When the vessel entered the port all the people of the city ran to see her. And when they learned that it was Giannetto come once again, they marveled amain, saying, “Certes, he must be the son of some great prince, seeing that he comes hither every year with such a fine ship and such great store of merchandise. Would to God that he were ourruler!”
Then all the chief men and the barons and cavaliers of the land went to visit Giannetto, and word was carried to the lady how he was once more in the port. Whereupon she went to the window of the palace, and, as soon as she espied the fine vessel and the banner thereof, she made the sign of the holy cross and said, “Of a surety this is a great day for me, for it is the same gentleman who has already brought such wealth into the land.” And she forthwith sent forGiannetto.
He repaired to her presence, and they embraced one another and exchanged greetings and reverence. And then the people set themselves to make merry all that day, and, for the love they had for Giannetto, they held a stately jousting, many barons and cavaliers running acourse.
Giannetto also was minded to show his skill, and indeed he wrought such marvelous deeds, and showed such great prowess both with his arms and his horse, and won so completely the favor of the barons, that they all desired to have him to rule over them. And when evening had come, and it was time to retire, the lady took Giannetto by the hand and said, “Let us go tobed.”
When they came to the chamber door one of the lady's waiting-women, who had pity for Giannetto, put