and to hear them speak; and those who have no experience of these delights are the usually-minded, who, too closely wrapt in their flesh, cannot say whether they have souls or no; but when the body is subject to the spirit, it becomes insensible. And I have known a gentleman who loved his lady so unusually, that, among all his companions, he alone was able to hold alighted candle in his naked fingers, looking at his lady, until the flame burned him to the bone; even, he said that it did not hurt him at all."
She is the champion, not only of ideal love, but of the sentiment of pity, of consideration for the poor. More than once her stories turn on virtue that shines the brighter in a humble setting. For, she declares—
"The graces of God are not given to men for their noble birth, neither for their riches, but as it pleases His mercy; for He is no respecter of persons, He elects whom He will; and His elect honour Him with virtue and crown Him with glory. And often He elects the lowly of the earth, to the confusion of those whom the world holds in honour; for He saith: Let us not rejoice in our own righteousness, but rather that our names are written in the Book of Life."
So much for the ideal of the Heptameron. Yet, let us add, there is one hero, one living, earthly hero, who embodies all Oisille's conceptions of chivalry, of courage, justice and mercy. To this Avatar of honour almost every page refers. The gaiety and brilliance of his youth, the splendour of his court, his magnanimity, his courage, are constantly recorded; his amours and their adventures are fit themes for the pious Oisille and the virtuous Parlamente; his address and royal qualities are perpetually praised. It is King Francis
