Nevertheless, as time went on, his love so increased that he forgot the
promise he had made. He did not, however, risk further trial of words,
for he had learned by experience, and much against his will, what
virtuous replies she was able to make. But he reflected that if he could
take her somewhere at a disadvantage, she, being a widow, young, lusty,
and of a lively humour, would perchance take pity on him and on herself.
To compass his ends, he told his master that excellent hunting was to
be had in the neighbourhood of his house, and that if it pleased him
to repair thither and hunt three or four stags in the month of May, he
could have no finer sport. The Lord granted the gentleman's request, as
much for the affection he bore him as for the pleasure of the chase, and
repaired to his house, which was as handsome and as fairly ordered as
that of the richest gentleman in the land.
The Lord and his Lady were lodged on one side of the house, and she whom
the gentleman loved more than himself on the other. Her apartment was
so well arranged, tapestried above and matted below,(4) that it was
impossible to perceive a trap-door which was by the side of her bed, and
which opened into a room beneath, that was occupied by the gentleman's
mother.
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