[021]
Now Bruno knew what the damsel was, for he had seen her
arrive, and moreover Filippo had told him. So, Calandrino having
given over working for a while, and betaken him to her, Bruno
acquainted Nello and Buffalmacco with the whole story; and thereupon
they privily concerted how to entreat him in regard of this love
affair.
[022]
Wherefore, upon his return, quoth Bruno softly: "Didst
see her?"[023]"Ay, woe's me!" replied Calandrino: "she has
stricken me to the death."
[024]
Quoth Bruno: "I will go see if she
be the lady I take her to be, and if I find that 'tis so, leave the
rest to me."
[025]
Whereupon down went Bruno, and found Filippo and
the damsel, and fully apprised them what sort of fellow Calandrino
was, and what he had told them, and concerted with them what
each should do and say, that they might have a merry time together
over Calandrino's love affair.
[026]
He then rejoined Calandrino, saying:
"'Tis the very same; and therefore the affair needs very delicate
handling, for, if Filippo were but ware thereof, not all Arno's waters
would suffice to cleanse us. However, what should I say to her
from thee, if by chance I should get speech of her?"
[027]
"I' faith,"
replied Calandrino, "why, first, first of all, thou wilt tell her that I
wish her a thousand bushels of the good seed of generation, and then
that I am her servant, and if she is fain of--aught--thou tak'st
me?"
[028]
"Ay," quoth Bruno, "leave it to me."
