addressing one who, though he has ears to hear, has no tongue to + speak; so that you may safely transfer whatever you have in your bosom + into mine, and rely upon it that you have consigned it to the depths of + silence.” + </p> + <p> + “In reliance upon that promise,” said Don Antonio, “I + will astonish you with what you shall see and hear, and relieve myself of + some of the vexation it gives me to have no one to whom I can confide my + secrets, for they are not of a sort to be entrusted to everybody.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote was puzzled, wondering what could be the object of such + precautions; whereupon Don Antonio taking his hand passed it over the + bronze head and the whole table and the pedestal of jasper on which it + stood, and then said, “This head, Señor Don Quixote, has been made + and fabricated by one of the greatest magicians and wizards the world ever + saw, a Pole, I believe, by birth, and a pupil of the famous Escotillo of + whom such marvellous stories are told. He was here in my house, and for a + consideration of a thousand crowns that I gave him he constructed this + head, which has the property and virtue of answering whatever questions + are put to its ear. He observed the points of the compass, he traced + figures, he studied the stars, he watched favourable moments, and at + length brought it to the perfection we shall see to-morrow, for on Fridays + it is mute, and this being Friday we must wait till the next day. In the + interval your worship may consider what you would like to ask it; and I + know by experience that in all its answers it tells the truth.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote was amazed at the virtue and property of the head, and was + inclined to disbelieve Don Antonio; but seeing what a short time he had to + wait to test the matter, he did not choose to say anything except that he + thanked him for having revealed to him so mighty a secret. They then + quitted the room, Don Antonio locked the door, and they repaired to the + chamber where the rest of the gentlemen were assembled. In the meantime + Sancho had recounted to them several of the adventures and accidents that + had happened his master. + </p> + <p> + That afternoon they took Don Quixote out for a stroll, not in his armour + but in street costume, with a surcoat of tawny cloth upon him, that at + that season would have made ice itself sweat. Orders were left with the + servants to entertain Sancho so as not to let him leave the house. Don + Quixote was mounted, not on Rocinante, but upon a tall mule of easy pace + and handsomely caparisoned. They put the surcoat on him, and on the back, + without his perceiving it, they stitched a parchment on which they wrote + in large letters, “This is Don Quixote of La Mancha.” As they + set out upon their excursion the placard attracted the eyes of all who + chanced to see him, and as they read out, “This is Don Quixote of La + Mancha,” Don Quixote was amazed to see how many people gazed at him, + called him by his name, and recognised him, and turning to Don Antonio, + who rode at his side, he observed to him, “Great are the privileges + knight-errantry involves, for it makes him who professes it known and + famous in every region of the earth; see, Don Antonio, even the very boys + of this city know me without ever having seen me.” + </p> + <p> + “True, Señor Don Quixote,” returned Don Antonio; “for as + fire cannot be hidden or kept secret, virtue cannot escape being + recognised; and that which is attained by the profession of arms shines + distinguished above all others.” + </p> + <p> + It came to pass, however, that as Don Quixote was proceeding amid the + acclamations that have been described, a Castilian, reading the + inscription on his back, cried out in a loud voice, “The devil take + thee for a Don Quixote of La Mancha! What! art thou here, and not dead of + the countless drubbings that have fallen on thy ribs? Thou art mad; and if + thou wert so by thyself, and kept thyself within thy madness, it would not + be so bad; but thou hast the gift of making fools and blockheads of all + who have anything to do with thee or say to thee. Why, look at these + gentlemen bearing thee company! Get thee home, blockhead, and see after + thy affairs, and thy wife and children, and give over these fooleries that + are sapping thy brains and skimming away thy wits.” + </p> + <p> + “Go your own way, brother,” said Don Antonio, “and don’t + offer advice to those who don’t ask you for it. Señor Don Quixote is + in his full senses, and we who bear him company are not fools; virtue is + to be honoured wherever it may be found; go, and bad luck to you, and don’t + meddle where you are not wanted.” + </p> + <p> + “By God, your worship is right,” replied the Castilian; + “for to advise this good man is to kick against the pricks; still + for all that it fills me with pity that the sound wit they say the + blockhead has in everything should dribble away by the channel of his + knight-errantry; but may the bad luck your worship talks of follow me and + all my descendants, if, from this day forth, though I should live longer + than Methuselah, I ever give advice to anybody even if he asks me for it.” + </p> + <p> + The advice-giver took himself off, and they continued their stroll; but so + great was the press of the boys and people to read the placard, that Don + Antonio was forced to remove it as if he were taking off something else. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p62b" id="p62b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p62b.jpg (373K)" src="images/p62b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p62b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Night came and they went home, and there was a ladies’ dancing + party, for Don Antonio’s wife, a lady of rank and gaiety, beauty and + wit, had invited some friends of hers to come and do honour to her guest + and amuse themselves with his strange delusions. Several of them came, + they supped sumptuously, the dance began at about ten o’clock. Among + the ladies were two of a mischievous and frolicsome turn, and, though + perfectly modest, somewhat free in playing tricks for harmless diversion’s + sake. These two were so indefatigable in taking Don Quixote out to dance + that they tired him down, not only in body but in spirit. It was a sight + to see the figure Don Quixote made, long, lank, lean, and yellow, his + garments clinging tight to him, ungainly, and above all anything but + agile. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p62c" id="p62c"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p62c.jpg (342K)" src="images/p62c.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p62c.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The gay ladies made secret love to him, and he on his part secretly + repelled them, but finding himself hard pressed by their blandishments he + lifted up his voice and exclaimed, “Fugite, partes adversae! Leave + me in peace, unwelcome overtures; avaunt, with your desires, ladies, for + she who is queen of mine, the peerless Dulcinea del Toboso, suffers none + but hers to lead me captive and subdue me;” and so saying he sat + down on the floor in the middle of the room, tired out and broken down by + all this exertion in the dance. + </p> + <p> + Don Antonio directed him to be taken up bodily and carried to bed, and the + first that laid hold of him was Sancho, saying as he did so, “In an + evil hour you took to dancing, master mine; do you fancy all mighty men of + valour are dancers, and all knights-errant given to capering? If you do, I + can tell you you are mistaken; there’s many a man would rather + undertake to kill a giant than cut a caper. If it had been the shoe-fling + you were at I could take your place, for I can do the shoe-fling like a + gerfalcon; but I’m no good at dancing.” + </p> + <p> + With these and other observations Sancho set the whole ball-room laughing, + and then put his master to bed, covering him up well so that he might + sweat out any chill caught after his dancing. + </p> + <p> + The next day Don Antonio thought he might as well make trial of the + enchanted head, and with Don Quixote, Sancho, and two others, friends of + his, besides the two ladies that had tired out Don Quixote at the ball, + who had remained for the night with Don Antonio’s wife, he locked + himself up in the chamber where the head was. He explained to them the + property it possessed and entrusted the secret to them, telling them that + now for the first time he was going to try the virtue of the enchanted + head; but except Don Antonio’s two friends no one else was privy to + the mystery of the enchantment, and if Don Antonio had not first revealed + it to them they would have been inevitably reduced to the same state of + amazement as the rest, so artfully and skilfully was it contrived. + </p> + <p> + The first to approach the ear of the head was Don Antonio himself, and in + a low voice but not so low as not to be audible to all, he said to it, + “Head, tell me by the virtue that lies in thee what am I at this + moment thinking of?” + </p> + <p> + The head, without any movement of the lips, answered in a clear and + distinct voice, so as to be heard by all, “I cannot judge of + thoughts.” + </p> + <p> + All were thunderstruck at this, and all the more so as they saw that there + was nobody anywhere near the table or in the whole room that could have + answered. “How many of us are here?” asked Don Antonio once + more; and it was answered him in the same way softly, “Thou and thy + wife, with two friends of thine and two of hers, and a famous knight + called Don Quixote of La Mancha, and a squire of his, Sancho Panza by + name.” + </p> + <p> + Now there was fresh astonishment; now everyone’s hair was standing + on end with awe; and Don Antonio retiring from the head exclaimed, “This + suffices to show me that I have not been deceived by him who sold thee to + me, O sage head, talking head, answering head, wonderful head! Let some + one else go and put what question he likes to it.” + </p> + <p> + And as women are commonly impulsive and inquisitive, the first to come + forward was one of the two friends of Don Antonio’s wife, and her + question was, “Tell me, Head, what shall I do to be very beautiful?” + and the answer she got was, “Be very modest.” + </p> + <p> + “I question thee no further,” said the fair querist. + </p> + <p> + Her companion then came up and said, “I should like to know, Head, + whether my husband loves me or not;” the answer given to her was, + “Think how he uses thee, and thou mayest guess;” and the + married lady went off saying, “That answer did not need a question; + for of course the treatment one receives shows the disposition of him from + whom it is received.” + </p> + <p> + Then one of Don Antonio’s two friends advanced and asked it, “Who + am I?” “Thou knowest,” was the answer. “That is + not what I ask thee,” said the gentleman, “but to tell me if + thou knowest me.” “Yes, I know thee, thou art Don Pedro Noriz,” + was the reply. + </p> + <p> + “I do not seek to know more,” said the gentleman, “for + this is enough to convince me, O Head, that thou knowest everything;” + and as he retired the other friend came forward and asked it, “Tell + me, Head, what are the wishes of my eldest son?” + </p> + <p> + “I have said already,” was the answer, “that I cannot + judge of wishes; however, I can tell thee the wish of thy son is to bury + thee.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s ‘what I see with my eyes I point out with my + finger,’” said the gentleman, “so I ask no more.” + </p> + <p> + Don Antonio’s wife came up and said, “I know not what to ask + thee, Head; I would only seek to know of thee if I shall have many years + of enjoyment of my good husband;” and the answer she received was, + “Thou shalt, for his vigour and his temperate habits promise many + years of life, which by their intemperance others so often cut short.” + </p> + <p> + Then Don Quixote came forward and said, “Tell me, thou that + answerest, was that which I describe as having happened to me in the cave + of Montesinos the truth or a dream? Will Sancho’s whipping be + accomplished without fail? Will the disenchantment of Dulcinea be brought + about?” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p62d" id="p62d"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p62d.jpg (391K)" src="images/p62d.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p62d.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “As to the question of the cave,” was the reply, “there + is much to be said; there is something of both in it. Sancho’s + whipping will proceed leisurely. The disenchantment of Dulcinea will + attain its due consummation.” + </p> + <p> + “I seek to know no more,” said Don Quixote; “let me but + see Dulcinea disenchanted, and I will consider that all the good fortune I + could wish for has come upon me all at once.” + </p> + <p> + The last questioner was Sancho, and his questions were, “Head, shall + I by any chance have another government? Shall I ever escape from the hard + life of a squire? Shall I get back to see my wife and children?” To + which the answer came, “Thou shalt govern in thy house; and if thou + returnest to it thou shalt see thy wife and children; and on ceasing to + serve thou shalt cease to be a squire.” + </p> + <p> + “Good, by God!” said Sancho Panza; “I could have told + myself that; the prophet Perogrullo could have said no more.” + </p> + <p> + “What answer wouldst thou have, beast?” said Don Quixote; + “is it not enough that the replies this head has given suit the + questions put to it?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is enough,” said Sancho; “but I should have + liked it to have made itself plainer and told me more.” + </p> + <p> + The questions and answers came to an end here, but not the wonder with + which all were filled, except Don Antonio’s two friends who were in + the secret. This Cide Hamete Benengeli thought fit to reveal at once, not + to keep the world in suspense, fancying that the head had some strange + magical mystery in it. He says, therefore, that on the model of another + head, the work of an image maker, which he had seen at Madrid, Don Antonio + made this one at home for his own amusement and to astonish ignorant + people; and its mechanism was as follows. The table was of wood painted + and varnished to imitate jasper, and the pedestal on which it stood was of + the same material, with four eagles’ claws projecting from it to + support the weight more steadily. The head, which resembled a bust or + figure of a Roman emperor, and was coloured like bronze, was hollow + throughout, as was the table, into which it was fitted so exactly that no + trace of the joining was visible. The pedestal of the table was also + hollow and communicated with the throat and neck of the head, and the + whole was in communication with another room underneath the chamber in + which the head stood. Through the entire cavity in the pedestal, table, + throat and neck of the bust or figure, there passed a tube of tin + carefully adjusted and concealed from sight. In the room below + corresponding to the one above was placed the person who was to answer, + with his mouth to the tube, and the voice, as in an ear-trumpet, passed + from above downwards, and from below upwards, the words coming clearly and + distinctly; it was impossible, thus, to detect the trick. A nephew of Don + Antonio’s, a smart sharp-witted student, was the answerer, and as he + had been told beforehand by his uncle who the persons were that would come + with him that day into the chamber where the head was, it was an easy + matter for him to answer the first question at once and correctly; the + others he answered by guess-work, and, being clever, cleverly. Cide Hamete + adds that this marvellous contrivance stood for some ten or twelve days; + but that, as it became noised abroad through the city that he had in his + house an enchanted head that answered all who asked questions of it, Don + Antonio, fearing it might come to the ears of the watchful sentinels of + our faith, explained the matter to the inquisitors, who commanded him to + break it up and have done with it, lest the ignorant vulgar should be + scandalised. By Don Quixote, however, and by Sancho the head was still + held to be an enchanted one, and capable of answering questions, though + more to Don Quixote’s satisfaction than Sancho’s. + </p> + <p> + The gentlemen of the city, to gratify Don Antonio and also to do the + honours to Don Quixote, and give him an opportunity of displaying his + folly, made arrangements for a tilting at the ring in six days from that + time, which, however, for reason that will be mentioned hereafter, did not + take place. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote took a fancy to stroll about the city quietly and on foot, for + he feared that if he went on horseback the boys would follow him; so he + and Sancho and two servants that Don Antonio gave him set out for a walk. + Thus it came to pass that going along one of the streets Don Quixote + lifted up his eyes and saw written in very large letters over a door, + “Books printed here,” at which he was vastly pleased, for + until then he had never seen a printing office, and he was curious to know + what it was like. He entered with all his following, and saw them drawing + sheets in one place, correcting in another, setting up type here, revising + there; in short all the work that is to be seen in great printing offices. + He went up to one case and asked what they were about there; the workmen + told him, he watched them with wonder, and passed on. He approached one + man, among others, and asked him what he was doing. The workman replied, + “Señor, this gentleman here” (pointing to a man of + prepossessing appearance and a certain gravity of look) “has + translated an Italian book into our Spanish tongue, and I am setting it up + in type for the press.” + </p> + <p> + “What is the title of the book?” asked Don Quixote; to which + the author replied, “Señor, in Italian the book is called Le + Bagatelle.” + </p> + <p> + “And what does Le Bagatelle import in our Spanish?” asked Don + Quixote. + </p> + <p> + “Le Bagatelle,” said the author, “is as though we should + say in Spanish Los Juguetes; but though the book is humble in name it has + good solid matter in it.” + </p> + <p> + “I,” said Don Quixote, “have some little smattering of + Italian, and I plume myself on singing some of Ariosto’s stanzas; + but tell me, señor—I do not say this to test your ability, but + merely out of curiosity—have you ever met with the word pignatta in + your book?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, often,” said the author. + </p> + <p> + “And how do you render that in Spanish?” + </p> + <p> + “How should I render it,” returned the author, “but by + olla?” + </p> + <p> + “Body o’ me,” exclaimed Don Quixote, “what a + proficient you are in the Italian language! I would lay a good wager that + where they say in Italian piace you say in Spanish place, and where they + say piu you say mas, and you translate su by arriba and giu by abajo.” + </p> + <p> + “I translate them so of course,” said the author, “for + those are their proper equivalents.” + </p> + <p> + “I would venture to swear,” said Don Quixote, “that your + worship is not known in the world, which always begrudges their reward to + rare wits and praiseworthy labours. What talents lie wasted there! What + genius thrust away into corners! What worth left neglected! Still it seems + to me that translation from one language into another, if it be not from + the queens of languages, the Greek and the Latin, is like looking at + Flemish tapestries on the wrong side; for though the figures are visible, + they are full of threads that make them indistinct, and they do not show + with the smoothness and brightness of the right side; and translation from + easy languages argues neither ingenuity nor command of words, any more + than transcribing or copying out one document from another. But I do not + mean by this to draw the inference that no credit is to be allowed for the + work of translating, for a man may employ himself in ways worse and less + profitable to himself. This estimate does not include two famous + translators, Doctor Cristobal de Figueroa, in his Pastor Fido, and Don + Juan de Jauregui, in his Aminta, wherein by their felicity they leave it + in doubt which is the translation and which the original. But tell me, are + you printing this book at your own risk, or have you sold the copyright to + some bookseller?” + </p> + <p> + “I print at my own risk,” said the author, “and I expect + to make a thousand ducats at least by this first edition, which is to be + of two thousand copies that will go off in a twinkling at six reals + apiece.” + </p> + <p> + “A fine calculation you are making!” said Don Quixote; “it + is plain you don’t know the ins and outs of the printers, and how + they play into one another’s hands. I promise you when you find + yourself saddled with two thousand copies you will feel so sore that it + will astonish you, particularly if the book is a little out of the common + and not in any way highly spiced.” + </p> + <p> + “What!” said the author, “would your worship, then, have + me give it to a bookseller who will give three maravedis for the copyright + and think he is doing me a favour? I do not print my books to win fame in + the world, for I am known in it already by my works; I want to make money, + without which reputation is not worth a rap.” + </p> + <p> + “God send your worship good luck,” said Don Quixote; and he + moved on to another case, where he saw them correcting a sheet of a book + with the title of “Light of the Soul;” noticing it he + observed, “Books like this, though there are many of the kind, are + the ones that deserve to be printed, for many are the sinners in these + days, and lights unnumbered are needed for all that are in darkness.” + </p> + <p> + He passed on, and saw they were also correcting another book, and when he + asked its title they told him it was called, “The Second Part of the + Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha,” by one of + Tordesillas. + </p> + <p> + “I have heard of this book already,” said Don Quixote, “and + verily and on my conscience I thought it had been by this time burned to + ashes as a meddlesome intruder; but its Martinmas will come to it as it + does to every pig; for fictions have the more merit and charm about them + the more nearly they approach the truth or what looks like it; and true + stories, the truer they are the better they are;” and so saying he + walked out of the printing office with a certain amount of displeasure in + his looks. That same day Don Antonio arranged to take him to see the + galleys that lay at the beach, whereat Sancho was in high delight, as he + had never seen any all his life. Don Antonio sent word to the commandant + of the galleys that he intended to bring his guest, the famous Don Quixote + of La Mancha, of whom the commandant and all the citizens had already + heard, that afternoon to see them; and what happened on board of them will + be told in the next chapter. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p62e" id="p62e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p62e.jpg (18K)" src="images/p62e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch63b" id="ch63b"></a>CHAPTER LXIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE MISHAP THAT BEFELL SANCHO PANZA THROUGH THE VISIT TO THE GALLEYS, + AND THE STRANGE ADVENTURE OF THE FAIR MORISCO + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p63a" id="p63a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p63a.jpg (151K)" src="images/p63a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p63a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Profound were Don Quixote’s reflections on the reply of the + enchanted head, not one of them, however, hitting on the secret of the + trick, but all concentrated on the promise, which he regarded as a + certainty, of Dulcinea’s disenchantment. This he turned over in his + mind again and again with great satisfaction, fully persuaded that he + would shortly see its fulfillment; and as for Sancho, though, as has been + said, he hated being a governor, still he had a longing to be giving + orders and finding himself obeyed once more; this is the misfortune that + being in authority, even in jest, brings with it. + </p> + <p> + To resume; that afternoon their host Don Antonio Moreno and his two + friends, with Don Quixote and Sancho, went to the galleys. The commandant + had been already made aware of his good fortune in seeing two such famous + persons as Don Quixote and Sancho, and the instant they came to the shore + all the galleys struck their awnings and the clarions rang out. A skiff + covered with rich carpets and cushions of crimson velvet was immediately + lowered into the water, and as Don Quixote stepped on board of it, the + leading galley fired her gangway gun, and the other galleys did the same; + and as he mounted the starboard ladder the whole crew saluted him (as is + the custom when a personage of distinction comes on board a galley) by + exclaiming “Hu, hu, hu,” three times. The general, for so we + shall call him, a Valencian gentleman of rank, gave him his hand and + embraced him, saying, “I shall mark this day with a white stone as + one of the happiest I can expect to enjoy in my lifetime, since I have + seen Señor Don Quixote of La Mancha, pattern and image wherein we see + contained and condensed all that is worthy in knight-errantry.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote delighted beyond measure with such a lordly reception, replied + to him in words no less courteous. All then proceeded to the poop, which + was very handsomely decorated, and seated themselves on the bulwark + benches; the boatswain passed along the gangway and piped all hands to + strip, which they did in an instant. Sancho, seeing such a number of men + stripped to the skin, was taken aback, and still more when he saw them + spread the awning so briskly that it seemed to him as if all the devils + were at work at it; but all this was cakes and fancy bread to what I am + going to tell now. Sancho was seated on the captain’s stage, close + to the aftermost rower on the right-hand side. He, previously instructed + in what he was to do, laid hold of Sancho, hoisting him up in his arms, + and the whole crew, who were standing ready, beginning on the right, + proceeded to pass him on, whirling him along from hand to hand and from + bench to bench with such rapidity that it took the sight out of poor + Sancho’s eyes, and he made quite sure that the devils themselves + were flying away with him; nor did they leave off with him until they had + sent him back along the left side and deposited him on the poop; and the + poor fellow was left bruised and breathless and all in a sweat, and unable + to comprehend what it was that had happened to him. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote when he saw Sancho’s flight without wings asked the + general if this was a usual ceremony with those who came on board the + galleys for the first time; for, if so, as he had no intention of adopting + them as a profession, he had no mind to perform such feats of agility, and + if anyone offered to lay hold of him to whirl him about, he vowed to God + he would kick his soul out; and as he said this he stood up and clapped + his hand upon his sword. At this instant they struck the awning and + lowered the yard with a prodigious rattle. Sancho thought heaven was + coming off its hinges and going to fall on his head, and full of terror he + ducked it and buried it between his knees; nor were Don Quixote’s + knees altogether under control, for he too shook a little, squeezed his + shoulders together and lost colour. The crew then hoisted the yard with + the same rapidity and clatter as when they lowered it, all the while + keeping silence as though they had neither voice nor breath. The boatswain + gave the signal to weigh anchor, and leaping upon the middle of the + gangway began to lay on to the shoulders of the crew with his courbash or + whip, and to haul out gradually to sea. + </p> + <p> + When Sancho saw so many red feet (for such he took the oars to be) moving + all together, he said to himself, “It’s these that are the + real chanted things, and not the ones my master talks of. What can those + wretches have done to be so whipped; and how does that one man who goes + along there whistling dare to whip so many? I declare this is hell, or at + least purgatory!” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote, observing how attentively Sancho regarded what was going on, + said to him, “Ah, Sancho my friend, how quickly and cheaply might + you finish off the disenchantment of Dulcinea, if you would strip to the + waist and take your place among those gentlemen! Amid the pain and + sufferings of so many you would not feel your own much; and moreover + perhaps the sage Merlin would allow each of these lashes, being laid on + with a good hand, to count for ten of those which you must give yourself + at last.” + </p> + <p> + The general was about to ask what these lashes were, and what was Dulcinea’s + disenchantment, when a sailor exclaimed, “Monjui signals that there + is an oared vessel off the coast to the west.” + </p> + <p> + On hearing this the general sprang upon the gangway crying, “Now + then, my sons, don’t let her give us the slip! It must be some + Algerine corsair brigantine that the watchtower signals to us.” The + three others immediately came alongside the chief galley to receive their + orders. The general ordered two to put out to sea while he with the other + kept in shore, so that in this way the vessel could not escape them. The + crews plied the oars driving the galleys so furiously that they seemed to + fly. The two that had put out to sea, after a couple of miles sighted a + vessel which, so far as they could make out, they judged to be one of + fourteen or fifteen banks, and so she proved. As soon as the vessel + discovered the galleys she went about with the object and in the hope of + making her escape by her speed; but the attempt failed, for the chief + galley was one of the fastest vessels afloat, and overhauled her so + rapidly that they on board the brigantine saw clearly there was no + possibility of escaping, and the rais therefore would have had them drop + their oars and give themselves up so as not to provoke the captain in + command of our galleys to anger. But chance, directing things otherwise, + so ordered it that just as the chief galley came close enough for those on + board the vessel to hear the shouts from her calling on them to surrender, + two Toraquis, that is to say two Turks, both drunken, that with a dozen + more were on board the brigantine, discharged their muskets, killing two + of the soldiers that lined the sides of our vessel. Seeing this the + general swore he would not leave one of those he found on board the vessel + alive, but as he bore down furiously upon her she slipped away from him + underneath the oars. The galley shot a good way ahead; those on board the + vessel saw their case was desperate, and while the galley was coming about + they made sail, and by sailing and rowing once more tried to sheer off; + but their activity did not do them as much good as their rashness did them + harm, for the galley coming up with them in a little more than half a mile + threw her oars over them and took the whole of them alive. The other two + galleys now joined company and all four returned with the prize to the + beach, where a vast multitude stood waiting for them, eager to see what + they brought back. The general anchored close in, and perceived that the + viceroy of the city was on the shore. He ordered the skiff to push off to + fetch him, and the yard to be lowered for the purpose of hanging forthwith + the rais and the rest of the men taken on board the vessel, about + six-and-thirty in number, all smart fellows and most of them Turkish + musketeers. He asked which was the rais of the brigantine, and was + answered in Spanish by one of the prisoners (who afterwards proved to be a + Spanish renegade), “This young man, señor, that you see here is our + rais,” and he pointed to one of the handsomest and most + gallant-looking youths that could be imagined. He did not seem to be + twenty years of age. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me, dog,” said the general, “what led thee to kill + my soldiers, when thou sawest it was impossible for thee to escape? Is + that the way to behave to chief galleys? Knowest thou not that rashness is + not valour? Faint prospects of success should make men bold, but not rash.” + </p> + <p> + The rais was about to reply, but the general could not at that moment + listen to him, as he had to hasten to receive the viceroy, who was now + coming on board the galley, and with him certain of his attendants and + some of the people. + </p> + <p> + “You have had a good chase, señor general,” said the viceroy. + </p> + <p> + “Your excellency shall soon see how good, by the game strung up to + this yard,” replied the general. + </p> + <p> + “How so?” returned the viceroy. + </p> + <p> + “Because,” said the general, “against all law, reason, + and usages of war they have killed on my hands two of the best soldiers on + board these galleys, and I have sworn to hang every man that I have taken, + but above all this youth who is the rais of the brigantine,” and he + pointed to him as he stood with his hands already bound and the rope round + his neck, ready for death. + </p> + <p> + The viceroy looked at him, and seeing him so well-favoured, so graceful, + and so submissive, he felt a desire to spare his life, the comeliness of + the youth furnishing him at once with a letter of recommendation. He + therefore questioned him, saying, “Tell me, rais, art thou Turk, + Moor, or renegade?” + </p> + <p> + To which the youth replied, also in Spanish, “I am neither Turk, nor + Moor, nor renegade.” + </p> + <p> + “What art thou, then?” said the viceroy. + </p> + <p> + “A Christian woman,” replied the youth. + </p> + <p> + “A woman and a Christian, in such a dress and in such circumstances! + It is more marvellous than credible,” said the viceroy. + </p> + <p> + “Suspend the execution of the sentence,” said the youth; + “your vengeance will not lose much by waiting while I tell you the + story of my life.” + </p> + <p> + What heart could be so hard as not to be softened by these words, at any + rate so far as to listen to what the unhappy youth had to say? The general + bade him say what he pleased, but not to expect pardon for his flagrant + offence. With this permission the youth began in these words. + </p> + <p> + “Born of Morisco parents, I am of that nation, more unhappy than + wise, upon which of late a sea of woes has poured down. In the course of + our misfortune I was carried to Barbary by two uncles of mine, for it was + in vain that I declared I was a Christian, as in fact I am, and not a mere + pretended one, or outwardly, but a true Catholic Christian. It availed me + nothing with those charged with our sad expatriation to protest this, nor + would my uncles believe it; on the contrary, they treated it as an untruth + and a subterfuge set up to enable me to remain behind in the land of my + birth; and so, more by force than of my own will, they took me with them. + I had a Christian mother, and a father who was a man of sound sense and a + Christian too; I imbibed the Catholic faith with my mother’s milk, I + was well brought up, and neither in word nor in deed did I, I think, show + any sign of being a Morisco. To accompany these virtues, for such I hold + them, my beauty, if I possess any, grew with my growth; and great as was + the seclusion in which I lived it was not so great but that a young + gentleman, Don Gaspar Gregorio by name, eldest son of a gentleman who is + lord of a village near ours, contrived to find opportunities of seeing me. + How he saw me, how we met, how his heart was lost to me, and mine not kept + from him, would take too long to tell, especially at a moment when I am in + dread of the cruel cord that threatens me interposing between tongue and + throat; I will only say, therefore, that Don Gregorio chose to accompany + me in our banishment. He joined company with the Moriscoes who were going + forth from other villages, for he knew their language very well, and on + the voyage he struck up a friendship with my two uncles who were carrying + me with them; for my father, like a wise and far-sighted man, as soon as + he heard the first edict for our expulsion, quitted the village and + departed in quest of some refuge for us abroad. He left hidden and buried, + at a spot of which I alone have knowledge, a large quantity of pearls and + precious stones of great value, together with a sum of money in gold + cruzadoes and doubloons. He charged me on no account to touch the + treasure, if by any chance they expelled us before his return. I obeyed + him, and with my uncles, as I have said, and others of our kindred and + neighbours, passed over to Barbary, and the place where we took up our + abode was Algiers, much the same as if we had taken it up in hell itself. + The king heard of my beauty, and report told him of my wealth, which was + in some degree fortunate for me. He summoned me before him, and asked me + what part of Spain I came from, and what money and jewels I had. I + mentioned the place, and told him the jewels and money were buried there; + but that they might easily be recovered if I myself went back for them. + All this I told him, in dread lest my beauty and not his own covetousness + should influence him. While he was engaged in conversation with me, they + brought him word that in company with me was one of the handsomest and + most graceful youths that could be imagined. I knew at once that they were + speaking of Don Gaspar Gregorio, whose comeliness surpasses the most + highly vaunted beauty. I was troubled when I thought of the danger he was + in, for among those barbarous Turks a fair youth is more esteemed than a + woman, be she ever so beautiful. The king immediately ordered him to be + brought before him that he might see him, and asked me if what they said + about the youth was true. I then, almost as if inspired by heaven, told + him it was, but that I would have him to know it was not a man, but a + woman like myself, and I entreated him to allow me to go and dress her in + the attire proper to her, so that her beauty might be seen to perfection, + and that she might present herself before him with less embarrassment. He + bade me go by all means, and said that the next day we should discuss the + plan to be adopted for my return to Spain to carry away the hidden + treasure. I saw Don Gaspar, I told him the danger he was in if he let it + be seen he was a man, I dressed him as a Moorish woman, and that same + afternoon I brought him before the king, who was charmed when he saw him, + and resolved to keep the damsel and make a present of her to the Grand + Signor; and to avoid the risk she might run among the women of his + seraglio, and distrustful of himself, he commanded her to be placed in the + house of some Moorish ladies of rank who would protect and attend to her; + and thither he was taken at once. What we both suffered (for I cannot deny + that I love him) may be left to the imagination of those who are separated + if they love one another dearly. The king then arranged that I should + return to Spain in this brigantine, and that two Turks, those who killed + your soldiers, should accompany me. There also came with me this Spanish + renegade”—and here she pointed to him who had first spoken—“whom + I know to be secretly a Christian, and to be more desirous of being left + in Spain than of returning to Barbary. The rest of the crew of the + brigantine are Moors and Turks, who merely serve as rowers. The two Turks, + greedy and insolent, instead of obeying the orders we had to land me and + this renegade in Christian dress (with which we came provided) on the + first Spanish ground we came to, chose to run along the coast and make + some prize if they could, fearing that if they put us ashore first, we + might, in case of some accident befalling us, make it known that the + brigantine was at sea, and thus, if there happened to be any galleys on + the coast, they might be taken. We sighted this shore last night, and + knowing nothing of these galleys, we were discovered, and the result was + what you have seen. To sum up, there is Don Gregorio in woman’s + dress, among women, in imminent danger of his life; and here am I, with + hands bound, in expectation, or rather in dread, of losing my life, of + which I am already weary. Here, sirs, ends my sad story, as true as it is + unhappy; all I ask of you is to allow me to die like a Christian, for, as + I have already said, I am not to be charged with the offence of which + those of my nation are guilty;” and she stood silent, her eyes + filled with moving tears, accompanied by plenty from the bystanders. The + viceroy, touched with compassion, went up to her without speaking and + untied the cord that bound the hands of the Moorish girl. + </p> + <p> + But all the while the Morisco Christian was telling her strange story, an + elderly pilgrim, who had come on board of the galley at the same time as + the viceroy, kept his eyes fixed upon her; and the instant she ceased + speaking he threw himself at her feet, and embracing them said in a voice + broken by sobs and sighs, “O Ana Felix, my unhappy daughter, I am + thy father Ricote, come back to look for thee, unable to live without + thee, my soul that thou art!” + </p> + <p> + At these words of his, Sancho opened his eyes and raised his head, which + he had been holding down, brooding over his unlucky excursion; and looking + at the pilgrim he recognised in him that same Ricote he met the day he + quitted his government, and felt satisfied that this was his daughter. She + being now unbound embraced her father, mingling her tears with his, while + he addressing the general and the viceroy said, “This, sirs, is my + daughter, more unhappy in her adventures than in her name. She is Ana + Felix, surnamed Ricote, celebrated as much for her own beauty as for my + wealth. I quitted my native land in search of some shelter or refuge for + us abroad, and having found one in Germany I returned in this pilgrim’s + dress, in the company of some other German pilgrims, to seek my daughter + and take up a large quantity of treasure I had left buried. My daughter I + did not find, the treasure I found and have with me; and now, in this + strange roundabout way you have seen, I find the treasure that more than + all makes me rich, my beloved daughter. If our innocence and her tears and + mine can with strict justice open the door to clemency, extend it to us, + for we never had any intention of injuring you, nor do we sympathise with + the aims of our people, who have been justly banished.” + </p> + <p> + “I know Ricote well,” said Sancho at this, “and I know + too that what he says about Ana Felix being his daughter is true; but as + to those other particulars about going and coming, and having good or bad + intentions, I say nothing.” + </p> + <p> + While all present stood amazed at this strange occurrence the general + said, “At any rate your tears will not allow me to keep my oath; + live, fair Ana Felix, all the years that heaven has allotted you; but + these rash insolent fellows must pay the penalty of the crime they have + committed;” and with that he gave orders to have the two Turks who + had killed his two soldiers hanged at once at the yard-arm. The viceroy, + however, begged him earnestly not to hang them, as their behaviour + savoured rather of madness than of bravado. The general yielded to the + viceroy’s request, for revenge is not easily taken in cold blood. + They then tried to devise some scheme for rescuing Don Gaspar Gregorio + from the danger in which he had been left. Ricote offered for that object + more than two thousand ducats that he had in pearls and gems; they + proposed several plans, but none so good as that suggested by the renegade + already mentioned, who offered to return to Algiers in a small vessel of + about six banks, manned by Christian rowers, as he knew where, how, and + when he could and should land, nor was he ignorant of the house in which + Don Gaspar was staying. The general and the viceroy had some hesitation + about placing confidence in the renegade and entrusting him with the + Christians who were to row, but Ana Felix said she could answer for him, + and her father offered to go and pay the ransom of the Christians if by + any chance they should not be forthcoming. This, then, being agreed upon, + the viceroy landed, and Don Antonio Moreno took the fair Morisco and her + father home with him, the viceroy charging him to give them the best + reception and welcome in his power, while on his own part he offered all + that house contained for their entertainment; so great was the good-will + and kindliness the beauty of Ana Felix had infused into his heart. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p63e" id="p63e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p63e.jpg (23K)" src="images/p63e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch64b" id="ch64b"></a>CHAPTER LXIV. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + TREATING OF THE ADVENTURE WHICH GAVE DON QUIXOTE MORE UNHAPPINESS THAN ALL + THAT HAD HITHERTO BEFALLEN HIM + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p64a" id="p64a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p64a.jpg (80K)" src="images/p64a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p64a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The wife of Don Antonio Moreno, so the history says, was extremely happy + to see Ana Felix in her house. She welcomed her with great kindness, + charmed as well by her beauty as by her intelligence; for in both respects + the fair Morisco was richly endowed, and all the people of the city + flocked to see her as though they had been summoned by the ringing of the + bells. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote told Don Antonio that the plan adopted for releasing Don + Gregorio was not a good one, for its risks were greater than its + advantages, and that it would be better to land himself with his arms and + horse in Barbary; for he would carry him off in spite of the whole Moorish + host, as Don Gaiferos carried off his wife Melisendra. + </p> + <p> + “Remember, your worship,” observed Sancho on hearing him say + so, “Señor Don Gaiferos carried off his wife from the mainland, and + took her to France by land; but in this case, if by chance we carry off + Don Gregorio, we have no way of bringing him to Spain, for there’s + the sea between.” + </p> + <p> + “There’s a remedy for everything except death,” said Don + Quixote; “if they bring the vessel close to the shore we shall be + able to get on board though all the world strive to prevent us.” + </p> + <p> + “Your worship hits it off mighty well and mighty easy,” said + Sancho; “but ‘it’s a long step from saying to doing;’ + and I hold to the renegade, for he seems to me an honest good-hearted + fellow.” + </p> + <p> + Don Antonio then said that if the renegade did not prove successful, the + expedient of the great Don Quixote’s expedition to Barbary should be + adopted. Two days afterwards the renegade put to sea in a light vessel of + six oars a-side manned by a stout crew, and two days later the galleys + made sail eastward, the general having begged the viceroy to let him know + all about the release of Don Gregorio and about Ana Felix, and the viceroy + promised to do as he requested. + </p> + <p> + One morning as Don Quixote went out for a stroll along the beach, arrayed + in full armour (for, as he often said, that was “his only gear, his + only rest the fray,” and he never was without it for a moment), he + saw coming towards him a knight, also in full armour, with a shining moon + painted on his shield, who, on approaching sufficiently near to be heard, + said in a loud voice, addressing himself to Don Quixote, “Illustrious + knight, and never sufficiently extolled Don Quixote of La Mancha, I am the + Knight of the White Moon, whose unheard-of achievements will perhaps have + recalled him to thy memory. I come to do battle with thee and prove the + might of thy arm, to the end that I make thee acknowledge and confess that + my lady, let her be who she may, is incomparably fairer than thy Dulcinea + del Toboso. If thou dost acknowledge this fairly and openly, thou shalt + escape death and save me the trouble of inflicting it upon thee; if thou + fightest and I vanquish thee, I demand no other satisfaction than that, + laying aside arms and abstaining from going in quest of adventures, thou + withdraw and betake thyself to thine own village for the space of a year, + and live there without putting hand to sword, in peace and quiet and + beneficial repose, the same being needful for the increase of thy + substance and the salvation of thy soul; and if thou dost vanquish me, my + head shall be at thy disposal, my arms and horse thy spoils, and the + renown of my deeds transferred and added to thine. Consider which will be + thy best course, and give me thy answer speedily, for this day is all the + time I have for the despatch of this business.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote was amazed and astonished, as well at the Knight of the White + Moon’s arrogance, as at his reason for delivering the defiance, and + with calm dignity he answered him, “Knight of the White Moon, of + whose achievements I have never heard until now, I will venture to swear + you have never seen the illustrious Dulcinea; for had you seen her I know + you would have taken care not to venture yourself upon this issue, because + the sight would have removed all doubt from your mind that there ever has + been or can be a beauty to be compared with hers; and so, not saying you + lie, but merely that you are not correct in what you state, I accept your + challenge, with the conditions you have proposed, and at once, that the + day you have fixed may not expire; and from your conditions I except only + that of the renown of your achievements being transferred to me, for I + know not of what sort they are nor what they may amount to; I am satisfied + with my own, such as they be. Take, therefore, the side of the field you + choose, and I will do the same; and to whom God shall give it may Saint + Peter add his blessing.” + </p> + <p> + The Knight of the White Moon had been seen from the city, and it was told + the viceroy how he was in conversation with Don Quixote. The viceroy, + fancying it must be some fresh adventure got up by Don Antonio Moreno or + some other gentleman of the city, hurried out at once to the beach + accompanied by Don Antonio and several other gentlemen, just as Don + Quixote was wheeling Rocinante round in order to take up the necessary + distance. The viceroy upon this, seeing that the pair of them were + evidently preparing to come to the charge, put himself between them, + asking them what it was that led them to engage in combat all of a sudden + in this way. The Knight of the White Moon replied that it was a question + of precedence of beauty; and briefly told him what he had said to Don + Quixote, and how the conditions of the defiance agreed upon on both sides + had been accepted. The viceroy went over to Don Antonio, and asked in a + low voice did he know who the Knight of the White Moon was, or was it some + joke they were playing on Don Quixote. Don Antonio replied that he neither + knew who he was nor whether the defiance was in joke or in earnest. This + answer left the viceroy in a state of perplexity, not knowing whether he + ought to let the combat go on or not; but unable to persuade himself that + it was anything but a joke he fell back, saying, “If there be no + other way out of it, gallant knights, except to confess or die, and Don + Quixote is inflexible, and your worship of the White Moon still more so, + in God’s hand be it, and fall on.” + </p> + <p> + He of the White Moon thanked the viceroy in courteous and well-chosen + words for the permission he gave them, and so did Don Quixote, who then, + commending himself with all his heart to heaven and to his Dulcinea, as + was his custom on the eve of any combat that awaited him, proceeded to + take a little more distance, as he saw his antagonist was doing the same; + then, without blast of trumpet or other warlike instrument to give them + the signal to charge, both at the same instant wheeled their horses; and + he of the White Moon, being the swifter, met Don Quixote after having + traversed two-thirds of the course, and there encountered him with such + violence that, without touching him with his lance (for he held it high, + to all appearance purposely), he hurled Don Quixote and Rocinante to the + earth, a perilous fall. He sprang upon him at once, and placing the lance + over his visor said to him, “You are vanquished, sir knight, nay + dead unless you admit the conditions of our defiance.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote, bruised and stupefied, without raising his visor said in a + weak feeble voice as if he were speaking out of a tomb, “Dulcinea + del Toboso is the fairest woman in the world, and I the most unfortunate + knight on earth; it is not fitting that this truth should suffer by my + feebleness; drive your lance home, sir knight, and take my life, since you + have taken away my honour.” + </p> + <p> + “That will I not, in sooth,” said he of the White Moon; + “live the fame of the lady Dulcinea’s beauty undimmed as ever; + all I require is that the great Don Quixote retire to his own home for a + year, or for so long a time as shall by me be enjoined upon him, as we + agreed before engaging in this combat.” + </p> + <p> + The viceroy, Don Antonio, and several others who were present heard all + this, and heard too how Don Quixote replied that so long as nothing in + prejudice of Dulcinea was demanded of him, he would observe all the rest + like a true and loyal knight. The engagement given, he of the White Moon + wheeled about, and making obeisance to the viceroy with a movement of the + head, rode away into the city at a half gallop. The viceroy bade Don + Antonio hasten after him, and by some means or other find out who he was. + They raised Don Quixote up and uncovered his face, and found him pale and + bathed with sweat. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p64b" id="p64b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p64b.jpg (344K)" src="images/p64b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p64b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Rocinante from the mere hard measure he had received lay unable to stir + for the present. Sancho, wholly dejected and woebegone, knew not what to + say or do. He fancied that all was a dream, that the whole business was a + piece of enchantment. Here was his master defeated, and bound not to take + up arms for a year. He saw the light of the glory of his achievements + obscured; the hopes of the promises lately made him swept away like smoke + before the wind; Rocinante, he feared, was crippled for life, and his + master’s bones out of joint; for if he were only shaken out of his + madness it would be no small luck. In the end they carried him into the + city in a hand-chair which the viceroy sent for, and thither the viceroy + himself returned, eager to ascertain who this Knight of the White Moon was + who had left Don Quixote in such a sad plight. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p64e" id="p64e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p64e.jpg (44K)" src="images/p64e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p64e.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch65b" id="ch65b"></a>CHAPTER LXV. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHEREIN IS MADE KNOWN WHO THE KNIGHT OF THE WHITE MOON WAS; LIKEWISE DON + GREGORIO’S RELEASE, AND OTHER EVENTS + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p65a" id="p65a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p65a.jpg (149K)" src="images/p65a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p65a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Don Antonio Moreno followed the Knight of the White Moon, and a number of + boys followed him too, nay pursued him, until they had him fairly housed + in a hostel in the heart of the city. Don Antonio, eager to make his + acquaintance, entered also; a squire came out to meet him and remove his + armour, and he shut himself into a lower room, still attended by Don + Antonio, whose bread would not bake until he had found out who he was. He + of the White Moon, seeing then that the gentleman would not leave him, + said, “I know very well, señor, what you have come for; it is to + find out who I am; and as there is no reason why I should conceal it from + you, while my servant here is taking off my armour I will tell you the + true state of the case, without leaving out anything. You must know, + señor, that I am called the bachelor Samson Carrasco. I am of the same + village as Don Quixote of La Mancha, whose craze and folly make all of us + who know him feel pity for him, and I am one of those who have felt it + most; and persuaded that his chance of recovery lay in quiet and keeping + at home and in his own house, I hit upon a device for keeping him there. + Three months ago, therefore, I went out to meet him as a knight-errant, + under the assumed name of the Knight of the Mirrors, intending to engage + him in combat and overcome him without hurting him, making it the + condition of our combat that the vanquished should be at the disposal of + the victor. What I meant to demand of him (for I regarded him as + vanquished already) was that he should return to his own village, and not + leave it for a whole year, by which time he might be cured. But fate + ordered it otherwise, for he vanquished me and unhorsed me, and so my plan + failed. He went his way, and I came back conquered, covered with shame, + and sorely bruised by my fall, which was a particularly dangerous one. But + this did not quench my desire to meet him again and overcome him, as you + have seen to-day. And as he is so scrupulous in his observance of the laws + of knight-errantry, he will, no doubt, in order to keep his word, obey the + injunction I have laid upon him. This, señor, is how the matter stands, + and I have nothing more to tell you. I implore of you not to betray me, or + tell Don Quixote who I am; so that my honest endeavours may be successful, + and that a man of excellent wits—were he only rid of the fooleries + of chivalry—may get them back again.” + </p> + <p> + “O señor,” said Don Antonio, “may God forgive you the + wrong you have done the whole world in trying to bring the most amusing + madman in it back to his senses. Do you not see, señor, that the gain by + Don Quixote’s sanity can never equal the enjoyment his crazes give? + But my belief is that all the señor bachelor’s pains will be of no + avail to bring a man so hopelessly cracked to his senses again; and if it + were not uncharitable, I would say may Don Quixote never be cured, for by + his recovery we lose not only his own drolleries, but his squire Sancho + Panza’s too, any one of which is enough to turn melancholy itself + into merriment. However, I’ll hold my peace and say nothing to him, + and we’ll see whether I am right in my suspicion that Señor Carrasco’s + efforts will be fruitless.” + </p> + <p> + The bachelor replied that at all events the affair promised well, and he + hoped for a happy result from it; and putting his services at Don Antonio’s + commands he took his leave of him; and having had his armour packed at + once upon a mule, he rode away from the city the same day on the horse he + rode to battle, and returned to his own country without meeting any + adventure calling for record in this veracious history. + </p> + <p> + Don Antonio reported to the viceroy what Carrasco told him, and the + viceroy was not very well pleased to hear it, for with Don Quixote’s + retirement there was an end to the amusement of all who knew anything of + his mad doings. + </p> + <p> + Six days did Don Quixote keep his bed, dejected, melancholy, moody and out + of sorts, brooding over the unhappy event of his defeat. Sancho strove to + comfort him, and among other things he said to him, “Hold up your + head, señor, and be of good cheer if you can, and give thanks to heaven + that if you have had a tumble to the ground you have not come off with a + broken rib; and, as you know that ‘where they give they take,’ + and that ‘there are not always fletches where there are pegs,’ + a fig for the doctor, for there’s no need of him to cure this + ailment. Let us go home, and give over going about in search of adventures + in strange lands and places; rightly looked at, it is I that am the + greater loser, though it is your worship that has had the worse usage. + With the government I gave up all wish to be a governor again, but I did + not give up all longing to be a count; and that will never come to pass if + your worship gives up becoming a king by renouncing the calling of + chivalry; and so my hopes are going to turn into smoke.” + </p> + <p> + “Peace, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; “thou seest my + suspension and retirement is not to exceed a year; I shall soon return to + my honoured calling, and I shall not be at a loss for a kingdom to win and + a county to bestow on thee.” + </p> + <p> + “May God hear it and sin be deaf,” said Sancho; “I have + always heard say that ‘a good hope is better than a bad holding.” + </p> + <p> + As they were talking Don Antonio came in looking extremely pleased and + exclaiming, “Reward me for my good news, Señor Don Quixote! Don + Gregorio and the renegade who went for him have come ashore—ashore + do I say? They are by this time in the viceroy’s house, and will be + here immediately.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote cheered up a little and said, “Of a truth I am almost + ready to say I should have been glad had it turned out just the other way, + for it would have obliged me to cross over to Barbary, where by the might + of my arm I should have restored to liberty, not only Don Gregorio, but + all the Christian captives there are in Barbary. But what am I saying, + miserable being that I am? Am I not he that has been conquered? Am I not + he that has been overthrown? Am I not he who must not take up arms for a + year? Then what am I making professions for; what am I bragging about; + when it is fitter for me to handle the distaff than the sword?” + </p> + <p> + “No more of that, señor,” said Sancho; “‘let the + hen live, even though it be with her pip;’ ‘to-day for thee and + to-morrow for me;’ in these affairs of encounters and whacks one + must not mind them, for he that falls to-day may get up to-morrow; unless + indeed he chooses to lie in bed, I mean gives way to weakness and does not + pluck up fresh spirit for fresh battles; let your worship get up now to + receive Don Gregorio; for the household seems to be in a bustle, and no + doubt he has come by this time;” and so it proved, for as soon as + Don Gregorio and the renegade had given the viceroy an account of the + voyage out and home, Don Gregorio, eager to see Ana Felix, came with the + renegade to Don Antonio’s house. When they carried him away from + Algiers he was in woman’s dress; on board the vessel, however, he + exchanged it for that of a captive who escaped with him; but in whatever + dress he might be he looked like one to be loved and served and esteemed, + for he was surpassingly well-favoured, and to judge by appearances some + seventeen or eighteen years of age. Ricote and his daughter came out to + welcome him, the father with tears, the daughter with bashfulness. They + did not embrace each other, for where there is deep love there will never + be overmuch boldness. Seen side by side, the comeliness of Don Gregorio + and the beauty of Ana Felix were the admiration of all who were present. + It was silence that spoke for the lovers at that moment, and their eyes + were the tongues that declared their pure and happy feelings. The renegade + explained the measures and means he had adopted to rescue Don Gregorio, + and Don Gregorio at no great length, but in a few words, in which he + showed that his intelligence was in advance of his years, described the + peril and embarrassment he found himself in among the women with whom he + had sojourned. To conclude, Ricote liberally recompensed and rewarded as + well the renegade as the men who had rowed; and the renegade effected his + readmission into the body of the Church and was reconciled with it, and + from a rotten limb became by penance and repentance a clean and sound one. + </p> + <p> + Two days later the viceroy discussed with Don Antonio the steps they + should take to enable Ana Felix and her father to stay in Spain, for it + seemed to them there could be no objection to a daughter who was so good a + Christian and a father to all appearance so well disposed remaining there. + Don Antonio offered to arrange the matter at the capital, whither he was + compelled to go on some other business, hinting that many a difficult + affair was settled there with the help of favour and bribes. + </p> + <p> + “Nay,” said Ricote, who was present during the conversation, + “it will not do to rely upon favour or bribes, because with the + great Don Bernardino de Velasco, Conde de Salazar, to whom his Majesty has + entrusted our expulsion, neither entreaties nor promises, bribes nor + appeals to compassion, are of any use; for though it is true he mingles + mercy with justice, still, seeing that the whole body of our nation is + tainted and corrupt, he applies to it the cautery that burns rather than + the salve that soothes; and thus, by prudence, sagacity, care and the fear + he inspires, he has borne on his mighty shoulders the weight of this great + policy and carried it into effect, all our schemes and plots, + importunities and wiles, being ineffectual to blind his Argus eyes, ever + on the watch lest one of us should remain behind in concealment, and like + a hidden root come in course of time to sprout and bear poisonous fruit in + Spain, now cleansed, and relieved of the fear in which our vast numbers + kept it. Heroic resolve of the great Philip the Third, and unparalleled + wisdom to have entrusted it to the said Don Bernardino de Velasco!” + </p> + <p> + “At any rate,” said Don Antonio, “when I am there I will + make all possible efforts, and let heaven do as pleases it best; Don + Gregorio will come with me to relieve the anxiety which his parents must + be suffering on account of his absence; Ana Felix will remain in my house + with my wife, or in a monastery; and I know the viceroy will be glad that + the worthy Ricote should stay with him until we see what terms I can make.” + </p> + <p> + The viceroy agreed to all that was proposed; but Don Gregorio on learning + what had passed declared he could not and would not on any account leave + Ana Felix; however, as it was his purpose to go and see his parents and + devise some way of returning for her, he fell in with the proposed + arrangement. Ana Felix remained with Don Antonio’s wife, and Ricote + in the viceroy’s house. + </p> + <p> + The day for Don Antonio’s departure came; and two days later that + for Don Quixote’s and Sancho’s, for Don Quixote’s fall + did not suffer him to take the road sooner. There were tears and sighs, + swoonings and sobs, at the parting between Don Gregorio and Ana Felix. + Ricote offered Don Gregorio a thousand crowns if he would have them, but + he would not take any save five which Don Antonio lent him and he promised + to repay at the capital. So the two of them took their departure, and Don + Quixote and Sancho afterwards, as has been already said, Don Quixote + without his armour and in travelling gear, and Sancho on foot, Dapple + being loaded with the armour. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p65e" id="p65e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p65e.jpg (43K)" src="images/p65e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch66b" id="ch66b"></a>CHAPTER LXVI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHICH TREATS OF WHAT HE WHO READS WILL SEE, OR WHAT HE WHO HAS IT READ TO + HIM WILL HEAR + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p66a" id="p66a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p66a.jpg (125K)" src="images/p66a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p66a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + As he left Barcelona, Don Quixote turned gaze upon the spot where he had + fallen. “Here Troy was,” said he; “here my ill-luck, not + my cowardice, robbed me of all the glory I had won; here Fortune made me + the victim of her caprices; here the lustre of my achievements was dimmed; + here, in a word, fell my happiness never to rise again.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p66b" id="p66b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p66b.jpg (251K)" src="images/p66b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p66b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “Señor,” said Sancho on hearing this, “it is the part of + brave hearts to be patient in adversity just as much as to be glad in + prosperity; I judge by myself, for, if when I was a governor I was glad, + now that I am a squire and on foot I am not sad; and I have heard say that + she whom commonly they call Fortune is a drunken whimsical jade, and, what + is more, blind, and therefore neither sees what she does, nor knows whom + she casts down or whom she sets up.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou art a great philosopher, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; + “thou speakest very sensibly; I know not who taught thee. But I can + tell thee there is no such thing as Fortune in the world, nor does + anything which takes place there, be it good or bad, come about by chance, + but by the special preordination of heaven; and hence the common saying + that ‘each of us is the maker of his own Fortune.’ I have been + that of mine; but not with the proper amount of prudence, and my + self-confidence has therefore made me pay dearly; for I ought to have + reflected that Rocinante’s feeble strength could not resist the + mighty bulk of the Knight of the White Moon’s horse. In a word, I + ventured it, I did my best, I was overthrown, but though I lost my honour + I did not lose nor can I lose the virtue of keeping my word. When I was a + knight-errant, daring and valiant, I supported my achievements by hand and + deed, and now that I am a humble squire I will support my words by keeping + the promise I have given. Forward then, Sancho my friend, let us go to + keep the year of the novitiate in our own country, and in that seclusion + we shall pick up fresh strength to return to the by me never-forgotten + calling of arms.” + </p> + <p> + “Señor,” returned Sancho, “travelling on foot is not + such a pleasant thing that it makes me feel disposed or tempted to make + long marches. Let us leave this armour hung up on some tree, instead of + some one that has been hanged; and then with me on Dapple’s back and + my feet off the ground we will arrange the stages as your worship pleases + to measure them out; but to suppose that I am going to travel on foot, and + make long ones, is to suppose nonsense.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou sayest well, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; “let my + armour be hung up for a trophy, and under it or round it we will carve on + the trees what was inscribed on the trophy of Roland’s armour- + </p> + <p> + These let none move<br /> Who dareth not his might with Roland prove.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s the very thing,” said Sancho; “and if it + was not that we should feel the want of Rocinante on the road, it would be + as well to leave him hung up too.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet, I had rather not have either him or the armour hung up,” + said Don Quixote, “that it may not be said, ‘for good service + a bad return.’” + </p> + <p> + “Your worship is right,” said Sancho; “for, as sensible + people hold, ‘the fault of the ass must not be laid on the + pack-saddle;’ and, as in this affair the fault is your worship’s, + punish yourself and don’t let your anger break out against the + already battered and bloody armour, or the meekness of Rocinante, or the + tenderness of my feet, trying to make them travel more than is reasonable.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p66c" id="p66c"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p66c.jpg (389K)" src="images/p66c.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p66c.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + In converse of this sort the whole of that day went by, as did the four + succeeding ones, without anything occurring to interrupt their journey, + but on the fifth as they entered a village they found a great number of + people at the door of an inn enjoying themselves, as it was a holiday. + Upon Don Quixote’s approach a peasant called out, “One of + these two gentlemen who come here, and who don’t know the parties, + will tell us what we ought to do about our wager.” + </p> + <p> + “That I will, certainly,” said Don Quixote, “and + according to the rights of the case, if I can manage to understand it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, here it is, worthy sir,” said the peasant; “a man + of this village who is so fat that he weighs twenty stone challenged + another, a neighbour of his, who does not weigh more than nine, to run a + race. The agreement was that they were to run a distance of a hundred + paces with equal weights; and when the challenger was asked how the + weights were to be equalised he said that the other, as he weighed nine + stone, should put eleven in iron on his back, and that in this way the + twenty stone of the thin man would equal the twenty stone of the fat one.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all,” exclaimed Sancho at once, before Don Quixote + could answer; “it’s for me, that only a few days ago left off + being a governor and a judge, as all the world knows, to settle these + doubtful questions and give an opinion in disputes of all sorts.” + </p> + <p> + “Answer in God’s name, Sancho my friend,” said Don + Quixote, “for I am not fit to give crumbs to a cat, my wits are so + confused and upset.” + </p> + <p> + With this permission Sancho said to the peasants who stood clustered round + him, waiting with open mouths for the decision to come from his, “Brothers, + what the fat man requires is not in reason, nor has it a shadow of justice + in it; because, if it be true, as they say, that the challenged may choose + the weapons, the other has no right to choose such as will prevent and + keep him from winning. My decision, therefore, is that the fat challenger + prune, peel, thin, trim and correct himself, and take eleven stone of his + flesh off his body, here or there, as he pleases, and as suits him best; + and being in this way reduced to nine stone weight, he will make himself + equal and even with nine stone of his opponent, and they will be able to + run on equal terms.” + </p> + <p> + “By all that’s good,” said one of the peasants as he + heard Sancho’s decision, “but the gentleman has spoken like a + saint, and given judgment like a canon! But I’ll be bound the fat + man won’t part with an ounce of his flesh, not to say eleven stone.” + </p> + <p> + “The best plan will be for them not to run,” said another, + “so that neither the thin man break down under the weight, nor the + fat one strip himself of his flesh; let half the wager be spent in wine, + and let’s take these gentlemen to the tavern where there’s the + best, and ‘over me be the cloak when it rains.’” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, sirs,” said Don Quixote; “but I cannot + stop for an instant, for sad thoughts and unhappy circumstances force me + to seem discourteous and to travel apace;” and spurring Rocinante he + pushed on, leaving them wondering at what they had seen and heard, at his + own strange figure and at the shrewdness of his servant, for such they + took Sancho to be; and another of them observed, “If the servant is + so clever, what must the master be? I’ll bet, if they are going to + Salamanca to study, they’ll come to be alcaldes of the Court in a + trice; for it’s a mere joke—only to read and read, and have + interest and good luck; and before a man knows where he is he finds + himself with a staff in his hand or a mitre on his head.” + </p> + <p> + That night master and man passed out in the fields in the open air, and + the next day as they were pursuing their journey they saw coming towards + them a man on foot with alforjas at the neck and a javelin or spiked staff + in his hand, the very cut of a foot courier; who, as soon as he came close + to Don Quixote, increased his pace and half running came up to him, and + embracing his right thigh, for he could reach no higher, exclaimed with + evident pleasure, “O Señor Don Quixote of La Mancha, what happiness + it will be to the heart of my lord the duke when he knows your worship is + coming back to his castle, for he is still there with my lady the duchess!” + </p> + <p> + “I do not recognise you, friend,” said Don Quixote, “nor + do I know who you are, unless you tell me.” + </p> + <p> + “I am Tosilos, my lord the duke’s lacquey, Señor Don Quixote,” + replied the courier; “he who refused to fight your worship about + marrying the daughter of Dona Rodriguez.” + </p> + <p> + “God bless me!” exclaimed Don Quixote; “is it possible + that you are the one whom mine enemies the enchanters changed into the + lacquey you speak of in order to rob me of the honour of that battle?” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense, good sir!” said the messenger; “there was no + enchantment or transformation at all; I entered the lists just as much + lacquey Tosilos as I came out of them lacquey Tosilos. I thought to marry + without fighting, for the girl had taken my fancy; but my scheme had a + very different result, for as soon as your worship had left the castle my + lord the duke had a hundred strokes of the stick given me for having acted + contrary to the orders he gave me before engaging in the combat; and the + end of the whole affair is that the girl has become a nun, and Dona + Rodriguez has gone back to Castile, and I am now on my way to Barcelona + with a packet of letters for the viceroy which my master is sending him. + If your worship would like a drop, sound though warm, I have a gourd here + full of the best, and some scraps of Tronchon cheese that will serve as a + provocative and wakener of your thirst if so be it is asleep.” + </p> + <p> + “I take the offer,” said Sancho; “no more compliments + about it; pour out, good Tosilos, in spite of all the enchanters in the + Indies.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou art indeed the greatest glutton in the world, Sancho,” + said Don Quixote, “and the greatest booby on earth, not to be able + to see that this courier is enchanted and this Tosilos a sham one; stop + with him and take thy fill; I will go on slowly and wait for thee to come + up with me.” + </p> + <p> + The lacquey laughed, unsheathed his gourd, unwalletted his scraps, and + taking out a small loaf of bread he and Sancho seated themselves on the + green grass, and in peace and good fellowship finished off the contents of + the alforjas down to the bottom, so resolutely that they licked the + wrapper of the letters, merely because it smelt of cheese. + </p> + <p> + Said Tosilos to Sancho, “Beyond a doubt, Sancho my friend, this + master of thine ought to be a madman.” + </p> + <p> + “Ought!” said Sancho; “he owes no man anything; he pays + for everything, particularly when the coin is madness. I see it plain + enough, and I tell him so plain enough; but what’s the use? + especially now that it is all over with him, for here he is beaten by the + Knight of the White Moon.” + </p> + <p> + Tosilos begged him to explain what had happened him, but Sancho replied + that it would not be good manners to leave his master waiting for him; and + that some other day if they met there would be time enough for that; and + then getting up, after shaking his doublet and brushing the crumbs out of + his beard, he drove Dapple on before him, and bidding adieu to Tosilos + left him and rejoined his master, who was waiting for him under the shade + of a tree. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p66e" id="p66e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p66e.jpg (29K)" src="images/p66e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch67b" id="ch67b"></a>CHAPTER LXVII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE RESOLUTION DON QUIXOTE FORMED TO TURN SHEPHERD AND TAKE TO A LIFE + IN THE FIELDS WHILE THE YEAR FOR WHICH HE HAD GIVEN HIS WORD WAS RUNNING + ITS COURSE; WITH OTHER EVENTS TRULY DELECTABLE AND HAPPY + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p67a" id="p67a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p67a.jpg (145K)" src="images/p67a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p67a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + If a multitude of reflections used to harass Don Quixote before he had + been overthrown, a great many more harassed him since his fall. He was + under the shade of a tree, as has been said, and there, like flies on + honey, thoughts came crowding upon him and stinging him. Some of them + turned upon the disenchantment of Dulcinea, others upon the life he was + about to lead in his enforced retirement. Sancho came up and spoke in high + praise of the generous disposition of the lacquey Tosilos. + </p> + <p> + “Is it possible, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “that thou + dost still think that he yonder is a real lacquey? Apparently it has + escaped thy memory that thou hast seen Dulcinea turned and transformed + into a peasant wench, and the Knight of the Mirrors into the bachelor + Carrasco; all the work of the enchanters that persecute me. But tell me + now, didst thou ask this Tosilos, as thou callest him, what has become of + Altisidora, did she weep over my absence, or has she already consigned to + oblivion the love thoughts that used to afflict her when I was present?” + </p> + <p> + “The thoughts that I had,” said Sancho, “were not such + as to leave time for asking fool’s questions. Body o’ me, + señor! is your worship in a condition now to inquire into other people’s + thoughts, above all love thoughts?” + </p> + <p> + “Look ye, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “there is a great + difference between what is done out of love and what is done out of + gratitude. A knight may very possibly be proof against love; but it is + impossible, strictly speaking, for him to be ungrateful. Altisidora, to + all appearance, loved me truly; she gave me the three kerchiefs thou + knowest of; she wept at my departure, she cursed me, she abused me, + casting shame to the winds she bewailed herself in public; all signs that + she adored me; for the wrath of lovers always ends in curses. I had no + hopes to give her, nor treasures to offer her, for mine are given to + Dulcinea, and the treasures of knights-errant are like those of the + fairies,’ illusory and deceptive; all I can give her is the place in + my memory I keep for her, without prejudice, however, to that which I hold + devoted to Dulcinea, whom thou art wronging by thy remissness in whipping + thyself and scourging that flesh—would that I saw it eaten by wolves—which + would rather keep itself for the worms than for the relief of that poor + lady.” + </p> + <p> + “Señor,” replied Sancho, “if the truth is to be told, I + cannot persuade myself that the whipping of my backside has anything to do + with the disenchantment of the enchanted; it is like saying, ‘If + your head aches rub ointment on your knees;’ at any rate I’ll + make bold to swear that in all the histories dealing with knight-errantry + that your worship has read you have never come across anybody disenchanted + by whipping; but whether or no I’ll whip myself when I have a fancy + for it, and the opportunity serves for scourging myself comfortably.” + </p> + <p> + “God grant it,” said Don Quixote; “and heaven give thee + grace to take it to heart and own the obligation thou art under to help my + lady, who is thine also, inasmuch as thou art mine.” + </p> + <p> + As they pursued their journey talking in this way they came to the very + same spot where they had been trampled on by the bulls. Don Quixote + recognised it, and said he to Sancho, “This is the meadow where we + came upon those gay shepherdesses and gallant shepherds who were trying to + revive and imitate the pastoral Arcadia there, an idea as novel as it was + happy, in emulation whereof, if so be thou dost approve of it, Sancho, I + would have ourselves turn shepherds, at any rate for the time I have to + live in retirement. I will buy some ewes and everything else requisite for + the pastoral calling; and, I under the name of the shepherd Quixotize and + thou as the shepherd Panzino, we will roam the woods and groves and + meadows singing songs here, lamenting in elegies there, drinking of the + crystal waters of the springs or limpid brooks or flowing rivers. The oaks + will yield us their sweet fruit with bountiful hand, the trunks of the + hard cork trees a seat, the willows shade, the roses perfume, the + widespread meadows carpets tinted with a thousand dyes; the clear pure air + will give us breath, the moon and stars lighten the darkness of the night + for us, song shall be our delight, lamenting our joy, Apollo will supply + us with verses, and love with conceits whereby we shall make ourselves + famed for ever, not only in this but in ages to come.” + </p> + <p> + “Egad,” said Sancho, “but that sort of life squares, nay + corners, with my notions; and what is more the bachelor Samson Carrasco + and Master Nicholas the barber won’t have well seen it before they’ll + want to follow it and turn shepherds along with us; and God grant it may + not come into the curate’s head to join the sheepfold too, he’s + so jovial and fond of enjoying himself.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou art in the right of it, Sancho,” said Don Quixote; + “and the bachelor Samson Carrasco, if he enters the pastoral + fraternity, as no doubt he will, may call himself the shepherd Samsonino, + or perhaps the shepherd Carrascon; Nicholas the barber may call himself + Niculoso, as old Boscan formerly was called Nemoroso; as for the curate I + don’t know what name we can fit to him unless it be something + derived from his title, and we call him the shepherd Curiambro. For the + shepherdesses whose lovers we shall be, we can pick names as we would + pears; and as my lady’s name does just as well for a shepherdess’s + as for a princess’s, I need not trouble myself to look for one that + will suit her better; to thine, Sancho, thou canst give what name thou + wilt.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t mean to give her any but Teresona,” said + Sancho, “which will go well with her stoutness and with her own + right name, as she is called Teresa; and then when I sing her praises in + my verses I’ll show how chaste my passion is, for I’m not + going to look ‘for better bread than ever came from wheat’ in + other men’s houses. It won’t do for the curate to have a + shepherdess, for the sake of good example; and if the bachelor chooses to + have one, that is his look-out.” + </p> + <p> + “God bless me, Sancho my friend!” said Don Quixote, “what + a life we shall lead! What hautboys and Zamora bagpipes we shall hear, + what tabors, timbrels, and rebecks! And then if among all these different + sorts of music that of the albogues is heard, almost all the pastoral + instruments will be there.” + </p> + <p> + “What are albogues?” asked Sancho, “for I never in my + life heard tell of them or saw them.” + </p> + <p> + “Albogues,” said Don Quixote, “are brass plates like + candlesticks that struck against one another on the hollow side make a + noise which, if not very pleasing or harmonious, is not disagreeable and + accords very well with the rude notes of the bagpipe and tabor. The word + albogue is Morisco, as are all those in our Spanish tongue that begin with + al; for example, almohaza, almorzar, alhombra, alguacil, alhucema, + almacen, alcancia, and others of the same sort, of which there are not + many more; our language has only three that are Morisco and end in i, + which are borcegui, zaquizami, and maravedi. Alheli and alfaqui are seen + to be Arabic, as well by the “al” at the beginning as by the + “i” they end with. I mention this incidentally, the chance + allusion to albogues having reminded me of it; and it will be of great + assistance to us in the perfect practice of this calling that I am + something of a poet, as thou knowest, and that besides the bachelor Samson + Carrasco is an accomplished one. Of the curate I say nothing; but I will + wager he has some spice of the poet in him, and no doubt Master Nicholas + too, for all barbers, or most of them, are guitar players and stringers of + verses. I will bewail my separation; thou shalt glorify thyself as a + constant lover; the shepherd Carrascon will figure as a rejected one, and + the curate Curiambro as whatever may please him best; and so all will go + as gaily as heart could wish.” + </p> + <p> + To this Sancho made answer, “I am so unlucky, señor, that I’m + afraid the day will never come when I’ll see myself at such a + calling. O what neat spoons I’ll make when I’m a shepherd! + What messes, creams, garlands, pastoral odds and ends! And if they don’t + get me a name for wisdom, they’ll not fail to get me one for + ingenuity. My daughter Sanchica will bring us our dinner to the pasture. + But stay—she’s good-looking, and shepherds there are with more + mischief than simplicity in them; I would not have her ‘come for + wool and go back shorn;’ love-making and lawless desires are just as + common in the fields as in the cities, and in shepherds’ shanties as + in royal palaces; ‘do away with the cause, you do away with the sin;’ + ‘if eyes don’t see hearts don’t break’ and ‘better + a clear escape than good men’s prayers.’” + </p> + <p> + “A truce to thy proverbs, Sancho,” exclaimed Don Quixote; + “any one of those thou hast uttered would suffice to explain thy + meaning; many a time have I recommended thee not to be so lavish with + proverbs and to exercise some moderation in delivering them; but it seems + to me it is only ‘preaching in the desert;’ ‘my mother + beats me and I go on with my tricks.” + </p> + <p> + “It seems to me,” said Sancho, “that your worship is + like the common saying, ‘Said the frying-pan to the kettle, Get + away, blackbreech.’ You chide me for uttering proverbs, and you + string them in couples yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Observe, Sancho,” replied Don Quixote, “I bring in + proverbs to the purpose, and when I quote them they fit like a ring to the + finger; thou bringest them in by the head and shoulders, in such a way + that thou dost drag them in, rather than introduce them; if I am not + mistaken, I have told thee already that proverbs are short maxims drawn + from the experience and observation of our wise men of old; but the + proverb that is not to the purpose is a piece of nonsense and not a maxim. + But enough of this; as nightfall is drawing on let us retire some little + distance from the high road to pass the night; what is in store for us + to-morrow God knoweth.” + </p> + <p> + They turned aside, and supped late and poorly, very much against Sancho’s + will, who turned over in his mind the hardships attendant upon + knight-errantry in woods and forests, even though at times plenty + presented itself in castles and houses, as at Don Diego de Miranda’s, + at the wedding of Camacho the Rich, and at Don Antonio Moreno’s; he + reflected, however, that it could not be always day, nor always night; and + so that night he passed in sleeping, and his master in waking. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p67e" id="p67e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p67e.jpg (55K)" src="images/p67e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch68b" id="ch68b"></a>CHAPTER LXVIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE BRISTLY ADVENTURE THAT BEFELL DON QUIXOTE + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p68a" id="p68a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p68a.jpg (119K)" src="images/p68a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p68a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The night was somewhat dark, for though there was a moon in the sky it was + not in a quarter where she could be seen; for sometimes the lady Diana + goes on a stroll to the antipodes, and leaves the mountains all black and + the valleys in darkness. Don Quixote obeyed nature so far as to sleep his + first sleep, but did not give way to the second, very different from + Sancho, who never had any second, because with him sleep lasted from night + till morning, wherein he showed what a sound constitution and few cares he + had. Don Quixote’s cares kept him restless, so much so that he awoke + Sancho and said to him, “I am amazed, Sancho, at the unconcern of + thy temperament. I believe thou art made of marble or hard brass, + incapable of any emotion or feeling whatever. I lie awake while thou + sleepest, I weep while thou singest, I am faint with fasting while thou + art sluggish and torpid from pure repletion. It is the duty of good + servants to share the sufferings and feel the sorrows of their masters, if + it be only for the sake of appearances. See the calmness of the night, the + solitude of the spot, inviting us to break our slumbers by a vigil of some + sort. Rise as thou livest, and retire a little distance, and with a good + heart and cheerful courage give thyself three or four hundred lashes on + account of Dulcinea’s disenchantment score; and this I entreat of + thee, making it a request, for I have no desire to come to grips with thee + a second time, as I know thou hast a heavy hand. As soon as thou hast laid + them on we will pass the rest of the night, I singing my separation, thou + thy constancy, making a beginning at once with the pastoral life we are to + follow at our village.” + </p> + <p> + “Señor,” replied Sancho, “I’m no monk to get up + out of the middle of my sleep and scourge myself, nor does it seem to me + that one can pass from one extreme of the pain of whipping to the other of + music. Will your worship let me sleep, and not worry me about whipping + myself? or you’ll make me swear never to touch a hair of my doublet, + not to say my flesh.” + </p> + <p> + “O hard heart!” said Don Quixote, “O pitiless squire! O + bread ill-bestowed and favours ill-acknowledged, both those I have done + thee and those I mean to do thee! Through me hast thou seen thyself a + governor, and through me thou seest thyself in immediate expectation of + being a count, or obtaining some other equivalent title, for I—post + tenebras spero lucem.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know what that is,” said Sancho; “all I + know is that so long as I am asleep I have neither fear nor hope, trouble + nor glory; and good luck betide him that invented sleep, the cloak that + covers over all a man’s thoughts, the food that removes hunger, the + drink that drives away thirst, the fire that warms the cold, the cold that + tempers the heat, and, to wind up with, the universal coin wherewith + everything is bought, the weight and balance that makes the shepherd equal + with the king and the fool with the wise man. Sleep, I have heard say, has + only one fault, that it is like death; for between a sleeping man and a + dead man there is very little difference.” + </p> + <p> + “Never have I heard thee speak so elegantly as now, Sancho,” + said Don Quixote; “and here I begin to see the truth of the proverb + thou dost sometimes quote, ‘Not with whom thou art bred, but with + whom thou art fed.’” + </p> + <p> + “Ha, by my life, master mine,” said Sancho, “it’s + not I that am stringing proverbs now, for they drop in pairs from your + worship’s mouth faster than from mine; only there is this difference + between mine and yours, that yours are well-timed and mine are untimely; + but anyhow, they are all proverbs.” + </p> + <p> + At this point they became aware of a harsh indistinct noise that seemed to + spread through all the valleys around. Don Quixote stood up and laid his + hand upon his sword, and Sancho ensconced himself under Dapple and put the + bundle of armour on one side of him and the ass’s pack-saddle on the + other, in fear and trembling as great as Don Quixote’s perturbation. + Each instant the noise increased and came nearer to the two terrified men, + or at least to one, for as to the other, his courage is known to all. The + fact of the matter was that some men were taking above six hundred pigs to + sell at a fair, and were on their way with them at that hour, and so great + was the noise they made and their grunting and blowing, that they deafened + the ears of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza, and they could not make out what + it was. The wide-spread grunting drove came on in a surging mass, and + without showing any respect for Don Quixote’s dignity or Sancho’s, + passed right over the pair of them, demolishing Sancho’s + entrenchments, and not only upsetting Don Quixote but sweeping Rocinante + off his feet into the bargain; and what with the trampling and the + grunting, and the pace at which the unclean beasts went, pack-saddle, + armour, Dapple and Rocinante were left scattered on the ground and Sancho + and Don Quixote at their wits’ end. + </p> + <p> + Sancho got up as well as he could and begged his master to give him his + sword, saying he wanted to kill half a dozen of those dirty unmannerly + pigs, for he had by this time found out that that was what they were. + </p> + <p> + “Let them be, my friend,” said Don Quixote; “this insult + is the penalty of my sin; and it is the righteous chastisement of heaven + that jackals should devour a vanquished knight, and wasps sting him and + pigs trample him under foot.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose it is the chastisement of heaven, too,” said + Sancho, “that flies should prick the squires of vanquished knights, + and lice eat them, and hunger assail them. If we squires were the sons of + the knights we serve, or their very near relations, it would be no wonder + if the penalty of their misdeeds overtook us, even to the fourth + generation. But what have the Panzas to do with the Quixotes? Well, well, + let’s lie down again and sleep out what little of the night there’s + left, and God will send us dawn and we shall be all right.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p68b" id="p68b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p68b.jpg (345K)" src="images/p68b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p68b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “Sleep thou, Sancho,” returned Don Quixote, “for thou + wast born to sleep as I was born to watch; and during the time it now + wants of dawn I will give a loose rein to my thoughts, and seek a vent for + them in a little madrigal which, unknown to thee, I composed in my head + last night.” + </p> + <p> + “I should think,” said Sancho, “that the thoughts that + allow one to make verses cannot be of great consequence; let your worship + string verses as much as you like and I’ll sleep as much as I can;” + and forthwith, taking the space of ground he required, he muffled himself + up and fell into a sound sleep, undisturbed by bond, debt, or trouble of + any sort. Don Quixote, propped up against the trunk of a beech or a cork + tree—for Cide Hamete does not specify what kind of tree it was—sang + in this strain to the accompaniment of his own sighs: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +When in my mind +I muse, O Love, upon thy cruelty, +To death I flee, +In hope therein the end of all to find. + +But drawing near +That welcome haven in my sea of woe, +Such joy I know, +That life revives, and still I linger here. + +Thus life doth slay, +And death again to life restoreth me; +Strange destiny, +That deals with life and death as with a play! + +</pre> + <p> + He accompanied each verse with many sighs and not a few tears, just like + one whose heart was pierced with grief at his defeat and his separation + from Dulcinea. + </p> + <p> + And now daylight came, and the sun smote Sancho on the eyes with his + beams. He awoke, roused himself up, shook himself and stretched his lazy + limbs, and seeing the havoc the pigs had made with his stores he cursed + the drove, and more besides. Then the pair resumed their journey, and as + evening closed in they saw coming towards them some ten men on horseback + and four or five on foot. Don Quixote’s heart beat quick and Sancho’s + quailed with fear, for the persons approaching them carried lances and + bucklers, and were in very warlike guise. Don Quixote turned to Sancho and + said, “If I could make use of my weapons, and my promise had not + tied my hands, I would count this host that comes against us but cakes and + fancy bread; but perhaps it may prove something different from what we + apprehend.” The men on horseback now came up, and raising their + lances surrounded Don Quixote in silence, and pointed them at his back and + breast, menacing him with death. One of those on foot, putting his finger + to his lips as a sign to him to be silent, seized Rocinante’s bridle + and drew him out of the road, and the others driving Sancho and Dapple + before them, and all maintaining a strange silence, followed in the steps + of the one who led Don Quixote. The latter two or three times attempted to + ask where they were taking him to and what they wanted, but the instant he + began to open his lips they threatened to close them with the points of + their lances; and Sancho fared the same way, for the moment he seemed + about to speak one of those on foot punched him with a goad, and Dapple + likewise, as if he too wanted to talk. Night set in, they quickened their + pace, and the fears of the two prisoners grew greater, especially as they + heard themselves assailed with—“Get on, ye Troglodytes;” + “Silence, ye barbarians;” “March, ye cannibals;” + “No murmuring, ye Scythians;” “Don’t open your + eyes, ye murderous Polyphemes, ye blood-thirsty lions,” and suchlike + names with which their captors harassed the ears of the wretched master + and man. Sancho went along saying to himself, “We, tortolites, + barbers, animals! I don’t like those names at all; ‘it’s + in a bad wind our corn is being winnowed;’ ‘misfortune comes + upon us all at once like sticks on a dog,’ and God grant it may be + no worse than them that this unlucky adventure has in store for us.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote rode completely dazed, unable with the aid of all his wits to + make out what could be the meaning of these abusive names they called + them, and the only conclusion he could arrive at was that there was no + good to be hoped for and much evil to be feared. And now, about an hour + after midnight, they reached a castle which Don Quixote saw at once was + the duke’s, where they had been but a short time before. “God + bless me!” said he, as he recognised the mansion, “what does + this mean? It is all courtesy and politeness in this house; but with the + vanquished good turns into evil, and evil into worse.” + </p> + <p> + They entered the chief court of the castle and found it prepared and + fitted up in a style that added to their amazement and doubled their + fears, as will be seen in the following chapter. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p68e" id="p68e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p68e.jpg (49K)" src="images/p68e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch69b" id="ch69b"></a>CHAPTER LXIX. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE STRANGEST AND MOST EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURE THAT BEFELL DON QUIXOTE + IN THE WHOLE COURSE OF THIS GREAT HISTORY + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p69a" id="p69a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p69a.jpg (141K)" src="images/p69a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p69a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The horsemen dismounted, and, together with the men on foot, without a + moment’s delay taking up Sancho and Don Quixote bodily, they carried + them into the court, all round which near a hundred torches fixed in + sockets were burning, besides above five hundred lamps in the corridors, + so that in spite of the night, which was somewhat dark, the want of + daylight could not be perceived. In the middle of the court was a + catafalque, raised about two yards above the ground and covered completely + by an immense canopy of black velvet, and on the steps all round it white + wax tapers burned in more than a hundred silver candlesticks. Upon the + catafalque was seen the dead body of a damsel so lovely that by her beauty + she made death itself look beautiful. She lay with her head resting upon a + cushion of brocade and crowned with a garland of sweet-smelling flowers of + divers sorts, her hands crossed upon her bosom, and between them a branch + of yellow palm of victory. On one side of the court was erected a stage, + where upon two chairs were seated two persons who from having crowns on + their heads and sceptres in their hands appeared to be kings of some sort, + whether real or mock ones. By the side of this stage, which was reached by + steps, were two other chairs on which the men carrying the prisoners + seated Don Quixote and Sancho, all in silence, and by signs giving them to + understand that they too were to be silent; which, however, they would + have been without any signs, for their amazement at all they saw held them + tongue-tied. And now two persons of distinction, who were at once + recognised by Don Quixote as his hosts the duke and duchess, ascended the + stage attended by a numerous suite, and seated themselves on two gorgeous + chairs close to the two kings, as they seemed to be. Who would not have + been amazed at this? Nor was this all, for Don Quixote had perceived that + the dead body on the catafalque was that of the fair Altisidora. As the + duke and duchess mounted the stage Don Quixote and Sancho rose and made + them a profound obeisance, which they returned by bowing their heads + slightly. At this moment an official crossed over, and approaching Sancho + threw over him a robe of black buckram painted all over with flames of + fire, and taking off his cap put upon his head a mitre such as those + undergoing the sentence of the Holy Office wear; and whispered in his ear + that he must not open his lips, or they would put a gag upon him, or take + his life. Sancho surveyed himself from head to foot and saw himself all + ablaze with flames; but as they did not burn him, he did not care two + farthings for them. He took off the mitre and seeing it painted with + devils he put it on again, saying to himself, “Well, so far those + don’t burn me nor do these carry me off.” Don Quixote surveyed + him too, and though fear had got the better of his faculties, he could not + help smiling to see the figure Sancho presented. And now from underneath + the catafalque, so it seemed, there rose a low sweet sound of flutes, + which, coming unbroken by human voice (for there silence itself kept + silence), had a soft and languishing effect. Then, beside the pillow of + what seemed to be the dead body, suddenly appeared a fair youth in a Roman + habit, who, to the accompaniment of a harp which he himself played, sang + in a sweet and clear voice these two stanzas: + </p> + +<p class="poem"> +While fair Altisidora, who the sport<br/> + Of cold Don Quixote’s cruelty hath been,<br/> +Returns to life, and in this magic court<br/> + The dames in sables come to grace the scene,<br/> +And while her matrons all in seemly sort<br/> + My lady robes in baize and bombazine,<br/> +Her beauty and her sorrows will I sing<br/> +With defter quill than touched the Thracian string.<br/> +<br/> +But not in life alone, methinks, to me<br/> + Belongs the office; Lady, when my tongue<br/> +Is cold in death, believe me, unto thee<br/> + My voice shall raise its tributary song.<br/> +My soul, from this strait prison-house set free,<br/> + As o’er the Stygian lake it floats along,<br/> +Thy praises singing still shall hold its way,<br/> +And make the waters of oblivion stay.<br/> +</p> + + <p> + At this point one of the two that looked like kings exclaimed, “Enough, + enough, divine singer! It would be an endless task to put before us now + the death and the charms of the peerless Altisidora, not dead as the + ignorant world imagines, but living in the voice of fame and in the + penance which Sancho Panza, here present, has to undergo to restore her to + the long-lost light. Do thou, therefore, O Rhadamanthus, who sittest in + judgment with me in the murky caverns of Dis, as thou knowest all that the + inscrutable fates have decreed touching the resuscitation of this damsel, + announce and declare it at once, that the happiness we look forward to + from her restoration be no longer deferred.” + </p> + <p> + No sooner had Minos the fellow judge of Rhadamanthus said this, than + Rhadamanthus rising up said: + </p> + <p> + “Ho, officials of this house, high and low, great and small, make + haste hither one and all, and print on Sancho’s face four-and-twenty + smacks, and give him twelve pinches and six pin thrusts in the back and + arms; for upon this ceremony depends the restoration of Altisidora.” + </p> + <p> + On hearing this Sancho broke silence and cried out, “By all + that’s good, I’ll as soon let my face be smacked or handled + as turn Moor. Body o’ me! What has handling my face got to do with + the resurrection of this damsel? ‘The old woman took kindly to the + blits;’ they enchant Dulcinea, and whip me in order to disenchant + her; Altisidora dies of ailments God was pleased to send her, and to + bring her to life again they must give me four-and-twenty smacks, and + prick holes in my body with pins, and raise weals on my arms with + pinches! Try those jokes on a brother-in-law; ‘I’m an old + dog, and “tus, tus” is no use with me.’” + </p> + <p> + “Thou shalt die,” said Rhadamanthus in a loud voice; “relent, + thou tiger; humble thyself, proud Nimrod; suffer and he silent, for no + impossibilities are asked of thee; it is not for thee to inquire into the + difficulties in this matter; smacked thou must be, pricked thou shalt see + thyself, and with pinches thou must be made to howl. Ho, I say, officials, + obey my orders; or by the word of an honest man, ye shall see what ye were + born for.” + </p> + <p> + At this some six duennas, advancing across the court, made their + appearance in procession, one after the other, four of them with + spectacles, and all with their right hands uplifted, showing four fingers + of wrist to make their hands look longer, as is the fashion now-a-days. No + sooner had Sancho caught sight of them than, bellowing like a bull, he + exclaimed, “I might let myself be handled by all the world; but + allow duennas to touch me—not a bit of it! Scratch my face, as my + master was served in this very castle; run me through the body with + burnished daggers; pinch my arms with red-hot pincers; I’ll bear all + in patience to serve these gentlefolk; but I won’t let duennas touch + me, though the devil should carry me off!” + </p> + <p> + Here Don Quixote, too, broke silence, saying to Sancho, “Have + patience, my son, and gratify these noble persons, and give all thanks to + heaven that it has infused such virtue into thy person, that by its + sufferings thou canst disenchant the enchanted and restore to life the + dead.” + </p> + <p> + The duennas were now close to Sancho, and he, having become more tractable + and reasonable, settling himself well in his chair presented his face and + beard to the first, who delivered him a smack very stoutly laid on, and + then made him a low curtsey. + </p> + <p> + “Less politeness and less paint, señora duenna,” said Sancho; + “by God your hands smell of vinegar-wash.” + </p> + <p> + In line, all the duennas smacked him and several others of the household + pinched him; but what he could not stand was being pricked by the pins; + and so, apparently out of patience, he started up out of his chair, and + seizing a lighted torch that stood near him fell upon the duennas and the + whole set of his tormentors, exclaiming, “Begone, ye ministers of + hell; I’m not made of brass not to feel such out-of-the-way + tortures.” + </p> + <p> + At this instant Altisidora, who probably was tired of having been so long + lying on her back, turned on her side; seeing which the bystanders cried + out almost with one voice, “Altisidora is alive! Altisidora lives!” + </p> + <p> + Rhadamanthus bade Sancho put away his wrath, as the object they had in + view was now attained. When Don Quixote saw Altisidora move, he went on + his knees to Sancho saying to him, “Now is the time, son of my + bowels, not to call thee my squire, for thee to give thyself some of those + lashes thou art bound to lay on for the disenchantment of Dulcinea. Now, I + say, is the time when the virtue that is in thee is ripe, and endowed with + efficacy to work the good that is looked for from thee.” + </p> + <p> + To which Sancho made answer, “That’s trick upon trick, I + think, and not honey upon pancakes; a nice thing it would be for a + whipping to come now, on the top of pinches, smacks, and pin-proddings! + You had better take a big stone and tie it round my neck, and pitch me + into a well; I should not mind it much, if I’m to be always made the + cow of the wedding for the cure of other people’s ailments. Leave me + alone; or else by God I’ll fling the whole thing to the dogs, let + come what may.” + </p> + <p> + Altisidora had by this time sat up on the catafalque, and as she did so + the clarions sounded, accompanied by the flutes, and the voices of all + present exclaiming, “Long life to Altisidora! long life to + Altisidora!” The duke and duchess and the kings Minos and + Rhadamanthus stood up, and all, together with Don Quixote and Sancho, + advanced to receive her and take her down from the catafalque; and she, + making as though she were recovering from a swoon, bowed her head to the + duke and duchess and to the kings, and looking sideways at Don Quixote, + said to him, “God forgive thee, insensible knight, for through thy + cruelty I have been, to me it seems, more than a thousand years in the + other world; and to thee, the most compassionate upon earth, I render + thanks for the life I am now in possession of. From this day forth, friend + Sancho, count as thine six smocks of mine which I bestow upon thee, to + make as many shirts for thyself, and if they are not all quite whole, at + any rate they are all clean.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho kissed her hands in gratitude, kneeling, and with the mitre in his + hand. The duke bade them take it from him, and give him back his cap and + doublet and remove the flaming robe. Sancho begged the duke to let them + leave him the robe and mitre; as he wanted to take them home for a token + and memento of that unexampled adventure. The duchess said they must leave + them with him; for he knew already what a great friend of his she was. The + duke then gave orders that the court should be cleared, and that all + should retire to their chambers, and that Don Quixote and Sancho should be + conducted to their old quarters. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p69e" id="p69e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p69e.jpg (60K)" src="images/p69e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch70b" id="ch70b"></a>CHAPTER LXX. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + WHICH FOLLOWS SIXTY-NINE AND DEALS WITH MATTERS INDISPENSABLE FOR THE + CLEAR COMPREHENSION OF THIS HISTORY + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p70a" id="p70a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p70a.jpg (131K)" src="images/p70a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p70a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + Sancho slept that night in a cot in the same chamber with Don Quixote, a + thing he would have gladly excused if he could for he knew very well that + with questions and answers his master would not let him sleep, and he was + in no humour for talking much, as he still felt the pain of his late + martyrdom, which interfered with his freedom of speech; and it would have + been more to his taste to sleep in a hovel alone, than in that luxurious + chamber in company. And so well founded did his apprehension prove, and so + correct was his anticipation, that scarcely had his master got into bed + when he said, “What dost thou think of to-night’s adventure, + Sancho? Great and mighty is the power of cold-hearted scorn, for thou with + thine own eyes hast seen Altisidora slain, not by arrows, nor by the + sword, nor by any warlike weapon, nor by deadly poisons, but by the + thought of the sternness and scorn with which I have always treated her.” + </p> + <p> + “She might have died and welcome,” said Sancho, “when + she pleased and how she pleased; and she might have left me alone, for I + never made her fall in love or scorned her. I don’t know nor can I + imagine how the recovery of Altisidora, a damsel more fanciful than wise, + can have, as I have said before, anything to do with the sufferings of + Sancho Panza. Now I begin to see plainly and clearly that there are + enchanters and enchanted people in the world; and may God deliver me from + them, since I can’t deliver myself; and so I beg of your worship to + let me sleep and not ask me any more questions, unless you want me to + throw myself out of the window.” + </p> + <p> + “Sleep, Sancho my friend,” said Don Quixote, “if the + pinprodding and pinches thou hast received and the smacks administered to + thee will let thee.” + </p> + <p> + “No pain came up to the insult of the smacks,” said Sancho, + “for the simple reason that it was duennas, confound them, that gave + them to me; but once more I entreat your worship to let me sleep, for + sleep is relief from misery to those who are miserable when awake.” + </p> + <p> + “Be it so, and God be with thee,” said Don Quixote. + </p> + <p> + They fell asleep, both of them, and Cide Hamete, the author of this great + history, took this opportunity to record and relate what it was that + induced the duke and duchess to get up the elaborate plot that has been + described. The bachelor Samson Carrasco, he says, not forgetting how he as + the Knight of the Mirrors had been vanquished and overthrown by Don + Quixote, which defeat and overthrow upset all his plans, resolved to try + his hand again, hoping for better luck than he had before; and so, having + learned where Don Quixote was from the page who brought the letter and + present to Sancho’s wife, Teresa Panza, he got himself new armour + and another horse, and put a white moon upon his shield, and to carry his + arms he had a mule led by a peasant, not by Tom Cecial his former squire + for fear he should be recognised by Sancho or Don Quixote. He came to the + duke’s castle, and the duke informed him of the road and route Don + Quixote had taken with the intention of being present at the jousts at + Saragossa. He told him, too, of the jokes he had practised upon him, and + of the device for the disenchantment of Dulcinea at the expense of Sancho’s + backside; and finally he gave him an account of the trick Sancho had + played upon his master, making him believe that Dulcinea was enchanted and + turned into a country wench; and of how the duchess, his wife, had + persuaded Sancho that it was he himself who was deceived, inasmuch as + Dulcinea was really enchanted; at which the bachelor laughed not a little, + and marvelled as well at the sharpness and simplicity of Sancho as at the + length to which Don Quixote’s madness went. The duke begged of him + if he found him (whether he overcame him or not) to return that way and + let him know the result. This the bachelor did; he set out in quest of Don + Quixote, and not finding him at Saragossa, he went on, and how he fared + has been already told. He returned to the duke’s castle and told him + all, what the conditions of the combat were, and how Don Quixote was now, + like a loyal knight-errant, returning to keep his promise of retiring to + his village for a year, by which time, said the bachelor, he might perhaps + be cured of his madness; for that was the object that had led him to adopt + these disguises, as it was a sad thing for a gentleman of such good parts + as Don Quixote to be a madman. And so he took his leave of the duke, and + went home to his village to wait there for Don Quixote, who was coming + after him. Thereupon the duke seized the opportunity of practising this + mystification upon him; so much did he enjoy everything connected with + Sancho and Don Quixote. He had the roads about the castle far and near, + everywhere he thought Don Quixote was likely to pass on his return, + occupied by large numbers of his servants on foot and on horseback, who + were to bring him to the castle, by fair means or foul, if they met him. + They did meet him, and sent word to the duke, who, having already settled + what was to be done, as soon as he heard of his arrival, ordered the + torches and lamps in the court to be lit and Altisidora to be placed on + the catafalque with all the pomp and ceremony that has been described, the + whole affair being so well arranged and acted that it differed but little + from reality. And Cide Hamete says, moreover, that for his part he + considers the concocters of the joke as crazy as the victims of it, and + that the duke and duchess were not two fingers’ breadth removed from + being something like fools themselves when they took such pains to make + game of a pair of fools. + </p> + <p> + As for the latter, one was sleeping soundly and the other lying awake + occupied with his desultory thoughts, when daylight came to them bringing + with it the desire to rise; for the lazy down was never a delight to Don + Quixote, victor or vanquished. Altisidora, come back from death to life as + Don Quixote fancied, following up the freak of her lord and lady, entered + the chamber, crowned with the garland she had worn on the catafalque and + in a robe of white taffeta embroidered with gold flowers, her hair flowing + loose over her shoulders, and leaning upon a staff of fine black ebony. + Don Quixote, disconcerted and in confusion at her appearance, huddled + himself up and well-nigh covered himself altogether with the sheets and + counterpane of the bed, tongue-tied, and unable to offer her any civility. + Altisidora seated herself on a chair at the head of the bed, and, after a + deep sigh, said to him in a feeble, soft voice, “When women of rank + and modest maidens trample honour under foot, and give a loose to the + tongue that breaks through every impediment, publishing abroad the inmost + secrets of their hearts, they are reduced to sore extremities. Such a one + am I, Señor Don Quixote of La Mancha, crushed, conquered, love-smitten, + but yet patient under suffering and virtuous, and so much so that my heart + broke with grief and I lost my life. For the last two days I have been + dead, slain by the thought of the cruelty with which thou hast treated me, + obdurate knight, + </p> + + <p class="poem"> + O harder thou than marble to my plaint; + </p> + +<p class="noindent"> + or at least believed to be dead by all who saw me; and had it not been + that Love, taking pity on me, let my recovery rest upon the sufferings of + this good squire, there I should have remained in the other world.” + </p> + <p> + “Love might very well have let it rest upon the sufferings of my + ass, and I should have been obliged to him,” said Sancho. “But + tell me, señora—and may heaven send you a tenderer lover than my + master—what did you see in the other world? What goes on in hell? + For of course that’s where one who dies in despair is bound for.” + </p> + <p> + “To tell you the truth,” said Altisidora, “I cannot have + died outright, for I did not go into hell; had I gone in, it is very + certain I should never have come out again, do what I might. The truth is, + I came to the gate, where some dozen or so of devils were playing tennis, + all in breeches and doublets, with falling collars trimmed with Flemish + bonelace, and ruffles of the same that served them for wristbands, with + four fingers’ breadth of the arms exposed to make their hands look + longer; in their hands they held rackets of fire; but what amazed me still + more was that books, apparently full of wind and rubbish, served them for + tennis balls, a strange and marvellous thing; this, however, did not + astonish me so much as to observe that, although with players it is usual + for the winners to be glad and the losers sorry, there in that game all + were growling, all were snarling, and all were cursing one another.” + “That’s no wonder,” said Sancho; “for devils, + whether playing or not, can never be content, win or lose.” + </p> + <p> + “Very likely,” said Altisidora; “but there is another + thing that surprises me too, I mean surprised me then, and that was that + no ball outlasted the first throw or was of any use a second time; and it + was wonderful the constant succession there was of books, new and old. To + one of them, a brand-new, well-bound one, they gave such a stroke that + they knocked the guts out of it and scattered the leaves about. ‘Look + what book that is,’ said one devil to another, and the other + replied, ‘It is the “Second Part of the History of Don Quixote + of La Mancha,” not by Cide Hamete, the original author, but by an + Aragonese who by his own account is of Tordesillas.’ ‘Out of + this with it,’ said the first, ‘and into the depths of hell + with it out of my sight.’ ‘Is it so bad?’ said the + other. ‘So bad is it,’ said the first, ‘that if I had + set myself deliberately to make a worse, I could not have done it.’ + They then went on with their game, knocking other books about; and I, + having heard them mention the name of Don Quixote whom I love and adore + so, took care to retain this vision in my memory.” + </p> + <p> + “A vision it must have been, no doubt,” said Don Quixote, + “for there is no other I in the world; this history has been going + about here for some time from hand to hand, but it does not stay long in + any, for everybody gives it a taste of his foot. I am not disturbed by + hearing that I am wandering in a fantastic shape in the darkness of the + pit or in the daylight above, for I am not the one that history treats of. + If it should be good, faithful, and true, it will have ages of life; but + if it should be bad, from its birth to its burial will not be a very long + journey.” + </p> + <p> + Altisidora was about to proceed with her complaint against Don Quixote, + when he said to her, “I have several times told you, señora, that + it grieves me you should have set your affections upon me, as from mine + they can only receive gratitude, but no return. I was born to belong to + Dulcinea del Toboso, and the fates, if there are any, dedicated me to + her; and to suppose that any other beauty can take the place she occupies + in my heart is to suppose an impossibility. This frank declaration should + suffice to make you retire within the bounds of your modesty, for no one + can bind himself to do impossibilities.” + </p> + <p> + Hearing this, Altisidora, with a show of anger and agitation, exclaimed, + “God’s life! Don Stockfish, soul of a mortar, stone of a date, + more obstinate and obdurate than a clown asked a favour when he has his + mind made up, if I fall upon you I’ll tear your eyes out! Do you + fancy, Don Vanquished, Don Cudgelled, that I died for your sake? All that + you have seen to-night has been make-believe; I’m not the woman to + let the black of my nail suffer for such a camel, much less die!” + </p> + <p> + “That I can well believe,” said Sancho; “for all that + about lovers pining to death is absurd; they may talk of it, but as for + doing it—Judas may believe that!” + </p> + <p> + While they were talking, the musician, singer, and poet, who had sung the + two stanzas given above came in, and making a profound obeisance to Don + Quixote said, “Will your worship, sir knight, reckon and retain me + in the number of your most faithful servants, for I have long been a great + admirer of yours, as well because of your fame as because of your + achievements?” “Will your worship tell me who you are,” + replied Don Quixote, “so that my courtesy may be answerable to your + deserts?” The young man replied that he was the musician and + songster of the night before. “Of a truth,” said Don Quixote, + “your worship has a most excellent voice; but what you sang did not + seem to me very much to the purpose; for what have Garcilasso’s + stanzas to do with the death of this lady?” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t be surprised at that,” returned the musician; + “for with the callow poets of our day the way is for every one to + write as he pleases and pilfer where he chooses, whether it be germane to + the matter or not, and now-a-days there is no piece of silliness they can + sing or write that is not set down to poetic licence.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote was about to reply, but was prevented by the duke and duchess, + who came in to see him, and with them there followed a long and delightful + conversation, in the course of which Sancho said so many droll and saucy + things that he left the duke and duchess wondering not only at his + simplicity but at his sharpness. Don Quixote begged their permission to + take his departure that same day, inasmuch as for a vanquished knight like + himself it was fitter he should live in a pig-sty than in a royal palace. + They gave it very readily, and the duchess asked him if Altisidora was in + his good graces. + </p> + <p> + He replied, “Señora, let me tell your ladyship that this damsel’s + ailment comes entirely of idleness, and the cure for it is honest and + constant employment. She herself has told me that lace is worn in hell; + and as she must know how to make it, let it never be out of her hands; for + when she is occupied in shifting the bobbins to and fro, the image or + images of what she loves will not shift to and fro in her thoughts; this + is the truth, this is my opinion, and this is my advice.” + </p> + <p> + “And mine,” added Sancho; “for I never in all my life + saw a lace-maker that died for love; when damsels are at work their minds + are more set on finishing their tasks than on thinking of their loves. I + speak from my own experience; for when I’m digging I never think of + my old woman; I mean my Teresa Panza, whom I love better than my own + eyelids.” “You say well, Sancho,” said the duchess, + “and I will take care that my Altisidora employs herself + henceforward in needlework of some sort; for she is extremely expert at + it.” “There is no occasion to have recourse to that remedy, + señora,” said Altisidora; “for the mere thought of the cruelty + with which this vagabond villain has treated me will suffice to blot him + out of my memory without any other device; with your highness’s + leave I will retire, not to have before my eyes, I won’t say his + rueful countenance, but his abominable, ugly looks.” “That + reminds me of the common saying, that ‘he that rails is ready to + forgive,’” said the duke. + </p> + <p> + Altisidora then, pretending to wipe away her tears with a handkerchief, + made an obeisance to her master and mistress and quitted the room. + </p> + <p> + “Ill luck betide thee, poor damsel,” said Sancho, “ill + luck betide thee! Thou hast fallen in with a soul as dry as a rush and a + heart as hard as oak; had it been me, i’faith ‘another cock + would have crowed to thee.’” + </p> + <p> + So the conversation came to an end, and Don Quixote dressed himself and + dined with the duke and duchess, and set out the same evening. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p70e" id="p70e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p70e.jpg (73K)" src="images/p70e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p70e.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch71b" id="ch71b"></a>CHAPTER LXXI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF WHAT PASSED BETWEEN DON QUIXOTE AND HIS SQUIRE SANCHO ON THE WAY TO + THEIR VILLAGE + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p71a" id="p71a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p71a.jpg (82K)" src="images/p71a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p71a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + The vanquished and afflicted Don Quixote went along very downcast in one + respect and very happy in another. His sadness arose from his defeat, and + his satisfaction from the thought of the virtue that lay in Sancho, as had + been proved by the resurrection of Altisidora; though it was with + difficulty he could persuade himself that the love-smitten damsel had been + really dead. Sancho went along anything but cheerful, for it grieved him + that Altisidora had not kept her promise of giving him the smocks; and + turning this over in his mind he said to his master, “Surely, señor, + I’m the most unlucky doctor in the world; there’s many a + physician that, after killing the sick man he had to cure, requires to be + paid for his work, though it is only signing a bit of a list of medicines, + that the apothecary and not he makes up, and, there, his labour is over; + but with me though to cure somebody else costs me drops of blood, smacks, + pinches, pinproddings, and whippings, nobody gives me a farthing. Well, I + swear by all that’s good if they put another patient into my hands, + they’ll have to grease them for me before I cure him; for, as they + say, ‘it’s by his singing the abbot gets his dinner,’ + and I’m not going to believe that heaven has bestowed upon me the + virtue I have, that I should be dealing it out to others all for nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou art right, Sancho my friend,” said Don Quixote, “and + Altisidora has behaved very badly in not giving thee the smocks she + promised; and although that virtue of thine is gratis data—as it has + cost thee no study whatever, any more than such study as thy personal + sufferings may be—I can say for myself that if thou wouldst have + payment for the lashes on account of the disenchant of Dulcinea, I would + have given it to thee freely ere this. I am not sure, however, whether + payment will comport with the cure, and I would not have the reward + interfere with the medicine. I think there will be nothing lost by trying + it; consider how much thou wouldst have, Sancho, and whip thyself at once, + and pay thyself down with thine own hand, as thou hast money of mine.” + </p> + <p> + At this proposal Sancho opened his eyes and his ears a palm’s + breadth wide, and in his heart very readily acquiesced in whipping + himself, and said he to his master, “Very well then, señor, I’ll + hold myself in readiness to gratify your worship’s wishes if I’m + to profit by it; for the love of my wife and children forces me to seem + grasping. Let your worship say how much you will pay me for each lash I + give myself.” + </p> + <p> + “If Sancho,” replied Don Quixote, “I were to requite + thee as the importance and nature of the cure deserves, the treasures of + Venice, the mines of Potosi, would be insufficient to pay thee. See what + thou hast of mine, and put a price on each lash.” + </p> + <p> + “Of them,” said Sancho, “there are three thousand three + hundred and odd; of these I have given myself five, the rest remain; let + the five go for the odd ones, and let us take the three thousand three + hundred, which at a quarter real apiece (for I will not take less though + the whole world should bid me) make three thousand three hundred quarter + reals; the three thousand are one thousand five hundred half reals, which + make seven hundred and fifty reals; and the three hundred make a hundred + and fifty half reals, which come to seventy-five reals, which added to the + seven hundred and fifty make eight hundred and twenty-five reals in all. + These I will stop out of what I have belonging to your worship, and I’ll + return home rich and content, though well whipped, for ‘there’s + no taking trout’—but I say no more.” + </p> + <p> + “O blessed Sancho! O dear Sancho!” said Don Quixote; “how + we shall be bound to serve thee, Dulcinea and I, all the days of our lives + that heaven may grant us! If she returns to her lost shape (and it cannot + be but that she will) her misfortune will have been good fortune, and my + defeat a most happy triumph. But look here, Sancho; when wilt thou begin + the scourging? For if thou wilt make short work of it, I will give thee a + hundred reals over and above.” + </p> + <p> + “When?” said Sancho; “this night without fail. Let your + worship order it so that we pass it out of doors and in the open air, and + I’ll scarify myself.” + </p> + <p> + Night, longed for by Don Quixote with the greatest anxiety in the world, + came at last, though it seemed to him that the wheels of Apollo’s + car had broken down, and that the day was drawing itself out longer than + usual, just as is the case with lovers, who never make the reckoning of + their desires agree with time. They made their way at length in among some + pleasant trees that stood a little distance from the road, and there + vacating Rocinante’s saddle and Dapple’s pack-saddle, they + stretched themselves on the green grass and made their supper off Sancho’s + stores, and he making a powerful and flexible whip out of Dapple’s + halter and headstall retreated about twenty paces from his master among + some beech trees. Don Quixote seeing him march off with such resolution + and spirit, said to him, “Take care, my friend, not to cut thyself + to pieces; allow the lashes to wait for one another, and do not be in so + great a hurry as to run thyself out of breath midway; I mean, do not lay + on so strenuously as to make thy life fail thee before thou hast reached + the desired number; and that thou mayest not lose by a card too much or + too little, I will station myself apart and count on my rosary here the + lashes thou givest thyself. May heaven help thee as thy good intention + deserves.” + </p> + <p> + “‘Pledges don’t distress a good payer,’” + said Sancho; “I mean to lay on in such a way as without killing + myself to hurt myself, for in that, no doubt, lies the essence of this + miracle.” + </p> + <p> + He then stripped himself from the waist upwards, and snatching up the rope + he began to lay on and Don Quixote to count the lashes. He might have + given himself six or eight when he began to think the joke no trifle, and + its price very low; and holding his hand for a moment, he told his master + that he cried off on the score of a blind bargain, for each of those + lashes ought to be paid for at the rate of half a real instead of a + quarter. + </p> + <p> + “Go on, Sancho my friend, and be not disheartened,” said Don + Quixote; “for I double the stakes as to price.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case,” said Sancho, “in God’s hand be it, + and let it rain lashes.” But the rogue no longer laid them on his + shoulders, but laid on to the trees, with such groans every now and then, + that one would have thought at each of them his soul was being plucked up + by the roots. Don Quixote, touched to the heart, and fearing he might make + an end of himself, and that through Sancho’s imprudence he might + miss his own object, said to him, “As thou livest, my friend, let + the matter rest where it is, for the remedy seems to me a very rough one, + and it will be well to have patience; ‘Zamora was not won in an + hour.’ If I have not reckoned wrong thou hast given thyself over a + thousand lashes; that is enough for the present; ‘for the ass,’ + to put it in homely phrase, ‘bears the load, but not the overload.’” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, señor,” replied Sancho; “it shall never be said + of me, ‘The money paid, the arms broken;’ go back a little + further, your worship, and let me give myself at any rate a thousand + lashes more; for in a couple of bouts like this we shall have finished off + the lot, and there will be even cloth to spare.” + </p> + <p> + “As thou art in such a willing mood,” said Don Quixote, + “may heaven aid thee; lay on and I’ll retire.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho returned to his task with so much resolution that he soon had the + bark stripped off several trees, such was the severity with which he + whipped himself; and one time, raising his voice, and giving a beech a + tremendous lash, he cried out, “Here dies Samson, and all with him!” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p71b" id="p71b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p71b.jpg (349K)" src="images/p71b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p71b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + At the sound of his piteous cry and of the stroke of the cruel lash, Don + Quixote ran to him at once, and seizing the twisted halter that served him + for a courbash, said to him, “Heaven forbid, Sancho my friend, that + to please me thou shouldst lose thy life, which is needed for the support + of thy wife and children; let Dulcinea wait for a better opportunity, and + I will content myself with a hope soon to be realised, and have patience + until thou hast gained fresh strength so as to finish off this business to + the satisfaction of everybody.” + </p> + <p> + “As your worship will have it so, señor,” said Sancho, “so + be it; but throw your cloak over my shoulders, for I’m sweating and + I don’t want to take cold; it’s a risk that novice + disciplinants run.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote obeyed, and stripping himself covered Sancho, who slept until + the sun woke him; they then resumed their journey, which for the time + being they brought to an end at a village that lay three leagues farther + on. They dismounted at a hostelry which Don Quixote recognised as such and + did not take to be a castle with moat, turrets, portcullis, and + drawbridge; for ever since he had been vanquished he talked more + rationally about everything, as will be shown presently. They quartered + him in a room on the ground floor, where in place of leather hangings + there were pieces of painted serge such as they commonly use in villages. + On one of them was painted by some very poor hand the Rape of Helen, when + the bold guest carried her off from Menelaus, and on the other was the + story of Dido and Æneas, she on a high tower, as though she were making + signals with a half sheet to her fugitive guest who was out at sea flying + in a frigate or brigantine. He noticed in the two stories that Helen did + not go very reluctantly, for she was laughing slyly and roguishly; but the + fair Dido was shown dropping tears the size of walnuts from her eyes. Don + Quixote as he looked at them observed, “Those two ladies were very + unfortunate not to have been born in this age, and I unfortunate above all + men not to have been born in theirs. Had I fallen in with those gentlemen, + Troy would not have been burned or Carthage destroyed, for it would have + been only for me to slay Paris, and all these misfortunes would have been + avoided.” + </p> + <p> + “I’ll lay a bet,” said Sancho, “that before long + there won’t be a tavern, roadside inn, hostelry, or barber’s + shop where the story of our doings won’t be painted up; but I’d + like it painted by the hand of a better painter than painted these.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou art right, Sancho,” said Don Quixote, “for this + painter is like Orbaneja, a painter there was at Ubeda, who when they + asked him what he was painting, used to say, ‘Whatever it may turn + out; and if he chanced to paint a cock he would write under it, ‘This + is a cock,’ for fear they might think it was a fox. The painter or + writer, for it’s all the same, who published the history of this new + Don Quixote that has come out, must have been one of this sort I think, + Sancho, for he painted or wrote ‘whatever it might turn out;’ + or perhaps he is like a poet called Mauleon that was about the Court some + years ago, who used to answer at haphazard whatever he was asked, and on + one asking him what Deum de Deo meant, he replied De donde diere. But, + putting this aside, tell me, Sancho, hast thou a mind to have another turn + at thyself to-night, and wouldst thou rather have it indoors or in the + open air?” + </p> + <p> + “Egad, señor,” said Sancho, “for what I’m going to + give myself, it comes all the same to me whether it is in a house or in + the fields; still I’d like it to be among trees; for I think they + are company for me and help me to bear my pain wonderfully.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet it must not be, Sancho my friend,” said Don Quixote; + “but, to enable thee to recover strength, we must keep it for our + own village; for at the latest we shall get there the day after to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + Sancho said he might do as he pleased; but that for his own part he would + like to finish off the business quickly before his blood cooled and while + he had an appetite, because “in delay there is apt to be danger” + very often, and “praying to God and plying the hammer,” and + “one take was better than two I’ll give thee’s,” + and “a sparrow in the hand than a vulture on the wing.” + </p> + <p> + “For God’s sake, Sancho, no more proverbs!” exclaimed + Don Quixote; “it seems to me thou art becoming sicut erat again; + speak in a plain, simple, straight-forward way, as I have often told thee, + and thou wilt find the good of it.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know what bad luck it is of mine,” said Sancho, + “but I can’t utter a word without a proverb that is not as + good as an argument to my mind; however, I mean to mend if I can;” + and so for the present the conversation ended. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p71e" id="p71e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p71e.jpg (42K)" src="images/p71e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch72b" id="ch72b"></a>CHAPTER LXXII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF HOW DON QUIXOTE AND SANCHO REACHED THEIR VILLAGE + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p72a" id="p72a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p72a.jpg (155K)" src="images/p72a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p72a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + All that day Don Quixote and Sancho remained in the village and inn + waiting for night, the one to finish off his task of scourging in the open + country, the other to see it accomplished, for therein lay the + accomplishment of his wishes. Meanwhile there arrived at the hostelry a + traveller on horseback with three or four servants, one of whom said to + him who appeared to be the master, “Here, Señor Don Alvaro Tarfe, + your worship may take your siesta to-day; the quarters seem clean and + cool.” + </p> + <p> + When he heard this Don Quixote said to Sancho, “Look here, Sancho; + on turning over the leaves of that book of the Second Part of my history I + think I came casually upon this name of Don Alvaro Tarfe.” + </p> + <p> + “Very likely,” said Sancho; “we had better let him + dismount, and by-and-by we can ask about it.” + </p> + <p> + The gentleman dismounted, and the landlady gave him a room on the ground + floor opposite Don Quixote’s and adorned with painted serge hangings + of the same sort. The newly arrived gentleman put on a summer coat, and + coming out to the gateway of the hostelry, which was wide and cool, + addressing Don Quixote, who was pacing up and down there, he asked, + “In what direction is your worship bound, gentle sir?” + </p> + <p> + “To a village near this which is my own village,” replied Don + Quixote; “and your worship, where are you bound for?” + </p> + <p> + “I am going to Granada, señor,” said the gentleman, “to + my own country.” + </p> + <p> + “And a goodly country,” said Don Quixote; “but will your + worship do me the favour of telling me your name, for it strikes me it is + of more importance to me to know it than I can tell you.” + </p> + <p> + “My name is Don Alvaro Tarfe,” replied the traveller. + </p> + <p> + To which Don Quixote returned, “I have no doubt whatever that your + worship is that Don Alvaro Tarfe who appears in print in the Second Part + of the history of Don Quixote of La Mancha, lately printed and published + by a new author.” + </p> + <p> + “I am the same,” replied the gentleman; “and that same + Don Quixote, the principal personage in the said history, was a very great + friend of mine, and it was I who took him away from home, or at least + induced him to come to some jousts that were to be held at Saragossa, + whither I was going myself; indeed, I showed him many kindnesses, and + saved him from having his shoulders touched up by the executioner because + of his extreme rashness.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me, Señor Don Alvaro,” said Don Quixote, “am I at + all like that Don Quixote you talk of?” + </p> + <p> + “No indeed,” replied the traveller, “not a bit.” + </p> + <p> + “And that Don Quixote—” said our one, “had he + with him a squire called Sancho Panza?” + </p> + <p> + “He had,” said Don Alvaro; “but though he had the name + of being very droll, I never heard him say anything that had any drollery + in it.” + </p> + <p> + “That I can well believe,” said Sancho at this, “for to + come out with drolleries is not in everybody’s line; and that Sancho + your worship speaks of, gentle sir, must be some great scoundrel, + dunderhead, and thief, all in one; for I am the real Sancho Panza, and I + have more drolleries than if it rained them; let your worship only try; + come along with me for a year or so, and you will find they fall from me + at every turn, and so rich and so plentiful that though mostly I don’t + know what I am saying I make everybody that hears me laugh. And the real + Don Quixote of La Mancha, the famous, the valiant, the wise, the lover, + the righter of wrongs, the guardian of minors and orphans, the protector + of widows, the killer of damsels, he who has for his sole mistress the + peerless Dulcinea del Toboso, is this gentleman before you, my master; all + other Don Quixotes and all other Sancho Panzas are dreams and mockeries.” + </p> + <p> + “By God I believe it,” said Don Alvaro; “for you have + uttered more drolleries, my friend, in the few words you have spoken than + the other Sancho Panza in all I ever heard from him, and they were not a + few. He was more greedy than well-spoken, and more dull than droll; and I + am convinced that the enchanters who persecute Don Quixote the Good have + been trying to persecute me with Don Quixote the Bad. But I don’t + know what to say, for I am ready to swear I left him shut up in the Casa + del Nuncio at Toledo, and here another Don Quixote turns up, though a very + different one from mine.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know whether I am good,” said Don Quixote, + “but I can safely say I am not ‘the Bad;’ and to prove + it, let me tell you, Señor Don Alvaro Tarfe, I have never in my life been + in Saragossa; so far from that, when it was told me that this imaginary + Don Quixote had been present at the jousts in that city, I declined to + enter it, in order to drag his falsehood before the face of the world; and + so I went on straight to Barcelona, the treasure-house of courtesy, haven + of strangers, asylum of the poor, home of the valiant, champion of the + wronged, pleasant exchange of firm friendships, and city unrivalled in + site and beauty. And though the adventures that befell me there are not by + any means matters of enjoyment, but rather of regret, I do not regret + them, simply because I have seen it. In a word, Señor Don Alvaro Tarfe, I + am Don Quixote of La Mancha, the one that fame speaks of, and not the + unlucky one that has attempted to usurp my name and deck himself out in my + ideas. I entreat your worship by your devoir as a gentleman to be so good + as to make a declaration before the alcalde of this village that you never + in all your life saw me until now, and that neither am I the Don Quixote + in print in the Second Part, nor this Sancho Panza, my squire, the one + your worship knew.” + </p> + <p> + “That I will do most willingly,” replied Don Alvaro; “though + it amazes me to find two Don Quixotes and two Sancho Panzas at once, as + much alike in name as they differ in demeanour; and again I say and + declare that what I saw I cannot have seen, and that what happened me + cannot have happened.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt your worship is enchanted, like my lady Dulcinea del + Toboso,” said Sancho; “and would to heaven your disenchantment + rested on my giving myself another three thousand and odd lashes like what + I’m giving myself for her, for I’d lay them on without looking + for anything.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t understand that about the lashes,” said Don + Alvaro. Sancho replied that it was a long story to tell, but he would tell + him if they happened to be going the same road. + </p> + <p> + By this dinner-time arrived, and Don Quixote and Don Alvaro dined + together. The alcalde of the village came by chance into the inn together + with a notary, and Don Quixote laid a petition before him, showing that it + was requisite for his rights that Don Alvaro Tarfe, the gentleman there + present, should make a declaration before him that he did not know Don + Quixote of La Mancha, also there present, and that he was not the one that + was in print in a history entitled “Second Part of Don Quixote of La + Mancha, by one Avellaneda of Tordesillas.” The alcalde finally put + it in legal form, and the declaration was made with all the formalities + required in such cases, at which Don Quixote and Sancho were in high + delight, as if a declaration of the sort was of any great importance to + them, and as if their words and deeds did not plainly show the difference + between the two Don Quixotes and the two Sanchos. Many civilities and + offers of service were exchanged by Don Alvaro and Don Quixote, in the + course of which the great Manchegan displayed such good taste that he + disabused Don Alvaro of the error he was under; and he, on his part, felt + convinced he must have been enchanted, now that he had been brought in + contact with two such opposite Don Quixotes. + </p> + <p> + Evening came, they set out from the village, and after about half a league + two roads branched off, one leading to Don Quixote’s village, the + other the road Don Alvaro was to follow. In this short interval Don + Quixote told him of his unfortunate defeat, and of Dulcinea’s + enchantment and the remedy, all which threw Don Alvaro into fresh + amazement, and embracing Don Quixote and Sancho, he went his way, and Don + Quixote went his. That night he passed among trees again in order to give + Sancho an opportunity of working out his penance, which he did in the same + fashion as the night before, at the expense of the bark of the beech trees + much more than of his back, of which he took such good care that the + lashes would not have knocked off a fly had there been one there. The + duped Don Quixote did not miss a single stroke of the count, and he found + that together with those of the night before they made up three thousand + and twenty-nine. The sun apparently had got up early to witness the + sacrifice, and with his light they resumed their journey, discussing the + deception practised on Don Alvaro, and saying how well done it was to have + taken his declaration before a magistrate in such an unimpeachable form. + That day and night they travelled on, nor did anything worth mention + happen to them, unless it was that in the course of the night Sancho + finished off his task, whereat Don Quixote was beyond measure joyful. He + watched for daylight, to see if along the road he should fall in with his + already disenchanted lady Dulcinea; and as he pursued his journey there + was no woman he met that he did not go up to, to see if she was Dulcinea + del Toboso, as he held it absolutely certain that Merlin’s promises + could not lie. Full of these thoughts and anxieties, they ascended a + rising ground wherefrom they descried their own village, at the sight of + which Sancho fell on his knees exclaiming, “Open thine eyes, + longed-for home, and see how thy son Sancho Panza comes back to thee, if + not very rich, very well whipped! Open thine arms and receive, too, thy + son Don Quixote, who, if he comes vanquished by the arm of another, comes + victor over himself, which, as he himself has told me, is the greatest + victory anyone can desire. I’m bringing back money, for if I was + well whipped, I went mounted like a gentleman.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p72b" id="p72b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p72b.jpg (375K)" src="images/p72b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p72b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + “Have done with these fooleries,” said Don Quixote; “let + us push on straight and get to our own place, where we will give free + range to our fancies, and settle our plans for our future pastoral life.” + </p> + <p> + With this they descended the slope and directed their steps to their + village. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p72e" id="p72e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p72e.jpg (35K)" src="images/p72e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch73b" id="ch73b"></a>CHAPTER LXXIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF THE OMENS DON QUIXOTE HAD AS HE ENTERED HIS OWN VILLAGE, AND OTHER + INCIDENTS THAT EMBELLISH AND GIVE A COLOUR TO THIS GREAT HISTORY + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p73a" id="p73a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p73a.jpg (141K)" src="images/p73a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p73a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + At the entrance of the village, so says Cide Hamete, Don Quixote saw two + boys quarrelling on the village threshing-floor, one of whom said to the + other, “Take it easy, Periquillo; thou shalt never see it again as + long as thou livest.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote heard this, and said he to Sancho, “Dost thou not mark, + friend, what that boy said, ‘Thou shalt never see it again as long + as thou livest’?” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Sancho, “what does it matter if the boy + said so?” + </p> + <p> + “What!” said Don Quixote, “dost thou not see that, + applied to the object of my desires, the words mean that I am never to see + Dulcinea more?” + </p> + <p> + Sancho was about to answer, when his attention was diverted by seeing a + hare come flying across the plain pursued by several greyhounds and + sportsmen. In its terror it ran to take shelter and hide itself under + Dapple. Sancho caught it alive and presented it to Don Quixote, who was + saying, “Malum signum, malum signum! a hare flies, greyhounds chase + it, Dulcinea appears not.” + </p> + <p> + “Your worship’s a strange man,” said Sancho; “let’s + take it for granted that this hare is Dulcinea, and these greyhounds + chasing it the malignant enchanters who turned her into a country wench; + she flies, and I catch her and put her into your worship’s hands, + and you hold her in your arms and cherish her; what bad sign is that, or + what ill omen is there to be found here?” + </p> + <p> + The two boys who had been quarrelling came over to look at the hare, and + Sancho asked one of them what their quarrel was about. He was answered by + the one who had said, “Thou shalt never see it again as long as thou + livest,” that he had taken a cage full of crickets from the other + boy, and did not mean to give it back to him as long as he lived. Sancho + took out four cuartos from his pocket and gave them to the boy for the + cage, which he placed in Don Quixote’s hands, saying, “There, + señor! there are the omens broken and destroyed, and they have no more to + do with our affairs, to my thinking, fool as I am, than with last year’s + clouds; and if I remember rightly I have heard the curate of our village + say that it does not become Christians or sensible people to give any heed + to these silly things; and even you yourself said the same to me some time + ago, telling me that all Christians who minded omens were fools; but there’s + no need of making words about it; let us push on and go into our village.” + </p> + <p> + The sportsmen came up and asked for their hare, which Don Quixote gave + them. They then went on, and upon the green at the entrance of the town + they came upon the curate and the bachelor Samson Carrasco busy with their + breviaries. It should be mentioned that Sancho had thrown, by way of a + sumpter-cloth, over Dapple and over the bundle of armour, the buckram robe + painted with flames which they had put upon him at the duke’s castle + the night Altisidora came back to life. He had also fixed the mitre on + Dapple’s head, the oddest transformation and decoration that ever + ass in the world underwent. They were at once recognised by both the + curate and the bachelor, who came towards them with open arms. Don Quixote + dismounted and received them with a close embrace; and the boys, who are + lynxes that nothing escapes, spied out the ass’s mitre and came + running to see it, calling out to one another, “Come here, boys, and + see Sancho Panza’s ass figged out finer than Mingo, and Don Quixote’s + beast leaner than ever.” + </p> + <p> + So at length, with the boys capering round them, and accompanied by the + curate and the bachelor, they made their entrance into the town, and + proceeded to Don Quixote’s house, at the door of which they found + his housekeeper and niece, whom the news of his arrival had already + reached. It had been brought to Teresa Panza, Sancho’s wife, as + well, and she with her hair all loose and half naked, dragging Sanchica + her daughter by the hand, ran out to meet her husband; but seeing him + coming in by no means as good case as she thought a governor ought to be, + she said to him, “How is it you come this way, husband? It seems to + me you come tramping and footsore, and looking more like a disorderly + vagabond than a governor.” + </p> + <p> + “Hold your tongue, Teresa,” said Sancho; “often ‘where + there are pegs there are no flitches;’ let’s go into the house + and there you’ll hear strange things. I bring money, and that’s + the main thing, got by my own industry without wronging anybody.” + </p> + <p> + “You bring the money, my good husband,” said Teresa, “and + no matter whether it was got this way or that; for, however you may have + got it, you’ll not have brought any new practice into the world.” + </p> + <p> + Sanchica embraced her father and asked him if he brought her anything, for + she had been looking out for him as for the showers of May; and she taking + hold of him by the girdle on one side, and his wife by the hand, while the + daughter led Dapple, they made for their house, leaving Don Quixote in + his, in the hands of his niece and housekeeper, and in the company of the + curate and the bachelor. + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote at once, without any regard to time or season, withdrew in + private with the bachelor and the curate, and in a few words told them of + his defeat, and of the engagement he was under not to quit his village for + a year, which he meant to keep to the letter without departing a hair’s + breadth from it, as became a knight-errant bound by scrupulous good faith + and the laws of knight-errantry; and of how he thought of turning shepherd + for that year, and taking his diversion in the solitude of the fields, + where he could with perfect freedom give range to his thoughts of love + while he followed the virtuous pastoral calling; and he besought them, if + they had not a great deal to do and were not prevented by more important + business, to consent to be his companions, for he would buy sheep enough + to qualify them for shepherds; and the most important point of the whole + affair, he could tell them, was settled, for he had given them names that + would fit them to a T. The curate asked what they were. Don Quixote + replied that he himself was to be called the shepherd Quixotize and the + bachelor the shepherd Carrascon, and the curate the shepherd Curambro, and + Sancho Panza the shepherd Pancino. + </p> + <p> + Both were astounded at Don Quixote’s new craze; however, lest he + should once more make off out of the village from them in pursuit of his + chivalry, they trusting that in the course of the year he might be cured, + fell in with his new project, applauded his crazy idea as a bright one, + and offered to share the life with him. “And what’s more,” + said Samson Carrasco, “I am, as all the world knows, a very famous + poet, and I’ll be always making verses, pastoral, or courtly, or as + it may come into my head, to pass away our time in those secluded regions + where we shall be roaming. But what is most needful, sirs, is that each of + us should choose the name of the shepherdess he means to glorify in his + verses, and that we should not leave a tree, be it ever so hard, without + writing up and carving her name on it, as is the habit and custom of + love-smitten shepherds.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s the very thing,” said Don Quixote; “though + I am relieved from looking for the name of an imaginary shepherdess, for + there’s the peerless Dulcinea del Toboso, the glory of these + brooksides, the ornament of these meadows, the mainstay of beauty, the + cream of all the graces, and, in a word, the being to whom all praise is + appropriate, be it ever so hyperbolical.” + </p> + <p> + “Very true,” said the curate; “but we the others must + look about for accommodating shepherdesses that will answer our purpose + one way or another.” + </p> + <p> + “And,” added Samson Carrasco, “if they fail us, we can + call them by the names of the ones in print that the world is filled with, + Filidas, Amarilises, Dianas, Fleridas, Galateas, Belisardas; for as they + sell them in the market-places we may fairly buy them and make them our + own. If my lady, or I should say my shepherdess, happens to be called Ana, + I’ll sing her praises under the name of Anarda, and if Francisca, I’ll + call her Francenia, and if Lucia, Lucinda, for it all comes to the same + thing; and Sancho Panza, if he joins this fraternity, may glorify his wife + Teresa Panza as Teresaina.” + </p> + <p> + Don Quixote laughed at the adaptation of the name, and the curate bestowed + vast praise upon the worthy and honourable resolution he had made, and + again offered to bear him company all the time that he could spare from + his imperative duties. And so they took their leave of him, recommending + and beseeching him to take care of his health and treat himself to a + suitable diet. + </p> + <p> + It so happened his niece and the housekeeper overheard all the three of + them said; and as soon as they were gone they both of them came in to Don + Quixote, and said the niece, “What’s this, uncle? Now that we + were thinking you had come back to stay at home and lead a quiet + respectable life there, are you going to get into fresh entanglements, and + turn ‘young shepherd, thou that comest here, young shepherd going + there?’ Nay! indeed ‘the straw is too hard now to make pipes + of.’” + </p> + <p> + “And,” added the housekeeper, “will your worship be + able to bear, out in the fields, the heats of summer, and the chills of + winter, and the howling of the wolves? Not you; for that’s a life + and a business for hardy men, bred and seasoned to such work almost from + the time they were in swaddling-clothes. Why, to make choice of evils, + it’s better to be a knight-errant than a shepherd! Look here, + señor; take my advice—and I’m not giving it to you full of + bread and wine, but fasting, and with fifty years upon my head—stay + at home, look after your affairs, go often to confession, be good to the + poor, and upon my soul be it if any evil comes to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Hold your peace, my daughters,” said Don Quixote; “I + know very well what my duty is; help me to bed, for I don’t feel + very well; and rest assured that, knight-errant now or wandering shepherd + to be, I shall never fail to have a care for your interests, as you will + see in the end.” And the good wenches (for that they undoubtedly + were), the housekeeper and niece, helped him to bed, where they gave him + something to eat and made him as comfortable as possible. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + <a name="ch74b" id="ch74b"></a>CHAPTER LXXIV. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + OF HOW DON QUIXOTE FELL SICK, AND OF THE WILL HE MADE, AND HOW HE DIED + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="p74a" id="p74a"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p74a.jpg (96K)" src="images/p74a.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p74a.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + As nothing that is man’s can last for ever, but all tends ever + downwards from its beginning to its end, and above all man’s life, + and as Don Quixote’s enjoyed no special dispensation from heaven to + stay its course, its end and close came when he least looked for it. + For—whether it was of the dejection the thought of his defeat + produced, or of heaven’s will that so ordered it—a fever + settled upon him and kept him in his bed for six days, during which he + was often visited by his friends the curate, the bachelor, and the + barber, while his good squire Sancho Panza never quitted his bedside. + They, persuaded that it was grief at finding himself vanquished, and the + object of his heart, the liberation and disenchantment of Dulcinea, + unattained, that kept him in this state, strove by all the means in their + power to cheer him up; the bachelor bidding him take heart and get up to + begin his pastoral life, for which he himself, he said, had already + composed an eclogue that would take the shine out of all Sannazaro had + ever written, and had bought with his own money two famous dogs to guard + the flock, one called Barcino and the other Butron, which a herdsman of + Quintanar had sold him. + </p> + <p> + But for all this Don Quixote could not shake off his sadness. His friends + called in the doctor, who felt his pulse and was not very well satisfied + with it, and said that in any case it would be well for him to attend to + the health of his soul, as that of his body was in a bad way. Don Quixote + heard this calmly; but not so his housekeeper, his niece, and his squire, + who fell weeping bitterly, as if they had him lying dead before them. The + doctor’s opinion was that melancholy and depression were bringing + him to his end. Don Quixote begged them to leave him to himself, as he had + a wish to sleep a little. They obeyed, and he slept at one stretch, as the + saying is, more than six hours, so that the housekeeper and niece thought + he was going to sleep for ever. But at the end of that time he woke up, + and in a loud voice exclaimed, “Blessed be Almighty God, who has + shown me such goodness. In truth his mercies are boundless, and the sins + of men can neither limit them nor keep them back!” + </p> + <p> + The niece listened with attention to her uncle’s words, and they + struck her as more coherent than what usually fell from him, at least + during his illness, so she asked, “What are you saying, señor? Has + anything strange occurred? What mercies or what sins of men are you + talking of?” + </p> + <p> + “The mercies, niece,” said Don Quixote, “are those that + God has this moment shown me, and with him, as I said, my sins are no + impediment to them. My reason is now free and clear, rid of the dark + shadows of ignorance that my unhappy constant study of those detestable + books of chivalry cast over it. Now I see through their absurdities and + deceptions, and it only grieves me that this destruction of my illusions + has come so late that it leaves me no time to make some amends by reading + other books that might be a light to my soul. Niece, I feel myself at the + point of death, and I would fain meet it in such a way as to show that my + life has not been so ill that I should leave behind me the name of a + madman; for though I have been one, I would not that the fact should be + made plainer at my death. Call in to me, my dear, my good friends the + curate, the bachelor Samson Carrasco, and Master Nicholas the barber, for + I wish to confess and make my will.” But his niece was saved the + trouble by the entrance of the three. The instant Don Quixote saw them he + exclaimed, “Good news for you, good sirs, that I am no longer Don + Quixote of La Mancha, but Alonso Quixano, whose way of life won for him + the name of Good. Now am I the enemy of Amadis of Gaul and of the whole + countless troop of his descendants; odious to me now are all the profane + stories of knight-errantry; now I perceive my folly, and the peril into + which reading them brought me; now, by God’s mercy schooled into my + right senses, I loathe them.” + </p> + <p> + When the three heard him speak in this way, they had no doubt whatever + that some new craze had taken possession of him; and said Samson, “What? + Señor Don Quixote! Now that we have intelligence of the lady Dulcinea + being disenchanted, are you taking this line; now, just as we are on the + point of becoming shepherds, to pass our lives singing, like princes, are + you thinking of turning hermit? Hush, for heaven’s sake, be rational + and let’s have no more nonsense.” + </p> + <p> + “All that nonsense,” said Don Quixote, “that until now + has been a reality to my hurt, my death will, with heaven’s help, + turn to my good. I feel, sirs, that I am rapidly drawing near death; a + truce to jesting; let me have a confessor to confess me, and a notary to + make my will; for in extremities like this, man must not trifle with his + soul; and while the curate is confessing me let some one, I beg, go for + the notary.” + </p> + <p> + They looked at one another, wondering at Don Quixote’s words; but, + though uncertain, they were inclined to believe him, and one of the signs + by which they came to the conclusion he was dying was this so sudden and + complete return to his senses after having been mad; for to the words + already quoted he added much more, so well expressed, so devout, and so + rational, as to banish all doubt and convince them that he was sound of + mind. The curate turned them all out, and left alone with him confessed + him. The bachelor went for the notary and returned shortly afterwards with + him and with Sancho, who, having already learned from the bachelor the + condition his master was in, and finding the housekeeper and niece + weeping, began to blubber and shed tears. + </p> + <p> + The confession over, the curate came out saying, “Alonso Quixano the + Good is indeed dying, and is indeed in his right mind; we may now go in to + him while he makes his will.” + </p> + <p> + This news gave a tremendous impulse to the brimming eyes of the + housekeeper, niece, and Sancho Panza his good squire, making the tears + burst from their eyes and a host of sighs from their hearts; for of a + truth, as has been said more than once, whether as plain Alonso Quixano + the Good, or as Don Quixote of La Mancha, Don Quixote was always of a + gentle disposition and kindly in all his ways, and hence he was beloved, + not only by those of his own house, but by all who knew him. + </p> + <p> + The notary came in with the rest, and as soon as the preamble of the will + had been set out and Don Quixote had commended his soul to God with all + the devout formalities that are usual, coming to the bequests, he said, + “Item, it is my will that, touching certain moneys in the hands of + Sancho Panza (whom in my madness I made my squire), inasmuch as between + him and me there have been certain accounts and debits and credits, no + claim be made against him, nor any account demanded of him in respect of + them; but that if anything remain over and above, after he has paid + himself what I owe him, the balance, which will be but little, shall be + his, and much good may it do him; and if, as when I was mad I had a share + in giving him the government of an island, so, now that I am in my senses, + I could give him that of a kingdom, it should be his, for the simplicity + of his character and the fidelity of his conduct deserve it.” And + then, turning to Sancho, he said, “Forgive me, my friend, that I led + thee to seem as mad as myself, making thee fall into the same error I + myself fell into, that there were and still are knights-errant in the + world.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” said Sancho weeping, “don’t die, master, but + take my advice and live many years; for the foolishest thing a man can do + in this life is to let himself die without rhyme or reason, without + anybody killing him, or any hands but melancholy’s making an end of + him. Come, don’t be lazy, but get up from your bed and let us take + to the fields in shepherd’s trim as we agreed. Perhaps behind some + bush we shall find the lady Dulcinea disenchanted, as fine as fine can be. + If it be that you are dying of vexation at having been vanquished, lay the + blame on me, and say you were overthrown because I had girthed Rocinante + badly; besides you must have seen in your books of chivalry that it is a + common thing for knights to upset one another, and for him who is + conquered to-day to be conqueror to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Very true,” said Samson, “and good Sancho Panza’s + view of these cases is quite right.” + </p> + <p> + “Sirs, not so fast,” said Don Quixote, “‘in last + year’s nests there are no birds this year.’ I was mad, now I + am in my senses; I was Don Quixote of La Mancha, I am now, as I said, + Alonso Quixano the Good; and may my repentance and sincerity restore me to + the esteem you used to have for me; and now let Master Notary proceed. + </p> + <p> + “Item, I leave all my property absolutely to Antonia Quixana my + niece, here present, after all has been deducted from the most available + portion of it that may be required to satisfy the bequests I have made. + And the first disbursement I desire to be made is the payment of the wages + I owe for the time my housekeeper has served me, with twenty ducats, over + and above, for a gown. The curate and the bachelor Samson Carrasco, now + present, I appoint my executors. + </p> + <p> + “Item, it is my wish that if Antonia Quixana, my niece, desires to + marry, she shall marry a man of whom it shall be first of all ascertained + by information taken that he does not know what books of chivalry are; and + if it should be proved that he does, and if, in spite of this, my niece + insists upon marrying him, and does marry him, then that she shall forfeit + the whole of what I have left her, which my executors shall devote to + works of charity as they please. + </p> + <p> + “Item, I entreat the aforesaid gentlemen my executors, that, if any + happy chance should lead them to discover the author who is said to have + written a history now going about under the title of ‘Second Part of + the Achievements of Don Quixote of La Mancha,’ they beg of him on my + behalf as earnestly as they can to forgive me for having been, without + intending it, the cause of his writing so many and such monstrous + absurdities as he has written in it; for I am leaving the world with a + feeling of compunction at having provoked him to write them.” + </p> + <p> + With this he closed his will, and a faintness coming over him he stretched + himself out at full length on the bed. All were in a flutter and made + haste to relieve him, and during the three days he lived after that on + which he made his will he fainted away very often. The house was all in + confusion; but still the niece ate and the housekeeper drank and Sancho + Panza enjoyed himself; for inheriting property wipes out or softens down + in the heir the feeling of grief the dead man might be expected to leave + behind him. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p74b" id="p74b"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p74b.jpg (391K)" src="images/p74b.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p74b.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + At last Don Quixote’s end came, after he had received all the + sacraments, and had in full and forcible terms expressed his detestation + of books of chivalry. The notary was there at the time, and he said that + in no book of chivalry had he ever read of any knight-errant dying in his + bed so calmly and so like a Christian as Don Quixote, who amid the tears + and lamentations of all present yielded up his spirit, that is to say + died. On perceiving it the curate begged the notary to bear witness that + Alonso Quixano the Good, commonly called Don Quixote of La Mancha, had + passed away from this present life, and died naturally; and said he + desired this testimony in order to remove the possibility of any other + author save Cide Hamete Benengeli bringing him to life again falsely and + making interminable stories out of his achievements. + </p> + <p> + Such was the end of the Ingenious Gentleman of La Mancha, whose village + Cide Hamete would not indicate precisely, in order to leave all the towns + and villages of La Mancha to contend among themselves for the right to + adopt him and claim him as a son, as the seven cities of Greece contended + for Homer. The lamentations of Sancho and the niece and housekeeper are + omitted here, as well as the new epitaphs upon his tomb; Samson Carrasco, + however, put the following lines: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +A doughty gentleman lies here; +A stranger all his life to fear; +Nor in his death could Death prevail, +In that last hour, to make him quail. +He for the world but little cared; +And at his feats the world was scared; +A crazy man his life he passed, +But in his senses died at last. + +</pre> + <p> + And said most sage Cide Hamete to his pen, “Rest here, hung up by + this brass wire, upon this shelf, O my pen, whether of skilful make or + clumsy cut I know not; here shalt thou remain long ages hence, unless + presumptuous or malignant story-tellers take thee down to profane thee. + But ere they touch thee warn them, and, as best thou canst, say to them: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +Hold off! ye weaklings; hold your hands! +Adventure it let none, +For this emprise, my lord the king, +Was meant for me alone. + +</pre> + <p> + For me alone was Don Quixote born, and I for him; it was his to act, mine + to write; we two together make but one, notwithstanding and in spite of + that pretended Tordesillesque writer who has ventured or would venture + with his great, coarse, ill-trimmed ostrich quill to write the + achievements of my valiant knight;—no burden for his shoulders, nor + subject for his frozen wit: whom, if perchance thou shouldst come to know + him, thou shalt warn to leave at rest where they lie the weary mouldering + bones of Don Quixote, and not to attempt to carry him off, in opposition + to all the privileges of death, to Old Castile, making him rise from the + grave where in reality and truth he lies stretched at full length, + powerless to make any third expedition or new sally; for the two that he + has already made, so much to the enjoyment and approval of everybody to + whom they have become known, in this as well as in foreign countries, are + quite sufficient for the purpose of turning into ridicule the whole of + those made by the whole set of the knights-errant; and so doing shalt + thou discharge thy Christian calling, giving good counsel to one that + bears ill-will to thee. And I shall remain satisfied, and proud to have + been the first who has ever enjoyed the fruit of his writings as fully as + he could desire; for my desire has been no other than to deliver over to + the detestation of mankind the false and foolish tales of the books of + chivalry, which, thanks to that of my true Don Quixote, are even now + tottering, and doubtless doomed to fall for ever. Farewell.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a name="p74e" id="p74e"></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img alt="p74e.jpg (49K)" src="images/p74e.jpg" style="width:100%;" /> + </div> + <p> + <a href="images/p74e.jpg" style="width:100%;"><img alt="Full Size" + src="images/enlarge.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> + </p> + +<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK DON QUIXOTE, VOL. 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