ith a setter-dog, this one a greyhound, this other a
sparrowhawk, and another a swift Arab steed, this one a shield, this one
an ensign, this one a sword, and this a helmet. Never was a king more
gladly seen in his kingdom, nor received with greater joy, as all strove
to serve him well. Yet greater joy they made of Enide than of him, for
the great beauty which they saw in her, and still more for her open
charm. She was seated in a chamber upon a cushion of brocade which had
been brought from Thessaly. Round about her was many a fair lady; yet as
the lustrous gem outshines the brown flint, and as the rose excels the
poppy, so was Enide fairer than any other lady or damsel to be found in
the world, wherever one might search. She was so gentle and honourable,
of wise speech and affable, of pleasing character and kindly mien. No
one could ever be so watchful as to detect in her any folly, or sign of
evil or villainy. She had been so schooled in good manners that she had
learned all virtues which any lady can possess, as well as generosity
and knowledge. All loved her for her open heart, and whoever could do
her any service was glad and esteemed himself the more. No one spoke any
ill of her, for no one could do so. In the realm or empire there was no
lady of such good manners. But Erec loved her with such a tender love
that he cared no more for arms, nor did he go to tournaments, nor have
any desire to joust; but he spent his time in cherishing his wife. He
made of her his mistress and his sweetheart. He devoted all his heart
and mind to fondling and kissing her, and sought no delight in other
pastime. His friends grieved over this, and often regretted among
themselves that he was so deep in love. Often it was past noon before
he left her side; for there he was happy, say what they might. He rarely
left her society, and yet he was as open-handed as ever to his knights
with arms, dress, and money. There was not a tournament anywhere to
which he did not send them well apparelled and equipped. Whatever the
cost might be, he gave them fresh steeds for the tourney and joust. All
the knights said it was a great pity and misfortune that such a valiant
man as he was wont to be should no longer wish to bear arms. He was
blamed so much on all sides by the knights and squires that murmurs
reached Enide's ears how that her lord had turned craven about arms
and deeds of chivalry, and that his manner of life was greatly changed.
[126] She g