Strawberries , Devil's agent , Flyaway islands , Fulling mill , Dry caves , Truth, Fruit of the stable , Treed knight , Dali , Amadis , Dentists , Ingenuous , Directory
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Sidi Mahtrow, the sometimes historian and recorder of events pertaining to the knight-errant and his squire has written an account of the visit of this most famous pair of travelers to the castle of the Governor, who by the King's orders has been made responsible for introduction of the fruits of Hispaniola to Spain. It was some one hundred years since Christopher Columbus embarked from Spain, did travel the ocean to the new continent and return with many strange and wondrous plants; and gold and silver as well it might be added. When the Indians gave Columbus their most valuable possession, tobacco, it was tossed aside since he had no appreciation of its significance. Only when the sailors tried the weed, and found it good, was the plant fully appreciated. Now some hundred years later, tobacco use had spread over the continent and even to Asia. However, the King recognizing that the other discoveries were also of great value, entrusted Don Becquer to see that they were grown and introduced throughout Spain. His estate in the valley was favored by a temperate climate and not lacking in water. The products from his soil graced his table and many of the higher authorities not only from Spain but other countries as well were entertained, and feasted on his harvest. Thus it was that when it became known that Don Quixote and his squire were passing not too far from the valley, the nobleman sent a messenger summonsing them to his castle.
It might be thought that the invitation was made to seek entertainment at the expense of the knight-errant, but that was not the intent at all. Well, perhaps, they did hope that Sancho would provide them with another of his riddles, but he would be rewarded amply by the weight of the table. Thus it was that on this midsummer day, the knight in his newly shined armour and his squire in a suit that had been tailored not for him but for one of the same generous proportions did arrive in the valley. Don Quixote gave Rozinante his leave and as the good horse was want to do, stopped in the shade of a cedar and stood on three legs, giving his left rear hoof a bit of rest. "Sancho, I see a castle in the distance and if my judgement is correct, we are about to embark on an adventure that not ever that Arab, Cidi Hamete, would be able to describe."
Sancho although well aware that they were to be entertained by Don Becquer, was non the less disturbed by the sight of the buildings in the distance. There did appear to be a castle. Was he so much in his master's service that he now was beginning to see the same apparitions? He had understood that the nobleman's village was rather plain, and yet in the distance was a main building of gigantic proportions and it was surrounded by a wall just as would be entertained in the books of heraldry, with outlying buildings clustered in what appeared to be a small town.
As the noon sun grew hot, Don Quixote bid Rozinante to go forth and so he did. Amadis his friend and companion followed some paces behind. The furlong was covered in an hour and they were on the edge of the village. However, not until they had entered the village were they aware of the activities of the natives. It seemed that every plot of ground had a different strange plant growing there. They were soon to learn the names but for the time being, looked in awe at the variety and richness of the cultured plants. Obviously, night soil and the product of the caves had enriched the dirt and the plants grew as none had been seen to grow in the eyes of the pair. As was to be expected, as soon as the small children spotted the knight on his famous steed, word spread rapidly throughout and in minutes a mass of personages of all rank had assembled to great this noble warrior and his accompanist. It seems that their coming had been publicized and the crowd formed a path through which they could slowly ride, welcomed by the cheering crowd. For this reception, Don Quixote stood tall in the saddle and raised his lance high. Sancho on the other hand, dismounted and led the gray with solemn dignity following in the footsteps of Rozinante.
To the crowd this was an amazing sight, not likely to ever be equaled again and formed the basis of stories passed from generation to generation. Almost on signal, the sounds of welcoming trumpets greeted the pair and they moved slowly through the crowd for the distance of some quarter of a furlong or so it seemed until they reached the castle's well designed and fortified walls. In the front entryway stood Don Becquer and his assembled household staff.
Rozinante sensing that a good feed was at hand moved smartly as only this well worn and traveled stud could. It is remarked by those assembled that he raised each hoof as high as would have an Arabian or some other highly prized mount. His neck muscles bulged as Quixote held his muzzle close to avoid any sudden move, such was the excitement of the animal.
Stepping quickly to the horse's side, the castle's stable-master took the near rein and held Rozinante so that the Don could dismount with ease. No crashing to the ground as has been recorded in other tales, no, Don Quixote, the Man from la Mancha, easily swung his right leg from the saddle and with a movement that would have done justice to horsemen worldwide, dismounted and gave his steed a pat on the shoulder indicated that he should be removed to a place of honor. Sancho in the meantime, could only look in amazement at the proceedings.
As Rozinante move off to better events, Amadis took a tentative step in that direction as well. Seeing that all would be in order, Sancho tossed the lead over the ass's back and gave him his freedom. With dignity unbeknownst to Amadis and Rozinante, they moved smartly to the awaiting stable.
Not a word had been spoken, not a sound was to be heard, not even the shuffling of children's feet. Now Sancho assumed his position one pace to the rear and one to the left side of his master and they awaited the welcome from the castle. How different this event was and it must be recorded that in the heart of Don Quixote, it was well received; and in his mind he thought that it was time that the civilized country that Spain was becoming, should recognize his well-earned reputation and bestow upon him the honors that were due. How straight he stood holding his lance in a position with the point midway to the noonday sun. His free left hand he placed smartly to the small of his back and stood with his feet somewhat apart. Sancho seeing his master stand so well, assumed the same pose and it is hoped that some artist was there to capture such a sight.
Don Becquer stood in his castle's doorway and then glancing about to be sure that all was in readiness for the most famous visitor, took six steps forward and held out his hand in greeting. One can imagine from the other tales of our knight-errant that a clumsy move would be enough to break the spell but it was not to be. Don Quixote snapped to attention. Turned to Sancho and placed in his hand his standard bearer and then turned to face his host. He likewise extended his right hand and in the way of warriors of old, each clasp the wrist of the other in a firm but gentle grip. Still silence. When would it end?
The master of the castle spoke first, "Don Quixote and Sancho Panza, I welcome you in the name of the King of Spain who has made provisions for your stay and has, although not able to meet with you at this time wishes that you would arrange to visit him soon. My humble house (note: the castle had more than one-hundred rooms.) is open to you for as long as you wish to be our guest. My personal attendant, Gregorio will be at your service. Anything that you wish will be made available to you. Welcome!"
Don Quixote cleared his throat in preparation for a long-winded and extemporaneous speech, but before he could begin, Sancho spoke in a low voice, "Sir Knight, let us see what room has been provided for us, my ass is tired and in need of rest."
"Silence, Sancho. Can't you see that they have taken Rozinante and Amadis away?"
"Oh, Sir it is not the donkey about which I speak. I have a boil that is in need of lancing, perhaps a hot bath and poultice would do wonders as well."
Don Becquer, having overheard the exchange between the knight-errant and his squire, summonsed his man-servant and instructed him to quickly take the pair to their prepared quarters and be sure that they were made to be comfortable. Addressing Don Quixote, he said, "Enough of the introductions, the day is hot, we are in need of our noon day rest, perhaps after a brief nap, we can assemble in the great hall and exchange pleasantries."
Don Quixote was much distressed, he felt that Sancho had deprived him of the opportunity to express the reason for their visit so that all might hear. Further, events were moving so quickly that he feared that he would not be in control of the future meetings. In almost desperation, "Don Becquer, it is with great honor that I and my humble servant, Sancho Panza, take refuge in your simple house. Please if there are expenses due to our stay, make Panza aware of them so that he can provide proper repayment. I, Don Quixote, do not take charity and insist that those who provide access to their humble abode do so with the assurance that they will not suffer."
Now Sancho was distressed. First he saw inns where his master saw castles. Now where he saw castles, it was obvious that Don Quixote was seeing inns or lesser buildings. Woe.
Fortunate for us all, the master of the castle seeing that speech making could fill the day and it was growing hot, gave a signal to his wife the Doy to follow. Thus, the meeting was ended.
Sancho's eyes grew wide as he took in the vastness and richness of the castle home of Don Becquer. Fine furnishing and heavy rugs fit for the most profitable marketplace filled the rooms as they passed from the entry through the great hall and into the private quarters. A comely lass took his arm and with dignity she and he followed some five steps behind his master and the Dold see that it was sectioned in such a manner that if a banquet were planned, the table could be spread with generous proportions. Many chairs lined the walls so that if necessary some fifty or more could be easily fed. (Small wonder that Sancho was thinking of food as the morning mix of cheese and bread was long past.)
Turning to the first door at the head of the stairs, the Dontil they came to a second set of double doors. They were wide open and inside it was seen that separate rooms were provided for the knight-errant and his squire. The Do most generous bed supported well by four posters and covered with a fine woven spread. Don Becquer's attendant had now joined them and carrying their saddle bags over one arm deposited them on a well-structured chair.
In a low voice, the miss asked Sancho if it was his pleasure to see the bathing quarters. Sidi Mahtrow records that a slight blush crept across Panza's face as he was not sure of the lass's intention. Seeing his reaction, she likewise showed color and stammered that Don Becquer's attendant would see that they were comfortable, and without waiting for response from Sancho, stepped backward from the room and was seen to be in hasty retreat down the stairs.
Don Quixote now appeared in the doorway and said that he was in need of the pissoir and would the attendant be so kind as to show him the way. Sancho followed.
In the area just adjacent to the stables where Rozinante and Amadis were being given a generous feed was a well-used room in which a large tub, carved from marble, sat in the corner and about it was a curtain that could be drawn if privacy was desired. In the open hearth was kept boiling a large pot of water. When one desired a bath, it was only necessary to mix an amount judged to give a comfortable bath with water drawn from the cistern which lay underneath the floor and enjoy the pleasures of a soak. The pissoir was just to the outside of the room and stone walls some six feet high divided it into sections to accommodate the privacy of several who might have need to use the facility at the same time.
Sancho seeing that bathing was to be a private matter, approached the tub. Before he could comment, the aid had begun drawing water from the cistern and with equal buckets of water from the kettle and cistern, blended a most excellent bath water. A scented soap ball hung on a woolen string just at the edge of the tub and a stack of cotton towels rested on a nearby chair. It was only necessary for him to remove his traveling clothes and enter the tub.
As if by magic, fine clothes that were cut to fit his generous size appeared on a nearby chair. He reflected, how much better this was than being an island ruler. He only hoped that the food would be more generous. But more on that later. The bath was most enjoyable and Sancho's load of road dust was soon removed.
Back in his apartment, Sancho found the bed to his liking and stretching full length and took a most pleasant siesta.
When he awoke, the church bell was being rung. He arose and looked to the room where Don Quixote was to have rested. The Don was not there. Fear crossed his brow. Was the ringing of the bell a call to arms? Was the knight loose amongst the people, doing harm to others, but more than likely to himself? Had he mounted Rozinante and departed without a thought of taking Sancho along? Was he dead and the church was calling its people to mourn?
Sancho's thoughts turned to himself. He was unsure exactly where he was or which road should be taken to return to his village. Would the host be as gracious toward Sancho as he appeared to be toward the knight-errant? Perhaps he would be thrown into jail as he had no way of proving the money he held was that of Don Quixote's and not obtained by devious means? What of his dear wife and children, how would they survive without him and his support? Woe!
He returned to his room.
In the depths of despair he saw a sunbeam dancing across the room as the afternoon sun shown through the open window. It was as if a message from God were being delivered to him to give him courage. Looking out the window he saw the workers returning from the fields for their evening meal. The bell had been rung signaling day's end. How organized and civilized was this domain, certainly better than the island kingdom over which he had been enlisted to serve as its leader. Immediately Sancho felt his courage return.
Pulling on his boots, he almost ran to the stairs and descended to the great room. Only when he was at the foot of the stairs did he become aware of the festivities that were being planned for him and the Don. The table was being set for as many as twenty people, from the kitchen came the clatter of dishes being prepared and the heavenly smell of food assaulted his nose. On the steps of the manor, sat his master and the master of the house. They were in serious conversation, and although Sancho was reluctant to intrude, he stood in the open doorway and listened. Don Becquer was reciting poetry and a scribe was busy writing. Quixote in a manner quite out of the ordinary for him, sat and listened attentively, nodding his head to the meter of the spoken words. In the privacy of the moment, the world seemed a better place.
The poem ended, the paper on which it had been recorded was sanded and rolled and presented to Don Quixote who with a gracious bow of his head accepted it. He only offered, "Thank you."
At this the two stood and turned to face the doorway and for the first time became aware of Sancho's presence. A broad grin spread across Don Quixote's face and he took the two steps separating Sancho and himself and reaching out took Sancho's right hand.
"Sancho, we are going for a walk in the village to the Church. Please come along. As we walk, Don Becquer will describe the wondrous plants that are being grown under his charge. They are from the New World and are most interesting. The King himself brought the seeds to Don Ramon and placed them in his capable hands. I do believe that this gift from the world of Columbus will be of greater value that of the gold, silver and jewels. Our Country, Spain will be enriched. Come."
As the three descended the steps from the castle's entry, Ramon Becquer became quite animated as he described his agricultural activities. (In the interest of not boring the reader, the plants and their culture will not be dwelt upon.) However it should be mentioned that two plants in particular escape mention in the tale and are therefore brought to the reader's attention; pima cotton prized for its long fiber as opposed to the Egyptian cotton of the day was grown in abundance, and the avocado which was not in season for the banquet being prepared would not grace the table.
The walk turned to the village Church. Along the way, Don Quixote asked if Don Becquer had read the histories written of his travels. What an opportunity to discuss such with the man and his squire about which so much had been written was bestowed upon the host. He could not refuse.
"Dear Alonso, historians are a fickle bunch of grapes. They appear at first green and sour. Then maturing with a blush, they ripen to contain a full charge of sweetness, but are fragile and easily insulted. If not handled properly, they are as small children, that is to say easily spoiled. But with good fortune, they contribute much to man's enrichment, a fine wine. Alas, vinegar can also be the product of their ferment. Such it is with Hamete, Alisolnand Mahtrow, they become so involved in the development of the story that they oftentimes forget that a historian has a responsibility to the reader. Be accurate, do not shade the truth, honor the profession and be not vain, that is the challenge to a true historian. I take as example, how the portrait of el Presidente can be shadowed to shield the obvious transgressions of the artist and the blemishes of the personage. However if the painting is well done, it will have layers of pigment which when scraped away will reveal the true character of the man. Long after the historian (or the artist) has passed, the image of the Presidente will remain. If he is represented well, it will be placed with honor for all to see but if poorly or falsely done, will become a very mockery to truth and justice; a farce that has no place in the gallery of a great nation. Character is important. So is truth."
"On another matter, I must speak to the truth. The story of your journeys has now been translated into other languages that are less adept in the richness of speech so imbedded in our tongue. They fail to grasp the subtleness of our puns, our twist of meanings and our "fabrication of the blind, the dead, the disguised, the mysterious voice, fairy tales, double impersonations, witchcraft, biblical elements, superstitions, in the construction of our dramas." (From the introduction of Historia de una Escalara.) Nowhere is this more evident than in the simple misunderstanding of the word ingenuous as opposed to ingenious. You are called an Ingenious knight-errant by some. Nothing could be further from the truth. You, Don Alonso Quijada, are Ingenuous in the full meaning of the word." Let the knowing ones look afresh at your journals and rethink their lofty writings as to what Cervantes or other authors might have meant.
"As to the three "supposed" historians, I can only say that they are much like the blind men examining an elephant and describing it as best possible. One could just as well imagine they were feeling Sancho's ass and with the help of translators have created a chimera that represents no animal known to man. However what emerges from the records is a man and his squire, both of strong character, with good heart and sad to say weak constitutions. They persevered, what better can be said of any man. They do no evil. Or like the good physician, do no harm."
The walk continued for some time before they entered the Church where they were greeted by the sexton. Within the sacred place were the icons which mean so much to the faithful. Sancho, Alonso and their host paid homage to the modest place of God and returned to the outside world of strife and toil.
As they walked along the conversation returned to a discussion of the recorders of the history of Don Quixote and Ramon answered questions posed by the Don. "The three historians that have written of your life and travels; Benengeli, Mahtrow and Alisolneach have their weaknesses. As all historians they too much input their own emotions into the record. They all dip from the same well (ink) but the grasp of the pen is different. Hamete and Alisolnbeing right-handed with the hand attached to the same arm (that of Cervantes) continued the humor that was so much an ingredient of the first four parts.
In the case of Alisoln he writing for the audience of the day, used base humor to depict the travels of you and your squire. He dwelt upon the madness of one possessed by demons. Your character attempts to right injustices that have been accepted by the aggrieved without question. His comic interludes with the whore and the inability of either of you to comprehend what she was offering is no more than to say that you have a pure heart and mind. Avellaneda seeks redemption as he closes his book by suggesting that perhaps his Don Quixote would regain his senses, or perhaps not. He sees the possibility that the mind so engaged in heraldry of the past will slip once again into the intoxicating brew and cast its owner into more adventures. Certainly he leaves open the door for others to pursue the fate of the good knight-errant."
"But what of me." Asked Sancho.
"Ah, Sancho. Your fate is good fortune. As recorded by Avellaneda by way of his historian, Alisoln you are to be well rewarded by your faithfulness to your wife and family. Riches come your way."
"But am I to be the buffoon that was suggested by Benengeli?"
"Certainly not. All three authors reward you for your parent's good training. In the case of Cervantes second part, you are sage, understanding, full of wit and a most enjoyable personage. However, having written that, Cervantes could not leave you alone in a place of honour. He continues to heap ridicule on you and suggest that you are being used by your host (unlike myself) who see you as crass entertainment given by God for their pleasure. Shame on Miguel for ending your place in the book in such a manner."
He continued, "With Avellaneda, the design of your character was one who possessed quick wits, always loyal, somewhat of a punster, and sometimes (as reflected in your letter to Mari) quite intent on seeing how far you could stretch the veil of truth before the reader would discover your joke. Your loyalty to your master and your wisdom are rewarded in the history by Alisoln You and your family are given independence in the form of a generous gift from the Archipmano. But remember, Sancho, Avellaneda was writing to the publick of his day. Like all starving poets, if he did not offer a product that brought pleasure to the reader, he would soon have to seek another occupation. Thus, he coloured your character, but did retain your good graces. Avellaneda (alias Cervantes) was is a good writer who on close examination will be more honored in the future."
"Now we come to Mahtrow." Said, Becquer. "Sidi Mahtrow is another kettle of fish. He has seen the writings of both Cervantes and Avellaneda, while neither had the advantage of such a vision of Mahtrow's obras. In his work, you continue to grow (not least of which in your physical dimensions.) And it will please you to know that both Rozinante and Amadis have character parts that reveal them as they are, essential players in this moving drama."
"Don Quixote is the thread that holds the garment together. You Sancho are the whole cloth, not unlike the shroud of Turin that reflects the wounds, prejudices, love and respect that is humanity."
As the walk ended, the trio had satisfied the needs of mind and spirit, it was now time to replenish the body.
Awaiting them was the first of the surprises from the new world. A flagon of cocoa had been prepared and a generous proportion was offered. Sancho had never experienced such a treat. He was informed that Montezuma, the Aztec emperor, drank fifty cupfuls of cocao-quahitl each day. But that drink was very different from that which was offered Sancho and the Don. Instead of being bitter, the chocolatl was sweetened and seasoned with spices and was most pleasant and refreshing. The historian reports that try as Don Ramon might try he was unable to grow the plants and their only supply remained that which was imported from the Caribbean.
The sun was now well set and the evenings quiet was descending on the village, however, Sancho's stomach was beginning to rumble and the noise attracted the attention of his host. "Ah, Sancho, you are in for a feast the likes of which has seldom been experienced by a Spaniard. Everything on you plate will be from the new World. I hope that you find it good."
Sancho remembering the shepherd's stews that he had enjoyed in the past with the simple fare of breads, cheeses, dried meats and of course wine, was not looking forward to being a test animal for some King's mischief. What his good wife prepared was quite enough and his stomach never was insulted when a few extra turnips had to be added to makeup for the lack of other ingredients. But in the interest of peace and seeing the look of displeasure on Don Quixote's face, he thought better of making a comment. He hid his face behind the cup of chocolate, avoiding the necessity of answering. But it was just as well as the shifting wind brought the aroma from the kitchen and any doubts were quickly removed from his mind.
Up the path from town now came a group of the more prominent folk. The barber, shop keepers, priest, school teacher, livery owner and others made up a crowd of more than a dozen. All were in their better clothes, dressed properly for the occasion. And if asked would have acknowledged their anticipation of the feast that was being prepared in honor of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza. They knew full well that the food and drink would be extraordinary.
Into the great hall