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Rh "Aucassin," said he, "of such sickness as yours, I too have been sick. I will give you good counsel, if you will trust me."

"Sir," said Aucassin, "gramercy! Good counsel should I hold dear."

"Mount on a horse," said he, "and go by yon forest side to divert you; there you will see the flowers and green things, and hear the birds sing. Peradventure you shall hear a word for which you shall be the better."

"Sir," said Aucassin, "gramercy! So will I do."

He stole from the hall, and descended the stairs, and came to the stable where his horse was. He bade saddle and bridle him; and setting four in stirrup, he mounted and rode forth out of the castle, and went on till he came to the forest. He rode till he reached the spring, and came upon the herdboys at the point of None. They had spread a cloak an the grass, and were eating their bread and making very great merriment.