So I accuse you because you have withdrawn from us the embodied
flowers and the incarnate suns; because you have been so cruel,
sire, as to send the queen to Epping Forest."
"Not so; the queen wanted to ride," said Henry, peevishly. "The
spring weather attracted her, and since I, alas! do not possess
God's exalted attribute of ubiquity, I was, no doubt, obliged to
come to the resolution of being deprived of her presence. There is
no horse capable of carrying the King of England."
"There is Pegasus, however, and in masterly manner you know how to
manage him. But how, your majesty! the queen wanted to ride, though
she was deprived of your presence thereby? She wanted to ride,
though this pleasure-ride was at the same time a separation from
you? Oh how cold and selfish are women's hearts! Were I a woman, I
would never depart from your side, I would covert no greater
happiness than to be near you, and to listen to that high and
exalted wisdom which pours from your inspired lips. Were I a woman--
"
"Earl, I opine that your wish is perfectly fulfilled," said John
Heywood seriously. "You make in all respects the impression of an
old woman!"
All laughed. But the king did not laugh; he remained serious and
looked gloomily before him.
"It is true," muttered he, "she seemed excited with joy about this
excursion, and in her eyes shone a fire I have seldom seen there.
There must be some peculiar circumstance connected with this ride.
Pages:
149
150
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172
173