Then I made no prayer unto her for leave, but took my
arms about her, and kissed her arms and shoulders and bosom all she
would suffer me, for I was mad with love of her naked flesh. Then
she did on this golden gown, and departed when she had given me the
old clout aforesaid, and I went away with it, scarce feeling the
ground beneath my feet; and I set the dear gown in a fair little
coffer, and here in this castle I have it now, and many times I take
it forth and kiss it and lay my head upon it. Now this is a simple
tale, lady, and I am ashamed that I have made it so long for thee.
And yet I know not; for thou seemest to me so kind and loving and
true, that I am fain that thou shouldest know how sorely I love thy
friend and mine.
Birdalone deemed Baudoin a good man indeed, and the tears came into
her eyes as she answered and said: True is thy tale, dear friend,
and I have deemed it rather short than long. I see well that thou
art Aurea's very lover; and it joys me to think that thou, O terrible
champion, art yet so tender and true. Now is the golden gown thine,
but I will pray thee to lend it me a little longer.
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