Page:Peregrinaggio di tre giovani figliuoli del re di Serendippo.djvu/135

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So, he set out on the road early on Saturday morning with all his barons and within three hours they arrived at the palace. When he found the maiden there, he took her by the hand and engaged with her for some time in varied conversation. He then sat down at the table where they enjoyed an abundance of noble food.

And after dinner he took some rest in his room and then called for the sixth storyteller to be brought before him. He appeared in his presence, made a humble bow and began to tell his story as follows:


Novella 6 - Saturday

IN my country of Serger, far away from here, which is immensely lovely because of its beautiful gardens and clear fountains is a city by the sea called Letzer. A great Muslim King reigned there who, in a short while became very famous because he treated both his citizens and foreigners in a very friendly manner. Hence, this city was always full of rich Christian and Saracene merchants.

When this king died, he was succeeded by his son who lacked the virtues his father had in abundance. Everyone was greatly troubled by his evil nature and he was very much hated by his vassals and foreigners alike.

For this reason, a large number of the merchants abandoned the city and among the few that remained were two dear old friends, men of great honor and wealth. They were Christians and observed God's commandments.