Page:Tales from Chaucer.djvu/166

 honour from the thraldom of life? Why do his wife and cousin here regret his welfare?—they who loved him so well. My purpose before we leave this place, is, to convert this double sorrow into a perfect and lasting joy: and therefore, dear sister, with the assent of my whole council here, it is my full wish that your own knight, the gentle Palamon, who, from the time he first saw your face, hath served you with good will and faithful heart, receive your favour and become your lord and husband. He is son to a King's brother, and therefore not unworthy of you: but if he were no more than a poor bachelor, since he hath served you for so many years through sharp adversity, you should consider and recompense his deserts. Give me here your hand.' Then turning to Palamon, he said, 'Methinks, there is little need to entreat your assenting to my purpose. Draw near and take your lady by the hand.'

Then was the bond of marriage drawn up by the council, and Palamon wedded his Emily. Long did he live in bliss, health, and riches; Emily loving him tenderly, and he