Erec knew nothing at all of this that
they were plotting to work his death; but God will be able to
lend him aid, and I think He will do so. Now Erec is in great
peril, and does not know that he must be on his guard. The
Count's intentions are very base in planning to steal away his
wife and kill him when he is without defence. In treacherous
guise he takes his leave: "To God I commend you," says he, and
Erec replies: "And so do I you, sire." Thus they separated.
Already a good part of the night was passed. Out of the way, in
one of the rooms, two beds were made upon the floor. In one of
them Erec lays him down, in the other Enide went to rest. Full
of grief and anxiety, she never closed her eyes that night, but
remained on watch for her lord's sake; for from what she had seen
of the Count, she knew him to be full of wickedness. She knows
full well that if he once gets possession of her lord, he will
not fail to do him harm. He may be sure of being killed: so for
his sake she is in distress. All night she must needs keep her
vigil; but before the dawn, if she can bring it about, and if her
lord will take her word, they will be ready to depart.
(Vv. 3459-3662.) Erec slept all night long securely until
daylight. Then Enide realised and suspected that she might
hesitate too long.
Pages:
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130