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Rh intended to bestow one of them on Fortunatus, and having caused them to be richly attired, he gave him leave to take his choice: when Fortunatus had asked each of them a question, he made choice of the youngest, to the great grief of the other two sisters: the Countess and Earl liked well of the match; only they objected against him that he had no lands, which Fortunatus understanding, knowing the Earl of Ligron had a considerable estate, and a castle and several lordships to dispose of, being much indebted: Fortunatus bought them of the Earl for ten thousand ducats, and paid down the money, then he jointured Cassandra that was to be his wife in the fame.

Fortunatus also presented the Countess her mother with several rich jewels, to a great value, and also to her sisters, to their great content.

Then did the king proffer to keep the wedding of Fortunatus, and Cassandra his bride, in his own court; but Fortunatus desired to keep it at his own new palace, humbly beseeching the king and queen to honour him with their presence at his wedding. Then