_Justly reprehending the simplicity of such men, as are too much addicted to credulitie, and will give credit to every thing they heare._
_Pamphilus_ having ended his Novell, whereat the Ladies laughed exceedingly, so that very hardly they could give over: The Queene gave charge to Madame _Eliza_, that shee should next succeed in order; when, being scarcely able to refraine from smyling, thus she began.
I know not (Gracious Ladies) whether I can move you to as hearty laughter, with a briefe Novell of mine owne, as _Pamphilus_ lately did with his: yet I dare assure you, that it is both true and pleasant, and I will relate it in the best manner I can.
In our owne Citie, which evermore hath contained all sorts of people, not long since there dwelt, a Painter, named _Calandrino_, a simple man; yet as much addicted** to matters of novelty, as any man whatsoever could be. The most part of his time, he spent in the company of two other Painters, the one called _Bruno_, and the other _Buffalmaco_, men of very recreative spirits, and of indifferent good capacity; often resorting to the said _Calandrino_, because they tooke delight in his honest simplicity, and pleasant order of behaviour. At the same time likewise, there dwelt in _Florence_, a yong Gentleman of singular disposition, to every generous and witty conceite, as the world did not yeeld a more pleasant companion, he being named _Maso del Saggio_, who having heard somwhat of _Calandrinos_ sillinesse: determined to jest with him in merry manner, and to suggest his longing humours after Novelties, with some conceit of extraordinary nature.
He happening (on a day) to meete him in the Church of Saint _John_, and seeing him seriously busied, in beholding the rare pictures, and the curious carved Tabernacle, which (not long before) was placed on the high Altar in the said Church: considered with himselfe, that he had now fit place and opportunity, to effect what hee had long time desired. And having imparted his minde to a very intimate friend, how he intended to deale with simple _Calandrino_: they went both very neere him, where he sate all alone, and making shew as if they saw him not; began to consult between themselves, concerning the rare properties of precious stones; whereof _Maso_ discoursed as exactly, as he had beene a most skilfull Lapidarie; to which conference of theirs, _Calandrino_ lent an attentive eare, in regard it was matter of singular rarity.