Page:The Pentamerone, or The Story of Stories.djvu/384

350 silver were trodden underfoot, and pearls and precious stones everywhere met the eye. And as Parmetella stood wondering at all these splendid things, not seeing any person moving among so many beautiful fixtures, she went into a chamber, in which were a number of pictures; and on them were seen painted various beautiful things, especially the ignorance of a man esteemed wise, the injustice of him who held the scales, and the injuries avenged by Heaven,—things truly to amaze one: and in the same chamber also was a splendid table, set out with things to eat and to drink.

Seeing no one, Parmetella, who was very hungry, sat down at table to eat like a fine count; but while she was in the midst of the feast, behold a handsome slave entered, who said, "Stay! do not go away, for I will have you for my wife, and will make you the happiest woman in the world." In spite of her fear Parmetella took heart at this good offer, and consenting to what the Slave proposed, a coach of diamonds was instantly given her, drawn by four golden steeds, with wings of emeralds and rubies, who carried her flying through the air, to take an airing; and a number of apes clad in cloth-of-gold were given to attend on her person, who forthwith arrayed her from head to foot, and adorned her so that she looked just like a queen.