Page:The Chronicle of Clemendy.pdf/167

 Jamais d'amoureux couard

Oyez bien dire.

However let us see how he carries himself at close quarters, and then you can turn back if it be your pleasure." This advice suited Alianor very well, so they paced still slowly on, till they met Sir Payne Martell, who took care to let his rose be seen, and directed one look of humble supplication towards the lovely Alianor. And when they had gone a little way he turned and followed them, the which was soon perceived by the waiting-maid who beckoned to him with her eyes and lips to have a good heart and not to be afraid. Thus encouraged Sir Payne followed in their footsteps hoping to see Alianor turn her face a little toward him, but she was indeed too bashful, and her maid had much ado to bring her up to the mark. At last when they came to a very quiet bend, thickly wooded on both sides (but one or two spaces of sunset flame appeared between the leaves) the page left his lady's train and coming to the knight said "my lady Alianor Bluet bids you come before her presently." This did Sir Payne, you may be sure, and found the two maidens seated on the grass, the servant glancing roguishly at him, and Alianor half smiling half frowingfrowning [sic], but altogether almost too lovely even for Gwent and the purlieus of Uske. "What makes you follow me thus?" said she as the knight bent before her, for she wished to begin the service in a high tone, trusting they might come to the secreta afterwards, contrary to