But his lamentations were interrupted.  The apothecary who sold the potion to the husband and wife was at the door below, requesting to speak with him.  The servants at first had refused to carry the message; but the old man persisting, and saying it was a matter of life and death, entrance for him into his master’s chamber was obtained.  “Noble sir,” said the apothecary, “I have always held you in love and reverence.  I have unfortunately reason to fear that somebody is desiring your death.  This morning a handmaiden of the lady Tisbina applied to me for a secret poison; and just now it was told me, that the lady herself had been at this house.  I am old, sir, and you are young; and I warn you against the violence and jealousies of womankind.  Talk of their flames of love!  Satan himself burn them, say I, for they are fit for nothing better.  Do not be too much alarmed, however, this time:  for in truth I gave the young woman nothing of the sort that she asked for, but only a draught so innocent, that if you have taken it, it will cost you but four or five hours’ sleep.  So, in God’s name, give up the whole foolish sex; for you may depend on it, that in this city of ours there are ninety-nine wicked ones among them to one good.”

You may guess how Prasildo’s heart revived at these words.  Truly might he be compared to flowers in sunshine after rain; he rejoiced through all his being, and displayed again a cheerful countenance.  Hastily thanking the old man, he lost no time in repairing to the house of his neighbours, and telling them of their safety:  and you may guess how the like joy was theirs.  But behold a wonder!  Iroldo was so struck with the generosity of his neighbour’s conduct throughout the whole of this extraordinary affair, that nothing would content his grateful though ever-grieving heart, but he must fairly give up Tisbina after all.  Prasildo, to do him justice, resisted the proposition as stoutly as he could; but a man’s powers are ill seconded by an unwilling heart; and though the contest was long and handsome, as is customary between generous natures, the husband adhered firmly to his intention.  In short, he abruptly quitted the city, declaring that he would never again see it, and so left his wife to the lover.  And I must add (concluded the fair lady who was telling the story to Rinaldo), that although Tisbina took his departure greatly to heart, and sometimes felt as if she should die at the thoughts of it, yet since he persisted in staying away, and there appeared no chance of his ever doing otherwise, she did, as in that case we should all do, we at least that are young and kind, and took the handsome Prasildo for second spouse.[3]

PART THE SECOND