Of these two translations, it will hardly be denied that Motteux’s is both easier in point of style, and conveys more forcibly the humour of the dialogue in the original. A few contrasted phrases will shew clearly the superiority of the former.
Motteux. “In this ungracious bed was the Knight laid to rest his belaboured carcase.”
Smollet. “In this wretched bed Don Quixote having laid himself down.”
Motteux. “While Maritornes (for that was the name of the Asturian wench) held the candle.”
Smollet. “While Maritornes (that was the Asturian’s name) stood hard by, holding a light.”
Motteux. “The hostess, while she greased him.”
Smollet. “The landlady, in the course of her application.”
Motteux. “I fancy, said she, those bumps look much more like a dry beating than a fall.”
Smollet. “Observed, that those marks seemed rather the effect of drubbing than of a fall.”
Motteux. “’Twas no dry beating, mistress, I promise you, quoth Sancho.”