Page:Tales from Chaucer.djvu/220



the west side of Italy at the foot of Mount Viso is situated a fertile plain, interspersed with thriving and populous towns, and fair castles, built ages ago. The name of this district is Saluzzo. It was formerly governed by a Marquis, who held his dominion by a long right of succession; and his subjects, both high and low, were bound in fealty to attend his summons, whether in war or peace. So discreet was he in his government (with one or two exceptions in his conduct) that he was beloved and feared by all, gentle and simple. He was a man of graceful person, vigorous constitution, in the prime of life and full of honour and courtesy. His family was of so pure and noble a descent, that not one in all Lombardy could compare with him