“Fair son,” said his father, “well were it you should do deeds like this, and not gape at folly!”
“Father,” said Aucassin, “read me no lectures, but keep me my covenant!”
“Bah! what covenant, fair son?”
“Alack, father, have you forgotten it? By the head of me, forget it who may, I do not mean to forget it. Rather have I laid it much to heart. Did you not make this covenant with me, that if I took arms and went out to the fighting, and if God brought me back safe and sound, you would let me see Nicolette my sweet friend for such time as I might speak two words to her or three, and once only kiss her? This covenant you made with me, and this covenant I will have you keep with me!”
“What, I?” said his father. “Ne’er help me Heaven if I keep this covenant with you! and were she here now I would burn her in a
fire; and for yourself too you might fear the worst.”
“Is this the whole conclusion?” said Aucassin.
“Aye,” said his father, “so help me Heaven!”
“I’ faith,” said Aucassin, “then I am very sorry that a man of your age should be a liar.—Count of Valence, you are my prisoner.”
“Sir, it is even so,” said the Count.