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TROUBADOURS AND MINNE-SINGERS. 335
recommended; the illicit use of the eyes and tongue being mentioned amongst the temptations peculiarly to be avoided.
Directions of similar minuteness assist the young lady at the dinner table; the cases in which it would be good taste, and those in which it would be the reverse, to invite persons to a share of tbe dishes within her reach are specified; and the rules as to carving, washing one's hands before and after dinner, and similar matters, leave nothing to be desired. ' Always temper your wine with water, so that it cannot do you harm,' is another maxim of undeniable wisdom.
After dinner follows the time of polite conversation in the sala (drawing room), the arbour, or on the battlements of the castle; and now the teachings of Amanieus become more and more animated, and are enlivened occasionally by practical illustrations of great interest. 'And if at this season,' he says ' a gentleman takes you aside, and wishes to talk of courtship to you, do not show a strange or sullen behavior, but defend yourself wit^i pleasant repartees. And if his talk annoys you; and makes you uneasy, I advise you to ask him questions, for instance: — 'Which ladies do you think are more handsome, those of Gascony or of England, and which are more courteous, and faithful, and good? And if he says those of Gascony, answer without hesitation; Sir, by your leave, English ladies are more courteous than those of any other country. But if he prefers those of England, tell him Gascon ladies |
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