In the winter, he gazed dreamily at the falling snow, or had stories read aloud to him.

But as soon as the fine weather returned, he would mount his mule and sally forth into the country roads, edged with ripening wheat, to talk with the peasants, to whom he distributed advice.

After a number of adventures he took unto himself a wife of high lineage.
She was pale and serious, and a trifle haughty.

The horns of her head-dress touched the top of the doors and the hem of her gown trailed far behind her.

She conducted her household like a cloister.