Page:Matteo Bandello - twelve stories (IA cu31924102029083).pdf/143

had given her to him as his bride. High words followed, and Gerardo swore to meet his rival with sword and shield in one of the squares of Venice, but this coming to the knowledge of the Council of Ten, the combat was forbidden, and they decided that the law should settle the dispute. The suitor could only allege that the damsel had been promised to him by her father, whereas Gerardo had the nurse's proof that he had wedded Elena and consummated the marriage. When the damsel herself confirmed this statement, the court pronounced her to be Gerardo's true and lawful wife. Messer Pietro was absent from Venice at the time, and hearing the news, and knowing Gerardo to be a young man both noble and rich, he welcomed him as if he were his own son. Thus did the good Gerardo prosper and become exceeding rich, living for a long while in peace and joy with his dear Elena, being often mindful of the misfortunes through which they had passed, together with the trusty nurse, their happiness ever increasing as the years went by.